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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-06-06 Meeting AgendaCommission Meeting Agenda Commission Chamber 6/6/2017 2:00 PM INVOCATION:Reverend Marcus J. Rogers, Pastor, Williams Memorial CME Church. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Five (5) minute time limit per delegation DELEGATIONS A.Ms. Brenda Durant, Executive Director Greater Augusta Arts Council regarding presentation to the city-of the newest Arts in the Heart Poster. Attachments B.Glennis G. Davis regarding law enforcement accountability.Attachments C.Mr. Frank Anderson regarding the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam. (Requested by Commissioner Wayne Guilfoyle) Attachments CONSENT AGENDA (Items 1-19) PLANNING 1. ZA-R-248 - A request for concurrence with the Augusta Georgia Planning Commission to approve a request to amend the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance for Augusta Georgia by adding Noise (Ordinance) to Section 2 – Definitions, Section 4 – Off-Street Parking and Loading, Section 21 – B-1 (Neighborhood Business), Section 22 – B-2 (General Business). (Approved by Commission May 16, 2017 - second reading) Attachments PUBLIC SERVICES 2.Motion to approve New Location: A.N. 17-17: request by Michael S. Fredericks for an on premise consumption Beer & Wine License to be used in connection with Twisted Burrito, LLC located at 4107 Madeline Dr. There will be Sunday Sales. District 3. Super District 10. (Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments 3.Motion to approve New Location/License Transfer: A.N. 17- 18: request by Charles Kendrick for an on premise consumption Liquor, Beer & Wine License to be used in connection with Kush located at 813 Broad Street. There will be Dance. District 1. Super District 9. (Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments 4.Motion to approve New Ownership Application: A.N. 17-19: request by Susan J. Faircloth for an on premise consumption Liquor, Beer & Wine License to be used in connection with Fifty Six Pub located at 4020 Mike Padgett Highway. There will be Dance. District 1. Super District 9. (Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments 5.Motion to approve adopting the City’s Destination Blueprint prepared by the Augusta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB). (Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments 6.Motion to approve award of the contract for Bid Item 17-156, the HVAC replacement at the May Park and Bernie Ward Community Centers to the low bidder, Waters Mechanical for $259,000..(Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments 7.Motion to approve a request for the purchase of a 2017 Genie GA 3232 Scissor Lift from United Rentals at a cost of $26,039.00 as approved by the Augusta Aviation Commission at their April 27, 2017 Meeting. (Bid Item 17-159) (Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments 8.Motion to approve adopting the City of Augusta’s Public Art Masterplan as facilitated by the Greater Augusta Arts Council. (Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES 9.Motion to approve the replacement of one Ford F-350, Dual Rear Wheel (DRW), truck for Engineering Maintenance from Fleet Capital Outlay for 2017. (Approved by Administrative Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments 10.Motion to approve award for replacement of the roof on Friedman Branch Library to the lowest compliant bidder, Roofing Professionals, Inc. of Grovetown, GA, in the amount of $162,900, bid item 17-168. (Approved by Administrative Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments 11.Motion to approve the expansion of the Laney Walker Enterprise Zone. (Approved by Administrative Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments 12.Motion to approve extending the lease with the US Navy for the Naval Reserve Center on Central Avenue through June 2018. Lease payments are $1 per year, Augusta has no financial or maintenance obligations under this lease. (Approved by Administrative Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments 13.Motion to approve a request to display historical documents within a county facility. (Approved by Administrative Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments PUBLIC SAFETY 14.Motion to approve reappointing Fire Chief, Chris James, to the Region VI EMS Council.(Approved by Public Safety Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments 15.Motion to approve acceptance of a supplemental State grant in the amount of $6,200 to support the operations of the State Court Veterans Court program for the period of April 1, 2017 - June 30, 2017. (Approved by Public Safety Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments FINANCE 16.Motion to approve the FY2018 Budget calendar. (Approved by Finance Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments ENGINEERING SERVICES 17.Motion to approve Amendments to Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments 18.Motion to approve granting Georgia Power an easement on 2715 Ingleside Drive (Tax Map 025-2, Parcel 124-01) in order for them to relocate three power poles and a distribution line required as a result of the Berckmans Road Widening and Realignment Project, as requested by AED. Also approve having the agreement executed by the appropriate Augusta official(s). (Approved by Engineering Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS 19.Motion to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of the Commission held May 16, 2017 and Legal Meeting held May 30, 2017. Attachments ****END CONSENT AGENDA**** AUGUSTA COMMISSION 6/6/2017 AUGUSTA COMMISSION REGULAR AGENDA 6/6/2017 (Items 20-26) PUBLIC SERVICES 20.Approve establishing a subcommittee to review and recommend changes to the city's Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance how zoning exceptions are done in residential subdivisions and in other areas. (No recommendation from Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Attachments Upcoming Meetings www.augustaga.gov ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES 21.Discuss/report from Administration regarding the matter of city-owned equipment being used on private property in Lincoln County. (Requested by Commissioner Marion Williams) Attachments 22.Motion to support the effort to save the middle of Savannah River Lock and Dam and to refurbish the Lock and Dam. (Requested by Commissioner Wayne Guilfoyle) Attachments ENGINEERING SERVICES 23.Report from staff on scope of services completed and total expenditures to date for services rendered by Cooper Carey. (Requested by Commissioner Marion Williams) Attachments 24.Discuss/update/report from staff regarding the James Brown Enhancement Project. (Requested by Commissioner Marion Williams) Attachments APPOINTMENT(S) 25.Motion to approve the appointment of Commissioner Dennis Williams as ex-officio member to the Augusta Aviation Commission. (Requested by Mayor Pro Tem Mary Davis) Attachments LEGAL MEETING A. Pending and Potential Litigation. B. Real Estate. C. Personnel. 26.Motion to approve execution by the Mayor of the affidavit of compliance with Georgia's Open Meeting Act. Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Invocation Department: Department: Caption:Reverend Marcus J. Rogers, Pastor, Williams Memorial CME Church. Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Ms. Brenda Durant, Executive Director Greater Augusta Arts Council Department: Department: Caption:Ms. Brenda Durant, Executive Director Greater Augusta Arts Council regarding presentation to the city-of the newest Arts in the Heart Poster. Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Glennis G. Davis Department: Department: Caption:Glennis G. Davis regarding law enforcement accountability. Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo AGENDA ITEM REQUEST FORM Commission meetings: First and third Tuesdays of each month - 2:00 p.m. Committee meetings: Second and last Tuesdays of each month - 1:00 p.m. Commission/Committee: (Please check one and insert meeting date) ,/J Commission Date of Meeting Date of Meeting Date of Meeting Date of Meeting Date of Meeting Date of Meeting '/-(-11 Public Safety Committee Public Services Committee Administrative Services Committee Engineering Services Committee Finance Committee Contact Information for IndividuaUPresenter Making the Request: 'Ertrti t'Daris Telephone Number: Fax Number: ou E-Mail laar"t -u opic of Discussion to placed on the Agenda: uGqs7r+ ., &*, 30q0 Please send this request form to the following address: Ms. Lena J. Bonner Clerk of Commission Suite 220 Municipal Building 535 Telfair Street Augusta, GA 30901 Telephone Number: 7 06-821-1820 Fax Number: 706-821-1838 E-MailAddress: nmorawski@augustaga.gov Requests may be faxed, e-mailed or delivered in person and must be received in the Clerk's Office no later than 5:00 p.m. on the Wednesday preceding the Commission meeting and 5:00 p.m. on the Tuesday preceding the Committee meeting of the following week. A five- minute time limit will be allowed for presentations. Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Frank Anderson New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam Department: Department: Caption:Mr. Frank Anderson regarding the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam. (Requested by Commissioner Wayne Guilfoyle) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo Save the Middle Savannah River! What is the Issue? The New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam, through its five remotely operated dam gates, provides critical functions for the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) – it creates a steady, controlled 10- mile long River Pool, and it routinely minimizes flood water levels during storm events. The US Army Corps of Engineers was required by Congress to conduct essential repairs to the Lock and Dam. The Corps never performed the mandated repairs. The Lock and Dam remains in critical need of repair. The Corps is evaluating whether to remove the Lock and Dam and replace it with a permanent, in- river rock weir to provide passage for endangered fish species – a solution that will create new and significant risks to the CSRA communities. What are the risks to our communities? Replacement of the Lock and Dam with a rock weir would be potentially disastrous. According to the Corps’ own reports, the rock weir could…... Cost as much as twice the cost of repairing the Lock and Dam and constructing a fish bypass; Critically and permanently lower the lever of the River Pool, endangering water supplies, as well as devastating the recreational and business opportunities of the riverfront – such as the River Walk, Project Jackson, and boat and swim races, and loss of the millions in revenue these activities generate for the CSRA; Magnify flood risks in storm events; Result in permanent loss of river navigation; Create siltation and debris buildup, threatening water supplies, river users, wildlife habitat; Cause temporary loss of the pool during weir construction; and Impose an unknown, uncertain future for the CSRA. Repairing the Lock and Dam and constructing a modest fish bypass is the cost-effective, practical, workable and protective solution that serves all needs. How can I get involved? Voice your concerns – Join us in submitting written comments to the Corps by June 3rd at CESAS-PD@usace.army.mil Join with other CSRA stakeholders to support the Save the Middle Savannah River -- to promote the Lock and Dam restoration and fish bypass solution through legislative and local action. For more information on this important issue, please visit us at: [Insert Web Address] May 2, 2017 VIA Electronic Delivery (CESAS-PD@usace.army.mil) Savannah District, US Army Corps of Engineers Planning Division, ATTN: Mr. Nathan Dayan (PD) 100 West Oglethorpe Avenue Savannah, Georgia 31401-3640 Re: Comments on the SHEP Fish Mitigation Feature, New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam; USACE Public Notice dated April 4, 2017 Dear Sirs or Mesdames: As a member of the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), I appreciate the opportunity to submit these comments on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ review of fish passage alternatives associated with the New Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam (Lock and Dam) under the WIIN Act. For all of the reasons outlined in the May 2, 2017, comments submitted by Save the Middle Savannah River, which comments I am incorporating by reference as my own, neither of the WIIN Act rock weir alternatives (the Rock Weir or WIIN Act alternatives) will meet the technical requirements that Congress included in the WIIN Act. Further, the Rock Weir alternatives would impose unnecessary and unreasonable economic, human health, safety and environmental risks on the citizens, businesses and municipalities of the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). The common sense solution is clear and achievable – reauthorization and repair of the Lock and Dam and construction of a modified Fish Bypass. This cost-effective, approved, and workable approach will allow the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project (SHEP) to stay on schedule without sacrificing the vital interests of the CSRA. My contact information is included below and I look forward to working with all of the stakeholders in ensuring a protective solution for both the CSRA and the Savannah Harbor project. Sincerely, Email: Mailing Address: Save the Middle Savannah River 103 Macartan Street Augusta, Georgia 30901 May 2, 2017 VIA Electronic Delivery (CESAS-PD@usace.army.mil) Savannah District, US Army Corps of Engineers Planning Division, ATTN: Mr. Nathan Dayan (PD) 100 West Oglethorpe Avenue Savannah, Georgia 31401-3640 Re: Comments of Save the Middle Savannah River on the SHEP Fish Mitigation Feature, New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam; USACE Public Notice dated April 4, 2017 Dear Sirs or Mesdames: Save the Middle Savannah River (Save the River) appreciates the opportunity to submit the following comments on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ review of fish passage alternatives associated with the New Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam (Lock and Dam) under the WIIN Act. For all of the reasons outlined in these comments, neither of the WIIN Act rock weir alternatives (the Rock Weir or WIIN Act alternatives) will meet the technical requirements that Congress included in the WIIN Act, and, further, the Rock Weir alternatives would impose unnecessary and unreasonable economic, human health, safety and environmental risks on the citizens, businesses and municipalities of the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). The common sense solution is clear and achievable – reauthorization and repair of the Lock and Dam and construction of a modified Fish Bypass. This cost-effective, approved, and workable approach will allow the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project (SHEP) to stay on schedule without sacrificing the vital interests of the CSRA. I. Statement of Interest The Savannah River pool maintained by the Lock and Dam is a crown jewel of the CSRA community. The steady pool provides critical water supply for municipalities serving several hundred thousand residents and for several of the CSRA’s largest industries. Additionally, the vibrant and thriving Metro Augusta riverfront, including the Riverwalk and new community assets like the stadium, depend entirely upon the steady pool at current depths for its riverfront paths, marinas, boat races, and Ironman events. These developments draw enormous economic growth to the area, and these pool-dependent events, such as the Augusta Half-Ironman, Augusta Southern Nationals Drag Boat races, and the Rowing regattas, generate millions of dollars of stimulus to the economies of Georgia and South Carolina. Boating and Ironman events alone draw over 5,000 participants and 44,000 spectators each year. Comments of Save the Middle Savannah River May 2, 2017 2 In addition to the pool, the Lock and Dam also provides critical pool level control and water reregulation in times of high flow, such as the recent January 2016 high-water events. (See Corps 2012 SHEP Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) at 74.) The Lock & Dam consists of two major components: a navigation lock to accommodate boat traffic, and five vertical-lift spillway gates to regulate the upstream stage of the river at various ordinary flow rates. The two outer gates are of the overflow type, and the middle three gates are of the non-overflow type. All of the gates are adjustable and are controlled remotely at J. Strom Thurmond dam. The Corps operates the gates between 6 and 18 times a week, demonstrating the key importance of these gates to routine water pool regulation. Additionally, the Corps “raises the gates during high flows to reduce the backwater effects of the dam on the upstream pool and its adjacent development.” (SHEP EIS at 71.) The Lock and Dam has successfully managed and maintained the River pool for the CSRA, and mitigated in-river and backwater flood risks to our area, for over 80 years. Members of the Save the River have direct and compelling interests in preserving these vital functions of the Lock and Dam. Our members include municipalities, landowners, business owners, farmers, outdoor enthusiast and other CSRA community members (and federal taxpayers), all of whom would be negatively impacted by the Rock Weir alternatives. II. Comments on the WIIN Act Rock Weir Alternatives The following comments provide our group’s key concerns regarding the WIIN Act’s Rock Weir alternatives. As outlined below, the Rock Weir alternatives cannot meet the requirements of the Act and would create unacceptable risk and economic loss for the CSRA community. A. The $100 million Price Tag for the Weir Alternatives The Corps spent almost two decades developing and analyzing the fish mitigation options associated with the harbor deepening. This 20-year process included a detailed engineering and cost evaluation of fish passage options in the central Savannah River. As a result of this lengthy and thorough evaluation, the Corps concluded in the 2012 SHEP EIS that construction of a Fish Bypass (called an “off-channel rock ramp”) was, by orders of magnitude, a far more favorable solution. The Corps summarized its analysis in the following table: Comments of Save the Middle Savannah River May 2, 2017 3 (SHEP EIS at 5-120.) Because repair of the Lock and Dam is essential to long-term success of the Fish Bypass, the overall cost of the selected remedy, for a combined Fish Bypass/Dam rehabilitation estimate, is $53 million, which includes $21 million in estimated rehabilitation costs. The WIIN Act alternatives, summarized generally as the “Full River Rock Ramp,” are estimated to cost $100 million. The obvious choice between the $53 million Fish Bypass (the project selected in the 2012 SHEP EIS) and the $100 million WIIN Act alternatives is clear. The weir alternatives in the WIIN Act are not cost effective and would expose U.S. taxpayers to an unnecessary financial burden. On cost alone, the Rock Weir alternatives presented in the WIIN Act are far inferior to the Fish Bypass. 1 B. The Flood Risk and Lower Pool Created by Loss of the Dam As with the cost estimates, the Corps has already evaluated the ability of the Rock Weir alternatives to maintain the critical water reregulation function of the Dam gates. In the 2012 SHEP EIS, the Corps concluded that any modification to the gates would cause an unacceptable risk of increased flood impacts for the upstream community. In describing the development of the mitigation feature, the Corps writes, The design team found maintaining the upstream pool elevation to be a challenge. The District maintains stable pool elevations (near EL 115 feet) during most river flows and raises the gates at the dam during high flows to reduce the backwater effects of the dam on the upstream pool and its adjacent development. Placing rock in the channel cross-section and/or making a gate inoperable reduces the ability of the water managers to lower water heights in North Augusta and Augusta during high flow periods. As a result, the designers expended considerable effort to develop designs that would not increase upstream flood heights over the current condition. SHEP EIS, App. C at 72. Based on these constraints, the Corps designed the Rock Weir alternative (now presented in the WIIN Act) to include, by necessity, a complex flood control component that comprised extensive new infrastructure to re-route high flows – at an estimated cost of $100 million. (SHEP EIS, App. C at 72-74.) 1 We note further that the SHEP EIS cost estimate is not a “back of the envelope” estimate. As noted, these options and their corresponding cost estimates were developed over many years of study and analysis and based on detailed modeling efforts. Additionally, these figures were presented in the controlling approval document – the SHEP EIS – which document underwent multiple rounds of public comment and which the Corps presented to 28 federal agencies, 11 state agencies, 8 local governments, and a number of community groups as the controlling information. (SHEP EIS, at 7-10.) Any material change in these cost estimates raises grave concerns about the validity of the EIS process and about the reliability of the new estimates. Comments of Save the Middle Savannah River May 2, 2017 4 Further, the WIIN Act requires the project to maintain the current pool “as in existence on the date of enactment of this Act.” (WIIN Act, § 1319(c)(1)(A)(i)(I) and (ii)(I).) Accordingly, the Corps is prohibited from lowering the pool level to address the known and quantifiable flood risk created by removal of the dam. As such, the WIIN Act alternatives, as drafted, are unworkable – since the pool cannot be lowered, the Rock Weir will increase flood occurrences and result in a rise in the FEMA flood plain. Notably, the increase in backwater floods would impact the entire Central Savannah River Area community (in two states) – not just the adjacent landowners but also the employers (hospitals, cities, industrial facilities) whose employees would be impacted. Additionally, the Corps concluded in the EIS that under the Rock Weir alternatives now proposed in the WIIN Act, Upstream infrastructure in Augusta and North Augusta would be impacted during construction when the pool would be temporarily lowered. (SHEP EIS, App. C at 74.) Again, the WIIN Act prohibits lowering of the pool as part of the project, and the Rock Weir alternatives fail to meet Congress’ minimum requirements. Notably, with the Fish Bypass alternative, this same risk is avoided entirely, with the Corps specifically concluding that with the Fish Bypass, “[u]pstream infrastructure in Augusta and North Augusta should not be impacted since the pool would not need to be lowered, even during construction.” (SHEP EIS, App C at 77.) We further note that even if the WIIN Act did not directly prohibit lowering of the pool levels, such an action would nonetheless be extremely problematic and enormously expensive for our communities. It would risk eliminating or threatening the municipal and industrial water supplies reliant on a full pool. It would also eliminate many of the recreational activities and events that bring tens of thousands of visitors to the CSRA each year, and it would seriously diminish the routine enjoyment of the River by area residents. A lower pool would also harm landowners and riverfront developments. As outlined above, the Corps’ own determination, the WIIN Act’s Rock Weir alternatives will create undue flood risk in the CSRA and will entail entire loss of the pool during construction.2 The Corps must reject these alternatives and proceed with the approved Fish Bypass. C. Delay in the Harbor Deepening and in Critical Dam Repairs The Fish Bypass project has been approved by all the Coordinating Agencies and selected by the Corps. It was supported by the Georgia Ports Authority and area community groups. The Rock Weir alternative, on the other hand, requires new scoping (as noted in the Public Notice), a new EIS, new public comment periods, and new Coordinating Agency approvals and biological opinions. As noted above, the EIS underwent review by 28 federal agencies, 11 state agencies, 8 local governments, and numerous community groups. All of this 2 We note further that flood damage and impacts to adjacent property owners and water supply users may be subject to the Takings Clause and the damaged parties may seek fair and equitable compensation. Comments of Save the Middle Savannah River May 2, 2017 5 new review and government and public coordination would create a significant delay in implementation of the project and a far higher risk of failure (given the cost and water reregulation issues identified in the EIS and discussed in these comments). Since the SHEP project schedule requires that construction of the mitigation project must begin prior to or concurrent with the start of inner harbor dredging, the delay involved in further review of the Rock Weir alternatives and caused by the ultimate failure of these alternatives to be compliant would severely delay the SHEP project, at great cost to the Georgia Ports Authority and the State of Georgia. (SHEP EIS at 5-215.) Additionally, the unnecessary delay caused by continued review of the Rock Weir alternatives furthers the risk of failure at the Lock and Dam. The Corps has verbally indicated that inspection reports show the dire need for repairs – by its own statements it has made clear that the CSRA community and the downstream residents are at risk of a breach of the Lock and Dam. Common sense and its duty to the citizens of Georgia and South Carolina dictate that the Corps must quickly confirm that the WIIN Act alternatives are not feasible and work with the stakeholders and Congress to repair the Lock and Dam and implement the Fish Bypass project. D. Siltation Under the WIIN Act’s Rock Weir Alternatives Siltation of the River bed behind the structure is another potential drawback to the WIIN Act alternatives. Currently the Lock & Dam gates pass water both over the top of two gates and under the bottom of all five gates. This way the dam successfully passes both the flotsam and the silt bedload of the waterway and limits the backup of these materials. Being a fixed obstruction, the Rock Weir alternatives are not capable of a similar function. The river will silt up behind it over time, upstream as far as Augusta and North Augusta, probably leading over time to burying water intake pools, limiting navigation even further, and obliterating existing fish and natural wildlife habitat. E. Success of the Mitigation Feature Interviews with knowledgeable anadromous fish biologists have failed to identify any site on the East Coast where sturgeon have been positively documented as using a fish passage or channel to pass a riverine obstruction like the ones proposed. If this preliminary finding turns out to be valid, it brings into question the basic assumptions and entire approach being considered by the Corps for all of the alternatives considered, and whether or not any of them has a chance of success at mitigation. Additionally, there is concern about the availability of food for newly-hatched fry in the Augusta Shoals area. As discussed in more detail below, alternatives that incorporate restoration of the Lock & Dam and a much smaller Fish Bypass coupled with a sturgeon mitigation project in the area of impact (near Savannah), where successful breeding and development are known to occur, should be evaluated as a potentially more effective mitigation alternative. F. Permanent Loss of Navigation With the existing lock currently out of service, navigation of the river past the Lock & Dam is not possible in either direction, for either commercial or medium and large private vessels. Small boats can theoretically use the boat ramps above and below the dam to effect a Comments of Save the Middle Savannah River May 2, 2017 6 portage, however impractical that may be. Under one of the WIIN Act alternatives (option (ii)), all navigation on the upper reaches of the formerly navigable Savannah River will be permanently ended. This includes vessels of all sizes, with the possible exception of canoes, kayaks, and similar small, unmotorized boats. It is ironic that the SHEP project could spend tens of millions of dollars making the upper Savannah River possibly navigable for a fish species, and simultaneously entirely non-navigable for mankind. The rehabilitation of the Lock and Dam combined with the Fish Bypass will restore the longstanding navigability of the Middle Savannah River. G. High Costs, Uncertain Risks and Access Issues Associated with Construction and O&M of the Rock Weir The proposed Rock Weir will effectively be a large new gravity dam in the river bed at a very large construction cost. It will be about one-half mile thick and as wide as the River channel, and it will require some arrangement of fixed structural measures to prevent the river from cutting around either side of the barrier. The rock materials need to be transported to the site from long distances, either overland or by barge from upstream, and at a premium price, because the Lock and Dam is closed to navigation, precluding access by water from downstream. As outlined in Comment II.C, the Lock and Dam has successfully operated for over 80 years. It has a proven track record for pool control and water reregulation. The Rock Weir alternatives offer no such track record. The entire operating protocols of the River system will have to modified to recreate a steady pool, and the new protocols will have to account for such basic issues as drought control. For example, how will flows be managed in times of drought, as recently experienced in 2012? How will the Corps ensure sufficient flow to the downstream nuclear reactors? Additionally, much of the land adjacent to the proposed upstream Rock Weir location is secured by conservation easements. It would be unreasonable and potentially unlawful for the Corps to attempt to secure such protected property for construction or project operations. H. Loss of Historical/Cultural and Natural Resources. The Rock Weir alternatives will result in the loss of the Lock and Dam, which is a cultural and historical resource itself, a nearly original example of the technology of river navigation and water control that formed an important aspect of the historical development of the United States in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Removal of the Lock and Dam cannot proceed without detailed historic preservation. With respect to the Rock Weir alternatives, as noted above, the lands adjoining the site are all currently under permanent conservation easement, which will be violated by the new construction, with accompanying natural resource degradation. Moreover, the flood plain area in the vicinity is known to have been inhabited by groups of Native Americans, whose prehistoric occupation sites dot the flood plain. Comments of Save the Middle Savannah River May 2, 2017 7 III. The Common Sense Solution Fortunately, there is a common sense solution – reauthorization and repair of the Lock and Dam and construction of a modified Fish Bypass – that addresses all of the concerns outlined in these comments and protects the vital interests of both the CSRA and those of the SHEP project. This solution was selected by the Corps as the preferred option in 2012 and for all of the reasons outlined above, it remains the most practical, cost-effective, timely and protective option. In designing the Fish Bypass, the Corps and cooperating agencies should review Savannah-area fish mitigation to minimize the size of the bypass and maximize the opportunity for real improvement to the target species. * * * Once again, Save the Middle Savannah River appreciates the opportunity to present these comments. In order to fully vet the alternatives, the undersigned request that the Corps hold one or more public hearings in the Augusta area. Additionally, we each request to be added to the Corps’ public notice recipient list for all actions related to the mitigation project. We look forward to further involvement in this important project. If you have any questions, you are welcome to contact Save the Middle Savannah River at diana@simkinsland.comcastbiz.net. . Sincerely, Save the Middle Savannah River (Signature Pages Attached) cc: Honorable Nathan Deal, Governor, State of Georgia Honorable Henry McMaster, Governor, State of South Carolina Honorable Johnny Isakson, United States Senate Honorable David Perdue, United States Senate Honorable Lindsey Graham, United States Senate Honorable Tim Scott, United States Senate Honorable Rick Allen, United States House of Representatives Honorable Buddy Carter, United States House of Representatives Honorable Jody Hice, United States House of Representatives Honorable Mark Sanford, United States House of Representatives Honorable Joe Wilson, United States House of Representatives Honorable Jeff Duncan, United States House of Representatives Honorable James E. Clyburn, United States House of Representatives James L. Allgood, Jr., Georgia Ports Authority William D. McKnight, Georgia Ports Authority Comments of Save the Middle Savannah River May 2, 2017 8 Signature Page ___________________________________ Signature ___________________________________ Name (printed) ___________________________________ Affiliation (printed) c. Section 1319 of WllN 2016 deauthorized the NSBLD and provides discretionary authority to the Secretary of the Army to modify the fish passage feature of the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project (SHEP) at the Lock & Dam. The wording of Section 1319 is as follows: "SEC. 1319. NEW SAVANNAH BLUFF LOCK AND DAM, GEORGIA AND SOUTH CAROLINA. (a) DEFINITIONS.-ln this section, the following definitions apply: (1) NEW SAVANNAH BLUFF LOCK AND DAM.-The term "New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam" means­ (A) the lock and dam at New Savannah Bluff, Savannah River, Georgia and South Carolina; and (B) the appurtenant features to the lock and dam, including­ (i) the adjacent approximately 50-acre park and recreation area with improvements made under the project for navigation, Savannah River below Augusta, Georgia, authorized by the first section of the Act ofJuly 3, 1930 (46 Stat. 924), and the first section of the Act of August 30, 1935 (49 Stat. 1032); and (ii) other land that is part of the project and that the Secretary determines to be appropriate for conveyance under this section. 2 (2) PROJECT.-The term "Project" means the project for navigation, Savannah Harbor expansion, Georgia, authorized by section 7002(1) ofthe Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 (Public Law 113-121; 128 Stat. 1364). (b) DEAUTHORIZA TION.­ (1) IN GENERAL-Effective beginning on the date of enactment of this Act­ (A) the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam is deauthorized; and (B) notwithstanding section 348(1)(2)(B) of the Water Resources Development Act of 2000 (Public Law 106--541; 114 Stat. 2630; 114 Stat. 2763A-228) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act) or any other provision oflaw, the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam shall not be conveyed to the city of North Augusta and Aiken County, South Carolina, or any other non-Federal entity. (2) REPEAL-Section 348 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2000 (Public Law 106--541; 114 Stat. 2630; 114 Stat. 2763A-228) is amended­ (A) by striking subsection (/); and (B) by redesignating subsections (m) and (n) as subsections (/) and (m), respectively. (c) PROJECT MOO/FICA TIONS.­ (1) IN GENERAL-Notwithstanding any other provision oflaw, the Project is modified to include, as the Secretary determines to be necessary­ (A)(i) repair of the lock wall of the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam and modification of the structure such that the structure is able­ (/) to maintain the pool for navigation, water supply, and recreational activities, as in existence on the date of enactment of this Act; and (II) to allow safe passage over the structure to historic spawning grounds of shortnose sturgeon, Atlantic sturgeon, and other migratory fish; or (ii)(!) construction at an appropriate location across the Savannah River of a structure that is able to maintain the pool for water supply and recreational activities, as in existence on the date of enactment of this Act; and (II) removal of the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam on completion of construction of the structure; and (B) conveyance by the Secretary to Augusta-Richmond County, Georgia, of the park and recreation area adjacent to the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam, without consideration. (2) NON-FEDERAL COST SHARE-The Federal share of the cost of any Project feature constructed pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be not greater than the share as provided by section 7002(1) of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 (Public Law 113-121; 128 Stat. 1364) for the most cost-effective fish passage structure. 3 (3) OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE COSTS.-The Federal share of the costs of operation and maintenance of any Project feature constructed pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be consistent with the cost sharing of the Project as provided by law." d. Savannah District is examining the modification to the SHEP Fish Passage Feature at the NSBLD that would best fulfill the intent of Section 1319 stated above. e. Comments regarding the modification to the SHEP Fish Passage Feature at the NSBLD to address the WllN Act will be received at the Savannah District Office until 12 O'CLOCK NOON, May 4, 2017 Comment Period: Anyone wishing to provide comments to the Corps on this proposed action should submit comments no later than the end of the comment period shown in this notice, in writing , to the Savannah District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Planning Division, ATTN: Mr. Nathan Dayan (PD), 100 West Oglethorpe Avenue, Savannah , Georgia 31401-3640, by FAX to 912-652-5787, or by emailing the comments to the following address: CESAS-PD@usace.army.mil. ~ff)J;~~ William G. Bailey -­. cl Chief, Planning Division 4 Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM ZA-R-248 Department:Planning and Development Department:Planning and Development Caption: ZA-R-248 - A request for concurrence with the Augusta Georgia Planning Commission to approve a request to amend the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance for Augusta Georgia by adding Noise (Ordinance) to Section 2 – Definitions, Section 4 – Off- Street Parking and Loading, Section 21 – B-1 (Neighborhood Business), Section 22 – B-2 (General Business). (Approved by Commission May 16, 2017 - second reading) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Alcohol Application Department:Planning & Development Department:Planning & Development Caption:Motion to approve New Location: A.N. 17-17: request by Michael S. Fredericks for an on premise consumption Beer & Wine License to be used in connection with Twisted Burrito, LLC located at 4107 Madeline Dr. There will be Sunday Sales. District 3. Super District 10. (Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:This is a New Location. Analysis:The applicant meets the requirements of the City of Augusta's Alcohol Ordinance. Financial Impact:The applicant will pay a fee of $2,495.00. Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: The Planning & Development recommend approval. The R.C.S.O. recommend approval. REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Law. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Alcohol Application Department:Planning & Development Department:Planning & Development Caption:Motion to approve New Location/License Transfer: A.N. 17- 18: request by Charles Kendrick for an on premise consumption Liquor, Beer & Wine License to be used in connection with Kush located at 813 Broad Street. There will be Dance. District 1. Super District 9. (Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:This is a New Location. Analysis:The applicant meets the requirements of the City of Augusta's Alcohol Ordinance. Financial Impact:The applicant will pay a $120.00 application fee. Alternatives: Recommendation:The Planning & Development recommends approval. The R.C.S.O recommends approval. Approval is recommended subject to the Certificate of Occupancy / Letter of Completion being issued prior to tenant occupancy. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Law Administrator Clerk of Commission Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Alcohol Application Department:Planning & Development Department:Planning & Development Caption:Motion to approve New Ownership Application: A.N. 17- 19: request by Susan J. Faircloth for an on premise consumption Liquor, Beer & Wine License to be used in connection with Fifty Six Pub located at 4020 Mike Padgett Highway. There will be Dance. District 1. Super District 9. (Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:This a New Ownership Application. Formerly in the name of Dana M. Faircloth. Analysis:The applicant meets the requirements of the City of Augusta's Alcohol Ordinance. Financial Impact:The applicant will pay a fee of $4,505.00. Alternatives: Recommendation:The Planning & Development recommends approval. The R.C.S.O. recommend approval. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Law Administrator Clerk of Commission Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Augusta Convention and Visitors Bureau Destination Blueprint Department:Recreation and Parks Department:Recreation and Parks Caption:Motion to approve adopting the City’s Destination Blueprint prepared by the Augusta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB). (Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:The ACVB is the city’s official destination marketing and management organization enhancing the region’s economy by positioning Augusta as a preferred visitor destination. In 2015, the ACVB created an advisory group with the purpose of creating a destination development strategy to increase tourism through new products and to enhance Augusta’s quality of place. After reviewing existing master plans and identifying more than 70 potential tourism projects the advisory group recommended an expert in tourism development to help prioritize projects and research other recommendations. Convention, Sports & Leisure (CSL) was engaged in 2016 to facilitate Destination Blueprint. Additionally, the Greater August Arts Council partnered with CSL to produce the Public Art Master Plan and the Recreation & Parks Department commissioned CSL to produce the Festivals & Events Plan. These three plans are intertwined and interdependent on one another. Analysis:The Augusta Convention & Visitors Bureau will work with the City of Augusta, partner organizations, and the private sector to facilitate the implementation of Destination Blueprint. Financial Impact:Increase visitor spending in the local economy, thereby increasing tax revenue for the city and supporting local business and jobs. Alternatives: Recommendation: Adopt Destination Blueprint as the roadmap the City of Augusta will pursue for tourism products, which will further develop Cover Memo Augusta as a visitor destination. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Law. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Award of Contract for HVAC Replacement – May Park and Bernie Ward Community Centers, Bid Item 17-156 Department:Recreation and Parks Department:Recreation and Parks Caption:Motion to approve award of the contract for Bid Item 17-156, the HVAC replacement at the May Park and Bernie Ward Community Centers to the low bidder, Waters Mechanical for $259,000.. (Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:When initially constructed in the mid-1970s, the gymnasiums at May Park and Bernie Ward Community Centers were not air- conditioned. At some point, air conditioning was added by placing an exposed unit in each of the four corners of the gym. While this may well have been the least expensive method to add cooling, it has been problematic over the years. The exposed units are subject to damage and the condensate pans often leak onto the gym floor. The water not only is damaging to the floor, it creates a slip hazard. The existing units are still operational, but all have been in service longer than the usual life span for comparable units. Rather than replace the units as they are, it was determined that the community would be better served by installing the system in a manner that would provide proper cooling and eliminate the problems with the previous installation. Analysis:Request for Bids (RFB), Bid Item 17-156 was issued for installation of an efficient system that will replace all four units by installing two new larger package units within an existing exhaust fan frame. We have had both structures evaluated to insure it will hold the weight of the proposed system. Out of Five (5) vendors to attend the mandatory pre-bid conference, two (2) bids were received. Waters Mechanical of Glennville, GA., submitted the low bid. Under similar circumstances, the Department went through this same replacement process at Warren Road Community Center with excellent results in 2014. Financial Impact:Funds are available to cover the cost through SPLOST VII.Cover Memo Alternatives:1.Approve award of the contract of Bid Item 17-156, HVAC Replacement at the May Park and Bernie Ward Community Centers to the low bidder, Waters Mechanical of Glennville, GA, for the lump sum price of $259,000. 2.Move no action and delaying the required HVAC work. Recommendation:1. To Approve award of the contract for Bid Item 17-156, HVAC Replacement at May Park and Bernie Ward Community Centers. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: Recreation and Parks SPLOST VII - 329061110 REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Law. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM GENIE GS 3232 SCISSOR LIFT REPLACEMENT - BID 17-159 Department:Augusta Regional Airport Department:Augusta Regional Airport Caption:Motion to approve a request for the purchase of a 2017 Genie GA 3232 Scissor Lift from United Rentals at a cost of $26,039.00 as approved by the Augusta Aviation Commission at their April 27, 2017 Meeting. (Bid Item 17-159) (Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:The existing lift was bought used 12 years ago and is suffering from age related failures to the mechanical systems. To meet the OSHA required current inspection, this lift would have to be sent back to the manufacturer for extensive repairs. This lift also does not reach the highest needed areas of the Airport. Through the Augusta Procurement Department bid process (Bid 17 -159) the Airport received three bids for the scissor lift with United Rentals offering the model requested with the best price of $26,039.00. Analysis:The cost to repair and the inability of this lift to reach certain areas of the facility makes the purchase of a new lift more cost efficient and increases productivity and safety. Financial Impact:$26,039.00 Alternatives:Deny request Recommendation:Approve the Augusta Regional Airport to purchase a 2017 Genie GS3232 Scissor Lift at a cost of $26,039 from United Rentals. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: 551-081203-5421110 Cover Memo REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Procurement. Law. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Cover Memo OFFICIAL VENDORS Neff Rental 2325 Tubman Home Rd Augusta, GA 30906 Lift Atlanta Inc 1639 Marvin Griffin Rd Augusta, GA 30906 All Around Access 2095 47th Ave NE Naples, FL 34120 United Rentals 2425 Mike Padgett Hwy Augusta, GA 30906 Blueline Rental 8401 New Trails Dr Suite 150 The Woodlands, TX 77381 Attachment B Yes Yes Yes Yes YES No Business Lic./Non- Compliant E-Verify Number 425224 362984 NO/Non Compliant 234401 NO SAVE Form Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Year 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Make Genie Genie Genie Genie Genie Model GS3232 GS3246 GS3232 GS3232 GS3232 Bid Price $27,350.00 $24,550.00 $26,893.75 $26,039.00 $23,800.39 Proposed Delivery Time ~5 WKS ~7 WKS ~50 DAYS ~13 WKS ~8 WKS Scissor Lift Replacement-Genie GS-3232 Self Propelled or Approved Equal: Total Number Specifications Mailed Out: 24 Total Number Specifications Download (Demandstar):14 Total Electronic Notifications (Demandstar): 123 Mandatory Pre-Bid/Telephone Conference: N/A Total packages submitted: Total Non-Compliant: Bid Opening Item #17-159 Scissor Lift Replacement for Augusta, Georgia - Augusta Regional Airport Bid Due: Thursday, March 30, 2017 @11:00 a.m. Yancy Bros. Company / 4165 Mike Padgett Hwy / Augusta, GA 30906 - Vendor Deemed Non-Compliant a late submittal Page 1 of 1 Invitation to Bid Sealed bids will be received at this office until Thursday, March 30, 2017 @ 11:00 a.m. for furnishing: Bid Item #17-159 Scissor Lift Replacement for Augusta, Georgia – Augusta Regional Airport Bids will be received by Augusta, GA Commission hereinafter referred to as the OWNER at the offices of: Geri A. Sams, Director Augusta Procurement Department 535 Telfair Street - Room 605 Augusta, Georgia 30901 Bid documents may be viewed on the Augusta, Georgia web site under the Procurement Department ARCbid. Bid documents may be obtained at the office of the Augusta, GA Procurement Department, 535 Telfair Street – Room 605, Augusta, GA 30901. Documents may be examined during regular business hours at the offices of Augusta, GA Procurement Department. All questions must be submitted in writing by fax to 706 821-2811 or by email to procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov to the office of the Procurement Department by Friday, March 17, 2017 @ 5:00 P.M. No bid will be accepted by fax, all must be received by mail or hand delivered. The local bidder preference program is applicable to this project. To be approved as a local bidder and receive bid preference an eligible bidder must submit a completed and signed written application to become a local bidder at least thirty (30) days prior to the date bids are received on an eligible local project. An eligible bidder who fails to submit an application for approval as a local bidder at least thirty (30) days prior to the date bids are received on an eligible local project, and who otherwise meets the requirements for approval as a local bidder, will not be qualified for a bid preference on such eligible local project. No bids may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after bids have been opened, pending the execution of contract with the successful bidder. Invitation for bids and specifications. An invitation for bids shall be issued by the Procurement Office and shall include specifications prepared in accordance with Article 4 (Product Specifications), and all contractual terms and conditions, applicable to the procurement. All specific requirements contained in the invitation to bid including, but not limited to, the number of copies needed, the timing of the submission, the required financial data, and any other requirements designated by the Procurement Department are considered material conditions of the bid which are not waiveable or modifiable by the Procurement Director. All requests to waive or modify any such material condition shall be submitted through the Procurement Director to the appropriate committee of the Augusta, Georgia Commission for approval by the Augusta, Georgia Commission. Please mark BID number on the outside of the envelope. Bidders are cautioned that acquisition of BID documents through any source other than the office of the Procurement Department is not advisable. Acquisition of BID documents from unauthorized sources placed the bidder at the risk of receiving incomplete or inaccurate information upon which to base his qualifications. Correspondence must be submitted via mail, fax or email as follows: Augusta Procurement Department Attn: Geri A. Sams, Director of Procurement 535 Telfair Street, Room 605 Augusta, GA 30901 Fax: 706-821-2811 or Email: procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov No bid will be accepted by fax, all must be received by mail or hand delivered. GERI A. SAMS, Procurement Director Publish: Augusta Chronicle February 23, March 2, 9, 16, 2017 Metro Courier March 1, 2017 Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Greater Augusta Arts Council’s City of Augusta Public Art Masterplan Department:Recreation and Parks Department:Recreation and Parks Caption:Motion to approve adopting the City of Augusta’s Public Art Masterplan as facilitated by the Greater Augusta Arts Council. (Approved by Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:The Greater Augusta Arts Council was founded in 1968 by the Greater Augusta Chamber of Commerce, the Junior Women’s Club, and the Junior League of Augusta to serve as an umbrella organization for the arts in Augusta. The Arts Council serves as the Cultural Arm of the City of Augusta, producing the Annual Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival, managing the City Grants Program, an online Arts Calendar, Public Art Map and James Brown Textcam on the downtown statue. In early 2012, the Greater Augusta Arts Council was named as the Public Arts Agency for the City of Augusta. To that effect, one of their goals is to establish a program of high quality public art in the local area. The Arts Council believes and the Recreation and Parks Department agrees that this idea of partnership between the City and the Arts Council will help to promote the city’s cultural image and enhance the everyday experience of citizens. Of course, accessibility to everyone regardless of socio-economic status is a top priority of this endeavor. The recently passed Recreation and Parks Master Plans listed as an Action Item to utilize the Public Art Policy as developed by the Greater Augusta Arts Council to create exciting, appealing, and harmonious public spaces by integrating art into architecture, urban design, and the planning of existing and future park infrastructure Analysis:The Recreation and Parks Department staff and the Central Services staff will work with the Arts Council to offer assistance in the implementation of the Public Arts Plan. The Recreation and Parks staff will serve in an ex-officio role on the Council’s panel for Public Art. Additionally, the Convention and Visitors Bureau l partnered with CSL to produce the CVB Destination Blueprint and the Recreation & Parks Department commissioned CSL to Cover Memo produce the Festivals & Events Plan. These three plans are intertwined and interdependent on one another. Financial Impact:A City with a thriving Public Art Plan engages the residents and attracts visitors to the City. Alternatives: Recommendation:Adopt the Greater Arts Council’s Public Art Masterplan. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Law. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Cover Memo PUBLIC ART MASTER PLAN FOR THE AUGUSTA RIVER REGION May 2017 A Public Art Master Plan for the Augusta River Region Presented by Conventions, Sports and Leisure, International Conventions, Sports & Leisure International 520 Nicollet Mall • Suite 440 • Minneapolis, MN 55402 • Telephone 612.294.2000 • Facsimile 612.294.2045 May 5, 2017 Dr. Dennis B. Skelley Greater Augusta Arts Council 1301 Greene Street Augusta, Georgia 30901 Dear Dr. Skelley: We have completed the study process and preparation of a draft of the Public Art Master Plan for the Augusta River Region. Organizations that have contributed greatly to this effort include the Greater Augusta Arts Council, the Augusta Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Recreation and Parks Department, City and County representatives, and the various foundations supporting the Augusta River Region. It has been our pleasure to work with these and 85 other organizations representing nearly 190 community representatives that contributed to the process of developing this Study. The Public Art Master Plan for the Augusta River Region should serve as a valuable guiding tool that helps shape a vision for future public art development in Augusta. The recommendations presented herein will be directed to and managed primarily by the Greater Augusta Arts Council, while numerous other community organizations will also be instrumental during the planning and implementation process. We sincerely appreciate the assistance and cooperation we have been provided in the completion of this study and would be pleased to be of further assistance in the interpretation and application of our findings. Very truly yours, CSL International Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Table of Contents Table of Contents ______ 1.0 Introduction........................................................................................................................................................................................ 1 2.0 Existing Public Art in the August River Region............................................................................................................................ 2 3.0 Research and Findings ................................................................................................................................................................... 6 4.0 Recommendations for Future Public Art Development............................................................................................................ 15 4.1 Sculpture Gardens .......................................................................................................................................................... 16 4.2 Sculpture Trails .......................................................................................................................................................... 22 4.3 Monumental Installations .................................................................................................................................................. 27 4.4 Installations Tied to a Theme ........................................................................................................................................... 32 4.5 Interactive/Innovative Installations .................................................................................................................................. 35 4.6 Designated Arts Areas and Spaces ................................................................................................................................ 41 4.7 Events and Festivals.......................................................................................................................................................... 44 4.8 Indoor Installations in Public Buildings………………… ............................................................................................... 48 5.0 Conceptual Costs and Project Planning ..................................................................................................................................... 50 Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 1 1.0 INTRODUCTION Situated along the scenic Savannah River, Augusta is a classic Southern community with strong ties to American history, industry, and diverse culture. Today, Augusta uniquely combines the advantages of an emerging downtown with miles of biking trails, the Savannah River, the Augusta Canal and multiple historic districts including Summerville, Olde Town and the Laney-Walker neighborhood. The City’s residential base and workforce continues to undergo significant changes, with the number of people living within a 30 minute drive from downtown increasing from 373,800 in 2000 to 437,100 in 2016 (a 17 percent increase ) and the City is continuing to evolve and attract a new generation of professionals. Recent developments such as the consolidation of Georgia Health Sciences University and Augusta State University, the planned expansion of the newly formed Augusta University, and the addition of the Army Cyber Command to Fort Gordon will likely accelerate population and demographic changes. As communities and modern day town centers continue to evolve, they face a pressure to distinguish themselves in unique ways to appeal to existing and potential future residents. Public art development represents an important opportunity to highlight a community’s unique sense of identity and character, and continued investment in its development can help create a sense of vibrancy that is conducive to retaining and attracting residents, businesses and visitors. Moreover, the process associated with public art development can galvanize a local community and establish a sense of pride among its residents. Local representatives also feel that Augusta’s downtown and various other neighborhoods are in a transitional development phase, with future development having a potentially significant impact on the City’s future identity. Public art development may serve as a vital compliment to these future initiatives, as installations can encourage more frequent visitation of public areas and help establish a sense of authenticity. For Augusta, public art can help express the community’s authentic personality, compliment the revitalization of key areas throughout the City, and help the downtown and greater community distinguish themselves from other markets in the state of Georgia and the southeastern region. To fully realize the benefits of public art, the GAAC has asked CSL to help develop a comprehensive Public Art Master Plan to serve as a guide for planning new public art development in Augusta and as a catalyst for overall communication between members of both the local government as well as the greater community. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 2 2.0 EXISTING PUBLIC ART IN THE AUGUSTA RIVER REGION Until recent years, Augusta has not had a formalized plan or agency dedicated to developing public art for the City. This changed when the city appointed the Greater Augusta Arts Council (GAAC) as the primary Public Arts Agency for Augusta, tasking the GAAC to manage the development of public art projects and to act as an advisor to the Recreation and Parks Department regarding which art-related projects the community should pursue. Its recent efforts have led to several unique projects, including the Art the Box initiative, a citywide redecorating of electrical boxes by several local and regional artists, as well as several signature installations such as the “Tulip” and “Hedge Row” (see pictures below) that were implemented downtown in 2014. In addition, the City recently approved $1.0 million in SPLOST funding for Public Art Infusion Gateway Beautification projects, helping to facilitate noteworthy projects in the near future. As will be discussed herein, these recent initiatives have been well received by the local community and this plan intends to build on the resulting momentum. Augusta already features a wide range of public art installations thanks to efforts made by various public and private organizations throughout the years. Its public art inventory ranges from monumental artworks, such as the sculptures situated in Springfield Village Park, to memorials, such as the James Oglethorpe Statue and James Brown Statue in downtown, to indoor décor such as the Four Stages of Higher Learning the College of Dental Medicine, to outdoor murals, such as the Art on the Wall projects at the City’s Water Utilities Facilities. Using the GAAC’s Public Art Tour mobile application, a comprehensive inventory of existing public art installations in Augusta has been made and is shown in the map on the following page. Tulip by Thomas Lyles and Dennis Skelley Hedge Row by Thomas Lyles and Dennis Skelley Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 3 Exhibit 1 Map of Public Art in Augusta, Georgia Source: Greater Augusta Arts Council, 2016 Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 4 As shown, many of the City’s more recognizable pieces are located in downtown, including landmarks such as the James Brown Statue in the middle of Broad Street and the Haunted Pillar at the intersection of 5th Street and Broad Street. Other notable installations include the mosaic “Blue Horse” (10) on the balcony of the D Timm Building, the James Ogelthorpe Statue (2) in Augusta Common, and the Tower of Aspiration in Springfield Village Park. Even with these assets, we would still consider the inventory of public art in Augusta as in an early stage of development. This notion is supported by a benchmark comparison to other similarly sized communities in the Southeast. The exhibit below compares the inventory of public art installations in downtown Augusta with those found in downtown Greenville, South Carolina and downtown Asheville, North Carolina. Exhibit 2 Map of Public Art in Augusta As shown, Downtown Asheville has 30 installations in its downtown, an area that encompasses a ½-square mile, while Downtown Greenville features 53 installations located within one square mile (the same area captured by Augusta’s central business district). Source: Maps of Public Art Inventories, 2016 Downtown Augusta 13 Installations 1 Mile Downtown Asheville, NC 30 Installations 0.5 Miles Downtown Greenville, SC 53 Installations 1 Mile Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 5 Augusta’s inventory of 13 installations within a square-mile is significantly lower than those found in these two communities. It is important to note, however, that Exhibit 2 excludes the 11 traffic boxes that were decorated for the Art-the-Box initiative as these represent more temporary installations that do not equate to the quality of pieces found in the downtowns of the markets. Further, we believe that the broader community-wide installation of public art in Augusta needs to expand. It is important to note that the various comparable markets considered as a part of this Plan should serve as “aspirational”, or representing possibilities that should be explored in Augusta. In fact, recommendations provided herein were influenced by public art development/installation ideas from various successful public art initiatives from around the country. Referring back to the comprehensive map of public art installations in Exhibit 1, areas outside of downtown are also in need of public art. There are some existing clusters of pieces dispersed throughout the City, including the murals at the Water Facilities (numbers 29 through 32) and the four sculptures located throughout the Augusta University campus just off of Walton Way (34 through 37). However, several notable areas throughout the City are without public art installations, such as the Laney Walker/Bethlehem neighborhood, the Summerville district, Lake Olmstead Park and South Augusta. As discussed later in this document, it will be important for the GAAC and other community leaders to encourage future development of public art in more underserved areas throughout the City such as these, in addition to select highway entry points, local parks and public green spaces. By recording and summarizing the history and locations of the City’s public art inventory, the GAAC has already taken an important step toward formalizing their efforts to enrich the presence of public art in Augusta. This Plan now builds on these efforts, with the recommendations discussed herein supported by the in-depth review and analysis of current and potential future conditions. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 6 3.0 RESEARCH AND FINDINGS It is critical that research form the backbone of any visionary plan for public art. The views of local leaders and stakeholders, as well other residents within the community were essential to developing Public Art Master Plan recommendations. 3.1 Public Art Master Plan Online Survey As part of the master planning process, online interviews were conducted with over 185 individuals representing over 85 different local and/or regional organizations. These respondents were asked to provide commentary on the current state of public art in Augusta, what they think the goals of future public art initiatives should be, and what themes and locations should be considered for future projects, among other questions. A full listing of participating organizations and businesses is presented below. Exhibit 3 Public Art Master Plan Survey Results Participating Organizations and Businesses Adept Imaging, LLC Community Foundation for the CSRA Par 3 Rentals ADP Concerts with a Cause Peaceful Hearts Quilters Guild Area Agency on Aging Copenhaver Consulting LLC Philippine American Cultural Society Arrow Institute of Art Creases Prime Commercial Properties Artists Guild of Columbia County DeLoach Pottery Reneta Sikes Muralist Arts Council Board Member Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.Ridge Spring Art Center City of Augusta Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University Riverside Cemetery and Conservancy Augusta Ballet Dirty South Burlesque & Cabaret Sacred Heart Cultural Center Augusta Choral Society Foxsilong Studio Sport Horse Media Productions Augusta Convention and Visitors Bureau Georgia Public Broadcasting Stacy Atkins Fine Art & Design Augusta Museum of History Georgia Rehabilitation Institute Starving Artists Augusta Photography Festival Gertrude Herbert among others State Bank & Trust Augusta Pride Gertrude Herbert Institute Studio Blue Augusta Technical College Foundation Greater Augusta Arts Council Suzuki Strings of Augusta, Inc. Augusta Tomorrow, Inc.Greg Howard Art Tax Assessor's Office Augusta Union of Nigerian Indigenes Guitar Madness The Alison Group Augusta University Harlem Arts Council The Augusta Market Augusta University CAHS Dental Hygiene Harry Jacobs Chamber Music Society The Morris Museum of Art Augusta Utilities Imperial Theatre theClubhou.se Augusta Westobou Festival, Inc.J. Edward Enoch, PC Tom Hubbard Studio Augusta-Richmond County Tax Assessor Jessye Norman School of the Arts Trilogy Gunby Averitt Center for the Arts Joy of St. Croix Tuesday's Music Live, Inc. BillKarpJazz Keen Signs and Graphics United Way of the CSRA Boninfineart.com LadyVee Productions Walton Foundation Buona Caffe Artisan Roasted Coffee Laurie McRae Interiors Waters Edge Volunteers Chuck & Bill The T-Shirt Guys Le Chat Noir Westminster Schools of Augusta City Commission Mad Potters WFXG City Rag Menk Ventures, LLC Young Professionals of Augusta Inc. Columbia County Orchestra Association North Augusta Artists Guild Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 7 Participants ranged from public entities such as the City of Augusta and the Augusta Convention and Visitors Bureau, to private establishments such as Le Chat Noir and Adept Imaging, LLC. It is important to collect input from both the public and private sectors regarding future public art development, as hundreds of public art projects around the country have been funded and supported by strategic public/private partnerships. These local stakeholders were asked to provide comment on the current inventory/offerings of public art in Augusta. Responses from these organizations surveyed are summarized in Exhibit 4 below. Comments regarding potential need areas are highlighted in red while comments supportive of existing efforts are highlighted in green. Exhibit 4 Public Art Master Plan Survey Results Comments on Existing Public Art Inventory In/Around Augusta As shown, 46 percent of respondents indicated that they felt the Augusta area is in need of more public art installations. It is important to note that these survey participants were not prompted to provide input as to the quantity of public art in the area; these remarks reflect open ended views and opinions. Twenty-seven percent of respondents expressed approval regarding recent public art initiatives in the area, with many explicitly noting the Art the Box project as an exciting initiative that should be emulated for future public art plans. Other common comments included concerns with the lack of accessibility/visibility of public art in the area (14 percent), the desire for more iconic and distinguished art pieces (9 percent), and suggestions to pursue more creative and daring styles for future public art projects (9 percent). Note: Figures may not add up to 100 percent due to due to possibility of multiple answers per respondent.Source: CSL Public Arts Survey, 2016. 3% 4% 9% 9% 14% 15% 23% 27% 46% Need More Maintenance Not Interspersed Enough Should Pursue More Creative Styles In Need of More Iconic Art Lack of Accessibility/Visibility Approval of Existing Installation Quality Art The Box Recognition In Approval of Recent Initiatives In Need of More Installations Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 8 Survey participants were also asked to describe the desired primary goals and objectives for new public art projects in Augusta. Their responses are summarized in the exhibit below. Exhibit 5 Public Art Master Plan Survey Results Suggestions for Primary Goals/Objectives for New Public Art Many respondents felt that, first and foremost, new public art should represent an opportunity to engage and unite the local resident base in Augusta. Further, a significant number of participants also noted that future projects should engage the local artistic talent in the area and should serve as a tool to beautify the area. The influence of public art in building a destination brand was also referenced by nearly 20 percent of the respondents. Other elements with lesser but still important focus include investing in less visited areas and incorporating creativity or new/exciting concepts. To assist in developing more tangible ideas and concepts for the Public Art Master Plan, participants were also asked to provide ideas for potential themes, styles and locations of future public art projects. Recommendations for future public art themes are presented on the following page. 3% 12% 13% 14% 18% 21% 22% 31% Maintain Works Install in Downtown/Highly Visible Areas Creativity/New Exciting Concepts Install in Less Visited Areas Build Augusta's Brand Beautify the Area Engage/Unite the Artistic Community Engage/Unite the General Community Note: Figures may not add up to 100 percent due to due to possibility of multiple answers per respondent.Source: CSL Public Arts Survey, 2016. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 9 Exhibit 6 Public Art Master Plan Survey Results Suggested Themes As shown in Exhibit 6 above, many respondents recommended themes that tie to Augusta’s rich history. Many specifically cited James Brown, Fort Gordon/military history, Augusta’s Civil Rights history and its general history as a southern destination as fitting themes for future installations. Thirty-eight percent of respondents also suggested more abstract/contemporary themes for future developments to balance and contrast against the “look back” approach of historical installations. History and Contemporary were themes mentioned in framing the question. Unprompted by the question's wording, 15 percent and 14 percent suggested golf/sports and River/Canal themes, respectively. Other notable thematic ideas that were proposed include natural/environmental, Augusta’s growth in the tech-related industries, and religion. Note: Figures may not add up to 100 percent due to due to possibility of multiple answers per respondent.Source: CSL Public Arts Survey, 2016. 1% 4% 5% 6% 7% 14% 15% 38% 69% Other Religion Tech/Cyber Nature/Environment Community The River/Canal Golf/Sports Contemporary History History•Augusta has a rich and long history from which to draw themes for artworks The River/Canal•Augusta has a river, and riverfront, but we don't seem to utilize it effectively Golf/Sports•Build on Augusta's brand as southern, hospitable, world- renowned golfing reputation, and build on the golf car manufacturing capital of the world Contemporary•Contemporary offers nice modern contrast to the historic foundation already present in architecture and historic districts. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 10 It is also important to consider the community’s suggestions for the types and styles of public art they would wish to see in their neighborhoods, parks and other public spaces. Exhibit 7 on the following page summarizes respondents’ suggestions for potential forms of public art they wish to see in Augusta. Exhibit 7 Public Art Master Plan Survey Results Suggested Forms/Styles of Art A majority of respondents suggested murals (67 percent), sculptures (65 percent) and live performance areas (51 percent) for future public art projects. Thirty-six percent of respondents also suggested additional statue development in Augusta. Other suggestions included interactive installations, redecorated public amenities (such as park benches, bus stops, etc.), landscaping enhancements, and tech-related/laser/light displays, among other ideas. Communities around the southeast and throughout the United States have invested in producing and creatively designing each of these suggested types of projects, many of which are further analyzed in the detailed case studies discussed herein. The opportunity to combine sound, movement and other aspects into more traditional installations is increasingly common, and can greatly help to establish more of an iconic aspect to art installations. Note: Figures may not add up to 100 percent due to due to possibility of multiple answers per respondent.Source: CSL Public Arts Survey, 2016. 7% 3% 4% 7% 8% 36% 51% 65% 67% Other Tech/Projectors/Lasers Landscaping Redecorated Public Amenities Interactive Installations Statues Performance Areas Sculpture Murals Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 11 Finally, survey respondents were asked to suggest locations in Augusta for new public art development. A summary of these suggestions is presented in Exhibit 8. Exhibit 8 Public Art Master Plan Survey Results Suggested Locations for New Public Art Development A significant 64 percent of survey respondents recommended more public art development in the downtown area (highlighted in red). Twenty-five percent of this 64 percent cited downtown in general as needing more public art, while 19 percent, 16 percent and 12 percent recommended installing public art at the Riverwalk, along Broad Street and near municipal buildings/schools/libraries, respectively. Many respondents who suggested downtown also went on to elaborate that areas like Broad Street and the Riverwalk are highly visible to visitors, and that more public art in these areas would be greatly beneficial to Augusta’s overall brand. Note: Figures may not add up to 100 percent due to due to possibility of multiple answers per respondent.Source: CSL Public Arts Survey, 2016. 2% 4% 7% 7% 16% 64% Other Canal/Trails Neighborhoods Parks Gateways Downtown 7% 3% 5% 5% 5% 7% 7% 8% 12% 12% 30% Other Calhoun Expressway Walton Way Laney Walker Blvd Wheeler Road Airport Area I 20 Gordon Highway Riverwatch Parkway Washington Road Corridor Gateways (did not cite specific location) 6% 1% 2% 3% 4% 6% 7% 12% 16% 19% 25% Other Lucy Laney Area/Laney Walker Ellis Street Reynolds Street Green Street Commons University Area/Medical Center Municipal Buildngs/Libraries/Arena/Schools Broad Street Riverwalk Downtown (did not cite specific location) Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 12 Sixteen percent of respondents cited major highway/roadway “gateways” as being ideal locations for future public art initiatives (highlighted in green). Thirty percent of this 16 percent suggested gateways without recommending specific locations. Many respondents suggested Washington Road Corridor (12 percent), Riverwatch Parkway (12 percent), Gordon Highway (eight percent), I-20 ( seven percent) and the vicinity around the Augusta Regional Airport (seven percent) as representing sensible sites for new public art. Many respondents also suggested investing in public art projects in Augusta’s parks and neighborhoods (7 percent for each, respectively), as well as along the Augusta Canal and the adjacent trail network (four percent). As noted previously, these survey findings helped guide specific plans for future public art development in the August River region. 3.2 Recreation and Parks Residential Survey CSL also administered a survey to over 25,000 residents of Augusta for focusing on public event potential, and including questions as to the development of public art that focused on potential themes, historical figures, natural amenities and/or other aspects that should be reflected in future public art projects. Respondents were also asked questions as to locations within the community that are well suited for future public art installations. In all, over 930 area residents responded to the survey. Using the qualitative data that was provided by responses to the two questions, CSL has prepared the following word clouds. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 13 Exhibit 9 Recreation and Parks Local Resident Survey Results Suggestions for New Public Art Development in Augusta As illustrated above, several themes and locations were frequently noted by responding Augusta residents. Common themes that were proposed included tying future public art installations to history, the City’s African American heritage, James Brown, golf, the river (and water), with some respondents adding suggestions for potential styles as well. Other ideas that were proposed but mentioned less frequently included leveraging the military, sports, diversity, Lucy Laney, the City’s museums, and the City’s Source: CSL Augusta Residents Survey, 2016. Please describe any themes, historical figures, natural amenities or other concepts you would like to see reflected in public art. Source: CSL Augusta Residents Survey, 2016. Please describe any community locations you feel would benefit from added public art. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 14 parks as potential themes for future public art works. This insight into desired themes, combined with data from the Public Art Master Plan survey, provides a significant foundation on which to develop recommendations presented later in this Plan. In regard to the areas that local residents felt would benefit most from added public art, a significant number cited downtown, South Augusta and Diamond Lakes Park. Many also highlighted Augusta’s Riverwalk, Augusta Common, Broad Street, Lake Olmstead and Gordon Highway in their responses. These locations are generally consistent with direction provided by respondents to the online Public Art Master Plan survey. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 15 4.0 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE PUBLIC ART DEVELOPMENT The recommendations presented in this Public Art Master Plan are based on the extensive research summarized herein. These suggested initiatives and tactics incorporate the views of local Augusta area leadership, the input of over 930 local residents, and a careful review of the City’s existing public art. In addition, CSL conducted analysis of public art projects and programs in comparable markets across the country by contacting and interviewing arts-related entities, CVB’s, downtown authority organizations and other City representatives in over 15 different cities. This research, applied to the highly unique conditions that define the Augusta community, provides a foundation on which to develop recommendations for public art styles, themes and locations that would benefit community residents, improve the brand of the destination, and help in attracting visitors. As stated earlier, and reflected by the number of survey respondents who praised recent public art efforts, the Greater Augusta Arts Council understands the benefit of enriching the community with highly unique and authentic public art initiatives that demonstrate the City’s character and highlight its local artistic talent. They are now the local “champions” of public art, and they have embraced their role. It is clear that that the GAAC is not settling for a “status quo” agenda for development, but rather seeks to be highly proactive in its efforts. GAAC leadership has realized that the opportunities exist to accelerate the development of public art works, to produce more unique and thought provoking designs and concepts, and to better educate the local community about the benefits of public art. Therefore, the ultimate goal of the recommendations presented herein is to complement and assist the GAAC by proposing and prioritizing potential new public art project development concepts. Each of the concepts presented herein are elaborated on using in-depth case studies detailing similar projects that have been undertaken in comparable markets from around the country. CSL’s seven specific categories of recommendations are highlighted below. 1. Sculpture Gardens 2. Sculpture Trails 3. Monumental Installations 4. Installation Collections Tied to a Theme 5. Interactive Installations 6. Creative/Performance Spaces 7. Events and Festivals Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 16 In many cases, the recommendations presented herein can be initiated and managed by the GAAC, but in many other instances, the City and various public or private organizations will have to be involved in funding and implementing these suggested projects. Section 5 of this Master Plan will explore these types of relationships, funding sources and other project management elements in greater detail. 4.1 Sculpture Gardens Consideration should be given to planning for a new Augusta sculpture garden. Such a project could create important green space, community event space, and would serve as an opportunity to create and build on a collection of higher-profile, larger scale public art. This type of garden or park could be considered as an outdoor museum, dedicated to the presentation of high quality sculptures and installations. Importantly, this type of collection would be highly accessible and visible to residents and visitors and would encourage foot traffic to a targeted area. Downtown Augusta does already have a modest version of this type of development at Springfield Village Park, but local stakeholders expressed a desire for a more significant concentration of sculptures in the area. The following case studies showcase how large scale sculpture gardens can be developed and managed. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 17 Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden (Little Rock, Arkansas) The Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden and Sculptural Promenade were developed in 2004 to provide an aesthetic facelift to the downtown Little Rock’s riverfront, as well as to showcase the city’s vibrant culture and history. The Garden and Promenade, both located within Arkansas River Park, feature over 75 sculptures that have a combined value of over $2 million. The Garden is adjacent to Little Rock’s Statehouse Convention Center and also features a botanical garden, an Eastern- styled shrine, natural terraces and various walkways. The design creates a more intimate space to view smaller works within the Riverfront Park and is ideal for hosting receptions. The Garden is privately funded for by the local Vogel Schwartz Foundation. The Sculpture of the River Market committee, a local non-profit 501(c)3 entity, formed in 2007 to enhance and maintain the Promenade trail that extends out of the Garden. Private donations and proceeds from the annual Fine Art Sculpture Show and Sale fund procurement and installation of new sculptures; these Show and Sales events are sponsored by the National Sculptors Guild and feature the work of sculptors from around the U.S. in addition to a variety of food offerings and live music. The committee partners with the Guild to annually procure its sculptures, which gives them access to the works of over 40 sculptors from around the U.S. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 18 Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (Minneapolis, Minnesota) The 11-acre Minneapolis Sculpture Garden opened in 1988 adjacent to the renowned Walker Art Center to unite two of Minnesota’s most recognized and cherished resources – its scenic outdoors and its arts and culture. The Garden features over 40 permanent sculpture as well as several temporary installations that are changed out on an annual basis. The Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board owns the land, while the privately owned Walker Art Center pays for the procurement, installation, maintenance and landscaping for the sculptures (landscaping entails the six- foot radius of grass surrounding each sculpture). The Parks and Rec Board spends approximately $350,000 to $425,000 per year to pay for staffing, maintenance, and utilities for the Garden. Its dedicated staff includes one full time employee and three to four part time seasonal workers. The Parks and Rec Department often rents out the grounds for private weddings or banquets and makes moderate revenue from such events, but officials state that the Garden’s expenses still far exceed its revenues. In response to this, the Garden is undergoing a significant renovation in 2016 that will add areas that can be used for new types of event activity. The Walker hosts two large events per year in the Garden: Rock the Garden, a large outdoor concert with top tier musical acts, and the Art Center’s annual fundraiser. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 19 As demonstrated in Little Rock and Minneapolis, sculpture gardens can be situated next to highly visited assets such as a convention center and/or art museum. However, it can be difficult in an urban area to create a footprint sufficient to accommodate a dedicated sculpture garden. Several markets therefore focus on locations at the edge of a downtown, or in more outlying locations. In Augusta, there is a new Cyber Range under construction on land owned by the State of Georgia, which is expected to be under the management of Augusta University in 2019. The location, which is approximately 17 acres in size, is situated across from the Springfield Village Park, a site dedicated to the history of the Springfield Community, an integral part of African American history in Georgia. We believe an opportunity exists to integrate a sculpture garden into the grounds of the Cyber Range with an investment into an art-inspired crossing across Reynolds between the Springfield Village Park and Cyber Range. With the local history expertise provided by Augusta University, the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History, and the greater community, the Sculpture Garden could create a major destination as an art-filled, culturally-imbued, green space in the heart of downtown Augusta. It has the potential to become a regional draw by integrating the history of the area into its design and by enhancing it with a carefully curated sculpture trail and beautiful landscaping. Exhibit 10 Potential New Garden Linkage Across Reynolds Street Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 20 Other sites that could be considered include a potentially expanded area for the Common up to the Riverwalk, which could link the Sculpture Park to a Sculpture Trail. In addition, a partnership could be pursued with the Augusta Canal Authority to develop a canal trail and a large, finely landscaped urban green space that would link the historic Laney Walker area with the center of downtown (see potential concept below). By reaching an agreement with Atlanta Gas & Light, the owner of some of the land included in this potential trail and park, the city and GAAC could also designate the onsite Mother Trinity Church as a special events venue. There is also privately owned land to the east of the Convention Center across James Brown Boulevard. However, this site is likely to be a highly valued commercial development location, and it may be difficult to justify a significant green space. More suburban locations could also be considered, however the ability to leverage foot traffic and non -local visitation can be more difficult in these areas. Other public art recommendations focused on neighborhood and park locations, discussed later in this section, would be a more appropriate response to the need for public art in these areas. Potential Sculpture Garden Concept Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 21 To supply product for this potential new Augusta Sculpture Garden, the Morris Museum of Art could partner with the GAAC to curate high quality sculpture from throughout the region and/or country, and the City’s Recreation and Parks Department could provide the labor to install and maintain these installations that would be either situated permanently or temporarily in the new Augusta Garden. These efforts could also be supported and funded with the help of national arts organizations such as Americans for the Arts (AMA), the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), and/or the National Sculptors Guild. Sculpture procurement through event activity could also be used. The Fine Art Sculpture Show and Sale in Little Rock both raises funds for the non-profit entity that manages the Vogel S. Schwartz Sculpture Garden and provides a channel to supply additional sculptures at the garden. Augusta’s own fine art auction and/or festival could be a GAAC-managed event that would invite sculptors from around the region or country to compete against one another, and a public and/or private vote on the best submitted piece (or pieces) could result in public art for a potential sculpture garden. It will also be important to plan for tastefully designed landscaping around the sculpture garden – this green space could even serve as an art piece in and of itself. Much of the labor required to hedge, mow and maintain this landscape could be provided by the Recreation and Parks Department, while installation of utilities (such as a sprinkler system, concrete pathways, poten tial walls and/or dividers, in-ground electrical outlets for potential outdoor event activity) would be provided for by the city’s Engineering Department. As shown in the two analyzed markets, sculpture garden development in Augusta will likely require a significant amount of funding for high quality sculptures and maintenance. Potential funding sources for such projects will be discussed further in Section 5. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 22 4.2 Sculpture Trails Opportunities exist in Augusta to enhance trail networks and develop linkages between some of its vital attractions and districts. Initiatives should be explored by the GAAC and the City to create a sizable sculpture trail, one that could span up to one mile and would feature anywhere between 20 to 40 high quality outdoor sculptures and art installations. This trail could connect many of the downtown’s primary attractions and guide pedestrians to the various trails that lead from the downtown, or it could be installed at a more remote region elsewhere in the city. In contrast with the purpose and typical settings of sculpture gardens, sculpture trails can offer pedestrians the opportunity to venture “off the beaten path” that would otherwise remain unexplored. The development of a sculpture “trail” or “walk” allows people to experience two of Augusta’s more recognizable assets – the arts and the outdoors. Such a trail would essentially be an open-air art gallery along a defined route with strategically developed sight corridors and views, and it could encourage outdoor exploration and visitation of less visited areas of the city. Conversely, the trail could also follow and connect highly visible and accessible areas such as Broad Street and/or the Augusta Riverwalk in downtown. Urban sculpture trails in these areas would offer engaging links to draw people along a walking path through the area and encourage more pedestrians to explore downtown, thereby creating a more vibrant atmosphere. The following pages demonstrate how sculpture trails have been successfully developed and managed in Sioux Falls, (SD), Asheville, (NC) and Greenville, (SC). Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 23 SculptureWalk (Sioux Falls, South Dakota) Currently in its 13th year, the SculptureWalk is a year-round, outdoor art exhibit displayed throughout downtown Sioux Falls. The exhibit has quickly grown from 10 to more than 50 sculptures. The sculptures, which are from 17 states and around the world, represent traditional, modern, abstract and representational art. Each sculpture has a plaque that details a brief story behind the work and the name of the artist. Under the program, entries are critiqued by the SculptureWalk Selection Committee, which is comprised of visual artists and local business and community leaders. Selections are ultimately based on artistic merit, creativity, public safety, and durability in an outdoor setting. The sculptures are owned by the artists and loaned to the exhibit for one year. From May through September, the public can v ote for its favorite sculpture, which is deemed the "People's Choice Award." That sculpture is purchased at the end of the exhibit year (up to $20,000) for the city's permanent collection. One of the top five vote getters will be selected as the Best of Show Award. The Best of Show sculpture may be purchased or awarded a $3,000 cash prize and receive special plaque recognition. The other four will be presented with Best of Show II Awards and receive special framed award certificates/plaques. When a sculptor wins one Best of Show award or 3 Best of Show II awards, he/she will be honored as a SculptureWalk Virtuoso Sculptor and be recognized with a framed certificate/plaque. All Virtuoso Sculptors will receive special prominence status and Honorariums of $1,500 per year going forward. Additionally, SculptureWa lk currently leases 17 sculptures around the city for one and two- year terms. Artists participating in the SculptureWalk also have the opportunity to participate in other affiliated sculpture walk programs at a local university and hospital. All sculptures are also aggressively promoted to the public for sale. SculptureWalk receives a 25 percent commission on any sculpture sold and on any commissioned sculptures, except for the People’s Choice and Best of Show sculptures. Historically, approximately 25 percent of all sculptures have been purchased. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 24 Urban Trail (Asheville, North Carolina) Initiated by the city of Ashville in 1991, the Urban Trail is a 1.7-mile long circular sculpture trail that traverses through downtown Asheville. Thirty sculptures have been added since 1991, with each of these featuring plaques that tell “mini stories” about Asheville in addition to the artist responsible for the piece. Sculptures highlight the city’s history across five distinct time periods as labeled by color coded symbols. Most of the Trail’s installations, and its overall layout, were designed by drawing input from public town hall discussions, and volunteers supplied much of the labor and funds that were necessary to complete the trail between 1991 and 2002. The Trail is now managed by a sub-committee of the city’s Public Art and Cultural Commission, whose primary job is now to advance the Trail by reviewing and approving/denying proposals for new public art additions to the Trail. Specific standouts include the “Cossroads” (pictured above to the right), which symbolizes an old turn pike from the mid-1800’s that served as a primary thoroughfare for farmers who would have their pigs and turkeys walk alongside with them as they rode in their wagons, and “On The Move”, an interactive spinning wheel that makes different sounds reflective of the time period when spun. Downtown Greenville (Greenville, South Carolina) Greenville’s downtown includes over 50 of the city’s 70 public art installations. This inventory includes both longstanding bronze statues as well as more modern, abstract and contemporary works. A significant number of these installations are situated along Greenville’s Main Street. These projects were completed on a case by case basis, but representatives from the city’s Arts in Public Places Commission noted that once public art reached a critical mass within their community, private property owners around the community increasingly bought in to the escalating public art trend by teaming up with artists and proposing projects on their own properties. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 25 We recommend that planning for the development of an Augusta sculpture trail be initiated. It will be important to incorporate public input on the kinds of sculptures that should be placed and their appropriate location. This could be accomplished in a fashion similar to Asheville’s development of its Urban Trail, with town hall meetings and brainstorming sessions leading to the development of project priorities and a planned trail layout. Consideration should be given to developing the start of a trail in a highly visible area, such as a new sculpture garden, the Common, or elsewhere in downtown Augusta. The trail could then tie together various districts in the downtown area, along Broad Street and the Riverwalk. Exhibit 11 below illustrates a possible route that would traverse the downtown. Exhibit 11 Potential New Sculpture Trail Route in Downtown Augusta Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 26 Additional trail development could take place along the Augusta Canal and continuing toward the scenic Lake Olmstead Park. Further, the trail should include multiple forms of art. For instance, Greenville, South Carolina’s Main Street features a combination of statues, sculptures, tiles/mosaics and murals, which help create a more eclectic and vibrant walking experience. Themes for the art installations could be very broad, reflecting artist’s interpretation of key historic, cultural, natural and commercial aspects unique to Augusta. A potential trail route and design is presented in the exhibit below. Exhibit 12 Potential New Sculpture Trail Along Augusta Canal It will also be important to provide tastefully designed landscaping along the trail – this could include botanical features, benches, and other public amenities. Installation and maintenance duties would be the responsibility of the City’s Engineering and Recreation and Parks Departments, respectively. To ensure that a large and high quality inventory of 20 or more sculptures are developed and installed along the potential new trail, the GAAC and City should devise a model that is similar to SculptureWalk in Sioux Falls - an annual contest would serve as a primary supplier for the trail, in which local and national artists are incentivized to participate due to the Trail’s capability as an outdoor showcase for their work. Potential Public Art Installation Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 27 4.3 Monumental Installations A monumental piece in Augusta would ideally be nationally recognized – it would serve as one of the City’s central identifiers, much like the Cloud Gate sculpture at Millennium Park in Chicago or the “Love” sign in Philadelphia. The six-story baseball bat leaning against the historic Louisville Slugger building in downtown Louisville can be viewed as iconic and monumental. There are several “signature” installations in Augusta including the James Brown Statue and the Tower of Aspiration in Springfield Village Park, however no monumental, large-scale pieces exist in the market. To develop such an irreplaceable and highly identifiable asset, it can take first-rate artistic talent, a high profile location and a significant budget. The impacts, on destination brand, exposure and visitation, can be significant. In other communities, monumental installations are typically highly authentic, “one of a kind” projects that have the history and personality of their respective communities deeply integrated into their aesthetic and backstory, and their design can be spectacular and thought provoking. Examples with this degree of exceptionality were analyzed in Prague, Czech Republic, Casper, (WY) and Scottsdale, (AZ). The Head of Franz Kafka (Prague, Czech Republic) Designed by Czech artist David Cerny and installed within one of Prague’s busiest shopping centers in 2014, The Head of Franz Kafka (pictured left) is a 45-ton mirrored steel bust comprised of 42 independently moving layers. The Head reshapes itself periodically throughout the day, at times resembling the Head and other times resembling a formless array of silver discs. The piece’s constant movement represents the personality of Franz Kafka, a famous 20- century author known for his neuroses and continual feelings of self-doubt. This of type grand- scale kinetic sculpture both captivates passerby and generates international publicity for its host city. Costs for development and installation of the piece approximated $1.25 million. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 28 Confluence of Space and Time (Casper, Wyoming) Representing the public art component of an extensive affordable housing development project in Casper, Wyoming, the Confluence of Time and Space (pictured right) was a partnered effort between the Wyoming Community Development Authority (WCDA), the local Nicolaysen Art Museum, the NEA’s Our Town funding program, and various local neighborhoods. These stakeholders prioritized the establishment of a sustainable public art project that would enhance the landscape and character of the new adjacent housing complex while also integrating various influences from the local community, geography and climate. While the WCDA served as the primary financier for the housing project, the Museum served as the primary manager of the public art aspect and invited 86 artists from around the country to propose p otential project ideas. The winner, and resulting interactive installation, was inspired by the different historical and geological periods of the region and acts as a large scale sundial. Rugged rock terrain, fossils, bones and indigenous carvings are showcased inside its tran sparent exterior. Moreover, the installation features a staircase that leads patrons to a brief diagrammed history of the Earth (pictured left). Project managers from the WCDA and NEA wanted to engage neighborhood residents to give them ownership over the planning process and to integrate educational arts-based programs for residents of all ages. The planning process itself became a hands-on creative activity for the community. Since its construction, the commons area surrounding Confluence of Time and Space hosts a plethora of arts-related events for the area’s youth, and the neighboring Nicolaysen Art Museum has experienced significant increases in annual attendance. In all, the installation’s total project cost approximated $240,000, with the art itself comprising $115,000. The project was partially funded by a $50,000 Our Town grant from the NEA. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 29 Jack Knife (Scottsdale, Arizona) Built in 1992, the Jack Knife statue (pictured right) in Scottsdale is located in the middle of its downtown’s Main Street and at the heart of the city’s Gallery District. The installation was modeled after the city’s official seal (which depicts a cowboy riding a bucking horse) and was made more angular to demonstrate the power and ferocity of both the horse and the rider. The statue itself is surrounded by a small circular garden that features cacti and other plant species that are native to Arizona, in addition to small lights that light up the statue at night. As shown in the images to the right, the Jack Knife is situated at the center of a roundabout of sidewalks and galleries, showcasing it to the many pedestrians that traverse the downtown. In total, Jack Knife cost approximately $81,000 to build and install, excluding landscaping that surrounds the piece. Representatives from Scottsdale Arts, the city’s primary public art entity, noted that this kind of project would likely cost $400,000 to do today, adding that the statue was created by a local nationally known artist who completed the work in part as a contribution to the community. As shown by examples in Prague, Casper and Scottsdale, monumental installations can vary greatly depending on the community they are in and the inspiration behind their development. At the same time, they do share several common traits: they are grand in scale, eye-catching, and help establish a strong sense of place. Regardless of what theme is chosen for a potential monumental piece in Augusta, it will be important to ensure that its scale, location and presentation are large scale, influenced by both significant community input and artistic inspiration. Research results clearly indicate that there are two to three themes that should be considered for monumental art development. For example, a Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 30 likeness of James Brown already exists but may not fully capture a monumental component. However, a work influenced by an abstract representation of his music and influences could be considered, symbolizing the soul, funk and gospel music that James Brown created. These musical genres and the imprint that James Brown left on them have the potential to comprise elements of an art piece that could be thought provoking, dynamic and extravagant. Perhaps the work could also feature a kinetic component, similar to that of The Head of Franz Kafka in Prague. It is recommended that regardless of theme, an RFP for a nationally recognized artist should be considered to better ensure an element of national and international exposure. There are several sites in the City that likely represent the most appropriate locations for a project with this degree of visibility, including: • The Broad Street Median • Augusta Common or Riverwalk • At strategically selected highway gateway locations • Prominently featured within potential new sculpture garden and/or trail A location on Broad Street would position the piece in a highly accessible and visible area to those walking through the downtown, however pedestrian access would be difficult (see image of potential concept to right). A location on an expanded Common area or a location in a new sculpture garden as described earlier in this section could also be considered. Regardless, a highly public location with significant public access will be required. Depending on the theme of the piece, the Savannah River could represent a potentially dramatic and visible site. Imagine a partially submerged large-scale art piece that would peer Potential Monumental Installation Concept Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 31 over the surface of the water at the passersby on the Augusta Riverwalk and expanded Common plaza discussed in the Destination Development Plan. The installation could be temporary, with various pieces installed on a rotational basis, creating an iconic and potentially kinetic aesthetic that could become a signature for Augusta. The Savannah Rapids themselves could be considered as a theme for a monumental art piece, referencing the historic significance of the Fall Line to the founding of Augusta. This is explained on GeorgiaInfo. The Fall Line was very important in the historical growth of Georgia. Rivers in the Coastal Plain tend to be larger and slow moving - making them navigable by large boats. But when the boats reached the Fall Line, they could go no further, so trading posts developed along the Fall Line, where materials brought up from Coastal Plain rivers could be traded for material from the Piedmont region. Four important cities grew from this development - Augusta (at the Fall Line of the Savannah River), Milledgeville (at the Fall Line of the Oconee River), Macon (at the Fall Line of the Ocmulgee River), and Columbus (at the Fall Line of the Chattahoochee River). Later, as industrialization progressed, the same cities had the advantage of water power from the “Falls” where they were established. (Source: GeorgiaInfo, February 15, 2017) Working with the artistic community to create a significant piece that leverages the aesthetically engaging and historically significant Savannah Rapids could be impactful in tying together cultural, historical, and nature-engagement tourism themes. A monumental piece could also be placed at key “gateway” locations along major roadways that would signify entry into the downtown area. As shown in the Public Art Master Plan survey results analysis, many respondents felt that Riverwatch Parkway and Gordon Highway could greatly benefit from added public art. Achieving a monumental and impactful piece of art for any community can be challenging, requiring funding, inspiration and collaboration. This section has identified numerous concepts that could be considered. A thorough planning and funding effort should be initiated with a goal of avoiding a “typical” art installation, and truly achieving a monumental and noteworthy piece of art. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 32 4.4 Installations Tied to a Theme The GAAC and should consider not only continuing, but building on the Art the Box concept in order to develop a themed public art program around a single widely-produced sculpture that could then be customized/painted and installed in different areas of the City. Many communities around the country have found this type of program to be a low cost method for developing exposure to public art, while inviting local businesses and non-profits to participate in and fund the development of uniquely painted sculptures within the community. Several comparable programs that were organized in Norfolk, (VA), Aiken, (GA), and New Bern, (NC) are described below and on the following pages. Mermaids (Norfolk, Virginia) Developed in 2000 by the city of Norfolk and a private benefactor, the Mermaids sculpture project was a part of a re-branding and revitalization of downtown Norfolk. The city sought the help of a local bronze sculptor to mass produce 130 mermaid castings, after which local businesses from around the area “adopted” each for $2,000. Each work is the result of a partnership between a local artist and a local sponsor, with each featuring different themes. For instance, the mermaid in front of a bank is covered in coins, while another in front of a local bakery features a culinary theme. A mobile app has also been developed that allows pedestrians to seek out each mermaid sculpture and to learn the story and influences behind each of them. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 33 Horseplay (Aiken, South Carolina) Made possible by a partnership between the Aiken Center for the Arts and United Way in 2002, the painted horses of Aiken, South Carolina were developed decorated by professional artists from around the Carolinas and Georgia as part of a campaign to raise awareness of the arts in the local community. The thirty-one life-sized fiberglass horses were each sponsored by local businesses, who were then responsible for choosing a decorating artist. The sculptures dotted the city’s landscape for five months and were then auctioned off at a gala, which raised over $250,000 for local innovative art programs and arts-related scholarships. Today, many of the horses can still be found in downtown Aiken, and the city and local artistic community have leveraged their presence by developing activities and media around these sculptures, such as scavenger hunts, poems and short stories. Bear Town Bears (New Bern, North Carolina) In 2010, the Craven County Arts Council formed a partnership with the Swiss Bear Downtown Corporation (New Bern’s entity for downtown development) to develop over 50 fiberglass, ceramic bears that were situated throughout the City of New Bern, North Carolina. Local businesses sponsored and adopted each bear, and participated in a year-long process that included selecting local artists to design the bear’s theme and designating a display location for the bear. Today, 21 Bear Town Bears are featured throughout downtown New Bern, with many of these in close proximity to highly visited areas, such as the New Bern Riverfront Convention Center. Each local business paid $2,800 to adopt a bear, and each participating artist received $300 to paint them. Interestingly, the Craven County Arts Council developed 2,000 24”x36” posters that now sell for $15 each. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 34 As demonstrated by these communities, developing a cost effective, themed public art installation program can encourage public and private partnerships and generate and awareness and excitement in the community towards public art. The GAAC should consider developing a similar program for Augusta at some point in the future. Many local stakeholders and residents alike suggested the idea of developing themed sculpture program similar to those run in New Bern, Norfolk and Aiken, and suggested the use of well-known figures such as James Brown, “Happy” robots, or famous professional golfers for various businesses to adopt and sponsor. As shown in the comparable markets, sponsorship fees and/or auctions sales generated by these sculptures would importantly serve as a potential fundraising source for the GAAC and the local arts scene. Other opportunities exist to create themed, community-wide public art installations, reflective of the successful Art the Box initiative. Going beyond this, GAAC representatives indicate that they would like to initiate a bus shelter redecoration/redevelopment program. This effort would potentially be tied to Augusta’s various neighborhoods, as each shelter would represent and be decorated with input from neighborhood residents. In all, 25-45 bus shelters situated around the City would be decorated. Importantly, this would help to spread the presence of public art to other areas of the community, and the GAAC has already taken an important step for the project by working with the NEA to potentially receive a significant federal grant to help fund the initiative. Consideration should now be given to partnering with several public and private entities, such as Augusta University, the Augusta CVB, the Downtown Development Authority, and the various neighborhoods to develop themes for each of these bus shelters. In addition, the GAAC has partnered with the golf car maker, Textron Specialized Vehicles to develop a prototype public seating and bike rack installation made from the chassis of a golf car, which could easily be expanded upon throughout the City. The roof of each stationary “golf car” installation could be outfitted with solar panels to power phone charging stations, and aside from a bike rack, each piece could feature map displays and individually crafted artistic embellishments. By combining elements of golf, art and technology, these installations would tie together themes from Augusta’s past, present and future and could lik ely generate recognition on a national level. Input for the bus shelter and golf car initiatives should be gathered through multiple channels of research, including email/online surveys, in-person interviews, focus groups, town hall meetings, etc. The results of these input gathering efforts could then be used to communicate creative design ideas to the artists who would be creating the installations. Using potential funding from the NEA, the GAAC should issue an RFP for artists from around the southeastern United States to participate in the program. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 35 4.5 Interactive/Innovative Installations Public art can provide entertaining “hands-on” opportunities that can engage, educate and inspire residents and visitors. Installations that double as musical instruments, exercise equipment or interactive light shows are becoming increasingly popular in cities around the world, and with today’s internet and social media technologies, video and photos of these innovative works can quickly become viral. As such, this Plan strongly recommends the GAAC and other local stakeholder organizations prioritize the development of a set of interactive installations in Augusta that would engage and excite the community. Further, with funding for permanent interactive installations often difficult to secure, communities around the world have discovered the cost effectiveness of installing temporary interactive art installations. These “pop up” installations liven main streets, bring foot traffic back to long neglected areas, and pique the interest of residents and visitors. Moreover, temporary installations often represent a more timely approach to public art development, with less labor and less zoning/planning processes that go into their production, and they can provide commentary on very relevant current events or topics. To provide insight on the unique (and sometimes cost effective) approaches that some municipalities are taking with respect to interactive/innovative public art development, CSL collected information from several temporary and permanent interactive public art projects that have taken place in Covington (KY), Chattanooga (TN), St. Louis (MO), and Cernobbio, Italy. Opportunities to apply these types of concepts to Augusta are also evaluated. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 36 Curb’d Parklets (Covington, Kentucky) In 2015, Renaissance Covington (the downtown development agency of Covington, Kentucky) partnered with People’s Liberty (an arts-related philanthropic foundation from Cincinnati) to establish a temporary public art program that would transform several parking spaces in front of local downtown businesses into interactive art installations. Over the course of multiple months, several workshops and “meet and greets” were held to help connect local businesses interested in participating in the program with prospective artists. In total, 11 pairings of artists and businesses were formed and these teams worked together to design an interactive temporary art concept. Renaissance Covington then chose five winners among the 11 pairings and awarded these winning teams with $15,000 each to fund the construction of their projects. These funds were provided for by the Haile Foundation, the parent organization of People’s Liberty. The winning submissions included the “Wish Igloo” (pictured above) that invited passersby to walk inside and write their wishes on a note that would hang along the inside wall, and a bike-powered movie theater (pictured above, right) that played classic silent films while viewers powered the projector on stationary cycles. Empathy Garden (Cernobbio, Italy) Installed in the Central Pavilion of the Exhibition Centre of Villa Erba on Lake Como for three days in 2014, the Empathy Garden was a centerpiece of one of Italy’s leading events on advanced gardening. The Garden was used as an informal meeting/gathering space, an educational tool that teaches about the importance of sustainable living, and an interactive musical string section. These interactive, playable strings (pictured left) enveloped 800 different plants from 20 different plant species. The intent of the Garden was to symbolize the harmony of the sensory experience – for example, depending on your location within the room, the weather outside, and the time of day, the strings would play different sounds. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 37 City Museum (St. Louis, Missouri) Housed inside the 600,000 square-foot former International Shoe Company factory in downtown St. Louis, the City Museum features a diverse inventory of interactive exhibits and architecture made out of found objects. Bob Cassily, an internationally known sculptor, developed the museum after purchasing the factory in 1993. His goal was to create an immersive environment of sculpture and other art that would continually change and grow as more found items are added to its collection. A team of artisans constructed the museum from items and materials found throughout the city of St. Louis. The Museum’s interactive exhibits are made from items such as old chimneys, salvaged bridges, construction cranes, miles of tile, and abandoned planes. Local officials estimate that the Museum attracted more than 700,000 visitors in 2010. The success of the Museum a marquee tourist attraction has also led to significant economic revitalization in the surrounding community, an area that once primarily consisted of abandoned and/or neglected properties. Main Terrain Art Park (Chattanooga, Tennessee) Opened in 2013, the Main Terrain Art Park (pictured left) in Chattanooga, Tennessee represented the crowning piece of a city-led initiative to improve the livability and walkability in the underdeveloped Southside area of town. In 2010, City leaders designated a 1.72-acre vacant parcel to convert into a public “art and fitness” park that would provide green space for the nearby neighborhoods and extend the experience of Main Street to the Southside. To assist in funding this project, which cost approximately $1 million, Public Art Chattanooga and the local Lyndhurst Foundation partnered to procure significant funding from the NEA’s Our Town program. Public Art Chattanooga then issued an RFQ in 2011 and received over 60 responses. The winning applicant worked closely with neighborhood leaders and local fitness advocates to establish a final design, and landscape architects from around the area assisted greatly with the project. The end product comprises of three interactive towers that each feature a piece of a connecting bridge. The wheels at the base of these towers can then be operated by pedestrians and can actually be incorporated into a workout routine, as the towers are surrounded by a walking/running trail. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 38 As showcased in these case studies, public art projects can be interactive, recreational and captivating attractions. Using these for conceptual direction, we recommend the following initiatives. Art and Public Spaces To raise awareness of the impact and benefits of public art, the GAAC should consider developing a temporary installation program akin to the “Curb’d Parklets” program in Covington, Kentucky. Due to this type of endeavor’s relatively low project cost and duration, this should be considered a very near term priority. The GAAC should partner with local artists and arts organizations to develop the program, with additional funding from private (or public) sources as needed. Local businesses could partner with local and/or regional artists to develop creative and engaging interactive installations, and the GAAC could select winning designs from a field of applicants. These types of temporary “pop up” installations should be considered for areas that have high existing foot traffic, or are in need of activation/foot traffic (see image of potential concept to right). Selected parking spaces and open areas in downtown, Augusta Common and Augusta Riverwalk should be considered as testing grounds for an initial program, and consideration should be given to developing other pop-up installations in some of Augusta’s more underused public areas, such as Diamond Lakes Regional Park, Lock and Dam Park and/or Lake Olmstead Park. Art and Physical Health A focus on locations within and outside downtown could combine two key concepts proposed by a number of Public Art Master Plan survey respondents – “interactive installations” and “redecorated public amenities”. For example, the GAAC should consider contracting local artists to create interactive sculpture that could serve dual purposes as playground equipment, exercise Potential Temporary Installation Concept Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 39 equipment or bike racks. Locations near bike/hiking paths, walking trails and other areas frequented by the public should be identified for this type of initiative, using the Main Terrain Art Park in Chattanooga as a large-scale example. Music and Motion Interacting With Public Art It will be important to consider incorporating innovative/interactive elements with various permanent art installations. Previous recommendations discussed herein, such as developing sculpture gardens or trails, could include music components similar to the “Empathy Garden” in Italy or “The Swings: An Exercise in Musical Cooperation” in West Palm Beach which features swings that each play notes made by different instruments; also, the higher one swings the higher the note that is played. Local stakeholders have noted that this type of project has been considered in the past, with some proposing a tie -in with the James Brown Statue to add “piano” stepping stones that would create music as pedestrians walk toward his likeness on Broad Street. It is highly recommended that the GAAC and other local leaders consider a type of dynamic public art piece that would include a sensory experience in a highly visible/highly frequented area such as downtown. In addition, and as previously noted, installations such as “The Swings: An Exercise in Musical Cooperation” in West Palm Beach, the Main Terrain Art Park in Chattanooga feature interactive and kinetic components that provide passersby with unique opportunities to engage or play with. The GAAC and the Recreation and Parks Department should consider the addition of a “swing instrument”, a kinetic sculpture that can be rotated by the turn of a wheel, or other similar concepts for outdoor recreation areas such as Diamond Lakes Park, Lake Olmstead Park and/or Lock and Dam Park (see image of potential concept to left). Potential Temporary Installation Concept Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 40 Public Art and the Entertainment Experience Opportunities should be explored to develop a marquee entertainment venue/attraction with key elements of public art, similar to the City Museum in St. Louis. With its widespread appeal, this new venue would produce the type of visitor industry buzz that generates noticeable economic and quality of life benefits for the area’s population, arts scene and visitor industry. There is a substantial inventory of vacant buildings throughout downtown and South Augusta that could serve as a venue for such an attraction. Consideration should be given to working with local building owners, arts groups, funding entities, Visit Augusta and other stakeholders to explore the development of an interactive, themed art experience in or near these areas. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 41 4.6 Designated Arts Areas and Spaces To foster an emerging arts scene, consideration should be given to development of a designated space or neighborhood for artists to work, collaborate and present their works. These multi-use spaces can house studio, gallery, performing arts, banquet and other functions, sometimes simultaneously. The re-use of the 600 Broad Building demonstrates the progressive steps being taken in Augusta to recognize the local talent and arts community, and opportunities exist to incorporate concepts that other municipalities around the country have taken to increasingly expand the physical presence of the arts community. This can include designating vacant buildings or even districts for creative collaboration or performances. Moreover, these types of spaces often host eclectic event activity or serve as nightlife venues, representing an opportunity to enhance the vibrancy in some of Augusta’s less visited downtown areas. Successful introductions of this kind of collaborative space and/or district were researched in Dubuque, (IA) and Norfolk, (VA) and summarized on the following pages. Arts in the District (Dubuque, Iowa) With an extensive inventory of vacant and underutilized industrial spaces along its Mississippi River waterfront, the city of Dubuque set out to repurpose some of this historic district’s buildings into arts- and culture-related spaces that could support the growing creative community in the area. The Arts in the District project (pictured left) comprised of significant renovations of interiors and exteriors of three vacant buildings along the River and was co-led by the city and Dubuque Main Street (a non-profit committed to downtown area development). The team brought in experts on historic preservation, including historic rehabilitation company Gronen Restoration, architecture firm Jeffrey Morton Associates, and Artspace, a nonprofit organization that assists communities and property owners with arts initiatives. Organizers developed programming for the space and recruited a series of events and exhibitions that drew a diverse, year-round audience to the District. A national request-for-proposals drew an impressive roster of artists, proposed events, festivals, installations, and exhibitions. As shown in the pictures above, event activity can range from quiet, intimate string orchestras to interpretive dance performances. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 42 NEON District (Norfolk, Virginia) To revitalize a neighborhood just outside of downtown Norfolk that encompassed the Chrysler Museum of Art and the Harrison Opera House, the city of Norfolk re-zoned substantial portions of the area to encourage the development of arts-related businesses and renamed it the “NEON District” in 2013 (pictured right). The city’s Downtown Council, the managing entity of the downtown’s Business Improvement District, also supplied a significant amount of funding to businesses that re-located to the district, offering up to $20,000 to individual galleries and/or creative spaces that needed assistance with interior build outs (the Council is given $120,000 for these types of grants, which are generally reserved for downtown businesses). Anchored by the Art Museum and Opera House, NEON, or New Energy of Norfolk, is now home to a wide-ranging array of arts-related shops, performance venues and clubs such as Glass Wheel Studio, WorkRelease and Push Comedy Club. Today, the Neon District is marketed and managed by a designated staff person in the Downtown Council’s office, and $15,000 per year is dedicated to a murals program while an additional $15,000 is used for producing events. The murals program has helped to brand the area, with the walls of strategic “gateway” businesses on the border of the District selected for lively, large scale murals. Approximately three murals are created in the District per year ($5,000 each). A minimal amount of the $15,000 in event funding is used sporadically to pay for equipment used small/informal acts that play in a central public plaza. The fund is primarily used to pay for the NEON Festival, a four-day celebration of “energy and light”. The city of Augusta, the Downtown Development Authority and the Greater Augusta Arts Council should build on the positive steps taken by the Regional Collaboration at 600 Broad and consider leveraging it as a headpiece for a downtown “Arts and Culture District”. This area of the downtown also features the soon-to-be-opened Miller Theater, the Imperial Theatre, and (potentially) the Morris Museum of Art. Exhibit 13 defines the potential geographic location of such a district. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 43 Exhibit 13 Potential New Arts and Culture District in Downtown To encourage arts-related investment in this district, the City, GAAC, DDA and other stakeholders should work to procure and reserve a dedicated source of funds to assist development of a concentrated area in downtown for multi-use arts related venues. Specific types of assistance could include façade improvement and build out of selected vacant properties, operational support, marketing and event support and related efforts. A murals program similar to the one in Norfolk’s NEON District should also be considered to better distinguish this area and make it highly known to passersby that they are entering a signature arts district. It is important to note, however, the Artists Row previously established in downtown Augusta in the 1990’s to provide artists and gallery owners with subsidies to keep their business afloat in Augusta, has not been continued. To be successful, it will be important to create a diverse community of arts-related businesses and functions with appeal to a cross section of the community. The multi-use strengths of the projects described above in Dubuque and Norfolk serve as useful examples. Arts and Culture Assets 1 2 3 4 Imperial Theatre Miller Theater (opens Fall 2017) Morris Museum (TBD) 600 Broad Augusta Musuem of History 1 2 3 4 5 5 Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 44 4.7 Events and Festivals Significant potential exists for the GAAC and local leadership to grow existing arts-related events or develop entirely new arts- related festivals. Events and festivals represent an opportunity to more strongly tie Augusta’s brand with arts and culture, attract spending from out of town visitors, and act as a fundraising mechanism for arts-related organizations in the community. Many stakeholders and survey respondents recommended the development of a more high-end fine arts festival, while others suggested developing an art auction that would raise funds for the GAAC and other local art entities. To better define these types of concepts, the case studies presented below and on the following pages present valuable insight into arts event development. Art Prize (Grand Rapids, Michigan) Art Prize is an international art competition held across the city of Grand Rapids, Michigan, with its seventh annual event held in October of 2015. The event was started and managed by Art Prize, a 501(c)3 non-profit entity. Marketing and advertising is funded and managed by Visit Grand Rapids, the city’s local convention and visitor’s bureau. The event heavily involves the local commu nity, featuring over 800 volunteers from around the area, totaling 13,000 total man hours. Two grand prize winners each receive $200,000, while several runners-up receive $20,000 each. The event was privately developed and operates with a significant production budget. Attracting 1,500 competitors from 45 states and 47 countries, and over 225,000 attendees per year, the event generates over $22 million in total new economic output for Grand Rapids. In recent years, the event has incorporated a matchmaking software that pairs businesses in downtown Grand Rapids with participating artists to efficiently secure location’s temporary installations. Notably, many sculptures that were created in the downtown for the event have since been purchased by communities in western Michigan and installed in various public spaces. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 45 Finding Time (Columbus, Ohio) Championed by a board member of the Columbus Arts Commission (serving as a professor at Ohio State University) Finding Time was an event designed to educate the people of Columbus about the importance and capabilities of public art. Thirteen temporary public art installations based on the theme of “time” were set up across the 360 acres that comprise downtown Columbus, with over 50 artists contributing to their development. Of note, these artists freely began to work together to design and complete projects; and these organic interactions transformed many of the installations into more imaginative and engaging art pieces. To help attract top talent, the Arts Commission solicited the services of the local art museum to curate artists. Finding Time was primarily organized by the Columbus Arts Commission and the Ohio State Art Department, though other local organizations such as CID (Crossroads/Discovery Special Improvement District), the city, the local art museum and others played a significant role in organizing and managing the event. It was primarily funded by grants from Ohio State ($60,000) and the NEA Our Town program ($150,000), while the CID supplied some ancillary funding and served as the primary “quarterback” for selecting locations for the public art exhibits and organizing assistance of the city’s public works department. Fundraising for the event took place over 30 months between 2010 and 2012. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 46 Canal Convergence (Scottsdale, Arizona) Developed by Scottsdale Arts, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that serves as the primary coordinator for the arts in Scottsdale, Canal Convergence (pictured left) is a free public event that highlights the importance of sustainability through temporary art installations. The event’s activity is primarily concentrated around the Arizona Canal, which bisects downtown Scottsdale. Since the event’s first year in 2010, ten to 15 temporary installations designed by nationally recognized artists are set up around the Canal, and the event attracted approximately 38,400 total attendees in 2016, 50 percent of which were from outside of Scottsdale. The event costs around $250,000 to organize and manage, and Scottsdale Arts representatives indicated that they would like additional funding to attract the participation of even more well- known artists. The event also features live music, hands-on family friendly activities and beer, food and wine gardens. Notably, the event has grown from two to four days since 2010. With existing art-related events such as the GAAC’s Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival and the more recently developed Westobou Festival, Augusta already has a strong inventory of events that tie its brand to arts and culture. Going further, opportunity exists to potentially develop these events and/or develop new events that would advocate and fundraise for public art programs in Augusta. The GAAC should collaborate with other local and non-local organizations to develop selected event aspects that have been successfully introduced in Grand Rapids, Columbus, Scottsdale and Providence. Some potential event elements to consider are described below. • Citywide temporary public art installations– Issue a call to artists from around the region or country to participate in an event similar to Art Prize in Grand Rapids and/or Finding Time in Columbus in which artists would be given several weeks to develop and install large scale public art installations throughout Augusta. A weeklong public event that also includes food and live Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 47 music could then be held as the artists finish their works, allowing them to engage with community members and educate them about their work and influences. • Develop an educational component – Invite the participation of schools and colleges from around Richmond County or the state of Georgia offering workshops or seminars with the event’s participating artists. • Include amateur event – Invite local or regional artists to create and showcase culturally inspired art. This could include a competitive component that would invite the general public to vote on winning entries, and the winning submissions could be installed permanently or temporarily at a location within the Augusta River Region. • Create signature social media marketing campaign – Help generate word of mouth buzz via social media by uploading pictures of featured artwork, or the biographies of the attending artists. • Incorporate laser/light shows and technology - Consider recruiting the assistance of TheClubhou.se or other agents from the City’s growing tech sector to incorporate light and/or laser show dynamics with existing arts events or new public art-related events. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 48 4.8 Indoor Installations in Public Buildings The creative place-making process should not be limited to outdoor public spaces. The City of Augusta features many highly visited public buildings, such as the Municipal Building, judicial system buildings, public libraries, recreation centers, police and fire stations, and public transit hubs, among others. Imbuing these locations that are used in daily life by residents, business owners, and visitors with artwork will bring a vibrancy and uniqueness of character to Augusta at a deeper level of daily experience. Such programs have been used by many U.S. cities with strong arts and culture reputations. New Orleans uses part of its Percent for Art Program, in which 1% of eligible municipal capital bonds are allocated to the Arts Council, to administer their “Direct Purchase” program. This program distributes public artwork to city-operated facilities such as City Hall, the municipal court buildings, and police and fire stations. Artwork is purchased and displayed in places where the city interacts with citizens on a day-to -day basis. Further, the GAAC and city leadership should prioritize adding interior public art to buildings that are highly frequented by visitors from out of town, such as the Augusta Convention Center or some of the City’s larger hotels. Some examples of interior convention center public art installations are presented below. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 49 As shown, convention centers throughout the country are using public art within their facilities to create a link to their destination. These efforts also focus on creating pieces that are interactive and engaging. Incorporating public art into public interior spaces can be challenging, both from the perspective of cost and the process of selecting an artist and theme. Consideration should be given to use of public/private sector partnerships for funding. For example, the Owensboro Convention Center in Kentucky entered into a lifelong sponsorship agreement with a local insurance company to add a 157-piece glass installation that hangs from the Center’s lobby ceiling. An effort should also be made to secure a regular fund for the purchase of artwork by the City for its indoor spaces, with a yearly, semiannual or even quarterly call for submissions by local artists to bring the work of the local visual art scene into highly used municipal buildings. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 50 5.0 POTENTIAL COST, PRIORITIZATION AND PLANNING ISSUES We have considered the primary recommended public art concepts presented herein from the perspective of conceptual costs and project timing, and have evaluated broad opportunities to generate funding for these initiatives. Project Costs The conceptual project costs are based on our experience with other similar projects around the country. Funding options are based on our experience in other markets with respect to major public project financing, discussions with individuals experienced in financing aspects unique to Augusta and Georgia, and feedback from those local stakeholders that participated in the Public Art Master Plan survey. 1) Sculpture garden development – Developing a full-fledged sculpture garden that would feature between 20 to 30 installations would likely cost $1 million to $2 million to obtain and install the sculptures, and $100,000 to $200,000 would likely be needed for annual maintenance, landscaping, etc. This does not include land acquisition and preparations. As discussed herein, public art events and/or auctions could serve as cost effective sources of funds for such a development. 2) Sculpture trail development – Depending on its total length, a sculpture trail may run similar costs for development as a potential sculpture garden. Yet, the development of such a trail can be a slower, more incremental process. Creating a geographical plan for a potential trail in the near term will be important and prioritizing gradual additions of sculpture would be a sensible approach to this type of project. 3) Monumental installation(s) – As demonstrated by the marquee installations described herein, the development of a highly identifiable signature art piece would likely cost between $300,000 and $500,000 per installation. 4) Public art program tied to a theme – Programs that follow the lead of Art the Box and the potential upcoming bus shelter project represent cost effective approaches to raise awareness and funds for public art. We estimate that programs that Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 51 involve mass producing a single type of sculpture for the purpose of customization by local entities can cost $50,000 to $100,000 upfront, and later generate $150,000 to $200,000 in revenues from adoption fees and/or auction sales. 5) Interactive/innovative installations – Costs for an interactive art installation could widely vary depending on preference for a temporary or permanent installation. In addition, costs for this type of interactive installation could be included in the costs noted above for sculpture garden and sculpture trail development. Lower scale, broadly distributed projects throughout the City could include re-decorated bike racks or installations that double as exercise equipment; with potential costs of $10,000 to $25,000 per project. A larger scale development such as the Main Terrain Art Park in Chattanooga or the House of Eternal Return in Santa Fe will likely run $1.0 million to $2.0 million, and should likely be considered a long term priority. 6) Arts venue/district creation – Project costs for the creation of a dedicated multi-use arts venue as exists in Dubuque and Norfolk can be difficult to assess. It will be necessary to identify a suitable facility, lease or acquire the venue, and invest necessary capital in developing the types of studio, gallery, performance and event space suitable for the community. . Additionally, oversight of the facility must be well planned to ensure it is staffed and open to the public a majority of every day. We suggest that additional community planning for such a venue commence in the near term. The placement of such a venue in a broader arts district should be a primary development goal. Helping to support such an arts district through a specialized marketing campaign, the formation of a murals program, and a moderate amount of economic incentives to assist the re-location of arts-related businesses could cost between $20,000 to $50,000 annually. 7) Event/festival growth and/or development – We suggest further evaluation of opportunities to supplement existing events, and/or develop a new event or events that can be used to both acquire art pieces and fund-raise for the arts community. Such events have been successful in markets such as Sioux Falls and Little Rock. We suggest budgeting cost range of $50,000 to $100,000 for securing artists to work on temporary installations throughout the City, prize money for an amateur competition, and various administrative costs. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 52 Project Prioritization We have also developed a general timing outline for the various projects recommended herein. The scheduling is conceptual in nature, but provides an indication of near versus long term priorities for destination asset development. Our assessment focuses on three time periods: the next two years, years three to five, and years five to ten. For each time period, we discuss the types of the public art project planning that should be undertaken, and the asset construction/development that should take place. • The next two years should focus on extensive planning for sculpture trail and sculpture garden developments. Site selection and acquisition efforts should proceed, and a collaborative partnership should be developed with the University, City, arts organizations, Davidson Fine Arts School, Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art, benefactors and other key stakeholders. During the first two years, it is also highly recommended to proceed with the previously discussed bus shelter initiative, which would thematically tie 25-45 local bus shelters with the various neighborhoods throughout Augusta. A system for saving funds generated for these long-term projects via sponsored theme installations, art festival auctions, and a possible percent for art program should be created and secured. While the GAAC is able to apply for grants to fund projects year to year, it is more complicated to store funds generated for a 6-10 year goal. We recommend a dedicated fund be established either via the City or the GAAC. There is existing funding via SPLOST 7 to enhance gateways into Augusta with monumental sculptures. Action should be taken now by the GAAC via its Public Art Advisory Panel to recommend sites for Monumental Gateway Sculptures and work with landowners and developers to plan for the installations. In addition, the GAAC should work with the City of Augusta to create a program to regularly place indoor artwork from local artists in public facilities, as in the example from New Orleans’ Direct Purchase program. Efforts to contract with the artist community for the development of both temporary installations and installations that can serve as exercise/playground equipment, bike racks and other public uses should be initiated. Further, the GAAC should Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 53 procure funding for a project it is currently proposing to create public art seating and bike rack installations made from the chassis of golf cars. These installations should be developed and also leveraged for sponsorship opportunities to raise funds for the GAAC. Finally, the planning for a new/expanded arts related event should be initiated. The event should include a competitive component, an auction feature and other elements to be determined during this planning effort. Key examples of nationally successful events were presented previously in this Plan. • In years three to five, various planning initiatives should continue, and physical procurement/development of various installations should proceed. The sculpture trail and sculpture garden should each be planned and landscaped appropriately, and they should each feature a notable quantity of installations. Moreover, the GAAC should pursue the temporary interactive installations concept and partner with the other stakeholders and various local businesses to assist in its development. The securing of a site in the newly defined Art and Culture District to create a studio, gallery, performance and event space should be undertaken. Depending on available funding, this project should be initiated during this period. The GAAC, City and key stakeholders could also begin a re-branding effort for the district that encompasses the Miller, Imperial Theatre, 600 Broad and History Museum, and market the area as an emerging arts district. Funding should be reserved to create murals and other installations in this district. Further, in the vein of the model run in Aiken, Norfolk and New Bern, the GAAC should expand on the mass-produced signature golf car as public art seating and bike rack project, using Textron Specialized Vehicles as the fabricator, and seek local businesses and organizations as sponsors. These “adoption” proceeds would increase the revenues for future public art initiatives. With significant funding required and the proposed T-SPLOST renovations of Broad Street in 2020, the initial planning for a downtown monumental art piece can wait until the year three to five period. The process for determining the site, theme, artist and other key elements should begin. A public and private sector funding initiative should also begin. • In years six to ten, investment in the sculpture garden and trail concepts should continue, while funds accumulated through events, installation sponsorships and other various funding mechanisms should continue to supp ort the evolution and Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 54 maintenance of these assets. Investment in significant pieces that feature light, sound, and kinetic components should be a priority. The process should continue of installing smaller scale interactive sculpture that feature motion, exercise and/or musical components and these should be installed in strategic locations within neighborhood pocket parks, Lock and Dam Park, Diamond Lakes Park, Lake Olmstead Park, and areas with heavy foot traffic. The implementation of the downtown monumental art installation should take place during this period. Further, with assistance from the Augusta Economic Development Authority and other appropriate organizations, the GAAC should consider a large-scale art/entertainment venue with a national partner that could reflect a unique art-inspired attraction that would generate visitation and national buzz for Augusta. Project Management As stated in the MOU between the City of Augusta and the GAAC, the Council is the designated Public Art Agency for the City of Augusta. All decisions made on public art projects will be reviewed and voted on by the Public Art Advisory Panel to guide the Arts Council in executing these projects. For each of these recommended projects, it will be vital to carefully consider site, project team and community feedback to develop public art that will have the strongest positive impact for the City. Important elements to consider on a project by project basis include: • Site Location - To ensure ideal site selection for a given work, the GAAC and others involved in the project should carefully research the site and communicate with audiences that use or pass the site. A public artwork can have greater impact if its design takes into account the site, its history, the traffic, the surrounding environment, and the characteristics of its setting. • Idea Development and Community Engagement – The survey results and comparable case study findings included herein should serve as helpful tools to develop creative ideas for public art in Augusta. Going forward, it is important to have a true understanding of both the history and current self-identity of each neighborhood where a public art piece is proposed for installation. It would be wise to meet with neighborhood members and leaders before any work is done to gain knowledge, guide artists on the works they create and ensure community support and enjoyment of the pieces. We Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 55 recommend tapping the expertise of the Masters of Public Administration program at Augusta University for assistance with this. • Fabrication and Installation – For many of the recommended projects contained herein, it will be important to engage a team of professionals from design, engineering, lighting, site excavation, and construction and installation backgrounds. Many large scale projects often include components beyond the installation, including lighting effects or landscaped features that require the expertise of highly skilled experts. A significant portion of these roles can likely be filled by local individuals, and it is recommended to prioritize the hiring of local talent before recruiting non-local entities. • Maintenance – A substantial number of local stakeholders noted that many of Augusta’s past public art projects have suffered from a lack of maintenance after they are completed. Permanent installations must be cared for continually, which includes cleaning, repairing and restoring duties. It is recommended that the Downtown Development Authority, the Recreation and Parks Department or other appropriate entities (existing or newly created) receive additional funding and labor to ensure that future installations are properly cared for. Project Funding We have not conducted a detailed funding analysis, but have presented broad areas of funding that should be considered for future projects. As discussed, the costs for many of these projects can be significant. In addition, several concepts will require on-going operating and marketing resources. SPLOST Funding One million dollars in SPLOST “Quality of Life” funding is already reserved for installing public art at select highway gateway locations, but more funding is recommended for future projects discussed herein. To better fund several of the projects that should be prioritized for the long term, consideration should be given to reserving up to $2.0 million from the next SPLOST program in 2020. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 56 Federal/State Funding Several of the comparable projects showcased throughout this document were substantially funded by the National Endowment for the Arts’ Our Town Program. The Our Town program can offer anywhere from $50,000 to $200,000 for a given project. The NEA also offers several other grant programs that can offer anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000, depending on the type of project being planned. Concurrent to the preparation of this Plan, the GAAC had filed an application to receive NEA funding for the previously discussed neighborhoods/bus shelters public art concept. The GAAC and local leadership should continue to pursue these types of partnerships with the NEA and other national arts-related entities. The GAAC currently applies yearly for partner grants from the Georgia Council for the Arts. GAAC should offer assistance to local arts non-profits, schools, libraries, and university groups for the facilitation of project grants on a project by project basis. GCA can supply up to $7,000 for given projects, which could help fund some of the mid-term initiatives discussed herein, such as the development of an Arts and Culture District through mural commissions, pop-up performances, or artwork in indoor public facilities. Percent for Art Programs “Percent for Art” programs have helped to greatly accelerate the growth of public art programs in communities such as Charlotte, North Carolina, Scottsdale, Arizona, and Athens, Georgia. In these programs, one percent of every dollar spent on capital projects in the City must go toward funding public art development. Capital projects often include public buildings, parks, libraries, police/fire stations, street scape improvements, airport construction projects, neighborhood improvement efforts, etc. For example, this model generates $1.5 million to $2.0 million per year for Scottsdale Art’s Capital Projects program, in additio n to $100,000 to $150,000 used per year for maintenance of existing installations. Local Private Funding The GAAC should build on the interest in Public Art shown by such local philanthropies as the Porter Fleming Foundation to he lp local artists apply for grants to complete public art projects that align with this Plan and the desires of the community. Public Art Master Plan for Augusta, Georgia Page 57 Also, many communities throughout the country employ percent for art programs for private projects. These programs either require or ask private developers to 1) fund a public art project on their site or elsewhere in the community that is of equal value to one percent of their private project cost, or 2) contribute one percent of their total project cost to a pooled public art fund. For this type of program to be effective in Augusta, the GAAC would need to work with the Augusta Economic Development Authority, Downtown Development Authority, Augusta Tomorrow, and the Chamber of Commerce to educate developers about the importance of investing in the City’s public art program. These efforts should include presentations that communicate how the presence of public art in a community can serve as a representation of its quality and vitality, thereby leading to increased property values. For instance, Scottsdale has a private percent for art program that requires private developers to invest one percent of the funds invested in development/redevelopment projects into public art works that are installed on their site or elsewhere in the community. This program’s budget can vary depending on the number of private developments in a given year, but public art officials indicate that it can range from $500,000 to $1.0 million annually. According to local representatives, a significant majority of private developers elect to invest in the City’s pooled public art fund instead of an individual project. Other Sources of Funding The GAAC should continue its efforts to acquire donations from private foundations and various public entities, and the broader solutions to fundraising discussed herein should be strongly considered to help raise funds for long term public art initiatives, for which a long-term savings mechanism must be created. Sponsorship fees, event/festival revenues and percentage of sales proceeds from art auctions could greatly increase the GAAC’s annual revenue figures and would in turn provide more resources to acquire higher quality talent, retain and recruit arts-related businesses to Augusta, develop larger events and procure high end temporary or permanent installations. Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM 2017 - Engineering Maintenance F-350 Department:Central Services Department - Fleet Management Division Department:Central Services Department - Fleet Management Division Caption:Motion to approve the replacement of one Ford F-350, Dual Rear Wheel (DRW), truck for Engineering Maintenance from Fleet Capital Outlay for 2017. (Approved by Administrative Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:In August 2016 an employee of Engineering Department, Engineering Maintenance Division put gasoline in a Ford F-350 (DRW). This truck had a diesel engine. The employee then drove the vehicle from the gas station to the Engineering Maintenance Division at Tobacco Road, causing damage to the engine. A repair estimate is attached for review. The truck, a 2001 Ford F-350, DRW, had 192,925 miles and was 15 years old. Analysis:Fleet Management submitted a request for bids through the Procurement Department utilizing the Demand Star electronic bid system which offers nationwide bid coverage. The Procurement Department received quotes back from four vendors (see attached tab sheet) with the following results for bid 16-190: (1)Allan Vigil Ford = $40,422.00; (2) Fairway Ford = $40,745.40; (3) Gerald Jones Ford = $40,215.00 and Ben Mynatt Chevrolet was non- compliant. Financial Impact:The Ford F-350, DRW cost is $40,215.00 from 2017 Capital Outlay – Fleet Management. Alternatives:(1) Approve the request; (2) Do not approve the request Recommendation:Approve the replacement of one F-350, DRW from Gerald Jones Ford for $40,215.00 and declare the replaced F-350 surplus and to be sold at auction. Funds are Available Cover Memo in the Following Accounts:Fleet Capital Outlay: 272-01-6440/5422210 REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Procurement. Law. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Cover Memo Invitation To Bid Sealed bids will be received at this office until Friday, June 17, 2016 @ 11:00 a.m. for furnishing: Bid Item #16-188 9,500 GVW Series Pickup Trucks for Augusta Fleet Department Bid Item #16-190 11,000 GVW Series Pickup Trucks for Augusta Fleet Department Bids will be received by Augusta, GA Commission hereinafter referred to as the OWNER at the offices of: Geri A. Sams, Director Augusta Procurement Department 535 Telfair Street - Room 605 Augusta, Georgia 30901 Bid documents may be viewed on the Augusta, Georgia web site under the Procurement Department ARCbid. Bid documents may be obtained at the office of the Augusta, GA Procurement Department, 535 Telfair Street – Room 605, Augusta, GA 30901. Documents may be examined during regular business hours at the offices of Augusta, GA Procurement Department. All questions must be submitted in writing by fax to 706 821-2811 or by email to procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov to the office of the Procurement Department by Friday, June 3, 2016 @ 5:00 P.M. No bid will be accepted by fax, all must be received by mail or hand delivered. No bids may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after bids have been opened, pending the execution of contract with the successful bidder. Invitation for bids and specifications. An invitation for bids shall be issued by the Procurement Office and shall include specifications prepared in accordance with Article 4 (Product Specifications), and all contractual terms and conditions, applicable to the procurement. All specific requirements contained in the invitation to bid including, but not limited to, the number of copies needed, the timing of the submission, the required financial data, and any other requirements designated by the Procurement Department are considered material conditions of the bid which are not waiveable or modifiable by the Procurement Director. All requests to waive or modify any such material condition shall be submitted through the Procurement Director to the appropriate committee of the Augusta, Georgia Commission for approval by the Augusta, Georgia Commission. Please mark BID number on the outside of the envelope. Bidders are cautioned that acquisition of BID documents through any source other than the office of the Procurement Department is not advisable. Acquisition of BID documents from unauthorized sources placed the bidder at the risk of receiving incomplete or inaccurate information upon which to base his qualifications. Correspondence must be submitted via mail, fax or email as follows: Augusta Procurement Department Attn: Geri A. Sams, Director of Procurement 535 Telfair Street, Room 605 Augusta, GA 30901 Fax: 706-821-2811 or Email: procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov No bid will be accepted by fax, all must be received by mail or hand delivered. GERI A. SAMS, Procurement Director Publish: Augusta Chronicle May 12, 19, 26, June 2, 2016 Metro Courier May 18, 2016 OFFICIAL Vendors Gerald Jones Ford 3480 Wrightsboro Rd Augusta, GA 30909 Allan Vigil Ford 6790 Mt. Zion Blvd Morrow, GA 30260 Fairway of Augusta 4333 Washingotn Rd Evans, GA 30809 Ben Mynatt Chevolet 281 Concord Pkwy S Concord, NC 28027 Attachment B YES YES YES YES E-Verify Number 933751 94460 689647 NO SAVE Form YES YES YES YES 5.01 Fullsize Truck, Rg Cab 2 wheel drive $31,513.00 $30,253.00 $32,039.00 Non-Compliant 5.02 Fullsize Truck, Rg Cab 4 wheel drive $32,850.00 $31,626.00 $25,176.00 5.03 Fullsize Truck, Reg Cab 2 wheel drive $34,221.00 $32,935.00 $31,805.00 5.04 Fullsize Truck, Reg Cab 4 wheel drive $35,553.00 $34,194.00 $35,505.00 5.05 Fullsize Truck, Ext Cab 2 wheel drive, 4 doors $33,837.00 $32,632.00 $31,637.00 5.06 Fullsize Truck, Ext Cab 4 wheels door, 4 doors $35,169.00 $33,896.00 $35,137.00 5.07 Fullsize Truck, Ext Cab $36,544.00 $35,199.00 $35,238.00 5.08 Fullsize Truck, Ext Cab $39,030.00 $36,439.00 $38,530.00 5.09 Fullsize Truck, Crew Cab $34,990.00 $33,688.00 $32,543.00 5.10 Fullsize Truck, Crew Cab, 4 drs $36,222.00 $34,952.00 $36,643.00 5.11 Fullsize Truck, Crew Cab, 4 drs $37,697.00 $36,280.00 $35,144.00 5.12 Fullsize Truck, Crew Cab, 4 drs $39,030.00 $37,594.00 $39,140.00 5.13 Gasoline Engine, min 6.2L N/C -$7,606.00 -$7,650.00 5.14 Heavy Duty Tow STANDARD N/A STANDARD 5.15 Heavy Duty Tow Package $115.00 $120.00 $148.00 5.16 Rear Seat deleted $100.00 N/A N/A 5.17 Pickup box deleted -$63.00 -$249.00 -$300.00 5.18 Trailer Tow Mirrors, manual adj N/C STANDARD STANDARD 5.19 Trailer tow mirrors, man adj pwr $257.00 INCLUDED N/A 5.20 Roof Clearance Lights $73.00 $85.00 $73.00 5.00 11,000 GVW Series Truck Vehicle and Options Required Bid #16-190 11,000 GVW Series Pickup Trucks for Augusta, Georgia - Fleet Management Bid Opening Date: Friday, June 17, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. Total Number Specifications Mailed Out: 21 Total Number Specifications Download (Demandstar): Total Electronic Notifications (Demandstar): Mandatory Pre-Bid/Telephone Conference: NOT APPLICABLE Total packages submitted: 4 Total Noncompliant: 1 Page 1 of 4 OFFICIAL Vendors Gerald Jones Ford 3480 Wrightsboro Rd Augusta, GA 30909 Allan Vigil Ford 6790 Mt. Zion Blvd Morrow, GA 30260 Fairway of Augusta 4333 Washingotn Rd Evans, GA 30809 Ben Mynatt Chevolet 281 Concord Pkwy S Concord, NC 28027 Bid #16-190 11,000 GVW Series Pickup Trucks for Augusta, Georgia - Fleet Management Bid Opening Date: Friday, June 17, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. Total Number Specifications Mailed Out: 21 Total Number Specifications Download (Demandstar): Total Electronic Notifications (Demandstar): Mandatory Pre-Bid/Telephone Conference: NOT APPLICABLE Total packages submitted: 4 Total Noncompliant: 1 5.21 Speed Control/tilt steering $216.00 $220.00 $216.00 5.22 Skid Plate Package $92.00 $95.00 $92.00 5.23 Power Take-Off Provision $257.00 $265.00 $257.00 5.24 Black Platform running boards $341.00 $345.00 $295.00 / $345.00 5.25 Electric windows and locks $1,035.00 INCLUDED $841.00 / $1035.00 5.26 5th wheel gooseneck hitch pkg $341.00 $345.00 $341.00 5.27 Splash guards/mud flaps $119.00 $120.00 $119.00 5.28 3.73 Electronic locking axle rat $359.00 N/A INCLUDED 5.29 AM/FM stereo/single CD $358.00 $1,025.00 $589.00 5.30 Camper Suspension $148.00 $150.00 $148.00 5.31 Power Equipment Group $1,035.00 $1,040.00 $841.00 / $1035.00 5.32 Tailgate step $345.00 $350.00 $345.00 5.33 17" 6-spoke cast alum wheels $552.00 $555.00 $552.00 5.34 XL appearance group $1,085.00 $700.00 $203.00 5.35 All vehicle keys w/three steel $49.00 $60.00 INCLUDED 5.36 Upfitter switches $152.00 $155.00 $152.00 5.37 CNG System $11,493.00 $13,850.00 $9527.00 / CNG $289.00 6.01 Fire Extinguisher $50.00 $55.00 $60.00 6.02 Outlet receptacle $50.00 $55.00 $96.00 6.03 Bedliner $349.00 $355.00 $349.00 6.04 Electric brake control $125.00 $250.00 $249.00 6.05 Service Body $4,995.00 $5,967.00 $4,895.00 6.06 Serv Body Bumper/ball hitch $5,525.00 $6,010.00 $5,600.00 6.07 Crane Body $8,800.00 $8,440.00 $8,950.00 6.08 Service Crane $9,400.00 $15,665.00 $8,820.00 6.09 J-Hook railing $190.00 $590.00 $160.00 6.10 PANEL TOP $3,950.00 $6,120.00 $3,700.00 6.11 Panel top $4,150.00 $6,450.00 $3,900.00 6.00 Outfitter's Speciality Items Page 2 of 4 OFFICIAL Vendors Gerald Jones Ford 3480 Wrightsboro Rd Augusta, GA 30909 Allan Vigil Ford 6790 Mt. Zion Blvd Morrow, GA 30260 Fairway of Augusta 4333 Washingotn Rd Evans, GA 30809 Ben Mynatt Chevolet 281 Concord Pkwy S Concord, NC 28027 Bid #16-190 11,000 GVW Series Pickup Trucks for Augusta, Georgia - Fleet Management Bid Opening Date: Friday, June 17, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. Total Number Specifications Mailed Out: 21 Total Number Specifications Download (Demandstar): Total Electronic Notifications (Demandstar): Mandatory Pre-Bid/Telephone Conference: NOT APPLICABLE Total packages submitted: 4 Total Noncompliant: 1 6.12 Service Body $400.00 $490.00 $355.00 6.13 Servive, DRW $390.00 $568.00 $455.00 6.14 Service Body, SRW $300.00 $555.00 $285.00 6.15 Service body Bumper $390.00 $615.00 $377.00 6.16 flatbed body $3,600.00 $4,800.00 $3,500.00 6.17 tool box $500.00 $325.00 $450.00 6.18 Spotlight $365.00 $375.00 $230.00 6.19 Spotlights $730.00 $750.00 $460.00 6.20 Toolbox $259.00 $1,250.00 $259.00 6.21 Trailer Hitch $200.00 $100.00 $290.00 6.22 Trailer wiring $25.00 $100.00 $25.00 6.23 Trailer Ball $15.00 $25.00 $15.00 6.24 Pintle hook $120.00 $150.00 $150.00 6.25 Pintle hook $140.00 $225.00 $175.00 6.26 Tommy Gate Lift $2,395.00 $2,210.00 $2,395.00 6.27 Pipe Vise $290.00 $325.00 $290.00 6.28 Backrack cab protector $850.00 $750.00 $795.00 6.29 Spot mirrors NO CHARGE N/A STANDARD 6.30 Window Tint $100.00 $175.00 $75.00 6.31 Window Tint,$125.00 $255.00 $175.00 6.32 Window tint crew cab $145.00 $315.00 $175.00 7.01 Backup alarm $40.00 $80.00 $40.00 7.02 Magnetic LED light $270.00 $300.00 $316.20 7.03 Cab Mount Light $410.00 $450.00 $377.40 7.03 Traffic advisor light bar $1,110.00 $1,275.00 $1,067.60 Year 2017 2017 2017 Make FORD FORD FORD Model F350 F350 F350 7.00 Alert Warning Systems 2017 11,000 GVW PICKUP TRUCK: Page 3 of 4 OFFICIAL Vendors Gerald Jones Ford 3480 Wrightsboro Rd Augusta, GA 30909 Allan Vigil Ford 6790 Mt. Zion Blvd Morrow, GA 30260 Fairway of Augusta 4333 Washingotn Rd Evans, GA 30809 Ben Mynatt Chevolet 281 Concord Pkwy S Concord, NC 28027 Bid #16-190 11,000 GVW Series Pickup Trucks for Augusta, Georgia - Fleet Management Bid Opening Date: Friday, June 17, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. Total Number Specifications Mailed Out: 21 Total Number Specifications Download (Demandstar): Total Electronic Notifications (Demandstar): Mandatory Pre-Bid/Telephone Conference: NOT APPLICABLE Total packages submitted: 4 Total Noncompliant: 1 Approximate Delivery Date 120 Days 75-100 Days 90-120 Days Page 4 of 4 Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Bid Item 17-168 Re-roof Friedman Branch Library Department:Central Services - Facilities Department:Central Services - Facilities Caption:Motion to approve award for replacement of the roof on Friedman Branch Library to the lowest compliant bidder, Roofing Professionals, Inc. of Grovetown, GA, in the amount of $162,900, bid item 17-168. (Approved by Administrative Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:The shingle roof on the Friedman Branch Library located on Jackson Road in Augusta has reached the end of its useful life. The absolute minimum slope for a shingle roof is 2½” of rise per foot of run with a 4” rise per foot being the recommended minimum. The existing roof slope of 2” rise per foot of run is significantly less than the minimum. Since this is a visible roof where the appearance is important, Central Services determined that a prefinished metal panel would be a better choice for the application. As part of the installation, roof insulation values are to be increased to meet the current energy code requirements. Invitation to Bid (ITB) 17-168 was issued to obtain pricing for replacing the roof. Bids were received on April 11, 2017 . Analysis:Roofing Professional, Inc. of Grovetown, GA submitted the low bid of $162,900. The bid price is in line with the anticipated budget costs for this item. Financial Impact:The cost of the of the roof replacement is $162,900. Alternatives:1. Approve award for replacement of the roof on Friedman Branch Library to the lowest compliant bidder, Roofing Professionals, Inc. of Grovetown, GA, in the amount of $162,900. 2. Do not approve the purchase. Recommendation: Approve award for replacement of the roof on Friedman Branch Library to the lowest compliant bidder, Roofing Professionals, Cover Memo Inc. of Grovetown, GA, in the amount of $162,900. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: This project is funded through SPLOST designated for Friedman Library, General Ledger 328-05-1120, Job Ledger 216-05-5104. REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Law. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Cover Memo Invitation to Bid Sealed bids will be received at this office until Tuesday, April 11, 2017 @ 3:00 p.m. for furnishing: Bid Item #17-168 Roof Replacement at Friedman Branch Library for Augusta Central Services Department – Facilities Division Bids will be received by Augusta, GA Commission hereinafter referred to as the OWNER at the offices of: Geri A. Sams, Director Augusta Procurement Department 535 Telfair Street - Room 605 Augusta, Georgia 30901 Bid documents may be viewed on the Augusta, Georgia web site under the Procurement Department ARCbid. Bid documents may be obtained at the office of the Augusta, GA Procurement Department, 535 Telfair Street – Room 605, Augusta, GA 30901. Documents may be examined during regular business hours at the offices of Augusta, GA Procurement Department. A Mandatory Pre Bid Conference will be held on Friday, March 24, 2017 @ 10:00 a.m. in the Procurement Department, 535 Telfair Street, Room 605. All questions must be submitted in writing by fax to 706 821-2811 or by email to procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov to the office of the Procurement Department by Tuesday, March 28, 2017 @ 5:00 P.M. No bid will be accepted by fax, all must be received by mail or hand delivered. No bids may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after bids have been opened, pending the execution of contract with the successful bidder. A 10% Bid Bond is required to be submitted along with the bidders’ qualifications; a 100% performance bond and a 100% payment bond will be required for award. Invitation for bids and specifications. An invitation for bids shall be issued by the Procurement Office and shall include specifications prepared in accordance with Article 4 (Product Specifications), and all contractual terms and conditions, applicable to the procurement. All specific requirements contained in the invitation to bid including, but not limited to, the number of copies needed, the timing of the submission, the required financial data, and any other requirements designated by the Procurement Department are considered material conditions of the bid which are not waiveable or modifiable by the Procurement Director. All requests to waive or modify any such material condition shall be submitted through the Procurement Director to the appropriate committee of the Augusta, Georgia Commission for approval by the Augusta, Georgia Commission. Please mark BID number on the outside of the envelope. Bidders are cautioned that acquisition of BID documents through any source other than the office of the Procurement Department is not advisable. Acquisition of BID documents from unauthorized sources placed the bidder at the risk of receiving incomplete or inaccurate information upon which to base his qualifications. Correspondence must be submitted via mail, fax or email as follows: Augusta Procurement Department Attn: Geri A. Sams, Director of Procurement 535 Telfair Street, Room 605 Augusta, GA 30901 Fax: 706-821-2811 or Email: procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov No bid will be accepted by fax, all must be received by mail or hand delivered. GERI A. SAMS, Procurement Director Publish: Augusta Chronicle March 2, 9, 16 , 23, 2017 Metro Courier March 8, 2017 OFFICIAL VENDORS Attachment "B"E-Verify Addendum 1 SAVE Form 1 Original 4 copies Bid Bond Bid Price Horizon Roofing 1557 South Broad Street Monroe, GA 30655 YES / Non- Compliant 1124455 YES YES YES YES YES $117,777.00 Bone Dry Roofing PO Box 7756 Athens, GA 30604 YES / Non- Compliant 230110 YES YES YES YES YES $223,250.00 Young's Roofing 311 Padrick Street Martinez, GA 30907 YES 228302 YES YES YES YES YES $236,055.00 Centurion Industries, Inc. 1107 North Taylor Road Garrett, IN 46738 YES / Non- Compliant 246637 YES YES YES YES YES $209,680.00 L&J Roofing and Home Improvement, Inc. 1202 Pine Cone Drive Lincolnton, GA 30817 YES / Non- Compliant 437302 YES YES YES YES YES $215,000.00 Roofing Professionals, Inc. 505 CDP Industrial Blvd. Grovetown, GA 30813 YES 63141 YES YES YES YES YES $162,900.00 Bid Item #17-168 Roof Replacement at Friedman Branch Library for Augusta, Georgia-Central Services Department-Facilities Division Bid Date: Tuesday, April 11, 2017 @ 3:00 p.m. Total Number Specifications Mailed Out: 17 Total Number Specifications Downloaded (Demandstar):3 Total Electronic Notifications (Demandstar): 126 Mandatory Pre-Bid Attendees: 11 Total packages submitted: 6 Total Non-compliant: 4 The following vendors were deemed non-responsive by the Compliance Department for not satisfying the good faith efforts and is non-compliant with the Local Small Business Opportunity Program: Horizon Roofing, Bone Dry Roofing, Centurion Industries and L&J Roofing and Home Improvement Page 1 of 1 Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Laney Walker Enterprise Zone__Expansion Of Department:Housing and Community Development Department Department:Housing and Community Development Department Caption:Motion to approve the expansion of the Laney Walker Enterprise Zone. (Approved by Administrative Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:The Augusta Code at 2-4 provides for the designation of Enterprise Zones as an economic development incentive for depressed areas. Laney-Walker / Bethlehem meets the criteria for designation found at O.C.G.A. 36-88-8, and with continued development and interest within seven (7) developmental nodes (part to the LW/B revitalization project), it is important that opportunities for future developmental growth and investment tools (to assist with recruitment of developers/contractors) are present and in place. HCD, in keeping with the Urban Redevelopment Plan/Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy, continues to forge strong partnerships that are indeed providing transformation of these historic areas, from neighborhoods into thriving communities, and see no resistance to continued change over the coming years. There is investment that has been made and potential developmental interest in this expanded area of focus. This expansion is important as we continue development along the Twiggs Street/MLK/Old Savannah corridor and beyond. The designation, in place since 2002 and originally reauthorized in 2015, will continue to allow for the incentives to businesses that create 5 or more new jobs being exempt from ad valorem taxes on a scale over a 10-year period (through 2025). Analysis:The incentives of tax abatement are positive, and the theory is that revenue not realized due to the abatement would not have happened without the incentives. The abatement schedule for ad valorem taxes is as follows: 100% first 5 years; 80% for years 6 and 7; 60% for year 8; 40% for year 9 and 20% for year 10. Further, HCD seeks Commission approval (to ordinance no. 6508) to amend the Augusta-Richmond County Code, Section 2-4-20 to Cover Memo expand the existing Laney-Walker Enterprise Zone in an effort to be sure investments tools of attraction are in place to developers seeking to invest within this specified area. Financial Impact:See Analysis above. Alternatives:a) Authorize requested expansion of the LW Enterprise Zone or b) Don't authorize expansion of the LW Enterprise Zone. Recommendation:Approve the expansion of the Laney Walker Enterprise Zone Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: N/A. REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Law. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Cover Memo Laney Walker Enterprise Zone Expanded Boundaries – Surveyor’s Description Beginning at a point which is the intersection of the centerlines of Twelfth Street and Telfair Street; thence in a southeasterly direction along the centerline of Telfair Street a distance of 4540 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection with the centerline of Fifth Street; thence in a southwesterly direction along the centerline of Fifth Street a distance of 3660 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection with Laney Walker Boulevard; thence in a northwesterly direction along the centerline of Laney Walker Boulevard a distance of 1080 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection with the centerline of the right of way of the Norfolk Southern Railroad; thence in a southwesterly direction along the centerline of the Norfolk Southern Railroad a distance of 8200 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection of the centerline of Molly Pond Road, thence continuing southwest along the centerline of the Norfolk Southern Railroad a distance of 325 feet to a point; thence going North 32 degrees 47 minutes West a distance of 2460 feet, more or less, to a point on the centerline of Old Savannah Road; thence in a northeasterly direction along the centerline of Old Savannah Rd a distance of 200 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection with Turpin St; thence in a northwesterly direction along the centerline of Turpin St a distance of 1740 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection with the centerline of M L King Jr Blvd; thence in a northeasterly direction along the centerline of M L King Jr Blvd a distance of 1220 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection with the centerline of CSX Beltline Railroad; thence in a northwesterly direction along the centerline of the CSX Beltline Railroad a distance of 800 feet more or less to appoint of intersection with the centerline of Clay Street; thence in a northeasterly direction along the centerline of Clay Street a distance of 1575 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection with the centerline of Anderson Avenue; thence in a westerly direction and then a northerly direction along the centerline of Anderson Avenue a distance of 550 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection with the centerline of Poplar Street; thence in a northwesterly direction along the centerline of Poplar Street a distance of 740 feet, more or less, to appoint of intersection with the centerline of Lee Beard Way; thence in a southwesterly direction along the centerline of Lee Beard Way a distance of 1715 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection with the centerline of Suwanee Quintet Boulevard; thence in a northwesterly direction along the centerline of Suwanee Quintet Boulevard a distance of 1170 feet, more or less, to appoint of intersection with the centerline of Fifteenth Street; thence in a northeasterly direction along the centerline of Fifteenth Street a distance of 190 feet, more or less, to a point; thence going North 67 degrees 48 minutes West an distance of 370 feet, more or less, to a point t on the centerline of Poplar Street; thence in a northeasterly direction along the centerline of Poplar Street a distance of 740 feet, more or less, to a point; thence South 67 degrees 48 minutes East a distance of 400 feet, more or less, to a point on the centerline at Fifteenth Street; thence in a northeasterly direction along the centerline of Fifteenth Street a distance of 1030 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection with the centerline of Wrightsboro Road; thence in a southeasterly direction along the centerline of Wrightsboro Road a distance of 440 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection with the centerlines of Spellman Street and R.A. Dent Boulevard; thence in a northeasterly direction along the centerline of R.A. Dent Boulevard a distance of 4325 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection with the centerline of D’Antignac Street; thence in a southeasterly direction along the centerline of D’Antignac Street a distance of 930 feet, more or less, to a point of intersection with the centerline of Twelfth Street; thence in a northeasterly direction along the centerline of Twelfth Street a distance of 2165 feet, more or less, to the POINT OF BEGINNING. Hunter St Verdery St Essie McIntyre Blvd T w e lft h Ave Fifte e nth A v e Dfacs Ln Warren Ct Twelfth St Fifteenth St Norris Ln E Ford St Okeefe Ln W Ford St Floyd St Steiner Ave Koger St BleakleySt Luckey St Miller St J o r d a n R d Bolt Dr Nicholas St Fern St Holden Ct Post Ln Walton Way Perry Ct Phillips St G ra n d B lv d Eighth Ave Pine St Tenth St Beans Ln Seventh St Emmett St Hopkins StSpruce St H e r n l e n S t Hall St Forsythe St Conklin Ln Hopkins St Clark sto n St Fourth St G ra nt S t Burke St Sixth St A sh St Eighth St David St Maddox St D y er S t Alley B o ykin Pl Byrd St Bennett Ln G ra n d Blv d Lokey St H o w e S t Gordon H w y Robin Ln Cecelia St Timms Ln Poplar St Verdery St Third St Roulette Ln Carpenter St Tenth St Twiggs St Hester St C ooney Cir Woodson St Augusta Ave Curran St Franklin St P e n n y S t Mill St Sherman St Dugas St Miller St Carver Dr Logan Ln Central Ave Monroe StArch Dr Second St Sixth St T w i g g s S t Parnell St W o o d r o w S t King St Talcot St H all S t Dunns Ln Fifth St Emory St Summer St J u li u s S t G or m a n s L n Taylor StBlount Ave Boyd Ln Osler Ln Tobias Ct A g n e s S t Barnes St Fifteenth A ve Mauge St Getter Ln Alley McDowell St High St Harrison Ln Hale St G ra n d Blv d Twelfth St D e w itt S t Daniel St Twelfth St Eleventh St Pine St Floyd St Tenth StSlaton St Holley St Prep St Twiggs St Holley St Augusta Ave J o s e p h S t Ramsey St Broad St Wrightsboro Rd Brayton St Clay St Perry Ave Hines St McCauleySt Spellman LnCleveland St Fargo S t Perry Ave M ill S tr e et L n Florence St Morgan St Fifteenth St Ninth A v e Hollis Rd Carrie St Wise Dr Railroad St Oak St Ele v e nth A v e Davis St M aple St Laurel St Alley Emmett St Holden St Merry St Merry St Hale St R o s a li e S t Greene St Holden St Walker St Wrightsboro Rd SaintSebastianWay Beman St East Boundary St Woodson Ln Sharpes Ln Brown St Fifteenth St Ofrp Gregg St Pope Ave Fenwick St Swans Ln Mill St Magnolia Ln Chestnut St Forest St Emmet Street Ln Roosevelt St F uller St Gordon St BlumSt New Bailie St Sibley St Marks St M c A nally St Ellis St Fifteenth St Eighth St Tin Cup Ln Maxwell St F o urte e nth A v e Walker St Nellieville Rd T hirtee nth A v e Fenwick StJames Brown Blvd Seventh St Telfair St MooreAve Greene St Florence St Walton Way Cedar St S u m m erSt Perry Ave Taylor St Irvin St Gordon Hwy Ofrp K e nt St Dantignac St Davidson Ln C a m ille S t G o s s L n Hampton Ave Skyview Dr S t e i n e r A v e Mill St Thirteenth St Douglas St S p r u c e S t Meadow St Eleventh St WrightsboroRd Parks Ave S u lli v a n R d G o v e r n m e n t R d Third Ave Fourth St Third St Old Savannah Rd Second Ave Turpin S t Harper StMurphy St F u ll e r S t r e e t E x t First Ave Gordon Hwy WPineLn Branch St Fourth St Hale St OldSavannahRd Fenwick St Laney Walker Blvd Dade St Sixth A v e Chafee Ave Walton Way Reynolds St Ellis St M e rcier S t Walton St Watkins St Walker St Telfair St Ellis St Watkins St Druid Park Ave Taylor St Walker St S e v e nth A v e Telfair St Eighth St R A D e n t B lv d Eig hth A v e GordonHwy Peters Rd Baker Ave Ninth A v e Spellman St Bay St R o s elle S t T e nth A v e Laney Walker Blvd Cushing Ln D a n ti g n a c S t First St LeeBeardWay LuckeySt MulherinSt Olive Rd Fifteenth St IndependenceDr P o plar St C ari n g L n Holden Dr Third St Beman St National AveGarrett Ln Gordon Hwy Glass Factory Ave Nowell Dr Foster Rd Gordon Hwy Forsythe St Second St Clay St M L K i n g J r B lv d NewSavannahRd GordonParkRdEaglesWay W o o te n R d Holley St BrickyardPondRdNew Savannah Rd Arthern Rd M o l l y P o n d R d TwiggsSt WrightsboroRd M L K i n g J r B l v d Laney Walker Blvd East Boundary St Old Savannah Rd LaneyWalkerBlvd Central Ave James Brown Blvd Fifteenth St Greene St Laney Walker Blvd R A D e n t B lv d O li v e R d Fifth St Telfair St Broad St Thirteenth St Bay S t R A D e n t B lv d T wig gs St Broad St Walton Way Greene StTelfair St Fifth St WaltonWayFifteenth St Gordon Hwy GordonHwy Gordon Hwy GordonHwy Legend Laney Walker EZ Proposed Expansion Original Enterprise Zone Laney Walker Enterprise Zone - 2017 Proposed ExpansionLaney Walker Enterprise Zone - 2017 Proposed Expansion Produced By:City of AugustaInformation Technolgy Department - GIS Division535 Telfair Street, Bldg 2000Augusta, GA 309013/1/2017 chanti Augusta, GA Disclaimer The data represented on this map has been compiled by the best methods available. Accuracy is contingent uponthe source information as compiled by various agencies and departments both internal and external to theconsolidated government of Augusta, GA. Augusta, GA and the companies contracted to develop these data assumeno legal responsibilities for the information or accuracy contained on this map. It is strictly forbidden to sell orreproduce these maps or data for any reason without the written consent of the Augusta-Richmond CountyCommission. E 0 710355 Feet Document Path: \\augres005\GIS\001_GISMaps\002_Internal\Housing & Development\LaneyWalker EZ Expansion 2017\LaneyWalker_EntZone_Proposed2017.mxd 6',€o,5 EL II ,I E4 N!a E tfo' mx E g EIwI6'l' 0i g a E B' o il { 1 4 - - a. - Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Naval Reserve Lease 2017-2018 Department:Central Services Facilities Department:Central Services Facilities Caption:Motion to approve extending the lease with the US Navy for the Naval Reserve Center on Central Avenue through June 2018. Lease payments are $1 per year, Augusta has no financial or maintenance obligations under this lease. (Approved by Administrative Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:This lease has been in place since 1946. The Navy is required to request renewal annually. Analysis:This is a continuation of a long-standing existing lease. There is no cost to Augusta and we have no current need for the building. Financial Impact:None. Alternatives:1. Approve extending the lease with the US Navy for the Naval Reserve Center on Central Avenue through June 2018. Lease payments are $1 per year, Augusta has no financial or maintenance obligations under this lease. 2. Do not approve Recommendation:Approve extending the lease with the US Navy for the Naval Reserve Center on Central Avenue through June 2018. Lease payments are $1 per year, Augusta has no financial or maintenance obligations under this lease. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: NO FUNDS REQUIRED REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:Cover Memo Finance. Procurement. Law. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Request to Display Historical Documents Department:Central Services Department - Facilities Divsion Department:Central Services Department - Facilities Divsion Caption:Motion to approve a request to display historical documents within a county facility. (Approved by Administrative Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:The Foundations of American Law & Government Display contains 9 historical documents according to the specifications of Georgia law. O.C.G.A. 20-3-41.3authorizes the display of the documents in a visible location for the purpose of educating the public about the history and background of American Law. The documents are currently displayed within 35 GA counties including Fulton, Gwinnett, Forsyth and our State Capital. Analysis:Ms. Lynda Brown made a presentation to the Administrative Services Committee on March 14, 2017 regarding the Foundations of American Law & Government display in which the Committee decided to refer to the Attorney and the Central Services Director for a recommendation. Financial Impact:None Alternatives:1) Approve the request to display historical documents within a county facility 2)Deny the request to display historical documents within a county facility. Recommendation:If approved, the Facilities Division recommends displaying the prints within the John H. Ruffin Jr Courthouse on the first floor Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: None Cover Memo REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Law. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Region VI EMS Council Department:Administrator's Office Department:Administrator's Office Caption:Motion to approve reappointing Fire Chief, Chris James, to the Region VI EMS Council.(Approved by Public Safety Committee May 30, 2017) Background:Currently Chief James is serving a reappointed Region VI Council term that extends through June 30, 2017. This appointment was approved by the Augusta, Georgia Commission August 6, 2013. Analysis:The Fire Department plays an essential role in providing protective services to the citizens of Augusta, Georgia. Therefore, the Department should maintain a seat on the Council. Financial Impact:The meetings are local. No expenses are anticipated. Alternatives:1) Reappoint Chris James to the Region VI EMS Council. 2) Allow the position on the Council to be vacant. Recommendation:Reappoint Chris James to the Region VI EMS Council. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: N/A REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM State Court Accountability Court Veterans Program Department:Richmond County State Accountability Court Department:Richmond County State Accountability Court Caption:Motion to approve acceptance of a supplemental State grant in the amount of $6,200 to support the operations of the State Court Veterans Court program for the period of April 1, 2017 - June 30, 2017. (Approved by Public Safety Committee May 30, 2017) Background:Georgia's Accountability Court Funding Committee has awarded the Richmond County State Court Veterans Court a supplemental grant award in the amount of $6,200 to support the operations of the Court. These operations include drug testing supplies and treatment services. This award is effective April 1, 2017 through June 30, 2017. Analysis: Financial Impact:Supplemental Grant award is $6,200 with a match of $688 which can be supported by the Accountability Court budget. Alternatives: Recommendation:Approve Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: Grant award of $6,200 with a match of $688 to come from 204000000/3511410 (participants court fees). REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Law. Administrator. Cover Memo Clerk of Commission Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Approve the 2018 Budget Calendar Department:Finance Department:Finance Caption:Motion to approve the FY2018 Budget calendar. (Approved by Finance Committee May 30, 2017) Background:The Budget Calendar establishes tentative dates for the completion of the various stages of the 2018 budget preparation and adoption process. Analysis:The Budget Calendar establishes tentative dates for the completion of the various stages of the 2018 budget preparation and adoption process. The calendar is presented for approval consistent with the legal requirements in accordance with OCGA 36-81-5. The budget calendar, as planned, will facilitate developing, reviewing, and deliberations by the legislative body, input from the citizens of Augusta-Richmond County and adoption of FY2018 budget on a timely basis. The budget will be adopted prior to the fiscal year 2018. Financial Impact:N/A Alternatives:Revise calendar, however some dates and/or time requirements are set by state or local ordinances. for example the date of adoption is the second meeting date in November. Recommendation:Approve Budget Calendar for FY2018 as indicated on the attachment Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: N/A Cover Memo REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Law. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Cover Memo AUGUSTA, GEORGIA 2018 BUDGET PLANNING CALENDAR MAY 2017 May 30, 2017 Finance Committee approves FY2018 Budget Calendar. JUNE 2017 June 6, 2017 Commission approves FY2018 Budget Calendar. JULY 2017 July 20, 2017 Distribution of Budget Calendar and Instructions during department head meeting. July 24, 2017 Departments with OneSolution access may start entering in Budget Item Detail. AUGUST 2017 August 11, 2017 Deadline for ALL submission of budget documents to Finance. SEPTEMBER 2017 Sept. 1-15, 2017 Departmental Work Sessions with representatives of the Administrator’s office and the Finance Department September 29, 2017 Budget summary presented to Administrator by Finance Department. OCTOBER 2017 October 17, 2017 FY2018 Proposed Budget presented to Augusta-Richmond County Commission by the Administrator. October 31, 2017 Publish Public Hearing Notice in newspaper. NOVEMBER 2017 November 7, 2017 PUBLIC TOWN MEETING / COMMISSION MEETING Public Hearing of 2018 Budget. November 14, 2017 Publish Notice of Budget Adoption in newspaper. November 21, 2017 Adoption of the FY2018 Budget by the Augusta-Richmond County Commission JANUARY 2018 January 1, 2018 Effective date for the Fiscal year 2018 Budget. Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Amendments to Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance Department:Planning & Development Department:Planning & Development Caption:Motion to approve Amendments to Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:A Community Assistance Visit (CAV) was held November 28, 2016 with Georgia DNR, Mie Lucas/City of Augusta CRS Coordinator and Terri L. Turner/City of Augusta Development Services Administrator (Floodplain Administrator) to review the City of Augusta's implementation of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and to start the process of the City's participation in the Community Rating System (CRS). Two minor revisions were requested by Georgia DNR to the City's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance to bring it in compliance with the current Georgia Model Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance-Riverine. Staff is also requesting to update the Ordinance by changing the address of the Augusta P & D Department to its current location and to change the title of the Planning Director from "Executive Director" to "Director". Analysis:Revisions to the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance are required in keeping with the City of Augusta's participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Financial Impact:None. The Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance will need to be updated on the City's website once approved by the Augusta Commission and sent to GA DNR to continue participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Alternatives:Sanctioning by the State and FEMA for non-compliance of the requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program; Expulsion of the City of Augusta from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) if non-compliance with the State's Model flood Damage Prevention Ordinance - Riverine violations are ongoing; Denial of Cover Memo participation in the Community Rating System (CRS) for non- compliance of the City's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance with the State's Model Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. Recommendation:Approval of the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, as amended. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Law. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Georgia Power Easement at 2715 Ingleside Drive Department:Engineering Department:Engineering Caption:Motion to approve granting Georgia Power an easement on 2715 Ingleside Drive (Tax Map 025-2, Parcel 124-01) in order for them to relocate three power poles and a distribution line required as a result of the Berckmans Road Widening and Realignment Project, as requested by AED. Also approve having the agreement executed by the appropriate Augusta official(s). (Approved by Engineering Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:Georgia Power is requesting an easement required to relocate their poles and distribution line on Berckmans Road from Wheeler Rd to Wicklow Drive because of Augusta’s widening and realignment of Berckman’s Road. Augusta, Georgia is the owner of this property; therefore, Augusta should sign granting the easement. Analysis:This easement will allow Georgia Power to continue to provide electrical service to property owners in this area and also to maintain this service. Financial Impact:There will be no financial impact to Augusta, Georgia. Alternatives:1) Approve granting Georgia Power an easement on 2715 Ingleside Drive (Tax Map 025-2, Parcel 124-01) in order for them to relocate three power poles and a distribution line required as a result of the Berckmans Road Widening and Realignment Project, as requested by AED. Also approve having the agreement executed by the appropriate Augusta official(s). 2) Do not approve and deny electrical service to this area. Recommendation:Approve Alternative Number One. Funds are Available in the Following N/A Cover Memo Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Law. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Minutes Department: Department: Caption:Motion to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of the Commission held May 16, 2017 and Legal Meeting held May 30, 2017. Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo -fr A Commission Meeting Agenda Commission Chamber - 511612017 ATTENDANCE: Present: Hons. Hardie Davis, Jr., Mayor; Jefferson, Guilfoyle, Sias, Frantom, M. Williams, Davis, Fennoy, D. Williams, Hasan and Smith, members of Augusta Richmond County Commission. INVOCATION: The Rev. James T. Said, Rector, St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO T}IE FLAG OF THE I.INITED STATES OF AMERICA. Five (fl minute time limit per delesation DELEGATIONS A. Mr. Denick Partridge, Marks Demolition & Environmental Group regarding the Item re-establishment of the city's in-house demolition program. (Requested by Action: Commissioner Wayne Guilfoyle) None IB Derrick_Partridse.pdf B ItemApprovalsheet.html Motions Motion Type Presentation Partridge. Mr. Thompson, Thompson city's in-house demolition Guilfoyle) Motion Text Made By Seconded MotionBy Result B. is made by Mr. Wrecking Inc. regarding the re-establishment of the Item program. (Requested by Commissioner Wayne Action: None lH Thom nson-\\'recking.odf lB ItemAonrovalsheet.html Motions Motion Made Seconded Motioniyp.- Motion Text By By Result Mr. Thompson did not appear before the Commission. C. Administration Access and Demolition. (Requested by Commissioner Sammie Item Sias) Action: None B Asenda ltem Com. Sias 5-l6.ndf lB ItemAnnrovalsheet.html D. Dexter Contracting and Hauling regarding the re-establishment of the city's in- Item house demolition program. (Requested by Commissioner Wayne Guilfoyle) Action: None B Dexter Contractins and Haulinp.ndf lB ltemAnorovalsheet.html Motions Motion Made Seconded Motioniil.. Motion Text By By Resurt A representative from Dexter Contracting and Hauling did not appear before the Commission. CONSENT AGENDA (Items 1-24) PLANNING 1. Final Plat - Walker Hill, Phase 3 - 5-856-III - A request for concurrence with Item the Augusta Georgia Planning Commission to approve a petition by James G. Action: Swift and Associates, on behalf of Prather Construction Company, requesting Approved final plat approval for Walker Hill, Phase 3. This residential subdivision is located on Walker Creek and Johnson Branch, adjacent to Walker Hill, Phase 2 and contains 29 lots. DISTRICT 8 lB walker hill finalJlat.ndf El ItemAoorovalsheet.html 2, Z-17'15 - A request for concurrence with the Augusta Georgia Planning Commission to approve a petition by Stacey P. Johnson requesting a change a zoning from Zone R-lC (One-family Residential) to Zone R-2 (Two-family Residential) affecting property containing 0.16 acres and known as 790 Eve Street. Tax Map 035-3-293-00-0 DISTRICT I Motions Motion Motion Textr ype Motion to ^ aDDrove.APProve vtotion passes l o- 0. E z-17-15 eve st.ndf lB ltemApprovalsheet.html Motions Motion:"""" Motion Textr ype Motion to, aDDrove.APProve uotion passes l o- 0. lE za-r-248.ndf E ItemAoorovalsheet.html Motions Motion Motion Textrype Motion to ^ dDDrove.APProve Motion passes lo- 0. Commissioner Commisioner Mary Davis sean Frantom Passes Made By Seconded By Made By Seconded By Motion Result Motion Result Motion Result Passes Item Action: Approved Item Action: Approved Commissioner Commisioner Mary Davis sean Frantom Passes 3. ZA-R-248 - A request for concurrence with the Augusta Georgia Planning Commission to approve a request to amend the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance for Augusta Georgia by adding Noise (Ordinance) to Section 2 -Definitions, Section 4 - off-street Parking and Loading, Section 2l - B-l (Neighborhood Business), Section 22 -B-2 (General Business). Made By Commissioner Mary Davis Seconded By Commisioner Sean Frantom PUBLIC SERVICES 4. Motion to approve the National Recreation and Park Association's (NRPA) Item grant for a "Healthy Out-of-School Time Program" in the amount of $25,000.00. Action: (Approved by Public Services Committee May 9,2017) Approved tB NRPA Out-Of-SchooLGrant_Application.pdf E Healthv Out-of-School Time Grant.odf lB ItemAonrovalsheet.html Motions X:j]'" Motion Text Made By seconded By Motion I YPe '.---- -r Result Motion to Approve ffi$,il'r*ses r0- f,""HHjJi;'* s:#T;f,:H passes 0. 5. Motion to approve New Ownership Application: A. N. 17-16: a request by ltem Dwayne Britton for an on premise consumption Liquor, Beer and Wine Action: License to be used in connection with The Country Club Dance Hall and Saloon, Approved LLC located at 2834 Washington Road Ste. F. There will be Dance. District 7. Super District 10. (Approved by Public Services committee May 912017) tB The Countrr,_Club_Dance Hatl.pdf lB ItemAoorovalsheet.html Motions Motion rr r! h Motion^ ----- Motion Text Made By Seconded BylYPe - ---- -" Result Motion to ^ approve. Commissioner CommisionerApprove Motion passes l0- Mary Davis sean Frantom Passes 0. ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES 6. Motion to approve a request from the District Attorney for the purchase of one Item Ford Explorer using Forfeiture Funds from the District Attorney's Office. Bid Action: 16-185 (Approved by Administrative Services Committee May 912017') Approved E Tab Sheet DA Sfr\,.pdf lB I 6-1 85 Newspaper-Advertis€ment.pdf E l6-185 TAB official.pdf IB l6-185 Department Recommendation of Award.pdf tB llail Labels.pdf B ltemAporovalsheet.html Motions f#:"' Motion rext Made By seconded By H:iil Motion to ^ apDrove. Commissioner CommisionerApprove rtiliim p^ses 10- Mary Davis sean Frantom Passes 0. 7. Motion to approve a request from the Augusta Utilities Department-Fort Item Gordon Division for 2 new pickup trucks and one SUV to accommodate Action: recently added personnel to their Fort Gordon contract. (Approved by Approved Administrative Services Committee May 9,2017) IB Att- F-250 Fr cordon.pdf B Att-F3s0-fr sordon.pdf B Att-exolorer-ft sordon.odf lB ltemAoorovalsheet.html Motions H:'1"" Motion Texr Made By Seconded By MotionType Result Motion to ^ approve. Commissioner CommisionerApprove li[ii", p^ses 10- Mary Davis Sean Frantom Passes 0. 8. Motion to approve the proposal received from A&D Painting, Inc. to paint the Item Riverwalk railing. (Approved by Administrative Services Committee May 9, Action:2017) Approved lE! ltemAoorovalsheet.html Motions Motion tt t. m-_-1 f,r r h Motioniil;-' Motion Text Made By Seconded By Resutt Motion to approve. Mr. M. Williams abstains. Voting No: ^ Commisioner CommissionerApprove Sean Frantom, William Fennoy Commissioner Wayne Guilfoyle. Motion Passes 7-2 -1. Commissioner Marion Williams Commissioner Dennis Williams Seconded By Commisioner Sean Frantom Passes Motion Result Motion Result Passes 9. Motion to approve Commission Notification Policy: approve a threshold of Item $20,000 personal injury, property loss, or extreme circumstance that will require Action: prompt notification to the Commission regarding an incident or situation to Approved include process of notification such as i.e. at the next: Executive Session, email blast, etc. (Approved by Administrative Services Committee May 912017)) lB Asenda item - Com. Sias 5-9.ndf lB ltemAnnrovalsheet.html Motions Motion-"""" Motion Textrype Motion to ^ aDDrove.APProve uftio, Passes l o- 0. Motion to , a0Drove.APProve vtotion passes lo- 0. Made By Seconded By Commissioner Commisioner Mary Davis Sean Frantom rasses PUBLIC SAFETY 10. Motion to approve County Capacity Agreement for state inmates being housed Item in the Richmond County Correctional Institution from July I ,2017 until June Action: 30,z0|8.(Approved by Public Safety Committee May 9,2017) Approved lE Aueusta.Richmond Counn,.FYlS (003).doc IB ItemAoorovalsheet.html Motions Motion;::'-"" Motion Text Made Byrype FINANCE 11. Motion to approye a request from the Richmond County Sheriffs Office to Item move funds ($38,295.00) obtained from a 2017 sale of a Caterpillar Scraper. Action: The agency intends to use this funding to purchase a boat for the agency and Approved other capital items. (Approved by Finance Committee May 9,20fi) 12. Motion to approve agreement with Historic Augusta for funding as authorized ltem in SPLOST Phase VI. (Approved by Finance Committee May 9,2017\ Action: Approved B ltemApprovalsheet.html Motions Motion-"'-"- Motion Text'r'ype Motion to ^ aDDrove.APProve uotio, Passes lo- 0. Commissioner Commisioner Mary Davis Sean Frantom Passes Made By Seconded By Made By Seconded By Motion Result Motion Result E mou.nor lB \l'oodrow r*'ilson-Exhibit Plan.ndf lB ltemAoorovalsheet.html Motions Motion-"""" Motion Text'r'ype Motion to ^ aDDrove.APProve vtotion passes 1o- 0. Commissioner Commisioner Mary Davis sean Frantom Passes ENGINEERING SERVICES 13. Motion to approve contract with Cranston Engineering Group to provide Item services related to Public Safety and FERC license for the Augusta Canal in Action: the amount of $253,552.00. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee Approved May 9,2017\ E 20150513 2017-04-20 Proposal-16-l?-FERC-Services.pdf B ItemAonrovalsheet.htnrl Motions X:j]'" Motion Text Made By seconded By Motion'l'ype Result Motion to A ___^_-^ approve. Commissioner CommisionerApprove Motion passes 10- Mary Davis Sean Frantom Passes 0. 14. Motion to approve the abandonment of an existing easement to Huntsman Item Pigments Americas LLC. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee Action: May 9,2017) Approved B Huntsman Abandonment.ndf lB Huntsman Plat.ndf [E ItemAonrovalsheet.html Motions X:i]"I' Motion Text Made By Seconded By f."rtjiir ype Motion to a __-.^_,^ approve. Commissioner CommisionerApprove tritotion passes l0- Mary Davis sean Frantom Passes 0. 15. Motion to authorize condemnation to acquire property in Fee Simple Interests Item (Parcel 087-2-188-00-0) - 132 Horton Drive. (Approved by Engineering Action: Services Committee May 912017) Approved IB Condemnation Mao - 132 Horton Drive-ndf lB ItemApprovalsheet.html Motions X:11'" Motion Text Made By Seconded By Motion'I'ype - ----- -'t --------- -r Result Motion to Approve il3i'Xl"l"sses r0- i,'#U;ll* ff#TI"f,:H passes 0. 16. Motion to authorize condemnation to acquire property in Fee Simple Interests ltem (Parcel 087-4-081-00-0) - 2068 Willow Street. (Approved by Engineering Action: Services Committee May 912017)Approved E Condemnation lltao - 2068 \rlillou Street.odf B Item.4.onrovalSheet.html Motions X:j:" Morion Text Made By Seconded By MotionrYPe Result Motion to Approve il3,,T,'r"sses r0- fi:ilHjJf'* 3:#TlH,:1 passes 0. 17. Motion to authorize condemnation to acquire properfy in Fee Simple Interests Item (Parcel 087-4-096-00-0) - 2026 Golden Rod Street. (Approved by Action: Engineering Services Committee May 9,2017) Approved lB Condemnation }lao-- 2026 Colden Rod Street.odf IB ItemAoorovalSheet.html Motions Motion rr r. m , rr r Motion:""'"" Motion Text Made By Seconded By'I'ype - ----- -'t --------- -./ Result Motion to Aoorove approve. Commissioner CommisionerI rl,r,r v v v Motion Passes l0- Mary Davis Sean Frantom Passes 0. 18. Motion to authorize condemnation to acquire property in Fee Simple Interests Item (Parcel 087-4-109-00-0) - 2052 Golden Rod Street.(Approved by Engineering Action: Services Committee May 9,2017) Approved lB Condemnation Map - 2052 Golden Rod Street pdf E ltemAnnrovalsheet.html Motions |'#:",, Motion rext Made By seconded By fffii Motion toapprove. Commissioner Commisioner 19. Motion to authorize condemnation to acquire properfy in Fee Simple Interests Item (Parcel 087-4-138-00-0) - 2051 Leona Street. (Approved by Engineering Action: Services Committee May 9,2017) Approved IB Condemnation l\tap - 2051 Leona Street.odf A ---^_.^ Motion Passes l0- Mary Davis ^pprove 0. IB ltem.4,onrovalsheet.html Motions Motion Motion Textrype Motion to. aDDrove.Approve uotio, Passes 10- 0. Sean Frantom passes 20. Motion to approve establishing a subcommittee to review and recommend ltem changes to the city ordinance to establish a Streetlight District to include Action: Commissioner Sammie Sias, Augusta Engineering and the Planning & Approved Development Departments. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee May 9,2017) Made By Seconded By Text Made By Seconded By Commissioner Commisioner Mary Davis Sean Frantom Passes Motion Result Motion Result {B ltemAonrovalsheet.html Motions Motion Motionrype Motion to Approve ffiffi:l'-"sses r0- ir"#HjJl,',* ff#T["Tf passes 0. 21. Motion to approve rescinding the action of the Commission taken on April 18, Item 2017 and approve the installation of six street lights on Tripps Court at a cost Action: of $134.36 per year. This is also to approve a new lighting tax district for the Approved 13 lots associated with the above road. Funding is available in the Street Lighting budget account #2760416105312310. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee May 9,2017) IB ItemAnorovalsheet.html Motions i^#:"' Motion rexr Made By seconded By r;lli," Motion to A _--^__^ approve. Commissioner CommisionerApprove Motion passes l0- Mary Davis sean Frantom Passes 0. 22. Motion to approve RFQ #16- 259 Sewer Rehabilitation Program for Item Utilities Department in the amount of $1,000,000.00 execution by North Action: American Pipeline Management,Inc.; SAK Construction, LLC, and RDJE, Inc. Approved as qualified and selected contractors. (Approved by Engineering Services Committee May 9,2017) {B RFO l6-259 Directors Nlemo.pdf lE l6-259 RFQ sent to newsprper.pdf E l6-2sg rlg orplcIlt-.odf E l6-259 CumulatiYe.pdf lB Process Resardins RFOs.ndf lB Sisn-in sheet Pre-Oualification Conference.odl' lB Mail List end Demandstar Planholders.pdf B ltemAnorovalSheet.html Motions Motion Motion;----- Motion Text Made By Seconded By Result|.eJI Motion to approve. Mr. Sias out. Approve I:[H,il,";,., S:#Tl.',ffi ;,:[B'iJlJ.' passes Marion Williams. Motion Passes 8-1. 23. Motion to approve Annual Budget for Program Management.(Approved by Item Engineering Services Committee May 9,2017) Action: Approved B Hours-year 3-50k-{-14-l7.xlsx B ltemApprovalsheet.html Motions X:'1" Motion Text Made By seconded By Motion'l'YPe ^'---- -J Result Motion to approve. Mr. Sias out. A ---^_.^ Voting No: Commissioner CommisionerApprove commissioner Sammie Sias Sean Frantom Passes Marion Williams. Motion Passes 8-1. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS 24. Motion to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of the Commission ltem held May 2,2017 and Legal Meeting held May 9,2017. Action: Approved E Reqular Commission Meetins ll{ay 2 201?.pdf B Called-Commission_Meeting MavJ_2017.odf B ItemApprovalsheet.html Motions Y:'1" Motion Texr Made By seconded By Motion'I'ype .-^--- -J Result Motion to a - -.,_- - approve. Commissioner CommisionerApprove Motion passes 10- Mary Davis Sean Frantom Passes 0. ** **END CONSENT AGENDA?krr ** AUGUSTA COMMISSION 5lr6t20t7 AUGUSTA COMMISSION REGULAR AGENDA slt6t20t7 (Items 25-31) ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES 25. Discuss the Commission's travel and training budget. (Requested by Item Commissioner Bill Fennoy) Action: Approved E ltemAnprovalsheet.html Motions Motion Motion Text Made By seconded By fffi,'rype Motion to approve deleting this item from ^Derete the agenda. Mr. sias $iil,T#;:ffi:, fi""[HJr"' passes out. Motion Passes 9-0. 26. Discuss and approve recommendations from Housing & Community Item Development to repu{pose the return of Housing Opportunities for Persons Action: with Aids (HOPWA) funding ($765,176.32) from HopeHealth, Inc. Approved B HCD REPT]RPOSE OF HOP\\'A FT,]NDS HODCHCAIth2.Odf E ItemAonrovalsheet.html Motions Motion Motion;----- Motion Text Made By Seconded By Resultrype Motion to a _.._^__^ approve. Commisioner CommissionerApprove Motion passes l0- Sean Frantom Sammie Sias Passes 0. 27. Discuss the proposed Augusta DragwaylDrag Strip. (No recommendation from Item Administrative Services Committee May 9,2017) Action: None lB Minutes 3.7.2006 Anoroye Dras Strio Studr'.pdf E }linules 10.3.2006 Approval Proceed Dras Strip.pdf IB ItemAoprovatsheet.html Motions Motion rr ,. m Motion;----- Motion Text Made By Seconded By il#;'I vDeJI Motion to approve a --^--^_-- receiving this item as commissioner commissioner ^pprove information and ask the Ben Hasan Sammie Sias Clerk's Office to send the commissioners a copy of the study on the race track from 2006. Unanimous consent was given to accept this item as information and have the Clerk's Office provide commissioners with a copy of the 2006 study. No vote was taken. ENGINEERING SERVICES 28. Approve to re-establish In-House Demolition Program in house within 60 Item days and use contract services only for specialized needs as deemed Action: necessary.(No recommendation by Engineering Services Committee Disapproved May 9,2017\ IB ItemAoorovrlsheet.html Motions f#:" Motion Text Made By seconded By fffil Motion to approve establishing a test in- house demolition program to remove the remaining houses in the Hyde Park area and waive the landfill tipping fees during this test program. Mr. Fennoy and Mr. M. r\^-^-^r^^r^-^_ 11 Approve Williams abstain. commissioner commissioner VotingNo: Sammie Sias ilil;^'-^ Fails Commissioner Mary Davis, Commisioner Sean Frantom, Commissioner Wayne Guilfoyle, Commissioner Grady Smith. Motion Fails 4-4 -2. Motions f#:" Motion Text Made By seconded By f.'rlil Deny ADDENDUM 29. Motion to approve the Final Draft of the Probation Services Order as changed Item by the Probation Services Advisory Board. (Requested by the Mayor) Action: Approved B Probation Servires Order.pdf IB Probation Services Or<ter (Redline \rersion).ndf IB ltemApnrovalsheet.html Motions Motion;- ---- Motion Text Made Bylype Motion to deny the re- establishment of the program. Mr. Fennoy abstains. Voting No: Commissioner Ben Hasan, Commissioner Andrew Jefferson, Commissioner Sammie Sias, Commissioner Dennis Williams. Motion Fails 5-4 -1. Commissioner Wayne Guilfoyle Commissioner k allsGrady Smith r I Approve Motions X]j:" Motion Text Made Byr ype Motion to ^ aDDrove.APProve Motion passes lo- 0. Motion to approve adding this item to the Commissioneragenda. Mary Davis Motion Passes 10-0. Commissioner Mary Davis Seconded By Commisioner Sean Frantom Motion Result Passes Seconded By Commisioner Sean Frantom Item Utilities Action: None Motion Result Passes Employee of the Month - Muy, 2017 Ms. Norma Lee, Customer Service Program Department 30. Manager, Augusta El ItemApprovalsheet.html Motions Motion Motion Text Made Seconded MotionrYPe By By Result Recognition of Ms. Norma Lee, Customer Service Program Manager, Augusta Utilities Department, May, 2017 Employee of the Month. 31. Recognition of the Delta sigma Theta's Delta Days in the city. Item Action: None IB ltemAoorovalsheet.html Motions Motion Motion Text Made Seconded MotionrYPe By By Result Recognition of the ladies of Delta Sigma Theta's Delta Days in the City. LEGAL MEETING A. Pending and Potential Litigation. B. Real Estate. C. Personnel. 32. Motion to approve execution by the Mayor of the affidavit of compliance with Georgia's Open Meeting Act. Upcoming Meetings Item Action: None www.augustaga.qov CALLED MEETING COMMISSION CHAMBER May 30,2017 Augusta Richmond County Commission convened at I I :00 a.m., Tuesd ay,May 30,2Ol7 ,the Honorable Hardie Davis, Jr., Mayor, presiding. PRESENT: Hons. Jefferson, Guilfoyle, Sias, Frantom, M. Williams, Davis, Fennoy, D. Williams, Hasan and Smith, members of Augusta Richmond County Commission. Ms. Davis: Madam Clerk. The Clerk: Yes, ma'am. Ms. Davis: We'lIcall this meeting to order and I believe we are going to go into legal. 2. LEGAL MEETING A. Pending and potential litigation B. Real estate C. Personnel Mr. Sias: Move to go into legal to discuss any - The Clerk: Pending and potential litigation, real estate, personnel. Mr. Fennoy: Second. Mr. Sias: Absolutely. The Clerk: Okay. That's Mr. Sias and Mr. Fennoy. Ms. Davis: Okay. We have a motion and a second. please vote. Mr. Jefferson, Mr. M. Williams, Mr. Smith and the Mayor out. Motion carries 7-0. ILEGAL MEETING] Mr. Mayor: The Chair recognizes Attorney MacKenzie. 3. Motion to approve the execution by the Mayor of the affidavit of compliance with Georgia's Open Meeting Act. Mr. MacKenzie: I would entertain a motion to execute the closed meeting affidavit. Mr. M. Willil65; So move. Mr. Frantom: Second. Mr. Mayor: Voting. Mr. MacKenzie: I would also make a note for the record there was no discussion relating to personnel. Mr. Jefferson out. Motion carries 9-0. Mr. Mayor: Okay, Attorney MacKenzie, Madam Clerk. Pursuant to our special called meeting agenda, item 1 is to approve a revised Probation Order. 1. Motion to approve revised Probation Order. (Requested by Administrator) Mr. MacKenzie: I would just like to make a note for the record that there wiII be a modification for the order to include the Clerk's certification. Mr. Sias: So move. Ms. Davis: Second. Mr. Mayor: Voting. So there were some housekeeping changes that needed to be made to the Probation Order that you adopted on last week. Those were just name change from Board of Community, Board of Parole to Department of Community Supervision. Those were the changes. It is in the front of your notebooks and if you want us to take occasion to step through that we'll be happy to do that. It's the 2l-page document that was adopted on last week and there were just some minor housekeeping changes. I'm going to be a junior attomey now. Housekeeping means that's a term of art in legalese where you're just making name changes. IvIr. M. Williams: I don't trust all my attorneys but I'm going to support it, Mr. Mayor. Motion carries 10-0. Mr. MacKenzie: That's all I have. [MEETING ADJOURNED] Lena J. Bonner Clerk of Commission CERTIFICATION: I, Lena J. Bonner, Clerk of Commission, hereby certify that the above is a true and correct copy of the minutes of the Called Meeting of the Augusta Richmond County Commission held on May 30,2017. Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Subcommittee on City's Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance Department: Department: Caption:Approve establishing a subcommittee to review and recommend changes to the city's Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance how zoning exceptions are done in residential subdivisions and in other areas. (No recommendation from Public Services Committee May 30, 2017) Background:The citizens of our city live in our neighborhoods and they are the bedrock of our tax base. Inflicting unwanted business and undesired elements into our neighborhood over the objections of our citizens is a recipe for disaster. We must take a very close look at this issue in a very comprehensive manner. Neighborhood Covenants, Home Owner Associations Bylaws and Neighborhood Associations Bylaws all matter because these are governing documents for our citizens where they live and raise their families. These neighborhood documents are due a measure of respect from this government. Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo coMPREHeNqrvE PLAN 4. 5. d. Continue to implement the city's Hazard Mitigation Plan related to flood-prone properties B. Continue to implement education and outreach programs related to water pollution and water quality issues f. Encourage voluntqry actions by citizens, agencies and organizations related to water protection and water quality Continue to implement the Community Greenspace Program a. Acquire properties or interests in properties, through donation, conservation easanents or purchase for the Community Greenspace Program. b. Coordinate the Community Greenspace Program with the activities of other stakeholders, such as the Augusta Canal Authority, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, and the Recreation and Parks Department Protect the tree cover and open space in urbanizing parts of the city a. Continue to implement and enforce the provisions of the city's Tree Ordinance, and adopt amendments to the same as nec€ssary b. Encourage more use of the Conservation Subdivision design in and near environm entally-sensitive areas Land Use / Growth Manageruent Goel - Promote a land use pattern that accommodates growth and revitalization while protecting established residential areas and natural resources. Policies Supporting the Land Use / Growth Management Goal The following policies will guide overall land-use decision-rnaking in the city. The policies outlined here build on the existing policies, taking into account the future vision for the city, recent changes in land use, and the input provided by the public and other stakeholders. They reflect the city's basic approach to future land use, which is to protect neighborhoods, support redevolopment in targeted areas and qncourage a mix of infill development and new construction in areas where urban seryices are either available ol planned. l. Guiding Policy; Encourage the preservation of residential areas by protecting them from the encroachment of conflicting land uses Augusta has maqy well-established, low-density neighborhoods. In many instances there are active neighborhood assooiations committed to protecting the integrity of the neighborhood and the quality of life. It is critical that neighborhoods are protected from other land uses that are not compatible with them, such as higher-density residential development, industrial facilities and commercial uses that generate high traffic volumes. Maintaining the integrity of existing low-density, single-family zones is the primary means for preserving established neighborhoods. Requiring natural buffers or allowing transitional land uses (e.g. professional offices, townhouses) are examples of other methods used to minimize the impact of more intense land uses on neighborhoods. 39 2' Guiding Policy: Protect neighborhoods from the adverse effects of special exceptions special Exceptions are land uses permitted in any zone when the local government findsthat such use is essential or desirable to the public and is in keeping *itfi trr. goals of thecomprehensive-Plan' E-xamples of land uses permiited by ,p".lui ;;".e;i", under thelocal zoning ordinance include churches, rrr.ing homes, per.onat ..r. il*.r, day care }:ilili* (children and adults), transitional housiig, tunerat homes *o priuutr;#fi;Iactlltles. Special exceptiors are carefully scrutinized because their impact on adjoining residentialareas can vary dependll8 on the proposed use. For example, the effeci "f ";;-;il;;;and related use is different from a- family day care home. For this reason, ,pr.iriexceptions are considered on a case-by-carl Uuri, in accordance with the requirementsand standards in the zoning ordinanee. Minimum lot sizes, minimum ,."j ffi;;,restrictions on hours of operation, limits on outdoor lighting ;J ;i;u, ,p..fijrequironents are examples of the restrictions or conditions plaJed on special .*r.ptionfto minimize their impact on adjoining residential areas. Foi many .p"Jlui .*""ptiil;;concept plan must be submitted at the time of application so that tfr.-Iff"Jof th;;r;;;be evaluated. with the-exception of churches, "na ctrr"i;il;ffi;';:il;iexception must be established within six (6) months of approval orlrr. rf""ial exceptionis no longer valid. 3. Guiding Policy: Encourage tbe redevelopment of older neighborhoods It is imperative.that all of Augusta's neighborhoods be desirable places in whieh to liveand recreate. It is clear from the facts in the Community Assessment, as well as the issuest"]t"d by the public and stakeholders, that some neighborhoods have experiencea ;l;;;of population, housing deterioration, and economic Jecline in the last few d;;;r: il;resulting blight direotly affects the remaining neighborhood residents, can lead to othersocial ills (e.g. trighfl clme rato) an,il reduces the quality of life for all ,*ia."irli.Augusta. These neighborhoods have been identified on both the Ciil;;;';;Future Development maps. rv' ''vg urs It also is clear that the public, private and non-profit sectors are working cooperatively toaddress many of the problems in older neiglrborhoods. Their combined "ffnrt, fr'"r"resulted in the conshuction and rehabilitattn of housing, improurrrnrr--io ffilt;facilities, expansioa of business, and creatior ofjobs. Much iemalns to be done, JJ;;;;policy supports efforts Jo redevelop neighborhoods in accordance with more speoificredevelopment plans and strategies. 4. Guiding Poticy: Encourage infill development This policy complements the policy to redevelop certain neighborhoods and commercialareas' It is designed to promote a more "ompact urban fonn'and discourale-the sprawl Paltern of development. The policy encourages development in areas *rr-"r"."a"'q*t"infrastntcture (roads, utilities) and public facilities and services (fire and police 40 SHORT TERM WORK PROGRAM: 2008-2012 AUGUSTA.RICHMOND COUNTY Project Year of Implementation Responsibility Estimated / Contract Cost Funding Source20082009201020t I zot2 LAND USE / GROWTH MANAGEMENT Conduct more detailed studies of character areas, neighborhoods, activity centers or other areas as necessary I I I I I Neighborhood Associations, Planning Commission, Other Stakeholders StaffTime City Evaluate the feasibility and merits of establishing mixed- use districts, Conservation districts or other types of overlay zones in various parts of the city I I I I I Neighborhood Associations, Planning Commission, Other Stakeholders Staff Time City Update zoning map to reflect Community Agenda, existing land use and other relevanl considorations I I City Commission, Planning Commission Sraff Time City Update local zoning and development ordinances as necessary to achieve quality growth I I I I I City Commission, Planning Commission Staff Time City Address growth management issues through use ofthe Georgia Quality Growth Partnership's Smart Growth Toolkit I I I I r City Commission, Planning Commission Staff Time City Identifo other suburban sites for infill development or redevelopment I Staff Time City 46 Page 1 of 5 The Administrator’s update to the Augusta, Georgia Mayor and Board of Commissioners March 10, 2017 The City’s Fire Department Honors Its Heroes The Augusta Fire Department hosts its second annual Awards Banquet on Tuesday March 14, 2017. This signature event honors fire department personnel who have gone above-and-beyond the call of duty during 2016. The banquet begins at 7 p.m. at the Julian Smith Casino, located at 2200 Broad Street. For more information, please contact Dee Griffin at 706-821-2489. Planning and Development Proposes Schedule for Amending Zoning Ordinances The following is an updated schedule for amending the zoning ordinance to address changes to land uses to include brewpubs, microbreweries and distilleries, live entertainment venues and noise. The schedule is designed so that all relevant issues are addressed and to provide adequate opportunity for input from elected officials, stakeholders and the public. Planning and Development Department staff can provide background information, if needed.  March 13, 2017 – Post draft ordinance amendments on city website and distribute to interested parties  March 13 – Advertise first public meeting  March 21 – Hold first public meeting  April 10 – Planning Commission work session to review draft ordinance amendments  April 11 – Post draft ordinance amendments, with Planning Commission recommendations, on city website and distribute to interested parties  April 17 – Advertise second public meeting  April 25 – Hold second public meeting  May 1 – Planning Commission adopts amendments to the zoning ordinance. Amendments posted to city website and distributed to interested parties.  May 16 – First reading by Augusta Commission  June 20 – Second reading by Augusta Commission  June 21 – Amendments to zoning ordinance published and distributed  June 21 – Online copy of the zoning ordinance updated For additional information, please contact Melanie Wilson at 706-821-1807. Augusta, Georgia Administrator’s Advisory Page 2 of 5 Augusta Information Technology Launches Help Site for Seniors The Augusta Information Technology Department has launched “Seniors Place” on the Augusta website. The team developed this new web page to provide the city’s seniors a centralized place to find information that can benefit them in their day-to-day lives. We want to ensure that seniors have information that helps to support independent living, social and civic engagement, as well as access to transportation, recreational opportunities, affordable and age-friendly housing, and health care to make a positive impact. View the page at http://www.augustaga.gov/2336/Seniors-Place. For more information, please contact Tameka Allen at 706-821-2529. HCD Offers Financial Literacy Help and Funding Guidance for Non-profits a) On Saturday, March 11, The Augusta Housing and Community Development Department will conduct another in its series of financial literacy workshops. The session will be held from 10 a.m. until noon at the 30901 Development Corp. located at 1446 Lee Beard Way in Augusta. The workshop is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged through the city’s website at http://www.augustaga.gov/2335/Financial-Literacy or by calling the department. For more information on this event, please contact Hawthorne Welcher at 706-842-3084. b) HCD will hold a public hearing to gather public input on its FY2018 Annual Action Plan on Tuesday, March 14 at 6 p.m. The Beazley Room on the first floor of the Municipal Building will be the site for this gathering. Refreshments will be served. Staff will discuss the means for obtaining funds through programs such as HCD's HUD grant programs for Community Development Block Grants, Emergency Solutions Grants, HOME Investment Partnership and Housing Opportunities for Persons with HIV/AIDS. Non-profits and service providers interested in pursuing funding through these programs will be required to attend a mandatory application workshop on Thursday, March 16, at 2 p.m. at the main library at 823 Telfair Street. For more information on this event, please contact Vicki C. Johnson at 706-821-1797. Team One Augusta Dashes Across Finish Line Team One Augusta crosses the finish line for this year’s American Heart Association fundraiser with a hearty payoff! Thanks to the energetic efforts of staff, Augusta employees have raised a total of $18,257, as of today. The city’s goal for this campaign is $20,000. Additional contributions can be made through June 30. The North Augusta Greeneway will host this year’s Walk for Life on Saturday, March 11. For more information, please contact Kayla Cooper at 706-849-5927. Page 3 of 5 Library Trustees to Meet; Library System Sets Events a) The Board of Trustees of the Augusta-Richmond County Public Library will meet Monday, March 20. The session take place at the headquarters library, located at 823 Telfair Street. For more information, please contact Mashell Y. Fashion at 706-821-2602. b) The following Augusta-Richmond County Public Library System (ARCPLS) programs are free and open to the public. This list is just a sample of what ARCPLS has to offer. Visit arcpls.org to discover other exciting library events. Headquarters Branch (823 Telfair Street, Augusta, 706-821-2600) Through April 15 Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free Tax Assistance from the AARP Tax-Aide Program Volunteers the AARP Tax Aide program will prepare tax returns at no charge during these walk-in tax clinics. This program is geared towards taxpayers with low– and moderate-income, with special attention to those age 60 and older. Wednesday, March 15 at 2 p.m. Legacy Family Tree Webinar-Irish American Catholic Genealogy Headquarters Library, 3rd Floor Computer Lab What better way to celebrate Irish American Heritage month than by learning how to research your Irish ancestors. The goal of this webinar is to provide attendees with a basic toolkit for getting started on the path to finding a place of origin for your Irish ancestor. Space is limited, so please call 706-826-1511 to register. Appleby Branch (2260 Walton Way, Augusta, 706-736-6244) Tuesday, March 14 at 3 p.m. St. Patrick’s Day Craft Join us as we create a fun St. Patrick’s Day craft. Best for ages 3-12. Registration required for individuals. Registration begins Monday, February 27. Pre-register at 706-736-6244. Diamond Lakes Branch (101 Diamond Lakes Way, Hephzibah, 706-772-2432) Tuesdays, March 14, 21, and 28 from 2 to 4 p.m. Computing for Beginners Learn the basics of using personal computers to include the mouse and keyboard. Requires registration at 706- 772-2432. Wednesday, March 15 at 5 p.m. Unplug and Play for Teens The Diamond Lakes Branch Library invites teens to turn off electronic devices and enjoy an evening of unplugged fun. Pre-register at 706-772-2432. Maxwell Branch (1927 Lumpkin Road, Augusta, 706-793-2020) Through April 15 Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Free Tax Assistance from the AARP Tax-Aide Program Volunteers the AARP Tax Aide program will prepare tax returns at no charge during these walk-in tax clinics. This program is geared towards taxpayers with low– and moderate-income, with special attention to those age 60 and older. Wallace Branch (1237 Laney Walker Boulevard, Augusta, 706-722-6275) Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Storytime Please call 706 722-6275 to schedule a group of more than three children. For more information, please contact Erin Prentiss at 706-821-2612. Page 4 of 5 Recreation and Parks Schedules Events The 2017 Recreation and Parks spring and summer catalog is now available online with all the fun and exciting programs being offered for citizens. Please take the opportunity to look through this guide and make plans to enjoy some of the programs, parks and special events that are happening throughout the city of Augusta. The catalog can be viewed online at https://issuu.com/augustarecreationandparks/docs/2017_spring- summer_brochure. For more information, please call 706-796-5025. Athletics • March 10 -12: GRPA Open State, Industrial State and Church State Basketball Tournament – For three days Bernie Ward Community Center, May Park Community Center, Warren Road Community Center host the GRPA Basketball tournaments. This is an all-day event, starting Friday afternoon and ending on Sunday after the last game has finished. Between eight and 15 teams in each division will compete. • March 11 at the Diamond Lakes Regional Park and Community Center (all day): Inflatable 5K and Sportsfest – The Diamond Lakes Regional Park and Community Center will host the Augusta Sports Council’s Inflatable 5k Fun Run, Sportsfest and Wellness Expo, which usually attracts around 1,500 participants and visitors. • April 3 – 28: Adult Summer Sports Registration – Registration opens for the adult summer season of softball, kickball or basketball. Community Centers • March 18 from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the McBean Community Center: McBean’s Spring Fling and Yard Sale – The yard sale begins at 8 a.m. Vendors must bring their own table. From 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. the team from the McBean Community Center will provide free youth activities. • March 18 at the McDuffie Woods Community Center (12:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.): 1st Annual Rumble in the Woods – Dance teams and marching untis will compete in four different categories: Parade, Field Show, Jr. Poms and Jr. & Sr. Stand Battle. First three winners of each category and the Grand Champion will be awarded. General admission is $10. Children age 4 and younger are admitted free. Advance tickets for $8 are available at the McDuffie Woods Community Center. [Event was originally scheduled for this date, then postponed and now rescheduled for March 18] Page 5 of 5 • March 25 at the Diamond Lakes Community Center (all day): Carnival Reading Fair – In partnership with the Augusta library, Diamond Lakes Community Center will host a Carnival Reading Fair for all ages. There will be a book fair and other activities. • April 6 from 10 - 11 a.m. at the McBean Community Center: Pre-K Egg Hunt – In partnership with McBean Elementary School, McBean Community Center will host an Easter egg hunt. The children will hunt for eggs and prizes will be given. Downtown • March 17 from 2 – 10 p.m. at the downtown Augusta Common: St. Patrick’s Day Festival – In cooperation with the Irish-American Heritage Society, the Augusta Common will be hosting this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations. The event starts with the St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 2 p.m. followed by a celebration at the Augusta Common with live entertainment, vendors and a play area for children. Admission to this family-oriented event is free. • Every Saturday from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. between March 18 and November 25: Augusta Market at the River – This outdoor market offers local vendors, showcasing and selling fruits, veggies, honey, baked goods and coffee, along with locally made art, home décor, accessories and entertainment. The Augusta Market at the river is located at the 8th Street Plaza. • April 3 from 5 – 10 p.m. at the Augusta Common: Mayor’s Masters Reception – Each year, thousands of people from the city of Augusta and around the world gather on Master’s Monday to recognize significant contributors to golf. • April 4 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Augusta Common: Partee on the Green – A community dance party with music for all ages - beach, soul, pop, jazz, reggae, R&B & funk. • April 6 from 6 p.m. to midnight at the Augusta Common: Major Rager Concert featuring The Flaming Lips, People Of The Sun, The Eric Krasno Band and Stop Light Observations. Funk You Schema will play an after-party. Parks Lock and Dam Picnic Shelter Update: Crews have completed removal of old ‘seat walls’ at Shelter #2. They are in the process of re-grading and adding soil to improve safety, functionality and aesthetics. This work at Shelter #1 was completed. For more information, contact John Powell at (706) 842-5581. OFFICE OF THE ADMINISTRATOR 535 Telfair Street, Suite 910 – Augusta, GA 30901 – (706) 821-2400 - www.augustaga.gov Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM City Equipment Lincoln County Department: Department: Caption:Discuss/report from Administration regarding the matter of city- owned equipment being used on private property in Lincoln County. (Requested by Commissioner Marion Williams) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Endorsement of NSBLD Repairs Department: Department: Caption:Motion to support the effort to save the middle of Savannah River Lock and Dam and to refurbish the Lock and Dam. (Requested by Commissioner Wayne Guilfoyle) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Cooper Carey Department: Department: Caption:Report from staff on scope of services completed and total expenditures to date for services rendered by Cooper Carey. (Requested by Commissioner Marion Williams) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM James Brown Enhancement Project Department: Department: Caption:Discuss/update/report from staff regarding the James Brown Enhancement Project. (Requested by Commissioner Marion Williams) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo Rolling Stone Magazine Fans and admirers refer to him, commonly and without hyperbole, as "the Godfather of Soul," "Soul Brother Number One" and "the hardest working man in show business." Michel Jackson cited him as "my greatest inspiration." And the critic Robert Christgau, writing in Rolling Stone, called him "the greatest musician of the rock era, no contest." With some 800 songs in his repertoire, James Brown has influenced contemporary artists from virtually every popular music genre — rock, soul, jazz, R&B. His polyrhythmic funk vamps virtually reshaped dance music, and his impact on hip-hop, in particular, was huge; in the music's early years, Brown was by far the most sampled artist. The real story with Brown is the way in which he revolutionized music, influencing just about every strain of pop music that would follow. He influenced musicians like Mick Jagger, David Bowie, Michael Jackson, Prince, and Public Enemy, among others. Brown's music was sampled by innumerable hip-hop producers and DJs throughout the 1980s and 1990s, helping establish rap as a viable musical form. Rolling Stone named Brown #7 on their list of the Most Influential Artists of All Time. And even the academics are getting into the act; recently Princeton University devoted an entire conference to the study of James Brown. James Brown is unquestionably one of the most influential musical pioneers of the last half-century. The Godfather of Soul, the inventor of funk, the grandfather of hip-hop—Brown is cited as a seminal influence by artists ranging from Mick Jagger to Michael Jackson to Afrika Bambaataa to Jay-Z. Elysa Gardner , @elysagardner, USA TODAY Published July 27, 2014 James Brown still artistic, spiritual godfather to many. An earlier R&B icon, Bootsy Collins, who played bass in Brown's group before joining Parliament-Funkadelic, describes his former boss in similar terms, as "the rhythm of the universe. It was as if he had the DNA of soul power programmed within his soul and then masterfully sprinkled the universe with it." Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry remembers discovering Brown's early music in record stores. "I'd be looking for old blues artists, like Howlin' Wolf and John Lee Hooker, and James Brown's records were in some of the same bins. His sounds were drastically different, but they did the same thing to me." Aerosmith included Brown's songs in its early sets, and his grooves and those of descendants such as New Orleans funk band The Meters "had a big influence on my songwriting, and still do," Perry says. For celebrated young R&B star Janelle Monáe, who dons a cape in her own stage act in homage to Brown, he simply "meant revolution. He meant a new way of expressing yourself onstage. He also represented struggle and innovation — true innovation. He was, to me, otherworldly. How could you have all that talent in one body?" The Source Magazine Mr. Brown was born in Augusta, GA on May 3, 1933, long before the south was “dirty” and surely before American continental geography were places of pride for hip- hop talent. Yet, starting in the 1980s, we witnessed a growing popularity of emerging hip-hop artists use JB’s signature “one-three” beat from James Brown as motivation for music that became a part of a new genre of music we now call “hip hop”. The soul and rock legend, often revered as “the hardest working man in show business”, Mr. Brown, whose career spans nearly 60 years, handcrafted a new culture and genre of music with an eclectic, polyrhythmic blend of soul, rock, funk and R&B. Despite being banned from performing at “white” establishments for several decades, battling racism and while fighting for social justice, James Brown was a visionary, pioneer and trailblazer who worked tirelessly while pursuing his career and perfecting his craft. Mr. Brown’s influence on hip-hop culture still rocks on today in hip-hop. JB’s musical influence and sound can still be heard in hip-hop songs, starting from the first modern duo to sample one of Mr. Brown’s songs, Erik B. and Rakim‘s “Erik B. Is President” back in 1986, which is classic hip hop anthem. Since then, other artists including (but most certainly not limited to) DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, Snoop Dogg, Coolio, MC Hammer, DJ Magic Mike, The 2 Live Crew, Digable Planets, Craig Mack, Redman, Geto Boys, Grand Master Flash & The Furious Five, Artifacts, Lords Of the Underground, The Fat Boys, Jaz, Scarface, Salt N Pepa and Chubb Rock have all recorded songs with samples from the one and only, “Godfather of Soul”. 5 Ways James Brown Made An Impact On American Culture By Brennan Williams –Huffington Post James Brown’s early involvement with social issues also transcended into Politics. Publicly known as a Republican, Brown endorsed President Richard M. Nixon’s 1972 reelection, and later George W. Bush by appearing at various fundraising events. Throughout the mid-1960s, Brown devoted a bulk of his time to a number of social issues, including the Civil Rights movement, the Vietnam War, and the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Known for his strict recording schedule, Brown’s relentless work ethic resulted in a plethora of timeless music that not only birthed inspiration for future icons, but also shaped pop music. Among his many tracks, the funk visionary’s “Funky Drummer” is considered one of the most sampled songs in music history, according to Rolling Stone. Despite dropping out of school in the seventh grade, the legendary performer went on to become an advocate for education by penning the 1966 song, “Don’t Be a Dropout.” On the soulful track, Brown declares: “Without an education, you might as well be dead.” Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Ex-Officio Appt. Augusta Aviation Commission Department: Department: Caption:Motion to approve the appointment of Commissioner Dennis Williams as ex-officio member to the Augusta Aviation Commission. (Requested by Mayor Pro Tem Mary Davis) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo Lena Bonner From: Sent: To: Subiect: Commissioner Mary Davls Wednesday, May 3L, 2017 L0:56 PM Lena Bonner Tuesday, June 6 meeting Lena please add to the agenda the appointment of Commissioner Dennis Williams to be an ex officio -"*6.r (along with Commissioner Sammie Sias) to the augusta regional airport Commission. Thanks! Mary Sent from my iPhone Please consider the environment before printing this email. This e-mail contains confidential information and is intended only for the individual named. If you are not the named addressee, you should not disseminate, distribute or copythis e-mail. Please no_tify the sender immediatelyby e-mail if you have received this e-mail by mistake and delete this e-mail from your system. TheCity of Augusta accepts no liabilityfor the content of this e-mail or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confiimed in writing. Any views or opinions presented in this e-mail are solely those of the auihor and do not necessarily represent those of the City of Augusta. E-mail transmissions cannot be guaranteed to be secure or error-free as information could be intercepted, corrupted, lost, desiroyed, arrive late or incomplete, or contain viruses. The sender therefore does not accept_liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this message which arise as a result of the e-mail transmission. If verification is required, please request a hard copy version. AED:ro4.r Commission Meeting Agenda 6/6/2017 2:00 PM Affidavit Department: Department: Caption:Motion to approve execution by the Mayor of the affidavit of compliance with Georgia's Open Meeting Act. Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Cover Memo