HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-13-1996 Meeting
I
I
I
,
ENGINEERING SERVICES
COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE ROOM - May 13, 1996
3:00 P. M.
PRESENT: Hons. Larry E. Sconyers, Mayor; Powell, Chairman;
Todd, Vice-Chairman; Handy and J. Brigham, members; Linda
Beazley, Interim Administrator for Administration; Charles
Dillard, Interim Administrator for Operations; Millard Gooding,
Suburban Public Works Director; Jack Murphy and Mike Greene of
the Public Works Department; Drew Goins, Asst. Com. of P.W. &
Director of Engineering; Tom Wiedmeier, Director of Water
Pollution Control; David Smith, Solid Waste Manager; Alma
Stephenson, Director of Consolidated Revenue; Samm Fusselle, Main
Street Director; Jim Leiper, Environmental Engineer; Homer Moore
of the Traffic Engineering Department; Max Hicks, General Supt.
of Waterworks Operations; Lena Bonner, Clerk of Commission-
Council and Nancy Morawski, Deputy Clerk of Commission-Council.
Also Present: Wayne Partridge of WJBF Television, Gale
Minor of WBBQ Radio and Hons. Mays and Bridges, Commissioners.
Communication from the Director of Water & Sewerage
Department requesting approval of 1st and final change order on
the Brown Road Water Main Project in the amount of $24,394.24.
This is due to quantity adjustments necessary to complete the
project, was read.
Mr. Handy: I so move.
Mr. Todd: I'll .second it to get it on the floor. With this
large of a change order we may need to have a little more
information in the amount of the bids.
The Clerk:
policy went into
time.
This was submitted before the new change order
effect. We'll have more information the next
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Director of Consolidated Revenue
stating in an effort to become more customer friendly, I am
recommending that a night deposit or drop box be placed here in
the building for the convenience of our customers. Similar boxes
are in place at Georgia Power Company, Georgia Natural Gas
company, Southern Bell, etc., was read.
Mr. Handy: I move for approval.
Mr. Todd: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Suburban Public Works Director
requesting approval of the deed of dedication, maintenance
agreement and road resolutions for Walton Meadows Subdivision.
The final plat was approved at the county Commission meeting on
July 11, 1995, was read.
Communication from the Suburban Public Works Director
requesting approval of the deed of dedication, maintenance
agreement and road resolutions for Woodlands of Goshen, Phase II
subdivision. The final plat was approved at the County
Commission meeting on November 21, 1995, was read.
I
Communication from the Suburban Public Works Director
requesting approval of the deed of dedication, maintenance
agreement and road resolutions for Pepperidge Pointe, Section One
subdivision. The final plat was approved at the County
Commission meeting on March 19, 1996, was read.
Mr. Handy: I move for approval.
Mr. Todd: I'll second to get it on the floor. We were
concerned about the storm water in pepperidge. I'd like to hear
what would be done about that.
Mr. Murphy: I'll be glad to check that. That may be in the
older section in pepperidge.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Suburban Public Works Director I
recommending that the Augusta-Richmond County Commission-Council
approve not accepting any more commercial development detention/
retention facilities into our system for maintenance. At
present, Public Works has maintenance responsibility for ninety
such facilities throughout the area. This maintenance includes
de-silting, repairing outlet structures, replacing fences, etc.
as well as continual mowing. Our personnel cannot keep up with
this work task. If approved, all future commercial developments
would be required to retain ownership and perform their own
maintenance activities. Subdivisions and other residential
developments would not be affected by this action. Approval is
recommended, was read.
Mr. Handy: I move for approval.
Mr. Powell: I'll second the motion.
Mr. Brigham: Is there any policy on the books now to make
someone clean and maintain these facilities?
Mr. Murphy: No, but there should be.
Mr. Todd: Will the maker of the motion accept an amendment
that we request the County Attorney look into drafting an I
Ordinance on maintaining of these?
Mr. Handy: I'll accept that.
I
I
I
yard waste and inert waste would have to be separated from
landfill operations and that's October 1. I'd like to amend
my motion for that date to kick in.
Mr. Smith: We will also have an improved courtesy area.
Mr. Handy: I'd like to make a substitute motion to table
this until we get some more information.
Mr. Chairman: I'll second that motion.
Motion ties with Mr. Brigham and Mr. Todd voting "No".
After further discussion, Mr. Todd: I'll withdraw my motion
and make a motion that we direct the County Attorney to draw
up an Ordinance concerning this and bring it back for the proper
readings.
Mr. Brigham: I'll second that.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Asst. Com. of P.W. & Director of
Engineering stating the Engineering Department reported in
January of the rupture on the 42" raw water line on Forest Park
Road. At that time we authorized the consulting engineering
firm of Zimmerman, Evans & Leopold to investigate the break
and prepare a report, which would include options as to the
future use of the line. A number of options were reviewed
including repairing the existing line, replacement of existing
main with a 42", 48" or 60" along the same route, or replace
the existing main with a main along an alternate route. After
several meetings with the Engineering Department, the Consulting
Engineers and the Augusta-Richmond utilities Department, the
consensus of those involved was a phased repair/replacement
program over a four year period as the best alternative. The
project would begin in 1996 with an interior inspection of the
main. This would require a number of access ports on the
existing line at various locations. Repairs of any damaged
pipe identified in the inspection would also occur in 1996.
We also propose a strategic cross connection with the 36" raw
water line for greater operational flexibility during the phased
program. The total cost of the first phase is estimated to
be approximately $475,000. Running simultaneously with the
inspection and repair work would be engineering design work
for the construction in 1996. The estimated construction cost
in 1996-97 is estimated at approximately $2,000,000.00 with
construction phases scheduled for 1997-98 and 1998-99 at
$1,300,000 and $1,450,000 respectively. An executive summary
is attached for your reference and a full engineering report
is also available for your review. We would recommend and
request that we be authorized, at a minimum, to proceed with
the interior inspection, access ports, repair of qamaged pipe
and the cross-conneqtion at a cost estimated at $475,000. This
work will complete the repair phase of the program. The
replacement phase of the program can be reassessed after the
inspection and repair phase and brought back for consideration.
Please be advised that this project is not budgeted in the
Capital Outlay Budget and funds would come from Waterworks
reserves, was read.
I
After a lengthy discussion, Mr. Todd: I move that we accept
this as information until we have time to review the report
and come back with a recommendation.
Mr. Chairman: I'll second your motion.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Supt. of Water Pollution Control
stating construction was recently begun on the Wetlands Advanced
Wastewater Treatment Project. We have received a proposal from
ZEL Engineers to provide contract administration services for
the project; the cost for these services is $180,000 and is
eligible for inclusion in the SRF Loan. We request acceptance
of this proposal pending the County Attorney's review of the
contract, was read.
Mr. Todd: I move that we approve it with the funding source
to come from Phase III of the one-cent sales tax.
Mr. Chairman: I'll second your motion.
I
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Supt. of Water Pollution Control
stating we have had three instances in the last several months
where Industrial sewer customers have asked that their Industrial
surcharge bills be re-examined. Following is the pertinent
information regarding each request.
Augusta Coca-Cola: Coca-Cola's effluent flowmeter
malfunctioned and registered erroneously high flow readings.
Coca~Cola has asked that their surcharge be based on water usage
less the amount of water that went into the product during the
period in question. We have reviewed this request and recommend
that Coca-Cola be credited $3,787.93.
Castleberry Foods: Castleberry's surcharge is also based
on flows measured by an effluent flowmeter and this meter
registered erroneously high readings. Castleberry's requests
that their surcharge be based on water consumption, which we
concur with. We recommend a credit of $21,655.59.
University Hospital: Industrial surcharges are set
semiannually for each industry based on sampling data acquired
during the preceding 6 months. Several very high suspended
solids readings during the last half of 1995 resulted in a high I
surcharge rate for University Hospital. They requested
resampling, and the high readings were clearly not characteristic
of the waste being discharged. University Hospital had paid
I
I
I
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Suburban Public Works Director
submitting a Capital Project Budget and an engineering proposal
from W. R. Toole Engineers, Inc. in the amount of $24,725. This
amount is set aside in Special One Percent Sales Tax, Phase III
in fiscal year 1996. The scope of this project is to clean and
regrade the main ditch west of Castlewood Drive, reconstruct the
concrete gravity wall, remove and replace culverts under
Castlewood Drive, install additional catch basins, and generally,
correct and/or improve storm drainage in the area of Forest Park
Subdivision. Also included in this proposal is site
investigation for a possible detention facility above the
Castlewood Drive area. If the facility is feasible, it will be
included in the overall project. This would combine the funds
set aside for the Castlewood Drive Detention Facility project
into this project. Approval of the Capital Project Budget and
engineering proposal are recommended, was read.
Mr. Todd: I so move.
Mr. Brigham: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Suburban Public Works Director
submitting a Capital Project Budget and an engineering proposal
from Brian G. Besson and Associates, P.C. in the amount of
$28,000 for McCombs Road, Section I. This amount is set aside
for this project in Special One Percent Sales Tax, Phase III for
fiscal year 1996. The scope of this project includes complete
reconstruction and upgrading of McCombs Road from Broome's Road
to S.R. 56, a distance of 1.35 miles. This will provide improved
drainage and plant mix paving for this facility. The existing
road now acts as a paved ditch with surface water inundating the
roadway and is dangerous. Since this is a good candidate for a
state-aid contract, 80 feet of right of way is proposed for this
project. Approval of the Capital Project Budget and engineering
proposal are recommended, was read.
Mr. Handy: I move for approval.
Mr. Todd: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Suburban Public Works Director
submitting a Capital Project Budget and an engineering proposal
from Southern Partners, Inc. in the amount of $86,000 for Cook
Road and Glendale Subdivision Improvements. This amount is set
aside in Special One Percent Sales Tax, Phase III for fiscal year
1996. Due to the proximity of Cook Road to Glendale Subdivision,
these two projects are being combined into one. The scope of
this project is to correct and improve the storm drainage system
and add curb, gutter and sidewalks where needed. Approval of the I
Capital Project Budget and engineering proposal are recommended,
was read.
Mr. Handy: I move for approval.
Mr. Brigham: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Suburban Public Works Director
stating by sight inspection, the condition of the guard rail in
some areas along Gordon Highway needs repairing and/or replacing.
It is our intent to begin communication with the Georgia
Department of Transportation to bring about an effort to improve
the structural integrity and appearance of guard rail along this
state route. It is recommended that the Commission-Council
approve this action, was read.
Mr. Handy: I move for approval.
Mr. Todd: I'll second to get it on the floor for
discussion.
Mr. Brigham: Would this be from a safety perspective?
I
Mr. Murphy: Yes, it is a safety hazard in those places
where it has been struck.
Mr. Todd: I think we should ask them to replace it with
concrete barriers if they would do it.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Suburban Public Works Director
submitting a Capital Project Budget and engineering proposal from
Brian G. Besson and Associates, P.C. in the amount of $23,800 for
Hillwood Circle/Whitehead Drive Drainage Improvements project.
This amount is set aside in Special One Percent Sales Tax, Phase
III in fiscal year 1996. The scope of these combined projects is
to install a storm drain system along the rear properties of
Hillwood Circle and to improve the drainage system along
Whitehead Drive. Both site improvements will prevent flooding
and stop severe channel erosion. Approval of the Capital Project
Budget and engineering proposal are recommended, was read.
Mr. Handy: I so move.
Mr. Brigham: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
I
Communication from Suburban Public Works Director submitting
Change Order Number One for the East Augusta Drainage
I
I
I
Improvements project in the amount $162,309.50. This change
order reflects a) costs to repair a severely eroded drainage
ditch and install pipe and drainage boxes. This is not only a
severe erosion problem but is also a potential hazard to
pedestrians in this area which is adjacent to Lumpkin Road b)
costs to pipe an open ditch between Aiken Street and Espinosa
Street and c) cost to pipe an open ditch between Kentucky and
Aiken Street. The piping of these ditches will eliminate the
dumping of debris and soil erosion plus maintaining the ditches
will be eliminated. Funds for this change should come from
Project contingencies. Current project contingencies show a
balance of $552,656. Approval is recommended, was read.
Mr. Todd: It seems we could do Lumpkin Road as an emergency
bid rather than take it from the contingency for East Augusta.
Mr. Chairman: Is this a dangerous situation?
Mr. Murphy: Yes, it is.
Mr. Todd: I move that we do the change order in East
Augusta and that we go out for emergency bids for Lumpkin Road.
Motion dies for lack of a second.
Mr. Gooding: Could I recommend that you table this and give
us time to find the money and bring it back at a later date with
pictures and whatever is necessary?
Mr. Chairman: I'm concerned that if it is a dangerous
situation that there is a liability if we are aware of it.
Mr. Brigham: I make a motion that we accept the proposal.
Mr. Chairman: I second the motion.
Motion ties with Mr. Handy and Mr. Todd voting "No".
Mr. Chairman: The vote is gridlocked and will be sent on to
the full Commission.
Communication from the Suburban Public Works Director
stating bids were opened on the Glenn Hills Bridge Safety Fence
project April 30, 1996 at 11 a.m. with only one contractor
turning in a quote. Allsteel Products bid $52,461 which is less
than 5% over our estimate. Award of the bid to Allsteel Products
is recommended, was read.
Mr. Todd: I so move that we approve it.
Mr. Handy: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
communication from the Suburban Public Works Director
stating attached are four traffic signal applications from the
Georgia Department of Transportation to be executed regarding the
Bel Air Road (Jimmy Dyess Parkway) project. The locations of
these signals are
1) S.R. 10 @ Gate 2 Fort Gordon
2) S.R. 383 @ Wrightsboro Road
3) S.R. 383 @ Powell Road and
4) S.R. 383 @ Old Bel Air Road
The only costs associated with these signals to Augusta-Richmond
County are for two phone drops at $200 each and future monthly
energy costs at $29 each for all four signals. The funds for the
phone drops will be paid from within the project contingency
which has a current balance of $45,000. Monthly energy costs
once the signals are operational will be funded from the Traffic
Engineering budget. Execution of the signal applications and
approval of funding are recommended, was read.
Mr. Todd: I so move.
Mr. Handy: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
I
communication from the Suburban Public Works Department
recommending execution of the contract documents and proper bonds I
for the Traffic Signals, Phase II Project, Pleasant Home Road @
Crane Ferry and Laney Walker Boulevard @ East Boundary with BIE
Electrical Contractors, Inc. in the amount of $48,800, was read.
Mr. Handy: I move for approval.
Mr. Todd: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Suburban Public Works Department
stating the Old Waynesboro Road Drainage Improvements project was
scheduled for special One Percent Sales Tax, Phase III with
engineering to begin this fiscal year. Total funds allocated in
Phase III are $118,000 with engineering being $6,000 of that
amount. Upon further investigation of the project to determine
parameters for engineering, it was discovered that County Forces
crews had correct the problems. Therefore, this project is no
longer viable. It is our recommendation that this project be
withdrawn from the Phase III list and the funds recaptured for
use on a future Suburban Public Works project, was read.
Mr. Todd: I so move.
Mr. Handy: Second.
Motion adopted.
I
I
I
I
Communication from the Suburban Public Works Director
stating that section of Doug Barnard Parkway from Tobacco Road
south to State Route 56 traverses several large industries
comprised of Huron Tech, Olin Chemical , P-Q, Augusta Newsprint
and Federal Paper. At least three of these industries are served
by railroad spur tracks which cross Doug Barnard Parkway and for
some reason, severe traffic accidents have begun to occur at
these tracks. As a first measure to help reduce these accidents,
it is recommended that the existing speed limit of 55 mph be
reduced to 45 mph. This will affect that section from Tobacco
Road to State Route 56 only. Once this is approved, the Traffic
Engineering section will coordinate this reduction with the
Georgia Department of Transportation to keep this area on the
radar detector list. Regulatory signs will be changed out as
soon as this is finalized. Other measures, such as flashing
lights, gates and bells are also being considered. A report will
be made at a later date. Approval to reduce the speed limit is
recommended, was read.
Mr. Todd: I so move and give Public Works and the County
Attorney the direction to negotiate with the other parties for
the flashing lights, etc.
Mr. Handy: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Interim Attorney submitting a letter
from Randy Hall concerning the Jones Street Courtyard, about
which I have previously spoken to you. I would like to place
this on the Engineering Services agenda, was read.
Mr. Wall: City Council voted to close Jones Street and
there was some understanding that the title to Jones Street would
be conveyed to, at that time, Bankers First. Now that Bankers
First has been merged with SouthTrust, the attorney that is
handling that has asked that we formally abandon Jones Street.
The minutes show that Jones Street was closed but apparently
nothing was done subsequent to that. There is a water line
through there and we would want to reserve an easement to that.
Mr. Handy: I move for approval.
Mr. Todd: I'll second to get it on the floor for
discussion.
Mr. Wall: It has effectively been abandoned but it needs to
go through a formal abandonment process.
Mr. Chairman: Would you accept an amendment to your motion
that we also take into consideration our water line there and put
the necessary safeguards in to insure we can work on that line if
we have a problem?
Mr. Handy: Sure.
Mr. Todd: I'll accept that also.
I
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Interim Attorney submitting a
proposed Deed of Dedication for Tindon Street and Hire Street
which have been in existence and used as private streets for a
number of years. Jack Murphy has looked at these streets and
concurs, was read.
Mr. Wall: This is on the old City and County lines. The
City accepted those portions of the streets that were within the
City into the City system, the County never did. We recommend
that we accept the deed of dedication for those streets.
Mr. Todd: I so move.
Mr. Handy: I'll second it.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Solid Waste Manager requesting
approval of the proposed rate structure for Solid Waste User Fees
at the Deans Bridge Road Landfill. It is as follows: I
1. Industrial, Commercial, Residential Solid Waste $30.00 Ton
2. Inert Waste (yard & forest commercial truck) $15.00 Ton
3. Mixed Waste (inert, putrescible, Industrial) $30.00 Ton
4. Demolition Waste $30.00 Ton
5. Residential auto or truck (five (5) bag limit) $ 2.00 Ea.
6. Residential truck or small trailer (under 6000GVW) $ 7.50 Ea.
This proposal is made as a result of considerations of
operational, environmental, and debt reduction costs associated
with the solid waste disposal program to ensure an equitable cost
to all users of the facility, was read.
Mr. Smith: This would bring us into compliance with State
law and eliminate misuse by commercial haulers.
Mr. Todd: I move we approve it.
Mr. Handy: Second, but I have a question. Have we informed
the freebies that they will now have to pay?
Mr. Smith: This would be done over a period of time. We
would set a grace period to get into this and would have to
advertise this structure in the paper so it would be fair and
equitable to all people who would be concerned about it.
Mr. Todd: I would like to see the Attorney draw up an I
Ordinance on this that would also allow us to fine anybody who
comes to the Landfill without having the waste covered. That's
also a problem. This could be put into effect the date that all
I
I
I
three surcharge bills based on the high surcharge rate, and
have requested these bills be recalculated and the amount
overpaid be refunded. We have reviewed this request and feel
this is warranted. The amount to be refunded is $52,158.92,
was read.
After a discussion, Mr. Todd: I move we accept it as
information and get some additional information on it.
Mr. Handy: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Environmental Engineer stating as
a follow-up to my memo of April 29, 1996 regarding the
contamination resulting from testing soil beneath the underground
storage tanks at white Road, bids have been received to provide
the necessary contracting services for excavating the clean
fill, removing additional soil from beneath the location of
the former tanks and demolishing the canopy over the former
location of the pumps. Four bidders were contacted to provide
prices for performing this work. These contractors included
Beam Paving, Blair Construction, Mabus Construction and Mundy
Construction. Only two bids were received for this work, which
are attached. As may be seen from the attached bids, Mundy
Construction has provided the low bid to perform this work.
Therefore, I recommend that the bid from Mundy Construction
be accepted for excavation and demolition services at the White
Road Service/Fueling Location, was read.
Communication from the Environmental Engineer stating during
excavation and removal of the underground petroleum storage
tanks at White Road, a sample was obtained from the bottom of
the excavation after each tank was removed from the ground.
These samples were then analyzed for constituents commonly found
in petroleum. The laboratory analyses indicated that petroleum
escaped from the tanks and entered the soil surrounding the
tanks. Subsequent correspondence with the Georgia Department
of Natural Resources Environmental Protection Division resulted
in a deadline for submitting necessary follow up information
to EPD by June 14, 1996. This follow up information is partially
comprised of laboratory analyses of soil samples obtained a
varying levels beneath the bottom of the excavation which was
created during tank removal. At the White Road location, the
excavations were backfilled since the contractor did not suspect
that contamination was present in the samples he obtained.
This means that we must go back and excavate the clean fill
and stockpile this material before we can further examine the
soil which was in place when the tank was in the ground. In
order to have this work performed under the supervision of
qualified personnel, I have obtained a proposal from Conestoga-
Rovers Associates, who was the low bidder for the work at Shop
II. This work hasn't been competitively bid since the scope
of work to be performed in completing the project in conformance
with EPD regulations cannot be nailed down at this time. Also,
a number of scenarios could develop which could make the ultimate
cost of this project range from no additional cost over this
phase to a few hundred thousand dollars for remediation. This
phase of the work will end with the preparation of either a
Corrective Action Plan-Part A or a Closure Report. The steps
leading to the preparation of either of these documents are
described in the attached proposal from Conestoga-Rovers. In
the event soil contamination is detected below the depth
attainable with a trackhoe and hand augers, geologic drilling
may be necessary to property evaluate the extent of
contamination. In the event this additional work is required,
the amount of work required is more definable and may be bid
out competitively. I am also obtaining a proposal from Mr.
Tony Mundy, who served as the contractor for tank removal.
Mr. Mundy will provide the necessary excavation and safety
equipment for the project. In addition to providing excavation
services, Mr. Mundy is providing a price for demolishing the
canopy over the former gas pumps. This is necessary to sample
soil beneath the former gas lines leading from the tanks to
the pumps, which is addressed in the EPD regulatory guidance.
Mr. Mundy's services are necessary since he was the contractor
who excavated the original fuel tanks. The existing conditions
at the site do not permit anyone to delineate the former
locations of the tanks. Therefore, Mr. Mundy must be present
or a great deal of time could be spent searching for the limits
of the former excavations. In summary, additional work is
required as a result of removing the underground storage tank
at White Road. In order to perform this work within the time
frame EPD is requesting, it is necessary to start as soon as
possible. I have spoken with Conestoga-Rovers and Tony Mundy,
who are both ready to commence work next week. The work required
to be performed by Conestoga-Rovers is subject to conditions
to be determined during the performance of the work. As a
result, the price of their services would vary greatly as is
discussed in their proposal. Therefore, I am requesting that
Conestoga-Rovers proposal be accepted with a cost not to exceed
$9,865, was read.
Mr. Todd: I move that we approve both of these.
Mr. Brigham: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
I
I
Communication from the Environmental Engineer stating in
cooperation with the Southeastern Technology Center, Augusta
Richmond County has continued to attempt to locate a site which
is suitable for demonstration of the Phoster technique for
remediating site which are contaminated with petroleum
constituents. After speaking with Tom Wiedmeier about the UST
locations with which he was previously involved, he presented I
the raw water pumping station and the central shop. After
visiting these sites with Dr. Regina Porter of STC and reviewing
I
I
I
the available information, it has been decided by STC that the
central shop present a more suitable candidate for demonstrating
this technology. In order to :proceed 'with the demonstration
project, it will be necessary to perform some additional
subsurface exploration to develop current data on any
contamination present in the confines of the central shop.
The most recent data available for this site is dated in 1993
which leaves a great deal of time for changes to occur. The
information which was developed in 1993 was prepared for the
purpose of compliance with Georgia Department of Natural
Resources Environmental Protection Division regulations by Terra
Nova. This report which was submitted in 1993 has not been
reviewed by the EPD until recently. We have recently received
a letter from the EPD requesting that additional information
be obtained pertaining to this site in compliance with the
regulations which have been adopted by the EPD since the time
the report was prepared. The information requested by EPD is
essentially that which is needed by STC for design of the
bioremediation system. However, STC is in need of a "fast track"
project to conform with the deadlines imposed on their funding
by the U. S. Department of Energy. STC has requested that
Augusta-Richmond County provide financial assistance in
performing the baseline study to develop the information required
for preparing the design of the Phoster system. A project cost
estimate has been submitted by Freeman & Vaughn Engineering,
Inc. to perform this assessment in the amount of $12,500. I
have reviewed the costs associated with the site assessment
and they do not appear to be excessive. Considering the
potential cost-benefit of the project with STC funding of the
Phoster system, if required, I recommend that the project cost
estimate by Freeman & Vaughn be accepted and Augusta-Richmond
County agree to pay for the site assessment to a maximum cost
of $12,500, was read.
Mr. Todd: I so move.
Mr. Handy: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting condemnation
of Project Parcel 8 of the Raes Creek Channel Improvement, Phase
II Project which property is owned by Jean Margot Schedel, was
read.
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting condemnation
of Project Parcels 20 and 45 of the Raes Creek Channel
Improvement, Phase II Project which property is owned by John
Fleming, was read.
Mr. Todd:
I so move.
Mr. Brigham: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval I
of option to purchase Project Parcel 22 of the Raes Creek
Channel Improvement, Phase II Project which property is owned
by Brynwood Swim Club, Inc. The option amount and the appraised
value are both $700.00, was read.
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval
of the option to purchase easement from Lydia C. Bliven and
Thomas J. C. Smyth, Jr. known as Project Parcel 6-A of the Raes
Creek Channel Improvement Project. The option amount and the
appraised value are both $500.00, was read.
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval
of the option to purchase easement from Anthony A. Prestifilippo
known as Project Parcel 15 of the Raes Creek Channel Improvement
Project. The option amount and the appraised value are both
$780.00, was read.
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval
of option to purchase right-of-way of the Barton Chapel Road
Intersection and Drainage Improvement Project on Parcel 3, Area
A, which property is owned by Northeast Georgia Presbytery,
Inc. and Augusta Korean Presbyterian Church of Northeast Georgia.
The option amount and the appraised value are both $525.00,
was read.
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval
of option to purchase right-of-way of the Barton Chapel Road
Intersection and Drainage Improvement Project on Parcel 1, Area
A which property is owned by Lucia B. Esperanza and Herminia
P. Julian. The option amount and the appraised value are both
$257.00, was read.
I
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval
of option to purchase Project Parcel 9 of the Raes Creek Channel
Improvement, Phase II Project which property is owned by Paul
Edward Filpus-Luyckx and Mary Patricia Filpus-Luyckx. The option
amount and the appraised value are both $780.00, was read.
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval
of option to purchase easement known as Project Parcel 16 of
the Raes Creek Channel Improvement Project, Phase II which is
in the name of Doris Evans Gramling. The appraised amount and
the option amount is $3,570.00, was read.
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval
of option to purchase right-of-way of the Barton Chapel Road
Intersection and Drainage Improvement Project on Parcel 4, Area
A which property is owned by Korean Presbyterian Church of
Augusta. The option amount and the appraised value are both
$1,000.00, was read.
I
I
I
I
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval of
the option to purchase right-of-way from Donald Rae Ford, John
Loran Ford and Perry Maureen Lokey known as Area D, Parcel 3 of
the Barton Chapel Road Intersection and Drainage Improvement
Project. The option amount and the appraised value is $775.00,
was read.
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval of
option to purchase Project Parcel 49 of the Raes Creek Channel
Improvement, Phase II Project which property is owned by Merrick
Place Partners, L.P. The option amount and the appraised value
are both $3,600.00, was read.
Mr. Todd: I so move that we do these as a consent agenda.
Mr. Handy: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval of
the counteroffer option to purchase right-of-way from W. W.
Zealey, Jr. known as Area D, Parcel 7 of the Barton Chapel Road
Intersection and Drainage Improvement Project, was read.
Mr. Wall: This is a $200 increase from the original offer
based upon an appraisal that the owner got and I concur in that.
Mr. Handy: I so move.
Mr. Todd: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval of
the counteroffer option to purchase right-of-way of the Barton
Chapel Road Intersection and Drainage Improvement Project on
Parcels 5 and 7, Area A, which property is owned by The Lifsey
Group, Inc. This option amount is $1,500.00 and the appraised
value is $950.00, was read.
Mr. Wall: Even though this is 58% increase, there is a
donation of a temporary easement on a third parcel which
increases the value.
Mr. Handy: I so move.
Mr. Brigham: Second.
Motion adopted with Mr. Todd voting "No".
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval of
the counteroffer option to purchase right-of-way from Elsie D.
Harmon known as Area D, Parcel 10 of the Barton Chapel Road
Intersection and Drainage Improvement Project. The option amount
is $780.00 and the appraised value is $500.00. The difference is I
a driveway light and some shrubbery that was detected during the
negotiation phase, was read.
Mr. Handy: I move for approval.
Mr. Todd: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from Harry D. Revell requesting approval of
sale of surplus property at 2443 Windsor Spring Road to William
Howarth. Mr. Howarth bid this property in a public sale on
Tuesday, May 6, 1996, for the sum of $2,900.00 which was the
highest and best bid, was read.
Mr. Handy: I so move.
Mr. Brigham: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Mayor regarding the New Savannah
Bluff Lock & Dam recommending that the Augusta-Richmond County
Consolidated Government take the following actions:
1.
Request congressional support that the Section 216 study for
disposition of Federal facilities be waived for the New
Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam; cost savings to the Federal
Government approximately $320,000.00.
Request congressman Norwood's and Senator Coverdell's
offices pursue available Federal funding for repairs to the
locks. Offer a supplement toward the repair cost in local
funding possibility from One Cent Recovered Funds if
available. Also, pursue a funding source with the City of
North Augusta as this is in their best interest as well.
Request and accept title to the New Savannah Bluff Lock and
Dam in order to maintain local operating control of the
facility after repairs are complete.
Request the Georgia Department of Transportation accept
operation and maintenance responsibilities for the New
Savannah Bluff Lock following completion of repairs and
title acceptance, was read.
2.
3.
4.
Mr. Mayor: We need to see if we have any funds available
anywhere to be able to match any help we may get.
Mr. Brigham: I move that we receive this as information and
begin looking for any possible funding available to help with
this project.
Mr. Todd: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
I
I
I
I
I
Communication from the General Supt. of Waterworks
Operations stating a citizen met with me at a location near Raes
Creek adjacent to Boy Scout Road and pointed out two locations
where sewage is forced out of the sewer line when the line
surcharges. At one spot the sewage is forced up through the
ground and at the other spot the sewage is forced up into a small
branch that then flows into Raes Creek. I met with George
McElveen and Millard Morgan to consider utilizing Utilities
Department forces to repair the breaks. We all agreed that we
would do best to have a contractor make the repairs. I met with
representatives of Blair Construction, Inc., Mabus Construction
Co., Inc. and Mabus Brothers, 'Inc. at the site and pointed out
the work to be done. Attached are the proposals from the three
firms. We recommend awarding the contract to Mabus Construction
Co., Inc., the low bidder, for their bid amount of $4,200.00.
This is a borderline emergency case and, if possible, I would
appreciate your concurrence in notifying Mabus Construction Co.,
Inc. to proceed with the repairs immediately. Funds for this
project will come from Renewal and Extension Funds presently
budgeted to repair the supports for the raw water line crossing
the canal. It will not increase our total budget for 1996, was
read.
Mr. Todd: I move for approval.
Mr. Handy: Second.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Main Street Director and Sign &
Marking Supervisor regarding a follow up concerning alternative
parking solutions for Broad street visitors and employees. We
have obtained two additional estimates by parking companies l
regarding management of the parking garage at Ninth and Ellis.
We have met with Dave Whittington. After inspecting the fencing
at the Port Royal building, we concluded that the plastic coated
cyclone fencing would be our recommendation for the parking deck
and should be continuous leaving one entrance/outlet. An
estimated figure via Whittington for the fencing is $16,000 which
includes fencing, pipes, rails, gates and labor. We would
recommend the dark green which blends with the surrounding
shrubbery. Because the "guard house" is not in usable condition,
in our opinion, we suggest a new one be constructed and placed on
the Ninth Street side of the garage which would allow the
attendant vision of the entire lower garage area. An estimated
figure for this construction would be $4,000 - $5,000 according
to whittington. We were also asked to share the information
regarding private management of the garage with John Etheridge,
Director of Human Resources, and obtain his recommendation as to
whether or not it would be feasible to hire a consolidated
government employee as attendant and run the garage as a local
government entity. Mr. Etheridge reviewed the information
presented in April and concluded that the proposed cost analysis
on labor for the garage was somewhat low. He also recommended
that due to liability involved and to avoid local government from I
having to provide transportation, garage management should be
contracted out. In his opinion, local government could not
manage it any less expensively than a professional management
company. The previous recommendation was from McLaurin Parking
company out of Raleigh, NC. Following are two additional
recommendations based on the same information given McLaurin in
order to compare "oranges and oranges". We contacted AAA Parking
and Allright Parking of Georgia, both out of Atlanta. We gave
the same information to all companies in order to be able to
compare "oranges and oranges". McLaurin parking Company fee was
between $43,000 and $47,500. AAA Parking annual fee would be
$25,800 or 12.5% of gross income and Allright Parking of Georgia
fee would be $66,061. These figures are based on phone
conversations in an attempt to get a handle on what costs we are
looking at on an annual basis. Note: AAA parking did not
include figures pertaining to any type of shuttle service. They
have never been involved with this type of service but said if
they were considered as the choice company, they would provide
information regarding the shuttle amenity. McLaurin's figures
for the shuttle service was $16,000 to $18,300 and Allright's
figures were based on an hourly rate of usage at $34 per hour.
Please Note: All figures mentioned in these presentations are
estimated. Should the Commission-Council decide to think
seriously about having a private company operate the garage, we
would need to submit for bids the exact items to be covered. The I
figures sent were based on telephone requests. Whatever decision
is made, we do need to look at our long term parking alternatives
and not wait until the opening of the Discover Center and Golf
Hall of Fame. Even though additional parking decks are planned,
there will be overflow to Broad Street which will create a need
for other solutions. In addition, the need is already growing
due to the fact that our downtown is growing with new businesses
and expanding businesses. This committee's recommendation would
be: put up the fencing and add a booth at the Ninth Street
entrance subject to funds availability. Put together a bid
package for management of the parking garage on a contractual
basis in lieu of local government management and accept bids
within a certain time line. Based on serious projected income vs
management fee, make a determination as to our next step in this
process, was read.
Mr. Todd: I move that we proceed with the funding for the
improvements and choose the vendor who would get the contract.
Mr. Dillard: We would need to identify a funding source and
we would like to put the proposals together and see what we get
in.
Mr. Todd: I would suggest we look at reserves as the
funding source and put the money back when we generate some
revenue and that we give them a cap of $25,000. I'll amend my
motion to include this.
I
I
I
I
.
Mr. Chairman: I'll second your motion.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Communication from the Interim Attorney submitting a request
from Maurice Steinberg that an alley located off Laney Walker
Boulevard between lots 299 and lots 297 and 299 as shown on a
former version of the tax map be abandoned. I will prepare a
proposed Resolution for consideration by the Commission-Council,
was read.
Mr. Wall: This alley is being used by the Medical College
currently for parking so it doesn't appear to be an alley. It
does show on the original site plan that this is an alley. The
property is up for sale and they are proposing that the alley be
abandoned. The actual use at this time is for parking.
Mr. Todd: I make a motion that we start the proceedings on
this and hold the public hearing.
Mr. Chairman: I second the motion.
Motion adopted unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT:
was adjourned.
There being no further business, the meeting
Lena J. Bonner
Clerk of Commission-Council
NWM