City Council

UNOFFICIAL MINUTES RINCON CITY COUNCIL MEETING MONDAY, JUNE 8, 2026 COUNCIL CHAMBERS 107 WEST 17TH STREET 6:30 PM Councilmember Present: Councilmember Absent: Trisha Boyett Michelle Taylor Ben Blackwell Brandy Riley Mona Underwood Tim Milner Absent: Kevin Exley, Mayor Present: Jody Jones. Interim City Manager David Bobo Mullens, City Attorney Dulcia King, City Clerk Daniel Thompson Police Captain Lou Reed, Fire Chief Teri Lewis, Planning and Development Director Josh Yaeger, EOM Bobby Jenkins, Facilities Maintenance Tara Childress, City Club Golf Course Blaine Ketchum, City Club Golf Course Gena Sullivan, Public Information Officer The meeting was called to order at 6:30 PM. Mayor Pro Tem Underwood announced that prayers and support go out to Councilmember Taylor. She also shared that the Mayor is traveling tonight to be with his mother. The Invocation was given by Gary Hawkins with Springfield Oaks Church and Pledge to the Flag was recited. Approval of the agenda with the following: Removal of new business item 12 and the addition of new business item 16A. Motion to approve: Tim Milner Second: Ben Blackwell Vote by Council: Unanimous Approval of the May 11, 2026 minutes. Motion to approve: Ben Blackwell Second: Tim Milner Vote by Council: Unanimous Public Hearing: The meeting was turned over to Public Hearing Office, David Mullens. Attorney Mullens explains the procedures for the public hearing. Open Public Hearing: 6:36 PM 1. Public Hearing on a petition filed by Dylan Wingate with Patriot Development Group to annex one parcel into the City of Rincon, Georgia and to rezone this same parcel. The subject parcel, located at 0 Lexington Ave Ext. (Parcel #: 04470013B00), consists of approximately 114.13 acres. The parcel is owned by Bruce and Cindy Rahn. It is currently zoned AR-1 (Agricultural Residential), and the request is to rezone it to PUD (Planned Unit Development). Duke Groover, representing Patriot Development Group, outlined the request to annex and rezone a timberland parcel on Lexington Avenue to a Planned Unit Development. The proposal includes building 352 single‑family homes and 30 townhomes in phased construction over 5–7 years. He stated the land is currently unusable as agriculture. Amenities would include green space, a 30‑foot buffer, sidewalks, a playground, a pool, pickleball courts, and a canal‑connected stormwater system. An HOA would enforce strict standards and prohibit rentals. Mr. Groover addressed concerns raised in earlier meetings. He said the rezoning meets planning factors, would increase property values and tax revenue, supports workforce housing, and aligns with weaknesses identified in the City’s comprehensive plan. He requested favorable consideration for annexation and rezoning. Mr. Groover said the project provides affordable housing. Councilmember Riley asked for the expected pricing of the homes and townhomes. Mr. Groover said single‑family homes are expected to start around the mid‑$300,000s, with townhomes roughly the same range. He noted final designs will depend on the City’s updated building standards. Councilmember Riley confirmed the project includes 352 homes and 30 townhomes built over 5–7 years. She then questioned roadway responsibilities. Mr. Groover said the County controls the road, but the developer expects to handle needed improvements directly in front of the project—such as shoulders and turn lanes—based on the traffic study. He clarified that the study is not finished and currently only includes data for Lexington Avenue, not Mill Pond Road. Councilmember Riley concluded by saying she supports affordable housing but does not see broader infrastructure improvements in the proposal beyond the immediate frontage area. Councilmember Blackwell noted that the Lexington Avenue bridge will eventually need attention, especially considering the large number of dump trucks, concrete trucks, and heavy construction equipment expected for upcoming projects. He emphasized that these vehicles will likely choose the shortest route, which runs directly through the City of Rincon, creating additional strain on city infrastructure. Duke Groover acknowledged that the Lexington Avenue structure is actually a series of box culverts rather than a traditional bridge and deferred to engineer Brian Braun with Axis Engineering, for details. Mr. Braun explained that there are concrete culverts in place and that his team is coordinating with the county engineer on necessary improvements. These improvements would likely involve extending the culverts to widen the shoulders, meet county structural standards, and handle heavy construction vehicle loads. Councilmember Blackwell raised concerns about long‑term weight capacity for construction traffic and then shifted to questions about the detention ponds and the open canal between them. He expressed safety concerns due to the canal’s proximity to nearby backyards and suggested fencing along certain sections. Mr. Braun noted the canal would be shallow—about three to four feet—dry most of the time, and built with safe slopes, but agreed that safety considerations can be addressed. He added that the project will also bring new water and sewer utilities to the area. Councilmember Underwood emphasized that the proposed 352 houses and 30 townhomes are not final numbers. He explained that the City often uses the PUD process so both the City and developers can negotiate infrastructure needs, especially road capacity. After the public hearing, a workshop will be scheduled to discuss what improvements are feasible. She noted that the developer has agreed to make necessary road improvements from Kate’s Cove to the far end of their property and that the City requested a full traffic study, not just a road study, due to existing issues on Lexington Avenue. Councilmember Underwood, who lives on Lexington Avenue, stressed that most traffic will travel south rather than go north and go back to 21 to come out, creating challenges that need to be addressed. Councilmember Milner noted that Lexington Avenue and Mill Pond Road were not built to handle the level of traffic that would come from adding roughly 950 new residents. He acknowledged the developer’s plan to widen the road and address culverts but emphasized that the existing road network is still a major concern. He mentioned that an ideal solution would be tie in from Lexington just at the entrance straight across, but the railroad tracks make that option difficult. Councilmember Milner also pointed out that the entire surrounding area could become a major future residential growth zone. He then raised concerns about wastewater capacity, estimating around 114,900 units per day. Finally, he emphasized that the project should be built in phases rather than all at once, noting that constructing 300–400 homes immediately would overwhelm the area. He added that this phased approach was strongly discussed in earlier meetings, including by Mayor Pro Tem Underwood. Councilmember Boyett thanked the presenters and said that, while this type of development—with green space, tree canopies, and mixed‑use housing—is generally what the City is looking for, she has major concerns about the roads. She previously lived on the Lexington/Mill Pond side and noted the roads are old coal‑ash roads not built for the high traffic volumes projected—potentially 3,500 to 4,000 trips per day. She also referenced the County Commissioners’ discussion, noting that even the Commissioner who represents that area expressed he likely would not support the project. Councilmember Boyett stressed that much of Lexington Avenue Extension and Mill Pond Road remains in the County, and there is no indication those roads are on the county’s improvement list. She asked the developer whether they would be willing to extend improvements beyond their immediate site if the traffic study shows the need. Mr. Groover responded that he could not commit without talking to his client but said they understand the wider impacts and are trying to be proactive by talking with the county engineer. Councilmember Boyett added that, based on her experience driving the area daily, many residents travel toward Mill Pond and Old Augusta Road rather than south, and Mill Pond Road also cannot currently support such traffic. She emphasized the safety risks and the fact that the City cannot improve county‑owned roads that are not in its current TSPLOST or LMIG plans. Councilmember Underwood noted that the City is still under a moratorium while development and building standards are being updated, and any project would have to comply with those new standards once adopted—anticipated by late July or early August. Councilmember Boyett agreed that none of the Council is opposed to growth, but stressed that growth must follow infrastructure. The City is already behind on wastewater capacity, even with upgrades expected to be completed in October. Councilmember Underwood added that even if the rezoning passes, the project still requires extensive engineering. The concept plan is only the first step; a full engineered plan must return to the council demonstrating that stormwater and other systems will function properly before construction could be approved. Jody Jones also reminded the meeting that earlier discussions referenced a range of $250,000–$350,000 homes. Mr. Groover clarified that around $300,000 is the targeted number, with some variation possible. Bruce Rahn, who lives on Lexington Avenue Extension and is the owner selling the land, spoke in support of the project. He explained that although he is selling the property, he will continue living next door to the proposed subdivision and has no plans to move. He said his intention is simply to help his family, not to create problems for the community. He also expressed appreciation to the council for their prayers at the beginning of the meeting. Caren Blackwell, Williamsburg Subdivision had questions about the two entrances. Jim Head, Polly Branch Drive and president of the Kate’s Cove HOA, expressed strong concerns about the proposed development. He highlighted that Lexington Extension is too narrow for the expected traffic, the existing bridge/culvert structure is unsafe and inadequate for heavy vehicles, and drainage from 100+ acres needs detailed engineering. He questioned who would pay for necessary road and bridge upgrades and urged the City to require a thorough traffic study and detailed infrastructure planning before considering rezoning. He recommended denying the zoning change at this time due to these unresolved issues. William Westervelt, a Kate’s Cove resident, said Lexington Avenue is already difficult to travel especially with garbage trucks so, added construction and traffic will worsen the commute. He also challenged the claim that the land is “fallow,” noting the timber market still has buyers and capacity in Effingham County. He argued the City should require real evidence—such as a forester’s report or timber inventory before approving a rezoning to PUD. Amy Lee Westervelt, also from Kate’s Cove, said Lexington Avenue is extremely dangerous to drive, especially for cautious drivers or parents. She feels the development is being planned “in a vacuum,” with no assurance that the surrounding unsafe, narrow, blind‑curve roads will be improved. Without commitments to address the broader infrastructure impacts, she urged the Council to vote against the rezoning. Colin and Pam Simpson, from Kate’s Cove, said the traffic issues extend beyond the narrow roads and bridge. Especially the sharp turn at Mill Pond Road and the problems getting out onto Fourth Street and Highway 21—are already unsafe and congested. They stressed that adding more traffic would worsen these problem areas unless major improvements are made. Woodrow Cosper, who has lived on Lexington Avenue Extension for 42 years, said traffic has already grown from a few cars a day to hundreds, making it unsafe even to reach his mailbox. He noted that trains already back up traffic to Mill Pond and that a large subdivision would worsen congestion and harm current residents. He also raised concerns about overcrowded schools and stressed that thorough due diligence is needed before any approval. Mr. Groover clarified that the request is only for rezoning to a PUD. He explained that all major concerns—traffic, engineering, hydrology, building standards—would still require full review and approval by the City afterward. He emphasized that rezoning does not guarantee the project as shown; it simply allows the City to have strong control and require solutions to the issues raised before anything can be built. Councilmember Underwood noted that past developments like Hickory Knob lacked planning, and the City is now trying to avoid repeating that by negotiating up front through the PUD process. She emphasized that many councilmembers live on or near Lexington and fully understand the traffic issues at Fourth Street, Ninth Street, and Highway 21, which the City is actively working on. She reminded everyone that this meeting is for public input and that another vote will follow later. Close public hearing #1: 7:37 PM Open public hearing #2: 7:37 PM 2. Public Hearing on a request submitted by Ashlyn Bashlor with ReMax Savannah for a zoning map amendment for the property located at 225 South Columbia Avenue (Parcel ID: R2080042C00). The owner of the .28-acre parcel, D and D Brothers Realty LLC, is requesting to rezone the property from R-2 (Single-Family and Duplex Residential) to B-2 (General Commercial). Ashlyn Bashler with Remax, representing the owners of 225 South Columbia Avenue in Rincon and the adjacent vacant lot, requested that the properties be rezoned from R2 residential to general commercial. She explained that the site has been used as a commercial business for approximately 60 years despite its current residential zoning. Close public hearing #2: 7:39 PM Open public hearing #3: 7:40 PM 3. Public Hearing on a request submitted by Ashlyn Bashlor with ReMax Savannah for a zoning map amendment for the property located at 0 South Columbia Avenue (Parcel ID: R2080045). The owner of the .35-acre parcel, D and D Brothers Realty LLC, is requesting to rezone the property from R-2 (Single-Family and Duplex Residential) to B-2 (General Commercial). This is the undeveloped property adjacent to the previous property. Ms. Bashler said they will be sold eventually as one entire track. Close public hearing # 3: 7:41 PM Turn meeting back over to Mayor Pro Tem Underwood. Consent Agenda: 1. Second reading to amend the City of Rincon Ordinance Chapter 38 Fire Prevention and Protection. 2. Second reading to amend the City of Rincon Ordinance Chapter 2, Article V, Sec. 2- 205 Competitive Bidding Ordinance. Motion to approve the consent agenda: Trisha Boyett Second: Tim Milner Vote by Council: Unanimous New Business: 1. Healthy City 360 request to appear before Council. Caren Blackwell updated the City Council on recent and upcoming Healthy City initiatives aimed at improving community wellness through physical activity, education, and social connection. She highlighted new youth strength and conditioning classes led by experienced volunteer trainers, Walter Jinks and Howard Williams along with a celebratory swim party offered by Regina Klontz. A 5K walk/run is planned for September 12, using the City Club cart paths and intended to promote fitness and community involvement. Ongoing programs include weekly line dancing, mobility classes for the Navigators families, twice‑monthly Zumba sessions, and yoga classes at the United Way building taught by Dr. Heneisen. Attendance across programs continues to grow, and all activities are free to the community. She thanked the City for its support and emphasized Healthy City’s commitment to making Rincon a healthier place to live, work, and play. 2. Gary Hawkins with Springfield Oaks Church requests a Special Events Permit with a fee waiver to hold Celebration in Christ - a Call to Worship at Freedom Park on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Gary Hawkins and George Robinson returned to request approval to use Freedom Park on September 12 for a “Celebration in Christ” event. The plan includes three pastors giving 20‑minute messages, a guest speaker giving a 45‑minute message, a few food trucks, minimal Christian‑based craft vendors, a prayer tent, a cooling tent, and an area for baptisms. They emphasized that the event is now intended to be a simple day of worship rather than a large festival, and they are requesting use of Freedom Park for that purpose along with a request for the special events permit fee to be waived. Motion to approve: Ben Blackwell Second: Brandy Riley Vote by Council: Unanimous 3. First Reading on a request submitted by Ashlyn Bashlor with ReMax Savannah for a zoning map amendment for the property located at 225 South Columbia Avenue (Parcel ID: R2080042C00). The owner of the .28-acre parcel, D and D Brothers Realty LLC, is requesting to rezone the property from R-2 (Single-Family and Duplex Residential) to B-2 (General Commercial). Motion to approve: Brandy Riley Second: Trisha Boyett Vote by Council: Unanimous 4. First Reading on a request submitted by Ashlyn Bashlor with ReMax Savannah for a zoning map amendment for the property located at 0 South Columbia Avenue (Parcel ID: R2080045). The owner of the .35-acre parcel, D and D Brothers Realty LLC, is requesting to rezone the property from R-2 (Single-Family and Duplex Residential) to B-2 (General Commercial). Motion to approve: Brandy Riley Second: Ben Blackwell Vote by Council: Unanimous 5. Vote on an application submitted by Sang Yoon Kim with ARCO Design/Build requesting conceptual site plan approval for a proposed +/- 77,500 square foot tilt up expansion of an existing industrial building for automotive parts, designed to support robotic assembly operations. The subject property, owned by Effingham County IDA is located at 1000 Sewon EV Road. The parcel is zoned PUD (Planned Unit Development). (Parcel #: R2840002) Brent Williams, a civil engineer with Hussey Gay Bell, spoke on behalf of Sewon to describe a proposed 77,500‑square‑foot expansion building adjacent to the recently completed 98,000‑square‑foot expansion. Access will continue from Old Augusta Road, existing parking is sufficient, and new stormwater infrastructure will route runoff to the existing retention facility. No new water or sewer extensions are needed because current utilities can support the project. Robert Vasquez from Sewon America added that the expansion is intended to increase the company’s assembly‑area capacity. Councilmember Blackwell asked whether the existing retention ponds could handle the additional stormwater load. Brent Williams confirmed that the system has already been modeled and sized to accommodate all additional and off‑site drainage. Motion to approve: Brandy Riley Second: Trisha Boyett Vote by Council: Unanimous 6. A resolution extending the current moratorium through August 10, 2026 on the acceptance, consideration, or approval of any new conceptual site plans, administrative site plans, preliminary plats, preliminary site and development plans, and applications for non-single-family detached building permits for property wholly or partially located within the Highway 21 Overlay District. Teri Lewis explained that significant work has been done to draft updates to building and development standards, including holding workshops and collaborating closely with a consultant. She emphasized that the team is not delaying or trying to extend the moratoriums; the process has simply taken longer than expected because they realized more detailed and specific regulations were needed to meet the Council’s goals. Council expressed strong support for the ongoing work on building and development standards. Councilmember Riley emphasized she never believed staff were dragging their feet and was comfortable with an extension if needed. Councilmembers Underwood and Boyett praised the quality of the recent workshop and the overall effort being put into the updates, noting the importance of getting the regulations right. Councilmember Milner added that the staff has the Council’s full support. Motion to approve: Tim Milner Second: Trisha Boyett Vote by Council: Unanimous 7. A resolution extending the current moratorium through August 10, 2026 on the acceptance, consideration, or approval of any new conceptual site plans, administrative site plans, preliminary plats, preliminary site and development plans, and applications for non-single-family building permits for property wholly or partially located within the Fort Howard Overlay District. Teri Lewis reiterated that significant time is being spent refining the Fort Howard Road overlay district because the Council intends to divide it. The portion from Highway 21 to Wisenbaker Road is being planned as the future downtown/Main Street area. She explained that very specific regulations are being developed to guide growth in that section so the City can finally establish a true downtown. Motion to approve: Brandy Riley Second: Ben Blackwell Vote by Council: Unanimous 8. A resolution extending the current moratorium through August 10, 2026 on the acceptance, consideration, or approval of any new conceptual site plans, administrative site plans, preliminary plats, preliminary site and development plans and rezoning applications for planned unit developments, major subdivisions, two unit attached (duplexes), multi-unit attached (townhouse/rowhouse), and multi-unit attached (apartments). Teri Lewis explained that local builders and developers were included in the process, were excited to participate, and provided helpful feedback that should reduce the need for multiple revisions later. Councilmember Underwood followed by noting that early meetings revealed the process was more complex than originally thought, which is why it has taken longer. Councilmember Riley then questioned how a presentation earlier in the meeting was allowed if the City is under a moratorium on accepting or considering major subdivisions. Mrs. Lewis clarified that the item Councilmember Riley referred to was an annexation request, not a major subdivision. Annexation comes with initial zoning automatically and does not fall under the moratorium. Attorney Mullens confirmed that an annexation, is not barred by the moratorium, and because you'd be taking it in at an initial zoning, it's not classified. Motion to approve: Brandy Riley Second: Tim Milner Vote by Council: Unanimous 9. Request to approve OpenGov to provide updated software for Permitting, Planning, Code Enforcement and Licensing. Teri Lewis explained that the City’s current software expires this year, and since they already knew they did not want to continue using it, staff have been evaluating new software options. After reviewing demos from several companies and speaking with Effingham County—who use OpenGov and reported it is easy to use, customizable, and good for reporting—the city decided OpenGov is the preferred choice. Because implementation takes time and there is already money available in the current budget, Mrs. Lewis recommended starting the first phase now rather than waiting until year‑end. Additional funds for the remaining years will be requested in the 2027 budget. She noted the new system should streamline work for everyone, including Lolly Whatley, who compiles monthly reports. Attorney Mullens then asked whether the Council’s vote would specifically authorize the City Manager or Mayor to sign the contract, since this is the first time the item is being formally presented. He added that the motion should include the total amount to avoid any ambiguity in what is being approved. Councilmember Riley made a motion to approve the purchase of the OpenGov software in the amount of $67,709.32 and to authorize the Mayor or the City Manager to execute the contract. Motion to approve: Brandy Riley Second: Tim Milner Vote by Council: Unanimous 10. Request approval to award project to Pinehaven in the amount of $54,400.00 to be paid out of 2016 SPLOST funds allocated to public/city building projects. Bobby Jenkins explained that the proposal is to upgrade the entire interior space, including redoing and slightly lowering the podium and improving the lighting. The quoted cost of $54,400 covers these cosmetic and structural upgrades only. It does not include the audio and video system issues currently being experienced. He noted that the AV work has been delayed because they want to avoid installing wiring now and then having to redo it after the room renovations. Councilmember Underwood then clarified that the vote at hand is specifically for the $54,000 in cosmetic upgrades. The audio‑visual improvements are a separate contract and line item that has already been approved, and all work will be coordinated and done at the same time. Councilmember Blackwell asked about the expected timeline for completing the room renovations. Bobby Jenkins explained that scheduling is tricky because both council and court use the space, so they will need to coordinate around meeting dates. Some work, such as the ceiling, could be done between scheduled sessions. However, completing the main renovations might require missing a council meeting. Councilmember Blackwell noted that the council may need to relocate a meeting if necessary. Jenkins responded that the goal is to avoid moving locations by timing the work strategically, possibly during a period like the Fourth of July week when meetings may not be scheduled. He said they have already discussed potential dates. Motion to approve: Tim Milner Second: Ben Blackwell Vote by Council: Unanimous 11. Request approval of Budget Amendment BA-2026-04. Captain Daniel Thompson explained that the Council had previously approved what three and a half positions. The part‑time position that was converted to full‑time has now been filled. One of the three new positions, the special detective, has also been filled and will begin in August. Applications are currently being reviewed for the remaining two patrol positions. They are requesting a budget amendment to fund all of these approved positions. Motion to approve: Tim Milner Second: Brandy Riley Vote by Council: Unanimous 12. Request approval of Budget Amendment BA-2026-05. This item was removed from the agenda. 13. Request approval of Budget Amendment BA-2026-06. Chief Lou Reed explained that the department is requesting a budget amendment to purchase a new set of spreaders, rams, and cutters—updated extrication tools needed for the ladder truck. When the City split fire stations, they will need a second set of jaws so that one set is available on the west side and another in town. The requested budget amendment is for $50,230 for equipment from NAB Code, which is compatible with the rescue tools the department currently uses. He added that this is part of preparing their infrastructure for future operations. Motion to approve: Brandy Riley Second: Ben Blackwell Vote by Council: Unanimous 14. Request approval to purchase a spreader, ram and cutters in the amount of $50,230.00 from NAFECO Fire Products. Chief Reed noted that because the purchase amount exceeds $25,000, he is required to bring the request before the council for approval. Motion to approve: Tim Milner Second: Trisha Boyett Vote by Council: Unanimous 15. Request approval to purchase heavy rescue equipment in the amount of $31,298.00 from Safe Industries. Chief Reed clarified that this request is for approval to move already‑budgeted funds. Specifically, the department needs to transfer $40,000 from an existing small‑equipment line item into the capital line so they can purchase struts and related rescue equipment. The items listed on the documents provided to Council cover road‑rescue, heavy‑vehicle rescue, tractor‑trailer rigging, and similar operations. This is all within the 2026 budget; they are simply reallocating funds to make the purchase. Motion to approve: Tim Milner Second: Ben Blackwell Vote by Council: Unanimous 16. Request approval of the reappointment of Rebecca Boston to the Coastal Regional Commission as the Non-Public Representative for Effingham County. Motion to approve: Brandy Riley Second: Trisha Boyett Vote by Council: Unanimous 16A. Consideration to approve a contract with Developmental Associates, LLC. Jody Jones stated that the item pertains to the hiring firm the Council is already aware of. Motion to approve: Ben Blackwell Second: Tim Milner Vote by Council: Unanimous 17. Administrative Reports: Golf - Tara Childress reported that membership remains strong with 198 members. Blaine Ketchum added that the course has been noticeably busier, especially on Monday mornings. Councilmember Milner asked Mrs. Childress to send an email once membership reaches 200, and Tara noted she expected to hit that mark soon. Blaine Ketchum continued by sharing updates on operations. He recently reached his one‑year mark in the position and has made scheduling adjustments that improved balance and coverage, including having part‑time staff assist on Sundays and during heavy mowing season. He noted that mowing is now happening almost daily due to demand. He also highlighted a successful memorial golf tournament with 66 participants, which included the majority of the membership, and expressed appreciation for the support from both the community and his crew. Feedback from members has been very positive. Councilmember Underwood praised the work being done, saying the course looks significantly better than it did years ago and receives many compliments. Councilmember Blackwell added that with growing membership, events, and nighttime activity, the parking lot will need to be expanded or upgraded. Blaine agreed and said plans will need to be developed soon, especially with upcoming big events. Facilities Maintenance - Bobby Jenkins gave an update on multiple ongoing improvement projects. At the golf course, he reported substantial progress on the new members’ room: rough electrical, spray foam insulation, and rough HVAC are complete; drywall is installed; wainscoting is being added; and the V‑groove ceiling is installed, though not yet stained. He said the space is looking very good and will be a great benefit for both members and staff, especially with the addition of a nearby working restroom. He also noted that the driving‑range robot project is well underway, with about 75 percent of the equipment already on site. Wiring materials have been picked up, water lines have been installed, and the electrical work should be finished by the end of next week. Elsewhere in the City, the tile on the front of the Freedom Park stage is nearly complete and looks excellent, and the city hall bathroom renovations are finished. Councilmembers Underwood, Boyett, and others commented on how good the improvements look, including the updated sign. When asked by Councilmember Riley about upcoming golf‑course projects after completing the members’ room and driving‑range improvements, Mr. Jenkins said the only remaining items currently planned are installing two fountains in the pond between holes 17 and 18. Council - Councilmember Blackwell thanked EOM for their quick response to a sinkhole reported in his neighborhood. The crew inspected it the same day, discovered an unconnected sewer line causing the issue, and returned within a couple of days to fix and reconnect the pipes. The neighbor affected by the sinkhole was very satisfied with the work done. Councilmember Riley emphasized the importance of considering existing and future infrastructure when evaluating annexation and new developments. She stated that while growth and affordable housing are important, the city must plan ahead to avoid problems seen in nearby areas like Savannah and Pooler, such as flooding and traffic congestion. Riley urged the council to ensure that infrastructure planning keeps pace with proposed development timelines. Councilmembers Underwood and Milner added that this concern is already being addressed through the City's ongoing master plan and recent development workshops, which heavily focused on infrastructure. Councilmember Underwood also stressed the importance of keeping the public informed about these efforts. Gena Sullivan explained that she was present to answer any questions and to provide updates as the Freedom Rings event approaches. She plans to give one more update before the event. She also asked council members to let her know if they plan to attend so she can make proper arrangements. 18. Executive session to discuss personnel, pending litigation, attorney client privilege, and real estate. Motion to approve: Tim Milner Second: Ben Blackwell Vote by Council: Unanimous Motion to return to the meeting: Ben Blackwell Second: Brandy Riley Vote by Council: Unanimous 19. Take any action that is needed on the items from executive session. No action taken. Adjourn: Motion: Brandy Riley Second: Ben Blackwell Vote by Council: Unanimous