HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-08-05-Meeting Agenda
Commission Meeting Agenda
Commission Chamber
8/5/2014
2:00 PM
INVOCATION:
Dr. George Robertson, Pastor, First Presbyterian Church
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
RECOGNITION(S)
Augusta River Bandits
A. Augusta River Bandits in honor of the 10U travel baseball team winning
the blue bracket of the USSSA Global Sports World Series in Gulf
Shores. (Requested by Mayor Deke Copenhaver)
Attachments
Five (5) minute time limit per delegation
DELEGATIONS
B. Mr. Steven Kendrick, Richmond County Tax Commissioner regarding
the reorganization of the Youth Leadership/ARC Student Intern
Programs.
Attachments
C. Ms. Bessie Taylor regarding water run-off and who's responsibility for
maintenance of the area.
Attachments
D. Mr. Al Gray regarding the CSRA’s TIA 2010 regional government as
relates to Augusta projects.
Attachments
CONSENT AGENDA
(Items 1-29)
PUBLIC SERVICES
1. Motion to approve New Ownership Application: A. N. 14 - 24: request
by Harmit S. Sohal for a retail package Beer & Wine license to be used
in connection with AM - PM Travel Center located at 4706 Deans
Bridge Rd. District 8. Super District 10. (Approved by Public Services
Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
2. Motion to approve New Ownership Application: A. N. 14 - 25: request
by Shiva Vuppula for a retail package Beer & Wine license to be used in
connection with Phoenix Food & Gas DBA Fuel Express located at 2700
Peach Orchard Rd. District 2. Super District 9.(Approved by Public
Services Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
3. Motion to approve a request by Voncellies Allen for a Dance License to
be used in connection with Club Climax located at 1855 Gordon Hwy in
accordance with the amended business plan and a report from License &
Inspections in six months. District 2. Super District 9. (Approved by
Public Services Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
4. Motion to approve a student transportation contract with transit fees of
$2.75 per student per quarter for Virginia College students to receive
transportation services to and from campus with valid student
identification cards issued by the college at no direct charge to the
student as presently being done with other area colleges. (Approved by
Public Services Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
5. Motion to approve Year 2014 Revised Annual Action Plan for
HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES FOR PERSONS WITH AIDS
PROGRAM. (Approved by Administrative Serivces Committee July
28, 2014)
Attachments
6. Motion to approve an Ordinance to Amend the Augusta, GA Code Title
One Article Four Section 1-7-51 Relating to the Adoption of Personnel
Policies and Procedures of Augusta, Georgia; To approve edits to the
FOLLOWING SECTIONS OF Chapter IV of THE Personnel Policies
and Procedures Manual: 900.001, 900.006, 900.009, 900.011, 900.012
and 900.202; To Repeal All MANUAL PROVISIONS, Code Sections
Attachments
and Ordinances and Parts of Code Sections and Ordinances in Conflict
Herewith; To Provide an Effective Date and For Other Purposes.
(Approved by Administrative Services Committee July 28, 2014)
7. Motion to authorize the Augusta Ga Legal department to enter into
negotiation process with ADP to amend the current ADP contract to
exclude providing Health and Wellness services (automated benefits
services) and provide only Time and Labor Management services.
(automated time management). Approve the motion to allow HR to add 3
additional benefits specialist positions to handle existing call volume and
assist with benefit functions (Approved by Administrative Services
Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
8. Motion to approve amending City Code for Augusta Georgia by
deleting Article 2, Section 8-5-11 through 8-5-24 in its entirety and
replace it with City Code Article 2, Sections 8-5-11 through 8-5-42
(Roads and Addressing). The Code was set forth to provide a system for
successfully assigning road names and address within the City and
conferred the authority to the Augusta Planning Commission (aka
Planning and Development Department). This request will assign that
authority to the Augusta Information Technology-GIS Division (IT-GIS)
and update other aspects of the Code to allow for current technology to
assist in road naming and addressing. Subdivisions and Development
Plans must have received from IT-GIS an approved list of road names
and addresses before submittal to the Planning and Development
Department for review. Road names and addresses have not been
properly vetted and public safety issues have arisen.(Approved by
Administrative Services Committee July 28, 2014)
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PUBLIC SAFETY
9. Motion to approve the Augusta Fire Department proposed salary
adjustment and retention program that will address the following issues:
Increase retention rates among newly hired employees; Improve the
retention of experienced and qualified leadership personnel; Equalize
salaries within ranks, reducing pay disparities and unfair practices that
have existed in the past; Align pay with rank, eliminating subordinates
earning more than their direct supervisors; Attract qualified personnel.
(Approved by Public Safety Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
10. Motion to approve the proposal to allow the Augusta Fire Department Attachments
not be included in the Fleet Maintenance Contract with First Vehicle
Services and be permitted to run an in-house vehicle maintenance
program.(Approved by Public Safety Committee July 28, 2014)
FINANCE
11. Motion to approve the replacement of 3 vehicles for Augusta Utilities
Department-Customer Service Division. (Approved by Finance
Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
12. Motion to approve agreement with Imperial Theatre for funding as
authorized in SPLOST VI. (Approved by Finance Committee July 28,
2014)
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13. Motion to approve Water and Sewer Revenue Bonds Series 2014 bond
resolution and authorize the Mayor and Clerk to sign all necessary
documents. (Approved by Finance Committee July 28, 2014)
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14. Motion to approve accepting the recommendation from the Board of
Assessors for payment of $2,975.96 relative to the request made by
Pastor Cleveland Garrison regarding church taxes.(Approved by
Finance Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
ENGINEERING SERVICES
15. Motion to authorize condemnation to acquire title of the entire parcel,
(Parcel 087-2-152-00-0) 2015 Willow Street. (Approved by
Engineering Serivces Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
16. Motion to authorize condemnation to acquire title of a portion of
property for right-of-way, permanent easement, temporary construction
easement, and one temporary driveway easement (Parcel 041-0-020-00-
0) 1411 Marks Church Road.(Approved by Engineering Serivces
Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
17. Motion to authorize condemnation to acquire title of a portion of
property for right-of-way, temporary construction easement, and two
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temporary driveway easements (Parcel 041-0-019-00-0) 1411 Marks
Church Road. (Approved by Engineering Serivces Committee July
28, 2014)
18. Motion to approve award of RFP #14-144, Janitorial Services for
Environmental Services Maintenance Building and Scale House, to
Easter Seals of East Georgia, Inc. (Approved by Engineering Serivces
Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
19. Motion to approve purchase of an IBAK Sanitary Sewer Inspection
System for the bid price of $69,239.00.(Approved by Engineering
Serivces Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
20. Motion to approve and accept: Knology Way roadway and associated
improvements within its right-of-way into the Augusta Georgia Public
Roadway System and accept the sanitary sewer improvements that are
adjacent to the Knology Way right of way as shown on attached plat.
Acceptance is contingent upon receipt of its certified plat and proof of
ownership, deed of dedication and required other legal documentation as
determined by Augusta Engineering Department (AED) and Augusta
Utility Department (AUD). (Approved by Engineering Serivces
Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
21. Motion to determine that the alley between 1264 Greene Street and
1255 Telfair Street, as shown on the attached plat has ceased to be used
by the public to the extent that no substantial public purpose is served by
it or that its removal from the county road system is otherwise in the best
public interest, and to receive as information the results of the public
hearing held regarding the issue of abandonment pursuant to O.C.G.A.
§32-7-2, with the abandoned property to be quit-claimed to the
appropriate party(ies), as provided by law and an easement to be retained
over the entire abandoned portion for existing or future utilities as
directed by Augusta Engineering Department and Augusta Utilities
Department and adopt the attached Resolution. (Approved by
Engineering Serivces Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
22. Motion to determine that South Boundary Lane, as shown on the
attached plat has ceased to be used by the public to the extent that no
substantial public purpose is served by it or that its removal from the
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county road system is otherwise in the best public interest, pursuant to
O.C.G.A. §32-7-2, with the abandoned property to be quit-claimed to the
appropriate party(ies), as provided by law and an easement to be retained
over the entire abandoned portion for existing or future utilities as
directed by Augusta Engineering Department and Augusta Utilities
Department and right of way property needs. (Approved by
Engineering Serivces Committee July 28, 2014)
23. Motion to approve the continued funding of the current On-Call Tree
Removal Services Contract in the amount of $200,000, and the On-Call
Vegetation Maintenance Contract in the amount of $500,000 from the
Transportation Investment Act (TIA) discretionary account. Funding is
solely for the purposes of hazardous tree removal and pruning; and
vegetation maintenance along the county’s roadway system, which is
within the criteria of transportation discretionary fund usage, as
requested by AED.(Approved by Engineering Serivces Committee
July 28, 2014)
Attachments
24. Motion to approve CPB # 323-041110-5212115/299823786-5212115
and award of the Construction Contract to Blair Construction in the
amount of $166,043.50 for the Paving Dirt Roads, Phase I – Pats Lane
Project, subject to receipt of signed contracts and proper bonds as
requested by AED. Funding is available through SPLOST phase III and
IV recapture as requested by AED. (Approved by Engineering Serivces
Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
25. Motion to approve Augusta Utilities and Tax Commissioner Peach
Orchard Commons Final Estimated Buildout. (Approved by
Engineering Serivces Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
26. Motion to approve completing funding of Wrightsboro Road and
Drainage Emergency Repair in the amount of $800,000 as requested by
AED. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee July 28, 2014)
Attachments
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS
27. Motion to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of the
Commission held July 15, 2014 and Special Called Meetings held July 9,
23, 28, & 30, 2014.
Attachments
APPOINTMENT(S)
28. Motion to approve the appointment of Dr. Lori Myles to the ARC Small
Business Citizens Advisory Council and Mr. Bill Quinn to the ARC
Transit Citizens Advisory Committee representing Distrist 3.
Attachments
29. Motion to approve the appointment of Mr.Willie Jones to the Augusta
Transit Citizens Advisory Committee representing District 5.
Attachments
****END CONSENT AGENDA****
AUGUSTA COMMISSION
8/5/2014
AUGUSTA COMMISSION
REGULAR AGENDA
8/5/2014
(Items 30-41)
PUBLIC SERVICES
30. Motion to approve proceeding with advertising for the Transit Director
position. (No recommendation from Public Services Committee with
information presented on the salaries for the positions.)
Attachments
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
31. Update on the status of the 15th Street Corridor Improvement Project.
Provide an overview of Project to include projected timeline. (No
recommendation from Administrative Services Committee July 28,
2014)
Attachments
32. Motion to approve Law Department reorganization to include
reclassifying vacant staff attorney position to deputy general counsel,
eliminating an administrative clerk position and temporary positions and
creating a paralegal position. (Approved by Administrative Services
Committee July 7, 2014) (Referred from July 15 Commission
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meeting and no recommendation from Administrative Services
Committee July 28, 2014)
33. Discuss re-enrollment of the county's permanent life insurance, ING.
((No recommendation Administrative Services Committee July 28,
2014)
Attachments
FINANCE
34. Discuss the costs associated with the Interim Administrator's July 22,
2014 memordanum regarding ADA renovations. (Requested by
Commissioner Marion Williams)
Attachments
35. Update from staff regarding ARC's sponsorship participation relative to
the Augusta's James Brown Get On Up movie premiere. (Requested by
Commissioner Marion Williams)
Attachments
36. Approve tasking the Finance Director with providing the governing body
adequate documentation reflecting the status of ALL SPLOST Monies
collected, invested, and expended since the inception of the SPLOST
Program within ARC. This documentation must reflect interest earned
and disposition of these earnings. Any SPLOST Monies utilized to retire
General Obligation Bonds must be reported, to include authorization for
these actions. All Recaptured Funds must be listed to include potential
usage. Any other relative information not specifically requested must be
available for review. Information contained in the annual audit will not
satisfy the requirements of this request. (Requested by Commissioner
Bill Lockett-Final Request)
Attachments
37. Motion to approve Urban Redevelopment Agency (URA) bonds series
2014 supplement resolution.
Attachments
ENGINEERING SERVICES
38. Approve authorizing the Director of Engineering and other relevant
parties to review the potential removal of the raised area of the Calhoun
Expressway. The expressway has a negative impact on the landscape and
has stymied economic development in the community. Other cities have
Attachments
Upcoming Meetings
www.augustaga.gov
taken similar action and at least one city has received federal funding to
study it's impact. Studies have shown that raised areas such as the
Calhoun Expressway tend to cut off many streets on the city's grid and
impedes development of potential high-producing parcels of land in the
community. It tends to choke off urban development. (Requested by
Commissioner Bill Lockett)
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS
39. Motion to approve the termination of the contract between Heery
International and Augusta, Georgia. (Requested by Commissioner
Marion Williams)
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ADMINISTRATOR
40. Receive as information an update from the Interim Administrator on the
scope of services for Heery International for the Augusta Transit
Operations and Maintenance Facility.
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LEGAL MEETING
A. Pending and Potential Litigation.
B. Real Estate.
C. Personnel.
41. Motion to approve execution by the Mayor of the affidavit of compliance
with Georgia's Open Meeting Act.
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Invocation
Department:
Caption:Dr. George Robertson, Pastor, First Presbyterian Church
Background:
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Cover Memo
Item # 1
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Augusta River Bandits
Department:
Caption:Augusta River Bandits in honor of the 10U travel baseball team
winning the blue bracket of the USSSA Global Sports World
Series in Gulf Shores. (Requested by Mayor Deke Copenhaver)
Background:
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Cover Memo
Item # 2
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
ARC Intern Program
Department:
Caption:Mr. Steven Kendrick, Richmond County Tax Commissioner
regarding the reorganization of the Youth Leadership/ARC
Student Intern Programs.
Background:
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Cover Memo
Item # 3
Attachment number 1 \nPage 1 of 1
Item # 3
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Bessie Taylor
Department:
Caption:Ms. Bessie Taylor regarding water run-off and who's
responsibility for maintenance of the area.
Background:
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Cover Memo
Item # 4
Attachment number 1 \nPage 1 of 1
Item # 4
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Al Gray
Department:
Caption:Mr. Al Gray regarding the CSRA’s TIA 2010 regional
government as relates to Augusta projects.
Background:
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Cover Memo
Item # 5
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Alcohol Application
Department:Planning & Development
Caption:Motion to approve New Ownership Application: A. N. 14 - 24:
request by Harmit S. Sohal for a retail package Beer & Wine
license to be used in connection with AM - PM Travel Center
located at 4706 Deans Bridge Rd. District 8. Super District 10.
(Approved by Public Services Committee July 28, 2014)
Background:This is a new ownership application. Formerly Citgo Gas.
Analysis:The applicant meets the requirements of the City Of Augusta's
Alcohol Ordinance.
Financial Impact:The applicant will pay a pro-rated fee of $665.00.
Alternatives:
Recommendation:Planning & Development recommends approval. The RCSO
recommends approval.
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Finance.
Law.
Administrator.
Clerk of Commission
Cover Memo
Item # 6
Attachment number 1 \nPage 1 of 2
Item # 6
Attachment number 1 \nPage 2 of 2
Item # 6
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Alcohol Application
Department:Planning & Development
Caption:Motion to approve New Ownership Application: A. N. 14 - 25:
request by Shiva Vuppula for a retail package Beer & Wine
license to be used in connection with Phoenix Food & Gas DBA
Fuel Express located at 2700 Peach Orchard Rd. District 2. Super
District 9.(Approved by Public Services Committee July 28,
2014)
Background:This is a new ownership application. Formerly in the name of
Maulik Patel.
Analysis:The applicant meets the rerquirements of the City Of Augusta's
Alcohol Ordinance.
Financial Impact:The applicant will pay a pro-rated fee of $665.00.
Alternatives:
Recommendation:Planning & Development recommends approval. The RCSO
recommends approval.
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Finance.
Law.
Administrator.
Clerk of Commission
Cover Memo
Item # 7
Attachment number 1 \nPage 1 of 2
Item # 7
Attachment number 1 \nPage 2 of 2
Item # 7
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Dance Application
Department:Plannig & Development
Caption:Motion to approve a request by Voncellies Allen for a Dance
License to be used in connection with Club Climax located at
1855 Gordon Hwy in accordance with the amended business plan
and a report from License & Inspections in six months. District 2.
Super District 9. (Approved by Public Services Committee July
28, 2014)
Background:This a request for a Dance License to be used for an 18 and Up
age group location. There primary operating hours will be after
normal club operating hours.
Analysis:We have determined that the applicant can meet our requirements
but there proposed hours of operation pose a problem for us and
the RCSO.
Financial Impact:The applicant will pay a fee of $121.00.
Alternatives:
Recommendation:Planning & Development recommends approval under the
condition that they be allowed to operate only doing normal club
operating hours. If these conditions cannot be met we recommend
denial. The RCSO makes no recommendation.
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Cover Memo
Item # 8
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Item # 8
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Virginia College Transportation Contract
Department:Augusta Public Transit
Caption:Motion to approve a student transportation contract with transit
fees of $2.75 per student per quarter for Virginia College students
to receive transportation services to and from campus with valid
student identification cards issued by the college at no direct
charge to the student as presently being done with other area
colleges. (Approved by Public Services Committee July 28,
2014)
Background:Virginia College is an accredited two year college offering
associate degree programs. Virginia College would like to afford
their students transportation services which are currently being
offered to Augusta Technical College, Paine College and Georgia
Regents University.
Analysis:Support of the transit service would afford students without
transportation the opportunity to attend Virginia College.
Financial Impact:Increase in Transit Revenue would be based upon student
population.
Alternatives:Deny.
Recommendation:Approve the request. See Attached Contract for Virginia College.
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Finance.
Law.
Cover Memo
Item # 9
Administrator.
Clerk of Commission
Cover Memo
Item # 9
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Item # 9
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Transit Director Job Advertisement
Department:Administrator's Office
Caption:Motion to approve proceeding with advertising for the Transit
Director position. (No recommendation from Public Services
Committee with information presented on the salaries for the
positions.)
Background:
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Finance.
Law.
Administrator.
Clerk of Commission
Cover Memo
Item # 10
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
2014 Annual Action Plan (HOPWA)
Department:Housing and Community Development
Caption:Motion to approve Year 2014 Revised Annual Action Plan for
HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES FOR PERSONS WITH AIDS
PROGRAM. (Approved by Administrative Serivces
Committee July 28, 2014)
Background:In order to fulfill statutory and regulatory requirements mandated
by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development with
regard to the 2014 Action Plan, the City of Augusta is required to
make available for public comment the 2014 Action Plan that
provides the jurisdiction an opportunity to review the City of
Augusta, Housing and Community Development Department’s
local strategy to address needs in the areas of community
development, economic development, housing and homelessness.
This proposal includes an Action Plan for 2014 with a budget
that includes actual funding allocations for the Housing
Opportunities for Persons with AIDS Program ($938,098.00).
Analysis:If supported by the Augusta City Commission, the Housing and
Community Development Department will be able to fund these
projects in accordance with the submission of the 2010-2014
Consolidated Plan to the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD).
Financial Impact:If approved by the City Commission, the Plan will continue to
provide funding of needed services and housing projects for low-
to moderate-income households throughout the City of Augusta.
Alternatives:None Recommended
Recommendation:Accept the 2014 Revised Annual Action Plan.
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
No additional funds required.
Cover Memo
Item # 11
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Finance.
Law.
Administrator.
Clerk of Commission
Cover Memo
Item # 11
2014 REVISED ALLOCATIOS
2014 HOPWA
Housing Opportunities for
Persons with AIDS
GA-H-14-F002
Proposed
Budget
Actual
Budget
Entitlement $413,361.00
$938,098.00
Program
Income $0.00
$0.00
TOTAL $413,361.00
$938,098.00
IDIS #
Project
# Projects Proposed
Actual
Hope Health, Inc. $150,000.00 $370,955.00
St. Stephen’s Ministry $251,374.00 $215,000.00
Family Initiative of the CSRA $0.00
$150,000.00
East Augusta CDC $0.00
$174,000.00
Administration (3% cap) $11,987.00
$28,143.00
TOTAL
$413,361.00
$938,098.00
Attachment number 1 \nPage 1 of 1
Item # 11
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS OF CHAPTER IV OF THE
PERSONNEL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL: 900.001, 900.006, 900.009, 900.011, 900.012
AND 900.202 WHICH RELATE TO SUBSTANCE ABUSE
Department:Human Resources/Risk Management
Caption:Motion to approve an Ordinance to Amend the Augusta, GA Code
Title One Article Four Section 1-7-51 Relating to the Adoption of
Personnel Policies and Procedures of Augusta, Georgia; To approve
edits to the FOLLOWING SECTIONS OF Chapter IV of THE
Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual: 900.001, 900.006,
900.009, 900.011, 900.012 and 900.202; To Repeal All MANUAL
PROVISIONS, Code Sections and Ordinances and Parts of Code
Sections and Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; To Provide an
Effective Date and For Other Purposes. (Approved by
Administrative Services Committee July 28, 2014)
Background:See attached.
Analysis:See attached.
Financial Impact:N/A.
Alternatives:Decline to approve at this time.
Recommendation:Approve.
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
N/A.
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Clerk of Commission
Cover Memo
Item # 12
1
Version 7-28-2014
ORDINANCE NO. ___________
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE AUGUSTA, GA CODE TITLE ONE ARTICLE
FOUR SECTION 1-7-51 RELATING TO THE ADOPTION OF PERSONNEL POLICIES
AND PROCEDURES OF AUGUSTA, GEORGIA; TO APPROVE EDITS TO THE
FOLLOWING SECTIONS OF CHAPTER IV OF THE PERSONNEL POLICIES AND
PROCEDURES MANUAL: 900.001, 900.006, 900.009, 900.011, 900.012 AND 900.202; TO
REPEAL ALL MANUAL PROVISIONS, CODE SECTIONS AND ORDINANCES AND
PARTS OF CODE SECTIONS AND ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; TO
PROVIDE AN EFFECTIVE DATE AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
WHEREAS, Augusta, Georgia desires to update and amend the Code as related to Chapter IV of
the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual which contains provisions related to substance
abuse;
THE AUGUSTA, GEORGIA COMMISSION, ordains as follows:
SECTION 1. Appendix B to the Augusta, Georgia Code as incorporated in AUGUSTA, GA.
CODE Section 1-7-51, also known as the Augusta, Georgia Personnel Policy and Procedures
Manual is hereby amended by striking the following sections of the version of the Manual passed
on December 6, 2011 (via Ordinance Number 7311): Sections 900.001, 900.006, 900.009,
900.011, 900.012 and 900.202. The sections being stricken are shown on Exhibit A attached
hereto. Such sections shall be replaced with identically numbered sections as shown on Exhibit
B attached hereto.
SECTION 2. This ordinance shall become effective on the first day of the first month following
adoption in accordance with AUGUSTA, GA. CODE Section 1-7-51.
SECTION 3. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
Adopted this _____ day of , 2014.
___________________________
David S. Copenhaver
As its Mayor
Attest:
______________________________
Lena J. Bonner, Clerk of Commission
Seal:
Attachment number 1 \nPage 1 of 13
Item # 12
2
Version 7-28-2014
CERTIFICATION
The undersigned Clerk of Commission, Lena J. Bonner, hereby certifies that the
foregoing Ordinance was duly adopted by the Augusta-Richmond County
Commission on_________________, 2014 and that such Ordinance has not been
modified or rescinded as of the date hereof and the undersigned further certifies
that attached hereto is a true copy of the Ordinance which was approved and
adopted in the foregoing meeting(s).
______________________________
Lena J. Bonner, Clerk of Commission
Published in the Augusta Chronicle.
Date: ______________________
First Reading:
Second Reading:
Attachment number 1 \nPage 2 of 13
Item # 12
3
Version 7-28-2014
Exhibit A
STRIKE:
Section 900.001 Policy and Purpose
A. In recognition of the continued and growing problem of substance abuse, it is the policy of
the Augusta, Georgia to take all reasonable measures to assure that drug and/or alcohol use
by employees does not jeopardize the safety of its operations or otherwise adversely affect
Augusta, Georgia employees, the community, or the public's trust in its ability to carry out
its responsibilities.
B. Augusta, Georgia cannot and will not tolerate lapses in employee’s ability to operate
safely and productively. The policy of Augusta, Georgia is that if an employee required
under this Policy to be tested for substance abuse either refuses or fails such test, the
employee will be subject to disciplinary measures up to and including termination.
Augusta, Georgia has a “Zero Tolerance” policy with respect to illegal substances.
Employees found to be in violation of the “Zero Tolerance” policy will be terminated
immediately.
C. The employees’ cooperation with and adherence to the Augusta, Georgia’s policies and
procedures regarding substance abuse are conditions of their continued employment. If an
employee violates or is insubordinate by refusing to cooperate with any of these policies
and procedures, the employee is subject to disciplinary measures up to and including
termination.
D. This Chapter contains the Augusta, Georgia Substance Abuse Policy. The use of the term
"Augusta", in this document, refers to the Augusta, Georgia government. Augusta, Georgia
will make a public announcement of this Policy. Employee training will be undertaken to
ensure that each individual employee understands the Policy's requirements and his or her
obligation to cooperate fully in the testing program.
E. All references within this Policy to regulations, processes and procedures are available to
any employee for review in the Risk Management Office located in Room 217, Municipal
Building, 530 Greene Street, Augusta, Georgia 30911.
F. Augusta, Georgia reserves the right to amend this Policy at any time, in its sole discretion,
with 60 days' written notice to employees before implementation of the amendment(s).
G. PRESCRIPT NOTE: Federal law requires testing of certain employees within transit
systems and holders of Commercial Drivers Licenses (49 CFR Parts 40 & 655). The
testing requirements and procedures for these employees may be different than for
employees tested under authority of Augusta, Georgia. Where a requirement of this
Policy differs as to regular and transit or CDL employees, such difference will be noted.
From time to time Federal and State will update/revise their respective regulations.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 3 of 13
Item # 12
4
Version 7-28-2014
When such updates/revisions occur they will automatically become a part of this policy
when they become Final Rule.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Section 900.006 Consequences for Violations
A. The following violations will result in an employee being terminated in accordance with
Augusta’s “Zero Tolerance” policy:
1. Employees who have drug test results confirmed by the Medical Review Officer a
positive for a prohibitive substance,
2. Employees who have a confirmed alcohol content of .04 or above, while on duty,
confirmed by an evidentiary breath testing devise or blood alcohol content,
3. Employees who refuse to test under the provisions of this policy,
4. Employees who adulterate or substitute their specimens and reported by GC/MS and
confirmed by the MRO.
B. CONSEQUENCES FOR OTHER VIOLATIONS :
1. Employees whose blood alcohol content is between .02 to .039 will be removed from
duty for a minimum of 8 hours and will receive appropriate disciplinary action
appropriate to the “Progressive discipline” policy provisions.
2. Negative Dilute when reported by the MRO will require a second test under direct
observation
_______________________________________________________________________________
Section 900.009 Actions Required for Positive Tests
A. Laboratory. Once a specimen has been tested as positive on an initial screening, a
confirmatory test will be conducted prior to the laboratory's reporting the specimen as a
positive result. Such test shall be performed by GCMS method.
1. Regular Employees. Once confirmed, the laboratory will report the results with allied
documentation to the MRO, through the DER /Risk Management Office.
2. Transit Employees and CDL Holders: All laboratory reports will be sent from the
laboratory testing facility directly to the MRO.
B. Medical Review Officer. The MRO will verify all positive test results by first reviewing
laboratory reports, and confirming that a proper chain of custody (procedures to account for
the integrity of each specimen by tracking its handling and storage from point of collection
to final disposition) was followed.
1. The MRO will then contact the employee to discuss the positive result.
2. If verification of prescription drug use is required in connection with the MRO's
investigation of a positive result, the MRO shall meet personally with the employee.
3. Otherwise, the MRO may contact the employee by telephone.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 4 of 13
Item # 12
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Version 7-28-2014
4. If the MRO finds that a valid medical reason explains the positive result, the MRO
will report the test results to Risk Management as negative.
5. If the MRO is unable to find a valid medical reason for a positive result, the positive
result will be reported to the Designated Employer Representative as positive.
6. As a qualified medical professional, the MRO's medical judgment cannot be overturned
by an arbitrator, employer, or anyone else in the testing program (in accordance with
Federal Regulations - 40.149)
C. Risk Management. For all employees other than Transit Employees and CDL Holders,
Risk Management receives positive reports from the laboratory and forwards those reports
to the MRO. (Reports for Transit Employees and CDL Holders are forwarded from the
laboratory directly to the MRO, as outlined in the Medical Review Officer section above.
1. Risk Management is informed of a confirmed positive test result, by the MRO; the Risk
Manager (DER) will immediately contact the department of such results and have the
employee immediately removed from duty. In accordance with Augusta’s “Zero
Tolerance” policy, a confirmed positive test result for an illegal substance results in
immediate termination from employment for a violation of this policy.
D. Department Management. Upon notification by Risk Management that an employee has
tested positive for an illegal substance, department management will immediately remove
the employee from duty.
E. Human Resources Department. Upon notification by Risk Management that an employee
has tested positive for an illegal substance, the Human Resources Director will notify the
employee that he/she has been terminated in accordance with Augusta’s “Zero Tolerance”
policy and will notify the employee of their appeal rights as contained in Section 300.014
and provide employee with a list of substance abuse programs.
Positive Alcohol Tests
1. An employee with a confirmed blood-alcohol level of 0.04 or higher is in violation of
this Policy. Actions in Department Manager section above will apply.
2. Employees who are found to have an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or greater but less
than 0.04 will not be permitted to perform the job duties until: The employee's alcohol
concentration measures less than 0.02; or the start of the employee's next regularly
scheduled duty period, but not less than eight hours following administration of the test.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Section 900.011 Review of Termination
An employee terminated pursuant to this chapter may appeal their termination in accordance with
Section 300.014.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 5 of 13
Item # 12
6
Version 7-28-2014
Section 900.012 Rehiring Terminated Employees
A. Non safety-sensitive Employees being terminated for violation of this Policy will not be
considered for rehire by Augusta, Georgia for a period of three months from the date the
individual successfully completes an approved rehabilitation program (acceptable proof
of completion of an approved rehabilitation program will be required before rehiring will
be considered).
B. Non safety-sensitive Employees who resign after being notified of a positive test result,
by the MRO or through the administrative process, will not be considered for rehire by
Augusta, Georgia, for a period of three months from the date the individual successfully
completes an approved rehabilitation program. Acceptable proof of completion of an
approved rehabilitation program will be required before rehiring will be considered.
C. Except as provided in sub-section E below, safety-sensitive Employees being terminated
for violation of this Policy will not be considered for rehire by Augusta, Georgia for a
period of one-year from the date the individual successfully completes an approved
rehabilitation program (acceptable proof of completion of an approved rehabilitation
program will be required before rehiring will be considered).
D. Safety-sensitive Employees who resign after being notified of a positive test result, by the
MRO or through the administrative process, will not be considered for rehire in a safety-
sensitive position for a period of one year from the date the individual successfully
completes an approved rehabilitation program. Acceptable proof of completion of an
approved rehabilitation program will be required before rehiring will be considered.
E. Safety-sensitive Employees that are terminated (or resign) for a violation of this policy
may be considered for rehire into a non-safety-sensitive position three months from the
date the individual successfully completes an approved rehabilitation program.
Acceptable proof of completion of an approved rehabilitation program will be required
before rehiring will be considered.
F. Any employee re-hired after being terminated (or resigning) for a violation of this policy
is subject to additional random and non-random drug testing for a period of one year
following their rehire date as provided in Section 900.202(E)(2).
G. Any employee terminated for “test refusal” as defined by Section 900.004(S) shall not be
eligible for rehire.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Section 900.202 Rehabilitation Policy
A. Voluntary Participation.
1. When a regular employee (not probationary, part-time or temporary) comes forward
PRIOR to notification of a random or for-cause test or PRIOR to an accident and/or
injury, seeking help with a substance abuse problem, that employee will be allowed to
enter an approved rehabilitation program, as outlined below. The employee is subject
to all of the provisions of the rehabilitation policy.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 6 of 13
Item # 12
7
Version 7-28-2014
2. If a regular employee DOES NOT come forward as described above, and tests positive
on an illegal substance screening, that employee will be immediately terminated from
employment.
3. Any employee who desires to voluntarily participate in rehabilitation will be allowed to
enter an approved detoxification and/or rehabilitation program with no Augusta,
Georgia participation in cost other than as provided under the employee's group health
insurance program.
4. The employee will be allowed the use of any accrued leave time (sick and/or vacation)
during his or her absence from work for this treatment. If there is no leave time
available, the employee will be placed on leave without pay.
5. Prior to returning to work, the employee shall submit to the Risk Management
Division, in writing, proof of completion of the program and competence to return to
work.
6. Employees who have completed a detoxification and/or rehabilitation program will not
be afforded any further opportunity by Augusta, Georgia or through Augusta, Georgia's
resources to re-enter a detoxification and/or rehabilitation program for a second time.
B. Participation in Rehabilitation Directly through EAP.
1. If any employee comes forward voluntarily directly to the Employee Assistance
Program (EAP) (without first going through either Human Resources or Risk
Management), and the EAP finds that the employee is a risk to the safety of
himself/herself and/or others, the EAP will notify Risk Management that the employee
is seeking treatment directly through EAP.
2. The employee will not be terminated from employment unless the employee fails to
enter and successfully complete the substance abuse program designed for him/her by
the EAP; however, such employee shall be placed on leave until such time as he/she is
no longer considered a risk to the safety of himself/herself and/or others.
3. The EAP will keep Augusta, Georgia informed of the employee's progress through the
rehabilitation program.
4. The employee will be required to sign a statement prior to being admitted to the EAP
acknowledging that Augusta, Georgia may be notified of his entry into the program
under the above circumstances.
C. Failure to Complete Rehabilitation. Employees who do not successfully complete a
rehabilitation program will be terminated and may not be considered for re-hiring except as
provided in Section 900.012. Acceptable proof of satisfactory completion of a
rehabilitation program will be required before re-hiring will be considered.
D. Disciplinary Action. Referral to the EAP does not deprive Augusta, Georgia of the option
of taking disciplinary action against any employee in accordance with this Policy.
E. Post-Rehabilitation
1. Any employee who successfully completes a rehabilitation program and returns to
work will be considered a probationary employee for the next three-year period.
a. The classification of "probationary" applies to substance abuse testing only, when
used in the context of this Policy. The employee shall be responsible for the costs
of such tests.
b. An employee's refusal or failure of any such test will cause the employee to be
immediately terminated.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 7 of 13
Item # 12
8
Version 7-28-2014
2. Prior to returning to work, the employee will be tested for illegal substances and will be
tested on an unannounced basis thereafter during the period of probation, said testing
not to exceed 12 times each year.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 8 of 13
Item # 12
9
Version 7-28-2014
Exhibit B
REPLACE WITH:
Section 900.001 Policy and Purpose
A. In recognition of the continued and growing problem of substance abuse, it is the policy of
the Augusta, Georgia to take all reasonable measures to assure that drug and/or alcohol use
by employees does not jeopardize the safety of its operations or otherwise adversely affect
Augusta, Georgia employees, the community, or the public's trust in its ability to carry out
its responsibilities.
B. Augusta, Georgia cannot and will not tolerate lapses in employee’s ability to operate
safely and productively. The policy of Augusta, Georgia is that if an employee required
under this Policy to be tested for substance abuse either refuses or fails such test, the
employee will be subject to disciplinary measures up to and including termination.
Augusta, Georgia has a “Zero Tolerance” policy with respect to illegal substances.
Employees found to be in violation of the “Zero Tolerance” policy will be terminated
immediately.
C. The employees’ cooperation with and adherence to the Augusta, Georgia’s policies and
procedures regarding substance abuse are conditions of their continued employment. If an
employee violates or is insubordinate by refusing to cooperate with any of these policies
and procedures, the employee is subject to disciplinary measures up to and including
termination.
D. This Chapter contains the Augusta, Georgia Substance Abuse Policy. The use of the term
"Augusta", in this document, refers to the Augusta, Georgia government. Augusta, Georgia
will make a public announcement of this Policy. Employee training will be undertaken to
ensure that each individual employee understands the Policy's requirements and his or her
obligation to cooperate fully in the testing program.
E. All references within this Policy to regulations, processes and procedures are available to
any employee for review in the Risk Management Office located in Room 217, Municipal
Building, 530 Greene Street, Augusta, Georgia 30911.
F. Augusta, Georgia reserves the right to amend this Policy at any time, in its sole discretion,
with 60 days' written notice to employees before implementation of the amendment(s).
G. PRESCRIPT NOTE: Federal law requires testing of certain employees within transit
systems and holders of Commercial Drivers Licenses (49 CFR Parts 40 & 655). The
testing requirements and procedures for these employees may be different than for
employees tested under authority of Augusta, Georgia. Where a requirement of this
Policy differs as to regular and transit or CDL employees, such difference will be noted.
From time to time Federal and State will update/revise their respective regulations.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 9 of 13
Item # 12
10
Version 7-28-2014
When such updates/revisions occur they will automatically become a part of this policy
when they become Final Rule.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Section 900.006 Consequences for Violations
A. The following violations will result in an employee being terminated in accordance with
Augusta’s “Zero Tolerance” policy:
1. Employees who have drug test results confirmed by the Medical Review Officer a
positive for a prohibitive substance,
2. Employees who have a confirmed alcohol content of .04 or above, while on duty,
confirmed by an evidentiary breath testing devise or blood alcohol content,
3. Employees who refuse to test under the provisions of this policy,
4. Employees who adulterate or substitute their specimens and reported by GC/MS and
confirmed by the MRO.
B. CONSEQUENCES FOR OTHER VIOLATIONS :
1. Employees whose blood alcohol content is between .02 to .039 will be removed from
duty for a minimum of 8 hours and will receive appropriate disciplinary action
appropriate to the “Progressive discipline” policy provisions.
2. Negative Dilute when reported by the MRO will require a second test under direct
observation
_______________________________________________________________________________
Section 900.009 Actions Required for Positive Tests
A. Laboratory. Once a specimen has been tested as positive on an initial screening, a
confirmatory test will be conducted prior to the laboratory's reporting the specimen as a
positive result. Such test shall be performed by GCMS method.
1. Regular Employees. Once confirmed, the laboratory will report the results with allied
documentation to the MRO, through the DER /Risk Management Office.
2. Transit Employees and CDL Holders: All laboratory reports will be sent from the
laboratory testing facility directly to the MRO.
B. Medical Review Officer. The MRO will verify all positive test results by first reviewing
laboratory reports, and confirming that a proper chain of custody (procedures to account for
the integrity of each specimen by tracking its handling and storage from point of collection
to final disposition) was followed.
1. The MRO will then contact the employee to discuss the positive result.
2. If verification of prescription drug use is required in connection with the MRO's
investigation of a positive result, the MRO shall meet personally with the employee.
3. Otherwise, the MRO may contact the employee by telephone.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 10 of 13
Item # 12
11
Version 7-28-2014
4. If the MRO finds that a valid medical reason explains the positive result, the MRO
will report the test results to Risk Management as negative.
5. If the MRO is unable to find a valid medical reason for a positive result, the positive
result will be reported to the Designated Employer Representative as positive.
6. As a qualified medical professional, the MRO's medical judgment cannot be overturned
by an arbitrator, employer, or anyone else in the testing program (in accordance with
Federal Regulations - 40.149)
C. Risk Management. For all employees other than Transit Employees and CDL Holders,
Risk Management receives positive reports from the laboratory and forwards those reports
to the MRO. (Reports for Transit Employees and CDL Holders are forwarded from the
laboratory directly to the MRO, as outlined in the Medical Review Officer section above.
1. Risk Management is informed of a confirmed positive test result, by the MRO; the Risk
Manager (DER) will immediately contact the department of such results and have the
employee immediately removed from duty. In accordance with Augusta’s “Zero
Tolerance” policy, a confirmed positive test result for an illegal substance results in
immediate termination from employment for a violation of this policy.
D. Department Management. Upon notification by Risk Management that an employee has
tested positive for an illegal substance, department management will immediately remove
the employee from duty.
E. Human Resources Department. Upon notification by Risk Management that an employee
has tested positive for an illegal substance, the Human Resources Director will notify the
employee that he/she has been terminated in accordance with Augusta’s “Zero Tolerance”
policy and will notify the employee of their appeal rights as contained in Section 300.014
and provide employee with a list of substance abuse programs.
Positive Alcohol Tests
1. An employee with a confirmed blood-alcohol level of 0.04 or higher is in violation of
this Policy. Actions in Department Manager section above will apply.
2. Employees who are found to have an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or greater but less
than 0.04 will not be permitted to perform the job duties until: The employee's alcohol
concentration measures less than 0.02; or the start of the employee's next regularly
scheduled duty period, but not less than eight hours following administration of the test.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Section 900.011 Review of Termination
An employee terminated pursuant to this chapter may appeal their termination in accordance with
Section 300.014.
Section 900.012 Rehiring Terminated Employees
A. Non safety-sensitive Employees being terminated for violation of this Policy will not be
considered for rehire by Augusta, Georgia for a period of three months from the date the
individual successfully completes an approved rehabilitation program (acceptable proof
Attachment number 1 \nPage 11 of 13
Item # 12
12
Version 7-28-2014
of completion of an approved rehabilitation program will be required before rehiring will
be considered).
B. Non safety-sensitive Employees who resign after being notified of a positive test result,
by the MRO or through the administrative process, will not be considered for rehire by
Augusta, Georgia, for a period of three months from the date the individual successfully
completes an approved rehabilitation program. Acceptable proof of completion of an
approved rehabilitation program will be required before rehiring will be considered.
C. Except as provided in sub-section E below, safety-sensitive Employees being terminated
for violation of this Policy will not be considered for rehire by Augusta, Georgia for a
period of one-year from the date the individual successfully completes an approved
rehabilitation program (acceptable proof of completion of an approved rehabilitation
program will be required before rehiring will be considered).
D. Safety-sensitive Employees who resign after being notified of a positive test result, by the
MRO or through the administrative process, will not be considered for rehire in a safety-
sensitive position for a period of one year from the date the individual successfully
completes an approved rehabilitation program. Acceptable proof of completion of an
approved rehabilitation program will be required before rehiring will be considered.
E. Safety-sensitive Employees that are terminated (or resign) for a violation of this policy
may be considered for rehire into a non-safety-sensitive position three months from the
date the individual successfully completes an approved rehabilitation program.
Acceptable proof of completion of an approved rehabilitation program will be required
before rehiring will be considered.
F. Any employee re-hired after being terminated (or resigning) for a violation of this policy
is subject to additional random and non-random drug testing for a period of one year
following their rehire date as provided in Section 900.202(E)(2).
G. Any employee terminated for “test refusal” as defined by Section 900.004(S) shall not be
eligible for rehire.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Section 900.202 Rehabilitation Policy
D. Voluntary Participation.
1. When a regular employee (not probationary, part-time or temporary) comes forward
PRIOR to notification of a random or for-cause test or PRIOR to an accident and/or
injury, seeking help with a substance abuse problem, that employee will be allowed to
enter an approved rehabilitation program, as outlined below. The employee is subject
to all of the provisions of the rehabilitation policy.
2. If a regular employee DOES NOT come forward as described above, and tests positive
on an illegal substance screening, that employee will be immediately terminated from
employment.
3. Any employee who desires to voluntarily participate in rehabilitation will be allowed to
enter an approved detoxification and/or rehabilitation program with no Augusta,
Georgia participation in cost other than as provided under the employee's group health
insurance program.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 12 of 13
Item # 12
13
Version 7-28-2014
4. The employee will be allowed the use of any accrued leave time (sick and/or vacation)
during his or her absence from work for this treatment. If there is no leave time
available, the employee will be placed on leave without pay.
5. Prior to returning to work, the employee shall submit to the Risk Management
Division, in writing, proof of completion of the program and competence to return to
work.
6. Employees who have completed a detoxification and/or rehabilitation program will not
be afforded any further opportunity by Augusta, Georgia or through Augusta, Georgia's
resources to re-enter a detoxification and/or rehabilitation program for a second time.
E. Participation in Rehabilitation Directly through EAP.
1. If any employee comes forward voluntarily directly to the Employee Assistance
Program (EAP) (without first going through either Human Resources or Risk
Management), and the EAP finds that the employee is a risk to the safety of
himself/herself and/or others, the EAP will notify Risk Management that the employee
is seeking treatment directly through EAP.
2. The employee will not be terminated from employment unless the employee fails to
enter and successfully complete the substance abuse program designed for him/her by
the EAP; however, such employee shall be placed on leave until such time as he/she is
no longer considered a risk to the safety of himself/herself and/or others.
3. The EAP will keep Augusta, Georgia informed of the employee's progress through the
rehabilitation program.
4. The employee will be required to sign a statement prior to being admitted to the EAP
acknowledging that Augusta, Georgia may be notified of his entry into the program
under the above circumstances.
F. Failure to Complete Rehabilitation. Employees who do not successfully complete a
rehabilitation program will be terminated and may not be considered for re-hiring except as
provided in Section 900.012. Acceptable proof of satisfactory completion of a
rehabilitation program will be required before re-hiring will be considered.
D. Disciplinary Action. Referral to the EAP does not deprive Augusta, Georgia of the option
of taking disciplinary action against any employee in accordance with this Policy.
E. Post-Rehabilitation
1. Any employee who successfully completes a rehabilitation program and returns to
work will be considered a probationary employee for the next three-year period.
a. The classification of "probationary" applies to substance abuse testing only, when
used in the context of this Policy. The employee shall be responsible for the costs
of such tests.
b. An employee's refusal or failure of any such test will cause the employee to be
immediately terminated.
2. Prior to returning to work, the employee will be tested for illegal substances and will
be tested on an unannounced basis thereafter during the period of probation, said
testing not to exceed 12 times each year.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 13 of 13
Item # 12
1
CHAPTER IV.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE
A. GENERAL
Section 900.001 Policy and Purpose
A. In recognition of the continued and growing problem of substance abuse, it is the policy of
the Augusta, Georgia to take all reasonable measures to assure that drug and/or alcohol use
by employees does not jeopardize the safety of its operations or otherwise adversely affect
Augusta, Georgia employees, the community, or the public's trust in its ability to carry out
its responsibilities.
B. Augusta, Georgia cannot and will not tolerate lapses in employee’s ability to operate
safely and productively. The policy of Augusta, Georgia is that if an employee required
under this Policy to be tested for substance abuse either refuses or fails such test, the
employee will be subject to disciplinary measures up to and including termination.
Augusta, Georgia has a “Zero Tolerance” policy with respect to illegal substances.
Employees found to be in violation of the “Zero Tolerance” policy will be terminated
immediately.
C. The employees’ cooperation with and adherence to the Augusta, Georgia’s policies and
procedures regarding substance abuse are conditions of their continued employment. If an
employee violates or is insubordinate by refusing to cooperate with any of these policies
and procedures, the employee is subject to disciplinary measures up to and including
termination.
D. This Chapter contains the Augusta, Georgia Substance Abuse Policy. The use of the term
"Augusta", in this document, refers to the Augusta, Georgia government. Augusta, Georgia
will make a public announcement of this Policy. Employee training will be undertaken to
ensure that each individual employee understands the Policy's requirements and his or her
obligation to cooperate fully in the testing program.
E. All references within this Policy to regulations, processes and procedures are available to
any employee for review in the Risk Management Office located in Room 217, Municipal
Building, 530 Greene Street, Augusta, Georgia 30911.
F. Augusta, Georgia reserves the right to amend this Policy at any time, in its sole discretion,
with 60 days' written notice to employees before implementation of the amendment(s).
G. PRESCRIPT NOTE: Federal law requires testing of certain employees within transit
systems and holders of Commercial Drivers Licenses (49 CFR Parts 40 & 655). The
testing requirements and procedures for these employees may be different than for
employees tested under authority of Augusta, Georgia. Where a requirement of this
Policy differs as to regular and transit or CDL employees, such difference will be noted.
Attachment number 2 \nPage 1 of 6
Item # 12
2
From time to time Federal and State will update/revise their respective regulations.
When such updates/revisions occur they will automatically become a part of this policy
when they become Final Rule.
Section 900.006 Consequences for Violations
A. The following violations will result in an employee being placed on three days
administrative leave with pay with a recommendation of terminated in accordance with
Augusta’s “Zero Tolerance” policy:ion. At such time the recommendation of termination
will be forwarded to the Human Resources Director for review. The Human Resources
Director will schedule a conference with the Administrator or his or her designee to review
the recommended termination.
1. Employees who have drug test results confirmed by the Medical Review Officer a
positive for a prohibitive substance,
2. Employees who have a confirmed alcohol content of .04 or above, while on duty,
confirmed by an evidentiary breath testing devise or blood alcohol content,
3. Employees who refuse to test under the provisions of this policy,
4. Employees who adulterate or substitute their specimens and reported by GC/MS and
confirmed by the MRO.
B. CONSEQUENCES FOR OTHER VIOLATIONS :
1. Employees whose blood alcohol content is between .02 to .039 will be removed from
duty for a minimum of 8 hours and will receive appropriate disciplinary action
appropriate to the “Progressive discipline” policy provisions.
2. Negative Dilute when reported by the MRO will require a second test under direct
observation
Section 900.009 Actions Required for Positive Tests
A. Laboratory. Once a specimen has been tested as positive on an initial screening, a
confirmatory test will be conducted prior to the laboratory's reporting the specimen as a
positive result. Such test shall be performed by GCMS method.
1. Regular Employees. Once confirmed, the laboratory will report the results with allied
documentation to the MRO, through the DER /Risk Management Office.
2. Transit Employees and CDL Holders: All laboratory reports will be sent from the
laboratory testing facility directly to the MRO.
B. Medical Review Officer. The MRO will verify all positive test results by first reviewing
laboratory reports, and confirming that a proper chain of custody (procedures to account for
Attachment number 2 \nPage 2 of 6
Item # 12
3
the integrity of each specimen by tracking its handling and storage from point of collection
to final disposition) was followed.
1. The MRO will then contact the employee to discuss the positive result.
2. If verification of prescription drug use is required in connection with the MRO's
investigation of a positive result, the MRO shall meet personally with the employee.
3. Otherwise, the MRO may contact the employee by telephone.
4. If the MRO finds that a valid medical reason explains the positive result, the MRO
will report the test results to Risk Management as negative.
5. If the MRO is unable to find a valid medical reason for a positive result, the positive
result will be reported to the Designated Employer Representative as positive.
6. As a qualified medical professional, the MRO's medical judgment cannot be overturned
by an arbitrator, employer, or anyone else in the testing program (in accordance with
Federal Regulations - 40.149)
C. Risk Management. For all employees other than Transit Employees and CDL Holders,
Risk Management receives positive reports from the laboratory and forwards those reports
to the MRO. (Reports for Transit Employees and CDL Holders are forwarded from the
laboratory directly to the MRO, as outlined in the Medical Review Officer section above.
Risk Management is informed of a confirmed positive test result, by the MRO; the
Risk Manager (DER) will immediately contact the department of such results and have
the employee immediately removed from duty. These test results will then be
forwarded such results recommend to the Director of Human Resources. with a copy
to be sent to the appropriate department director.
1. that In accordance with Augusta’s “Zero Tolerance” policy, a confirmed positive test
result for an illegal substance results in immediate termination the employee should be
placed on three days administrative leave with pay with a recommendation of
termination from employment for a violation of this policy.
D. Department Management. Upon notification by Risk Management that an employee has
tested positive for an illegal substance or be under the influence of alcohol, department
management will immediately remove the employee from duty. refer the and initiate a
letter of termination to the employee to Human Resources for a decision regarding their
termination, refer the employee to a Substance Abuse Professional and inform the
employee of their right to appeal the decision.
D.E. Human Resources Department. Upon notification by Risk Management that an
employee has tested positive for an illegal substance, the Human Resources Director will
notify the employee that he/she has been terminated the employee in accordance with
Augusta’s “Zero Tolerance” policy and will notify the employee of their appeal rights as
contained in Section 300.014 and provide employee with a list of substance abuse
programs.
Positive Alcohol Tests
1. An employee with a confirmed blood-alcohol level of 0.04 or higher is in violation of
this Policy. Actions in Department Manager section above will apply.
2. Employees who are found to have an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or greater but less
than 0.04 will not be permitted to perform the job duties until: The employee's alcohol
concentration measures less than 0.02; or the start of the employee's next regularly
scheduled duty period, but not less than eight hours following administration of the test.
Attachment number 2 \nPage 3 of 6
Item # 12
4
Section 900.011 Review of Termination Recommendation
The Human Resources Director or designee will schedule a grievance with the Administrator or
designee to review the departmental recommendation of termination. The Administrator or
designee will either uphold the recommendation for termination or reject the recommendation.An
employee terminated pursuant to this chapter may appeal their termination in accordance with
Section 300.014.
Section 900.012 Rehiring Terminated Employees
A. Non safety-sensitive Employees being terminated for violation of this Policy will not be
considered for rehire by Augusta, Georgia for a period of onethree yearmonths from the
date the individual successfully completes an approved rehabilitation program
(acceptable proof of completion of an approved rehabilitation program will be required
before rehiring will be considered).
B. Non safety-sensitive Employees who resign after being notified of a positive test result,
by the MRO or through the administrative process, will not be considered for rehire by
Augusta, Georgia, for a period of three monthsone year from the date the individual
successfully completes an approved rehabilitation program. Acceptable proof of
completion of an approved rehabilitation program will be required before rehiring will be
considered.
C. Except as provided in sub-section E below, safety-sensitive Employees being terminated
for violation of this Policy will not be considered for rehire by Augusta, Georgia for a
period of one-year from the date the individual successfully completes an approved
rehabilitation program (acceptable proof of completion of an approved rehabilitation
program will be required before rehiring will be considered).
D. Safety-sensitive Employees who resign after being notified of a positive test result, by the
MRO or through the administrative process, will not be considered for rehire in a safety-
sensitive position for a period of one year from the date the individual successfully
completes an approved rehabilitation program. Acceptable proof of completion of an
approved rehabilitation program will be required before rehiring will be considered.
E. Safety-sensitive Employees that are terminated (or resign) for a violation of this policy
may be considered for rehire into a non-safety-sensitive position three months from the
date the individual successfully completes an approved rehabilitation program.
Acceptable proof of completion of an approved rehabilitation program will be required
before rehiring will be considered.
Attachment number 2 \nPage 4 of 6
Item # 12
5
F. Any employee re-hired after being terminated (or resigning) for a violation of this policy
is subject to additional random and non-random drug testing for a period of one year
following their rehire date as provided in Section 900.202(E)(2).
B.G. Any employee terminated for “test refusal” as defined by Section 900.004(S) shall
not be eligible for rehire.
Section 900.202 Rehabilitation Policy
A. Voluntary Participation.
1. When a regular employee (not probationary, part-time or temporary) comes forward
PRIOR to notification of a random or for-cause test or PRIOR to an accident and/or
injury, seeking help with a substance abuse problem, that employee will be allowed to
enter an approved rehabilitation program, as outlined below. The employee is subject
to all of the provisions of the rehabilitation policy.
2. If a regular employee DOES NOT come forward as described above, and tests positive
on an illegal substance screening, that employee will be immediately recommended for
terminatedion from employment.
3. Any employee who desires to voluntarily participate in rehabilitation will be allowed to
enter an approved detoxification and/or rehabilitation program with no Augusta,
Georgia participation in cost other than as provided under the employee's group health
insurance program.
4. The employee will be allowed the use of any accrued leave time (sick and/or vacation)
during his or her absence from work for this treatment. If there is no leave time
available, the employee will be placed on leave without pay.
5. Prior to returning to work, the employee shall submit to the Risk Management
Division, in writing, proof of completion of the program and competence to return to
work.
6. Employees who have completed a detoxification and/or rehabilitation program will not
be afforded any further opportunity by Augusta, Georgia or through Augusta, Georgia's
resources to re-enter a detoxification and/or rehabilitation program for a second time.
B. Participation in Rehabilitation Directly through EAP.
1. If any employee comes forward voluntarily directly to the Employee Assistance
Program (EAP) (without first going through either Human Resources or Risk
Management), and the EAP finds that the employee is a risk to the safety of
himself/herself and/or others, the EAP will notify Risk Management that the employee
is seeking treatment directly through EAP.
2. The employee will not be terminated from employment unless the employee fails to
enter and successfully complete the substance abuse program designed for him/her by
the EAP; however, such employee shall be placed on leave until such time as he/she is
no longer considered a risk to the safety of himself/herself and/or others.
3. The EAP will keep Augusta, Georgia informed of the employee's progress through the
rehabilitation program.
Attachment number 2 \nPage 5 of 6
Item # 12
6
4. The employee will be required to sign a statement prior to being admitted to the EAP
acknowledging that Augusta, Georgia may be notified of his entry into the program
under the above circumstances.
C. Failure to Complete Rehabilitation. Employees who do not successfully complete a
rehabilitation program will be terminated and may not be considered for re-hiring for a
period of one year from the date an approved rehabilitation program was successfully
completed except as provided in Section 900.012. Acceptable proof of satisfactory
completion of a rehabilitation program will be required before re-hiring will be considered.
D. Disciplinary Action. Referral to the EAP does not deprive Augusta, Georgia of the option
of taking disciplinary action against any employee in accordance with this Policy.
E. Post-Rehabilitation
1. Any employee who successfully completes a rehabilitation program and returns to
work will be considered a probationary employee for the next three-year period.
a. The classification of "probationary" applies to substance abuse testing only, when
used in the context of this Policy. The employee shall be responsible for the costs
of such tests.
b. An employee's refusal or failure of any such test will cause the employee to be
immediately terminated.
2. Prior to returning to work, the employee will be tested for illegal substances and will
be tested on an unannounced basis thereafter during the period of probation, said
testing not to exceed 12 times each year.
Attachment number 2 \nPage 6 of 6
Item # 12
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Discuss allowing the Augusta GA Legal department to begin negotiating an amendment to the current
ADP contract to exclude Health and Wellness services.
Department:Human Resources
Caption:Motion to authorize the Augusta Ga Legal department to enter
into negotiation process with ADP to amend the current ADP
contract to exclude providing Health and Wellness services
(automated benefits services) and provide only Time and Labor
Management services. (automated time management). Approve
the motion to allow HR to add 3 additional benefits specialist
positions to handle existing call volume and assist with benefit
functions (Approved by Administrative Services Committee
July 28, 2014)
Background:Currently Augusta GA HR Department is answering the vast
majority of employee calls and inquiries that should and could
otherwise be handled by ADP. Augusta GA has not seen a return
on investment in that we have not fully utilized the maximum
number of call intake by ADP pursuant to the current contract.
(largely in part due to the fact that employees prefer to contact HR
rather than ADP). ADP has also notified the Human Resources
department of a 3.5% increase begining October 1, 2014. (this is
in addition to the 3.5% increase in 2013). The Augusta Ga
Information Technology Department is capable and ready to
assume full responsibility of this process which could save
Augusta Ga potentially approximately $200,000.
Analysis:It would be cost effective to Augusta GA and the employees
therein, if this function was maintained internally within the HR
Department.
Financial Impact:It would be in the best interest of Augusta GA to use the
approximately 300,000 currently absorbed by ADP, to fund 3
additional positions within the HR department which could save
Augusta approximately 160,0000. This is advantagious for the
following reasons: 1). HR is currently handling a vast majority of
the calls that ADP should otherwise handle. Employees are more
comfortable talking with HR. Assuming total responsiblity for this
function will not be outside of the current scope of responsibility.
Cover Memo
Item # 13
2). I.T. has the system already in place to handle the technological
needs associated with maintaining this function in-house and has
also upgraded currently technology to enhance and increase
technological support. 3). The potential ROI could save Augusta
Ga approximately $200,000 to perform services that we are (a)
already performing largely in part and (b) capable of supporting
through technology 4). Maintaining this process in-house will
provide for more effective and efficient service to existing
employees
Alternatives:Continue to allow ADP to provide Health and Wellness Services
and continue to incur cost of approximately $300,000 with no
ROI. Due to the lack of support from ADP in regards to call
intake, current Benefits Specialist are recieving an extensive
amount of inquires via phone, email, and walk ins. In order to
provide effecient service to our customers, I would have to include
staffing for 3 additional employees to handle the current
excelerated call volume, which could cost approximately an
additional $130,000. (this amount includes fringe benefits). HR
will need additionally staff in either two scenarios. Ammending
the contract will at least allow the necessary funding to support the
additional staff (with an added cost savings to Augusta
GA)..instead of paying ADP and finding an additional funding
source for the additional benefits staff.
Recommendation:Approve the motion to allow the Augusta Ga Legal department to
enter into negotiation process with ADP to amend the current
ADP contract to exclude providing Health and Wellness services
(automated benefits services) and provide only Time and Labor
Management services. (automated time management). Approve
the motion to allow HR to add 3 additional benefits specialist
positions to handle existing call volume and assist with benefit
functions
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Administrator
Clerk of Commission
Cover Memo
Item # 13
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Request to amend City Code, Article 2, Section 8-5-11 through 8-5-25 (Roads and
Department:Information Technology GIS Division
Caption:Motion to approve amending City Code for Augusta Georgia by
deleting Article 2, Section 8-5-11 through 8-5-24 in its entirety
and replace it with City Code Article 2, Sections 8-5-11 through
8-5-42 (Roads and Addressing). The Code was set forth to provide
a system for successfully assigning road names and address within
the City and conferred the authority to the Augusta Planning
Commission (aka Planning and Development Department). This
request will assign that authority to the Augusta Information
Technology-GIS Division (IT-GIS) and update other aspects of
the Code to allow for current technology to assist in road naming
and addressing. Subdivisions and Development Plans must have
received from IT-GIS an approved list of road names and
addresses before submittal to the Planning and Development
Department for review. Road names and addresses have not been
properly vetted and public safety issues have arisen.(Approved
by Administrative Services Committee July 28, 2014)
Background:The provisions of the Code shall generally conform to the “Street
Addressing Standards and Guidelines for the State of Georgia,
with changes made based on practicality and local applicability as
needed. Standards for the USPS, NENA and FGDC and the ESRI
model for local governments shall be consulted for applicability to
Augusta’s road name and addressing program. IT-GIS will also
assume the responsibility of notifying E-911, USPS and other
agencies of any additions and/or changes to road names or
addresses in Augusta Georgia.
Analysis:The advances of technology make it reasonable to assign the road
naming and addressing authority to IT-GIS and allow the Planning
and Development Department to assume a supplementary capacity
in the process where it relates to site plan and subdivision
development.
Financial Impact:No financial responsibility to the City. All fees will be assumed by
the Developer/Owner. A fee schedule is included with this
ordinance amendment Cover Memo
Item # 14
Alternatives:Approve or deny
Recommendation:Approve
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Finance.
Law.
Administrator.
Clerk of Commission
Cover Memo
Item # 14
PROPOSED ORDINANCE FOR DISCUSSION
*** This is a working document that may change as input is received. ***
ORDINANCE ______
An Ordinance to amend the City Code for Augusta, Georgia
THE AUGUSTA COMMISSION HEREBY ORDAINS:
SECTION I That the City Code for Augusta Georgia is amended by deleting Sections 11 through 25
of Title 8, Chapter 5 of the City Code (Road Naming and Addressing) in its entirety.
SECTION II That the City Code for Augusta Georgia is amended by adding Sections 11 through 43 to
Title 8, Chapter 5 to the City Code (Roads and Addressing) as shown below:
ARTICLE 2 – ROADS AND ADDRESSING
8-5-11 Title and Purpose
This Ordinance shall be known as the Roads and Addressing Ordinance for Augusta, Georgia. These regulations
are established to provide a system of unique road names and addresses which are essential for successfully:
Improving the response time of fire, police, ambulance vehicles and other emergency services
Expediting postal and general delivery services
Enhancing the ability to locate a business and/or residences based on their address
8-5-12 Authority
This Ordinance is enacted pursuant to the authority conferred by Section 46-5-122 of The Official Code of Georgia
Annotated, as amended, to promote the public health, safety, morals, convenience, order, prosperity, and general
welfare of the present and future inhabitants of Augusta, Georgia. IT-GIS is hereby assigned overall authority and
responsibility for the naming of public/private roads and addressing as directed by provisions of this Ordinance.
8-5-13 Jurisdiction
The provisions set forth herein shall apply to those roads, both PUBLIC and PRIVATE (including
manufactured/mobile home parks, condominium developments, apartment complexes, malls, shopping plazas, strip
buildings, businesses, business or office parks) and addresses which are currently or will be located within
Augusta, Georgia and/or certain municipalities in Richmond County, Georgia.
8-5-14 Resources
This Ordinance shall conform generally to the ‘Street Addressing Standards and Guidelines for the State of
Georgia’ and the GISOP, with changes made based on practicality and local applicability as needed. Additionally,
standards issued by NENA, the FGDC, the ESRI model for local governments and the USPS shall be consulted for
their applicability to Augusta’s road name and addressing program.
8-5-15 Definitions
For the purpose of this Ordinance, the following terms are defined below. Unless specifically defined, words or
phrases used in this Ordinance shall be interpreted to have the meaning in common usage and to give this
Ordinance the most reasonable application.
Apartment: Building consisting of three (3) units or more for rent.
Augusta: The geographical area encompassed by the borders of Richmond County, GA, excluding Fort
Gordon and the cities of Hephzibah, and Blythe. Per the Augusta Charter (1996), “Augusta, GA” is the
official name of the consolidated government of Augusta and Richmond County.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 1 of 9
Item # 14
PROPOSED ORDINANCE FOR DISCUSSION
*** This is a working document that may change as input is received. ***
Commission: The Augusta Commission
Building: A structure having a roof supported by columns or walls for the shelter, support or enclosure of
persons, animals, or equipment and requiring a separate power meter to be installed for the building to have
electrical service. This will also include mobile homes or manufactured homes. For the purposes of this
Ordinance, the term “building” may also include other manmade structures meeting the same requirement as in
the first sentence.
Condominium: Ownership of a single unit within a structure that may include common areas and facilities.
Driveway: A private road, easement, or private right-of-way, giving access from a public road, private road, or
private right-of-way, leading to a building. A driveway does not serve more than two (2) lots/buildings that
have or require separate power meters to be installed for electrical service. If a driveway is said to serve more
than two (2) lots/buildings, it then shall be assigned and designated with private road name with all properties
addressed along such named private road.
Frontage unit: A frontage unit is a standard interval in feet used to assign consecutive property numbers on a
street or road.
GIS Addressing Coordinator: An employee or other designated official or person charged with the
responsibility of assigning addresses and approving road names as defined in this Ordinance. This person shall
be designated by the Director of Augusta Information Technology and will be an employee of IT-GIS.
GIS Manager: An employee or other designated official or person charged with the responsibility of managing
the GIS department within the Information Technology Department.
House number: The number assigned by the GIS Addressing Coordinator to any building for the purpose of
identification of the location.
Mailing address: The address assigned by the GIS Addressing Coordinator and used by USPS for the purpose
of delivery of the United States mail. The property address and mailing address will be the same for all
buildings unless the property owners utilize a post office box for delivery of their mail.
Mobile Home: A moveable or transportable dwelling.
Mobile Home Park: Any site or parcel of land under single ownership where land or units are rented, and
community utility(ies) provide for the occupancy of mobile homes.
Official Road Name: The name as designated in the complete list of all roads in Augusta and on file with IT-
GIS.
Private Road: Any road, which is not maintained by GDOT and/or Augusta through the use of public funds, or
is not a driveway as defined by this Ordinance.
Public Road: Any road which is maintained by Augusta, Georgia and/or by GDOT.
Road: A public or private one-way or two-way road for ingress and/or egress. Such roads may be of various
types including frontage roads, rear access roads, roads with cul-de-sacs and dead-end roads. This definition
includes secondary roads, but does not include driveways.
Road Sign: A metal blade and necessary hardware used to convey a road name, block range and, where
applicable, the state road number.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 2 of 9
Item # 14
PROPOSED ORDINANCE FOR DISCUSSION
*** This is a working document that may change as input is received. ***
Unit Designator: The portion of the mailing address used to distinguish individual units within the same
structure.
8-5-16 Abbreviations
For the purpose of this Ordinance, the following abbreviations are defined below. Unless specifically defined,
words or phrases used in this Ordinance shall be interpreted to give them the meaning they have in common usage
and to give this Ordinance the most reasonable application.
E 9-1-1: Emergency 9-1-1; a system used that links emergency callers with the appropriate public services.
ESRI: Environmental Systems Research Institute; a global company that provides the means for organizing
and analyzing geographical information to help land planners and resource managers make well-informed
environmental decisions.
FGDC: Federal Geographic Data Committee; a U. S. committee that coordinates the development of the
National Spatial Data Infrastructure.
FHWA: Federal Highway Administration; agency in the U. S. Department of Transportation that supports
states and local governments in the design, construction and maintenance of the Nation’s highway system.
GDOT: Georgia Department of Transportation
GISOP: IT-GIS Operating Procedures Technical Guide. The document used as a guideline by the GIS
Addressing Coordinator and IT-GIS that will have the authority to authorize and approve alternate methods of
displaying road naming and addressing which meet the intent of this Ordinance. This document may be
changed periodically at the discretion of IT-GIS.
IT-GIS: The Augusta Information Technology Department, GIS Division. This department is the agency that
shall assume responsibility for maintaining the road naming and addressing responsibility under this
Ordinance.
MRAD: Master Road and Address Database
MUTCD: Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices; standard for signs, signals and pavement markings in
the United States. MUTCD is published by the FHWA.
NENA: National Emergency Numbering Association; professional organization that promotes the
implementation and awareness of 9-1-1 and the international three-digit emergency communication systems.
USPS: United States Postal Service
8-5-17 Consideration of New or Proposed Road Names
The naming of roads, particularly in new subdivisions, shall be reviewed and approved by IT-GIS per the Site Plan
Regulations and Land Subdivision Regulations. Persons submitting road names that are rejected shall be notified
so that changes may be made prior to the plan review process.
A) Selection Standards
The following standards will be used in consideration of new or proposed road names. All current roads that
would otherwise not meet these standards will be granted exceptions and maintain those names until changes,
Attachment number 1 \nPage 3 of 9
Item # 14
PROPOSED ORDINANCE FOR DISCUSSION
*** This is a working document that may change as input is received. ***
if considered, can be made to conform to this Ordinance. In addition to those outlined in the GISOP, the
standards used are as follows:
1) Names of new roads or proposed changes must not duplicate, in wording, in sound or pronunciation,
an existing road within Augusta, Georgia regardless of distance between occurrences or in address
ranges/block numbers
2) Road names may not contain abbreviations of words, names or initials
3) Numerical references are prohibited, such as Fifth, Ten
4) Names of individuals will only be permitted for honorary purposes unless the individual holds a state
or national significance
5) Single alphabetical characters are prohibited
6) Road names must be easy to pronounce and easily recognizable in emergency situations
7) Special characters will not be permitted; periods, dashes, apostrophes, hyphens, etc.
8) Names that may be offensive (slang, words with double-meanings) will not be allowed
B) Prefixes and Suffixes
Directional prefixes and suffixes will be used only when necessary. If used, cardinal (North, South, East &
West) directions will only be used as prefixes and ordinal (Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, & Southeast)
directions will only be used as suffixes, in accordance to established baselines as outlined in the GISOP. The
use of both a prefix and suffix for addresses and road names will not be permitted.
C) Road Types
Each approved road name will be required to have a road type. There shall only be one road type per road
name. Road types permitted for use in Augusta, Georgia will be in compliance with the standards of the
USPS. (See USPS Publication 28) IT-GIS has the authority to determine which road type(s) shall be suitable
for the new or proposed name, as outlined in the GISOP. If the requested type is deemed inappropriate by IT-
GIS, a new one must be chosen.
8-5-18 Reserving Road Names
A request for road name reservation can be presented to IT-GIS for any new planned development. These road
names will be reviewed and reserved in the road name inventory, if approved. Road names may only be reserved
for two (2) years. Upon reaching the two year mark from date of reservation, the names will no longer be reserved,
should an extension request not be made. A new request for an additional one (1) year extension of the road
name(s) reservation must be submitted to IT-GIS.
8-5-19 Approvals
All proposed road names shall be reviewed and approved by IT-GIS during the site or development plan review
period. Roads in new subdivisions are authorized by action of the Commission before the road names become
official and signs are erected. The appropriate Geospatial Tax Map(s) shall be amended by IT-GIS to reflect all
newly approved road names.
8-5-20 Road Naming by Petitions
If property owners, tenants, or entities wish to name a road or rename an existing road, they must submit an
application and petition with 66% (two-thirds) of the property owners or tenants adjoining the said road in
agreement of the request for naming/renaming to IT-GIS. The application fee of $250 along with administrative
Attachment number 1 \nPage 4 of 9
Item # 14
PROPOSED ORDINANCE FOR DISCUSSION
*** This is a working document that may change as input is received. ***
fees must be submitted to IT-GIS prior to processing. The administrative fees may include costs for manufacturing
and installation of all new signs $200 for 2 street signs. The road naming petition will only be presented before the
Commission for final approval if all criteria are met as outlined in the GISOP.
8-5-21 Honorary Designations
Requests for honorary designations of Augusta roads, not owned or maintained by state or federal agencies, should
be made to IT-GIS. Roads assigned an honorary designation are not officially renamed but carry a second
honorary name. The application fee of $250 along with administrative fees must be submitted to IT-GIS prior to
processing. The administrative fees may include costs for manufacturing and installation of all new signs $250 for
3 honorary signs. The honorary designation request will only be presented to the Commission for final approval if
all criteria are met as outlined in the GISOP for honorary designation of Augusta facilities, roads and bridges.
8-5-22 Renaming Existing Roads for Emergency Purposes
Roads (public or private) may be changed by IT-GIS as necessary for health, safety and welfare reasons and
efficiency of the emergency response system. Owners of adjoining properties shall be notified in writing that the
change is taking place and be provided a list of proposed road names from which input shall be considered. A
selection will be chosen after receiving input and be presented to the Augusta Commission for approval. For any
case in which a continuous road has multiple names, IT-GIS will determine the correct name and notify owners
along such road of the name change. In the event of a conflict in either road naming or addressing, IT-GIS will use
its best judgment to resolve the conflict and have the responsibility of notifying the owner, E 9-1-1, USPS, and
other agencies.
8-5-23 Temporary Road Names
Temporary Road Names for events or special occasions will not be permitted.
8-5-24 Road Name Signage
Sign location and installation shall be in accordance with the rules and regulations of the MUTCD (Manual on
Uniform Traffic Control Devices) published by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) under 23 Code of
Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 655, Subpart F. http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/ . Road signs will contain the prefix (if
used), road name, road type, suffix (if used) and block numbers. Private roads will be marked as such in
accordance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).
8-5-25 Official Road Name Database / Road Book
Road Names that are assigned to roads shall be kept in a “Road Book” and have the road characteristics for each
road centerline of the master road dataset. IT-GIS shall make this information available via internet (for public
use) and intranet (for internal use). IT-GIS may designate other departments and/or personnel to maintain
information as it is deemed practical, and shall provide means for the designated personnel to update the Road
Book accordingly.
8-5-26 Addressing Applicability
Addresses will be assigned on all roads and shall have a road sign placed on the main road or highway.
8-5-27 Property Legal Descriptions
The adoptions and implementation of this Ordinance shall not affect the legal descriptions of any property or be
used to determine legal descriptions.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 5 of 9
Item # 14
PROPOSED ORDINANCE FOR DISCUSSION
*** This is a working document that may change as input is received. ***
8-5-28 Ordering of Addressing Components
Components of a property address shall always be in the following order: Address Number, Address Number
Suffix (if used prior to Ordinance), Directional Prefix (if any), Road Name, Road Type, Directional Suffix (if any),
Unit Type Designation (if applicable), and a Unit Number (if applicable).
8-5-29 Assignment and Standards
Addresses shall be determined based on the distance from the intersection of the driveway with the road and the
current surrounding addresses, if compliant with this Ordinance. Additional standards used to determine addresses
are as outlined and can be found in the GISOP.
A) Multiple Structures Sharing Driveway
If more than two (2) addressable structures access a common driveway as defined, that driveway will be
assigned a private road name and all addresses will be assigned along such private road.
B) Corner and Multiple Fronting Parcels
Corner or double fronting parcels shall be assigned an address based on the driveway location of the
intersecting road. If that entrance is not visible from that road or is inaccessible for emergency services, then
the address shall be based on the road which the structure faces.
C) Duplex/Attached Structures
Each unit of structure shall receive its own individual address as determined by IT-GIS. This would include
townhouses and condominiums.
D) Multiple Unit Structures
Separate internal units within, or associated with, residential or commercial complexes shall have an individual
address and be uniquely identified by the use of a unit type. All educational, medical, residential, industrial
facilities, and/or any other type of property with private roads that is sold shall not be allowed to change
addressing or road names without written approval of IT-GIS. If road names or addresses are changed without
approval, the property owner will be subject to fines as described in Augusta Code 8-5-40.
E) Vacant Parcels
Vacant parcels less than one acre may be pre-addressed at the discretion of IT-GIS. This pre-address shall be
assigned to the center point of the parcel frontage.
F) Miscellaneous Structures
Structures requiring an address for metering or permitting purposes shall be given their own individual address
and a unit designator. These structures would include billboards/signs, power poles, utility assets and others.
G) Mobile/Manufactured Home Parks
Mobile home lots shall have sequential address numbers throughout the mobile home park. Each lot will have
a separate address number assigned. The address number of each lot must be clearly displayed on the mobile
home which is located on that lot and must be clearly visible from the road. If the lot is more than 100 feet
from the road, the address number shall be displayed at the end of the road or easement giving access to that
mobile home. Addresses are not transferrable with the mobile home.
H) Wireless Towers
Wireless towers shall be assigned one address to the tower owner. Should the tower have multiple carriers,
each carrier will be assigned a suite number that will include the address of the tower owner. A sign or post
Attachment number 1 \nPage 6 of 9
Item # 14
PROPOSED ORDINANCE FOR DISCUSSION
*** This is a working document that may change as input is received. ***
which clearly indicated the address number assigned to the tower shall be located at the entry point of the road
on which the tower is located.
8-5-30 Numbering System
IT-GIS shall develop and maintain a uniform scaled system of numbering addresses. This addressing system
shall be used in designating addresses for new and existing structures and to resolve address problems which
tend to confuse the traveling public or tend to delay the response of emergency services, mail delivery and
other service providers. Baselines and the point of origin shall be defined in the GISOP to include the
numbering structure for Augusta, Georgia. Addressing shall generally conform to the ‘Street Addressing
Standards and Guidelines for the State of Georgia’ and the GISOP, however; IT-GIS reserves the right to
amend as needed.
8-5-31 Specifications and Placement of Address Numbers
All structure numbers shall be constructed of a durable, weather resistant material. The color shall contrast with the
color scheme of the structure, and if mounted on glass, shall contrast with the background and be clearly visible.
Reflective numbers for nighttime identification are required.
Residential numbers should not be less than three (3) inches in height. Commercial numbers should not be less
than six (6) inches in height. In all cases, a number larger than the minimum size may be required where the
minimum size does not provide adequate identification from the traveled roadway or is proportional to the building
size. All numerical identifications must be easily identifiable without obstruction of view. Any dwelling or
individual business located at more than 50 feet from the roadway and/or not clearly visible shall be required to
have numerical posting at both the entrance or driveway and located in close proximity to the front door or
entrance way.
8-5-32 Responsibility for Placement of Address Numbers
It shall be the responsibility of each and every property owner, trustee, lessee, agent and occupant of each
residence, apartment building, business or industry to post and maintain, at all times, address numbers as required
under this Ordinance. All addresses shall be displayed in such a way that they are unobstructed and legible from
the traveled roadway.
A) New Addresses
The owner, occupant, or agent of each house, building or other structure assigned an address under the uniform
numbering system shall place or cause to be placed the number on the house, building, or other structure
within thirty (30) days after receiving notification from IT-GIS of the proper number assignment or within
thirty (30) days of occupancy, whichever is sooner.
B) Existing Addresses
Further, the owner, occupant or agent of any existing house, building or other structure existing as of the date
of the adoption of this Ordinance, shall place or cause to be placed the number on the house, building or other
structure within sixty (60) days after the adoption of this Ordinance.
8-5-33 Changes of Addresses
If an address number is changed for any reason, IT-GIS shall be responsible for assigning the new address number.
An application requesting the change must be submitted to the GIS Addressing Coordinator. This form shall be
available online on the Augusta, GA website and at the IT-GIS office. IT-GIS has the authority to change
addresses as necessary to ensure conformity throughout Augusta, GA and efficiency of the emergency response
system.
Attachment number 1 \nPage 7 of 9
Item # 14
PROPOSED ORDINANCE FOR DISCUSSION
*** This is a working document that may change as input is received. ***
Requests will be reviewed within five (5) business days for consideration and approval, but may be extended
should further consideration be needed. When such a change is made, IT-GIS shall notify the building owner to
make the change, USPS, Augusta, GA offices, and emergency services. The owner of the building shall post the
changed address numbers within thirty (30) days of receipt of such notice. The owner/resident of the building will
be responsible for notifying all suppliers and others of the address change.
8-5-34 Compliance
No owner of real property shall attempt to number or fail to number the property or the principle building, if not in
conformity with this Ordinance. IT-GIS shall send a written notice, to any owner not in compliance with this
Ordinance, to the owner’s address as stated in Augusta records, directing specific compliance with a provision of
this Ordinance. If corrective measures have not been taken within thirty (30) days of the notification of violation, a
person or business will be subject to enforcement fines as described in Section 8-5-40. Augusta, Georgia will not
assume any responsibility for the inability of emergency services (i.e. sheriff, fire, 911 departments) to locate the
property in the event of an emergency due to incorrect property identification.
8-5-35 Development Plan Requirements
All land subdivisions that creates a new public or private road or road section in any jurisdiction within Augusta,
Georgia must have a pre-approved list of road names and addresses from IT-GIS before submitting subdivision and
development plans to Planning and Development. All multi-unit and multi-structure developments must submit
the site plan with building layout, for unit numbering, to IT-GIS prior to occupancy. Any subdivision or site that
requires new addresses will be reviewed within seven (7) business days for assignment and subject to the final
development/site plan approval before release.
8-5-36 Business Licenses
All businesses, new or existing must have their address properly displayed in accordance to this Ordinance or a
penalty will be assessed. All new businesses must have their address verified/confirmed against the MRAD before
a license can be issued.
8-5-37 Building Permits
No permit shall be issued for any structure until the owner/developer/contractor obtains an official address
assigned by IT-GIS. The owner can contact the GIS Addressing Coordinator directly to complete an address
assignment request.
8-5-38 Certificate of Occupancy
The Certificate of Occupancy (CO) for any structure erected, repaired, or modified shall be withheld by the
Planning and Development Department until the address is posted on the structure as outlined in this Ordinance.
8-5-39 Enforcement Responsibilities
The responsibility for the enforcement of the provisions of the Roads and Addressing Ordinance, in addition to the
legal authority of Augusta, is as assigned below:
Augusta IT-GIS: The GIS Addressing Coordinator or any designee(s) of IT-GIS shall have the
responsibility of enforcing this Ordinance and issuing citations for violations.
Augusta Planning & Development: The Code Enforcement division or any designee(s) or Planning &
Development shall have the responsibility of enforcing this Ordinance and issuing citations for violations.
8-5-40 Penalties for Violation
Any person, business or property owner that violates or fails to comply with the provisions of this Ordinance, with
exception Section 8-5-28 D, shall be guilty of an infraction punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.00, six (6)
Attachment number 1 \nPage 8 of 9
Item # 14
PROPOSED ORDINANCE FOR DISCUSSION
*** This is a working document that may change as input is received. ***
month imprisonment or both. Any person, business or property owner that violates Section 8-5-29 D shall be
guilty of an infraction punishable by fine not to exceed $1000.00. Each day any violation with the provisions of
the Ordinance shall continue as a separate offense. In the event that violations of this Ordinance are not corrected
within thirty (30) days of receiving the fine, Augusta may perform the work needed to comply and bill the property
owner(s). If the bill for work performed is not paid within ninety (90) days of mailing, then a lien may be put on
the property to include the cost of the work and any applicable court costs.
8-5-41 Appeals
Any owner or occupant can submit an informal appeal in writing to the GIS Manager of the GIS Addressing
Coordinator’s road naming and/or addressing decisions within ten (10) days of the notification date. The GIS
Manager shall review within reasonable time to determine if he/she will affirm, modify, or revoke the decision of
the GIS Addressing Coordinator. If the appellant still finds the decision unsatisfactory, he/she may submit a
formal appeal to the Commission within fifteen (15) days of the notification date. The notice of appeal should
include the application and any appeal fees as applicable. The Commission shall make its final decision on the
appeal, in conformity with this chapter, and it shall be final and conclusive. In the absence of an appeal within the
designated timeframes, the decisions of the GIS Addressing Coordinator or GIS Manager shall be final.
8-5-42 Severability of Provisions
All provisions in other Ordinances for Augusta, Georgia in conflict with this Ordinance are hereby repealed. If any
provisions of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or circumstance are held invalid, the invalidity
does not affect other provisions or applications of this Ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid
provision or application and to this end, the provisions of this Ordinance are severable.
8-5-43 Liability
Augusta, Georgia, its officers, agents or employees, together with any person following their instructions in
rendering services, are not liable for civil damages as a result of an act or omission under this Ordinance, including
but not limited to, developing, adopting, operating, or implementing an addressing system or plan.
SECTION III All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance are hereby repealed.
Done in Open Meeting under the Common Seal thereof this __________ day of ___________________, 2014.
APPROVED THIS __________ day of ___________________, 2014.
___________________________________
MAYOR, AUGUSTA COMMISSION
AUGUSTA, GEORGIA
ATTEST:
___________________________________
CLERK OF COMMISSION
Attachment number 1 \nPage 9 of 9
Item # 14
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
15th Street Corridor Improvement Project
Department:
Caption:Update on the status of the 15th Street Corridor Improvement
Project. Provide an overview of Project to include projected
timeline. (No recommendation from Administrative Services
Committee July 28, 2014)
Background:
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Cover Memo
Item # 15
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Motion to Approve Reorganization of Law Department
Department:Law
Caption:Motion to approve Law Department reorganization to include
reclassifying vacant staff attorney position to deputy general
counsel, eliminating an administrative clerk position and
temporary positions and creating a paralegal position. (Approved
by Administrative Services Committee July 7, 2014) (Referred
from July 15 Commission meeting and no recommendation
from Administrative Services Committee July 28, 2014)
Background:BACKGOUND AND ANALYSIS The Law Department budget
has been reduced nearly every year for the last few years. The
Law Department budget was reduced approximately $220,000 in
2014 alone, yet the legal needs of the Commission and
departments continue to increase. The Law Department is in need
of and therefore proposing a reorganization to improve the
efficiency and functionality of the department without increasing
the budget. The Law Department has a staff attorney position that
is currently vacant. Further, the Law Department was recently
notified that one of its administrative staff will be transitioning to
a part-time role on October 1. In order to address both of these
vacancies, the Law Department has developed a reorganization
plan that will further develop a succession plan for the department,
establish essential staffing structure, and improve efficiency. The
proposed reorganization consists of reclassifying the currently
vacant staff attorney position to a deputy general counsel position,
eliminating the administrative clerk and temporary positions, and
creating a paralegal position. The elimination of the administrative
clerk position and temporary positions will free up sufficient funds
in salaries currently in the Law Department budget to fund the
reorganization. It is anticipated that the deputy general counsel
position will be filled from within through a competitive job
posting process and ultimately will result in an additional salary
expense of approximately $19,000 (depending on the
qualifications of the candidate selected for the deputy general
counsel position and any other vacancies being filled). It is
expected that the paralegal position will be filled through an
external competitive job posting process and will result in an
additional salary expense of approximately $45,000 depending on
Cover Memo
Item # 16
the education and experience of the selected candidate. Finally, it
is anticipated that approximately $19,500 will be necessary to fill
the staff attorney position that will be vacant as a result of the
internal promotion(s) due to the creation of the deputy general
counsel position. Therefore, it is projected that the reorganization
will be revenue neutral. Further, from 2009 through 2012, the
Law Department has reduced overall legal expenses by $310,000
per year by doing more legal work in-house as well as
implementing preventative measures to minimize legal
exposure. To effectively continue to maintain lower overall legal
expense while maintaining (and increasing) service levels, it is
necessary to have a sufficiently qualified Deputy General Counsel,
so that General Counsel can have adequate opportunity to provide
greater guidance and oversight relative to Augusta’s overall legal
needs and concerns, delegate and evaluate critical assignments,
while still being able to respond to the needs of the
Commissioners, departmental directors and other governmental
clients. Upgrading the Staff Attorney position to Deputy General
Counsel will prove help to maximize the capacity of the Law
Department to reduce outside counsel expenses while reducing
overall litigation exposure. Additionally, the inclusion of a
paralegal to the Law Department staff will further advance the
efficiency of the Law Department attorneys by providing much
needed legal research, as well as administrative, organizational,
and scheduling support. A phased approach is being proposed for
this reorganization: Phase 1 – immediately: create, post internally,
and fill the Deputy General Counsel position; post internally and
fill any vacancy created by the filling of the Deputy General
Counsel position; post externally and fill Staff Attorney vacancy
created by filling aforementioned positions; and Phase 2 –
October, 2014: eliminate administrative clerk and temporary
positions; create, post externally, and fill paralegal position.
Analysis:
Financial Impact:Allows the Law Department to operate more effectively and
efficiently without any additional funding needed
Alternatives:Deny
Recommendation:Approve
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
Cover Memo
Item # 16
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Cover Memo
Item # 16
Attachment number 1 \nPage 1 of 9
Item # 16
Proposed
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Proposed
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Item # 16
Proposed
Attachment number 1 \nPage 8 of 9
Item # 16
Attachment number 1 \nPage 9 of 9
Item # 16
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Re-enrollment of Insurance
Department:Clerk of Commission
Caption:Discuss re-enrollment of the county's permanent life insurance,
ING. ((No recommendation Administrative Services
Committee July 28, 2014)
Background:
Analysis:
Financial Impact:
Alternatives:
Recommendation:
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Cover Memo
Item # 17
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Item # 17
Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Augusta Fire Department Salary Adjustments & Retention Proposal
Department:Fire
Caption:Motion to approve the Augusta Fire Department proposed salary
adjustment and retention program that will address the following
issues: Increase retention rates among newly hired employees;
Improve the retention of experienced and qualified leadership
personnel; Equalize salaries within ranks, reducing pay disparities
and unfair practices that have existed in the past; Align pay with
rank, eliminating subordinates earning more than their direct
supervisors; Attract qualified personnel. (Approved by Public
Safety Committee July 28, 2014)
Background:In the past 5-1/2 years the Augusta Fire Department has lost 140
staff members. Firefighters are trained to both State and National
Standards and use these qualification to seek employment with
higher paying departments. There are disparities in our current
pay structure such that lower ranking personnel with less
responsibility are compensated at a higher rate of pay than higher
ranking personnel with more responsibilities.
Analysis:The Augusta Fire Department staffing levels are reaching a critical
low. A the present time we have 29 open 24-hr fire supppression
positions. Within the fist six months of 2014 it has been necessary
to put fire suppression companies out of service approximately 25
times due to the lack in daily staffing. Putting these companies out
of service does not allow firefighters to perform their jobs
efficiently, increases response times, and increases the potiential
for firefighter injury.
Financial Impact:To implement the proposed ajustments it will cost approximately
$194,160 for the remainder of 2014 and a $504,817 increase in the
2015 budget.
Alternatives:None
Recommendation:To approve the proposed salary adjustments and new salary ranges
for Fire Department personnel.Cover Memo
Item # 18
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
Funds in the amount of $365,000 were budgeted for the reserve
firefighter program and can be used to cover salary adjustments
through December 31, 2014. Adjustments for 2015 can be funded
through reallocation of other line items such as the vehicle cost
allocations.
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Finance.
Law.
Administrator.
Clerk of Commission
Cover Memo
Item # 18
Salary Equalization Proposal
Christopher E. James, Fire Chief
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To provide the citizens within our community
professional and efficient emergency services by
protecting the lives, property, and environment
that we are sworn to serve.
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•To increase retention rates among newly hired employees
•Improve the retention of experienced and qualified
leadership personnel
•Equalize salaries within ranks, reducing pay disparities and
unfair practices that have existed for years
•Align pay with rank, eliminating subordinates earning more
than their direct supervisors
•Attract qualified personnel
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•2009; 10 personnel
•2010; 20 personnel
•2011; 33 personnel
•2012; 30 personnel
•2013; 25 personnel
•2014; 22 personnel from January to present
–Total of 140 staff members have left the Augusta Fire
Department over the last 5 1/2 years. Of the 140
departures, only 39 were due to retirement.
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0
5000
10000
15000
20000
25000
30000
35000
40000
45000
Salaries
Augusta
Atlanta
Savannah
Dekalb
Cobb Co.
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•Annual Overtime Fund Budget: $600,000
0
200,000
400,000
600,000
800,000
1,000,000
1,200,000
Overtime Expenditures
2011
2012
2013
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•NFPA 1710 established a
standard of 4 personnel on each
apparatus
•“2 in/ 2 out” rule to ensure
firefighter safety
•Unable to consistently meet
these requirements due to
staffing shortages
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It costs over $23,000 to train
each new recruit as a certified
Firefighter and Emergency
Medical Technician.
Class of 25= $575,000
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•Hiring costs; physicals, background checks,
exams
•Training staff salaries and benefits
•Support staff and office supplies
•Certification exams and fees
•Protective gear and uniform issue
•Recruit salaries and benefits for 24 weeks
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•$194,160 August 1, 2014- December 31, 2014
•$365,000 budgeted for reserve Firefighter
Program/2014
•$504,817 expenditure for 2015
•Possible within current budget guidelines
•Reallocation of other line items
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Firefighters (92)
Lietuenants (38)
Captains (10)
Sergeants (29)
Division Heads/ Shift
Commanders (3)
Deputy Chief (1)There are no provisions in this proposal
requesting salary adjustments for the Fire
Chief or Battalion Chiefs.
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Commission Meeting Agenda
8/5/2014 2:00 PM
Report to Commission on Fire Department In-house Emergency Vehicle Maintenance Proposal
Department:Fire
Caption:Motion to approve the proposal to allow the Augusta Fire
Department not be included in the Fleet Maintenance Contract
with First Vehicle Services and be permitted to run an in-house
vehicle maintenance program.(Approved by Public Safety
Committee July 28, 2014)
Background:During 2014 budget preparation the Fleet Mainenance Department
informed the Fire Department that their vehicle cost allocation
would be $1,250,750, an increase of $219,430 from 2013. In
early 2014 Fleet Maintenance Department requested a renewal of
the contract with First Vehicle Services. At that time discussion
took place with Commissioners to allow the Fire Department to be
excluded from the contract.
Analysis:The Fire Department will be able to run an in-house fleet
mainenance program at a lower cost, be more centrally located to
all existing fire stations, and run more efficiently reducing the
amount of time units are out of service.
Financial Impact:The 2014 Vehicle Cost Allocation is $1,250,750 It is estimated to
cost approximately $771,683 creating a savings of $479,067 due
primarily to the reduction of contract managment fees paid to First
Vehicle Services.
Alternatives:None
Recommendation:Allow the Augusta Fire Department to be excluded from the First
Vehicle Services contract and to implement an in-house vehicle
maintenance program.
Funds are Available
in the Following
Accounts:
Use funds that are currently committed to the Vehicle Cost
Allocation.
Cover Memo
Item # 19
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Finance.
Law.
Administrator.
Clerk of Commission
Cover Memo
Item # 19
Maintenance Facility Proposal
Christopher E. James, Fire Chief
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To provide the citizens within our community
professional and efficient emergency
services by protecting the lives, property, and
environment that we are sworn to serve.
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Present cost savings from adopting in-
house maintenance program
Discuss increased efficiency by
transitioning to an in-house program
Maintenance contract Increased $219,430
from 2013 to 2014
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Vehicle allocation for 2014 is $1,250,750
•Parts
•Labor
Contract
Non contract, to include costs for vehicles >8 yrs. old
Fire Apparatus > 15 yrs. old
•Sublet costs
•Overhead
Administrative fees/ Fleet Manager/Staff salaries
•Contract fees
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Costs (In-House) $771,683
•Parts $273,418 (2013 fleet maintenance data)
•Labor, In-house staff salaries and benefits $372,650
Shop Supervisor
1 lead tech, 3 mechanics
1 light vehicle/ small engine tech
1 admin/ parts clerk
•Sublet costs $51,184 (2013 fleet maintenance data)
•Overhead $74, 431
•Contract Fees $0
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Use current facility during construction of
new centralized facility
Site for new facility chosen due to:
•Emergency Vehicle Priority
•Available space
•Central location
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4 apparatus repair bays
1 light vehicle bay
Small engine repair area
Parts Room
Shop supervisor office
Administration clerk office
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Reduced maintenance and parts costs
due to fleet upgrades
Increased emphasis on preventive
maintenance
Better reserve units, reducing out of
service time
Fire Station service calls for minor
repairs
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$479,067 savings
Increased efficiency
Reduced average travel, keeping units
closer to their coverage area
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