---
date: 2021-12-21
title: 12-21-2021 Minutes
source: 2021-12/2021-12-21_12-21-2021 _Minutes.pdf
pages: 1
---

StOCkbridge
Where Community Connects

WORKSESSION EET NG
SU ARY NUTES

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2021 6:00 PM.
Mavor & Citv Council Administration
Mayor Antho ny S. Ford Randy Kni h_ton, City Manager
Mayor_ Pro Te m Elton Alexander Vanessa:~ qllda , City Clerk
CounCIlwoma n Yolanda Barber John WI ms Ity Treasurer
asfungtpn, City Attorney

Councilman John Blount Qumton
Councjlwoman LaKeisha Gantt Jeremy T. Berry, City Attorney
CounCIlman Alphonso Thomas

Mission: To rovideyision eadership and sup erjor mun icipal services that enhance the
quality of Ife for aryfl
[w Ie creating a welco myng busl
| ness atmosphere focused on
sustamabll Ity 3 nd expans Ion of to urlsm and cultu ral events.

Call to Order by Mayor Ford.

City Clerk, Vanessa Holiday was asked to proceed with a verbal roll call. All members
were present for roll call except Councilwoman Gantt.

Invocation by Mayor Pro Tem Alexander

Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison

Mayor Ford requested to remove item #10 Johnson Controls to receive additional
information and to bring back.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to amend the Agenda to Remove Item #10 Johnson
Controls: Second by Councilwoman Barber. The motion passed 4-0.

Mayor Ford recommended to remove and Table Item #20 DDA Appointments to be heard
in January 2022.

Councilwoman Barber motioned to amend the Agenda to Table Item #20 DDA
Appointments to be heard in January 2022: Second by Mayor Pro Tem Alexander. The
motion passed 4-0.

Mayor Ford recommended adding an additional item to the Agenda as Item #30 to
purchase Tasers for Police Services.

Councilwoman Barber motioned amend the Agenda to Add Item #30 to purchase Tasers
for Police Services: Second by Councilwoman Barber. The motion passed 4-0.

1|Page
Councilwoman Barber motioned to amend the Agenda to Table Item #18, Green Room
Rental; Item # 24 Police Dept. Policies; Item #26 Temporary Spending Authority: Second
by Councilman Thomas. The motion passed 4-0.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander requested to have an explanation to the public for the removal
of Agenda items.

Councilman Thomas noted there was a vote of three to establish the Police Department
in which he was a part of and believes the new City Manager should take part and give
his input of these items once he is brought on board.

Mayor Ford noted for Mr. Fredrick Gardner is the sole with a 14-day
grace period by law, and once the 14 days have passed, Council will meet again to
appoint Mr. Gardner to the position.

Councilman Blount inquired about the funding amounts for Items #27 and twenty-eight as
they were not listed on the Agenda.

The Clerk noted the Agenda items are uploaded by Department staff

Mayor Ford noted Chief Trammer will give the dollar amount of each item during the
presentation.

Councilwoman Barber motioned to adopt the Agenda: Second by Mayor Pro Tem
Alexander. The motion passed 4-0.

Councilwoman Blount motioned to amend the Agenda to Add Item #31 Discussion ltem
Employee Incentive: Second by Mayor Pro Tem Alexander. The motion passed 4-0.

Councilman Thomas requested to have the City Treasurer look at the funding to see what
is left before a decision is made.

Councilwoman Barber motioned to approve Minutes: Second by Mayor Pro Tem
Alexander. The motion passed 4-0.

1. 9/15/21 2. 9/16/21 3. 9/17/21 4. 9/20/20 5. 10/8/21 6. 10/26/21 7. 11/8/21
8. 11/30/21

PUBLIC COMMENTS
All public comments must be submitted to the Clerk no later than one hour prior to the
meeting.
The Public Comment Form be found the webpage on the City
can on page at:
hltgszllstockbridge.seamlessdocs.com/f/209kdz4mo7xb and the form must include your name,
phone, and email contact information. Comments are limited to (3) three minutes and will be read
by the Clerk during the meeting, respecting all members of the elected body, officials, and staff.
Comments including defamation, unruliness and/or swearing will not be accepted.
None

2|Page
OLD BUSINESS

9. Public Hearing -
FY2022 Operating Budget Final Adoption
Presented by John Wiggins, Treasurer

Mr. Wiggins presented the FY2022 Operating Budget General Fund Budget at
$18,380,993.12 with Enterprise Funds at $25,164,768.95 for a total of $43,545,762.07.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander noted the budget should only include the General Fund and not
the Enterprise Funds to not cause confusion to the public.

Mr. Wiggins noted the whole budget needs to be heard to be approved

Councilwoman Barber motioned task staff to do the research to add an Employee and
Volunteer Recognition event to take place at the end of each year in December in the
amount not to exceed $20,000.00: Second by Councilman Thomas. The motion passed 3-
0-1 (BIountAbstained).

Mayor Ford noted there is typically an employee luncheon each year with city staff in
December.

Councilman Thomas noted there should be an event held in 2022 to recognize the many
volunteers who help the city in several ways throughout the city, included the volunteers
who serve on city boards.

Councilwoman Barber motioned to task staff with advertising for a Grants Administrator for
Police Services w/salary not to exceed $65,000: Motion Rescinded.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander inquired if the Grants Administrator could be used
instead of just the Police Department; Councilwoman Barber noted the Police Department
is priority.

Mayor Ford noted he believes there is already a Grant Writer on the organizational chart
under the Treasurer.

Mr. Wiggins noted that position has been approved and is not currently funded.

Councilwoman Barber motioned to task staff with advertising for a Grants Administrator for
the City, salary and benefits funded upon research by staff and to be placed under the City
Manager on the Organizational Chart and for the position to remain posted until and
not to exceed$65,000: Second by Councilman Thomas. The motion passed 3-1 (Blount
Opposed).

Renee Wheeler, HR Manager noted the Grants Administrator position will have to be added
to the Pay Plan noting the current position under Finance was a contracted position.

Councilwoman Barber motioned to task staff to post the Executive Assistant to Mayor &
Council position (confirmed as funded by the Treasurer) and to remain posted until offer
has been accepted: Second by Mayor Pro Tem Alexander. The motion passed 4-0.

3|Page
Councilwoman Barber motioned to reduce the Youth Council
Budget by $6,000 from
$21,000 to $15, 000 notinga II city depa rtments were re ed to
quest make reductions to their
budgets: S econ d by Council man Thom as. The Motio n Resci nded.

Coun cilman Blount noted the
remaining funds that are not used by the Youth Council go
back into the General Fun d.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander inquired on the reason for the
budget decrease.

Councilwoman Barber noted she held
budget meetings with Mayor Ford (Acting City
Manager) and Department Head staff seeking areas within their d epartm ent
budgets w here
cost reductions/savings could be made
across the board.

Councilwoman Barber inquire on the amount the Youth
Council spent in 2020 and 2021.

Mr. Wiggins noted
roug h Iy $ 10,000 was spent in 2020 due to the pandemic and $15,000
not including recen texp e ndit ures for 2021.

Mayor Ford inquired if Councilwoman Barber spoke with ChainNoman
Harvey about the
reductions.

Counc iiwoman B arbe r noted she did not
speak with Youth Council Chain/voman Harvey,
noting she met w ith ci ty staff depa rtment heads.

Councilman Blount reminded Councilwoman Barberthere
is still a pandemic and noted to
let the Youth Council and to not compare
anything to 2020.

Councilman Thomas suggested Mayor Ford to
reemphasize the meeting speaking rules.

Mayor Ford noted the speaking rules are as follows: Coun ciimembers are to
speak twice
on and item and no more than 3 minutes each
time o n the i tem.

Mr. Wiggin s n oted the chan
ges to the General Fund from the 3rd Budget
December 21, 202 1 we nt fro rn $18.2 mil lion
Reading on
to $18.3 million with a
noted Business Services decreased their
increase;
budget by $1,000; Gov't Buildings/Propeny
decreased by $111,500; IT increase
by $12.000; Municipal Court decreased by
$71,561.24; Police increased by $300,000; P ublic Works decreased
by $73,656.83; City
Events increased by $50,000;
Permitting decreased by $4,600; P&Z increased by $6,000
and Main Street Programs decreased
by $6,000.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander inquired about the decrease of the Government
Buildings
budget

Mr. Wiggins noted there were deductions on the maintenance
agreements, fountain
maint e nance, sup ply and mate rials,
signs, uni form s, new building maintenance and
comp u ter software all made by th e De partment H

4|Page
Mayor Ford noted councilmembers were invited to meet with Department Heads to go over
their budgets and in the process, there were items discussed where deductions could be
made.

Councilman Thomas motioned to amend the Assistant Public Works Director Minimum
Qualifications: degree in civil engineering, a related of engineering,
environmental science or technology, requiring by seven (7) years of experience in public
works, including water, sewer, stormwater, solid waste management, streets and roads,
parks, and facility and fleet maintenance; with an equivalent combination of education,
training, and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities for
this job will be considered with the required engineering degree and a valid State of
Georgia License: Second by Mayor Pro Tem Alexander. The motion passed 3-1
(Blount Opposed).

Councilman Blount suggested allowing the new City Manager to go to each department to
see what would be needed.

Mr. Aaron noted his concern is engineers specialize in different things and he does not
want people under the impression if there is an engineer, outside engineers are not

needed; and noted the person hired should have knowledge of public works operations
and project management.

Mr. Wiggins noted if the budget is approved there will be adjustments made to the
General Fund.

PUBLIC HEARING OPENED No Speakers In Favor or Opposed
PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED

Councilman Blount inquired on how a budget could be voted on with amendments and no
budget amount.

Attorney Berry noted the Treasurer should be able to calculate the amounts the
changes, and if not, there would have to be additional meetings with no amendments or
discussions and other positions could be added through a budget amendment.

Mr. Wiggins noted he was able to make the adjustments in real time and stated the final
budget if approved as of right now would be $18,480,993.12 with the added $65,000 + 23%
and the $20,000.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve the FY2022 Operating Budget with the
approved amendments for a total of $18,480,993.12: Second by Councilman Thomas. The
motion passed 4-0.

10. Council Consideration for approval to increase the contract for Johnson Controls
Security Solutions LLC (Tyco Integrated Security LLC) in the amount of $497,572.84 for
installation costs; plus $7,579.80 for year one service costs and monitoring for a total of
$505,152.64.
Presented by Decius Aaron, Public Works Director
Item Removed from the Agenda

SlPage
11. Council Consideration to approve Merle Manders Conference
Building Center
Renovations in the amount of $314,000. Funding Source; $50,000 FY2021 Budget;
$150,000 FY2022 Budget $134,000 Tourism Funds
Presented by Kim Jordan, Conference Center & Events Manager
Ms. Jordan noted the Merle Manders Conference Center building was built in 2002 and
need repairs to be competitive in the market; and noted the roof is leaking and the carpet
in the ballroom needs replacing.

Mr. Ingraham, Conference Center Coordinator noted a walk-through was completed to
assess what was needed and had conversations with Gordon who estimated the
cost to repairthe roof at $94,214; and an estimated cost of $70,000 to upgrade the kitchen
and ballroom; noted other items to be considered is to remove the sound system and the
countertops and to make the downstairs an independent event center with a total cost for
renovations at $314,000.

Ms. Jordan noted staff would like to have the roof followed
by renovations to
upstairs and downstairs and there is already $100,000 budgeted which was previously
approved.

Mr. Ingraham noted staff has with Henry County Tourism and there are funds
available from Tourism.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander inquired if there was an itemized list to look at the repairs

Mr. Ingraham noted it was in the Councils packets; and noted the lighting needs updating
from dim to LED, removal of the carpet and to change the color scheme.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander noted there is subsidized funding yearly with no real revenue
coming in and inquired where funding would come from.

Mr.Wiggins noted there is $50,000 allocated from the FY2021 budget, $150,000 in the
Fy2022 budget and could use $134,000 of the Hotel/Motel taxes.

Mr. Ingraham noted 8% of the Hotel/Motel tax can be used, 18% out of the 8% can be used
for product development and 37% out of the 8% is unrestricted.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander asked the Attorneys to chime in.

Mr. Berry the Hotel/Motel taxes can be used for tourism.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve with contingency of confirmed Tourism
funding: Second by Councilman Thomas. The motion passed 4-0.

6|Page
NEW BUSINESS
12. Council Consideration to approve and publish the 2022 Public Meetings schedules.
Presented by Vanessa Holiday, City Clerk
Ms. Holiday noted the 2022 Public Meetings Schedule includes the following: City Council
meetings, Main Street Advisory Board (MSAB), Downtown Development Authority (DDA),
Planning Commission, Youth Council and Youth Council Advisory Committee (YCAC) and
upon approval will be published in the legal organ the Henry Herald; noted all boards
and committees has approved their recommend schedules and will meet on the following
days: DDA will meet on the 3rd Tuesday each month virtually until further notice at 6pm,
MSAB will meet on the 2nd Friday each month virtually unless otherwise noted at 9am,
Planning Commission will meet on the 4th Thursday each month virtually until further notice
at 6:30pm, YCAC will meet on the 2nd Wednesday each month in the Patrick Henry Room
at 6:30pm, Youth Council will meet on the 3rd Tuesday in the Levi Meeting room at 5:30pm.

Ms. Holiday noted there are two options for the City Council meetings in which there were
requests from staff and others noting option #1 meeting schedule would remain the same
as it is currently, which is meeting on the 2nd Monday of each month at 6pm for council
meetings and the last Tuesday of each month for the work session meeting at 6pm; noted
option #2 would be to have meetings on the 2nd Monday of each month at 6pm for council
meetings and the last Tuesday of each month at 4pm for the work session meetings and
also noted other options can be made by council.

Councilman Blount recommended amending the February 14th meeting to another day,
noting it falls on Day.

Ms. Holiday noted she would have to ask legal to see if the date could be moved; and noted
the Charter stated the council meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of the month.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander inquired on what board stated they would meet virtually for the
remainder of the year.

Ms. Holiday noted the Planning Commission voted to meet virtually and the Board would
have to go back to amend their meetings schedule should the Council not approve; noting
we need to publish the dates by January 1Stand can also revise the schedule.

Mayor Ford noted he would imagine if there were a state of emergency due to the
pandemic, it should be but would like to hear from legal and if they are in compliance
with the open meetings act.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander noted he is in support of continuing virtual meetings while the
Omicron is out, but once things gets better, asked if the board will they still meet virtually.

Councilman Thomas noted nothing is written in stone and things could be modified

Mayor Ford noted he prefers option #1 but would be the consensus of the Council

7|Page
Attorney Washington noted in their review, two code sections were looked at which allows
to change some meetings and does not state have them on a Monday or Tuesday with no
time and is within council latitude; also noted the concern was making sure they
were able to point to the sections which are Section 3.13 in the Charter and under Article
Called Special Meetings which states meeting are normally held on Monday or Tuesday.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve w/Option 1 of the City Council meetings
and the Board/Committee meetings as presented: Second by Councilman Blount. The
motion passed 4-0.

13. Council Consideration to approve the 2022 Agenda Timeline.
Presented by Vanessa Holiday, City Clerk
Ms. Holiday noted this is an Agenda Timeline distributed to staff, Mayor and Council,
City
Attorneys, and the City Manger with a yearly schedule of when documents are due to the
so the staff can present to Mayor and Council in a timely and
manner to review before council meetings.

Councilman Thomas noted it is crucial to have documents submitted in a timely manner so
Council can make informed decisions.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander inquired if it was possible for Council to add items to the Agenda
within 7 days.

Ms. Holiday noted a Resolution was passed requiring staff to have documents submitted
to Council one week before the meeting, and to change that means there would no longer
be that window.

Mayor Ford noted the Agenda can be amended as it was tonight and believes the timeline
should remain the same.

Councilman Blount noted he believes Council should have a true Work Session so that
items agreed on could be placed on the Consent Agenda at the council meetings.

Councilman Thomas motioned to approve the 2022 Agenda Timeline: Second by
Councilwoman Barber. The motion passed 4-0.

14. Council Consideration to approve the 2022 Holiday Calendar.
Presented by Renee Wheeler, Human Resources Manager
Ms. Wheeler read the holidays for 2022: Jan 1 New Day, Jan 17 M L King, Jr.
Holiday, April 15 GoodFriday, May 30 Memorial Day, June 19 Juneteenth, July 4
Independence Day, Sep 5 Labor Day, Nov 24 Thanksgiving Day, Nov 25 The Day After
Thanksgiving, Dec 24 Christmas Eve, Dec 25 Christmas Day.

Councilman Blount motioned to approve the 2022 Holiday Calendar: Second by
Councilwoman Barber. The motion passed 4-0.

8|Page
15. Council Consideration to approve the 2022 Council Initiatives Calendar of Events.
Presented by Zenovia Pearson, Admin. Asst. to Mayor & Council
Ms. Pearson noted staff is looking for approval of the 2022 Council Initiatives Calendar of
Events.

Councilman Thomas noted the Carrie Mae Hambrick event is normally the 3rd Saturday,
but he has not with the organization and once confirmed he will come back and
modify.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve the 2022 Council Initiatives Calendar of
Events: Second by Councilman Thomas. The motion passed 4-0.

16. Council Consideration to approve the 2022 City Events Calendar.
Presented by Kim Jordan, Conference Center & Events Manager
Ms. Jordan noted there have been three additional events added which are the Fourth of
July Extravaganza, City of Stockbridge Centennial Celebration, and the Halloween Festival.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander noted he believed the Job Fairs and Career Expos were
allocated and inquired if staff would have to wait for Goodwill to proceed.

Mr. Ingraham noted staff has been in discussion with Goodwill to hold the job fair in April

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve the 2022 Events Calendar: Second
by Councilman Blount. The motion passed 3-0-1 (BarberAbstained).

Councilwoman Barber noted with the City, Councilwoman Gantt and the Youth Council all
hosting a Halloween festival, she would like to rescind her previous motion in support of
having the Halloween Festival.

Councilman Blount noted when Council initiatives are turn into city events, they would like
to be better informed by the events team and want to see the initiates turned city events at

city level event.

Councilwoman Barber motioned to rescind her vote from the 12/13/2021 meeting
supporting the Halloween Festival.

Mayor Ford asked Legal Counsel to speak to the legality of the request.

Attorney Berry noted Councilwoman Barber can have a note placed in the record noting
her position on the matter has changed from yes to no; however, the vote has been taken
and is recorded as history and that a motion to reconsider the item would be the appropriate
action.
Councilwoman Barber noted she has observed other members change their votes on this
Council and called for a motion to Reconsider her vote of the Halloween Festival.

Councilman Thomas offered his knowledge of the Motion to Reconsider and noted that
supports the Halloween Festival, he was of the understanding that a voting member
has the right to change his or her position on an item at the meeting or the very next
meeting.

9 | P a g e
Councilman Blount noted during the discussion at the previous meeting it was stated there
was another Halloween event and the motion was approved to move forward, in which he
voted to oppose and in along with Councilwoman Gantt that the events were in

Mayor Ford requested a legal opinion

Attorney Berry stated that any councilmember that voted in the majority whether it was a
vote in favor of or a vote opposed to could bring the item back for reconsideration and a
vote and stated Councilwoman Barber has the right to bring the item back for a vote.

Attorney Washington read the Charter Section 2.04.140 Motion to Reconsider:
A motion to reconsider any of the proceedings of council shall not be entertained unless it
be made by a member who voted with the majority, and such motion shall be made at the
same or succeeding meeting.

Councilman Thomas stated that while he remains in favor of the original motion, he wants
the actions of the Council to be procedurally correct to allow for a Motion to Reconsideration
and stated likewise with a Point of Order, that request should speak to the item at hand.

Mayor Ford called on Councilwoman Barber for her request.

Councilwoman Barber made a Motion to Reconsider her vote; second by Councilman
Blount.

Attorney Berry stated the motion is not to reconsider her vote, but a motion to reconsider
the item and call for a vote on the item.

Councilwoman Barber made a motion to Reconsider the motion regarding the Halloween
Event at the December 13, 2021 meeting.

Councilman Thomas disagreed with the opinion stating it is the
prerogative to change their vote without other members of Council voting on that.

The Clerk read the rule regarding the motion to reconsider; The motion to reconsider may
be made only by a member who voted on the prevailing side in the original vote (such as
someone who voted if the motion had passed or voted if the motion was

defeated). The making of the motion to reconsider takes precedence over all other motions
and yields to nothing.

Attorney Berry agreed with the as read and stated it contemplates a motion

Attorney Washington stated that as with any other motion, it must be properly moved and
seconded to take any action.
Councilman Thomas disagreed with the call for a motion to reconsider her vote.

Attorney Berry stated the meeting two weeks is set stone and is why it takes a Motion for
Reconsideration to bring the item back to the Council for a vote.

10|Page
Attorney Washington stated the only provision in the Charter speaks to a Motion to
Reconsider can only be brought back by a member of the Governing Body who voted in
the majority.

Councilwoman Barber stated she is prepared to make two motions: A motion to rescind her
vote; and a Motion to reconsider.

Mayor Ford called for a vote on the motion to reconsider made by Councilwoman Barber;
second by Councilman Blount (there was not vote from Alexander or Thomas) the motion
failed.

Attorney Berry noted the action of the Council was correct and gave an example of a
rezoning item being approved by the Council and the developer begins to build relying on
the zoning, and a member of the Council comes back two weeks later to change their vote,
which is why the actions or voting of the full council.

Councilwoman Barber responded that the example of a developer or investor would relate
to items involving contracts.

Attorney Berry noted the process is from Rules and used the rezoning as an
example.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander noted the Council voted and has received the opinion of legal
counseL

Councilwoman Barber opted to move on

Councilman Blount stated while it was her prerogative to move on, he did not think
Councilwoman Barber was allowed to change her vote.

Mayor Ford noted the process was that the Council did vote on the motion to reconsider,
and the motion failed.

Councilman Thomas stated for the record he abstained from the vote

17. Council Consideration to approve the 2021 Utility Billing in the amount of
$14,111.78.
Presented by John Wiggins, Treasurer
Mr. Wiggins noted staff is requesting approval of the 2021 Utility Billing Write-offs in the
amount of$14,111.78; noted the decrease from last year FY2020 was about $167.59 with
a total amount of $14,279.37.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve the 2021 Utility Billing Write-offs in the
amount of $14,111.78: Second by Councilwoman Barber. The motion passed 3-0-1

(Thomas Abstained).

11|Page
18. Council Consideration to approve Green Room Community Use Policy and Fee
Schedule.
Presented by Kim Jordan, Conference Center & Events Manager and Econuel ingram,
Conference Center Coordinator
Item Tabled

19. Council Consideration to appoint a representative to the Council on Aging.
Presented by Attorney Washington
Mayor Ford noted boards and commission appointments are normally discussed during
Executive Session and inquired with Attorney Washington if they should appoint during the
meeting.

Attorney Washington noted the action would be the will of Council to go into Executive
Session and discuss as well.

Councilwoman Barber noted for the record there is no relation between the two.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to appoint DeRitha Barber to serve a 2yr Term
Second by Councilwoman Barber. The motion passed 4-0.

20. Council Consideration to appoint members to the Downtown Development Authority
Presented by Attorney Washington
Item Tabled to January 2022

21. Council Consideration to appoint members to the Main Street Advisory Board.
Presented by Attorney Washington
Councilman Thomas motioned to appoint Greg Horton to a 3yr Term; Linda Jones, Mildred
Reed, Anika Potts, Willie Hopkins and Shomari Furtch with a Term: Second by Mayor
Pro Tem Alexander. The motion passed 4-0.

22. Council Consideration to appoint members to the Youth Council Advisory Committee
Presented by Attorney Washington
Attorney Washington noted he has seven applications for the Youth Advisory Council.

Councilwoman Barber noted she would like to go into Executive Session

Councilman Thomas noted there was a candidate he favored and asked for clarification of
the position and candidates.

Ms. Holiday noted there are currently eight positions open with seven candidates, three
unexpired terms that need to be and will be for one year, three vacancies and
two re-appointments.

Councilwoman Barber inquired how does one determine which positions would be

Councilman Blount suggested speaking with the Committee Chairperson to determine who
will fill the positions.

12|Page
Ms. Holiday noted forthe record she would like to confer with the Attorney to determine the
terms and stated normally there are not this many vacancies at one time; and noted usually
when a term expires, the new candidate replaces the vacated seat, there are three vacated
seats along with three vacancies.

Councilman Thomas noted there is someone he would like to recommend

Councilman Blount motioned to appoint Sharika Zellars and Jodie Alexander with a 2-yr
Term; Aaniyah Kendrick, Alfreda Gourdine, Arvia Hall, Derius Peurifoy, Keely White and
Shameka Jones, with terms to be determined to the 1yr unexpired terms or vacant 2-yr
terms following discussion withlegal: Second by Mayor Pro Tem Alexander. The motion
passed 3-0-1 (Barber Abstained).

23. Council Consideration to approve the Commercial Code Enforcement Fee Schedule
Presented by Brecca Johnson, Community Development Director
Ms. Johnson noted the Code Enforcement Department does not have a Fee Schedule and
would like to have fees approved with the goal of getting the Fee Schedule out to business
owners and residents by the of the year.

Councilman Thomas inquired on how the fee schedule would be enforced and what the
next steps would be.

Ms. Johnson noted if there is a perceived violation by a code enforcement officer, a notice
of violation will be given to the violator to comply in which they will have a certain number
of days to come into compliance; noted if the violator does not come into compliance, the
code enforcement officer will be scheduled to go back out within a certain time frame and
will then issue a citation which will be the 15t offense and will be placed on the docket for
court which is set for April 2022; and added if the offenses continue with the same violators,

they will be with another fee to pay. Ms. Johnson mentioned the idea is to keep
habitual violators to a minimum.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander noted the fine for overgrown grass is too low and inquired why
it was so low.

Ms. Johnson noted best practices are to pull fees that are comparable around the region

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander noted commercial buildings should be responsible for picking
up trash alongside their buildings.

Councilman Blount noted to add to the language to have business and property owner
responsible for the upkeep of their property.

Ms. Johnson noted the nuisance section will cover those issues.

Chief Trammer noted with the Municipal Codes of GA- Title 11- Offense-Chapter 11.6
addresses littering in the city.

13|Page
Mayor Pro Tem Alexander noted he would like to see added for trash in the parking
lots and maintenance in commercial parking lots.

Councilwoman Barber inquired if residential storage pods were included

Ms. Johnson noted it would be under nuisances and believes there is a time limit with
storage pods.

Councilman Thomas spoke about parking on the streets in subdivision and inquired if the
Codes were up to date.

Ms. Johnson noted there needs to be additional conversation with the new City Manager
and noted the Code needs to be updated.

Councilman Thomas inquired on the difference between parking in the street vs. no parking
signs and no parking vs. regular street parking.

Ms. Johnson noted there is an Ordinance that address parking permits however, it is
for staff to manage.

Councilman Blount requested to have a breakdown of each of the violations.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander inquired if zero tolerance has been a practice.

Ms. Johnson noted staff operates from the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for each
violation and a time frame in which violators will need to come into compliance.

Mayor Ford noted there were suggestions to be added to the list and inquired if they should
be individually voted on or added to the list and vote on the whole list.

Chief Trammer noted the current ordinance addresses public/private property with a
minimum of $200 in the Charter.

Councilman Blount noted Council should go with what the Charter stated and implement
enforcement.

Councilwoman Barber inquired if the Attorney could validate what Chief Trammer stated
and requested to keep the fees separate.

Chief Trammer references Chapter 11.16.070- Violations.

Councilwoman Barber noted she does not want to approve excessive

Councilman Blount noted the court should determine the outcome when dealing with fines.

Attorney Berry noted the provision Chief Trammer read is correct and caps the fines at
$1000 and under Georgia law, the most a misdemeanor can be is $1000 and should be set
as the upper limit.

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Councilman Thomas called for the vote.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve Second by Councilwoman Barber

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to have the commercial portion of the fee schedule
with amendments which include the parking lot litter 1St of $200, 2nd fine of $500 and
3rd fine of $1000; parking lot maintenance, paving to damaged parking lots 1St of $200,
2"d of $750 and 3rd of $1000; overgrown grass (commercial) 1St of $200, 2nd
fine of $500 and 3rd of $1 000 and consult with legal and staff: Second by Councilwoman
Barber. The motion passed (Blount Abstained).

Councilwoman Barber inquired about the Residential Fee Schedule.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to bring the Residential Fee Schedule to the Council
within the next 30 days for approval: Second by Councilwoman Barber. The motion passed
4-0.

24. Council Consideration to grant the Chief of Police the authority to implement and/or
amend police department policies and procedures with reviewby Legal Counsel as
appropriate, excluding policies and procedures with a impact greater than $5,000.
Presented by Frank Trammer, Police Chief
ltem Tabled

25. Council Consideration to approve Vehicle Usage Policy for the City of Stockbridge
Police Department.
Presented by Frank Trammer, Police Chief
Chief Trammer noted at the beginning of the year staff will start recruiting for the Police
Dept to 53 police positions; noted staff is developing recruitment literature and
one of the benefits staffs would like to provide to are take home vehicles with some
of the being: enhancing the safety and security within the community, a quicker
response time, reduces maintenance cost, allows for rapid deployment of off duty
and enhanced accountability; noted one of the differences staff is seeking for approval is a
minimum mileage restriction forthe vehicle to be 35 miles, which would allow living
within a 35-mile radius to be eligible for a take home vehicle; stated the reasoning for the
35 mile is to pull distance from city limits to adjacent counties and the furthest distance was
35 miles; noted there is no set standard for take home mileage and varies from department
to department and included all agencies in Henry County offers a take home vehicle

program; noted Henry County minimum mileage is 15 miles, City of McDonough minimum
mileage is 20 miles, City of Hamptons minimum mileage is 25 and City of Locust Grove
minimum mileage is 35 and believes the city should remain with the most competitive.

Councilwoman Barber motioned to approve the Vehicle Usage Policy for the City of
Stockbridge Police Department: Second by Councilman Thomas. The motion passed 4-0.

26. Council Consideration to temporarily waive spending authority limits to authorize the
City Manager to approve police department purchases not to exceed a designated
amount and/or costs for pre-approved categories.
Presented by Frank Trammer, Police Chief
Item Tabled

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27. Council Consideration to approve the purchase of body worn cameras with a 5-year
program in the amount of $239,500.01, and in-car video cameras and associated storage
costs with a 5-year program in the amount of $471 ,743.99 forthe City of Stockbridge Police

Department for a total amount of $71 1 ,244.00. Funding Source ARPA.
Presented by Frank Trammer, Police Chief and Richard Godfrey, Commander
Commander Godfrey noted staff has evaluated several different companies from
companies such as G-Tact, Motorola, Watch Guard and Axion A.K.A Taser for body worn
camera packages for a total of fifty body worn cameras and associated
equipment.
Commander Godfrey noted the capabilities of the cameras has LTE capabilities with a built-
in sim card which would allow tracking via GPS, along with the taser which has a

microchip and once withdrawn from the holster, it will automatically activate the body
camera.

Mayor Ford inquired on the cost

Commander Godfrey noted the in-car system program total cost is $471.743.99, the
body cameras 5-year program total cost is $239,500.01.

Councilwoman Barber motioned to approve the purchase of body worn cameras with a 5-
year program in the amount of $239,500.01, and in-car video cameras and associated
storage costs with a 5-year program in the amount of $471,743.99 for the City of
Stockbridge Police Department for a total amount of $711,244.00: Second by Mayor Pro
Tem Alexander. The motion passed 4-0.

28. Council Consideration to approve the purchase of mobile and in-car police radios for
the City of Stockbridge Police Department in the amount of $61 1,736.00. Funding Source
ARPA.
Presented by Frank Trammer, Police Chief and /Richard Godfrey, Commander
Commander Godfrey noted staff is seeking approval of a Requisition to purchase both
portable and in-car radios from Loudoun Communications, Inc and is the same system the
county uses.

Councilwoman Barber inquired on the balance for ARPA funds.

Chief Trammer noted they anticipate from the Police Department standpoint a future
purchase of $2 million; there is currently $1.5 million proposed for meeting and
$1.4 million in the APRA fund balance and the city should get the other $5.5 million by April
2022; noted the body worn cameras payments are not due until May 2022 and the City
anticipates having the next round of ARPA funds before the due date; noted the police
department has currently used $3.1 million for police vehicles and use $1.5 million for
tonight purchases which totals roughly $4.6 million of the $11 million in which the city has
received in ARPA funds; noted Public Works has used roughly $1 million and has used one
disbursement which leaves about $5.6 million available for future purchases and does not
include the extra $2 million the city may get with grants.

Councilwoman Barber motioned to approve the purchase of mobile and in-car police radios
for the City of Stockbridge Police Department in the amount of $611,736.00: Second by
Mayor Pro Tem Alexander. The motion passed 3-0 (Blount was not present for the vote).

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29. Council Consideration to approve the purchase of remote-controlled spotlights for City
of Stockbridge Police Department patrol vehicles in the amount of $37,589.26. Funding
Source ARPA.
Presented by Frank Trammer, Police Chief
Chief Trammer noted staff did not notice until after the purchase of the police patrol vehicles
there were no spotlights which is an essential piece of equipment and the vehicles will need
to be retro to add spotlights to all forty-two patrol cars in the amount of $37, 589.26.

Councilman Thomas motioned to approve the purchase of remote-controlled spotlights for
City of Stockbridge Police Department patrol vehicles in the amount of $37,589.26: Second
by Councilwoman Barber. The motion passed (Blount was not present for the vote).

30. Council Consideration to approve the purchase of 56 Taser X for the City of
Stockbridge Police Department in the amount of $176,198.39. Funding Source ARPA.
Presented by Frank Trammer, Police Chief and Richard Godfrey, Commander
Commander Godfrey noted the police department is seeking approval to purchase
tasers which is the latest released tasers by Axion. Commander Godfrey noted one of the
criteria that will be implemented is the taser color which will be yellow and will be required
under policy to be a cross draw; with a 5-year comprehensive term contract which will be
under warranty during the 5 years.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve the purchase of 56 Taser X for the City
of Stockbridge Police Department in the amount of $176,198.39: Second by
Councilwoman Barber. The motion passed 3-0 (Blount was not present for the vote).

DISCUSSION
31. Councilman Blount proposed a $500 incentive for vaccinated employees and staff

working through the pandemic using ARPA Funds.
Councilman Blount noted the City was blessed not to have to lay off any staff throughout
the pandemic and that ARPA funds was being used by other municipalities to issue
incentives to staff and wants the City of Stockbridge to issue a $500 incentive to
vaccinated staff and those who worked through the pandemic using ARPA funds for
approximately $50,000 for the eighty employees.

Councilwoman Barber supports tasking HR staff and legal with researching vaccine
incentives for employees noting ARPA funding is and wants to be sure the
incentives fall within the ARPA parameters and supports all ways of encouraging staff to
get vaccinated and get their boosters; and to research how what is done in the case of
employees who want to be vaccinated at all and how that factors in; and noted a
Cost of Living Adjustment increase would require General Funds and cannot use ARPA
Funding.

Councilman Blount noted this request does not involve the Cost of Living (COLA) and
saw today in fact on the news where other cities were distributing this type of incentive to
their employees and wants the legal team and staff to look into for our employees.

Mayor Ford asked legal if they had any remarks.

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Attorney Washington noted legal would need to research the item and prepare a memo
and submit to Council.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander stated he is in support of doing something for the
employees with the ARPA funding that has come to the city; noted the city has been
fortunate with no layoffs and maintained a full staff; noted the increase in the livable wage
to a minimum of $15/per hour; and wants to make sure the attorneys are tasked with a
leveled approach if it is legal to give this one-time payment it should perhaps be 3-tiered
with an employee who has taken the steps to get fully vaccinated with the booster and
protect themselves and others should receive a higher amount than someone who has
received one or two vaccinations; and they should receive a higher amount than
someone who has not been vaccinated at all; noting the definition of fully vaccinated as

by the CDC will change; and noting everyone endured, and there may be those
who did not get the vaccination for religious reasons and did wear a mask and took
precautions would be worthy of something and it not be zero, and it is allowable,
everyone should receive something; and asked HR staff and see what other cities are
doing.

Councilman Blount noted he appreciated Mayor Pro recommendation of the tiers
and referenced the cities of Douglasville and Sandy Springs who he believes may have
issued incentives to their employees as part of the research, and just wants to do
something for the employees.

Councilwoman Barber wants the attorneys to look into the discrimination factor of the
tiered approach to avoid potential litigation; and noted her support of the incentive.

Councilman Blount noted it falls along the line of insurance companies who charge based
on a tiered approach.

Councilwoman Barber noted because this is the use of ARPA Funding, there are
guidelines and criteria.

Mayor Pro Tem asked HR to look into and bring back to the Council if the cost of
employees not getting vaccinated and if there will be a cost that will be passed along to
the city, noting the city has absorbed the cost of the added premiums for several years,
as this will certainly help with the decision.

Mayor Ford asked Ms. Wheeler for her thoughts on the request for the research; there
was no response.

Councilman Blount noted that when the information comes back from HR and Legal,
asked if there could be a consensus by email or vote in the public.

Attorney Washington noted a vote would need to be made before the public.

Councilman Blount noted the request is that there be an incentive of $500 for the
vaccinated; $250 for the unvaccinated and $7 for the boosters.

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Mayor Pro Tem Alexander asked that the Council wait on the research from HR and
Legal as discussed.

Mayor Ford noted the Attorneys have heard the information and HR Staff and Legal
Counsel were tasked with determining the feasibility and legal justifications for the
incentive and distribution and report back to the Council within the next 30
days.

COMMENTS FROM THE MAYOR
Mayor Ford noted the COVID variant Omicron has become more prominent; noted Dr.
Henson of Piedmont Henry stated the hospital is preparing for the 5th
surge as people
prepare to gather for the holiday season; noted he and his spouse received the booster
with no issues, and encouraged everyone to get vaccinated,
get boosters, get tested
because Omicron is here and the only way we will be able to beat this virus; noted
the CDC has stated boosters are available to those who
qualify age 16+ free of charge
and you can set up an appointment for the and Moderna vaccinations and boosters
at the Public Health Department located at 135 Henry Pkwy in
McDonough by
calling
470-661-0005; noted COVID Testing is available Monday through Friday from 9am 3pm
at Red Hawk Field 143 henry Pkwy in McDonough and with rapid
testing for faster results
and you can get vaccinations and the booster as well; noted walk-ins are welcome from
9am 11am and 1pm 3pm and closes at 5pm and is open 5 days per week; noted
once you have completed the first two vaccines from or Moderna you can cross
over and take the or Moderna boosters; noted the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are
being administered to individuals age 5+, and boosters cannot be administered to ages 5
15, noting the CDC has not approve a booster for that age group, and asked that you
please get permission and/or advice regarding the vaccinations; noted the City has
moved forward with the selection of a Sole Finalist to fill the
vacancy forthe City Manager
position noting the candidate is Mr. Frederick Gardiner, and noted the city is in the 14-day
period by law of the process which started on Saturday and will end December 31St where
the city will then have a Special Called meeting between
January 1 10 to make the
formal appointment and confirmation.

UPCOMING MEETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS: 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.

> City Council Meeting and -
2nd Monday of each month 6:00 pm. Swearing-ln
Ceremony Location TBD (Jan 10)

> Youth CouncilMeeting, 5:30 pm. -
2nd Wednesday of each month Levi
Meeting Room City Hall (Jan 12)

> Main Street Advisory Board Meeting, 2nd Friday of each month 9:00 am. Via
Zoom (Jan 14)

> Youth Council Advisory Committee Meeting, 6:30 pm. -
3rd Tuesday of each
month Patrick Henry Meeting Room -

City Hall (Jan 18)

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> Downtown Development Authority Meeting, 6:00 pm. Via Zoom -
3rd
Tuesday of each month Via Zoom (Jan18)

> City Council Work Session Meeting, Last Tuesday of each month -
Time and
Virtual (Jan 25)

> Planning Commission Meeting, 4th Thursday at 6:30 pm. Via Zoom (Feb
24)

UPCOMING CITY EVE NTSIINITIATIVES

Please join Councilwoman Barber at the Eagles Landing Dance Center for FREE Zumba

Saturdays at 8 am. at 627 Red Oak Road Stockbridge, GA

A Continuous Salute to Veterans: Please forward pictures of Veterans including name,
branch, rank, and years of service as Councilman Thomas presents a special tribute to our
local veterans. Pictures should be submitted to: Thank
you for your service!

Here is your opportunity to Meet the Mayor, and voice your questions and/or concerns

Monday, January 25, 2022, from 10 am. to noon. Call Zenovia Pearson to schedule an
appointment. 770-389-7900 ext. 248.

Mayor Ford wished everyone, and on behalf of the City Council and the staff a Merry
Christmas, Happy New Year, Happy Holidays, Happy Hanukah, and Kwanza.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

Councilwoman Barber motioned to convene Executive Session for Personnel, Litigation,
and Real Estate: Second by Mayor Pro Tem Alexander. The motion passed 4-0.

Councilman Thomas motioned to adjourn Executive Session: Second by Councilwoman
Barber. The motion passed 3-0. (Councilman Blount was not present for the vote).

Councilman Thomas motioned to reconvene the meeting without action from Executive
Session: Second by Councilwoman Barber. The motion passed 3-0 (Councilman Blount
was not present for the vote).

Ms. Holiday noted during the presentation of the Public Meeting Schedule it was stated that
the Planning Commission meeting time was 6:00 pm. and should be 6:30 pm.

Councilman Thomas motioned to adjourn: Second by Mayor Pro Tem Alexander. The
motion passed 3-0. Councilman Blount was not present forthe vote).

Respectful itted by

Vanessa Holiday, City Clerk MM Anthony S. Ford. a yor

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