City Council

OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 CITY GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF CITY COUNCIL SAVANNAH, GEORGIA March 19, 2015 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 Pastor Kenneth Rouche, Branded Hearts Church followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. PRESENT: Mayor Edna Jackson, Presiding Mayor Pro-Tem Van Johnson, II Alderman Mary Osborne, Vice-Chairman of Council Alderman Tony Thomas, Chairman of Council Aldermen, Mary Ellen Sprague, John Hall, Estella Shabazz, Tom Bordeaux (arrived at 3:16 p.m.) City Manager Stephanie Cutter City Attorney W. Brooks Stillwell Assistant City Attorney William Shearouse ABSENT: Alderman Carol Bell (out of town) Assistant City Attorney Lester B. Johnson, III MINUTES Upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Osborne, unanimous approval was given for the Mayor to sign an affidavit and resolution on Real Estate and Litigation for an Executive Session held today where no votes were taken. (SEE RESOLUTIONS) Upon motion of Alderman Osborne, seconded by Alderman Sprague, and unanimously carried the summary/final minutes for the City Manager’s briefing of March 5, 2015 was approved. Upon motion of Alderman Osborne, seconded by Alderman Sprague, and unanimously carried the summary/final minutes for the City Council meeting of March 5, 2015 was approved. APPEARANCES Mollie White, 2015 Tour of Homes Chairwoman; Kacey Ratterree, Tour of Homes Board of Directors President; and Laura McCarthy, Tour of Homes Director, of the Women of Christ Church and others appeared to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the Savannah Tour of Homes and Gardens. Alderman Osborne read and presented a Proclamation in commemoration of the 80th Anniversary on behalf of the Mayor and Council. Alderman Sprague thanked everyone for coming to inform the community about the events which will occur at the Tour of Homes being a member of the Women of Christ Church. She also thanked City staff for sprucing the City of in preparation for the event. Mayor Jackson thanked them for coming and stated if she gets a chance she will be in attendance. 1  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 Dr. Ja Jahannes, Lucia Jahannes, Gary Swindell, and others appeared to present information on his play titled “Ain't I A Woman” based on the life of Sojourner Truth. The play will be held April 3, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. at the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum Auditorium. Ticket prices vary and can be purchased from Dr. Jahannes, Lester’s Florist or at the door the day of the show. Scott W. Smith, former President and CEO of the Coastal Heritage Society and others, appeared to receive a proclamation recognizing his outstanding contributions to the Coastal Heritage Society and recent presentation of the “Lifetime Achievement Award” by the Georgia Association of Museums and Galleries. Alderman Sprague read and presented the proclamation on behalf of the Mayor and Council. Alderman Shabazz congratulated Mr. Smith on his achievements stating the pictures shown show the awesome work of his life. Alderman Sprague congratulated Mr. Smith for managing six museums and commended him for 39 years of hard work. Alderman Johnson thanked Mr. Smith for working with him for over 10 years with the youth and showing them something they never knew was present in the City. Aldermen Osborne and Thomas thanked Mr. Smith for his dedication. Mayor Jackson thanked him for all he does and will continue to do. Mayor Jackson announced Alderman Bell had to leave to go out of town and Aldermen Bordeaux is present but would be joining Council later. 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. Dipti Patel for Shiv’s Liquor, requesting to transfer a beer and wine (package) license at 1713 E. Victory Drive. This location is between Dixie Avenue and Wicklow Street in District 3. The applicant plans to continue to operate as a package store. (New management/existing business) Recommend approval. Alderman Hall asked Ms. Patel if she purchased the business from the previous owner. Ms. Patel stated one of her family members is the previous owner. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Hall, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. Approved upon motion of Alderman Hall, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. Randy R. Roeser for Publix Supermarket, Inc. t/a Publix, requesting to transfer a beer and wine (package) license at 5500 Abercorn Street. This location is between E. 73rd Street and Stephenson Avenue in District 4. The applicant plans to continue to operate as a grocery store. (New management/existing business) Recommend approval. Alderman Sprague stated she is okay with the license being transferred. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Osborne and unanimously carried. Approved upon motion of Alderman Osborne, seconded by Alderman Thomas and unanimously carried. 2  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 Ankita A. Patel for Mickey’s Beverage, requesting to transfer a liquor, beer and wine (package) license at 2714 Montgomery Street. This location is between Victory Drive and W. 44th Street in District 5. The applicant plans to continue to operate as a package store. (New management/existing business) Recommend approval. (The applicant was not present) Upon motion of Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Shabazz and unanimously carried the hearing was continued to April 2, 2015. ZONING HEARINGS Metropolitan Planning Commission (File No. 15-000827-ZA), recommending an amendment to Sec. 8-3028(d), Victorian Planned Neighborhood Conservation District to Use 6, Inns (not to exceed 5 bedrooms) in the 1-R zoning district. The purpose of the amendment is to remove two conditions, b. and c., which relate to short-term vacation rentals (which is a separate land use, Use 8a); and to correct an error relating to the maximum number of bedrooms permitted in the inn. The amendment would not make substantive changes to the Inn use in the Victorian District. Recommend approval of the Planning Commission’s recommendation. Marcus Lotson, Metropolitan Planning Commission briefly described the intent of the amendment. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Osborne, seconded by Alderman Shabazz and unanimously carried. Approved upon motion of Alderman Osborne, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. Alderman Osborne stated the 90 day time period has passed to review the Vacation Rentals and asked to hear from Attorney Stillwell on the matter. City Manager Cutter stated a draft report should be ready to share with Council by April 15, 2015. ORDINANCES First and Second Readings Ordinance read for the first time in Council March 19, 2015, then by unanimous consent of Council read a second time, placed upon its passage, adopted and approved upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. Historic District Board of Review Quorum (File No. 15-000333-ZA). AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 8-3030(D)(6) OF THE HISTORIC DISTRICT ORDINANCE TO REDUCE THE QUORUM OF THE HISTORIC DISTRICT BOARD OF REVIEW FROM SEVEN MEMBERS TO SIX MEMBERS. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND PART 8, CHAPTER 3, ZONING PERTAINING TO THE HISTORIC DISTRICT BOARD OF REVIEW AND THE NUMBER OF MEMBERS REQUIRED TO CONSTITUTE A QUORUM; TO REPEAL ALL OTHER ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH AND FOR OTHER 3  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 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 Part 8, Chapter 3, Zoning of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003) hereinafter referenced as "Code," be amended as follows: ENACT I. Article B. (Zoning Districts), Sec. 8-3030(d)(6) (Historic District, Historic District Board of Review, Quorum) (6) Quorum Six members of the Board shall constitute a quorum. SECTION 2: That the requirement 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 12th day of February, 2015, a copy of said notice being attached hereto and made a part hereof. SECTION 3: Upon the effective date of the ordinance all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: March 19, 2015 Ordinance read for the first time in Council March 19, 2015, then by unanimous consent of Council read a second time, placed upon its passage, adopted and approved upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. Alderman Sprague asked Ellen Harris, Metropolitan Planning Commission what the Secretary of Interior’s Standards is and the purpose. Ms. Harris stated they are best practices and this is a clarification not a change. Preservation of Historic Structures (File No. 15-000333-ZA). AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 8-3030(L)(1) OF THE HISTORIC DISTRICT ORDINANCE TO CLARIFY WHEN THE SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR’S STANDARDS MAY BE APPLIED. 4  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND PART 8, CHAPTER 3, ZONING PERTAINING TO THE PRESERVATION OF HISTORIC STRUCTURES WITHIN THE HISTORIC DISTRICT; TO REPEAL ALL OTHER 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 Part 8, Chapter 3, Zoning of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003) hereinafter referenced as "Code," be amended as follows: ENACT II. Article B. (Zoning Districts), Sec. 8-3030(l)(1) (Historic District, Criteria for a Certificate of Appropriateness, Preservation of Historic Structures Within the Historic District) (1) Preservation of Historic Structures Within the Historic District. An historic structure, portion of a structure, additions, outbuildings, or any appurtenance related thereto which meet the historic criteria defined in Section 8-3030(d)(f)(1), visible from a public street or lane, including but not limited to walls, fences, light fixtures, steps, paving, sidewalks, and signs, shall only be moved, reconstructed, altered, or maintained in a manner that will preserve the historical and exterior architectural features of the historic structure or appurtenance thereto and are consistent with the current edition of the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Rehabilitation published by the U.S. Department of the Interior. SECTION 2: That the requirement 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 12th day of February, 2015, a copy of said notice being attached hereto and made a part hereof. SECTION 3: Upon the effective date of the ordinance all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: March 19, 2015 Ordinance read for the first time in Council March 19, 2015, then by unanimous consent of Council read a second time, placed upon its passage, adopted and approved upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. 5  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 Encroachments (File No. 15-000333-ZA). AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 8-3030(N)(8) (AWNINGS), AND SECTION 8- 3030(N)(10) (BALCONIES, STAIRS, STOOPS, PORTICOS, AND PORCHES) OF THE HISTORIC DISTRICT ORDINANCE TO CLARIFY WHEN THE DESIGN STANDARDS APPLY AS WELL AS ALLOW THE CITY FLEXIBILITY IN ITS APPROVAL PROCESS. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND PART 8, CHAPTER 3, ZONING PERTAINING TO THE PLACEMENT OF AWNINGS WITHIN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY IN THE HISTORIC DISTRICT; TO REPEAL ALL OTHER 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 Part 8, Chapter 3, Zoning of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003) hereinafter referenced as "Code," be amended as follows: ENACT III. Article B. (Zoning Districts), Sec. 8-3030(n)(8) (Historic District, Design Standards, Awnings) (8) Awnings. Awnings shall be subject to the following criteria: [No change a-d.] e. Awnings with the public right-of-way shall be required to obtain an encroachment license from the City of Savannah. SECTION 2: That the requirement 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 12th day of February, 2015, a copy of said notice being attached hereto and made a part hereof. SECTION 3: Upon the effective date of the ordinance all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: March 19, 2015 6  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND PART 8, CHAPTER 3, ZONING PERTAINING TO THE PLACEMENT OF BALCONIES, STAIRS, STOOPS, PORTICOS AND PORCHES WITHIN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY IN THE HISTORIC DISTRICT; TO REPEAL ALL OTHER 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 Part 8, Chapter 3, Zoning of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003) hereinafter referenced as "Code," be amended as follows: ENACT IV. Article B. (Zoning Districts), Sec. 8-3030(n)(10) (Historic District, Design Standards, Balconies, Stairs, Stoops, Porticos and Porches) (10) Balconies, Stairs, Stoops, Porticos and Porches. Balconies, stairs, stoops, porticos and porches shall be subject to the following criteria: [No change to a-k.] l. Openings for new exterior basement stairs within the public right-of- way may be established in the BC-1 district provided that the following criteria are met: [No change to i.-iii.] m. Balconies, stoops, stairs (including basement stairs), porticos and porches within the public right-of-way shall be required to obtain an encroachment license from the City of Savannah. SECTION 2: That the requirement 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 12th day of February, 2015, a copy of said notice being attached hereto and made a part hereof. SECTION 3: Upon the effective date of the ordinance all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: March 19, 2015 7  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 Ordinance read for the first time in Council March 19, 2015, then by unanimous consent of Council read a second time, placed upon its passage, adopted and approved upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. Parking Areas – Structured Parking Setback, Curb Cuts (File No. 15-000333-ZA). AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 8- 3030(N)(14) OF THE HISTORIC DISTRICT ORDINANCE TO ALLOW THE CITY TRAFFIC ENGINEER OR THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO REQUIRE CURB CUTS WITHOUT GOING THROUGH THE VARIANCE PROCESS. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND PART 8, CHAPTER 3, ZONING PERTAINING TO PARKING WITHIN THE HISTORIC DISTRICT; TO REPEAL ALL OTHER 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 Part 8, Chapter 3, Zoning of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003) hereinafter referenced as "Code," be amended as follows: ENACT V. Article B. (Zoning Districts), Sec. 8-3030(n)(14)b. and c. (Historic District, Design Standards, Parking Areas) (14) Parking Areas. [No change to a.] b. Parking within the ground floor of a building shall be setback a minimum of 30 feet from property lines along all public rights-of-way (not including lanes). This standard does not apply to structured parking on the same lot as single family and two-family residential dwellings that are on a corner lot with lane access or on a parcel that does not have access to a lane. c. Curb cuts shall be permitted only where access to a lane does not exist, unless required by the City Traffic Engineer or the Georgia Department of Transportation for commercial uses. SECTION 2: That the requirement 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 8  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 zoning amendment, said notice being published in the Savannah Morning News, on the 12th day of February, 2015, a copy of said notice being attached hereto and made a part hereof. SECTION 3: Upon the effective date of the ordinance all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: March 19, 2015 Ordinance read for the first time in Council March 19, 2015, then by unanimous consent of Council read a second time, placed upon its passage, adopted and approved upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. Character Areas – Factor’s Walk (File No. 15-000333-ZA). AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 8-3030(N)(18) OF THE HISTORIC DISTRICT ORDINANCE TO CLARIFY THAT NEW CONSTRUCTION NORTH OF RIVER STREET SHALL BE PLACED PERPENDICULAR TO THE RIVER AND SHALL NOT EXCEED TWO STORIES IN HEIGHT, UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED ON THE HEIGHT MAP AS AMENDED AUGUST, 2014. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND PART 8, CHAPTER 3, ZONING PERTAINING TO THE HEIGHT OF NEW CONSTRUCTION IN FACTORS WALK NORTH OF RIVER STREET IN THE HISTORIC DISTRICT; TO REPEAL ALL OTHER 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 Part 8, Chapter 3, Zoning of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003) hereinafter referenced as "Code," be amended as follows: ENACT VI. Article B. (Zoning Districts), Sec. 8-3030(n)(a)iii. (Historic District, Design Standards, Character Areas, Factors Walk) (18) Character Areas. (No change to a.i-ii.) iii. New construction north of River Street shall be placed perpendicular to the river and shall not exceed two stories in height, unless otherwise 9  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 indicated on the Height Map as amended August, 2014. SECTION 2: That the requirement 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 12th day of February, 2015, a copy of said notice being attached hereto and made a part hereof. SECTION 3: Upon the effective date of the ordinance all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: March 19, 2015 Ordinance read for the first time in Council March 19, 2015, then by unanimous consent of Council read a second time, placed upon its passage, adopted and approved upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. Variances – Public Hearing Processes (File No. 15-000333-ZA). AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 8-3030(P)(4) OF THE HISTORIC DISTRICT ORDINANCE TO UPDATE THE REFERENCE FOR THE REQUIRED PUBLIC NOTICE. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND PART 8, CHAPTER 3, ZONING PERTAINING TO NOTIFICATION OF THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR A VARIANCE WITHIN THE HISTORIC DISTRICT; TO REPEAL ALL OTHER 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 Part 8, Chapter 3, Zoning of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003) hereinafter referenced as "Code," be amended as follows: ENACT VII. Article B. (Zoning Districts), Sec. 8-3030(p)(4)b. (Historic District, Variances, Public Hearing Process) (4) Public Hearing Process. [No change to (1) thru (4)a.] 10  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 b. A variance request within the historic district is a two-part process that requires a finding-of-fact and recommendation from the Board prior to review by the Zoning Board of Appeals. A public hearing and public notice for review by the Board shall follow the same process as provided in Section 8-3167 (Public Hearings) and Article M. (Public Notification). SECTION 2: That the requirement 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 12th day of February, 2015, a copy of said notice being attached hereto and made a part hereof. SECTION 3: Upon the effective date of the ordinance all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: March 19, 2015 Ordinance read for the first time in Council March 19, 2015, then by unanimous consent of Council read a second time, placed upon its passage, adopted and approved upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Osborne and unanimously carried. Signs within the Public Right-of-Way – Encroachment Process (File No. 15-000333-ZA). AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 8-3119 OF THE BROUGHTON STREET SIGN ORDINANCE, SECTION 8-3120 OF THE RIVER STREET-FACTORS WALK SIGN ORDINANCE, AND SECTION 8-3121 OF THE HISTORIC DISTRICT SIGN ORDINANCE TO CLARIFY WHEN THE DESIGN STANDARDS APPLY AS WELL AS ALLOW THE CITY FLEXIBILITY IN ITS APPROVAL PROCESS. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND PART 8, CHAPTER 3, ZONING PERTAINING TO SIGNS IN THE RIGHT-OF-WAY OF BROUGHTON STREET; TO REPEAL ALL OTHER 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 Part 8, Chapter 3, Zoning of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003) hereinafter referenced as "Code," be amended as follows: ENACT 11  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 VIII. Article E. (Signs), Sec. 8-3119(2) (Broughton Street Sign Ordinance, Requirements) (j) Signs within the public right-of-way. Signs within the public right-of-way shall be required to obtain an encroachment license from the City of Savannah. (k) Discontinued use signs. [Reserved.] SECTION 2: That the requirement 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 12th day of February, 2015, a copy of said notice being attached hereto and made a part hereof. SECTION 3: Upon the effective date of the ordinance all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: March 19, 2015 Ordinance read for the first time in Council March 19, 2015, then by unanimous consent of Council read a second time, placed upon its passage, adopted and approved upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. Directory Signage between Bay Street and Factors Walk – Responsibility for Enforcement (File No. 15-000333-ZA). AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 8-3120(F) OF THE RIVER STREET- FACTORS WALK SIGN ORDINANCE TO PROVIDE THE CITY WITH ADDITIONAL FLEXIBILITY FOR ENFORCEMENT AS REQUESTED BY THE TRAFFIC ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT AND THE CITIZEN OFFICE. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND PART 8, CHAPTER 3, ZONING PERTAINING TO DIRECTORY SIGNS AND SIGNS WITHIN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY IN THE RIVER STREET- FACTORS WALK SIGN DISTRICT; TO REPEAL ALL OTHER 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 Part 8, Chapter 3, Zoning of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003) hereinafter referenced as "Code," be amended as follows: 12  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 ENACT IX. Article E. (Signs), Sec. 8-3120(2)(f) (River Street-Factors Walk Sign District Created, Requirements, Directory Sign) and (f) Directory Signs. Directory Sign(s) shall be permitted provided: 1. Directory sign structures or kiosks for the purpose of installing individual directory signs shall be erected and maintained by the City of Savannah. 2. A maximum of one directory sign per establishment shall be permitted. Directory signs shall be located within 400 feet of its principal entrance, as measured by the nearest sidewalk. 3. All directory sign designs shall be approved by the Savannah Historic District Board of Review. 4. The maintenance of approved signs shall be the responsibility of the business. Unmaintained signs will be removed. 5. The enforcement of the location and control of off-site directory signs shall be the responsibility of the Citizen Office Director. 6. All signs in conflict with these provisions shall be removed at the Citizen Office Director’s direction within 30 days of the establishment of directory sign locations by the Citizen Office Director. ENACT X. Article E. (Signs), Sec. 8-3120(2)(m) (River Street-Factors Walk Sign District Created, Requirements, Signs Within the Public Right-of-way) (m) Signs within the public right-of-way. Signs within the public right-of-way shall be required to obtain an encroachment license from the City of Savannah. SECTION 2: That the requirement 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 12th day of February, 2015, a copy of said notice being attached hereto and made a part hereof. 13  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 SECTION 3: Upon the effective date of the ordinance all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: March 19, 2015 AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND PART 8, CHAPTER 3, ZONING PERTAINING TO SIGNS IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY OF THE HISTORIC DISTRICT; TO REPEAL ALL OTHER 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 Part 8, Chapter 3, Zoning of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003) hereinafter referenced as "Code," be amended as follows: ENACT XI. Article E. (Signs), Sec. 8-3121 (Historic Sign District Created) [No change to 8-3121(A) thru (B)(15)] (16) Signs within the public right-of-way. Signs within the public right-of-way shall be required to obtain an encroachment license from the City of Savannah. (17) Discontinued use signs. [Reserved.] SECTION 2: That the requirement 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 12th day of February, 2015, a copy of said notice being attached hereto and made a part hereof. SECTION 3: Upon the effective date of the ordinance all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: March 19, 2015 Ordinance read for the first time in Council March 19, 2015, then by unanimous consent of Council read a second time, placed upon its passage, adopted and approved upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. 14  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 Live Music within a Nonconforming Sit-Down Restaurant in the RIP-A1 Zoning District (File No. 15-000222-ZA). AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ARTICLE F (NONCONFORMING USES), SECTION 8- 3134(G)(1)VII TO AMEND A PROVISION THAT PROHIBITS LIVE MUSIC WITHIN A NONCONFORMING SIT-DOWN RESTAURANT IN THE RIP-A1 (RESIDENTIAL URBAN) ZONING DISTRICT. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND PART 8, CHAPTER 3, ZONING PERTAINING TO LIVE MUSIC AS A CONDITION OF A NONCONFORMING SIT-DOWN RESTURANT THAT SELLS WINE BY THE DRINK; TO REPEAL ALL OTHER 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 Part 8, Chapter 3, Zoning of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003) hereinafter referenced as "Code," be amended as follows: ENACT XII. Article F. (Nonconforming Uses), Sec. 8-3134(g)(1)vii. (Changes in Nonconforming Uses) Pool tables, amusement games and videos, live music that is not acoustical and karaoke shall not be permitted. Loudspeakers and music shall not be permitted on any public property adjacent to the restaurant use. SECTION 2: That the requirement 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 12th day of February, 2015, a copy of said notice being attached hereto and made a part hereof. SECTION 3: Upon the effective date of the ordinance all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: March 19, 2015 15  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 RESOLUTIONS 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 19th day of March, 2015 the Council entered into a closed session for the purpose of discussing Personnel, Litigation and 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. National 2015 Census Test Day. Recommend approval. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Shabazz and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. A RESOLUTION TO AFFIRM THE SUPPORT OF THE MAYOR AND ALDERMEN OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF FORMAL PARTNERSHIPS WITH THE CENSUS BUREAU AFTER THE 2015 CENSUS TEST OF THE SAVANNAH MEDIA MARKET ENDS, IN ANTICIPATION OF COMPLETE COUNT EFFORTS FOR THE 2020 CENSUS IN SAVANNAH; TO EXPRESS PRIDE IN THE CITY OF SAVANNAH BEING SELECTED TO DO ITS PART IN THE 2015 CENSUS TEST TO HELP THE U.S. CENSUS BUREAU DEVELOP THE BEST TOOLS AND APPROACHES TO CONDUCT AN ACCURATE AND COST-EFFECTIVE 2020 CENSUS; TO ENCOURAGE THE RESIDENTS OF SAVANNAH TO FULLY PARTICIPATE IN THE 2015 CENSUS TEST; AND TO DECLARE APRIL 1, 2015 AS “2015 CENSUS TEST DAY” IN SAVANNAH. WHEREAS: The U.S Constitution compels the Nation to conduct an actual Enumeration; and WHEREAS: This Enumeration will be conducted as the upcoming 2020 Census; and WHEREAS: The U.S. Census Bureau is preparing for an accurate 2020 Census by selecting the Savannah media market to conduct tests 17 counties in Georgia, and 3 in South Carolina on March 23rd, 2015; and WHEREAS: The 2015 Census Test will measure participation and response rates, and how 16  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 targeted Internet advertising can be used to reach hard-to-count populations historically underrepresented in Census counts and estimates; and WHEREAS: The 2015 Test will test advertising, including the use of targeted social media, to reach designated areas and hard-to-count populations; and WHEREAS: The 2015 Test will test promotional approaches, including partnership, and will implement early engagement campaigns to motivate respondents to participate in the census enumeration; and WHEREAS: The Census Bureau chose Savannah and its surrounding counties because it represents areas with populations that are traditionally hard-to-count, with the right combination of high and low Internet use, as well as a sufficient number non-city-style addresses which are typically the hardest to match and identify; and WHEREAS: The 2015 test will allow the region to help the Nation prepare for the 2020 Census and give Savannah and its surrounding counties a head-start on our efforts to ensure a full and complete count for the 2020 Census; and WHEREAS: The City of Savannah is proud to be selected to do its part in the 2015 Census test to help the U.S. Census Bureau develop the best tools and approaches to conduct an accurate and cost- effective 2020 Census. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah hereby affirms its SUPPORT for the establishment of formal partnerships with the Census Bureau after the 2015 Census Test of the Savannah media market ends, in anticipation of complete count efforts for the 2020 Census in Savannah. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah encourage the residents of Savannah to fully participate in the 2015 Census Test. By the adoption of this Resolution, the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah hereby declare April 1, 2015, as 2015 Census Test Day in Savannah. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: March 19, 2015 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN A DEED CONVEYING THE FORMER RIGHT-OF-WAY OF REDWOOD CIRCLE TO POLESTAR DEVELOPMENT, LLC. Petitioner Polestar has entered into contracts to purchase all of the property on both sides of Redwood Circle, and has petitioned the City to declare the street surplus, and to sell it to the petitioner as the sole adjacent owner, subject to its purchase of all of the adjacent properties. On November 14, 2014, Council declared the property surplus and approved the sale to the petitioner subject to determination of price. Under Section 6- 105 of the Code of Ordinances, the City may offer surplus right of way for sale to abutting property owners for such consideration as Council deems reasonable. The petitioner has agreed to install a traffic light on White Bluff Road and make additional traffic and street improvements which will cost in excess of $500,000. The redevelopment will create approximately 95 permanent jobs in the community. Recommend approval of the sale in consideration of the construction of the traffic and road improvements to be constructed at petitioner’s expense. 17  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 Recommend approval. Approved upon motion of Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Hall and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A QUITCLAIM DEED TRANSFERRING REDWOOD CIRCLE TO POLESTAR DEVELOPMENT, LLC (“PETITIONER”) FOR CONSIDERATION AS DESCRIBED BELOW WHEREAS, O.C.G.A. § 32-7-1 authorizes a municipality to abandon any public road under its jurisdiction and O.C.G.A. § 36-37-6(g)) authorizes the governing authority of a municipal corporation to sell and convey parcels of narrow strips of land, so shaped or so small as to be incapable of being used independently as zoned, to abutting property owners; and. WHEREAS, City Ordinance (Section 6-105) authorizes the Mayor and Alderman of the City of Savannah to offer surplus right-of-way property for sale to abutting property owners for such compensation as The Mayor and Alderman of the City of Savannah deem reasonable; and WHEREAS, on November 10, 2014, the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah (the “City”) agreed in a regular meeting assembled, with more than two-thirds of the Aldermen present and voting in the affirmative, to declare the right-of-way known as Redwood Circle as no longer conforming to the plan of the City as originally laid out, and thus for it to be abandoned and declared surplus, subject to certain conditions noted; including the issuance of all necessary approvals and permits for the proposed redevelopment plan and a review appraisal to establish fair market value; and WHEREAS, Petitioner has all of the property abutting Redwood Circle under contract for acquisition to facilitate a commercial redevelopment project, and upon said acquisition Petitioner will become the sole adjacent property owner; and WHEREAS, a review appraisal prepared for the abandoned and surplus Redwood Circle right-of- way reported a fair market value of $520,000.00; and WHEREAS, the proposed commercial redevelopment project will be a multi-million dollar investment that will reportedly generate several hundred short-term construction jobs and approximately ninety-five (95) new permanent jobs upon completion; and WHEREAS, Petitioner has provided to the City a Traffic Impact Study, dated September 24, 2014 (as amended, the “Traffic Study”) evaluating the effect of Petitioner’s development on the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and White Bluff Road, primarily, but also addressing the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Abercorn Street; and WHEREAS, Petitioner has agreed to make extensive improvements to the public rights-of-way of Wilshire Drive, White Bluff Road, and Abercorn Street at its sole expense. NOW, THEREFORE, the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah, in a regular meeting assembled, with more than two-thirds of the Aldermen present and voting in the affirmative, approve the sale of the abandoned and surplus Redwood Circle right-of-way to Petitioner in consideration for the planned improvements to public rights-of-way, to be installed at petitioner’s expense, and the economic development benefits to be created by the project. All of the foregoing is subject to 18  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 Petitioner’s acquisition of title to all properties abutting Redwood Circle. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah do also hereby authorize the City Manager to execute and deliver to Petitioner a quitclaim deed conveying Redwood Circle that conforms with this Resolution. MISCELLANEOUS Georgia Power Easement Request – City I&D Plant. Georgia Power Company is requesting an easement across City-owned real property located at 6183 Highway 21. This property is the City of Savannah I&D Water Plant. The City is currently upgrading the existing pumps at the plant that pump potable water from the facility to end-user customers. There are four pumps being upgraded from 125 horsepower to 200 horsepower. This increase in pump capacity will require additional electric capacity. Georgia Power plans to install 570 linear feet of underground conduit (shown on the dashed-line on the attached exhibit) and a new transformer that will feed the pumps. The plans for this additional electrical service have been reviewed and approved by the Bureau of Public Works. The easement document will be reviewed by the City Attorney and Real Property Services. Recommend approval of the request of Georgia Power for an easement under and across City- owned real property located at the I&D Water Plant at 6183 Highway 21 for the purpose of installing additional electrical service to new upgraded pumps, and approval of a resolution authorizing the City Manager to sign the final easement document. (An aerial map is attached.) Recommend approval. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Thomas and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Capital Improvement Plan Adjustments to Balance Sources and Uses for the SPLOST V Funding Source by Utilizing General Fund Capital Contingency Funds. The City of Savannah’s capital improvement plan currently includes funding from SPLOST V revenues totaling $120,632,565. The referendum that authorized SPLOST V collections has expired and the City of Savannah received its last SPLOST V disbursement from Chatham County on December 15, 2014. City tax collections from SPLOST V were $118,655,264 and interest earnings are projected to be $75,000, for a grand total of $118,730,264. In order to balance sources and uses for SPLOST V resources, it is necessary to reduce project budgets funded by SPLOST V by $2 million. In order to make up for the shortfall of SPLOST V revenues, General Fund Capital Contingency funds of $2 million will be utilized. This strategy will allow SPLOST V projects to move forward at their current funding level. The following capital improvement plan budget adjustment will align project budgets with available funding resources as proposed: 19  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 Project No. Project Description Amount Adjustment Type PB0149 SCMPD Central Precinct ($2,000,000) Reduce SPLOST V Funding PB0149 SCMPD Central Precinct $2,000,000 Increase General Fund Funding It is recommended that City Council authorize the City Manager to execute the capital improvement plan adjustments related to the SPLOST V funding source as outlined above. Recommend approval. Alderman Thomas asked City Manager Cutter to explain to the public what is going to be done with the funds. City Manager Cutter stated it was originally projected that SPLOST V revenues would total $120,632,565; however, the City of Savannah received a grand total of $118,730,264. To move forward with all of the SPLOST V Capital Plans there is a shortage of $2M staff is requesting to utilize General Fund Capital Contingency Reserve funds so that it can be well documented and tracked later. Alderman Thomas stated the funds were going to be used for Public Safety for the SCMPD Central Precinct. Alderman Sprague asked for an update on all SPLOST V projects that have been completed or will be completed. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Thomas and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. TRAFFIC ENGINEERING REPORTS Parking Restrictions on Fahm Street. It has come to the attention of the Traffic Engineering Department that the parking conditions on Fahm Street between W. Bay and Turner Streets do not match the restrictions as enumerated in City Code Section 7-1091, Appendix A, Section 219. As written, the City Code currently prohibits all parking on Fahm Street between W. Bay Street and W. Oglethorpe Avenue. The actual conditions permit parking on the west side of Fahm Street from W. Bay Street to approximately 225’ north of W. Oglethorpe Avenue in and on the east side from Zubley Street to Youmans Street. It is recommended that the City Code be amended to permit parking on the west side of Fahm Street from W. Bay Street to 225’ north of W. Oglethorpe Avenue; and to permit parking on the east side of Fahm Street from Zubley Street to Youmans Street. Recommend approval. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. BIDS, CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS Upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Johnson and unanimously carried, the following bids, contracts and agreements were approved per the City Manager’s recommendations: Design Services for Hutchinson Island Safety Facility – Event No. 2822. Recommend approval of Contract Modification No.1 to Hussey, Gay, Bell, & DeYoung International, Inc. (HGBD) in the amount of $29,800.00. The original contract was for the design of a public safety facility on Hutchinson Island. 20  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 The increase in the total amount of the contract is due to a clerical error on the part of staff. The fee proposal submitted by the contractor did not include charges for survey, structural observations, and geotechnical reporting in the total fee proposal price. These charges were listed on a separate sheet, but are necessary for completion of the project. The total cost of the adjustment is an increase of $29,800.00. The total amount of the contract including this modification is $367,565.00. All other proposers included these amounts in their fee proposals. HGBD remains the highest scoring proposer with the revised fee points incorporated. The cumulative total of the agreement requires Council approval of this modification. The revised total, including this adjustment, is $367,565.00. The lowest proposer was Wakefield Beasley & Associates in the amount of $338,000.00. The proposers were: Hussey, Gay, Bell, and DeYoung (B – Savannah, GA) $337,765.00 Wakefield Beasley & Associates (D - Alpharetta, GA) $338,000.00 Kern & Co.,LLC (B - Savannah, GA) $343,434.00 Greenline Architecture (B - Savannah, GA) $352,000.00 Precision Planning, Inc. (D - Lawrenceville, GA) $448,700.00 Recommend approval of Contract Modification No. 1 to Hussey, Gay, Bell, & DeYoung International, Inc. in the amount of $29,800.00. Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, Capital Improvements Fund/Capital Improvement Projects/Other Costs/Hutchinson Island Joint Public Safety Facility (Account No. 311-9207-51842-PB0150. Recommend approval. Alderman Sprague asked for this contract to be explained. City Manager Cutter stated the contract was awarded to Hussey, Gay, Bell, and DeYoung, the original contract award was for a partial bid. The increase in the total amount of the contract is due to a clerical error on the part of staff. The fee proposal submitted by the contractor did not include charges for survey, structural observations, and geotechnical reporting in the total fee proposal price. These charges were listed on a separate sheet, but are necessary for completion of the project. The total cost of the adjustment is an increase of $29,800.00. The total amount of the contract including this modification is $367,565.00. Upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Bordeaux and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Moses Jackson Roof Replacement – Contract Modification No. 1 – Event 2221. Recommend approval of Contract Modification No. 1 to Pioneer Construction, Inc. in the amount of $19,346.28. The original contract was for the removal and replacement of the Moses Jackson west wing roof and storefront windows. This is a summary change order including miscellaneous changes required during construction. A unit cost was included in the contract to replace rotten wood found in the roof deck when the old roof was removed. Also, when the windows were removed, the sills were found to be unleveled and were repaired with wood framing and covered with metal flashing so the newly installed windows would sit level. A second roof hatch was installed in the kitchen area to comply with the building code. The contractor is in the final stages of the project and currently completing the punch list. 21  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 The original contract amount was $849,131.00. The total of all contract modifications to date, including this modification, is $19,346.28, making the total contract amount $868,477.28. The second low bidder was Collins Construction, Inc. in the amount of $990,338.00. Recommend approval of Contract Modification No. 1 to Pioneer Construction, Inc. in the amount of $19,346.28. This contract modification results in additional costs to the Capital Improvement Fund/Capital Improvement Projects/Contract Costs/Moses Jackson Center Roof (Account No. 311- 9207-52840-PB0634). Recommend approval. Carriage Company Equine Sanitation Agreement. Monthly equine sanitation fees are paid to the City by the carriage companies. Article T of the Revenue Ordinance lists a rate of $1,350/month for the equine sanitation fee. For several years—including when the City operated the service—the fee charged the carriage companies was $725/month. Based on the need for increased coverage and improved services, the monthly fee was changed to $850/month and is reflected in the new agreement. Recommend approval. Alderman Johnson asked that the companies involved are informed well in advance about the increase. Bridget Lidy, Tourism and Ambassadorship Director came forwarded stating they have been actively working with the horse and carriage companies during the summer before it becomes hot and the issue becomes pungent. She stated the fee increase occurred last year and understand the importance of working with clean streets. Mayor Jackson asked that carriages that leave from Wheaton Street be monitored more closely stating the horse droppings are falling in the street and not being cleaned up. Alderman Hall asked if hoses can be installed at nearby fire hydrants to wash the streets when it occurs. Ms. Lidy stated the way it works is there is a pressure washing company that comes along in the event of a spill. Upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Equine Sanitation Agreement. The agreement with Historic Savannah SDPS, LLC is for equine sanitation services. The company submits a monthly invoice to the City in the amount of $3,400 which represents four companies paying the City $850/month. Since 2011, Historic Savannah SDPS, LLC has been using a City-owned truck. The agreement stipulates that the City will sign over the title of this vehicle. The agreement has been vetted with Risk Management and the City Attorney’s Office. Recommend approval. Alderman Thomas expressed his concerns about the carriage stand in front of City Hall. Ms. Lidy stated the spot is still there and because it is frequently used it is cleaned several times a day. Mayor Jackson asked if it could be moved. Ms. Lidy replied it is the staging area and they can work on it. Alderman Thomas stated he wants to have a discussion at some point about the Savannah heat and the use of the horses on the asphalt street. He doesn’t want an industry person but someone who knows what they’re referring to and what the breaking point should be. Ms. Lidy stated they met with companies last year and had a consensus with three of the four companies and have been working behind the scenes and receiving guidance in working with equine. Alderman Hall suggested the City hire a veterinarian to make the determination in reference to the horses. Upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Hall and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Carriage Lease Stand Agreements. Plantation Carriage Company dissolved operations in January 2015, and a new company has been approved to operate as Thompson Specialty d/b/a Plantation Carriage Company. The agreements are for the new company to use the stands once occupied by Plantation Carriage and pay for equine sanitation services. Recommend approval. 22  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 Tow Trailer – Event No. 2835. Recommend approval to procure a tow trailer from Verde, Inc. in the amount of $28,888.00. The tow trailer will be used by the Vehicle Maintenance Department to replace a unit which is no longer economical to repair or maintain. This bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net-30 Days. The bidders were: L.B. Verde, Inc. (Lake Wales, FL) (D) $ 28,888.00 Low Country Machinery (D) $ 29,520.00 Atlantic Coastal Equipment (D) $ 31,050.00 G.J. and L, Inc. (D) $ 32,231.30 Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, Vehicle Replacement Fund/Vehicle Purchases/Vehicular Equipment (Account No. 613-9230-51515). A Pre-Proposal Meeting was conducted and two vendors attended. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Code Red Upgrades – Contract Extension – Event No. 2991. Recommend approval of a six- month extension of a contract for the emergency notification system from Code Red/Emergency Communications Network in the amount of $37,500.00. The services are used by Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police, Savannah Fire and Emergency Services, Citizen Office, and Public Information to notify citizens of emergency situations and to provide information to citizens on various City events. The system can target notifications within an impacted area as appropriate and not include citizens outside the impacted area. Chatham County funds 50% of the renewal amount ($18,749.00) as the system is also used by Chatham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) and Mosquito Control for citizen notifications. The reason this is a sole source is because the current system in place can only be maintained by the vendor. This six-month contract extension will allow City staff sufficient time to develop and advertise a new RFP for this system and services. Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, Emergency Communications/Public Safety Communications/Other Contractual Services (Account No. 241-4251-51295), General Fund/Public Information/Other Contractual Services (Account No. 101-0123-51295), General Fund/Community & Economic Development Chief/Other Contractual Services (Account No. 101-3101-51295), General Fund/City-Wide Emergency Planning/Other Contractual Service (Account No. 101-5102- 51295). A Pre-Proposal conference was not conducted as this is a contract extension. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Street Sweepers – Event No. 3002. Recommend approval to procure two street sweepers from Environmental Products of Florida in the amount of $360,456.00. The street sweepers will be used by the Vehicle Maintenance Department to replace units which are no longer economical to repair or maintain. This bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidder was: L.B. Environmental Products of FL (Atlanta, GA) (D) $360,456.00 23  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, Vehicle Replacement Fund/Vehicle Purchases/Vehicular Equipment (Account No. 613-9230-51515). A Pre-Proposal Meeting was conducted and two vendors attended. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. 2015 Summer Lunch Program – Annual Contract Renewal – Event No. 3056. Recommend approval to renew a seasonal contract for catering services for the Summer Lunch Program from the Savannah-Chatham Board of Education in the amount of $3.30 per lunch for a total of $363,000.00. The summer lunch program is administered state-wide through the Bright from the Start Program and the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning. This program, which is administered locally by the Parks and Recreation Department, 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 operate from June 2nd through July 24th and will serve an estimated 110,000 meals. The Summer Lunch Program is fully funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This is a sole source procurement because federal guidelines mandate that local school nutrition services be used to provide this service where feasible. The vendor is: S.S. Savannah-Chatham Board of Education (Savannah, GA) (G) $363,000.00 Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, Summer Lunch/Leisure Services Department/Food Catered Meals (Account No. 212-6130-51271). A Pre-Proposal Conference was not conducted as this is a sole source procurement. (G)Indicates local, non-minority, non-profit owned business. Recommend approval. Alderman Johnson suggested forging a partnership with the nonprofit organizations that will be involved in the Summer Lunch Program. Upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Shabazz and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. VOIP Annual Maintenance and Support – Event No. 3061. Recommend approval to procure Shortel voice-over-internet-protocol (VOIP) annual maintenance and support from Stormwood, Inc. in the amount of $47,067.40. These services provide maintenance and support for the VOIP system that is used throughout the City for phone service. The reason this is a sole source is because this maintenance and support are to be used with existing equipment available only from this source. It is critical to have support from the original provider of this system to ensure timely and knowledgeable services when they are needed. Delivery: As Requested. Terms: Net 30 Days. The vendor is: S.S. Stormwood, Inc. (Cumming, GA) (D) $ 47,067.40 Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, Internal Service Fund/Information Technology/Data Processing Equipment Maintenance (Account No. 611-1140-51251). A Pre-Proposal Conference was not conducted as this is a sole source procurement. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Carpet Replacement – Terminal Holdrooms – Event No. 2942 – Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. The Savannah Airport Commission requests approval of a contract with Mr. David’s Flooring in the amount of $211,985.00 for the Carpet Replacement – Terminal Holdrooms 24  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 project. This project consists of, but is not limited to, providing all labor and materials to remove existing carpet and install new carpet within the limits shown on the drawings. The bidders were: (D)Mr. David’s Flooring, St. Augustine, FL $ 211,985.00 (B)National Office Systems $ 221,921.00 (D)United Grounds Maintenance Svcs. $ 229,000.00 (A)Juan Eady Construction Co., LLC No Bid (B)Indicates local, non-minority owned business. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. (E)Indicates woman owned business. Recommend approval. Restrooms 2508 and 2512 Wall Tile Replacement – Event No. 2943 – Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. The Savannah Airport Commission requests approval of a contract with Holland and Holland, Inc. in the amount of $132,057.00 for the Restrooms 2508 and 2512 Wall Tile Replacement project. This project consists of, but is not limited to, providing all labor and materials to remove and replace wall tile on restrooms within the terminal of the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. The additive alternate to include the two restrooms in Savannah Square was put in the bid so that if the bids were reasonable the last two original restrooms could be updated to complete the update of all the restrooms this year. The bidders were: Additive Total Amount Base Bid Alternate Bid (F)Holland and Holland, Inc. Hinesville, GA $92,567.00 $39,490.00 $132,057.00 (D)United Grounds Maint. Svcs. $98,500.00 $49,500.00 $148,000.00 (B)Indicates local, non-minority owned business. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. (F)Indicates non-local, woman owned business. Recommend approval. The following announcements were made: Alderman Hall asked if the City employees that work outdoors during the summer months are being taken into consideration. City Manager Cutter responded as a part of the uniform for all inclement weather protective gear is added. During the summer months lighter clothing is worn and schedule changes occur so routes can be completed and staff retires before it gets too hot. In addition, the Wellness program is beefed up and staff is provided with lots of water and Gatorade. Mayor Jackson thanked Marty Johnston and staff for all the hard work performed during the St. Patrick’s Day festivities. She stated the cleanup was tremendous and the employees were extremely helpful. Citizens and visitors alike made positive comments about the event. Ms. Johnston thanked Mayor and Council and gave credit to all the staff, workers, business partners and volunteers that assisted with the festivities. Mayor Jackson also thanked the employees that came together and decorated the float and walked in the parade and the City of Savannah Band. Alderman Shabazz asked City Manager Cutter to update the citizens on the memo Council received from SCAD in reference to the big white buses being seen throughout the City. City Manager Cutter stated issues can be resolved when people come around the table and talk about it. SCAD has demonstrated that they are good community partners, when they recognized how concerned the Downtown residents were they willing came to the table to discuss the concerns. 25  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 19, 2015 Alderman Hall stated he would like to speak to a neighborhood publicly who were victimized Sunday by gunfire on 3nd and Lavelle near the Gordonston area. He continued stating Council is just as upset as they are and apologized that it occurred he asked the neighborhood to allow the authorities to get to the bottom of it and arrest the individual(s) responsible. He stated all questions in reference to public safety will be addressed in time. Mayor Jackson stated she spoke to Chief Lumpkin and they are addressing the issues. Alderman Thomas asked for an update on where Chief Lumpkin is on getting the drug enforcement at the street level started by June 1st. Alderman Hall stated when the drug squad is started he would like it to be done right, he would rather it be done right versus simply meeting a deadline especially since SCMPD is still recruiting officers. Alderman Sprague stated she isn’t sold on Alderman Thomas’ proposal, she wants every patrol officer to be responsible and held accountable. She asked for an update from Chief Lumpkin. Alderman Shabazz commended SCMPD on the new equipment ShotSpotter stating it worked in an area last week to aid in getting a handle on the crime occurring throughout the City. Alderman Johnson also stated he isn’t completely sold on the drug squad, he stated he asked that Chief Lumpkin be given an opportunity as all Council members did to assess and evaluate the officers currently on staff before making any definitive decisions. Mayor Jackson asked City Manager Cutter to ask Chief Lumpkin what his thoughts are on Neighborhood Watch groups. Alderman Osborne stated crimes will not be solved until officers and citizens form a community relationship with one another, they need to be able to get out of their cars while patrolling; because people will not talk to them unless they are familiar with them. She stated there needs to be an increase in pay for the officers. Alderman Sprague announced Muffins with Mary Ellen every Wednesday morning from 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. at Coffee.Deli in the Habersham Shopping Village. Alderman Sprague asked City Manager Cutter if the April 2nd Work session will be held at the Creative Coast. City Manager Cutter replied yes. Alderman Sprague encouraged all members of Council to attend stating there are a lot of wonderful things going on there. Alderman Shabazz reminded the citizens in the 5th District and the community about Saturday at Shabazz with Alderwoman Shabazz on March 28th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. There being no further business, Mayor Jackson declared this meeting of Council adjourned. Dyanne C. Reese, MMC Clerk of Council 26