2020-11-24 · City Council · Transcript · City Council Work Session Meeting Via Zoom

--- title: November 24 2020 City Council Work Session Meeting Via Zoom date: 2020-11-24 source: 2020-11-24_November_24_2020_City_Council_Work_Session_Meeting_Via_Zoom.wav --- [0:00:05, 0:00:05]: Just a moment. [0:00:06, 0:00:07]: Thank you. When you're when you're ready. [0:00:10, 0:00:14]: All right. Well it's I got five fifty nine so I'll be ready. We have a we actually have a quorum. [0:00:15, 0:00:16]: So [0:00:34, 0:00:39]: Okay, so it says the webinar is now live recording. [0:00:42, 0:00:43]: All right. [0:00:47, 0:00:51]: And I actually have six o'clock is face it's going on Facebook Live as well, is that correct? [0:00:58, 0:01:00]: Not exactly. Okay. [0:01:00, 0:01:02]: It's it's through this portal. [0:01:03, 0:01:06]: People as I understand it can join through via Facebook. [0:01:06, 0:01:10]: Okay Facebook. Okay, good. Coming through this portal. [0:01:10, 0:01:21]: All right, well we have a quorum so I'm gonna start this six o'clock on uh Tuesday, November twenty-fourth is uh council work session. Uh so on that note, uh I'd like to ask the clerk to uh [0:01:23, 0:01:30]: Excuse me. Oh, I'm so sorry. Excuse me. I need the invocation first. I'm sorry about that. Mirapal Tim Thomas, could you give the invocation, please, sir? [0:01:30, 0:01:31]: Yes, thank you, Mayor. [0:01:33, 0:01:34]: Let us pray. [0:01:35, 0:01:38]: O Heavenly Father, we thank thee for [0:01:39, 0:01:44]: The many blessings you bestow upon each and every one of us every day. [0:01:46, 0:01:49]: Bless the citizens of this great city, O Heavenly Father. [0:01:51, 0:01:55]: We rejoice in the opportunity to show you our love. [0:01:56, 0:01:59]: Басона седрось. [0:02:00, 0:02:04]: Bless this council with all of the resources and tools. [0:02:04, 0:02:06]: needed to move this city forward. [0:02:08, 0:02:11]: Give each one of us pure in heart. [0:02:12, 0:02:15]: To serve the citizens of this great city. [0:02:15, 0:02:16]: And not [0:02:16, 0:02:17]: Of our own. [0:02:19, 0:02:22]: Have mercy, O Heavenly Father, on this earth. [0:02:23, 0:02:26]: Read this nation of COVID nineteen. [0:02:26, 0:02:29]: And we ask that you strengthen. [0:02:29, 0:02:33]: Those families impacted by this virus. [0:02:34, 0:02:37]: Help us, Father, to navigate safely. [0:02:37, 0:02:39]: Through the holidays. [0:02:41, 0:02:45]: Father, order our footsteps and show us thy way. [0:02:46, 0:02:48]: We ask for these blessings and [0:02:49, 0:02:51]: In the mighty name of Jesus. [0:02:51, 0:02:52]: Amen. [0:02:52, 0:02:53]: Amen. Thank you. [0:02:54, 0:02:57]: Okay. Pledge allegiance. Please stand. [0:03:01, 0:03:16]: I pledge allegiance to the flag of united and two nations of one nation under God. [0:03:16, 0:03:17]: Underground. [0:03:18, 0:03:21]: Indivisible with liberty and justice for all. [0:03:24, 0:03:30]: Uh maybe a little bit about the unison there, but uh regardless of that, roll calls, please. [0:03:33, 0:03:35]: Mayor Ford? Present. [0:03:39, 0:03:40]: Mayor Pro Tem Thomas. [0:03:41, 0:03:41]: President. [0:03:43, 0:03:44]: Kelserman Alexander. [0:03:45, 0:03:45]: Present. [0:03:49, 0:03:51]: Councilwoman Barber. [0:03:51, 0:03:52]: Is it? [0:03:58, 0:04:01]: Councilman Blount. Present. [0:04:05, 0:04:09]: Uh safe number one. [0:04:10, 0:04:12]: And Councilwoman Gantt. [0:04:18, 0:04:22]: Let the record reflect Councilwoman Gantt is not in attendance. Mayor Ford, you have a quorum. [0:04:23, 0:04:30]: Thank you, Madam Clerk. We appreciate it. I need a motion to adopt the agenda. And I believe uh Councilman Alexander, go ahead, please. [0:04:30, 0:04:32]: Yes, sir, mayor. Thank you so much. Um [0:04:33, 0:04:37]: I would like to uh amend the agenda, Mayor, uh adding a couple of items. [0:04:38, 0:04:41]: Uh the first а item is a discussion. [0:04:41, 0:04:43]: Just a discussion. [0:04:43, 0:04:56]: on CARES Act funding in the city to see uh to get an update on that from the city manager and to just see what we can do about helping uh our citizens uh and our businesses in the community. [0:04:56, 0:04:59]: Uh also I would like to add a [0:05:00, 0:05:03]: discussion on the cities uh or a [0:05:03, 0:05:09]: s discussion and uh on the uh city uh center policy for elected officials. [0:05:12, 0:05:18]: Okay. So discussion phase, okay. Um we uh how about maybe make that sixteen and seventeen? [0:05:19, 0:05:20]: Um [0:05:20, 0:05:21]: Okay, is there a second? [0:05:22, 0:05:22]: Yeah, I'm sorry. [0:05:23, 0:05:24]: Mare Proton Thomas. [0:05:24, 0:05:29]: Well I I had a motion to alter the agenda. Uh is it appropriate? [0:05:29, 0:05:40]: Well let's uh we have one a motion right now. Let's let's uh let's go ahead and second that and approve that if that's the case and then we'll we'll come to you two for additional uh motion, sir, to for the agenda. [0:05:41, 0:05:41]: Thank you. [0:05:42, 0:05:43]: To the current emotion. [0:05:45, 0:05:46]: Is there a second for the current motion? [0:05:48, 0:05:52]: A second. Okay. Councilman Barber. Okay. All in favor, please indicate. [0:05:54, 0:05:55]: Yeah, discussion. [0:05:55, 0:05:56]: Mayor. [0:05:56, 0:05:58]: Yeah, yeah. [0:05:58, 0:06:00]: Yeah, councilman barber second that. [0:06:00, 0:06:01]: Right. [0:06:02, 0:06:10]: And all in favor, please indicate once again. Mayor, I just want clarity on the second. Mr. Alexander, if you make clarity on the second, I'm sorry. [0:06:10, 0:06:23]: On the second motion. Okay. Uh we're going to discuss the policy as it relates to uh the procedure behind censoring any siss any elected official in the city. [0:06:26, 0:06:30]: All right, motion next uh all opposed the the motion. I'm sorry, all pose. [0:06:31, 0:06:31]: Sustain. [0:06:33, 0:06:33]: For me. [0:06:33, 0:06:36]: Yeah, well yeah, you're which one is it, sir? [0:06:36, 0:06:41]: I'm fine with it. I'm fine with the figure. Okay, four. So it's four, four, zero. [0:06:41, 0:06:47]: All right. And uh so we're gonna have that sixteen and seventeen. And I'm sorry, Mayor Pro Tem Thomas, go ahead, please. [0:06:47, 0:06:51]: Yeah, thank you, Mayor. Uh Mayor and Council, I move to table [0:06:52, 0:06:54]: Agenda item twelve. [0:06:55, 0:07:15]: Council consideration to approve RFP number 202025P, state contract number nine nine nine nine, uh SPD four zero one nine nine three seven uh for the purchase of Ford uh [0:07:15, 0:07:19]: uh two fifty from Alan Vigil uh until until the next meeting. [0:07:19, 0:07:23]: Okay, count now's down or second that okay. All in favor, please indicate. [0:07:25, 0:07:30]: Okay, okay, thank you very much. That comes off. Okay. Um on that note, um [0:07:31, 0:07:36]: And the next item was reviewed the minutes of the following meetings. You had the council meeting on July 13th. [0:07:37, 0:07:40]: Uh the council work session on July twenty eighth. [0:07:41, 0:08:01]: uh the council um uh work session well session work session on september twenty ninth and then a council meeting on uh october twelfth and a council work session on the uh twenty-seventh. Those minutes are all there for your view. Uh please do that and we'll actually approve or disapprove [0:08:01, 0:08:05]: And on that note, um [0:08:06, 0:08:07]: Madam Clerk, we have any public comments at all? [0:08:08, 0:08:13]: We do. Um mayor, we have two public comments this afternoon. Go right here, please. [0:08:14, 0:08:18]: All right, the first one comes from Mr. Corinne Rendezzo. [0:08:19, 0:08:20]: And his [0:08:21, 0:08:23]: Public comment is as follows. [0:08:23, 0:08:29]: Before anyone goes, pilfering splot five for the amphitheater or [0:08:29, 0:08:34]: Accrements, you should know voters passed Georgia Amendment one. [0:08:34, 0:08:38]: Dedicating Tax and Fee Revenue Amendment 2020. [0:08:38, 0:08:41]: Taxes have to go to the purpose for which they were intended. [0:08:42, 0:08:44]: Splas five has a list. [0:08:45, 0:08:48]: And from a layman's view, it's now a binding list. [0:08:49, 0:08:50]: Second. [0:08:50, 0:09:00]: Why is my house along with all the others on Lee and Bryant Streets in the Spanish village neighborhood in the DDA redevelopment zone? [0:09:01, 0:09:04]: Why wasn't the DDA board consulted? [0:09:04, 0:09:08]: Do you think the neighborhood was pro given proper notice that [0:09:08, 0:09:11]: When Mr. Custon himself a DDA board member [0:09:12, 0:09:17]: had no knowledge the city council was going to expand the DDA. [0:09:18, 0:09:28]: That is Mr. Brandazo's comment. All right. And uh we will respond to that. Uh Mr. Knight, you'll take charge for a response to that after the sometime after the meeting tomorrow in this aspect. [0:09:30, 0:09:31]: That's fine, Mayor. [0:09:31, 0:09:32]: Okay, I appreciate it. Thank you. [0:09:33, 0:09:39]: The second comment is from Ms. Ariel Shaw, representing Southern Crescent Women in Business. [0:09:40, 0:09:52]: On behalf of Southern Crescent Women Business, we acknowledge all small businesses and implore the community to support their local businesses this Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday. [0:09:53, 0:10:13]: Thank you to the Stockbridge Mayor and Council for acknowledging Small Business Saturday and Main Street for bringing attention to local businesses. That is all of the public comments. And I'll address that to my comments near the end of the meeting. And I forgot to mention in reference to the first one, um, I don't believe his home is in the DDA. You'll clarify. [0:10:13, 0:10:33]: that form as well in this aspect. And I think everything on Splos 5 we've actually taken care of properly. And then in reference to um I think it was one other issue he had on his mind that that I know you addressed, but I'm pretty sure we're we're we're tracking with no problem. But officially give an official statement to that [0:10:33, 0:10:36]: aspect and we'll follow up with the rest of the community as well, Mr. Knight. I appreciate it. [0:10:37, 0:10:39]: On that note, uh we'll go to old business. [0:10:40, 0:10:43]: Uh council consideration to approve capital projects bonding. [0:10:43, 0:10:46]: Presented by Mr. Biden as well as Ed Wall. [0:10:46, 0:10:48]: And that's Selby, Bond Council. [0:10:49, 0:10:50]: Sir, please. [0:10:52, 0:10:54]: All right, thank you, Mayor. Um the [0:10:55, 0:10:58]: Per our discussion at the last meeting, uh there was uh [0:10:59, 0:11:02]: previous discussion about bonding for the amphitheater and potentially [0:11:03, 0:11:19]: uh other projects. As you recall, uh the original thoughts centered around funding for the amphitheater at about$4.6 million after we had exhausted other funds, specifically spOST four funds at$6.3 and then$5 million out of fund balance. [0:11:20, 0:11:25]: Uh part of the c conversation uh at the last meeting centered around uh trying to obtain [0:11:26, 0:11:30]: a more definitive figure of uh the amphitheater costs. [0:11:30, 0:11:44]: Um Mr. Ball is going to go through uh with you a couple of things that we uh have discussed. Um, but uh in in essence, uh there are a couple of things that we need to consider with respect to the amphitheater, which is [0:11:45, 0:11:48]: Some of the accoutrements that would go along with [0:11:48, 0:11:52]: The amphitheater itself beyond the actual construction costs. [0:11:52, 0:11:57]: Um things like lighting and things like speaker systems and things like amplifiers. [0:11:58, 0:12:02]: Um green roll green roam uh accessories. [0:12:02, 0:12:16]: I would mention that the green room and the concession rooms do include already in the primary cost things like refrigerators and things like kitchen equipment and those items. So those items are part of the primary cost. [0:12:17, 0:12:25]: The other associated items that we have are related to the Lee Street road construction and also the East Atlanta road construction. [0:12:26, 0:12:30]: А there is a separate identified pot of money for. [0:12:30, 0:12:32]: Those particular road projects, but there's also [0:12:33, 0:12:35]: included um some [0:12:36, 0:12:36]: Parking. [0:12:37, 0:12:38]: Uh along with that. [0:12:38, 0:12:42]: And while those are getting closer to being able to be bid. [0:12:43, 0:12:46]: Um obviously we don't have an exact figure until they are bid. [0:12:47, 0:12:51]: uh but have uh some scale of magnitude if you will for what that would entail. [0:12:52, 0:12:57]: The issue is uh I think we want to make sure that you uh the the [0:12:58, 0:12:59]: Um elected body. [0:13:00, 0:13:03]: Have a good sense of what it would take to. [0:13:03, 0:13:06]: Uh complete the amphitheater project in full. [0:13:07, 0:13:10]: Um, but also um be able to [0:13:11, 0:13:17]: um uh account for everything as best as best we can uh at this moment. [0:13:17, 0:13:21]: As well as have an eye on additional project or projects. [0:13:22, 0:13:23]: here in the future. [0:13:24, 0:13:28]: Uh so we're going to walk through this uh with Mr. Wall. [0:13:29, 0:13:35]: Also, we're going to discuss blossom five, which was approved by the mayor and council and approved per [0:13:35, 0:13:37]: Intergovernmental agreement. [0:13:37, 0:13:41]: and the breakdown for splost five for those various categories. [0:13:41, 0:13:43]: uh that were approved. [0:13:43, 0:13:47]: And uh hopefully you will be able to uh discern clearly. [0:13:48, 0:13:51]: Uh, what your pleasure is with respect to [0:13:51, 0:13:53]: A bonding for the amphitheater. [0:13:53, 0:13:57]: And also having an eye on any future projects or items. [0:13:57, 0:14:01]: uh that she would like to see um as your vision for [0:14:02, 0:14:07]: The city of Stockbridge. Now I will also tell you that once Mr. Wall goes through his presentation [0:14:07, 0:14:11]: The one thing that uh we as staff want to do and make sure of is that [0:14:12, 0:14:15]: We provide you with realistic information. [0:14:15, 0:14:22]: And also um provide you with our thoughts regarding any challenges that may lie ahead. [0:14:23, 0:14:25]: With respect to um [0:14:26, 0:14:28]: Extending too much. [0:14:28, 0:14:30]: In in the way of bonding. [0:14:30, 0:14:32]: As it relates to [0:14:32, 0:14:33]: impacts on [0:14:34, 0:14:38]: Either the general fund budget or impacts on the ability [0:14:38, 0:14:51]: to uh construct or accomplish some of the other projects that you have uh at least identified uh in your future. There are also other things uh to be considered, of course. Right now the city of Stock Richard does not operate. [0:14:52, 0:14:57]: uh with a property tax. Uh the city is able to provide a high level of service by doing that. [0:14:58, 0:15:02]: As we take on these additional capital improvement projects. [0:15:02, 0:15:15]: Um again, as I've mentioned before and will mention now, anything that impacts the general fund budget begins to stretch and stretch, stretch the general fund budget. Um and then so you have to look at [0:15:15, 0:15:17]: Other sources of funding. [0:15:17, 0:15:19]: Um like um [0:15:20, 0:15:23]: uh bonding in this case and or splost five. [0:15:24, 0:15:26]: For constructing uh projects. [0:15:26, 0:15:28]: Um the [0:15:28, 0:15:30]: The um [0:15:30, 0:15:33]: Again, the impetus for this and for the discussion tonight. [0:15:34, 0:15:37]: Uh we'll be able to hopefully answer your questions. [0:15:37, 0:15:41]: Bring uh some level of uh decision making to you. [0:15:41, 0:15:43]: Um expect to [0:15:45, 0:15:46]: Potentially. [0:15:48, 0:15:49]: Uh bonding [0:15:50, 0:15:52]: A uh Bond in the Amphitheater. [0:15:52, 0:15:54]: And or any other projects. [0:15:54, 0:15:56]: Uh, be it now. [0:15:56, 0:15:58]: bond issuance now and or [0:15:58, 0:16:00]: Uh one in the future. [0:16:00, 0:16:03]: So with that, I will turn it over to Mr. Wall and he will [0:16:04, 0:16:08]: walk through um the scenarios that we have discussed. [0:16:08, 0:16:11]: Thank you, sir. Could you uh ask the host to let me share the screen? [0:16:16, 0:16:27]: Are you the host? No, I'm actually right now I am not. Um host, please allow Mr. Wall to share a screen, please. Imagine you hear me. [0:16:32, 0:16:34]: There it is. Thank you. Thank you, Mate. [0:16:35, 0:16:35]: All right, no problem. [0:16:52, 0:16:53]: Let me [0:16:59, 0:17:01]: As Mr. Wolf prepares to share his screen. [0:17:02, 0:17:08]: He'll also discuss for the benefit of the council a certain amount that is proposed to be bonded for the amphitheater. [0:17:09, 0:17:11]: It will also discuss what happens if we don't [0:17:12, 0:17:14]: Or if if the council were to approve this amount. [0:17:15, 0:17:23]: And what happens to excess funds if we don't use it, as well as um uh if for some reason uh there was a [0:17:23, 0:17:24]: Um [0:17:24, 0:17:34]: a need to go beyond um this particular mount mount. We want to make sure though we cover all scenarios. Not saying that would happen, but we want to cover all scenarios for you. [0:17:35, 0:17:36]: Thank you, Mr. Dynamite. [0:17:37, 0:17:39]: If um everybody see my screen. [0:17:39, 0:17:40]: Got it. [0:17:40, 0:17:41]: It's got it so it's [0:17:41, 0:17:42]: So uh [0:17:43, 0:17:49]: We've been looking at this number about four and a half million dollars here. I have made a seven point five million. [0:17:50, 0:18:03]: I've kept the amount from the general fund the same at five million. I've kept the SPLOS four, the six million three, you know, and that's coming from the Regents Bank uh leftover construction account uh from bonds from the SPLOSS 4. [0:18:04, 0:18:11]: And so it gives us eighteen million six thirty. That number had been fifteen million eight hundred and [0:18:11, 0:18:15]: Some odd thousand, maybe almost fifteen million nine. [0:18:15, 0:18:16]: And so um [0:18:16, 0:18:19]: It gives extra money to finish the project. [0:18:20, 0:18:22]: If for some reason you don't spend that much [0:18:23, 0:18:26]: we can uh put it back into the sinking fund and pay down debt. [0:18:27, 0:18:29]: Um Mr. Knighton had met with Kek and Wood. [0:18:30, 0:18:30]: Uh [0:18:30, 0:18:37]: He's worked hard at trying to figure out exactly how much we need to finish the project, how much we spent so far. And uh [0:18:37, 0:18:40]: Um the number seems to be right at seven million. [0:18:41, 0:18:45]: And today he and I discussed maybe going to seven and a half million. [0:18:45, 0:18:53]: In case there's any overages, um, you would have this to choose from rather than the general fund fund balance. And if you don't use it, you can put it back into the seni fund to pay debt. [0:18:55, 0:18:59]: Um, before y'all ask me questions on that, just put a pen in that I'd like to go to the um [0:19:00, 0:19:02]: next uh schedule if I could. [0:19:02, 0:19:03]: Payment schedule. [0:19:05, 0:19:16]: And the annual payment is five hundred ninety-seven thousand dollars a year. Five hundred ninety four some years, five ninety three some years. And I'm expecting to sell it for fifteen years at two point four percent. [0:19:19, 0:19:19]: Um [0:19:22, 0:19:23]: Uh um [0:19:23, 0:19:26]: I'm gonna make the whole presentation unless y'all won't [0:19:26, 0:19:28]: Wanna make ask questions as I go along. [0:19:28, 0:19:29]: Um [0:19:29, 0:19:30]: I wanted to go over [0:19:31, 0:19:32]: Splash five. [0:19:33, 0:19:35]: Exhibit um [0:19:35, 0:19:39]: F was the project list that the voters approved in Splash 5. [0:19:40, 0:19:44]: If you'll see it had civic projects and buildings at nine point eight billion. [0:19:44, 0:19:47]: Road projects at four point five million. [0:19:47, 0:19:53]: Sewer, water, stormwater infrastructure at four point five million and park improvements at one point five million. [0:19:54, 0:19:56]: One of the things y'all can think about [0:19:57, 0:20:03]: If you wanted to pay the seven million over five years instead of fifteen years, it could come from this amount here. [0:20:04, 0:20:08]: It would come from SPOSS rather than coming from general fund. [0:20:08, 0:20:09]: Um [0:20:09, 0:20:16]: This nine million also could go towards the cultural arts center that you had as well that that you had talked about at the last meeting. [0:20:16, 0:20:19]: We have park improvements down here as well. [0:20:19, 0:20:20]: And then um [0:20:21, 0:20:27]: These projects here, the voters approved'em and so I would seem to be that you'd have about ten million [0:20:28, 0:20:33]: uh eleven million three hundred thousand dollars available for civic projects and park improvements. [0:20:34, 0:20:34]: Um [0:20:35, 0:20:36]: I ran [0:20:36, 0:20:39]: One number run just for you all to to to [0:20:40, 0:20:41]: Think about [0:20:42, 0:20:45]: If we did a splosched bond for fifteen point eight million. [0:20:46, 0:20:49]: It would leave you four million dollars for pay as you go. [0:20:50, 0:20:51]: If y'all remember [0:20:51, 0:20:51]: The [0:20:52, 0:20:53]: This blossomed ballot question. [0:20:54, 0:20:58]: At twenty million five hundred and twenty five thousand down here is a total that you would collect. [0:20:59, 0:21:03]: over the five year splotch. Remember the first year Henry County gets so you have four years. [0:21:04, 0:21:07]: And so I said if you wanted to do [0:21:07, 0:21:11]: amphitheater and some more projects and do it earlier than pay as you go. [0:21:12, 0:21:15]: I did fifteen point eight million bonds. [0:21:15, 0:21:17]: It left four million for pay as you go. [0:21:18, 0:21:19]: I left um [0:21:19, 0:21:23]: These projects did exactly the same thing that the voters had approved. [0:21:23, 0:21:28]: And I took the interest that you would owe on splos bonds out of this part here. [0:21:29, 0:21:35]: And I capitalized interest for fifty-eight thousand dollars because your first check won't come in until May. [0:21:35, 0:21:37]: Of two thousand and twenty one, I project. [0:21:37, 0:21:39]: And then if I look at [0:21:39, 0:21:40]: Yeah. [0:21:40, 0:21:41]: What um [0:21:42, 0:21:43]: debt service would be [0:21:44, 0:21:52]: Because it's five years instead of fifteen years, the interest rate is one point one percent, and this is tax exempt where the amphitheater is taxable. [0:21:52, 0:21:54]: And here would be the payments that you would make. [0:21:55, 0:21:58]: Remember we're getting twenty million five twenty five. [0:21:58, 0:22:11]: So I would make sixteen million in payments. You would be paying five hundred and seventeen thousand in interest in order to advance fund so you can get ahead of things like inflation, uh any kind of cost increases it would happen. [0:22:11, 0:22:14]: And uh this is just for an option for you to think about. [0:22:14, 0:22:20]: if you wanted to do those projects including some part of the cultural arts center as well as the amphitheater. [0:22:21, 0:22:27]: You wanted to, you could take the seven million for the amphitheater out of here and not worry about paying for it out of the general fund. [0:22:28, 0:22:30]: I uh I'm open for questions then. [0:22:31, 0:22:41]: Well, um I will tell you, uh Mr. Wall, I I I know the council has some questions, but this last slide we're looking at it, it seems pretty logical, feasible to me, but I'm not sure how everybody feels about this just yet. [0:22:42, 0:22:46]: But you said some low interest rate that we can do in a five year period and take the [0:22:46, 0:22:49]: The seven million out of this total is what I understand. Is that correct? [0:22:50, 0:22:51]: That's one of the options you have, sir. [0:22:51, 0:22:54]: Okay, thank you. Any other questions for the council? [0:22:55, 0:22:55]: I'm sorry, Ms. Night. [0:22:56, 0:23:05]: Yeah, I I was gonna just elaborate on that. That's one of the things we started looking at um after we'd gone through these other scenarios. A question I raised was [0:23:05, 0:23:06]: If in fact [0:23:07, 0:23:09]: We wanted to take it out of [0:23:09, 0:23:12]: Splash five, which is a dedicated funding source. [0:23:13, 0:23:15]: And not [0:23:15, 0:23:21]: impact the general fund budget. It would come out of splot five under this scenario, seven million dollars, seven and a half million dollars. [0:23:22, 0:23:25]: Would come out of splost five and be paid off in five years. [0:23:26, 0:23:28]: Um instead of [0:23:28, 0:23:31]: Bonding for fifteen years on this project. [0:23:32, 0:23:35]: Now that does of course then reduce significantly [0:23:36, 0:23:40]: Um, you know, the next step or the next project, if you will. [0:23:41, 0:23:44]: Cultural Art Center, what have you? Next project. [0:23:44, 0:23:48]: Um you need to deal with some more significant or or some other funding sources. [0:23:48, 0:23:50]: uh to be able to uh [0:23:51, 0:23:52]: Deal with that. So the question [0:23:53, 0:23:57]: In this scenario and obviously the I want to hear from the council, but the question would be [0:23:58, 0:24:03]: You know, you you would have a dedicated funding source plus five, pay it off in five years for the amphitheater. [0:24:04, 0:24:07]: And then by the if if in fact the cultural arts center is next. [0:24:08, 0:24:12]: Realistic construction wouldn't take place until probably at least a year from now. [0:24:14, 0:24:15]: Really more than likely. [0:24:15, 0:24:24]: If that is the the the council's will, and then you identify or develop funding scenarios around that, be it bonding or some other sources. [0:24:25, 0:24:27]: And so that was something I wanted. [0:24:28, 0:24:33]: obviously Mr. Wall to take a look at um because it does provide kind of a new a a [0:24:33, 0:24:37]: different discussion, if you will, from what we were looking at previously. [0:24:37, 0:24:41]: with respect to a fifteen year bond issuance directly out of general fund. [0:24:42, 0:24:46]: Thank you, sir. Councilman Alexander, go ahead, please. Yeah, can you take can you take this off the screen? [0:24:47, 0:24:48]: Yes. [0:24:59, 0:25:18]: Okay. Thank you so much. I really appreciate that. And uh what you did was you actually gave me a a great perspective on uh what I discussed last time, which is of course part of the spLOS proceeds can be used uh for existing projects and then some of it can't not be. [0:25:18, 0:25:20]: So uh in the short term. [0:25:21, 0:25:22]: If we bonded the money. [0:25:23, 0:25:24]: Well [0:25:25, 0:25:26]: Certainly could take [0:25:27, 0:25:31]: those pro proceeds to make the payments and then pay off the splash. [0:25:31, 0:25:33]: Uh play off the ampathiat apportion. [0:25:33, 0:25:36]: Within the bonding amount that we decide. [0:25:36, 0:25:38]: That we want to pursue. [0:25:38, 0:25:39]: Uh huh. [0:25:39, 0:25:49]: It is my opinion and I think I was pretty clear last time stating that I wanted to see us uh move forward uh aggressively along these lines. [0:25:49, 0:25:52]: And that means uh us pursuing [0:25:52, 0:25:54]: More than one project at a time. [0:25:55, 0:26:09]: So uh what how I see this whole thing breaking down is pretty simple. As Mr. Wall explained, the seven million dollars will be paid for out of splots. Okay. That's the empathy of the project. We want to hold [0:26:10, 0:26:16]: tight to that too. We don't want uh excesses. We don't want the project running over. [0:26:16, 0:26:28]: We wanna be able to hold tight to that. If there it happens to be an overage, it would need to be justified, brought back to council, and then we'd have to determine how we're gonna handle it, whether there'd be fund balance or what have you. [0:26:28, 0:26:31]: But that that number wanted to be tight. [0:26:31, 0:26:37]: Uh, I don't really like the escalation of going to seven and a half. I like holding that number tight. [0:26:37, 0:26:42]: uh where it is so that we can demand that uh fiscal [0:26:42, 0:26:57]: restraints to be put in place and understanding that is the budget. That is the budget that we want to hold to seven million dollars. In terms of the Cultural Arts Center, the amphitheater project is winding down. We're just late paying for it. [0:26:57, 0:27:13]: Honestly, we you know we we could have we should have made this decision uh a while back. But of but fortunately waiting has been very good for us because now we have historically low interest rates, interest rates that will never [0:27:13, 0:27:25]: ever be this low again in my opinion. And at this point, this is the perfect time with which and I'm gonna have to ignore that phone call, it would ring at this exact time, right? Now. [0:27:25, 0:27:35]: We we just want to make sure that we take care of the the responsibility of moving the citizens and the city ahead uh uh proactively. [0:27:36, 0:27:45]: We talked about since 2016, 2017, 2018, moving forward with the Cultural Arts Center. [0:27:45, 0:27:51]: We actually knocked down the old cultural arts center in twenty sixteen. [0:27:51, 0:27:55]: Mayor, you had that famous photo where you had the sledgehammer. Right. [0:27:55, 0:28:06]: in the newspaper knocking it down and we still and that was in 2016. Here we are in 2020 now and that lot still remains empty at this point. [0:28:07, 0:28:10]: Uh we passed the master trail plan. [0:28:10, 0:28:25]: uh in 20 uh six sixteen i think it was finished in twenty seventeen it sat on the shelf drawing dust we just had another iteration uh of that plan completing Martin Luther King Senior Heritage Trail. [0:28:25, 0:28:28]: А то конек арці та хістрі. [0:28:28, 0:28:31]: Given that Rock Corey entrance a defined [0:28:32, 0:28:32]: You know [0:28:32, 0:28:38]: A best in class look as you drive down there, making that one of the primary entrances. [0:28:38, 0:28:39]: to downtown. [0:28:39, 0:28:59]: There's no need for folks to go all the way to Highway 42. I mean, or Eagles, uh Highway 138. When they coming down uh Rock Quarry, they could just get off right there at the Heritage Trail and come on into downtown in a beautiful, pristine area. We could do that by starting it with the master trail plan and the beautification. [0:28:59, 0:29:06]: That will come along with it. The other end, maybe the East Atlanta Road Project, where we go down East Atlanta Road. [0:29:07, 0:29:13]: Uh uh we understand that our main street is very aggressive in uh pursuing these um [0:29:14, 0:29:14]: Grit. [0:29:15, 0:29:19]: And uh we we have to have seed money, I understand. [0:29:19, 0:29:21]: For seven hundred fifty thousand to a milyen dollars. [0:29:22, 0:29:25]: We could return up to three milyen dollars in additional. [0:29:25, 0:29:27]: funding with that seed money. [0:29:27, 0:29:28]: Put in place. [0:29:29, 0:29:34]: Saying all of that, the total package that I would like to see. [0:29:34, 0:29:40]: uh personally would be fourteen million dollars for the cultural arts center. [0:29:42, 0:29:44]: Севен мільян дала. [0:29:45, 0:29:48]: For the amphitheater, that's right. На севен. [0:29:48, 0:29:53]: На севенпот восемь мільяр промфатер. [0:29:53, 0:30:00]: Okay, and I'd also like to see a million dollars for the the master trail plan. [0:30:01, 0:30:21]: Which again, that's seed money. We put in out a million dollars in seed money to hopefully have returned uh three million, maybe up to three million dollars in grant funding that would be returned to us. That money would be spent commiserate with whatever grants uh we receive as the seed money to move forward with the master trail. [0:30:21, 0:30:21]: [1821.9, 1825.0]: So if you totaled all of that up [0:30:27, 0:30:47]: We have$14 million for the Cultural Arts Center,$7 million to finish the amphitheater,$1 million for the uh master trail plan. So we can actually do two projects at one time. And as as stated already, we can actually pay for$7 million out of the SPLOS 4. [0:30:47, 0:30:58]: And we could also pay for linear parks, which are trails, okay, out of that splash fund as well. So we could cover$8 million of that. [0:30:59, 0:31:19]: out of the spLOS because we have park park improvements uh in the splots. We also have road improvements in the spLOS as well as this monetary that we could use for the amphitheater. So eight million dollars of that could be covered out of splots. Okay. That would cover us to pay off uh if we wanted to do an array [0:31:19, 0:31:30]: Rapid rate. But what it would also do is secure historically low interest rates for us so that we don't miss out on this window of opportunity. [0:31:30, 0:31:41]: Because as we know, uh as the interest rate increases, so much the cost of borrowing money. I think we're we're we're just shy of two percent or m right around two percent in order [0:31:41, 0:31:46]: to buy the money. So Mr. Wall, can why why I got you on the call, let me ask you [0:31:46, 0:31:49]: I don't know the answer to this question, so I'll ask you. [0:31:49, 0:31:53]: So as the interest rate goes up, do the fees increase? [0:31:55, 0:31:56]: But do the conversation to [0:31:56, 0:32:00]: uh uh the the the banks and everything increase as well. [0:32:01, 0:32:13]: So the conversation to the banks who buy the bonds to the banks, the entity, the brokers, yourself, does that go up commiserate of the insur interest rate increases? Does your conversation increase? [0:32:13, 0:32:17]: No, sir. So I don't make any extra money, the professionals don't. [0:32:17, 0:32:21]: But the person who buys the bonds makes more money as interest rates go up. [0:32:21, 0:32:41]: Okay, so so in other words the bank the interest rate goes up, the bank gets a greater return. So by us borrowing money right now, we actually save versus having that interest rate uh go up and continue to go up. And again, as I said last time, uh Wall the uh Wall Street is still clicking along. [0:32:41, 0:32:57]: doing just fine it's near historic highs as a matter of fact after our last meeting it hit a historic high ticked down a little bit but it's still right up there in record territory so we're in good sound fiscal conditions as far as that is concerned so [0:32:57, 0:33:07]: in earnest, that's what I would like to see uh for us to do in order to move the city forward. And and and in accordance with that. [0:33:08, 0:33:11]: Okay, I will make a motion to move forward. [0:33:11, 0:33:20]: With uh a total funding package of twenty-two million dollars, fourteen million dollars for art center. [0:33:20, 0:33:31]: Seven million dollars for the you seven million dollars for the amphitheater and one million dollars for the master trail plan for a total of twenty two million dollars. On the water. [0:33:32, 0:33:33]: Right. [0:33:33, 0:33:53]: We're we're we're still in the we're still in the questioning phase to Mr. Walls, and that that's respect to all the council members to be able to ask questions before one council member speaks and then make a motion. We all should have an opportunity to speak to Mr. Walls about our concerns, whether the motion passed or not, but we all should have an opportunity before a motion is made to voice our concerns. [0:33:53, 0:34:04]: concerns pertaining to what's been laid out already before a motion. It can be done several ways, but uh go go ahead with the motion has been made. It hasn't been seconded, but you have you have some concerns, sir. Go ahead. What's your question to Mr. Wall? [0:34:05, 0:34:11]: Well my my question with with Mr. Wall is and I understand that the interest rates are pretty low right now. Um [0:34:12, 0:34:19]: But I but my caution is that not only that we don't have a bottom line figure. I don't know if any other council member has. [0:34:20, 0:34:23]: A bottom line figure what it's going to cost us to complete this amphitheater. [0:34:24, 0:34:30]: We haven't put one piece of furniture up. We we don't know what about the furniture. Mr. Knighton, do you know the bottom line figure? [0:34:30, 0:34:36]: with furniture, any more change orders are coming. What's the bottom line figure for complete in this amphitheater? [0:34:36, 0:34:38]: That's the first question that I [0:34:39, 0:34:46]: Okay. Um, and I can't give you with absolute definity what a bottom line figure is because just as you mentioned, [0:34:47, 0:34:48]: You mentioned change order. [0:34:48, 0:34:53]: If for some reason something happens with the parking or even the road situation. [0:34:54, 0:34:58]: Let me start digging. I I can't give you an absolute. What I have done. [0:34:58, 0:35:02]: Is trying as best I can in conversations with Ket and Wood and with [0:35:02, 0:35:03]: Um [0:35:04, 0:35:04]: Oh. [0:35:06, 0:35:06]: T S D. [0:35:07, 0:35:10]: And looked at uh various situations and I've got [0:35:10, 0:35:12]: Um some figures that I have [0:35:13, 0:35:15]: um put together in terms of what I've been [0:35:15, 0:35:16]: Looking at [0:35:16, 0:35:18]: In terms of this overall figure. [0:35:18, 0:35:24]: Remember there was also there was also a change order that's already been done of seven hundred thousand dollars. [0:35:24, 0:35:29]: Then you look at the road figures. We have a pot of money for roads and so forth. [0:35:29, 0:35:35]: But again, until we bid it out, we won't know exactly. So I included an additional five hundred thousand for that. [0:35:35, 0:35:36]: If needed. [0:35:37, 0:35:43]: Then for the green room itself, in terms of equipment, furniture, and so forth for green room and accoutrements. [0:35:43, 0:35:44]: One hundred thousand. [0:35:45, 0:35:52]: uh enhanced landscaping, which is something we talked about in and around the detention pond area to create a pocket park situation. [0:35:52, 0:35:54]: two hundred and fifty thousand. [0:35:54, 0:35:57]: And then amphitheater equipment for speakers. [0:35:57, 0:36:04]: for uh amplification, for all of those things that come along with sound systems, lighting, and so forth at 500,000. [0:36:04, 0:36:10]: Those total at just over two two million dollars, essentially point oh five million dollars. [0:36:10, 0:36:11]: So if you took that [0:36:12, 0:36:15]: From the four point six milyen that was originally discussed. [0:36:16, 0:36:17]: For the amphitheater. [0:36:17, 0:36:19]: Now you're at six point [0:36:20, 0:36:20]: Um [0:36:21, 0:36:23]: Just over six point six milyen dollars. [0:36:24, 0:36:25]: But those I just mentioned. [0:36:26, 0:36:27]: Those items I just mentioned. [0:36:28, 0:36:31]: And so originally we talked about seven million dollars. [0:36:31, 0:36:35]: As Mr. Wall said the seven and a half was put it was placed in there for [0:36:36, 0:36:39]: Um just additional in case it's needed. [0:36:39, 0:36:47]: But that's those are the figures that I have um come up with in discussions and realistic expectations of what those costs should be. [0:36:47, 0:36:51]: Therefore, that's why we came up with that. Um that's why we came up with that number. [0:36:51, 0:36:58]: But we have to be careful and cautious, Mr. Knight, when we start to say, and I understand we we're we're saying seven million. [0:36:58, 0:37:18]: We're saying that, but you still we still talked about other furniture that was going to be laid out, uh VIP era, all of these things. And when you get into const we're not even through with the construction portions of the roads, like you said, we still got to do uh Lee Street. We still gotta do the bit beautification on Lee Street, we still gotta do uh East Atlanta Road, we still have the [0:37:18, 0:37:21]: Да сома стіл не тобі дан водись проєкт. [0:37:21, 0:37:25]: And those speculative amounts are not actual amounts. [0:37:25, 0:37:30]: So we have no idea of what the ending cost of this amphitheater is gonna be. [0:37:31, 0:37:38]: And so when we're throwing out these numbers, they sound good and the interest rate, they sound good, but those aren't actual numbers. And when we talk about using splots, [0:37:38, 0:37:56]: Those identified splash project projects was the intent of those splotch projects was going to of the capital improvement projects and it wasn't the it wasn't to source in to the amphitheater. So when we talk about all of these these monies that are being spent out, we have no idea. [0:37:57, 0:38:03]: right now what monies are gonna be spent out, what monies are gonna be needed because the construction is still ongoing. [0:38:03, 0:38:08]: And change orders come, it this may not even be enough to even burn. [0:38:08, 0:38:14]: For what we're about to go into in the cons to finish the construction of this amphitheater. We haven't even talked about. [0:38:15, 0:38:21]: the the construction por portion of the uh of the house that's gonna be where where the management companies are gonna be. [0:38:21, 0:38:23]: We haven't even talked about that portion. [0:38:24, 0:38:25]: I didn't even hear you just mention it. [0:38:26, 0:38:30]: And we're and and the spec the speculation of the amount of that is over six hundred thousand dollars. [0:38:30, 0:38:40]: So we have to be careful and cautious when we start putting amount on to we have not gotten a a a definitive amount to say this is what it's gonna cost. [0:38:41, 0:38:42]: To finish this amphitheater. [0:38:43, 0:38:48]: We don't have those we we have so much more to do with this amphitheater. We d we cannot [0:38:48, 0:38:57]: Put that amount on that because then we're going to come right back. And then this is going to be stretched out. I told everybody one time before, I never built an amphitheater. [0:38:57, 0:39:14]: When we first came to start talking about this amphitheater, we were told that about 15 to 16 million dollars was going to build an amphitheater. That's what we took. We didn't know all of these extra costs. When we tore down the Cultural Arts Center, we tore it down because it was going to take almost two uh almost two million to rent renovate. [0:39:14, 0:39:16]: So we tore it down. We was told. [0:39:16, 0:39:25]: Never built the culture art center. We were told it's gonna be about$3.5 million to rebuild a culture art center. That's what we were told. I'm just telling what we were told. [0:39:25, 0:39:35]: The figures we was given when I first came on council are way off from the figures of actual building these projects. And when our financial advisor told us [0:39:35, 0:39:38]: To finish this project with the ampitatre. [0:39:39, 0:39:59]: And wait until the spring. Now we gotta we we we're about to get a motion on the board on board to start doing this excessive bonding to wait till the spring because we have no idea of what this is gonna cost. We're sitting here talking about spending millions and millions of dollars in capital improvement product stuff to look good, but we've yet to lay out an infrastructure plan. [0:39:59, 0:40:09]: for the city and what these costs are gonna cost the city. We've helped we yet to lay out and start our uh uh uh um town hall meetings to say what it's gonna cost for us to start a police department. [0:40:10, 0:40:19]: We're sitting here jumping on capital improvement projects and but we have to start to move in a way that's going to be conducive to what's best for the city. [0:40:20, 0:40:23]: And until we get some numbers that you don't have, Mr. Knighton. [0:40:24, 0:40:41]: And that are not before us right now today, this council on what the total amount gonna be to complete this amphitheater project with the roads, with the management office, with all this stuff, how can we sit here and say, let's move forward with this and that with these mines when those numbers aren't even realistic? [0:40:41, 0:40:45]: Let me respond. May I may I mayor Yeah go right here tonight. [0:40:45, 0:40:49]: Let me respond to a couple of things. One is with related to [0:40:50, 0:40:51]: Um [0:40:51, 0:40:56]: the management company or housing for the management company. I think some that's a that's part of another discussion that we need to have. [0:40:57, 0:40:59]: Um in in terms of [0:41:00, 0:41:01]: Well, we'll we'll discuss that later. [0:41:02, 0:41:06]: The other issue related to knowing full well what costs are going to be [0:41:07, 0:41:12]: Remember that of course the council committed to bonding a portion of this project. [0:41:13, 0:41:16]: That that but that commitment was made to bond a portion of the project. [0:41:16, 0:41:18]: Use the six point three from Splask. [0:41:18, 0:41:20]: or Regent's Bank and then another [0:41:21, 0:41:22]: five million out of um [0:41:23, 0:41:23]: Uh [0:41:23, 0:41:26]: fund balance and then bonding the rest of the project. [0:41:26, 0:41:31]: As we get closer to completing the project, obviously we have to have a funding source. [0:41:32, 0:41:33]: by which to complete the project. [0:41:34, 0:41:41]: The items that I mentioned here are based on um best understanding and an estimate of what those costs are going to entail. [0:41:42, 0:41:47]: As we complete the project, because it is still under construction, and there are some things that may [0:41:48, 0:41:52]: arise, which we're trying to account for, and also the roads that are associated with the project. [0:41:53, 0:41:56]: Haven't been bid, we don't know completely. We do not know. [0:41:56, 0:41:58]: And so I can't give you [0:41:59, 0:42:09]: an absolute. I don't think we will ever know an absolute until we turn the key into the amphitheater and it's fully completed. And that's just a part of construction for a project of this magnitude. [0:42:10, 0:42:13]: Uh no, I I and for any project of this magnitude. [0:42:14, 0:42:20]: Um, you will not know absolutely, definitively, what that cost is going to be until it is absolutely completed. [0:42:20, 0:42:23]: No, I get that, Mr. Nightm, but once again [0:42:24, 0:42:37]: This project is in full bloom. It's we come too far to turn around. I understand that there's some funding have to be done to complete this project. And I understand a funding source has to be laid out in order for the project to be completed. [0:42:37, 0:42:44]: But there again, when we initially started talking about bunding, the plan was what was gonna be at four point six million. [0:42:44, 0:42:47]: Now we're talking about seven million dollars and that may not even be enough. [0:42:47, 0:42:48]: Because we don't know. [0:42:49, 0:43:03]: So when we start talking about going into other capital improvement projects and talking about bunding to move money there, when we have not yet even addressed the uh uh infrastructure plan that for for development in the city of Stockbridge. [0:43:03, 0:43:11]: We have not said what monies we're gonna put toward our infrastructure plan and identify. We still have to we still don't know what it's gonna take the wide rock quarry road. [0:43:12, 0:43:14]: What portion we may be be involved with. [0:43:15, 0:43:33]: in order to get the Rock Quarry Road right. We got so much uh at hand for infrastructure, having an infrastructure plan and also talking about the security of this city with a police department, but yet still we're we're talking about multiple capital improvement projects without laying out a plan. [0:43:33, 0:43:38]: to have the infrastructure in place. And when our financial advisor told us [0:43:38, 0:43:39]: Finish this project. [0:43:41, 0:43:43]: And in April, assess what needs to be done. [0:43:44, 0:43:50]: That to me speaks volumes because it says the unknowns can be taken care of. [0:43:50, 0:43:58]: And we cannot keep walking around speculating and keep throwing, throwing, throwing money in a project that we don't know when that check is gonna stop being written. [0:43:59, 0:44:01]: That's where we are with this ampathy. [0:44:03, 0:44:06]: Okay. Any other questions, concerns from the council? [0:44:07, 0:44:14]: I do have a question for Mr. Walls. Um, so if we bond more than what we need. [0:44:14, 0:44:17]: What happens are we what happens to those? [0:44:18, 0:44:20]: Bonds. Are we able to [0:44:20, 0:44:21]: Turn it [0:44:22, 0:44:25]: You put it in the sinking fund and pay the bonds back with it. [0:44:26, 0:44:27]: So um [0:44:27, 0:44:30]: Like if you borrowed ten million and you only spent eight million. [0:44:30, 0:44:37]: You have a extraordinary call on the bonds where you pay back the two million dollars to the lender. [0:44:37, 0:44:38]: Because you didn't use it. [0:44:39, 0:44:41]: Or or you can spend the two million on another project. [0:44:42, 0:44:46]: Is there a fee associated with that transaction? [0:44:46, 0:45:04]: Yes, ma'am. So you would be paying interest on that two um in my example, the two million extra, you'd pay interest on the time you didn't use it and you would pay issuance costs, you'd pay my fee, the bond council fee to issue the bond. So you'd be out there. So on my example, two million [0:45:04, 0:45:07]: I think the fees are two percent, so you'd be out uh [0:45:08, 0:45:10]: uh forty thousand dollars for having done that. [0:45:11, 0:45:13]: So it's not it's not much for two million. [0:45:14, 0:45:19]: Well one of the things mayor, if I could, I wanna talk to Councilman Alexander to make sure I understood his options. [0:45:19, 0:45:20]: Um [0:45:21, 0:45:22]: The splost [0:45:22, 0:45:26]: is only projected to raise twenty million five hundred and forty five thousand [0:45:27, 0:45:34]: But the projects that you mentioned, fourteen million for cultural arts and seven million for amphitheater and one million for trails totals twenty-two million. [0:45:35, 0:45:40]: Were you gonna have half of it? I mean not half of it, but part of it from the general fund and part of it from splashed? [0:45:41, 0:45:41]: Oh. [0:45:42, 0:45:47]: Uh absolutely. That would have that would that would be the prescribed manner. And then [0:45:48, 0:45:48]: Um [0:45:49, 0:45:51]: You know, as as we go along. [0:45:51, 0:45:56]: As we've seen uh d even during these economic times, the engine [0:45:56, 0:45:59]: The economic engine of Henry County is roaring. [0:46:00, 0:46:03]: Yeah. We in in a down economy. [0:46:04, 0:46:11]: We're gonna see our revenue increase in this year, the year of the pandemic. [0:46:11, 0:46:13]: The one hundred year pandemic. [0:46:14, 0:46:17]: We're going to see our revenues. [0:46:17, 0:46:18]: Increase. [0:46:19, 0:46:29]: If that's not telling you the power and then, you know, the one thing about our county is that it's always been underrepresented in industry. [0:46:29, 0:46:33]: We just opened up the first international headquarters. [0:46:33, 0:46:34]: uh for [0:46:35, 0:46:36]: My international company. [0:46:37, 0:46:49]: in the history of the city. They're still trying to get their CO. I'm I'm I'm certainly hopefully that'll work out'cause it should have been done by now. I'll just digress. But we just want to make sure [0:46:49, 0:47:09]: As business after business opens in the city. Every time another business opens, the cash registers to the city go off because you're collecting more tax revenue from travelers, from visitors. We got project after project that's coming to the city. The Oaks and Eagles Landing,$32 million new. [0:47:09, 0:47:18]: residences coming in. We got more zonings where more people want to move to the city. So I expect the revenues to continue to grow. [0:47:19, 0:47:23]: to team continue to outperform and to actually be able to [0:47:23, 0:47:43]: uh absorb those costs as we move forward through the future years. But who knows? Guess what? If we take, wait, let's say we take the full 15 to pay off the rest, there will be a splot six. Okay. There will be another one, right? So uh as we go along and our citizens have talked [0:47:43, 0:47:51]: Told us repeatedly, excuse me, repeatedly over and over again as they vote. They want to see these projects move forward. [0:47:51, 0:47:53]: As a matter of fact, when I was out there [0:47:54, 0:48:14]: Campaigning and I was out there meeting with the citizens as I do engaging them. They keep telling me, well, we voted for that last sploss and spLOS four, but I still have not seen that project move forward yet. And bringing Mr. Knighton on board, he's moving the projects forward. We see that we have the apparatus and [0:48:13, 0:48:23]: place to do so. So yes, the answer to your question is we would pay for uh the portion that we can out of splice and then we would take the remainder [0:48:23, 0:48:43]: uh to the general fund. But we take that remainder to the general fund with all of our fund balance, most of our fund balance still in place in excess of$14,$15 million in fund balance, still in the bank for a rainy day should something hit. [0:48:43, 0:48:54]: We'd have a year plus revenue still in the bank. This allows us basically to borrow our own money, paying it back at 2%. [0:48:55, 0:49:06]: We've already talked about how spliced is. The projection if we bond this particular amount and we only use uh seven million uh out of it or eight million of it to pay. [0:49:06, 0:49:10]: for the amphitheater and then the master trail plan. [0:49:10, 0:49:30]: Right, we still have the excess funds uh that are available to handle the Cultural Arts Center and to make sure that we take care of those other projects. So, and then the estimate is conservative. Right now, we we can we can we don't just have to talk about the projection for SPLOS 4, SPLOS 5. [0:49:30, 0:49:37]: We actually have the numbers. We actually have the numbers. And the numbers are exceeding. [0:49:37, 0:49:56]: What was projected month after month for every month that we've they've been collecting, it has exceeded the amount. So we're not just talking about project about projections off of just blind numbers or what from the past. We're talking about those projections off of actual numbers now. [0:49:57, 0:49:59]: Councilman Blanc, go ahead, please. [0:49:59, 0:50:04]: Uh Councilman Zanus said two words that that really really resonate. Who knows? [0:50:05, 0:50:09]: Because with this plan in place, two things that's are are truly gonna happen. [0:50:10, 0:50:13]: Your general but your general fund budget is gonna increase. [0:50:13, 0:50:33]: And your fund balance is going to decrease. You cannot take SPLOS fund and consider that portions of your uh uh your fund balance because they're allotted monies for specifics when it comes to splots. Uh and Mr. Walls, if you can sit here and explain to me how our general fund will not increase and how our uh fund [0:50:33, 0:50:40]: balance won't decrease. And if you and if it does, if you can give me those numbers right now, then I'll be fine. But I don't think you're going to have those numbers again. [0:50:41, 0:50:46]: Uh to to respond to that if I could stop with m m directly Mr. Hall. [0:50:46, 0:50:48]: Ms. Wall, go ahead, please. [0:50:48, 0:50:51]: On only the good Lord knows what's gonna happen. [0:50:52, 0:50:54]: And that's my point, Mr. Walls. [0:50:54, 0:51:00]: That's my point. A financial advisor is sitting here saying something that's uncertain. [0:51:00, 0:51:11]: We cannot sit here and play these type of games that let's spend this and spin that with so much uncertainty at hand. We have no idea what the ending cost of Zampatheater are gonna be. [0:51:11, 0:51:22]: We have no idea how much general fund our general fund budget is gonna increase. We have no idea of what our fund balance is gonna decrease at, and we have no idea. [0:51:23, 0:51:23]: Right now. [0:51:24, 0:51:33]: Until we finish this project and we come in here and then we formulate a plan for the city of Stockbridge. We can't sit here and say I want [0:51:34, 0:51:42]: Uh like a kid at Christmas, I want this, I want this, I want this without proper planning and understanding. Right now we don't have neither one. [0:51:43, 0:51:46]: Because we have no idea of what monies. [0:51:47, 0:51:54]: What funds are going to be needed, first of all, for this project? So, how can this council sit back and say, pile it on? [0:51:55, 0:51:58]: When we have no idea what position we're putting the city. [0:51:59, 0:52:05]: Um stand by one please, Alexander. May Mayor Port Sam Thomas, you got anything, sir, at all for this conversation? [0:52:08, 0:52:10]: Thank you, Mayor. Um [0:52:11, 0:52:21]: Basically what's I I understand both sides of the discussion right now, but what's resonating with me is somewhat uh Mr. Knight indicated and I've had [0:52:22, 0:52:25]: discussions uh with Mr. Nine before about [0:52:26, 0:52:29]: Um what he perceived to be the fanal. [0:52:30, 0:52:32]: uh numbers to complete the amphitheater. [0:52:33, 0:52:35]: And and and I know he and um [0:52:36, 0:52:45]: Um his his advisors have scrutinized the numbers and I'm sort of satisfied with that at seven, seven and a half. [0:52:45, 0:52:50]: But I'll say this though, and I and I thank Mr. Walls for the the question that [0:52:50, 0:52:52]: Mrs. Barber asked if you borrow money. [0:52:53, 0:52:56]: And you don't use it and you pay it back. [0:52:56, 0:53:00]: See, I I I think that's the that's the backstop for me. [0:53:01, 0:53:08]: Um, even if the amphitheater is more than 7.5 and you've already borrowed, say, um, twenty-two. [0:53:09, 0:53:10]: Um [0:53:10, 0:53:12]: The council can authorize [0:53:12, 0:53:20]: a recalculation of the bonding funds to actually to to finish the amphitheater off. For an example, if the amphitheater [0:53:20, 0:53:23]: Rather than seven five, you go to eight or eight five. [0:53:24, 0:53:27]: Um, you know, we we just have to finish it out, but [0:53:27, 0:53:28]: Um [0:53:28, 0:53:32]: You know, I'm of the mindset to to to move forward. Um [0:53:33, 0:53:37]: Um, you know, with the project and I feel confident that [0:53:37, 0:53:39]: Uh we'll be able to [0:53:39, 0:53:40]: uh sustain [0:53:41, 0:54:00]: uh the projects that we we have indicated. So I'm pretty confident in that. I I you know, Mr. Walls, again, as I mentioned to you at the last meeting, I I just thank you for the information that you're sharing. Um, you know, you're doing exactly what we hired you to do. You're giving us your best scenario. [0:54:00, 0:54:04]: of uh of that and I think it's up to the council whether we [0:54:04, 0:54:23]: uh take that advice or we just you know we you know go in a different direction. But it has no uh slight to you uh of what you're recommending. Uh sometimes we just have to take a chance and just go forward. So I again I just want to thank you for that. But I'm sort of leaning toward um Mr. Knight and I do feel that [0:54:24, 0:54:25]: He has um [0:54:26, 0:54:28]: you know, done his due diligence in that. [0:54:29, 0:54:30]: My [0:54:30, 0:54:34]: My concern about the change order when at the one of the meetings [0:54:35, 0:54:37]: The gentleman talked about the pun. [0:54:37, 0:54:41]: And more likely there will be a change order uh in that. [0:54:42, 0:54:44]: I'm a little concerned about that. [0:54:44, 0:54:47]: Uh, cause you know, as you all know, I have issue with change orders. [0:54:48, 0:54:49]: Um but [0:54:49, 0:54:52]: Uh I'm willing to, you know, really just to go forward, but [0:54:52, 0:55:11]: You know, I I think all of us, and I think this is good discussion coming from uh Councilman Blount and uh Alexander, and they give all of us food for thought. And so um, you know, we these are tough decisions we have to make. And so, you know, we just got to make a decision in order to go forward. Sometimes decisions are good, sometimes [0:55:12, 0:55:15]: are bad, but whatever decision we make, we have to deal with it. [0:55:16, 0:55:17]: Councilman Barber, go ahead, please. [0:55:18, 0:55:19]: Yeah. [0:55:19, 0:55:25]: Mayor Pro Tem just hit the nail on the head for me. Um this amphitheater preceded me. [0:55:25, 0:55:28]: Um now that we're in it, we just gotta finish it off. [0:55:29, 0:55:30]: Um, I do support [0:55:31, 0:55:34]: Um moving forward with multiple projects at one time. [0:55:35, 0:55:36]: But [0:55:37, 0:55:43]: I also understand we have to be careful and responsible with us. [0:55:44, 0:55:46]: Bonding in excess [0:55:46, 0:55:53]: We don't have to be concerned about where additional money would come from if we need it. [0:55:53, 0:55:54]: For the amphitheater. [0:55:55, 0:55:57]: I know what Mr. Knighton provided to us was [0:55:58, 0:56:00]: an estimate of what it's gonna cost. [0:56:00, 0:56:01]: Um [0:56:02, 0:56:02]: So [0:56:03, 0:56:15]: I support it. Um, I do support the Cultural Arts Center and the Master Trail Plan. Um and Mr. Walls answered my question about the old bridge, if we wanted to send it back. I don't think we'll [0:56:16, 0:56:36]: want to send it back, we have other projects that we'll be able to use it for, um, such as, well, I don't know we can use it for establishing a police department or not. But Mr. Knighton did mention about um the town hall meetings he's going to begin having with the community. So we will have funds available. [0:56:36, 0:56:37]: For that. [0:56:37, 0:56:39]: So I support the [0:56:39, 0:56:44]: twenty two million that councilman Alexander has proposed. [0:56:45, 0:56:47]: Okay, Mr. Nine, sir. [0:56:47, 0:56:51]: Yeah, I believe Councilman Blount got disconnected or is trying to reconnect. [0:56:52, 0:56:54]: He's trying to apparently trying to reconnect here. [0:56:56, 0:57:06]: Okay, uh the IT is gonna have to let them back in. Uh Mayor Portem Thomas, go ahead, please. Well, uh uh let me add to to the discussion, I know we're not talking about the uh the budget right now. [0:57:07, 0:57:11]: But I I have uh advocated for tightening [0:57:11, 0:57:13]: uh that budget because [0:57:13, 0:57:16]: I I it it's a lot of waste there and I just hope that [0:57:17, 0:57:20]: Uh we do our due diligence when it comes to the budget. [0:57:20, 0:57:21]: As far as [0:57:21, 0:57:23]: Cutting some of that fat. [0:57:23, 0:57:26]: Uh because every [0:57:26, 0:57:29]: Hundred thousand, fifty thousand, four hundred thousand. [0:57:29, 0:57:34]: All of that come into play and I'll just briefly mention when I recommended [0:57:35, 0:57:37]: bringing um permitting in house. [0:57:38, 0:57:41]: That was a surplus of four hundred thousand, roughly. [0:57:41, 0:58:00]: So, but we we you know we had a tendency to to dismiss that. Um in this budget, and you know, I sent a document to mayor and council a few months ago, and Mr. Knight made some of those cuts, but that tally up to 800,000 just the cuts that I recommended. So I'm just saying. [0:58:01, 0:58:04]: Uh that's a part of my concern is [0:58:04, 0:58:10]: uh cutting some of the fat in the budget. Uh with COVID, you know, hospitality, travel and training. [0:58:11, 0:58:12]: We have to see those things so [0:58:13, 0:58:15]: Every dollar that we can save [0:58:15, 0:58:35]: uh uh not to misuse, then those funds can go to toward uh some of these projects. And so when we get back to the budget, I I will re-emphasize that, but I just want to share that right now that you know we have to be able to look at the total picture of all of the financing and we just have to cut some of this fat because [0:58:35, 0:58:38]: Those dollars are gonna count at the end. [0:58:38, 0:58:53]: Okay, good deal. Hey, Mr. Williams, you haven't said anything, sir, at this point. Wanna ask you, we're talking about the s two projects simultaneously budgeting uh bonding all this money. Is there something that you need to add or state at this time for the uh to where council's thought process? [0:58:55, 0:59:04]: Not really. I mean this this is in the policy discussion phase and and you all are kind of talking about the various uh alternatives, um [0:59:05, 0:59:06]: You know, the [0:59:07, 0:59:14]: You know, a from a drafting perspective, if we're drafting documents for a a a bond issue. [0:59:15, 0:59:17]: You know, one of my first concerns in terms of [0:59:17, 0:59:23]: the other projects is how much are we talking about? And we we don't have a good estimate. [0:59:23, 0:59:28]: for the cultural arts facility. We have a number in mind. And so I I would just be worried about [0:59:29, 0:59:37]: you know, either borrowing, you know, not enough because the final numbers come back different from what we anticipate. [0:59:38, 0:59:45]: um or or borrowing too much. But th those are policy discussions and I and I think you guys are are covering all the bases. [0:59:46, 0:59:47]: Uh, thank you, sir. I appreciate that. [0:59:48, 0:59:51]: Okay, uh uh Councilwoman Barber, go ahead, please. [0:59:53, 1:00:03]: Can I ask Councilman Alexander one question? The I know the seven million uh to complete the amphitheater. Um [1:00:04, 1:00:05]: You proposed [1:00:06, 1:00:08]: 14 million for the Culture Arts Center. [1:00:08, 1:00:09]: Correct. [1:00:09, 1:00:10]: That's correct. [1:00:11, 1:00:13]: And the one million just to start the [1:00:13, 1:00:15]: Master Trail Plan. [1:00:15, 1:00:16]: Mm-hmm. [1:00:19, 1:00:20]: Mr. Knighton. [1:00:20, 1:00:25]: Can you tell me what is the estimate estimated cost? [1:00:25, 1:00:28]: For the amp the Cultural Arts Center. [1:00:30, 1:00:32]: You muted, Miss Knight. You muted, sir. [1:00:34, 1:00:42]: I'm I'm sorry. The last cost estimate we had for the Cultural Arts Center, based on the most recent rendition. [1:00:42, 1:00:46]: was between that sixteen and eighteen million dollar figure, sixteen to eighteen. [1:00:47, 1:00:47]: Okay. [1:00:48, 1:00:49]: Or the cultural arts yeah. [1:00:49, 1:00:51]: Thank you. That was it. [1:00:52, 1:00:53]: Councilman Alazana, go ahead, please. [1:00:56, 1:01:00]: Let me say, ladies and gentlemen, we're borrowing a portion. [1:01:00, 1:01:02]: Okay, there are other funds in the city. [1:01:03, 1:01:05]: Now I will point out okay, this costs [1:01:05, 1:01:07]: This estimate that was put out there. [1:01:08, 1:01:09]: uh anticipates [1:01:10, 1:01:22]: again that we'll have another five or six hundred thousand dollar fund balance increase, which they really should be going to these capital projects and they really should have been going to these capital projects. [1:01:22, 1:01:23]: All alone. [1:01:23, 1:01:31]: 2016,$2 million surplus. 2017,$2 million surplus. 2018,$2 million surplus. [1:01:32, 1:01:34]: Twenty nineteen, like um I think maybe [1:01:34, 1:01:36]: We went down to five hundred thousand, but we took [1:01:37, 1:01:39]: A seven hundred thousand dollars hit. [1:01:39, 1:01:59]: From somewhere else. So the fund balance really should have been one point two million, but we s we showed on record that it was five hundred thousand. So those overages, instead of putting those overages uh into uh the reserve funds, which are already proje at eighteen million last year, those funds can be used to help pay down. [1:01:59, 1:01:59]: Yeah. [1:02:00, 1:02:05]: what we're looking at right now and understand I don't want to put I'm I'm with Mayor Pro Tem. [1:02:06, 1:02:26]: I don't want to put$20 million on the amphitheater and then the budget increases to$22 million. I want to put a conservative number out there, like$14 million, so that we're held tight to that. And anything that goes over that needs to come back to us and it needs justification. We don't want to see all these. [1:02:26, 1:02:46]: Change orders. We don't want to see it explode. We want it a borrow bond amount that we want it to be tight. And anything over that, we want to see that money and we want to feel it. And we feel it by making sure that we have a conservative estimate in this bond and spending real dollars out of fund balance. [1:02:45, 1:02:55]: months or the overages that come on a yearly basis. That is what I that's why I product propose that, Councilwoman Barber. Just like Mayor Pro Tem said. [1:02:56, 1:03:10]: with the amphitheater or any project. When we put a number on it, it has a way of creeping up to that number and then going over the top. So if you put this number on it, I think it'll help it'll help keep the budget [1:03:10, 1:03:18]: Intact, and we haven't come up with a a 100% final. We what we what you just you understand and know. [1:03:18, 1:03:37]: that whatever you put, every time we put a number on it, it always seems to get up to that level and then tick over a little bit. So I want to be conservative. I'm being conservative with the amount that we borrow on the Culture Arts Center, the multi the uh the trail plan where we're getting grants to go along with it. [1:03:37, 1:03:39]: And the amphitheater. [1:03:39, 1:03:40]: So the numbers [1:03:40, 1:03:46]: The amphitheater number is seven million. I don't want to go to seven and a half. I want the number to be tight, and that's what we want to do. [1:03:48, 1:03:53]: Well, it may eventually go seven and a half anyway, but we won't know that. Uh I mean it could possibly do that. [1:03:54, 1:04:01]: Uh i you were uh last talking about um councilman Blount. As uh he's still having a problem getting back in, it seems like. [1:04:01, 1:04:03]: Okay, we're about ready to vote here. [1:04:03, 1:04:11]: Yes. I I uh yes. Apparently he is tr having a difficulty getting back on. I have him on speaker on my on my phone. [1:04:12, 1:04:13]: Councilman Blount, I mean. [1:04:13, 1:04:19]: Okay. Um and he he wanted to obviously participate in this discussion before any vote was made. [1:04:20, 1:04:22]: Was that house? [1:04:22, 1:04:26]: Mayor. Mayor. Yes, sir. [1:04:26, 1:04:44]: I would point out that we do have a two question, five minute rule. And I think we've really kind of exceeded that. I think I've exceeded. So it's not like even if he has, he doesn't really have any more time. [1:04:44, 1:04:52]: Well right, I got I got Mr. Base. Let me ask when you tell him I should have as just as much time as he just had. He just said he had seated a room. [1:04:52, 1:05:08]: Yep, well you heard that I think you all heard that himself. He wanted as much time as anybody else had. Councilman Blount. I've had less time hosting. Who's host is it? IT is hosting to me. I don't I'm not the host right now at this point. Okay, who's host? Is IT hosting? He must be, because I know I'm not. Okay. I'm asking, well [1:05:08, 1:05:10]: We need to get um [1:05:11, 1:05:15]: Will the clerk be able to tell you who's hosting? Yeah, IT is hosting. Apparently IT is hosting. [1:05:16, 1:05:20]: It w I T needs to yes, is that Robert? IT's gotta let Lighty's gotta let him in. [1:05:21, 1:05:26]: Yes, he seems to be having some internet problems. I'm trying to get into his computer, but it's not letting me. It's showing offline. [1:05:26, 1:05:29]: Okay. [1:05:31, 1:05:41]: All right. I'll tell you what, uh Mr. Uh Mr. Knight, since he's on why he's helping him out, why Robert's helping him out. Maybe Councilman Blount, last time. Make like if you got a comments, make the last time then we'll go to a vote, sir. [1:05:44, 1:05:45]: Councilman, can you hear the mayor? [1:05:50, 1:05:50]: Councilman Blount. [1:05:53, 1:06:00]: I don't know if you can hear me. Yes, we can hear. Can you all hear? I can hear them. Go ahead. Yes. Yes. Can you hear me? Yes, they can hear you. Yes. [1:06:02, 1:06:06]: Well Mr. Knight, what I'm saying is is that the amount that you gave us [1:06:06, 1:06:09]: The amount that you gave us was only an amount. [1:06:10, 1:06:11]: That will secure us. [1:06:12, 1:06:14]: Move the seven million dollars will secure us. [1:06:14, 1:06:17]: To move forward with this amphitheater project. [1:06:18, 1:06:19]: It was not an ending amount. [1:06:20, 1:06:21]: It was just to secure it. [1:06:21, 1:06:24]: Secure the funding for the for the for what we've already [1:06:25, 1:06:27]: Already said we were gonna spend on the project. [1:06:27, 1:06:29]: If we don't secure the amount [1:06:30, 1:06:32]: goes a mouth, it stops the project. [1:06:33, 1:06:34]: Let's make that clear. [1:06:35, 1:06:38]: And this council can move forward however they want to move forward. [1:06:38, 1:06:39]: And that's fine. [1:06:39, 1:06:42]: But I'm saying that when we hire a financial advisor [1:06:43, 1:06:48]: And he has numbers that that don't even match up to a council member that's making a making a motion. [1:06:49, 1:06:50]: He doesn't have those numbers. [1:06:51, 1:06:52]: And his recommendation. [1:06:53, 1:06:58]: Has not been that we move forward until the spring. He said that to us. [1:06:58, 1:07:02]: We have so much so many numbers that are not clear to us. [1:07:02, 1:07:05]: Why will we continue to move forward with multiple projects? [1:07:06, 1:07:09]: Spending multiple million dollars, and I still will say again. [1:07:09, 1:07:20]: We have no plan infrastructure plan in place. We have no talks that we've done for the police department and we still don't have no idea what this FT and the final cost gonna be. [1:07:20, 1:07:40]: But yet still this council wants to move forward with multiple millions of dollars when our financial buyers has told us that he does not have the numbers for us right now, because two things are gonna happen. Our general fund uh budget is gonna go up, and our fund balance budget is gonna go down. What those numbers are gonna look like and what [1:07:40, 1:07:45]: they're gonna be, I have no idea. Uh financial advisor get paid for the numbers for that, not a councilman. [1:07:47, 1:07:51]: All right. On that note, uh on that note, that's the last discussion point. Need a motion. [1:07:52, 1:08:06]: What's the motion? Yes, sir. I want to make a motion to move forward with um fourteen million dollars to bonding fourteen million dollars for the cultural arts center, seven million dollars for the amphitheater, and one million dollars for [1:08:06, 1:08:09]: The master trail plan segments. [1:08:10, 1:08:10]: There a second. [1:08:11, 1:08:16]: A second. Okay, Councilman Barber seconds. Okay. Yes, Mr. Knighton. [1:08:17, 1:08:20]: Yes, sir. I just understand there's a motion and a second. Just wanna make sure [1:08:21, 1:08:27]: for full clarity that we understand what is being uh requested of the council or what is being motioned and seconded. [1:08:28, 1:08:29]: You need a motion to repeat it, sir. [1:08:30, 1:08:37]: No, no, no, sir. I I just wanna make sure that I I'm clear and that that for for sake of discussion that we're clear about what is happening here. [1:08:38, 1:08:39]: I would I would think that we are, sir. [1:08:40, 1:08:41]: Okay. All right. [1:08:42, 1:08:43]: All in favor of motion, please indicate. [1:08:46, 1:08:47]: Yeah, all opposed. [1:08:49, 1:08:56]: Okay, so it's three one. All right, motion passed. All right. We're gonna go on to the uh public hearing. [1:08:56, 1:09:01]: Second reading of the proposal FY twenty twenty one operating budget. Uh Mr. Knighton. [1:09:01, 1:09:03]: And John Wiggins, please. [1:09:03, 1:09:05]: And Mayor, are you done with me? [1:09:05, 1:09:10]: I'm sorry, Mr. White. [1:09:11, 1:09:12]: Okay. [1:09:12, 1:09:21]: Okay, yes, while we're we're done, sir. If what you would happy Thanksgiving, Mayor and everybody on council. Happy Thanksgiving. Thank you, sir. Mr. Nighting will be in touch with you, sir. Take care. [1:09:25, 1:09:33]: All right, uh Ms. Knighton and you and uh John Wiggins, uh reference to the um the budget, sir. What kind of comments do you have, sir? [1:09:38, 1:09:41]: All right, if Atty would allow me to share screen here. [1:09:49, 1:09:56]: You have a hundred if you had a hundred thousand for next year twenty twenty one and you use ninety thousand. [1:09:57, 1:09:59]: And ten thousand would roll into fund balance the following year. [1:10:00, 1:10:05]: In in our accounting practices, funds are not encumbered, if you will. [1:10:05, 1:10:08]: Right from one year it rose into fund balance. [1:10:09, 1:10:14]: Right. Oh and we we can, but it's only for like capital projects. [1:10:14, 1:10:17]: that role from year to year. Mr. Nine is absolutely correct. I was [1:10:18, 1:10:19]: That was dead on. [1:10:19, 1:10:21]: Uh that's exactly what happens. [1:10:22, 1:10:22]: uh [1:10:23, 1:10:24]: At the end of each year. [1:10:25, 1:10:28]: That's what you call k it you know, zero budgeting. [1:10:28, 1:10:31]: It goes back into the fund balance. [1:10:31, 1:10:34]: And then the next year's account. [1:10:34, 1:10:37]: Whatever funds that's in that account will pick up. [1:10:37, 1:10:41]: any kind of payments that's coming through for a for that particular project. [1:10:42, 1:10:45]: So in in the agreement with the contractor. [1:10:46, 1:10:49]: Um, are that indication that funds [1:10:49, 1:10:52]: Needed to be used uh in twenty twenty. [1:10:55, 1:10:56]: Mm. [1:10:56, 1:10:57]: Product. [1:10:57, 1:11:01]: I don't remember entering the contract like that, but you know [1:11:01, 1:11:03]: If an invoice is not submitted. [1:11:04, 1:11:05]: You know, um [1:11:06, 1:11:07]: In twenty twenty. [1:11:08, 1:11:13]: then um we will have to pay for it and it have to come out of twenty twenty one since we have [1:11:13, 1:11:14]: The count. [1:11:15, 1:11:20]: line specified for that because this account for twenty twenty is gonna go zero. [1:11:22, 1:11:24]: Okay. I I just want to make sure that [1:11:24, 1:11:26]: Uh we adhere. [1:11:26, 1:11:28]: to the agreement [1:11:28, 1:11:31]: Uh especially if there's no indications. [1:11:32, 1:11:34]: That fund would be needed uh in [1:11:35, 1:11:44]: Uh 2020. But I I I don't want to hold the meeting up, uh, you know, doing that. And I'll follow back up with you and Mr. Night on that, but I just wanted to bring that. [1:11:44, 1:11:46]: Uh to everyone's attention. [1:11:46, 1:11:51]: Also in the budget and it's been a line item in the budget for years. [1:11:51, 1:11:54]: Um for the sign ordinance. [1:11:54, 1:11:55]: Uh fifty eight thousand. [1:11:56, 1:11:59]: Uh and it's been in the budget for many years. [1:11:59, 1:12:02]: Uh Mr. Nag, you and I had this discussion. [1:12:02, 1:12:07]: uh about that and and I asked the question, why wasn't the sign ordinance? [1:12:07, 1:12:09]: included in the [1:12:09, 1:12:12]: Uh unified development code um [1:12:13, 1:12:14]: Um body of work. [1:12:15, 1:12:19]: And I believe you indicated that you were going to have that discussion. So [1:12:20, 1:12:23]: Uh with that discussion with the contractor. [1:12:23, 1:12:24]: Uh [1:12:25, 1:12:27]: What happens to the fifty eight thousand? [1:12:28, 1:12:31]: Right. Um to your point, uh Mayor Pro Tem Thomas. [1:12:32, 1:12:38]: It's been fairly customary in my professional career that oftentimes UDC, if you want to develop a new UDC, including [1:12:39, 1:12:43]: all of the various aspects of development into one document. [1:12:43, 1:12:49]: i.e. a zoning code, i.e. a subdivision ordinance, parking, things of all of things of that nature. [1:12:50, 1:12:59]: that in many cases a sign uh um review or a sign code, if you will, are part of that overall UDC. And in fact [1:12:59, 1:13:03]: in conversation and discussion with the um in presentation by the [1:13:04, 1:13:08]: um consultant they they mentioned specifically [1:13:08, 1:13:11]: that the unified development code would include. [1:13:12, 1:13:15]: Um, the provisions for looking at signage. [1:13:15, 1:13:23]: So with it and with that understanding, then that particular provision, I think we had discussed previously that particular provision for sign. [1:13:24, 1:13:25]: І сан орнис. [1:13:25, 1:13:28]: Um I propose to be drastically reduced. [1:13:30, 1:13:32]: Okay, so [1:13:33, 1:13:35]: In your conversation with the contractor [1:13:36, 1:13:39]: Was it agreed upon that they would um [1:13:39, 1:13:41]: do the addition of work. [1:13:42, 1:13:43]: Of a sign on this. [1:13:44, 1:13:47]: It's my understanding that they will include it. In fact, when they [1:13:47, 1:13:49]: had a conversation with the um [1:13:50, 1:13:56]: And I'll verify that, but but they mentioned that in in our conversations that we had with them. We I mean seeing we the staff. [1:13:57, 1:14:02]: And also in conversations with um a review with the planning commission that they had last week. [1:14:02, 1:14:08]: They mentioned a litany of things that are part of the overall unified development code, one of which was signage. [1:14:09, 1:14:11]: Okay, so that means then that [1:14:11, 1:14:14]: Uh the scope and the body of work was still [1:14:15, 1:14:15]: Um [1:14:16, 1:14:21]: just detail out to the one hundred thousand. So what happened to the to the fifty eight thousand? [1:14:21, 1:14:24]: That's what I'm saying. That that needs to be drastically reduced. [1:14:25, 1:14:25]: Or eliminated. [1:14:26, 1:14:27]: I think I think [1:14:28, 1:14:28]: I'm sorry. [1:14:29, 1:14:30]: No no go ahead. [1:14:31, 1:14:42]: I think you may want to uh that I would view being lar in large part included in the UDC. I think you may want to keep a small amount, a very small amount. [1:14:42, 1:14:49]: in there five to ten thousand dollars in case you wanted to look at something related to signage for specific things. [1:14:50, 1:14:53]: Um um be it um uh [1:14:54, 1:15:03]: You know, certain specialized signage you may want to look at, but overall they should handle everything with respect to signage in the unified development code. [1:15:04, 1:15:15]: So uh so is that going to be uh reflected in the final draft? Absolutely, yes, yes. Okay, uh Mr. Mayor, I I don't mean to hog uh all of the meeting. [1:15:16, 1:15:31]: Uh I just wanted to put food uh for thought to to the other council members because I just noticed at the first budget hearing there was no question coming from the elected body. And uh I'm just trying to throw something out, maybe to spark some uh discussion. [1:15:31, 1:15:32]: Uh [1:15:33, 1:15:36]: Mr. Knight, Mr. W uh Wigan, so [1:15:36, 1:15:42]: Uh in public works, there's a two hundred thousand dollar for equipment in the twenty twenty-one budget. [1:15:42, 1:15:45]: And the council approved um [1:15:45, 1:15:48]: A hundred and eleven thousand for equipment. [1:15:48, 1:15:49]: So [1:15:51, 1:15:56]: I'm I'm I'm trying to see what is the difference. And I guess what I'm leaning toward with that is [1:15:56, 1:15:58]: Uh some earmarking, if you will. [1:15:59, 1:16:03]: Uh I I think public work does a pretty good job in using the money. [1:16:03, 1:16:05]: that they have available even though [1:16:06, 1:16:26]: uh there are monies that are carried over. But I'm just gonna just mention that but I'm gonna jump to that and we can sort of uh discuss some of these things at a later date. But I just want to bring some things to your attention and maybe you can get back with me on on some of those. And I won't hog up the whole meeting. Now sure with the um unless you you know unless you just want to speak to that [1:16:26, 1:16:30]: that but and I know Mr. Aaron's probably not here. Uh he's he's here. [1:16:31, 1:16:37]: Okay. So under the uh economic development, you know, and I know you're bringing forward uh a directive [1:16:37, 1:16:40]: I did not see in the budget a a vehicle. [1:16:41, 1:16:43]: А форві директор [1:16:43, 1:16:45]: Um what is your thinking? [1:16:46, 1:16:49]: Um, you know, for that and I know with the [1:16:50, 1:16:51]: Um [1:16:52, 1:16:57]: With the facility being shared, I guess, with the economic development and maybe Main Street. [1:16:58, 1:17:01]: So and we always know that they need to be here because so [1:17:01, 1:17:07]: What what are your thoughts um on a vehicle for the uh economic development directive? [1:17:07, 1:17:16]: I think that we have a pool of vehicles that are available, uh currently available for all staff. And within that pool, I think we can accommodate. [1:17:17, 1:17:19]: All staff members. Um I I [1:17:20, 1:17:28]: I don't see a need to to move forward with a vehicle at this point. I think with the existing vehicle pool that we have, we have enough to be able to share. [1:17:28, 1:17:30]: And certainly accommodate all sta. [1:17:31, 1:17:33]: Lastly, Mr. Mayor. [1:17:33, 1:17:35]: Mr. Wigan, you mentioned [1:17:35, 1:17:37]: Uh a drastic cut in [1:17:38, 1:17:41]: Um travel and training, hospitality. [1:17:42, 1:17:43]: Maybe even uniforms. [1:17:44, 1:17:53]: Normally we we we purchase uniforms to wear uh when we go outside of the city or when we are uh actively attending. [1:17:54, 1:17:57]: uh meetings and gatherings and and those kind of things. [1:17:57, 1:18:00]: Um, I'm of the mindset to [1:18:01, 1:18:02]: Yeah. Like a clothes with block. [1:18:03, 1:18:06]: And just trim what we can because in the last discussion. [1:18:07, 1:18:11]: Um, you know, we we're talking about, you know, scratching for every penny. [1:18:11, 1:18:14]: that we could come up with to to fund these major projects. [1:18:15, 1:18:18]: And I'm just of the ones of not putting [1:18:18, 1:18:21]: Um fat on the table for us just to misuse. [1:18:22, 1:18:26]: So my my last question is so in the final draft of the budget. [1:18:27, 1:18:28]: Um [1:18:29, 1:18:31]: How much more cutting was the knight in? [1:18:31, 1:18:33]: Are you going to cut? [1:18:34, 1:18:37]: Uh and present to council in that final draft. [1:18:38, 1:18:47]: Well, there'll be some and we're gonna go through it uh myself with Mr. Wiggins. We'll go through it line by line, department dot department, as we've done before when we had to reduce it. [1:18:47, 1:18:52]: uh basically from over fifteen million or about fifteen million dollars down to twelve point eight [1:18:53, 1:18:55]: from the time of the budget retreat until now. [1:18:56, 1:19:03]: And so we'll go over it again. One of the items that I mentioned was determining what would happen with the bonding situation. [1:19:03, 1:19:05]: And how that might impact. [1:19:05, 1:19:10]: um the general fund portion of the budget. Now we we obviously have an an answer to that. [1:19:10, 1:19:13]: But we'll as a matter of course go back through [1:19:13, 1:19:15]: And examine everything again. [1:19:15, 1:19:20]: And many of the things that you talked about and and I think is we're aware of with respect to [1:19:21, 1:19:23]: The budget in in the pandemic situation. [1:19:24, 1:19:36]: uh related to many items, um travel, training, hospitality, all of those different things. We won't see um in in the in the early part, if not the first half of 20 or 2021. [1:19:37, 1:19:40]: And so those things in particular, yes, we will go back and scrutinize again. [1:19:41, 1:19:45]: Um, as well as all of the various other line items in the budget to make sure we've got [1:19:46, 1:19:52]: budget that we think is solid, realistic, and also they can accommodate the needs and service provision to citizens. So [1:19:53, 1:19:59]: Yes, I would expect that we're gonna do some more producing. And and and to that and to that end. [1:19:59, 1:20:03]: Uh we'll make sure well in advance of the um [1:20:04, 1:20:08]: next budget hearing and adoption, we provide that information back to the council. [1:20:08, 1:20:11]: Well that that's what I was getting ready to ask so we can [1:20:11, 1:20:26]: um give out input rather than um tying up the meeting like I'm doing right now. So Mr. Mayor and Council, I thank you for indulging me too and Mr. Wigan uh to ask these questions. Uh I yield back, Mr. Mayor. All right, no problem. Councilwoman Barber, go ahead, please. [1:20:30, 1:20:44]: My question was directly related to the um capital equipment that public works um just awarded a contract at our last meeting. Is Mr. Aaron able to speak? I see he's on. [1:20:46, 1:20:49]: Ms. Aaron. Yeah, yeah, he's able. Yes, Councilmember Barber. [1:20:49, 1:20:51]: Okay. Um so [1:20:52, 1:20:56]: With the capital equipment that you just awarded a contract with. [1:20:58, 1:21:02]: It was over a hundred thousand dollars. So next year. [1:21:02, 1:21:07]: Are you also projecting to spend that amount of money on lawn equipment as well? [1:21:08, 1:21:17]: Councilmember Barber, the amount we spent was$77,000 to replace equipment that we currently had that was outdated. [1:21:17, 1:21:31]: This budget is for those eight employees. If council approved the budget that will be coming on board, they will need some equipment to be able to use and function in those positions. Right now there is no equipment if those people come on board. [1:21:32, 1:21:33]: for them to use. [1:21:33, 1:21:37]: So the contract award we made at our last meeting. [1:21:38, 1:21:40]: Um for lawn equipment. [1:21:42, 1:21:51]: What was that for? Those moors that were replacing moors in public works, you were replacing moors in the water department and you were replacing more than the sewer department. [1:21:52, 1:21:52]: Those are [1:21:53, 1:21:56]: replacing equipment that is beyond his useful life. [1:21:58, 1:22:02]: And so that's what we were doing it in with those funds. [1:22:03, 1:22:09]: But the money that is in the FY twenty twenty one budget is for the additional staff that's coming on board. [1:22:13, 1:22:13]: Okay. [1:22:15, 1:22:15]: Okay. [1:22:16, 1:22:25]: Um, one more question. Thank you, Mr. Aaron. Um, Mr. Knighton, as we begin the conversations about establishing a police department, I'm just looking at the budget here. [1:22:25, 1:22:26]: Um [1:22:26, 1:22:29]: Will it be coming out of the general fund? [1:22:30, 1:22:30]: Well it. [1:22:31, 1:22:37]: Um it may. I do have a thought about that, um, of how um perhaps we can handle that. [1:22:38, 1:22:39]: Um in term [1:22:40, 1:22:41]: Oh, sorry, go ahead. [1:22:41, 1:22:52]: I was looking at the line items under police administration that we have here already for extra duty officers from Henry County. That's right. Same account that we [1:22:53, 1:22:55]: anticipate using as well. [1:22:56, 1:23:03]: Uh we we could use that account. I might propose using a different account simply because I think the function of [1:23:03, 1:23:05]: the that particular account. [1:23:06, 1:23:10]: is for off duty officers for for the special events that we have. [1:23:11, 1:23:22]: for city hall, for other additional security. I think if the if we move toward a police department situation and want to provide monies in the budget, we probably should separate that out. [1:23:23, 1:23:24]: Specifically. [1:23:24, 1:23:26]: into a different line item. [1:23:26, 1:23:31]: Okay. But well yeah,'cause'cause what what what we can do is um [1:23:32, 1:23:34]: It'll be different account numbers. [1:23:34, 1:23:38]: And those the account numbers that you're looking at right now in police administration budget. [1:23:39, 1:23:40]: They would go dormant. [1:23:41, 1:23:43]: And then you won't you won't see him anymore. [1:23:43, 1:23:44]: A ver si [1:23:44, 1:23:48]: Unless we're doing some more outsourcing, but I doubt that if you get your own police department [1:23:48, 1:23:52]: You'll see a whole nother new uh uh group of account numbers. [1:23:52, 1:23:54]: 'Cause we'll have to stay within the uniform code. [1:23:55, 1:23:58]: uh of account chart of accounts with the uh state of Georgia. [1:23:59, 1:23:59]: Oh. [1:23:59, 1:24:03]: Let me make the care clarification as we go through next year twenty twenty one. [1:24:04, 1:24:14]: Well we'll still need to have the police services account you're referencing, uh, Councilwoman Barber. But I'm saying we we probably if it's the council's will to create a new account. [1:24:15, 1:24:17]: For uh police department. [1:24:17, 1:24:21]: um startup, if you will, or police department formation. [1:24:21, 1:24:22]: Another separate account for that. [1:24:23, 1:24:23]: Okay. [1:24:23, 1:24:25]: Thank you. That's all. [1:24:26, 1:24:28]: Customer Alexander, go ahead, please. [1:24:28, 1:24:46]: Yes, thank you so much. I appreciate uh Mayor Pro Tem's uh surgical precision on analyzing the budget. I leave that you know, I I I know I can trust him with that because he's gonna align that budget and he's gonna make sure that it's tight. So I certainly appreciate that and I appreciate um [1:24:47, 1:24:55]: Councilwoman Barber's comments on and concern about the police department. I've been very much in support of a Stockbridge Police Department. [1:24:56, 1:24:58]: I would I would have voted I voted for one. [1:24:59, 1:25:01]: Uh every time it was proposed. [1:25:01, 1:25:06]: And I certainly would vote for one today to make sure that we're moving forward. [1:25:06, 1:25:11]: uh with that and uh I'm glad that the uh consensus of the council now [1:25:11, 1:25:13]: Is that we want to move forward. [1:25:13, 1:25:22]: uh providing our citizens with a Starkbridge police department. I wish we would have got there earlier, but I'm glad that we finally arrived at that particular point. [1:25:22, 1:25:26]: And I know that we have the people in position uh under Mr. Knighton. [1:25:26, 1:25:28]: That's going to execute that. [1:25:28, 1:25:45]: uh i on a second on a secondary conversation that i've had with mr. knight, I want you to kind of explain to the public, uh, you know, I think Councilwoman Barber's been leading the charge on beautification uh in the city, but our discussion [1:25:45, 1:25:53]: In terms of North Henry Boulevard, and I was while uh we were discussing a comprehensive beautification plan. [1:25:54, 1:26:13]: for North Henry Boulevard. And I think your suggestions versus having it in the general fund budget was to put it in the capital improvement budget. So talk about the differences between the two and and so that folks understand that we're serious about moving forward with this uh with uh with the appearance of the city. [1:26:13, 1:26:18]: Right. I think uh yeah, Councilman Alexander, gener in in in general terms. [1:26:18, 1:26:27]: You wanna keep a general fund budget uh dedicated to your your day-to-day operations of city government, the things that it takes to actually run a city. [1:26:28, 1:26:40]: various departments as alluded to earlier, public works, you know, your code enforcement development services, um, and your other additional staff, those items that it takes to actually run the government on a day-to-day basis. [1:26:40, 1:26:46]: Uh for beautification, a large scale beautification project that you're talking about with respect to North Henry Boulevard or even 138. [1:26:47, 1:26:58]: Uh, that's better sit situated in a capital improvement plan or capital budget where you would normally dedicate a different funding sources toward like fund balance, like SPLOSS, like even bonding. [1:26:58, 1:27:04]: Uh, because those are essentially one time expenses. If you wanted to do a beautification project that was [1:27:05, 1:27:11]: $50,000 or$100,000, that's more of a one-time expense that you would expend at that amount. [1:27:12, 1:27:25]: And so you would not want to place that in your general fund budget because that would uh provide some constraints on your general fund budget and it would be a essentially a a one-term thing and you would want to use a different funding source. [1:27:25, 1:27:27]: And so those are the reasons why you would typically [1:27:28, 1:27:35]: um uh differentiate those type projects, understanding the council's desire and and a wish to [1:27:35, 1:27:42]: uh enhance the city, uh to uh beautify the city and even create some scre potential streetscape. [1:27:42, 1:27:45]: Scenarios on some of our major corridors. [1:27:46, 1:27:47]: Mm-hmm. All right. Thank you. [1:27:48, 1:27:55]: Any other questions, Council, for uh Mr. Knight or Mr. Wiggins? Uh Councilwoman Barber, go ahead please. [1:27:55, 1:28:03]: Um Mr. Knighton, with the adding that separate account for establishing a police department, you're gonna add um that. [1:28:04, 1:28:08]: extra line item for that for the third reading of the budget. [1:28:12, 1:28:22]: Yes. And I think that um yes, that would be included in the third reading in the budget. And I think um obviously as we talk about a town hall, I think that'll be an interesting conversation to have. [1:28:22, 1:28:31]: um uh after you know that comp town hall essentially uh have that third reading. But yes, that would be something that would be included in third uh hearing. [1:28:32, 1:28:33]: Okay, thank you. [1:28:34, 1:28:37]: Okay, any other questions from Ms. once again, Mr. Knighton or Mr. Wiggins? [1:28:38, 1:28:50]: Okay, if not, then I this is a public hearing, so I need to open this up. And uh so um so I'd like to open it up for public hearing if there are any comments uh from the public. [1:28:50, 1:29:05]: uh for uh the actual current proposed budget for twenty twenty one. And I have to see whether or not uh Miss Holiday or our IT have anything or somehow any information there for anybody, let anybody speak. [1:29:05, 1:29:12]: We do have one attendee hand raised. Do you really? Okay. [1:29:12, 1:29:16]: Okay, so I let'em in or her in, whoever it is. [1:29:22, 1:29:23]: Asked a person named Corey. [1:29:24, 1:29:25]: That's correct. [1:29:26, 1:29:32]: Okay, Corey, uh unmute yourself. What is your question or concern? This is a for the current budget. [1:29:33, 1:29:34]: Comment [1:29:39, 1:29:40]: You need to unmute yourself, Corey. [1:29:42, 1:29:42]: I think [1:29:43, 1:29:48]: We have to do that just no. Okay, fine. Then uh did I two get uh what's that, Robert? Yes. [1:29:49, 1:29:50]: Robert, you gotta unmute Corey. [1:30:02, 1:30:04]: That is the only key. [1:30:04, 1:30:08]: Looks like I I can only ask to unmute. I can't physically unmute. [1:30:09, 1:30:13]: Okay, you can okay, go ahead and do that. Um [1:30:13, 1:30:15]: Audio only, please. [1:30:21, 1:30:22]: Mm. [1:30:30, 1:30:33]: Yeah, that's only let me ask. I cannot physically. [1:30:33, 1:30:35]: That's fine. Um audio only, please. [1:30:37, 1:30:43]: Mr. Mayor, in the QA section below, he's reporting that he does not have a microphone. [1:30:44, 1:30:48]: It he he's been up he's been upgraded, so he'll he'll be able to [1:30:49, 1:30:49]: To speak. [1:30:50, 1:30:57]: Oh, you mean on his computer? On his computer. That's what it looks like. He's saying he's he's saying he wants clarification on. [1:30:57, 1:31:07]: The first question he asked, I think that was about the the downtown development authority. He he's the person who had the comments the initially. [1:31:07, 1:31:10]: Okay. Well this portion is only for the budget. [1:31:11, 1:31:13]: And that she's correct about that. [1:31:13, 1:31:25]: They uh mentioned earlier in the early in the meeting that uh that Mr. Knight will give a a formal response to that and then we'll make sure the public response is. So this is the same guy that uh uh [1:31:25, 1:31:27]: They had the public comment originally. Is that what you're saying? [1:31:28, 1:31:30]: I believe that's the case, yes, sir. [1:31:31, 1:31:31]: Okay. [1:31:32, 1:31:33]: All right. [1:31:34, 1:31:36]: Well, can you hear us? I'm assuming, right? [1:31:38, 1:31:38]: I [1:31:40, 1:31:43]: I assume because he he uh he [1:31:43, 1:31:50]: Put it poster. I added the comment about have not having a microphone, so I believe you can hear us, so you should be able to. All right, let's see here. [1:31:53, 1:31:54]: All right. [1:31:55, 1:31:58]: But he has not made a subsequent comment. [1:31:59, 1:31:59]: All right. [1:32:00, 1:32:08]: And he w that was four. That was a four. I said four. So that was four um the actual proposal of the budget proposal. [1:32:09, 1:32:09]: Um [1:32:10, 1:32:28]: All right, well we're gonna have to follow up. This is the same guy. We have to follow up with him uh somehow afterwards and get back to the community as a reference to that response then, because I don't know how else we can proceed on this uh with this gentleman in this aspect. And the IT can't uh get him he doesn't have a mic, so in this aspect. [1:32:29, 1:32:36]: Well, how about any is anybody out there for that's opposed the the actual uh budget, 2021 budget? [1:32:37, 1:32:41]: In the opposition. I'm assuming this gentleman Corey is the only one period all for or against. [1:32:42, 1:33:02]: Okay, well if that's the case. That's correct. Well, if that's good, we have to get back to him and I'll close the actual public hearing in this case. And next month when we do this, we're gonna have to get a little more redefined on how we can do this and make sure that people have for or against comments that are able to do this. No problem. Yeah, I'm not sure that it was on our end, Mayor, from what I understand. [1:33:02, 1:33:03]: Okay. [1:33:04, 1:33:04]: All right. [1:33:05, 1:33:08]: That's correct. He did not have a mic so he could not uh [1:33:08, 1:33:09]: Participate in the comments. [1:33:11, 1:33:17]: All right. And it's coming it was actually based on something else and not on the budget anyway. Is that correct? It's my understanding. [1:33:18, 1:33:21]: Correct. All right. Okay. We're going to um [1:33:22, 1:33:34]: We're gonna move on. And obviously folks, uh we'll have this public hearing for the third time in December 14th, and then we'll we'll vote on it uh at that time once we have a public hearing comments. So we'll go to new uh new business. [1:33:35, 1:33:42]: Uh council consideration approved city's uh twenty twenty-one meeting dates. Miss uh holiday, please. [1:33:43, 1:33:45]: Good afternoon, Mayor and Council. [1:33:46, 1:33:50]: What I have uh tonight is the twenty twenty one meeting calendar. [1:33:51, 1:33:53]: That will be published in uh the city's legal [1:33:54, 1:33:55]: Oregon The Henry Herald. [1:33:56, 1:34:05]: And what it establishes is the meeting schedule for the city council, the planning commission, the Main Street Advisory Board, the Downtown Development Authority. [1:34:05, 1:34:11]: Youth Council, Youth Council Advisory Committee, Public Facilities Authority, and Urban Redevelopment Authority. [1:34:12, 1:34:25]: And each of these entities, uh with the exception of the mayor and council, which um we're looking to do tonight, has at their board meetings or committee meetings approved their meeting schedule. And that's what you have included in your packet tonight. [1:34:26, 1:34:26]: Right. [1:34:27, 1:34:34]: So I guess uh what we need to do is have a motion to accept this uh this aspect, uh, council, unless you have any questions for Miss Holliday. [1:34:35, 1:34:37]: There's no questions, is there a motion to accept this? [1:34:39, 1:34:42]: Okay, Miss Barber, is there a second? [1:34:45, 1:34:46]: Is there a second? [1:34:47, 1:34:47]: Second. [1:34:48, 1:34:48]: All right. [1:34:49, 1:34:50]: Any further discussion? [1:34:51, 1:34:53]: If not all in favor, please indicate. [1:34:55, 1:35:07]: Okay. Thank you. Appreciate it. Approved all the way around. We'll get that published. Thank you very much. Council consideration to approve the twenty twenty one agenda timeline. Ms. Holliday, please. [1:35:08, 1:35:13]: Mayor Council, what I have presented here tonight is the agenda deadline. [1:35:13, 1:35:16]: for the council meetings and the [1:35:17, 1:35:20]: agenda deadlines for the work session and what that is is [1:35:20, 1:35:26]: when items and documents are to be uploaded into the city's agenda management. [1:35:26, 1:35:27]: tall [1:35:27, 1:35:34]: um for us to be able to present it to mayor council uh prior to the meeting. And there is a schedule attached to that and it's in your packet. [1:35:35, 1:35:55]: All right, Councilman Alexander. Thank you, Mr. Holiday. Council Councilman Alexander, it seemed like you had your hand up, sir. Uh see, I I I would like to have a discussion about this particular issue because I understand the documents are from the staff side, but I think what really happens is it cuts off uh ideas for us to be able to move. [1:35:55, 1:35:59]: move in a nimble fashion besides going back to [1:35:59, 1:36:01]: Uh amend the agenda. [1:36:02, 1:36:04]: Uh I think that um [1:36:04, 1:36:08]: You know, if there's a comprehensive item or something like that. [1:36:09, 1:36:09]: then [1:36:09, 1:36:12]: It might require some extra time, but [1:36:12, 1:36:14]: I don't understand. Um [1:36:14, 1:36:15]: What? [1:36:15, 1:36:16]: Yeah. [1:36:16, 1:36:21]: Someone got us all the documents that are necessary for a particular meeting. [1:36:21, 1:36:24]: Seven or eight days out. Why? [1:36:24, 1:36:26]: Wouldn't that be um [1:36:27, 1:36:28]: uh able to be [1:36:29, 1:36:35]: uh turned around because I mean literally we amend the agenda at a meeting where [1:36:36, 1:36:38]: Uh no person. [1:36:38, 1:36:39]: No notice. [1:36:39, 1:36:58]: Because we're trying to get things on there. So if we were able to add items up to uh seven or eight days out, it would cut down the amount of amending the agenda. I think that that that is my thought process on that. And um, you know, I just I really think that [1:36:58, 1:37:03]: Uh we just we gotta be able to put the emphasis on [1:37:03, 1:37:06]: The staff members to be able to get [1:37:06, 1:37:09]: the information to the clerk's office, I think [1:37:10, 1:37:17]: Uh maybe some of this time window is reserved for that information coming to the clerk's office incomplete. [1:37:18, 1:37:34]: and needing some extra time to go back and flesh out those documents when in an actuality of everything was presented uh concisely and appropriately the first time, then we probably could cut that window down. Uh I that is uh [1:37:34, 1:37:37]: I mean that are my thoughts on it. I'm not sure what [1:37:37, 1:37:40]: The other council members think about it, but [1:37:40, 1:37:44]: I think you know it will really help us as elected officials. [1:37:44, 1:37:48]: uh be better at informing the public. [1:37:48, 1:38:03]: rather than having to the amend the agenda uh at the meeting. And I do understand there's gonna be times where we have to uh amend the agenda uh at the meeting because we we're missing certain dates. And I wouldn't expect [1:38:05, 1:38:10]: And I think hopefully this has not been happening, but I think this hope this may be a fear. [1:38:10, 1:38:15]: Of uh the clerk's office that if the date is cut down to [1:38:16, 1:38:22]: seven days or eight days or whatever that may be, then all the documents come rushing in. [1:38:23, 1:38:32]: Day eight and day seven. So maybe we should have, you know, routine and uh r uh everyday items uh set at [1:38:33, 1:38:49]: uh 14 days and then maybe a shorter tight window on other items. I just want to make sure that we're not sitting this day arbitrarily because people aren't executing at the level that they need to getting these documents to the clerk's office. [1:38:49, 1:38:56]: Well, I would tell you since you're done with that, I would tell you, I'll get you in a second, Kirk. I would tell you that I like the timeline personally like the timeline the way it is. [1:38:56, 1:38:58]: And I have to admit to you. [1:38:58, 1:39:04]: I had a brief conversation with you earlier, Councilman Alexander. I don't particularly care for the constant changes we make on the agenda on the same night. [1:39:04, 1:39:06]: Sometimes that is needed. [1:39:06, 1:39:19]: But uh we've done that too routinely, especially when you've done it the middle or the end of the meeting. To me it's not a good practice and we fall into that pre particular practice and I particularly don't care for it. But but if the council desires that, then obviously I got to comply. [1:39:19, 1:39:37]: But in reference to the timeline that uh that the the clerk said, I think we need to adhere to that because she's got to get information and post it on onto the uh website for the public to know what we're talking about. And I think that's what she's gonna emphasize. I'll be quiet and allow the clerk to speak. Go ahead, clerk, please. [1:39:37, 1:39:43]: Uh thank you, Mayor. Yes, that that is one of the um matters. In addition to that, the council approved. [1:39:44, 1:39:47]: Um a meeting schedule that where we are required [1:39:48, 1:39:52]: based on what you all approved to get you the information one week prior. [1:39:52, 1:39:53]: to your meeting. [1:39:54, 1:39:56]: Which means we have to have everything up. [1:39:56, 1:40:04]: loaded and in and if you um in that window that you were referring to uh the seven to eight day [1:40:04, 1:40:12]: You need to have the information out and published for the public, in addition to having the information in the hands of the council. [1:40:13, 1:40:22]: Um so you there is a resolution on file where you all gave us the directive to have the information to you a week prior. So this timeline [1:40:23, 1:40:30]: Allows for staff to get the information in. And there are occasions, and I work with the city manager on this uh daily. [1:40:30, 1:40:38]: Where there are matters that do need to come to the agenda that are a little bit outside this timeline and we manage to get the information. [1:40:39, 1:40:45]: uploaded and in, but the having it done on the day of the meeting, amending the agenda as you say. [1:40:45, 1:40:47]: Um does not [1:40:47, 1:40:54]: allow us to have had that information made public to the citizens prior to that. [1:40:55, 1:41:05]: That's that's all I had to say on that. Okay, thank you. Any any other comments? Yeah. Go go right in, please, sir. Yeah, I I I think that um uh that the getting those documents um [1:41:06, 1:41:14]: To the clerk's office on time would definitely help. And let me say this. And um, I know there was a resolution passed. I think that. [1:41:15, 1:41:15]: Or a [1:41:16, 1:41:17]: Fala C. [1:41:17, 1:41:30]: p uh statement that passed that outlined fourteen days. I thought it was a mistake at the time and I still still think that it's a mistake today. Even if we don't go with seven days, maybe we won't go with ten. [1:41:30, 1:41:31]: But [1:41:31, 1:41:33]: To allow us to nimbly move. [1:41:34, 1:41:37]: Because I'm looking at the date in January. M uh um [1:41:38, 1:41:43]: But Miss Holliday, give us the dates in Jan what's the cutoff date in January for the work session? [1:41:44, 1:41:48]: Well the work session the um it's Friday, January eighth. [1:41:49, 1:41:57]: Right. So the work session is what day? January twenty-sixth. Right. So the twenty-sixth. So that's literally almost I mean, it's not quite three weeks. [1:41:57, 1:42:08]: But that's almost three weeks before we starting early in January, right after the turn of the year. In order for us to get something on the end of January, we gotta literally have it in by January the eighth. [1:42:09, 1:42:09]: So [1:42:09, 1:42:29]: Uh I don't know why is it could because I mean that's not I mean I guess the the rule was two weeks, so why would that one be extended out so long where it's exactly where this twenty eight to the eighth, that's like twenty you said the eighth and then the twenty-eighth or the twenty sixth? I I will tell you how I will tell you how it was initially set up when I [1:42:29, 1:42:31]: I when it was created. [1:42:31, 1:42:41]: We were using the work session at that time as a work session. And then the items were going before the council to be voted on at your Monday meeting. [1:42:42, 1:42:46]: And many of those items that have been discussed at your prior work session. [1:42:47, 1:42:49]: were able to be moved to a consent agenda. [1:42:50, 1:43:01]: And then the other items voted on in a regular manner, but it was initially established with you discussing most items at your work session and then moving those items. [1:43:01, 1:43:03]: over to your [1:43:03, 1:43:05]: uh regular Monday meeting. [1:43:06, 1:43:09]: Yeah. Well let me say this, uh [1:43:09, 1:43:18]: No, I mean I'm not gonna s I mean this i if if it g if this boat went either way, it's not gonna bother me uh too much. But I just want to understand [1:43:18, 1:43:20]: How we get um [1:43:20, 1:43:22]: These long extended [1:43:23, 1:43:43]: uh terms on these particular issues. Cause literally, uh again, that that particular window, maybe it's that particular date that actually caught my eye because it was so far out. But um, you know, maybe we might be able to adjust some of them and get down to uh 14 days. But if if if we got if everybody got [1:43:43, 1:43:50]: you the documents ten days out, would you be able to would you be able to would would would that be would that be good enough? [1:43:52, 1:43:53]: Published to the public. [1:43:54, 1:43:56]: If they got you everything that you needed. [1:44:00, 1:44:20]: I think he's asking the question you, Miss Holliday. I I would I I I I'm I'm pondering. I promise you I'm pondering. I know you are because see the thing about it is there's always some human error or something like things don't come in on time. [1:44:20, 1:44:25]: There are many municipalities that have their agenda puppets two to three weeks out. [1:44:26, 1:44:29]: Um and having it one week prior. [1:44:30, 1:44:31]: Um [1:44:33, 1:44:45]: That's that's just that that it's it's the council's discretion. I'll just leave it at that. This will be this is at the council's discretion. Well, I will I will let it I will leave it there. I have said what I needed to say and I'll let the council make the decision, yeah. [1:44:46, 1:44:49]: Uh Council Barber, did you have your hand up hand up earlier? [1:44:49, 1:44:59]: Yeah. Um on one hand I'm looking at this as, well, the council, we only need this um seven days in advance. [1:44:59, 1:45:01]: But then on the other hand. [1:45:01, 1:45:04]: I'm looking at the schedule and the fact that [1:45:04, 1:45:07]: Councilman Alexander made a really good point. [1:45:07, 1:45:10]: with our work session scheduled for January twenty sixth. [1:45:11, 1:45:11]: Mm. [1:45:12, 1:45:15]: Deadline for the agenda is January 8th. [1:45:17, 1:45:17]: Death. [1:45:17, 1:45:20]: Almost three weeks. Um [1:45:20, 1:45:23]: It's almost as if [1:45:23, 1:45:26]: There is a operation issue. [1:45:27, 1:45:29]: And a council issue. [1:45:29, 1:45:31]: The council just wants [1:45:31, 1:45:32]: The agenda [1:45:33, 1:45:35]: Within seven days prior to the meeting. [1:45:37, 1:45:41]: What staff needs to do to compile those documents. [1:45:42, 1:45:44]: I would just think we would leave that to [1:45:45, 1:45:46]: Mr. Knighton. [1:45:46, 1:45:55]: And the city clerk to address. But I understand the city clerk's um comment she just made about the consent agenda. So [1:45:56, 1:45:57]: Now [1:45:58, 1:45:58]: I don't know. [1:46:00, 1:46:02]: I don't know how to look it. Go ahead, please. [1:46:02, 1:46:07]: Okay, so my question would be to when the items go on the agenda. [1:46:07, 1:46:09]: And if you have one week. [1:46:10, 1:46:13]: Does that give you sufficient time? [1:46:14, 1:46:15]: To ask [1:46:16, 1:46:20]: questions of the city manager or whatever staff member you may need to address those to. [1:46:21, 1:46:23]: That's was that's built into that as well. [1:46:24, 1:46:30]: Because a lot of times just you don't get the agenda published to you yet, but you know what items may be forthcoming. [1:46:30, 1:46:34]: So does that give you enough time to get back with the city manager? [1:46:35, 1:46:38]: or whatever staff member word he may have to get back with. [1:46:39, 1:46:40]: prior to the meeting. [1:46:41, 1:46:45]: W with with with all due respect. And I think the clerk is doing a great job. [1:46:45, 1:47:05]: I think we normally don't get these books until I mean a few days ahead of time because somebody's lacking. Okay. Not you. I'm just gonna say that right now. You're not holding up the books and we generally don't get those books seven days out. So that has been my whole point. So I would ask that maybe can we table this one and then maybe look at [1:47:05, 1:47:16]: what the optimum time might be to cut some of the days off. Could we possibly do that? Before we do that, I think we need to go around the horn here. Councilman Barber, you finished with your question. [1:47:16, 1:47:18]: Councilman Blount, go ahead, please. [1:47:18, 1:47:24]: Yeah, uh I think the per the people that that would get the agendas out and get the paperwork in, uh if that's working for [1:47:25, 1:47:28]: We've working for the clerk and everybody else, and at any given time. [1:47:29, 1:47:33]: As you see, we could be at the end of a meeting and the council can can can motion to amend the agenda. [1:47:34, 1:47:39]: So those powers and stuff still remains and w so we're we're basically talking somatics right now. So [1:47:40, 1:47:43]: Uh I'd like to make a motion to uh to approve the uh um [1:47:44, 1:47:45]: Prove the schedule now. [1:47:47, 1:47:52]: We're going round around a circle on something that we have the power to change and do at any given time during the course of a meeting. [1:47:53, 1:47:54]: Is there a second to the motion? [1:47:57, 1:47:58]: Okay. [1:47:58, 1:48:05]: Okay, Councilman Barber seconds that motion. Further discussion, Memphis Pro Tem Thomas, I uh you sir, I must have missed you. Have you any comments, sir? [1:48:05, 1:48:09]: Well, I want to ask Mr. Knight historically [1:48:09, 1:48:12]: Um, staff [1:48:12, 1:48:14]: have been late [1:48:15, 1:48:18]: in getting information to the clerk. [1:48:19, 1:48:21]: And I think that goes back to [1:48:22, 1:48:24]: Uh, I wanted to ask Mr. Nine. [1:48:24, 1:48:29]: I do believe though if if information comes in uh on time [1:48:30, 1:48:31]: Uh it could be compiled. [1:48:32, 1:48:35]: Uh council could ask that questions, it could be published. [1:48:36, 1:48:41]: I think the key though is is just getting it in on time from from staff. Staff. [1:48:41, 1:48:45]: But I'm willing to uh to vote in favor of the way it is now, but [1:48:45, 1:48:48]: Historically, that's been the problem, I think. Um [1:48:49, 1:48:53]: You know, uh I know the city attorney is is on this line and so [1:48:53, 1:48:59]: you know, being able to just get, you know, documents from the city attorney, trying to get it from other staff members. [1:49:00, 1:49:07]: Um and I know sometime there are things and Mr. William can sort of speak to that. Sometimes that there's um other reasons why. [1:49:07, 1:49:09]: You know, things are just not coming in. I know [1:49:10, 1:49:12]: You may be waiting on a response from somewhere else. [1:49:13, 1:49:16]: That may cause the backup, you know, just going forward, but [1:49:16, 1:49:21]: I'm okay with the way it is now, but I think we just a have to adhere to the schedule. [1:49:22, 1:49:29]: and uh not wait till the last minute to get this get this information to the clerk. I think that's the problem. We we we procrastinate. [1:49:29, 1:49:30]: I think that's the problem. [1:49:31, 1:49:33]: Uh Mr. Knighton, please, go ahead. [1:49:34, 1:49:38]: Um I was gonna mention maybe Miss Holiday actually we're gonna mention too. We've actually instituted [1:49:39, 1:49:41]: Um a uh through civic clerk. [1:49:42, 1:49:43]: Um a [1:49:43, 1:49:43]: Eight. [1:49:44, 1:49:53]: program by which staff members now have to submit their items for the um for the agenda. So it's all automated. [1:49:53, 1:50:02]: They have to actually input those items now. There's a fit, there's a a stop mechanism in there where it won't accept agenda items after a certain date as a cutoff. [1:50:02, 1:50:08]: Now it could be override, you know, the system could be, you know, an override, you know, by myself, the city manager or something like that. [1:50:09, 1:50:14]: Um so we're moving along those lines to make sure that there is a [1:50:14, 1:50:34]: a more rigid schedule that the um staff members have to adhere to to make sure that those items do get on time. And actually I think it's been a good tool. We've been I think for the last couple of meetings maybe we've had that moving forward and we'll have it moving forward um you know in the future. And obviously there was some training that everybody [1:50:34, 1:50:46]: Had to go through and so forth. So there's a more rigid schedule in mind there. So I think that some of those issues will be addressed just by virtue of that. I will mention this, and I have to uh as a matter. [1:50:46, 1:50:51]: of you know what we're dealing with all these projects that we're dealing with. And obviously by virtue of the bonding issue. [1:50:51, 1:50:57]: Earlier. There are times when there are going to be issues that come up with respect to construction projects. [1:50:58, 1:50:59]: That I may have to get to you. [1:51:00, 1:51:01]: And it may be beyond. [1:51:02, 1:51:09]: That I mean, that'll be the exception, not the rule. It may be on that deadline because it's absolutely necessary for the project. [1:51:09, 1:51:17]: To continue at its pace and not wait another three weeks for another meeting or something of that nature. I would think that you would want to move those items forward. [1:51:18, 1:51:25]: Again, that's the exception, not the rule, but I just I have to mention that just because those situations may arise. [1:51:26, 1:51:27]: All right, Miss Holliday, please. [1:51:28, 1:51:40]: I was just gonna say that um I will have to uh say that Mr. Knighton has gone the back for the clerk's office and getting behind staff to help get information in promptly. It has improved. [1:51:40, 1:51:50]: Um, I know that somebody may have mentioned that it hadn't been coming, but we have made sure in this year twenty twenty that we get the information to you within a week's time. [1:51:50, 1:52:04]: Mr. Alexander, thank you, ma'am. Mr. Alexander, you know you've already spoken a couple of times. You mentioned this before already in the conversation. Motion motion's been made, it's been second. All in favor of the motion, please indicate. All in favor of the motion. [1:52:04, 1:52:05]: No fair emotion. [1:52:06, 1:52:11]: Uh Mr. Blount, what happened to Mr. Blount here? All the favorite motion. Okay, third. Okay. All the favorite motion. All opposed. [1:52:12, 1:52:13]: Sustain. [1:52:13, 1:52:22]: I'm not I'm uh uh it doesn't really matter to me. I just wanted to get out there. Three zero one. Let's let's move on. Thank you. Three zero one. All right. [1:52:22, 1:52:27]: All right, uh Council consideration approved the twenty twenty one council initiative calendar. [1:52:27, 1:52:29]: Uh Miss Pearson, please. [1:52:29, 1:52:36]: Good evening, Mayor and Council. I have for you the proposed 2021 Council Initiative Calendar. [1:52:37, 1:52:43]: And on this calendar we have all the initiatives for you, the mayor and the council that have been presented to me. [1:52:44, 1:52:47]: Okay. Council, any questions for Miss Pearson at all? [1:52:49, 1:52:54]: And if not in a motion to go ahead and approve this particular council initiative calendar for twenty twenty one. [1:52:55, 1:52:56]: Um [1:52:56, 1:52:59]: So move, Barber, so move. Second. Is there a second? [1:52:59, 1:53:00]: Exactly. [1:53:00, 1:53:01]: All right, good. Any further discussion? [1:53:02, 1:53:05]: If not, all in favor of the council initiative calendar for next year, please indicate. [1:53:06, 1:53:17]: Okay, uh okay, great. Unanimous decision. Fantastic. Thank you, Ms. Pearson. And actually, Miss Pearson, on that note, um, I believe you can go ahead and unless Miss Halliday needs you, I believe you can go ahead and part for tonight. [1:53:17, 1:53:21]: Good night. All right. Good night. Thank you. Take care of yourself. All right. [1:53:22, 1:53:28]: Council consideration to approve annual stormwater uh model ordinance. Mr. Aaron, please. [1:53:28, 1:53:30]: Good evening, Mayor and Council. Just coming [1:53:31, 1:53:33]: before you tonight to ask for your approval. [1:53:34, 1:53:54]: The uh periodically, the EPD and the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District revises their ordinances, and the stormwater ordinance has been revised, and all of the members of the North Georgia Water Planning District have to adopt this ordinance. So we're coming before you tonight to ask you to adopt this ordinance. It has to be adopted before December. [1:53:54, 1:53:55]: December fifth, twenty twenty. [1:53:57, 1:54:00]: All right, thank you, Mr. Aaron. Any questions for Mr. Aaron Council at all? [1:54:02, 1:54:22]: Well, I I have something for you, Mr. Aaron. I know you know uh it we have to adopt the ordinance. Typically it didn't have any meat and potatoes in reference to all this. I mean you gave a brief explanation. I know on the cover sheet it wasn't kind of filled out like normal cover sheets are. I was kind of curious about that. I actually had a brief conversation with Mr. Knight about it the other day. I was just kind of [1:54:22, 1:54:27]: Yeah, I don't know if there's anything else you can elaborate on this. I mean, I don't know if anybody else had any questions or not, but [1:54:27, 1:54:35]: I was just kinda wondering you said we have to do this part of the process anyway, but uh I don't know if there's anything else you can add. That's all. [1:54:36, 1:54:56]: The ordinance just uh improves some post-development planning requirements and stormwater management requirements. So they revise those processes and procedures for post-development after a subdivision or a site is developed. There's some things that they're requiring you to do with the stormwater that originates from the [1:54:55, 1:55:00]: site. So this ordinance is updated to capture those requirements. [1:55:01, 1:55:06]: All right. If there's no other questions for the council, I need a motion to accept this particular proposal, this ordinance proposal. [1:55:08, 1:55:08]: Is there a motion? [1:55:11, 1:55:11]: Is there a motion? [1:55:12, 1:55:13]: S so move. [1:55:14, 1:55:23]: Was there a second? Councilman Alexander is there a second. Councilwoman Barber uh second that motion. Uh I don't see Councilman Blount, but all in favor of the motion please indicate. [1:55:25, 1:55:45]: Okay, I don't know. He I don't know where he is. Okay, okay, there we go. Four. All right, there we go. Got it. Four. Mr. Aaron, thank you, sir. Appreciate it. Uh we are skip number 12. It's been postponed. And uh number 13, council consideration to approve the contract extension for Charles Abbott and Associates for [1:55:45, 1:55:59]: building permitting inspection services uh through March 31st, 2021, funding source permit uh permanent department budget. And I'm assuming uh Mr. Knighton that this is for your explanation to the council. Is that correct? [1:56:00, 1:56:07]: Yeah, this this proposal, the the contract or the agreement with Charles Abilan Associates run through the end of this calendar year. [1:56:08, 1:56:14]: And so um obviously there are discussions with respect to uh various items and [1:56:14, 1:56:16]: um looking at or evaluating [1:56:17, 1:56:36]: uh the building uh permitting uh component of uh city government. Uh therefore as these discussions continue to take place, um uh I would recommend that um the current contract be extended for three months through the end of March, March 31st of 2021. [1:56:36, 1:56:42]: as these other items are continue to be considered with respect to overall uh permitting services. [1:56:43, 1:56:45]: All right. Um Mirapal Tem Thomas. Go ahead, sir. [1:56:46, 1:56:48]: I'm sure there will be some discussion. [1:56:49, 1:56:51]: Uh but I'm going to make a motion now. [1:56:51, 1:56:54]: Uh I motion to approve. [1:56:54, 1:56:56]: The contract extension for a bill and [1:56:57, 1:57:02]: permitting and inspections with Charles Abbott and Associates. [1:57:02, 1:57:06]: Uh using the permit and budget line item. [1:57:06, 1:57:10]: Number one zero zero. [1:57:10, 1:57:13]: Dash seven two zero zero. [1:57:14, 1:57:18]: Dash five two one two zero two. [1:57:19, 1:57:23]: Not to exceed seventy five thousand dollars. [1:57:23, 1:57:24]: And [1:57:25, 1:57:28]: Uh budget line item one zero zero. [1:57:29, 1:57:32]: Seven two zero zero zero dash. [1:57:32, 1:57:36]: Five two one two oh three [1:57:36, 1:57:38]: На токси [1:57:38, 1:57:40]: twenty five thousand dollars. [1:57:40, 1:57:43]: And to proceed with issuing. [1:57:44, 1:57:46]: A RFP for [1:57:47, 1:57:48]: billion per million. [1:57:48, 1:57:51]: and inspection services immediately. [1:57:53, 1:57:54]: Okay, is there a second emotion? [1:57:54, 1:57:55]: Second. [1:57:55, 1:57:58]: Councilman Azzan are second that motion. Okay, now further discussion. [1:57:59, 1:58:00]: Comment [1:58:00, 1:58:02]: Go ahead, Councilman Barber, go ahead. [1:58:03, 1:58:07]: Mayor Pro Tem, can you please read off those amounts again? [1:58:07, 1:58:08]: Andy [1:58:09, 1:58:10]: Account numbers. [1:58:11, 1:58:12]: Okay, um [1:58:12, 1:58:15]: If you go to your um [1:58:15, 1:58:18]: Budget Bookland page forty eight. [1:58:18, 1:58:25]: Um on the permitting services, um, you will see those budget line items. [1:58:26, 1:58:29]: Um, and I will repeat those. [1:58:29, 1:58:33]: Um, Madam Clerk, I'm going to repeat those also for you. [1:58:33, 1:58:34]: Um [1:58:36, 1:58:38]: Budget line item one. [1:58:38, 1:58:40]: Zero zero. [1:58:40, 1:58:41]: Dash [1:58:42, 1:58:45]: Seven two zero zero zero. [1:58:46, 1:58:46]: Dash [1:58:47, 1:58:49]: Five, two, one, two. [1:58:50, 1:58:51]: Zero two. [1:58:52, 1:58:54]: And in your uh budget. [1:58:54, 1:58:55]: Booklet [1:58:55, 1:58:59]: You will see that land item is for consultant. [1:58:59, 1:59:02]: Services division. [1:59:02, 1:59:06]: Um, and I ask that it does not exceed. [1:59:06, 1:59:09]: Uh seventy-five thousand that you will see [1:59:10, 1:59:12]: A a three hundred thousand dollar line item. [1:59:13, 1:59:16]: Uh, but we're only talking about this services for [1:59:16, 1:59:18]: three months, January to March. [1:59:19, 1:59:21]: Uh and the [1:59:21, 1:59:24]: Other line item is one [1:59:24, 1:59:26]: Zero zero. [1:59:26, 1:59:30]: Seven two zero zero zero [1:59:30, 1:59:31]: Dash [1:59:31, 1:59:33]: Five two. [1:59:33, 1:59:35]: One, two, oh three. [1:59:36, 1:59:39]: And that line item is for consultant services. [1:59:40, 1:59:41]: uh engineering. [1:59:41, 1:59:43]: And not to exceed [1:59:44, 1:59:46]: twenty five thousand dollars. [1:59:46, 1:59:49]: And I added that um [1:59:50, 1:59:53]: to proceed with issuing a RFP. [1:59:54, 1:59:59]: for building, permitting, and inspection services immediately. [2:00:01, 2:00:03]: Yes, Councilman Blanc, go ahead, please. [2:00:03, 2:00:04]: Um [2:00:05, 2:00:06]: Mr. Knighton. [2:00:06, 2:00:15]: On these numbers that Mr. Thomas gave us, do you find do you see any foreseeable conflict with those numbers? What um I do not think provided? [2:00:16, 2:00:22]: I do not. Um they are about um a quarter of the year, which would be about three month period. [2:00:22, 2:00:27]: for what they're over what they're budgeted overall. So I don't think there would be an issue. If there would be an issue. [2:00:27, 2:00:31]: Would come back to the council and address it, but I would not anticipate that there would be. [2:00:34, 2:00:49]: Now uh second question, when we w with those numbers that uh Mayor Pro Tem, I'm sorry, Mayor Pro Tem Thomas just gave us, um, if we was was were to um [2:00:50, 2:00:52]: move further into [2:00:53, 2:01:10]: others doing i i don't like making these discussions out like this but how do those numbers wouldn't those numbers fluctuate if we didn't have uh someone in place at the time of of march other than charles abbott to continue [2:01:11, 2:01:17]: Well I I think that the other component of Mayor Pro Tem's um motion with respect to putting out an RFP immediately. [2:01:18, 2:01:23]: should give us enough time to address that through an RFP process. In other words, [2:01:23, 2:01:28]: Seeking um qualified firms to provide those services. [2:01:28, 2:01:32]: Um, should give us enough time, enough leeway to be able to work through that. [2:01:34, 2:01:41]: Well that being said though, I I'm I'm just I'm I'm just wanting to make sure that we don't get into something where those amounts are gonna conflict. [2:01:42, 2:01:45]: Because once again we're speculating that we will have someone else. [2:01:45, 2:01:48]: If if we choose to go that route, someone else. [2:01:48, 2:01:56]: And that and that would, I mean, and through that RFP process, obviously, those types of arrangements would be um defined. [2:01:56, 2:02:01]: Uh we're working off of now, based on those numbers, working off of now what's currently in the budget. [2:02:01, 2:02:04]: I believe it's three hundred thousand for one and a hundred thousand for another. [2:02:04, 2:02:07]: And so we're working off of those numbers, but obviously an RFP. [2:02:08, 2:02:12]: um situation would define specifically what that arrangement would be potentially. [2:02:13, 2:02:18]: Although their contract we are talking personnel, I just wish we had gone more in depth in this. [2:02:18, 2:02:20]: Behind closed doors. That'd be my finding. [2:02:21, 2:02:23]: Airport San Thomas, go ahead, please. [2:02:23, 2:02:27]: Um uh the these numbers are in the budget. [2:02:27, 2:02:31]: Uh under the um permitting uh service so [2:02:32, 2:02:35]: Those numbers are there, the uh budget line items is there. [2:02:36, 2:02:43]: The 300,000 in one line item and 100,000 is in the other. So uh those numbers are there. [2:02:43, 2:02:45]: But the reason being to [2:02:46, 2:02:48]: Uh put a cap on these numbers. [2:02:49, 2:02:52]: Uh after March thirty first. [2:02:52, 2:03:03]: You know, w we as a council want to make sure that in going forward, April, May, June, July, and the rest of the year, we want to make sure that funds [2:03:03, 2:03:06]: are still available for [2:03:06, 2:03:07]: Whomever [2:03:07, 2:03:09]: uh may come back to continue. [2:03:10, 2:03:16]: Now with the RFP, Abbott as well as anyone else can reapply. [2:03:16, 2:03:19]: But this ensures that [2:03:19, 2:03:22]: Going forward that there are funds [2:03:22, 2:03:27]: Still available, you know, to go forward. Now, again, as Mr. Knight alluded to. [2:03:27, 2:03:29]: І фортева різні [2:03:30, 2:03:30]: Um [2:03:31, 2:03:35]: There is a need for uh addition of funds. [2:03:35, 2:03:38]: then um they come back to the council. [2:03:39, 2:03:44]: and and and appeal to us or uh state to us that there is a need so [2:03:45, 2:03:53]: Um, you know, it's real transparent, but for the most part, it's more of a safeguard measure to make sure that after March. [2:03:53, 2:03:57]: Uh that that those line items are not um [2:03:57, 2:03:58]: Depleted. [2:03:59, 2:03:59]: Um [2:04:00, 2:04:06]: You know, and and going forward and it and it's basically clear clear cut, but again, uh in the budget. [2:04:06, 2:04:11]: Page 48 under permitting, uh, you will see those line items numbers. [2:04:11, 2:04:14]: And you will see the amount um [2:04:14, 2:04:17]: of three hundred thousand, one hundred thousand in those line items. [2:04:17, 2:04:20]: And as Mr. Knight indicated, this is just a [2:04:20, 2:04:23]: A pro ratio of that if you broke that down. [2:04:24, 2:04:26]: into four quarters. [2:04:26, 2:04:28]: of the year it equals out to [2:04:29, 2:04:37]: uh one hundred thousand. Oh well it equ equals out to seventy five thousand twenty five thousand. So you talk about a a hundred thousand dollars. [2:04:38, 2:04:39]: For those uh three months. [2:04:41, 2:04:45]: You have further questions at all on the motion. Yeah. Oh, I'm sorry, Councilman Barber, go ahead, please. [2:04:47, 2:05:04]: Yes, so and I know Mayor Pro Tem made the motion, so I wanted to see if we could add to his motion to bring the recommendation to award to our first council meeting. That would be March 8th. [2:05:05, 2:05:12]: So I want to make sure Mr. Knighton knows the date that we'll be expecting the recommendation. [2:05:12, 2:05:14]: To award a new contract. [2:05:15, 2:05:18]: At our March eighth, twenty twenty one. [2:05:19, 2:05:19]: Meeting. [2:05:21, 2:05:23]: If it goes out immediately. [2:05:24, 2:05:26]: If the solicitation is posted immediately. [2:05:27, 2:05:30]: That gives us enough time. So by March eighth. [2:05:30, 2:05:33]: Our first city council meeting. Can we add that to the motion? [2:05:34, 2:05:35]: Mayor Protean? [2:05:35, 2:05:36]: Yeah, he would have to say. [2:05:37, 2:05:39]: Um can you add the date? [2:05:39, 2:05:43]: Yes, uh if if I may, Mayor. Go ahead, sir. [2:05:43, 2:05:45]: I will add to the motion [2:05:46, 2:05:49]: That on March the eighth [2:05:50, 2:05:54]: When uh at the uh regular city council meeting [2:05:54, 2:06:00]: That the um solicitation process or the RFP. [2:06:01, 2:06:03]: Um is brought before us. [2:06:04, 2:06:12]: uh to uh move forward in identifying uh the next contract. Is that right? Is that correct, Mrs. Barber? [2:06:12, 2:06:18]: No. So what we want on March eighth is for staff to bring to us. [2:06:18, 2:06:20]: The recommendation to award. [2:06:22, 2:06:27]: So Mr. Mayor, the recommendation to award, add that to the motion. [2:06:28, 2:06:30]: on March eight. Now uh [2:06:30, 2:06:39]: I guess uh for one place, one second, please, Mr. Blount. Vanessa Holiday, Clerk, you have that, right? And Mike Williams, we can add that with no problem, correct? [2:06:41, 2:06:44]: Yes, sir. All right. And it has to be seconded again. Is that correct? [2:06:45, 2:06:50]: Yeah, whoever seconded the original, if they're okay with that, then yes, sir. [2:06:50, 2:06:52]: That would be Mr. Alexander. [2:06:52, 2:06:53]: Okay. [2:06:53, 2:06:55]: Alexander, you all right with the second on that? [2:06:57, 2:06:58]: Mr. Alzheimer? He's made it. [2:06:59, 2:07:00]: Second. Okay. [2:07:01, 2:07:03]: Galsman Blount, go ahead with your comment, please. [2:07:03, 2:07:23]: Well, if you're gonna make that type of motion, does the motion still stand in March if you only got two people that are bidded on the R of P since this council has said they wanted three bidders? What if only two people already bid it? So you're putting something on, you know, you you have to say, you know, they bring it forward. They what are you saying, you want three bidders or you want uh the bringing forward what they already [2:07:23, 2:07:24]: Got recommended. [2:07:25, 2:07:33]: Well I would I would think we go with what we have is what I would assume. But anyway I was gonna say I might be assuming wrong. I'm sorry. Councilman Barber, go ahead, please. [2:07:36, 2:07:41]: So with the resolution that the council passed at the last meeting. [2:07:42, 2:07:45]: It is a requirement that staff. [2:07:45, 2:07:46]: Solicit [2:07:47, 2:07:52]: for three qualified proposal, three qualified proposals. [2:07:53, 2:07:55]: There to do everything. [2:07:56, 2:07:57]: In the procurement процес. [2:07:58, 2:08:00]: To ensure that we have at a minimum. [2:08:01, 2:08:02]: A three. [2:08:03, 2:08:03]: Calified. [2:08:04, 2:08:05]: Proposals. [2:08:06, 2:08:07]: That includes [2:08:08, 2:08:10]: Hosting on the city's website. [2:08:10, 2:08:13]: Posting on the state procurement registry. [2:08:13, 2:08:15]: The Henry Harold. [2:08:16, 2:08:22]: Direct solicitations and what I mean by direct solicitation is a part of their marketing process. [2:08:22, 2:08:26]: Procurement responsibility is to stir up the competition. [2:08:26, 2:08:45]: Their way of stirring up the competition is by inviting more people to submit proposals. So whether or not they target suppliers right here in Stockbridge or whether or not they target all relevant suppliers in the state of Georgia. [2:08:46, 2:08:57]: There are tasks and steps that procurement is responsible for doing to stir up and invite more people to submit proposals for it. [2:08:57, 2:08:59]: So I don't want the minimum effort. [2:09:00, 2:09:06]: of just posting these solicitations on the city's website and the procurement website in Henry Harold. [2:09:07, 2:09:13]: No, there are other tasks and steps that procurement is responsible for doing. [2:09:13, 2:09:16]: To ensure that we get [2:09:16, 2:09:29]: More than one or two proposals. Now, if they follow all of those steps and they do everything necessary to invite more um responsive bidders and they still don't get the three. [2:09:30, 2:09:32]: then they need to demonstrate. [2:09:32, 2:09:40]: that they did all of those steps and to bring a justification to the council that they made a good faith effort. [2:09:40, 2:09:44]: But I want to see evidence that they did exactly. [2:09:44, 2:09:46]: What they're supposed to do. [2:09:46, 2:09:47]: That's all. [2:09:48, 2:09:48]: Mayor. [2:09:48, 2:09:49]: Go ahead, Casm Blount. [2:09:50, 2:10:00]: As we stated even back then, that process is already in place. And and we're talking we're talking two different things. We're talking about what process needs to go out to solicit. I'm talking about [2:10:01, 2:10:05]: I I don't want this council putting any staff [2:10:05, 2:10:07]: member in a position [2:10:07, 2:10:13]: That if you only get two, they're gonna write that if if this is what the policy is, that's gonna be written up anyway. [2:10:13, 2:10:16]: I just want to make sure that that's in the that that's clear. [2:10:17, 2:10:21]: that this that this staff is able to bring forward someone even if there's only two. [2:10:22, 2:10:28]: uh people uh uh i uh two betters. That's the only thing. That that's all it that's all it was. I'm not [2:10:28, 2:10:33]: We can we can open up the bed and go out all kind of ways. I'm just my question was [2:10:34, 2:10:37]: Is too signific uh sufficient for this council. [2:10:38, 2:10:39]: All right. [2:10:39, 2:10:40]: Thank you. [2:10:40, 2:10:43]: Uh Mayor Proten, did you have a comment? You're unmuted. [2:10:44, 2:10:48]: Uh no, no. Um the the motion is made. Um [2:10:48, 2:10:58]: The added um to the motion has been separated. So um I I call for the vote. Okay. All in favor motion. I'm sorry, all in favor of the motion. [2:10:58, 2:11:03]: Uh Alexander, do you had a comment? Is that all favor the most? Yeah, all favor the most please indicate. I'm sorry. [2:11:03, 2:11:04]: All posed. [2:11:05, 2:11:06]: Sustain. [2:11:07, 2:11:08]: Councilman Blue, where where do you stand? [2:11:10, 2:11:11]: I can't hear you, sir. [2:11:12, 2:11:15]: Abstain, yes sir. Okay, so three zero one. Thank you very much. [2:11:17, 2:11:30]: All right, uh council consideration to approve RFP two zero one six zero eight-05, Falcon Design Consultant for Engineering Services. Uh Mr. Knighton and uh Mr. Aaron, please. [2:11:38, 2:11:42]: Yes, Mayor. The current kind contract with uh Falcon Design [2:11:43, 2:11:47]: as a consultant on uh staff for the city or with the city. [2:11:47, 2:11:50]: uh ends on um [2:11:50, 2:11:52]: Uh December, excuse me. [2:11:52, 2:11:56]: ends in the end of January, I believe January [2:11:56, 2:11:58]: of uh twenty one. [2:11:59, 2:12:02]: Um and this is proposed to extend it. [2:12:02, 2:12:04]: through December thirty one [2:12:05, 2:12:17]: of 2021. Um you know we I think uh Mr. Aaron can attest to I think we've been very satisfied with the product with the product that Falcon Design has provided to us. [2:12:17, 2:12:20]: All obviously involved in a number of projects with us. [2:12:21, 2:12:25]: And so we're asking for this contract extension to take place through December of twenty twenty-one. [2:12:27, 2:12:40]: All right, Mr. Aaron, do you have anything you need to add, sir, at this time? I just want to reiterate what Mr. Knighton spoke. Uh Falcon Design has done a great job for us. They're currently doing multiple projects for the city right now. They're also um [2:12:40, 2:12:41]: In the process of [2:12:42, 2:12:47]: Managing our L Ma resurfacing program, which will start in a couple of weeks and [2:12:48, 2:12:56]: I I concur with his recommendation that we extend them to December 2021, December thirty first, twenty twenty one. Okay, thank you, sir. Any council, any comments for these gentlemen? [2:12:57, 2:13:00]: And if not, I need a motion to accept the proposal. [2:13:01, 2:13:14]: There are a motion? Yeah, I do have a question. Right ahead, please. Please. Um, okay, so I see per task order there is um a cost not to exceed$50,000. [2:13:15, 2:13:17]: Am I correct, Mr. Aaron? [2:13:19, 2:13:25]: The it should have said that their cost is based per tax task that they're performing for the city. [2:13:26, 2:13:27]: Because it takes good at [2:13:27, 2:13:33]: can exceed fifty thousand dollars. It could be a task like if you're designing a role for the amphitheater. [2:13:33, 2:13:36]: It could exceed fifty thousand dollars. I think it's [2:13:36, 2:13:38]: a per task extension. [2:13:40, 2:13:40]: Okay. [2:13:41, 2:13:42]: Um [2:13:42, 2:13:43]: Do you know right off? [2:13:44, 2:13:54]: Um how much or miss maybe Mr. Wiggins can tell me um right off what did we spend with Falcon Design just last year or this year. [2:13:57, 2:14:03]: I would have to go back and and and go through the system because they've done a lot. [2:14:03, 2:14:06]: They've done uh multiple jobs and and [2:14:06, 2:14:09]: completed a lot of tasks or so I'll have to go back and get that. [2:14:09, 2:14:13]: uh that total. I don't know right off hand about Falcon. [2:14:13, 2:14:18]: Okay. Can you email that to me, please? Yes, I can. I can. Thank you. That's all Mir. [2:14:19, 2:14:24]: All right. Uh any further questions for these gentlemen? If not, I need a motion to accept the proposal. [2:14:25, 2:14:25]: Some of them. [2:14:26, 2:14:27]: Okay, but Councilman Barber. [2:14:28, 2:14:30]: Uh there, did you second that? [2:14:31, 2:14:33]: A second. Okay. [2:14:33, 2:14:39]: I think Blount had his hand up. Okay. Okay. No problem. Okay. Ms. Council Blount second that motion. All right. [2:14:40, 2:14:45]: You seconded, right, sir. You had your hand up. Okay, good deal. All in favor of the motion, please indicate. [2:14:45, 2:14:47]: Thank you, unanimous decision. Thank you very much. [2:14:48, 2:14:57]: Uh okay. Council consideration to amend the city's code of ordinances to add economic development department. [2:14:57, 2:14:59]: Mr. Williams, please. [2:14:59, 2:15:13]: Mr. Mayor, this is more of a housekeeping measure. Um, the last time the city uh hired an economic development uh director, the council wanted to have a role in confirming the appointment of that person. [2:15:14, 2:15:21]: And so a nomination was made by the city manager and that person was confirmed by the council. [2:15:22, 2:15:22]: Um [2:15:23, 2:15:28]: The charter provides that the council only confirms [2:15:28, 2:15:30]: department heads and and [2:15:31, 2:15:31]: Uh [2:15:31, 2:15:35]: We do not have currently a department of economic development. [2:15:36, 2:15:38]: And so what this uh [2:15:38, 2:15:41]: ordinance does is just merely add [2:15:41, 2:15:47]: Department of Economic Development to the list of departments that we have. And so it's a very straightforward [2:15:48, 2:15:53]: uh ordinance and in doing so, uh when you go to fill that position [2:15:54, 2:16:02]: Uh it will require per the charter a nomination from the city of manager and then approval by the mayor and council. So it's just housekeeping. [2:16:04, 2:16:08]: Okay. Council, any questions for Mr. Williams about this uh proposal? [2:16:09, 2:16:12]: And if not, I need a motion to accept his proposal. [2:16:13, 2:16:17]: Councilwoman Barber so moves that is a second. [2:16:17, 2:16:23]: I second. Okay, Mayor Potem Thomas seconds that any further discussion. And if not, all in favor, please indicate. [2:16:24, 2:16:34]: Okay. Okay, as you now appreciate it. Okay, on to the discussions uh phase. We have attitude agenda care acts care cares act funding. [2:16:34, 2:16:38]: And uh update on that. So Mr. uh Knighton, please. [2:16:42, 2:16:43]: Beside. [2:16:44, 2:16:45]: Sir. [2:16:47, 2:17:07]: unmute myself. Okay. Yes, Mayor, the as everyone uh I think knows by now, we have allocated certain monies for um the uh CARES Act um that was received uh via the state through the federal government. [2:17:07, 2:17:10]: Um one of the things that um [2:17:10, 2:17:13]: uh has been of of note to [2:17:14, 2:17:18]: uh the staff and to the committees when working on this is to try to [2:17:18, 2:17:19]: Um [2:17:19, 2:17:23]: Ensure that as many people and business businesses [2:17:23, 2:17:25]: as possible can be supported. [2:17:26, 2:17:28]: Um via the CARES Act and [2:17:28, 2:17:31]: Uh to date we've got about um [2:17:31, 2:17:33]: probably about seventeen, eighteen businesses. [2:17:34, 2:17:38]: uh that have um gone through and applied, been approved and so forth. [2:17:38, 2:17:42]: With about four as of this afternoon, I believe there were four additional that were pending. [2:17:43, 2:17:53]: Um, we want to continue to um be able to provide support for businesses who have been uh adversely challenged during this period of time. [2:17:53, 2:17:56]: Uh with respect to um [2:17:56, 2:17:58]: uh the uh lost [2:17:59, 2:18:03]: uh revenues that they've experienced as a result of the pandemic. [2:18:03, 2:18:09]: Um in addition uh to that, um I just received a [2:18:09, 2:18:21]: frequently asked questions uh item that we're going to put out on our social media sites an updated FAQ put out on our social media sites and also we're going to send an email blast to all of the businesses [2:18:22, 2:18:23]: In the city of Stockbridge. [2:18:24, 2:18:42]: um again uh imploring uh businesses to apply. One of the revisions that was made was respect with respect to receiving previous PPP funds. The original thought was that um um the intent was to try to help businesses who had not received any funds [2:18:42, 2:18:46]: And after um a period of taking a look at this and receiving applications. [2:18:46, 2:18:51]: Um, we want to make sure that we open it up to anyone who has received PPP funds. [2:18:52, 2:18:55]: Um uh and provide those opportunities for [2:18:56, 2:18:57]: Those businesses. [2:18:57, 2:19:06]: In addition to that, um, we are having uh some conversations with nonprofits via the chambers, having conversations with specific nonprofits. [2:19:07, 2:19:10]: To be able to um provide funds for [2:19:10, 2:19:14]: uh individuals who may need housing, rent, utility. [2:19:14, 2:19:16]: Excuse me, utility assistance. [2:19:16, 2:19:18]: Um as well. [2:19:19, 2:19:35]: And so now it is a two-pronged approach to try to continue to deal with businesses to try to get them to uh those who have not received any funds and who are eligible to apply for those funds and also then via the nonprofits, the nonprofits who are are set up. [2:19:35, 2:19:55]: Who have the apparatus, who provide support and assistance to residents on a daily basis, to be able to provide funding to them to be able to use to assist individuals directly. As you probably remember, throughout the summer, late summer, when all of this came to fruition, there were certain restrictions placed. [2:19:55, 2:19:56]: on [2:19:56, 2:20:07]: local governments and how funds could be utilized. We did use CARES funds, probably 150, 160,000 on various things for um [2:20:08, 2:20:19]: expenditures that we made uh for city government, but obviously we had uh quite a bit more money that was available. Um and the council had the vision to try to [2:20:19, 2:20:33]: uh place that um in a position to be utilized by businesses which we have done and had some success so far, but obviously we still want to make sure that everybody has an opportunity to apply for those funds who are in need. [2:20:34, 2:20:37]: And so um again we're still going we're gonna go through this second round of [2:20:38, 2:20:42]: uh a media blitz and trying to get as much information as we can out to the public. [2:20:44, 2:20:45]: Uh Councilman Alexander, go ahead, please. [2:20:46, 2:20:55]: Yes, sir. Uh I wanted to kind of talk about some things, and I know the CARES committee has been actively involved, and I think Mayor Pro Tem. [2:20:55, 2:20:58]: uh is on the CARES Act committee in terms of [2:20:58, 2:21:02]: Uh what we're able to do because I know there's an outcry of citizens. [2:21:02, 2:21:04]: Because they see it on the news about [2:21:05, 2:21:07]: Folks being assisted with their mortgage. [2:21:07, 2:21:10]: been assisted with their rent, their utility bills. [2:21:10, 2:21:13]: And that kind of thing, I think we need to explain as [2:21:13, 2:21:15]: Mr. Knighton did uh the exact [2:21:16, 2:21:20]: Pros process behind seeking these non profit organizations. [2:21:20, 2:21:26]: to distribute these funds and how these other cities are the other cities doing the the exact same thing. [2:21:27, 2:21:31]: uh in w in in and how they're distributing the funds because it seems like [2:21:32, 2:21:52]: I know Union City is helping with utility bills and certain other uh municipalities are helping with rent and mortgage. I I you know I'd like to see this have the city attorney speak on, you know, I know the argument is the greater good in terms of it or or a benefit. [2:21:52, 2:21:53]: Yeah. [2:21:53, 2:21:56]: How is it not a benefit to the city? [2:21:57, 2:22:00]: to have not have an eviction or a [2:22:00, 2:22:02]: Foreclosure crisis in your city. [2:22:03, 2:22:05]: When residents are under so much pressure. [2:22:06, 2:22:06]: In order to [2:22:07, 2:22:27]: uh uh uh under this uh pandemic. And the last thing that I'll do and I'll yield to uh Mayor Pro Tem Thomas, who is a committee member on the CARES Act Committee, is to ask a question about uh uh, you know, unbeknownst to us, uh the fees were increased on businesses. And I've had a number [2:22:27, 2:22:33]: Of business owners talk to me about those fees in terms of what we're doing. [2:22:33, 2:22:38]: Is there any relief or maybe a rollback that we might be able to do? [2:22:38, 2:22:41]: to the previous amount so that [2:22:41, 2:22:51]: these businesses who are already struggling can maybe go back to the twenty eighteen number or the previous number just to give these businesses some relief. That's not [2:22:52, 2:23:04]: providing a stipend to those businesses is just returning that number to what it was to pre uh pandemic and the uh increase because when we passed the increase we had no [2:23:04, 2:23:07]: idea that this pandemic was coming. [2:23:09, 2:23:10]: All right, Mayor Pro Tem, go ahead, please. [2:23:11, 2:23:17]: Thank you, sir. I I just want to reemphasize what Mr. Knight had mentioned and I hope that it did not [2:23:18, 2:23:23]: uh pass over uh into the citizens' head and even the council members. [2:23:24, 2:23:26]: Uh two of the categories that [2:23:27, 2:23:32]: uh funds were available were to for the uh small business owners. [2:23:33, 2:23:35]: And the non profits. [2:23:35, 2:23:39]: And I I I think it's important that we reemphasize that. [2:23:39, 2:23:48]: These nonprofits can be outside of, and Mr. Nine will correct me if I'm wrong, but these nonprofits can. [2:23:48, 2:23:52]: be outside of the city. They could be [2:23:52, 2:23:53]: Henry County bound. [2:23:54, 2:23:57]: But what's important and what's the stipulation is [2:23:58, 2:24:02]: That the citizens that they cater to. [2:24:02, 2:24:06]: must be city of Stockbridge residents. So [2:24:07, 2:24:11]: Um, Mr. Alexander, this is the mechanism where [2:24:11, 2:24:14]: Um citizens [2:24:14, 2:24:17]: That could be assisted in rent. [2:24:17, 2:24:21]: mortgages, utilities, and etcetera. But [2:24:22, 2:24:25]: It is incumbent upon those nonprofits. [2:24:25, 2:24:28]: To make sure that they are able to [2:24:28, 2:24:29]: Um [2:24:30, 2:24:34]: dictate, well not dictate, but they will have to be able to [2:24:34, 2:24:35]: А що [2:24:36, 2:24:37]: And confirm. [2:24:37, 2:24:38]: Dead. [2:24:39, 2:24:41]: These citizens that they are assisting. [2:24:42, 2:24:50]: Are citizens of the city of Stockbridge? So with these funds, it's a lot of red tape, it's a lot of stipulations. [2:24:50, 2:24:53]: And what we're trying to do for the committees. [2:24:53, 2:24:57]: Is to make sure that we adhere to all [2:24:57, 2:24:59]: of the rules and the regulations. [2:25:00, 2:25:02]: Because we do not want to be caught. [2:25:02, 2:25:03]: Um [2:25:03, 2:25:09]: in any improprieties as far as uh these funds are concerned. So [2:25:09, 2:25:14]: I would suggest that anyone that uh hears this conversation tonight. [2:25:15, 2:25:16]: If you're a non profit. [2:25:16, 2:25:18]: Аюкан суміт. [2:25:18, 2:25:22]: And those uh citizens that you work with already [2:25:22, 2:25:26]: uh they could be in line possibly uh to to to receive [2:25:26, 2:25:29]: Now Mr. Knight, I will ask Mr. Knight to speak to [2:25:30, 2:25:34]: Uh the CARES Act, the City of Startbridge CARES Act Committee. [2:25:35, 2:25:36]: Uh we meet. [2:25:36, 2:25:55]: These meetings are open to the public. They are advertised. So for any council members and any citizens that want to view these meetings, these meetings are open. And I think you know you will we will want to get this information firsthand. [2:25:55, 2:26:01]: So I would just recommend that, you know, get on the schedule and I'm asking Mr. Knight to speak to that. [2:26:01, 2:26:08]: and and weigh in and and just be uh a part of the uh the meetings itself so you can have the information firsthand. [2:26:10, 2:26:12]: I miss Nightland. Go ahead, sir. Yeah. [2:26:12, 2:26:26]: Right, and and the committee has met and and would likely have another meeting the first, second week of December as well. We are working um very hard to try to get more information out. Um uh in fact I should have an up another update by tomorrow morning as well. [2:26:26, 2:26:30]: But the FAQs will go out um this evening. [2:26:30, 2:26:36]: With respect to our social media sites for businesses to get updated information on how to apply. [2:26:37, 2:26:38]: Where to go for the application? [2:26:39, 2:26:59]: Um and we've tried to make it as simple as as possible we can as possibly we can for the application. It's not an onerous document, but we also need to have enough information so that we can account for uh everything with respect to these funds that are being spent. And so we'll continue to try to get this information out via big four. [2:26:59, 2:27:01]: For businesses and and for individuals. [2:27:02, 2:27:03]: Councilman Blount, go ahead, please. [2:27:06, 2:27:15]: Yeah, thank you for that, Mr. Knight and thank you, Mayor. Um one one of the things that and I think my concern is uh this consensus of the council, our concern is the citizens. Um [2:27:16, 2:27:26]: Because we know that and I think I spoke to you about this, Mr. Nike. One of the things we know that any funds not used, they they they kinda go back to the government. [2:27:27, 2:27:42]: uh businesses in in those areas of need. And so uh I don't know, uh Mr. Williams, uh is there anything that we have in our stipulation that that need to be looked at and addressed that we could change even further. And I think you kinda addressed that, Mr. Knight, but [2:27:42, 2:27:47]: I just wanna see as much fun as as possible going into our community b uh prior to [2:27:47, 2:27:48]: Oh [2:27:48, 2:27:55]: You know, losing those funds because of lack of uh use. A question, Mr. Knight, uh, any of those businesses [2:27:55, 2:27:57]: Or anyone that has applied [2:27:58, 2:28:06]: that the stipulations have been lessened that now they will be eligible. Uh is there any businesses out there that we need to reach out to? [2:28:09, 2:28:19]: Maybe apply that that that because of the stipulations that rejected or something like that. I'm not that we're lessening the stipulations. Is there any business that we could reach back out to? [2:28:19, 2:28:33]: I'm not aware of any. If we if there are, and I'll check with uh Chamber Joe, if there are any, we certainly will reach back out to them. I have had uh you know calls with um you know several businesses who've asked about it. [2:28:33, 2:28:37]: Uh we've got them connected and um some of them have gone ahead and applied. [2:28:37, 2:28:47]: Um and you know, uh if there has been I I can't think of anyone, but if there is, we'll make sure I'll make sure I check with them to make sure we reach out back to them directly. [2:28:48, 2:28:53]: Uh one last question, Mayor. Uh well maybe one of you all could answer it all since you're on the board. [2:28:54, 2:28:58]: Uh you have you have government entities that are that are specific for s uh [2:28:59, 2:29:03]: Henry County, like Connecting Henry and as a couple of other uh entities. [2:29:04, 2:29:11]: Are they eligible for extra funding for the for those purposes? Well that's that's and and since you went ahead and mentioned Connecting Hero in particular. [2:29:11, 2:29:14]: Um, that is one conversation we're having right now. [2:29:14, 2:29:16]: uh with them and so [2:29:16, 2:29:20]: an organization such as that and and obviously I think Connect and Henry has a very um [2:29:21, 2:29:37]: excellent reputation in the community, that would be the kind of organization who's already set up, who has the staffing, who has the apparatus, who have the mechanisms in place to be able to distribute these funds. So that is, I I will go ahead and say that is one that absolutely conversations are being had. [2:29:37, 2:29:39]: No, last, I'm sorry. [2:29:39, 2:29:52]: What about the churches that are 501 C three that have those uh hosp that have those entities of of work homeless ministries that have those ministries that help out? Are they able to apply for the loans, uh for the money also? [2:29:54, 2:30:06]: It's my understanding, and maybe a mic question, but it's my understanding if you have a nonprofit status, that that could be a potential mechanism that we could utilize or funds could be. [2:30:07, 2:30:13]: um provided to who would be able to uh utilize those funds directly to the community. [2:30:13, 2:30:17]: Um, you know, one of the things that you know I and and and I [2:30:17, 2:30:22]: We certainly don't want to be limited in the specific nonprofits. [2:30:22, 2:30:25]: Um that could uh potentially [2:30:25, 2:30:29]: Um, be a party by which these funds could be disseminated. [2:30:29, 2:30:31]: We don't want to eliminate that or or limit that. [2:30:32, 2:30:36]: And so if there are um nonprofits that you the council members [2:30:37, 2:30:39]: um are aware of uh that could be [2:30:40, 2:30:53]: uh potential intermediaries for these types of funds, please let us know. That's a conversation we had, please let us know. We've we've identified some, but we don't want to be limited in any way. So if there are, then please let us know. You can uh send me an email. [2:30:53, 2:30:55]: Um and provide that information to me. [2:30:56, 2:30:56]: Fine. [2:30:57, 2:31:10]: I I want to ask this question and I want to ask this question publicly so everybody understands that um you know we we're transparent about everything that we do. [2:31:11, 2:31:15]: Now I'm a member of organization Community Development for Real People. [2:31:16, 2:31:19]: We serve food here in Stockbridge every Tuesday. [2:31:19, 2:31:23]: uh at Mount Olive Baptist Church and we do what we do. [2:31:24, 2:31:27]: Now I've talked to the bo I've spoken to the board members [2:31:28, 2:31:34]: Uh the organization actually applied for Henry County funds but to reimburse for what we do in terms of [2:31:35, 2:31:39]: uh being able to expand what we do s feeding citizens. We know we feed [2:31:39, 2:31:41]: Sometimes three to four hundred. [2:31:41, 2:31:43]: Uh food boxes of families of wheat. [2:31:44, 2:31:44]: Um [2:31:45, 2:31:50]: I want to get the understanding and I want it stated publicly by the attorney. Hopefully he's there. [2:31:51, 2:31:54]: What is the interpretation behind? [2:31:54, 2:32:10]: Uh I I I'm not it the money wouldn't be going to me. The money would be going to the organization which I am a board member of, I'm the president of, but the and and it would be going toward the community. Is it uh you know, Henry County had a prohibition [2:32:11, 2:32:16]: On elected officials, they eliminated that which opened that up to myself. [2:32:16, 2:32:17]: And other officials. [2:32:17, 2:32:24]: where there was a many people who are barred because there's a lot of folks like myself who are out here doing great work in the community. [2:32:24, 2:32:44]: And several of the council members own businesses in the city. What is the city's interpretation of that as far as the community as as uh members of the city council, the f uh the staff who are uh own businesses in the city or not or are or [2:32:44, 2:32:48]: or members of a non profit organization. How is that [2:32:49, 2:32:52]: Explain to me and the community the legal [2:32:52, 2:32:53]: Uh [2:32:53, 2:32:54]: Yeah, angles on that. [2:32:56, 2:32:58]: So there are a number of things to unpack. [2:32:59, 2:33:06]: The uh first thing is, you know, from a you know conflict of interest perspective. [2:33:06, 2:33:12]: Um a member of the council or the governing body, whether it's the city or the county. [2:33:12, 2:33:32]: um should not participate in in the the vote or discussion on an item where they have a personal interest or or an interest that might be perceived as somewhat in conflict with the city. And so if you are are a a board member of a board that has business [2:33:32, 2:33:34]: Business pending before the city. [2:33:35, 2:33:41]: then in that situation you would recuse yourself. Um the the entity could still uh you know [2:33:42, 2:33:47]: you know, have a contractual relationship with the city or or apply for grants, et cetera. [2:33:48, 2:33:53]: But the the member of the governing body who is affiliated with that has to recuse themselves. [2:33:54, 2:34:14]: and and not participate in that discussion. And and that's to obviously to protect uh the the the member as well as the integrity of the process so that there's no undue influence. So that that is sort of, you know, that's the rule whether it's it's uh you know COVID relief funding or or any other type of a project that you would just [2:34:14, 2:34:15]: Do that. [2:34:15, 2:34:21]: Um, yeah, I can't speak to what the county did in terms of, you know, their their their prohibitions. Um [2:34:22, 2:34:42]: you know my my advice is is obviously in all cases to to you know adhere to those rules and and and really to step it up to avoid the appearance of impropriety. And so if you have a a business that uh you know aside from a nonprofit if you have a business that is is seeking to uh make use [2:34:42, 2:34:52]: of funding that's provided by the city um uh either through a grant process or otherwise that again that in that case you know there is a more direct personal [2:34:52, 2:34:55]: interests and and I would advise against that. [2:34:56, 2:35:00]: Um now councilman Alexander raised the question earlier. [2:35:00, 2:35:08]: about the the the issue. He didn't s he didn't refer to the gratuities clause, but but he made reference to the concept behind that. [2:35:09, 2:35:11]: The the Georgia Constitution [2:35:11, 2:35:23]: um has a a clause in it that prohibits uh cities and counties and the general assembly from granting gratuities to anybody and and and that's basically we can't give any [2:35:24, 2:35:32]: individual something uh using taxpayer funds um f for free without any benefit back to the city. [2:35:33, 2:35:45]: And so that's widely interpreted to prohibit a a wide variety of of actions on the part of of the city in terms of, you know, giveaways and things using taxpayer funds. [2:35:45, 2:35:55]: In the case of the CARES Act funding, um, however, that that's different and that's an exception because we're we're essentially administering grant funds received [2:35:55, 2:35:57]: by the federal government. [2:35:57, 2:36:07]: um following the guidance issued by both the federal government, the the state of Georgia, and then you know, we follow the kind of some of the best practices you know outlined through GMA. [2:36:08, 2:36:17]: Um, and so it it's a different uh circumstance which allows you a a a wider degree of flexibility in terms of. [2:36:17, 2:36:22]: uh who can and k cannot receive funding uh and and the purposes for that [2:36:23, 2:36:37]: Um and and to that end, I'll speak to the last piece, which is the CARES Act is is meant to provide relief funding to address circumstances created uniquely by COVID-19. [2:36:37, 2:36:47]: And so uh if if you're an organization and you wanna use uh or or try to apply for CARES Act funding, you you have to show that you [2:36:47, 2:36:53]: Um if your business that you have been negatively impacted specifically due to COVID nineteen. [2:36:54, 2:37:14]: or if you're if you're in one of those categories of nonprofits that provide relief that the the types of relief that you're providing to community is is directly related to you know covet-19 um uh impacts so that's where we get to the utility assistance the rent assistance and things like that for people who've lost jobs or [2:37:14, 2:37:17]: or their business revenue has has been negatively impacted. [2:37:18, 2:37:26]: So you have to have a nexus between the COVID nineteen pandemic and and all of its negative consequences and the the the funding [2:37:27, 2:37:34]: the use of the funding to address those negative impacts. So I know I've said a lot, but I'll try to answer any further questions. [2:37:35, 2:37:35]: Thank you. [2:37:36, 2:37:42]: Okay, Mayor Pro Tem Thomas. Go ahead, please. Uh thank you, Mr. William. That I I just want to confirm that is the way. [2:37:43, 2:37:52]: uh that this was explained uh to the committee. But I I just want to ensure the committee or say to the um to the citizens [2:37:52, 2:37:54]: That the committee [2:37:55, 2:37:57]: Does not see [2:37:58, 2:38:04]: any of the applications, I think this is important. We do not see [2:38:04, 2:38:09]: the application. Therefore, we do not see your [2:38:09, 2:38:11]: Personal information [2:38:12, 2:38:15]: Um it goes to uh Mr. Hennin's [2:38:16, 2:38:19]: uh and his committee there at the at the county. [2:38:19, 2:38:22]: And he makes a recommendation. [2:38:22, 2:38:29]: Uh to the committee. Once he go through all of the paperwork and make sure that [2:38:29, 2:38:33]: All of the basic requirements are included in [2:38:33, 2:38:36]: The citizens uh document. [2:38:36, 2:38:43]: And then he makes a recommendation to the to the to the committee. And I just want to just be clear that. [2:38:43, 2:39:00]: We as a committee, we do not see uh anyone's personal information. We do not see the applications. Uh again, Mr. Hennin brings his recommendation to us and then we'll we'll vote on that now. [2:39:00, 2:39:02]: We do discuss. [2:39:02, 2:39:13]: the parameters and and you know some of the ins and outs, but I I just think it's important for me to say that we do not see um you know your application. [2:39:14, 2:39:14]: Thank you, Mayor. [2:39:15, 2:39:17]: No problem. Councilwoman Barber, go ahead, please. [2:39:18, 2:39:25]: Um I just wanted to ask Mr. Knighton. He mentioned that he was in discussions with Connecting Henry. [2:39:25, 2:39:26]: Um [2:39:27, 2:39:37]: Does your discussions include perhaps um them expanding their services here to Stockbridge? I know we have enough. [2:39:37, 2:39:38]: Um [2:39:38, 2:39:41]: CARES Act funding and I know we're only issuing [2:39:42, 2:39:45]: Ten thousand dollars per non profit and per business. [2:39:46, 2:39:49]: Can the council increase that at any time? [2:39:51, 2:39:59]: Between now and the end of the year, just so that we can maybe allocate it to an agency that we know will use it. [2:39:59, 2:40:02]: And would use it for the residents who live here. [2:40:03, 2:40:06]: Right. Let me and let me clarify something with respect to [2:40:06, 2:40:11]: Um any conversations I've had. I've not had any direct conversations with Connecting Henry. [2:40:11, 2:40:18]: Mr. Henning at the chamber mentioned he was having conversations with them about that. So let me make sure I clarify that piece of it. [2:40:19, 2:40:29]: The with respect to the$10,000 item, that is for businesses. That was uh put as a cap for businesses to receive up to$10,000. [2:40:29, 2:40:37]: Um, one because we wanted to ensure that you know there would be a pool of money available to to many more b uh businesses. [2:40:37, 2:40:40]: Um uh to be able to apply and receive funds. [2:40:41, 2:40:45]: With respect to nonprofits, I want to make the distinction uh between two things. [2:40:46, 2:41:01]: First, nonprofits can apply for funds if their nonprofit organization itself has been impacted by rent utility, those types of things. So they as a nonprofit could apply for funds up to$10,000, like a business could. [2:41:02, 2:41:04]: The second piece of it is. [2:41:04, 2:41:10]: When we were talking about nonprofits providing to a nonprofit organization for them to be able to distribute funds. [2:41:11, 2:41:16]: that would not be just uh ten thousand dollars that we would be providing. It would be a much greater amount. [2:41:16, 2:41:20]: provided to them for the committee's approval. [2:41:20, 2:41:31]: um so that they could distribute funds to to several you know citizens several you know tens or hundreds of citizens if if possible so that wouldn't be uh just a ten thousand [2:41:31, 2:41:34]: uh dollar allocation to them, that would be much more than that. [2:41:36, 2:41:38]: Thank you, that was my question. [2:41:39, 2:41:42]: Yeah, yeah, yeah. Councilman Blanc, go ahead, please. [2:41:43, 2:41:57]: Uh Councilwoman Barber, I don't know if you knew, but they they do have services that that do include the Cedar Stock Bridge. I guess you were saying more more services. Or you d did you know that they do provide some services? [2:41:57, 2:42:00]: For the citizens to stop break. Just let me just FY [2:42:01, 2:42:02]: Yeah. [2:42:02, 2:42:06]: I know Connecting Henry provides services for all of Henry County. [2:42:06, 2:42:10]: My question was maybe I need to rephrase it. [2:42:10, 2:42:13]: I like for us to have a subsidiary. [2:42:13, 2:42:14]: of connecting Henry. [2:42:15, 2:42:19]: Right here for Stockbridge, we are the largest city in Henry County. [2:42:20, 2:42:21]: So [2:42:21, 2:42:23]: That is what I was really implying. [2:42:23, 2:42:25]: Are we able to [2:42:25, 2:42:28]: What can we do to expand connecting Henry's? [2:42:29, 2:42:31]: Service or agency. [2:42:31, 2:42:32]: Here. [2:42:32, 2:42:36]: In Stockbridge, um I think all of the cities in Henry County. [2:42:37, 2:42:38]: Need to have [2:42:38, 2:42:42]: um a subsidiary subsidiary of Connecting Henry. [2:42:43, 2:42:46]: Um we have our citizens have needs. [2:42:46, 2:42:50]: such as homeless. Um a lot of them can't travel. [2:42:51, 2:42:51]: to McDonald. [2:42:52, 2:42:55]: Um, so that's what I was really implying. [2:42:57, 2:43:04]: Can you answer that, Mr. Mike? Or is that sure and maybe Mike can can uh uh address it as well. [2:43:04, 2:43:10]: I think what you're alluding to is the city providing a funding amount perhaps per year. [2:43:10, 2:43:13]: to an organization since it was been mentioned connecting Henry. [2:43:14, 2:43:18]: uh to help them expand their ability to provide [2:43:19, 2:43:21]: Direct assistance to citizens. [2:43:21, 2:43:22]: Um [2:43:22, 2:43:29]: Uh I think at one point in time in the budget, there were certain line items for entities or groups or organizations. [2:43:29, 2:43:31]: Um that provided [2:43:31, 2:43:35]: certain levels of support that were not a part of [2:43:35, 2:43:37]: the core um city government. [2:43:38, 2:43:56]: Um, and so if that is something that the council wants to consider in the future, providing some level of assistance uh to an entity like that, then that's a discussion I suppose that could be had. But I I also want Mike to weigh in on that because there may be some parameters by which we are constrained. [2:43:57, 2:44:04]: And and that's in the in an area where the gratuities clause, you know, directly impacts our ability to [2:44:05, 2:44:10]: provides assistance and and when I came on as city attorney, you know, we were [2:44:10, 2:44:23]: You know, we did have an annual budget fund for various nonprofits and and we ended up putting a stop to that because you know it was violative of the gratuities clause in in some cases. [2:44:23, 2:44:43]: Um now i if if the organization is fulfilling uh services or a role that we by charter are empowered to do, then we can partner with various organizations to you know assist them with their services. Um if it's something that again our charter allows us to [2:44:43, 2:44:50]: do and and they're providing a service with and on behalf of the city, then we can do that. But [2:44:51, 2:45:04]: But you know, traditional forms of just, you know, assistance and things like that, um, you know, without a direct benefit to the city and its f uh providing governmental services is a problem. [2:45:06, 2:45:07]: Go ahead, please. [2:45:07, 2:45:08]: Um [2:45:08, 2:45:16]: We so desperately need those same human service programs that Connecting Henry provides. [2:45:16, 2:45:27]: Um and I'm just trying to think of ways that we can get um an office right here in Stockbridge. Um so whether it be a connecting Henry or someone else. Um [2:45:28, 2:45:35]: So I was initially my question was, are we able to distribute those funds to Connecting Hemory? [2:45:36, 2:45:38]: So that they can um [2:45:39, 2:45:40]: Um perhaps. [2:45:41, 2:45:42]: provide. [2:45:43, 2:45:47]: or allocate funds to residents, Stockbridge residents when they come there. [2:45:47, 2:45:49]: Mr. Knighton already addressed it and he said yes. [2:45:50, 2:45:52]: The TRZ, yes. Yeah. [2:45:52, 2:45:53]: Um [2:45:54, 2:45:57]: But I wanted to take it a step further. Uh those [2:45:58, 2:46:04]: human service programs. I'd like to see us have an entity or an agency like Connecting Henry here. [2:46:05, 2:46:13]: I know it may be too late for us now trying to establish something such as an agency such as that, but that's really where I was going. [2:46:14, 2:46:14]: That's all. [2:46:15, 2:46:17]: Castlevan Blanc, go ahead, please. [2:46:17, 2:46:37]: Mayor, I I spoke to uh Miss Um Barber Coleman over at uh Connected Henry before about this. And I think one of the things that the biggest concerns uh well the biggest issue they will have is uh having a city uh for for a stop bridge. We have to have a we'll have to have a facility for them. And then you talk about where the fund [2:46:37, 2:46:44]: London is gonna come from for sustainability. And so those are the things once I think once you start to work those things out. [2:46:44, 2:46:57]: uh then we can expand with other uh organizations like that. It it would be a service to this it w I I don't think it would fall up under the gratuity clause that set by the state because then it will be a service for the uh [2:46:57, 2:47:03]: It would actually be pro providing a service for the uh citizen, no more than what we're doing with uh, you know. [2:47:03, 2:47:04]: If we [2:47:04, 2:47:18]: you know, help provide a facility uh for something to happen, but I don't think that we can budget sustainability for'em, uh from for as Mr. What what Mr. Williams was saying. So I think that's that's that's where the uh rubber meets the road within. [2:47:18, 2:47:20]: All right. Thank you for that. Good information. [2:47:21, 2:47:22]: Castle and Barber. [2:47:22, 2:47:36]: Last comment, I know that um the Board of Commissioners, they actually fund the well I think they did, they actually fund Connecting Henry. So the same way as they're funding their location in McDonough. [2:47:36, 2:47:44]: then I would kinda expect that they would fund them here in Stockbridge. Yes, it would be up to us to find a location for them. [2:47:44, 2:47:48]: Um but as far as annual budgets and funding for them. [2:47:49, 2:47:50]: Oh, with hope. [2:47:50, 2:47:53]: that the board of commissioners would be in agreement. [2:47:53, 2:47:56]: We're providing those funds as they're necessary. That's all. [2:47:57, 2:47:57]: Right. [2:47:58, 2:47:58]: Thank you. [2:47:59, 2:48:02]: Any further comment about the CARES Act funding? [2:48:02, 2:48:03]: Yeah, yes, sir. [2:48:04, 2:48:04]: Okay. [2:48:05, 2:48:14]: No, I I I asked a question about, and this is the final question, about what we can do to relieve the businesses of the increased [2:48:14, 2:48:16]: In terms of the [2:48:17, 2:48:34]: Uh it's time to renew licenses. And a few dollars can make a difference in this economy on whether the business is gonna survive or not. Is there any relief that we can give these businesses for as maybe rolling the licensing rate back to the previous rate? [2:48:35, 2:48:38]: Or some type of discount that will equate to [2:48:38, 2:48:53]: uh a lower rate. What can we do for these businesses in Stockbridge to show them that we wanna work with them and'cause everybody's not gonna be able to get CARES Act funding, but then we could do something universal for the business lines [2:48:56, 2:49:00]: to uh lessen the cost across the book uh b across the bridge. [2:49:00, 2:49:01]: Across the board. [2:49:03, 2:49:04]: Mr. Knight. [2:49:06, 2:49:12]: I think we're in the midst of business license pre uh business license um renewals right now. [2:49:13, 2:49:15]: Um, I think the increase was back in [2:49:15, 2:49:16]: Mm-hmm. [2:49:16, 2:49:20]: Early part of twenty nineteen, I think, is when that increase. [2:49:21, 2:49:22]: happened. [2:49:22, 2:49:27]: Um we're in I mean we're in the midst of it right now, so I I'm hard pressed to see how [2:49:28, 2:49:28]: Or [2:49:29, 2:49:36]: To see there may be a challenging to actually do something, reduce it right now. Now maybe going into next year's um [2:49:36, 2:49:42]: renewal situation, the council could um uh make some adjustment if if it that's your will to do it. [2:49:42, 2:49:48]: Um I just you know, I I think it may be difficult to do that now unless there is some type of [2:49:49, 2:49:55]: you know, refund or rebate refund given, um, discount given, but that would I think would be [2:49:55, 2:50:00]: a very challenging thing to pull off. But I'm open to any ideas if you have [2:50:01, 2:50:03]: Some specific desire to go that route. [2:50:03, 2:50:07]: Well, uh what I would like for you to do is to look to see [2:50:07, 2:50:10]: Is there uh what is the increase between [2:50:10, 2:50:13]: The previous rate and what this rate is. [2:50:13, 2:50:18]: and to bring it back to us to consider that. At this point, it may be difficult [2:50:19, 2:50:21]: But as a business owner. [2:50:21, 2:50:22]: It's very difficult. [2:50:23, 2:50:26]: to survive out there right now and we just need to show [2:50:26, 2:50:29]: Every bit of empathy that we possibly can. [2:50:29, 2:50:49]: toward any business and them surviving. So if there comes a point where we could reduce that rate on the business licensing in any capacity, whether we do a a dollar amount or whatever, can you look at it and then bring it back to us and say, this is what we can do to try to help the business. [2:50:49, 2:50:50]: This is out. [2:50:51, 2:51:09]: Sure. Yes. Of course, look at that. But on the course of legal legality, we voted on that. So I would think if we were going to do this, we would have to rescind that and vote again, I would imagine, on whatever or rebate or whatever the case may be. On the legal aspect, Mr. Williams, you what kind of comments do you have, even though Mr. Night's gonna check this out? [2:51:09, 2:51:12]: I mean what what wh where do we stand legally on doing something like this? [2:51:12, 2:51:17]: Well, y you set your rates annually, um, and so you would [2:51:17, 2:51:21]: You know, you it would take a vote to amend the whatever those rates were. [2:51:22, 2:51:26]: Once you decided what what the alternative rate would be, you'd have to vote on that. [2:51:28, 2:51:39]: Okay. All right. All right. So more I guess more to more information to come then in this aspect and we'll see how we want to handle this as a as a a collective group. Okay, any other questions with the about the CARES Act at all? [2:51:40, 2:51:51]: Okay, if if not any, the next item would be censor policy. Uh censor policy. And I'll I'll start with uh Mr. Williams first before we go into council discussion about this. Censor policy. [2:51:55, 2:51:56]: Mr. Williams? I [2:51:57, 2:52:03]: The um you know it it has been proposed that the council adopt [2:52:03, 2:52:07]: A a process by which the uh [2:52:07, 2:52:12]: You follow before any censures or reprimands are [2:52:12, 2:52:16]: formally made by a vote and resolution. [2:52:16, 2:52:23]: Um, right now you don't really have a process for censures or reprimands. Um, you really only have [2:52:24, 2:52:24]: Two [2:52:25, 2:52:25]: Um [2:52:26, 2:52:29]: uh mechanisms. You you have the [2:52:30, 2:52:39]: The removal provisions that are in the charter related to uh, you know, if a an elected official does something that violates a charter or or a law of [2:52:40, 2:52:43]: then then they are subject to removal after an investigation, et cetera. [2:52:44, 2:52:55]: then in your code, in your ethics ordinance, you have a process by which a any person can file an ethics complaint against an elected official, and then that gets [2:52:55, 2:52:59]: Reviewed and potentially investigated by the ethics board. [2:53:00, 2:53:07]: And then they uh um all they um are empowered to do is to issue a recommendation. [2:53:07, 2:53:15]: Um to the council for either reprimand or censure or potentially removal pursuant to the charter provisions. [2:53:16, 2:53:21]: That is all you have. Um, but as it relates to censures and things of that sort, um [2:53:22, 2:53:42]: you don't have a formal uh procedure. Um censures are in in in some cases perceived as political in nature, and then in other cases are perceived as you know a useful and necessary mechanism for self-regulating and and holding members of the government [2:53:41, 2:53:45]: governing body accountable and and and how you perceive that [2:53:46, 2:53:51]: Um those alternatives, you know, e every individual can see it differently. [2:53:51, 2:53:52]: Um but [2:53:53, 2:54:11]: The many cities and counties across the nation have different types of policies related to censure. Some have specific rules that are codified in an ordinance that kind of parallel the ethics ordinance. [2:54:11, 2:54:15]: Some just have just general policies that they adopt that, you know, we we [2:54:15, 2:54:23]: will uh as a body not issue censures unless we go through a process and allow for investigation and a and allow [2:54:24, 2:54:27]: the person to be heard before a vote is taken. [2:54:27, 2:54:28]: Um so [2:54:29, 2:54:49]: There's a wide gamut um and and what you choose to do is is is solely within your purview. I mean it's it's it's uh again, this is an area for self regulation and and uh and holding each other yourselves as members of the elected body accountable. [2:54:49, 2:54:55]: Um and to that, you know, I'll I'll turn it over to to uh anyone who'd like to speak to that. [2:54:55, 2:54:57]: Councilman Alazana, go ahead, please. [2:54:57, 2:55:04]: Yes, sir. I the the the reason that I'm bringing this issue up is I I want to process. [2:55:04, 2:55:05]: I want [2:55:05, 2:55:10]: Every individual in America is entitled to due process. [2:55:10, 2:55:12]: In the city of Stockbridge. [2:55:13, 2:55:15]: There is no due process. [2:55:15, 2:55:17]: Three members of the council. [2:55:17, 2:55:21]: uh on a polarized council can simply take a vote. [2:55:22, 2:55:26]: Today, three members of this council could take a vote and censure you, Mayor. [2:55:27, 2:55:28]: Could send it. [2:55:28, 2:55:29]: Councilwoman Barber. [2:55:29, 2:55:31]: Cassim Merpro Tim. [2:55:31, 2:55:34]: Councilwoman Gantt, Councilwoman Blount. [2:55:34, 2:55:40]: We just three people just got together. They did something, whatever whatever the case may be. [2:55:40, 2:55:43]: There's no investigation, there's no fact finding. [2:55:43, 2:55:45]: A resolution is passed and [2:55:46, 2:55:51]: The it is it happens. Again, the mayor can't can can't veto a resolution. [2:55:52, 2:55:54]: A statement is put an official statement. [2:55:55, 2:55:56]: It basically is put out [2:55:56, 2:56:00]: on the city, an official censor is issued. [2:56:00, 2:56:02]: And there's no [2:56:02, 2:56:05]: There's no mechanism to challenge it. [2:56:05, 2:56:10]: It's just simply three members of the council get together. [2:56:10, 2:56:13]: And vote and then in the end. [2:56:13, 2:56:15]: You know, it is very political. [2:56:16, 2:56:18]: You know, over the past few years personally [2:56:19, 2:56:23]: I've seen things on the council where they've been handled very politically. [2:56:23, 2:56:27]: I'm not gonna go into detail on all the things. Some of the things [2:56:27, 2:56:30]: were dealt with. I felt like I was dealt with extremely harshly. [2:56:31, 2:56:37]: While there were other council members whose transgressions were simply ignored and never discussed. [2:56:37, 2:56:39]: I do not wish to bring up [2:56:40, 2:56:43]: Any of those issues or to to draw this out? [2:56:43, 2:56:47]: What I wanna say is I don't want anybody on this council [2:56:47, 2:56:52]: discipline in any way without receiving some type of due process. [2:56:53, 2:56:55]: That means there's fact finding [2:56:55, 2:56:58]: But there's an investigation or outlined by Mr. Williams. [2:56:58, 2:57:08]: or something that's taken to the ethics board, the ethics board will decide and the investigation will be done or independent investigator will be hired to blanch them out. [2:57:09, 2:57:12]: I will simply go back to the our city attorney. [2:57:12, 2:57:16]: And I would say, Mr. Williams, do you have the two centers? [2:57:16, 2:57:20]: Why I was censored. Do you have them available f to discuss? [2:57:21, 2:57:22]: Yes, sir. [2:57:23, 2:57:25]: Okay. Now those two sensors [2:57:25, 2:57:28]: A as you s as we as they were printed. [2:57:28, 2:57:30]: Uh was there a hearing? [2:57:32, 2:57:49]: Uh the the second one there was not a hearing. Um the first one I'd have to go back. I don't know if that was related. Uh I think some of it spoke to what was discussed by the ethics board, but but by and large, I don't think there was a separate hearing for that or either. [2:57:49, 2:57:51]: But it did reference [2:57:51, 2:57:56]: the the first set of uh uh ethics board discussions [2:57:57, 2:58:08]: Right. In terms of the ethics board, was I charged with anything by the ethics board or was I uh was I adjudicated and d and the ethics board decided I was guilty of anything? [2:58:09, 2:58:23]: The ethics board did not uh decide you were guilty. The the investigator advised the ethics board uh essentially not to proceed with those based on the investigation that they found that on the water, maybe. [2:58:24, 2:58:25]: What's the what's the point order? [2:58:26, 2:58:32]: Point of water point of water, if we're gonna go into personal indebteds or po personal things pertaining to whatever policies or whatever sector. [2:58:33, 2:58:36]: From from from Mr. Arizona on a personal level. [2:58:36, 2:58:38]: That's different between [2:58:39, 2:58:45]: changing the policy. We want to talk about changing the policy, a set of policy, then that's fine. Let's go that route. [2:58:45, 2:58:49]: sit here and to to talk in ways of adjudicating yourself or whatever. [2:58:50, 2:58:56]: then then that's not what the purpose of this discussion is about. That's that's a different separate separate discussion. [2:58:57, 2:59:07]: We're not disc if we want to discuss what Mr. Alexander stuff, then then then put that on the agenda. But right now we're talking about changing the policy, not what should have been adjudicated. [2:59:08, 2:59:14]: All right. Well I I I will continue if you will allow me to just simply say that um [2:59:15, 2:59:22]: What I am attempting to do is to show you how we have no process at this point. [2:59:22, 2:59:23]: And that how these [2:59:23, 2:59:25]: Censors were handled. [2:59:25, 2:59:30]: I mean, with a three to two vote, Mr. Blount, we could you could be done like that today. [2:59:31, 2:59:50]: A three to two vote, you could any one of these members could be done like that. Once one of these council members get changed out, or today we have a disagreement, three of us can simply vote with no fact finding at all and convict and simply tell the public. [2:59:50, 3:00:06]: your censor, your discipline, irregardless of my particular situation. So I brought this forward and and and uh I would like to see this uh move forward with because I want to take the politics completely out [3:00:07, 3:00:09]: Of a reprimand or a discipline. [3:00:10, 3:00:11]: The ethics board would decide. [3:00:12, 3:00:17]: Yeah, if the council member committed a crime of moral turpitude. [3:00:17, 3:00:37]: uh which is the law. And I think Mr. Williams did some research on uh some module some models, such as uh I think Santa I think it was Santa Cruz or uh one uh uh or several other cities that that was actually the case. I would like to see us move in that direction so that nobody under this board [3:00:37, 3:00:39]: Евер агін [3:00:39, 3:00:40]: Із дипленід. [3:00:41, 3:00:45]: without due process. Nowhere else in America can you be disciplined. [3:00:45, 3:00:58]: Without due process. I don't want to drag this out. Mr. Blount, I don't want to talk about your transgressions. I don't want to talk about mine. I don't want to talk about anybody's up here. I just want to make sure that in the future. [3:00:59, 3:01:19]: Even for your protection, I can't get mad at you and two other council members, and then we decide to discipline you without you having a hearing, without you having being able to justify that. So I don't want to expand on this item. I would just like to see it move forward. So I'm gonna make a motion to move forward. [3:01:19, 3:01:39]: With uh uh uh making this and codifying this into making sure that we have a due process when it comes to uh issuing a censor. A censor cannot be issued without an underlying charge of a charter violation. [3:01:38, 3:01:58]: Crime of moral turpitude or some type of violation that is adjudicated. You just can't simply say it. You can't simply take rumor and innuendo and whatever. The city charter don't cover it, the city policy don't cover it, and it's not a crime of moral turpitude or not. [3:01:58, 3:02:04]: no investigation is done, you just can't simply put out a statement. That's my emotion. [3:02:05, 3:02:05]: Mayor. [3:02:06, 3:02:06]: Yeah, yes, sir. [3:02:07, 3:02:27]: Um one of the things I want to discuss here, because uh you know, I I I don't I don't want this this this going too too far too deep. Uh Mr. Williams, uh there's a process that's that's right here now that says that we have a charter, we have what violations are, we have what [3:02:27, 3:02:35]: uh obstructions against policies or and and obstructions against uh perc. We we have obstructions in those uh in in our code. [3:02:36, 3:02:47]: When when any time there has ever been any violations anywhere, they've come to you, Mr. Williams. They've come to you to see if those those violations are holding any water before any action went forward. [3:02:48, 3:03:07]: And the process of any council membership, first of all, to is to should be to bring that to our city attorney to to to first to say this, yeah, this violates this code or this for for for uh legal opinion on on on uh whatever measures gonna be taken. [3:03:07, 3:03:15]: Because we're talking about you know, we don't wanna go deep into s deep into something, but this this is something that's happened uh uh [3:03:15, 3:03:21]: when we start to get personal with it, this is something that affected all of us, seven of us on this, on the Zoom. [3:03:22, 3:03:33]: uh things have happened. But we would hope that when we bring a violation up, that it the validity of that violation is given to us through our city attorney. [3:03:33, 3:03:39]: That yeah, this is. Uh if it doesn't hold water, then he should then I think I say the attorney should tell us. [3:03:39, 3:03:42]: Uh I don't think every every uh [3:03:42, 3:03:53]: Everything that happens, uh, that we we need to go and just grab the ethics board and say, hey, we need to do this, do that. I think a lot of things that's been done over the past years since I've been here have been done behind closed doors. [3:03:54, 3:03:56]: been done become behind closed doors. [3:03:56, 3:04:00]: uh among among the colleagues and so [3:04:01, 3:04:02]: Іно промі. [3:04:03, 3:04:05]: Is w we we're creating something that [3:04:06, 3:04:07]: І ро [3:04:07, 3:04:09]: That's gonna only prolong [3:04:10, 3:04:10]: Um [3:04:11, 3:04:18]: Prolong a process that don't need to be prolonged. Let me put it that way. Because if if you're violating the the the the the charter. [3:04:19, 3:04:21]: on on on on any behavior. [3:04:21, 3:04:22]: In this council. [3:04:23, 3:04:24]: Then it can be addressed. [3:04:25, 3:04:26]: And that's what's in the charter. [3:04:27, 3:04:29]: You know, we we we're not none of us are here to [3:04:30, 3:04:31]: Be friends, we're here to be friendly. [3:04:32, 3:04:42]: And sometimes behind closed doors it do get heated, but that don't mean we have to go out and be uh we we don't have to go to a certain measures. We live, we learn, and we move forward. [3:04:42, 3:04:47]: So when we start to talk about an extension of a process that should be something simple. [3:04:48, 3:04:51]: Uh everything doesn't everything doesn't have to go to the ethics board. [3:04:53, 3:04:55]: Everything that is that t in my opinion. [3:04:56, 3:04:57]: Mr. Mayor. [3:04:57, 3:04:58]: Um [3:04:58, 3:05:03]: I'm just compelled to just state for the record, just for the for the public that [3:05:03, 3:05:07]: You know, under the charter or even under the ethics board, uh [3:05:07, 3:05:15]: It is not my role to, you know, make a determination. I can give informal assessments, but ultimately [3:05:16, 3:05:19]: It's either the ethics board to make a a final determination. [3:05:20, 3:05:28]: uh or the the mayor and council to make a determination on on a specific violation. I can give an assessment or or give some general guidance. [3:05:28, 3:05:33]: But in unless a complaint is actually filed and submitted to [3:05:33, 3:05:38]: uh the ethics committee or or or is processed by the council under the charter [3:05:39, 3:05:43]: Um anything I say is really just an assessment. It's it's it it has no [3:05:44, 3:05:52]: uh legal uh uh weight to it other than, you know, again it's a it's an assessment and and not anything official. [3:05:52, 3:05:53]: Okay. [3:05:53, 3:05:54]: Thank you. [3:05:54, 3:05:55]: Councilwoman Barber, go ahead, please. [3:05:56, 3:06:03]: Um yes, attorney Williams, you said that there is no formal procedure for this process. [3:06:04, 3:06:11]: There's no formal procedure uh for uh governing whether the um [3:06:11, 3:06:17]: the council uh issues or how the council issues censures. [3:06:17, 3:06:22]: other than what's in the ethics committee, they can make a recommendation to the council to [3:06:22, 3:06:42]: that the that a member be censured for this reason or that. Um, but there's nothing preventing the right now preventing the council from censuring on its own accord. Um and and in in in most cases it's it's perceived as a a statement of uh you know the council's determination [3:06:42, 3:06:48]: regarding, you know, an individual's actions. Um the center itself [3:06:48, 3:06:51]: also has no legal [3:06:51, 3:07:11]: weight or merit, it's really just a a statement of the opinion of those members of the council voting for the center as to another council member's behavior, good or bad. And so there's the you know, just as if, you know, you don't have pr uh rules governing [3:07:11, 3:07:19]: um whether the council wanted to congratulate a a uh member of the council for doing something good. I mean, you don't have that either. [3:07:20, 3:07:35]: Uh it's really just a statement of of you know the opinion of the council. Um and you don't have rules and and it's proposed that you do, and it's not unusual that a city would have rules, as as I stated at the beginning. Many cities do. [3:07:36, 3:07:53]: All right, let me help solve some of this right now. Let me tell you, I've as I mentioned Councilman Alexander earlier today. Uh uh first of all, I'm not in favor of this ordinance right now. It's just moment. And um and we're missing one individual uh anyway for this part of the discussion that this would truly affect. I don't know why, but she's not here. [3:07:54, 3:08:14]: Uh so that's one thing. Number two, you're talking about an ordinance. I'm not in favor of this ordinance. If it happens to pass, I will tell you because of what happened last time with the procurement aspect and what I've sent to everybody and locally, just the council and key people, you know, when it comes to this this ordinances, these I consider these laws. And as my prior [3:08:14, 3:08:34]: preference that these laws are passed by four or five, okay, not on a three, three only. Okay. So as long as I'm mayor, if it's going to be a three over and pass, okay, the chances are I'll probably veto it. Okay. Now, so and and and I'm telling you what, I'm not afraid to do that. You know that now. So [3:08:34, 3:08:52]: So I mean it's it's fine. I mean we could, you know, the point of it is I don't like this process. I as I told Councilman Alexander, I'd rather have a policy versus an ordinance in this aspect. Okay, but we can we can have a motion and you can have a second to that. If it passes, I'm already giving you a forewarning what I probably will do within a 10-day period. [3:08:53, 3:09:03]: Okay. So M Mr. Mayor, one other point and and it's it's more procedural for tonight. Um this was added to the agenda as a discussion topic only. [3:09:03, 3:09:10]: And so my my impression was that if if there was a consensus of the council that we would bring something back. [3:09:11, 3:09:13]: Whether it's an ordinance or or [3:09:13, 3:09:15]: A policy but [3:09:15, 3:09:18]: I did not get the impression that this would be voted on tonight. [3:09:19, 3:09:39]: Fine. I've already stated my motion. I I stated my comments that I just wanted to make sure you knew that. But if you want to bring it back, fine. We get a full discussion with the council. And the council wants to make this change and it makes this change with four or five. Great. If it make a change with three, then I have a decision I can make if I want to make a decision. And I'll think about that, as I mentioned before. And since I was a [3:09:39, 3:09:59]: accused of not making my opinion known ahead of time, I'm now doing it now. So you know it's no secret that I may very well put a veto on this. But but but Mira, you're not giving your opinion. You say you might or might not. Weigh in. What are you gonna do? Okay, I'll tell you what, I will veto it. With that enough for you if it passes with three or three, I will veto it. [3:09:59, 3:10:19]: That's my opinion. Right now I make a motion to move forward with this item as a city resolution. Uh card uh as a city resolution to move forward. You don't have the courage to do it with, so I will just move forward. We'll move forward with in resolution form so that we can codify this. I want to protect every member of this council. [3:10:19, 3:10:27]: From this vindictive process that we needed to do. So I want to make sure that I stated perfectly. I want to move forward. [3:10:27, 3:10:29]: With this motion. [3:10:29, 3:10:32]: as a resolution to make sure [3:10:32, 3:10:47]: that no m council member is censored without due process uh or a viol uh a a crime of moral turpitude, very specifically a crime of moral turpitude, uh ethics board in vi uh a violation. [3:10:47, 3:10:57]: or an independent investigation. There must be a underlying crime or underlying violation of the city charter. [3:10:57, 3:11:00]: In order to issue a censor, that is my motion. [3:11:00, 3:11:01]: Here a second. [3:11:02, 3:11:07]: I second it, but I do have a comment. [3:11:07, 3:11:14]: I wanted to ask you, Mayor, um, what is it? Are you opposing the fact that this is a [3:11:14, 3:11:17]: may come forward as an ordinance. [3:11:17, 3:11:37]: Yes. The answer is yes. And I also stated that we don't have the full council here. I think this is something that the full council needs to hear. And I prefer, as I mentioned before in the early in the conversation, as I mentioned before, about a good month or so ago when I sent a message to everybody, and when it comes to ordinance. [3:11:37, 3:11:53]: ordinances, ordinances are laws. I have a preference that these ordinances are ch are moved with four or five people. If it comes to three, then I have the option that could I can accept it by the will of the minor a minority of the council or I can veto that. That is by a charter. [3:11:54, 3:11:54]: Okay. [3:11:55, 3:11:59]: And I always stated what I would do. So I mean we can go on and have more conversation you want, but [3:11:59, 3:12:06]: Well can I clarify my question to you again then? So the subject of this [3:12:06, 3:12:07]: Is [3:12:07, 3:12:10]: To approve a resolution or ordinance. [3:12:11, 3:12:13]: For um the sensor. [3:12:13, 3:12:14]: process. [3:12:14, 3:12:17]: The subject is what I'm talking about. [3:12:17, 3:12:25]: What is what are your thoughts about the sensor process? I think the sensor got you veto. [3:12:26, 3:12:46]: I think the central process right now, what we have in our charter and a process is fine. If it if we have a I'll tell you what, if we have a three-two split, if we have a disjointed disjointed council or for uh or folks are uh ganging up on the folks, you know what? That's an internal thing. That's us, all of us, to include me. That's us. That's something we need to resolve. [3:12:46, 3:13:06]: Inally by being more professional with one another, agreeing to disagree, stop chopping down each other, things this and learn how to get together and and work for the betterment of the people versus other convoy, conflicted type of things. You see, period. I mean that's that's what it's it's up to us. We we we have to control that, not just me. [3:13:06, 3:13:12]: Sorry, I missed that. I don't could say it again. It it comes as a group collective group. Okay, so [3:13:13, 3:13:17]: I hope that answers your question. Anyway. Um, Councilman I was entered. [3:13:18, 3:13:23]: Mayor, you know, with with all due respect, now you say you want the whole council to be here. [3:13:24, 3:13:34]: I'm just gonna simply point out the facts. When I was censored, Councilwoman Robinson was absent from the meeting. Yeah, you had no problem with that going forward. [3:13:35, 3:13:55]: The this is she was not there, could not participate. It was a three-to-one vote. She was absent. She was not made aware that the censor was coming ahead of time. It was sprung on us at the meeting. Yet you had no problem with that. I just asked of you, and I and you asked me to involve you in everything we do. [3:13:55, 3:14:15]: I did that. I'm not angry. I just want a proper adjudication to be done for these processes and for you to be consistent. If you allow me to be censored with one council member absent, why are you so uh gong-ho that everybody has to be here tonight? [3:14:14, 3:14:26]: It's my but I got it, but that's my preference at this point. Okay. Um you m you make in a you what you make changing, make a resolution. Uh we're having a discussion, we'll vote on a resolution, and then we'll move on. [3:14:26, 3:14:29]: All right. Councilman uh Mayor Pro Tem Thomas, please. [3:14:30, 3:14:32]: Uh may I [3:14:33, 3:14:36]: I I think the discussion is is a valid discussion. [3:14:37, 3:14:40]: Uh I think Mr. Williams um [3:14:40, 3:14:40]: Falk. [3:14:41, 3:14:43]: Ти та харт одес. [3:14:43, 3:14:46]: I I think Mr. Alexander [3:14:46, 3:14:47]: Um [3:14:48, 3:14:50]: Pointed out [3:14:51, 3:14:54]: Some deficiencies in the way we go by [3:14:55, 3:14:58]: uh censoring and and and those kind of things. [3:14:59, 3:15:03]: Um, I'm familiar with the charter and the charter speaks to [3:15:03, 3:15:06]: How to remove [3:15:07, 3:15:09]: An elected official. [3:15:10, 3:15:11]: Um [3:15:12, 3:15:14]: I think legitimately though. [3:15:14, 3:15:19]: Um we need to have a a a discussion about [3:15:20, 3:15:21]: The the threshold [3:15:22, 3:15:24]: That an elected body [3:15:25, 3:15:26]: Well cross. [3:15:26, 3:15:30]: Uh and then it comes into in into play. [3:15:30, 3:15:31]: Um [3:15:32, 3:15:37]: Just going back looking at the reason why and I think when Mr. Alexander asked [3:15:37, 3:15:40]: Mr. Williams, some questions. [3:15:40, 3:15:42]: I think it became clear then that [3:15:43, 3:15:44]: Um [3:15:45, 3:15:47]: Some of the allegations [3:15:47, 3:15:50]: Did not meet a certain threshold. [3:15:50, 3:15:52]: In order for for that to happen. [3:15:53, 3:15:54]: uh against him [3:15:55, 3:15:57]: Now I would you know, Mr. Alexander, if [3:15:58, 3:16:01]: And I don't know you you're making a motion for a resolution. [3:16:02, 3:16:06]: But my my hope would be that Mr. Williams [3:16:06, 3:16:07]: With with with [3:16:07, 3:16:11]: create a document or a policy [3:16:11, 3:16:15]: That would meet uh certain thresholds. [3:16:15, 3:16:18]: That are not indicated uh in the charter. [3:16:18, 3:16:21]: Now you know, we do have an ethics board. [3:16:21, 3:16:27]: I'm not sure at this point what that threshold is too, but in order to [3:16:27, 3:16:30]: To censure uh an elected official [3:16:30, 3:16:33]: I think it I think it there needs to be a threshold. [3:16:33, 3:16:38]: Um right now I don't think it is. Now we know according to the charter. [3:16:38, 3:16:40]: What it takes to remove [3:16:41, 3:16:43]: Let me emphasize to remove. [3:16:44, 3:16:47]: and electric efficient. And some of you all may have been around when [3:16:48, 3:16:51]: Uh former Mayor Stewart was [3:16:51, 3:16:51]: His trial. [3:16:52, 3:16:55]: And um and you know, and it was about removal. [3:16:56, 3:16:59]: And those things that was in the charter. [3:16:59, 3:17:01]: That council um [3:17:02, 3:17:04]: pointed out those thresholds. [3:17:04, 3:17:08]: But now for essential w what are those thresholds? So [3:17:08, 3:17:10]: I would feel comfortable with [3:17:11, 3:17:13]: The uh city attorney [3:17:14, 3:17:16]: Creating a document [3:17:16, 3:17:18]: That that would indicate [3:17:19, 3:17:24]: those kind of threshold. Now I I I'll I'll bring something else to your attention. [3:17:24, 3:17:26]: I remember once um [3:17:27, 3:17:29]: Uh councilman [3:17:30, 3:17:32]: Evans, I believe it was [3:17:32, 3:17:34]: Uh he was very tardy. [3:17:35, 3:17:38]: And um he did not attend. [3:17:38, 3:17:39]: Um [3:17:40, 3:17:41]: I mean, he was absent all the time. [3:17:42, 3:17:46]: And there and that were discussion that see there was no policy. [3:17:47, 3:17:48]: That governs that. [3:17:49, 3:17:55]: And they came back and created something. So I think it's the same in this case right here. [3:17:55, 3:17:57]: That there's no policy. [3:17:57, 3:18:09]: that governs how and I think it's true that any three council members can just say, well, okay, let's let's let's just do it. So I I I just think to be fair for both sides of this discussion. [3:18:09, 3:18:12]: That's a policy [3:18:12, 3:18:13]: Of a threshold. [3:18:14, 3:18:15]: Need to be created. [3:18:16, 3:18:20]: In order for this, you have as as Mr. Uh Alexander mentioned. [3:18:20, 3:18:22]: That it has to be [3:18:22, 3:18:25]: Uh some ethics violation. [3:18:25, 3:18:27]: Or it has to be [3:18:27, 3:18:30]: uh a violation according to [3:18:31, 3:18:32]: Um a policy [3:18:33, 3:18:36]: that the council has created. But at this point. [3:18:36, 3:18:41]: Uh it it's not there. And see, and we're not talking about how you remove [3:18:41, 3:18:42]: A cancer person. [3:18:43, 3:18:49]: But how do you reprimand a council per and see and and it should not be [3:18:49, 3:18:50]: Left up to [3:18:51, 3:18:54]: uh political interpretation or [3:18:55, 3:18:55]: Um [3:18:56, 3:18:58]: Or someone's dislike for someone. [3:18:58, 3:19:02]: So and I I think, you know, looking at our history. [3:19:02, 3:19:09]: I think this is needed. I mean, you know, the last few years, you know, we have been embarrassed. [3:19:09, 3:19:12]: Uh with these kind of infighting [3:19:12, 3:19:13]: And [3:19:14, 3:19:15]: And when it does settle. [3:19:16, 3:19:19]: I mean it it was really nothing, you know, um [3:19:20, 3:19:21]: So [3:19:21, 3:19:28]: I I I'll just rather for uh Mr. Alexander to to pull back on that and let's test. [3:19:29, 3:19:30]: The sea to turning. [3:19:31, 3:19:33]: to to create a policy [3:19:33, 3:19:36]: Something that reaches that threshold. [3:19:36, 3:19:37]: Um [3:19:38, 3:19:40]: I think that's the answer. Um [3:19:42, 3:19:45]: And I don't know in Mr. Alexander's resolution. [3:19:46, 3:19:49]: Is that what he's going to ask the city attorney to do? [3:19:49, 3:19:53]: But I think that's what we really need. And then we could come back then. [3:19:54, 3:19:55]: And then approve [3:19:56, 3:19:59]: of a policy that reaches [3:19:59, 3:20:02]: Uh those thresholds when an elected official [3:20:02, 3:20:04]: Majest [3:20:04, 3:20:07]: you know, violate something. But right now [3:20:07, 3:20:10]: Uh, if there's not a violation [3:20:11, 3:20:13]: that that adheres to the charter. [3:20:13, 3:20:16]: then you know it it's all political. [3:20:16, 3:20:28]: I I think that's I think it's an excellent uh suggestion. And and and the rest of the council uh uh likes that uh you know uh Mr. Williams you can do that. Alexander may have a you have a comment here, so what do you have to say, sir? [3:20:28, 3:20:29]: Yeah. [3:20:29, 3:20:34]: Mm uh Maypro Tim Thomas, that document exists right now. [3:20:34, 3:20:44]: Mr. Williams has created that document that has all of the above stated on it. Mr. Williams, will you read the document that you put together for a potential ordinance? [3:20:48, 3:20:56]: I'm I'm I'm definitely not familiar with that. I know what the charter says, but uh I'm not familiar with this document that Mr. Williams may be getting ready to read. [3:20:57, 3:21:08]: Yeah, I I gotta find it. I wasn't anticipating um reading it tonight, but um can you just speak to it by memory? Does it does it meet the threshold? [3:21:08, 3:21:09]: Of [3:21:09, 3:21:14]: of of any kind of violation other than what the charter says. [3:21:15, 3:21:20]: It it does and and honestly, you know, I I look around to, you know, what [3:21:20, 3:21:29]: other jurisdictions had had done um and and I you know listened to the requests from Councilman Alexander in terms of [3:21:29, 3:21:31]: What he had in mind. [3:21:31, 3:21:33]: And so the the [3:21:34, 3:21:45]: The the basics of it is uh no censure is is is made until after there is some investigation and an opportunity for that. [3:21:46, 3:21:52]: uh a person to be heard and and present a defense and that that's nutshell [3:21:53, 3:21:55]: Um and then in terms of you know the the [3:21:55, 3:21:56]: The types of [3:21:56, 3:21:59]: Things were along the lines of what [3:21:59, 3:22:04]: Councilman Alexander indicated, you know, you violate a law, you violate a charter provision. [3:22:05, 3:22:06]: Um [3:22:06, 3:22:07]: You know, I [3:22:08, 3:22:13]: And again I'm speaking from I can't remember the the other there's one or two other violations. [3:22:13, 3:22:18]: But you know, w it it it does exist. My recommendation is that [3:22:18, 3:22:26]: You know, that's something the council wants to consider. We formally put it on the agenda for the next council meeting. You all can see it well in advance and then [3:22:26, 3:22:28]: Make your decision at the next meeting. [3:22:29, 3:22:31]: Well that that's what I would recommend because [3:22:32, 3:22:35]: Uh I I think Mr. Alexander is [3:22:35, 3:22:36]: To that extent. [3:22:37, 3:22:40]: Um, maybe some of the time that he was censured. [3:22:40, 3:22:42]: I don't know if it reached [3:22:42, 3:22:44]: A violation [3:22:45, 3:22:47]: Um simply because [3:22:47, 3:22:48]: Um [3:22:48, 3:22:50]: There was no [3:22:50, 3:22:57]: There was no law, you know. Uh for instance, you could go out there and do something, but that there's no law. [3:22:57, 3:22:59]: That says that you can't do it. [3:23:00, 3:23:01]: So how can you be punished? [3:23:02, 3:23:04]: If there's not a law [3:23:04, 3:23:10]: that says, you know, um that you can't do it. So that that's sort of my point. [3:23:10, 3:23:17]: Uh and I think Mr. Alexander, all of the things that you are recommending or the threshold. [3:23:17, 3:23:20]: that a certain policy should should meet [3:23:20, 3:23:28]: I I and I think we're sort of saying the same thing, but I think what what what's not being said is that, and I know you said that is a document. [3:23:29, 3:23:32]: I think we need to look at the document and [3:23:32, 3:23:34]: Ви майни то. [3:23:34, 3:23:40]: uh enhance the document. Now I don't know if this document was in place when you were censured. Um [3:23:41, 3:23:43]: Those other times and so if that was in place. [3:23:44, 3:23:46]: Um as you just stated. [3:23:47, 3:23:48]: Um [3:23:48, 3:23:50]: Eighty three council members [3:23:50, 3:23:53]: Can ignore that. [3:23:53, 3:23:55]: And just censure you. [3:23:55, 3:24:00]: And I think that is the stop gap. That document should be the stop gap. [3:24:01, 3:24:02]: Of any [3:24:02, 3:24:05]: um censure process going forward. [3:24:05, 3:24:08]: That's how I I would see it in it. And if it did not meet [3:24:09, 3:24:11]: that particular threshold then [3:24:11, 3:24:12]: Um [3:24:13, 3:24:18]: It does it just does not happen. Even a reprimand, it just doesn't happen. [3:24:19, 3:24:23]: You know, you know, Mayor Pro Tem, honestly, we we sent you the document. [3:24:24, 3:24:27]: Uh we emailed it to you for your review to make edits to it. [3:24:28, 3:24:32]: And we did not receive any comments back. I'm not sure what might have happened or there was a system with [3:24:33, 3:24:34]: System error on the email. [3:24:35, 3:24:41]: Well, I can't I I I can't see I got it or not, but I I I would go back and look and and if that is the case. [3:24:41, 3:24:43]: I apologize, but [3:24:43, 3:24:45]: I will review that and um [3:24:46, 3:24:51]: But that I think that's that's what's needed. I'm glad you mentioned that it is there. [3:24:51, 3:24:56]: So I'll go back and and if not, if I don't have it, I ask the city clerk to send it to me. [3:24:56, 3:25:00]: And if that's the case, then that means the the entire council. [3:25:00, 3:25:01]: need to look at that document. [3:25:02, 3:25:02]: Period. [3:25:03, 3:25:04]: to make comment on that document. [3:25:05, 3:25:05]: Period. [3:25:06, 3:25:07]: All right. [3:25:07, 3:25:08]: Are we done with this subject now? [3:25:09, 3:25:15]: I don't think we had a vote yet. I made a motion. I see you know personally that [3:25:15, 3:25:16]: You know. [3:25:16, 3:25:22]: Do we want to put this on another agenda and hash this out for another thirty or forty minutes? I don't think so. [3:25:22, 3:25:25]: That's not what I want to do. I don't wanna bring this back. [3:25:25, 3:25:25]: Inhale. [3:25:26, 3:25:31]: Five council members up there talking about this for another thirty minutes. Why would we wanna do that? [3:25:31, 3:25:35]: I'm so sorry, you had made a motion, it was seconded by Councilman Barber, I believe, for a resolution. Is that right? [3:25:36, 3:25:37]: Any further comment? [3:25:37, 3:25:38]: All in favor of motion, please indicate. [3:25:42, 3:25:43]: Okay, all post. [3:25:45, 3:25:45]: Sustained. [3:25:46, 3:25:47]: Oh [3:25:47, 3:25:50]: All right. So it's three zero. Yes, sir. [3:25:51, 3:25:53]: Have no idea what the resolution. [3:25:53, 3:25:58]: Whatever paperwork Mr. Al designed to have Mr Williams to do, he sent it he said he sent it to L. [3:25:58, 3:26:00]: We have no idea what w [3:26:00, 3:26:18]: That's not fair to have a motion to approve something. We have no idea what what we're approving. The vote has already happened. It's been recorded. Properly. I'm talking to the mayor, Mr. Alexander. The vote has taken. Let me answer the question, Alexander. I mentioned that earlier, the fact that something like this needs to be sent to everybody. Obviously it has not. [3:26:18, 3:26:22]: All right. Then he reminded me that a motion was on the floor and the motion was and it was seconded. [3:26:23, 3:26:24]: All right, so we had to take a vote. [3:26:24, 3:26:36]: All right, that's part of the process. All right, in that aspect. I don't know how else I can help you help you do with that. All right. So the resolution is passed. The three z uh do are you you're opposed or abstained, uh, Councilman Blount? [3:26:36, 3:26:56]: Mayor I have no idea what the resolution is. I I I oppose. Okay, so it's a three uh three one in that aspect. So the resolution passes. So on that note, then I guess Mr. Williams, you'll be making a resolution to uh this motion that just passed. And I don't know whether or not there's still another policy letter that deals with some or policy that [3:26:56, 3:26:59]: It deals with the threshold that Mare Pro Tem was talking about. [3:26:59, 3:27:14]: Well if it's the same, same, same. Mr. Mayor, I mean I I have to point out what I said earlier before is that when the agenda was amended the at the very beginning of the meeting, it it was to add this as a discussion item and and not a voting item. So [3:27:15, 3:27:20]: You know, I y I I I see what the council did and and and we we we'll [3:27:20, 3:27:28]: get the resolution prepared and and signed, but but it wasn't presented as something you'd be voting on tonight. I just wanna point that out. [3:27:28, 3:27:29]: Right. [3:27:29, 3:27:30]: Understand? [3:27:30, 3:27:31]: Um [3:27:32, 3:27:33]: Yep, Councilman Alison, go ahead. [3:27:34, 3:27:36]: Yes, sir. I I um [3:27:36, 3:27:38]: I want to amend the agenda. [3:27:39, 3:27:40]: Been a gen for what now? [3:27:40, 3:27:45]: I wanna Mr. Williams, I want you to read out the two censures that were made against me. [3:27:46, 3:28:00]: What wa wait a minute. Mr. Williams Mr. Williams has the documents in his hand. The two censors that were made against me. I want Mr. Williams to read the resolution numbers on both of them. [3:28:01, 3:28:03]: Resolution numbers. Yes. [3:28:04, 3:28:06]: What point of water, mayor? [3:28:06, 3:28:07]: Yes, go ahead, sir. One second. [3:28:08, 3:28:20]: The the what is the what is the motion for? There's no motion, there's no second. W th this is not even a discussion item. What is the what are we doing? I made a motion to amend the agenda. [3:28:20, 3:28:28]: So what we well hold hold on a second. You did maybe say that, but I didn't I didn't hear a second. First of all, good point. I didn't hear a second. Is there a second to do this? [3:28:30, 3:28:31]: No second. [3:28:31, 3:28:34]: Have a question. I need to understand. [3:28:34, 3:28:39]: Um the motion is just simply to get the sensor numbers. [3:28:39, 3:28:56]: The the motion is to get the two censor to discuss the two censors that was made against Councilman Alexander. The two censors we're gonna this is a personnel action. I would think this is something we'd be discussing. No sir, I want to discuss it out here. That's why I made the motion. I have [3:28:56, 3:28:57]: Uh [3:28:57, 3:29:01]: The two censors that were made against me, I would like to discuss them. [3:29:02, 3:29:08]: Well, once again, this to me this is with these things were done. These things excuse me. [3:29:10, 3:29:13]: These things but these he seconded the motion. [3:29:15, 3:29:25]: These things were done in executive s executive sessions a personnel issue. I would think to be executive session type of discussion, I would assume. Not publicly. [3:29:26, 3:29:35]: No, the the the we the vote was made in public. I just wanna I made a motion, it's been seconded, so we just added it to the agenda. [3:29:38, 3:29:51]: No, Mr. Williams. You still need a vote on the motion. It was moved and seconded to add it to the agenda for discussion. And so now you need a vote. [3:29:51, 3:29:53]: My council Barber, you second that is that correct? [3:29:55, 3:29:59]: Can I make a comment first or ask a question first? [3:30:00, 3:30:01]: Go ahead, make a comment. [3:30:01, 3:30:03]: Okay. My comment is [3:30:05, 3:30:07]: I do not. [3:30:07, 3:30:10]: Want us to engage in [3:30:11, 3:30:12]: Back and forth. [3:30:12, 3:30:15]: With issues such as that. [3:30:16, 3:30:18]: that happened in the past, not hearing public. [3:30:19, 3:30:21]: Um if we can have this discussion. [3:30:22, 3:30:26]: Um, behind closed doors, I would prefer that we do that. [3:30:26, 3:30:30]: I'm not understanding why we need to have the conversation. [3:30:31, 3:30:31]: Right here. [3:30:32, 3:30:33]: Um [3:30:36, 3:30:45]: All right. That you you made it. Do you want to withdraw your second, but or are you going to remain that second? I mean, I you're the one to second that. So I'm not sure where you want to stand on on that now. [3:30:46, 3:30:52]: I'll withdraw my second. All right, Mayor Pro Tem Thomas. Go ahead, sir. Uh comment. Um [3:30:52, 3:30:55]: I was trying to raise my hand to go back to the [3:30:56, 3:31:00]: Original uh motion for the resolution. [3:31:00, 3:31:01]: Um [3:31:02, 3:31:06]: What I like to have attached to that resolution is [3:31:06, 3:31:08]: Діс полісі [3:31:08, 3:31:11]: that everyone uh alluding to. [3:31:12, 3:31:15]: I I think that document need to be [3:31:15, 3:31:18]: uh attached to to to this resolution. [3:31:19, 3:31:26]: Um it it just makes sense. But I I'm going to agree with uh uh councilwoman barber, Mr. Alexander. [3:31:26, 3:31:27]: Um [3:31:28, 3:31:30]: That has happened. It's in the past. [3:31:31, 3:31:37]: You know, it it may you may look at it as uh it w it was uh unfortunate that it happened. [3:31:37, 3:31:40]: I I don't see the benefit or the merit. [3:31:41, 3:31:43]: In hashing that out now it happened. [3:31:44, 3:31:46]: I'm about trying to move forward. [3:31:46, 3:31:48]: Um [3:31:48, 3:31:51]: Try to be uh result oriented. [3:31:52, 3:31:56]: Uh I I don't see the benefit, Mr. Alexander, of rehashing that. [3:31:57, 3:31:59]: But I do see the benefit of [3:31:59, 3:32:03]: uh of attaching attack attaching the [3:32:04, 3:32:08]: Uh document that you said that you sent to me and I think [3:32:08, 3:32:11]: uh blood and Mayor, you know. [3:32:12, 3:32:15]: I just think that that document is is where we are. [3:32:15, 3:32:17]: Uh, I do agree with you that. [3:32:18, 3:32:19]: Uh what happened [3:32:20, 3:32:21]: Probably did not. [3:32:22, 3:32:25]: reach a a threshold or or whatever and I know [3:32:26, 3:32:28]: I was a part of uh some of those votes. [3:32:28, 3:32:32]: Uh but the way you laid it out, I I I can see now that [3:32:32, 3:32:37]: It did not meet um the threshold of any kind of violation. [3:32:37, 3:32:41]: But I just say that what's important right now [3:32:41, 3:32:50]: is to go back and and retrieve this document that you're referring to. Let's look at it, let's correct it, and let's make this a policy [3:32:51, 3:32:54]: that will will stand um [3:32:54, 3:33:03]: You know, exactly what we're talking about, but I I'm not in favor at this point of uh rehashing anything. And from my understanding, we do have an executive session. [3:33:03, 3:33:09]: Right, we can we we can discuss it in executive session. Well, Mr. Alexander, I I'm just again um [3:33:09, 3:33:19]: I think you've gotten what you really need as far as a policy, a resolution for a policy. Let's be satisfied with that because that is what's moving us forward. [3:33:19, 3:33:25]: Going backwards and rehashing that, I don't know what you're trying to um accomplish with that. And so [3:33:26, 3:33:31]: I'm going to see it off of every time I Google my name, that's the first thing that comes up. [3:33:31, 3:33:38]: But but Mr. I don't know if if that's going to remove that. Sure it will. Well, let's talk about an executive session. [3:33:38, 3:33:46]: All right, but now wait a minute. Now there's still is still a motion, there's a resolution, a motion, and you uh Thomas I I would draw my motion. [3:33:47, 3:33:51]: Uh the the motion the what I s supported, Mr. Mayor. [3:33:52, 3:33:54]: Was the original resolution? [3:33:54, 3:33:56]: to to create [3:33:56, 3:34:06]: a resolution for the threshold for uh censuring a reprimand. Uh Mr. Alexander said that that was a document that existed. [3:34:06, 3:34:14]: Um I I can't recall it. Mr. Williams said that it is. So that could be attached to [3:34:14, 3:34:17]: Um the resolution that we're going to prepare. [3:34:18, 3:34:20]: And that we need to amend [3:34:20, 3:34:25]: of whatever we need to do with that, I think that is the document that I would support. [3:34:25, 3:34:28]: I think that is the document that will move us forward. [3:34:29, 3:34:30]: Um [3:34:30, 3:34:31]: I'm okay with that. [3:34:31, 3:34:51]: Yeah, and that and that Mr. Alexander, I mean, I understand that that you know your point about your your name is outdated infamy. I understand that part, but I just think you know, another let's discuss that in executive session, so let's let's not let's not carry. Oh okay, Mr. Mayor, I'm I'm gonna yield back. Okay, no problem. Then so I'm I'm assuming that document. [3:34:51, 3:34:56]: document that you were supposed to get Mayor Pro Tem Thomas, that document needs to go to the entire council. [3:34:57, 3:35:00]: Well it need it need to be attached to the [3:35:00, 3:35:01]: Um [3:35:02, 3:35:03]: The the upcoming [3:35:04, 3:35:05]: Резолюцін [3:35:05, 3:35:06]: Okay. [3:35:06, 3:35:08]: that Mr. William has been tasked to create. [3:35:09, 3:35:09]: Okay. [3:35:10, 3:35:11]: All right. [3:35:12, 3:35:18]: Now I'm gonna go on. So what we have next would be uh my comments, all right. [3:35:19, 3:35:29]: So what I have first here is that for in reference to my comments, I have a um a proclamation I need to read in my comments here. And it's for shop small Saturday. [3:35:29, 3:35:36]: in November twenty eighth, twenty twenty, whereas American Spreads created small business Saturday in tw uh twenty ten. [3:35:36, 3:35:43]: as a way to help small businesses get more customers. And the celebration has since become an annual shopping tradition. [3:35:43, 3:35:45]: on a Saturday following Thanksgiving. [3:35:46, 3:35:50]: Whereas the city of Stockbridge recognizes the value of importance of small businesses. [3:35:51, 3:35:53]: to the local, regional and national economy. [3:35:53, 3:36:01]: And whereas the majority of consumers, which is 94%, value the contributions that small businesses make in their community. [3:36:01, 3:36:11]: And whereas US small businesses are responsible for four point eight trillion in GDP, equivalent to a third largest economy in the world. [3:36:12, 3:36:20]: Whereas the the average of two-thirds of every dollar, which is sixty-seven cents, spent at small businesses in the US stays in a local community. [3:36:20, 3:36:40]: Where small businesses employ more than half of the city's private sector workforce and are critical to the growth of our local economy as they continue to drive significant job creation and innovation. And whereas the city established supports our local businesses that create jobs, boost our local economy. [3:36:40, 3:37:00]: And preserve our communities. And whereas the city of Stockbridge celebrates our local small businesses and the contributions I make to our local economy and community. Now, therefore, I, Anthony S. Ford, by virtue of authority, vested in me as the mayor of the city of Stockbridge, Georgia, and on behalf of the city council members, Elton Alexander, Yolanda Barber, John Blount. [3:37:00, 3:37:20]: Lakeisha Gantt and Afonso Thomas to hereby proclaim November 28, 2020 as Small Business Saturday in Stockbridge and encourage local citizens to participate in Small Business Saturday by supporting local stores, businesses, restaurants, and other independent merchants throughout the Stockbridge community. When we spend local small business, [3:37:20, 3:37:34]: Thrive and even when small businesses thrive, we all thrive. I signed this proclamation along with uh clerk Vanessa Holliday. So this Saturday, folks, get out there and support our small businesses in the community. And of course, when you do that, wear your mask. [3:37:35, 3:37:41]: Stay six feet apart, as best as possible. Wash your hands, use hand sanitizer, be safe and spend the money in this aspect. [3:37:42, 3:37:43]: As you well know [3:37:44, 3:37:48]: We have a Georgia runoff election scheduled for the fifth of January. [3:37:48, 3:37:49]: So um [3:37:50, 3:37:53]: vote a new voter registration if you haven't voted before in a previous election. [3:37:54, 3:38:05]: Uh voter registration actually ends on the seventh of December. So that's a couple more weeks to get out there and and and get your vote of registration taken care of so you can vote in this runoff. It's your constitutional right to do so. [3:38:05, 3:38:09]: Early voting starts on uh fourteenth December. [3:38:09, 3:38:15]: And obviously uh Merle Manders Conference Center uh would be available before you do that early voting. [3:38:16, 3:38:20]: And as well as a many many other different locations uh to do that as well in in Henry County. [3:38:21, 3:38:26]: The last day of early bowling. Well, I have here January first. It must be a different date. It can't be January first. [3:38:27, 3:38:29]: It's what day what day is it? Vanessa? [3:38:29, 3:38:35]: It's December thirtieth. Yeah, December thirtieth. Okay. I need to change that. December thirtieth is last day of early voting. [3:38:36, 3:38:43]: All right, thank you, ma'am. Appreciate it. And of course the the uh actual um election day is January fifth. [3:38:43, 3:38:53]: that's aspect. So what you'll be doing, I know there's a the primarily there's all the all the elections uh are important on this, but primarily we have the US Senate runoff elections. [3:38:53, 3:39:00]: where you have incumbent uh David Perdue, which is a Republican, going against John Alshoff and imp incument uh [3:39:01, 3:39:12]: Republican Kelly Leffler going against uh Raphael Warnott. Your constitutional right to vote, get out there and vote and let them know who you want in Congress and be in the Senate. [3:39:12, 3:39:24]: And obviously well know we're uh we are it's still in a pandemic. We'll probably be in a pandemic for several more months. And um the city uh uh the um state of uh Georgia is in the red at this time. [3:39:24, 3:39:27]: And so we still had a free covet nineteen testing. [3:39:27, 3:39:29]: It goes on by the public health department. [3:39:30, 3:39:37]: And um you can take that free testing at the Heritage Senior Center, 1050 Flores McGardy Parkway in Madonna. [3:39:38, 3:39:40]: But you first have to get an appointment. So you have to call the [3:39:40, 3:39:42]: Public health department accepted an appointment. [3:39:42, 3:39:44]: eight hundred eight four seven. [3:39:44, 3:39:49]: four two six two. Once again it's eight hundred eight four seven four two six two. [3:39:50, 3:39:55]: And the public health department uh is open uh from Monday to Friday. [3:39:55, 3:40:13]: Um 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday and Friday 10 a.m. 10 a.m. to three p.m. But they are closed on Thursday, which of course is Thanksgiving. And I would believe they're still open on Friday though. Maybe I don't know. I know I should know that. But um I don't know if it'll make I I think they're open on Friday as well. [3:40:14, 3:40:19]: uh but they're definitely closed on Thursday and if so in that aspect let's see what else we have here. [3:40:24, 3:40:35]: All right. And I will tell you that uh obviously um this past weekend we had a very successful event at the Murr Manor's Conference Center. [3:40:35, 3:40:40]: where he had a turkey giveaway, a drive-through turkey giveaway, three hundred turkeys uh were donated. [3:40:41, 3:40:44]: by several different um donated to by several different sponsors. [3:40:45, 3:40:46]: The Madow Investment Group. [3:40:47, 3:40:50]: The Savine uh Savane funeral home. [3:40:50, 3:40:51]: And JD Katerine. [3:40:52, 3:40:56]: We also had other sponsors there to help out with the actual food uh turkey giveaway. [3:40:57, 3:41:00]: We had the feeding God's people food pantry that was available for that. [3:41:00, 3:41:09]: Hollis Herald Insurance Company. And we also had the DPH, so Department of Public Health, were there to give free flu shots for anybody that needed those flu shots. [3:41:10, 3:41:21]: And then also we had Alpha File for Fraternity Incorporated, the Rose Simulanta chapter right here in Henry County. It had close well over 7,000 cans of food to distribute to the customers, exclusive distributed to the citizens coming through. [3:41:21, 3:41:26]: And so um had a very successful event. We'll look forward to doing something like that in the future as well. [3:41:27, 3:41:31]: And uh course this Thursday is happy is Thanksgiving, so happy Thanksgiving to everybody. [3:41:31, 3:41:36]: And want you to please have a safe uh holiday weekend, uh holiday itself and [3:41:36, 3:41:37]: And um [3:41:37, 3:41:45]: Be be with your family and be safe, of course, with that as well. The mask and six feet distance and distance and wash your hands. [3:41:45, 3:41:51]: And we've kind of talked about this as Ness Common. We talked about this um several times in the course of our meeting uh this evening. [3:41:51, 3:41:54]: Uh but we're looking forward to having a potential town hall. [3:41:54, 3:42:02]: uh meeting, uh town hall meeting, uh probably the first week of December in reference to uh police services and the police service uh police department. [3:42:03, 3:42:07]: And where we'll cover several different topics involving the current uh police heavy county arrangement. [3:42:08, 3:42:12]: that we have the current millage, the current millage rate calculation piece. [3:42:13, 3:42:33]: you know, some type of idea and comparison of what other cities our size have for police department itself and talk about the general fund and the implication of that and the cost factor. And UGA gave us a some type of study about that. We'll talk about that as well as as well. And then of course we'll invite citizens to have comments and questions to that. So we're looking forward to that uh with [3:42:33, 3:42:42]: Within the first uh say first 10 days or so of December, we'll advertise and get it planned out and it'll be by Zoom, of course. All right. And let's see here. [3:42:45, 3:42:55]: Other types of upcoming events. Um Main Street Advisory Board meeting is Friday, December 11th at 9 a.m. Yeah, of course by Zoom. [3:42:55, 3:43:00]: Uh count next council meeting, which is Monday December fourteenth at six PM by Zoom. [3:43:01, 3:43:04]: The downtown development authority meeting is Tuesday, December fifteenth. [3:43:05, 3:43:07]: Six PM by um by Zoom. [3:43:07, 3:43:11]: And which is also the third uh Tuesday of every month and when they meet. [3:43:12, 3:43:32]: Uh the youth council advisory meeting is Tuesday, December 15th, uh, 630 uh by Zoom. It's also they also meet the third Tuesday of each month. The youth council meeting is Wednesday, December 16th at 630 by Zoom. And uh once again, that's the third uh Wednesday of every month. [3:43:32, 3:43:36]: And then uh we're scheduled to have a city council work session on Tuesday, December twenty second. [3:43:37, 3:43:38]: Yeah, six PM by Zoom. [3:43:39, 3:43:44]: Upcoming public hearings, uh public hearing adoption of our proposed FY twenty twenty one operating budget. [3:43:45, 3:43:50]: Is uh Monday, of course, uh December fourteenth, six PM by Zoom. [3:43:50, 3:43:58]: And uh we also have a uh public um rezoning case number RZ2020. [3:43:58, 3:44:02]: uh dash zero two uh Monday December fourteenth at six PM [3:44:03, 3:44:23]: And of course, all city offices will be closed Thursday on Thanksgiving. And the 27th will also the observance of Thanksgiving holiday. And I've already mentioned about Saturday being small business Saturday. So go out and support the small businesses and this aspect in the community and keep them thriving as best as possible. On that note, we have to have an executive session. [3:44:23, 3:44:30]: So I need a motion to go to the second session, please. Yes, sir. Just one thing. The public hearing for the rezoning item. [3:44:30, 3:44:36]: Yes. That will not be uh held on the fourteenth. The planning commission when they held their meeting. [3:44:36, 3:44:37]: Yes. They um [3:44:38, 3:44:51]: table that item to be heard on at their pl planning commission meeting on December 17th. Okay for the city council January 11th, 2021. Okay, thank you for that. I I didn't thank you for correcting that. [3:44:51, 3:44:57]: All right. On that uh note, uh we need a motion to go into to um executive session, please. [3:44:59, 3:45:04]: Is there a motion litigation personnel real estate? Yes, there we go. Litigation personnel real estate. Is there a motion? [3:45:05, 3:45:06]: Don't move, Mayor. [3:45:06, 3:45:07]: There a second. [3:45:07, 3:45:08]: A second. [3:45:08, 3:45:10]: Okay, all in favor, please indicate. [3:45:12, 3:45:22]: All all opposed? Oh everybody approves. Okay. Now so otherwise we have uh let's see what time I have. I have I have nine fifty-six. So we need about uh ten minutes or so. [3:45:23, 3:45:39]: Ten minutes or so to get a a new a new connection to get into the second session. And and we wanna make sure we keep this one open in a sense because we gotta come back to this to close out our meeting. So give the clerk ten minutes to get us a new connection. I'll see you in the second session here, roughly ten minutes. Okay? Thank you very much. [3:45:42, 3:45:45]: We already took a vote on that, so we're going in. All right. [3:46:44, 3:46:48]: All right, everybody got okay, everybody's coming back now. We got kicked out, but now okay. [3:46:49, 3:46:50]: Oh [3:46:51, 3:46:53]: That's a lot. That was a lot. [3:46:53, 3:46:53]: Muchísimas. [3:47:01, 3:47:08]: So I don't know what happened, but it seemed like we're back now. I just disappeared for Yeah, Mayor Pro Tem Thomas, I think he's got a there he is. Okay, there he is. [3:47:09, 3:47:15]: All right. So we're back. Now we got a quorum. Okay. Now, Council, I need a motion to end the second session, please. [3:47:15, 3:47:16]: Свому [3:47:16, 3:47:17]: Just a second. [3:47:17, 3:47:21]: I second. Okay, member for temp second. Okay. All in favor, please indicate. [3:47:23, 3:47:28]: Okay. Is there a motion to reconvene our our work session meeting? [3:47:29, 3:47:30]: So we'll [3:47:30, 3:47:39]: Okay, Member Kim second as well. Okay. Okay, there's an item that we need to bring forward to the public now based on a zebra session, please. [3:47:40, 3:47:54]: So Mr. Mayor, based on the discussion in executive session, a motion would be in order to affirm the city manager's decision and reject the appeal of Miss Camilla Moore with respect to her termination from the city. [3:47:54, 3:47:58]: So move. Okay. Okay. Motion made is a second. [3:47:58, 3:47:59]: A second. [3:47:59, 3:48:02]: Okay. All in favor of the motion, please indicate. [3:48:04, 3:48:11]: All right, three zero. All right, that note motion passed. On that note, uh I make uh is there a motion to adjourn the meeting? [3:48:11, 3:48:13]: So move. They're second. [3:48:14, 3:48:17]: That's right. Okay. [3:48:17, 3:48:19]: Okay. All in favor, please indicate. [3:48:21, 3:48:26]: Good night. Have a good evening. Enjoy Th happy Thanksgiving. Woo! Happy Thanksgiving. [3:48:26, 3:48:27]: God bless y'all. [3:48:28, 3:48:29]: Stay safe. [3:48:29, 3:48:29]: Mm.