City Council

OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 CITY GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF CITY COUNCIL SAVANNAH, GEORGIA APRIL 3, 2014 The regular meeting of Council was held this date at 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall. The Invocation was given by Rev. J. Michael Culbreth, Pastor at Speedwell United Methodist Church followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. PRESENT: Mayor Edna Jackson, Presiding Mayor Pro-Tem Van Johnson, II Alderman Tony Thomas, Chairman of Council Alderman Mary Osborne, Vice-Chairman of Council Aldermen Mary Ellen Sprague, Estella Shabazz, John Hall, Tom Bordeaux and Carol Bell (left at 3:00 p.m. to go out of town) City Manager Stephanie Cutter City Attorney W. Brooks Stillwell Assistant City Attorney William Shearouse ABSENT: Assistant City Attorney Lester B. Johnson, III MINUTES Approval was given for the Mayor to sign an affidavit and resolution on litigation and personnel and Mayor Pro-Tem Johnson be authorized to sign an affidavit and resolution on real estate for an Executive Session held today where no votes were taken. Mayor Jackson recused herself and left the room on the discussion of real estate. (SEE RESOLUTIONS). Upon motion of Alderman Osborne, seconded by Alderman Hall and unanimously carried the agenda was amended to add appointments to Boards, Commissions and Authorities and item 2.2. Upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried the Summary/Final minutes of the City Manager’s briefing of March 20, 2014 were approved. Upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried the Summary/Final minutes of the City Council meeting of March 20, 2014 were approved. Brooks Stillwell, City Attorney gave an update from on the independent investigation of the Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police Department by MDB International. Attorney Stillwell stated the outside investigation is nearing the end. Since the start of the investigation there have been several resignations in addition to some early retirements. The objective of the City of Savannah is not criminal indictments as that is the job of the District Attorney rather to determine if there were employment issues and turn over any other issues to the District Attorney. During the interviews other information came to the attention of the City Manager. 1  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 All investigations with the exception of two have been completed. A report with suggestions of changes that could be made within the SCMPD will be given at an open meeting on May 15, 2014. Attorney Stillwell thanked everyone involved for their support with the investigation and commended the City Manager for taking actions to begin the process of cleaning up the department and restore the confidence within the organization. PRESENTATIONS Blake Caldwell, appeared with Cynthia Hayes, Founder and Executive Director of Southeast African American Farmers Organic Network and Teri Schell, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Forsyth Farmers Market to honor them for working tirelessly to bring more locally grown and healthy food into the homes of Savannah residents and restaurants. Ms. Roberts commended them for their hard work and perseverance in helping to provide good for all, especially citizens who are at high risk for poor health and food insecurity. Cynthia Hayes won the prestigious James Beard award for her Leadership in late 2013. She is only the second African American woman to win this honor; the first winner was First Lady Michelle Obama. Teri Schell recently received the Barbara Petit Pollinator Award from Georgia Organics. Ms. Roberts stated they are in the process of establishing a Food Hub that will aggregate, package, and deliver fresh local meat, dairy, and produce to local grocery stores, institutions, and restaurants. LEGISLATIVE REPORTS ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE HEARINGS As advertised, the following alcoholic license petitions were heard. No one appeared in objection to the issuance of these licenses. Ivan Lenoir for Diamond Taps Enterprises, LLC t/a World of Beer Savannah, requesting to add a beer (package) license to a liquor, beer and wine (drink) license at 112 W. Broughton Street, which is located between Whitaker and Barnard Streets in District 1. (Existing business/management) (Continued from February 6, 2014) Recommend continuing to May 29, 2014. A work session on the Alcohol Ordinance, ABC Team, and Show Cause Hearings is planned for May 15, 2014. Revenue will contact the applicant about withdrawing the application, participating in the public vetting of the Alcohol Ordinance, and deciding whether to reapply after the ordinance is adopted. Continued to May 29, 2014 upon a motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Osborne and unanimously carried. Brandi H. Bradley for The Collins Quarter, LLC, requesting a beer and wine (drink) license with Sunday sales at 151 Bull Street, which is located between York Lane and York Street in District 1. (New ownership/location) Recommend approval. Alderman Johnson asked Ms. Bradley if she understood having an alcohol license is a privilege and not a right and comes with certain rules and regulations that she must abide by; if she doesn’t abide by those rules and regulations the license can be revoked; if she promised to comply with those rules and regulations and if she could read and write the English language. Ms. Bradley responded yes to all questions. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Hall 2  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 and unanimously carried. Alderman Johnson moved to approve the license and it was seconded by Alderman Hall and unanimously carried. Girish R. Patel for Amba Enterprises t/a Ram Food Mart, requesting to add a wine (package) license to the existing beer (package) license at 1101 E. Montgomery Cross Road, which is located between Waters Avenue and Marcus Place in District 4. (Existing business/management) Recommend approval. Alderman Sprague asked Mr. Patel if he understood having an alcohol license is a privilege and not a right and comes with certain rules and regulations that he must abide by; if he doesn’t abide by those rules and regulations the license can be revoked; if he promised to comply with those rules and regulations and if he could read and write the English language. Mr. Patel responded yes to all questions. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Sprague, seconded by Alderman Johnson and unanimously carried. Alderman Osborne moved to approve the license and it was seconded by Alderman Johnson and unanimously carried. Cammie Green for CEC Entertainment, Inc. t/a Chuck E. Cheese’s, requesting a beer and wine (drink) license with Sunday sales at 6700 Abercorn Street, which is located between Stephenson Avenue and Stuart Street in District 4. (New management/existing business) Recommend approval. Alderman Sprague asked Ms. Green if she understood having an alcohol license is a privilege and not a right and comes with certain rules and regulations that she must abide by; if she doesn’t abide by those rules and regulations the license can be revoked; if she promised to comply with those rules and regulations and if she could read and write the English language. Ms. Green responded yes to all questions. Alderman Bordeaux stated his recollection of Chuck E. Cheese’s is that it caters to children and asked how does wine and beer fit into the scenario. Ms. Green replied the limit is 2 cups per adult. Alderman Bordeaux asked how it is regulated. Ms. Green stated when patrons come to make the initial purchase they ask for identification, when they come back for the second cup they let them know at that time it will be the last. If they come back for another cup once the date of birth is entered it will not allow the purchase to be made. Alderman Johnson asked are the servers required to be bar card certified to sell and serve the alcohol to patrons. Ms. Green replied the managers serve the alcohol. Alderman Bordeaux stated most of the patrons are individuals driving and not walking in off the streets. Ms. Green replied yes, they are not responsible for the adults. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Osborne, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. Alderman Sprague moved to approve the license and it was seconded by Alderman Hall and with the following voting in favor: Aldermen Johnson, Thomas, Osborne, Bell, Hall, Sprague and Shabazz and Alderman Bordeaux opposed. Mayor Jackson was out of the room. Richard Johnson for AMF Savannah Lanes t/a AMF Bowling, requesting to transfer a liquor, beer and wine (drink) license with Sunday sales at 115 Tibet Avenue, which is located between Abercorn Street and La Brea Boulevard in District 6. (New management/existing business) Recommend approval. Alderman Thomas asked Mr. Johnson when alcohol is dispensed out of a pitcher and it goes to a table or lane is everyone carded. Mr. Johnson stated they card for each glass that is given out with the pitcher. Alderman Thomas recommended they do a better job with that process he has witnessed underage drinking activities going on. Mr. Johnson replied they will do a better job. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Osborne and unanimously carried. Alderman Thomas moved to approve the license per the City Manager’s recommendation with the advice given it was seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. 3  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 ZONING HEARINGS Richmond Fergerson, Owner (MPC File No. 14-000167-ZA), requesting to rezone 406 W. 36th Street from B-C (Community Business) to R-B (Residential Business) for the purpose of establishing a residential use. The Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) recommends approval. The proposed R-B zoning is consistent with the Tricentennial Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map and will establish a zoning district that is compatible with the development pattern that currently exists in the surrounding area. The proposed rezoning would also serve as a buffer from the more intense commercial B-C classification by permitting less intense commercial and non-residential uses including residential. Recommend approval. Alderman Johnson asked if this was a down zone. Mr. Lotson replied yes far more restricted uses are allowed in the area. Alderman Osborne asked is Mr. Fergerson still running the business from his home. Mr. Lotson replied there is no structure on this property at the moment, there was a house on it years ago but has since been taken down. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Hall and unanimously carried. Approved per the City Manager’s recommendation upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Shabazz and unanimously carried. Ordinance to cover will be drawn up for presentation at the next meeting of Council. ORDINANCES First and Second Readings Ordinance read for the first time in Council April 3, 2014, then by unanimous consent of Council read a second time, placed upon its passage, adopted and approved upon a motion by Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Thomas and unanimously carried. Convert Multi-Way Stop to Two-Way Stop at Lorwood and Skyline Drives. An ordinance to amend the City Code to delete the Lorwood Drive and Skyline Drive four-way stop and add Lorwood Drive to Through Streets from White Bluff Road to Dyches Drive. Traffic on Skyline Drive will still stop at Lorwood Drive. (The Traffic Engineering Report was approved March 20, 2014.) Recommend approval. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND APPENDIX I, SECTION 227 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA (2003) PERTAINING TO SECTION 7-1121 OF SAID CODE TO PROVIDE THAT TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNS SHALL BE ERECTED AT THE WITHIN INTERSECTIONS; TO REPEAL ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah, Georgia, in regular meeting of Council assembled and pursuant to lawful authority thereof: 4  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 SECTION 1: That Appendix I, Section 228 of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003), pertaining to Section 7-1121 of said Code, as amended, shall be amended as follows: AMEND SECTION 227, TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNS TO INCLUDE DELETE Lorwood Drive and Skyline Drive, four-way stop. SECTION 2: All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: April 3, 2014. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND APPENDIX I, SECTION 209 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA (2003), PERTAINING TO SECTION 7-1024 OF SAID CODE, TO PROVIDE THAT THE STREET NAMED HEREIN SHALL BE DESIGNATED A THROUGH-STREET; TO REPEAL ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES: BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah, Georgia, in regular meeting of Council assembled and pursuant to lawful authority thereof: SECTION 1: That Appendix I, Section 209 of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003), pertaining to Section 7-1024 of said Code, as amended, shall be amended as follows: AMEND SECTION 209, THROUGH STREETS ENACT Lorwood Drive from White Bluff Road to Dyches Drive SECTION 2: All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: April 3, 2014. 5  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 Ordinance read for the first time in Council April 3, 2014, then by unanimous consent of Council read a second time, placed upon its passage, adopted and approved upon a motion by Alderman Shabazz, seconded by Alderman Hall and unanimously carried. Hotels, Apartment Hotels and Inns (MPC File No. 14-000202-ZA). An ordinance to amend Article B (Zoning Districts), Sec. 8-3025(b) (Business and Industrial Zoning Districts Use Schedule), Use 7, to permit Hotel, Apartment Hotels and Inns in the B-C (Community-Business) zoning district. Recommend approval. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 8-3025(b) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA (2003), PERTAINING TO USE (7), HOTEL OR APARTMENT HOTEL AND USE (9b), INN AND OTHER FACILITIES OF A SIMILAR NATURE; IN B-DISTRICTS AND I-DISTRICTS; TO REPEAL ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; AND FOR ALL OTHER PURPOSES. BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah, Georgia, in regular meeting of Council assembled and pursuant to lawful authority thereof: SECTION 1: That Section 8-3025(b) of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003), hereinafter referenced as "Code", be amended as follows: ENACT R-B RB-1 B-H B-N BN-1 B-C BC-1 B-G BG-1 BG-2 B-B I-L IL-B I-H P-IL-T R-B-C R-BC-1 O-I List of Uses Lodging Facilities (7) Hotel or Apartment Hotel X X X X X X X B Provided the uses front onto an arterial street. (9b) Inn Provided such use shall contain no more than 15 bedrooms or suites - - X - - X X X - - X - - - - X Such use may serve meals, provided that such service shall be limited to guests 6  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 SECTION 2: That the requirements of Section 8-3182(f)(2) of said Code and the law in such cases made and provided has been satisfied. That an opportunity for a public hearing was afforded anyone having an interest or property right which may have been affected by this zoning amendment, said notice being published in the Savannah Morning News, on the 20th day of February, 2014, a copy of said notice being attached hereto and made a part hereof. SECTION 3: All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: April 3, 2014. RESOLUTIONS A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND ALDERMEN OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR PRO-TEM TO SIGN AFFIDAVIT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah as follows: At the meeting held on the 3rd day of April, 2014 the Council entered into a closed session for the purpose of discussing real estate. At the close of the discussions upon this subject, the Council reentered into open session and herewith takes the following action in open session: 1. The actions of Council and the discussions of the same regarding the matter set forth for the closed session purposes are hereby ratified; 2. Each member of this body does hereby confirms that to the best of his or her knowledge, the subject matter of the closed session was devoted to matters within the specific relevant exception(s) as set forth above; 3. The presiding officer is hereby authorized and directed to execute an affidavit, with full support of the Council in order to comply with O.C.G.A. §50-14-4(b); 17 4. The affidavit shall be included and filed with the official minutes of the meeting and shall be in a form as required by the statute. A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND ALDERMEN OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN AFFIDAVIT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah as follows: At the meeting held on the 3rd day of April, 2014 the Council entered into a closed session for the purpose of discussing litigation and personnel. At the close of the discussions upon this subject, the Council reentered into open session and herewith takes the following action in open session: 1. The actions of Council and the discussions of the same regarding the matter set forth for the closed session purposes are hereby ratified; 2. Each member of this body does hereby confirms that to the best of his or her knowledge, the subject matter of the closed session was devoted to matters within the specific relevant exception(s) as set forth above; 3. The presiding officer is hereby authorized and directed to execute an affidavit, with full support of the Council in order to comply with O.C.G.A. §50-14-4(b); 17 7  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 4. The affidavit shall be included and filed with the official minutes of the meeting and shall be in a form as required by the statute. MISCELLANEOUS Historical Markers Relocation – Battlefield Park. The Historic Site and Monument Commission recommends approval of the request by the Coastal Heritage Society (CHS) to relocate two historical markers. One commemorates General Casimir Pulaski’s and Sergeant William Jasper’s deaths on the site during the Revolutionary War; the other describes the “Attack on British Lines” during the Revolutionary War. They will be moved from their current locations along the north side of the former Central of Georgia Passenger Station at Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard and Louisville Road to the Battlefield Park site directly to the south of the Passenger Station. The markers have been moved at least once previously from the interior of the Passenger Station’s train shed to their current locations – most likely during the 1980s. At the time of their original placement in the 1950s, the Battlefield Park site was occupied by commercial and railroad-related activities and it may not have been possible to place them closer to the site. Battlefield Park was completed in 2008 and now it is possible to relocate the markers within the boundaries of the park. The markers were originally installed when the historical marker program was administered by the State of Georgia. The Georgia Historical Society currently administers the historical marker program. Both the State of Georgia and the Georgia Historical Society support the relocation. CHS will provide the labor and materials to move the markers, with the possible exception of a scenario where the existing posts cannot be reused. In that case, the State of Georgia may be able to assist with the cost of new posts. CHS holds an agreement with the property owner (State of Georgia) to manage and operate the site; therefore, CHS will be financially responsibility for the repair and replacement of all markers. CHS has requested the Escrow Payment be waived. The CHS request to relocate the two markers meets the standards in the Master Plan and Guidelines for Markers, Monuments, and Public Art. Recommend approval. Approved upon a motion by Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Thomas and unanimously carried, per the City Manager’s recommendation. Historical Markers Relocation – Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace Site. The Historic Site and Monument Commission recommends approval of the request by the Girl Scouts of the USA to relocate two historical markers associated with the Wayne/Gordon historic site. One commemorates James Moore Wayne, original owner of the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace site. The other commemorates the site as the birthplace of Juliette Low, founder of the Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. They are currently stored at a state historic site managed by the Historic Preservation Division for the Department of Natural Resources and will be moved to the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace site. In 1952, the “James Moore Wayne” marker was installed on Bull Street. In 1955, the “Birthplace” marker was installed on Oglethorpe Avenue. An historic image shows the “Birthplace” marker location in front of the Wayne/Gordon house in the 1950s. In the 1990s, both markers were moved to the median on Oglethorpe Avenue. David Crass, the Historic Preservation Division Director and Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer, has agreed to release the markers to the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace for reinstallation at 8  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 this site. The markers were originally installed when the historical marker program was administered by the State of Georgia. The Georgia Historical Society currently administers the historical marker program. The “James Moore Wayne” marker is proposed to be located in the Bull Street tree lawn closest to Oglethorpe Avenue, facing the Bull Street sidewalk. The “Birthplace” marker is proposed to be located in the tree lawn, near the front entrance to the Wayne/Gordon house, perpendicular to Oglethorpe Avenue. The Park and Tree Director and the Traffic Engineering Director reviewed the proposal and do not have concerns. Funds have been fully secured. Girl Scouts of the USA is assuming responsibility for the repair and replacement of the markers, and has requested the Escrow Payment be waived. The request to relocate the two markers meets the standards in the Master Plan and Guidelines for Markers, Monuments, and Public Art. The petitioner should coordinate with City Engineering to ensure no utilities are damaged during installation. Recommend approval. Approved upon a motion by Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Shabazz and unanimously carried, per the City Manager’s recommendation. Mayor Jackson stated she had the pleasure of going to the unveiling of the statue and it was an amazing experience that will draw more young people to the City of Savannah. Appointments to Boards, Commissions and Authorities. Approved upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. CHATHAM-SAVANNAH YOUTH FUTURES AUTHORITY Roxanne E. Formey COASTAL REGION MPO CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE Thomas E. Branch, III John Chapman Paula Kreissler Christopher K. Middleton F. Ryan Sewell Nicholas Allen-Tunsil COASTAL WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD Leigh Acevedo Heidi E. Behnke Tolejala L. Thompson CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMISSION Sherah Rosen GREATER SAVANNAH INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE Justin Godchaux Araceli Harper 9  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 Nicholas Anene Oji Kimberly Allen-Tunsil HOUSING AUTHORITY OF SAVANNAH Barbara Coleman King PARK AND TREE COMMISSION Paul Hammond PILOTAGE COMMISSION Edward T. Brennan, Jr. SAVANNAH RECREATION COMMISSION Lemuel Campbell, Sr. George Shaw SAVANNAH ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Thomas E. Branch, III TOURISM ADVISORY COMMITTEE W. David Jones Joseph Marinelli Vaughnette Goode-Walker Franklin Williams TRAFFIC CALMING COMMITTEE Marsha Buford Betty M. Jones Alderman Shabazz stated she would like to recuse herself and remove herself from Council Chambers from the vote because she is a subcontractor for one of Mr. Formey’s businesses. SAVANNAH AIRPORT COMMISSION Sylvester C. Formey Approved upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Johnson and unanimously carried. TRAFFIC ENGINEERING REPORTS Florance Street Between 36th and 42nd Streets. Traffic Engineering staff recently discovered that Florance Street, a one-way street between 36th and 42nd Streets, is not included in the Traffic Regulations of the Code of the City of Savannah and needs to be codified within the City’s Code of Ordinances. Florance Street is a residential street located in the Cuyler/Brownsville neighborhood and extends from W. 34th Street southward to Mills B. Lane Boulevard. Between 36th and 42nd Streets, Florance Street narrows from 30 to 20 feet. In order to maintain on-street parking on one side of the road, this segment was converted to one-way southbound travel several decades ago. 10  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 Traffic signs were installed and have been maintained to that effect but Traffic Engineering can find no documentation that the change was ever codified. Recommend that the existing one-way condition on Florance Street be included within the Code of the City of Savannah. (An aerial map is attached.) Recommend approval. Approved upon a motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Thomas and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Ordinance to cover will be drawn up for presentation at the next meeting of Council. Parking Restrictions on the South Side of Johnston Street. The Traffic Engineering Department has received complaints from motorists and business owners regarding vehicles parked along Johnston Street that are obstructing traffic flow and hindering emergency response. Recently, staff was made aware of an incident where parked vehicles obstructed timely emergency response by an ambulance unit to one of the medical offices whose access is from Johnston Street. Traffic Engineering has investigated the complaints and observed vehicles parked on both sides of the street, hindering two-way traffic flow and emergency vehicle access. Based on their findings, they have determined that parking needs to be prohibited along the south side of Johnston Street. While this will reduce available on-street parking by approximately 13 spaces, ample off-street parking exists for adjacent businesses and their customers. Recommend that parking be prohibited along the south side of Johnston Street from White Bluff Road to Abercorn Street. (An aerial map is attached.) Recommend approval. Approved upon a motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Thomas and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Ordinance to cover will be drawn up for presentation at the next meeting of Council. BIDS, CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS Upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried, the following bids, contracts and agreements were approved per the City Manager’s recommendations: Document Management System – Event No. 1775. Recommend procuring a document management software system from Cycom Data Systems, Inc. in the amount of $33,436.00. This system will be used by the City's Legal and Risk Management Departments and Public Information Office to assist in management of claims, litigation, and all other matters. The system will be a web-based, hosted solution. The method used for this procurement was the Request for Proposal (RFP) which evaluates criteria in addition to cost. The criteria used for this RFP were the vendor's qualifications and experience with similar municipal organizations, ability to meet functional requirements, references, and fees. Responses were received from five proposers. A short-list of finalists was established based upon the vendors’ qualifications and experience with similar municipal organizations, ability to meet functional requirements, and references, and consisted of two vendors to be considered for 11  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 further evaluation. The short-listed proposals were fully evaluated. The recommended proposer offered robust, out-of-the box solution for the three components the City is seeking: legal case/matter management, risk management claims management and Freedom of Information request tracking. The solution includes accounting, task assignment and reporting functionality across all components as well. Cycom’s fee proposal is for a site license for up to six users and includes training and implementation services as well as maintenance and support for five years. While the second low proposer submitted a strong document management solution, it was less focused on case management which is of high priority for the City. The system is a seat license based software that requires additional licensing fees for the server, archiving and audit modules. In addition, the fee proposal included costly training, implementation services and maintenance. Proposals were received February 11, 2014. This request for proposal has been advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: Terms: Net 30 Days. The proposers were: B.P. Cycom Data Systems, Inc. (Richmond, KY) (D) $ 33,436.00 Legal Files Software, Inc. (D) $169,349.00 Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Risk Management Fund/Risk Management Judgments/Injuries/Other Contractual Services (Account No. 621-9801-51295). A Pre-Proposal Conference was conducted and one vendor attended. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Well Maintenance – Annual Contract – Event No. 1892. Recommend awarding an annual contract to procure water well maintenance services from Woodrow Sapp Well Drilling in the amount of $117,950.00. The services shall include routine preventive maintenance such as TV inspection and flow testing. It will also include repairs to well pumps and casings. Bids were received February 25, 2014. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. This bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. The bidders were: L.B. Woodrow Sapp Well Drilling (Brunswick, GA) (D) $117,950.00 Rowe Drilling Company (D) $119,862.00 Layne Christensen Company (D) $135,250.00 Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Capital Improvements Projects/Other Costs/Well Preventative Maintenance Program (Account No. 311-9207-52842-WT0721). A Pre-Bid Conference was conducted and one vendor attended. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Utility Task Vehicles – Event No. 2018. Recommend approval to procure two utility task vehicles from G, J, & L Inc. in the amount of $26,200.00. The utility task vehicles will be used by the SCMPD to replace units which are no longer economical to operate or repair. 12  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 The low bidder, Savannah Outdoor Equipment, failed to meet specifications by not providing a canopy in their bid submission. This bid was advertised, opened and reviewed. Delivery: 60 Days. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidders were: L.B. G, J & L, Inc. (Augusta, GA) (D) $ 26,200.00 Laser Light Engraving (B) $ 28,990.00 Savannah Outdoor Equipment (B) $ 21,396.00+ Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Vehicle Purchases/Vehicular Equipment (Account No. 613-9230-51515). A Pre-Bid Conference was not conducted. (D)Indicates non-local, non- minority owned business. (B)Indicates local, non-minority business. (+)Indicates low bidder did not meet specifications. Recommend approval. Trash Compactors – Annual Contract – Event No. 2031. Recommend awarding an annual contract to procure trash compactors from Stribling Systems in the amount of $141,000.00. The trash compactors will be used by the Commercial Refuse Department to replace worn out units. The low bidder withdrew their bid because they were unable to meet specifications. This bid was advertised, opened and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidder was: L.B. Stribling Systems (Martin, GA) (D) $ 141,000.00 Reaction Distributing (D) $ 157,980.00 Consolidated Disposal (D) $ 131,076.00 * Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Sanitation Cart Replacement Fund/Office/Building Furniture/Equipment (Account No. 513-0000-51520). A Pre-Bid Conference was conducted and three vendors attended. (D)Indicates non-local non-minority owned business. (*)Indicates bidder withdrew their bid. Recommend approval. Disposal of Scrap Tires – Annual Contract – Event No. 2092. Recommend approval to award an annual contract for the disposal of scrap tires from Quality Tire Recycling, Inc. in the amount of $26,000.00. This contract will be utilized by the Vehicle Maintenance and Refuse Disposal Departments to dispose of used tires in an environmentally safe and legal manner. Although only one bid was received, pricing was solicited from over 60 suppliers. In order to solicit additional bids, the due date was extended a week and phone calls were made to potential suppliers. This bid was advertised, opened and reviewed. Delivery: As Requested Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidder was: L.B. Quality Tire Recycling, Inc. (Jackson, GA) (D) $26,000.00 13  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Vehicle Maintenance and Refuse Disposal/Other Contractual Service (Account No. 611-1130-51295 and 511-7103-51295). A Pre-Bid Conference was conducted and no vendors attended. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Towing of Class II Vehicles – Annual Contract – Event No. 2094. Recommend approval to award an annual contract for towing of class II vehicles with Jackson Brothers Car Care Center in the amount of $34,580.00. The towing services will be utilized by Vehicle Maintenance to transport inoperable heavy equipment such as street sweepers and garbage trucks. Although only one bid was received, pricing was solicited from over 200 suppliers. In order to solicit additional bids, the due date was extended a week and phone calls were made to potential suppliers. This bid was advertised, opened and reviewed. Delivery: As Requested. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidder was: L.B. Jackson Brothers Car Care (Savannah, GA) (A) $34,580.00 Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Internal Service Fund/Vehicle Maintenance/Towing Services (Account No. 611-1130-51340). A Pre-Bid Conference was conducted and no vendors attended. (A)Indicates local, minority owned business. Recommend approval. Janitorial Services for Grayson Stadium – Annual Contract – Event No. 2106. Recommend awarding an annual contract for janitorial services from Superior Janitorial Services for Georgia in the amount of $28,000.00. Per the contract with the Sand Gnats and the City of Savannah, the janitorial services are required for cleaning Grayson Stadium. The low bidder did not have the required experience in cleaning stadiums of a similar size. Bids were received March 11, 2014. This bid has been advertised, opened and reviewed. The bidders were: L.B. Superior Janitorial Services (Garden City, GA) (C) $28,000.00 Goodwill Industries (G) $30,740.50 CKC Enterprises (A) $35,000.00 Imagann Cleaning Services (A) $36,750.00 C & L Professional Cleaning Services (A) $44,500.00 Sherwood Services, Inc. (D) $27,860.00+ Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, General Fund/Building & Grounds/Janitorial Services (Account No. 101-6120-51243). A Pre-Bid Conference was conducted and eight vendors attended. (A)Indicates local, minority owned business. (C)Indicates non-local, minority owned business. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. (G)Indicates local, non-profit organization. (+)Indicates low bidder not selected. Recommend approval. 14  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 Revenue Software System – Contract Modification No. 15 – Event No. 2165. Recommend approval of Contract Modification No. 15 to MS Govern in the amount of $8,550.00. The original contract was for the replacement of the existing revenue application with the MS Govern system. Applications that have been completed include Property Tax, Central Cashiering, On-line Property Tax payments and Business License. Applications remaining to be replaced include Excise Tax (June, 2014), Utility Billing and Miscellaneous Billing (2015). This contract modification will provide for configuration enhancements needed to support penalty and interest calculations for excise tax accounts in accordance with the City’s ordinance. The need for customized configuration settings was not identified in the original scope of work. The excise tax component is expected to be implemented during the second quarter of 2014. The cumulative total of the contract requires Council approval of this modification. The original contract amount for this project was $999,434.00. The total of all change orders to date, including this one is $99,505.40. The revised contract amount is $1,098,939.40. The original purchase was a negotiated sole source procurement. Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Capital Improvement Project/Other Costs/Replacement Computer Systems (Account No. 311-9207-52842-OP0134). Recommend approval. Fire Hydrants and Repair Parts – Annual Contract Renewal – Event No. 2171. Recommend renewing an annual contract for fire hydrants and repair parts from Consolidated Pipe and Supply in the amount of $52,256.00 and to HD Supply in the amount of $52,410.72 for a total of $104,666.72. HD Supply requested a modest increase on two items due to manufacturer’s increased cost; however, they remain the low bidder for both of these items. The fire hydrants are maintained in inventory at the Central Warehouse and are used by the Water Distribution Department to replace failing fire hydrants in the water system. The bid items were awarded to the lowest bidder for that line item. This is the first of two renewal options available. Bids were originally received on February 26, 2013. This bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidders were: L.B. Consolidated Pipe & Supply (Garden City, GA) (D) $105,963.15 L.B. HD Supply (Pooler, GA) (D) $114,875.56 Ferguson Waterworks (D) $100,825.95* Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Internal Service Fund/No Department/Inventory-Central Stores (Account No. 611-0000-11330) and Water Distribution/Construction Supplies & Materials (Account No. 521-2503-51340). A Pre-Bid Conference was conducted and four vendors attended. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business, (*)Indicates bidder withdrew their bid. Recommend approval. Summer Lunch Program – Annual Contract Renewal – Event No. 2178. Recommend renewing a seasonal contract for catering services for the Summer Lunch Program from the 15  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 Savannah-Chatham Board of Education in the amount of $3.20 per lunch for a total of $340,800.00. The summer lunch program is administered by the Recreation Services Department and provides children enrolled in the Summer Recreation Program a well-balanced lunch during the summer when school is not in session. This year the program will run from June 2, 2014 through July 25, 2014 and will serve an estimated 106,500 meals. The sole source is required because the summer lunch program is fully funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Federal guidelines mandate that local school nutrition services be utilized to provide this service where feasible. The bidder was: S.S. Savannah-Chatham Board of Education (Savannah, GA) (B) $340,800.00 Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Summer Lunch/Leisure Services Department/Food Catered Meals (Account No. 212-6130-51271). (B)Indicates local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Mowing for Leisure Services – Annual Contract Renewal – Event No. 2188. Recommend renewing an annual contract for mowing services from Dean Forest Nurseries in the amount of $ 47,531.00 and Blankenship Landscape in the amount of $6,110.00 for a total of $53,641.00. The mowing contract will be used by Buildings and Grounds to mow ball fields, playgrounds, and various recreational areas. This is the last renewal option available. Bids were originally received March 1, 2011. This bid was advertised, opened and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidders were: L.B. Dean Forest Nursery (Garden City, GA) (D) $47,531.00 L.B. Blankenship Landscape (Richmond Hill, GA) (D) $ 6,110.00 Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, General Funds/Building and Grounds/Other Contractual Services (Account No. 101-6120-51295). (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Cart Tippers – Sole Source – Event No. 2189. Recommend approval to procure 16 cart tippers from Consolidated Disposal in the amount of $43,200.00. The cart tippers will be used by Residential Refuse and Recycling and installed on trash trucks to allow sanitation workers to lift trash cans and empty them into the truck. The Bayne tipper is the preferred manufacturer because of its low profile design which allows increased production due to faster cycle times and reduces injury to personnel due to a lower loading point. Because the City has purchased the same tippers since 2001, maintenance costs are greatly reduced as the parts inventory is interchangeable between all tippers. This in turn 16  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 allows Vehicle Maintenance to increase availability of equipment to the department for production. Consolidated Disposal is the Bayne distributor for this area. Delivery: As Requested. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidder was: S.S. Consolidated Disposal (Smyrna, GA) (D) $ 43,200.00 Funds are available in the 2014 budget, Vehicle Purchases/Vehicular Equipment (Account No. 613-9230-51515). A Pre-Bid Conference was not conducted as this is a sole source purchase. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Wood Chippers – Sole Source - Event No. 2192. Recommend approval to procure two wood chippers from Atlantic Coastal Equipment in the amount of $55,650.00. The wood chippers will be utilized by the Park and Tree Department to replace units which are no longer economical to operate or repair. Atlantic Coastal Equipment will hold pricing from prior bid approved by Council on March 7, 2013. Bids were originally received July 26, 2011. The bid was advertised, opened and reviewed. Delivery: 60 Days. Terms: Net 3 Days. The bidder was: S.S. Atlantic Coastal Equipment (Richmond, GA) (D) $55,650.00 Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Vehicle Purchases/Vehicular Equipment (Account No. 613-9230-51515). A Pre-Bid Conference was not conducted as this is a sole source procurement. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Thermoplastic Pavement Markings – Annual Contract Renewal – Event No. 2199. Recommend renewing an annual contract for thermoplastic pavement markings with Peek Pavement Marking in the amount of $148,220.00. The contract will be used by Traffic Engineering in the application and removal of thermoplastic pavement markings on various City streets. This is the first of two renewal options available. Bids were originally received March 12, 2013. The bid was advertised opened and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidder was: L.B. Peek Pavement Marking (Columbus, GA) (D) $148,220.00 Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Traffic Engineering/Operating Supplies and Materials (Account No. 101-2103-51320). A Pre-Bid Conference was not conducted as this is an annual contract renewal. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Hydrated Lime – Annual Contract Renewal – Event No. 2200. Recommend renewing an annual contract to procure hydrated lime from Lhoist North America in the amount of 17  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 $168,200.00. The lime is utilized by Industrial and Domestic (I & D) Water in the treatment of water. This is the first of two renewal options available. Bids were originally received January 22, 2013. This bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidders were: L.B. Lhoist North America (Ripplemead, VA) (D) $ 168,200.00 Greer Industries (D) $ 179,600.00 Cheney Lime and Cement Co. (D) $ 194,560.00 Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, I & D Water Operating Fund/I & D Operations & Maintenance/Chemicals (Account No. 531-2581-51323). A Pre-Bid Conference was not conducted as this is an annual contract renewal. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Surveying and Drafting Services – Annual Contract Renewal – Event No. 2201. Recommend renewing an annual contract to procure surveying and drafting services from Brewer Land Surveying in the amount of $30,600.00. The services will be used by various City departments to obtain surveys of property and to augment staff for drafting services. Horne Surveying and Mapping was originally awarded the contract as the primary vendor and Brewer Land Surveying as the secondary vendor. However, Horne Surveying declined to renew the contract under the first renewal option due to company changes. This is the second of two renewal options available. Proposals were originally received April 19, 2011. This request for proposal was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The proposers were: B.P. Brewer Land Surveying (Pooler, GA) (D) $ 30,600.00 Horne Surveying and Mapping (D) $ 24,000.00* Kern-Coleman (B) $ 32,000.00 Nobles Consulting Group (D) $ 33,850.00 CERM (C) $ 34,300.00 Landair Surveying Company (D) $ 35,455.80 EMC (B) $ 37,300.00 Hussey, Gay Bell & DeYoung (B) $ 40,500.00 BP Barber (B) $ 40,700.00 McKim and Creed (D) $ 44,300.00 Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Various CIP Projects (Account No. 311-9207-52482). (B)Indicates local, non-minority owned business. (C)Indicates non-local, minority owned business. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business, (*)Indicates bidder declined to renew contract. Recommend approval. 18  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 Civic Center Fly Loft Repairs – Sole Source – Event No. 2202. Recommend approval to procure upgrade and repair services for the Civic Center fly loft from Metalcrafts, Inc. in the amount of $218,320.00. The work to be performed will include the removal of the existing fly loft ventilators and replaced with new smoke vents. The existing ventilators require replacement because they cannot safely resist the loads imposed by a Category 3 hurricane. A sole source is required because the existing roof is under a 20-year manufacturer's warranty from the manufacturer, Johns Mansville, and installed by Metalcrafts, Inc. in 2008. Any additional work performed on the roof must be completed by a Johns Mansville-certified company in order to maintain the warranty. The design consultant and Johns Mansville have recommended that Metalcrafts, Inc. be used for all future work, as this places responsibility for both the existing roof and new vents to a single, certified company. Metalcrafts, Inc. will also coordinate all work. Metalcrafts will utilize two vendors from the City’s certified M/WBE list for a total of 32% M/WBE participation. Pioneer Construction, an MBE, will perform 15% of the work, and Steel Erectors, a WBE, will perform 17%. The bidder was: S.S. Metalcrafts, Inc. (Savannah, GA) (B) $ 218,320.00 Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Capital Improvements Project/Other Costs/Theater Fly Loft Upgrade (Account No. 311-9207-52842-CC0904). (B)Indicates local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Barnard Street Ramp Repairs – Event No. 1770 – Contract Modification No. 1. Recommend approval of Contract Modification No. 1 to the Coastal Heritage Society (CHS) in the amount of $2,200.00. The original contract was for the repair of historic Factors Walk wall along the Barnard Street ramp stairwell. During construction, it was determined that the water behind the repaired wall which originally was draining through the cracks, will now bleed through the bricks causing an efflorescence (white coloring) to form on the exterior of the masonry wall. The contract modification includes the installation of a new drain behind the wall to prevent this from happening. The cost of the drain is $1,200.00. Additionally, once the existing handrail was removed, it was determined that the existing core hole in the step tread would not be sound enough to support the new handrail. The tread is currently embedded into the masonry wall. In order to keep the original bluestone tread, the contractor will carefully remove the tread from the wall and flip it to provide a more sound coring location. The cost to remove, flip, and re-embed the stone into the wall is $1,000.00. The masonry work to repoint the bricks in the embedment area is also included in this cost. 19  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 The cumulative total now requires Council approval. The original contract was for $37,960.00. The revised contract price including this modification will be $40,160.00. The second low bidder was Collins Construction Services for $46,200.00. Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Capital Improvements Projects/Other Costs/Historical Wall Preservation (Account No. 311-9207-52842-SQ0603). Recommend approval. Feiler Park Walking Trail and Playground – Contract Modification No. 1 – Event No. 1715 . Recommend approval of Contract Modification No.1 to E&D Contracting Services, Inc. in the amount of $4,183.33. The original contract was for all materials and labor to construct a walking trail and playground including landscaping, grading, erosion control, gravel parking lot, an ADA parking lot and site preparation at Feiler Park. The contract modification includes a pervious brick paver system at the same cost as a grid system to retain gravel in the parking lot as was originally requested. The previous pavers require less maintenance and provide a better appearance for the parking lot. This modification also addresses the concern that Council expressed regarding the use and maintenance of a gravel parking lot. The cost for this portion of the modification is $3,600.00. This modification also includes an adjustment to the linear footage of the asphalt trail. The contractor provided a layout for the trail that minimizes the impact on the trees. After the contract was awarded, city staff added 25 linear feet (13.83 square yards) of asphalt to avoid tree roots. This portion of the modification costs $583.33. The cumulative total now requires Council approval. The original contract amount was $47,131.80. The total of all contract modifications is $4,183.33. The new contract total is now $51,315.13. The second low bid was $49,890.00. Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Community Development Fund - No Department/CDBG 2013 COM PLG PROJ/Feiler Park Renovation CDBG 2013 (Account No. 221-0000-21623- CG0334). Recommend approval. Police Pursuit Caprices – Event No. 2034. Recommend approval to procure twelve police pursuit Caprices from Family Ford in the amount of $331,320.00. The police pursuit Caprices will be used by Vehicle Maintenance to replace units which are no longer economical to operate or repair. These vehicles are the requirements from the 2014 vehicle replacement list. This bid was advertised, opened and reviewed. Delivery: 60 Days. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidders were: L.B. Family Ford Inc. (Dallas, GA) (D) $ 331,320.00 Dan Vaden Chevrolet (B) $ 352,703.76 Funds are available in the 2014 Budget, Vehicle Purchases/Vehicular Equipment (Account No. 613-9230-51515). A Pre-Bid Conference was conducted and no vendors attended. (D)Indicates 20  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 non-local, non-minority owned business. (B)Indicates local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Approved upon a motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Osborne and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Alderman Johnson stated he pulled this because he feels that everything was done in accordance with procedure and law but moving forward ways need to be looked at to award contracts to local businesses. Mayor Jackson asked if there is a towing charge or is it inclusive. City Manager Cutter replied it is inclusive. Alderman Thomas stated another purchase was approved a month ago for 77 vehicles that an out of town dealership won and he would like local dealerships to become more competitive when bidding so the contracts can be awarded and tax dollars stay in the City. The following announcements were made: City Manager Cutter stated the conceptual plan for the Cultural Arts Center was revealed to the Mayor and Alderman in the work session. She encouraged the public to stop by the existing Cultural Arts Center today at 5:30 p.m. at 9 West Henry Street to review what is to come and provide feedback to the City of Savannah. The plan can also be viewed on the City of Savannah’s website at www.savannahga.gov/artcenter to view it and provide feedback. On April 22, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. at the Savannah Civic Center the follow up meeting will be held with small business contractors. Alderman Osborne thanked City Manager Cutter for providing Council with the question that was asked at the first meeting. She stated it was interesting to see how little people knew about the process. Alderman Thomas thanked City Manager Cutter for addressing his concerns in reference to the post office traffic he previously mentioned. He stated he witnessed a citizen with children in the car doing exactly what stated would happen and took photographs. He thanked her for the memo she sent to the DOT but is concerned because they have not taken action. He suggested putting an officer in the area to prevent it from occurring. Alderman Thomas also thanked City Manager Cutter for the memo she provided with the items discussed during the Council Retreat in January. He stated he is looking forward to some of the upcoming work sessions that will be held on various issues. Mayor Jackson stated representatives from the Michelin Tire Company were in Savannah during the week to recognize the Savannah Fire Department for their fine service to save the plant that burned in Savannah. She stated a trophy was presented to the men and women involved, and they were taken to lunch. A video was presented to the City of Savannah of the event but it has to be vetted, the individual that made it stated it can be changed if necessary. Alderman Shabazz announced Savannah Area Family Emergency Shelter, Inc. (SAFE Shelter) will host their annual Step Forward 5K walk on Saturday, April 5, 2014 beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Lake Mayer. 21  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 3, 2014 Alderman Johnson stated Savannah has been engaged in its own March Madness and he would like everyone to go vote for Savannah to win the title of Greatest Southern Town at www.gardenandgun.com. The votes can be made once per hour. There being no further business, Mayor Jackson declared this meeting of Council adjourned. Dyanne C. Reese, MMC, Clerk of Council 22