2025-10-13 · City Council · Transcript · Regular Council Meetings

--- title: Regular Council Meetings date: 2025-10-13 source: 2025-10-13_Regular_Council_Meetings.wav --- [0:01:00, 0:01:05]: Yeah. Uh we we can find somebody to record, yeah. [0:01:05, 0:01:06]: Part of it too, bro. [0:01:08, 0:01:09]: Yeah it's it's a green light. [0:01:19, 0:01:25]: Come on up. Come on up. Are you coming on my side? All right. [0:01:30, 0:01:50]: All right, ladies and gentlemen, we uh we have several different proclamations for a ceremonial portion of our meeting tonight. And I'm gonna start this uh evening off with a proclamation for Evan Oglesby, okay? Distinguished Service in Youth Empowerment. Whereas Evan Oglesby is an NFL veteran and alumnus of the University of North Alabama, whose professional career in [0:01:50, 0:02:05]: included the Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys. Whereas inspired by his own journey, he founded the Evan Oglesby Foundation, also known as the Evan Oglesby Charitable Foundation, to empower young people through sports, education, leadership, and wellness. [0:02:05, 0:02:09]: Teaching character and opening pathways to college and careers. [0:02:09, 0:02:29]: Whereas the foundation's mission is to be the playbook of opportunities, strengthening youth to achieve excellence in education and athletics and paving the way for future success. And whereas Evan Oglesby's sustained volunteerism and impact on youth were nationally recognized when he received the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. [0:02:29, 0:02:31]: in January twenty twenty four. [0:02:32, 0:02:52]: For community service. Congratulations to you, sir. Thank you. Whereas the Evan Oglesby Foundation is a partnership with the Golf for Change, chose the city of Stockbridge to host a pre-pre-mingle, excuse me, a pro-mingle after golf social on Saturday, September 20, 2025, with several professional athletes and celebrities. Mr. Oglesby mod mobilizes [0:02:52, 0:03:01]: athletes, business leaders, and supporters to raise funds and directly expand youth programs and resources. Now therefore our Anthony Sforbe Virtual Authority vesting me. [0:03:01, 0:03:08]: It's the mayor of City of Stockbridge, Georgia, and on behalf of city council members Elton Alexander, Ilana Barber, Kyle Berry, Lakeisha Gantt and Afonso Thomas. [0:03:09, 0:03:11]: to hereby recognize and commend [0:03:11, 0:03:17]: Evan Oglesby for experimentary leadership, philanthropy, and unwavering dedication to empowering the youth. [0:03:18, 0:03:22]: A witness whereof I have here undo set my hand on thirteenth day of October year of our Lord. [0:03:23, 0:03:30]: Two thousand and twenty five and I signed a proclamation along with our clerk Vanessa Holliday. Congratulations, sir. [0:03:33, 0:03:53]: Now, since this is the first time this has happened, okay, what happens after we do this, we the floor is the honored. So the mic is on, sir. Whatever comments you want to make, it is yours. Go right right here, please. Oh man. All right. How long I have? As long as you won't. As long as I won't. Oh. Well, first of all, I want to thank God for giving me this opportunity. [0:03:53, 0:04:13]: This has been a big dream of mine to be able to give back. It started with my grandmother being a pillar in the community of helping serving. And I think that has kind of embedded in our family. The EO Foundation is an opportunity for anybody that has a dream to be able to come and find. [0:04:13, 0:04:33]: our resources how to get to their destination. And we want to be that hand in the back. Behind your key people that have been a major part. My sister, she's one of the board members. Uh Orson is a major supporter. He's a former NFL player. We kind of have that uniqueness about our organizations that we can get people in front of you. [0:04:32, 0:04:52]: youth that they really want to be a part of with that professional level. And my baby Shayla, this is uh she's been helping me pretty much put everything together. And um I'm just fortunate to be at this point with this. I never wanted to start to be the one to have to get recognized for my work. Um [0:04:52, 0:05:12]: I want to be recognized of how many lives I impact. And sports is my way to be able to do that easily. I love it. I have a major passion for it. And I'm just thankful that the city of Stockbridge has allowed me to come into this community and be able to help pour my resources here. So um now I'm here. [0:05:12, 0:05:30]: I'm willing to help serve you, Mayor. Okay, no problem. Whatever you have. Ariel, definitely wanna thank you for actually getting me to this point. And I mean, I just wanna be used and be used by God. So I appreciate you guys and this right here means a whole lot. So thank you. [0:05:33, 0:05:53]: Come on down here. We'll take uh we'll take some pictures here. Why don't you all come on down? Come on, come on down here. Probably right on this air probably be good. Okay. Uh you need to get next to'em. You know? I mean I I can stay on the end of the bottom. All right. Okay. Yeah, it's easy. Oh, okay. [0:05:53, 0:05:57]: [361.6, 364.4]: [0:06:07, 0:06:09]: Congratulations. [0:06:13, 0:06:25]: Fantastic. And yes, and we'll definitely utilize your services and all the efforts and things that you can do to help us out. So take your bank. [0:06:29, 0:06:30]: A yeah. [0:06:35, 0:06:42]: Okay, Ms. Barber. I was I was going to do the next one. [0:07:00, 0:07:04]: Okay. [0:07:07, 0:07:08]: I'll tell you what um [0:07:10, 0:07:14]: Several months, let's keep this going. What I have next a National Women's Small Business Month. [0:07:14, 0:07:15]: So [0:07:15, 0:07:21]: Lady entrepreneurs, please come on up. Lady lady entrepreneurs, business owners. [0:07:22, 0:07:25]: Yeah. [0:07:26, 0:07:26]: Michelle? [0:07:27, 0:07:28]: Come on up. [0:07:30, 0:07:32]: Matter of fact, Lisha, if you can come on this side, please. [0:07:32, 0:07:33]: Okay. All right. [0:07:36, 0:07:36]: Okay. [0:07:37, 0:07:46]: You want the rest of the lake? They're coming. They're coming. You want them on the side? No, uh we can mix it up a little bit. They can stay on the side. Okay, okay. Okay, that'll be fine. All right. [0:07:47, 0:08:07]: City proclamation for National Women's Small Business Month, whereas October is National Women's Small Business Month, which means it's time to recognize women-owned businesses everywhere, as well as the outstanding progress female entrepreneurs have made over the years. And where starting a small business is once considered an undertaking primarily for men, times have changed. [0:08:07, 0:08:27]: With over 11 million and growing women-owned small businesses in the United States, there's plenty of opportunities to get involved. And whereas in October 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed HR 5050, the Women's Business Ownership Act. This legislation increased federal support for women-owned businesses and made it easier for female entrepreneurs to get [0:08:27, 0:08:30]: [511.3, 531.3]: Before this bill was signed into law, some states require women to have a male family member or co-sign on their business loan applications. And whereas entrepreneurship is booming for women in the United States and various businesses sectors, women are making a significant impact in the professional service, healthcare, social services, educational services, and apparel and accessory. [0:08:51, 0:08:57]: industries industries. Now therefore I Anthony Sford by Virtual Authority Vest and Me as the mayor of City of Stockbridge, Georgia. [0:08:57, 0:09:02]: On behalf of city council members Elton, Alexander, Yolanda, Barber, Kyle Berry, Latisha Gann, Afonso Thomas. [0:09:02, 0:09:12]: You hereby proclaim October's National Women's Small Business Month, the great city of Stockbridge, and encourage you to make an a cons can consensus [0:09:13, 0:09:33]: Consensus, excuse me, consensus effort to patronize and promote businesses owned by women. A witness thereof I have into hereunto set my hand in the great seal of the city of Stockbridge, Georgia, on the thirteenth day of October, year of our Lord, 2025, and signed a proclamation along with our third financial holiday. And congratulations, okay, to you. [0:09:33, 0:09:49]: And to you. And to you. Congratulations. Congratulations. Congratulations. Thank you. All right. Well, well, just go ahead first, go ahead and speak. Whatever, ladies, please. [0:09:51, 0:10:11]: So um thank you, the city of Stockbridge. I am um founder and president of Southern Crescent Women in Business. We're the leading organization for women-owned businesses in the Southern Crescent region. And we have several ladies with us today. So I'm gonna let them talk about their business really quickly. [0:10:13, 0:10:15]: Who is first? The floor is there. [0:10:16, 0:10:36]: Good evening everyone. My name is Tyranica Carter. I am the owner of Radiant Styles Jewelry Incorporated. Um I am so honored to be here this afternoon. Um being a woman in business was never anything on my radar. I was an elementary school teacher for 15 years, and if you know with any teachers, we had to find a way to supplement our income. And so [0:10:36, 0:10:56]: So the opportunity of entrepreneurship came about, and my business began to boom so much so that I was making more money than I was as a teacher with a master's degree. So here I am, 10 years now as a business entrepreneur, and it has opened many doors, more doors for me, especially through Southern Crescent Women in Business. And so now I also have my own coach. [0:10:56, 0:11:16]: Coaching business building coaching business where I help other entrepreneurs who are budding entrepreneurs find a way, get started, and figure out how to now turn their ideas and create it into the business that they want. I also am an MC and I do hosting and all that good stuff. So again, I appreciate the opportunity of being a business owner. [0:11:16, 0:11:21]: If you are thinking about it, have an idea, I say go for it because you never know where it's going to lead you to. [0:11:22, 0:11:24]: All right. [0:11:25, 0:11:27]: Yeah, yeah, we could. [0:11:27, 0:11:47]: Good afternoon, everyone. My name is Dr. Chichi. I am the uh CEO and the owner of Rejuvenate Integrative Health Awareness. Um the business is all about, you know, women who have men, women who have high blood pressure, type two diabetes, who are overweight, or in general you just want to learn how [0:11:47, 0:12:06]: how to eat healthy. That, you know, came about when I was diagnosed with high blood pressure. So I figured, you know, there's so many people out there taking medications and you want to get out of the medication and know how to heal yourself holistically. So check me out. I'm on social media at Chi Chi Health, Chi Chi Health. [0:12:10, 0:12:30]: Okay, yeah. Hello everyone. I'm Sean Kia Mahone. I am the owner of Kia Diddy Beauty and Brows located in Stockbridge, Georgia. And um I'm so honored to be here and be a part of Southern Crescent Women in Business. And um I'm located in Stockbridge, so [0:12:30, 0:12:41]: So if you ever need any beauty needs, I'm here to serve you and make women feel prettier and um just honored to be with the organization. [0:12:41, 0:12:48]: So so ladies just move on down here. We'll take some pictures down here. I think that's right, come on now. Come on now. [0:12:50, 0:12:55]: Okay, uh we are we this a good position is good? Okay. [0:13:09, 0:13:15]: Congratulations. Okay. [0:13:16, 0:13:36]: Oh okay. Um uh real quick uh Mr. Berry's phone uh picture please. You all wanna come on back up real quick? [0:13:35, 0:13:37]: Yeah, sure. Come on back up real quick. [0:13:41, 0:14:01]: Hey I'm Shayla. Hey Shayla, Councilman Beer. How are you doing? Or [0:14:01, 0:14:13]: Or Councilman Berry. Good to meet y'all tonight, man. Thank you. She's good. She says she's good. All right. All right. All right, thank you. [0:14:13, 0:14:15]: This is good. [0:14:24, 0:14:28]: Okay, all right, we didn't. All right. [0:14:29, 0:14:31]: All right. [0:14:45, 0:14:46]: Okay. [0:14:48, 0:14:48]: That's it. [0:14:49, 0:14:59]: The next proclamation I have is Fire Prevention Month. And I don't know if we have any firefighters here, but uh let me go through this process as well. Okay. [0:15:00, 0:15:13]: Recognition of Fire Prevention Month, whereas October is Fire Protection Month Prevention Month, whereas the goal for Fire Protect Prevention Month is to raise fire safety awareness, help protect homes and families. [0:15:13, 0:15:21]: Whereas in 1922, the National Fire Protection Association, NFPA, named the second week in October Fire Prevention Week. [0:15:21, 0:15:25]: In commemoration of the great Chicago fire in eighteen seventy one. [0:15:25, 0:15:36]: Today we celebrate Fire Prevention Week and month by spreading fire safety awareness and educating families, students, and communities across the United States with the help from our partners and local fire departments. [0:15:37, 0:15:57]: First Alert is a most trusted brand of fire and fire safety and is dedicated to protecting lives, moments, and encourages you to gather your family to discuss fire safety awareness. Whereas installing reliable protection and being proactive is important to help keep your loved ones safe from a fire or carbon monoxide emergencies. Almost three out of [0:15:57, 0:16:02]: out of every five home fire desks result from fires with no smoke alarms. [0:16:02, 0:16:12]: or no working smoke alarms. Carbon monoxide is the number one cause for accidental poisoning in the United States. Unintended uh cooking is the number one cause for home fires. [0:16:12, 0:16:15]: And the fire department responds to the fire every twenty three seconds in America. [0:16:16, 0:16:36]: Now, therefore, I, Anthony Sforr, by First Authority Invest in Me as the mayor of the city of Stockbridge, Georgia. On behalf of uh City Council members Elton Alexandria, Lana Barber, Cowberry, Lukeesia Gantt and Afonso Thomas, who hereby proclaim October as Fire Prevention Month in Stockbridge, Georgia, and support educational efforts to spread awareness about smoke alarms and fire prevention. [0:16:36, 0:16:41]: our safety. In witness thereof I have hereunto set my hand in the great seal city of Stockbridge, Georgia [0:16:41, 0:16:54]: On the thirteenth day of the year of my Lord, two thousand and twenty-five, and I signed a population loan on our cleric finesse a holiday. And here it is, ladies and gentlemen, as well. Okay? All right. [0:16:54, 0:16:57]: Okay, sure. The kids will be fine. [0:17:02, 0:17:04]: Come on, young folks. [0:17:06, 0:17:08]: I don't give it the one you pulled. [0:17:10, 0:17:27]: It looks like looks like you're uh looks like you're the oldest. So I'm gonna give this to you. All right. Everybody everybody come on in here, come on in here, come on, come on, come on, come on in here. Come on, come on. [0:17:28, 0:17:33]: Right? He's good? Okay, okay. [0:17:47, 0:17:48]: Yeah. Okay. [0:18:00, 0:18:08]: Well thank you, ladies and gentlemen, you know folks. So you keep that, that's yours. Okay? [0:18:16, 0:18:25]: Next proclamation deals with National First Responders Month. And uh I know our police officer are out there working doing some work. [0:18:26, 0:18:27]: Sorry. [0:18:29, 0:18:48]: Okay, all right. And uh I'm gonna read this and uh and what it is that uh Mr. Thomas, Afonso Thomas, uh council member initially started this and what his initiatives in the city. So let me read this here. Let me turn the council position gave. Okay, one officer is up, okay. [0:18:51, 0:18:53]: One of them okay? [0:18:58, 0:19:00]: Take care, sir. Appreciate you. Uh-huh. [0:19:08, 0:19:28]: Yeah, I would yeah, I was thinking that we might get more, but maybe not. But I would do Mr. Christmas, come on and join us, sir. Okay, no problem. All right. Come on here. All right, sir. Yeah, I'm doing well. Okay, good deal. National First Responders Month. Whereas October is designated National First Responders Month, the annual. [0:19:28, 0:19:32]: National First Responders Day taking place October 28, 2025. [0:19:32, 0:19:40]: Whereas this month and day are dedicated to recognizing the sacrifices and service of firefighters, police, EMTs, and other and other emergency personnel. [0:19:41, 0:19:47]: And there are various ways to show appreciation, such as sending thank you cards, donating to related charities. [0:19:47, 0:19:49]: Participate in community service projects. [0:19:49, 0:20:00]: Whereas emergencies require police, fire, and medical services can occur at any time, and the prompt response of these emergency responders is critical to the protection of life and the preservation of property. [0:20:01, 0:20:21]: During times of personal crisis, paramedics are one of the first to come in contact with citizens who need emergency services, and their appropriate response to each person's need is critical. Now, therefore, I am too forward, but Virginia Authority invested me as a mayor of City Stock Bridge, Georgian. On behalf of City Council members Elden, Alexander, Yolanda, Barber, John. [0:20:22, 0:20:34]: Kyle Berry, Lakeesia Gann, and Afonso Thomas do hereby recognize October as National First Responders Month and Great City of Stockbridge and encourage all to participate in community service projects and directly benefit first responders. [0:20:35, 0:20:55]: A witness thereof I have hereunto set my hand great seal city star preach Georgia on thirteenth day, year of our Lord, two thousand and twenty five. Now signed the proclamation along with our Clerk Vanessa holiday. So I'm gonna hand this to you, but there is a there is something we have to change on that, okay? Appreciate you. And we'll take a picture, but actually you get we'll we'll take a picture first, okay, since you're ready to go. [0:20:55, 0:20:56]: Okay. [0:20:59, 0:21:01]: Thank you. [0:21:06, 0:21:22]: Thank you now the floor is yours if you have any comments you want to make. It's up to you. No, I'm honored to receive this on behalf of the police department. Okay. Thank you. And we there's there's something we have to do. Okay. No, no, no. Okay, thank you. Thank you. Thank you. All right. Good deal. Um [0:21:24, 0:21:26]: No yeah, that would be great, yeah. [0:21:26, 0:21:29]: Okay, we'll start with red wim ribbon week. [0:21:31, 0:21:32]: Could you come up please? [0:21:33, 0:21:37]: Okay. Well I need this to say how you can. [0:21:48, 0:21:55]: Thank you. Thank you for being here. Okay. All right. Hi. Cow cow cowberries. Okay. [0:21:57, 0:22:17]: State Proclamation Red Ribbon Week 2025, whereas substance misuse affects individuals, families, and communities across Henry County, the state of Georgia, and the nation. And whereas it is imperative that communities launch visible, unified prevention, education to eliminate and demand for drugs. [0:22:17, 0:22:37]: Offers citizens the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to drug-free lifestyles, no use of illegal drugs, no illegal use of legal drugs. And whereas a national Red Ribbon campaign will be celebrated in every community in America during the Red Ribbon Week, October 23rd to 31st, and establish the theme as Life is a Puzzle Solved. [0:22:37, 0:22:57]: Drug-free. And whereas businesses, government, parents, law enforcement, media, medical institutions, religious institutions, schools, senior citizens, service organizations, youth will demonstrate their commitment to healthy, drug-free lifestyle by wearing displaying red ribbons during a week-long campaign. Now therefore, I Anthony Sforbe, our first authority Vesame, is a [0:22:57, 0:22:58]: the Mercy Starbucks Georgia. [0:22:58, 0:23:01]: On behalf of city council members [0:23:01, 0:23:21]: Elton Alexander, Ilana Barber, Kyle Berry, Luke Gannon, and Father Thomas do hereby proclaim the week of October 23rd, 31st as Red Ribbon Week in Star Trek, Georgia. And encourage all stakeholders to participate in the drug prevention education activities, not only during Red Ribbon Week, but also throughout the year, making [0:23:21, 0:23:40]: whole statements that we've been strongly committed to drug-free schools. A witness thereof I have hereunto set my hand the great seal city stop race Georgia on the 13th day of October year by the Lord 2025 and I signed a proclamation along with a clerk Vanessa holiday and congratulations. [0:23:40, 0:23:48]: But listen, uh the floor is yours if you want to comment on the plan. [0:23:51, 0:24:11]: Thank you, Mayor Ford, and the City of Stockbridge for recognizing schools for Red Ribbon Week. It is an amazing week for us as we make students aware of the dangers of drugs and smoking and those various um things that we want them to stay away from. So we appreciate this and thank you so much for. [0:24:11, 0:24:14]: Absolutely. [0:24:15, 0:24:21]: Let's come on down here. We'll take some pictures now. Okay. Come on down. Okay. [0:24:22, 0:24:23]: I didn't say. [0:24:46, 0:24:50]: Okay, thank you. No problem. Absolutely. Absolutely. [0:24:51, 0:24:51]: Well [0:24:52, 0:24:54]: Great. Congratulations. [0:25:00, 0:25:04]: Rest of the one is about four. [0:25:06, 0:25:13]: Next proclamation is World Mental Health Day. I don't know if there's anybody here specifically to receive this, but I'll roll through the pro read through the proclamation. [0:25:14, 0:25:26]: World Mental Health Day, whereas the World Health Organization recognizes World Mental Health Day on October 10th every year and serves as a reminder that there is no health without mental health. [0:25:26, 0:25:46]: And whereas this year's campaign focuses on the urgent need to support mental health and psychological needs of people affected by humanitarian emergencies. And whereas crises such as natural disasters, conflicts, public health emergencies cause emotional distress, with one in five individuals experiencing a mental health condition, supporting the mental well. [0:25:46, 0:26:06]: Being of individuals during such crisis is not just important, it saves lives, gives people the strength to cope, the space to heal and to recover and rebuild, not only as individuals, but as communities. Whereas a World Mental Health Day is a chance to talk about mental health in general, how we need to look after it and how important it is to talk about. [0:26:06, 0:26:26]: About things and get help if you if you or someone you know is struggling. Stigma and discrimination continue to be a barrier to social inclusion and access to the right care. But we can all play our part in increasing awareness about which preventive mental health interventions work. Now, therefore, I Anthony's Ford by virtue. [0:26:26, 0:26:46]: Authority vests in me as the mayor of the city of Stockbridge, Georgia. Now, on behalf of City Council members Elton, Alexander, Yelana Barber, Kyle, Berry, Lakesa Gantt, and Founders of Thomas Dude, hereby proclaimed October 10, 2025 as World Mental Health Day in the city of Stockbridge. It is essential for everyone, including government officials, health, and social care providers, school staff, and the community. [0:26:46, 0:27:06]: Community groups to come together by working hand in hand, we can ensure the most vulnerable have access to support they need while protecting the well-being of everyone. In the witness thereof, I have hereunto set my hand in the Great Seal City of Stockbridge, Georgia, on the 13th day of October, year of our Lord, 2025, and signed the proclamation along with our clerk Vanessa. [0:27:06, 0:27:10]: Hollow ladies and gentlemen. Okay? All right. So [0:27:10, 0:27:13]: Come on now, we'll take a picture of this as well. [0:27:28, 0:27:31]: Thank you. All right. So this will go here. [0:27:37, 0:27:51]: This month's also breast cancer awareness month. I'm right now myself and the gentleman here and the ladies don't really have pink on right now, but pink is that color. So I'll read this, uh is anybody here to receive this, okay? [0:27:51, 0:27:58]: All right. So anyway, breast cancer awareness month. Whereas breast cancer is a most common type of cancer among women in the world. [0:27:58, 0:28:09]: a second leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. More than one in eight women and one in eight hundred and thirty-three men in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetimes. [0:28:09, 0:28:29]: Breast Cancer Awareness Month began in 1985 as a partnership between the American Cancer Society, Imperial Chemical Industries, Pharmaceuticals, AstroZeneca, and whereas we encourage all women and men to find out if they are at increased risk and to learn more about recommended screenings by speaking with the health care providers, early detention and treatment. [0:28:29, 0:28:49]: Can save lives. Whereas during breast cancer awareness month, we recognize the women and the men who courageously fight to survive, detect, treat, prevent, and support survivors as devastating disease. And if you are a breast cancer survivor, we have a recent diagnosis. October is a great time to be reminded not to be alone. Therefore, I Anthony Sforz. [0:28:49, 0:28:52]: by virtual authority less than me as a mayor city starbridge, Georgia. [0:28:52, 0:29:12]: Now, on behalf of City Council members, Elton Alzheimer, Ilana Barber, Kyle, Berry, Lakesa Gandhi, and Fonzo Thomas, do hereby proclaim October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the city of Stockbridge. And we encourage all to invite everyone to join us on Saturday, October 18th for the city's annual Pink Love Walk at Clark Park. And as we walk to support in remembrance of those impacted. [0:29:12, 0:29:32]: By breast cancer. A witness thereof, I have hereunto set my hand in the great seal city of Stockbridge, Georgia, on the 13th day of October, year of our Lord, 2025. And I signed a proclamation along with our clerk for Nessa Holiday. You know, ladies and gentlemen. Okay. All right. Come on in for uh eight. Oh sure. Oh sure. Sure. [0:29:33, 0:29:36]: As a matter of fact, I'll give this to you then. Yes. [0:29:39, 0:29:44]: Okay, I'll tell you what. No, she can take it, that's fine. Okay, yeah. [0:29:46, 0:29:51]: Matter of fact, I'm gonna tell you I'll tell you what, how about this? I'm gonna I'm gonna hand this to you and then the floor is yours. [0:29:52, 0:29:58]: If you want the floor, the floor is the I'm gonna hand it to you. Okay. So floor is yours if you have some comments. [0:29:59, 0:30:19]: Thank you for everyone who continuously and tirelessly work to educate and outreach to people who have who are living with and surviving breast cancer. It's becoming more prominent as we live longer, of course. But we are also truly grateful for the outreach and community support that each and every [0:30:19, 0:30:39]: Every year this community and this leadership continues to give members and people who are surviving and living with breast cancer. All right. No no no no no no. Yeah, come down and take a picture. You once spoke. Get in the middle. No, you're not going to be a good one. Okay, come on. [0:30:39, 0:30:44]: That's not fine, I've chased the fine. [0:30:49, 0:30:50]: Yeah. [0:30:55, 0:31:06]: All right. There are more one. Okay. So these are already done. Let me see. Okay. All right. [0:31:13, 0:31:22]: And for the last proclamation tonight, uh for domestic violence awareness month, uh I don't know if somebody here to receive this while I'll go through this process here. [0:31:23, 0:31:32]: Whereas October is annually recognized as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, with all the national theme with survivors always, this month long observation observer [0:31:33, 0:31:35]: Absorbents. Absorbents, excuse me. [0:31:36, 0:31:56]: Aims at highlight the ongoing issues of domestic violence and rally community support for survivors and services they need. Whereas domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior that one intimate partner, current or former, uses to gain and maintain control over another. This abuse can occur in the form of physical, verbal, emotional, sexual, and economic control. [0:31:56, 0:32:13]: Batterers often use multiple tactics such as isolation, intimidation, sexual and physical assault, forced substance abuse, insults, threatening, and excessive monitoring to control and manipulate victims and survivors. Resident violence affects millions across the US, regardless of cultural background. [0:32:13, 0:32:33]: Ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith, socioeconomic status, ability, and educational background. This means it is very likely we know someone who is a victim or survivor, and someone who is an abuser. Whereas victims and survivors need comprehensive services, but more so genuine and non-judgmental support from friends, family, and community. [0:32:33, 0:32:46]: And whereas educational awareness are critical components of an effort to end domestic violence, please contact Haven House at 770-954-1008 or the Crisis Line at 770-088-088-088- [0:32:47, 0:32:57]: nine five four two nine screen me nine two two two nine for local help and assistance. Now don't now therefore I Anthony's for first authority invest in me as a mayor city of Scott Bridge, Georgia. [0:32:57, 0:33:17]: Now, on behalf of City Council members Elton Alzana, Alana, Barber Cow, Vera, Lakesa Gandhi, Afonso Thomas, we hereby proclaim October's domestic violence awareness month in the city of Stockbridge, and we call on citizens and communities to join the movement to end domestic violence. We must do our part to support victims and survivors and come together as a community to end this abusive behavior. [0:33:17, 0:33:31]: behavior. A witness thereof I have hereunto set my hand in the great seal city of Star Beach, Georgia, on the 13th day of October year of our Lord 2025, and I signed a proclamation along with our clerk Vanessa Holiday, ladies and gentlemen. Okay? All right. [0:33:45, 0:33:51]: Thank you. Thank you. All right. Now um Mr Collins, sir, I have um [0:33:52, 0:33:53]: This the sworn in? [0:33:56, 0:33:56]: Okay. [0:33:59, 0:34:04]: Um sorry. Okay, Mr. Collins, relax for a second, please. All right. Sorry about that. [0:34:07, 0:34:11]: Uh what time would you have here? Uh Gab okay. [0:34:11, 0:34:15]: We uh yeah, we got a little bit of time still. Okay. Good deal. All right. [0:34:18, 0:34:38]: We have a swearing in to do and Mr. Collins is going to sworn in so we have the right documentation for this. All right. All right. Out of curiosity, Mr. Collins, is this your entire family? [0:34:38, 0:34:58]: Okay. You realize that they can all come up if you want. I mean it's where you have to nice. We'll take a picture of it in definitely. Okay. Mr. Wells, how are you doing, sir? He's missing over there in the next few. He's reading. Okay. What's going on with you? You alright? [0:34:58, 0:35:01]: Yeah, no one's and know the one closer here, right? [0:35:02, 0:35:05]: We've got new uh central. [0:35:06, 0:35:10]: In twenty twenty one still setting up to the mountain one hard people. [0:35:13, 0:35:18]: Are you doing? I have already You here for the proclamation? [0:35:19, 0:35:25]: No, okay. I okay. Excuse me. I'm just just checking it. All right. [0:35:27, 0:35:31]: Yeah, we're doing all right. All right, it's a good deal. [0:35:33, 0:35:39]: Went to the Saints. It was nice, it was like, you know, it was like I wanted I wanted to see [0:35:40, 0:35:44]: What like to read Superbow? I've never been to a game yet super. [0:35:45, 0:35:52]: To see how things would go. Both things are dedicated. But there were more pictures. [0:35:53, 0:36:01]: And the deal the other young guy there may I mean maybe he sharp. [0:36:02, 0:36:19]: Right. Cool. We'd like to do that. Come on this up. So you you want uh I think that's your wife and you want your kids, who do you who you want up here with? He's strong. He might not be able to do it. Well definitely when we take a picture, okay. [0:36:19, 0:36:21]: If they're coming now I'll wait. [0:36:21, 0:36:23]: Come on up. [0:36:23, 0:36:24]: Come on, come on, come on. [0:36:25, 0:36:45]: Come come once come on this side over here? Come on this side, okay? On this side? This side? This side? Okay. All right. So what I want you to do is face me and I want to make sure to take pictures that the precipite in the background. Okay. Alright. Raise your right hand. I'll take this as follow me and I'll take some little small snippets, okay? Okay. I stick. [0:36:45, 0:36:49]: Well, I'm sorry? [0:36:49, 0:37:09]: Okay. Hi and state your name. I Tariq Collins. Board members? Board members. You solemnly swear and affirmed. You solemnly swear and affirm. That I will faithfully perform. That I will faithfully perform. The duties of the duties of downtown development authority. Downtown development authority. Of the city of Stockbridge. Of the city of Stark. And that I will to the best of my ability. To the best of my ability. Support and defend. Support and defend. [0:37:09, 0:37:29]: The charter thereof, as well as the Constitution and the laws and the laws of the State of Georgia, the State of Georgia, the United States of America. United States of America. I further affirm that. I further affirm that. Upon assumption of this office, upon assumption of this office, I do not hold any unaccounted for public money. Any unaccounted for public money. [0:37:29, 0:37:49]: Payable to the state, do or payable to the state, any political subdivision of the state, any political subdivision of the state, city of Stockbridge, City of Stockbridge, or any authority thereof, or any authority thereof, nor do I hold, nor do I hold any other office of trust, any other office of trust of the government, of the United States, of this state, of this state, or any foreign state, or any foreign. [0:37:49, 0:38:09]: As prescribed as prescribed by the law by the law state of Georgia of the State of Georgia. I solemnly affirm. That I fully quite qualified. That I'm fully qualified. Under the Constitution. Under the Constitution. Under the laws. And the laws of the state. Of the state. To hold the office. To hold the office. Of Downtown Development Authority Board Member. Of Downtown Development Authority. [0:38:09, 0:38:29]: authority board member. And that I will perform and that I will perform the duties of my office. The duties of my office in the best of my excuse me, in the best interest in the best interest of the city of Stockbridge. To the best of my ability to the best of my ability without fear. Without fear favor. Favor. Affection. Affection. Reward. Reward. Or expectation thereof. Or expectation thereof. This is the thirteenth day of October twenty. [0:38:29, 0:38:31]: Twenty-five. Congratulations. [0:38:34, 0:38:45]: Now, welcome to the telephone calling you some great things together. Yes, sir. [0:38:50, 0:38:53]: [2339.1, 2359.1]: All right, and the floor is yours. So the mic's up there. Speech, speech, speech. Uh I just wanna say thank you to the board and city council member, the mayor, everybody that uh voted me in last month, and uh think my wife and kids and god kids and [0:39:19, 0:39:25]: uh for coming out and uh I'll do my best to serve the city of Stockbridge to the best of my ability. [0:39:27, 0:39:43]: Oh uh we got um we own an accounting firm over off Eagles Landing. So we service any business owners or individuals if you are looking for tech services or bookkeeping services. So just w reach out. Thank you. [0:39:48, 0:40:08]: Mr. Collins, officially welcome to the Downtown Development Authority. Appreciate it. We appreciate it. And we're gonna do some great things in downtown. Yes, sir. We rec we welcome frozen smoke, we rec welcome to Crown Pizza, ABA therapy, and several more. So certainly, this is the middle of the Stockbridge Renaissance. And when a business owner [0:40:08, 0:40:24]: Like yourself, who's the stakeholder in the community, steps up. We certainly appreciate that because you have many other choices and you have a busy schedule, but we understand the importance of moving this community forward and we're gonna do it together. [0:40:25, 0:40:44]: Yeah, we'll take a come on down here. Come on, family, come on down and take a good picture here. As the city council district representative of our downtown area, welcome, sir. And congratulations on your appointment. Um I look forward to all of the great work that you'll do with the rest of the members of the downtown development authority board. [0:40:45, 0:40:46]: But I want you to remember. [0:40:46, 0:40:48]: I represent this district. [0:40:49, 0:41:09]: I'm super excited about the revitalization efforts of our downtown. I want to remember all of the stakeholders that are affected by all of the decisions that are made in our downtown. So welcome. Welcome. All right. [0:41:08, 0:41:10]: Yeah very well? Okay. [0:41:22, 0:41:23]: Yep. [0:41:26, 0:41:46]: Congratulations. Okay. Sir by the way, here you go. This is uh this is also for you, sir. Okay, no problem. Congratulations to you. Congratulations to you too as well. Congratulations and well. Okay. Eager to work with you. Thank y'all. Thank you all. Thank you all. [0:41:46, 0:41:55]: Okay. Okay. Right, right. This is what this is the DDA for Okay. What this everyone here? DDA for C okay. [0:42:07, 0:42:09]: Yeah, it's [0:42:09, 0:42:24]: Okay. Okay. So we have um okay, I have six we'll get started here shortly, ladies and gentlemen. Uh yeah, uh what had happened is that uh Clerk is going to sign it for some. [0:42:30, 0:42:30]: Let's [0:47:35, 0:47:38]: I didn't see it. It's my brother's birthday. [0:47:39, 0:47:44]: Okay, how about this would you want to do an invocation on that? Okay. No. [0:47:46, 0:47:51]: That's what I want to be. [0:47:52, 0:48:11]: All right. All right. So I got I'm removing forward to executive session after executive session. I'm removing three altogether. And then I'm amending it and add the uh this would be on this session. Okay. Okay. [0:48:13, 0:48:14]: Are we [0:48:15, 0:48:17]: We we good now? Still good? All right. [0:48:22, 0:48:30]: All right, ladies and gentlemen, I have 606, so I'd like to call our council meeting for uh October 13th to order. [0:48:31, 0:48:34]: And please stand for the invocation, mister Berry, please. [0:48:35, 0:48:36]: That is great. [0:48:37, 0:48:57]: Eternal God, our Father, we thank you tonight again for allowing us to come together, Lord God, for the citizens and for the constituents of the city of Stockbridge. Lord God, we pray, Lord God, that you will cover us and watch over us and keep us protected from danger seen and unseen. Lord, we pray for all the federal employees, Lord God, who are, Lord God, without pay and compensation during this government. [0:48:57, 0:49:17]: Stoppage and we pray, Lord God, that their households will be covered and blessed. Then, Lord God, we pray if anyone in the city of Stockbridge is in need, Lord God, that you will supply each and every one of their needs according to your riches and glory. Now bret bless this meeting, bless all that are involved, and let us, Lord God, do the work that you've called us to do with perfection, with diligence, and doing everything possible, Lord God, to pray. [0:49:17, 0:49:35]: please you in all things that we do. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. Amen. Okay, do a pledge allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag, the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. [0:49:36, 0:49:38]: Madam Clerk, roll call, please. [0:49:42, 0:49:44]: Good evening. Evening. [0:49:44, 0:49:49]: Mayor Ford. Present. Mayor Pro Tem Gantt. Present. Councilmember Thomas. Present. [0:49:49, 0:49:53]: Let the record reflect Council Member Thomas is not in attendance. Councilmember Berry. [0:49:54, 0:50:00]: Present. Councilmember Barber. Present. Council Member Alexander. Present. Mayor Ford, you have a call. Thank you, Madam Clerk. Appreciate it. [0:50:01, 0:50:05]: Uh Mayor Po Tim Gantt, I need a several different amendments to the agenda, please. [0:50:06, 0:50:10]: Um yes, Mayor, I I would like to make a motion to remove agenda public hearing. [0:50:11, 0:50:13]: Item number three. [0:50:14, 0:50:19]: And then also to remove item number four until after executive session. [0:50:20, 0:50:21]: Under new business. [0:50:22, 0:50:25]: And to amend the agenda to include [0:50:26, 0:50:29]: Under new business, a discussion. [0:50:29, 0:50:45]: Um for a vote to have a city event mortgage burning. The city event uh in regards to mortgage burning. Sir. Okay, I wanna at least mention that the public hearing item that's gonna be removed will be back at our uh city work session later on this month. [0:50:45, 0:50:46]: Yes, I'm sorry. [0:50:47, 0:50:51]: Okay. All in favor, please indicate. Mayor Ford. Uh yes, ma'am. Discussion, please. [0:50:51, 0:51:10]: Well let's let's go ahead and vote on this. I'd like to add one more item to the agenda. Well that's not discussion. That's that's an amendment. Okay. So so stand by the second. Hold on a second. No, we already got a motion. If you want to add something else, we'll do another motion to I wanted to ask Councilwoman Gann if she would add an item to the agenda. [0:51:11, 0:51:17]: Since I didn't know about all the others, I would have spoken to her prior, but since those amendments are coming to the council now. [0:51:18, 0:51:32]: There's one additional stuff I wanna add. Let's vote on this and then we'll we'll we'll we'll do that. Okay? We'll vote on what d we've made a motion, made a second. We can come forward any additional amendment items just a second. We'll we'll do that. All right? Well if we're all ready. [0:51:32, 0:51:34]: Amending the agenda. [0:51:34, 0:51:36]: And several items. [0:51:36, 0:51:41]: are in this motion that she made, why not add one additional item? [0:51:42, 0:51:46]: To her motion to amend the agenda. All right, tell you what. [0:51:46, 0:51:53]: That is w what that is up to her. She made the most that's up to her. Okay, so that's why I was asking her, but you interjected. All right, go ahead. [0:51:54, 0:52:02]: Go ahead. Council Councilwoman Gantt, would you add another item to the agenda for the presentation of the budget amendment? [0:52:02, 0:52:07]: That Mr. Malazi has said that he was going to present at this meeting. [0:52:08, 0:52:10]: I think he's prepared for that. [0:52:11, 0:52:13]: Mr. Malazi, are you prepared for that today? [0:52:13, 0:52:15]: No, there's no regular meaning. [0:52:15, 0:52:19]: Okay, there you have it. You're not prepared to present your budget amendment? [0:52:19, 0:52:22]: Okay. All right. So motion's been made in second. Okay. [0:52:22, 0:52:25]: And motion has been made in second. All in favor of the motion, please indicate. [0:52:25, 0:52:30]: Okay, you now have to say no. Appreciate that. Okay. So on that note, um [0:52:31, 0:52:36]: What we had earlier today, ladies and gentlemen, before the meeting we had a ceremonial review. I wanna let you know that um [0:52:37, 0:52:57]: We want to continue to support and recognize the diversity and the differences of our citizens within our community and make sure we honor them and welcome everybody in this aspect as well. And so I say that to let you know that no matter what the federal government does in reference to DEI type programs of recognition, we here at the City of Stockbridges will recognize [0:52:57, 0:53:06]: Our citizens and once again the diversity that we have in our community. So, on the that note, uh Red Women Week, we had a proclamation on that. [0:53:06, 0:53:07]: Fire Prevention Month. [0:53:08, 0:53:10]: Uh breast cancer awareness month. [0:53:10, 0:53:30]: Mental Health Awareness Month, Women's Small Business Month, and several ladies who received that and spoke about the particular businesses, domestic violence, prevention awareness with a month, and also worst first responders month. And I swore in a new DDA member, Tyreek Collins, was sworn in this this evening as well. So I want to let you know that. And Madam Clerk, do we have any [0:53:30, 0:53:31]: Public comments at all. [0:53:31, 0:53:40]: We do, Mayor, but if you don't mind, we need to adopt the agenda as amended. Oh you know what? Thank you very much. That's why you're the clerk. Okay. I need a motion to adopt the rest of the agenda, please. [0:53:40, 0:53:41]: What was [0:53:41, 0:53:45]: No no we'd only we've made some change. We gotta adopt the reason. [0:53:46, 0:53:53]: No, we but we already made the m the amendments were already approved. We got em she's right. We have to make a motion. There's no motion to accept the rest of the agenda. [0:53:54, 0:53:58]: Someone make a motion, please. So moved. Okay, is there a second? Okay, Mr. All in favor, please indicate. [0:53:59, 0:54:01]: Okay, so now she says okay now. Thank you madam for [0:54:02, 0:54:08]: I I got ahead of myself in a sense. Okay, thank you very much. All right. Public comments. Uh we have a couple public comments at all? [0:54:08, 0:54:09]: We do Mayor. [0:54:09, 0:54:29]: Okay. Mr. Willie Turner. I'm sorry, Mr. Mayor Turner. Mayor, point of order. What's that? I want to make sure that there's no campaigning up here. There's no mention of running for public office or anything that is not appropriate. Okay, hold on, hold on. Hold on. Let's do this. Let's do it. Hold on a second. Stand by, stand by. Public comments. All persons wishing to speak and for public comments must sign in the city clerk prior to beginning. [0:54:29, 0:54:49]: Beginning of the meeting. You must sign your name, address, and phone numbers. You will be able to address the mayor and council for three minutes. Speakers must respect all members of the elected body, officials, and staff. Definition of unruliness and/or swearing would not be tolerated by a meeting in the session. And of course, it's uh I would think you need to keep on the subject and topics here appropriate to the city itself. [0:54:49, 0:54:55]: All right, so on that note, uh first uh individual to uh give us comments, name and address please. [0:54:58, 0:55:05]: Yes, my name is Willie Carter, 123 Wilson Avenue. Okay. Good evening, Mayor, Council, and Stockbridge residence. [0:55:07, 0:55:24]: We all have been aware of the mismanagement of funds in the fiscal year of twenty twenty-four, alone requiring a budget amendment of thirty-two point nine million. That is unacceptable and cannot continue going forward as the city sets the new budget. [0:55:26, 0:55:28]: This city council needs to be more responsible. [0:55:31, 0:55:33]: We're taking care of the services. [0:55:34, 0:55:38]: That should be provided to the residents and the business of this city. [0:55:40, 0:55:45]: Three years with this amphitheater, every single year. [0:55:47, 0:55:50]: It has spent millions of dollars over budget. [0:55:51, 0:55:54]: In twenty twenty five has been added to that. [0:55:56, 0:56:00]: At some point, this council needs to pivot. [0:56:02, 0:56:02]: And why is that? [0:56:05, 0:56:12]: Let's get it right for twenty-six by bringing in a company to manage the amphitheater and take on the expenses. [0:56:15, 0:56:19]: We simply cannot afford to continue to do this internally. [0:56:21, 0:56:24]: Also, the city council has failed. [0:56:26, 0:56:30]: To respond to the recommendations from the city's ethnic board. [0:56:32, 0:56:44]: to have an independent third party to review the city's finances from the complaint that Councilman Barber has filed. Not one word has come from this council. [0:56:47, 0:56:54]: I have come to the city council for years now and just didn't show up at election time. [0:56:56, 0:57:07]: To get improvements in the Tigh Street area and legacy community after numerous phone calls and emails and meetings with Councilman Thomas and Mr. Aaron. [0:57:08, 0:57:14]: We finally got six million approved to do the work while having this project started. [0:57:15, 0:57:25]: I'm currently waiting on, after the meeting with Mr. Edmonds, the manager and the Public Works Director, Ms. Aaron, to provide an update on this project. Thank you. [0:57:26, 0:57:29]: Uh thank you. All right, uh who's next? Ms. Holliday? [0:57:40, 0:57:41]: Mr. Turner. [0:57:45, 0:57:46]: Name and address please. [0:57:50, 0:58:02]: Mr. Turner two five four warbler away. This is business not personal. The City of Stockbridge General Fund concluded its eighth month of two thousand twenty five fiscal year as of August thirty first, twenty twenty five. [0:58:04, 0:58:24]: Operations with$14,299,000 of revenues, which is 49% of the budget amount. General fund revenues were estimated to bring in$29,239,000 for the year, but only collected$14,299,000 at the end of the year of August of 2025. On the other hand,$14,500,000. [0:58:24, 0:58:44]: $122,000 of expenses were incurred, representing 50% of the budget amount during the same time. Budget amendment will be needed before the end of October 25 to address and eliminate unbudgeted spending that does not have council approval. Budget amendment will also address the need to have general fund remain in balance all at the same time. [0:58:44, 0:59:04]: The City of Stockbridge Amphitheater at the bridge had budgeted to receive$2.6 million in revenues in fiscal year of 2025. Instead, only$1 million has been received by the end of August 2025, representing 41% of budget amount.$2.6 million was budgeted for corresponding expenses, but instead,$3 million,664,000. [0:59:03, 0:59:23]: four thousand dollars was spent by the end of August 2025, and yet we just added another free event. All the unbudgeted spending above the revenues will be transferred from general fund to make up for the revenue shortage. Again, another year taking money out of the general fund account to fund entertainment. I had a chance to sit in the twenty twenty six budget meeting to hear some deposits. [0:59:23, 0:59:43]: Department's wish list. During this meeting, I noticed that we're still using Harold Young's team to run the operation of the amphitheater. Not only are we using his team, we are promoting members of his team to run the amphitheater again next year. Why? The amphitheater has gone over budget by millions of dollars every single year on the taxpayers' expenses under Harold Young and [0:59:43, 1:00:03]: And his team for years. The data and numbers prove this. Why aren't we bidding this position out to our entertainment management company? Why are we utilizing our own ordinance when it pertains to procurement? Why would our own city attorney create an affidavit to disclose what the taxpayers pay the artists who are performing? Again, our city attorney created an affidavit. [1:00:03, 1:00:17]: David into which the taxpayers cannot see the c actual number amount these artists are being paid. Further, why would our city attorney be sitting at a VIP table at a concert at the amphitheater with Harold Young if Harold Young has stated publicly that [1:00:17, 1:00:18]: So the making melody [1:00:18, 1:00:38]: That he will be seeking legal counsel after his after his dismissal of breach of contract. Would that be a conflict of interest to have Harold Young sitting at a VIP table and backstage taking pictures at a tax funded facility if he has publicly stated he is seeking legal counsel for his dismissal from our governing body? You all can see continue to say. [1:00:38, 1:00:55]: that the amphitheater is not for profit and an economic driver, but yet you transferred city owned property that's directly across the street from a brand new multi million dollar amphitheater to the DDA and to which the DDA sold to a private investor with no appraisal and below tax assessed value. Thank you. [1:00:58, 1:00:58]: Alright, um [1:01:00, 1:01:06]: On that note Did I get more time? No. Oh any more time? I no, you don't well [1:01:07, 1:01:09]: Anymore? No. No. [1:01:10, 1:01:20]: Okay. The answer's uh well. Yep, no problem. No more time, sir. Appreciate you. All right. Uh Kyle so d Okay, got one more. I'm sorry. Go ahead. Who's next? [1:01:21, 1:01:22]: Mr. Peter Friedrich. [1:01:26, 1:01:27]: Name and address, please, sir. [1:01:29, 1:01:32]: Thirty four fifty Cameron Parkway. My name is Peter Friedrich. [1:01:33, 1:01:53]: Doctor uh Martin Luther King Sr. was born here in Stockbridge in eighteen ninety-nine. And when he was a boy, his his mother Delia brought him to Floyd Chapel Baptist Church, the wooden church that stood where the current building is now. That's where he was ordained, where he preached his first sermon as a uh as a young man, just about a five minute walk from these chambers. [1:01:53, 1:02:13]: He became a preacher because he saw ministers willing to speak truth to power on racial injustice, even when it was dangerous. Georgia State Senate Bill 375 makes speaking truth dangerous again. This bill is not about protecting against bigotry. Georgia law already does that. SB 375 is a [1:02:13, 1:02:20]: About one thing, giving India's government legal weapons to silence Americans who criticized our policies. [1:02:20, 1:02:24]: How does it work? By weaponizing a word, Hindu phobia. [1:02:24, 1:02:44]: The bill treats criticism of Hindu nationalism, a political movement running India's government, the same as hatred of Hindu people. Those are not the same thing. But once Georgia's law conflates them, anyone discussing India's treatment of minorities risks being sued for bigotry. Political criticism becomes legally. [1:02:44, 1:03:03]: Actionable. Now here's what it looks like. A Stockbridge teacher assigns students to research religious freedom globally. A student writes about India. Parents connected to Hindu nationalist organizations complain that the assignment promotes Hindu phobia. The teacher faces legal threats. The school district pulls the curriculum. [1:03:04, 1:03:10]: Why does India's government want this? Because they've already tried harder methods. [1:03:10, 1:03:30]: This report documents how federal prosecutors are charging an Indian government operative while plotting with plotting murder of an American Sikh activist on US soil. Murder of an American in America for criticizing India's government. His trial starts next month. When assassin when assassination fails, they will [1:03:30, 1:03:50]: They want lawsuits instead. Martin Luther King Sr. left Stockbridge for Atlanta. He became a civil rights leader. He taught his son to speak truth to power without fear. SP 375 turns that principle upside down. It uses civil rights law, the kind MLK Sr. fought for, to protect powerful governments from criticism. [1:03:50, 1:03:50]: Yeah. [1:03:51, 1:04:11]: The city can take three actions. One, pass a resolution opposing SB 375. Say clearly that Stockbridge protects free speech, not foreign governments. Two, send it to your state legislators, tell them that Martin Luther King Sr. was born in this city and we won't let his legacy be twisted. Three, make a public statement. [1:04:11, 1:04:31]: Georgia law protects people from hatred. It must never protect political movements from criticism. Martin Luther King Sr. preached his first sermon in Stockwridge because he believed ministers should stand up for what is right, even when powerful people wanted silence. SB 375 is about enforcing silence. [1:04:31, 1:04:41]: Stockbridge should stand against it. And I'm leaving this documentation with the council. Thank you, sir. Appreciate you. Thank you so much. Thank you very much. So leave it to leave it to the clerk, put the clerk, sir, that way. [1:04:42, 1:04:46]: Thank you. Okay, any anybody else, Madam Clerk? No additional comments, Mayor. Thank you. [1:04:48, 1:04:58]: All right, council, I need the well let's see here. Adoption of the minutes. The approval of the minutes from September eighth, twenty twenty five, and the work session session minutes of September third, twenty twenty five. A motion to approve those, please. [1:04:58, 1:05:18]: So moved. Is there a second? For Miss Barber to Mr. Berry. All in favor, please indicate. Okay, thank you very much. And we have open to see Council of Consideration approved the annual contract RFP 2025-004 for on-call sidewalk repairs and replacement to CGS LLC in the amount of$300,000. [1:05:18, 1:05:36]: thousand dollars funding from uh splot six a contract to begin one uh january twenty twenty six mr aaron please yes mr mayor i'm sorry mr aaron mayor forward yes go ahead please um i'm gonna ask that we table this again i've spoken with um mr malazi [1:05:36, 1:05:39]: Um there's some things that need to be reviewed. [1:05:40, 1:05:42]: Uh prior to bringing this forward. [1:05:43, 1:05:55]: All right, so you wanna you wanna make a mo motion to I wanna make a motion to table this. Okay, one second folks. Okay, she's making a motion to table this. Is there a second to the motion? I wanna make a motion to table this until our September thirtieth work session. [1:05:56, 1:06:16]: Is there a m is there a second to the motion? Let me the discussion. I wanna know the issue. There was a motion made. She made a a motion. Right. I wanna know what it is that is causing the delay because [1:06:16, 1:06:26]: It seems we had this here before. It's back again. Why wasn't it taken care of in the meantime? Because we don't have our sidewalk [1:06:26, 1:06:27]: Um [1:06:27, 1:06:30]: You know, this is delaying progress on [1:06:30, 1:06:40]: Projects like broken sidewalks on Hudson Bridge Road that I've been trying to get fixed for six months. So what is it that we cannot resolve tonight or can it be resolved tonight? [1:06:41, 1:06:44]: Before our circuit. [1:06:45, 1:07:01]: Um there is a review in the policy that I am asking Mr. Malazzi to take a look at. Um staff should be aware of some of the policy changes that were implemented, I don't know, two, three years ago. [1:07:01, 1:07:05]: We're without a purchasing manager right now since the summer. [1:07:05, 1:07:06]: So [1:07:06, 1:07:10]: This is one of those RPs that were issued over the summer. [1:07:12, 1:07:21]: when we are without a purchasing manager. Mr. Malazzi's time has been spent on um the financials of our city, but there is a [1:07:22, 1:07:24]: [4044.8, 4048.0]: that I ask him to please look at again. [1:07:28, 1:07:32]: And that specific portion of the policy is the selection committee. [1:07:32, 1:07:35]: Mr. Aaron knows exactly where I'm going with this. [1:07:35, 1:07:37]: In the policy [1:07:37, 1:07:43]: There are supposed to be five council members five members of the evaluation committee. [1:07:44, 1:07:47]: Two of those members of the evaluation committee. [1:07:47, 1:07:53]: can be from the user department in which the RFP is for. [1:07:54, 1:07:55]: In this case [1:07:55, 1:07:57]: There were six. [1:07:57, 1:07:59]: members of the evaluation committee. [1:08:00, 1:08:03]: Four of those members were from public works. [1:08:04, 1:08:06]: I've spoken with Mr. Malazi. [1:08:07, 1:08:14]: He wants to take this back to his team to review this again so that we are following. [1:08:14, 1:08:18]: All the rules and policies that have been put in place. [1:08:19, 1:08:20]: Mr. Aaron is aware. [1:08:21, 1:08:24]: He's aware of the policy. Mr. Edmondson is aware of the policy. [1:08:25, 1:08:28]: This is the second meeting in a row. [1:08:28, 1:08:29]: That I brought this forward. [1:08:30, 1:08:31]: So let me just say this. [1:08:32, 1:08:34]: And I've said this since twenty twenty. [1:08:36, 1:08:39]: My professional background is in procurement. [1:08:40, 1:08:44]: I have experience in both the public sector and private sector. [1:08:45, 1:08:49]: I know the processes back and forth. I want to make sure. [1:08:50, 1:08:53]: When these contract awards are being presented to the council. [1:08:53, 1:08:54]: That they are [1:08:55, 1:08:55]: Fair. [1:08:56, 1:09:02]: That they are transparent, that we are following our processes and procedures. [1:09:03, 1:09:04]: Before they come here. [1:09:05, 1:09:09]: I've been saying the same thing since I've been here. I said the same thing last meeting. [1:09:10, 1:09:15]: So I understand that the projects are being delayed. It's no fault to my own. [1:09:15, 1:09:25]: What I'm asking is allow staff the time to go back and correct it to make sure that we are being fair in our assessments. [1:09:26, 1:09:35]: That's all I'm asking for. So please allow staff to table this and bring it back during our work session in Sept [1:09:35, 1:09:36]: In October. [1:09:36, 1:09:39]: Uh Sean, Mr. Edmondson, please come to the mic, please, as well. [1:09:40, 1:09:51]: No, I need for Mr. Malazi to send to this. This is his department. If Mr. Edmondson knew, he wouldn't have allowed his staff to add this item to the agenda. [1:09:51, 1:09:52]: Okay. [1:09:53, 1:10:13]: We we we mayor point order. What's the point order, sir? We we just we're in paralysis right now. Every time a contract comes forward, we end up in minutiae going through every detail, micromanaging the staff, when there's a process in place. Now there's a process that's been outlined already, and it's in the book. [1:10:13, 1:10:33]: Book. Now, one council member can't change the policy. One council member can't ask staff to do anything. The city manager has to ask the staff to the police. That's why it calls city manager to police. So the city manager for the council member to sit up here and say they asked the card the treasurer to do something particularly, that's inappropriate. The city manager should have made it. [1:10:33, 1:10:38]: Understand, understand. Mr Mr. Edmondson. [1:10:39, 1:10:59]: I checked with the Councilman Barber to say this is the the second time this one is coming in now. So I would prefer if this one was to go through then he we will look into that policy because that policy I was not aware of yet. So because it's coming for second time, let it pass [1:10:59, 1:11:03]: then we take note of what will be there because it already passed through. [1:11:04, 1:11:10]: Okay, because it's coming for the second time. We had this one last meeting. [1:11:11, 1:11:15]: And the we discussed with the Mr. Ellen. [1:11:16, 1:11:16]: Okay. [1:11:16, 1:11:22]: So my recommendation depending on what you say, but I would request this one to pass through. [1:11:24, 1:11:25]: Ms. Edmundson, sir. [1:11:26, 1:11:46]: Um, yeah, so the last time this item was on the agenda, it was my understanding that the reason why we had some apprehension is because the breakdown sheet was not on there, which I I completely agree, uh, to which we comply and we did the breakdown and made sure that information is in there. But this is the first time we hearing that how this was created. [1:11:46, 1:12:06]: Is outside of policy. So this is the first time me hearing that. And if there is a policy dealing specifically with this particular procurement thing, then I would like to know more about it. But this is the first time me hearing about it. That is a policy violation, which is the issue that's on the table versus the spreadsheet that was requested from the last time. [1:12:06, 1:12:09]: 'Cause had I known that, I would have made sure that we [1:12:09, 1:12:16]: We took those measures, but my understanding was the apprehensions is because we didn't have the breakdown sheet. [1:12:16, 1:12:27]: All right, so the city city manager, the staff obviously reports directly to you. So uh by knowing all this information, what kind of recommendation do you have at this point? Do you have one? [1:12:27, 1:12:47]: Well, I mean, of course, if there's a policy, we're not gonna intentionally violate a policy. So if we're saying that that's a policy that's out there that doesn't align with this particular item, then of course we have to table it and and and and make a decision from that point. But my understanding that this particular item been out here for quite some time and now it's kinda [1:12:47, 1:13:07]: coming back to really, you know, get the ball rolling on that. So if that's not the case, uh then we we definitely need to talk more about it. But it's just my understanding, that was the only issue was the fact that we didn't have the actual breakdown um which we have provided um to to move this item forward. Yes sir. Let me just say this. [1:13:07, 1:13:27]: Now, what was stated that Mr. What was stated up here was Mr. Malazzi wanted it not to go through. Mr. Malazzi just said out of his own statement that this should pass through and we should move forward with this. This is the second time tonight we've heard something that was stated for staff that not simply wasn't. [1:13:27, 1:13:33]: Accurate. So the statement that was made that was requested, and again [1:13:33, 1:13:52]: We have sidewalks out there right now that that we can't deal with because we keep going through these things over and over again. The city manager made the case. If what was brought and all of us agree, we tabled it specifically because the cost sheet was not attached. The cost sheet is attached. [1:13:53, 1:14:13]: The the public works managers up here recommending that it pass. The treasurers recommended that it pass, and the funding is absolutely there. It's the same process that we've been following along for years to make sure that using a committee form, right, that was done. So certainly there there shouldn't be any more delays in getting this. [1:14:13, 1:14:33]: This done and then as has been stated, the policy uh can be reviewed and looked at and to see whether or not there are some issues. But right now we don't even know whether there's an issue or not because the city manager just heard about it for the first time and uh the treasurer says to pass it through. So [1:14:33, 1:14:50]: Based on that particular issue, we had a motion on the floor. It wasn't there was no second. There was no second. I'm going to make a motion to move forward with the recommendation that was made for staff so we can get somebody out there to fix the sidewalks in the city of Stockbridge. Is there a second to that motion? [1:14:52, 1:14:58]: Is there a second to that motion? Therefore, my hand. Stand by stand by a second. Is there I'm asking, is there a second? [1:14:58, 1:15:03]: My hand is raised. Okay. [1:15:03, 1:15:09]: Please acknowledge my hand, sir, so that I can go go ahead with go ahead. Thank you, sir. You're more than welcome. Have at it. [1:15:09, 1:15:20]: This is not the first time that I brought this up. I brought it up last meeting. You weren't listening to me. Um there were actually two items. Um [1:15:21, 1:15:23]: That Mr. Aaron was presenting. [1:15:23, 1:15:27]: Both of those items, the cost proposals were missing. [1:15:28, 1:15:31]: I even mentioned on one of those items. [1:15:32, 1:15:34]: He knows. I mentioned. [1:15:34, 1:15:35]: That [1:15:36, 1:15:40]: I see the list of evaluators for that particular um [1:15:41, 1:15:45]: award or renewal, whatever it was, I told him. [1:15:45, 1:15:47]: I mentioned it during the last meeting. [1:15:48, 1:15:51]: I'm sure it's in the meeting minutes or it should be. [1:15:51, 1:15:53]: You can go back and watch the meeting minutes. [1:15:54, 1:15:55]: Since I've been here [1:15:56, 1:15:57]: Um [1:15:57, 1:16:02]: I've used procurement as my guide to understand the operations of our city. [1:16:03, 1:16:04]: From day one. [1:16:05, 1:16:21]: There were a series of um amendments to the procurement policies, um, some in which the city's attorney uh recommended back in 2023, I believe, and then there were some I recommended. [1:16:22, 1:16:23]: The same meeting. [1:16:23, 1:16:24]: They're all approved. [1:16:25, 1:16:26]: So [1:16:26, 1:16:30]: Based on those new amendments to the policies. [1:16:30, 1:16:34]: In which one of them that I recommended that was approved. [1:16:34, 1:16:38]: was ensuring that we have a fair selection committee. [1:16:38, 1:16:42]: Making sure that the selection committee comprised of [1:16:42, 1:16:43]: Five members. [1:16:44, 1:16:45]: Only two of them were [1:16:46, 1:16:57]: Two of them from the department in which the RFP or the services are supposed to be issued for, only two members from that department can serve. [1:16:57, 1:17:00]: The other three members have to be [1:17:00, 1:17:02]: other departments of the city. [1:17:02, 1:17:04]: To make sure that we're being fair. [1:17:05, 1:17:07]: And what we're doing here. [1:17:07, 1:17:08]: To see this [1:17:09, 1:17:09]: Um [1:17:10, 1:17:11]: This proposal [1:17:12, 1:17:13]: Or this RP [1:17:14, 1:17:16]: And the one from the last meeting. [1:17:16, 1:17:18]: have the same exact issue. [1:17:19, 1:17:20]: That's an issue for me. [1:17:21, 1:17:26]: I started out when the mayor called Mr. Aaron up to the podium. [1:17:26, 1:17:27]: By making emotion [1:17:28, 1:17:29]: To table this, [1:17:29, 1:17:30]: So that Mr Mulazi [1:17:31, 1:17:32]: Can get with his staff. [1:17:33, 1:17:35]: We've been without a procurement manager. [1:17:35, 1:17:36]: For a while. [1:17:37, 1:17:41]: I know that this selection committee's recommendation. [1:17:42, 1:17:44]: came back in May or June. [1:17:45, 1:17:46]: Whenever. [1:17:46, 1:17:48]: So now that it's coming to us. [1:17:49, 1:17:52]: I'm saying the same thing that I said the last meeting. [1:17:53, 1:17:57]: If you're frustrated by hearing me speak about these procurement matters. [1:17:58, 1:18:00]: Think of how frustrated I am. [1:18:00, 1:18:03]: 'Cause every time there's an item on the agenda [1:18:03, 1:18:12]: Requesting council's consideration to approve the award or renewal or extension of a contract you best believe. [1:18:13, 1:18:16]: I'm going to be looking at it very closely. [1:18:17, 1:18:19]: I want all of the supporting documents. [1:18:19, 1:18:21]: I shouldn't have to ask for it. [1:18:21, 1:18:23]: It should be presented to us. [1:18:24, 1:18:29]: The reason why I wanna see all of the supporting documents, because I wanna see [1:18:29, 1:18:40]: The same documents that staff and whoever was a part of the selection committee, I wanna see what they used to justify their recommendation. [1:18:41, 1:18:45]: So when you withhold information or you don't include all the information. [1:18:46, 1:18:48]: I am left to just [1:18:49, 1:18:50]: Try to figure it out. [1:18:50, 1:18:54]: how you came up with your justification for recommending it. [1:18:54, 1:18:55]: And I don't like that. [1:18:56, 1:18:57]: So all I'm asking just [1:18:57, 1:19:01]: Give me all the information. And when you do the presentation, [1:19:01, 1:19:05]: Share your thoughts about why you're recommending. [1:19:05, 1:19:06]: This award [1:19:07, 1:19:13]: But all I'm asking this time is that the council agree to table this item. [1:19:13, 1:19:15]: And allow Mr. Malazi [1:19:16, 1:19:17]: And his team [1:19:17, 1:19:19]: To go back and [1:19:19, 1:19:35]: I don't know if they need to form a new selection committee. I don't know. That's up to you all. All I'm asking, because other all I'm asking is that we table this. He agrees to table it. Otherwise, I'm going to oppose it. I only have one vote. [1:19:35, 1:19:37]: I think I've explained myself thoroughly. [1:19:37, 1:19:38]: This time. [1:19:39, 1:19:39]: I hope so. [1:19:40, 1:19:58]: Thank you. Mayor. No st no standby. Stand by. Mr. Barrett, please. Mayor for in in in the effort to um honor what City Manager uh Edmondson has stated that he requires time to review the policy. Uh and in the effort for us to not belabor it, he did. He stated he needed to review the policy. [1:19:59, 1:20:02]: Stand by. Can you restate what you requested? [1:20:03, 1:20:23]: No, I well what I was stating was I was unaware that there was a policy violation associated with this particular item. If it is. Correct. Yeah. Right. Because I don't know when this was voted on. Exactly. I mean, so he doesn't know if the policy even exists or not. So he needs the time to find the policy to make sure that he is adhering to it. He doesn't want to break a policy that he's not aware. [1:20:23, 1:20:43]: So he needs time to find the details and the specifics of the policy. So with that being said, I'd like to make a motion to table this while Mr. Edmondson does the research that he has requested to do. Mr. Berry, first she made the motion to table that she made the motion. [1:20:43, 1:20:53]: Okay. So motion has been made to table this has been seconded by Mr. Berry. I'm sorry. I have a discussion. You have a discussion. Go ahead, please. Just one question. Yes. In regards to [1:20:54, 1:21:01]: Um I'm not let me just say this. I'm not against tabling. I believe that if it's procedural we need to follow procedures. I've always said [1:21:02, 1:21:09]: We're going by the law and we go by policies and procedures. My question is, when was this discovered? Because it wasn't stated. [1:21:09, 1:21:11]: That I mean [1:21:11, 1:21:14]: I didn't I don't see it anywhere where it's stated. [1:21:14, 1:21:34]: that it was five members or four members of the same group and it needed to change. So where when did Councilwoman barber um I guess this question is for you, when did you discover that procedure you believe may not have been followed the way it needs to be? And when did you disclose it to Mr. Malazzi and why [1:21:34, 1:21:37]: I wasn't our city manager aware of it. [1:21:40, 1:21:50]: I I brought this up during our last meeting. You all have a tendency of ignoring me, but I brought it up during the last meeting. [1:21:51, 1:21:51]: Um [1:21:52, 1:21:56]: And also I mentioned to Mr. Malausie today. [1:21:56, 1:21:57]: When I got here. [1:21:57, 1:21:58]: Um so yeah. [1:21:59, 1:22:00]: I mentioned it to him. [1:22:00, 1:22:01]: Today. [1:22:01, 1:22:03]: And I mentioned it too. [1:22:03, 1:22:06]: The public and you all at the last meeting. [1:22:06, 1:22:17]: Right. So I only recall the part about the um cost request. I don't recall the additional things that you're mentioning. [1:22:18, 1:22:19]: However [1:22:19, 1:22:22]: I think that it would save us all time. [1:22:22, 1:22:25]: And it's a common practice we wouldn't be up here going back and forth. [1:22:25, 1:22:26]: If [1:22:26, 1:22:30]: this wouldn't even be on the agenda. We would removed it. [1:22:30, 1:22:30]: Had [1:22:31, 1:22:42]: we looked at this prior or someone looked at this and and just sent them an email and said, Hey, yeah, but it's I I'm sorry, uh you know, it's still not right. Let's go ahead and get it removed. [1:22:42, 1:22:43]: Instead of [1:22:44, 1:22:45]: being on camera [1:22:46, 1:22:50]: saying, Oh, I told you this again. No, it I I feel like [1:22:51, 1:22:53]: We all can work together and [1:22:54, 1:23:00]: If you see something, if I see something that's on the agenda and I think it should be removed, if I saw it ahead of time. [1:23:00, 1:23:03]: Or if I reviewed something, then I'm gonna do a courtesy. [1:23:04, 1:23:05]: Based off of our civility. [1:23:06, 1:23:07]: Um [1:23:08, 1:23:08]: Uh [1:23:08, 1:23:10]: The thing and say, Hey [1:23:11, 1:23:14]: I think we still gotta we still need to table it because all of my [1:23:15, 1:23:20]: concerns haven't been answered. We still have some policies that I believe aren't there. [1:23:20, 1:23:24]: And so that's w I I don't know of the policy, I don't. [1:23:24, 1:23:29]: But I I am going to yield to the to um [1:23:29, 1:23:49]: Okay. Councilwoman Barber's knowledge of that policy. But I remember um we had someone write a procurement policy. The attorney, um God, I can't think of his name right now. Here's what Berry. So here's what I'd like to do here if you don't mind. The motion is made to table, it's been seconded. Let's take a vote and then we'll discuss that we'll [1:23:49, 1:24:09]: We've had enough discussion. We we we always have to have discussion. We what what if procedurally correct we've asked the attorney discussion is men the mandatory request during that time. That is the [1:24:09, 1:24:29]: Policy of the city. You how many times are you supposed to talk? Sir, I have I have spoken twice, but this is discussion. That's different. No, I'm not noticing. Yes, it is. There's two times during the subject, and then there's discussion. No, no. My point is, where is this policy that is being described? That's why that's why we need to that's why you need to vote on this. I don't know, but no, miss. [1:24:28, 1:24:40]: Barber has described a policy. Where is this policy? Where is it at? Where is it noted in the city that this that this is the policy? You have the policy, Miss Ms. Clerk, you have the policy? [1:24:41, 1:24:43]: Do you point it out to us? [1:24:46, 1:24:50]: But do you have you don't have the policy? N not at her fingertips, she does not. [1:24:52, 1:24:57]: Okay. So the motion's been made, been table uh to table this and been second. All in favor of the motion, please indicate. [1:24:58, 1:25:00]: I'll pause. [1:25:00, 1:25:20]: Well, you're post. Motion passed three to one. The the intent though was through the conversation's intent to research this policy process and I imagine bring it back to the well you said in part of the May I I want to make a statement on what we're doing. Hold on. Let me finish let me finish some. So otherwise we need to bring this back once you research the what is the policy is this, make sure we follow the right policy. [1:25:20, 1:25:28]: And doing the right things on this aspect. And I believe the initial thought was to bring it back later on in October. [1:25:29, 1:25:29]: Revolt. [1:25:30, 1:25:50]: Well well well we right now it's table. Cause to the staff. Because what's gonna happen is you're gonna go back and revision his history, look at this again, then you're gonna have to select the new committee. [1:25:49, 1:26:09]: You're gonna have to vote. So it's gonna be months before we have a sidewalk uh contractor approved. Because if this is an invalid process, the treasurer says let it move through. But if this is an invalid process or or some minutiae that was done, we had six members on the board, six members on the board. But what has happened is if that is [1:26:09, 1:26:29]: The case, then we're gonna have to start the whole process over again from scratch. And there's not gonna be a sidewalk, uh pro sidewalk provider for months. Guess what? The motion's been passed in motion by by your colleagues. So to where I voted. Okay. Well, well, you point over you already spoken again. So otherwise, mo you gotta reset this, check off whatever the policies, and bring it back. [1:26:29, 1:26:34]: back to the council for for approval, for discussion. All right? We need to move on. [1:26:38, 1:26:58]: Next item was a public hearing that's been delayed until later on this month. Uh so what was been added to the agenda deals with a city event in reference to uh discussion and and to reference to approve approval process for burn the mortgage process. And right now it's tenderly set for the uh twenty fifth of October, six to eight PM at the amphitheater. With uh [1:26:58, 1:27:18]: to a burn the mortgage uh uh event. Um now I I would know that uh during the course of the last several months I know I've had some discussion uh with uh well before we released our um con uh our amphitheater manager early part of the year had a discussion on the fact that I knew that the mortgage would be complete. It would be [1:27:17, 1:27:37]: We complete debt free as of August and talked to him specifically months and months ago about having some type of special event like a mortgage burnoff to celebrate the four years of process of of um of the completion of the of the amphitheater itself and and and debt free. I'm just assuming that uh that Congress [1:27:37, 1:27:48]: other conversations that occurred with the council in reference to this you're in favor of having this type of ceremony. So um um and for the process, uh Mr. Edmondson come back to the podium please. [1:27:54, 1:28:14]: Is my is my assumption and it straightened me out if if the mom off base, my assumption that uh the initial planning had occurred in reference to this based on uh conversations and or directives or thought processes that that were filtered or given to you in reference to um having a such an event to celebrate this uh the completion of the payment for the ampathy, is that correct? [1:28:13, 1:28:14]: Mm-hmm. [1:28:14, 1:28:34]: Uh yes, sir. Uh came up a couple of times, several different times. Uh we went ahead and, you know, saved the date and once again we still doing um locking in details, but we also wanted to make sure because if there are any questions out there specifically around events or any type of policy that is brought up, we want to make sure that we always doing the right thing. So we thought it was [1:28:34, 1:28:54]: Best that we brought this before you guys and have a discussion about it or and then get a formal approval. Because at the end of the day, our staff is just trying to you know follow you know whatever recommendations that we have or what what we get. Uh, but we also want to make sure that we do it the right way. So we thought it was the best that we brought this forward to get a formal. [1:28:54, 1:28:59]: uh thumbs up or thumbs down to uh move forward with this particular event. [1:29:00, 1:29:08]: Mayor. Yes, ma'am, go ahead please. Are there any we're not having a concert, it's just the burning of a more like a ceremonial thing like we do proclamations or anything else, correct? [1:29:09, 1:29:29]: Right. It's uh supposedly right now we uh are projecting to do like a history video from the first year, the second year, third year, fourth year up to now. Uh have uh uh I think uh some type of little band, local band to kind of play and just kinda celebratory type things. So nothing elaborate, nothing. [1:29:29, 1:29:33]: like that, have some smaller refreshments for, you know, uh [1:29:34, 1:29:54]: our different sponsors that we had throughout the the builder, the actual the architect and everybody that played a part in uh bringing this day to to where it is now. So that was the whole thought behind it. Um but once again, when there's anything that's out there, we always want to bring it before you guys just to make sure that, you know, it is supported. [1:29:54, 1:29:59]: Um if that's the will of the council. So that's why we wanted to make sure that we [1:29:59, 1:30:16]: add this item to the agenda formally. I appreciate that. But there are events, certain things, state of addresses and different things that we don't right just come and bring to mayor and council. It's just part of the city's events, especially when it's nominal. I support it because it's it's outstanding. It's a great [1:30:17, 1:30:20]: announcement. It's a a great accomplishment. Um [1:30:20, 1:30:24]: I've said this before, the building for City Hall hasn't been paid off yet. [1:30:24, 1:30:29]: Um that was established in two thousand six with the previous council. [1:30:29, 1:30:38]: And in twenty thirty-six it'll be paid off. But this was paid off in in four years. I think that's an accomplishment within itself. [1:30:38, 1:30:52]: And you know, we've heard different public comments and it's political season is election time, and even the statements tonight were untrue and I don't know but where some of it came from. But at the same time [1:30:53, 1:31:04]: I think it's important that the public know that we are doing our part and we're doing exactly what we said we're gonna do. So I definitely support a celebratorial. Um we we don't do we don't ask for that. [1:31:04, 1:31:09]: B it's kinda odd coming asking us for that. Because we've had [1:31:10, 1:31:23]: Receptions for everything else. I mean, we're talking about possibly potentially doing a reception um soon in honor of uh one of our council members. It's just something that we w we we would do. So [1:31:23, 1:31:27]: Yeah. Thank you for telling us. Miss Barber Coy, please. [1:31:28, 1:31:38]: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Edmondson, for speaking to this. Um, because I just learned of this celebration from a post on the city's website. [1:31:39, 1:31:42]: Or on the city's Facebook page. That's how I learned of it. [1:31:43, 1:31:46]: I'm sure they knew prior to last week. [1:31:47, 1:31:53]: But it was the first time that I learned of it. So I wanna know what the budget is for this celebration. [1:31:54, 1:31:57]: Uh yes, we anticipate it causing no more than fourteen thousand. [1:31:57, 1:31:59]: Fourteen thousand. Yes, ma'am. [1:32:02, 1:32:03]: Thank you, sir. Mm-hmm. [1:32:04, 1:32:24]: Any other comments from the council? If not, then I just need a motion to before you do that, sir. I I would definitely like clarity because since I've been here, and I think this is a lot of issues where a lot of chaos comes in, because uh I keep hearing about r rules and policies, whether written or unwritten, uh it makes my [1:32:24, 1:32:41]: my job extremely difficult when things are not crystal clear. I don't operate in chaos. I think we owe it to ourselves, we owe it to our residents to have clear guidance. And things like this, once again, is one of those things that you, you know, okay, is it good, not good? But what's the policy? [1:32:41, 1:32:46]: And I can tell you going to uh the the the ordinance and different things of that nature [1:32:46, 1:33:03]: I just don't find a lot of things that get questioned around here. So at the end of the day, I just think that what the guidance is is what we will follow as staff and we'll be commit to that. But we have to be crystal clear. And I think that's what causes a lot of drama and chaos when it doesn't have to be that. [1:33:03, 1:33:04]: You know, so [1:33:05, 1:33:16]: Um I I am definitely leaning on y'all to to give clear guidance and help when it comes to that. And some stuff are implied tasks, I get that, some stuff are specified tasks, but at the end of the day, I'm regulatory. [1:33:16, 1:33:20]: Either is in the ordinance or it's not. Either it's written or it's not. [1:33:20, 1:33:23]: And and I can't be judge or uh or [1:33:24, 1:33:44]: You know, held accountable for something that's not written or I don't know about. So I would definitely uh lean on you you guys' guidance on that when we're talking about certain things because I I hear this quite often and I'm still, you know, once again, okay, where's that? Show me where that policy at, or show me what I should be doing. And sometimes that doesn't that doesn't exist. I have one. Um so there's a standard. [1:33:44, 1:33:53]: standard that people or expectation that I believe that's unfairly, you know, out there for somebody that's in my in my shoes. So just wanna put that out there. [1:33:54, 1:33:55]: Mr. Berry, please, sir. [1:33:55, 1:34:12]: Mayor Ford, I'd like to make a motion to give the city manager and staff the leeway to put together the program commemorating the mortgage burning for the Vistar Amphitheater at the bridge to commemorate this historical and nominal event that all in the city of Stockbridge should be proud of. [1:34:13, 1:34:16]: Just second the motion. I second. Okay, all in favor, please indicate. [1:34:18, 1:34:19]: a povust. [1:34:20, 1:34:23]: You you oppose, you you're four opposed. [1:34:25, 1:34:26]: Are you for or po, sir? [1:34:27, 1:34:28]: I'm also [1:34:28, 1:34:35]: You'll support it. Okay, so that's three z uh and you're you're against so it's three one. Motion passed. Go write it with your comment. [1:34:35, 1:34:35]: Um [1:34:36, 1:34:38]: So it's not the event itself. [1:34:39, 1:34:40]: Uh Mr. Budget. [1:34:40, 1:34:41]: Considering [1:34:43, 1:34:43]: Can [1:34:43, 1:34:46]: the circumstances. Um [1:34:46, 1:34:58]: We all agreed and supported the recommendation by our city's financial off chief financial officer and our city's chief or [1:34:58, 1:35:00]: Financial advisor. [1:35:00, 1:35:06]: that we would agree and adhere to a two to three year plan. [1:35:06, 1:35:07]: Two [1:35:08, 1:35:10]: Find ways to save. [1:35:11, 1:35:12]: And [1:35:13, 1:35:15]: This is not something I feel as though [1:35:16, 1:35:17]: It's [1:35:18, 1:35:18]: Essential. [1:35:20, 1:35:21]: If it were half that [1:35:22, 1:35:23]: I would consider it. [1:35:23, 1:35:43]: But fourteen thousand, that's just too much. That's all. Thank you. All right, the motion passed three to one. We'll move on to the next subject. I hope that helps you, Mr. Edmundson, at this point. I I I have one more thing. Yes, sir. Um I heard about this two to three year policy. I have yet to be provided that. So Mr. Malazi, if you could provide me that that you and the advisor came up with. [1:35:43, 1:36:00]: because I think that's extremely important as the city manager that I have that document that we all say we agree on, a three two to three year plan. Because without that, then it's impossible to make accurate decisions. So if we have that policy and that's something that y'all adopted, I should have that document. [1:36:01, 1:36:21]: Mayor. All right. You have another comment? One more comment. Go ahead, please. Thank you. Um, Mr. Edmuson, if we've caused any complications, I wanna personally apologize to you for that. I think that you're absolutely right. There needs to be some standard policies and procedures, and there are none. You're not gonna find those in the [1:36:21, 1:36:26]: the ordinances. We do have some policies that pot some resolutions that are outdated. [1:36:26, 1:36:42]: Because when we got a new council, we have to re we have to redo them. At this point, it's the end of the term almost, so it's best to just wait and do them, go through them and then renew them at the beginning of the year. But I don't want you to think [1:36:42, 1:36:59]: for one minute that we want to cause confusion. And I you're here one thing and here another. I I do want the costs to come down a little bit on the s uh you know, I mean we're a city, it's a municipality. So everything costs. The reception's gonna be nice. This is a big deal. [1:36:59, 1:37:18]: And w the the financial advisor as well as our accountant has already stated that our expenditures and revenues balanced out. Like we keep hearing the mismanagement of funds and different things that are just simply we keep saying they're not true, there's nothing there anymore, we've gotten it corrected. [1:37:19, 1:37:22]: But the guidance that we have to give you. [1:37:22, 1:37:27]: Um, I stand fast on making sure that takes place. You're absolutely correct, and it's not fair. [1:37:28, 1:37:38]: It's not fair to hold anyone accountable or say one thing and then you ask a staff member, is this true? And they don't know what you're talking about. I don't wanna put someone in that position. And so [1:37:39, 1:37:45]: Whatever we need to do to iron that out, any suggestions you may have on things, policies that we need in writing. [1:37:46, 1:37:53]: Then so be it. Let us know. Because uh you know, you're here all the time, we're not, and you get you hear from [1:37:54, 1:38:05]: five council members and a mayor separately. And you may get direction from one and another and you need some kind of guidance on that. If you need written policies on it, let us know so we can get those done. [1:38:05, 1:38:07]: Mayor. Thank you, Mayor. [1:38:07, 1:38:27]: Look let me just say this quickly. It's not your fault. It's the people setting up your fault. Because they're not giving you clear direction and they're all over the place. Because when stuff comes up and policies two policies have been pulled out of thin air tonight on you. [1:38:27, 1:38:47]: That don't exist or were brought forward. Okay? And now we're expecting you to make a decision on that. Because when stuff comes forward, you're given the information that you that you're given, you make a decision, and then a Monday morning quarterback comes in and says, Oh, by the way, we're throwing this into the pot now. No one can operate. [1:38:47, 1:38:55]: Under those circumstances. There's supposed to be a team up here. And when stuff like that happens, every last one of us has your phone number. [1:38:55, 1:39:13]: F each person is responsible for what they could their conduct. They can call you and say, This is a problem. You don't have to show up here at the meeting and make an exam do that. You can do that phone call to you ahead of time, which is the professional courtesy that we should show everybody that's sitting up here. Because [1:39:14, 1:39:15]: Well oui. [1:39:15, 1:39:18]: Have trouble executing a sidewalk policy. [1:39:19, 1:39:39]: For a month to two months. I got sidewalks out there right now that need to be fixed. Now we gotta go back to square zero in order to make that happen. And it's gonna take months for that sidewalk. There could be a safety hazard out there to be done with. When a policy was presented to you and the treasurer [1:39:39, 1:39:48]: No one up here knows what the no one up here a policy was thrown out there with no evidence to support it at all. None. [1:39:49, 1:40:07]: Yet you were supposed to comply with a policy that was presented to you with no documentation from the person who's always screaming documentation, documentation, documentation did not present one document to you to back up what was said. That is the problem that's coming forth up here. Thank you. [1:40:07, 1:40:27]: All right, so appeal case AP two zero two five-02, we agreed to have that after our executive session. And so we'll go move on to council consideration to approve the purchase of eight Harris XL two hundred P portable radios from London Luden Communications, a total cost of sixty thousand seven hundred ninety-eight dollars and ten cents as a soldier. [1:40:27, 1:40:29]: source procurement. [1:40:29, 1:40:34]: All right, so the Chief's not here, so the Deputy Chief's gonna come forward along with our [1:40:34, 1:40:54]: And actually, Mayor, before we get to that matter, um I know that there's a few people in the audience who are here for the appeal matter tonight. Um I at the same time that you guys were receiving were um talking about the um agenda um amendments, um I received word that the applicant has requested a 60-day deferral um and if the city was [1:40:54, 1:41:03]: Was going to honor that deferral to let these folks go home. Um before because that [1:41:04, 1:41:24]: All right. Well if that's the case, geez. Okay. So that's item number four. You're talking about PO case uh uh AP two zero two five zero two. Uh sixty day deferral. All right. All right. So otherwise since you brought that forward, counsel, is there a motion to accept this uh sixty day def deferral? So moved. Is there a second? Second. From Ms. Gampton, Mr. Berry, all in favor, please indicate. [1:41:25, 1:41:32]: All right, granted. Thank you. Done. Sixty days is done. We won't have we'll no need to have a second session then on that note. Then okay, got it. So be it. Um [1:41:33, 1:41:36]: Assistant Chief, Godfrey, sir, on you, sir, please. [1:41:36, 1:41:46]: Mayor, Council, good evening. Uh Chief Trainers uh makes his apologies for not being here this evening. He is currently under the weather. We have two agenda items before you this evening. The first one [1:41:47, 1:41:49]: is for your consideration and approve. Uh [1:41:49, 1:42:09]: The purchase of eight Harris XL 200P portable radios from Loudoun Communications at a total cost of sixty thousand seven hundred ninety-eight dollars and ten cents. This is a sole source procurement as Loudoun Communications is the exclusive authorized distributor of Harris radios in the state of Georgia. The funding source is the uh [1:42:09, 1:42:18]: traffic camera fund that was authorized and approved as part of the FY twenty five budget uh from the t traffic camera fund. [1:42:20, 1:42:23]: Okay, council, any questions for Assistant Chief Coffery here? [1:42:24, 1:42:34]: I do have a question in regards to the sole source. Um I don't see that procurement to verify that it's sole source. So I wanna ask Mr. Malazi. [1:42:35, 1:42:35]: Soul source. [1:42:36, 1:42:43]: Mm Miss Melaji, come to quoting please. So it sorts. Because I don't see anything that indicates that. Um [1:42:53, 1:43:02]: Yes, it's so source because of the nature how it was. Uh we couldn't within the limited time that we had. So we had to so it's so source, yes. [1:43:03, 1:43:04]: Thank you. [1:43:05, 1:43:09]: If no other questions from the council any motion to accept this, please. [1:43:10, 1:43:14]: Mayor Ford, I make a motion that we accept um [1:43:16, 1:43:31]: The proposal from the police department for the uh Loudoun communications at a total cost of sixty thousand seven hundred and ninety eight dollars and ten cent from a sole source procurement provider uh as prescribed. And so from Mr. Berry, who's the second? [1:43:32, 1:43:33]: Is there a second? [1:43:36, 1:43:37]: Is there a set? [1:43:38, 1:43:41]: I second. Okay, Miss Gantt second that. [1:43:41, 1:43:41]: Okay. [1:43:42, 1:43:43]: All in favor, please in the cake. [1:43:45, 1:43:47]: Okay, generous decision. Thank you very much. Okay. [1:43:48, 1:43:49]: So um [1:43:49, 1:44:09]: We'll continue on. Council's consideration to approve the purchase of two 2025 Ford Mustang MACE electrical vehicles and two 2025 Ford F-150 police responder pickup trucks from the Allen Visual Ford at a cost of$214,499, and five 2025. [1:44:09, 1:44:23]: Chevrolet Tahoe PVVs and one 2026 Chevrolet Severado, a 1500 pickup truck from Hardy Automotive Group at a cost of$329,922.80 through a state contract. [1:44:24, 1:44:37]: Assistant Chief, please. Yes, sir. As as noted, uh both of these purchases, there'd be purchased from two different dealerships, Allen Vigil and Morrow and Hardy Automotive Groof, both are on state contract. [1:44:38, 1:44:46]: Uh industry standards recommends that a police department fleet maintain anywhere from ten to twenty percent in reserve. [1:44:46, 1:44:49]: So with that being said, um [1:44:50, 1:45:01]: To ensure continuity of operations. Historically, the police department ha has maintained about 10% in reserve fleet. This is when we first started out and we had sixty-two sworn personnel. [1:45:01, 1:45:21]: Uh as you recall in the 2024-2025 budget, we expanded that uh by five personnel. We've added public safety officers as well as code enforcement. However, um with these positions, as a result, uh we are no longer able to maintain that standard of the 10 to 20 percent in reserve. [1:45:21, 1:45:41]: As you know, our vehicles are constantly needing maintenance. We have unexpected breakdowns, we have vehicle collisions, and lately we've been also dealing with manufacturer recalls. So when you couple all that together, at any given time, we've got vehicles that are completely out of service. These proposed purchases will begin the [1:45:41, 1:46:01]: Correct that shortfall, rotating older, higher mileage vehicles into a pool status, establishing the start of a true reserve fleet. These purchases will also replace some lost vehicles at the very beginning since 2022. There's been actually a total of five vehicles that we have lost. One of [1:46:01, 1:46:04]: [6365.0, 6385.0]: Uh the first two vehicles uh were replaced, but unfortunately due to operational needs, we replaced those two uh vehicles with CSI vans for our investigators to be able to go out and process crime scenes. Uh the last two, one of them actually being my vehicle that was totally down on Patrick Henry Parkway last year when someone struck me from [1:46:25, 1:46:33]: Behind. These vehicles are doing what they're designed to do. However, when that happens, it doesn't take a whole lot these days for a vehicle to be totaled out. [1:46:33, 1:46:45]: Uh so obviously that's the the vehicles that we're seeking here tonight. Uh part of the vehicles that we're asking for includes two Ford Mustang Maquis, which are are the electric vehicles. [1:46:45, 1:47:05]: Uh we have been given preliminary information that we're going to be awarded the Georgia Power uh grant to install EV chargers at the police department. Once we receive formal notification of that, we will bring obviously bring that before council uh to seek your approval to move that project forward. And obviously we'll continue to expand that project uh in the year. [1:47:05, 1:47:06]: Years to come. [1:47:07, 1:47:08]: Um [1:47:09, 1:47:29]: The uh this supports, which also supports the city's uh sustainability initiative, uh reducing long-term fuel costs, lowering environmental impacts, and modernized modernizing uh the fleet's operations. These purchases are being made through the established statewide contract process. Uh, this funding source is being uh provided through the [1:47:29, 1:47:35]: traffic fan uh traffic camera uh fund again part of the FY twenty twenty five approved budget. [1:47:36, 1:47:55]: Assistant Chief, out of curiosity, the Georgia Power grant, what's the a total amount on that per se? Do you have so they are allocating uh right now we're looking at around forty thousand dollars uh to for the infrastructure itself. We have already spoken with Georgia Power. They are going to be coming out to our facility free of charge and increasing [1:47:55, 1:47:57]: The електрика for that. [1:47:58, 1:48:07]: And then once we have anything offset from that, we will cover those additional funds out of the traffic camera fund so that we're not impacting the general fund at all. [1:48:07, 1:48:13]: Okay, great, fantastic. Uh council, questions for the assistant chief here. Go ahead, please, Ms. Barrow. [1:48:14, 1:48:15]: And perhaps I missed it. [1:48:16, 1:48:17]: But this is a [1:48:17, 1:48:26]: contract, you all are piggybacking off of the state contract. Yes ma'am, that's correct. Is this considered like an emergency purchase from the state contract? [1:48:27, 1:48:37]: No ma'am, it is just it's just vehicles from the existing state contracts. Gotcha. Did you read your those state contracts that you are piggybacking off of into the record? [1:48:37, 1:48:43]: Uh, this is not a piggyback contract, this is actual state contract that we're purchasing these vehicles from. [1:48:44, 1:48:52]: It's called piggybacking off of a state contract. Did you read those contract numbers into the record? Yes, ma'am. If you would please, sir. [1:48:52, 1:48:54]: So that the clerk will get it. [1:48:54, 1:49:14]: So the first one is Allen Vigil Ford, state contract number SPD 0000183-005. The second contract is Hardy Automotive Group. State contract number is SPD 0000183-000. [1:49:14, 1:49:17]: Dash zero zero zero two. [1:49:17, 1:49:21]: Thank you, sir. Yes. Um and my last question therefore. [1:49:21, 1:49:24]: For Mr Malazy, did this go through? [1:49:24, 1:49:26]: Your department procurement. [1:49:28, 1:49:28]: Yes, it did. [1:49:29, 1:49:29]: Okay. [1:49:30, 1:49:31]: That's what I needed to know. Thank you, sir. [1:49:32, 1:49:33]: Council, any other questions? Go ahead, please. [1:49:34, 1:49:36]: So you have mentioned [1:49:38, 1:49:43]: Well, you you guys are trying to get a surplus of t between ten to twenty percent of fleet. [1:49:45, 1:49:47]: Just in case something happened. [1:49:49, 1:49:50]: But [1:49:50, 1:49:58]: What happens when we total out a vehicle? Or w does the insurance not cover that we don't get a new vehicle? And what happens when [1:49:58, 1:49:59]: We [1:50:00, 1:50:20]: Have a recall. They fix the recall, right? And they give it back to us. Right. So we're not losing any vehicles. For the recall, no. But when a vehicle is totaled out, depending on whose fault it is, and none of these accidents that we've had were our fault. So the insurance company sends a check based on the current market value. Obviously, we're not getting full. [1:50:20, 1:50:40]: Full replacement cost of these vehicles. So depending on what is damaged, whether it's just the vehicle, if it's totaled out, we also assess the vehicle to determine whether or not any of the upfitted equipment, like the emergency equipment, has been a damage, like for example, my Tahoe. We received close to$58,000 that went back into general fund. [1:50:40, 1:50:43]: from my vehicle as well as some of the damaged emergency equipment. [1:50:44, 1:50:45]: All right. [1:50:45, 1:50:46]: I don't [1:50:47, 1:50:48]: Do we have [1:50:50, 1:50:55]: I had recently asked for a total a total amount [1:50:56, 1:51:00]: uh vehicles and that's we can do that at a later date in time. I can get that off [1:51:01, 1:51:01]: Later. [1:51:02, 1:51:04]: But my concern is [1:51:05, 1:51:08]: if the vehicles are replaced and we're trying to get additional [1:51:09, 1:51:12]: things because uh I I'm looking at the budget for next year. [1:51:13, 1:51:17]: in the proposals and I'm concerned. I'm concerned about [1:51:17, 1:51:19]: Whether or not this is a want or a need. [1:51:20, 1:51:22]: And and we have we have funding. [1:51:23, 1:51:41]: I know we I mean that's 2025 budget, but it's red light. I mean it's the st the camera. Red speed funds. And that funding could help offset some of those things that we have planned for the budget of next year, which looks pretty hefty. [1:51:42, 1:52:02]: So currently we have 79 vehicles in the police department's fleet and we have seventy-nine employees driving cars. So right now we have zero reserve for when those cars go down for recalls, for maintenance, or Lord forbid, knock on wood, that we have another vehicle accident and then we have a vehicle that's completely gone waiting on [1:52:02, 1:52:05]: on the purchase or insurance which which can take several months. [1:52:06, 1:52:06]: Okay. [1:52:08, 1:52:14]: Council, you got any more any more questions? And if there are not, I'm gonna motion to uh accept this proposal. [1:52:16, 1:52:17]: Is there a motion? [1:52:18, 1:52:19]: Still moved. [1:52:19, 1:52:20]: Is there a second? [1:52:22, 1:52:26]: Sorry. Okay. From Miss uh Ms. Barber to Mr. Alzheimer's arm fair, please indicate. [1:52:28, 1:52:48]: Okay. All posed? Abstain. Abstain. 301. Motion passed. Thank you, Assistant Chief. Yes, sir. All right. Mr. Melazi, appreciate you. Announcements of upcoming uh meetings and events. Council meetings will be held in council chamber. Meeting dates, location, times are subject changed or contact the city hall offices at 770. [1:52:48, 1:53:08]: or visit the website at uh www.stopbridgega.org for updates. Citywide Development Authority meeting, second Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m. City Hall Levi Meeting Room on October 14th. Youth Council Advisory Committee meeting third Thursday of each month, 6:30 p.m. City Hall [1:53:08, 1:53:16]: City Hall Levi Meeting Room, October 16th. Planning Commission meeting, Thursday, October 16th, 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers. [1:53:16, 1:53:21]: Downtown Alabama Authority Board meeting third Tuesday of each month at six PM at the downtown connection center. [1:53:22, 1:53:37]: 130 M L King Senior Heritage Trail, October 21st. Ethics Board meeting Wednesday, October twenty second, and Levi Meeting Room, six thirty, October twenty second. City Council Work Session meeting Tuesda last Tuesday of each month, October twenty eighth to six P. M. in City Council Chamber. [1:53:38, 1:53:58]: uh forthcoming city events and initiatives. District 2 and 3 Town Hall on for the 21st of October at 7 p.m. It will be at Global Impact Ministries on Red Oak Drive, I believe it is, and with Mr. Berry, he'll be there. Join Councilman Thomas and Councilman Berry in partnership for the monthly Bingo Bath. [1:53:58, 1:54:10]: on Wednesday, October 15th from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Merrill Manner's Conference Center. Lots of fun to be had by all. Join the City of Stockbridge for the annual breast cancer love walk this Saturday, October 18th from 10 a.m. to noon. [1:54:11, 1:54:11]: Clark Park. [1:54:12, 1:54:17]: And contact event staff for any more information and events at stopbridge G A dot or G. [1:54:18, 1:54:38]: Join Mayor Pro Tem Gantt for the free annual fall festival on Saturday, October 25th at Clark Park with candy, food trucks, games, costume contests, prizes, and more. Join myself, Mayor Ford, for the monthly Meet the Mayor on Monday, October 27th from 10 a.m. to 12 noon in City Hall. Meetings are by an appointment. Startbridge Main Street is hosting Dive. [1:54:38, 1:54:58]: IB's Awareness Walk on Health Fair on Saturday, November 1st. The registration begins at 7:30 a.m. The 5K walk will begin at 8:30 a.m. in Clark Park. Health Fair will take place at 10 a.m. to have noon. Various locations throughout the park, weather permitting at the Merle Manders Conference Center, lower level to be relocated there if it's raining on us. [1:54:58, 1:55:18]: Join Councilman Alexander for the District 5 Community Cleanup Saturday, November 8th, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Please meet at Costco Parking Lot on Jodica Road. The Economic Development Department hosts a free business health clinic on the second Thursday of each month from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Strawbridge Connection Center, 130 MLP. [1:55:18, 1:55:38]: King's Senior Heritage Trail. Check your health for your business with a free clinic. Councilman Thomas is on in veterans and continues to salute all year long. Please send your pictures of veterans and their names, branch, rank, and years of service service. Sign up for real-time alerts about severe weather and road closures, emergencies, and regroup app. Visit the city's website or social. [1:55:38, 1:55:58]: social media pages for more information on how and where to sign up stay safe. Uh please contact Rosalind Ross to schedule appointment with meet the mayor or more information on council initiatives six seven eight eight three three three three four eight or by way of email rose at stopridge dot or g I must have forgot something. You still having your your dance [1:55:57, 1:55:58]: Mm. [1:55:58, 1:56:01]: I am go ahead, I'm sorry. I didn't see you not here. [1:56:02, 1:56:02]: Yeah. [1:56:02, 1:56:07]: Go ahead. What what is it? Um it's not this Wednesday's the following Wednesday. Oh, [1:56:07, 1:56:12]: October twenty October twenty second from six to eight at Merrill Manders, the line dancing class. [1:56:18, 1:56:20]: Okay. [1:56:21, 1:56:41]: Oh okay. Good deal. Appreciate it. Thank you. All right, uh Saturday, October eighteenth. This Saturday Detroit Gospel Legends featuring Fred Hammond, DeAndre Johnson, Anthony Brown, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Lisa Page Brooks, Carmen Wines, and Brian Byron Cage for a gospel concert. So I'll obviously we're gonna lift up and praise the Lord. [1:56:41, 1:57:01]: Yeah, on on the eighteenth. Okay. And then of course, as you uh realize now October twenty fifth, burning mortgage, six to eight PM at the Vice Star Amphitheater at the bridge. And and uh obviously there'll be some musical guests there as well. And that one will be free and open to the public. And we're looking forward to have H T Russell and Company, who built the amphitheater for us, and T S W architects who [1:57:01, 1:57:21]: Drew out the plans for that to be there present for this uh historic event. And for my comments, it is October. Flu shots, people get your flu shots, get ready for the winter months, COVID nineteen boosters. Make sure you get your boosters in this aspect and uh life for everybody if you're a football fan, enjoy your favorite football team, whether it's high school, college or [1:57:21, 1:57:36]: The pros and obviously you the rough falcons of course playing right downtown. So maybe we'll get out here and go watch the Falcons, right? Hopefully we'll win the game. And happy Halloween to everybody. And on that note, I have no issues, uh nothing that I know for executive sessions, so I need a motion to [1:57:37, 1:57:41]: We we Mr Uh Edmonton [1:57:42, 1:57:46]: There was some a potential real estate issue. [1:57:47, 1:57:48]: Oh yeah, we're saying. [1:57:50, 1:57:51]: Yeah, yeah. [1:57:51, 1:57:53]: Huh? Say we do we don't need anything. [1:57:54, 1:58:00]: All right, that mo there's nothing for Zagrossen. I need a motion to end our meeting. [1:58:02, 1:58:03]: So moved. Second. [1:58:04, 1:58:08]: Okay. Motion's been made and seconded. Okay. [1:58:10, 1:58:30]: They were talking about real estate. I don't want us to if it's something about real estate that needs to go on, I want to make sure it's not good because that's important. Time is of the essence when it comes to real estate. That's the only thing y'all. Everyone knew about it. I I don't know anything. I just I just know that legally. [1:58:30, 1:58:42]: When I deal with real estate transactions, Times is of the essence. So I just want to make sure it's nothing to do with it. You need to understand this property is a property. [1:58:43, 1:59:03]: What is it? We uh the use of property property. No, we don't. The property no we if we build it right here onto front of oh they ain't did the adverse position yet. No. So what do we need? Okay, motion has been made for sale. Ladies and gentlemen, motion has been made in second to excuse me, the motion made in second to to end our meeting tonight. [1:59:02, 1:59:06]: All right. Well, they need an answer on the on the property or it's gonna be sold. [1:59:07, 1:59:08]: And we need it. [1:59:08, 1:59:28]: So wait, wait, wait, wait. Let me let me make a disclosure right now. I didn't know anything about what was just told to me, but if that is the case, then I think we need to have a real quick ten minute executive session about results. Nothing has been shared with me, so I have no idea of what they're talking about. I just [1:59:28, 1:59:32]: If there is indeed a need for an executive session, [1:59:33, 1:59:34]: The city manager. [1:59:35, 1:59:35]: Mr [1:59:36, 1:59:37]: Atmanson, can you please [1:59:38, 1:59:40]: Request that the council [1:59:40, 2:00:00]: Go into an executive session. Wait. No, I request I request that. But actually what standby. Hold on. He knows something that needs to happen here. Hold on, stand by. I'm relying on him so I can withdraw my motion. Stand by. What it amounts to is that I've I've checked with Mr. Edmondson earlier today. I didn't know anything about any type of sex other than one issue, and but we're not going there. So that's that's [2:00:00, 2:00:20]: That's fine. It dealt with what uh our attorney mentioned to us that uh they we I got a six day delay. I didn't know I personally did not know of anything else either, is this aspect. So and I don't know if that caught you by surprise as well, sir, in this aspect. But a motion is on the table right now to end our meeting, all right, and to, you know, go on. Now I I've I've not [2:00:20, 2:00:36]: This is news to me as well, just like Miss Gantt. All right, there's news to me in reference to this particular thought process issue. So there is a motion on the floor to end our meeting. Is there something specifically that you know about, sir, that we honestly need to talk about this evening? [2:00:36, 2:00:47]: Uh no, I was just trying to pull up an email that was just brought to my attention. Um, but I I'm not aware of that I'm trying to pull up now. So it's first time hearing about that. So [2:00:47, 2:00:49]: Okay. Mayor. Yes, Mayor. [2:00:50, 2:00:55]: If time is of the essence or if there is potential property. [2:00:56, 2:01:06]: that is for sale or something in regards to things that we want here, then we probably need to dis make that determination. However, if that is not the case, [2:01:07, 2:01:09]: I I just don't wanna be called in for a special call meeting. [2:01:10, 2:01:21]: That's it. And I'm just saying oh I'll take the advisement of council and and city manager on if y'all think we don't we go we're okay. I mean, it's worth hearing about, but like I say, this is first time me [2:01:22, 2:01:30]: All right. Well, this is the way I look at it. The motion's been made. It's been second. It's on the table of time. The motion was to adjourn. All in favor of the motion, please indicate. [2:01:31, 2:01:32]: All Pope. [2:01:33, 2:01:36]: I oppose. [2:01:37, 2:01:53]: Uh you oppose n you oppose, okay. Well I tell you what, I'm on I'm on the firm's side. I think we need to end our meeting'cause I didn't know about this earlier. Meeting's now adjourned. That no meeting's now adjourned. We had a vote. I voted, it broke the tide. We meeting is now adjourned. It is seven twenty. God bless y'all.