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date: 
title: 2017 12 19 2017 Minutes
source: 2017/2017_12_19_2017_Minutes.pdf
pages: 1
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Stockbridge
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.

SUMMARY MINUTES
COUNCIL WORK SESSION MEETING
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2017 6:00 P.M.
Mayor & City Council Administration
Mayor Judy Neal Randy Knighton, City Manager
Mayor Pro Tem Anthony S. Ford Vanessa Holiday, City Clerk
Councilman Elton Alexander Randi Rainey, Deputy City Clerk
Councilman John Blount Michael Williams, City Attorney
Councilwoman LaKeisha Gantt
Councilwoman Neat Robinson
Call to Order made by Mayor Neal.

Invocation by Scott Gilbert.

Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.

City Clerk, Vanessa Holiday was asked to proceed with a verbal roll call. All members of
Council were present; a quorum was confirmed.

Mayor Pro Tem Ford motioned to adopt the Agenda; second by Councilwoman Robinson.
The motion passed 5-0.

Review of Minutes for the following meetings: 11/1/2017, 11/13/2017, and 11/28/2017.

Minutes will be approved at the January 8, 2018 meeting.

There were no public comments.

December 19, 2017 6:00pm 4640 N. Henry Blvd. Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900
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OLD BUSINESS

1. City Hall HVAC Update
Presented by: Decius Aaron, Public Works Director and Randy Knighton, City Mgr.
Mr. Aaron noted staff is still developing the Scope of Work. There were no
additional updates.

2. Municipal Court Renovations Update
Presented by: Decius Aaron, Public Works Director and Randy Knighton, City Mgr.
Mr. Aaron noted staff is still in the process of developing the Scope of Work which
should be completed within the next few weeks. Mr. Aaron also noted once
completed an RFP will be put out for services.

3. Council Consideration to approve 2018 Water/Sewer Rates.
Presented by: Decius Aaron, Public Works Director
Mr. Aaron noted the County has recommended a 2% increase for 2018 Water and
Sewer rates, and staff recommends a 3.5% increase for Water and Sewer fees
with the additional 1.5% to help with the cost of water and sewer expenses and the
software maintenance of the AMI the new AMI Metering Systems.

Councilwoman Robinson motioned to approve the 2018 Water/Sewer Rates of
3.5%; second by Mayor Pro Tem Ford. The motion passed 3-2 (Blount and Gantt
opposed).

4. Council Consideration to approve Development Projects Policy
Presented by: Michael Williams, City Attorney.
Attorney Williams noted this policy is related to inadvertent releases of Economic
Development projects prematurely. Attorney Williams added the policy will also
limit the potential for undue or inappropriate political involvement in Economic
Development projects.

Camilla Moore, Community Development Director noted the intent of the policy is
to protect the integrity of the development community; as well as not scaring
potential businesses and development.

Councilman Alexander expressed opposition to the policy, noting information could
be obtained via the Open Records Act.

Councilman Blount motioned to approve the Development Project Policy; second
by Mayor Pro Tem. The motion passed 4-1 (Councilman Alexander Opposed).

PUBLIC HEARING
5. RZ-17-25-S
STKR Investments, LLC of Fort Lauderdale, FL requests a rezoning from RA
(Residential Agricultural) to MUND (Mixed-Use Neighborhood Development for the
property located on Campground Road Extension at the intersection with Highway
42 North, in Land Lot 97 of the 7th District. The property consists of 64.27 +/- acres,
and the request is for a mixed-use neighborhood development.
Presented by: Camilla Moore, Community Development Director
December 19, 2017 6:00pm 4640 N. Henry Blvd. Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900
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Ms. Moore noted staff was able to agree on the new conditions except for one; Item
A- Façade requirements. Ms. Moore further explained staff placed a condition that
requires the applicant to build a single-family detached unit in compliance with the
Ordinance put in place, and noted according to the Ordinance, all MUND (Mixed
Use Neighborhood Development) must be brick, stucco or stone. The applicant is
requesting to be more consistent with what is in the area and would like to have 3
sides of material and to use hardy plank in the rear. Ms. Moore explained hardly
plank is not permissible in the Ordinance. Ms. Moore also noted staff is more
concerned with the zoning of the property and spoke with Henry County GDOT and
asked them to submit a letter in writing in terms of where they were with complying.
Ms. Moore mentioned staff recommendations are to add roads to it or put conditions
on it; also, to get with GDOT and work out specifics to make the corridor apart of the
Overlay District.

PUBLIC HEARING
In Favor:
None

Opposed:
None

After some discussion, Councilman Blount motioned to table this item and to
continue the Public Hearing on 1/30/2018; second by Councilwoman Gantt. The
motion passed 5-0.

6. Final Public Hearing and Adoption – Proposed FY2018 Operating Budget
Presented by: Rashonda Favors, Lead Accountant & Randy Knighton, City Mgr.
Mr. Knighton noted there was a minor change with the proposed budget noting an
increase of $2,000 proposed increase for advertising City events; and referenced
the proposed Organizational Chart noting the Assistant City Manager position and
the Project Manager, which will be in the Community Development Department.

PUBLIC HEARING

Mayor Neal exited the meeting at 7:00pm during the Public Hearing; Mayor Pro
Tem Ford presided over the remainder of the meeting.

Alphonso Thomas expressed concerns regarding additional funding for National
League of Cities training/travel and the Youth Council budget, goals, and
objectives.

In Favor:
No Speakers

Opposed:
No Speakers

PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED.

December 19, 2017 6:00pm 4640 N. Henry Blvd. Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900
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Mayor Pro Tem Ford motioned to increase Governing Body Account 100-11100-
523910 in the amount of $2,500 to be offset by Occupational Tax Revenue;
second by Councilwoman Robinson. The motion passed 4-1-0 (Councilman Blount
Opposed).

Mayor Pro Tem Ford motioned to increase Governing Body Account 100-11100-
523500 in the amount of $5,000 and Account 100-11100-523700 in the amount of
$5,000 to be offset by Occupational Tax Revenue; second by Councilwoman
Gantt. The motion passed 4-1-0 (Councilman Alexander Opposed).

Councilwoman Gantt motioned to approve the 2018 budget; second by
Councilman Alexander. The motion passed 5-0.

NEW BUSINESS
7. Council Consideration to approve the City’s credit card cumulative limit.
Presented by: Randy Knighton, City Manager
Mr. Knighton explained the $15,000 Credit limit is not enough for the day-to-
day operations of the City and would like to increase the limit to $25,000.

Councilwoman Gantt motioned to approve the City Credit card cumulative
limit to $25,000; second by Councilwoman Robinson. The motion passed 5-

8. Council Consideration to amend the City’s Procurement policy.
Presented by: Randy Knighton, City Manager
Mr. Knighton noted the City Manager can approve up to $10,000 without
Councils approval noting no changes at this time.

No action was taken by the Council.

9. Council Consideration to approve the 2018 Workers Compensation Policy with
provider J. Smith Lanier.
Presented by: Randy Knighton, City Manager
Mr. Knighton noted the recommendation is to approve the annual 2018
Workers Compensation Policy with provider J. Smith Lanier in the amount not to
exceed $100,000.

Councilwoman Gantt motioned to approve the annual 2018 Workers
Compensation Policy with provider J. Smith Lanier in the amount not to exceed
$100,000; second by Councilwoman Robinson. The motion passed 4-0-1
(Councilman Alexander abstained).

10. Council Consideration to approve use of the Ted Strickland Community Center for
a Youth Council event to be held on December 22, 2017.
Presented by: Michael Williams, City Attorney
Attorney Williams noted the Youth Council is requesting use of the Ted Strickland
Community Center to host a dinner on December 22, 2017. Attorney Williams

December 19, 2017 6:00pm 4640 N. Henry Blvd. Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900
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further explained this is their public service project in which they chose to help a
local foster home in the Henry County area; and, would like to host a holiday
themed dinner as well as raise funds to provide some items on the foster children’s
Christmas list.

Councilman Alexander motioned to approve the use of the Ted Strickland
Community Center for a Youth Council event to be held on December 22, 2017;
second by Councilwoman Robinson. The motion passed 5-0.

DISCUSSION

11. Embracing Diversity
Presented by: Councilwoman Gantt
Request by Councilwoman Gantt to Table the item to be heard at the January 30,
2018 meeting.

12. Partnership between the City of Stockbridge and K-Piano.
Presented by: Councilwoman Gantt
Councilwoman Gantt noted she has had previous discussions with Mr. Kenneth
Wilson of K- Piano partnering with the City. Ms. Gantt expressed Mr. Wilson of K-
Piano is asking for Council’s support in waving fees for his non-profit organization
that would like to host a Stockbridge Winter Youth Concert on January 20, 2018 at
6:30pm at the Merle Manders Conference Center. Ms. Gantt included about 300-
500 people are estimated to attend the concert.

Councilman Alexander motioned to approve the partnership between the City of
Stockbridge and K-Piano for use of the Merle Manders Conference Center on
Saturday, January 13, 2018; City Attorney to draft partnership documents; second
by Councilwoman Robinson. The motion passed 4-0 (Councilwoman Gantt
recused herself from the vote noting her daughter’s participation in the afterschool
program).

COMMENTS FROM THE CITY MANAGER
Randy Knighton noted the passing of staff member Robert Maness and extended
condolences to the family who was very pleased with the support shown by the
City where several members of staff attended services; and asked that Attorney
Williams address the Council with an additional item.

COMMENTS FROM THE CITY CLERK
Vanessa Holiday expressed condolences to the family of colleague Robert
Maness for their loss; commended the Council for putting together a great team
noting staff works very well together and is thankful for fellow colleagues; and
wished everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

COMMENTS FROM THE CITY COUNCIL
Councilman Alexander thanked everyone for tuning in; noted the Work Session
meetings for 2018 would take place in the Levi Meeting Room at City Hall with
December 19, 2017 6:00pm 4640 N. Henry Blvd. Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900
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broadcasting capabilities; asked everyone to remain vigilant during this holiday
season and use the Safe Transaction location at 4545 North Henry Blvd.
(Stockbridge North Police Precinct) especially for internet transactions, noting the
location has video surveillance; thankful to all for 2017 as the City moves to the
next chapter; and asked that everyone embrace the “Keep Stockbridge Together”
movement and as united City.

Councilman Blount stated that during his absence, he received several calls from
many businesses who want to really get involved with the community, and looks
forward to their partnership with the City; thanked everyone for an awesome year;
commended staff for their hard work and efforts; and asked that everyone have a
safe holiday season as we start a new year in 2018.

Councilwoman Gantt wished everyone happy holidays, thanked the team and staff
and asked everyone to remain safe; looks forward to a new and exciting year in
2018; and thanked everyone for their continued support and prayers.

Councilwoman Robinson expressed condolences to the family and the Public
Works staff for the loss of Robert Maness; noted the hard work of everyone and
that her prayer for 2018 is that everyone work together as a team and
communicate; noted the comments of the Clerk where the City has put a great
team together, and to allow staff to do their jobs; asked that everyone support one
another, removing all negativity; asked for prayers for Council; and wished
everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Mayor Pro Tem Ford, an Alabama University fan, acknowledged Auburn’s win of
Alabama in the 2017 Iron Bowl and is hope the National Championship game will be
Alabama vs. the University of GA; wished everyone happy holidays and to keep the faith;
noted the Council will be successful; and asked everyone to wrap your arms around your
family.

Motion to convene Executive Session for Personnel, Litigation and Real Estate:
Gantt/Robinson: Passed 5-0.

EXECUTIVE SESSION (if necessary)
Councilwoman Gantt motioned to convene Executive Session for Personnel,
Litigation and Real Estate; second by Councilwoman Robinson. The motion passed
5-0.

Councilwoman Gantt motioned to adjourn Executive Session; second by
Councilman Alexander. The motion passed 5-0.

Councilman Alexander motioned to reconvene the regular meeting; second by
Councilwoman Gantt. The motion passed 5-0.

December 19, 2017 6:00pm 4640 N. Henry Blvd. Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900
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UPCOMING OFFICIAL CITY MEETINGS/EVENTS/ANNOUNCEMENTS
Meeting will be held at City Hall unless otherwise noted. Meeting dates and times are
subject to change. Please visit the city’s website www.cityofstockbridge.com, Facebook
page or contact City Hall offices at 770.389-7900 for updates and detailed information.

 Youth Council Meeting, Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at 5:30 P.M. at City Hall in
the Patrick Henry Meeting Room

 Youth Council Advisory Committee Meeting, Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at 5:30
P.M. at City Hall in the Levi Meeting Room

 Municipal Court Arraignment, Monday, January 8, 2018 at 9:00 A.M. at City Hall in
the Council Chamber

 Council Meeting, Monday, January 8, 2018 at 6:00 P.M. at City Hall in the Council
Chamber

 Main Street Advisory Board Meeting, Friday, January 12, 2018 at 9:00 A.M. at City
Hall in the Levi Meeting Room

 All City Offices will be closed on Monday, January 15, 2018 in observance of the
Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.

 Planning Commission Meeting, Thursday, January 18, 2018 at 6:00 P.M. at City
Hall in the Levi Meeting Room

 Downtown Development Authority Meeting, Monday, January 22, 2018 at 6:00
P.M. at City Hall in the Levi Meeting Room

 Council Work Session Meeting, Tuesday, January 30, 2018 at 4:00 P.M. at City
Hall in the Levi Meeting Room

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENT(S)

 NAACP Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Program – Monday, January 15, 2018
10:00 A.M. in McDonough, GA near the square and ending at the Henry County
Performing Arts Center.

Councilman Alexander motioned to adjourn the meeting; second by
Councilwoman Gantt. The motion passed 5-0.

Respectfully submitted by:

Vanessa Holiday, CMC Anthony S. Ford, Mayor

December 19, 2017 6:00pm 4640 N. Henry Blvd. Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900
