---
date: 2020-12-22
title: 12-22-2020 Minutes
source: 2020-12/2020-12-22_12-22-2020 _Minutes.pdf
pages: 1
---

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Where Community Connects

SUM M ARY MINUTES
COUNCIL MEET I NG
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2020 6:00 PM.
Mayor & City Cou ncil Administration
MavorAnt onv S. For Ranay Kni Exon, City Manager
Mayon ProTem Alphonso Thoma Vanessa pllday City Clerk
Councllman Elton Alexander John WI Ins, CI yTreasurer
Yolanda Barber Michael xlllams, City Attorney
Councilman John Blount
Counculwoman LaKeIsha Gantt

Mission: To provide visionary leadership and superior municipal services that enhance the
quality of life for citizens while creating a welcoming business atmosphere focused on
sustainability and expansion of tourism and cultural events

The meeting was called to Order by Mayor Ford.

City Clerk, Vanessa Holiday was asked to proceed with a verbal roll call. All members
were present, Councilwoman Gantt joined after roll call due to technical difficulties.

Invocation by Councilman Alexander.

Pledge of Allegiance recited in unison.

Mayor Pro Tern Thomas motioned to amend the Agenda: To add the Crown Act
Ordinance to New Business: Second by Councilman Alexander. The motion passed 5-0

Review of the Minutes for the following meetings:
1. 11/9/2020 2. 11/24/2020 No Action

PUBLIC CO MMENTS must be submitted no later than one hour prior to the

meeting.
Please Visit the website under the Page to complete the Public Comment Form
httgszllstockbridqeseamlessdocs.com/f/ZOpkdz4mo7xb

All persons wishing to speak for public comment must sign in with the
City Clerk prior to the
beginning of the meeting. You must sign your name, address, and phone number. You will be
able to address the Mayor and Council for three (3) minutes. Speakers must
respect all
members of the elected body, officials, and staff. Defamation, unruliness and/or
swearing will
not be tolerated while meetings are in session. There were no public comments.
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PRESENTATION
3. Henry County Development Authority Update of Activities
Presented by Josh Fenn Executive Director
Mr. Fenn reviewed the Development Vision and Mission, and
presented 2019 and 2020 highlights of the Henry County Development
Authority noting a win in Henry County means everybody wins where
the goal is to recruit, retain and grow businesses here in Henry County;
noted the Henry County Development Authority is lucky to be a
Constitutional Authority, one of few, as this gives the board additional
authority; noted Irv Culpepper, a member of the City's Public Facilities
Authority is a member of the Development Authority Board; noted
Manufacturing companies are looking to move closer to Supply Chains
(warehouses) as customers are demanding quicker, faster deliveries;
noted the importance of the commercial industry to the tax
digest and balance as it is a key to future growth with the right mix being
60/40; referenced the partnership with the Development Authority
with HEGLA locating International Headquarters to the City; noted
the former Toys R Us Distribution Center was converted to Zinus and is
the only facility of its kind in North America and referenced the many
name brand operations here in Henry County; noted the County set all-

time records for the number of companies, jobs created and capital
investments in the year 2020; noted upcoming job fairs and is looking
fon/vard to the first anchor at the Jodeco Rd. project; noted he is looking
forward to working with the new Economic Development Director.

OLD BUSINESS
4. Council Consideration to approve the purchase of 2021 Kenworth
VacCon Truck from MHC Kenworth of Atlanta. The GA Dept. of
Administration Services awarded the Statewide contract to MHC
Kenworth of Atlanta, contract no. 99999-001-SPD00000155 Ford Truck
Chassis and Truck Bodies in the amount of $406,922.00. Funding
Source: Water & Sewer Fund Balance.
Presented by Decius Aaron Public Works Director, Brad Holtsinger
Sewer Superintendent and Donnie Mullis Water Superintendent
Mr. Aaron noted this equipment would help with preventative
maintenance with Water, Sewer, and Stormwater departments to clean
out and maintain the catch basins and to prevent street flooding.

Councilman Blount inquired on how the City is currently maintaining now
and how often would it be used.

Mr. Aaron noted the City does not have the proper equipment and has
been using a sewer jetter which does not help remove debris out and
noted Stormwater would use the equipment in conjunction with the
annual inspections and will be put on the same schedule as the
maintenance for the catch basins.

Mr. Holtsinger noted the truck is very much needed and safer than using
a backhoe for sewer issues.
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Mr. Mullis noted it would be more beneficial and proactive to set up a
maintenance program in which the truck could be used 3-4 times
weekly.

Mayor Pro Tem Thomas inquired on the funding source

Mr. Aaron noted the Water/Sewor fund balance currently has
$8,303,741.14, after the purchase it will leave $7,896,819 which will
allow continuation to do improvements with Water and Sewer
infrastructures.

Councilwoman Barber inquired about ongoing maintenance.

Mr. Mullis noted he will be able to perform about 80% of the routine
maintenance, the other 20% will need to be contracted out.

Councilman Alexander motioned to approve the purchase of 2021
Kenworth VacCon Truck from MHC Kenworth of Atlanta: Second by
Councilwoman Gantt. The motion passed 5-0.

Council Consideration to approve Task Order No. 2020.10 Falcon
Design Consultants for East Atlanta, North & South Lee Street Roadway
and intersection in the amount of $70,000. Funding
source: SPLOST IV
Presented by Randy Knighton City Manager
Mr. Knighton noted Falcon Design has been working on the roadway

projects for the overall planning and this is to provide support for the
bidding process for qualified bidders.

Councilman Alexander noted with this project, there would be a right
turning lane on East Atlanta Road leading to North Henry Blvd.

Mr. Knighton noted this project would also allow for an intersection

improvement aligning North Lee Street and South Lee Street.

Councilwoman Barber inquired if Falcon Design would serve on the
review committee.

Mr. Knighton noted they would be due to their expertise of the design

Mayor Pro Tem Thomas noted he has had discussions with the City
Manager about adding an Uber/Lyft Station in the area to alleviate
parking issues.

Mayor Ford asked Attorney Williams if they scope of work could be
amended; it was confirmed.

Councilman Blount expressed his concerns about adding a Lyft/Uber
station with the parking problems.
Mayor Pro Tem Thomas noted he does not want to add to the traffic
congestion and thinks adding the Lyft/Uber station near the
Amphitheater or the house would suffice.

Mr. Knighton noted if it is approved, staff would get with the engineers to
determine what is best.

Councilwoman Barber inquired if there would be a cost associated

Mr. Knighton noted current Task Order cost around $70,000 and would
ask for a 10% increase.

Mayor Pro Tem Thomas motioned to approve to approve Task Order
No. 2020.10 Falcon Design Consultants for East Atlanta, North &
South Lee Street Roadway and Intersection Modifications in the amount
of $70,000 and to include Uber/Lyft station design: Second by
Councilwoman Barber. The motion failed 2-0-2 (Alexander/Blount
abstained) Councilwoman Gantt was not present for the vote.

Councilwoman Barber motioned to approve Task Order NO. 2020.10 as
presented; Second by Councilman Blount. The motion passed 3-0-1
(Alexander abstained). Councilwoman Gantt was not present for the
vote.

NEW BUSINESS
6. Council Consideration to approve the Health & Wellness Agreement
with Corporate Health Partners in the amount of $35,200.00. Funding
Source: General Fund
Presented by Renee Wheeler Human Resources Manager
Ms. Wheeler noted this is a renewal of the current Health and Wellness
agreement with Corporate Health Partners who provide a full-service
wellness programs for City Employees, and noted services include
monthly coaching sessions, meal plans, newsletters, challenges,
incentive plans, and risk management reports.

Councilwoman Barber motioned to approve: Second by Councilman
Alexander. The motion passed 4-0. Councilwoman Gantt was not
present for the vote.

7. Council Consideration to approve the Compensation Renewal
in the amount of $85,568.00 J Smith Lanier (Brokers) Funding Source:
General Fund.
Presented by Renee Wheeler Human Resources Manager
Ms. Wheeler noted this is a renewal for FY2021 Workers Compensation

program with current Brokers J. Smith Lanier, who has given a different
carrier which has reduced the premium down by $40,000 and staff will
still receive the same level of services.
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Councilman Blount motioned to approve the Compensation
Renewal in the amount of $85,568.00 J Smith Lanier (Brokers): Second
by Councilwoman Barber. The motion passed Councilwoman Gantt
was not present for the vote.

8. Council Consideration to approve RFP No. 2020-0025P Johnson
Controls Fire Protection Facility Security Equipment, Systems and
Services with related equipment and supplies in the amount of
$109,466.90. Funding Source: Govt Bldg. Maintenance
Presented by Decius Aaron Public Works Director
Mr. Aaron noted approval would bring the City into compliance with

technology with the City's panel and monitoring systems.

Councilman Blount inquired about the scope of work.

Mr. John Sawyer, Johnsons Control noted it is a proposal for fire alarms
for six (6) city buildings and includes repairs to the Merle Manders
Conference Center and the Municipal Court sprinklers systems.

Councilman Blount motioned to approve to approve RFP No. 2020-
0025P Johnson Controls Fire ProtectionFacility Security Equipment,

Systems and Services with related equipment and supplies in the
amount of $109,466.90: Second by Councilwoman Barber. The motion

passed 4-0. Councilwoman Gantt was not present for the vote.

9. Council Consideration to approve RFP No. 2019-0007P State
Contract No. 99999-001-SPD00000155 for Truck Chassis and Truck
Bodies to purchase 3 Landscaping Truck in the amount of $48,995.00.
Funding Source: Public Works Budget.
Presented by Decius Aaron Public Works Director
Mr. Aaron noted this is to formalize a purchase of a landscape truck
approved in the FY2020 budget that will be used to transport personnel
and equipment.

Councilwoman Barber motioned to approve RFP No.
State Contract No. 99999-001-SPD00000155 for Truck Chassis and
Truck Bodies to purchase a Landscaping Truck in the amount of
$48,995.00: Second by Councilman Alexander. The motion passed
1(Blount abstained) Councilwoman Gantt was not present for the vote.

10. Council Consideration to members to the Main Street
Advisory Board.
Presented by Kira Harris-Braggs -
Main Street Manager
Mrs. Harris-Braggs noted staff is seeking approval of two Main Street
Advisory Board re-appointments: Shomari Furtch and Mildred E. Reed
Mrs. Harris-Braggs noted Mr. Furtch has served 2-terms as the
Financial Institution Banking Rep.
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Mrs. Harris-Braggs noted Ms. Mildred E. Reed first served as the DDA
Representative and as a Citizen Representative and is currently the
Secretary for the Main Street Advisory Board.

Councilman Blount motioned to re-appoint Shomari Furtch for a
year term as the Financial Institution Banking Rep: Second by
Councilman Alexander Passed Councilwoman Gantt was not
present for the vote.

Mayor Pro Tem Thomas motioned to Mildred E. Reed for a
two-year term as the citizen representative: Second by Councilman
Blount. The motion passed 4-0. Councilwoman Gantt was not present
for the vote.

.Council Consideration to fill a vacancy on the Downtown Development
Authority Board.
Presented by Michael Williams City Attorney
Item to be heard following Executive Session.
No Action

12. Council Consideration to approve an Ordinance for the Crown Act.
Presented by Michael Williams City Attorney
Councilman Alexander noted the Crown Act offers protection in the
workplace for natural hair for minorities.

Attorney VWIiams noted the Crown Act stands for a Respectful

and Open Workplace for Natural and sets fourth what is protected
for cultural hair textures and hairstyles. Attorney Williams also noted the
is based on African American experiences, but not limited to it,
noting the Ordinance mirrors policy adopted by the City of South Fulton.

Mayor Ford inquired if the Ordinance supersedes any private business
and if there have been any instances within the City.

Attorney Williams noted it would supersede and he does not know if any
instances.

Councilman Blount noted he prefers approval by Resolution and not an
Ordinance that would not be enforced.

Councilman Alexander noted it lets the employee seek legal relief with a
law in place and noted black women needs protection in the corporate
workplace.

Mayor Ford noted Council has been down the road with Ordinances and
he refers not to veto an Ordinance.
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Councilwoman Gantt inquired if Councilman Alexander would consider a
Resolution and noted her issue is, she believes the City would be taking
on constitutional issues.

Councilman Alexander motioned to approve an Ordinance for the Crown
Act: Second by Councilwoman Barber. The motion passed 3-1-1 (Blount
opposed, Gantt abstained).

PUBLIC HEARING
13. Council Consideration to approve the Service Delivery Strategies (SDS)
Agreement between the City of Stockbridge and Henry County
Presented by Randy Knighton City Manager and Michael Williams-

City Attorney
Mr. Knighton gave an overview of the agreement noting the SDS
Agreement is a process which takes place every 10 years and gives
local governments and authorities the opportunity to reach agreement
on the delivery of services in an effective and avoiding
duplication of services for its citizens.

Mr. Knighton noted Henry County and the four cities in the county have
been negotiating services for 1 V2 years, with Special Services Districts
being presented by the County that would have the County pay for road
maintenance in the County and the Cities pay for road maintenance in
the Cities; and for the City of Stockbridge to pay a certain millage and
receive police services equal to those residents living in unincorporated
Henry County with an Intergovernmental Agreement in place; noted that
a vast majority of the services have been agreed upon by the Cites and
the County, however, should the County and Cities not reach an
agreement, sanctions could be levied affecting the ability to
receive grants and noted the City of Locust Grove did sign their
agreement at their most recent Council meeting, noted the Cities stand
together, and the agreement must be agreed upon by all parties.

Mayor Ford opened the Public Hearing. There were no speakers in favor
opposed. The Public Hearing was closed.
or

Members of Council expressed concern over the road maintenance,
police services and the enforcement of parking in the City.

The consensus of the Council was to hold a Special Called Meeting on
Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at 6 pm. to further discuss the SDS
Agreement and Downtown Development Authority Appointment.

COMMENTS
Mayor Ford noted the runoff election with Early Voting ending on December 30th
and referenced the locations of the Merle Manders Conference Center, Henry
County Elections Office, Fairview Recreation Center, J P Moseley Recreation
Center, Locust Grove Library, Hampton Fortson Library from 7am 7pm (the
Elections Board met and extended Early Voting to December 31st from 9am -4pm
at the Elections Office in McDonough only) and voting on Election Day, January 5,
2021 at your regular polling location; reminded everyone that COVID is real and
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Henry County is a Red state, and not getting any better, testing Mon-Thu 9am -

3pm, Saturday Qam 12pm and to call 800-847-4262 to scheduled an
appointment for free testing; noted (3) three mobile sites this week and next week
on Monday at Hidden Valley Senior Center, Wednesday at N. Mt. Carmel Park

and Friday at Heritage Senior Center; noted Pfizer and Mederma vaccinations
have been approved with the phase going to Healthcare workers, First
Responders, educational institutions, senior citizens over age 75, and people with
underlying health issues; and encourage everyone to continue to wash your hands
and keep social distances; noted there would be additional CaresAct funding if the
bill is signed by the President; wished everyone Happy Holidays and hopes the
new year is a lot better and healthier.

UPCOMING MEETINGS & ANNOUNCEME NTS
Meeting will be held via Zoom until further notice. Meeting dates and times are
subject to change. Please visit the website www.cityofstockbridge.com for
the meeting invitation link, Facebook page or contact City Hall offices at 770-389-
7900 for updates and detailed information.

City Council Meeting at 6:00 pm. Via Zoom 2nd Monday of each month.

Main Street Advisory Board Meeting, at 9:00 am. Via Zoom -
2nd Friday of each
month

0 Downtown Development Authority Meeting, at 6:00 pm. Via Zoom -
3rd Tuesday of
each month

Youth Council Advisory Meeting, 6:30 pm. Via Zoom -
3rd Tuesday of each month

Youth Council Meeting, at 6:30 pm. Via Zoom 3rd Wednesday of each month

Planning Commission Meeting, at 6:30 pm. Via Zoom 4th Thursday of each month

City Council Work Session Meeting, at 6:00 pm. Via Zoom Last Tuesday of each
month unless otherwise noted.

Join Stockbridge Councilwoman Yolanda Barber on Saturday, January 9, 2020 from 10am
to 4pm at the Ted Strickland Community Center for her Community Blood Drive.
For more information, please contact Zenovia Pearson at (404) 565-5109.

Councilman Alexander announced the annual Service Day Project taking place on January
16, 2021 and is a day of service on the Saturday prior to the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday
and to please contact Zenovia Pearson at (404) for more information.

UPCOMING PUBLIC HEARINGS
> Public Hearing Rezoning Case No. Postponed

> Public Hearing Zoning Modification Case No. ZM-2020-O1
Monday, January 11, 2020 at 6:00 PM. Via Zoom Postponed
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All City will be closed Thursday, December 24th and Friday,
December 25th in observance of the Christmas Holiday.

All City will be closed Friday, January 1st in observance of
New Day.

Councilman Blount motioned to convene Executive Session for Litigation,
Personnel and Real Estate: Second by Councilwoman Gantt. The motion failed 2-
3 (Alexander, Barber, Thomas opposed).

Councilwoman Gantt motioned to adjourn: Second by Councilman Alexander. The
motion passed 5-0.

Respectfully submitted by:

L 4%
Vanessa Holiday, City Clerk A ho ny 8. Ford, ayo r
