HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOMMISSION MEETING MARCH 17, 2009
REGULAR MEETING COMMISSION CHAMBER
MARCH 17, 2009
Augusta Richmond County Commission convened at 12:00 p.m., March 17, 2009, the
Hon. Deke Copenhaver, Mayor, presiding.
PRESENT: Hons. Holland, Smith, Mason, Grantham, Hatney, Beard, Johnson, Jackson,
Bowles and Brigham, members of Augusta Richmond County Commission.
The invocation was given by the Reverend Timothy R. Green, Pastor Jenkins Memorial
CME Church.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was recited.
Mr. Mayor: Pastor, I have something for you if you could please come forward. By
these present be it known that Reverend Timothy R. Green, Pastor, Jenkins Memorial CME
Church is Chaplain of the Day for his civic and spiritual guidance demonstrated throughout the
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community. Serves as an example for all of the faith community. Given under my hand this 17
Day of March 2009. Thank you, sir, for that wonderful invocation. (APPLAUSE)
Mr. Mayor: Madam Clerk, I guess we’ll move on to the Presentations while excusing the
absence of Joe Bowles as St. Patrick’s Day is his official holiday.
The Clerk:
PRESENTATION(S)
A. Buffalo Soldiers. RE: Donation to Augusta Recreation and Parks Department in the
amount of $2,000.00.
Mr. Speaker: Can everybody hear me? On behalf of the Augusta Buffalo Soldiers it’s
and honor and a privilege to have the opportunity to present this check to the youth of Richmond
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County. This is our 7 year of presenting $2,000.00 so next year we’re going to try and increase
it a little. And we hope this check will be able to be some use to better themselves. And Mr.
Holland he is also an honorary Buffalo Soldier of Augusta. We only have one and he’s it. And a
couple little administrative announcements. These are some things that the Augusta Buffalo
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Soldiers will do for the community throughout the year. On the 20 of March we’ll down at
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Bethel Community Center presenting a check for the Austin Youth Step Team. On the 11 of
April we’ll be in the Sand Hills Community sponsoring the (unintelligible) surrounding
community. Sometime in June we will have a day at the swimming pool at Dyess Park for the
kids to come and enjoy themselves. We provide them with refreshments, foods and admissions.
Also in June as we do every year we will be passing out fans and air conditioners throughout the
Richmond County. Last year we passed out 230 fans and about eight air conditioners, window
air conditioners for the folks that needed some air. In August we’ll be at the Brigham Center
passing out school supplies. The first year we started we had about thirty kids. Last year we had
over 400 something kids. We gave out school supplies we gave out free haircuts, hot dogs,
hamburgers and the works. And at Thanksgiving we’ll be passing out meals to grandparents
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raising grandchildren. Last year we passed out about thirty baskets of food to families. And in
December we’ll be giving away bicycles as usual. Last year we gave out I think sixteen bicycles
to different families, a whole bunch of toys. So any of you Commissioners in your area your
district please come out and let your constituents see you. And again we thank you for the
opportunity.
Mr. Mayor: Thank you, sir. (APPLAUSE) Okay, Madam Clerk, on to the Recognitions.
The Clerk:
RECOGNITION(S)
Don Grantham
B. Congratulations! Commissioner Don Grantham for completing all course work
required for certificate of recognition from the University of Georgia and the Association
of County Commissioners.
The Clerk: Mr. Grantham will receive his certificate at the ACCG annual meeting in
April. (APPLAUSE)
Mr. Grantham: Thank you, Mr. Mayor.
Mr. Mayor: Come on you’ve got to say something.
Mr. Grantham: Well, it was a tough course particularly dealing with some of my fellow
Commissioners but we survived and it is a very worthwhile effort to attend these courses and it’s
one that I thing would benefit from not only individually but collectively to be able to come back
to our community and offer the services that we do. So thank you very much.
Mr. Mayor: Congratulations on that well deserved recognition.
The Clerk:
RECOGNITIONS
US Army
D. Colonel Robert A. Prince, USAF, Retired and Command Sergeant Major Olin Dorsey,
US Army Retired. (Requested by Commissioner Calvin Holland.
The Clerk: Would you please join the Mayor and Commissioner Holland. (APPLAUSE)
Mr. Mayor: I just want to say it’s a pleasure to be able to recognize you gentlemen. My
father is a veteran of WWII, flew B-17 Bombers so thank you for all that you did. With that I’m
going to issue the recognition.
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Mr. Mayor: In grateful appreciation of your loyal dedication and unwavering
commitment to your distinguished service in the United States Military Armed Forces the United
States of America in general and the Augusta Community particular has benefited greatly from
the wisdom you share and the life you exemplify by your hard work and devoted service. Thank
you for your outstanding contribution to protect and serve our country. The City of Augusta
recognizes and applauds your commitment to military academic excellence and inspiring others
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to perform at their best. Given under my hand this 17 Day of March 2009. (APPLAUSE)
Colonel Prince: Thank you very much. This award should go to all the American
soldiers, sailors, airmen who participated in all of our wars. Thank you so very much for those
folks and for me. (APPLAUSE)
CSM Dorsey: Thank you for this opportunity to thank the Mayor and the Commissioners
for recognizing our service. What I did in wartime was contribute my loyalty to my country.
This country, America is my home and I traveled extensively over the world but I still select
American as my home. So, God Bless America. (APPLAUSE)
Mr. Holland: Thank you. And I would also like to take this opportunity, ladies and
gentlemen, to thank Ms. Lena Bonner, Ms. Natasha McFarley who just go out of their way to
make sure that these plaques and these accommodations, these proclamations are made up. And
they just do an outstanding job with her staff and making sure that we get these and we get them
on time. The Commissioners could not do anything without them. So Ms. Bonner, Ms.
McFarley, let’s give them a round of applause. (APPLAUSE)
Mr. Speaker: I would like to thank my family for joining me in this presentation. I’d like
for y’all to just raise your hands. (APPLAUSE)
Mr. Holland: I’d also like to give a special thanks to Mr. Corey Rogers from the Lucy
Laney Museum who helped get information together and share this information with us today.
And without Corey I wouldn’t have been able to do this. Corey’s not here but his parents are
here, Mr. and Mrs. Rogers who are our neighbors. And of course Mr. Dorsey’s our neighbor and
Mr. Prince is a neighbor also. I don’t know how far away he is but he’s also a neighbor. I would
also like to give a special thanks. I don’t know if you read in the paper or saw it on TV. I don’t
want to take to much time. But a few weeks ago Congressman John Barrow came to town to
present an accommodation medal Meritorious Award to Mr. Bill Lockett. Mr. Lockett, hold
your hand up please. Mr. Lockett received that award from Congressman Barrow after 30-years
of being in the service. He decided to follow up his education rather than go to his retirement
services. So 30 years later Congressman Barrow came here to present Mr. Lockett with that
award down on Fourth Street. Let’s give him an award. (APPLAUSE) I’d like to thank also our
Super 9 Commissioner Dr. Hatney for being here and assist in this also. (APPLAUSE) Ladies
and gentlemen, there’s two groups of people in the United States that I just feel very, very good
about and that’s our veterans and our senior citizens. And I think that as Commissioners and as
government workers we must do much more and we can, more than we can to really help and
work with them to make sure that they get the things that they need to survive in this government
and in this country. I just want to say a special thanks to Mr. Prince. I want to let you know I
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received a very nice letter from your son George Prince in Oklahoma and also received some
very nice phone calls from my friend Mr. Dorsey’s family over on Thomas Lane. And thank you
so very much and I knew the Mayor was going to mention his Daddy and I knew there was
something that you could associate with by him being a bomber. Thank you all so very much
and we appreciate this so very much. Thank you. May God bless everybody. (APPLAUSE)
Mr. Mayor: And we have one more recognition to make. It did not make it on the
agenda but our Employee of the Month. So come forward for that.
The Clerk:
RECOGNITIONS
Employee of the Month
C. Mr. Michael Alsbrooks, Engineering Department, February Employee of the Month.
The Clerk: At this time we’d like to recognize and acknowledge our February Employee
of the Month Mr. Alsbrooks along with members of the Engineering Division. Mr. Smith would
you like to come down? He’s a member of the Engineering Department.
Mr. Smith: Oh yes.
The Clerk: Is Mr. Abie Ladson here?
Mr. Grantham: He’s out of town.
The Clerk: He’s out of town. Are the members of the Engineering group --- okay.
The Clerk: Dear Mayor Copenhaver. The Employee Recognition Committee has
selected Mr. Michael Alsbrooks as the February Employee of the Month for the City of Augusta.
Mr. Alsbrooks has 20 years of experience and is currently an engineer with the Engineering
Division under the direction of Mr. Abie Ladson. Mr. Alsbrooks was nominated by coworker
Shellette McRae. Mr. Alsbrooks was nominated for his willingness to pitch in and perform
additional duties. He is very knowledgeable and acquaints new employees with their
responsibilities. He is the type of employee who will go the extra mile to accomplish the job.
The committee felt that based on this nomination and Mr. Alsbrooks dedicated and loyal service
to the City of Augusta we would appreciate you joining us in awarding him the Employee of the
Month for the month of February. Thank you. (APPLAUSE)
Mr. Mayor: And I have a letter to read for you. And I would just say our engineering
department is doing great work with all the projects we’ve got going on. We’re running a lot of
work through you so I know that you’re working hard to keep up with it. Dear Mr. Alsbrooks.
On behalf of the City of Augusta it is with great pleasure that I congratulate you for being
recognized as the Employee of the Month for February 2009. Your contribution to your
organization August Richmond County Government and the citizens of Augusta has earned you
this recognition. I appreciate your willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty in your
outstanding work ethic. You are truly and asset to the Augusta Richmond County Engineering
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Department and the citizens of Augusta, Georgia. Please accept my personal congratulations on
this wonderful award. You are truly deserving of this recognition. Sincerely yours, Deke
Copenhaver, Mayor. (APPLAUSE)
Mr. Alsbrooks: I couldn’t have done it without my staff, Tony Figman, Sherman Martin,
Tony Williams, Dr. Malik and of course last but not least Mr. Ladson, our Director. Thank you.
(APPLAUSE)
Mr. Mayor: And before we get to the delegations I think we have one more special
recognition to make. Commissioner Joe Bowles is attending the Commission meeting on St.
Patrick’s Day and I think that deserves --- (APPLAUSE)
Mr. Smith: Mr. Mayor?
Mr. Mayor: Commissioner Smith.
Mr. Smith: Without green!
Mr. Bowles: I’ve got my (inaudible) on.
Mr. Mayor: All righty, Madam Clerk, on the delegations.
The Clerk: Mr. Bowles says don’t hate the player. He played the game.
The Clerk:
DELEGATIONS
E. Mr. Henry T. Armstrong, III, Augusta Partnership U.S. Census. RE: ARC 2010 Census
Complete Count Committee Awareness Campaign.
Mr. Mayor: And if you could keep it to 5 minutes, please, sir.
Mr. Armstrong: Yes, sir, I think I’ve learned. I’ll try to be as brief as possible. After the
presentation of the award for the veterans I’ll speak to you later Mr. Mayor about my award for
twenty some odd years as well. I’m United States Air Force Retired. After that I just want to
come to the attention to bring special notice after we’ve gone through a inauguration of selecting
a president, first time African American. We have another humongous and monumental task
that’s coming before us in a few more months. As you well know or if you might not know in
2010, February and March they will be mailing out the new 2010 census forms. Unlike the ones
we had the last census in 2000 these will be much shorter. I would like to take just a minute also
to welcome to you and introduce to others my immediate supervisor and team leader out of the
Savannah office Reverend Thurman Childress. Please stand. Thank you, sir. He is my liaison
and go-between for our office out of Atlanta. As Mr. Mayor has said I’ve got about 5 minutes so
I’ll be as brief as possible. The form that you see on the top simply talks about becoming a
partner. The census bureau realizes we cannot do this monumental task by ourselves. We have
to establish partners throughout the country and throughout our region, which covers Georgia,
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Alabama and Florida. We, myself have been tasked as what’s called Partnership Specialists to
establish partners throughout our particular counties. I have 16 counties including Richmond
that I’m responsible for. Because Richmond county is one of the largest urban centers across the
state of Georgia as I was looking at some of the materials that I was able to pull up from the
census bureau our statistics when they pull up the census in 2010 will have a significant impact
on the other localities surrounding the Richmond county area, Jefferson County, Burke County,
Warren County and some of the other outlining rural counties. So it is imperative that we have
an accurate and complete count in 2010 when they’re mailed out in the months of February and
March. Now in order to accomplish that humongous task we have to establish what’s called a
Complete Count Committee, the CCC. You’ll notice that the Census Bureau uses all kinds of
acronyms. That Complete Count Committee has actually started from the highest elected
officials in either town or city and that’s the Mayor or county Commissioners or City
Administrator and in some of the other counties I’ve visited. But it has to be selective. The
chairperson has to be selected from the highest elected officials within that city or town or the
county. A lot of places that I’ve gone to the county has taken over there instead of the city and
the city has decided to work with them. So I implore you I’ve spoken briefly with the Mayor, his
executive assistant, I’ve talked to the Mayor Pro Tem Mr. Mason and I implore you as citizens
and to the Commissioners here sitting before me today along with our City Administrator Mr.
Russell that if someone would please get back in touch with me. I gave you a list of names I’ve
had two individuals to call me already and said that they cannot be the Chairman but they would
love to be on the subcommittees of those chairmen, with that chairperson. I need to get our city
of Augusta has the second largest city in the state of Georgia on board with getting that
committee on, started out right now. In fact yesterday. That’s how far we’re behind. And we
really only have a few more months before those forms get mailed out. We got the Masters
coming up today is St. Patty’s Day. After a while people are not going to be thinking about the
census. So please, ma’am, and please, sir, you have a card there for contact purposes, please
someone I need to get in touch with any of you all who will be able to give me a name as a
chairperson as soon as possible so I can begin to work with them in getting this committee
trained and started with the Complete Count Committee of Augusta. If you have any questions
I’ll entertain that before I have a seat.
Mr. Mayor: Thank you, Mr. Armstrong, and the as you know the first person that we
asked was unable to commit the time to do it. But if the Commission has any names or anybody
that you think can commit the time to it and everything please see me afterwards and we will get
you a name. It’s just once again I know it’s a time consuming job and lot of the people I’ve
spoken to are very busy folks. But so any input you guys may have please let me know. But
thank you, sir.
Mr. Armstrong. Thank you.
Mr. Mayor: Madam Clerk, on to the consent agenda.
The Clerk: Yes, sir, Mr. Mayor and members of the Commission. We’re having some
technical difficulties so our agendas will not be displayed on your monitors. So I call your
attention to your hard copy of your agenda.
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Mr. Mayor: I’m having technical difficulties with my voice.
The Clerk: Our consent agenda consists of items 1-37, items 1-37. For the benefit of any
objectors to our Planning petitions I will read those petitions and if there are any objectors would
you please signify your objection at the reading of the petition.
Item 1. Is to approve with conditions to allow a B-1 (Neighborhood Business) zone change of
zoning from a B-1 (Neighborhood Business) to a B-2 (General Business) affecting property at
2053 Broad Street.
Item 2. Is to approve a change of zoning from R-1B (One-family Residential) to a Zone A
(Agriculture) affecting property at 1178 Piney Grove Road.
The Clerk: Are there any objectors to those Planning petitions?
Mr. Russell: None noted, Madam Clerk.
The Clerk: I call your attention to our Public Services portion of the agenda with the
alcohol petitions. If there are any objectors to these petitions would you please signify your
objections at the reading of those petitions.
Item 4. Is for an on premise consumption Beer license to be used in connection with 353
Highland Avenue. Is Between Friends DBA My Friends Place at 353 Highland Avenue.
Item 5. Is an on premise consumption Liquor, Beer and Wine license to be used in connection
with Who’s On First Bar & Grill located at 1524 Gordon Highway.
Item 6. Is for a Sunday Sales license to be used in connection with 209 Music Lounge located at
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#4 8 Street.
Item 7. Is for a Sunday Sales to be used in connection with Rack & Grill located at 3801 Mike
Padgett Highway.
Item 8. Is for a Special Events License for the Wild Wing Café located at 3035 Washington
Road.
Item 9. Is for a Special Events License for Masters Week in connection with Mi Rancho 2, Inc.
located at 3064 Washington Road.
The Clerk: Are there any objectors to those Planning petitions?
Mr. Russell: None noted, Madam Clerk.
The Clerk: Mr. Mayor, because of the technical difficulties we will have to institute a
roll call today for our voting.
Mr. Mayor: Okay.
The Clerk: Our consent agenda consists of items 1-37.
Mr. Mayor: Okay, do we have any additions to the consent agenda? Commissioner
Jackson.
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Mr. Jackson: Item #45.
Mr. Mayor: Okay, do we have any further additions to the consent agenda.
Commissioner Brigham.
Mr. Brigham: Mr. Mayor, is the applicant for items #41 and 42 present?
Mr. Sherman: He’s on the way.
Mr. Brigham: He’s on the way? Well, we’ll wait then.
Mr. Mayor: Okay, any further additions to the consent agenda? Okay, any items to be
pulled for discussion? Okay, hearing none I would look for a motion to approve the consent
agenda with the addition of item #45.
Mr. Mason: So moved.
Mr. Johnson: Second.
CONSENT AGENDA
PLANNING
1. Z-09-06 – A request for concurrence with the Augusta-Richmond County Planning
Commission to approve with the following conditions 1) the use of these properties be
limited to a convenience store and for the sale of fireplaces and those uses allowed in a B-1
(Neighborhood Business) zone and 2) the work area of the fireplace business be buffered by
a solid board fence; a petition by George Nabor requesting a change of zoning from Zone
B-1 (Neighborhood Business) to Zone B-2 (General Business) affecting property containing
.49 acres and is known under the present numbering system as 2053 Broad Street. (Tax
Map 027-3 Parcels 075 and 075-01) DISTRICT 1
2. Z-09-11 – A request for concurrence with the Augusta-Richmond County Planning
Commission to approve with the following conditions 1) that the manufactured home be
placed a minimum of 100 feet off the right-of-way of Piney Grove Road and 2) that a 100
foot undisturbed natural buffer, except for the driveway, remain between the home and
Piney Grove Road; a petition by Gloria Shelton, on behalf of Tiffany Shelton, requesting a
change of zoning from Zone R-1B (One-family Residential) to Zone A (Agriculture)
affecting property approximately 1.53 acres and is known as 1178 Piney Grove Road. (Tax
Map 338-0-030-00-0) DISTRICT 8
3. FINAL PLAT – Townhomes of Windsor, Phase One-S-786-I – A request for
concurrence with the Augusta-Richmond County Planning Commission to approve a
petition from H. Lawson Graham & Associates, on behalf of Chris Johnson, requesting
final plat approval for Townhomes of Windsor Phase 1. This residential townhome
subdivision is located off Windsor Spring Road East of Nordahl Drive and contains 18 lots.
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PUBLIC SERVICES
4. Motion to approve a New Application: A.N. 09-69: request by Evelyn E. Pilgrim for an
on premise consumption Beer license to be used in connection with Business Between
Friends DBA My Friends Place located at 353 Highland Ave. There will be Sunday Sales.
District 7. Super District 10. (Approved by Public Services Committee March 9, 2009)
5. Motion to approve New Application: A.N. 09-70: a request by Korey D. Williams for an
on premise consumption Liquor, Beer & Wine license to be used in connection with Who’s
On First Bar & Grill located at 1524 Gordon Hwy. There will be Dance. District 2. Super
District 9. (Approved by Public Services Committee March 9, 2009)
6. Motion to approve a request by Glen Brinson for a Sunday Sales license to be used in
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connection with 209 Music Lounge located at #4 8 St. There will be Sunday Sales. District
1. Super District 9. (Approved by Public Services Committee March 9, 2009)
7. Motion to approve a request by Chris T. Kuneman for a Sunday Sales license to be used
in connection with Rack & Grill located at 3801 Mike Padgett Hwy. There will be Sunday
Sales. District 8. Super District 10. (Approved by Public Services Committee March 9,
2009)
9. Motion to approve a request by Melissa Ruiz for a Special Events License for (4) days
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April 8 thru April 11, 2009 for Masters Week to be used in connection with Mi Rancho 2,
Inc. located at 3064 Washington Rd. (In the parking lot). District 7. Super District 10.
(Approved by Public Services Committee March 9, 2009)
10. Motion to approve additional funds not to exceed $50,000 to be used for the completion
of a building addition to the Jamestown Community Center. (Approved by Public Services
Committee march 9, 2009)
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
11. Motion to approve an Ordinance to amend Title Three of the Augusta, Georgia Code to
add a definition for the term “Motorized Cart: to Section 3-5-1, to repeal all ordinances in
conflict herewith, to provide an effective date and for other purposes. (Approved by
Administrative Services Committee March 9, 2009)
12. Motion to approve an Ordinance providing for the demolition of certain unsafe and
uninhabitable structures in the Olde Town Neighborhood: 422 Third Street, (District 1,
Super District 9); Harrisburg Neighborhood: 2442 Lawton Street, 1967 Ellis Street, 1809-
1811 Fenwick Street, 1711 Fenwick Street, 706 Moore Avenue, 1701-1703 Saint Luke
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Street, 1851 Wilhelm Lane, (District 1, Super District 9); AND WAIVE 2 READING.
(Approved by Administrative Services Committee March 9, 2009)
PUBLIC SAFETY
13. Motion to approve Standard Software Maintenance Agreement with New World
Systems, Inc. for the period covering January 1, 2009 – December 31, 2011. (Approved by
Public Safety Committee March 9, 200)
14. Motion to approve contract with Palatine Technology Group to provide software,
hardware, and services related to Electronic Warrant Interchange. (Approved by Public
Safety Committee March 9, 2009)
15. Motion to approve the acquisition of software and services related to the redundancy of
the Sheriff’s Office Jail and Records Hardware and Software. (Approved by Public Safety
Committee March 9, 2009)
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FINANCE
16. Motion to approve abatement of 2008 County Ad Valorem Taxes on properties
acquired by Augusta-Richmond County. (Approved by Finance Committee March 9, 2009)
17. Motion to approve the replacement of 4 pursuit type vehicles (Impalas) for the
Marshal’s Office and one vehicle (Impala) for the District Attorney’s Office for 2009 from
Capital Outlay funds. (Approved by Finance Committee March 9, 2009)
18. Motion to approve the replacement of three light pickup trucks for the Solid Waste
Department. (Approved by Finance Committee March 9, 2009)
19. Motion to approve the replacement of 4 full size pickup trucks and 1 new sports utility
vehicle for the Utilities Department-Administration & Engineering Division. (Approved by
Finance Committee March 9, 2009)
20. Motion to approve the replacement of 4 compact pickup trucks and 2 utility body
trucks for the Utilities Department-Customer Service Division. (Approved by Finance
Committee March 9, 2009)
21. Motion to approve the replacement of 6 compact pickup trucks of the Utilities
Department, Water Production and Construction and Maintenance Divisions. (Approved
by Finance Committee March 9, 2009)
22. Motion to approve Memorandum of Understanding with Clean Augusta Downtown
Initiative, Inc. with quarterly payments and a 2% administrative fee to be collected on the
amount that was advanced. (Approved by Finance Committee march 9, 2009)
23. Motion to approve request for extension of TMA Contract. (Approved by Finance
Committee march 9, 2009)
24. Motion to approve the recommendation of the Tax Assessor regarding a request from
Ms. Janet Trail for a partial refund of taxes for the years of 2006 through 2008 on property
located at 1502 Gordon Highway. (Approved by Finance Committee March 9, 2009)
25. Motion to approve Excess Worker’s Compensation Insurance with Safety National
Casualty Insurance with Statutory Limits and a $600,000 SIR (self insured retention;
otherwise, known as the deductible) for a deposit premium of $164,848. (Approved by
Finance Committee March 9, 2009)
ENGINEERING SERVICES
26. Motion to authorize Georgia Power Company to proceed with procurement process,
underground rough-in and timely installation of parking lot site lighting in the amount of
$123,033.00 which includes trenching, underground conduit, wiring, installation of
decorative poles and lights for the new Judicial Center. (Approved by Engineering Services
Committee March 9, 2009)
27. Motion to authorize Potts Construction Company to award Bid Package 4, in the
amount of $16,181,872.00, which includes Structural Steel, Courtroom Mock-ups,
Drywall/Framing/ACT, Window Wash Tie-Backs, Elevators, HVAC, Plumbing, Fire
Protection, and Electrical, for the new Judicial Center with a report given by Potts
Construction on a periodic basis regarding local business participation in the project.
(Approved by Engineering Services Committee March 9, 2009)
28. Motion to approve $29,626.25 to Eagle Utility for emergency repair work on Doug
Barnard Parkway. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee March 9, 2009)
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29. Motion to approve Capital Project Budget (CPB) and Supplemental Agreement
Number One for the FERC Dam Safety Performance Monitoring Program in the amount
of $624,470.00 to certify the Augusta Levee in accordance with both FEMA (Federal
Emergency Management Agency), and the Army Corp of Engineers guidelines. (Approved
by Engineering Services Committee March 9, 2009)
30. Motion to authorize condemnation to acquire a permanent drainage and access
easement and a temporary construction easement for the AUD D’Antignac Drainage
Improvements Project at the property designated as Tax Map 046-2, Parcel 120-01, 1225
Walton Way. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee March 9, 2009)
31. Motion to award Design Consultant Services Agreement to WR Toole Engineers, Inc.
for the Capital Project Budget in the amount of $500,000 on the East Augusta Street and
Drainage Improvements Project to be funded from SPLOST Phase III Urban Recapture
Funds for the Engineering Department. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee
March 9, 2009)
32. Motion to approve and accept a Deed of Easement from Norfolk Southern, NS Activity
#1108126. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee March 9, 2009)
33. Motion to approve and accept a Deed of Easement from Norfolk Southern, NS Activity
#1108127. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee March 9, 2009)
34. Motion to approve an Easement Deed from Southern Region Industrial Realty, Inc.
(Approved by Engineering Services Committee March 9, 2009)
35. Motion to approve Capital Project Budget Change Number One and Award Design
Consultant Services Agreement to W.K. Dickson and Co., Inc. in the amount of $328,735.00
for the Wilkinson Garden Area Roadway Drainage Improvements Project (CPB# 323-
041110-204823525). Funds of $291,180.00 are to be used from the Project Engineering
Account, and $37,555.00 from Phase III Recapture to fully fund the Design Phase for the
Engineering Department. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee March 9, 2009)
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS
36. Motion to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of the Commission held on
March 3, 2009)
APPOINTMENT(S)
37. Motion to approve the appointment of Mr. Randy Sasser to the Augusta Aviation
Commission due to the resignation of Mr. Jim Jatho and Mr. Roy Rearden to the
unexpired term of Mr. Sasser on General Aviation Commission representing District 7.
ADMINISTRATOR
45. Motion to approve a Resolution for Tax Anticipation Note to be paid through the Local
Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) Phase VI.
Mr. Mayor: We have a motion and a second. We will now have a roll call vote on the
consent agenda.
The Clerk: Ms. Beard.
Ms. Beard: Yes.
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The Clerk: Mr. Bowles.
Mr. Bowles: Still thinking.
The Clerk: Okay.
Mr. Bowles: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Brigham.
Mr. Brigham: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Grantham.
Mr. Grantham: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Hatney.
Mr. Hatney: Yes and abstaining on all alcohol.
The Clerk: Yes sir. Mr. Holland.
Mr. Holland: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Jackson.
Mr. Jackson: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Johnson.
Mr. Johnson: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Mason.
Mr. Mason: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Smith.
Mr. Smith: Yes.
Mr. Hatney abstains.
Motion carries 9-1. [Items 4-9]
Motion carries 10-0. [Items 1-37, 45]
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Mr. Mayor: Okay, Madam Clerk, on to the regular agenda.
The Clerk:
PLANNING
38. Z-09-08 – A request for concurrence with the Augusta-Richmond County Planning
Commission to approve with the condition that all items in the agreement signed by the
petitioner (Arthur Poe) and George Patty are adhered to; a petition by Arthur Poe
requesting a change of zoning from Zone R-1 (One-family Residential) to Zone R-MH
(Manufactured Home Residential) affecting property containing 2.8 acres and is part of
property known in the present numbering system as 3935 Old Waynesboro Road (Part of
Tax Map 183-0-004-05-0) DISTRICT 8
Mr. Mayor: Mr. Patty.
Mr. Patty: Yes, sir, we had one objector. The objection was based on principle not the
specific situation. We rezoned 17,000 acres back in 1999 and 2005 in South Richmond County
that provided there wouldn’t be any manufactured homes, only conventional site built housing.
Within one of those areas the Poe family owns 50 acres and they had a house that burned and
they were living in tents on that property. They had a tremendous hardship in that they’re
handicapped and also financially unable to build a house on it. And even though our policy has
been not to rezone any properties in that area for mobile homes we felt that this one was
absolutely necessary to do that. And they’re here and they can present their case. But we
recommend that you approve.
Mr. Mayor: Commissioner Smith.
Mr. Smith:
Thank you, Mr. Mayor. This is certainly an emergency case. George and I
went out and looked it over and there’s two children living in those tents out there and it was
freezing weather and raining. And we did ask the neighborhood mainly Goshen about their
I would move that
feelings about it and they came back and told us they would not protest it so
we approve this.
Mr. Bowles: Second.
Mr. Mayor: We have a motion and a second. If there’s no further discussion
Commissioner’s will now vote by the usual sign.
The Clerk: Ms. Beard.
Ms. Beard: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Bowles.
Mr. Bowles: Yes.
13
The Clerk: Mr. Brigham.
Mr. Brigham: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Grantham.
Mr. Grantham: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Hatney.
Mr. Hatney: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Holland.
Mr. Holland: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Jackson.
Mr. Jackson: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Johnson.
Mr. Johnson: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Mason.
Mr. Mason: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Smith.
Mr. Smith: Yes.
Motion carries 10-0.
Mr. Mayor: Next agenda item, Madam Clerk.
The Clerk:
PLANNING
39. Z-09-09 – A request for concurrence with the Augusta-Richmond County Planning
Commission to deny a petition by Walton Rehabilitation Health, on behalf of Brent
Richard, requesting a change of zoning from Zone R-1A (One-family Residential) to Zone
R-3A (Multiple-family Residential) affecting property containing 1.91 acres, more or less,
and consists of eight tax parcels. (Tax Parcel 097-4-179-00-0, 097-4-178-00-0, 097-4-198-00-
0, 097-4-180-00-0, 097-4-181-00-0, 097-4-183-00-0 and 097-4-184-00-0) DISTRICT 6
14
Mr. Mayor: Mr. Patty.
Mr. Patty: This is an approximately 2-acre parcel at the intersection of Ruby Drive and
Richmond Hill and Richard Road. Walton Rehab wants to build a complex in there typical of
the ones they’ve built in other parts of the city. They want to build 14-units. We had several
objectors to it from the neighborhood. The objection was based on the density of the
development of this particular unit. This particular development would be 7.3 units per acre
where surrounding areas it’s more like 3-units per acre. The Alleluia Community across the
road, which is some multi-family structures, their density is 5 per unit or lower. Traffic in that
area the nearest count we have is on Richmond Hill Road near the Fire Station. It’s 8500
vehicles a day. It’s well over a 10000 south of Lumpkin Road so there’s substantial traffic in
here. It backs up past this property. And everything considered Planning Commission felt that it
should be denied. We recommend you deny it.
Mr. Smith: Move for denial.
Mr. Grantham: Second.
Mr. Mayor: We have a motion and a second. Is there any further discussion?
Mr. Mason: Is there anyone here from Walton Rehab?
Mr. Mayor: Do we have anybody here from Walton Rehab?
Mr. Richards: Well, I’m the owner of the property Brent Richards, Beth with Walton
Rehab. Anyway we actually went out and surveyed all their property that was built and tried to
kind of investigate it to make sure that their property would fit in our area. Since I have interests
in other property in that general area so we went and looked at all the property like it would
probably fit it and since it’s R-1 there will be development in that area. And if it doesn’t succeed
here today my intentions are to move on and sell it to someone who will develop it to an R-1
kind of development. So Walton Rehab the property that they have particularly in North
Augusta I think is a model for this piece of property and it’s designed by an architect and
visually maintained through commercial landscaping. So we felt like it would really be an asset
to the community not a negative. Any questions?
Mr. Mayor: Do we have any questions? Yes, ma’am. And if you could, we need your
name and address for the record, please, sir.
Mr. Richards: Brent Richards, 2712 Fleming Drive Augusta.
Mr. Mayor: And same thing with you, please, ma’am.
Ms. Speaker: Beth Miller, Walton Rehabilitation Hospital, 1355 Independence Drive.
Basically there’s a huge need for the affordable apartments that are accessible. We have over
150 individuals currently on our waiting list and currently right now when we have an opening
where the individuals that are being served put their name on the list in 2003. So there is a huge
15
need for this type of housing in the area. Walton has an excellent reputation and its won national
awards for the housing that we have. And we believe that the housing project that we have for
this neighborhood would actually enhance this neighborhood and spruce it up compared to what
it is now. There were some concerns by the neighbors about the large number of people that
may live there in those fourteen units. Looking at the average number of individuals per
apartment in our current properties we only have 1.13 in all of the apartments total. If we look at
just the apartments for people with physical disabilities we have 1.25 per apartment. It’s not a
situation where there’s going to be tons of people living in one apartment. They are very well
maintained. Also the concern regarding traffic there is a definite need for housing for people
with physical disabilities. Augusta there’s not really any part of Augusta that is wheelchair
accessible as far as sidewalks and areas. So if that were to be one of the items that we looked at
it would be very difficult to ever find property that we located housing on.
Mr. Mayor: Okay, thank you, ma’am. Does anybody have any questions?
Commissioner Hatney.
Mr. Hatney: Am I to understand you to say that you are not interested in this at this time
because of all of the mixed stuff that is going on? What am I hearing you say?
Ms. Miller: Walton Rehab would like, I guess the Planning Commission has, is
recommending that you deny it and Walton Rehab would like you to approve it. Does that
answer the question? I don’t understand.
Mr. Hatney: Well ---
Ms. Miller: Okay.
Mr. Hatney: --- Mr. Patty, please. The reason you’re saying your asking to deny it is
what now?
Mr. Patty: What they want to do is a much higher density of development than the
surrounding areas. Basically it’s a single-family residential area. Traffic on Richmond Hill
Road which is this fronts is heavy and peak hour traffic backs up from Lumpkin Road past this
property. I don’t know that it does everyday but it does frequently. And she raised a point that I
forgot to raise. I’m glad she reminded me that the area is not wheelchair accessible, there’s no
sidewalks. That seems to me it would be a primary requirement for a handicap accessible
housing project.
Mr. Hatney: I think the guy mentioned it was already rated R-1 and it’s going to remain
that so there will be development there.
Mr. Patty: He said he wanted to develop the property. It’s zoned R-1, which means he
can develop it for single-family homes on 15,000 square foot lots. So that’s a right he has so I
hope he does it.
Mr. Hatney: So you want us to reject it.
16
Mr. Patty: Yes, we want you to deny it.
Mr. Mayor: Okay. Commissioner Holland.
Mr. Holland: Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Mr. Patty, in that particular area is there any other
property where that, where that facility could be built?
Mr. Patty: Yes, there are underdeveloped tracts in there. There are numerous other
places in that area where it could be built. Now whether you know they access more accessible
and the traffic situation would be better you know that would be on a case-by-case basis.
Mr. Mayor: Okay, we have a motion to concur with the Planning Commission and deny
and a second. If there’s no further discussion Commissioners will now vote by roll call vote.
The Clerk: Ms. Beard.
Ms. Beard: Deny.
The Clerk: You’re voting yes to deny? Okay. Mr. Bowles.
Mr. Bowles: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Brigham.
Mr. Brigham: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Grantham.
Mr. Grantham: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Hatney.
Mr. Hatney: Oh no.
The Clerk: You’re abstaining?
Mr. Hatney: Oh no.
The Clerk: Mr. Holland.
Mr. Holland: Yes.
The Clerk: I’ll come back. Mr. Jackson.
Mr. Jackson: Yes.
17
The Clerk: Mr. Johnson.
Mr. Johnson: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Mason.
Mr. Mason: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Smith.
Mr. Smith: Yes.
The Clerk: Mr. Hatney.
Mr. Hatney: Yes.
Motion carries 10-0.
The Clerk:
PUBLIC SERVICES
40. Motion to approve a request by Shawn Laws for a Sunday Sales license to be used in
connection with The Original Tavern located at 3664 Wheeler Rd. There will be Sunday
Sales. District 3. Super District 10. (No recommendation from Public Services Committee
March 9, 2009)
Mr. Mayor: Mr. Sherman.
Mr. Sherman: Mr. Laws is here to request that you grant him a Sunday Sales license. He
is the new owner of the Wheeler Tavern up on Wheeler Road near the entrance of Doctor’s
Hospital. The former owner had Sunday Sales. It was surrendered when we did an audit and
found that he had 9% food sales. In the past three months Mr. Laws has turned in his tax returns
for his mixed drinks tax and he is at 16% food sales. So essentially what it is he is a bar, he is
wanting to be considered a restaurant so he can apply for a Sunday Sales license. He does have a
plan to try to get his food sales up so that he would meet the definition of a restaurant based on
our alcohol ordinance but at this time he does not. We’ve had two or three other cases recently
before you and they also were low as far as meeting their 50% food sales. They were granted the
Sunday Sales license with the understanding that they would be audited within six months and
they would be expected to comply with the 50% at that time. So he’s before you for that.
Mr. Mayor: Commissioner Hatney.
Mr. Hatney: If by chance when you audited and it’s not 50% then you’d have to come
back with another recommendation is that what you’re saying?
18
Mr. Sherman: We would bring it back to you.
Mr. Mayor: Commissioner Mason.
Mr. Mason: Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Mr. Sherman, you said they were at 9% and then
you, that was the previous owner.
Mr. Sherman: Right.
Mr. Mason: Okay and when did he take over this?
Mr. Sherman: It’s been about three months.
Mr. Mason: Three months, okay, and so then you said that there was 16% from the audit
from the tax from last year.
Mr. Sherman: Well, the returns that he submits which is done monthly for his excise tax
and he declares his food sales. And based on those numbers for the past two or three months
he’s been at 16%.
Mr. Mason: Okay and then you made a statement that I guess there’s been a couple of
occasions where this has been done or at least given an opportunity and then a six-month audit
somewhere thereafter. Were any of those cases at this level of percent?
Mr. Sherman: They were, one I think was 23% and the other maybe at 34% I believe it
was there or about the numbers.
Mr. Mason: But you didn’t give a recommendation.
Mr. Sherman: No. It doesn’t meet the requirements so we couldn’t recommend that you
approve it. And the first case was before you to appeal our decision requesting that he surrender
his license. Still we couldn’t recommend that you approve it based on the code.
Mr. Mason: Mr. Mayor, I make a motion that it be denied at this time and he gets his
business sales up and comes back before this Commission.
Mr. Johnson: I second it.
Mr. Mayor: We have a motion and a second. Commissioner Bowles, then
Commissioner Brigham.
Mr. Bowles: Rob, what kind of time frame before he can come back to this Commission?
I know in committee it was discussed 3-6 months.
Mr. Sherman: Well, if you deny the application he’d have to wait a year before he can
come back and apply for a Sunday Sales license.
19
Mr. Bowles: That’s my concern.
Mr. Mayor: Commissioner Brigham.
Mr. Brigham: Mr. Mayor, if this was a brand new business and it was opened up would
we do any kind of pre-judgement as to whether or not we would issue a Sunday Sales license?
Mr. Sherman: If it was a business coming into the city that is a chain business like a
Friday’s we would not because we know that it is a restaurant. But if it’s a bar wanting to go to a
Sunday Sales we would have questions whether or not they would be able to comply.
Mr. Brigham: I believe we approved some new applications earlier in this meeting for
Sunday Sales of brand new places of business.
Mr. Sherman: We did.
Mr. Brigham: I don’t believe they were national chains.
Mr. Sherman: No, they were not.
Mr. Brigham: Then what’s the difference?
Mr. Sherman: We know that this is a bar.
Mr. Brigham: But if the gentleman says it’s a restaurant it would be a restaurant.
Mr. Sherman: That’s up to the Commission to decide.
Mr. Brigham: I’m going to make a substitute motion to approve the license
.
Mr. Grantham: Second.
Mr. Mayor: Okay, we have a substitute motion and a second. Commissioner Johnson.
Mr. Johnson: Thank you, Mr. Mayor. I think the issue we have here we’re dealing with
a new/used business. He took over the business and when he took over it was only 9% with food
sales.
Mr. Sherman: Right.
Mr. Johnson: The situation I think Mr. Brigham is referring to they are known for
restaurant period. They’re just getting into I think the alcohol phase of it with that. They’re
primarily known for serving food. In other words this situation here I think that we could
probably look at it again if we could probably make the other exception six months down the
road. But right now we can’t make that exception based on where it comes from and it’s not a
20
new establishment it’s really just it changed ownership of it. And I can understand what it is but
we really can’t make that exception right now because there’s nothing there to validate the food
sales or would they ever be 50% at this point. So it’s kind of premature to do that and that’s why
I mentioned it even in committee that we take a look at it again later on. But right now I think
it’s a little too soon to make that call on it. Thank you, Mr. Mayor.
Mr. Mayor: Commissioner Grantham.
Mr. Grantham: Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Rob, have we ever considered giving a license
like this to an establishment based on new ownership and having acquired the business and has
improved the condition or the situation as to what we’re looking at and voting on. With that
being said you know has there ever been any time stipulation given based on a six-month trial as
to this person getting his food business up to par? And if not you could pro rata back to him
whatever it might be to do something like this. But just to deny him based on the fact that it was
a former bar is something that I think we’re not giving due process to these people.
Mr. Sherman: You could grant him the Sunday Sales license and ask us to audit the
business again in six months and look at it at that time. A precedent has been set and it’s
probably that would be a business friendly approach and we would see it in six months whether
or not he’s a restaurant or a bar.
Mr. Mayor: Would the maker of the substitute motion like to amend their motion to
reflect that?
Mr. Brigham: That was the intent of the motion and the substitute ---
Mr. Mayor: Okay.
Mr. Brigham: --- to grant him a license, give him six months and the audit is in if he’s a
restaurant he’s a restaurant. If he’s not, then bring him back.
Mr. Mayor: Audit him after six months.
Mr. Grantham: Yeah.
Mr. Johnson: Mr. Mayor.
Mr. Mayor: Commissioner Johnson.
Mr. Johnson: Okay, I think in reference to what Mr. Grantham was talking about and I
think you, Mr. Sherman. When we looked at that in the past those people that we’re talking
about they had a Sunday Sales license prior to right? Has this establishment ever had a Sunday
Sales license?
Mr. Sherman: Under this ownership?
21
Mr. Johnson: Yes.
Mr. Sherman: No.
Mr. Johnson: Okay basically we’re referring it to the past owner right and we’re doing
the same thing to those who came before who had low sales in food. We gave them a
probationary period of six months correct to bring it up to par and then we reevaluate it then.
Well see that’s the catch we’re dealing with. We’re dealing with the new owner and I don’t want
to be unreasonable with this but I just think that maybe it would have been six months and he
came and applied maybe we could’ve had a little bit more. Maybe could’ve even requested an
audit at that time and you know look at the food sales and see where they were at that time. But
three months is not enough time to make that judgment call on it. And it’s going to be tough to
try and make a decision whether or not it’s best to do that at this particular time. So that’s the
problem I have with it.
Mr. Mayor: Okay, is there any further discussion? Okay, Madam Clerk, we have a
substitute motion on the floor. If you could read that back and then they Commission will vote
on the substitute. Oh, excuse me I would actually before prior to doing that I would like to hear
from the petitioner.
Mr. Laws: Thank you, Deke. My name is Shawn Laws, 1450 Greene Street. I’m the
new owner of the Wheeler Tavern. Basically this is some conflicting information. The Wheeler
Tavern did previously have a Sunday permit and it was revoked because they didn’t meet the
requirements. I purchased the Wheeler Tavern and reopened it in November. Actually I worked
at the tavern before I purchased it and we were running minimal amounts of food. When I
purchased it I closed the kitchen down. Since I’ve been there I’ve have a new, lit sign outside,
remodeled the inside. I totally spent probably about $20,000 on getting the kitchen up to being a
good kitchen. Also I hired in the former kitchen manager of the Bone Fish, which is on
Washington Road. I have the chef from the Pinnacle Club now who is also part of my kitchen
staff. I’ve built a full menu. Also during my marketing in the measure of spirit I have directed
marketing towards my food every other week as far as what specials I’m running. I just signed a
deal with the, at Kroger’s if you look on the back of your receipts it’s a couponing opportunity.
So I just signed a deal, I think I signed a $6,000 deal with this marketing company that promotes
the food that’s inside the bar. But see when I purchased it, it was closed. The kitchen wasn’t
st
even operating. Hadn’t operated for months. So basically on December 1 is when I hired on
my staff, slowly brought in, you know, some simple food and every month I’m increasing the
quality and quantity of food that goes out of there. Actually the county excise tax is 16% that
was for the month of January. February’s hasn’t been turned in, it’s not going in until Friday but
I’m actually over 28%. So I went from 0-16-28 in matter of only operating the kitchen for three
months. Also part of the main reason I’m doing this is the economy right now. I pay rent for
seven days a week and the difference in sales six days a week and seven days a week that’s 17%
opportunity for increased revenue for the county, the excise tax, sales tax also it’s pretty much
the difference in me closing the doors within six months or keeping the business open which I
think is a valuable part of the community bar. The bar restaurant’s been there for 30 years. I
will admit the previous person I bought it from it was a clubhouse. My background also is my
bar business. I was the food and beverage director for a hotel. I was director of operations for
22
Buffalo’s Café, manager for Hooter’s, manager for Ruby Tuesday so food is actually in my
blood. The piece of property I took over previously was known as a bar and it still sells alcohol
and it still you know but my passion is food. That’s the reason why we don’t, that’s the reason
why I took over this piece of property. The main reason I came for Sunday Sales was actually
just an opportunity to you know become a complete restaurant. My big thing on Sundays is I
like to do you know barbeques and stuff outside. It’s a big family day. I can’t do that unless I
can sell alcohol on, can’t be open on Sunday. Unfortunately in Augusta I have the competition
all around me including the people who have newly been approved that, I mean I’ve got people
who have newly been approved that, The Grill I don’t know if y’all have been to the locations
that have been approved but The Grill, the bartender turns around and y’all approved that as a
50/50 restaurant. The Rack and Grill, which y’all approved today it’s a pool hall. The previous
ownership definitely there was some questionable stuff. I’m a new kid in town, food is my
passion. It’s going to take me a little bit of time to get the 50/50 but I’d like the same
opportunity that everybody else is getting.
Mr. Mayor: Okay, Madam Clerk, we have ---
The Clerk: We didn’t ask if there were any objectors. Are there any objectors, Rob?
No? Okay. The motion ---
Mr. Mayor: Substitute motion.
The Clerk: --- substitute motion was to approve with the condition to conduct an audit
after six months.
Mr. Mayor: Commissioners will now vote on the substitute motion ---
The Clerk: You can use your um ---
Mr. Mayor: By the substitute sign of voting. Thank goodness. Use your remote
controls. Feel free.
Mr. Holland: The substitute motion is to bring them back after six months.
The Clerk: Six months, yes, sir. To approve with and to conduct an audit after six
months.
Mr. Johnson: For the record, Mr. Mayor, I’m going to go out on a limb.
Mr. Mayor: Commissioner Johnson.
Mr. Johnson: I’m an advocate of a small business. I know it’s extremely tough in this
difficult time. You sound to have a very strategic plan on bringing the restaurant back and
you’re working on that. I’m gonna go out on a limb on this and lend a hand and hopefully you
will stay on the path of doing that and bringing it up to 50% to do that. And hopefully one day I
23
can stop by and partake of the meal but I’m going to definitely go out and take the opportunity to
do that for you. Hopefully you can get it up.
Mr. Mayor: Okay.
Mr. Johnson: Thank you.
Mr. Mayor: Punch your button. I’ve got to get to a parade, man!
Mr. Mason and Mr. Smith vote No.
Mr. Hatney abstains.
Motion carries 7-2-1.
The Clerk: Mr. Sherman, items 41 and 42, please.
PUBLIC SERVICES
41. New Ownership Application: A.N. 09-66: A request by Robert Finiguerra Jr. for an on
premise consumption Liquor, Beer & Wine license to be used in connection with The Vue
located at 471 Highland Ave. There will be Dance. District 7. Super District 10. (No
recommendation from Public Services Committee March 9, 2009)
Mr. Sherman: Forty-one is a new ownership application a request by Robert Finiguerra
Jr. for an on premise consumption Liquor, Beer & Wine license to be used in connection with
The Vue located at 471 Highland Avenue. There will be Dance. District 7. Super District 10. If
you could state your name and address for the record.
Mr. Finiguerra: Robert Finiguerra Jr. 531 Blue Ridge Crossing, Evans GA.
Mr. Sherman: The Sheriff’s Department and the Licensing Department have reviewed
the application and recommend it be approved.
Mr. Brigham: So moved.
Mr. Jackson: Second.
Mr. Mayor: We have a motion and a second. Is there any further discussion?
The Clerk: Any objectors, Rob, for the record.
Mr. Sherman: No objectors.
Mr. Mayor: Commissioners will now vote by the usual sign.
The Clerk: Mr. Mason?
Mr. Mason: Is there a time limit?
24
The Clerk: Sir?
Mr. Mason: Is there a time limit?
Mr. Grantham: Yeah.
The Clerk: Yes, sir.
Mr. Mayor: It’s like Jeopardy.
Mr. Hatney abstains.
Motion carries 9-1.
PUBLIC SERVICES
42. New Ownership Application: A.N. 09-67: A request by Robert H. Finiguerra Jr. for an
on premise consumption Liquor, Beer & Wine license to be used in connection with Surrey
Tavern located at 469 Highland Ave. There will be Dance. District 7. Super District 10. (No
recommendation from the Public Services Committee March 9, 2009)
Mr. Sherman: Forty-two is a New Ownership Application a request by Robert Finiguerra
Jr. for an on premise Liquor, Beer & Wine license to be used in connection with Surrey Tavern
located at 469 Highland Avenue. There will be Dance. District 7. Super District 10. Again if
you could state your name.
Mr. Finiguerra: Robert Finiguerra Jr. 531 Blue Ridge Crossing Evans, GA.
Mr. Sherman: The Sheriff’s Department and the Licensing Department have reviewed
the application and recommend that it be approved.
Mr. Brigham: So moved.
Mr. Jackson: Second.
Mr. Mayor: We have a motion and a second. Commissioner Holland.
Mr. Holland: Thank you, Mr. Mayor. I’m looking over here there’s one at 471 Highland
Avenue and one at 469 Highland Avenue. The 469, is that at Surrey Center? And 471, is at
Surrey Center? Both of them they’re next door to each other?
Mr. Finiguerra: (inaudible).
Mr. Holland: Beg pardon?
Mr. Finiguerra: (inaudible).
25
Mr. Holland: And you have both of them.
Mr. Finiguerra: Yes, sir.
Mr. Holland: Thank you. Come up there and see them bad boys.
Mr. Mayor: You might run into my father in law.
Mr. Mayor: We have a motion and a second. If there’s no further discussion
Commissioners will vote by the usual sign of voting.
Mr. Hatney abstains.
Motion carries 9-1.
The Clerk:
APPOINTMENTS
43. Motion to approve the appointment of W. Stuart Flanagin to the seat held by Eugene
Hunt on the Richmond County Board of Health. (Requested by Commissioner Jerry
Brigham)
Mr. Grantham: Motion to approve.
Mr. Johnson: Second.
Mr. Mayor: We have a motion and second. If there’s no further discussion
Commissioners will now vote by the usual sign.
Motion carries 10-0.
The Clerk:
ADMINISTRATOR
44. Motion to receive a report update from the Administrator.
Mr. Grantham: Motion to approve.
The Clerk: He needs to present it.
Mr. Brigham: Motion to receive as information.
Mr. Mayor: Mr. Administrator. Let him come up and show our crane count around the
city.
The Clerk: I’ll hold that motion, Mr. Brigham.
26
Mr. Mayor: Our official new city animals are Caterpillars and Cranes.
Mr. Holland: Y’all got that certificate, now he’s ready to move on.
Mr. Russell: Mr. Mayor, members of the Commission it gives me great honor to be here
again as part of my continued update as we try to keep you informed on the progress we’re
making here in Augusta. It’s great to have stuff to be able to talk about and be able to share with
you the things that we’re getting done because of the decisions you’ve made and the support
we’re getting from our citizens. I will share with you that I spent the last 37-minutes trying to
figure out how to do this without the computer because I didn’t think we were going to be able to
do that that way. And then I was smart enough to ask if we could it, if you couldn’t vote could
you still see the pictures and they said yes. So the 14,000 copies we were previously making we
will not need here as we try to do this the hard way. We’ll run through this fairly quickly if you
could go ahead. The library’s still moving along with construction is about 30% complete.
We’ve got lots of concrete that we’ve passed. The foundation is 100% complete, slab-on-grade
is 100%, and steel erection is right at 40%. Anticipated completion date is still on target June
2010 and with a total budget of $24 million dollars. East Central the library the next thirty days
we’re going to be looking at doing the zones second and third floor of the slabs and continue the
erection there the roof decking is going on fairly quickly. And these are some of the things
you’re actually seeing coming out of the ground. The Judicial Center construction is 70%
complete. The site’s completely cleared and mobilized. We have the erosion control, security
fencing, the building pad is complete. The deep pile foundation is at 30% complete and storm
drainage is about 40%. In the next couple days you’re still looking at December 2010
completion date with a project budget of $67 million. In the next couple days you’re going to be
coming back with a finalized total price. Auger cast piles and commercial piles are going in.
You think we’ve got cranes in Augusta now wait until you see the tower crane that they put up
there. The reach is over 200 feet from what they tell me so the cranes we got around now are
just babies compared to what you’re going to see there. The aerial photo on February 2009. The
Detention Center is about 8% complete. Land cleared and grubbed. Earth work and grade about
60%. The storm drainage issues we’re working on there is about 50% complete and the building
pad and video visitation is complete and placed. Mail pallet foundations are about 50%. We’re
still looking at an August 2010 completion date with a total project budget of $41 million dollars.
In the next 30 days we’re doing some more slab rough-ins, video, continuing masonry, complete
foundations of the male pod, commercial slab under the male pod and continue storm drainage
system installation and completion of the rough grading. Here’s some pictures of what that looks
like now. The Tee Center we’re still working on that. Pre-design is about 90% complete. The
owner/operator agreement is right at about 75% complete. We’ll be talking to them in the next
week or so. We still anticipate an August 2011 opening date with a total project budget yet to be
determined. We still plan on being back with you in the next 30-days with a plan of action to
move forward with all of that and be able to move that project forward with those things that
we’re looking at there, those things there that we’re looking at. There is the, once again we’re
proud of this. This is the use of the historical building that we were able to incorporate into the
design and keep that there and move forward with all of that. Last time we didn’t talk about any
outside projects other than the three major ones but this is what we’re doing with those dollars
too. Looking at painting the Old Government House, the (inaudible) renovations at Lake
Olmstead Park, that’s 100% complete. The boathouse we’ve put the roof on and that’s 100%
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complete. Splash pads and park renovations at Wood Park that’s 100% complete. New shelter
and top play unit at Brookfield Park that will be completed this fall, or was completed in the fall
of 2008. Fleming Tennis Center a 3 court expansion 100% complete. Apple Valley Park new
development of Phase 1 that includes the playground that you see there and that’s 100%
complete. McBean and Meadowbrook Parks new comfort stations, new play units that was
completed in February of this year and that’s 100% complete. Diamond Lakes Regional is 90%
complete we’re doing eight new tennis courts there and that’s about 90% looking at probably
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finishing that sometime within the next month. May 1 will be the grand opening for that. We’d
like to have you out and play tennis with us on those days. I don’t know how to play tennis but
somebody does. M.M. Scott Park, Belair Road drainage that we’re working in partnership with
the Augusta Engineering and Utilities, Recreation all working together to provide a comfort
station and walking track at that park it’s moving along. Soccer Park we’ve got two fields re-
lighted and working on that. That should have been completed in February. Some road projects.
The Bungalow Road improvement is coming along. The Pride Point West Subdivision drainage
improvements that we’re working at. Windsor Spring Road improvements and St. Sebastian
Way that’s going in as you can see. Belair Subdivision improvements. Lover’s Lane evacuation
route we’re moving forward with that. You can see the bulldozers pushing that out to provide
access to those plats if something should happen to the railroad crossing there. The same thing
with Eisenhower. As you know we had a park down at the end of that road that’s heavily used.
It only had one way out with the train crossing at the entry way and we’re actually working an
emergency drive for that to have another access point. Washington Road, Boy Scout, that’s the
busiest intersection in Augusta. We’re doing some improvements there to help traffic flow there.
Morgan Road improvements are finally moving well according to Commissioner Mason we’re
probably never moving fast enough but we’re moving along with that better than we have been
in the past and we’re getting there. Rae’s Creek front sewer replacement and then the utilities
not SPLOST dollars but dollars that we’re working on there. The Goodrich Street Raw Water
Station a $21 million dollar project to deliver water between the canal or the water or the river
includes two 2,500 horsepower diesel generators. The canal the water we’re working on that.
Diesel engines being installed the two engines we just spoke about that would run the pumps if
something were to happen with that. The pipe that’s going under the 84-inch water pipe that’s
going through there is being installed under the canal at the moment. Highland Avenue Water
Treatment Plant moving along fairly quickly and the Highland Avenue Water Treatment Plant
again and you see what we’re doing. The Fort Gordon Pumping Station is already in operation.
Messerly Water Plant if you go out by the airport you take a left you go there you had a big field
there a couple of months ago now you’ve got the new basins under construction and you’ve got
movement going along fairly quickly there putting those plants together. Those are the things
we’re working on they’re the show and tell issues that we’ve there as you know and we spoke to
you planning for the South Augusta plans and process and we’re moving along fairly quickly
there. Mr. Shields will be with us tomorrow and has an individual meeting scheduled with each
of you as we work together to move that forward. And that’s probably what we’re doing. We’re
looking forward to the retreat next week to iron out some issues that we’ve got a report on the
doles you gave me last year and the direction we need to be moving forward. Once again we’ve
got lots of things going on lots of different wheels turning but lots of good things going on in
Augusta. I think next time what we’re going to do is concentrate on some of the other
departments that are doing things like IT and those areas are a little bit harder to see but areas
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that are just important than what we’re doing here. If you have any questions I’d be more than
happy to try and respond but if not we’ll be happy to move forward. Thank you.
Mr. Brigham: I make a motion we receive this as information.
Mr. Mayor: We have a motion to receive it as information ---
Mr. Johnson: Second.
Mr. Mayor: --- and a second. If there’s no further discussion going once, going twice
Commissioners will now vote by the usual sign.
Mr. Bowles votes No.
Mr. Grantham out.
Motion carries 8-1.
The Clerk:
OTHER BUSINESS
46. Update on the Augusta Canal Cleanup. (Requested by Commissioner Joe Bowles)
Mr. Mayor: Commissioner Bowles.
Mr. Bowles: Thank you, Mr. Mayor. I’m just going to show some pictures real quick
because I know you have a parade to get to. Here’s the third level of the Canal which we were
promised years ago would be cleaned up and this is between Laney Walker and Walton Way
which you can see the overgrowth. I’ll show you some more. Here’s a trash can, a shopping cart
in the Canal. Behind Davison School here’s some trees, tires in the Canal, more trees. There’s
some damage right behind Davison School where the water flows back into the second level of
the canal. There’s more bricks and debris you see some trees fallen in there and more bricks and
debris. Here’s some undergrowth. Actually there is water most of the time on top of that. And
there’s a familiar scene. If you’ve ever walked down the canal from Columbia County to
Richmond County and my request is simple. I kind of forgot who’s responsible for this, it’s like
finding a needle in a haystack. Everybody says it’s somebody else. I don’t care whose
responsibility it is but we owe it to the citizens of the CSRA to clean this up and I sure hope we
get it cleaned up and you can present pretty pictures in a few weeks to the Commission again.
Thank you.
Mr. Mayor: Okay, does anybody have any questions or comments? Can I get a motion
to receive this as information?
Mr. Holland: So moved.
Mr. Johnson: Second.
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Mr. Mayor: We have a motion and a second. If there’s no further discussion
Commissioners will now vote by the usual sign.
Motion carries 10-0.
Mr. Mayor: And, Madam Attorney, I believe that ends our regular agenda. Do you need
a legal meeting?
Ms. Johnson: Yes, a very short legal meeting. We have three issues, pending and
potential litigation, one administrative proceeding and a real estate issue.
LEGAL MEETING
A. Pending and Potential Litigation.
B. Real Estate.
C. Personnel.
ADDENDUM
47. Motion to approve going into a legal meeting.
Mr. Mayor: Can I get a motion to go into Legal for that effect?
Mr. Johnson: So moved.
Mr. Mayor: We have a motion. Is there a second?
Mr. Holland: Second.
Mr. Mayor: We have a motion and a second. If there’s no further discussion
Commissioners will now vote by the usual sign.
Mr. Mason, Mr. Jackson and Mr. Grantham vote No.
Motion carries 7-3.
[LEGAL MEETING]
48. Motion to authorize execution by the Mayor of the affidavit of compliance with
Georgia’s Open Meeting Act.
Mr. Johnson: So moved.
Mr. Hatney: Second.
Mr. Bowles and Ms. Beard out.
Motion carries 8-0.
Mr. Mason: With no further business to come before this Commission we are adjourned.
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[MEETING ADJOURNED]
Lena Bonner
Clerk of Commission
CERTIFICATION:
I, Lena J. Bonner, Clerk of Commission, hereby certify that the above is a true and correct copy
of the minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Augusta Richmond County Commission held on
March 17, 2009.
________________________
Clerk of Commission
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