2023-07-25 · City Council · Transcript · Work Session Meeting

--- title: Work Session Meeting date: 2023-07-25 source: 2023-07-25_Work_Session_Meeting.wav --- [0:00:12, 0:00:18]: We're waiting on the attorney or something? No, I wanna make sure that there's a confirmation for my team in my own. [0:00:39, 0:00:55]: All right, ladies and gentlemen, I have uh six oh two and I'd like to call the council work session uh July twenty fifth uh to order and invocation, uh Mr. Marshall, please. And and if you can ladies and gentlemen, please stand. [0:01:02, 0:01:06]: That's that that's no that that one right there. There you go. That one right there. [0:01:07, 0:01:07]: But [0:01:11, 0:01:13]: There you go. Thank you. [0:01:14, 0:01:30]: Let's go into prayer. Merciful Father, we come before you once again in a most humble way, thanking you, Father God, for all that you are and all that you do. We thank you, Father God, for this day, a this day that is not was not promised, nothing we've done to earn it. [0:01:30, 0:01:50]: But we know it's only because of your goodness and your grace that you allow us to see it anyway. We pray now, Father God, for all those that are here. We pray for special blessings on them and their families. We pray, Father God, that you say that if two or three shall gather in your name, you'll be in the midst of us. So we pray, Father God, that you oversee our meeting today. [0:01:51, 0:01:56]: And I pray that we act accordingly to your will, Father God, in a most pleasant way to you. [0:01:56, 0:02:16]: It is in your darling son's name that we send this prayer, and it's in that same name, Father God, that we ask that you receive this prayer and let all saints say, Amen. Amen. Pledge allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag, United States, and America, and to the Republic, to stand, one nation, under God. [0:02:16, 0:02:20]: individuals just as far. [0:02:21, 0:02:23]: Madam Clerk, roll call, please. [0:02:27, 0:02:29]: Mayor Ford? President. [0:02:29, 0:02:31]: Mayor Pro Tem Barber. Present. [0:02:32, 0:02:34]: [157.4, 159.6]: And present. Councilman Thomas. [0:02:42, 0:02:45]: Thank you, Madam Clerk. Appreciate it. Council, I need a motion to adopt the agenda, please. [0:02:47, 0:02:50]: Some moved. Okay, Ms. Nant, is there a second? [0:02:50, 0:02:52]: Is Barber second dad? All in favor, please indicate. [0:02:53, 0:03:06]: All right, so you now decision on that. Uh please review the draft minutes that you have before you council, council meeting uh June twelfth and also council work session which would be the twentieth of June. Madam Clerk, do we have any public comments? [0:03:06, 0:03:14]: Therefore, there are no public comments. Okay, we'll go on to unfinished business and the first item for unfinished business, an older only unfinished business item tonight. [0:03:14, 0:03:34]: Council consideration approved the agreement with the Henry County Development Authority along with the county and the cities of Local Scroll, Madonna, and Stockbridge to hire retail strategies recruitment to work toward a solicitation. All right, development and expansion of retail facilities in Henry County that we will expand commerce, create employment, enhance tax. [0:03:34, 0:03:42]: tax revenue and improve the quality of life in each city and the entire county. And the presentation, Mr. Gardner, please. [0:04:00, 0:04:02]: Good evening, Mayor Council. [0:04:03, 0:04:23]: Um this item uh it was tabled until this meeting from our last city council meeting. It's a request um for an agreement between the Henry County Development Authority, the city of um Locust Grove, City of Stockbridge, City of Ham uh McDonough, and Henry County. [0:04:23, 0:04:34]: Um regarding getting a retail a entity onboard retail strategies who they've been in concert with for the last two years, um, to bring on board to assist with. [0:04:35, 0:04:44]: recruiting um retail establishments to um Henry County and specifically to those cities um that are part of the agreement. [0:04:46, 0:05:06]: I've I've added writ to you in front of you is should be a flow chart. Actually it put this together to kind of give idea and it kind of address some of the issues um in got regard to how things would pr proceed. Um so if you see if we get into an agreement and retail strategies is hired, the next step in the [0:05:06, 0:05:19]: process is obviously if retail strategies identify a potential s uh prospect and that prospect chooses to locate in Henry County and let's say for instance they chose Stockbridge. So yes it's coming to Stockbridge. [0:05:19, 0:05:23]: Retail strategies then will communicate directly to us. [0:05:23, 0:05:26]: Um they don't go through the development authority. [0:05:26, 0:05:28]: They would come through us. [0:05:28, 0:05:40]: and work with either uh CDA, our community development department, economic department, or public works, depending on what the needs are. And based on those conversations in the next step. [0:05:40, 0:05:44]: We if we have incentives that they were looking are looking forward to, we can do that. [0:05:45, 0:05:52]: Um in terms of some of the ones that Mr. Alance has addressed to you guys, or if they're looking at fast track permits or development review. [0:05:52, 0:05:54]: uh those type of permit relief. [0:05:55, 0:06:04]: We could look at those packages, obviously, bring those to council, um, get them approved and then move forward and that prospect locates inside the city of Stockbridge. [0:06:05, 0:06:06]: If it goes the other way. [0:06:06, 0:06:08]: Obviously they're in contact with those cities. [0:06:09, 0:06:10]: And then we'll work with [0:06:10, 0:06:15]: the develop Henry County Development Authority as well as the city or the county, depending on where they're going. [0:06:15, 0:06:22]: Um, as you know, the development authority doesn't really issue incentives on retail projects, but they could also fast track development review. [0:06:22, 0:06:24]: permits and and as such. [0:06:25, 0:06:28]: And then locate whether they're located in Locus Grove or [0:06:29, 0:06:30]: Or Henry County. [0:06:30, 0:06:31]: At the bottom. [0:06:32, 0:06:33]: What you see is a win win. [0:06:34, 0:06:37]: If a development goes to Clayton County, we get absolutely nothing. [0:06:38, 0:06:40]: If it comes to Henry County. [0:06:40, 0:06:43]: We're sharing in fourteen percent of the sales tax. [0:06:43, 0:06:45]: Because of our new population growth. [0:06:45, 0:06:46]: Right. [0:06:46, 0:06:52]: So if it comes to Henry County, if it comes to us, obviously it's good to be recognized to have a development of that type. [0:06:52, 0:06:53]: In our city. [0:06:54, 0:06:59]: But we want it in Henry County because of Henry County or the city of Stockbridge, we all win. [0:06:59, 0:07:00]: We all [0:07:00, 0:07:04]: He had opportunities for job employments for our residents, as well as [0:07:04, 0:07:08]: uh portion of any local option sales tax that come from that project. [0:07:08, 0:07:21]: Um so with that, obviously we've had questions before and the Executive Director for Development Authority was here along with the chairperson. Um and so I'll open it up for any other additional questions you may have. [0:07:22, 0:07:25]: Yeah, I guess of course. Okay, good writer, please. [0:07:25, 0:07:45]: Uh yes uh thank you so much. Uh we certainly uh have had some discussions. Uh certainly would like to thank Mr. Marshall and Mr. Culpepper for uh you know continuing the conversation since our last meeting and having discussions that uh have uh th [0:07:45, 0:08:05]: I think we you'll some been kind of fruitful. We aren't all the way there yet, but I think hopefully we'll be able to uh get there. Uh I think uh as we move along, I think there was uh some concerns about uh the uh some some [0:08:05, 0:08:18]: Some clauses or some language that could be added to the agreement. I think in my estimation, uh and I guess uh I'm not a lawyer, but uh Mr Washington over there? Yes, he is present. [0:08:19, 0:08:22]: Okay, I think uh Ms. Watson, I think you need to come to a podium, sir. [0:08:35, 0:08:55]: Sir, good afternoon. Good afternoon to you too, sir. Yes, sir. I think um what might be able to handle our situation is a non-disparagement agreement. Uh I think where we could just kind of rest assured that uh everybody's on playing uh um equal playing fields, and that would cover uh some of the concerns that have been raised. [0:08:54, 0:09:10]: by the council. Uh we certainly want to make sure that everybody's being put forth on all the cities on equal footing and uh to deal with anything that mom I I think we've had some discussions about comments that were made and that will kind of cover us on the comments. [0:09:12, 0:09:27]: I don't know whether I would need to look into that because honestly I don't know whether as elected officials in your capacity you can do public-facing non-disparagement clauses assuming the positions of the parties involved. [0:09:27, 0:09:30]: Well, I'm not talking about us in general. I'm talking about the city as a entity. [0:09:34, 0:09:38]: I mean, what I guess what would be the specifics of what you want in the agreement? [0:09:39, 0:09:56]: Obviously we just wanna make sure that uh there were positive comments that were reflected toward the city, all the cities, that that there would not be any negative comments targeted toward uh the city of Stockbridge, uh as as far as we're concerned. And that's basically would be sum would sum it up. [0:09:57, 0:10:17]: Who would you want to sign I' who would you want a signatories to? I would I want the I would want that coded in agreement. The development authority would sign off on that uh with with that agreement that they would not that that our case would be presented in a positive manner in and uh as as with on footing with all the other cities. [0:10:17, 0:10:30]: that everything would be presented uh in a positive. Correct. And on our side, who would be the s signatory's own? Basically we're asking them to sign it, yes. [0:10:30, 0:10:45]: Well let me ask let me mention this. If if we do that, would it not be vice versa? It'd be the same thing for us as well? I mean, would that be a couple of things? Like I'm wondering if if there's a non disparage if there are non disparagement clauses, right? Non disparagement agreements. Right. [0:10:46, 0:11:06]: They're two party agreements. Right. And so I was just making sure I was clear on you'd want the cities the Stockbridge City Council and the Henry County Development Authority. Well let me let me correct that. We raised the issue. They haven't raised the issue. We raised the issue. So we're asking for that. I'm asking for that as far as we're concerned. They have not expressed any any any interest. [0:11:06, 0:11:26]: in adding that. I'm asking that for the protection of the city. Okay. So so that would need to be that would need to be a directive from council to see about us seeking one with them. And then the second part of that would be I would need to look at because the H C D A and you all and your capacities of public facing, I don't know about [0:11:26, 0:11:26]: Yeah. [0:11:27, 0:11:40]: non disparagment clauses between two public facing or governmental entities between each other. That's I would need to look into that. If if they so long as they mutually agree, does it matter? Is what? So long as they mutually agree, does it matter? [0:11:41, 0:11:43]: I don't know whether [0:11:43, 0:11:46]: I don't know whether it'd be binding given the [0:11:47, 0:11:52]: Given the first amendment freedoms that you all have in your capacity from up here. [0:11:53, 0:12:13]: Okay, but we have a contractual I think one of the things I'm concerned about more so is this contract is specifically in regards to a relationship between the HCDA and this particular entity for retail strategies. And my [0:12:13, 0:12:27]: concern is that relationship is to work together to try to get retail here. But what if a retailer or a developer comes directly to the city? [0:12:27, 0:12:41]: I don't want interference from that. So there needs to that part, not necessarily disparagement on that end. I mean I agree with the disparagement portion, but my concern was more so exclusivity. [0:12:41, 0:12:54]: Um basically I don't want someone coming, you know, they hear that we have a retail project coming or somebody coming and they get on the phone and call and says, No, you have to go through me. [0:12:55, 0:13:03]: Right when they already have reached out to us. I don't want I don't want interjection. [0:13:04, 0:13:14]: Well, no, what happens is if they find out that there's a retail and I don't wanna get into too many examples, but there I can give you an example. There's a huge project [0:13:15, 0:13:35]: In Henry County, and let's say that that project went straight to the city, the municipality, and didn't go to the development authority. Now that project is billions of dollars, over 1,200 jobs,$80,000 and up salaries, and that person said. [0:13:35, 0:13:39]: It didn't come through me, so I'm gonna stop it. I'm gonna try to interfere and break it. [0:13:39, 0:13:41]: How do we prevent? [0:13:41, 0:13:43]: That from happening. [0:13:43, 0:14:03]: How do we make sure that if a third party, I mean that to me, they're the third party. If someone wants to come directly to the city, I want to make sure that there's no interference, such as if they went to a dinner and they came and the developer had [0:14:03, 0:14:05]: Happen to be with us. [0:14:05, 0:14:10]: And we were talking to that developer or we were trying to bring in people. [0:14:10, 0:14:30]: And then we don't want the interference saying, No, we have exclusivity. Look, see here, this is we're supposed to deal with retail, any retail in Henry County, and you can't deal with it. We don't want them interjecting. That's what my concern. If they if you know what I mean? So we need to protect that. I wouldn't talk to Mr. Gardner because you see about [0:14:31, 0:14:40]: I I would say, uh Councilmember Gantt, in in my conversations with um Mr Culpepper, um we were sure that that obviously that would not happen. If if if the [0:14:41, 0:14:46]: And just throw it out there. Let's say Dillards wanted to locate to the city of Stockbridge. They [0:14:46, 0:14:52]: In their work with retail strategies, they recognize that Stockbridge is the best place for them to locate. [0:14:53, 0:15:01]: That at that point, retail strategies have the conversation with us. They're the way this is supposed to flow is that they come directly to us at that point, as you said. [0:15:02, 0:15:04]: If there is some disparaging comments made. [0:15:05, 0:15:08]: Де сау тюрна проєкт аварій в нас? [0:15:09, 0:15:09]: Um [0:15:10, 0:15:25]: Obviously that's a conversation that that I think that this board needs to have with the um development authority folks if that was to happen. Well that's what I'm saying. I want a clause that protects us from that. But retail s strategies is just one [0:15:25, 0:15:31]: Entity. There are several people that do the same thing retail strategies do. My thing is [0:15:32, 0:15:38]: Retail strategist is a consultant. They're going out trying to get retail. What if the retailer [0:15:39, 0:15:44]: For instance, Costco, we didn't go to Costco. They all met together. What if a retailer [0:15:44, 0:15:53]: just comes to us. It directly comes to us. We don't want an interference saying, hey that's one second, please. We don't want an interference that says, hey [0:15:53, 0:16:13]: No, look at this contract. We do all the retail for Henry County. You gotta come through us. And I'm saying that, I know that sounds crazy, but I've just uh uh things happen. And I just wanna be protected. Right. I'm pretty sure we'll be just fine. But um Mr. Thomas, go ahead please. Thank you, Mayor, for um [0:16:14, 0:16:17]: Mr Mr. Garner, um [0:16:17, 0:16:33]: But just all due respect to this whole process, you know, we we delayed this vote because of conversations that needed to be had before we got here today. [0:16:34, 0:16:36]: I I'm not comfortable in [0:16:37, 0:16:38]: Continuously [0:16:39, 0:16:44]: having these kind of discussions uh in this forum. [0:16:44, 0:16:58]: Uh I thought the reason why we delayed the vote because we were going to iron all these things out. I know um Mr. Culpepper reached out. Um [0:17:00, 0:17:02]: Uh When Mr. Square, please. [0:17:04, 0:17:13]: If we can refrain from, you know, the the the outburst, I I I think we could be a little bit more productive in this. Um [0:17:15, 0:17:17]: And my whole point is [0:17:18, 0:17:19]: You know, we've had time to [0:17:20, 0:17:29]: work out the language uh in the agreement. It it's unfortunate that we didn't do that. And and I just think that [0:17:29, 0:17:31]: We have to learn how to [0:17:32, 0:17:36]: you know, do those kind of things. When we put a pause [0:17:37, 0:17:40]: We just have to work and get those things done. [0:17:41, 0:17:41]: Um [0:17:43, 0:17:58]: I know an attempt was made uh from um a member of the board to reach us to to to get our concerns. So basically, Mayor, it it's unfortunate that it it didn't happen. [0:17:59, 0:18:11]: But going into Mr. Garner, going into these kind of details here at this forum right here, right now, I I I just don't think it's appropriate when [0:18:12, 0:18:14]: Іно, ви в had the time to do this. [0:18:15, 0:18:18]: Now it didn't happen, so I don't know where we go, but [0:18:19, 0:18:20]: Um [0:18:21, 0:18:23]: А тенквиз. [0:18:24, 0:18:26]: To work those differences out. [0:18:27, 0:18:28]: Before we get here. [0:18:28, 0:18:35]: And and that's my only concern today is that we did not work those differences out. And now here we are again. [0:18:36, 0:18:37]: Speaking. [0:18:37, 0:18:39]: The same kind of language. [0:18:40, 0:18:43]: And dialogue that we spoke at the last meeting. [0:18:43, 0:18:48]: And we did not vote on at that meeting because we said [0:18:48, 0:18:50]: We were going to [0:18:50, 0:18:53]: Correct the language in the agreement. [0:18:53, 0:18:54]: That's correct. [0:18:54, 0:18:56]: And and and and that didn't happen. [0:18:56, 0:18:57]: So [0:18:57, 0:18:59]: But here we are again rehashing. [0:19:00, 0:19:01]: The same [0:19:01, 0:19:21]: conversation, the same language. And it just it it it just rubbed me the wrong way. And Mayor stand by second. And and and Mayor, I I I I yield back. Okay. But uh but uh Mr. Gardner you laid out what the process would look like in in this diagram here and by if we follow that particular diagram I would think that we'll be clear [0:19:21, 0:19:38]: in reference to how the flow flow how flow goes dealing with retail strategy and dealing with the the county and rest of the cities. And I I'm personally once again in in favor of this process. I don't know whether or not and I know Mr. Um Quentin is going to check into [0:19:39, 0:19:59]: The inquiry that we just gave him tonight, whether or not how you can go about doing that in this aspect, whether or not it's even legally possible is what I understand. If can we do this, what the request was, and because of two public entities. And obviously you need time to do that uh in this aspect, but I would hope that uh that we could uh on [0:19:59, 0:20:19]: based on him finding out and uh hope that we can go forward with this process and uh and uh join the county in reference to this uh retail strategies process. That's what I hope this aspect. Uh I think it'd be a good thing for us to do overall because it's a win win. I look at it as a win win for us all. Anyway, just need to say that. Yes ma'am go ahead please um councilman Thomas I want to address your [0:20:19, 0:20:19]: Yeah. [0:20:20, 0:20:32]: You're exactly right. And it was mentioned, uh I did mention to one of the people on the board there, as well as the other board members saw, the changes that I would like to see. [0:20:32, 0:20:35]: So it was mentioned and nothing has been done about it. [0:20:37, 0:20:47]: And I have not been contacted by the main person at all. So I did mention it and um it's in writing and nothing has been done about it. [0:20:50, 0:21:10]: Mayor if I could continue. Go ahead, please. Let me just say this in response to Councilman Thomas. We let's make it very clear. We had the several days went by, there was no communication, then we started to reach out. I sent the first email myself. Mr. Marshall responded, and then we started to have conversation and we got it off the ground. So [0:21:09, 0:21:29]: I sent out an email wondering why no one had reached out to us and then uh that's when the conversations actually got started. So I thank Mr. Marshall for actually participating in getting the ball rolling as far as we're concerned. So that certainly was the desire for us to move things forward and we attempted to do so. [0:21:29, 0:21:49]: But you know, initially we were told, you know, this is it, this is all we're gonna do. Yeah, and then but conversations have continued, and uh I I just really thought that if it was agreeable tongue among two people in Georgia, we was okay to go ahead and sit down and write something up to uh that effect. Uh in [0:21:49, 0:22:09]: And again, I'm not interested in what they have not asked for the protection we did. So I'm not interested in a mutual agreement. I'm issuing an agreement that we've asked for that language to be adopted to protect us. No one has brought to our attention any uh negative comments or anything that we have made uh in regards to a [0:22:09, 0:22:29]: Discouraging business to be done with the development authority. So that's kind of where we are. So what I want to do here is just kinda to move the needle forward in saying the things that we want. I agree with uh councilwoman Gantt in that I want somebody to be able to just clear cut to approach us. [0:22:29, 0:22:30]: Yes. [0:22:30, 0:22:50]: independently because some people do approach us independently for us to be able to work with them independently. So if the city manager can tell us that somebody can approach us independently and there will not be any outside interference, that's where we are. We don't and the the word exclusive does not mean that we have to turn over e [0:22:50, 0:23:03]: Even initial contacts to the development authority. That's the question. And and the answer to that, based on my conversation with the chair Chair Culpepper was yes. If if we if there's an entity that we're in discussions with which [0:23:04, 0:23:08]: We are in discussions with an entity right now, that retail entity. I mean, there's really nothing [0:23:09, 0:23:11]: That Henry County Development Authority can do. [0:23:11, 0:23:13]: as it relates to that entity, right? [0:23:13, 0:23:27]: Um, they do not induce retail projects because the retail project would have to be valued so high that they don't typically do that. So that lays it always squarely in our hands to be able to [0:23:27, 0:23:31]: make that deal happen. Um as to better not [0:23:31, 0:23:31]: You know. [0:23:33, 0:23:40]: um Mr. Culpepper or Mr. Marshall or Mr Finn would say anything to to discourage that. [0:23:41, 0:23:51]: I I think if that happens to it's a huge disservice not only to to the city of Stockwritch, but it's a huge disservice to the to Henry County because if that entity choose not to come here, we all lose. [0:23:52, 0:23:57]: Right. If that sales tax go to the city of Riverdale or to to [0:23:58, 0:24:18]: Wherever outside of Henry County, we all lose. That we lose that development, we lose the sales tax, we lose the employment opportunities, we all lose. If it comes here, we all win. Because whatever that sales price in terms of what that development would do, we share in about fourteen percent of that sales tax that comes to this city to provide to [0:24:17, 0:24:21]: pay for services that that we render to the citizens. So [0:24:21, 0:24:31]: You know, my understanding of it is, you know, if an entity comes to us as we have one that's coming to us right now, no one's involved in that other than us, the city. [0:24:31, 0:24:50]: Mayor Ford. Do it. Not finishing. Now, if we do that, I I just wanna make sure that we have some protections in this that that is that will be spelled out. Mr. Gardner says he thinks that that is the case. Is there some legal language in there that dictates that that would be the case? [0:24:51, 0:25:11]: We can put that in there. Right. So that's what I I I'm asking for that language to be put in there that that would make sure that we are legally protected if an entity came to us, that we could work with that entity, and that you would go forth and look to make sure that uh it that uh what whatever was legal in terms of the [0:25:10, 0:25:30]: Non-disparagement or non uh negative comments. You want a carve out directive that would say anybody that comes directly to the city of Stockbridge. Right. The city of Stockbridge can talk to outside of the retail strategy. [0:25:30, 0:25:31]: Yes. [0:25:32, 0:25:40]: And then to make and that would be that would be one part of it. And then counseling again, you would want what else in the agreement. [0:25:42, 0:25:58]: No, I d that's it. Yeah, just in in in general, if you know, no interference bas basically that there is no exclusive um agreement that says that all retail must go through H C D A. [0:25:59, 0:26:19]: Okay, and then I can have Mr. Marshall come to the microphone. Stand by. Stand by. Mr. Blount. I haven't finished my question. Stand by, please, sir. You'll get your question. Stand by. Stand by. I have two times to speak. Stand will you calm down for a second? Stand by please. Mr Mr. Blount, go ahead, please. Mr. Garner. [0:26:20, 0:26:20]: Yes, sir. [0:26:21, 0:26:25]: This is the one that came to us. This is ten thousand dollars, right? Yes, sir, sir. [0:26:27, 0:26:32]: We're sitting up here going thirty minutes over ten thousand dollars about what if this happens negatively. [0:26:33, 0:26:35]: What if something happened positively? [0:26:36, 0:26:38]: For the city. What if the positive part happened? [0:26:39, 0:26:40]: What if there's a relationship is built? [0:26:41, 0:26:50]: What if we get more retail? What if we get more income coming into the city? Why don't we look on that side of it for$10,000? [0:26:51, 0:26:55]: We're going thirty minutes whether we're gonna have a relationship with H C D A. [0:26:55, 0:26:57]: For ten thousand dollars. [0:26:58, 0:27:01]: We're we're we're we're going thirty minutes in. [0:27:02, 0:27:05]: But it's ten thousand dollars. If it goes south. [0:27:05, 0:27:08]: We leave it alone. We're not tired of this. [0:27:09, 0:27:11]: If it goes south, we can leave it alone. [0:27:12, 0:27:17]: But if it benefits us, we benefit greatly from it as a city. [0:27:18, 0:27:19]: For ten thousand dollars. [0:27:22, 0:27:30]: Mr Mr. Thomas, go ahead. I'm coming back to Mr. I'll come back to you in a second. Mm Mr. Thomas, go ahead, please. Mr. Gar. [0:27:31, 0:27:32]: Yes. [0:27:33, 0:27:36]: This is the point I'm trying to make and and and it's about process. [0:27:36, 0:27:37]: Um [0:27:39, 0:27:40]: Mr. Marshall. [0:27:41, 0:27:42]: Reached out. [0:27:42, 0:27:45]: And he tried to attempt to reach out to all of us. [0:27:46, 0:27:50]: to get our concerns. A and this is the point I'm trying to make. [0:27:51, 0:27:55]: And it you know, we're we're we're directing you, we're directing the city attorney. [0:27:56, 0:27:57]: This is the point I'm making. [0:27:58, 0:27:59]: From the last meeting. [0:28:00, 0:28:15]: This item should not have been on this agenda if we still have these concerns and we still have these things to iron out. That that's what I'm saying. You know, Mr. Marshall tempted, you the city manager. [0:28:17, 0:28:23]: These things should have been worked out. You should have communicated well now let me not put this on you. [0:28:23, 0:28:30]: But communication should have gone out to make sure that all of our concerns. [0:28:30, 0:28:33]: was confirm and clarified. [0:28:34, 0:28:44]: We should not be here going through this when we've had a whole month at from the last meeting to do that. And I'm just talking about a process now. [0:28:45, 0:28:56]: This item should not have been on this agenda if there were still questions and concerns about the relationship. And that's all I'm saying. [0:28:56, 0:29:05]: And I'm not talking about a dollar amount, this, that, and the other. If we still had concerns about the partnership and the relationship, [0:29:06, 0:29:18]: This should not have been on the agenda. Those things should have been exhausted. So we could have come here and in two minutes we could have raised our hand and been done. If all of those things would have happened. [0:29:19, 0:29:30]: before this meeting. So I'm talking about a process. Well here we are now directing you and directing uh our set attorney to do this, do this, make a clause for this. [0:29:31, 0:29:34]: It just it's just it it's not productive. [0:29:34, 0:29:48]: Mayor, thank you. No problem. Mr. I'm sorry. No, I I think we may be able to move the issue based on they submitted a pre they submitted a pre resolution for us from Kenry County. [0:29:48, 0:29:50]: We can make [0:29:50, 0:29:59]: a couple of edits to this now. If that assume what you all say about the car route, take the word exclusive out of it. That's right here. And you all can pass the night and we have progress on it. [0:30:00, 0:30:05]: Okay. Ms Ms. Alexander and Mr Mr. Marshall, you're here, sir. I believe you need to [0:30:07, 0:30:11]: Yes. We're gonna go through this. Anyway. [0:30:12, 0:30:26]: See, because things weren't didn't happen like Councilman Thomas described. Mr. Marshall and I talked as late as this afternoon to go ahead and iron these out. The things that I've just talked about, we discussed them on the phone this afternoon. [0:30:26, 0:30:46]: And he seemed agreeable to those effects. He's done a lot of j lot of work trying to move this forward. So I want to move it forward. I want to go ahead and uh uh and and do those two things as we've agreed upon, which is uh you know, to make sure that uh we can work independently and that um you know there's no negative marks for target. [0:30:46, 0:30:53]: targeted toward us. Mr Marshall, you we talked on the phone. You were generally agreeable to that, correct? With all of the work you put in. [0:30:54, 0:30:57]: The mic's on this side, sir. On this side. The mic's on this side. [0:30:59, 0:31:15]: Yeah and uh uh Councilman Alexander, if I could just make a statement first and then I can address your your question if you like. Okay. Uh first of all, my name is Charles Marshall, address 140 Somerset Hills, McDonough, Georgia, and resident of the city of Stockbridge. [0:31:15, 0:31:35]: I'm one of six board members of the Henry County Development Authority and was appointed by Chair Colada Harrow to serve in that position. As you know, one of Chair Harrow's main goals as a chair is to form a strong partnership between the county and its four cities to grow our communities into a thriving, robust center for better economic growth. [0:31:35, 0:31:39]: growth and an improved quality of life for all of our residents. [0:31:39, 0:31:53]: She formed the mayor's and chairs organization, which uh I don't know if some of you are familiar with that. I'm sure the mayor and uh city manager is are. But she formed the mayor's and chair organization to bring this idea. [0:31:53, 0:32:00]: What's the point of order? Mr. Marsh, I I I I appreciate that. What's the point of order, sir? The point of order is we're going through right now [0:32:01, 0:32:03]: What the chair of Henry County has done. [0:32:04, 0:32:08]: And going through all that has nothing to do or germane. [0:32:09, 0:32:12]: To the subject at hand. Why don't we get through this? Okay. [0:32:13, 0:32:14]: We'll we'll say the wheel. [0:32:14, 0:32:25]: We're sitting up here and I don't w and and and I'm not saying you are m Mr. Marshall. I don't want any perception that we're politicizing our meetings. Okay. [0:32:26, 0:32:46]: This has nothing to do what was being said right now has nothing to do with the subject at hand. Or what uh uh uh uh c uh chair callada, uh the chair's accomplishments and all that that has nothing to do with what we need to do right now. Uh thank you for that. Mr. Marshall, continue on please. [0:32:46, 0:32:50]: Okay. And I appreciate your comments, uh uh [0:32:50, 0:33:10]: Uh Councilman Blount. I was just trying to give some context as far as how the retail strategy came to existence, also to include the city officials, the mayor, and the city manager, as far as knowing how we came to this point. So I'll uh it's just very brief, uh, Councilman Blount. So she formed the mayor's and chairs organization, bring this idea to free. [0:33:10, 0:33:30]: The organization included four mayors and city managers of the four cities, Stockbridge, McDonough, Hampton, and Locust Grove, along with the County Chair Harold and County Manager. The meetings were facilitated by the Henry County Development Authority and hosted by Chairman Irv Culpepper and our Executive Director, Josh Finn. One of the ideas of the County [0:33:29, 0:33:33]: came from this organization was the Retail Strategy Initiative. [0:33:33, 0:33:35]: We're all agree [0:33:35, 0:33:42]: That by working together we could bring our retail development infrastructure to the level of its full potential, as for the county and the city. [0:33:43, 0:34:00]: So we set out to develop that strategy and brought in a consulting group by the name of Retail Strategies, and I think y'all have all had that got information on that particular company to assist in developing this strategy. All four cities and city uh and county officials reviewed the plans. [0:34:00, 0:34:05]: with the consultant group and agreed to move forward. So uh we're here [0:34:06, 0:34:07]: At this point [0:34:07, 0:34:13]: And let me say this: I have contacted most of you on the council along with the mayor and the city manager. [0:34:13, 0:34:33]: And I've expressed to you that we have a good opportunity to work together. That's on one track. We have another track that has to do with personalities pre uh predominantly, I guess, within our organization. And I have a concern with that. I don't want you feeling that nothing is uh uh looked at as far as that being a significant issue. [0:34:33, 0:34:53]: Is a significant issue if you determine that it is. You represent some 36,000 people, and you have an obligation to know that whatever agreements you make, whatever coordination you do with the county through whether it's the Henry County Development Authority or otherwise needs to be done fairly because you do have your constituents to reply to it. [0:34:53, 0:35:13]: Have constituents. We're just an organization to facilitate, facilitate things that we're trying to do. And one of the things is this strategy. So I have made that a point with the Henry County Development Authority. I have talked to Mr. Mr. Culpepper and your concern about one of our employees, the executive director, Josh Finn, making comments and maybe [0:35:13, 0:35:15]: [2116.3, 2133.7]: Between us working together as we should, I've made it a point to have him put that on the agenda for discussion, full discussion. I've got the letter from you, Councilwoman uh Gantt uh from uh your uh DA chair. I've also talked to uh the person you referred me to in Hampton. [0:35:34, 0:35:54]: Uh the councilman Cleveland, I think his name uh is. And I've agreed to and he has agreed and I've agreed to talk together and see what the problems were in that situation because obviously he said the same thing similar to some of you are saying that maybe there was a personality issue that caused them to vote it down, even though everybody is saying this retail. [0:35:53, 0:36:02]: Strategy initiative is something that might be good, like Chairman, like uh Councilman Blount is saying, it may be good for the city. There's advantages there. [0:36:02, 0:36:18]: We are gonna have that executive session meeting. All of your points will be discussed. I've got already I've already talked to some of the members of the board because we don't get all the information that you that you're uh getting in the field when you talk to different people. [0:36:19, 0:36:37]: I promise you if I can know about it, if you can tell me about it, I'll bring that to the board again and we'll get to the bottom of whatever these these personality conflicts are. I want you to rest assured that it's not going uh on an enlightened path, that we think that maybe some of the things and concerns you have are things that don't matter. [0:36:38, 0:36:39]: They do. [0:36:39, 0:36:59]: And we are going to discuss those things, but we want to stay on track with the retail strategy initiative. Mayor. Okay. Let me let me let's Mr. Watson has something to use. I think this may move it. If you all go to your agenda to the tab where the resolution for mayor and council of the city of Stockbridge is, we can make the edit now. Madam Clerk can take it down, and this can be the directive that goes back. [0:36:59, 0:37:19]: To them about what our intentions are. And on point number two, we can just say the HCDA shall serve as a coordinator of the project and shall provide the mayor and council periodic progress reports of the activities of the consultants on at least a quarterly basis. [0:37:19, 0:37:26]: This agreement, as contemplated, still allows for businesses and retailers to directly work with the city, period. [0:37:27, 0:37:28]: Okay. [0:37:28, 0:37:38]: So that's that sounds good. I hope that makes the qualifications for the concerns that the council members have at this point. Uh one more. [0:37:40, 0:37:41]: I do, thank you. [0:37:42, 0:38:01]: I just wanted to say this is not about um money. I don't care if it was twenty-five cents. Understand, it is more about protecting the city. I took an oath to represent and do the best I can for the best interest of the city of Stockbridge. [0:38:02, 0:38:08]: This is a wonderful idea. We've all said that. And thank you, Mr. Marshall, for being very diligent. [0:38:09, 0:38:27]: you contacted us immediately and you got on to w what was actually going on. And I don't wanna I I keep hearing the word personality conflicts. I don't really think that's personal. I think this is business. And one of my biggest concerns when when dealing with business is [0:38:28, 0:38:40]: Yes, it does sound like a minimum amount, ten thousand dollars. But in the long run, we're talking millions of dollars. Millions of dollars that we're wanna make sure that we're not being overlooked. [0:38:40, 0:39:00]: Or being punished for not accepting it right away, or based off of things that have been said in the past. We want to make sure that our interests are protected. And what that means is we don't want someone circumventing and trying to stop a business relationship that is directly between the city and that industry. [0:39:00, 0:39:20]: Individual or someone saying they have exclusive rights to retail only, as if no no one else can talk to retailers. And so that's my concern. It's not about$10,000, Councilman Blount, because$10,000 as a part of [0:39:19, 0:39:39]: The whole big scheme of things is actually millions and millions and millions of dollars of retail that Stockbridge could be overlooked. And it's not about what if we don't get any results, you know, in a year. It's sometimes acquisitions and mergers and purchasing property and actually relocating. [0:39:39, 0:39:59]: And branding and different types of entities going into a particular area or re buying up an old shopping center and revamping it or whatever takes quite some time. That's not to say that Stockbridge would be on the radar. Our point is, based on experience, we wanna make sure [0:39:59, 0:40:14]: that Stockbridge's interest is at heart so that there's no interference so no one hears, oh, I hear that shopping center A just called our, you know, Stockbridge's Development Authority. They didn't call HCDA. [0:40:14, 0:40:19]: I don't want the interference of someone just getting on the phone and saying, Hey, no, you're supposed to call us. [0:40:19, 0:40:30]: You know, that's all I'm talking about. And that's worth way more than ten thousand dollars. It could be a penny and I still would say no if it wasn't done properly. [0:40:30, 0:40:50]: All right, Mr. Alzheimer's, go ahead, please. Let me just say this. Thank you, Councilwoman Gantt, for those comments. I concur and understand that uh, you know,$10,000 might is a lot to all of our citizens, especially as we try to tighten our belt as we move through this. But I do want I thank you, Mr. Marshall, for coming here. You didn't have to come here a second time. I want to go [0:40:50, 0:41:10]: Go ahead and make a motion to approve those changes that are uh incumbent to move this uh positive agreement with the city moving forward that have been described by the city attorney. Okay, and I trust Mr. Marshall and Mr. Culpepper to make sure that they protect the interests of the city of Stockbridge. Well, he's making a motion accept that, but I would imagine do you need to read it back in in order to do that? [0:41:10, 0:41:23]: My comment when I made the comment about ten thousand dollars. [0:41:24, 0:41:26]: Because I'm gonna agree with Councilman Thomas here. [0:41:28, 0:41:32]: It took us five minutes to tell you what to mend this with. [0:41:32, 0:41:33]: Five minutes. [0:41:34, 0:41:37]: That could have been done prior to this meeting. [0:41:38, 0:41:42]: And when it came to this meeting, it should have been are we comfortable with the money? [0:41:43, 0:41:44]: And yes or no. [0:41:45, 0:41:46]: That's why I mention it. [0:41:46, 0:41:56]: We can use a diversion and say all this and all you want to. If there was an amendment to be done that only took five minutes, we've been doing this now almost forty five minutes. [0:41:57, 0:41:59]: That was put back on the agenda. [0:42:00, 0:42:04]: This is why I mentioned ten thousand I thank you for that information, Mr. Marshall. [0:42:05, 0:42:22]: But you but you have to see my position here is that we're sitting here for forty five minutes when in five minutes this could have been taken care of and in ten minutes we could have done voted by now. That's why I mentioned the five thousand uh ten thousand dollars because that should have been the only issue now. [0:42:23, 0:42:25]: versus why we table it the first time. [0:42:26, 0:42:33]: All right, let's let's go forward. So read could you read this back in order to make sure we got it right and clerk's got it so everybody understands? So what do you have here, sir? [0:42:35, 0:42:50]: On number two under there now therefore it is resolved that the HCDA shall serve as a ex as a and we take out the exclusive so it shall serve as a coordinator of the project. [0:42:51, 0:43:02]: and shall provide for and shall provide the mayor and council periodic progress reports of the activities of the consultants on at least a quarterly basis period. [0:43:03, 0:43:07]: disagreement and all contracts as contemplated [0:43:08, 0:43:08]: Talma. [0:43:09, 0:43:21]: still allows for businesses and retailers to directly work with the city, period. Okay. So is that a so some some move for you, Mr. Alzheimer? So second? Second Mrs. Gan second on favor please indicate? [0:43:23, 0:43:29]: All okay, this is a unanimous decision. Thank you very much. Let's move on. Thank you, Mr. Marshall. Appreciate your time here, sir. You can stay as long as you like. [0:43:30, 0:43:31]: New business. [0:43:32, 0:43:52]: Okay. Council consideration to approve a request for Vulcan materials for their team of Vibra Tech and Amoni Martin Associates to study quarry blast induced structure response at the city of Stockbridge elevator water tank. The study will cost will be no cost to the city. Personnel presented by OL. [0:43:52, 0:43:55]: Well I guess uh Mr Aaron, you got this, sir. Please. [0:43:56, 0:44:16]: Good evening, Mr. Mayor and Council. Thank you. Come to you tonight asking for approval of Bible Tech to conduct seismic activities and monitoring at the city's water tank, one million gallon water tank. They currently have seismic instrumentation located within the ground around the tank, but they also want to start monitoring the tank itself. [0:44:15, 0:44:29]: itself to see what the effects of the blasting at the quarry has on the water tank. And so that data will be presented to the city in a report as well so that we will have information on the impact of the blasting. [0:44:29, 0:44:34]: Mayor. Yes, sir. Go ahead, please. I'd like to move the approval that the uh we allow the Balkan materials [0:44:35, 0:44:50]: And their team to do uh the work on the uh Corey Blast introducing Ms. Barber mo motion approved, sir second. Ms. Barber second, in all favor please indicate. Okay. Okay, four. Four votes, Mr. Thomas. Okay. Okay, good thing. Prank appreciated. Pass. [0:44:51, 0:45:08]: four zero. Uh council consideration to approve the repurf uh repurchasing purposing of uh two million two hundred and forty two thousand one hundred and sixty dollars from T S PLAS to resurface Walt Stevens Road and Mount Zion Parkway. Mr Aaron, please. [0:45:08, 0:45:28]: Yes, Mr. Mayor and Council. I was informed prior to the meeting that there is another option for accomplishing this task, and that is the money for the Reeds Creek Trail extension. I was informed that money for that project can be used because the developer is gonna extend that trail. As you're well aware. [0:45:28, 0:45:48]: Since we became the custodians of Walt Stevens Road and Mount Zion Parkway, we've received numerous complaints from citizens traveling through the cities on those roads. We've fixed approximately 67 potholes on Walt Stevens Road since January the 1st and another 47, 48 on Mount Zion. [0:45:48, 0:45:55]: Zion, those have always been issues in the seven years that I've been here, but they fell under the authority of the Henry County [0:45:56, 0:46:09]: Board of Commissioners under the service delivery strategy. But with the recent annexation and the change in the service delivery strategy, those roles are now under the authority of the city of Stockbridge. So this is a way to [0:46:09, 0:46:25]: fix these roads permanently so that we alleviate the pothole concerns. As we develop a process to and to uh assess the recently annexed roles, we're working on those so we know that we're gonna have some other major roles that need [0:46:26, 0:46:46]: to be improved or resurfaced. As I was telling some of the staff today, I said it's like a baseball player. We've got called up from the minor leagues to the major leagues. We've gone from maintaining just residential subdivision roads. Now we got major thoroughfares we gotta maintain. So we're asking for your approval to resurface Mount Zion. [0:46:46, 0:46:59]: partway in Walt Stevens Road. Mayor. All right, one s one second please. But so otherwise uh obviously you want us to approve this, but the other funding you were talking about that you've just found out earlier can be utilized for some other road resurfacing project, I'm assuming. [0:47:00, 0:47:02]: Is that right? Yes sir. Okay. [0:47:02, 0:47:04]: All right, uh [0:47:10, 0:47:13]: [2834.1, 2834.6]: Yeah. [0:47:16, 0:47:36]: You guys good now? Anything else right now? No. Okay, Mr. Alexander, go ahead, please. Yeah, see, this is where progress comes in at. We were looking for money to identify for Walt Stevens. I'm glad you put it on the agenda. Because earlier today we were having discussions about it, and we realized that when we approved the flip and road project, [0:47:36, 0:47:56]: We had a$2.8 million T-SPLOST project to build that trail, but the developer is gonna build it for us. So now that$2.8 million is available to do this paving, to pave the$2 million, and then there's$800,000 that might be available for Valley Hill or East Atlanta or other projects as well. [0:47:56, 0:48:16]: Because we took the step to approve that. Now we freed up nearly three million dollars to do other projects. So this development on Flip and Road has had a cyclical effect to be able to approve your project. And I'm I'm done. Thank you. Yeah. Okay, good deal. Miss again, go ahead, please. Thank you, Councilman Alexander. Um and thank you, Ms. [0:48:16, 0:48:30]: Mr. Deshus and Mr. Gardner for fining those funds. Um, it has been a challenge and I just what is the estimated cost of repairing to permanently fix those roads? [0:48:30, 0:48:35]: It's the two point two million dollars. They they're gonna completely resurface Walt Stevens Road and Mount Zion. [0:48:36, 0:48:40]: partway from Clayton County line to Highway one hundred thirty eight. [0:48:40, 0:49:00]: Right. Well you definitely for those of you who haven't been in the area, if you ride that road, Clayton County smooth, brand new, paved, nice, and you get to us and it is bumpy and we are dodging potholes left and right. And a lot of that comes from if you just come by on the weekends, um [0:49:00, 0:49:20]: The traffic is backed up on the interstates now and they use everyone knows the back road. And that back road just happens to be Spear Road to Walt Stevens, or they get off at Mount Zion and come all the way down Mount Zion, all the way down, and they're passing by two or three exits and getting right back on the interstate. And it has [0:49:19, 0:49:39]: Become so bad that people have started making songs. It's all over the social media. And we've even received an anti-Latum notice about it at one point. So we definitely need to do something. And I really, really, really appreciate the city for stepping in and trying to find fun. [0:49:39, 0:49:59]: Funds to get this done. It's unfortunate that the roads were in repair needed for years now. But when we inherited those roads, as well as other roads that we have to fix, but these right here are in dire need and have [0:49:59, 0:50:15]: caused a lot of um concerns. So I for our safety, I would ask that I have the support of mayor and council and I would like to make a motion to approve this. Stand by for a second please though. Mr. Thomas. Thank you. [0:50:15, 0:50:25]: Uh Mr. Aaron, uh thank you again for entertaining the questions that I had before as we uh spoke on this agenda item. [0:50:25, 0:50:45]: Uh would you speak to the citizens on Davidson and just to ensure them that uh they are still funding to complete the you know the the sidewalks on Davison that leads up into the commercial area. And I think that's that's important for them to know that [0:50:45, 0:50:48]: Um, that steal will be completed. [0:50:49, 0:51:09]: Yes, sir. We s we still honor that commitment that we have listed in the T-SPLOST. Like I say, those roads have already been resurfaced. They were resurfaced in twenty twenty one Old Atlanta Road and Davidson Parkway. So we will complete the sidewalks and do those things on Davidson Parkway and Old Atlanta Road that we said we would do and that we're out. [0:51:09, 0:51:10]: Land and the T Splast. [0:51:11, 0:51:16]: Ms. Gantt, go ahead please. Okay, thank you. Mayor I would like to make a motion to approve [0:51:17, 0:51:37]: Is there a second? I'd like to make a second. I would like to have a d one additional comment as well, if I could. Go ahead. Yes. Okay. Go ahead with your discipline. It's very important because right before we got in here, I had gotten talked to Commissioner Neat Robinson. Now before [0:51:37, 0:51:57]: As Councilwoman Gantt has indicated, we received very little support from the county commissioner. Matter of fact, Miss Councilman Commissioner Robinson is gonna meet with the city manager. She's gonna sit down and talk with him about all of the priorities in the city, including uh paving Walt Stevens to see if there's any [0:51:57, 0:52:17]: money to be able to help us. So not only will our funding be available, but now a new thing will be happening. Some county funding could possibly be available. And she says she'll have a town hall here in Stockbridge to talk to our residents and to talk about the assistance that she could provide. So let me say this again. [0:52:17, 0:52:25]: And I appreciate uh Commissioner Neat Robinson reaching out saying that she wanted to help the city of Stockbridge. And that's something new that we haven't seen before. [0:52:26, 0:52:46]: All right, motion was made in a second. All in favor of the motion, please indicate. Thank you very much. All right, 5-0. And council is new move on. Council consideration to approve the renewal, renewal of request for proposal, RFP, number 2022-0006. On call general engineering services for the city of Stockbridge. [0:52:46, 0:52:49]: with Falcon Design Consultants L L C. Mr. Aaron, please. [0:52:49, 0:53:06]: Yes, Mr. Mayor and Council. We come before you tonight asking for a renewal of the contract agreement with Falcon Design LLC as one of the city's on-call engineers. Falcon Design LLC currently oversees around thirty projects for the city of Stockbridge. They're also the project managers for our [0:53:07, 0:53:14]: T splotts program. They've got multiple T Splash programs projects that they're working on, such as the neighbor neighborhood. [0:53:14, 0:53:16]: Stormwater project and [0:53:17, 0:53:22]: And uh Councilman Thomas's neighborhood also the sidewalks on Tide Street. [0:53:22, 0:53:42]: Some other sidewalk projects that they're working on for the city. So we just want to keep moving forward in a positive direction. We're getting projects done. Oh Ms. Gantt? Mayor, I'd like to make a motion to approve this um request for renewal of the RFP number two thousand twenty-two-six. [0:53:42, 0:53:57]: All in favor, please indicate? Outstanding. All right, five o'clock. Thank you, Mr. Mayor and Count. All right. Thank you, sir. Council consideration to approve IGA intergovernmental agreement between the City of Stockbridge and the Downtown Development Authority. Mr. Lawrence, please. [0:53:59, 0:54:19]: Good evening, Mayor and Council. Uh Kim Alons, Economic Development Director. Uh the item that you have in front of you today is the intergovernmental agreement with the Downtown Development Authority and the City of Stockbridge. Over the past few months, we've been working with the DDA on um codifying our relationships. Uh all the uh clauses and um [0:54:19, 0:54:39]: Items in this agreement are things that we've already been uh doing uh with the uh DDA. Um this particular agreement outlines our relationship with the DDA, um funding and support that the city provides to the DDA and also DDA services to the city, including uh working on downtown revitalization. [0:54:39, 0:54:44]: and development. Um I am ready to take any questions that you may have. [0:54:45, 0:54:48]: Any questions for I just want [0:54:50, 0:55:10]: You have shepherded this through and you've been patient. You had it on the agenda. You've been in constant conversation with both legal entities and what have you. So I certainly want to go ahead and move forward with approval so we can actually uh go ahead and get uh some more these transactions moving through downtown. [0:55:09, 0:55:12]: at a at a smoother, efficient pace. [0:55:12, 0:55:32]: Okay, so you're making a motion to approve that, sir? Okay, is there a second? Ms. Gantt second that? No. Okay, I'm sorry. Okay, I'm sorry. What's your question? I'm so sorry. Before I I'll second in a minute, but in the funding sources on page four, it says um in Article 3, it says that the city city shall provide the funds of the DDA for its operating budget in that. [0:55:32, 0:55:41]: Amount of twenty thousand dollars annually. And I have known that DDAs at some point become self-sufficient without the funds of the [0:55:41, 0:56:01]: the government without the funds of the city or municipality. When they initially start, they do and they build up. But if m money ha money hasn't been spent or and you know you just constantly giving out money, I'm trying to figure out and twenty thousand dollars is minimum for this particular entity. I'm not against it. [0:56:01, 0:56:04]: But I don't know if I wanna use the word shall. [0:56:06, 0:56:09]: Anybody have any objections to taking out the word shall? [0:56:11, 0:56:20]: Mr. You got a question, sir? Yeah. Uh what is the budget what is the budget of the D DA right now that they have? What what budget do they have right now? [0:56:21, 0:56:31]: Uh the DDA receives forty five thousand from the city annually, twenty thousand is used for operating budget and twenty five thousand is used for a facade program. What is the account now? [0:56:32, 0:56:34]: That's what you killed. [0:56:34, 0:56:46]: Yes. The w what is the balance that they what what how much money does the DDA have right now? I'm not sure. Mr. Wiggins, sir. Come to the podium podium, please. [0:56:53, 0:57:09]: You wanna know how much cash Yeah, m what is the ba because and the the reason I'm a yeah, the reason I'm asking that is that because if we were supplying forty five thousand a year, what expenditures have they done over the years we've been doing it to what balance do they have right now? [0:57:10, 0:57:30]: To for us to because I'm a I'm in agreement with Councilwoman Gantt, cities that we see other cities that DDAs get startup money from the city, and then they become self-sufficient because then they start to to do their own bunding. They start to become their own entities, separate but a part of the city. [0:57:29, 0:57:41]: So if the D DA now has a a balance enough to s to to do that, which I would like to know what the balance is, why are we still budgeting the DDA when they could when they should start moving towards self-sufficient? [0:57:43, 0:57:49]: What uh Mr Gardner, obviously you're moving, so you have an answer to the question I would imagine. [0:57:52, 0:57:55]: We don't know what they're stacked the market, they don't know they don't. [0:57:58, 0:58:05]: Um real quick, uh Councilmember member Blount. Um I think the number's somewhere between [0:58:06, 0:58:10]: Eighty and and a hundred and twenty I think is in there. It's hard because I wait a minute, wait. [0:58:10, 0:58:14]: We don't know. Let me finish. [0:58:14, 0:58:25]: If I can please. Because Mr. Garner when we start talking about I think it's between a hundred eighty and a hundred and twenty, why don't we have numbers when when we're bringing these items to us to to answer the questions? [0:58:26, 0:58:32]: Good. Respectfully so it Mr. Swigger. This was this was an IGA, obviously, and [0:58:34, 0:58:42]: My bad that I didn't foresee that you that it would be a question asking the bud as relates to their um what their current balance is in their account. [0:58:42, 0:58:46]: Because I know that they've been drawing on that money as part of the study that they've been doing. [0:58:47, 0:58:48]: As it relates to the downtown. [0:58:49, 0:58:56]: that they've been overseeing um when I got here. Um we now have a director, obviously, and to be quite honest, um [0:58:57, 0:59:07]: I've worked with numerous D DAs and downtown development authorities typically stay under the under the purview of the city. Um in the cities I've worked in and I've worked with them. [0:59:07, 0:59:15]: Um they've they've not been self sufficient. But I think with the fact that we have so many downtown properties, and I've had this discussion with with the council. [0:59:16, 0:59:36]: That as we transfer these properties over to them and they're able to then sell these properties, part of what held up the agreement was to have some type of profit sharing between us and them that would get them to sufficiency, right? So if we turn over these some of the downtown properties, because the city itself shouldn't be in the real estate business, right? These are the entries. [0:59:36, 0:59:56]: Entities that allow for us to do transactions to make those land deals. And with that, if they sell it, we get a certain portion, they get a certain portion. At some point, yes. If we can get them to that point where they're self-sufficient, they can be able to start to move and make deals on their own within the downtown. [0:59:56, 1:00:01]: That's not here yet for this DDA. Um as you guys know, I mean we've had a low for a little bit. [1:00:02, 1:00:05]: Uh, we've gone about seven, eight months without a director. [1:00:05, 1:00:07]: Um after Mr. Um [1:00:07, 1:00:12]: Peterson. Peterson left. Um and now we have Mr. Lance who as you know he's been bringing [1:00:13, 1:00:33]: uh a lot of his cool ideas to this council about moving downtown forward as well as us getting the TAD in place. But I will be able to get that exact number what's in their account um from them and hopefully get it tonight before we leave to share with you. Yeah my follow up uh if you will maybe Mr Gardner and and Mr Gardner. [1:00:33, 1:00:40]: Mr. Gardner. Yes, sir. [1:00:41, 1:00:44]: [3644.6, 3654.1]: When you when you talk about the transfer of properties, uh and and whatever land whatever, you start to move uh it's the same way they did in Madison. [1:00:54, 1:01:06]: Uh that was startup money so that they can deal directly with the banks, so they can deal directly with loans or bundles or whatever needed to be done. And that became a rotation to them until they needed the city. [1:01:07, 1:01:10]: To bring in funding to further move something else along. [1:01:11, 1:01:13]: But we're looking at between eighty to a hundred and twenty. [1:01:14, 1:01:15]: That range. [1:01:15, 1:01:30]: Then we're not at a point. Until those expenditures are needed and those properties are transferred and then they start to move in those areas. But to say that this gonna become a [1:01:30, 1:01:31]: Uh uh uh [1:01:31, 1:01:35]: M mayor c sa hod on mayor, at some point in time. [1:01:36, 1:01:41]: We gotta get order on this coun on on this dice where when someone's speaking [1:01:41, 1:01:43]: People just have to listen. Okay. [1:01:43, 1:01:48]: Continue conversation. Well I'm I'm I'm asking you to get on. Okay. Continue conversation, sir. [1:01:48, 1:01:51]: And so I understand I understand that portion of it. [1:01:52, 1:02:06]: And so that still and that part do concern me that we're talking about almost that that we're we're annually funding an entity that's building enough funds that i i I don't know if a consultant is needed or whatever's needed. [1:02:07, 1:02:27]: to start them to move into what we're saying as a city, about the properties and about all that, to to to start that revolving of of uh evolving, if you will, into what the the entity needs to be for is downtown in the development area and all those things. So so you're correct. I'm just saying and forgive me for interrupting you. [1:02:27, 1:02:45]: it just it it it just bothers me sometimes when I'm asking for numbers or figures. I don't you know I just I'm I just I just needed some numbers. Yes sir and and we'll we'll be able to get that number and and you you you're correct. Um you know this down our downtown development authority is going to be in a very [1:02:45, 1:02:46]: Um [1:02:47, 1:02:55]: pristine position um as we move forward with the implementation of our downtown plan and and the TAD study. [1:02:55, 1:03:03]: because obviously they'll be the ones doing some of the transaction as it relates to those properties and development that we all envision in the downtown area. [1:03:04, 1:03:06]: Um we have the RP out now, so this will help. [1:03:07, 1:03:09]: did once we're able to transfer this property over to them. [1:03:10, 1:03:17]: And the deal is done, they get a portion. So at that point they can start moving independently, but you know, acquiring properties or making deals on other [1:03:18, 1:03:23]: on another areas aspects, you know, we just talked about the need for a parking deck downtown. [1:03:24, 1:03:27]: In light of the amount of activities that we've been having here at our venue. [1:03:28, 1:03:48]: Right, there's a need for that because what's happening is a lot of our downtown as we now see activities in our downtown business with frozen smoke and and the barbecue place, there's limited parking for their patrons. And then when we have concert, there's competition between those patrons and those concert goals. And so hopefully that's [1:03:48, 1:03:53]: down the road, you uh my goal is to see us doing just as good as Madison or even better. [1:03:54, 1:04:14]: than what you see happening in Madison. But that obviously we're I think we're on that trajectory. Um and as I go, obviously we'll be having our budget budget discussions um in a few weeks. We can talk more about that and have a little bit more data available about, hey, what level of funding do we truly want to to give to them in light of what we will be potentially turning [1:04:14, 1:04:23]: turning over to them, um, what would they need to then come off of of the city and then be that self sustaining agency. And I think if everything happens, that can happen next year. [1:04:24, 1:04:44]: Yep, with saying that, just a follow-up, we're saying that is this agreement, is that in lieu of what's been provided or addition two? Well, right now they've they fund they're funded at 45 for FY23, right? We're in the process of developing the FY24 budget. You know, right now we are [1:04:44, 1:04:47]: have a proposal to have them at the same level of funding. [1:04:47, 1:05:01]: Um, like I said, that's a discussion we can have at the budget retreat as to what level of funding in light of what what they currently have in their account and then what we're in terms of the land that we're gonna turn over to them and the potential for them to reap some additional rewards from that. [1:05:02, 1:05:08]: will be able to say, Hey guys, you know, that twenty thousand or that twenty four don't need to happen anymore because now you've got [1:05:08, 1:05:17]: You've got land which is capital you can sell, and you have a bank account, you can now do some things in the downtown. So so you're saying this is [1:05:18, 1:05:20]: This is an addition to [1:05:21, 1:05:34]: right now. So yes, whatever they have in their banks is what they got. So no I got that I'm saying so in in what I'm saying moving forward, I'm just don't want to make this sound convoluted. What I'm saying moving forward for twenty twenty four [1:05:34, 1:05:38]: This is not additional two. This is what you're saying that we're gonna budget. [1:05:38, 1:05:48]: Yeah. So right now they're they're asking for us to budget them twenty, which is less than what we were proposing to budget them, which is twenty five less than, right? Um [1:05:48, 1:06:06]: So hopefully at the budget retreat the discussions we will have is okay, we have a number of properties downtown Stockbridge that we want obviously to get off of our books, but we also want them to be able to sell to for development opportunities. And if those things come to pass, those properties are transferred. [1:06:06, 1:06:08]: And they're able to make those deals. [1:06:09, 1:06:11]: We get whatever that percentage is. [1:06:11, 1:06:12]: Um [1:06:12, 1:06:24]: You know, and they're able to get monies off of that to continue working. With that in mind, we can then throttle down the amount that we're actually giving them because they're actually making money off the deals that they're doing and becoming more self sufficient. [1:06:25, 1:06:28]: Can I can I ask then why are we putting a number on it now? [1:06:28, 1:06:48]: When we can always when we can add it later, I'm just curious on why we're putting the number. Well, it's an agreement that obviously we we you you want to make sure they're in a pos they're in a g not just a good position, but an excellent position. Um, realizing that as they compete for properties, they're gonna be competing against private people to acquire some of these pre and they might give [1:06:48, 1:07:05]: get outbidded on some, they might win some, depending on how, you know, what properties they're going after. It's good to know that they'll have a cushion to be able to do that, especially as you if it's relate to strategic properties that we would need to that they would need to acquire, that they have the capacity to be able to acquire those properties. [1:07:06, 1:07:17]: All right, so on that note, counsel, obviously when your teammates is speaking, you should listen, hopefully not disturbing in that process. You want the same type of due respect when you're speaking as well. On that note, Miss Gantt do you have something you need to say? [1:07:18, 1:07:38]: Thank you. I'm I'm all for the DDA as being previously on the DDA. I'm very aware of the potential. Um since recently we really hadn't given out many facade grants or anything. I'm glad to hear that it's the the amount has increased. [1:07:38, 1:07:45]: and hopefully the word gets out on the street that hey we got some money here to help you, you know, spruce up your facade, right? [1:07:46, 1:08:03]: Um, that's been talked about for a while and I was like, let's just at least send postcards out to each business. Um, but I say that because I think the point I'm trying to make is in this agreement, it says shall. All I want is the word shall out of we have to give you money. [1:08:04, 1:08:15]: we have to give you this dollar amount every year. I just think that shall should be eliminated in both areas where it says we have to give it to you. I agree that we should continue giving it to them. [1:08:15, 1:08:22]: But I don't want to ever lock myself down as a government entity with the word shall. Does that make sense? Okay. [1:08:23, 1:08:33]: Does that make sense? It's on page four, section three oh one, clause A and B. Just take out the word sat shall. [1:08:34, 1:08:38]: I'm all for giving the D D A continuously money until we need to. Yeah. [1:08:39, 1:08:48]: It is what it is. Uh stand by a second. Mr. Thomas, you have a comment, sir? Well, I was just I was trying to get us back on track to uh misses Gantt's uh [1:08:48, 1:08:57]: concern and I was just asking the word so I see on page four the word share and I just wanted to get back to that. I think you said it was two [1:08:57, 1:09:01]: Yes. Um on a facade grant and operating budget. [1:09:04, 1:09:24]: The word shall is on there for so that sentence basically take out the word shall the city shall provide the funds of the D DA for its operating budget in the amount of twenty thousand dollars annually. And we just need to say the city shall the the city will provide or may. We can use the word May. May May is the right term. From from share. [1:09:23, 1:09:25]: Yeah to me. [1:09:26, 1:09:28]: Change from shell to May on both. [1:09:28, 1:09:29]: And that's it. [1:09:30, 1:09:35]: Okay. So you you want a motion on that? Mr. Alexander, you had a comment? [1:09:35, 1:09:55]: Uh yeah, let me say this again. Uh and let me just go back since the discussion has continued. The DDA now is doing more than it ever did because we didn't have any activity in downtown until we moved forward with uh the amphitheater, and now we have it. The last thing we want to do is to starve them of any protection. [1:09:55, 1:10:15]: Potential revenue, as Mr. Gardner has said, to be able to purchase. And Mr. Swiggert will tell you that I was beating the drum on facade grants at the last meeting to get them out. And Mr. Alliance has also uh upped it. So now that the business will be eligible for uh$10,000 instead of$5,000. [1:10:15, 1:10:35]: In order to move forward. So I'm certainly agreeable to change the word shall to may and uh to solve this particular issue so we can move forward. This agreement has been out there for about a year and a half now. It's our fault that things haven't moved forward. We keep getting this kickback, kickback over and over and over again. [1:10:35, 1:10:47]: We need to move it forward to show them we're in partnership with them in order to move agreements like this ahead. So I want to make a motion to move forward with the edited language, including the word may. [1:10:47, 1:10:53]: All right. Is there a second to motion? I second. All in favor of the motion please indicate. [1:10:54, 1:11:00]: Enam decision. Okay, thank you very much. Appreciate it, gentlemen. Alrighty, so [1:11:01, 1:11:09]: Council consideration to amend the city of Stockbridge Code of ordinances to provide a Stockbridge Business Partnership Board. Mr. Lunch, please. [1:11:11, 1:11:31]: Alright, good evening, Mayor and Council. Um the item in front of you today is part of our BRICS initiatives. And uh at the last meeting in uh June the council approved our uh BRICS initiatives which include these uh program. Uh basically we hosted a small business uh meet and greet. [1:11:30, 1:11:50]: Back in May for a small business week, and we had overwhelming support from the business community, and we want to continue that. We want to provide an opportunity for our businesses to nurture relationships and also get some B2B transactions. So we think that with this particular business partnership, we're able to accomplish. [1:11:50, 1:12:05]: that. So what you have in front of you today is uh basically uh an ordinance creating a board uh that will be uh part of our uh economic development efforts. With that being said, I would like to take any questions that you may have. [1:12:06, 1:12:08]: Any questions counsel from Mr. Lantz? [1:12:11, 1:12:14]: If no questions, I need a motion to accept this uh proposal. [1:12:14, 1:12:17]: So moved. Okay, there's s Ms Gantt, so moved there a second. [1:12:18, 1:12:22]: Second. Mr. Blount second now. All in favor, please indicate. [1:12:24, 1:12:27]: Okay, four four votes. All right. Thank you, sir. Thank you. All right. [1:12:29, 1:12:38]: And once again, council consideration to demand the city of Stockbridge Code of Ordinances to provide for a keep Stockbridge beautiful board. Mr. Lawrence, please. [1:12:39, 1:12:55]: Good evening, Mayor and Council. Uh the item that you have in front of you um today is an ordinance creating a Cape Stock Bridge Beautiful Board. Our department was tasked to uh research opportunities for um the city to uh consolidate and um [1:12:56, 1:13:14]: find affiliations with the uh Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation and Keep America Beautiful. And this is the first step in doing so. Uh we need to make it a community wide effort and creating this um board is the first step. So with that being said, I would like to take any questions that you may have. [1:13:15, 1:13:29]: Okay. Mr. Blount, we have a question, sir. Didn't the city didn't the city, didn't we just hire someone to seek out grants in different areas for the city? In various areas, Mr. Gardner. Or Mr. Um [1:13:35, 1:13:41]: Yes, sir. We do Didn't we didn't we just h hire someone to do it? Yes, she's been on board for a year now. [1:13:42, 1:14:02]: So all we have to do is say what areas we want to seek grants in and that person become that becomes uh on the scope of grants this seek out from this person we hired. Well we also we also use um a grant program that actually gathers all the grants to come in and if they're pertinent to a specific department, we're able to identify. [1:14:02, 1:14:22]: And to tell that department, hey, this is available to you. I know some of you guys also send us information, but we also get it through our system. And so we're able to then determine with the department head, is this something that it's needed or viable for us to go at. Obviously that person reviews the qualifications because every grant that comes out, we're not eligible for. [1:14:22, 1:14:31]: it might look like we are, but then when you get through the nuts and bolts of it we're not. But yes, that person is on board to assist with uh grant writing a and the administration which [1:14:32, 1:14:40]: Grant writing is the easy part. The part is staying in compliance with the requirements under those grants is where the difficulty comes in with grant administration. But we have someone Yes, we do. [1:14:42, 1:14:45]: Any other questions for Ms. Alantz? [1:14:46, 1:14:48]: I have not in a motion to accept this proposal. [1:14:51, 1:14:52]: Is there a motion? [1:14:54, 1:14:55]: Was there a motion? [1:14:56, 1:14:58]: Okay. [1:15:00, 1:15:01]: I'm at someone. [1:15:01, 1:15:03]: All right, Mr. Sanister, second to that motion. [1:15:04, 1:15:05]: Ah, se okay. [1:15:06, 1:15:09]: Okay, Mr Thomas Eckendan, is there any further discussion? [1:15:10, 1:15:12]: I have I have one. Yes, ma'am. [1:15:13, 1:15:26]: What's what's the purpose of this board? I mean I mean literally we have Keep Stop Rich beautiful campaign by Councilman Thomas. We have a beautiful campaign by Councilman Alexander. [1:15:27, 1:15:29]: What what are we doing? Why are we [1:15:30, 1:15:32]: Why are we creating more board? Sure. [1:15:33, 1:15:53]: So uh what we were tasked to do as a department was to do research to uh try to um find ways that we can uh consolidate all of our efforts. As I mentioned, um at last time we presented this, the city has done a tremendous job at actually having those programs where we have keep [1:15:53, 1:16:13]: Stockbridge Beautiful, which in order to use that official name, we have to be affiliated with Keep America Beautiful or Keep Um Georgia Beautiful Foundation. And for you to become affiliated with them, it has to be um a community-wide effort. So you have a couple of [1:16:13, 1:16:33]: Of um options. You could create a 501c3, a separate entity, or you could actually create a hybrid entity, which is a 501c3, but also a city board. So in talking to them and in doing our research, we found out that this particular option. [1:16:32, 1:16:37]: is the best for us at the moment because it provides us an opportunity to [1:16:37, 1:16:42]: create the organization, build the capacity, and then once it [1:16:43, 1:16:59]: has the capacity to operate on its own, it will d go ahead and operate on its own. The five one C three will allow us to seek funding from different entities uh for the activities, whether it's recycling campaigns, whether it's community cleanups. Thank you. That's that's fair enough. [1:16:59, 1:17:19]: And uh just to bring this up, we're right now talking about different boards. We're creating these new boards. One time we got away from boards, now we're bringing boards back. This time, once we get these boards up and going, please please keep in mind that we now have districts. So I would hope and expect that each board would represent [1:17:19, 1:17:39]: A member of each district to be fair across the board and not just in one particular area. So I would hope that there's enough board appointments for each category, for each and every single district to have an appointment. Yeah, this particular board has nine members. [1:17:39, 1:17:51]: members which we anticipated that we would have one representative for each uh district and we also have a we have two positions that will be uh appointed for staff. [1:17:52, 1:17:55]: Okay, thank you. Yes, go ahead, Mr. Blanc. [1:17:55, 1:18:07]: That that board has nine members, but you have um several boards with three years and then the last few with two years. [1:18:08, 1:18:14]: Uh and then the board shifts. If we're looking at what Councilwoman Gann is saying. [1:18:15, 1:18:26]: what members get the first three years and then ha or who gets the two years and who has to shift. I don't understand because it's a little convoluted for me and I agree with the boards because [1:18:27, 1:18:32]: It's been stated just a while ago that we do have the capacity as a city. [1:18:32, 1:18:35]: to reach out to any grants toward beautification. [1:18:36, 1:18:56]: Uh we we have we're we have contracted people around the city with that in mind and what we and uh Mr. Aaron with the uh public works is in line with what we want for beautification. So we're not lacking in those areas for what we want as a city. I'm just trying to say what are we trying to get to with an with the statue. [1:18:56, 1:19:00]: of a board when we have those capabilities right now anyway. [1:19:00, 1:19:13]: And now it it it it it gets a little more convoluted because now you're saying that we have districts now. There are five separate districts. So now how do you take this and make it fair for each district? [1:19:14, 1:19:16]: That's not that's not in this. [1:19:17, 1:19:20]: Nothing's in this is is is showing you how you're gonna do that. [1:19:22, 1:19:42]: So a couple of things. Um first, as it relates to this particular board and to this particular effort, um it is a community focused board. Um and what we were asked to do was try to find a way to not only uh create something that would have more community involvement, but that [1:19:42, 1:19:54]: That could also open doors for other funding opportunity. And I think by having this board, which will be a five oh one C three and once it becomes sufficient enough and it can operate on it. You say ask to do by who? [1:19:58, 1:20:00]: Can you repeat? [1:20:01, 1:20:03]: I'm saying I'm just trying to figure out where did all this come from. [1:20:04, 1:20:21]: By no I'm sorry? No, I'm gonna say by the state. Who who directed you, I guess? So the directive was um for the economic development department through research opportunities to become affiliated with Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation and Keep America Beautiful. [1:20:22, 1:20:42]: But I keep saying, but I'm saying, who's the directive? Where did you get the directive from? The directive came from me to the department head to research this. We we've been operating under uh keep Stockbridge Beautiful, right? Um, as I mentioned to you in our early conversation, being part of a city, the city of East Point, where [1:20:42, 1:20:47]: Вервигад Кіп Іспой Бітифо на енеті да воркт акрос алборд. [1:20:47, 1:21:03]: all the city departments from public works to sanitation and all of that to and with volunteers would do work around the city, not in any one area, but throughout the city in the in in their efforts to to beautify and keep the city um clean. [1:21:03, 1:21:20]: Um, that's in addition to obviously what we do. But as a 501 C three, which we are not, they have access to additional funds that we don't have access to as a city government that they can bring to bear to assist in these efforts. So as we look, it's a force multiplier. [1:21:20, 1:21:21]: Right. [1:21:21, 1:21:27]: So we're able to do certain things as as an entity that's affiliated with the national and the state. [1:21:28, 1:21:36]: they're able to get on as a 501c3, they have access to to activities and funds and resources above and beyond where we as a city can do it. [1:21:36, 1:21:39]: And so when I got here last year [1:21:39, 1:21:45]: And it was this keep Stockbridge beautiful and I had a conversation with the council member and I said, Hey, this is not affiliated. [1:21:46, 1:21:46]: Right. [1:21:47, 1:21:56]: I if if if we're truly and want to endeavor on a keep Stalkbridge beautiful, there is a program nationally and statewide that we can participate in. [1:21:56, 1:22:01]: Right, there would gun more resources to bring to bear to do just that city wide. [1:22:01, 1:22:21]: All right, and so based on my experience in working with one of those entities, um, not just here, but also in the city of of Griffin, working with that entity, I saw, hey, this is a way for us to be a force multi to be a force multiplier to help us move forward with keeping the community b beautiful. In light of what we're doing, there's still more because guess what? [1:22:21, 1:22:28]: I get complaints from y'all all the time about, well this didn't get done or that didn't get done or this needs to be there, so this need to be addressed. [1:22:28, 1:22:30]: It's a for to us, to me. [1:22:31, 1:22:37]: It was a it's an opportunity to be a force multiplier. But but let me say this, the city has not the city [1:22:37, 1:22:44]: has not been operating under Keep Stockbridge Beautiful. There's no funding that we've done in the city. [1:22:44, 1:22:55]: toward keep we we've done money we've done funding toward uh beautification for the city that's done by contractor. Key Stockbridge Beautiful is a council member's initiative. [1:22:55, 1:23:01]: So this is not something that the city's been operating on. We've been operating with funding for beautification. [1:23:01, 1:23:09]: I want to make that clear. We haven't been operating out of that, and and Mr. Uh Alexander has done a great job with with his initiative. [1:23:10, 1:23:12]: He's done things on Hudson Bridge Road that looks better. [1:23:13, 1:23:17]: But the city itself has not been operating under Keepstock Bridge Beautiful. [1:23:18, 1:23:27]: We've been uh we've been funding beautification for the city, as well as Mr. Mr. Thomas has Don't Trust Stockbridge. [1:23:27, 1:23:47]: The city's not operating under Don't Trash Stock Bridge. It's his initiative and he's doing a good job with it. It's not us it's so everything is under the city, but we're not operating under Keep Stock. We operate under the funding of beautification. That's right. Uh stand by please. [1:23:47, 1:23:50]: Okay. [1:23:50, 1:23:56]: I'm in agreement and I wanna approve this. I just want to make one comment and hopefully the attorney [1:23:56, 1:24:16]: Is our attorney here? Yeah, he's present. Okay. Our attorney and Mr. Um Gardner can put this on our next agenda. And that would be a across the board way that board members are appointed. Um and that is for now that we have particular districts, we can have some type of policy in place. [1:24:16, 1:24:19]: and procedure for that because [1:24:19, 1:24:22]: If we appoint someone and we're no longer [1:24:22, 1:24:23]: On this cancel. [1:24:24, 1:24:24]: Then [1:24:25, 1:24:45]: I feel like it would only be right that that new appoint appointed person, that new elected person will have a right to appoint who they want as well. So I just wanna make sure that we get something concrete and if we can put that on the next agenda so it can go across the board or next two weeks or next work session. Yes, ma'am, we could do that. Definitely. [1:24:45, 1:25:01]: That'd be that'd be helpful to us as well. Thank you. Mr. Thomas Gway, please. Yes. Uh I I I agree. I I don't have an issue now. I know this is the the agenda item is about the board, but since we sort of went into the conversation, uh I just wanna speak to the fact that [1:25:01, 1:25:13]: going forward and going into the future is for beautification and don't trash stockbridge under the umbrella of beautification for the state. Um both of those programs are listed. [1:25:14, 1:25:32]: The thing about trash and litter and the and illegal dumping, uh, it's a man-made problem, but it happens all over the city, not in one district. It's all over the city. So I agree and uh and Mr. Alonso and I had this conversation about the difference in [1:25:33, 1:25:37]: planting shrubbery and mochin and those kind of things. [1:25:37, 1:25:54]: and y and the don't litter program is about the litter or the illegal dumping, which is man made problem. So it's an educational component. And so um to respond to Mrs. Gandhi for the board, I I think [1:25:55, 1:26:13]: The board will take an overall approach to to all of this as far as um where you plant the shrubbery, the beautification. But when it comes to um educating folks about litter and illegal dumping, it's all over the place. And you could go to [1:26:14, 1:26:26]: any one district and you'll see litter and you'll see illegal dumping. So and I think where we're from my understanding is correct where you're trying to go as far as the future [1:26:27, 1:26:30]: with the city of Darbridge in beautification is that [1:26:30, 1:26:38]: This initiative and you know under economic development is gonna lend itself to beautifying the whole city. [1:26:38, 1:26:58]: And as far as educating the whole city about the ills effect of litter, illegal dumping. And I would imagine that would be beautification all over the city. And I think it opens it up as you and Mr. Gardner mentioned, you know, with the 501, even with, you know, additional grants and other research. [1:26:58, 1:27:18]: And I think this is where you're trying to go, is to open this up where there are other resources. And I don't have a problem with, but don't trust Stark Bridge coming under the umbrella of the city. And I think Councilman Alexander feels the same. So it would be a city program to educate. [1:27:18, 1:27:19]: Yeah. [1:27:19, 1:27:31]: f people about the ills effect of litter, illegal dumping, and even having beautification projects all over the city. So I I I think it's a it's a way that we are moving toward the future. [1:27:32, 1:27:34]: And and I and I think it's great. [1:27:35, 1:27:37]: Mayor, I yield back. Thank you, sir. No problem. Ms. Barber, go ahead, please. [1:27:38, 1:27:38]: Um [1:27:38, 1:27:40]: Yes. So [1:27:41, 1:27:47]: I do support this idea. Um, it's a great way for us to get funding from the state. [1:27:48, 1:27:53]: and additional resources that we may need. One of the things that I am concerned about though is [1:27:55, 1:27:56]: District four. [1:27:56, 1:27:58]: In the way in which [1:27:58, 1:27:59]: The lines are drawn. [1:28:00, 1:28:01]: Um it's unique. [1:28:02, 1:28:07]: District City Council District Four um is unique in the sense that it runs [1:28:07, 1:28:10]: Um farthest east of our city and farthest north. [1:28:11, 1:28:13]: It is the district that is most elongated. [1:28:15, 1:28:18]: А не хав неплодис дистрикт Лиз. [1:28:18, 1:28:20]: But what I like to see is [1:28:20, 1:28:21]: For the board, he said. [1:28:22, 1:28:23]: To consider [1:28:23, 1:28:25]: having two representatives. [1:28:25, 1:28:27]: For city council district four. [1:28:28, 1:28:29]: To serve on this board. [1:28:30, 1:28:31]: So that we make sure that [1:28:31, 1:28:32]: Um [1:28:33, 1:28:40]: Both sides of the district is represented. That's what I'd like for us to consider. [1:28:41, 1:28:50]: Thank you. All right, so our motion has been made in the second, it's was that's my understanding, correct? We did we and emotion is uh made in the second. Okay, so no further discussion. All favor the motion please. [1:28:51, 1:28:55]: Yeah, before we vote uh and I'm for it, but I'm saying are we going is that [1:28:57, 1:29:11]: Is that till we draw the line show how we're gonna be able to add people? You just voting for it as it is? Yeah, as it is right now at this point, but we have we're gonna bring back some additional guidelines and reference. Mayor Ford. Uh yes, ma'am. If I can add um [1:29:12, 1:29:15]: If we are able to add just an amendment. [1:29:15, 1:29:30]: to this motion for this particular item to ensure that city council district four includes two representatives as opposed to one. I know this is a non member board, you said. [1:29:30, 1:29:34]: Correct. Okay. So if two of those members [1:29:34, 1:29:37]: can be from district city council district four. [1:29:38, 1:29:47]: I'd be fine with that. Well, if we can add that as a condition. But the motion was made by me. Okay, so then Mr. Alexander would have to accept that and it'd have to be a second. I say that [1:29:47, 1:30:02]: It it would be would it be fair? My district is all over the place. I mean I got seventy five, I got like it's all over the place. I got here, there and everywhere. Then everybody would have two members of the board. Right. So is it necessary to have two memb I mean [1:30:03, 1:30:23]: I I ru I hear what you're saying, but I'm not sure whether we need to have two members in every district. Okay, well what I would say too, we had made motion and we had a second, so let's go forward as far as and then we'll deal with this later. All in favor of the motion, please indicate. All right. Okay. All posed? Abstain? I will abstain. Okay. Four zero one. All right, we'll move on. Thank you. Mayor [1:30:23, 1:30:40]: Therefore I just asked so Councilwoman Gantt's request to bring a policy forward on the next meeting. I think that would be included in that, correct? Well that's that's that's a separate separate directive. It's not part of this particular motion. It's a separate directive, and I'm I'm pretty sure that [1:30:40, 1:30:50]: The council understood that and I'm pretty sure that city manager's gonna do this no problem. I don't think it's necessary I don't think it's necessary to make a vote on that. Yeah, I'm okay with it. Okay. I think we'll be fine. [1:30:51, 1:31:04]: All right, no problem. Uh let's see here. Uh council consideration to fill a vacancy to appoint a member of the planning commission to fill an unexpired term through twelve thirty-one, twenty twenty-four. It says Mr. Ryan here. Uh [1:31:06, 1:31:07]: So is this you, Mr. Gardner? [1:31:09, 1:31:10]: All right. [1:31:24, 1:31:40]: And once again, typically one of these appointments we ta take the executive session, but I mean if if the council's uh no problem with this, if they don't have a problem with this, we I guess we can just go forward with it. Is that is if that's this point? Is there more than one candidate for There's only one candidate in each one of these coming up, that's my understanding. [1:31:47, 1:31:56]: So mayor and counsel, we have one one applicant one um applicant that wants to serve um on the planning commission, Mr. Jaden uh Williams. [1:31:56, 1:32:08]: Um he's currently employed with the city with uh Clark Atlanta University, um, resides uh on Misty Misty Ridge Trail in the city of Stockbridge and has volunteered to serve his time on the planning commission. [1:32:10, 1:32:15]: Okay. Uh any questions concerns council? I have not any motion except uh Mr. Williams. [1:32:16, 1:32:36]: For his position. So moved. Ms. How's that? Ms. Howzdown secondhand. All flavor, please indicate. Okay, it's unanimous decision. Thank you very much. Mayor Ford. Yes, ma'am. I just want to state for the record, he is currently at an intern and his last day will be the twelfth. So he will not be um with the city. So that [1:32:36, 1:32:40]: There won't be a conflict when it's time for him to be sworn in in August. [1:32:42, 1:32:58]: Okay. Okay. For the record. Thank you. Sure. Appreciate it. And I know you'll work it out with the time frame and me just where I'm in. Okay. Correct. Good deal. Thank you very much. Council consideration to fill vacancy appointment to a member of Downtown Development Authority Board on a fill the unexpired term to twelve thirty-one twenty twenty-three. [1:32:59, 1:33:19]: And it's got Mr. Lance here. Okay, sir. Go ahead, please. Uh good evening, Mayor and Council. The request that you have in front of you is to appoint uh Mr. Warren Washington, which is he's the owner of Frozen Smoke in the downtown area, and he has applied to be a member of the uh downtown development authority. [1:33:19, 1:33:39]: And um with that being said, I would like to take any questions that you may have. Mayor. Yes, Mayor. Yes, sir. Go ahead, please. Uh certainly I spoke with Mr. Washington as well and encouraged him to apply because we need to fill that uh role. So I'd like to make a motion um uh nominating Warren Washington to fill the vacancy on the downtown development. [1:33:39, 1:33:59]: Authority. Ms. Gantt second that. Okay. All favor, please indicate. All right. Thank you, gentlemen. Ple uh thank you, Council. Mr. Ross, thank you, sir. All right, to announce it to upcoming uh meetings and events. Uh council meeting will be held in council chamber, city, city, council chamber. Meeting dates, location, times are subject changed. Please visit the city website. [1:33:58, 1:34:10]: www.stobbridgega.org or the city's Facebook page or contact city hall offices at 770-389-7900 for meeting updates. [1:34:10, 1:34:30]: And for the rest of the analysis, meeting of the council for the public for a public hearing. We have a public hearing for millage rate uh increase, 9 a.m. City Council Chambers on July 27, which is on Thursday, 9 a.m. in the morning for a millage rate public hearing. Public Planning Commission meeting, 6:30 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers, 4th. [1:34:30, 1:34:50]: Thursday of each month, July 27th. The Citywide Development Authority meeting second Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m. the City Hall Levi Meeting Room, August 8th. The Main Street Advisory Board meeting second Friday of each month. The Welcome Center located 130 ML King Senior Heritage Trail, 9 a.m. August 11th. [1:34:50, 1:35:10]: City Council meeting second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. City Council Chamber August 14th. Uh Council meeting 6 30 p.m. second Monday of each month City City Hall Levi Meeting Room City Hall at uh August 14th. Downtown Development Authority meeting, third Tuesday of each month. Welcome center 130 ML King City. [1:35:10, 1:35:30]: Senior Heritage Trail, August 15th. Youth Council Advisory Committee meeting 6:30 p.m. third Tuesday of each month. Levi Meeting Room City Hall August 15th. Planning Commission meeting 6:30 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers fourth Thursday of each month, August 24th. And a City Council Work Session meeting last Tuesday of each month at 6th. [1:35:30, 1:35:50]: P.M. City How Council Chambers August 29th. And for upcoming city events and initiatives, join us for Food Truck Tasty Tuesday, 5:30 to 8:30 PM, Clark Park, uh Community Park, 111 Davis Road. Lots of food, great fun, activity for everyone. Tonight happens to be Greek night, and it ends it at uh [1:35:50, 1:35:53]: eight thirty, so we got a little less than an hour left. Okay. [1:35:53, 1:36:13]: John join Mayor Pro Tem Barber for a free Zuma every third uh every Saturday, 8 a.m. beginning 6th of May at Gardner Community Park on East Atlanta Road. Join Councilman Thomas or Don't Trash Stockbridge Initiative centered around education highlighting the causes and effects of littering and illegal dumping. More information to follow on that. [1:36:13, 1:36:33]: Councilman Thomas's Army Veterans for a continuous salute to all all year long. Uh please send your pictures of veterans with their names, branch, rank, and years of service to R. Rawls and City of Stockbridge-G A dot G-O-V. Join Councilman John Blount for Bingo Batch Wednesday, August 16th from 10 a.m. to two uh to noon. [1:36:33, 1:36:53]: Merrill Manner's Conference Center located at one hundred eleven Davis Road. And join me, Mayor Ford to meet the mayor on Monday, august twenty eighth from ten AM to noon. And please contact Ros and Rawls to schedule an appointment at six seven eight eight three three-three three four eight or by way of email on Rawls at City of Stoppers Dash G. [1:36:53, 1:37:13]: Now get your kit and tickets, of course, for the upcoming 2023 Stockbridge concert series by visiting StockbridgeAMP.com, StockbridgeAMP.com. Or in person at the ticket office located at 4650 North Henry Boulevard Thursday through Saturday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Once again, you can get your tickets to the ticket office with [1:37:13, 1:37:14]: Well, we're not going to be able to do that. [1:37:15, 1:37:35]: Forty six fifty North Henry Boulevard, Thursday to Saturday from one PM to five PM. And by the way, for all for August, we have August fifth, the OJs, the Whispers, and Johnny Gill, and this is the last round for the OJs. That's a Saturday. August twelfth, we got Patty LaBelle in vogue, and Patty's return uh to City of Stockbridge. She had her part of our [1:37:35, 1:37:55]: our grand opening back uh in September twenty twenty one and August nineteenth there's Tower of Power and Ohio players. So and by the way folks if you didn't you you missed it, if you didn't come around to the concert this weekend, you had uh we had uh Cameo and a zap in the city on on Saturday and obviously as I've been informed, I missed this one. Zap threw down. [1:37:54, 1:38:14]: Tore it up. So you you missed it, folks. And so did I, if it makes any difference to you. But that's all right. We'll come back next year, right? We'll check that out. And on Sunday we had Boys and Men and Brownstone, and Brown Boys and Men had a wonderful time and did and uh even though it rained on us a little bit, but uh had a great concert with the boys and men as well. Now, for any additional comments, of course, uh comments. [1:38:14, 1:38:34]: COVID 19 is still out there, so hopefully you have your boosters and vaccinations and you're you're healthy and want you to be around and and uh be healthy. And let's see here. And a back to school event that happened uh this weekend was successful here at the amphitheater along with uh certain co uh with with our youth council. [1:38:34, 1:38:54]: That worked out very well. As a matter of fact, Saturday on the 29th of July, 9 a.m. There's a massive praying for all the schools in Henry County. And looking forward to they're looking forward to an outstanding outstanding school year. But each one of the schools in Henry County will have a preacher or a minister praying. [1:38:54, 1:39:14]: Praying for the school at nine AM on Saturday, so you wanna join in on that, pick a select a school and go there and pray with them for an outstanding school year. And on that note, Council, I I don't have any executive session uh um second executor session uh message, so I would imagine we will be adjourned for tonight. If that's the case, I need a motion to adjourn. [1:39:14, 1:39:17]: So moved. Is there a second? Second. Okay, on fair, please indicate. [1:39:18, 1:39:20]: Outstanding good night everybody. Anyone to see.