City Council

OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 CITY GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF CITY COUNCIL SAVANNAH, GEORGIA October 1, 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 Reverend Matthew Southall Brown Jr., First Union Missionary Baptist 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 John Hall, Mary Ellen Sprague, Estella Shabazz, Carol Bell, Tom Bordeaux City Manager Stephanie Cutter City Attorney W. Brooks Stillwell Assistant City Attorney William Shearouse Upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Shabazz, unanimous approval was given for the Mayor to sign an affidavit and resolution on Litigation for an Executive Session held today where no votes were taken. (SEE RESOLUTIONS) MINUTES Upon motion of Alderman Osborne, seconded by Alderman Bell, and unanimously carried the summary/final minutes for the City Manager’s briefing of September 17, 2015. Upon motion of Alderman Osborne, seconded by Alderman Bell, and unanimously carried the summary/final minutes for the City Council meeting of September 17, 2015. Upon motion of Alderman Bordeaux, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried the agenda was amended to include discussions on the status of the Savannah Chatham Metropolitan Police Department. APPEARANCES Matt Spencer, Assistant Scout Executive and Resource Development Director appeared in the absence of Barbara Foley, Outreach Director for the Coastal Georgia Council, Boy Scouts of America, to announce the 3rd Annual Over the Edge Event on Friday, October 30, 2015 at the Manger Building in Johnson Square. All funds raised will go to at risk youth in Savannah and surrounding counties. Alderman Bordeaux stated he would participate if another member of 1  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 Council agrees to join him. Mr. Spencer also asked that Friday, October 30th be named “Over the Edge Day”. Cheryl Branch, Executive Director of the SAFE Shelter, appeared to receive a Proclamation declaring SAFE Shelter Center for Domestic Violence Day. Alderman Johnson stated he had the opportunity to go to SAFE Shelter for the Grand Opening of their Teen Room yesterday, which was an exciting event. He informed everyone that October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. A Proclamation was prepared and read by Alderman Johnson and presented by Mayor Jackson. Ms. Branch thanked Council and invited everyone to attend the candlelight vigil on Friday, October 9, 2015 from 6 to 8 p.m. to celebrate the lives of those who escaped the violence and are now living violence free and acknowledge the lives of those who didn’t make it. Margaret Williams, Customer Service Administrator, Glorious Mason, Kimberly Williams, LaShonda Rosier, and Cindy Landholt, Revenue Department; Kewanda Harris, Tiffani Smashum, Julie Mclean, Alvin McGrath, Development Services; and James Hall, Customer Service appeared to discuss activities which will take place during Customer Service Week Monday, October 5 - Friday, October 9, 2015. This year’s theme is “Everyday Hero’s” recognizing that each day frontline staff are hero’s in everyone’s eyes going to heroic measures to provide excellent customer service. Various departments will have planned activities throughout the week to thank staff to continue to raise the organizational awareness of the importance of Customer Service and to remind the customers, residents and citizens of the City’s commitment to provide excellent customer service. There will be a culmination event Friday in City Market around lunch time everyone is invited to attend. Dr. Cheryl Dozier, Savannah State University President and Homecoming Committee appeared to request a permit for the homecoming parade and announce the celebration of their 125thanniversary. Bonita Bradley, Homecoming Co-Chairperson briefly went over the homecoming festivities for the week and invited everyone to attend the events that will take place during the week. Dr. Dozier acknowledged the Homecoming Parade Grand Marshals Mr. and Mrs. Tony Wright. A Proclamation was read by Alderman Thomas and presented by Mayor Jackson in celebration of the 125th anniversary. Upon motion of Alderman Hall, seconded by Alderman Osborne, and unanimously carried the parade permit was granted. 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. Derrick L. Dahl for Dahl Company t/a Papillote, requesting to add beer (drink) license to existing wine (drink) license at 218 West Broughton Street, which is located between Jefferson Street and Barnard Street in District 2. The applicant plans to continue to operate as a restaurant. (New request/existing business) Recommend approval. Alderman Osborne asked Mr. Dahl 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 2  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 license can be revoked; if he promised to comply with those rules and regulations. Mr. Dahl responded yes to all questions. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Hall, seconded by Alderman Osborne, and unanimously carried. Approved upon motion of Alderman Osborne, seconded by Alderman Bell, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Joyce Griggs for The Griggs Group, LLC t/a Alive Mini Market, requesting beer and wine (package) license at 707 Harmon Street, which is located between East Gwinnett Street and Wolf Street in District 2. The applicant plans to operate as a convenience store. (New request/existing business) Recommending continuing hearing until October 15, 2015. Continued to the meeting of October 15, 2015 upon motion of Alderman Osborne, seconded by Alderman Sprague, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. ZONING HEARINGS J. Patrick Connell, Agent, Paul W. Harrison, Petitioner, (File No. 15-003200- ZA), requesting to rezone 305 W. 35thStreet from a Mid-City District TN-2 (Traditional Neighborhood) zoning classification to a Mid-City District TC-1 (Traditional Commercial Neighborhood) zoning classification. Metropolitan Planning Commission recommends approval of the request to rezone 305 W. 35thStreet from a Mid-City District TN-2 (Traditional Neighborhood) zoning classification to a Mid-City District TC-1 (Traditional Commercial Neighborhood) zoning classification. The Planning Commission believes that rezoning the property to TC-1 will provided a “buffer” between the property zoned B-C to the west (a single- family home) and the property zoned TN-2 to the east (also a single-family home). The Planning Commission also recommends a Future Land Use Map change from Traditional Neighborhood to Traditional Commercial. Metropolitan Planning Commission Staff recommended denial of the request because of the potentially detrimental consequences to the neighborhood if the property is zoned TC-1. The current TN-2 district allows the petitioner reasonable use of the property, including the ability to use the residence as a home and a bed and breakfast inn, and also the ability to lease the accessory dwelling. (Continued from the meeting of September 17, 2015).Recommend denial. Marcus Lotson, Metropolitan Planning Commission came forward to briefly describe the petitioner’s request stating it was discussed at length at the previous meeting and the purpose of the continuance at Council’s request was to hear the City Manager’s reasoning for recommending denial. City Manager Cutter stated her recommendation is based on the fact that the current zoning TN-2 allows some flexibility for the property to be used as a bed and breakfast and for the accessory dwelling which is on site to also be leased out. When Council voted on Short Term Vacation Rentals and the zoning districts in which it would be allowed the TN-2 was removed due to the concern for parking and what it would potentially do to the neighborhood and to protect the neighborhood environment. The petitioner is petitioning to rezone to TC-1 which allows for some uses that are detrimental to the neighborhood such as rooming houses, if Council recalls there was a significant problem with rooming houses in the area at which time it was presented to Council. Based upon that and taking those concerns into consideration her recommendation is denial. City Attorney Stillwell stated the hearing was closed at the last meeting and Council should reopen the hearing for the purpose of hearing 3  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 information from individuals who did not speak at one of the preceding meetings. Upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Osborne and unanimously carried. Melissa Vanderburg appeared stating as a resident of Thomas Square and although if approved the property would compete with her business she urged Council to allow the use as she feels the removal of the TN-2 classification from the ordinance was a mistake which resulted in the exclusion from a neighborhood that needs them the most. Mr. Connell stated all six parcels are zoned business commercial today and as a matter of right can be used for any of the listed uses. He stated they are requesting a buffer zoning which the MPC determined was an appropriate zoning and recommended approval. He closed stating if the request is being denied based on what could potentially be placed there in the future, because of the TC-1 zoning classification, the individual unique circumstances of this property need to be looked at as to where it is situated on the street. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Bordeaux and unanimously carried. Alderman Johnson asked City Manager Cuter based on what she has heard if her position has changed. City Manager Cutter replied no. Approved upon recommendation of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Bordeaux and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Christian Sottile, Agent; Paul Strickler, Petitioner, (File No. 15-003668-ZA) requesting to rezone 346 Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard, 350 Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard, 352 Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard; and 400 W. Charlton Street from the BC (Community Business) zoning classification to the BC-1 (Central Business) zoning classification. The subject properties consist of developed and undeveloped land as well as contributing and noncontributing buildings on three lots that make up the block bounded by MLK, West Jones Street, West Charlton Street, and the Montgomery Street Ramp. The petitioner plans to renovate the contributing structures and establish a mixed-use development. The petitioner has expressed that the intent of the request to rezone to BC-1 is to clarify the standing of these properties with regard to the parking requirement. Although some number of parking spaces for future users of these properties upon redevelopment would be "grandfathered," as determined by the Savannah Zoning Administrator based on previous use, the petitioner considers this a potential hindrance to the financing and marketing of the development. Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) staff recommended denial of the rezoning request because staff found alternatives were available to the applicant to address the issue of required parking and other development standards they said were a hindrance to redevelopment. The MPC voted to recommend approval of the request to rezone the subject properties from BC to the BC-1 zoning classification, because it believes that the development standards of the current BC zoning district are not appropriate for the subject properties and that the BC-1 zoning district is more appropriate. (Continued from the meeting of September 17, 2015) Recommend referral to MPC for further study. Referred back to MPC upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Sprague, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. 4  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 AAA Sign Co. (Bobbie Stephens), Petitioner, (File No. 14-006238-ZA) requesting to amend Sec. 8-3112(d)(3)c.2. (Sign Permits-Required; Announcement Signs) to allow all “electronic message centers” the ability to change the sign message every 10 seconds. Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) recommends approval of an alternate amendment to allow a message change only four times per day with the following times: 4:30 am; 10:30 am; 4:30 pm; and, 10:30 pm. The message must be static and must change instantaneously, without rolling fading, flashing, or the illusion of movement. A message change of four times per day should provide electronic message center owners an opportunity to adequately advertise goods, services and events. Identifying specific times will also provide for easier zoning enforcement. If the Mayor and Aldermen approve multiple time changes–even if only four times per day–the Planning Commission believes that additional amendments need to be made to the sign ordinance to ensure successful implementation of the change. These amendments will be provided at a later date. MPC recommends denial of the petitioner's amendment to Sec. 8-3112.(d)(3)c.2. (Sign Permits Required; Announcement Signs) to reduce the hold-time for electronic messages from once for every 24-hour period to once every 10 seconds. Approval of an alternate amendment to allow a message only four times per day with the following times: 4:30 am; 10:30 am; 4:30 pm; and, 10:30 pm. The message must be static and must change instantaneously, without rolling fading, flashing, or the illusion of movement. (Continued from the meeting of September 17, 2015) Recommend referral back to the MPC for further study and revisions to the sign ordinance in light of recent court decisions. Referred back to MPC upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Osborne, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Alderman Sprague asked if it is possible to also look at the brightness of the lumens. Mr. Lotson stated some research has been done on the topic and it can be included. Attorney Stillwell stated the purpose of the referral is that there were numerous things in the ordinance that needs to be reviewed and there will be a more extensive rewrite when it is presented back to Council. Metropolitan Planning Commission (File No. 12-001930-ZA) requesting approval to amend 8-3002 and 8-3025 (a) and (b) to Refer to Animal Control Ordinance the definition section to include a definition for “agriculture general” which clarifies that it applies to commercial activities, add a definition for “agriculture restricted” which applies to the commercial raising of crops without the commercial raising of animals, add a definition for “personal - 4 - agriculture” which specifically refers to the Animal Control Ordinance for the keeping of animals, and expand the definition of “home occupation;” and replace the use “raising of commercial and noncommercial livestock and poultry” with “agriculture general” in the index and use tables for the C&R and B&I districts; replace the uses “growing of crops, gardens” with “agriculture restricted” and “raising of non-commercial poultry” with “agriculture personal” and allow in all zoning districts, of the City Zoning Ordinance. Recommend continuing to October 29, 2015. Continued to the meeting of October 29, 2015 upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Thomas, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. 5  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 Ordinances First Readings An Ordinance to Revise the Tour Service for Hire Ordinance. An ordinance to amend Part 6, Licensing and Regulation, Chapter 1, Business and Occupations, Article R. Tour Service for Hire, of the City Code. Changes include:  Changes to definitions, including re-definition of “Tour Guide”, to reflect elimination of the testing and permitting requirements and identification of specific restricted areas (Sec. 6-1502);  Removal of sections containing provisions inconsistent with elimination of the testing, qualifications and permitting requirements (Sections 6- 1508, 6-1511, 6-1513, 6-1514, 6- 1515, 6-1516, 6-1517, 6-1518, 6- 1519, 6-1520 and 6-1521);  Revisions to require tour companies to obtain a business tax certificate, and register their tour guides with the City; • Revisions to require tour guides to display identification, as set forth in the proposed new Section 6-1512;  Revisions to reflect a shift in internal regulatory oversight from Parking Services to Tourism (Sections 6-1522, 6-1523, 6-1524, 6-1525, 6- 1529, 6-1530, 6-1536, 6-1537, 6- 1543, 6-1546, 6-1547, 6-1549 and 6- 1550).  Revisions to eliminate the provisions concerning designation of “hot spots” and, instead, prohibiting tour guides from conducting tours in restricted areas, which are predominantly residential, during certain hours. The restricted areas are: o The 400 and 500 blocks of East St. Julian Street and Washington Square from 8 p.m. to 10 a.m. (Nov 1st through Feb 28th) and 9:30 p.m. to 10a.m. (March 1st through October 31st). o The area of the city which is south of Liberty Street and east of Lincoln Street, from 12:00 a.m. to 8 a.m. year-round. Phil Sellers, owner of Old City Walks a walking tour company appeared stating he is disappointed that the tour guide ordinance is being lifted. He stated in his opinion it seems like the City is giving up. Alderman Johnson stated he is also disappointed but he realizes when you go against the U.S. Constitution you lose as free speech trumps truth. Alderman Bell stated the City isn’t giving up just delegating the task to another agency. Attorney Stillwell stated there is a pending lawsuit the City has been involved in for some time and it has caused staff to go back and review the ordinance. Staff believes the changes proposed will improve the ordinance and will not take away from the City’s ability to regulate the ordinance. The private sector can do a better job at training and certifying tour guides without the government being involved in the process. Mr. Sellers stated he is willing to support the process either way it goes and he hopes to be a part of the solution. Michael Owens, President/CEO of the Tourism Leadership Council stated he appreciates the 6  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 comments of Mr. Sellers. The TLC plans to embark on a certification program for tour guides, it will not be on the same level as the concierge program which involves a great deal of training but a training guide will be created with collaborative works from local universities and other tour guide entities in the area. Tour guides that voluntarily choose to go through the TLC’s program will uphold the same standards as individuals that go through the program with Mr. Sellers and many others do as well. Mr. Owens stated their hope is to build a product that Council, the tourism industry and the many tourists that visit the City can appreciate and enjoy. James Patrick McDonald came forward expressing his concerns about the time restrictions in the ordinance and the certification process and if there will be fees associated with the process. He asked that Council use due diligence looking at all facts and making the recommendations public and transparent. Bridget Lidy, Tourism, Management and Ambassadorship Director stated the complaints came after there were tours occurring after midnight in highly residential areas, which has since been mobilized by enforcement officers performing undercover work on two separate weekends. The recommendation came from the Tourism, Management and Ambassadorship office to the Tourism Advisory Committee and unanimously approved it. Attorney Stillwell asked Ms. Lidy to discuss what some of the problems are with tours that are operating in the area south of Liberty and east of Lincoln after midnight. Ms. Lidy replied there were groups congregating on private property, one tour guide was using a fine grained LED light to point into a third story window and many tourists were using their cell phones to take pictures with their flash on, and several noise complaints have been made. Chase Anderson, Savannah Cultural Heritage Tours Owner stated his biggest concern is balanced enforcement across the entire industry and preservation fees. Melissa Witherspoon Ralph stated she is exasperated at times when she sees things that are destroying the historic integrity in her neighborhood. Charlie Brazil, Old Towne Trolley, James Caskey, Cobblestone Tours, both also members of the Tourism Advisory Committee and Mickey Minnick, Old Savannah Tours Vice President. Mr. Brazil stated the TAC is a longstanding committee which serves as an advisory committee for the Council on tourism issues. He continued stating every meeting is open to the public and is advertised, Mr. Minnick attends every committee meeting to offer input to the committee. Ordinances Second Readings Zoning of Land to be Annexed to the City. An ordinance to amend the zoning map of the City to establish zoning for 102.3 acres of land located on the west side of Georgia Highway 204 near Pinckney Road. The zoning classification assigned to the parcel will be equivalent to the classification currently assigned by the County. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Thomas, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. AN ORDINANCE TO ANNEX TO THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH PROPERTY LYING CONTIGUOUS TO THE EXISTING CORPORATE LIMITS AND BEING THE TERRITORY DESCRIBED IN THE SURVEY ENTITLED “A PLAT OF LOTS 12, 20 & 21 AND A PORTION OF LOTS 13 AND 19, ULMER’S SUBDIVISION OF THE LANCASTER TRACT, 7TH G.M. DISTRICT, CHATHAM COUNTY, GEORGIA” PREPARED BY MORGAN LAND SURVEYING, LLC, DATED 7  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 JUNE, 24, 2013; TO REPEAL ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. WHEREAS, OTAMOT LAND, LLC the owner of a certain tract of land contiguous to the corporate limits of the City has submitted a petition requesting annexation to the City; and WHEREAS, the provisions of Chapter 36 of Title 36 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A. 36-36-20 et seq.) have been complied with; NOW THEREFORE 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: The following tract being contiguous to the City of Savannah and described as: Property Description All that certain tract of land known as Lots 12, 20 & 21 and a portion of Lot 12 & 19, Ulmer’s subdivision of the Lancaster tract, 7th G.M. District, Chatham County, Georgia, and in the Chatham County tax records as property identification number 1-1034 -02- 011; and being more particularly described as follows: Commencing at a concrete monument along Georgia Highway 204 having coordinates of northing: 732975.92 and easting: 925887.74 being grid north, Georgia east zone, state plane, NAD 83; thence along the western right-of-way of Georgia Highway 204 South42°47’03”East a distance of 435.09’ to an iron rod; thence along the property lines of lots A, B &C, Henry Mitchell subdivision the following courses and distances; South49°18’00”West a distance of 417.16’ to an iron rod, South42°57’00”East a distance of 209.00’ to an iron rod, North49°18’00”East a distance of 174.46’ to an iron rod, South43°16’49”East a distance of 179.34’ to an iron rod; thence along the property lines of lots 9, 10 & 11, Lancaster tract the following courses and distances; South19°18’00”West a distance of 1995.71’ to a point, South54°41’29”East a distance of 535.00’ to an iron rod; thence along the property line of lot D, recombination of Union Camp Corporations Southern States N/S Co. No. 5 tract, Litchfield Plantation (recorded in plat record book 37P, page 71) South49°12’15”West a distance of 918.53’ to a concrete monument; thence along the lands now or formerly owned by Chatham County, of Union Camp Corporations Southern States N/S Co. No. 5 tract the following courses and distances; North21°52’09”West a distance of 282.13’ to a concrete monument, North71°58’26”West a distance of 90.44’ to a concrete monument, North38°47’50”West a distance of 96.38’ to a concrete monument, North55°57’31”West a distance of 115.82’ to a concrete monument, North23°37’16”West a distance of 116.47’ to a concrete monument, North56°12’57”West a distance of 508.75’ to a concrete monument, North38°12’14”West a distance of 89.10’ to a concrete monument, North14°30’42”West a distance of 201.24’ to a concrete monument, North31°31’54”West a distance of 370.12’ to a concrete monument, North18°45’00”East a distance of 114.54’ to an iron rod, North10°41’31”West a distance of 131.91’ to an iron rod, North04°30’42”West a distance of 233.79’ to a concrete monument, North49°36’24”East a distance of 979.83’ to 8  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 a concrete monument, North49°57’01”East a distance of 526.07’ to a concrete monument, North49°51’25”East a distance of 28.59’ to an iron rod; thence along the property lines of a portion of lot 19, Ulmers subdivision, Lancaster tract the following courses and distances; South50°44’41”East a distance of 216.10’ to an iron rod, South37°41’51”East a distance of 219.00’ to an iron rod, North77°22’09”East a distance of 114.00’ to an iron rod, North04°57’09”East a distance of 186.00’ to an iron rod, North27°22’09”East a distance of 125.00’ to an iron rod, North57°39’56”East a distance of 164.86’ to an iron rod; thence along the property lines of lot 18,Ulmers subdivision, Lancaster tract (recorded in plat record book 17P, page 77) the following courses and distances; South43°43’07”East a distance of 464.21’ to a concrete monument, North49°22’48”East a distance of 528.19’ to the point of beginning; and containing 102.338 acres or 4,457,820 square feet, more or less. The above described property contains 102.338 acres, all of which is more clearly shown on a plat prepared by Morgan Land Surveying, LLC, entitled “A plat of lots 12, 20 & 21 and a portion of lots 13 and 19, Ulmers subdivision of the Lancaster tract, 7th G.M. District, Chatham County, Georgia” dated June 24, 2013. is hereby annexed into the City of Savannah and made a part of said City. SECTION 2. The Clerk of Council is hereby authorized and directed to file a report on this annexation with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and with Chatham County as provided by O.C.G.A. 36-36-3. SECTION 3. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby appealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED OCTOBER 1, 2015 Amendments to the City of Savannah Animal Control Ordinance (Sections 9-5000 - 5061). An ordinance to allow, with restrictions, certain types of animals within the City of Savannah, including chickens, bees, horses, pigs and other livestock. The City of Savannah, Metropolitan Planning Commission, Savannah Chatham Metropolitan Police Department Animal Control, and other stakeholders participated in a task force under the direction of Dr. Blake Caldwell to create the draft revisions to both the City and County ordinances. The revisions establish consistency to allow property owners to utilize their properties for sustainable urban agriculture while ensuring that they do not impose on their neighbors. Continued to the meeting of October 29, 2015 upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Sprague, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Ordinances First and Second Reading Ordinance read for the first time in Council October 1, 2015, then by unanimous consent of Council read a second time, placed upon its passage, adopted and approved upon a motion by Alderman Bell, seconded by Alderman Sprague and unanimously carried. 9  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 Change of Parking Restrictions on Goodwin Street. An ordinance to amend the City Code to lift the parking prohibition for the northern end of the east side of Goodwin Street between East Huntingdon Street and East Hall Street to allow parking. It is further recommended that the City Code in reference to the parking prohibition on Goodwin Street between Gwinnett and Hall Streets be removed, as that portion of the street no longer exists. Recommend approval. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND APPENDIX I, SECTION 219 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA (2003) PERTAINING TO SECTION 7-1091 OF SAID CODE TO PROVIDE THAT THE STREET NAMED HEREIN SHALL PROHIBIT STOPPING, STANDING AND PARKING AT ALL TIMES: TO REPEAL ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah in regular meeting of Council assembled and pursuant to lawful authority thereof: SECTION 1: That Appendix I, Section 219 of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003), pertaining to Section 7-1091 of said Code, as amended, shall be amended as follows: AMEND SECTION 219, STOPPING, STANDING AND PARKING PROHIBITED AT ALL TIMES TO INCLUDE DELETE GOODWIN STREET On both sides of Goodwin Street between Hall Street and Huntingdon Street. On both sides of Goodwin Street from Hall Street to Gwinnett Street. SECTION 2: All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED OCTOBER 1, 2015 AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND APPENDIX I, SECTION 219 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA (2003) PERTAINING TO SECTION 7-1091 OF SAID CODE TO PROVIDE THAT THE STREET NAMED HEREIN SHALL PROHIBIT STOPPING, STANDING AND PARKING AT ALL TIMES; TO REPEAL ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT 10  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 HEREWITH; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah in regular meeting of Council assembled and pursuant to lawful authority thereof: SECTION 1: That Appendix I, Section 219 of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003), pertaining to Section 7-1091 of said Code, as amended, shall be amended by adding thereto the following: AMEND SECTION 219, STOPPING, STANDING AND PARKING PROHIBITED AT ALL TIMES TO INCLUDE ENACT GOODWIN STREET On the east side of Goodwin Street beginning at the north curb of Hall Street to a point 160’ to the north. On the west side of Goodwin Street between Hall Street and Huntingdon Street. SECTION 2: All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED OCTOBER 1, 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 1stday of October,2015 the Council entered into a closed session for the purpose of discussing Litigation. 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. 11  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Interfund Transfer from the Parking and Mobility Services Fund to the General Fund in the Amount of $3.1 Million and Establishing an Orderly Schedule of Repayment of the Transfer in Future Years in Order to Provide Funding for the Purchase of Property Located at 4801 Meding Street. On September 17, 2015 the Mayor and Alderman authorized the City Manager to execute a contract to acquire 67.5 acres of land located at 4801 Meding Street commonly known as the Fairgrounds for the purchase price of $3,025,000. In order to provide the funding required for the purchase price of the property and the associated due diligence and closing costs, staff has identified currently existing funds that are unappropriated within the City’s Parking and Mobility Fund. It is recommended that the unappropriated amount of $3.1 million be transferred from the Parking and Mobility Fund to the General Fund in order to finance the purchase of the Fairgrounds and any associated due diligence and closing costs. The General Fund will repay the transfer along with a market rate of interest to the Parking and Mobility Fund based on the amortization schedule shown below. The rate of interest to be paid (3.15%) is equal to the true interest cost associated with the Downtown Savannah Authority, Series 2015 bond issue and reflects the cost of funds relative to the City’s Parking and Mobility Fund. Total Outstanding Date Interest Principal Debt Service Principal $3,100,000 12/31/2016 $97,650 $582,151 $679,801 $2,517,849 12/31/2017 $79,312 $600,489 $679,801 $1,917,360 12/31/2018 $60,397 $619,404 $679,801 $1,297,956 12/31/2019 $40,886 $638,915 $679,801 $ 659,041 12/31/2020 $20,760 $ 659,041 $679,801 $ 0 It is recommended that City Council authorize the City Manager to execute the interfund transfers and repayment plan as outlined above to fund the purchase price and associated due diligence and closing costs of acquiring the property located at 4801 Meding Street. Recommend approval. Approved upon motion of Alderman Shabazz, seconded by Alderman Bell, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN INTERFUND TRANSFER FROM THE PARKING AND MOBILITY SERVICES FUND TO THE GENERAL FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $3.1 MILLION AND ESTABLISHING AN ORDERLY SCHEDULE OF REPAYMENT OF THE TRANSFER IN FUTURE YEARS IN ORDER TO PROVIDE FUNDING FOR THE PURCHASE OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT 4801 MEDING STREET. WHEREAS, On September 17, 2015 the Mayor and Alderman authorized the City Manager to execute a contract to acquire 67.5 acres of land located at 4801 Meding Street commonly known as the Fairgrounds for the purchase price of $3,025,000; and WHEREAS, It has been determined that the most economical manner for funding the cost of the acquisition, due diligence and closing costs is an interfund transfer of $3.1 million in currently unappropriated funds from the City’s Parking and Mobility Fund to the City’s General Fund; and 12  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 WHEREAS, The General Fund will repay the transfer along with a market rate of interest to the Parking and Mobility Fund based on a five year amortization schedule. The rate of interest to be paid (3.15%) is equal to the true interest cost associated with the Downtown Savannah Authority, Series 2015 bond issue and reflects the cost of funds relative to the City’s Parking and Mobility Fund. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah that: Section 1: On October 1, 2015, the City Manager is hereby authorized to make an interfund transfer in the amount of $3.1 million from the Parking and Mobility Fund to the General Fund for the purpose of funding the acquisition, due diligence and closing costs associated with acquiring 4801 Meding Street. Section 2: The General Fund shall repay the transfer with interest at the rate of 3.15 percent per annum on the outstanding balance with payments of interest and principal due each December 31, in the years and amounts indicated in the following schedule: Total Outstanding Date Interest Principal Debt Service Principal $3,100,000 12/31/2016 $97,650 $582,151 $679,801 2,517,849 12/31/2017 79,312 600,489 679,801 1,917,360 12/31/2018 60,397 619,404 679,801 1,297,956 12/31/2019 40,886 638,915 679,801 659,041 12/31/2020 20,760 659,041 679,801 0 Section 3: The General Fund may pre-pay any portion of the advance at any time. In the event of pre-payment, interest will be charged to the General Fund at the rate of 3.15 percent per annum on the amount of the advance actually outstanding. ADOPTED AND APPROVED OCTOBER 1, 2015 MISCELLANEOUS Historic Monument Recommendation - Sisters of Mercy - 207 East Liberty Street. The Historic Site and Monument Commission recommends approval of the request for Part 1: theme, location, and preliminary design, to erect a monument recognizing the contributions of the Sisters of Mercy and the Convent of St. Vincent de Paul to the Savannah community. It will be located at 207 East Liberty Street. The monument would consist of a nun and a student dressed in the school’s uniform on a 3 foot 4 inch by 5 foot base. It will be 5 feet 8 inches tall at the highest point. The base will be granite and the statue will be bronze. It is one of a collection of six statues with a similar design, but the student’s uniform will be specific to St. Vincent de Paul’s school. 13  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 Recommend approval for Part 1: theme, location, and preliminary design, to erect a monument recognizing the contributions of the Sisters of Mercy and the Convent of St. Vincent de Paul to the Savannah community at 207 East Liberty Street. Recommend approval. Approved upon motion of Alderman Bell, seconded by Alderman Osborne, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Historic Marker Recommendation - Revolutionary War Barracks Marker Reinstallation - 15 East Liberty Street. The Historic Site and Monument Commission recommends approval of the request to reinstall the refurbished Revolutionary War Barracks Marker located on Liberty Street in planter on sidewalk. The marker will be mounted on a 7 foot tall pole. The marker was originally installed on the site when the building was the DeSoto Hotel. It was removed when the DeSoto hotel was demolished and installed in the portico of the new building. This building underwent an entrance reconfiguration a few years ago, and the marker was removed and never reinstalled. It is one of two markers, the other is now located in the building. Recommend approval for the reinstallation of the Revolutionary War Barracks Marker at 15 East Liberty Street. Recommend approval. Approved upon motion of Alderman Bell, seconded by Alderman Osborne, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Settlement of Workers’ Compensation Claim by Neal Munn. Mr. Munn, a former SCMPD officer, sustained certain orthopedic injuries during physical training. His workers’ compensation claim was settled at mediation, contingent upon the approval of Council, for $115,000 in addition to a $51,915 Medicare Set-Aside, which covers projected future medical expenses. Recommend approval. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Osborne, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Settlement of Workers’ Compensation Claim by Roger Green. Mr. Green, a sanitation worker, sustained certain orthopedic injuries exiting his City truck. His workers’ compensation claim was settled at mediation, contingent upon the approval of Council, for $25,000, which includes income and medical benefits. Recommend approval. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Osborne, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Settlement of Workers’ Compensation Claim by Joseph Kujawa. Mr. Kujawa, a former SCMPD officer, sustained certain spinal injuries when his patrol car was rear-ended. The income benefits portion of his workers’ compensation claim was settled at mediation, contingent upon the approval of Council, for $48,000. Medical benefits are not included because Mr. Kujawa continues to participate in the City’s group medical plan. Recommend approval. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Osborne, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. Final Plat – Villages of Vallambrosa, Phase 5. Recommend approval of a major subdivision plat of Villages of Vallambrosa, Phase 5, of a portion of Lot 3, subdivision of Parcel 2-A, Vallambrosa Plantation located at Fiore Drive in District 5. The subdivision is comprised of 5.688 acres creating 40 single family lots, with 1.157 acres of public right-of-way. Recommend approval. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Osborne, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. 14  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 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: Development Agreement for Hitch Phase I Public Improvements and Infrastructure with Hunt Savannah Development, LLC and Housing Authority of Savannah. Housing Authority of Savannah is entering into a long term ground lease with Hunt Savannah Development, LLC for the development of Robert M. Hitch Village, Phase 1, which is part of the East Savannah Gateway Revitalization Area. Phase 1 will include 72 units of affordable housing. The City has agreed to construct certain public improvements and infrastructure to serve the project. SPLOST funds in the maximum amount of $6,754,000 have been approved for “Hitch Village and Surrounding Redevelopment Sites.” The public infrastructure plans have been approved by the parties and the project is currently out for bid. Recommend approval. Electronic Bill Payment Services – Annual Contract – Event No. 3551. Recommend approval of an annual contract for electronic bill presentment and payment services from Paymentus Corporation. There is no cost to the City for these services. The electronic bill presentment and payment services will be used by the Revenue Department and will enable customers to pay their utility bills online. While there is no cost to City for these services, there will be convenience fees charged to the customers for credit card transactions. The highest ranked firm is proposing an estimated convenience fee of $3.50 per credit card transaction. It is the City’s intention that transactional fees will not be assessed for online payments made by checks. The proposal has been advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The proposers are: B.P. Paymentus Corporation (Charlotte, NC) (D) $ 0.00 Invoice Cloud (D) $ 0.00 Collector Solutions (D) $ 0.00 Wells Fargo (D) $ 1,700.00 Municipal Code Corporation (D) $ 9,500.00 Budgetary funding is not required for this contract as there is no cost to the City of Savannah. A Pre-Proposal Conference was conducted and two vendors attended. (D) Indicates non-local, non- minority owned business. Recommend approval. Ballistic Vests – Annual Contract – Event No. 3489. Recommend approval of an annual contract for ballistic vests from DGG Tactical Supply in the amount of $106,725.00. This contract will supply ballistic vests for the Savannah Chatham Metropolitan Police Department officers. This bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidders were: 15  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 L.B. DGG Tactical Supply (Jacksonville, FL) (D) $ 106,725.00 GT Distributors of Georgia (D) $ 111,140.00 Smyrna Police Distributors (D) $ 125,232.75 Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, General Fund/Administrative Services Division/Clothing and Laundry (Account No. 101-4240-51310). A Pre-Bid Meeting was conducted and one vendor attended. (D) Indicates nonlocal, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Chlorine – One Ton Cylinders – Annual Contract – Event No. 3492. Recommend approval of an annual contract for liquid chlorine in one ton cylinders from Allied Universal Corporation in the amount of $84,725.00. The chlorine will be used for water treatment by the President Street Plant and the Industrial and Domestic Water Plant. This bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidders were: L.B. Allied Universal Corporation (Miami, FL) (D) $ 84,725.00 JCI Jones Chemicals, Inc. (D) $ 107,500.00 Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, I&D Water Fund/I&D Water Operation/Chemicals (Account No. 531-2581-51323) and Water and Sewer Fund/President Street Plant/Chemicals (Account No. 521-2553-51323). A Pre-Bid Meeting was conducted and no vendors attended. (D) Indicates nonlocal, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Pickup Trucks – Event No. 3502. Recommend approval to procure 19 pickup trucks from J.C. Lewis Ford in the amount of $435,238.00. The pickup trucks will be used by various City departments to replace 19 units that are no longer economical to repair. The bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Requested. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidders were: L.B. J.C. Lewis Ford (Savannah, GA) (B) $ 435,238.00 O.C. Welch Ford (D) $ 437,689.00 AutoNation (D) $ 439,500.00 Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, Vehicle Replacement Fund/Vehicle Purchases/Vehicular Equipment (Account No. 613-9230-51515). A Pre-Bid Conference was conducted and no vendors attended. (B) Indicates local, nonminority owned business. (D) Indicates non-local, non- minority owned business. Recommend approval. Crew Cab Truck – Event No. 3503. Recommend approval to procure a crew cab truck from O.C. Welch Ford Lincoln, Inc. in the amount of $46,236.00. The crew cab truck will be used to replace a unit in use at the President Street Plant that is no longer economical to repair. The bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Requested. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidders were: 16  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 L.B. O.C. Welch Ford Lincoln (Hardeeville, SC) (D) $ 46,236.00 AutoNation (D) $ 46,867.00 Roberts Truck Centers (D) $ 36,138.00* Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, Vehicle Replacement Fund/Vehicle Purchases/Vehicular Equipment (Account No. 613-9230-51515). A Pre-Bid Conference was conducted and no vendors attended. (D) Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. *Indicates low bidder did not meet specifications. Recommend approval. Raingear High Visibility – Annual Contract – Event No. 3529. Recommend approval to award an annual contract for high visibility raingear to Comade, Inc. in the amount of $42,637.20. The high visibility raingear will be maintained in inventory at the Central Warehouse and will be used by various City departments to provide protection to employees working on or along roadways. This bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidders were: L.B. Comade, Inc. (Santa Ana, CA) (D) $ 42,637.20 Aramark Uniform Services (D) (Partial Bid) $ 16,451.50 Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, Internal Service Fund/Inventory/Central Stores (Account No. 611-0000-11330). A Pre-Bid Conference was conducted and no vendors attended. (D) Indicates non-local non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Leadership In Police Organization Mentoring Course – Sole Source – Event No. 3606. Recommend approval to procure training and instruction services from International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) in the amount of $28,449.00. These services will be used for mentoring and instruction on the topic of leadership by the Chief of Police Training Unit. IACP will conduct a course entitled "Leadership In Police Organizations" for a total of fifteen days. The class will be composed of Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police Department law enforcement personnel. This is a sole source procurement because this company is the only known supplier of this service. Delivery: As Requested. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidder is: S.S. International Association of Chiefs of Police (Alexandria, VA) (D) $28,449.00 Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, General Fund/Training and Recruitment/ Professional Purchase Services (Account No. 101-4245-51238). A Pre-Proposal Conference was not conducted as this is a sole source procurement. (D) Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Self-Containing Breathing Apparatus Package – Sole Source – Event No.3608. Recommend approval to procure 26 self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBAs) from Avon Protection in the amount of $151,094.84. These SCBA units are needed for firefighters to breathe clean, safe air while performing their duties in hostile environments. The SCBAs will be 17  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 used to replace existing units that are no longer supported under the current National Fire Protection Association Standard. SFES initiated this replacement program in 2014. This purchase will enable SFES to outfit a complete battalion and remain on schedule to complete the equipment transition by the end of 2016. The reason this is a sole source procurement is because this company is the only known supplier of this item. Delivery: As Requested. Term: Net 30-Days. The bidder is: S.S. Avon Protection (Belcamp, MD) (D) $ 151,094.84 Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, General Fund/Fire Administration/Clothing and Laundry (Account No. 101-5101-51310) and General Fund/Fire Administration/Small Fixed Assets (Account No. 101-5101-51321). A Pre-Bid Conference was not conducted as this is a sole source purchase. (D) Indicates non-local, non-minority business. Recommend approval. Landfill Equipment Bulldozer Maintenance Services – Sole Source – Event No. 3625. Recommend approval to procure bulldozer maintenance services from Yancey Power Systems in the amount of $29,071.20. These services will be used by the Vehicle Maintenance Department to replace the undercarriage of the Caterpillar bulldozer in use at the Dean Forest Landfill. The reason for the sole source is Yancey Power Systems is the only factory-authorized Caterpillar dealer in the immediate area that offers factory parts and certified technicians. Delivery: As Requested. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidder was: S.S. Yancey Power Systems (Austell, GA) (D) $ 29,071.20 Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, Internal Service Fund/Vehicle Maintenance/Outside Vehicle Repair (Account No. 611-1130-51254). A PreBid Conference was not conducted as this is a sole source procurement. (D) Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Voice and Data Leased Lines – Annual Contract Extension – Event No. 3626. Recommend extending an annual contract to procure voice and data leased lines from AT&T in the estimated amount of $344,436.43. This contract is used by the Information Services Department to provide the City vital voice and data service and includes PRI trunks, voice lines, Metro-E and data circuits, and cable/DSL modems. AT&T has agreed to hold pricing, terms, and conditions for an additional year. This contract will be put back out for bid next year. Proposals were originally received July 20, 2010. The proposal has been advertised, opened and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The proposer is: B.P. AT&T Information Systems (Garden City, GA) (D) $ 281,313.60 Level 3 (D) $ 45,801.60 DeltaCom (B) $ 471,463.68 Windstream (B) $ 305,820.00 18  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 Seimitsu (C) $ 81,600.00 J&R Computer (B) $ 226,313.00 Funds are available in the 2015 Budget, Various Departments/Communications (Account No. Various Departments 51210). A Pre-Proposal Conference was not conducted as this is an annual contract extension. (B) Indicates local non-minority owned business. (C) Indicates nonlocal, minority owned business. (D) Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Water & Sewer Agreement. HUP Investments, LLC has requested a water and sewer agreement for Liberty City Plaza. The water and sewer systems have adequate capacity to serve this 3.77-residential unit for water and 2.67-residential unit for sewer development located at 1940 Mills B Lane. The agreement is consistent with policy directives given by the Mayor and Aldermen and has been reviewed and approved by the City Attorney for legal format. Recommend approval. The following announcements were made: Alderman Johnson recused himself from the conversation on the Police merger and left the room. Alderman Bordeaux stated this morning County Commissioner Chairman Al Scott appeared before Council and for the first time to his knowledge for the first time announced he is in favor of and supports fully the idea of paying a competitive salary which means raises to the new police officers but the important part that the County should pay its fair share of the raises. He stated he appreciates Chairman Scott making the announcement but the important question now is where both entities go from this point. The most important issue now is how the entities will pay for Public Safety. Mayor Jackson and County Chair agreed to have a Policy Committee meeting this week which is in time for the County Commissioner’s meeting. He stated the public deserves to know if the members of Savannah City Council will or will not pay a fair amount to put police officers on the street which Council has tried to do but the County has been unwilling since the raises went into effect. He closed stating it is important that Council votes for this at the next meeting and hopefully have something from the County stating they are going to pay their fair share. Mayor Jackson stated the meeting will be set up and will be in time for the County Commissioner’s meeting next week. A recommendation will be made and brought back to Council. Alderman Bell stated a number of recommendations were made in Council Work Session at the meeting of September 17th regarding additional incentives that could possibly be looked at and put in place and asked City Manager Cutter when will they be discussed. City Manager Cutter replied presently staff is reviewing a combination of things which Council brought forward and some pay related issues that the consultant has recommended along with recommendations from both the Police and Fire Chief. Staff will reconvene to review recommendations which will be brought back to Council and made a part of the pay and comp study results and become policy at a later date. She continued stating it’s difficult to put a date on it as Council is aware the pay and comp study will impact all 2,600 City employees until that is reviewed along with the price tag associated with it and ensure that all components are a part of the study cost she feels it’s 19  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2015 premature to obligate or bring forth a recommendation as it relates to it. Advancements as itrelates to education and certifications are a part of the study and until the final list of recommendations is reviewed all City employees have to be kept in mind. Alderman Bell asked when will the pay and comp study will be complete. City Manager Cutter replied it should be coming to her within 2 weeks. Alderman Osborne stated she wanted to announce as a proud mother and grandmother that her daughter and son graduated last Saturday from University of Phoenix receiving their Master’s degrees. Alderman Sprague announced for Alderman Johnson that the last day to turn in applications for Boards, Commissions and Authorities is Friday, October 2, at noon. She also invited the public to attend a Public Safety meeting she will be holding October 5th at 7:00 p.m. at Harvest Church of the Nazerene on Waters Ave. Muffins with Mary Ellen Wednesday mornings at Coffee.Deli in the Habersham Village Shopping Center from 7-9 a.m. Coptober Fest has been rescheduled due to the weather to October 15th Alderman Bordeaux announced Mayor Jackson will be at the Savannah Civic Center for the ribbon cutting of the 68th Annual Jr. League Thrift sale Saturday, October 3rd at 7:30 a.m. Mayor Jackson wished a Happy Birthday to Mayor Pro-Tem Jonson and Alderman Thomas. There being no further business, Mayor Jackson declared this meeting of Council adjourned. Dyanne C. Reese, MMC Clerk of Council 20