City Council

OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 CITY GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF CITY COUNCIL SAVANNAH, GEORGIA March 3, 2016 The regular meeting of Council was held this date at 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison followed by the Invocation by Rev. David Messener, Unitarian Universalist Church of Savannah. PRESENT: Mayor Eddie W. DeLoach, Presiding Mayor Pro-Tem, Carol Bell Alderman Julian Miller, Chairman of Council Alderman Brian Foster, Vice-Chairman of Council Van Johnson, II, Tony Thomas, John Hall, Estella Shabazz, Bill Durrence City Manager Stephanie Cutter City Attorney W. Brooks Stillwell Assistant City Attorney William Shearouse MINUTES Upon motion of Alderman Bell, seconded by Alderman Miller, and unanimously carried the summary/final minutes for the City Manager’s briefing of February 18, 2016 were approved. Upon motion of Alderman Bell, seconded by Alderman Miller, and unanimously carried the summary/final minutes for the City Council meeting of February 18, 2016 were approved. Upon motion of Alderman Bell, seconded by Alderman Miller, and unanimously carried the summary/final minutes for the special meeting of February 22, 2016 were approved. PRESENTATIONS/APPEARANCES Barbara Foley, Marketing and Outreach Director for the Coastal Georgia Council Boy Scouts of America, Shante Scott, a Junior at A.E. Beach High School, Naomi Perkins, a Senior at A.E. Beach High School, Shamara Bowman a Senior at H.V. Jenkins High School and Kellen Murphy, Advisor of the 2015-2016 Law & Government Explorer Post Program of the Coastal Georgia Council Boy Scouts of America appeared to be introduced to Council. Ms. Foley stated the program gives high school students the opportunity to learn more about a career of interest, they currently have many active programs going on which are sponsored by local businesses. Jerry Hogan, General Chairman, members of the Executive Committee, Michael Foran, Grand Marshal and his Aides of the St. Patrick‘s Day Parade Committee appeared to request a permit for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 17, 2016. Mr. Foran introduced his staff and thanked Mayor DeLoach and Council for approving the 2016 St. Patrick’s Day Parade permit. Approved upon motion of Alderman Miller, seconded by Alderman Miller, and unanimously carried. 1  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 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. William R. Lee for Green Fire Pizza, LLC t/a Green Fire Pizza, requesting beer and wine (drink) license with Sunday sales at 236 Drayton Street, which is located between East Perry Street and Liberty Street in District 2. The applicant plans to operate as a full-service restaurant. (New ownership/location) Recommend approval. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Miller, and unanimously carried. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Bell, per the City Manager’s recommendation. Joshua Yates for Ecopub, Inc. t/a Green Truck Pub, requesting Sunday sales added to existing beer and wine (drink) license, located at 2430 Habersham Street, which is located between Maupas Avenue and 41st Street in District 2. The applicant plans to continue to operate as a full-service restaurant. (New request/existing business/management) Recommend approval. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Miller, and unanimously carried. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Bell, per the City Manager’s recommendation. Anthony Trice for IHG Management (Maryland), LLC t/a Hotel Indigo, requesting to transfer liquor, beer and wine (drink) license with Sunday sales from Oak Hotels, Inc. t/a Inn at Ellis Square, located at 201 West Bay Street, which is located between Barnard Street and Jefferson Street in District 2. The applicant plans to continue to operate as a hotel. (New ownership/existing manager/existing business) Recommend approval. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Miller, and unanimously carried. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Bell, per the City Manager’s recommendation. Loan K. Tran for Vault 2112, Inc. t/a Vault Kitchen & Market, requesting liquor, beer and wine (drink) with Sunday sales at 2112 Bull Street, which is located between 37th Street and 38th Street in District 2. The applicant plans to operate as a full-service restaurant. (New location/ownership/request) Recommend approval. Attorney Dana Braun appeared with Ms. Tran stating she is a current restaurant owner of 5 establishments in Savannah and has never had any issues at any of the locations. He stated they met with the Neighborhood Association Tuesday at the New Covenant United Methodist Church and everyone in attendance is in favor of Ms. Tran opening the restaurant stating they are looking forward to the opening. Andrew Young, Pastor of the church, which is located across the street from the establishment. Rev. Young stated he supports the restaurant but is opposed to more alcohol being brought into the area where existing alcohol is served in other locations. He stated the church recently added a daycare to the property, holds the largest AA group meeting which meets twice a week, they host a support group for domestic violence support and are concerned with the overabundance of alcohol being made available on the street. He stated the restaurant is 47 feet from the church steps and is an inappropriate precedent for the City of Savannah. He suggested a permit which allows the sale of beer and wine with a meal but not with distilled spirits. 2  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Alderman Shabazz agreed with Rev. Young’s comments in reference to the sanctity and keeping churches and places of faith in a sacred surrounding. She asked Attorney Stillwell can the license be given for beer and wine only. Attorney Stillwell replied they could have requested that type of license when they applied however, there is no legal basis for denying the license as it is. Mayor DeLoach asked if the location is zoned for the type of license Ms. Tran has requested. Attorney Stillwell replied yes, it is. Virginia Mobley came forward stating it is zoned correctly however, the Zoning Board of Appeals doesn’t look at the location, what is surrounding, the proximity to other licenses or the impact to the quality of life; they look at the design and the PR that is presented. Mrs. Mobley asked that staff look at the impact these alcohol licenses have on the area when they are intensified. Mayor DeLoach asked Marcus Lotson from the Metropolitan Planning Commission to come forward and asked him if Ms. Tran had approval before they started building. Mr. Lotson stated he could not answer that question as he was not involved in the project, but what he thinks has more than likely happened is the applicant understood that the use they were requesting was required to have approval by the ZBA which they were granted. Mr. Lotson stated the property is properly zone. Alderman Shabazz asked Mrs. Young how many children come to the facility each day. Mrs. Young stated the full capacity is 69 students, with an average of 55 families some having multiple children enrolled. She continued stating there is a lot of traffic throughout the day, there is an outdoor playground across from the proposed establishment and children are outside twice a day in the morning and afternoon. Alderman Hall stated the law is clear on this as bars and package stores have a distance requirement not restaurants. He stated there is a moral side of it but Council has to do what the law states they must do. Alderman Thomas asked Attorney Braun what the hours of operation will be for the restaurant. Attorney Braun replied they will be open for lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and open for dinner and they don’t plan to operate pass 10:00 or 10:30 p.m. Alderman Thomas referring to Mrs. Mobley stated he heard what she stated in reference to the broad scale of the law and asked her opinion about this issue. Mrs. Mobley replied the consensus of the residents is that it is good for the area and is a good positive use which she agrees, as long as it is operated by Ms. Tran. She also asked that staff look at the new alcohol ordinance and how it affects the quality of life of residents. Alderman Thomas then asked Mrs. Young if she operates the daycare and what are the hours of operation. Mrs. Young replied yes and the hours of operation are 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Alderman Johnson stated Council needs a very clear vision of alcohol and the role they play in the community. He stated this is a classic case of gentrification as at one point alcohol went away now it is resurfacing. He continued stating he agrees with both arguments and stated the compromise Rev. Young offered is reasonable and legitimate. Alderman Miller asked Attorney Stillwell if the restaurant changes ownership in the future will the new owner have to appear before Council for a new license. Attorney Stillwell replied yes, they would and they wouldn’t be allowed to change the use to a bar because that would violate the law, therefore it would have to be another restaurant. Alderman Bell asked Attorney Stillwell if Council has the right to cherry pick or make arbitrary decisions on which establishments they want to restrict usage and/or grant full usage. Attorney Stillwell replied the City of Savannah’s ordinance and State Law both require if Council wishes to deny a permit or license the applicant must be given notice and a hearing would need to be held and there must be a legitimate reason for denial. 3  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Attorney Braun referring to the comments made by Mrs. Mobley stated she is incorrect in statin the Zoning Board of Appeals doesn’t look at locations. He stated they review and make a full report answering any and all questions that arise. Attorney Braun read off some of the recommendations which came from the ZBA. In addition, he informed Council that Pastor Young has his church listed for sale and the description states it is a beautiful Gothic like architecture in the Victorian area of Historic Savannah. This building is suitable for most any commercial, office, restaurant, townhome, condominium or business use. He continued stating the church may be a restaurant a year from now but Ms. Tran is being penalized because of its location although the law states it can be a restaurant. Alderman Foster stated he is very familiar with the building, he had an opportunity to go look at the building and the improvements made are phenomenal. He believes it is a nice piece of redevelopment for the community. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Shabazz, seconded by Alderman Bell, and unanimously carried. Alderman Shabazz made a motion to continue the hearing to a later date. The motion failed as there was not a second. Approved upon motion of Alderman Foster, seconded by Alderman Miller, per the City Manager’s recommendation with the following voting in favor: Mayor DeLoach, Aldermen Durrence, Johnson, Thomas, Bell, Miller, Foster and Hall; Alderman Shabazz voted against the motion. Alderman Johnson asked Pastor Young if the church is for sale. Pastor Young replied the church has been listed as they were looking to relocate a year ago, however after this conversation he realizes they need to be in the current location. C. Ansley Williams for Tubby’s Riverside, Inc. t/a Tubby’s, requesting to transfer liquor, beer and wine (drink) license with Sunday sales from Raymond Clark located at 115 East River Street, which is located between East Upper Factors Walk and Abercorn Street in District 2. The applicant plans to continue to operate as a full-service restaurant. (New management/existing business) Recommend approval. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Miller, and unanimously carried. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Bell, per the City Manager’s recommendation. Ilesh Patel for Bkushi, LLC t/a In and Out Convenience Store, requesting to transfer beer and wine (package) license from Prerna Patel t/a Sairam OS, Inc. located at 2102 Bona Bella Avenue, which is located between Skidaway Road and Edison Avenue in District 4. The applicant plans to continue to operate as convenience store. (New ownership/management/existing business) Recommend approval. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Miller, and unanimously carried. Approved upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Bell, per the City Manager’s recommendation. Walter Wilcox for DV 2015 LLC t/a Stop N Shop, requesting beer and wine (package) license at 9137 White Bluff Road, which is located between Television Circle and West Montgomery Crossroads in District 5. The applicant plans to operate as a convenience store. (New management/existing ownership/business) Recommend approval. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Miller, and unanimously carried. Approved upon 4  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Bell, per the City Manager’s recommendation. Alderman Thomas stated this was an interesting discussion on the issue and asked Attorney Stillwell and staff when the Alcohol Ordinance will be coming before Council for review. City Manager Cutter replied it is scheduled for workshop this month to hopefully move forward. ZONING HEARINGS Richard Mopper, Petitioner (MPC File No. 15-003655-ZA), requesting a Special Use within a PUD-IS-B (Planned Unit Development-Institutional) zoning district for property located at 1650 East Victory Drive. The petitioner would like to offer food and beverage service to customers as an amenity to the existing retail business on the subject property. The requested use is use #48 of the Savannah Zoning Ordinance; Restaurant, sit down or cafeteria, which serves alcoholic beverages. The PUD-IS district allows certain uses by right and includes a provision that other uses may be approved by the Mayor and Aldermen as a Special Use based on the review criteria established in ordinance section 8-3163(b). The petitioner’s request was originally heard by the MPC in July 2015. The Planning Commission forwarded a recommendation of denial to the Mayor and Aldermen. Upon review of the petitioner’s request, the Mayor and Aldermen voted to send the petition back to the MPC so that staff might consider whether placing conditions on the proposed use might be appropriate. The Planning Commission reconsidered the petition with new use conditions proposed by staff. The Planning Commission recommends approval of the petitioner’s request to allow the proposed Special Use at 1650 East Victory Drive, with the following conditions: 1. The restaurant use shall be accessory to the existing principal retail use. A restaurant as a principal use shall not be permitted. 2. Any building addition established for the restaurant use shall not exceed 1,000 square feet. 3. The restaurant shall have a maximum of 49 seats. 4. The hours of operation shall not precede 9 a.m. or exceed 9 p.m. 5. The restaurant shall not include a drive-thru. 6. A site plan shall be reviewed and approved through the City of Savannah Development Services site plan review process exhibiting that all development standards including setbacks, buffers and required parking have been met prior to the use being established. Recommend approval. Marcus Lotson, Metropolitan Planning Commission briefly described the petitioner’s request. Hearing closed upon motion of Alderman Bell, seconded by Alderman Miller, and unanimously carried. Approved upon motion of Alderman Hall, seconded by Alderman Bell, per the City Manager’s recommendation. 5  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 PETITIONS Declare Munster Street Surplus and Available for Sale – Petition 140937. Robert McCorkle (Petitioner), on behalf of ARS Ventures, LLC (ARS) is requesting Munster Street south of Victory Drive be declared surplus and available for sale. ARS is a developer who reportedly has all properties adjoining this City right of way under contract for acquisition with plans to redevelop the assembled site with a new retail/commercial project. The Bureau of Public Works, Development Services Department, Bureau of Sanitation, Legal Department, and Real Property Services Department have reviewed the petition. Sale would be subject to the following conditions of approval: 1. Munster Street contains a storm water line and a water line. The petitioner is responsible for submitting a plan to reroute these City utilities, and any such relocations would be at the cost of the petitioner. 2. If the sale is approved, the deed will include a reservation of easement in favor of the City until such time as the utilities are relocated based on plans approved by the City. 3. Petitioner is responsible to submit a plan for approval by the Bureau of Public Works regarding other non-City utilities in the right of way, should any be present, such as power, gas, fiber, cable, etc. If any private utilities are present and party to a franchise agreement with the City, that agreement will be reviewed and relocation coordinated with the franchisee. 4. 4. The sale would be contingent upon ARS acquiring all properties along the street to ensure that there will not be any landlocked properties remaining. 5. 5. The sale of the street would be based on an appraisal(s) of the market value of the right of way acceptable to the City Manager. 6. 6. The petitioner will maintain two thru-traffic circulation aisles connecting Dixie Avenue to Wicklow Street as shown in the petitioner’s master plan approved by Metropolitan Planning Commission. 7. 7. As part of the site plan review process the City and petitioner will explore the feasibility of making one of the two thru-traffic circulation aisles a public right of way. 8. Recommend approval to declare the forty foot (40’) right of way of Munster Street south of Victory Drive surplus and available for sale to the adjoining property owner (ARS) subject to the conditions noted above. Recommend approval. Attorney Robert McCorkle on behalf of ARS Ventures LLC came forward to describe the petitioner’s request. The petition comes following City Council's December 10, 2015 rezoning of the site from a mix of commercial and residential classifications to its current B-C classification. At the MPC meeting Wednesday, a vote was made to approve the project's general development site plan. ARS is the developer that has assembled 28 properties, including Johnny Harris Restaurant, north of Victory Drive between Wicklow Street and Dixie Avenue, with plans to redevelop the site into a new retail/commercial project called the Shoppes at Wicklow Farms. Munster Street is an unopened right of way, a portion of which was paved and used as part of a former restaurant's off-street parking lot, as well as to provide access to a commercial site south of the restaurant site. Both properties are part of the unified development, and the petitioner does not intend to utilize Munster Street in conjunction with the development of the commercial center. 6  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Traffic studies reviewed by the MPC and City Traffic Engineering staff have shown the development will not adversely impact traffic on Victory Drive. Kerry Street, an underutilized east-west street south of the property, will also handle some traffic to the development. While we do not see an immediate need for another east-west street running through the site, such a connection in the future may facilitate good development west of Wicklow Street. Attorney McCorkle stated the project will not have an impact on traffic on Victory Drive and is asking for the below alternative conditions: 1. The project will contain at least on thru-traffic circulation aisle connecting Dixie Avenue and Wicklow Street; and 2. The Petitioner agrees to maintain a good faith dialogue regarding the feasibility of making such a thru-traffic circulation aisle a public right of way. The following citizens appeared in opposition of the petitioner’s request: Steward Dohrman, Parkside Neighborhood Association resident comments: I am a civil engineer and partner in a small business here in Savannah. I grew up in a family of builders and developers. I have been deeply involved in Historic Preservation and planning here in Savannah for the last 12 years. But more importantly I am a Parkside resident. We are here today representing the Parkside Neighborhood Association and we are asking that the Council deny the sale of Munster Street or at least delay the decision until the City's own Victory Drive Corridor study is completed. Waiting a few months for this is far better than making an irrevocable decision today. The city engineer emailed me that we can expect nearly 5000 new vehicle trips per day as a result of this development. In my experience in traffic engineering, estimates are usually on the low side. The Dan Ryan expressway around Chicago was gridlocked the first day it was opened. Full traffic was not have shown up for at least twenty years. We are already experiencing delays on Victory and I am not convinced that "signal efficiency" and a turn lane or two will accommodate or alleviate the traffic caused by 5000 new vehicle trips or more. Where will this traffic go? Much of it will stay on Victory Drive causing more delays for everyone who uses Victory. But during bottlenecks, traffic will get pushed into our neighborhoods: Parkside, Baldwin Park, Victory Heights, Ardsley Park, Live Oak neighborhood, Thunderbolt, Avondale.... We already have too many cars cutting through our streets and endangering our children. My family has personally had way too many close calls with cars that cut through and speed. This will just make that problem worse. Much worse. At peak times (think rush hour) I believe we can expect 800 to 1000 extra trips per hour. And if this development spawns another, which they tend to do, it will only get worse. I began requesting the actual traffic study on Monday from the Traffic Engineering Department and have not been able to get a copy. The only information I have about signal efficiency and how traffic will not be affected is an assurance from the attorney for the developer that it will be 7  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 fine. I would like more than that. Please allow time for the citizens of Savannah to review the studies that have been done. Many are interested in the traffic study. Another neighbor is really interested in reviewing the stormwater drainage plan since this eleven-acre project will surely affect drainage in the area - something that affects all of us. Keeping Munster street would create an opportunity for a more human scale, traffic friendly development that would be in keeping with all of our neighborhoods and could give residents a destination to come to: to shop, to eat out. Not just a few big box stores you can find anywhere. I fully support a vision similar to the Eric Brown rendering before you. Something like this is much more in keeping with the council's own vision statement priority that tells us to "promote the mystique of Savannah" and to "provide strong vibrant neighborhoods that are clean, safe and encourage a sense of community. The current plan does not do that but the city can help this to be accomplished by holding on to Munster street and working with the property owners in this regard. Size - the parking lot alone on the attached graphic is the size of the Civic Center and the Civic Center parking lot combined. It is hard to get your mind around the size of this proposal. We feel there are too many unanswered questions in the developers general development plan and that a more human scale plan for this site is called for. We respect the property right of the families selling their property (on the West side of Munster) , and also the Property rights of the developer who has assembled the property on the East side of Munster. But the citizens of Savannah also have property rights in the land that is Munster Street. It is a large, nearly one acre stretch of land and right of way. nearly a tenth of the whole development. The people of Savannah also have the right to want and expect a development that will enhance our properties, our communities and our way of life. Please don't sell or trade this public asset without assurances of a better development. Robin Williams, Parkside Neighborhood Association resident comments: I’d like to thank the council for permitting public input on the issue of the Munster Street sale. I, too, am a resident of Parkside, but I’d like to offer my perspective as an urban historian. In addition to serving as the Chair of the Architectural History department at the Savannah College of Art and Design, I am a long-time member of the Historic District Board of Review and the lead author of a forthcoming architectural guide to Savannah. I see several reasons for council to reject the proposal to sell Munster Street for this development, or at least postpone a decision on its sale. 1. The Metropolitan Planning Commission has been undertaking a Victory Drive Master Plan study since late 2014 with a $109,000 grant funded by the Georgia DOT, the City of Savannah, and several local groups including the Savannah Area Board of Realtors, the Historic Savannah Foundation and the Savannah Tree Foundation. Phase III of that study addressing this section of Victory Drive is set to begin next month. It would make sense 8  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 to have that study’s findings completed to help guide a decision on the sale of Munster St. Is its sale and the loss of that north-south street the best result for Victory Drive? 2. The scale of the site is enormous. With Munster St., its 11 acres does not sound like much, but as a point of comparison, the Savannah Civic Center in downtown is approximately 7 acres, including its vast parking lot. This site is 1.5 times larger. By keeping Munster Street open, the development is kept at two roughly five-acre parcels, which are much more in keeping with the scale of adjacent developments and block sizes. The shorter east-west street that skirts the large parking lot in the proposed development is poor compensation for the existing Munster Street corridor and will effectively become a driveway for the parking lot and not read as a public street. 3. This site will be near the northern terminus of the Truman Linear Trail. The city of Savannah has been undertaking numerous efforts to encourage more cycling and pedestrian activity in the city. To have the trail end at Kerry Drive and arrive at the loading docks of big box stores and a large retention pond is a missed opportunity. If Munster Street were open, there would be a natural corridor to bring cars, bicycles and pedestrians into the site from Kerry Street to the south. 4. An inevitable consequence of the redevelopment of this site will be an increase in the amount of traffic on Victory Drive, as we’ve already heard. There may be pressure on the city to remove the central palmetto-lined median of Victory Drive to accommodate more traffic by adding a lane. History has shown over and over again that adding lanes to streets or highways provides only temporary relief and leads to worsened traffic congestion. Whatever development occurs along Victory Drive should not threaten the features of this celebrated and historic avenue, which was often called the “World Famous Victory Drive”. Also, those trees are part of a memorial to the veterans of World War I and should be respected the way we revere our other veterans’ memorials in Savannah. In fact, keeping Munster Street in place as a north-south spine through the site may in fact ease congestion on Dixie and Wicklow Streets. 5. The current proposal employs a development model more appropriate for the sprawling suburbs south of Mall Blvd, with its big box retail and massive parking lots. Do we want to turn Victory Drive into another Abercorn like we see on the south side – indistinguishable from suburban streets in any American city and what one critic calls the “geography of nowhere”? By keeping Munster Street open, the two parcels could be reconfigured at a different scale and become a model of creative and appropriate urbanism within an historic area of Savannah. There are too many unanswered questions concerning on-going studies and with this development and a better design is out there that balances the developers’ needs with those of the public and the neighboring communities. We call on council to reject the proposal to sell Munster Street for this development, or at least postpone a decision on its sale. Vickie Watson, Parkside Neighborhood Association resident comments: She stated she believes the current plan constitutes a threat to the neighborhood. Her primary concern is traffic as she isn’t convinced that a thorough study has been done. She asked Council to delay the decision for a more thorough study to be done which includes all stakeholders. She concluded stating she believes an approach that is responsible and sustainable would be a far better choice. They understand growth and change is inevitable in a community but she along 9  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 with other residents ask that a more thoughtful examination of the impact of the neighborhood be carefully considered. Connie Polk, Parkside Neighborhood Association resident comments: I am a walker and a bike rider. I prefer to use those modes of transportation whenever possible to reduce my impact on the environment as well as for the social aspect of running into neighbors and meeting new people. I am a daily visitor to Daffin Park, I frequently walk my dog on the Truman Trail, which I expect will eventually bring families from Lake Mayer to enjoy Daffin Park and Grayson Stadium, and, what I hope will be a beautifully designed area that includes restaurants with outdoor seating, attractive local shops and a gathering area where people want to hang out eating ice cream or having a glass of wine or coffee after lunch or dinner or shopping before walking or riding bikes home again. No cars needed. There are many concerns in the Parkside neighborhood and beyond about this proposed development that has seemingly been pushed through the approval process without due diligence and concern for the impact on Parkside residents and Savannah at large, not the least of which are traffic, loss of greenspace, and the unsightly design of the proposed buildings themselves which in no way reflect the historic value and the pedestrian and bike friendly nature of Daffin Park and Parkside area. But for this moment I want to address a single issue that was raised by Mr. Blackburn @ the last MPC meeting, and that is the environmental impact of this type of development which is of great concern to me and should be of concern to you and all Savannah residents. Trees and beautiful buildings are the heart of Savannah’s charm. But trees are also essential to the health of any city. Every time tree canopies are destroyed and replaced with buildings and pavement you create what is known as a heat island. In Savannah’s warm climate I imagine the effect is increased substantially. Greenspace needs to be implemented in any plan in this day and age to minimize the heat island effect. In addition, trees and other flora absorb noise and pollution and help to maintain cleaner air in areas of heavy traffic such as Victory Drive. Planting fledgling trees cannot and will not have this same ability and it will take years for them to reach maturity to have the same effect. The general development plan does not take that into consideration. In keeping with the Council’s mission for Health & Environment, and I paraphrase: “To provide citizens a community that promotes health through good infrastructure...while preserving the environment for future generations.” and for Neighborhood Vitality, and I quote: “To provide a City of strong and vibrant neighborhoods that are clean, safe and encourage a sense of community.” I urge you to postpone a decision to sell Munster St. until you move forward with the tree study already in question that you may be able to assure us you are doing everything possible to protect our health and well-being and to minimize the environmental impact on our neighborhood and our city. Anything less is irresponsible from an ecological and environmental standpoint. I want Savannah to be a city that sets their standards high for its residents’ health and well-being and sets the example other cities want to follow rather than setting a precedent for destruction that will affect us negatively for generations to come. 10  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Lou Phelps, Parkside Neighborhood Association made the following comments: Traffic studies are based on what the MPC askes the consultants to study which is a very big differentiation. This is about master planning in the area, traffic is now racing across 52nd Street including police, fire and ambulances because they know they can’t get across Victory. Road intersections already have failing grades according to GDOT. Danielle Meunier appeared on behalf of Daniel Carey representing Historic Savannah Foundation. She stated Mr. Carey regrets he could not be here in person and made the following comments: HSF understands the petition before you today—that of declaring Munster Street surplus and selling it to ARS Ventures so they can develop the site with a new retail/commercial project. In some respects, this decision is the linchpin to the entire project and, therefore, we think it warrants your careful deliberation. Approving the recommendation propels the project forward. We appreciate the fact that the sale would fetch fair market value, but we think additional— reasonable—consideration should be required. The development will precipitate the loss of a beloved institution and a landmark and before that is cast aside, we recommend the following steps be taken to mitigate the loss. HSF has shared these with the petitioner’s attorney, but we want to briefly outline them for you this afternoon. Savannah is growing and development is underway across the City. For the most part, this is good. Sometimes, however, we lose a bit of ourselves—a sense of place if you will—that cannot be re-created. When there are no protections for those places that matter, we should commit to two things: 1) mitigate the loss of those unique community resources; and 2) ensure that what replaces it is the best our citizens deserve. In terms of mitigation, we’ve asked that the owners and developers commit to salvaging historic elements of the building (interior and exterior); fully documenting the building per preservation industry standards; and commemorating the site with a plaque outlining the history of the site. In addition, we would like to respectfully ask the City of Savannah to devote additional funds and resources to survey and inventory of historic parts of the City that have been overlooked in past surveys—so they can be afforded the option of local designation and protection. And finally, with respect to ensuring quality new development, HSF offers itself as a resource to work with the developers to further refine the site plan and improve the design of the project. We would appreciate being party to further refinement of the design. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this matter before you today. Connie Pinkerton, Parkside Neighborhood Association made comments relevant to court cases including a Supreme Court decision. She stated the highest and best use of a property is not always the most money that can be received. In closing she stated she respects the Ardis Wood, Victory Drive Corridor Study appeared in opposition stating the land sits on a very historic roadway, the MPC pushed for a denser zoning to accommodate the proposal, she also asked that the City not give up on the only historic commercial building on the 20 mile corridor. She also stated all jobs are not good jobs and not all development is desirable. She concluded asking that the frame of the road stope being broken up with acceleration and deceleration lanes. 11  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Cecile Skepington, appeared in opposition and asked that the City of Savannah purchase the real farm and pastures at Wicklow and not pave them to make a building called Wicklow Farms. Attorney McCorkle stated traffic studies are not based on trips per day, they are based on service level at the intersection. The traffic grades mentioned are not representative of areas in front of the proposed site. He stated he is very sensitive to the Parkside Neighborhood Association and its residents however, the proposed site is not in the Parkside Neighborhood. He concluded stating they have been at this for seven months and have followed all rules, and suggestions made by the MPC staff and City staff. He reminded Council at the previous meeting there were no persons in opposition of the plan present. Alderman Hall thanked Mayor DeLoach for allowing the residents of Parkside to express their concerns as it relates to the development. He stated it shows they are concerned about their neighborhood. He stated he is thinking about the $20M development and the jobs that it will bring to the community. He assured the residents that Council hears their concerns but plan to move forward with the project. Alderman Miller stated to Attorney McCorkle he understands why the Parkside residents are present as they are concerned about their home. He asked him to explain the difference between a site plan and a general development plan. Attorney McCorkle replied the general development plan basically describes what is planned conceptually on a site, after it is approved then the specific site plan goes into process which is a more intense process. The purpose of doing the general development plan first is to get an idea of how people feel about what is being proposed on the site. Alderman Miller asked Attorney McCorkle why there isn’t a specific site plan yet. Attorney McCorkle replied mainly because they are unsure if the City plans to abandon Munster Street. Alderman Miller asked City Manager Cutter if the site plan will come back to staff for approval. She replied it will go through the plan review process, where all components are examined with a microscopic eye for compliance as it relates to the sale and conditions which Council will vote on today. Alderman Johnson stated Council is charged with balancing residential and commercial which can be difficult. The City is wrought with “what seemed like a good idea at the time”. He stated he did not hear from any resident asking Council to vote against the development, they all asked for more time to learn more. He concluded stating he doesn’t think 90 days is unreasonable and thinks Council should be very careful in making these kinds of decisions. Approved upon motion of Alderman Hall, seconded by Alderman Shabazz, and carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. A board vote was taken with the following voting in favor: Mayor DeLoach, Aldermen Durrence, Bell, Miller, Foster, Hall and Shabazz. Aldermen Johnson and Thomas voted against. The motion passed with a 7 to 2 vote in favor. ORDINANCES FIRST and SECOND READINGS Ordinance read for the first time in Council March 3, 2016, 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 Hall, and unanimously carried. 12  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Codification of New Signalized Traffic Control. An ordinance to amend the City Code to add traffic control signals at the intersections of East River Street and General McIntosh Boulevard and at White Bluff Road and Wilshire Boulevard. Recommend approval. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND APPENDIX I, SECTION 201 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA (2003) PERTAINING TO SECTION 7-1009(a) OF SAID CODE, TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS; 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 201 of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003), pertaining to Section 7-1009(a) of said Code, as amended shall be amended by adding thereto the following: ENACT East River Street and General McIntosh Boulevard. SECTION 2: All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: MARCH 3, 2016 AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND APPENDIX I, SECTION 201 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA (2003) PERTAINING TO SECTION 7-1009(a) OF SAID CODE, TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS; 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 201 of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003), pertaining to Section 7-1009(a) of said Code, as amended shall be amended by adding thereto the following: 13  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 ENACT White Bluff Road and Wilshire Boulevard. SECTION 2: All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED and APPROVED: MARCH 3, 2016 Ordinance read for the first time in Council March 3, 2016, 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 Hall, and unanimously carried. Left Turn Prohibition on Ann Street. An ordinance to amend the City Code to prohibit left turns on Ann Street (southbound) at the intersection of West Oglethorpe Avenue. Recommend approval. AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND APPENDIX I, SECTION 2l3 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA (2003) PERTAINING TO SECTION 7-l030 OF SAID CODE TO PROVIDE THAT THE STREETS NAMED HEREIN SHALL PROHIBIT LEFT TURNS; 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 l: That Appendix I, Section 2l3 of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003), pertaining to Section 7-l030 of said Code, as amended shall be amended, as follows: AMEND SECTION 213 (1), NO LEFT TURNS ENACT Intersections Direction of Travel Effective Hours Ann Street and West Southbound All Oglethorpe Avenue SECTION 2: All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. 14  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 ADOPTED AND APPROVED: MARCH 3, 2016 AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND APPENDIX I, SECTION 215 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA (2003) PERTAINING TO SECTION 7-1032 OF SAID CODE TO PROVIDE THROUGH TRUCK TRAFFIC BE PROHIBITED ON KERRY STREET FROM BEE ROAD TO DIXIE AVENUE; 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 215 of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003), pertaining to Section 7-1032 of said Code, as amended, shall be amended by adding thereto the following: AMEND SECTION 215, COMMERCIAL VEHICLES PROHIBITED ENACT KERRY STREET Kerry Street from Bee Road to Dixie Avenue. SECTION 2: All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED and APPROVED: MARCH 3, 2016 Ordinance read for the first time in Council March 3, 2016, then by unanimous consent of Council read a second time, placed upon its passage, adopted and approved upon a motion by Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Hall, and unanimously carried. Truck Traffic on East Washington Avenue and Kerry Street. An ordinance to amend the City Code to extend the “no truck” restriction on East Washington Avenue to include the segment from Waters Avenue to Bee Road and to implement a “no truck” restriction on Kerry Street from Bee Road to Dixie Avenue. Recommend approval. 15  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND APPENDIX I, SECTION 215 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA (2003) PERTAINING TO SECTION 7-1032 OF SAID CODE TO PROVIDE THROUGH TRUCK TRAFFIC BE PROHIBITED ON WASHINGTON AVENUE BETWEEN BULL STREET AND WATERS AVENUE; TO REPEAL ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES: BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah, Georgia, in regular meeting of Council assembled and pursuant to lawful authority thereof: SECTION 1: That Appendix I, Section 215 of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003), pertaining to Section 7-1032 of said Code, as amended, shall be amended by adding thereto the following: AMEND SECTION 215, COMMERCIAL VEHICLES PROHIBITED DELETE WASHINGTON AVENUE Washington Avenue between Bull Street and Waters Avenue. SECTION 2: All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED AND APPROVED: MARCH 3, 2016 AN ORDINANCE To Be Entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND APPENDIX I, SECTION 215 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA (2003) PERTAINING TO SECTION 7-1032 OF SAID CODE TO PROVIDE THROUGH TRUCK TRAFFIC BE PROHIBITED ON WASHINGTON AVENUE BETWEEN BULL STREET AND BEE ROAD; 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 215 of the Code of the City of Savannah, Georgia (2003), pertaining to Section 7-1032 of said Code, as amended, shall be amended by adding 16  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 thereto the following: AMEND SECTION 215, COMMERCIAL VEHICLES PROHIBITED ENACT WASHINGTON AVENUE Washington Avenue between Bull Street and Bee Road. SECTION 2: All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. ADOPTED and APPROVED: MARCH 3, 2016 RESOLUTIONS A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE LIFE AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF REPRESENTATIVE BOB BRYANT, WHO PASSED ON FEBRUARY 25, 2016. WHEREAS: Bob Bryant, Sr., a Humanitarian and Public Servant was born in Savannah, Ga, on August 11, 1944; and WHEREAS: Bob Bryant was a 1962 graduate of Sophronia M. Tompkins High School. After completing high school, he entered the U. S. Army, received a B. S. Degree in Business from Columbia College, and after twenty years of service retired as a SFC; and WHEREAS: Bob Bryant later went to work for the City of Savannah as the Sanitation Superintendent later becoming the Facility Maintenance Supervisor; he also held a position as the Operations General Manager of WEAS Radio Station from 1982- 1987. He then retired from both jobs and for a short period worked as an Office Manager for the Allen and Perry Law Firm; and WHEREAS: Bob Bryant’s political involvement began in his community as President of The Garden City Progressive Community Organization where he was later elected to serve on the City Council of Garden City serving as Mayor-Pro Tem. Before his passing, he served his twelfth year in the Georgia House of Representatives seat #162; and WHEREAS: Representative Bryant was a member of several organizations such as: President of the Savannah Area Broadcaster’s Association; Chairman of the Crime Prevention Committee of the Chamber of Commerce; Advisory Committee of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Chatham County; Savannah Domestic Violence Task Force; Leadership Savannah Program, and the Chatham County Crime Commission; and WHEREAS: Representative Bryant was currently serving on the Appropriations, Economic Development & Tourism; Industry and Labor, Transportation; Ways & Means 17  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 committees as Secretary; the Economic Development and Tourism committee; Workers Comp and Unemployment, and Labor and Management Relations; and a host of sub committees; and WHEREAS: Representative Bob also enjoyed preforming DJ duties at social events aside from his political involvement. He also was the Host/Owner of the Wax Museum Radio Show, and owned and operated Bryant’s Transport Services along with his son, Michael; and WHEREAS: Representative Bob leaves to Cherish his memories, a loving and devoted wife of 53 years, Lee E. Bryant, one daughter, Andrea (Kevin) Chaney, three sons, Ret. AF Vet Disabled MSGT Antonio “Tony” (Inger) Bryant., Robert “Bob” Bryant, Jr., and Michael (Shannon) Bryant, earthly daughter, Mae (Larry) Crawford, one God-daughter, nine grandchildren, and one great grandchild; mother-in-law, Minnie L. Johnson, seven sisters , two brothers, one sister-in-law, three brothers- in-law, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. NOW THEREFORE I, Eddie W. DeLoach on behalf of the Mayor of the City of Savannah acknowledge and recognize the life of Representative Bob Bryant for his public service and contributions to the Savannah/Chatham County. He will be missed, but his service will live on and be echoed in the halls of the Georgia House of Representatives for generations to come. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah extend our deepest and heartfelt sympathy to the family and a copy of this resolution be presented to his family with our appreciation and filed in the records of this meeting of Savannah City Council. ADOPTED and APPROVED: MARCH 3, 2016. Upon motion of Alderman Bell, seconded by Alderman Miller, and unanimously carried. A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE LIFE AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF IMAM MAAJID F. ALI, WHO PASSED ON FEBRUARY 27, 2016. WHEREAS: Maajid Faheem 'Ali, a pillar of AI-Islam in Savannah and the Low country, was born July 18, 1953 in Savannah, GA; and WHEREAS: Maajid Faheem’ Ali was an alum of A.E. Beach High School, and a 1976 cum laude graduate of Savannah State College earning his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a minor in Criminal Justice; and WHEREAS: Maajid Faheem 'Ali, became a member of the Nation of Islam movement in 1974, and transitioned to Al-Islam in 1975. In 1976, he was elected Imam of the mosque in Savannah, Masjid Jihad, Inc.; and WHEREAS: Imam Maajid Faheem 'Ali, provided exceptional and progressive religious leadership to the local Muslim community and the Muslim inmate populations at regional correctional facilities. He was a pioneer of several Islamic-based, community engagement and awareness initiatives; and WHEREAS: Imam Maajid Faheem 'Ali was a firm believer in the common core of the Abrahamic 18  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 faiths, he had prominent roles in spearheading several Interfaith and religious education programs and during his tenure as Imam, he hosted a weekly broadcast Rebirth of America, which began on local radio station WSOK and later transitioned to cable access television; and WHEREAS: Imam Maajid Faheem 'Ali was involved in several regional civic events. He gave the Interfaith Benediction for the inauguration of Mayors Floyd Adams, Otis Johnson, Edna Jackson, and Eddie DeLoach. He also gave the invocation for the City Council meetings, and was the first Imam to deliver the invocation for the Chatham County Commissioner’s Meeting in 2013; and WHEREAS: Imam Maajid Faheem 'Ali was also a graduate of the Chamber of Commerce sponsored Leadership Savannah program; appointed to numerous civic organizations, including the Mayor’s Human Relations Commission, and the Beaufort County Community Relations Council; and WHEREAS: Imam Maajid Faheem 'Ali leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of almost 38 years, Sakinah Ziyadah 'Ali; his sister Pat Chi (Sungwon); his children Shawn, Rashid (Julia), Zarinah (Kevin), Muslimah (Tariq), lkhlaas (Ebony), and Sadaqah; four grandchildren; the beloved congregation at Masjid Jihad, the broader Muslim community, and the community at large. NOW THEREFORE I, Eddie W. DeLoach on behalf of the Mayor of the City of Savannah acknowledge and recognize the life and contributions of Imam Maajid Faheem 'Ali to the Savannah/Chatham County Muslim Community, where he will be missed along with the public service he provided for many years to the City of Savannah. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah extend our deepest and heartfelt sympathy to the family and a copy of this resolution be presented to his family with our appreciation and filed in the records of this meeting of the Savannah City Council. ADOPTED and APPROVED: MARCH 3, 2016. Upon motion of Alderman Johnson, seconded by Alderman Miller, and unanimously carried. MISCELLANEOUS Georgia Power Easement Agreement to Extend Service to Savannah Fire Training Facility at 280 Agonic Road. At the City’s request, Georgia Power Company (“GPC”) agreed to extend electrical service to the Savannah Fire Training Facility at 280 Agonic Road. To extend this service, GPC has requested an easement that will extend from the pump station at the Bacon Park Golf Course and traverse along the dirt-paved Agonic Road to the site. The requested easement has been reviewed by Real Property Services, Bureau of Public Works and Water Resources, Bureau of Leisure Services, Development Services, the Information Technology Department, and the operating tenant of the golf course. Requesting to grant an easement to GPC to extend electrical service to the Savannah Fire 19  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Training Facility at 280 Agonic Road, and authorize the City Manager to execute the finalized easement agreement. Recommend approval. Approved upon motion of Alderman Bell, seconded by Alderman Thomas, and unanimously carried per the City Manager’s recommendation. BIDS, CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS Upon a motion by Alderman Thomas, seconded by Alderman Shabazz, and unanimously carried, the following bids, contracts and agreements were approved per the City Manager’s recommendations: LaRoche/DeLesseps Avenue Corridor Improvements – Amendment No. 2 – Event No. 716. Recommend approval of Contract Modification No. 2 to Thomas & Hutton Engineering in the amount of $8,600.00. Amendment No. 1 was approved Oct. 30, 2014, after it was determined the project required a full ecology assessment, which included descriptions of jurisdictional waters, threatened and endangered species, essential fish habitat, and invasive species. The full assessment was completed and submitted to the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) for approval. During the review process, the GDOT Ecology Consultant Manager indicated the need for a US Army Corps of Engineers and a State Waters Buffer jurisdictional determination to be made on two ditches identified within the survey corridor that parallels DeLesseps Avenue between Truman Parkway and the northbound ramps. The total cost of this additional work is $8,600.00. The original contract was approved by Council on March 21, 2013 for $445,000.00. GDOT is reimbursing the City for 80% of the funding of this project. The total cost of this contract to date, including this amendment, is $536,600.00. Recommend approval of Amendment No. 2 to Thomas & Hutton Engineering in the amount of $8,600.00. Funds are available in the 2016 Budget, Capital Improvements Fund/Capital Improvement Projects/LaRoche DeLesseps Avenue Corridor Improvements (Account No. 311- 9207-52842-TE0708). Recommend approval. Gas Pump Relocation – Contract Modification No. 1 – Event No. 3248. Recommend approval of Contract Modification No. 1 to Central Industries in the amount of $6,687.39. The original contract was for the relocation of the fuel dispenser at the Coffee Bluff Marina dock. This modification is necessary to modify the stand for the fuel dispenser and to provide new hose reels. The new reels will include longer fuel hoses along with a geared crank system. This will make it easier for the marina to fuel larger boats and then reel back the fuel lines. The cost also includes a revised dock stand for the fuel pump. The original purchase was approved by Council on July 9, 2015 in the amount of $110,695.80. The total amount of this contract to date, including this modification, is $117,383.19. The original work was competitively bid, and only one bid was received. 20  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Recommend approval of Contract Modification No. 1 to Central Industries in the amount of $6,687.39. Funds are available in the 2016 Budget, Capital Improvements Fund/Capital Improvement Projects/Other Costs/Coffee Bluff Fishing Pier (Account No. 311-9207-52842- RE0309). Recommend approval. Janitorial Services for City Hall, Gamble Building and Broughton Municipal Building – Annual Contract – Event No. 3814. Recommend approval to award an annual contract for janitorial services to Savannah River Enterprises in the amount of $69,168.00 and Advanced Building Group in the amount of $31,200.00, for a total of $100,368.00. Savannah River Enterprises will provide janitorial and floor care services for City Hall and the Gamble Building and Advanced Building Group will provide the services for the Broughton Municipal Building. The low bidder was not selected because it did not meet the minimum staffing requirements as outlined in the specifications. Two other bidders submitted bids without the required references and list of equipment and were not considered. The bidders were: City Hall Broughton & Gamble Municipal L.B. Savannah River Enterprises (Savannah, GA) (B) $ 69,168.00 $37,488.00 L.B. Advanced Building Group (Atlanta, GA) (D) $ 71,412.00 $31,200.00 Executive Janitorial Services (D) (*) $ 61,992.96 $27,168.00 American Facility Services (D) $ 78,936.00 $34,944.00 American Janitorial Services (B) $110,616.00 $34,200.00 Imagann Cleaning (B) $141,856.00 $62,700.00 Goodwill Industries (B) $143,856.00 $64,560.00 D&T Turnkey & Rehab Services (D) $182,379.60 $84,175.20 Funds are available in the 2016 Budget, General Fund/Mail and Municipal Building Services/Janitorial Services (Account No. 101-1153-51243). A Pre-Proposal Meeting was conducted and eight vendors attended. (B)Indicates a local non-minority owned business. (D)Indicates a non-local non-minority owned business. (*)Indicates vendor not meeting specifications. Recommend approval. Box Truck – Event No. 3817. Recommend approval to procure one box truck from Dan Vaden Chevrolet in the amount of $55,000.00. The box truck will be used by Savannah Fire and Emergency Services to replace a unit that is no longer economical to repair. Notifications were sent to all known vendors and only one responded. The bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Requested. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidder was: L.B. Dan Vaden Chevrolet (Savannah, GA) (B) $ 55,000.00 Funds are available in the 2016 Budget, Vehicle Replacement Fund/Vehicle Purchases/Vehicular Equipment (Account No. 613-9230-51515). A Pre-Proposal Conference was conducted and no vendors attended. (B)Indicates local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. 21  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Backflow Preventers – Annual Contract – Event No. 3897. Recommend approval to award an annual contract for backflow preventers to Ferguson Water Works in the amount of $94,710.62. The backflow preventers will be used by the Water Distribution Department to prevent reverse flow of water in City water laterals and prevent polluted water from entering the potable water system. This bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidders were: L.B. Ferguson Underground Waterworks (Pooler, GA) (D) $ 94,710.62 Delta Municipal Supply, Inc. (D) $ 97,059.70 Hughes Supply (D) $101,157.60 HD Supply Waterworks (D) $108,266.64 Richmond Supply Company (B) $217,434.68 Funds are available in the 2016 Budget, Water and Sewer Operating Fund/Sewer Maintenance/Construction Supplies & Materials (Account No. 521-2551-51340) and Internal Service Fund/No Department/Inventory-Central Stores (Account No. 611-0000-11330). A Pre Bid Conference was conducted and no vendors attended. (B)Indicates local, non-minority owned business. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Traffic Sign Faces – Annual Contract – Event No. 3917. Recommend approval to award an annual contract for traffic sign faces to Osburn Associates, Inc. in the amount of $71,904.60. The contract will be used by the Traffic Engineering Department to provide sign faces, reflective sheeting, and associated materials for signs throughout the City. The department makes new signs and replaces damaged signs along streets and roads throughout the City. This bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidders were: L.B. Osburn Associates, Inc. (Logan, OH) (D) $ 71,904.60 McCain Sales of Florida, Inc. (D) $ 77,371.00 Vulcan, Inc. (D) $ 85,640.41 Custom Products (D) $ 97,243.37 Newman Signs (D) $ 99,248.30 Kolob Industries (D) $ 118,742.89 Funds are available in the 2016 Budget, General Fund/Traffic Engineering/Construction Supplies and Materials (Account No. 101-2103-51340). A Pre-Bid Conference was conducted and no vendors attended. (D)Indicates a non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Machine and Welding Services – Annual Contract – Event No. 3938. Recommend approval to award an annual contract for machine and welding services to P&O Machine Shop in the amount of $99,715.00. The services will be used for machine shop repairs, welding and fabrication, and miscellaneous plant maintenance by the Public Works and Water Resources 22  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Bureau. Two bids were submitted, however, one bidder did not provide documentation of qualifications as required by the specifications. This bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidder was: L.B. P & O Machine Shop (Savannah, GA) (B) $ 99,715.00 Funds are available in the 2016 Budget, Water and Sewer Operating Fund/President Street Plant/Other Contractual Service (Account No. 521-2553-51295) and I&D Water Operating Fund/I&D Water Operation/Equipment Maintenance (Account No. 531-2581-51250). A Pre- Proposal Conference was conducted and one vendor attended. (B)Indicates local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Sidewalk Curb & Cobblestone Repair – Annual Contract Renewal – Event No. 3964. Recommend approval to renew an annual contract for sidewalk, curb, and cobblestone repair from Coastline Concrete Services (Primary) and from Savannah Paving (Secondary) in the amount of $624,990.00. The contract is used by Streets Maintenance and Park and Tree Departments for routine sidewalk, curb, and cobblestone repair. This is the third of four renewal options available. Bids were originally received January 22, 2013. This bid was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Required. Terms: Net-30 Days. The bidders were: L.B. Coastline Concrete Services (Pooler, GA) (D) $624,990.00 L.B. Savannah Paving (Eden, GA) (D) $643,710.00 Funds are available in the 2016 Budget, Various Accounts. A Pre-Bid Conference was not conducted as this is an annual contract renewal. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Water Meters – Annual Contract Renewal – Event No. 4011. Recommend approval to renew an annual contract for water meters from Badger Meter in the amount of $575,153.00; from Neptune Technology Group in the amount of $76,889.50; from Consolidated Pipe & Supply in the amount of $69,129.00; from HD Supply in the amount of $18,480.00; and from Mueller Systems in the amount of $16,000.00 for a grand total of $755,651.50. The water meters will be used by the Water Distribution Department to replace meters that are no longer functioning and for installation of meters for new service. Several items are maintained in inventory at the Central Warehouse; others are in inventory at the Water Distribution Department. The low bidder was not selected because it was a partial bid and did not meet specifications for the 2” compound meter. The bid was structured to allow all bidders to submit their versions of the automated meter reading systems that could be used with the City’s standardized Badger/Orion radio modules. As a result, some items were not awarded. The lowest cost of each of these units that met the required performance was selected for each line item. 23  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 This is the second of two renewal options available. Bids were originally received January 7, 2014. This bid was advertised, opened and reviewed. The bidders were: L.B. Badger Water (Milwaukee, WI) (D) $1,096,234.00 L.B. Consolidated Pipe & Supply (Garden City, GA) (D) $ 559,020.00* L.B. Mueller Systems (Cleveland, NC) (D) $ 453,660.76* L.B. Neptune Tech (Tallassee, AL) (D) $ 417,152.00* L.B. HD Supply (Pooler, GA) (D) $ 217,650.00* Fortiline Waterworks (D) $ 49,815.00* Funds are available in the 2016 Budget, Water & Sewer Operating Fund/Water Distribution/Construction Supplies & Materials (Account No. 521-2503-51340). A Pre-Bid Conference was not conducted as this is an annual contract renewal. (D)Indicates non-local, non- minority owned business. (*)Indicates partial bid. Recommend approval. Third Party Administration Services for Risk Management – Annual Contract Renewal – Event No. 4012. Recommend approval to renew an annual contract for third party administrator adjusting services for workers' compensation and auto liability claims from Gallagher Bassett in the estimated amount in 2016 of $256,201.00. A 2% yearly increase was agreed upon in the original proposal. The services are needed to control workers’ compensation costs for employees injured on the job and auto liability costs associated with City vehicles involved in collisions. The method used for this procurement was the Request for Proposal (RFP), which evaluates criteria in addition to fees. Proposals were received and evaluated on the basis of experience and technical competence, program management, coordination and quality assurance, capacity and functionality of claims management information systems, and MWBE participation. This is the second of four renewal options available. Proposals were originally received July 30, 2013. The proposal was advertised, opened, and reviewed. Delivery: As Needed. Terms: Net 30 Days. The proposers were: B.P. Gallagher Bassett (Wildwood, MO) (D) $ 230,928.00* TriStar of America, Inc. (D) $ 414,977.00* Companion TPA (D) $ 332,530.00* PMA (D) $ 300,145.00* Underwriters Safety & Claims (D) $ 301,100.00* Corvel (D) $ 332,270.00* Funds are available in the 2016 Budget, Risk Management Fund/Worker's Compensation/Administrative Charge and Risk Management Fund/Auto Liability/Administrative Charges (Account No. 621-9806-52239) and (Account No. 621-9812-52239). A Pre-Proposal Conference not conducted as this is an annual contract renewal. (D)Indicates non-local, non- minority owned business. (*)Indicates original proposal pricing. Recommend approval. 24  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Playground at Kensington Park – Sole Source – Event No. 4033. Recommend approval to procure playground equipment and installation services from GameTime c/o Dominica Recreation Products, Inc. in the amount of $47,690.70. The playground equipment will be installed with safety surfacing and curbing at Kensington Park. The procurement method used for this procurement was a Request for Proposal issued by Charlotte-Mecklenburg County, NC as part of the U.S. Communities Government Purchasing Alliance. U.S. Communities is a purchasing cooperative that provides procurement resources and solutions to local and state government agencies, K-12 school districts, higher education institutions, and non-profit organizations at the contractor’s lowest available government pricing. Third party audits are performed on all contracts and benchmarking analysis conducted to ensure ongoing value. U.S. Communities adheres to a stringent competitive selection process for all contracts offered through the program. Lead governmental agencies issue the competitive solicitations and oversee the evaluation, award and contractual process. Cooperative purchasing is authorized as an appropriate procurement method in Division 10 Section 4-4152 of the purchasing ordinance. Proposals were received from nine proposers May 5, 2010. An evaluation selection team comprised of representatives from Charlotte-Mecklenburg County, Fairfax County VA schools, Davis, CA United schools, and the city of Los Angeles, CA reviewed and scored the proposals. A contract was awarded by Charlotte-Mecklenburg County and a master agreement with U.S. Communities was signed through September 16, 2016. Delivery: 30-45 Days. Terms: Net 30 Days. The proposer was: B.P. GameTime (Longwood, FL) (D) $ 47,690.70 Funds are available in the 2016 Budget, Capital Improvements Fund, Capital Improvement Projects, Construction Supplies and Materials, Kensington Park Playground (Account No. 311- 9207-51340-RE0130). A Pre-Bid Conference was not conducted as this is a sole source procurement. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Portable Toilet Rental for Tara Feis and St. Patrick’s Day Festivities – Annual Contract Renewal – Event No. 3995. Recommend approval to renew an annual contract for portable toilet rental services from United Site Services in the amount of $52,883.10. The services will be used by the Park and Tree Department during the Tara Feis and St. Patrick’s Day festivities. The price is reduced this year because the events will take place over three days instead of four. This is the second of three renewal options available. Bids were originally received February 11, 2014. Delivery: As Requested. Terms: Net 30 Days. The bidders were: L.B. United Site Services (Jacksonville, FL) (D) $ 64,998.20 Nature’s Calling, Inc. (D) $ 94,830.00 25  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Funds are available in the 2016 Budget, General Fund/Park and Tree/Rentals (Account No. 101- 6122-51230). A Pre-Proposal Conference was not conducted as this is an annual contract renewal. (D)Indicates non-local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Leadership in Police Organizations Training – Sole Source – Event No. 4054. Recommend approval to procure Leadership in Police Organizations training from the International Association of Chiefs of Police in the amount of $28,476.00. The association will conduct a 15-day program on leadership mentoring and instruction to a class of SCMPD law enforcement personnel. Currently, the SCMPD is in its second year with its participation in this training and 72 employees have completed this training. This training has led the way for changing police culture in numerous law enforcement organizations. This is a sole source because this program and its curriculum are exclusive to the International Association of Chiefs of Police. The association holds the proprietary rights to the program. Delivery: As Requested. Terms: Net 30 Days. The vendor is: S.S. International Association of Chiefs of Police (D) $28,476.00 (Alexandria, VA) Funds are available in the 2016 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 local, non-minority owned business. Recommend approval. Water & Sewer Agreement – 1900 Benton Boulevard. Dharmendra Patel has requested a water and sewer agreement for 1900 Benton Boulevard. The water and sewer systems have adequate capacity to serve this 5.1 equivalent residential unit development on Benton Boulevard. 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. Water & Sewer Agreement – Highland Falls, Phase 3. Land Pros SE LLC has requested a water and sewer agreement for Highland Falls, Phase 3. The water and sewer systems have adequate capacity to serve this 26 equivalent residential unit development on Highlands Boulevard. 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. Water & Sewer Agreement – Price and Gwinnett Street Townhomes. JSRB Ventures has requested a water and sewer agreement for Price and Gwinnett Street Townhomes. The water and sewer systems have adequate capacity to serve this 6 equivalent residential unit development on Price and Gwinnett Streets. 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. Announcements 26  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Alderman Shabazz announced the 5th District Town Hall & Public Safety meeting April 6, 2016 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Liberty City Community Center. Mayor DeLoach, City Manager Cutter and staff will be present to answer questions. Alderman Hall read a letter from the Edgemere/Sackville Neighborhood Association about blighted properties in the area. They feel it has not been adequately addressed, and wanted to send a letter of support for the Community Redevelopment Tax Incentive Ordinance. Alderman Hall thanked Cynthia Hobson, President for all her efforts and support for the ordinance. Alicia Blakely, National Action Network Savannah, GA Chapter appeared to ask Mayor DeLoach questions about the prerequisites for the Summer 500 Program. She stated “Ban the Box” has been implemented for adults and questioned if it could be done for the youth summer program as well. Ms. Blakely stated they would like to see “at risk” youth implemented in the program and be allowed an opportunity to be viable citizens in the City. Mayor DeLoach stated one of the main prerequisites is that the Pre-Apprentice Program not be discontinued as it is very important that it continue and those sentiments were emphasized. Mayor DeLoach stated he cannot control what is written in the paper but he can reiterate what was stated in their meetings. Ms. Blakeley stated she isn’t criticizing the program and asked if they will implement the program to include at risk youth. City Manager Cutter stated in 2013, the Savannah Pre-Apprentice Program was implemented and it accepts all youth and there are no conditions. Ms. Blakeley asked how any children will be allowed in the program. Mrs. Cutter replied they are planning for 200 youth in 2016, ages 14 to 17. Alderman Shabazz stated she attended the Summer 500 press conference but doesn’t have much information on it and asked why it can’t be open to all children as well. Mayor DeLoach replied it is the call of the business owner and they will not accept youth that is in a drug program or that has a felony. He stated they are trying to cover everyone as there are two separate programs to benefit the youth in the community. Ms. Blakeley asked if the tax dollars of the citizens being used to pay the salaries for the Summer 500 Program. Alderman Bell replied the salaries will be paid by the employer. Alderman Shabazz asked Alderman Bell will any city tax dollars be used for any portions of the Summer 500 Program. Alderman Bell referred to the City Manager for a response, who stated the City of Savannah has applied for a Federal Grant in which both programs are eligible for. Alderman Bell stated in addition to that they are seeking funding from other agencies to pay the administrative costs, all salaries will be paid by the private sector which is over $1M. Alderman Shabazz asked about the intern in the Mayor’s office. Alderman Bell stated she has been brought on because one of the businessmen Kevin Jackson, who is recruiting businesses, donated staff for the program. Alderman Johnson asked if grants have been applied for and are not approved, how the costs will be covered. Alderman Bell replied they will cross that bridge when they get to it and referred to the City Manager for details. City Manager Cutter replied a budget has not been submitted to expend any public funds at this time. Alderman Shabazz asked who is responsible for submitting the budget. City Manager Cutter replied she believes it will come from Alderman Bell. Ms. Murray, 5th District resident came forward inquiring about the drug testing asking when/if the youth test positively will there be a follow up such as a treatment program, will it affect them in school and will they be criminalized. City Manager Cutter replied with the Savannah Pre- 27  OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF SAVANNAH CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 3, 2016 Apprentice Program there is a mechanism to provide support services to the youth which will include a corrective action plan incorporated with the program. Alderman Johnson asked who will pay for the drug testing. Alderman Thomas stated he’s been listening to the argument and he understands both sides. For years, City Manager Cutter has had the Savannah Pre-Apprentice Program in place. With the violence being seen on the streets and the age of the youth every method should be used to target those children, not to say the children that don’t face those challenges are less important. He continued stating he would like to see the same effort made into growing a program to assist at risk youth that don’t have anywhere else to lean, he understands all youth can’t be saved but if some can be saved it is a huge step forward. He believes both programs have extreme merit for the community. There being no further business, Mayor DeLoach declared this meeting of Council adjourned. Dyanne C. Reese, MMC 28