2021-01-26 · City Council · Transcript · Work Session Meeting Via Zoom

--- title: January 26 2021 Work Session Meeting Via Zoom date: 2021-01-26 source: 2021-01-26_January_26_2021_Work_Session_Meeting_Via_Zoom.wav --- [0:00:00, 0:00:04]: So I like to we have a quorum, so I'd like to get the m uh meeting started. [0:00:04, 0:00:10]: And uh on that note, this is our council work session, Tuesday, um July 26th. [0:00:11, 0:00:13]: I'd like to call the meeting to order. [0:00:13, 0:00:16]: And um councilman uh [0:00:17, 0:00:19]: Alfonso Thomas, could you please give an invocation, sir? [0:00:20, 0:00:21]: Thank you, Mayor. [0:00:22, 0:00:23]: Let us pray. [0:00:25, 0:00:29]: Oh Heavenly Father, we thank you once again. [0:00:30, 0:00:31]: For this day. [0:00:32, 0:00:36]: And the many blessings you bestow upon us each and every day. [0:00:38, 0:00:42]: We ask you to lift up all those [0:00:42, 0:00:45]: who are facing various illnesses. [0:00:46, 0:00:47]: Give them the hope. [0:00:49, 0:00:50]: Encourage [0:00:51, 0:00:52]: They need today. [0:00:52, 0:00:53]: And every day. [0:00:56, 0:00:57]: Comfort their pain. [0:00:58, 0:01:00]: Calm their fears. [0:01:01, 0:01:03]: And surround them with your peace. [0:01:05, 0:01:08]: Father, may the Holy Spirit guide. [0:01:08, 0:01:10]: and strengthen this council. [0:01:11, 0:01:13]: To make sound decisions. [0:01:14, 0:01:17]: That affect all citizens of Stockbridge. [0:01:19, 0:01:23]: Provide this council with all the the tools and resources. [0:01:23, 0:01:25]: To move this great city forward. [0:01:26, 0:01:28]: To be the best. [0:01:29, 0:01:29]: It can be. [0:01:30, 0:01:32]: Фадови с [0:01:32, 0:01:33]: For these blessings. [0:01:34, 0:01:35]: In Jesus' name. [0:01:35, 0:01:37]: Amen. Amen. [0:01:38, 0:01:40]: We please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. [0:01:43, 0:01:55]: I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for what it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. [0:01:57, 0:01:59]: Madam Clark, roll call, please. [0:02:09, 0:02:10]: Mayor Ford. [0:02:10, 0:02:11]: Present. [0:02:13, 0:02:13]: May approach. [0:02:14, 0:02:16]: Protem Alexander. [0:02:16, 0:02:17]: President. [0:02:21, 0:02:22]: Cancel. [0:02:22, 0:02:23]: So one and barber. [0:02:24, 0:02:25]: Present. [0:02:29, 0:02:30]: Councilman Blount. [0:02:38, 0:02:41]: Council Member Blount, are you able to respond? [0:02:44, 0:02:45]: Present. [0:02:47, 0:02:49]: Yes. Um councilwoman Gantt. [0:02:53, 0:02:55]: All right, let the record reflect Councilwoman Gantt is not in attendance. [0:02:56, 0:02:58]: And Councilman Thomas. [0:02:59, 0:02:59]: Rose it. [0:03:01, 0:03:03]: Thank you, Mayor Ford. You have a quorum. [0:03:04, 0:03:05]: Thank you. Appreciate it. [0:03:06, 0:03:08]: Council, I need a motion to adopt the agenda, please. [0:03:09, 0:03:10]: Uh Mayor. [0:03:10, 0:03:11]: Yes, sir. [0:03:11, 0:03:16]: Okay, I'd like to amend the agenda, uh like to add um [0:03:16, 0:03:18]: A ceremonial piece up front. [0:03:19, 0:03:23]: uh in order to uh bestow the human trafficking [0:03:24, 0:03:26]: Awareness proclamation to [0:03:26, 0:03:27]: Uh [0:03:27, 0:03:31]: Uh Deborah Abernathy uh Delta Sigma Theta. I'd like that to be the first item. [0:03:31, 0:03:33]: On the agenda. [0:03:33, 0:03:36]: And the last item on the agenda. [0:03:36, 0:03:41]: Would like it to be a memorandum uh or a uh moratorium. [0:03:41, 0:03:44]: on the the leasing that's going on at the Pine View. [0:03:44, 0:03:47]: uh subdivision will attempt to tackle that. [0:03:47, 0:03:49]: uh city wide where a [0:03:49, 0:03:50]: Subdivision. [0:03:50, 0:03:52]: was actually bought out by a [0:03:53, 0:03:55]: investor and now has turned into [0:03:55, 0:03:56]: A rental. [0:03:56, 0:03:57]: Depart a rental. [0:03:57, 0:03:59]: subdivision which is just [0:03:59, 0:04:01]: Outlandish. So I'd like to add those two items. [0:04:02, 0:04:03]: Uh to the agenda. [0:04:04, 0:04:05]: So second to the motion. [0:04:05, 0:04:06]: A second. [0:04:07, 0:04:08]: Okay, all in favor of motion, please indicate. [0:04:10, 0:04:21]: Okay. Four or five. All right. Good deal. Uh on that note, uh you need to review your minutes for the following meetings. December twelfth. Yeah for it. Yes, ma'am. [0:04:24, 0:04:25]: Awesome. [0:04:27, 0:04:31]: I just wanted for the record to note that Councilwoman Gantt has joined the meeting. [0:04:31, 0:04:33]: Welcome, Councilwoman Gantt. [0:04:34, 0:04:34]: Okay. [0:04:35, 0:04:51]: uh review the minutes for the following meetings december twelfth excuse me uh december 14th which is a council meeting december 22nd which is a council work session and we had a special call meeting uh on the 29th of December so those are for you reviewed at our next uh [0:04:51, 0:04:54]: Council meeting will go ahead and approve those particular meetings. [0:04:55, 0:04:59]: And on this note, uh read a proclamation. Now I have to admit the proclamation. [0:04:59, 0:05:02]: typically is is uh differ different than we normally do this in a [0:05:02, 0:05:07]: in a council work session. Our policy has this at our regular council meeting, but we're gonna do this tonight. [0:05:08, 0:05:13]: So council, if we're gonna make this a plan to do this on a continued basis, we need to change the policy. [0:05:13, 0:05:16]: to reflect that. Typically I do this during my remarks at the end. [0:05:17, 0:05:18]: But regardless of that. [0:05:18, 0:05:20]: I'll read this tonight. Okay. [0:05:21, 0:05:26]: And uh Ms. Avermathy Abernathy, uh welcome uh to our council meeting. [0:05:27, 0:05:30]: Proclamation National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. [0:05:31, 0:05:39]: Whereas in 2010, by presidential proclamation, January was declared National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. [0:05:40, 0:05:49]: Whereas these proclamations not only rise to the profile of the issue, they also are also snapshots of global trends and challenges. [0:05:49, 0:05:52]: a significant US anti trafficking policy and achievements. [0:05:53, 0:05:58]: Whereas by some estimates, as many as twenty four point nine million people, adults and children. [0:05:58, 0:06:08]: are trapped in a form of human trafficking around the world, including the United States. Instability caused by natural disasters, conflict, or pandemic [0:06:08, 0:06:28]: Can increase opportunities for traffickers to exploit others. During the COVID-19 pandemic, traffickers are continuing to harm people, finding ways to innovate and even capitalize on the chaos. Whereas the Department of State rises awareness to human trafficking domestically and abroad through U.S. embassies. [0:06:28, 0:06:29]: And consulates. [0:06:30, 0:06:40]: We also celebrate the efforts of anti-trafficking organizations, communities of faith, state and local law enforcement, survivor advocates, businesses, and private citizens all around the world. [0:06:40, 0:06:46]: Do promote this important cause. Everyone can play an a part in ending human trafficking. [0:06:46, 0:07:00]: And whereas every year in January, the city of Stockbridge dedicates the month of January to rising awareness about the different forms of human trafficking, also known as modern slavery, and educating people about this crime and how to spot it. [0:07:00, 0:07:06]: And now therefore I, Anthony S. Ford, by virtue of authority, vested in me as mayor of the city of Stockbridge, Georgia. [0:07:06, 0:07:15]: And on behalf of city council members Elton Alexander, Yolanda Barber, John Blount, Lakeisha Gann, and Fonzo Thomas, to hereby proclaim January twenty twenty-one. [0:07:16, 0:07:35]: To be the National Slavery Human Trafficking Prevention Month in the city of Stockbridge, Georgia. A witness thereof I have hereunto set my hand in the great seal of the city of Stockbridge, Georgia, on its 26th day of January in the year of our Lord 2021, and I signed his proclamation along with our clerk Vanessa Holliday. [0:07:35, 0:07:36]: How standing. [0:07:36, 0:07:38]: Thank you, Miss Abernathie, for being present. [0:07:39, 0:07:43]: Uh by the way, Miss Iron Matthew, you have any comments at all at this time, ma'am. The floor is yours. [0:07:44, 0:08:01]: Yes, good evening, Mayor Ford and Stockbridge Council and staff, everyone who's assembled here. Thank you so much on behalf of the ladies of the Henry County Alumni Chapter Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated under our grand chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated. [0:08:02, 0:08:06]: On behalf of first vice president Daniels, our second vice president. [0:08:06, 0:08:07]: Um, Tow. [0:08:08, 0:08:18]: And the ladies, we thank you so much for recognizing the service and the work that we provide here in the Henry County area, Stockridge area as well. [0:08:19, 0:08:39]: We are an organization of sisterhood scholarship and service, and this piece is the service part. We have held forums on sex trafficking. We have given donations. We've supported other organizations in their efforts in sex trafficking. And we've also put um documents in different areas where young ladies [0:08:39, 0:08:59]: ladies um girls are vulnerable to um this issue that is going on. So that information that had been put in different bathrooms in the airport, bus stations, truck stops, those types of areas where there is a hotline number where they can get help. So we thank you so much. [0:08:59, 0:09:05]: Ford and Council for this recognition of our service that we provide. Thank you so much. [0:09:05, 0:09:17]: You're welcome. You're welcome. And by the way, I've got I have this in my home, so I'm gonna have to work out a process to get this to you. Okay. So so we'll within the next week, several days a week, we'll get somehow get this to you, okay? [0:09:17, 0:09:24]: Yes, thank you so much. We appreciate it. All right, Mayor Pro Tem uh Alexander, since you brought this forward, so you have any remarks at this time? [0:09:27, 0:09:32]: Uh yes, sir. Sorry about that. I was on mute. I'd like to thank uh Henry County Delta Sigma Theta. [0:09:33, 0:09:37]: And president Avernath, they they do such a great job in servicing the community. [0:09:38, 0:09:42]: And yes, I too uh tuned into a lot of the information that they had. [0:09:42, 0:09:48]: uh provided on sex trafficking. They've been in this uh since uh the information came about. [0:09:48, 0:09:55]: And they've actually led and been in the forefront. So everything that we can do in particular into recognizing. [0:09:56, 0:09:58]: Uh sex trafficking, human trafficking. [0:09:58, 0:10:02]: Just accused of k kids not being able to look you into the eye or [0:10:02, 0:10:04]: You know, someone paying too much. [0:10:04, 0:10:05]: You know, watching over a child. [0:10:06, 0:10:10]: Or or some uh or some strange occurred or something just didn't feel right about that. [0:10:11, 0:10:15]: particular instance or that interaction between uh the two individuals. [0:10:16, 0:10:21]: Those things are key because everybody has to have uh a set of eyes. It's all of us. [0:10:21, 0:10:26]: uh in this battle together. So I certainly appreciate Henry County Delta Sigma Theta. [0:10:26, 0:10:28]: And understanding that stop ridge led the way. [0:10:29, 0:10:30]: In twenty sixteen bringing [0:10:30, 0:10:32]: The first human trafficking. [0:10:32, 0:10:35]: Awareness uh proclamation to Henry County. [0:10:35, 0:10:39]: And today it is needed more than ever. So thank you, President Evernet. [0:10:40, 0:10:40]: Thank you much. [0:10:41, 0:10:42]: Right. [0:10:42, 0:10:45]: On that note, we'll move on. Public comments. Um [0:10:46, 0:10:48]: Vanessa, we have any public comments at all. [0:10:48, 0:10:51]: Yes, Mayor, we do have a public comment. [0:10:51, 0:10:53]: Uh the um [0:10:55, 0:11:00]: The individual signed this a concerned resident in the Glen Addy subdivision. [0:11:00, 0:11:20]: Okay, to whom it may concern, in light of the proposed improvements and additions that have been promoted at various points since the cityhood fight, I was wondering where we stood on one of the most pressing issues coming out of the struggle: shoring up the city's boundaries so that the attempts to de-annex [0:11:20, 0:11:22]: Would be a non starter. [0:11:22, 0:11:29]: Another year has passed. We work too hard as citizens to see our efforts go by the wayside. [0:11:30, 0:11:40]: This item should be of utmost importance to you as referenced by our state senator. What progress has been made toward this effort? [0:11:41, 0:11:45]: We have also seen social media posts on the progress of the amphitheater. [0:11:45, 0:11:47]: Typically these types of project [0:11:47, 0:11:50]: projects will have a budgetary concern. [0:11:51, 0:12:02]: And at some point, updates are given as whether the project is on budget, under budget, or over budget because of unforeseen cost. Where do we stand? Citizens want to know. [0:12:03, 0:12:09]: Earlier there was a vote on a mask mandate, which was defeated by a three two vote of the council. [0:12:09, 0:12:23]: What are the protocols that are in place for businesses and parks? On sunny days, Memorial Park's basketball court is full of maskless individuals. As you know, the virus is raging in Henry County. [0:12:23, 0:12:26]: In McDonough, the golds have been removed. [0:12:26, 0:12:35]: In most public parks, do we not care about the health of our citizens in Stockbridge? And again, it is signed that concerned citizens. [0:12:35, 0:12:37]: From the Glen Addy subdivision. [0:12:37, 0:12:39]: There are no further comments, Mayor. [0:12:39, 0:12:42]: Okay. I remember that. I actually responded to that email to that uh [0:12:43, 0:12:44]: That concerns citizen. [0:12:45, 0:12:53]: And I believe someone else also responded to him as well in this aspect. But um okay. Um [0:12:54, 0:13:04]: Well, all those items have been at least with that individual. I I don't know if we need to go in a whole lot of detail on this now uh in reference to this, but um uh [0:13:04, 0:13:14]: Well all those items have been addressed over the past uh months in reference to uh what we do and how we do and we're trying to be very transparent in in all our messages here. [0:13:14, 0:13:18]: That's the last one. I'll I'll stop right there at that point. [0:13:18, 0:13:24]: uh old business, but the old business deals with a council consideration for establishing voting precincts. [0:13:25, 0:13:27]: Uh is it yes, ma'am. [0:13:28, 0:13:35]: Mayor, and unless Mr. Knighton objects, we were going to ask that this item be tabled because the Henry County Elections Director [0:13:36, 0:13:44]: And the polling coordinator were unable to attend tonight. They um had a conflict that came about. So we were going to ask that this item be tabled. [0:13:45, 0:13:51]: All right. So we here do we have any idea when they may very well want to come back and be available to give us a briefing. [0:13:52, 0:13:54]: We would have to coordinate those schedules again. [0:13:55, 0:14:03]: Um, we had it all set for them to attend tonight, but there was something that came up yesterday. We got the email, so we wanna exit that item be tabled. [0:14:04, 0:14:08]: Ms. Kent, Ms. Kent, go ahead, please. Mayor, I move that we m table this item. [0:14:08, 0:14:09]: All right, is there a second? [0:14:10, 0:14:11]: Second. [0:14:11, 0:14:12]: Right. [0:14:12, 0:14:13]: All in favor, please indicate. [0:14:15, 0:14:17]: Thank you very much. Appreciate it. [0:14:18, 0:14:30]: What was next was a public hearing. Um, council consideration to approve the 2020, 2020 to 2025 work term, excuse me, short term work program and capital improvements element. [0:14:31, 0:14:32]: Mr. Knighton, please. [0:14:34, 0:14:39]: Yes, Mayor Ford and Council. This is as you mentioned a public hearing item. [0:14:39, 0:14:51]: uh for the short-term work program and CIE update uh for the city of Stockbridge. This item uh identifies a number of different projects and let me just briefly explain for the viewing audience. [0:14:51, 0:15:00]: Um, comprehensive plans are usually established about every 10 years. Um, the city went through a comprehensive plan, full comprehensive plan process just a few years ago. [0:15:01, 0:15:14]: And in the interim, the state requires that there are certain updates that are provided annually on a regular basis. Um, and this is a part of that the short-term work program CIE update is a part of. [0:15:14, 0:15:18]: that interim update which is required by DCA. [0:15:19, 0:15:22]: If you approve this tonight, it'll be transmitted to the Atlanta Regional Commission. [0:15:22, 0:15:27]: And they will then review and transmit to the Department of Community Affairs at the state level. [0:15:27, 0:15:32]: What this essentially calls for is the identification of various projects. [0:15:33, 0:15:35]: The funding sources that are associated with them. [0:15:36, 0:15:39]: And then the status um of the project. [0:15:39, 0:15:41]: Or of the projects. [0:15:41, 0:15:48]: Um, this you've seen on the last couple of years. And again, as an annual update, it's being brought forward to you. [0:15:49, 0:15:52]: Uh, now for uh your review and approval. [0:15:52, 0:15:54]: It's part of the trans transmission. [0:15:55, 0:15:57]: to ARC and DCA. [0:15:57, 0:16:02]: Um, they will review it. If they sign off on it, they will send it back to us for. [0:16:02, 0:16:04]: An actual adoption. [0:16:05, 0:16:10]: You'll notice a couple of uh items there. And if I can share my screen for just a moment. [0:16:12, 0:16:15]: Mr. Bonds, if you would let me share my screen. [0:16:17, 0:16:19]: Or Mayor Ford, I think you may be the host as well. [0:16:21, 0:16:22]: I just go and hit share screen. [0:16:25, 0:16:26]: Alright, there we go. [0:16:31, 0:16:35]: All right, I'll just uh briefly go over this item. As you can see, you all have this in your packet. [0:16:36, 0:16:51]: But for instance, there are a number of items on here that deal with uh def certain projects that we've been dealing with over the past couple of years. In particular, I'd mentioned the amphitheater, as you can see, in progress under construction, as well as the cultural arts center. [0:16:51, 0:16:53]: Uh there number seven item number seven. [0:16:54, 0:16:59]: Um at 14 million dollars. You'll see that was uh reflective of the previous approval. [0:16:59, 0:17:02]: Uh last month of the city council. [0:17:02, 0:17:07]: about a funding uh mechanism uh by which the uh cultural arts center would be funded. [0:17:08, 0:17:11]: Um and the actual dollar amount uh that was on there. [0:17:12, 0:17:15]: You'll see a number of other items uh that have been [0:17:15, 0:17:17]: In progress over the last [0:17:17, 0:17:20]: couple of years. Again, this is an update. [0:17:20, 0:17:23]: Of those items and um [0:17:23, 0:17:26]: Uh it's something that again is required by DCA. [0:17:26, 0:17:31]: Um we'll transmit this to um the Atlanta Regional Commission if you should approve it. [0:17:32, 0:17:35]: I would mention also that a number of these items are goals. [0:17:36, 0:17:40]: And things that the city hopes to accomplish over a period of time over the life of the comprehensive plan. [0:17:41, 0:17:42]: Um itself. [0:17:43, 0:17:46]: Um and again they are shown as updates. [0:17:46, 0:17:48]: Um every year to be [0:17:49, 0:17:51]: Um Atlanta Regional Commission and DCA. [0:17:54, 0:17:56]: Also, any questions for Mr. Knight at all? [0:17:57, 0:17:59]: Mr Member Protein, go ahead, please. [0:18:00, 0:18:18]: Thank you, sir. Uh Mr. Knight, I always like to take this opportunity to kind of review some of the projects that we're working on so the citizens kind of understand. Of course, we're informing uh the Atlanta Regional Commission because uh the city has a comprehensive plan now and we [0:18:18, 0:18:21]: План десь проєкті сау стратегічли. [0:18:21, 0:18:23]: Could you sort of talk about [0:18:23, 0:18:25]: А номер проєкта. [0:18:25, 0:18:27]: The amphitheater [0:18:27, 0:18:30]: The culture art center, the public works building. [0:18:30, 0:18:34]: All those projects that are key. [0:18:34, 0:18:42]: uh to where we're trying to go to the city. So the city addict actually know that they're coming, including, I guess if you would, uh also the um [0:18:42, 0:18:53]: the uh recreation center that we have uh under design uh as well is in design but it's still a project that we look forward to executing uh uh [0:18:54, 0:19:01]: Sure, I'll briefly go over those. Uh of course I'll start with the amphitheater since it is fully under construction right now, and then anybody who passes by City Hall can see. [0:19:02, 0:19:03]: The great progress that is made. [0:19:04, 0:19:09]: Um and also I would mention that we'll have some updates on the amphitheater at the next meeting. [0:19:09, 0:19:14]: Uh, related to the progress, uh, related to the cost, as someone mentioned earlier in public comment. [0:19:14, 0:19:22]: And related to the overall uh development of the amphitheater itself. Of course, the amphitheater was a part of an LCI Liverpool City's initiative. [0:19:22, 0:19:40]: Uh that was done uh several years ago in the city of Stockbridge. And due to the leadership of our current city council, we've been able to move that project forward and go vertical. It of course will serve as a catalyst to bring people downtown that will assist in revitalizing the downtown, which is part of the city's overall vision. [0:19:40, 0:19:41]: Uh for um [0:19:42, 0:19:43]: The uh the uh [0:19:44, 0:19:44]: B. [0:19:45, 0:19:48]: Development of our downtown core area. [0:19:48, 0:19:55]: And um the cultural arts center is also consistent with that. The cultural arts center location, of course, has been identified. [0:19:56, 0:19:59]: The conceptual plans that are in final stages include [0:19:59, 0:20:01]: A three hundred plus uh seat ballroom. [0:20:02, 0:20:05]: As well as uh over about a three hundred and fifteen seat. [0:20:06, 0:20:16]: theater, as well as other uh meeting rooms and uh museum, uh meeting rooms that would be conducive for ballet, culinary arts, uh, et cetera. [0:20:17, 0:20:23]: Also, uh the city is parking on uh working on its trail plan as well, of course, uh previously the last month. [0:20:24, 0:20:29]: City identified funds uh via Splost Five and and the bonding mechanism. [0:20:29, 0:20:31]: To be able to fund [0:20:31, 0:20:35]: Um all of these projects. And then lastly I would mention the uh [0:20:35, 0:20:36]: The senior and youth center. [0:20:37, 0:20:41]: Uh, that we have in concept stage right now, still working through concept stage. [0:20:42, 0:20:44]: That you the council have seen. [0:20:44, 0:20:58]: Um that calls for um uh a full uh gymnasium, uh basketball court, meeting rooms, uh swimming pool, indoor track, and other amenities that would go along with that, of course. [0:20:58, 0:21:03]: Uh that uh is an item that we'll continue to uh can keep in our [0:21:04, 0:21:11]: our view as we uh complete these other uh projects. And so all of these projects conjoined are intended to [0:21:11, 0:21:17]: Enhance the quality of life of uh Stockbridge uh citizens, residents, and those who visit the city. [0:21:17, 0:21:20]: To assist in economic development opportunities. [0:21:21, 0:21:23]: And to ensure that the city's vision [0:21:23, 0:21:28]: Of being the most progressive and business friendly city in Metro Atlanta. [0:21:28, 0:21:29]: is ultimately meant. [0:21:30, 0:21:33]: Well, if I could follow up with a follow up question, Mayor. [0:21:34, 0:21:34]: Right. [0:21:35, 0:21:38]: In terms of those projects and the planning process. [0:21:38, 0:21:41]: And the city having a overall comprehensive plan. [0:21:42, 0:21:46]: Uh, these things are d they don't just pop up. We have a solid plan. [0:21:46, 0:21:50]: That we're working on that uh we have charted out and that we submit. [0:21:50, 0:21:53]: to the Atlanta regional commission that everybody could take a look at. [0:21:54, 0:21:56]: And the citizens are always concerned about [0:21:57, 0:22:03]: the finances and and how does that look. And it the the the city's in a strong financial position. Is that correct? [0:22:06, 0:22:17]: I'll respond. Yes, the the city is in a very strong financial position. Um, obviously, a fund balance is very strong. As we continue to consider these projects and construct these projects. [0:22:17, 0:22:37]: Of course, there will be always the review by the relevant financial advisors for the council, for the citizens to be able to view, to ensure that we continue to be fiscally sound and how monies are expended, of course, leveraging other sources of revenue such as grant opportunities. [0:22:37, 0:22:39]: But as well as plus five. [0:22:39, 0:22:47]: Um, which was approved by the voters and uh accounts for an estimated twenty point twenty point five million dollars. [0:22:47, 0:22:50]: For the siti of Stockbridge and of course later this year. [0:22:50, 0:22:54]: I santicipated that there will be a T Splost, a transportation splast. [0:22:54, 0:22:57]: It will be on the ballot in November for voters to consider. [0:22:58, 0:22:58]: Thank you, sir. [0:23:00, 0:23:02]: Council, any other questions for Mr. Knight and all? [0:23:03, 0:23:03]: Anybody? [0:23:05, 0:23:08]: All right, seeing none. In that case, this is um [0:23:08, 0:23:09]: Public hearing. [0:23:10, 0:23:12]: So I need to open it up for any public comment. So [0:23:12, 0:23:25]: I like to do that and are the uh anybody that has any any public out there has any comments uh in favor of this work plan, this short term work plan that we're going to send to the DCA. [0:23:26, 0:23:33]: I don't know if whether Vanessa or anybody else can tell me if there's anybody out there that would be four. I have not seen any. [0:23:33, 0:23:38]: Okay, anybody against? Uh I would imagine you probably don't see anybody there either, I'm assuming. [0:23:40, 0:23:49]: Nothing. No, sir. All right. So uh Mr. Williams opened for and against, no comments, so I will close it. [0:23:49, 0:23:50]: Okay. [0:23:50, 0:23:57]: Public hearing is now closed. All right. On that note, council, I need a motion to accept the work plan, please. [0:23:57, 0:24:04]: Okay Councilwoman Grant, thank you. Well you have a comment I move to accept the work plan. [0:24:04, 0:24:05]: Okay, good. Is there a second? [0:24:06, 0:24:07]: That's the point. [0:24:07, 0:24:08]: Also. [0:24:09, 0:24:10]: Mr. Thomas seconds that. [0:24:10, 0:24:11]: Yes. [0:24:11, 0:24:13]: All right. All in favor, please indicate. [0:24:15, 0:24:17]: All right, unanimous. Outstanding. Appreciate that. [0:24:18, 0:24:19]: New business. [0:24:19, 0:24:23]: Council consideration to approve a participation in the gray bar. [0:24:24, 0:24:25]: Was it Omni? [0:24:25, 0:24:27]: uh partners program. [0:24:28, 0:24:32]: Uh was O M I O M N N I A contract. [0:24:32, 0:24:39]: EV two twenty three seventy for installation of a new phone system via spectrum VOIP and amount of uh [0:24:39, 0:24:40]: Two thousand [0:24:41, 0:24:44]: Two hundred seven dollars and thirty seven cents per month. [0:24:44, 0:24:46]: Funding source information technology. [0:24:47, 0:24:49]: And it's presented by Mr. Knighton. [0:24:49, 0:24:51]: And Jonathan Van Horn. [0:24:51, 0:24:55]: In a lower Matwig, Madwig, I guess it is. All right. [0:24:56, 0:25:16]: All right, uh please go ahead. Yes, uh yeah, Mayor, thank you. Um this um item is something we're we're attempting to modernize and and progress in terms of technology or overall phone system for um our various uh staff members and offices, uh a voice operated uh internet system. [0:25:16, 0:25:27]: um that we are bringing forward. Ms. Holliday, myself, um, Mr. Wiggins have kind of worked on this um um item and uh tried to get it to a point where we could bring it to you. [0:25:27, 0:25:30]: Again, it's a matter of modernization and and attempting to [0:25:31, 0:25:34]: Enhanced our overall phone system. [0:25:34, 0:25:39]: Um I will defer to uh Mr. Uh Van Horn and Miss Mathwid. [0:25:39, 0:25:45]: I believe are on here uh to speak to the technical aspects of the overall. [0:25:45, 0:25:49]: uh proposal and how they would um enhance our systems. [0:25:50, 0:26:10]: Thank you very much. We appreciate your time. Um, again, I know you guys got a lot of things on your plate, but thanks for taking the time to hear us out. Um, we would propose a hosted system for the entire city, uh the five buildings that you have there, including the amphitheater. And basically, since it's hosted, everything's on our side. Only thing you guys are going to need are the IP phones. Uh, we'll come in and install everything. [0:26:10, 0:26:28]: course the system support, everything that's necessary will be handled on our end. And then of course, with it being a voice over IP solution, you guys do have the ability to leverage the cloud. And of course allow you guys transfer calls and every functionality you could want from a modern phone system. [0:26:28, 0:26:39]: So I know that uh Randy and Vanessa and and uh the rest of your team, we've been kind of conversing for the last few months and seemed like it's a good fit, but we went to bring it to the board and see what questions you had and see what we can do to. [0:26:40, 0:26:41]: Get our system into your city there. [0:26:43, 0:26:43]: Okay. [0:26:44, 0:26:45]: Um [0:26:45, 0:27:02]: Great. You said five you said five buildings. I'm assuming that obviously if if we want to expand with more buildings, it can easily be accessible to expand to these buildings in the uh in the future. Absolutely, sir. We'd love to hear that. Yes, sir. As you guys grow, we'll grow with you as well. [0:27:02, 0:27:02]: Okay. [0:27:03, 0:27:09]: All right. Let me make make sure. I'm sorry. Okay. Go ahead. Go ahead, Mr. Knight. I'm sorry, Mary. Yeah, I don't I want to make sure though when we talk about [0:27:10, 0:27:17]: The monthly cost, there's also an an overall cost in terms of equipment. So we need to make sure that council understands what that overall cost is going to be. [0:27:18, 0:27:19]: Yeah. [0:27:20, 0:27:21]: I apologize, didn't mean to cut you off there, Mayor. [0:27:21, 0:27:37]: I was saying but then what is that overall uh overall cost? Great question. Uh that$2,000 on a monthly basis includes all of your expenses. Uh that is for the system support installation, unlimited training, all of the equipment itself. Uh it's all embodied into that monthly recurring charge. [0:27:39, 0:27:39]: Okay. [0:27:40, 0:27:40]: All right. [0:27:41, 0:27:43]: Counsel, any questions you may have? [0:27:43, 0:27:44]: For Mr. Van Horn. [0:27:44, 0:27:46]: Uh Map Pro Tem, go ahead, please. [0:27:46, 0:27:55]: Uh yes, sir. Uh talk about uh the system that you're installing and the advancements versus uh the the system that you're replacing. [0:27:56, 0:28:16]: Great question. Um, so with us, it is fully hosted. So again, nothing's on your side but the phones. But every functionality comes at no additional cost. I'm sure you guys have probably seen many phone systems, and as they may give you a standard setup as your needs change, the price changes. With us, it's all included. Um, so you know, of course, the ability to transfer costs. [0:28:16, 0:28:29]: calls, monitor calls, record conversations. Everyone has their own voicemail. Everyone has their own two to six digit extension for transferring throughout the city there. Of course we have mobile [0:28:30, 0:28:40]: So everyone can download the app, calls from the app, it'll mask your cell phone number. It looks like you're calling right from the office, send and receive text messages. You can have a soft phone right on your desktop or your laptop. They're about [0:28:40, 0:28:48]: About a hundred different features that come at no additional cost. And not to say you'll use them all, but as your needs change, we'll change with you without that price changing as well. [0:28:49, 0:28:51]: Okay, so when Steph is working off site. [0:28:52, 0:28:55]: Or what have you, those phone calls will we will be able to roll over. [0:28:56, 0:29:00]: uh to them and they will be able to operate, especially in this covet environment. [0:29:00, 0:29:01]: As if they're in the office. [0:29:02, 0:29:22]: Yes, sir. You need to join our team because that's exactly what we sell on. Um, the fact that right now no one can be in the office, obviously, you guys have an important job to do and you're all meeting here. You guys have the ability to take our phones anywhere. Take it to your house, plug it into your home internet, I call it your office, it'll ring your house. Just like you're in now in the building, transfer calls from one place to the next. Uh Laura and I, we're on the exact same system. [0:29:22, 0:29:30]: She's in Texas. She could hit my extension, my poner ring, just like I'm sitting right next to her. Every one of these functionalities are things you guys can take advantage of as well. [0:29:31, 0:29:38]: Okay. And uh Mr. Knight, maybe you can answer this question. So uh in terms of us moving forward with the amphitheater. [0:29:39, 0:29:43]: And the YMAX and uh uh being available and that type of thing. [0:29:43, 0:29:45]: Does this involve that or no? [0:29:45, 0:29:52]: No, I don't think this involves that. We've had conversations with our internet or our IT provider, Interdev, I'm sorry. [0:29:52, 0:29:56]: About those aspects of the amphitheater. [0:29:57, 0:30:02]: This would this would essentially strictly be dealing with the phone systems, if I understand your correct question correctly. [0:30:03, 0:30:04]: Yes, that's it. Uh huh. [0:30:05, 0:30:05]: Thank you. [0:30:06, 0:30:07]: Ms. Gantt, go ahead, please. [0:30:08, 0:30:09]: Thank you. [0:30:09, 0:30:17]: Um, Mr. Knighton, have we had some issues with our phone system? I'm trying to figure out is this a uh is this cost efficient? [0:30:17, 0:30:18]: What [0:30:18, 0:30:32]: Why today? What what's going on? I haven't received any notice about it. So I just want to know get a heads up on Sure. Sure. Our phone system has been in the current phone system and some one of the other staff members can help me, but certainly since I've been there and I believe beyond that. [0:30:33, 0:30:39]: Uh before that. So it's been in several years, the current system that we have or phone apparatus that we have. [0:30:40, 0:30:46]: And this would allow us to move to a more modernized system with the additional features that Mr. Van Horn. [0:30:46, 0:30:47]: had mentioned before. [0:30:48, 0:30:52]: Um, we do think it will be uh cost efficient. I mean, obviously we we [0:30:52, 0:30:57]: Account for that in our current budget. And John, if John may be able to speak to it more specifically. [0:30:58, 0:31:01]: in terms of the overall cost as related to our our current budget. [0:31:02, 0:31:04]: But we would see this as um a [0:31:06, 0:31:20]: uh enhancement to what we're doing now and a modernization of our our um existing phone system and allow us to grow as Mr. Van Horn said, we'll be able to grow the system as the staff needs grow and also [0:31:20, 0:31:23]: with the amphitheater at well as well in that system. [0:31:24, 0:31:31]: And so um this we think is a more cost efficient way to go than continuing with the current systems that we currently have. [0:31:33, 0:31:40]: All right. And Mr. Wiggins, then can you give us the budget? Is it within our budget that we already have set or what's the difference? [0:31:41, 0:31:43]: It is within our budget right now. [0:31:44, 0:31:49]: We pay we pay three vendors. We pay Airspring about fifty seven thousand dollars. [0:31:50, 0:32:02]: a year. Uh that is for our long distance calling. We pay Milner our support service maintenance for about 5,000, about 5200 [0:32:02, 0:32:03]: A year. [0:32:04, 0:32:07]: And then the last thing we pay ATT. [0:32:07, 0:32:14]: Club service for all the lines. I think back in two thousand thirteen, two thousand twelve, two thousand thirteen. [0:32:15, 0:32:21]: We paid for the phones that we have on our desk right now. They're basic right now obsolete. [0:32:22, 0:32:42]: Uh I think with this system here, by going to the cloud, we will be getting new phones. We will be able to uh got a lot of amenities that comes with it. Um I think Mr. Horn, you know, he can probably explain more about uh we'll be able to have meetings like this on a regular basis. [0:32:42, 0:32:42]: Yeah. [0:32:43, 0:32:45]: You know, it enhances um [0:32:45, 0:32:50]: uh Zoom meeting capability. We also it would help with that facts because we pay [0:32:51, 0:32:54]: We pay about hundred seventy two dollars. [0:32:54, 0:32:58]: monthly for fast and that this right here will take care of that. [0:32:58, 0:33:11]: So um we have a number of things that once this system is in place, everything's going into the cloud, we will get with our IT department and see how we can uh reduce some of the other costs that we are. [0:33:11, 0:33:24]: occurring uh you know occurring um uh monthly because thirty one thousand plus fifty seven thousand plus fifty two hundred, you know, we you know we get this system and we can save us some money. [0:33:25, 0:33:25]: So [0:33:27, 0:33:28]: Thank you so much. [0:33:28, 0:33:29]: Mm-hmm. [0:33:30, 0:33:32]: All right, council. Any other questions? Uh Miss Barber, go ahead, please. [0:33:35, 0:33:38]: Wanted to ask. Um so [0:33:39, 0:33:43]: This requires us to enter into an agreement. [0:33:44, 0:33:45]: With this company? [0:33:47, 0:33:49]: Do you have to sign a contract with them? [0:33:51, 0:34:11]: Mr. Mayor, uh yes, it's the this proposal came unsolicited, um, but but it's proposed that the we use a uh cooperative agreement uh uh through their uh partner organization, Gray Bar. Um they have a cooperative agreement that originated out of Kansas City. [0:34:11, 0:34:19]: And so it's proposed that that be the a the vehicle uh through which we procure these phones. [0:34:19, 0:34:21]: Okay, I understand that. [0:34:21, 0:34:23]: Um so with the [0:34:23, 0:34:27]: Other phones that are net will will be obsolete. [0:34:28, 0:34:33]: Are we able to get credit for those? I mean, what's gonna happen to those phones? [0:34:36, 0:34:39]: I'm not sure about getting credit, but I know what what we [0:34:39, 0:34:39]: Mm. [0:34:40, 0:34:55]: We'll um inventory them and then they'll probably be added to the Gov Deal uh list and see if we can put it out there and see if we can get something back on um uh through Gov Deal. But as far as getting a credit um for those phones. [0:34:55, 0:35:01]: Uh I think Mr Horn then we'll probably have to take a look at him. I I don't I I I'm I'm not sure about it as far as the credit. [0:35:02, 0:35:22]: Well, great question. Um, so I know we don't have any kind of platform to take your your your older equipment, but a part of our services would bring in the brand new phones at no additional cost. Now again, I know you maybe have a few different avenues that maybe you could uh do something with those phones there. We wouldn't have a market for them, um, but it would still reduce your monthly cost and increase your [0:35:22, 0:35:26]: functionalities, brand new phones for everyone that we come in and install. [0:35:26, 0:35:27]: Pre charge. [0:35:27, 0:35:29]: Okay, thank you. [0:35:30, 0:35:32]: Anybody else? [0:35:32, 0:35:33]: And Miss Scant, go ahead, please. [0:35:34, 0:35:37]: Mayor, I would just like to make a motion that we approve this. [0:35:38, 0:35:41]: Um, it's been stated that it's cost efficient. It'll bring us up to date. [0:35:42, 0:35:49]: Um, that our phones are now obsolete and that we are actually within budget. Sounds like a plan. [0:35:50, 0:35:52]: All right. Is there that's a motion, is there a second? [0:35:54, 0:35:57]: Miss Barber seconds that motion. Any further discussion? [0:35:58, 0:36:00]: If not all in favor, please indicate. [0:36:01, 0:36:15]: Unanimous decision. Um, I just want to ask uh Laura, did you have anything you wanted to add? We've all we just voted at, but I didn't you didn't say anything. I didn't know if you needed I was just here to support Jay in this whole conversation in case there was any questions that I needed to answer, but [0:36:15, 0:36:21]: Everything everything and we provide all documentation for you guys earlier and had a call, so I think we're good to go. [0:36:22, 0:36:27]: Appreciate it. You're in Texas. So out of curiosity, Jay, where are you located? I am in Lilburn, Georgia. [0:36:28, 0:36:37]: Okay. Good deal. All right. Fantastic. Well, you're welcome to stay as long as you like. We're gonna move on to our next thing. Okay. Next thank you for having us. Thank you. Thank you so much, guys. Okay. [0:36:38, 0:36:48]: Uh council consideration to approve Falcon Design Consultants Task Order Number 2021.01 to review the amphitheater master plan. [0:36:49, 0:36:52]: For rye sharing area in amount of uh fifteen hundred dollars. [0:36:53, 0:36:56]: A funding source amphitheater project. Mr. Knighton, please. [0:36:57, 0:37:03]: Uh yes, Mr. Ford. I I simply mentioned uh we had some mode of a discussion about this at a previous meeting. [0:37:04, 0:37:07]: Related to a ride sharing location for [0:37:07, 0:37:12]: The amphitheater project and as well. [0:37:12, 0:37:16]: And the task order, um, while it is within my authority to approve. [0:37:17, 0:37:27]: Wanted to bring it back uh to you just as a matter of information and discussion of the overall empathy of the project. What we're attempting to do here um and I think [0:37:27, 0:37:28]: Um [0:37:28, 0:37:29]: Uh [0:37:30, 0:37:40]: Uh Councilman Tom Thomas had also uh mentioned this uh previously as well. And that's what generated, I believe, the discussion. And so had further discussions with Falcon Design. [0:37:40, 0:37:47]: And um uh discussed uh the prospect of them reviewing all of the amphitheater plans, the [0:37:48, 0:38:07]: Amphitheater proper itself, the vertical construction area, the parking areas, the road improvement areas for Lee Street and also East Atlanta. Look at the entire campus to determine the most appropriate location for a ride-sharing location for the amphitheater. Obviously, for the 3200 plus seat amphitheater project. [0:38:08, 0:38:12]: Um, there will be a number of people who will be visiting the location on a regular basis. [0:38:13, 0:38:17]: And so uh in this day and age, as you know, uh people [0:38:17, 0:38:21]: I tend to use ride sharing via via various forms. [0:38:21, 0:38:24]: To be able to access their entertainment venues. [0:38:25, 0:38:33]: And so in order to reduce the amount of parking, reduce the congestion, all of those things, we wanted to and for the customer service experience. [0:38:33, 0:38:38]: Wanted to be able to uh provide a rideshare location that's appropriate on the amphitheater. [0:38:38, 0:38:46]: uh campus itself. This would allow faculty design. They would go through the all of the plans, as I said, the parking areas, the the the roadway. [0:38:46, 0:38:51]: uh improvements as well, determine the uh best location for uh the ride share. [0:38:51, 0:38:52]: Um [0:38:52, 0:38:52]: Uh [0:38:52, 0:38:54]: venue to take place. [0:38:55, 0:38:58]: Okay. Um uh Thomas, can I say? [0:38:58, 0:38:59]: Thank you. [0:39:00, 0:39:07]: Mr. Nine, I'd like to just thank you for honoring my request to bring this back um for the council. [0:39:07, 0:39:12]: um to add the ride sharing to the uh amphitheater master plan. [0:39:13, 0:39:16]: Uh as you mentioned earlier, you know, this amenity [0:39:16, 0:39:19]: uh to the landscape is is forward thinking. [0:39:20, 0:39:24]: Um, we know that parking and traffic is going to be an issue. [0:39:24, 0:39:26]: And um [0:39:26, 0:39:33]: I I think this give patrons uh an alternate uh means of um enjoying. [0:39:33, 0:39:35]: What we have to offer. [0:39:35, 0:39:39]: Um and I would just say that citizens that that may live one [0:39:40, 0:39:41]: То три майз авиа. [0:39:42, 0:39:45]: uh may not just want to drive anyway. [0:39:46, 0:39:55]: And so um Uber, Lyft, and other means of transportation will probably be, you know, their means of of traveling. [0:39:55, 0:39:58]: And let me just add, um [0:39:59, 0:40:04]: I've gotten into the new uh federal administration. [0:40:05, 0:40:06]: uh climate [0:40:07, 0:40:08]: Um [0:40:09, 0:40:10]: Environmental issue. [0:40:11, 0:40:13]: And something that they are proposing. [0:40:14, 0:40:17]: Ізлиминет [0:40:17, 0:40:19]: Uh combustion [0:40:20, 0:40:22]: Вігаколс а [0:40:22, 0:40:25]: And you know, going toward uh twenty thirty. [0:40:26, 0:40:29]: Um GM Ford [0:40:29, 0:40:31]: Um, all of the labor unions. [0:40:32, 0:40:33]: Everyone is involved. [0:40:34, 0:40:36]: I I don't know um [0:40:36, 0:40:39]: If it's going to be fulfilled, but i if it does [0:40:40, 0:40:47]: Um, you know, I'm I'm a little concerned about the environment, you know, the the greenhouse gases and all that kind of thing. So [0:40:47, 0:41:06]: You know, this whole thing of getting cars um, you know, off the street, I think this plays into it. And I just want to just add that caveat to it. Um, you know, we just need to be a little conscious of um, you know, getting some of these cars off the road. And I think this is going to just in the immediate future. [0:41:06, 0:41:09]: I I think this is going to lend itself to that. [0:41:09, 0:41:11]: We know that traffic. [0:41:12, 0:41:12]: Parking. [0:41:13, 0:41:18]: it's gonna be a problem. So if we can add this amenity to this, I think it's gonna help that. [0:41:18, 0:41:23]: So again, Mr. Knight, I just want to thank you for for bringing that. And I know it probably other discussion. [0:41:23, 0:41:26]: But I will go forward in uh motion. [0:41:27, 0:41:38]: uh to for council to direct the city manager to to move forward with this under his authority, under his financial authority uh to move forward with this. [0:41:39, 0:41:40]: Second. [0:41:40, 0:41:41]: Hi. [0:41:41, 0:41:45]: Mr. Alexander, mayor pretend Alexander second that. Any further discussion? [0:41:46, 0:41:46]: Yeah, uh I do. [0:41:47, 0:41:48]: Okay, we're right here, please. [0:41:48, 0:41:51]: I I'd just like to compliment uh councilman Thomas. [0:41:51, 0:41:54]: You know, this is what makes a great team. [0:41:54, 0:41:57]: When you have people that bring something to the table. [0:41:58, 0:42:00]: You know, since I've been serving with him. [0:42:01, 0:42:11]: I have such a such a great respect for him because he he brings something valuable to the table in almost every conversation that we have. [0:42:11, 0:42:21]: And it's so important that when you're occupying this seat, that you bring something forward and that you bring something meaningful to the city that you represent. [0:42:21, 0:42:26]: So when when when when when project big projects like this take place [0:42:26, 0:42:33]: You need everybody thinking about what's going on. And as Mr. Knighton said, this is a forward thinking project. [0:42:33, 0:42:49]: What a missed opportunity this would have been had we not included Rod Sharon. So I I I salute him for bringing this to the table. And this is the kind of leadership that you need where people bring a lunch pail to the um [0:42:50, 0:42:51]: to the table every time. [0:42:52, 0:42:54]: And that they bring something concrete. [0:42:54, 0:42:58]: that our citizens can look forward to in the future. So thank you, sir. [0:42:59, 0:43:01]: All right, thank you. Mr. Bellot, please go ahead. [0:43:02, 0:43:05]: Yeah, I guess my question for Mr. Knight, Mr. Knight, do we have an update [0:43:06, 0:43:11]: As of yet are the expenses of the amphitheater and what the what would be the additional cost for the rap share. [0:43:13, 0:43:25]: Sure. I'd I answer the second question first. Um obviously we need to identify the location of rides here, so I couldn't tell you what that would be. I would not think that that would be an exorbitant cost because it would be a part of the existing footprint. [0:43:25, 0:43:30]: maybe even part of the parking area existing asphalt there. So I wouldn't think that would be a major cost. [0:43:30, 0:43:36]: To to your first question, major question with respect to updated amphitheater next week, or I'm sorry, next meeting. [0:43:37, 0:43:43]: On February eighth, as I've I've mentioned previously, we will have a full update on the amphitheater, including [0:43:43, 0:43:47]: uh some additional costs uh that we've identified to ensure the project stays on [0:43:48, 0:43:48]: Trek. [0:43:49, 0:43:54]: And the project meets the expectations of the council. We will have our financial advisor here. [0:43:54, 0:43:58]: We'll also have members of the construction team here to speak specifically. [0:43:59, 0:44:01]: Uh, to where we are with the amphitheater project. [0:44:01, 0:44:02]: and related costs. [0:44:03, 0:44:05]: Ажіно, мантрсо аго. [0:44:06, 0:44:08]: The council approved a a [0:44:08, 0:44:10]: bonding scenario. [0:44:11, 0:44:12]: Financial advisor. [0:44:12, 0:44:16]: Uh we'll come back and we will lay out specifically and ask you to approve. [0:44:17, 0:44:19]: Um them to go out to market. [0:44:19, 0:44:22]: And to actually put that out. [0:44:22, 0:44:27]: to i to issue the bonds for the project. So you have a full scale update uh the next meeting. [0:44:28, 0:44:31]: regarding the entire amphitheater project and financial costs associated with it. [0:44:34, 0:44:45]: Any other questions or discussion for uh well for Mr. I say Mr. anybody for Mr. Thomas, Mr. Knighton. Okay, the motion is made and seconded. So all in favor of motion, please indicate. [0:44:46, 0:44:52]: Fantastic, unanimous decision. Outstanding. What we had next uh was the add-on and deals with the moratorium. [0:44:53, 0:45:02]: And reference to a development dealing with pines if I got it right. And um, I would think uh Mr. Williams, how about you starting this off? [0:45:06, 0:45:07]: Mister Mayor um [0:45:07, 0:45:15]: It has been proposed that the city adopt a moratorium on the acceptance of any applications of any kind. [0:45:15, 0:45:35]: for uh any uh developments involving residential rental properties. So that would include uh building permits, land land disturbance permits, anything of that type. And this is in response to the uh issue raised at the beginning of the meeting by [0:45:35, 0:45:38]: the mayor Pro Tem, um there there's been a [0:45:39, 0:45:48]: uh a development in the city uh that has been acquired or most of the remaining lots of if if not all the remaining lots have been [0:45:48, 0:46:02]: acquired um for the purpose of all the those houses, single family homes to be uh built and uh made available for rent as opposed to purchase and um for owner occupation. [0:46:03, 0:46:08]: Um and so the the resolution before you does essentially that for a period [0:46:08, 0:46:14]: Of a hundred and eighty days to allow staff um to review the matter and to [0:46:14, 0:46:18]: Address uh how to uh ensure that [0:46:18, 0:46:25]: Um th this isn't uh doesn't become you know prevalent throughout the entire city and and and [0:46:25, 0:46:32]: you know, come to terms with, you know, a way of addressing it. And so, um I see Mayor Pro Tem would like to speak. [0:46:33, 0:46:38]: Well yeah, I'm gonna I'll send it to Mayor Pro Tem. I'm gonna get you in a second, Ms. Cant. Mayor Protam, go ahead, please. [0:46:38, 0:46:42]: Yes, uh you know, this came to my attention as I was [0:46:42, 0:46:43]: Uh, perus in the city. [0:46:44, 0:46:49]: And I know that this council uh approved the Pine View neighborhood for approval. [0:46:50, 0:46:58]: Uh a part of what it what I want what I always do is to go back and see what the result are results are of the decisions that we made. [0:46:59, 0:47:00]: Let let me make this clear. [0:47:01, 0:47:05]: The majority of this neighborhood still remains empty. [0:47:06, 0:47:12]: And not only did this developer, it seems, seek to uh deceive us. [0:47:12, 0:47:19]: They originally had a sign out there for Pine View Subdivision that said two hundred thousand dollars and above. [0:47:20, 0:47:22]: That sign was changed. [0:47:22, 0:47:23]: It says now. [0:47:24, 0:47:26]: Rick new homes. [0:47:26, 0:47:29]: Sixteen hundred dollars a month. [0:47:29, 0:47:35]: There are at least thirty to thirty five lots that haven't even been touched. [0:47:35, 0:47:38]: So they bought all of the remaining lats. [0:47:38, 0:47:52]: Most of the homes in the neighborhood are unoccupied and there's no for sale signs anywhere. All of the homes in this whole subdivision, it appears, would be rentals. [0:47:53, 0:47:54]: This is [0:47:55, 0:48:00]: Outrageous in every single way. No one on this council. [0:48:01, 0:48:17]: Would have put an apartment complex out there on Stagecoach Road next to Pine Grove Subdivision. None of us would have voted for that. I know every person on this council and all of us voted for a single family residential community. [0:48:18, 0:48:20]: I ask all the citizens out there to understand. [0:48:21, 0:48:25]: If you woke up tomorrow and every one of your neighbors was a renter. [0:48:26, 0:48:29]: That's what if anybody bought into this neighborhood. [0:48:30, 0:48:38]: Which some people did buy their homes at the at the initial front of this neighborhood. If you bought a home at the front of the neighborhood, maybe the first 10. [0:48:38, 0:48:42]: And the rest of the homes are now rentals. [0:48:43, 0:49:03]: How would you feel about your decision? You would feel deceived moving into that neighborhood, thinking that you were gonna be moving into a neighborhood. So basically, what they did was they put a single-family, detached apartment complex out on Stagecoach Road to usurp the rules. [0:49:03, 0:49:09]: which which this council would have never approved any rental subdivision out there. [0:49:09, 0:49:17]: And we want to do something about it and send this clear message and to wake up all of the uh because if it's happened here. [0:49:18, 0:49:26]: It could happen all around Henry County and all around Georgia or anywhere. And people need to wake up. I never even dreamed. [0:49:27, 0:49:36]: That any investor would buy out an entire new construction subdivision when most of the homes were still being. [0:49:36, 0:49:36]: Uh [0:49:37, 0:49:37]: Market it. [0:49:38, 0:49:43]: They bought all the homes and they're gonna rent them all out if we don't stop them. Thank you. [0:49:44, 0:49:46]: Um, Councilwoman Gantt, go ahead, please. [0:49:47, 0:49:48]: Thank you. [0:49:48, 0:49:49]: Um [0:49:49, 0:49:53]: I concur with um Mayor Pro Tem. I think that [0:49:54, 0:49:56]: Um, you know, it was a slap in the face. [0:49:57, 0:50:00]: Uh, they came to us on several occasions. [0:50:00, 0:50:10]: I do know for a fact and I hope that Henry County is alert. Um the state of Georgia is alert. There are neighborhoods all over that are being bought up. [0:50:10, 0:50:25]: for rental property homes only because there are moratoriums on apartment complexes. That's happening. It's not a what if is happening. It's actually happening. And so we do have to put some measurements in place. Um I know this is a temporary [0:50:26, 0:50:42]: fix on that. I just don't want I want to make sure that we are clear that that does not affect our residential homes from being built with subdivisions. We've got to find a you know we don't want to give a bad message out there to our builders, our developers. [0:50:43, 0:50:46]: But this is going on and it was wrong. [0:50:46, 0:50:48]: And for that builder, they're wrong. [0:50:49, 0:50:59]: And so I have a problem with that. I have a a big problem with the way that would affect our community in general for an entire neighborhood to be rented out. [0:50:59, 0:51:06]: Um and w it wasn't disclosed. And so we really need to sit down and see what we can do about that. [0:51:08, 0:51:10]: Councilwoman uh Councilman Thomas, I'm sorry. Go ahead, please. [0:51:11, 0:51:12]: Thank you, Mayor. [0:51:12, 0:51:18]: Um I I think we need to address this in our developing uh UDC. [0:51:18, 0:51:22]: So Mr. Williams and Mr. Knight and [0:51:22, 0:51:23]: Uh [0:51:23, 0:51:27]: Could you add some light to how we can address this in the um [0:51:28, 0:51:31]: And our unified development code that we're working on presently. [0:51:34, 0:51:40]: Yes, uh Council Councilman Thomas, I think that um that is a mechanism by which we can address this issue and other issues. [0:51:40, 0:51:54]: uh that council, some of which the council has attempted to address before with respect to small box retail, those types of things. And I just mentioned that the a UDC is a mechanism by which you can address some of these development issues and development standards. [0:51:54, 0:51:57]: Obviously we're going through that process now and we'll be engaging [0:51:57, 0:52:06]: uh the public very, very soon. In fact, we have a tentative date with uh the consultant working on that project, which we'll publicize here. I need to obviously communicate that to [0:52:07, 0:52:25]: uh the council as well and the on the uh opportunity for the public to be uh able to provide input into the unified development code process as we go through it. But that is a mechanism of course that will deal with development standards, deal with um uh zoning code issues, obviously deal with signage, but also deal with [0:52:26, 0:52:29]: The types of development um that you envision. [0:52:30, 0:52:34]: For the city in terms of the actual development standards. [0:52:34, 0:52:39]: And I think we need to look very, very carefully at as this UDC is crafted. [0:52:39, 0:52:48]: Of what measures need to be in place to ensure that development occurs in the manner and in the vision that the council would like to see. [0:52:50, 0:52:50]: Thank you. [0:52:52, 0:52:53]: Councilwoman Barber, go ahead, please. [0:52:59, 0:53:02]: Mr. Williams, or maybe Mr. Knighton, you can answer this too. [0:53:03, 0:53:07]: So this development was approved as a single family detached homes. [0:53:08, 0:53:10]: Um I'm still kind of [0:53:10, 0:53:12]: baffled as to [0:53:13, 0:53:14]: How? [0:53:14, 0:53:15]: This developer [0:53:16, 0:53:17]: was able to circumvent. [0:53:18, 0:53:18]: Um [0:53:19, 0:53:20]: The agreement. [0:53:21, 0:53:21]: Um [0:53:22, 0:53:23]: With the city. [0:53:23, 0:53:27]: What we approved was single family detached homes. [0:53:28, 0:53:28]: To be so [0:53:30, 0:53:30]: Owners. Right. [0:53:31, 0:53:40]: Right. And I'll I'll let Mike uh weigh in on this too. With when when the zoning approval was done and typically in many cases when the zoning approvals are done [0:53:40, 0:53:45]: and approved, they're approved on development standards itself. For instance, just as you mentioned, [0:53:46, 0:53:47]: single family homes. [0:53:48, 0:53:51]: Вчар бин бил, вчар фамилий хомс. [0:53:52, 0:53:55]: Issue is that there was not a mechanism in place. [0:53:56, 0:54:00]: Um, seemingly to deal with whether it was owner occupied. [0:54:00, 0:54:03]: versus rental renter occupied. [0:54:03, 0:54:06]: And now what we're seeing now is this this [0:54:06, 0:54:07]: This proposed [0:54:08, 0:54:21]: renter occupied situation versus owner occupied situation. And I think that's what part of this moratorium is to address or to hold still until we address it in a more formal manner through some type of regulatory mechanism. [0:54:22, 0:54:26]: Um one another follow-up question. So um [0:54:26, 0:54:32]: This well, whoever this builder is, he still has to come to the city for [0:54:32, 0:54:34]: Um his permits. [0:54:34, 0:54:36]: Or building, correct? [0:54:37, 0:54:38]: Or will he not? [0:54:38, 0:54:40]: You well yeah, for [0:54:40, 0:54:40]: You know [0:54:41, 0:54:41]: So [0:54:42, 0:54:56]: Any future progress in the development, they would require, you know, we would require additional permitting for, you know, every step in the process. And this moratorium puts a halt to that until we can get a handle on this. [0:54:56, 0:54:57]: Okay. [0:54:57, 0:54:58]: Thank you. [0:55:00, 0:55:05]: I would ask uh councilman Blount, everybody spoke but you, sir. You have anything you need to add or questions or uh concerns you may have. [0:55:06, 0:55:12]: I think everybody's kinda hitting on it, you know, we're all hitting on the same gears, uh, with this situation. [0:55:13, 0:55:17]: Uh I would I would concur that it is something that we was kind of blindsided with. [0:55:18, 0:55:19]: Uh when you when you [0:55:20, 0:55:37]: don't think that you have to have specifics in a development agreement that's coming in as as as uh when you're building new homes, specifics like sp homes for sale versus home for for rent. Then the assumption that was in the contract was they were going to be for sale. [0:55:37, 0:55:40]: But uh I think that that's where we was um [0:55:40, 0:55:45]: kind of caught off guard that we didn't have those specific mechanism uh mechanism in the uh [0:55:46, 0:55:57]: in the agreement for uh showing uh prior to uh approving. And I think that that's where this council and this city itself uh found ourselves being um [0:55:58, 0:56:00]: Um, Duke, if you will. [0:56:01, 0:56:02]: Right. [0:56:02, 0:56:07]: Is there a motion uh to accept uh or to approve this moratorium? [0:56:07, 0:56:10]: Uh may I have can I ask you. [0:56:11, 0:56:17]: How much development as far as that they want to develop, what stage are they at and how much more development is needed though? [0:56:19, 0:56:20]: Does anyone know that? [0:56:20, 0:56:28]: Uh I sorry, excuse me. I could answer that. I went over there today. They still have maybe about thirty to thirty-five lots that they've not even touched. [0:56:28, 0:56:31]: And then the houses that they finished they got about [0:56:31, 0:56:35]: Maybe twenty five or thirty houses standing that nobody's living in. [0:56:36, 0:56:36]: So [0:56:36, 0:56:41]: But there's a lot left to be done. So I would hope that we withhold withhold [0:56:42, 0:56:47]: uh what what we what what we could about sub um uh letting them have any more new [0:56:48, 0:56:50]: building permits are actually allowing them to build. [0:56:51, 0:56:54]: Without some type of uh resolution to this. [0:56:54, 0:57:00]: Well then my question is uh for the overall development, how many homes was it total to any does anyone know that? [0:57:01, 0:57:03]: We thought it was about seventy five. [0:57:04, 0:57:05]: That's what I thought. [0:57:05, 0:57:10]: But so they're basically uh I think it was about seven right about round halfway finished. [0:57:11, 0:57:13]: But the amount of homes if it's seventy five is [0:57:14, 0:57:19]: Um and I'm yeah, I'm trying to do that from memory. So I yeah, I think it was about seventy five. [0:57:19, 0:57:39]: Yeah, and then they changed the sign in the neighborhood uh uh some time ago, I guess, to say that they were doing all rentals. So many of those homes had not even been started when they started, when they put changed the sign to 1600. I'm just uh outdone by a new subdivision having a sign that says sixteen hundred rental. [0:57:39, 0:57:43]: a new home that ain't even been built yet for sixteen hundred dollars. [0:57:45, 0:57:47]: All right. Uh Councilwoman Gann, go ahead, please. [0:57:48, 0:57:50]: Thank you. Um, before we vote on this and [0:57:50, 0:57:53]: And again, Mayor Pretenta uh Alexander. [0:57:54, 0:57:57]: That's a new trend that's going on. [0:57:57, 0:57:58]: I know that for a fact. [0:57:59, 0:58:02]: There have been, I know, at least four subdivisions like that. [0:58:02, 0:58:05]: And not in Stockbridge. [0:58:05, 0:58:13]: But throughout Georgia. And so it's something that we need to go ahead and put a stop to, whichever way we can do it. And my question to [0:58:13, 0:58:14]: Attorney Williams is [0:58:15, 0:58:17]: Based off of this resolution that you have here. [0:58:18, 0:58:26]: Will that prevent other home builders, other developers from being able to come and get permits to build that are being [0:58:26, 0:58:30]: w that are acting in good faith because clearly this developer [0:58:30, 0:58:31]: did not act in good faith. [0:58:32, 0:58:42]: Oh the the moratorium applies citywide and and it refers to buildings intended for residential rental purposes. [0:58:43, 0:58:44]: So [0:58:44, 0:59:04]: Um, you know, that it's it's a a bit of an interpretation if if a builder in a different part of the city comes in for a permit to finish their house or or whatever, um, you know, we we would have to uh they would have to make an affirmative statement that this is intended for sale to owner for. [0:59:04, 0:59:08]: or owner occupation and then we could process that. [0:59:11, 0:59:11]: Okay. [0:59:12, 0:59:14]: Mira Pro Tem Alexander. [0:59:14, 0:59:21]: Yes, sir. I want to go ahead and uh make a motion to move forward uh with this uh moratorium as recommended. [0:59:22, 0:59:24]: To uh cease this issue in the city. [0:59:24, 0:59:24]: Fantastic. [0:59:25, 0:59:26]: Ms. Gan second then. [0:59:27, 0:59:28]: All favor, please indicate. [0:59:30, 0:59:32]: Okay, unanimous decision. Fantastic. Thank you. [0:59:33, 0:59:34]: Mayor, if you will. [0:59:34, 0:59:35]: Yes, sir. [0:59:35, 0:59:38]: Mr. Williams, if you uh this [0:59:38, 0:59:50]: So we will have to have specific language now that we didn't have with this developer, with with developers going forward. They will have to specifically say. [0:59:50, 1:00:08]: for for sale ownership occupancy or something in that reference. Is that what you're saying? So f yeah, for any other um developer coming in with seeking permits, uh they we would have to prepare essentially an affidavit that they would submit along with their [1:00:09, 1:00:13]: application saying this is being built for owner occupation. [1:00:14, 1:00:14]: Yeah. [1:00:16, 1:00:18]: For all new residential, new residential. [1:00:19, 1:00:20]: Yeah. [1:00:21, 1:00:22]: Ms. Barber, please. Go ahead. [1:00:25, 1:00:26]: Really quick. [1:00:26, 1:00:32]: Mr. Williams, can you tell me or can you explain fee simple? [1:00:33, 1:00:36]: Or fee simple absolute. I'm not in real estate, but [1:00:36, 1:00:37]: That was a term. [1:00:38, 1:00:39]: that I know [1:00:39, 1:00:40]: Um [1:00:40, 1:00:45]: we may need to include that sort of language or remove that kind of language. [1:00:46, 1:01:06]: Oh, I mean that that's just kind of an old school legal term which we still use in real estate, basically saying you own everything, that if the the the property simply you own the whole thing. Um whereas you know if if you rent then you you you have a property interest but it's only a rental interest. [1:01:06, 1:01:21]: interests um uh the estate for years or a useful product, but it you don't own it fee simple. That that's that's the distinction. Um having said that, the landlord always has a fee simple ownership interest. [1:01:21, 1:01:28]: Um so long as they own the property. Um, but if it's owner occup but but they're that's where you split the [1:01:28, 1:01:31]: ownership between the the landlord and the tenant. [1:01:32, 1:01:32]: Um [1:01:33, 1:01:37]: But when it's owner occupied, it's just one fee fee simple owner. [1:01:38, 1:01:39]: Yes. Thank you. [1:01:41, 1:01:47]: All right. So we've already um made a motion, second the motion, and uh we did vote on that. Is that correct? [1:01:48, 1:01:49]: Okay. You now just [1:01:50, 1:01:51]: Go right here, sir. [1:01:51, 1:01:52]: May I I I um [1:01:53, 1:01:57]: I just want to make sure we're protecting that we're protecting the [1:01:58, 1:01:59]: The homeowners were [1:02:00, 1:02:11]: uh that versus looking out for developers. Don't want developers to get into this mode and to say the stock bridge. But homeowners, single homeowners, [1:02:12, 1:02:17]: I wanna just wanna make sure we're not saying that if you've been in your house for 20 years. [1:02:17, 1:02:29]: Because most subdivisions, uh HOAs and this and that, um don't allow so many percentage of renting rental properties in the subdivisions. So I just want to make sure we we're not [1:02:30, 1:02:31]: Telling a homeowner. [1:02:32, 1:02:35]: That if you decide to redo your house. [1:02:35, 1:02:36]: And rent it out. [1:02:37, 1:02:41]: that you're not protect that that this doesn't protect their right to do that. [1:02:42, 1:02:45]: That's what I'm trying to make sure that we're we're we're looking at this at [1:02:46, 1:02:49]: toward developers and development com developers coming in and [1:02:49, 1:02:53]: and and and and saturating versus a single home owner. [1:02:54, 1:02:57]: I just want to make sure they're protected with what we're getting ready to do. [1:02:59, 1:03:07]: Okay. I well go ahead. Go ahead, Mr. Knight. I was gonna defer to Mike, but I assuming this of de this refers only to new home construction. [1:03:08, 1:03:13]: The the moratorium would apply to any new developments going forward. [1:03:14, 1:03:19]: But the ultimate resolution that we bring back as part of the UDC. [1:03:19, 1:03:21]: could apply [1:03:21, 1:03:25]: uh to existing developments as well, but that's to be determined. [1:03:26, 1:03:28]: The reason for that is. [1:03:28, 1:03:32]: You know, it's it's hard to make a distinction between [1:03:32, 1:03:38]: You know, a home that's existing that a homeowner say they, you know, they take a job in another state they want to rent that. [1:03:39, 1:03:39]: Um [1:03:39, 1:03:40]: I can't [1:03:41, 1:03:45]: It's hard to make a distinguish between that individual owner and then a [1:03:45, 1:03:48]: uh another owner, whether they're a corporate entity or not. [1:03:49, 1:03:53]: doing the same thing. It it's y at the end of the day it's still a lease of a [1:03:53, 1:04:09]: residential structure. And so that's what we're gonna have to work through when when we're preparing uh language to address this problem going forward is how we make those distinctions and and what's a fair basis uh upon doing that. [1:04:10, 1:04:14]: Well, I I would like to see that uh prior to submitting it for me. [1:04:14, 1:04:17]: Because I I don't want um [1:04:17, 1:04:22]: You know, people buy homes and then if they find a new home, single, you know. [1:04:22, 1:04:30]: That can become an investment property for them singly. I understand when we want to stop the development. I just don't want us crossing over to. [1:04:31, 1:04:35]: something else that it that really shouldn't be the intent of what we're doing. [1:04:35, 1:04:41]: So I would like to see that before we go forward because I I I'm not I'm not voting to stop. [1:04:42, 1:04:45]: someone that's been living in their home on a single property. [1:04:45, 1:04:51]: and decide that that they want their home because they're moving to a new home to be an investment property versus selling it. [1:04:51, 1:04:53]: I don't want that to be our cause. [1:04:55, 1:05:01]: Yes, sir. Mayor Potem, go ahead, please. Yeah. Uh well let's be very clear. This does not [1:05:01, 1:05:05]: Mr. Blount, what you just said, what we just passed does not affect that. [1:05:05, 1:05:11]: It only refers to new home construction. If we decide to do something as you mentioned. [1:05:11, 1:05:13]: Uh with the ULDC. [1:05:13, 1:05:16]: Then that's still to come, but what we passed tonight. [1:05:17, 1:05:18]: До зна [1:05:18, 1:05:22]: Inhibit homeowners from doing that, from renting their properties. [1:05:24, 1:05:27]: All right. On that note, I think we're done with that particular subject right now. [1:05:27, 1:05:33]: My particular comments. This uh with deep heart and and uh and condolences to two outstanding [1:05:33, 1:05:53]: pastors in our community that have uh left us and that's uh pastor spencer t o' neill of global impact christian ministries and also uh pastor uh philip coombs of the the bridge first christian church so may prayers and the good lord and uh be continue to be with the immediate families [1:05:53, 1:06:13]: As well as the church families. And I know recently we spent some time in for the celebration life for Pastor Spence. And so continued strength for that church as well as they go through um re-redivining some things that they have to do here. So also condolences and prayers out to him. [1:06:13, 1:06:15]: Cameron Hank Aaron. [1:06:15, 1:06:16]: An icon. [1:06:16, 1:06:18]: Uh obviously uh [1:06:18, 1:06:38]: besides having a very successful baseball career and being a home run king per se, I mean he was also very active in the community dealing with civil rights and equal rights and philanthropy in a sense here in the Atlanta metro area. So um I think he's been a great great great man. So um I'm I'm glad [1:06:38, 1:06:48]: Glad everybody's at least given him his his honors as now as well. And they really think it was a class, class act, gentlemen. Really appreciate the fact that uh he was well respected. [1:06:50, 1:07:10]: Well, folks, the pandemic is still here. It hasn't gone anywhere. We got to uh got to defeat this. And one of the ways we can defeat this is to make sure that uh if you have any symptoms of of the coronavirus or if you think you need to get checked out for testing, do so. You can call the public health department at 800-800-200-800-800 [1:07:10, 1:07:28]: 847-4262. Once again, 800-847-4262. And for the for Wednesday and Thursday of this uh week, uh there's still going to be the Henry County along with the public health department is still having a mobile. [1:07:28, 1:07:31]: a testing site. So Wednesday, which would be tomorrow. [1:07:32, 1:07:39]: That'd be the North Carmel, uh Mount North Mount Carmel Park, 307 North Mount Carmel Road. It's in Hampton. [1:07:39, 1:07:45]: And um that that actually is from uh 10 a.m. to three p.m. And this Friday. [1:07:46, 1:07:53]: We'll be at the uh Warren Holder Park at 301 Club Drive in Locus Grove. Once again, it's 10 a.m. to three p.m. to get tested. [1:07:54, 1:07:58]: Now what's probably what's most likely gonna happen that these mobile test sites were gonna cease. [1:07:59, 1:08:04]: And then where you want to get tested, you'll have to make an appointment and make it and go to the [1:08:04, 1:08:06]: here to senior center [1:08:06, 1:08:10]: Uh which is at uh ten fifty Florence McGardy Boulevard in McDonough. [1:08:11, 1:08:16]: And uh that is Monday to Thursday and nine a.m. to three PM. [1:08:16, 1:08:18]: In Saturday, nine AM to twelve noon. [1:08:19, 1:08:21]: And part of the process why this reduction [1:08:21, 1:08:29]: And testing is the emphasis is going to go to the vaccination, the staffing for vaccination is aspect. And right now, [1:08:29, 1:08:35]: The vaccinations in Henry County with the public health department and along with our county uh headquarters. [1:08:35, 1:08:38]: For last several weeks has been at the Atlanta Motor Speedway. [1:08:39, 1:08:43]: And you have to make a reservation there to to get your vaccination as aspect as well. [1:08:44, 1:08:48]: So Tuesday, February second and Tuesday, February ninth. [1:08:48, 1:08:49]: From nine to noon. [1:08:50, 1:08:59]: Individuals will be authorized once you make a reservation. Now you have to have a reservation and receive the first shot. So this would be a second shot. So folks that have already had a first shot. [1:08:59, 1:09:19]: And next Tuesday, February 2nd and February 9th, the Motor Atlanta Motor Speedway, you'll be able to go back. You should have a registration card already, an appointment to get your second shot. Mind you, the pharmacies at places like Publix and Ingalls and Walgreens, you can check with them as well to potentially get your vaccination. [1:09:19, 1:09:39]: Uh if you can't get into the public health department and and get in a rotation for that. There are other uh agencies that uh will be giving out the vaccination shot as well. So you have to call them and uh do that. Once again, if you're a health care we're in phase one A still, so you have to be a health care partner, long term care for [1:09:39, 1:09:58]: facility, EMS, the first responder, policemen, fire department, individual at 65 years or older and your health and your health care providers or individuals that take care of you. And of course those those 65 older individuals with higher risk categories. [1:09:59, 1:10:18]: Okay. And so if you happen to take the Moderma um vaccination, uh you have to be 18 years older. Obviously it's two shots and they're you're supposed to take the there are 28 days between each shot. So after you take your first one, they'll set you up for appointment for your second one. The Pfizer shot. [1:10:18, 1:10:22]: Is uh you had to be sixteen years older for that particular shot. [1:10:22, 1:10:23]: Two shots as well. [1:10:24, 1:10:32]: And uh they're 21 days apart. So once you take your first shot, your second shot will be 21 days later and they'll give you an appointment for that until you come back once that happens. So [1:10:33, 1:10:33]: Um [1:10:34, 1:10:52]: So we'll continue to go through this process. And obviously there's some logistics issues and staffing issues when it comes to this, but you got to keep the faith and keep trying to get the shot so we can be so you can beat the spread. So when you're out in the public domain, make sure you stay six feet away, continue to wear your mask, wash your hands and use hand sanitizer. [1:10:53, 1:10:58]: if you're uh if you're not able to uh wash hands right away and um [1:10:59, 1:11:13]: And stay away from big crowds, big, big, big gatherings per se in this aspect, but you got to keep the faith. And I'm hoping that as we go through this process, we talked about an amphitheater earlier. So when we have a grand opening for an amphitheater, I'd like to have it for everybody to come out and join us. [1:11:13, 1:11:33]: But we have to make sure we got a handle on this and on this uh pandemic and people get tested. And we're we have to herd immunity, as they call it. 80, 90 percent, I think it is, something along those lines, and getting people vaccinated. And what I understand, uh, there are several other companies that are producing uh the vaccine, vaccine that for this, so they haven't. [1:11:33, 1:11:41]: been approved by the FDA yet, just yet, but that's coming out. On that note, I will read some additional announcements. [1:11:42, 1:12:02]: Uh of course city offices are closed due to COVID-19 precautions currently. City Council meeting, the next one is 6 p.m. via Zoom, the second Monday of each month. The Main Street Advisory Board meeting is 9 a.m. uh second Friday of each month. The downtown Development Authority meeting is uh 6 p.m. by way of Zoom. [1:12:02, 1:12:04]: Zoom uh the third Tuesday of each month. [1:12:06, 1:12:13]: U Council advisory meeting at 6:30 via Zoom, and that would be uh third Tuesday of each month. [1:12:14, 1:12:18]: The youth council meeting is six thirty on the third Wednesday of each month. [1:12:18, 1:12:38]: Also by way of Zoom, of course, planning commission meeting 6 30 at uh four Thursday of each month. And our next council work session, of course, is the last Tuesday of each month in this aspect. And uh council initiatives, uh Councilman Afonso Thomas will have its 11th annual African-American heritage celebration taking place. [1:12:38, 1:12:58]: Virtually on February 6th. Of course, and uh contact uh Mrs. Znobia Peterson at 404-565-5109. Once again, 404-565-5109 for additional information. And I'm pretty sure there'll be information on a website and a social media aspect on how you can check in. [1:12:58, 1:12:59]: Yeah. [1:12:59, 1:13:06]: virtually and and be able to participate and observe and be a part of the annual African American Heritage Celebration. [1:13:06, 1:13:10]: On that note, uh do we have any executive session issues that we need to discuss? [1:13:12, 1:13:17]: Are we going to zagular session? Okay. Yeah, Ms. M Mareputan. Yes, sir. [1:13:19, 1:13:21]: Mayor Tam, you you got your hand raised? [1:13:22, 1:13:26]: I'm so sorry about that. I make a motion that we don't have an executive session tonight. [1:13:27, 1:13:30]: All right. All right. Uh one set w Mr. Knighton, sir. [1:13:31, 1:13:38]: Oh, I'm sorry. Let me, I'm sorry. I I I wanted to present Mr. Peterson's new economic development manager, please. I'm sorry. [1:13:38, 1:13:40]: Yeah. I'm finished. [1:13:40, 1:13:42]: Finish that portion of business, I'm sorry. [1:13:43, 1:13:47]: Uh we can come back to that. Go ahead, Miss Knight. Well he he's it we'll we'll come back to that. Go ahead, sir. [1:13:49, 1:13:56]: I just wanted to to for the viewing audience in particular to mention Alan Peterson since he's joining us tonight. I believe this is the first meeting he's been able to join us. [1:13:56, 1:14:00]: Um and he started in the first of January on January fourth. [1:14:00, 1:14:03]: He comes to dus comes to us um [1:14:04, 1:14:23]: uh with um a good solid resume and we look forward to uh everything that he'll bring as an asset to the city of stockbridge. He has been he's hit the ground running I I can tell you. Um he had a list of a three-page list for me that we spent about two and a half hours going over. Obviously met with other members of the staff. [1:14:23, 1:14:31]: um and save been able to attend I believe a DDA meeting as well uh thus far. Um but we look forward to um everything that he [1:14:32, 1:14:35]: Will bring to us in terms of knowledge, understanding. [1:14:35, 1:14:40]: And vision uh for the city of Stockbridge, and just wanted to acknowledge his presence. [1:14:40, 1:14:47]: And uh if he would be allowed to just say hello to everyone. Absolutely, Mr. Peterson, Florida. [1:14:47, 1:14:47]: The director. [1:14:49, 1:14:54]: Uh good evening everyone. I'm happy to be here. I wanna let all of you know that I certainly look [1:14:54, 1:15:10]: forward to working with you all so that we can advance the city of Stockbridge as far as economic development is concerned. I I look forward to meeting with each and every one of you. I won't have a three page meeting agenda like I did with Mr. Knighton, but I certainly look forward to meeting with you all. [1:15:11, 1:15:17]: Good deal. Appreciate it. Okay. Back to Mayor Pro Tem. You made a motion, sir, to uh not go to the second session. Is that right? [1:15:18, 1:15:18]: That's correct. [1:15:19, 1:15:20]: Is there a second? [1:15:22, 1:15:23]: Ms. Ms. Mayor. [1:15:24, 1:15:26]: I don't have a second, I have a comment. [1:15:27, 1:15:27]: Go ahead. [1:15:28, 1:15:45]: Okay. Um for over a month now we have an HR independent third party study. And I feel that it's been negligent and being done on purpose that we are not attending executive sessions. I want that on the record, just like I said it, Miss Holliday. [1:15:46, 1:15:56]: I feel that we are being negligent and irresponsible and that we are not providing a good example or the respect of our staff. [1:15:57, 1:16:06]: administrative and staff by not discussing this report and not going into executive session to avoid the report. [1:16:08, 1:16:14]: That's all I have to say. And I think that is important that we go ahead and get that out of the way regardless of the results. [1:16:15, 1:16:17]: Okay. Miss Barber, go ahead, please. [1:16:20, 1:16:25]: Well, certainly um it is not my intent to avoid discussing any [1:16:26, 1:16:27]: Survey um [1:16:28, 1:16:31]: Our retreat is coming up in a few weeks. [1:16:32, 1:16:35]: Um so I assume that we would discuss that as we [1:16:35, 1:16:47]: have other issues we need to discuss as well, such as the purchasing policy. So many other issues. That is another item that we need to add to the retreat agenda. [1:16:48, 1:16:54]: Um so no, it is not my intent of uh skirting my duties or responsibilities at all. [1:16:54, 1:16:55]: That's all. [1:16:56, 1:17:02]: Okay, stand by. Ms. Gantt, go ahead, please. Thank you. Mayor, we did some things last meeting that were [1:17:03, 1:17:07]: N I mean, we have some urgent things in that report that everyone has read. [1:17:08, 1:17:17]: And it is urgent that we discuss those things and at least out of respect of mayor and council, based off of the emails that we've had already, we were willing to discuss them. [1:17:18, 1:17:30]: Um, Councilwoman Barber, you had mentioned on the email yourself that you were willing to discuss it with all the council members at the executive session. And so we have already had, it's been over a month. [1:17:30, 1:17:39]: and a half of this going back and forth. We have other issues that we need to discuss, including um legal matters and different things. [1:17:40, 1:17:50]: that I think that is imperative that we discuss in the executive session. And for some reason we are avoiding it. And I say to this point that so be it. [1:17:51, 1:17:56]: We will be negligent and not be lied and will be liable for anything and any other circumstance. [1:17:56, 1:17:58]: Uh stand by. Mr. Blount, please. [1:17:58, 1:18:03]: I just want to say when it comes to the HR um survey that was done. [1:18:04, 1:18:07]: One of the things about having a uh retreat. [1:18:08, 1:18:27]: Uh it's that all staff members and and and the elected bodies are all on one page and we discuss uh at that retreat. This HR survey is not for all staff. It was given to the elected body to discuss and get an update on that behind closed doors because it becomes a personnel matter. [1:18:28, 1:18:35]: Uh so it was it was designed to go into executive session, not at a retreat. Let me go ahead and put that out front. [1:18:35, 1:18:40]: Uh second, I I think that we do have some uh litigation updates that we need. [1:18:41, 1:18:44]: That we need to be informed on. We have to also remember that, you know. [1:18:45, 1:18:48]: Um this uh the majority of this council has [1:18:48, 1:19:06]: um um voted to not continue with our city attorney. And right now today would be a good time to ask whatever questions, because I don't know what the future will hold with this. A good question and question our city attorney on some issues when it comes to litigation that needs to be discussed. [1:19:06, 1:19:07]: Um [1:19:07, 1:19:11]: And so I I think that executive session is warranted and needed. [1:19:11, 1:19:18]: So let's not hide the find hide in the facade that it this thing with the HR is is for the retreat because it's not for the retreat. [1:19:19, 1:19:22]: is an is it's it's it's pertaining to employees. [1:19:23, 1:19:32]: Uh, and this should be done in the executive session by because if you do it at the retreat, it would only have to be us anyway. So why wait to retreat when we can do it now? [1:19:33, 1:19:38]: Uh so that's I d I think we need an executive session. We have some litigation to discuss. [1:19:38, 1:19:40]: Uh mayor in that litigation. [1:19:41, 1:19:44]: Uh, portion of that litigation has to do with uh [1:19:44, 1:19:45]: The elected body. [1:19:46, 1:19:55]: uh without going into uh any other discussions that we need an update because I'm I don't want to hear this and that. I wanna know what's the update pertaining to that. [1:19:56, 1:19:57]: Mm. [1:19:57, 1:20:01]: pertaining to elected body and when I would uh and and I'm trying uh [1:20:02, 1:20:07]: Not to go there with it, but but when we talk about going to executive session pertaining elected body. [1:20:08, 1:20:10]: Ви кантха ділекта бади. [1:20:11, 1:20:14]: that it's pertaining to voting not to go into executive session. [1:20:15, 1:20:17]: All right. Ms. Barber, you had your hand up. [1:20:20, 1:20:34]: Yes, thank you. I wanted to respond to Councilwoman Gantt. Yes, my initial response to the email when I said that I wanted to discuss the survey with the full council. [1:20:34, 1:20:38]: Your response was we were all going to hear. [1:20:38, 1:20:41]: from the individual who conducted the survey. [1:20:41, 1:20:42]: Individually. [1:20:43, 1:20:49]: So you heard from her individually. Councilman Blount heard from her individually. [1:20:50, 1:20:58]: So did Mayor Pro Tem Alexander. So did I and Councilman Thomas. We all heard from her individually. [1:20:58, 1:21:00]: So I'm not sure at this point. [1:21:00, 1:21:01]: What more? [1:21:02, 1:21:08]: Do we need to discuss that is urgent right now that can't wait until the retreat? [1:21:08, 1:21:09]: At the retreat. [1:21:10, 1:21:14]: We can have time alone with just a council. [1:21:14, 1:21:23]: We don't have to necessarily have staff involved in. I don't see it being an urgent matter that needs to be discussed. [1:21:23, 1:21:25]: Tonight, as a matter of fact. [1:21:25, 1:21:29]: I think it was two meetings ago, I wanted to go into executive session. [1:21:30, 1:21:30]: You voted no. [1:21:31, 1:21:33]: So now it's urgent. [1:21:33, 1:21:35]: I don't want to play these games. [1:21:36, 1:21:38]: I don't want to play these kinds of games. [1:21:39, 1:21:39]: Mm. [1:21:40, 1:21:48]: I always think I voted no to anything. Stand by, stand by Mr. Mr. Night. Mr. Night, sir. [1:21:48, 1:22:03]: Uh have we uh suggest suggested a date just yet or have a date for our retreat that we do now? Stand by folks. I need to ask a question. You'll get your turn. It's nice. We do not have a definitive date um for the retreat. [1:22:03, 1:22:09]: It would likely be the first or middle of March. We had the last one in September. Six months later would be about [1:22:09, 1:22:14]: that time. And so that's what I would propose in terms of a potential dates for [1:22:14, 1:22:17]: The retreat. Obviously we have to check with the council schedule, you all. [1:22:18, 1:22:21]: Um, to determine definitively, but that is the time frame that I'm looking at. [1:22:22, 1:22:23]: Okay, Mirapal Tim Alexander. [1:22:24, 1:22:28]: Yes, sir. Thank you so much. But let let's be quite clear here, okay? [1:22:28, 1:22:32]: Each and every member of this council [1:22:32, 1:22:37]: can talk to the city manager and city attorney any time they want to. [1:22:38, 1:22:40]: If you have recommendations that you want to make [1:22:41, 1:22:46]: You could you could open that door to open his door, the city manager's door is open. [1:22:47, 1:22:49]: The city attorney's doors open. [1:22:49, 1:22:53]: All of those individual conversations can be had any time. [1:22:54, 1:22:56]: D after this meeting? [1:22:56, 1:23:04]: Tomorrow morning, the day after that, anything that you want on your mind. I have been communicating with the city manager. [1:23:04, 1:23:09]: about my thoughts behind it behind the survey and many things. [1:23:10, 1:23:13]: And each and every one of you can do the same thing. [1:23:14, 1:23:15]: We don't have to agree. [1:23:16, 1:23:33]: on everything, on on the rec recommendations or anything. All we have to do is pick up the phone, call the city manager, city attorney, or any official that you want to talk to. I've been through many a retreat and this is the refrain that I've heard over and over again. [1:23:34, 1:23:54]: Save it for the retreat where we could have an ex yes, you can have executive sessions at retreats. This is a comprehensive report. This report is hundreds of pages, okay, that needs to be reviewed. It can't be reviewed in such a short period of time. And the review that we will be able to conduct at the [1:23:53, 1:24:09]: retreat we get a sufficient amount of time to uh uh to analyze and to get as much input about the validity of the report or about any particular topic that we want. Why would we rush to have a discussion [1:24:10, 1:24:30]: Uh in uh for in an executive session that will go way into the night when we don't have time to review all of these documents with the appropriate officials. The retreat is the appropriate time to do that, where we get all of the information, everybody will be able to chime in, review the report. [1:24:29, 1:24:31]: You have any questions about it until [1:24:32, 1:24:48]: the time uh that the uh retreat comes up, the city manager can answer that. So can the attorney or whomever you want to talk to. Let's not make any mistake of of understanding that we gotta go in executive session to talk about anything. We don't. [1:24:49, 1:24:51]: We can talk about anything we want. [1:24:52, 1:25:06]: privately with the city manager anytime on the phone or on uh with the city attorney. It's not necessary to discuss it amongst all of us. We all can read and we all can interpret. I might have a different interpretation. [1:25:07, 1:25:12]: I made some of my recommendations already and you all can do the same thing if you like. [1:25:14, 1:25:33]: I would I would say that there are things that we would have to discuss, no whether the personnel litigation type issues, property acquisition type issues that would have to discuss in a second session. That's what it's designed for. But I would eventually think that we would have to do that. And I want to stop for a minute and be quiet. Councilman Thomas, you have yet to speak. So you have something you need to add? [1:25:33, 1:25:36]: Well, what what I want to say was [1:25:36, 1:25:39]: I attempted to call a special call meeting. [1:25:40, 1:25:43]: Surely the strictly for executive session. [1:25:44, 1:25:45]: Well we would have had [1:25:46, 1:25:47]: The time [1:25:48, 1:25:52]: to discuss and mayor and I don't know why you wanted a unanimous decision. [1:25:53, 1:25:57]: I don't I don't think it was proper, you know. I don't you never asked for that. [1:25:57, 1:25:59]: in any other um [1:25:59, 1:26:00]: Executive sessions. [1:26:01, 1:26:06]: And you may want to speak to that, but uh my intentions. [1:26:06, 1:26:09]: Even though we was talking about the condemnation issue. [1:26:10, 1:26:14]: Uh, but still that session could have lent loaned herself to [1:26:14, 1:26:16]: uh other discussion. [1:26:16, 1:26:19]: So I'm just saying I I attempted to do that and [1:26:19, 1:26:22]: We didn't get the response from everyone. So I don't know. [1:26:24, 1:26:28]: I mean, you know, every day it's just something different. So I I just don't know how to [1:26:28, 1:26:32]: You know, you you you try to do you you hear what other council members are saying. [1:26:33, 1:26:35]: Then when you try to accommodate that [1:26:36, 1:26:38]: And then that doesn't work, so [1:26:38, 1:26:42]: I'm just baffled on, you know, how do we go forward to [1:26:42, 1:26:50]: make sure that what we're doing, you know, all council members have an opportunity to, you know, have input. So I'm just a little baffled. [1:26:51, 1:27:11]: Well to answer your question, the reason why I want a unanimous decision is so we can all be together, all five of us, along with with the city manager and and attorney for those issues, so we can all discuss this uh in a second session privately and share each other's thoughts and ideas on this idea, and everybody at least try to get on the same sheet of p uh music, piece of paper or whatever, for the things that we have to deal with. [1:27:11, 1:27:13]: I mean the decisions that we have to make. [1:27:13, 1:27:18]: uh that to take us all to be involved in that and I and I I prefer [1:27:18, 1:27:30]: I prefer that we're all together doing that and and that way we all have the same information at the same time and can make some type have dialogue and make some type of decision and move forward. On that note, I'll be quiet. Ms. Gantt, you're next. [1:27:31, 1:27:41]: Thank you, Mayor. Um uh Councilwoman Barber, in reference to stating that we want that we all want an individual, that's not true. I have an email here dated. [1:27:41, 1:27:44]: for um, I believe January fourth. [1:27:45, 1:27:47]: Where it was briefly stated. [1:27:47, 1:27:49]: And uh there was a response back. [1:27:49, 1:27:50]: In regards to [1:27:51, 1:27:51]: Um [1:27:52, 1:28:00]: Councilman Alexander at the time stating that he wanted to hear the whole thing alone. That was on his email, not mine. [1:28:01, 1:28:21]: But however, we agreed, however, we agreed that at that point in time, so it wasn't me stating that we all were to meet and discuss individually. Even when we met and discussed individually, we've had the opportunity to go over this interview session, go over the session with the HR independent independent. [1:28:21, 1:28:22]: Person. [1:28:23, 1:28:27]: who has spoken to, from my understanding, I guess now, each and every single one of us. [1:28:28, 1:28:41]: So my issue is one, I'm not trying to avoid um, you know, uh uh Councilman Thomas a special call meeting in that regard. This particular report seemed to be [1:28:41, 1:28:46]: just completely overlooked. And after reading the report [1:28:47, 1:29:04]: We've had several occasions and several opportunities to address it and we didn't. Not one time on here did it say, let's wait for a retreat. I think it's just the lack, I think it's irresponsible of us to do that. And I and you know, we can go on today. [1:29:08, 1:29:10]: Seems like she's frozen there. [1:29:10, 1:29:20]: 'cause it's a real estate personnel or litigation issue. If you want, I can spill the beans right. I can talk about it right here. If that's what you prefer to do, because that's not illegal. [1:29:21, 1:29:34]: So we're either going what I'm saying to you is is that we have we have had these opportunities over and over again to discuss these issues and we have chosen not to do so. [1:29:34, 1:29:40]: So we are avoiding. We are avoiding the topic of personnel matters. And I think that that is important. [1:29:41, 1:29:52]: Other than that, you know, so be it. If we're going to, we still need information on litigation. Yes, we can talk to Mr. Knighton and Attorney Williams one-on-one. [1:29:53, 1:30:02]: But it's better to talk about those issues and discuss them as a whole because some i something I might have a question about or wasn't thinking about. [1:30:03, 1:30:15]: So one of you may have, Councilwoman Barber, you might have a question on something totally different that I didn't think of. So us being in that room discussing certain matters and issues and making decisions, that's important. [1:30:16, 1:30:25]: That's all I have to say about that, Mayor. Councilman Blount, go ahead. Thank you. Blount, please. Yeah, I just want to say that you know, I when when my name is thrown in the mix. [1:30:25, 1:30:30]: Uh I didn't have an individual meeting with uh the HR surveyor. [1:30:30, 1:30:37]: Uh Councilwoman uh Gantt and Mayor Ford, we all had the meeting because we didn't call an executive session for everyone to hear the meeting. [1:30:38, 1:30:41]: Uh we could have elected to call an executive session for everyone to hear. [1:30:42, 1:30:47]: But uh when Mr. Alexander said that he won the individual meeting, that still left [1:30:47, 1:30:53]: Two other council members that could have been heard it in executive session. So I just want to get that clear. But it here's the bottom line. [1:30:54, 1:31:14]: You know, we're sitting here and I'm not going to go into all these little back and forth uh with grown people here. And as you saw tonight, that we move whatever need to be moved forward got moved forward tonight. Um so that because I didn't have time for a special call meeting, but we see that nothing came out by our city manager that something [1:31:14, 1:31:15]: was pressing. [1:31:15, 1:31:20]: Was anything pressing that couldn't have waited till tonight to approve or to do tonight? [1:31:20, 1:31:26]: No, it wasn't because everything tonight was handled and then the special call meeting would not have changed that. [1:31:27, 1:31:33]: Everything that needed to be handled tonight was handled. And is there something else that needed to be discussed? Then then discuss it in executive session. [1:31:33, 1:31:35]: So that I wasn't I wasn't [1:31:36, 1:31:56]: I wasn't for a special call meeting. First of all, I didn't have the time. And there was nothing sent to us that it was a pressing issue to have one. When that special call meeting was set up, it was set up with specifics. Specifics mean that when we go back there and discuss in executive session what was to be discussed, three council members can get up and walk. [1:31:56, 1:32:00]: out because they don't want to hear anything else. I didn't have time to play those kind of games. [1:32:01, 1:32:06]: Just like right now, three council members can say, Hey, let's not have an executive session, even though. [1:32:07, 1:32:10]: It's been stated that we need to have an executive session. [1:32:10, 1:32:17]: So the games that are being played here are foolish. And who's going to take the bad end of the stick is the citizens of Stockbridge. [1:32:19, 1:32:23]: Mirror Tim, Alexander, go ahead now. Let's just say this right now. Okay. [1:32:23, 1:32:28]: The council members can have an executive session if they choose, or they could choose not to. [1:32:28, 1:32:33]: The first thing I did today was to call the city manager and have a conversation with him. [1:32:33, 1:32:37]: about were there any pressing issues that need that had to be discussed tonight. [1:32:38, 1:32:39]: Peace it. [1:32:39, 1:32:48]: Nope, we didn't have any pressing issues that had to be discussed in executive session, but he always defenses to the council if we wanted to do so. [1:32:48, 1:32:53]: I don't think that we do need to do so. And I think Councilman Thomas hit it right on the head. [1:32:54, 1:33:14]: He tried, as I said, he always brings something to the table. Last week, he said, you know what? Why don't we call a special call meeting? So the meeting will only be about executive session issues. I voted for that. I did because [1:33:14, 1:33:33]: I don't want to be here all night talking about a subject that I don't several subjects that I don't have time to look and invest the time necessary to solve or to delve into that information. But if we had voted for that executive session, which I did and he did. [1:33:33, 1:33:44]: And Councilwoman Barber did, we would be having that meeting. We would have had that meeting with a sufficient enough time, with nothing else going on but that. [1:33:44, 1:33:48]: But again, I referred to the city manager who said. [1:33:48, 1:33:52]: If we so choose, we could have individual updates. [1:33:52, 1:33:58]: If we w we like to do that. There was nothing so pressing that we had to have an executive session tonight. [1:33:58, 1:34:18]: But again, he's always going to defer to us if that's what we so choose. But I commend Councilman Thomas for taking the lead and saying, okay, if this is what you want to do, let us have this meeting specifically just for that. Now, the next occasion to do that is the retreat. [1:34:18, 1:34:18]: Three. [1:34:19, 1:34:21]: I got the information that I needed. [1:34:21, 1:34:41]: And I'm acting upon it in the way in the manner that I think fitting. So I'm okay with what with what needs to be done. And I'm okay with the fact that I raised my hand and I consented to have a special call meeting last week to discuss any topic. Does anybody wanted to discuss? [1:34:41, 1:34:43]: Yeah. [1:34:43, 1:34:53]: And I couldn't get that done. I and I've heard you, Merrick, you say this all the time. To get anything in StockBridge done, it takes three votes. [1:34:54, 1:34:56]: I've seen your position move. [1:34:57, 1:35:16]: Where it now it certainly takes a unanimous decision to do something where we've had three to two votes many a time in order to do that. I don't like that marker because the city charter does not set anything at unanimous in order to have a meeting. It says it at three council members and the mayor. [1:35:16, 1:35:32]: Cause so with the three council members that signed up, Mayor, you could have presided over that meeting. Yeah, I know that. Let me ask me a let me ask you a question. Uh what it amounts to, I said earlier in the conversation, I was looking for unanimous decisions so we could all be together and talk about [1:35:33, 1:35:53]: multiple issues. The special call meeting was only for one topic only. There's several different things we need to talk about. And and waiting, if we didn't if we don't get the executive session until or we have the retreat in in in the March, there's plenty of things, whether it deals illegal or let or or or property issues that we need to decide on. And we need to decide that collectively as a group. [1:35:53, 1:36:05]: I prefer I said that before, I prefer to have everybody together. So we all hear the same thing or have other questions and we bounce things off one another and make a decision, move the foot forward. That's my point. I said that earlier. And I've actually said it in my emails as well. [1:36:06, 1:36:15]: now in that aspect. So but uh uh anyway, I'm gonna stop right there. Then I'm gonna go to Miss Barber. Okay, folks, we now now we are gonna get long on this. We keep going. Miss Barber, go ahead, please. [1:36:15, 1:36:17]: No, I wanted to um [1:36:17, 1:36:23]: um address the email that Councilwoman Gantt is referring to. [1:36:23, 1:36:27]: When the consultant sent the email to the entire council [1:36:27, 1:36:32]: She had Council Mayor Pro Tem Alexander's email address incorrect. [1:36:33, 1:36:36]: All I did was reforward it to the entire mayor and council. [1:36:36, 1:36:38]: When I did that, the consultant [1:36:39, 1:36:45]: sent me a individual email and asked me when was I available to meet with her to go over this survey. [1:36:46, 1:36:50]: I responded back to her and I included the entire mayor council. [1:36:51, 1:36:52]: My response was [1:36:53, 1:36:55]: My schedule is flexible. [1:36:56, 1:36:58]: I would like to review this with the full council. [1:36:59, 1:37:02]: Councilwoman Gent responded. [1:37:02, 1:37:05]: back to the entire council to my email. [1:37:05, 1:37:15]: Speaking for Mayor Pro Tem Alexander, in which she said he wanted to hear from the consultant directly on his own. [1:37:16, 1:37:22]: So when I initially said that I wanted to um hear the survey with the entire council. [1:37:23, 1:37:25]: She had already responded back that [1:37:25, 1:37:38]: He was hearing from her on his own. I assume that she and Councilman Blount, which he also responded and said he had already heard from her, he had already reviewed it with her. [1:37:39, 1:37:40]: So I [1:37:40, 1:37:41]: Took it upon myself. [1:37:42, 1:37:44]: to coordinate with Councilman Thomas. [1:37:45, 1:37:47]: for us to do a conference call with her. [1:37:48, 1:37:50]: I've reviewed the survey on my own. [1:37:51, 1:37:53]: I have some concerns about it. [1:37:53, 1:38:00]: Some concerns about it. Um, and it's not necessarily um concerns that would [1:38:00, 1:38:01]: Um [1:38:04, 1:38:07]: Align with what is said in the survey. [1:38:08, 1:38:13]: It is not. Um, I have some concerns about the survey and how it was conducted. [1:38:14, 1:38:19]: So no, I'm not avoiding having any conversations. Two meetings ago. [1:38:19, 1:38:30]: I wanted to have executive session. I mean everybody else voted against it. I thought that would be a good opportunity for us to talk about it. We did not. So why not discuss this? [1:38:30, 1:38:31]: situation. [1:38:31, 1:38:34]: А та ретрит, верво тайм. [1:38:34, 1:38:42]: That we can do our own dis investigations, have our conversations with Mr. Knighton individually. [1:38:43, 1:38:45]: and we'll be done with it. [1:38:46, 1:38:51]: I don't understand why there is such a pressing need to do it tonight. [1:38:52, 1:39:02]: And this is a blown up litigation matter that we need to take urgent um pay urgent attention to it right now. That is what I don't understand. [1:39:04, 1:39:04]: Exactly. [1:39:05, 1:39:09]: We've we've had a lot of comments, folks. And I and I I'm we probably just need to end this. [1:39:09, 1:39:17]: Well Mayor, I I need uh because I was mayor, I had my hand up, Mayor. Okay, ho stand. Ms. Mr. Blount, stand by. [1:39:17, 1:39:19]: Go ahead, Councilman Thomas, please. Go ahead. [1:39:19, 1:39:25]: I I I I my comment, I I really want to end this and I think this is where you're trying to go too. [1:39:25, 1:39:27]: And and I just want to say that um [1:39:28, 1:39:30]: You know, I've been on the council for a while. [1:39:30, 1:39:33]: And and you know, it's been a lot of [1:39:34, 1:39:34]: Um [1:39:35, 1:39:37]: You know, this type of discussion. [1:39:38, 1:39:41]: And I just want to say to all of us, um [1:39:42, 1:39:44]: There are no winners. [1:39:44, 1:39:48]: When we have these kind of discussions like we're having tonight. [1:39:49, 1:39:52]: You know, it it appears that everybody wanna [1:39:52, 1:39:56]: try to get that point in and they think that they'll win because [1:39:56, 1:39:59]: You know, they make a point here, they make a point there. [1:40:00, 1:40:03]: There are no winners here tonight. There are no winners. [1:40:03, 1:40:05]: We're all losers. [1:40:05, 1:40:09]: We got to figure out a better way to have these kind of discussions. [1:40:09, 1:40:13]: And I agree that they should happen in executive session. [1:40:13, 1:40:14]: Good up. [1:40:14, 1:40:16]: What I'm just saying tonight, this [1:40:16, 1:40:17]: This year [1:40:18, 1:40:23]: has to stop. I don't have an issue with anyone having a different of opinion than mine. [1:40:24, 1:40:26]: Um, I've learned [1:40:26, 1:40:28]: How to [1:40:28, 1:40:29]: Respect. [1:40:30, 1:40:33]: Other opinions, whether I agree or not. [1:40:34, 1:40:37]: But I'm not gonna sit here and try to [1:40:38, 1:40:39]: Dog out. [1:40:40, 1:40:43]: Talk bad about any process of any one. [1:40:43, 1:40:45]: In a forum like this. [1:40:46, 1:40:47]: Uh this just has to stop. [1:40:48, 1:40:53]: There are no winners here tonight, uh, men, ladies. There are no winners here. [1:40:54, 1:40:57]: So we got to learn how to to do this in a better way. [1:40:58, 1:41:00]: Yes, you know. [1:41:00, 1:41:05]: I can agree if the survey needed to be discussed. I'm not denying denying that. [1:41:05, 1:41:10]: Any pending litigation need to be discussed. I'm not denying that. [1:41:11, 1:41:13]: But what I am saying is this. [1:41:14, 1:41:16]: kind of back and forth. [1:41:16, 1:41:19]: And everyone trying to make that point, trying to get a point in and [1:41:19, 1:41:22]: And think that, you know, somebody's winning. [1:41:23, 1:41:24]: We're all on the losing team. [1:41:25, 1:41:26]: With this tonight. [1:41:27, 1:41:30]: So I recommend that we just stop this. [1:41:30, 1:41:34]: Let's put something back out for for another kind of meeting. It could be at the retreat. [1:41:34, 1:41:36]: It could be a call meeting or whatever. [1:41:37, 1:41:38]: But this [1:41:39, 1:41:41]: has to stop because [1:41:41, 1:41:43]: There are no winners. [1:41:43, 1:41:46]: No one is is gaining any points with this. [1:41:47, 1:41:50]: And we just c continue to go back and forth. So Mayor if you would [1:41:51, 1:41:54]: Let's just let this be the last comment and let's close this out. [1:41:54, 1:41:55]: And if so anybody [1:41:56, 1:41:58]: Anyone it takes [1:41:58, 1:42:05]: Three council members and the mayor, it takes four council members to convene an executive session or any special call meeting. [1:42:06, 1:42:08]: That's the way we need to do it. [1:42:08, 1:42:13]: This this here, I I'm getting ready to sign off in a few minutes myself because [1:42:13, 1:42:16]: Uh I I don't like being on the winning team. [1:42:16, 1:42:23]: And this is a winning team, right? This is a losing team. I don't like being on a losing team. This is a losing team when we do this. [1:42:23, 1:42:26]: We're all a losers here tonight with this. [1:42:26, 1:42:28]: We had a great meeting. [1:42:28, 1:42:32]: We ran the agenda. Someone alluded to the fact that we moved things forward. [1:42:33, 1:42:34]: That was winning. [1:42:34, 1:42:36]: But this right here, this is losing. [1:42:36, 1:42:39]: No one is winning here tonight. No one. [1:42:40, 1:42:41]: So mere [1:42:41, 1:42:42]: Let's let's end this. [1:42:43, 1:42:45]: And let's try to figure out how. [1:42:45, 1:42:54]: We can resolve our differences rather than being here. And everyone here knows that citizen has said this about us before. [1:42:55, 1:42:58]: Іно ви ж не то ста, ви ні то лисин. [1:42:58, 1:43:02]: to the citizen others. The city manager have said this before. [1:43:03, 1:43:05]: That's why you don't see me. [1:43:05, 1:43:11]: bashing anyone. I mean if someone come at me it's my nature to re retaliate back. [1:43:11, 1:43:13]: But I try not to. [1:43:14, 1:43:16]: So I'm uh that's not me. [1:43:16, 1:43:21]: I'm not trying to get any kind of points with anyone in in a statement that I make. [1:43:22, 1:43:28]: We need to stop this and figure out a better way to resolve our issues. [1:43:29, 1:43:38]: Appreciate it. Now, simultaneously, when your hand was up, uh Councilman Blount's hand was up. So we'll make Councilman Blount the last one, and then we'll t we'll go on and make continue on the meeting. [1:43:38, 1:43:40]: Okay. Let me just make this statement. [1:43:41, 1:43:46]: We can go back and forth with what was in emails. And when we're talking about we're losers here, that's not true. [1:43:46, 1:43:54]: I've said on many occasions, every elected official here, including you, Mayor, was elected by the citizens of Stockbridge. [1:43:54, 1:44:00]: And the respect to one another saying if any council member saying, hey, I would like to go to an executive session. [1:44:00, 1:44:01]: Then that's respect. [1:44:02, 1:44:03]: That's respect. [1:44:03, 1:44:16]: Because if you either want to go or don't want to go, and I'm glad to see Councilman Tom uh uh mayor uh count councilman Thomas sign off because that's what you have a uh uh that's what you have is a leave button on the Zoom call. [1:44:16, 1:44:24]: Because the truth is, at the end of any discussion, whether we like the discussion or not, you you have discussions to get to the truth. [1:44:25, 1:44:30]: You either gonna discuss it out here or you go behind closed doors to get the truth. [1:44:31, 1:44:42]: And when we talk about a city manager, I'm gonna let you know, when we talk about a city manager that has the right to do certain moves with the city and he comes to council, yes, we can say, I agree with you. [1:44:43, 1:44:45]: We can have a consensus. I agree with you. [1:44:45, 1:45:04]: But when you have a council where everyone here on this call is elected officials or elected to serve the citizens of Stockbridge, yet things are being done off a consensus, which was an argument arguing point at one time that we're doing consensus to move the city forward on emails. [1:45:04, 1:45:10]: That's the exact same thing that's going on right now. We want to talk about respect to one another. That's respect to one another. [1:45:11, 1:45:17]: When you when when the citizens take right now and look at the call, how they talk to each other and everybody jumping off. [1:45:17, 1:45:18]: Is that respect? [1:45:19, 1:45:25]: Is that respect? So I hopefully, hopefully in this election year, the citizens see. [1:45:25, 1:45:33]: Who's on this call that gonna respect one another and move the city forward rather than be with this consensus that has jumped off the phone. [1:45:33, 1:45:36]: Mayor, I know there's an absence of a quorum. [1:45:37, 1:45:40]: I so that means what? The m meeting automatically ends, I suppose. [1:45:41, 1:45:42]: Sure. [1:45:42, 1:45:47]: All right. All right. So be it. Good night, folks. See you soon. God bless you.