2021-01-11 · City Council · Transcript · City Council Meeting Via Zoom

--- title: January 11 2021 City Council Meeting Via Zoom date: 2021-01-11 source: 2021-01-11_January_11_2021_City_Council_Meeting_Via_Zoom.wav --- [0:00:00, 0:00:02]: I'll and I'll try to find out what the problem is. [0:00:05, 0:00:05]: All right. [0:00:06, 0:00:12]: Mayor Ford, Mayor Ford, this is Randy Knights and I've been uh com IT just communicated with me. [0:00:13, 0:00:20]: to see if we could pause for just a second until he addresses these issues. Apparently there there's some issues he's trying to address. [0:00:20, 0:00:25]: to make sure that um uh citizens who are trying to get in can get in. So if it's the [0:00:25, 0:00:27]: Pleasure of the council, if we could just hold for a moment. [0:00:28, 0:00:30]: He can I think he can address these issues. [0:00:30, 0:00:32]: All right. So bit, we'll hold. [0:00:35, 0:00:36]: All right. [0:00:36, 0:00:37]: Okay. [0:00:39, 0:00:45]: Mayor Ford? Yes, sir. Okay. I just had him on the phone. He said he [0:00:46, 0:00:48]: I told him to let the clerk know that he is in. [0:00:50, 0:00:51]: Okay. [0:00:52, 0:00:54]: Um I'll thank you for that. [0:00:55, 0:01:01]: I just received something from the PIO that that things seem to be working from that end now as well. So [0:01:01, 0:01:03]: Let me um [0:01:03, 0:01:05]: I'll communicate with the IT person. [0:01:06, 0:01:06]: All right. [0:01:17, 0:01:18]: Mm-hmm. [0:01:21, 0:01:25]: What could one of the I'm going to [0:01:44, 0:01:48]: It's not every day that it's not every day that I get to be in Councilman Alexander's kitchen. [0:01:48, 0:01:52]: Yeah, how about that, man? Okay, thanks. [0:01:53, 0:01:56]: Okay, Mr. Nighting, what's IT got to say here? We're good? [0:01:56, 0:02:06]: He's actually trying to get he said he was trying to get in touch with hold on Okay. Hold hold on one second. I think he needed to get in touch with Vanessa. Can you hear me, Vanessa? [0:02:08, 0:02:11]: He said two he said two minutes or less. Yes, I'm here. [0:02:11, 0:02:18]: Okay. All right. Thank Kyle was trying to communicate with you. He just sent me a message, said two minutes or less to get the Facebook part streaming live. [0:02:19, 0:02:31]: Zoom is fine. We're in this platform, we're fine. Just trying to make sure the Facebook Live is is in place. Okay. Mayor Ford. Yes, sir. I I have past advance uh on my phone. [0:02:32, 0:02:34]: Um he said that he can [0:02:34, 0:02:36]: He can see us. [0:02:37, 0:02:38]: Um [0:02:38, 0:02:42]: He is not on what what what's the problem you you having pastor? [0:02:43, 0:02:45]: Well the link that you guys sent me that allows [0:02:50, 0:02:51]: I actually everyone just on there. [0:02:53, 0:02:54]: [175.0, 175.4]: Okay. [0:02:56, 0:03:00]: Pastor Van says that he's able to see each and every one of us. [0:03:00, 0:03:05]: That we cannot see him and he's not allowed to um respond. [0:03:06, 0:03:11]: I don't see him as a panelist. I think that may be what the problem is. He's not as listed as a panelist. [0:03:12, 0:03:16]: Well, I think Mrs. Holliday can answer that. I think she sent him the invitation. [0:03:18, 0:03:20]: Yeah, that's the invitation he received. He [0:03:22, 0:03:28]: Unless he logged in on the Yeah, he said he was signed in, but uh I I'm looking at the uh panelists, I don't see his name. [0:03:31, 0:03:34]: He may have come in through the public site instead of the panelist email. [0:03:35, 0:03:38]: Uh uh past advance. [0:03:38, 0:03:41]: I I'm going I'm going back to mute so I can communicate with him. [0:03:41, 0:03:42]: Okay. [0:03:56, 0:03:59]: I just have a a slow connection, so I apologize. [0:04:00, 0:04:01]: Yeah. [0:04:01, 0:04:02]: Alrighty. [0:04:03, 0:04:07]: By the way, Judge, this is the internet sweet spot. [0:04:09, 0:04:10]: You see [0:04:10, 0:04:24]: This is the internet sweet spot where you know we don't have any interruptions and everything is good. This is the sweet spot in the house. I've locked my children upstairs so that they're not interrupting us. [0:04:24, 0:04:25]: They will still annoy me. [0:04:32, 0:04:34]: Yeah, very happy. [0:04:35, 0:04:37]: And I'm gonna put that. [0:04:38, 0:04:40]: How does that mean? [0:04:40, 0:04:44]: I mean what we do. [0:04:46, 0:04:49]: So I don't think we could be live on Facebook and the website. [0:04:52, 0:04:53]: Live enough. [0:04:57, 0:04:59]: So how are we gonna bootmark a meeting? [0:05:00, 0:05:02]: Okay. [0:05:10, 0:05:10]: That's the same. [0:05:12, 0:05:15]: So [0:05:18, 0:05:20]: I still have a loading screen. [0:05:33, 0:05:34]: All right, um [0:05:36, 0:05:44]: Well obviously it looks like we're not going to be on the on uh Facebook Live, I expose. We're recording, but not on Facebook Live. Is that where we stand now? [0:05:45, 0:05:47]: No, that's what he's doing now. [0:05:54, 0:05:55]: What's your what's your name? [0:05:59, 0:05:59]: Yeah, that's uh [0:06:00, 0:06:02]: It doesn't I don't see city of starvings. [0:06:02, 0:06:03]: Oh, here it is. [0:06:07, 0:06:08]: How are you doing pass the man? [0:06:09, 0:06:12]: Alrighty, you guys can see me now? We can see you, sir. [0:06:13, 0:06:16]: Looking sharp, brother. [0:06:16, 0:06:18]: Looking sharp. [0:06:21, 0:06:22]: Good to see you everyone. [0:06:23, 0:06:23]: So right. [0:06:31, 0:06:32]: All right. [0:06:41, 0:06:45]: Well ladies and gentlemen, I'll tell you what, we're recording, we're on a Facebook Live. [0:06:46, 0:07:05]: And um I would hope that we get this going soon. Uh but it's roughly six fifteen. And if you don't mind, I'd like to at least let us get going on the meeting and in this aspect. So anyway, well we're we took the roll call. Everybody's present. We got ca uh Pastor Vance on. Good to see you, sir. Happy New Year to you. [0:07:06, 0:07:07]: Thank you, thank you. [0:07:07, 0:07:10]: So what I need now is a motion to adopt the agenda. [0:07:11, 0:07:11]: Mayor. [0:07:12, 0:07:12]: Yes, sir. [0:07:13, 0:07:15]: I'd like to make a motion to move [0:07:16, 0:07:19]: The appointment of the city attorney to the last item [0:07:19, 0:07:20]: Uh on the list. [0:07:24, 0:07:26]: A circuit. Okay. [0:07:32, 0:07:40]: So um all right. You wanna do that? It's been my motion made in seconds. Uh thank you. All in favor of the motion, please indicate. [0:07:42, 0:07:44]: All in favor of the motion. All opposed. [0:07:47, 0:07:48]: I'll sustain. [0:07:51, 0:07:55]: Okay, so Hold on Mayor, I can't hold on a second here. [0:08:01, 0:08:01]: Mayor. [0:08:02, 0:08:03]: Sir, yes, ma'am. [0:08:03, 0:08:10]: I oppose because I don't know why we're moving the city attorney to the last appointment. That's the only reason I oppose. No one's spoken to me about it. [0:08:11, 0:08:13]: Okay. Well uh all right. [0:08:14, 0:08:16]: Can you hear me, Mayor? I hear you. Yes, go ahead. [0:08:17, 0:08:21]: I'm okay with m moving it. I mean uh that's fine with me. [0:08:21, 0:08:21]: All right. [0:08:22, 0:08:31]: Now now is there a recommendation to move the the executive session to be before we get to the appointments or or uh keep the executive session at the end of the meeting? [0:08:31, 0:08:32]: Mary, I would [0:08:33, 0:08:36]: But we'll we'll we'll leave uh [0:08:36, 0:08:37]: We'll leave that uh [0:08:38, 0:08:40]: Uh, before the executive session. [0:08:41, 0:08:46]: What do you what I don't understand? What do you mean say again, please? We're gonna make it the last item. We're gonna make it the last item. [0:08:46, 0:08:47]: They [0:08:47, 0:08:53]: Okay. I I I got the question you asked and I'm motioning that we that we do all executive uh do all appointments after executive session. [0:08:54, 0:08:56]: After a zago session. Yes. [0:08:56, 0:08:57]: All right, so we get [0:08:58, 0:09:06]: Oh so we have two motions. First motion is to reverse item number five and six. Was there a second on that motion? [0:09:07, 0:09:10]: That's a good point. Thank you for that. Was there a second? [0:09:10, 0:09:15]: Yeah. Okay, I'm second. Okay, there you go. Second. All in favor to motion, please indicate. [0:09:18, 0:09:19]: For okay, all post. [0:09:20, 0:09:22]: Four one. All right now. [0:09:22, 0:09:23]: Mr. Blount, you made another motion, sir. [0:09:24, 0:09:28]: Yeah, I motion that we move all appointments uh to uh after executive session. [0:09:29, 0:09:31]: All right. Is there a second on that motion? [0:09:33, 0:09:34]: A second. [0:09:34, 0:09:37]: Okay. All right. All in favor, please indicate. [0:09:40, 0:09:41]: Opposed? [0:09:44, 0:09:50]: Motion fails. Two, three. Okay. So now what we have is the ceremonial uh [0:09:51, 0:10:01]: part of our meeting this evening. And I have a couple of different proclamations here, all surrounding our ancestral home, the whole King family and the School of Star Brisbane ancestral home. [0:10:02, 0:10:06]: Proclamation Martin Luther King Senior, affectionately known as Daddy King. [0:10:07, 0:10:13]: Whereas Martin Luther King Sr. was born Michael King on December nineteenth, eighteen ninety-nine. [0:10:13, 0:10:15]: In Stockbridge, Georgia. [0:10:15, 0:10:18]: And he's the eldest son of James and Delil Delilah King. [0:10:19, 0:10:21]: And whereas Martin Luther King Senior, affectionately known as Daddy King, [0:10:22, 0:10:25]: is the father and namesake of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Junior. [0:10:26, 0:10:28]: And whereas Martin Luther King Senior [0:10:29, 0:10:32]: Was a member of Floyd Chapel Baptist Church in Stockbridge, Georgia. [0:10:32, 0:10:35]: Where he preached his first sermon at age sixteen. [0:10:36, 0:10:37]: And whereas Martin Luther King Senior [0:10:38, 0:10:41]: gradually developed an interest in teaching and grew to respect. [0:10:42, 0:10:53]: the few black preachers who are willing to speak out against racial injustices despite the risk of violent white retaliation and after being inspired by these ministers decide to become a preacher. [0:10:54, 0:11:07]: And whereas in 1926, King Sr. started his ministerial degree at Morehouse School of Religion on Thanksgiving Day in 1926. After eight years of courtship, he married Alberta and Ebenezer Church. [0:11:08, 0:11:25]: The couple had three children, two children, daughter Willie Christine King, Martin Luther King Jr., born originally as Michael King Jr., and second son Alfred Daniel Williams King. And whereas King Sr. became leader of the Ebenezer Baptist Church in March 1931. [0:11:26, 0:11:31]: will remain the pastor for four decades while becoming a widely respected leader in a local church. [0:11:32, 0:11:45]: and wielding great influence in the black community and earning some degree of respect with the white community. And whereas in 1934, King Senior changed his name and that of his eldest son from Michael King to Martin Luther King. [0:11:45, 0:11:48]: After a period of gradual transition on his own part. [0:11:48, 0:11:50]: He was inspired during the trip to Germany. [0:11:51, 0:11:59]: for that year's meeting of the Baptist World Alliance and BWA by visiting sites associated with Reformation leader Martin Luther. [0:11:59, 0:12:02]: And whereas King Senior became a leader of the civil rights movement. [0:12:02, 0:12:22]: As a head of the NAACP chapter in Atlanta and the civic and political league, King Singer encouraged his son to become active in the movement and the rest of his history. Now, therefore, I, Anthony S. Ford, mayor of the uh Stockbridge, Georgia, along with Council members Ellen Alexander, Yolanda Barber, John Blount, Nikisha Gantt and Afonso Thomas, do hereby proclaim. [0:12:22, 0:12:31]: December 19, 2020 is Martin Luther King Senior Day in the great city of Stomp Ridge, Jordan, signed on the 19th of uh December, 2020. [0:12:33, 0:12:39]: Outstanding. Next proclamation in honor uh the honorable Stobur City Council. [0:12:39, 0:12:41]: Whereas Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Junior [0:12:42, 0:12:44]: Was born January fifteenth, nineteen twenty nine. [0:12:45, 0:12:50]: at his family home in Atlanta, Georgia, to Martin Luther King Senior and Alberta Williams King. [0:12:50, 0:12:52]: native of our great city of Stockbridge. [0:12:53, 0:12:58]: And whereas Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. devoted his life to the advancement of civil rights and public service. [0:12:58, 0:13:01]: Believing in a nation of freedom and justice for all. [0:13:01, 0:13:04]: And challenge all citizens to build a more perfect union. [0:13:05, 0:13:07]: And to live up to the purpose of pat and the potential of America. [0:13:08, 0:13:14]: Whereas legislation creating a federal holiday marking the birthday of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. [0:13:14, 0:13:17]: was signed into law in nineteen six excuse me nineteen eighty three. [0:13:18, 0:13:23]: And whereas the state of Georgia honors Dr. King legacy each year on the third Monday in January. [0:13:24, 0:13:33]: Whereas in nineteen ninety-four, Congress initiated the King Day of Service, a nationwide effort to transform the federal holiday honoring honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. [0:13:33, 0:13:35]: Into a day of community service. [0:13:35, 0:13:42]: And whereas Dr. King accomplished accomplishments as a clergyman, Noble Peace Prize Lotorate. [0:13:42, 0:13:47]: Author and advocate for securing the enact enactment of the nineteen sixty four Civil Rights Act. [0:13:48, 0:13:49]: Nighting sixty five. [0:13:49, 0:13:53]: excuse me, nineteen sixty four Civil Rights Act and the nineteen sixty five voting rights act. [0:13:54, 0:13:57]: And the nineteen sixty eight Fair Housing Act emphasized the principles of equality. [0:13:57, 0:14:00]: А the cornerstone of our democracy. [0:14:00, 0:14:05]: And whereas Dr. King recognized that everybody can be great because everybody can serve. [0:14:06, 0:14:11]: And during his lifetime, encouraged all Americans to serve their neighbors and their communities. [0:14:11, 0:14:20]: And whereas thousands of Americans use Martin Luther King uh day as a day on, not a day off by spending it performing community service. [0:14:20, 0:14:25]: And whereas the the King Day of Service falls, which falls on January eighteenth this year. [0:14:26, 0:14:46]: Uh is an opportune time for the people of Stockbridge to recognize Dr. King's teachings on advancing quality and opportunity for all uh contributing their own time and talents in a day of service. And now now, therefore, I, Anthony S. Ford, by virtue of authority, vested in me as a mayor of the city of Stockbridge, Georgia, and on behalf of Councilmembers Elton Alexander. [0:14:46, 0:14:47]: [888.3, 893.2]: Nikesi Gantt and the Fonzo Thomas do hereby recognize, excuse me, do hereby encourage [0:14:53, 0:15:04]: each citizen to take part in in service that will benefit the Stockbridge and neighborhoods and provide a a a fitting memorial to the life of Martin Luther King Jr. and witness uh [0:15:04, 0:15:20]: Whereof I have here unto set my hand on the 11th day of January 2021 and have caused the fiscal seal of the Great Seal um stop bridge and fixed two hereof, and I signed this along with with Vanessa Holiday as well. [0:15:20, 0:15:24]: Congratulations, outstanding. And uh yes, Mayor Pro Tem Thomas, go ahead, please, sir. [0:15:25, 0:15:30]: Uh thank you, Mayor. Um I wanna also uh thank you, Mayor, for honoring [0:15:31, 0:15:35]: Uh the request to bring both of these uh proclamations [0:15:35, 0:15:37]: To the council meeting, um [0:15:37, 0:15:41]: We know that annually we always recognize. [0:15:41, 0:15:44]: Uh Dr. King Junior's birthday. [0:15:45, 0:15:48]: But uh the request was to also retroactively [0:15:48, 0:15:53]: uh recognized daddy king which his birthday was december the nineteenth. [0:15:53, 0:15:54]: Um [0:15:55, 0:15:57]: And and and and we know that [0:15:57, 0:16:01]: Uh the reason I want to emphasize King Senior. [0:16:01, 0:16:05]: Because we know uh without senior that wouldn't be a junior. But let me just mention [0:16:06, 0:16:14]: That not only was Daddy King, and I know this is where Flora Chapel comes in, uh, Pastor Vance, and then thank you for being here as well. [0:16:14, 0:16:17]: But where King Senior comes into play here is that [0:16:18, 0:16:30]: He was not only um educated and mentored by the elders there at Floyd Chapel, but before Daddy King, uh James Weldon Johnson. [0:16:30, 0:16:33]: Who wrote uh lift their voice and sing. [0:16:33, 0:16:36]: uh was here in Stockbridge as well. [0:16:36, 0:16:39]: Ен хі лай а фаунда. [0:16:39, 0:16:59]: um at the churches and in the community uh of his advocacy for civil rights. And no doubt this is where the elders and Daddy King sort of got that from. And I'm sure Daddy King sort of passed that on to Junior. [0:16:59, 0:17:08]: And as they say, uh the rest is history. But I do want to thank uh Pastor Vance. You know, he is newly appointed here at Florida Chapel. [0:17:08, 0:17:10]: But we just want to thank him and Flora Chapel. [0:17:11, 0:17:13]: For the impact that they've had. [0:17:13, 0:17:26]: uh here in the city of stockbridge. And we sort of just appreciate uh Flora Chapel for being here in the city of Stockbridge and Pastor Vance and I we're working together on many projects and and in closing let me just say that [0:17:27, 0:17:40]: Um Pastor Vance has agreed to keynote the 10th annual African American Heritage Celebration Celebration, which is uh February the 6th. [0:17:40, 0:17:46]: And I just want to take this opportunity to thank him as well as uh members of uh Floyd Chapel. [0:17:46, 0:17:50]: It's my understanding that that they are viewing this meeting tonight. [0:17:50, 0:17:52]: So uh again, uh thank you, Pastor Vance. [0:17:53, 0:17:54]: No problem. [0:17:55, 0:18:00]: No, pass advance. Go ahead, please. I was gonna say go comments without a doubt. I'm sorry, go ahead. [0:18:00, 0:18:20]: Uh first and foremost, I'd just like to say thank you all just for the support uh here in the city of the city of Stockbridge, just uh the moral support and just I'm excited just for the future, you know, the innovation and the the the city growing at a rapid rate and just to be planted in a in a historic [0:18:20, 0:18:40]: Church, such as uh Floyd Chapel Baptist Church, with myself being a Morehouse School of Religion uh alumni as well, who ironically won the Martin Luther King Senior Award. And uh by the providence of God, I'm I'm leading this historic church. But I'm not just called to the church, I'm called to make the [0:18:40, 0:18:51]: the city of Stockbridge better as well. And I look forward to working with each and every one of you all to just serve the community as Daddy King would have and just like Martin Luther King uh Junior. [0:18:52, 0:19:03]: Outstanding, appreciate it. Outstanding. We welcome you, sir. And what I know we'll we'll be great together. The entire council will make will make this work. Outstanding. Appreciate it. And please stay as long, stay as long as you like tonight. Okay. [0:19:04, 0:19:15]: No problem. Okay, great. Uh what's next? Uh downtown development authority service awards. And uh I want to recognize uh one, two, three, four, five members of the DDA. [0:19:15, 0:19:18]: And it's presented to Calvin Gleason. [0:19:18, 0:19:22]: And appreciation of your service uh services and dedication as a board member. [0:19:23, 0:19:25]: and chairman of the downtown November Authority. [0:19:25, 0:19:27]: Two thousand eighteen to two thousand twenty. [0:19:28, 0:19:30]: Also I need a uh Anita Lee. [0:19:30, 0:19:37]: And appreciation of your services and dedication as a board member of the downtown November Authority 2016 to 2020. [0:19:38, 0:19:42]: Mr. Rodney Horns in appreciation of your services and dedication as a board member. [0:19:42, 0:19:47]: The downtown authority two thousand sixteen two to two thousand twenty as well. [0:19:47, 0:19:49]: And uh [0:19:49, 0:19:56]: And also uh Ms. Renee Shaw may not be present right now and appreciate appreciation of your services and dedication as a board member. [0:19:56, 0:20:00]: And chairwoman of downtown Delema Authority two thousand fifteen to two thousand twenty. [0:20:01, 0:20:10]: All right. So if there are several uh if these individuals are present, I don't know if you any of Rodney or uh Miss Lee, if you want any comments before uh before I move on in the meeting at all. [0:20:12, 0:20:16]: Absolutely. Um Miss Lee, go ahead. [0:20:17, 0:20:19]: Uh for appointing me during that [0:20:19, 0:20:24]: Uh, during that time I appreci I learned so, so much about [0:20:24, 0:20:43]: uh our wonderful city of stockbridge and um the wonderful things that uh the dda is able to do. I do uh hope and appreciate that the new DDA or the new members um will hopefully learn as much as I did and help to move [0:20:43, 0:20:45]: uh the city of Stockridge forward. [0:20:46, 0:20:57]: Um, I do intend to continue to lend my services to the city at any time. I do have ideas um that I do intend to share with the DDA. [0:20:57, 0:21:08]: And uh I hopefully um the council uh and the city will find another space for me to serve and I will continue to put my name in the hat. [0:21:09, 0:21:14]: So thank you so much and happy New Year to all of you. It was great seeing all of you. [0:21:14, 0:21:17]: Thank you. Great to see you too. Mr. Horns, please. [0:21:17, 0:21:18]: For New Year. [0:21:18, 0:21:20]: Yes, how are y'all doing? [0:21:20, 0:21:28]: Mayor and Council, I want to say thank you guys for appointing me to the board. I learned a lot. I enjoyed it, my four years on the board. [0:21:28, 0:21:29]: Uh [0:21:30, 0:21:36]: Thinking about maybe trying to come back for some other positions later, other performance. I'm not sure, not currently, but [0:21:36, 0:21:37]: In the near future. [0:21:37, 0:21:40]: And I just say happy new year to everybody and thank you guys again. [0:21:41, 0:21:42]: Thank you, sir. Appreciate it. [0:21:43, 0:21:57]: Once again, the two of you can stay as long as you like. All right. Move on. Okay. Adoption of the minutes for the following meetings, November 9th, a council meeting and the November 24th council work session. I need a motion to approve those minutes, please. [0:22:01, 0:22:03]: A motion to approve. Okay, is there a second? [0:22:05, 0:22:08]: Okay. All in favor of the motion, please indicate. [0:22:10, 0:22:12]: Okay, so now thank you very much. [0:22:13, 0:22:15]: Madam Madam Clerk. [0:22:15, 0:22:16]: Yes, ma'am. [0:22:17, 0:22:19]: I was gonna ask you about any public comments. [0:22:25, 0:22:27]: Madam Clerk, do we have any public comments? [0:22:29, 0:22:34]: There are no I was not able to hear who made the motion. I'm sorry. [0:22:34, 0:22:39]: I was not able to hear. I think that was animated motion. Miss Barber second the motion. [0:22:40, 0:22:40]: It was unanimous. [0:22:41, 0:22:52]: Councilman Alexander. Yes, and then Councilman Barber. Thank you. And Mayor, no, there are no public comments. Okay. Then we're going to new business. And the new business is an appointment of our municipal [0:22:53, 0:22:55]: Judge, Mr. Matt McCord. [0:22:56, 0:23:08]: Uh oh before I read the oath of office, I guess I need to make sure we have a motion to set Matt McCord as our judge, I suppose. I need a motion to uh for Matt McCord, Judge McCord to be yes, sir. Go ahead, Mr. Blount. [0:23:08, 0:23:10]: No, so move. So move, is there a second? [0:23:11, 0:23:13]: I second. Okay. All in favor, please indicate. [0:23:15, 0:23:17]: Fantastic. Miss McCord. [0:23:17, 0:23:31]: Okay, I have it. I have the the the actual oath of office here. So if you can raise your right hand and I'll raise mine as well. And I'll tell you do this in small chunks here. So I and state your name, please. I'm Matthew McCord. [0:23:31, 0:23:33]: Solemnly swear and affirm. [0:23:33, 0:23:35]: The oblig and a fern. [0:23:35, 0:23:37]: That I will faithfully perform. [0:23:37, 0:23:47]: I will faithfully perform. The duties of municipal court judge. The duties of municipal court judge. Of the city of Stockbridge. Of the city of Stockbridge. And that I will. [0:23:48, 0:24:01]: And that I will to the best of my ability. The best of my ability. Support and defend. Support and defend. The theater there the excuse me, the charter thereof. The charter thereof. As well as the constitution. [0:24:01, 0:24:05]: As well as the constitution and the laws of the state of Georgia. [0:24:05, 0:24:15]: the laws of the state of Georgia and the United States of America and the United States of America. I further affirm. I further affirm upon assumption of this office. [0:24:15, 0:24:17]: Upon assumption of this office. [0:24:18, 0:24:21]: Okay, one second, it got small on me. There we go. [0:24:22, 0:24:24]: Uh I do not hold. [0:24:25, 0:24:41]: I do not hold. Any unaccounted for public money? Any unaccounted for public money. Due and payable to the state? Due and payable to the state. Any political subdivision of the state? Any political subdivision of the state. The city of Stockbridge. City of Stockbridge. [0:24:41, 0:24:44]: Or any authority thereof. Or any authority thereof. [0:24:45, 0:24:46]: Nor do I hold [0:24:46, 0:24:51]: Nor do I hold any other office of trust? Any other office of trust. [0:24:52, 0:25:03]: Of the government of the United States, of the government of the United States, of this state, of this state, or any foreign state, or any foreign state, as prescribed by [0:25:04, 0:25:08]: The laws of the state of Georgia. As prescribed by the laws of the state of Georgia. [0:25:08, 0:25:19]: I am I solemnly affirm I solemnly affirm that I am fully qualified I am fully qualified under the constitution and the laws under the constitution and the laws [0:25:19, 0:25:20]: Okay, others. [0:25:21, 0:25:22]: One second of the state. [0:25:22, 0:25:42]: Of the state. To hold the office of municipal court judge. To hold the office of municipal court judge. I will perform the duties. I will perform the duties. Of my office. Of my office. In the best interest. In the best interest. Of the city of Stockbridge. City of Stockbridge. To the best of my ability. Best of my ability. [0:25:42, 0:25:53]: Without fear, without fear, favor, favor, affection, affection, reward or expectation thereof, reward or expectation thereof. [0:25:53, 0:25:55]: On the eleventh day of January twenty twenty one. [0:25:56, 0:25:59]: This is the eleventh day of January, twenty twenty one, so help me God. [0:25:59, 0:26:01]: Congratulations, sir. Appreciate it. [0:26:01, 0:26:03]: Thank you, Mr. Meyer. Outstanding. [0:26:03, 0:26:04]: Outstanding. [0:26:05, 0:26:08]: Okay. And uh where are we? [0:26:12, 0:26:15]: And for um for our solicitor. [0:26:15, 0:26:21]: Ms. Judy Kurt. Okay. Uh I need a motion to accept Miss Kurt and her solicitor's position, please. [0:26:22, 0:26:23]: Don't move. [0:26:24, 0:26:27]: Okay. All favor please indicate. [0:26:28, 0:26:34]: Fantastic. All right, Miss Curt. I'm gonna do the same thing. I'll try to take the small chunks and I'm looking at a small screen. Okay, so bear with me. [0:26:35, 0:26:36]: I state your name. [0:26:36, 0:26:37]: Hi Julie Kurt. [0:26:38, 0:26:40]: Solemnly swear and affirm. [0:26:40, 0:26:44]: Solemnly swear and affirm. And I will faithfully perform the duties. [0:26:44, 0:26:48]: That I will faithfully perform the duties. [0:26:48, 0:26:52]: Of the municipal court solicitor. [0:26:52, 0:26:55]: For the city of Stockbridge. And that I will. [0:26:55, 0:27:01]: And that I will To the best of my ability. To the best of my ability. Report and defend the charter thereof. [0:27:02, 0:27:05]: Support and defend the charter thereof. As well as the constitution. [0:27:05, 0:27:08]: As well as the constitution на лоза дет джорджа. [0:27:08, 0:27:11]: And the laws of the state of Georgia? And the United States of America. [0:27:12, 0:27:15]: In the United States of America, I further affirm that. [0:27:15, 0:27:17]: I further affirm that. [0:27:17, 0:27:19]: Upon assumption of this office. [0:27:19, 0:27:23]: Upon assumption of this office. I do not hold any unaccounted for public money. [0:27:23, 0:27:26]: I do not hold any unaccounted for public money. [0:27:27, 0:27:28]: due and payable to the state. [0:27:29, 0:27:33]: Doing payable to the state. Any political subdivision of the state. [0:27:33, 0:27:42]: any political subdivision of the state. The city of Stockbridge. City of Stockbridge. Or any authority thereof. Or any authority thereof. Nor do I hold [0:27:43, 0:27:46]: Nor do I hold any other office of trust? [0:27:46, 0:27:50]: Any other office of trust? Of the government of government of the United States? [0:27:50, 0:27:53]: Of the government of the United States? Of this state? [0:27:54, 0:27:56]: Of this state. [0:27:56, 0:28:00]: Or any foreign state. As prescribed by the laws of the state of Georgia. [0:28:00, 0:28:03]: It's described by the laws of the state of Georgia. [0:28:03, 0:28:04]: I solemnly affirm. [0:28:05, 0:28:08]: I solemnly affirm that I'm fully qualified. [0:28:08, 0:28:19]: That I'm fully qualified. Under the constitution and the laws? Under the constitution and the laws. Of this state. Of this state. To hold the office of municipal court solicitor. [0:28:19, 0:28:36]: To hold the office of municipal court solicitor. I will perform the duties. I will perform the duties of my off of my office. Of my office. In the best interest of the city of Stockbridge. In the best interest of the city of Stockbridge. To the best of my ability. To the best of my ability. [0:28:36, 0:28:38]: Without fear? Favor. [0:28:39, 0:28:40]: Favor. Affection. [0:28:41, 0:28:43]: Affection thereof. [0:28:44, 0:28:48]: Order expectation thereof? Yes, on the eleventh day of January twenty twenty one. [0:28:48, 0:29:07]: This on the 11th day of January 2021. Congratulations. Thank you very much. Fantastic. Great. Now, uh, Ms. Kurtz, since you're still unmuted, I'd like to give you an opportunity to address uh the council, the audience, anybody listening, just if you have any words of wisdom, if you want to say anything at all. [0:29:07, 0:29:25]: Uh just briefly, just nice to see all of you all. I don't believe I've had an opportunity to meet you before. Um, I'm always available by email if you wish to reach out to me with any questions. I know the clerk can forward my contact information for anybody. If you have any questions about any of our prosecutorial [0:29:25, 0:29:30]: uh policies or any matter pending before the court. Uh especially in these days I [0:29:31, 0:29:36]: Especially try to be available to help us avoid people having to come into the courthouse during this time. [0:29:36, 0:29:39]: Look forward to meeting you all when in person when this is over. [0:29:39, 0:29:41]: Outstanding. Appreciate it. Great. [0:29:42, 0:29:45]: Judge McCord, sir. Any c uh comments you'd like to have at this time? [0:29:46, 0:30:03]: I welcome uh uh anybody that wants to come to the court to see how we do things to please come, please be a part of what we're doing. Uh obviously we're right now under a judicial emergency order from the Chief Justice and then I've [0:30:04, 0:30:23]: drafted an order that mirrors that so the courthouse is closed until things get better and safer. But when we get there, you are absolutely welcome to come be a part of what we do and to see how courts run. And please don't ever hesitate to get in touch with me. If you have a question or you need anything, uh I make myself available to to all of you and to the citizens of Stockbridge uh twenty four hours a day. [0:30:24, 0:30:26]: Okay. Thank you, sir. I appreciate that. Outstanding. [0:30:26, 0:30:34]: And more, of course, you're welcome to stay as long as you like as well. Okay, congratulating. Thanks. I happy new year to you. Look forward to seeing you in person again someday, soon. [0:30:34, 0:30:35]: Okay, very soon. [0:30:36, 0:30:45]: All right, on that note, uh we're gonna move down to the appointment of the Mayor Pro Tem. Um I guess uh in sense Mr. Alexander, do you have something I believe you s you wanted to say, sir? [0:30:47, 0:30:50]: I do, Mayor. I wanna I want to thank you so much. Uh [0:30:51, 0:30:52]: For turning to me for this particular [0:30:53, 0:30:54]: uh nomination. [0:30:55, 0:30:57]: Well uh the first thing I wanna say is [0:30:57, 0:31:04]: You know, there we've had outstanding Mayor Pro Times for the city of Stockbridge, uh us including yourself, Mayor. [0:31:04, 0:31:09]: Well thank you. You did a really outstanding job. Uh you had to wear two hats. [0:31:09, 0:31:22]: You at one point were probably the most powerful mayor in the city's uh history of the city of Stockbridge because you wore the same hat. You were a mayor pro tem, acting as mayor in in a in a great capacity. [0:31:22, 0:31:23]: Leading the city through [0:31:24, 0:31:25]: A troubling time. [0:31:25, 0:31:29]: So uh with dis with distinguished honor you serve the city. [0:31:30, 0:31:44]: So that that that is magnificent. That's marvelous. So thank you for your service. Even before stepping into that chair, you had already prepared yourself to honor uh the citizens of this community uh from the council. [0:31:44, 0:31:47]: And uh I'd like to point to Mayor Pro Tem Thomas. [0:31:48, 0:31:55]: Uh Mayor Tim Thomas has done an amazing job. He served in this role. He is a role model for this particular [0:31:56, 0:31:57]: Um position. [0:31:58, 0:32:07]: uh he leads and what he does is I I admire so much what he does when he talks about uh history in the city of Stockbridge. [0:32:07, 0:32:10]: History should have his name on it in this citary because [0:32:10, 0:32:15]: He led the charge to get uh Daddy King honored in the city. [0:32:15, 0:32:15]: So the [0:32:15, 0:32:17]: It would never be forgotten. [0:32:17, 0:32:20]: His name will go down in the history books. [0:32:20, 0:32:21]: For doing so. [0:32:21, 0:32:22]: And by doing so [0:32:23, 0:32:27]: He modeled the ro the role model of this particular position for the city. [0:32:27, 0:32:28]: And making sure [0:32:29, 0:32:30]: That um the entire that [0:32:30, 0:32:31]: The council [0:32:32, 0:32:35]: Uh represent it the citizens out there, he's always out there. [0:32:35, 0:32:37]: Um making himself available. [0:32:38, 0:32:39]: Through Don't Trash Stock Fridge. [0:32:40, 0:32:41]: And through [0:32:41, 0:32:43]: M m many programs that he works on. [0:32:44, 0:32:47]: The outstanding African American history month. [0:32:47, 0:32:49]: celebration that he [0:32:49, 0:32:52]: uh holds to the city. It's probably the biggest event that we hold. [0:32:52, 0:33:06]: uh here in the city because it's standing room only uh at Merrill Mandas Conference Center uh pre COVID and hopefully post COVID uh we'll continue that uh tradition. Um we we've had every member of this council [0:33:06, 0:33:09]: I serve uh as mayor Pro Tem. [0:33:10, 0:33:23]: uh as well. Uh Councilwoman Gantt served uh as Mayor Pro Tem. She did an outstanding job uh in that role in doing and fulfilling her duties uh during that time. Uh she uh has her [0:33:23, 0:33:42]: uh small business uh uh meet up and uh with the with the community, engaging the community, uh doing what's necessary to make sure that uh she stays connected. Uh Councilman Blount uh served in the role uh as mayor pro tem for the city. He did an outstanding job. [0:33:43, 0:34:03]: He really did uh during that time. Uh and he took the back to school event uh to the next level. He truly did because uh, you know, um Mayor Pro Tem Thomas had got it started and then they kind of collaborated together showing what you can do, and now it's a city event, but it would never go down because at the [0:34:03, 0:34:12]: same time you did what was necessary to make it one of the biggest events uh in the city. And we know we're gonna get back to that uh post-COVID. I remember [0:34:13, 0:34:19]: You and I know you probably won't l you running around City Hall collecting uh book bags. [0:34:20, 0:34:31]: and making it just uh, you know, do it and running all over the city trying to grab book bags like we do for all particular events that we do. And that's what uh Amer Pro Tem should do. [0:34:32, 0:34:34]: Uh in the city to make sure. [0:34:34, 0:34:37]: That everything uh in the community is taken care of. [0:34:38, 0:34:40]: Every person sitting up here [0:34:40, 0:34:45]: Uh, you know, uh some point she gets to serve as the mayor pro temp. [0:34:45, 0:34:51]: Oh no, Councilwoman Barber just joined uh the group at this particular so but her time will come. [0:34:51, 0:34:56]: as well. You know, as I talk to you about this particular event and I'm gonna conclude very soon. [0:34:57, 0:35:00]: So I won't take up too much time. Is it just simply say [0:35:00, 0:35:02]: Everybody deserves a chance to um [0:35:03, 0:35:05]: Serving this particular position. [0:35:05, 0:35:06]: And I would think that um [0:35:07, 0:35:09]: You know, going forward, even post tonight. [0:35:10, 0:35:11]: Uh what we would do is that we would [0:35:12, 0:35:14]: This is pretty uh pretty much a ceremonial position. [0:35:15, 0:35:17]: And what we would do is examine the policy. [0:35:18, 0:35:20]: To make sure that we rotate the position. [0:35:20, 0:35:23]: around so everybody, every member of the council [0:35:23, 0:35:26]: We get to serve uh as mayor pro tem. [0:35:26, 0:35:28]: Because this is a ceremonial position. [0:35:28, 0:35:30]: It should be politics free. [0:35:30, 0:35:33]: And every person should just it should matriculate down the line. [0:35:34, 0:35:35]: The person who served [0:35:35, 0:35:39]: Uh the last they should go back in line and then the person [0:35:39, 0:35:51]: uh next to them should step up and be allowed to serve. And I certainly will uh be proposing that uh as we move forward uh through this. I would ask that every member of this council [0:35:51, 0:35:54]: Щось да вивер колективний токе. [0:35:54, 0:35:56]: Uh, doing what we do to take the city to [0:35:57, 0:36:00]: the next level. I mean last year was an historic year. [0:36:00, 0:36:03]: Uh, in the city of Stockbridge in the mayor. [0:36:03, 0:36:06]: And the mayor pro ten will get a tremendous amount of credit. [0:36:06, 0:36:08]: for what was done enabling us to [0:36:09, 0:36:12]: uh provide the financing and for the amphitheater that will be opening. [0:36:13, 0:36:13]: D. [0:36:13, 0:36:16]: The Kerry Mahamberg Cultural Arts Center. [0:36:16, 0:36:18]: Now has financing in place it's [0:36:18, 0:36:20]: It's gonna work, it's gonna move forward. [0:36:20, 0:36:36]: my multi-use trails are in place, the things that we did will go down and it will stand the test of time. I ask and I say to each and every one of you that um you know the time comes and I think uh tonight it's my turn. [0:36:36, 0:36:46]: And I think that uh, you know, we s we honestly want to make sure that everybody's represented. I don't hold anything against anybody on this council to make to see [0:36:46, 0:36:51]: That uh what we're doing is appropriate and that we serve every single citizen in the community. [0:36:52, 0:36:54]: We might agree or we might disagree. [0:36:54, 0:37:02]: But in the meantime, what we do is we serve every citizen in the city of Stockbridge, and we know that we represent the council. [0:37:02, 0:37:22]: I pledge to each and every last one of you on this particular board, I will do my level best if uh nominated for this position to be able to move forward and to make sure that it is uh done appropriately and that we shine nothing but positive light on the city uh for the next uh 12 months. [0:37:22, 0:37:35]: And based on that recommendation, I would I'm going to nominate myself for the particular award of Mayor Pro 10 for the city of Stockbridge this year. And then I would conduct a policy. [0:37:35, 0:37:55]: request a policy change following that so that each person sitting on this council will get an opportunity to serve and it will not be a situation where anybody is skipped over or a situation where no one gets to serve. It'll be a ceremonial position that will be honored and held in high esteem in in the city. So I make the most [0:37:55, 0:38:03]: motion that uh for myself, Elton Alexander, to become mayor pro tip for the year of 2021. [0:38:04, 0:38:07]: First, I guess I I I guess in the sense of uh Mr. What [0:38:07, 0:38:10]: Okay, Miss Barber, you're second in that motion. Is that what you're waiver? [0:38:10, 0:38:18]: I I ma I just gotta ask the the attorney, can you can you self nominate yourself? I mean, can you do that? If you can do that, so be it. I just didn't no, I just gotta ask the question. [0:38:19, 0:38:21]: There there's no rule that prohibits it. [0:38:21, 0:38:41]: Okay. All right. And on that note, uh, Councilman Alison, I wanna let you know that it to me is is as a current mayor, it is not a strictly ceremonial thing. Something happens to me, you know what I mean? God forbid something happens to me and I can't function as a capacity, that Mayor Po Tem comes and and and functions as that mayor. As you indicated that I had both those responsibilities for eleven months in two thousand sixteen. But [0:38:41, 0:38:57]: But uh I look at it as more than just ceremonial. I just want to let you know that publicly. I think it's in that aspect. Okay. I certainly certainly understand, sir, and I stand to correct it. And yes, that that that certainly is. I just wanted to make sure that the trans the transformation [0:38:57, 0:39:15]: was ceremonial. Let me clarify. The position itself, but the transformation on a year to year basis was rotated around. And that's how we would do it. Let me correct myself and say that the position is of of high esteem, but we will want it to be rotated on on a yearly basis ceremonially. [0:39:16, 0:39:22]: All right. No problem. A motion was made and been seconded. So uh all in favor of the motion, please indicate. [0:39:24, 0:39:25]: Opposed? [0:39:27, 0:39:27]: Sustain. [0:39:27, 0:39:30]: I abstain only for legal purposes. [0:39:31, 0:39:32]: All right. [0:39:32, 0:39:39]: All right. Um well the motion passed. One of station, Mr. Blount, you you've got to in one way or the other? [0:39:40, 0:39:41]: I can't hear you, sir. [0:39:41, 0:39:42]: I abstain. [0:39:42, 0:39:50]: Okay, so s uh three zero two. Okay, well congratulations, Councilman Alexander. You're now the mayor pro tem for twenty twenty one. [0:39:50, 0:39:56]: Thank you, sir. All right. Um, okay, so what's next? Oh, my comments. [0:39:56, 0:39:59]: Boy, do I have some comments? I'll tell you what. [0:39:59, 0:40:02]: First of all, I wanna say congratulations. [0:40:02, 0:40:04]: To John Osoff. [0:40:04, 0:40:06]: And Raphael Warnock. [0:40:06, 0:40:08]: For becoming our Georgia's new senators. [0:40:09, 0:40:10]: Fantastic. Okay, no. [0:40:11, 0:40:22]: join the rest of the Senate and uh here shortly and do their business. Now Raphael Warnock uh is only gonna be on for two more years before he has to run again and John Ossoff has uh six years. [0:40:22, 0:40:35]: Excuse me, in the Senate. And then of course, congratulations to Lauren Bubba McDon uh McDonnell Jr. for uh winning his re-election as the uh Public Service Commission District Four. Congratulations to him as well. [0:40:35, 0:40:48]: Um, I will tell you, ladies and gentlemen, um I've I've uh talked several several months, several months. You know, we've been going through this pandemic since March. And so and we're still fighting through this. And so [0:40:48, 0:40:55]: I want you to know that you can still get a test, get tested for COVID-19, a free test. [0:40:55, 0:40:56]: at the Heritage Senior Center. [0:40:57, 0:41:04]: And they're still doing that. It's it's actually run by a contractor. The public health department is funding a contractor to do that. [0:41:04, 0:41:23]: Um and so those times are still from uh nine to be some excuse me 10 to 3 um five days a week. Okay. And once again to to actually get a test, uh you need to call the number of 800-847-4262. Once again, 800-847-4262. [0:41:23, 0:41:24]: Um [0:41:25, 0:41:43]: Outside of that, uh I want to let you know that the um the county also has three mobile testing sites um in the in the county here. Mondays there'll be at Hidden Valley Park, which is 100 Spregens Spragan's Memorial Parkway. [0:41:43, 0:41:53]: And then that's on Mondays. And uh on uh Tuesdays, excuse me, on Wednesdays there'll be the North Mount Mount North Mount Carmel Park. [0:41:54, 0:41:57]: Was three oh seven North Mount Carmel Park Road in Hampton. [0:41:57, 0:42:00]: And then on Fridays at the Warren Holder Park. [0:42:00, 0:42:03]: And three oh one club drive. Now that's for testing. [0:42:04, 0:42:05]: Now I will tell you that [0:42:05, 0:42:08]: Testing was continue to go on to the end of this month. [0:42:08, 0:42:13]: And on to the next several months. Things will some things will change, but the more now the benefit [0:42:13, 0:42:19]: Is the limited assets, public health assets that we have are going to rotate more to vaccinations? [0:42:19, 0:42:22]: We want people to get vaccin uh get their vaccinations. [0:42:22, 0:42:24]: And it's by phases. [0:42:25, 0:42:25]: Okay. [0:42:25, 0:42:27]: So right now, actually tomorrow. [0:42:27, 0:42:28]: Tomorrow [0:42:28, 0:42:30]: Tomorrow from eight thirty to four. [0:42:31, 0:42:33]: There are going to be vaccinations at the Atlanta Motor Speedway. [0:42:34, 0:42:37]: But you have to have a reservation and they're already booked. [0:42:37, 0:42:38]: of this so [0:42:39, 0:42:49]: to get a reservation for a vaccination. Uh and I will tell you it once again it's by phases. So I'm gonna tell you what what at the phase 1A, who's qualified to do that. [0:42:49, 0:42:51]: If you're a healthcare worker. [0:42:51, 0:43:00]: In a clinical setting, nurses, physicians, EMS, and uh and uh EMS individuals are qualified to to be part of this phase one and get. [0:43:00, 0:43:03]: The vaccination technicians, environmental services. [0:43:04, 0:43:15]: staff and residents at long-term facilities. So if you're an individual, know someone at long-term facility, uh resident there, or someone that works at the long-term facility, senior home, things of that nature. [0:43:15, 0:43:21]: You're you're in that uh that road uh phase to to get vaccinated, right? All law enforcement. [0:43:22, 0:43:24]: All law enforcement and uh [0:43:25, 0:43:27]: And fire personnel are also available to do that. [0:43:30, 0:43:50]: Um then we have uh and any adults of 65 and older uh that are caregivers uh or caregivers of those individuals are um are also qualified to get vaccinated. Now I will tell you that the um the public health department because of the holiday coming up. [0:43:50, 0:43:54]: The next rotation, the next time for someone to get vaccinated won't be until [0:43:54, 0:43:56]: The uh twenty six [0:43:56, 0:43:57]: of this month. [0:43:58, 0:44:01]: And so you could have to go to the public health website. [0:44:01, 0:44:06]: and or to get a reservation and or call eight hundred-eight four seven four two six six six six six two. [0:44:06, 0:44:15]: Once again, 800-847-4262. And you have to stay on top of that because the line gets kind of full, but we'll go to the public health department website and make a reservation. [0:44:15, 0:44:32]: uh for that. And I am uh let me stop my comments for a second. I jumped the gun here and I just obviously I need uh I need folks to remind me'cause I will say the gray hair makes me forget. All right. That's my that's my story and I'm gonna stick to it. Actually it's supposed to be a joke. No one's laughing. [0:44:32, 0:44:33]: Anyway. [0:44:34, 0:44:40]: What it amounts to, I s slip my mind. I've I ski I've skipped over about the um back to the new business. We've skipped over about the [0:44:40, 0:44:41]: City Attorney. [0:44:41, 0:44:44]: And uh slip my mind on my note here. So [0:44:45, 0:44:48]: I'm sorry about that. We need to talk about the city attorney in reference to the appointment. [0:44:48, 0:44:49]: on this aspect. [0:44:50, 0:44:53]: Uh so uh yes, Mr. Alexander, go ahead, please. [0:44:53, 0:45:03]: Okay. In regards to the city attorney, um, you know, uh talking to colleagues uh individually, there's no of course we don't have any group meetings here. [0:45:03, 0:45:07]: Is that we have um made the decision not to extend the contract. [0:45:07, 0:45:11]: uh of the city attorney, but to issue a thirty day notice. [0:45:12, 0:45:13]: Uh as we seek to [0:45:13, 0:45:15]: Acquire new [0:45:15, 0:45:18]: An attorney for the city or decide to go. [0:45:18, 0:45:21]: uh with a in house uh attorney [0:45:21, 0:45:23]: For the city of Stockbridge. [0:45:24, 0:45:26]: We thank Mr. Williams for his service. [0:45:26, 0:45:27]: Uh to the city. [0:45:28, 0:45:32]: Uh during a troubling time, especially during the City of Eagles Landing battle. [0:45:32, 0:45:33]: And um [0:45:34, 0:45:37]: Uh several other issues that have presented themselves to the city. [0:45:38, 0:45:40]: We chip simply choosing to. [0:45:40, 0:45:42]: Uh go into a different direction. [0:45:42, 0:45:43]: At this point [0:45:43, 0:45:45]: The city менеджер [0:45:45, 0:45:48]: Містер найден ви проводити деталь. [0:45:48, 0:45:50]: uh to Mr Williams uh on what [0:45:51, 0:45:53]: Uh and how this will transpire. [0:45:53, 0:46:06]: On this point, uh, we will consult with Mr. Williams for the next 30 days, during at which time uh we will be seeking uh new representation for the city. But we certainly do thank him for his service. Thank you. [0:46:07, 0:46:11]: Um Ms. Gand, go ahead. You were up your hands first. Thank you, Mayor. Um [0:46:12, 0:46:17]: For the record, no one consulted with me. I didn't get a phone call. [0:46:17, 0:46:21]: And in fact, it's been going like that for the past year. [0:46:22, 0:46:24]: Um and [0:46:25, 0:46:27]: Mayor Pro Tem Thomas. [0:46:29, 0:46:34]: You of all people would know that regardless of [0:46:34, 0:46:35]: What [0:46:35, 0:46:41]: side or what vision or what where this mayor and council's going. [0:46:41, 0:46:45]: Especially during appointments or anything of that nature. [0:46:45, 0:46:46]: That we would talk [0:46:47, 0:46:49]: No matter who it was. [0:46:49, 0:47:02]: Whether it was Councilman Alexander or Councilwoman Robinson at the time or whomever the case may be, this mayor and council has completely decided some very important decisions. [0:47:03, 0:47:05]: with a three two vote. [0:47:05, 0:47:12]: What some some of these decisions are completely just, I don't know if it's been thoroughly thought through. [0:47:12, 0:47:15]: and can be a a major liability. [0:47:15, 0:47:16]: to our city. [0:47:17, 0:47:28]: And so I just want everyone to know, including the public, how disappointed I am that my colleagues don't respect us enough to even discuss these very important issues. [0:47:29, 0:47:32]: Because I definitely wouldn't do it to you, Councilwoman Barber. [0:47:33, 0:47:39]: You, Mayor Pro Tem uh Alexander, or you, Councilman? [0:47:39, 0:47:41]: Uh Mayor Pro Tem Thomas. [0:47:42, 0:47:44]: And you Catholman Blount. [0:47:44, 0:48:01]: Not one. And it's and you either, Mayor Ford. So I feel like there's a problem with that. I feel there's a total lack of respect when it comes to those issues, regardless of how you vote. Um, the planning and scheming has got to stop. [0:48:01, 0:48:06]: But this right here, doing this in public the way it's been done tonight, is totally unprofessional. [0:48:08, 0:48:10]: All right. Mayor Councilman Blount, go ahead, please. [0:48:11, 0:48:12]: Yeah, I want to um [0:48:13, 0:48:19]: resonate some of the things that was said. Uh and uh the uh I want the clerk to document that [0:48:20, 0:48:22]: A statement was made that you spoke to colleagues. [0:48:23, 0:48:31]: That statement needs to be made that you didn't speak to John Blount. Councilman Blount did not get a phone call or anything from uh Mr. Elton Alexander. [0:48:32, 0:48:34]: When we sit here on this Zoom call tonight. [0:48:35, 0:48:38]: We sit here and we're straight faced about what we're doing. [0:48:39, 0:48:44]: Because there are predetermined decisions that have been made by three council members. [0:48:45, 0:48:50]: When I said before, we all are elected the elected body by the city of Stockbridge. [0:48:50, 0:48:58]: And go ahead and do your power moves and whatever moves you're going to be making. But I guarantee the city, the citizen's going to see what's going on. [0:48:58, 0:49:05]: When we come in here and get newly elected and we talk about how much we want to be fair, transparent and open, you can throw that on out the window. [0:49:06, 0:49:07]: І це баб пова. [0:49:08, 0:49:10]: And that's all it's been about power. [0:49:11, 0:49:18]: It's not about transparency. It's not about being open. It's not about discussing the city business. It's been about power. [0:49:20, 0:49:22]: And I agree with Councilwoman Gantt. [0:49:23, 0:49:35]: This is not the way that you deal with a personnel uh situation or personnel business out front like this without any discussions behind closed doors. [0:49:36, 0:49:40]: No discussions behind closed doors. The opportunities have been there. [0:49:42, 0:49:50]: But these three, when it comes to Councilwoman Barber, Councilman um uh uh Thomas and Councilman Alexander, there's no discussions. [0:49:50, 0:49:56]: It's about power. It's about having three votes to do whatever they want to do. And that's what's being done. [0:49:57, 0:50:03]: I I this I I do not like what what was done tonight and how it was done. We have never done it this way. [0:50:04, 0:50:08]: It we have never done it this way. So when they come to you all as citizens. [0:50:09, 0:50:16]: And say they talk about transparency and moving the city together and everybody, and we're better together, we're working together, and all this. I have fight for this city. [0:50:16, 0:50:21]: They called me the bail man. I was all over the city fighting for the city of Stockbridge. [0:50:22, 0:50:37]: But I fought to say we are better together. But what you've seen on this council so far is just power moves from three council members when we always elected to do the duties in the business of the city of Stockbridge. This is not how business is done. [0:50:37, 0:50:42]: Every I can't tell you how many times we've got on a Zoom call. [0:50:43, 0:50:51]: And you talked about things of the city manager that he doesn't know, nor the mayor. There's no respect for anyone other than the power to do. [0:50:52, 0:50:57]: And that's what you all are doing. You have the power to do, and that's all you're doing. [0:50:58, 0:50:59]: And shame on you for it. [0:51:01, 0:51:01]: All right. [0:51:02, 0:51:03]: Casman Alzheimer, go ahead, please. [0:51:04, 0:51:05]: Oh, the question, please. [0:51:05, 0:51:25]: Yeah, what it is uh the the I guess since then you made a statement. So there the the the motion I would imagine would be made in somewhat uh to uh to adopt you well your presentation, I would imagine that's what it would be in this aspect. And uh but it was not uh I didn't sit here a second at this point. I didn't ask for a second. So is there a second to [0:51:25, 0:51:28]: your statement here in a form of emotion. [0:51:29, 0:51:44]: Okay. Ms. Barber, second that. Okay. I would imagine I'll ask the question. Are there any other uh discussions on this? If not, I'll okay. Discussion? Uh comments. Go ahead, sir. [0:51:45, 0:51:47]: Well let me say this. Um [0:51:48, 0:51:50]: I've been on this council for a while. [0:51:51, 0:51:53]: I've had a relationship with [0:51:53, 0:51:55]: Everyone on this council. [0:51:56, 0:51:59]: Uh Mrs. Barber's been here since January. [0:52:00, 0:52:03]: Uh I'm going to take some issues with [0:52:03, 0:52:07]: The way things transpire on this council. [0:52:08, 0:52:09]: Over years. [0:52:09, 0:52:11]: Uh I'm not gonna call anyone out. [0:52:12, 0:52:14]: Um about [0:52:15, 0:52:21]: discussions and I think everyone knows that um I've been involved with discussions. [0:52:21, 0:52:25]: on all of the business. Now the only thing that I will agree upon [0:52:25, 0:52:27]: Um this tonight. [0:52:28, 0:52:29]: Um [0:52:30, 0:52:32]: It may be a little different. Um [0:52:33, 0:52:34]: But one thing I can say. [0:52:35, 0:52:39]: Everyone has an opportunity to to voice their opinion. [0:52:39, 0:52:43]: Everyone has an opportunity to raise their hand and vote. [0:52:43, 0:52:46]: Whether you do it in executive session. [0:52:46, 0:52:50]: or whether you do it on the diet. Now is my understanding [0:52:50, 0:52:53]: That you can make this decision. [0:52:53, 0:52:55]: Uh from the diet. [0:52:55, 0:52:57]: But the point I'm trying to make is [0:52:58, 0:53:01]: Uh and and and individuals know this too. [0:53:01, 0:53:04]: That I've been involved in some conversations. [0:53:04, 0:53:06]: With everyone on this council. [0:53:07, 0:53:09]: And and things has not always [0:53:10, 0:53:11]: Gone. [0:53:11, 0:53:15]: In the direction that some members are trying to say that they have gone. [0:53:16, 0:53:17]: Um [0:53:17, 0:53:19]: Three two votes. [0:53:19, 0:53:20]: Are not new. [0:53:21, 0:53:23]: Uh, you can go back. [0:53:23, 0:53:28]: And you could watch any meetings going back the last four, five, six, seven years. [0:53:29, 0:53:31]: And and and for the most part. [0:53:31, 0:53:33]: You're gonna see a three-two vote. [0:53:34, 0:53:37]: So I I I take issues with [0:53:37, 0:53:40]: The three two vote concept. [0:53:40, 0:53:43]: Because I know that there has been [0:53:43, 0:53:45]: Uh discussions. [0:53:46, 0:53:46]: Um [0:53:48, 0:53:49]: Offline. [0:53:50, 0:53:52]: And I know decisions have been made. [0:53:52, 0:53:53]: Offline. [0:53:54, 0:53:55]: So um [0:53:56, 0:54:00]: I don't agree with that totally. The the only thing that I I saw to feel is that [0:54:00, 0:54:01]: Tonight [0:54:02, 0:54:04]: Tonight this one and only time. [0:54:05, 0:54:08]: This decision tonight about the city attorney. [0:54:08, 0:54:21]: It may have been different, but it's my understanding that these decisions can be made uh from the dais. But again, I I take exception to the three, two. [0:54:21, 0:54:24]: Uh vote because I know better. [0:54:25, 0:54:26]: Thank you. [0:54:26, 0:54:46]: All right, I'll tell you what, thank you, Mayor. Well, actually, Councilman uh Thomas now, so I gotta get used to that, I guess, in a sense. All right, I'll tell you what, uh, we don't want to make this long drawn out. Everybody's spoken at least once. Uh so I would imagine the motion has been made and it's been seconded. Now I would ask Councilman Barber if you everybody spoke but you. I don't know if you want to say something now or not. [0:54:46, 0:54:48]: not and if you don't we'll we'll move on. [0:54:51, 0:54:52]: Very brief. [0:54:52, 0:54:54]: Um for me. [0:54:55, 0:54:59]: My decisions are based on [0:54:59, 0:55:00]: Thanks. [0:55:01, 0:55:02]: And [0:55:02, 0:55:05]: The information as I know them to be. [0:55:05, 0:55:09]: I always want to stick with. [0:55:09, 0:55:11]: The issues on the agenda. [0:55:12, 0:55:13]: Um [0:55:13, 0:55:15]: This is nothing personal. [0:55:15, 0:55:16]: For mi. [0:55:17, 0:55:19]: This three two vote концепт. [0:55:19, 0:55:20]: I've watched it. [0:55:21, 0:55:24]: For a number of years prior to me coming on council. [0:55:25, 0:55:26]: It's not about a power move. [0:55:27, 0:55:28]: It's about doing what? [0:55:28, 0:55:31]: I feel is the best thing to do. [0:55:31, 0:55:32]: Um [0:55:32, 0:55:38]: regardless of what the issue or the item is. So that's all. I'll leave it at that. [0:55:38, 0:55:38]: Right. [0:55:39, 0:55:45]: Everybody's spoken. So let's let's move on. Motion is made to miss seconds. All in favor of the motion, please indicate. [0:55:46, 0:55:49]: One, two, three, all pose. [0:55:50, 0:55:51]: Sustain. [0:55:53, 0:56:07]: Okay, so it's three one one. And what I understand from the motion, Mr. Uh Knighton, uh that that involves you in having further discussion with Mr. Williams in reference to what was uh presented. It's my understanding. Is that correct? [0:56:09, 0:56:18]: Mr. Knighton? Is that c is that do I under that's that's under that's what I understand per councilman or being approached in Al Alexander's uh comment. [0:56:19, 0:56:20]: Okay. [0:56:21, 0:56:30]: Um all right. I don't know if I uh I guess I should uh ask. I don't know if uh Mr. Williams, do you have anything you need to say, sir? [0:56:30, 0:56:41]: Uh yes, sir. Um very brief. Um it's been my honor to serve the city for seven years. Um, I believe I've served diligently and faithfully. [0:56:42, 0:56:48]: Um, I believe Stockbridge is a wonderful place. I believe Stockbridge has a an amazing feature and [0:56:49, 0:56:55]: While I would certainly wish this decision to be reconsidered, I understand that, you know, you have your right and [0:56:56, 0:56:58]: You know, my preference has always been [0:56:58, 0:57:00]: to be appointed five zero. [0:57:00, 0:57:03]: Not three, two, or any other and uh [0:57:03, 0:57:06]: I know things have changed and there's a you know [0:57:06, 0:57:08]: You want to go in a new direction and [0:57:08, 0:57:13]: And I respect that and uh you know I certainly wish Doc Rich the best. I will work [0:57:14, 0:57:17]: faithfully with the city manager for a smooth transition. [0:57:17, 0:57:20]: Um, but I'm always here, should you change your mind? [0:57:20, 0:57:23]: And thank you very much for this opportunity to serve. [0:57:24, 0:57:26]: All right. Thank you, sir, for your comments. We appreciate it. [0:57:27, 0:57:40]: Okay. Thank you very much. On that note, uh I'll um uh um move on with the upcoming announcements. First of all, obviously the city uh offices are all closed due to COVID-19 precautions and um [0:57:41, 0:58:01]: City Council meeting is always of course 6 p.m. like we have tonight, second Monday of each month. The uh Main Street Advisory Board meeting is 9 a.m. by Zoom on the second Friday of each month. The downtown November Authority is 6 p.m. by Zoom on third Tuesday of each month. The youth uh council advisory meeting is [0:58:01, 0:58:07]: Is uh the third Tuesday of East Month. Uh council meeting is 630 by Zoom at third Tuesday of each month. [0:58:07, 0:58:27]: Planning commission meeting is 6:30 by Zoom, a fourth Thursday of each month. And our council work session and public hearing uh is always the last Tuesday each month, unless otherwise noted. And uh we have a public hearing on uh January 26th, 6 p.m. Council consideration to approve. [0:58:27, 0:58:33]: The adoption of the 2020 to 2025 short-term work program capital improvement element. [0:58:34, 0:58:37]: And uh council initiatives that are upcoming. [0:58:37, 0:58:41]: Is Council Councilman Alexander? Well excuse me, Mayor Pro Tem Alexander now. [0:58:41, 0:58:46]: For the annual King Holiday Service Day project taking place January sixteenth. [0:58:46, 0:58:47]: Twenty twenty one. [0:58:48, 0:58:52]: A day of service on a Saturday prior to Martin Luther King Junior's holiday at ten AM to noon. [0:58:53, 0:59:02]: And plan to meet the city hall and c and uh c or contact says Zenovia Peterson, which is well, she has a phone number here, four oh four five six five fifty one oh nine. [0:59:02, 0:59:13]: And uh of course we're closed uh city hall and all the buildings are closed on holiday. Uh there is one other thing I I don't know why I forgot to mention this early. Once again, I'll blame it on my gray hair, right? [0:59:14, 0:59:16]: last Wednesday. [0:59:17, 0:59:22]: We had an assault on our Capitol building in DC, as you well know. [0:59:23, 0:59:41]: And uh pretty appalling in this aspect. And um it's a it's a shame that you would think that even even us as we are citizens, all citizens here of the of not only the city of Stockbridge in a sense, or citizens of the state, let's say that'cause some of us don't live in Stockbridge outside the council, that is, but [0:59:42, 0:59:46]: Um the assault, of course, as you well know, wasn't from a foreign terrorist. [0:59:47, 0:59:50]: These are domestic by US citizens themselves. [0:59:50, 0:59:53]: And so it's unfortunate that it happened. [0:59:53, 0:59:58]: And obviously assault on our capital like this hasn't happened since the [0:59:58, 1:00:01]: War of eighteen twelve, well over two hundred years ago. [1:00:02, 1:00:07]: Now and I surely hope and pray that between now, today's date and the [1:00:08, 1:00:24]: and the actual uh inauguration of uh President Joe Biden and his Vice President Kamala Harris, that we don't have any more assaults like this. If there's any type of protest, hopefully it's being peaceful protest and not any violent protests. [1:00:24, 1:00:37]: And actually, if we if we look to the good Lord uh and we think about Martin Luther King Jr. in reference to nonviolence uh in this aspect, that's what we should do. So hopefully that will occur that if there are any protests or uh [1:00:37, 1:00:40]: In this aspect that it'd be peaceful and not violent. [1:00:40, 1:00:42]: But I also heard on CNN. [1:00:42, 1:00:44]: Earlier tonight before this meeting. [1:00:44, 1:01:01]: that the FBI has been notified or notified all the state capitals and across the entire country, all 50 states, that there are pretty much threats against some type of violent action happening in each one of our capitals, in each one of the states here, sometime between now and the inauguration. [1:01:01, 1:01:17]: Which is a shame. And I heard it hope that doesn't happen. And I'm pretty sure that the rest of the council and and you all that are listening hope that something like this doesn't happen either. Um it's it's not good. It's not good for our democracy, but we're gonna survive this, just like we're gonna survive this pandemic. [1:01:17, 1:01:37]: So I I just uh I thought about that and I just want to mention that this aspect that uh keep everybody in prayer, be safe, and hope for God that uh things don't get out of hand and be extremely careful when moving about when you're outside in the community and uh this you know. [1:01:37, 1:01:42]: Well be careful. We don't need to have an internal civil war in our country. [1:01:43, 1:01:45]: We just it's not needed. [1:01:45, 1:01:52]: So I don't know what else to say, but uh keep the faith and pray about this and be vigilant. [1:01:53, 1:02:07]: On that note, I I I got an indication earlier that we don't have an executive session that is planned. Uh the I if the council wants to, I believe uh if there's probably some litigation or some things that we probably uh well wait a minute. Uh [1:02:07, 1:02:10]: Did we yeah, Mr. Allison? Go ahead, please. I'm sorry. [1:02:11, 1:02:12]: Have you unmuted, sir? [1:02:13, 1:02:18]: I make a motion that uh we do not have an executive session tonight and that we end the meeting. [1:02:19, 1:02:21]: Or is there a second to that motion? [1:02:22, 1:02:23]: I see okay. [1:02:23, 1:02:26]: Is there okay? All in favor of the motion, please indicate. [1:02:28, 1:02:30]: Okay, all poles. [1:02:32, 1:02:40]: Okay, it's three two the motion passed. On that note, I need a motion to adjourn our meeting. So moved. Is there a second? [1:02:41, 1:02:44]: Mayor Portem seconds that all in favor of the motion, please indicate. [1:02:47, 1:02:54]: It's a unanimous decision. God bless y'all. Be safe. All right. Now see y'all later. Take care of yourself. [1:02:55, 1:02:56]: Good night.