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01/24/2012 Posted on City Website - The 01/10/2012 Minutes were approved on 01/24/2012
City of
Springfield * PO Box 1 * 130 South Laurel St *
Springfield, GA 31329
==================== 01/11/2012 Posted on City Website - The Minutes of the 12/13/2011 Meeting were approved on 01/10/2012
City of Springfield * PO Box 1 * 130
South Laurel St * Springfield, GA 31329 ===============
City of
Springfield * PO Box 1 * 130 South Laurel Street
* Springfield, GA 31329 12/16/11 Posted on City Website - Minutes of 12/06/11 6:00 p.m. Public Hearing were approved on 12/13/11
Two Public Hearings were held on
December 6, 2011 at 6:00 p.m., one in reference
to the recycling program the other in reference
to the City Charter. Both Public Hearings were
held in the City of Springfield Council
Chambers, located at 130 S. Laurel Street,
Springfield, Georgia, with Mayor Pro Tem Jeff
Ambrose presiding.
Also in attendance:
Charles Hinely,
Council Member
Kenny Usher,
Council Member
Gary Weitman, Council Member
Brett Bennett,
City Manager
Amber Nettles,
Accounting Clerk
Guest present:
Russell Hightower
Murray Kight
Paul Lindsay
Steve Shealy
Recycling
Russell Hightower, with Waste Management, spoke
on the pilot program’s high participation at
approximately 60-70%. Murray Kight, Paul
Lindsay, and Steve Shealy spoke in support of
the recycling program. The recycling program
should come back before Council Members at the
next meeting. If the recycling program is
approved in December then the program may be
ready to start in March or April of 2012.
Charter
No public comments were made.
The Public Hearing ended at 6:25 p.m.
12/16/11 Posted on City
Website - Minutes of 12/06/11 10:00 a.m. Public
Hearing were approved on 12/13/11
-------------------- 12/14/11 Posted on City Website - Minutes of the 11/22/11 Meeting were approve on 12/13/11
Minutes of the
Council Meeting -
November 22, 2011 - Regular
Meeting
MAYOR PRO TEM JEFF
AMBROSE AND THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL MEMBERS WERE
PRESENT:
ALSO PRESENT
APPEARANCES
City Manager Bennett
advised Council Members that several bikes are
obtained during the year through various
incidents and requested they be surplused and
also advised Council Members that the surplused
bikes are usually given to a group each year to
be provided to needed families at Christmas.
Discussion of the
2012 Budget Workshop
Discussion of the
City Charter adoption process
Reminder – Old
Fashioned Christmas
Discussion of
various projects
CONSIDERATION FOR
A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE REGULAR MEETING INTO
AN EXECUTIVE SESSION – reference Real
Estate Acquisition, Pending Litigation, and
Personnel
CONSIDERATION FOR
A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE EXECUTIVE SESSION BACK
INTO THE REGULAR MEETING
CONSIDERATION TO
TAKE ANY ACTION NEEDED ON THE ITEM(S) DISCUSSED
DURING THE EXECUTIVE SESSION ==================== 11/23/11 Posted on City Website - The Minutes of the 11/08/11 Meeting were approved on 11/22/11 Minutes of Council Meeting - November 8, 2011 - Regular Meeting CALL TO ORDER
--------------------
11/09/2011 Posted on Website - 10/11/11 Minutes were approved as amended 11/08/11
Minutes of the
Council Meeting - October 11, 2011 - Regular
Meeting
10/12/11 Posted on City
Website - Minutes of 09/27/11 Meeting were
approved 10/11/11
Troy Allen
Charles Hinely
A
quorum of Council was represented at this
meeting.
--------------------
09/28/2011 Posted on City Website - Minutes of 09/13/2011 Meeting were approved on 09/27/2011
Minutes of the
Council Meeting
Council Chambers
September 13, 2011
Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting
of the City of Springfield Council was held on
September 13, 2011 in the Council Chambers in
Springfield, Georgia. This meeting was called to
order at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Pro-Tem Ambrose
MAYOR PRO-TEM JEFF AMBROSE AND THE FOLLOWING
COUNCIL MEMBERS WERE PRESENT:
Charles Hinely
Butch Kieffer
Kenny Usher Gary Weitman
Council Member
Troy Allen was unable to attend this meeting. A
quorum of Council was represented at this
meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Brett Bennett, City Manager
Linda Rineair, City Clerk
Rick Rafter, City Attorney
Paul Wynn, Police Chief
GUEST PRESENT
O. Johnson Small
Greg Reeves
Gussie A. Nease
Lakisha Jackson
Wayne Kight
Jordan Parker
Courtney Sheffield
Steven Shealy
Williadean Williams Lee Carter
Jamey Stancell
INVOCATION
– Given by Mayor Pro-Tem Ambrose
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
– Led by Mayor Pro-Tem Ambrose
AMENDMENT TO AND APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
MOTION:
Weitman made a motion to amend the Agenda
under the Executive Session to add Real Estate
Acquisition and Pending Litigation and to
approve the Agenda as amended.
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE 08/30/2011 REGULAR
MEETING
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to approve the
minutes of the Regular Meeting of 08/30/2011.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPEARANCES
Williadean Williams appeared before Council to
request consideration to hold an event on
October 8, 2011, 1st Annual “New
Life” K-9 Fun Day, at New Life COGOP Church
located at 106 New Stillwell Road
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to approve Williadean
Williams request to hold an event on 10/08/2011,
1st Annual “New Life” K-9 Fun Day, at
New Life COGOP Church located at 106 New
Stillwell Road.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Lakisha Jackson appeared before Council to
request consideration to open a Home Occupation
by the name of “As 1 Enterprise”, located at
1012 Ash Street Ext., for lawn care and pressure
washing services
Ms. Jackson explained that this would
be for lawn care and also pressure washing
services. The equipment will be stored at a
location on Highway 21 North, in the county, and
not at her residence.
MOTION:
Kieffer made a
motion to approve Lakisha Jackson’s request to
open a Home Occupation by the name of “As 1
Enterprise”, located at 1012 Ash St. Ext., for
lawn care and pressure washing services.
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
No public comments were made.
OLD BUSINESS
Consideration for approval of Ordinance #
2011-04 reference Insurer’s License Fees
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to approve Ordinance
# 2011-04 reference Insurer’s License Fees.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
NEW BUSINESS
Consideration to authorize the Chief of Police
to sign a MOU (Memorandum of Understanding)
between the Effingham County Board of Health and
the City of Springfield Police Department, in
order to renew an existing agreement
A brief
discussion followed.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to authorize the
Chief of Police to sign a MOU between the
Effingham County Board of Health and the City of
Springfield Police Department, in order to renew
an existing agreement.
Second:
Kieffer seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration for acceptance of main road at
Harvey’s Shopping Center
Gregory Reeves
appeared before Council and explained that he
had forwarded information to the City Manager,
in reference to this request.
Mr. Reeves also assured Council that he
will provide any other required documentation
needed, and explained that a quit claim process
will also be completed in reference to this
matter. A brief discussion followed.
MOTION:
Kieffer made a
motion to accept the main road at the Harvey’s
Shopping Center conditional upon the final items
needed be forwarded to the City Manager.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration to authorize the SRC to hold a
bingo game
Gussie Nease
appeared before Council requesting consideration
of Council to authorize the SRC to hold a bingo
game. Ms. Nease explained that this will
generate income for future use in reference to
the Mars Theatre. A brief discussion followed.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to authorize the SRC
to hold a bingo game.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
Heritage Grant
City Manager
Brett Bennett gave an update on the Grant and
explained that this could get us through phase
one which is the exterior of the Mars Theatre
and the excavation around the building.
Business Plan for the Mars Theatre
Bennett explained that a few years ago
a student from UGA had conducted a study on the
downtown area. A new student has selected the
Mars Theatre as a project. She would like to
develop a business plan with cost associated in
reference to the Theatre. The City Manager will
be working with her for the next few months in
order to provide additional information and/or
assistance to her.
REPORTS
Administration
The City Manager
advised Council that the Streetscape Project is
moving along. Most of the curbing is going in. A
preconstruction project meeting will be held
soon.
Bids were
received Friday for the retaining wall.
There is still no
word from DOT on the intersections.
Police Department
The Police Chief,
Paul Wynn, advised that a correction was needed
on the monthly Police Report, that calls should
have been 782. Officers have begun additional
surveillance in reference to the increase of
theft from vehicles. The Police Chief reminded
the public to lock their vehicles.
Council Member
Butch Kieffer explained that Don Nelson was
assisted by Springfield Police Officers
reference an issue that occurred two weeks ago
in the early morning hours. Mr. Nelson had
expressed to Kieffer his appreciation to those
officers and Butch Kieffer just wished to pass
Mr. Nelson’s appreciation to the Police
Department.
Fire Department
Travis Zittrouer
was unable to attend this meeting, but had
provided the monthly fire report for review.
Bennett added
that Fire Chief Interviews should begin this
week.
City Department Liaisons
Council Member
Hinely asked about the grading process. Bennett
advised that we will need a few inches of rain
for a test to see how well the grading is
helping out on the drainage issues.
Council Member
Butch Kieffer congratulated Steve Shealy on his
quest to become a Council Member.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE
REGULAR MEETING INTO AN EXECUTIVE SESSION
– reference Real Estate Acquisition, Pending
Litigation, and Personnel
MOTION:
Weitman made a
motion to move from the Regular Meeting into an
Executive Session, reference Real Estate
Acquisition, Pending Litigation and Personnel at
6:36 p.m.
Second:
Kieffer seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
The City Clerk was excused during the
executive session, after discussion of Real
Estate Acquisition, and left the Council Room at
6:43 p.m. The City Clerk returned to the Council
Room at 7:34 p.m.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION BACK INTO THE REGULAR MEETING
MOTION:
Usher made a
motion to move from the Executive Session back
into the Regular Meeting at 7:34 p.m.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TAKE ANY ACTION
NEEDED ON THE ITEM(S) DISCUSSED DURING THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION
No action was
taken.
CITY CHARTER
Bennett discussed the procedures for
updating the City Charter. Bennett suggested the
possibility of a Retreat be held so that Council
Members could get together and work on this.
Bennett was asked to select some dates and get
back with Council Members on this. Bennett
advised that a template is provided by GMA and
perhaps he could obtain copies of other cities
Charter’s to use as models and also to provide
additional information.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO ADJOURN THIS
MEETING
MOTION:
Kieffer made a
motion to adjourn this meeting at 7:40 p.m.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
09/13/2011 Posted on City Website - The Minutes of the 08/30/2011 Meeting were approved on 09/13/2011
Minutes of the
City of Springfield Council Meeting
Council Chambers
August 30, 2011
Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
A
Regular Meeting of the City of
Springfield Council was held on
August 30, 2011 in the Council
Chambers in Springfield,
Georgia. This meeting was called
to order at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor
Pro-Tem Jeff Ambrose.
MAYOR PRO-TEM JEFF AMBROSE AND THE FOLLOWING
COUNCIL MEMBERS WERE PRESENT:
Troy Allen
Charles Hinely
Butch Kieffer
Kenny Usher
Gary Weitman
A
quorum of Council was
represented at this meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Brett Bennett, City Manager
Linda Rineair, City Clerk
Warren Ratchford, Attorney Amber Nettles, Accounting Clerk
GUEST PRESENT
Chuck Mobley
Robert Laning
Wanda Laning
Pearl Thomas
Lynwood Griffin
Steve Shealy
Jamey Stancell Tabitha Kirkland
Amanda Moore Wilson Burns
Chad Zittrouer
Barty Alderman
Athena Northway
INVOCATION
– Given by Mayor Pro-Tem Ambrose
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
– Led by Mayor Pro-Tem Ambrose
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to approve the
Agenda.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE 08/09/2011 REGULAR
MEETING
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to approve the
minutes of the Regular Meeting of 08/09/2011.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPEARANCES
Lakisha Jackson
request consideration for a home occupation
license located at 1012 Ash St. Ext. for a
business in the name of “As 1 Enterprise” for
lawn care and pressure washing.
Lakisha Jackson was not present
at the time of this request and
did not appear. No action was
taken.
Tabitha Kirkland
– requests consideration for speed bumps in
subdivision
Tabitha Kirkland appeared before
the Council to request speed
bumps be placed in the Deer Run
Subdivision. Ms. Kirkland
advised that she had come to the
City Manager Brett Bennett a
while back. He had suggested
that she obtain signatures on a
petition and bring it back to
him. She did get a petition
signed. Bennett advised her that
she would need signatures from
the actual home owners and has
not heard from her since that
time. Ms. Kirkland stated that
most of the traffic appears to
be residents in the subdivision.
Ms. Kirkland advised that there
are speed limit and child
playing signs posted.
A
discussion followed. Bennett
suggested that there are several
options that could be looked
into and that perhaps a letter
could be sent to both the
property owners and the
residents in order to obtain
their feedback.
Thomas Larry Hill – request consideration for speed bumps in subdivision
Thomas Larry Hill
was not present for his
appearance before the Council
Members.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Robert Laning
–
Asked that speed bumps be considered
for the Deer Run Subdivision.
Amanda Moore –
Expressed her concerns for not only her
children, but for other children, in the Deer
Run Subdivision. Ms. Moore advised that she
feels that speeding traffic is a problem for
everybody in the neighborhood, and went further
to state that people are not stopping at the
stop sign. Ms. Moore had her young son with her
and advised that he had recently been involved
in a collision with a vehicle. Ms. Moore went
onto express her concerns in reference to the
accident report.
A
brief discussion followed.
Council Member Butch Kieffer
asked, and was granted
permission by the Mayor Pro-Tem,
to be excused during this
portion of the meeting. Kieffer
left the Council Chambers at
6:15 p.m.
NEW BUSINESS
Consideration for acceptance of Ramsey Landing
Water/Sewer System
Brett Bennett
advised the Council Members that they are
already connected to city water and that this is
a procedural matter.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to accept the Ramsey
Landing Water/Sewer System.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Council Member
Butch Kieffer returned to the
Council Chambers at 6:17 p.m.,
after the vote on the Ramsey
Landing Water/Sewer System, and
took his seat with the other
Council Members.
Consideration for approval of opening a checking
account – Downtown Redevelopment Fund (Proceeds
from LED sign advertisements)
Brett Bennett
explained that Council approval would be needed
in order to open a separate bank account for the
purpose of proceeds from LED sign
advertisements.
MOTION:
Kieffer made a
motion to approve the opening of a checking
account for the Downtown Redevelopment Fund –
proceeds from LED sign advertisements.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration of a Memorandum of Understanding
between the City of Springfield and the
Springfield Revitalization Corporation
Brett Bennett
explained that a grant in the amount of $20,000
is available and that this is a requirement for
the Springfield Revitalization Corporation to
apply for the grant.
Attorney
Ratchford stated that the City is ultimately
responsible for the overseeing of the account
and that the Memorandum of Understanding
addresses the main ideas. Bennett confirmed that
the SRC has the funds required.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to approve the
Memorandum of Understanding between the City of
Springfield and the Springfield Revitalization
Corporation.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration to approve the Effingham County
Farmer’s Market at the Methodist Campground
Melisa Reagan was not available
at this time, at 6:22 p.m., but
did arrive at 6:30 p.m. and
appeared before the Council
Members at that time. Ms. Reagan
has been in contact with the
Methodist Campground. She would
like a kick-off event, perhaps
during the week of the fall
festival. This particular
kick-off event would be on a
Saturday and hopefully would
then occur on a permanent basis.
The fee of $50 would basically
be for use of the restrooms. Ms.
Reagan requests approval before
she moves forward with media
notifications. Ms. Reagan also
advised that the application
does include a liability clause
holding the City harmless.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to approve
Ms. Reagan’s request for the
Effingham County Farmer’s Market
at the Methodist Campground at a
rental fee of $50, pending the
City Attorney’s approval.
Second:
Allen seconded the
motion.
MOTION PASSED unanimous without objection.
Consideration to approve the site plan for
relocation of a gas tank at Sheppard Brothers
Gas
Bennett advised
that it is located on railroad property. The
short distance relocation meets zoning
requirements. The owner is going through the
State Fire Marshall’s Office who will place
strict requirements on them.
MOTION:
Weitman made a
motion to approve the site plan for relocation
of a gas tank at Sheppard Brothers Gas.
Second:
Kieffer seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED unanimous without objection.
Consideration to approve a water agreement for
Cornerstone Subdivision
Wilson Burns,
representing the new owner of the subdivision,
appeared before the Council Members. A brief
discussion followed. The subdivision was
originally designed to be served by a private
system, a satellite well. The new owner would
like to obtain a water agreement. This is a
standard agreement.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to approve the water
agreement for Cornerstone Subdivision.
Second:
Kieffer seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
Discussion of the T-SPLOST Projects List
Brett Bennett explained the Regional
Transportation Sales Tax (TSPLOST), if it is
passed, that 75% will go into a fund; the other
25% goes to each individual entity. The idea is
for Council to suggest possible projects and
Bennett remarked that this could be significant
for Springfield. The County of Effingham is
expected to get significantly more than we are
actually contributing to as a county.
Bennett asks that
Council to be thinking about
this and what projects they
would like the money to be spent
on.
CDBG GRANT – Sewer infrastructure to serve 20
homes along Railroad Avenue
Bennett advised
that we have received
confirmation on the approval of
the CDBG Grant and personally
thanked Pearl Thomas for her
assistance. Pearl Thomas, a
Railroad Avenue resident, then
thanked Brett Bennett and the
Council Members for everything
that has been done on this Grant
and advised that she will
continue working together with
them.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE
REGULAR MEETING INTO AN EXECUTIVE SESSION
– reference Real Estate Acquisition, Pending
Litigation, and Personnel
MOTION:
Allen made a motion at 6:44 p.m.
to move from the regular meeting
into an executive session in
order to discuss Real Estate
Acquisition, Pending Litigation,
and Personnel.
Second:
Kieffer seconded the
motion.
MOTION PASSED unanimous without objection.
The City Clerk was
in the Executive Session during
the discussion of the Real
Estate Acquisition and excused
herself at approximately 7:25
p.m. before the discussion of
Pending Litigation and
Personnel.
The City Clerk
returned to the Council Chambers
at 8:07 p.m.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION BACK INTO THE REGULAR MEETING.
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to move from the
Executive Session back into the regular meeting
at 8:07 p.m.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION TO TAKE ANY ACTION NEEDED ON THE
ITEMS DISCUSSED DURING THE EXECUTIVE SESSION
No action was
taken.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO ADJOURN THIS
MEETING
MOTION:
Kieffer made a
motion to adjourn this meeting at 8:08 p.m.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED unanimous without objection.
*City Clerk Note* Recording
equipment malfunctions were
experienced at this meeting;
therefore this meeting was not
recorded.
08/31/2011 Posted on City Website - The Minutes of the 08/09/2011 Meeting were approved on 08/30/2011
Minutes of the
Mayor and Council Meeting
Council Chambers
August 9, 2011
Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting
of the City of Springfield Mayor and Council was
held on August 9, 2011 in the Council Chambers
in Springfield, Georgia. This meeting was called
to order at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Northway.
MAYOR NORTHWAY AND THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL MEMBERS
WERE PRESENT:
Troy Allen Jeff Ambrose
Charles Hinely
Butch Kieffer
Kenny Usher Gary Weitman
A quorum of
Council was represented at this meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Brett Bennett, City Manager
Linda Rineair, City Clerk
Warren Ratchford, Attorney
Paul Wynn, Police Chief
Travis Zittrouer, Fire Department
Amber Nettles, Accounting Clerk
GUEST PRESENT
Jamey Stancell
Robert Scroggs
Melisa Bragg
David Bragg
Barty Alderman
Staci Ambrose
INVOCATION
– Given by Council Member Weitman
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
– Led by Mayor Northway
CITY MANAGER BRETT BENNETT READ TO ALL THOSE
PRESENT AT THIS MEETING AN EMAIL, PER ATTORNEY
CHARLES HERMAN’S REQUEST, JEFF NORTHWAY’S
PERSONAL ATTORNEY.
Brett Bennett
read the following email, per Attorney Charles
Herman’s request:
Mr. Bennett,
This notice is
addressed to you as the City Manager for the
City of Springfield. We have notified both the
City Attorney and Mr. Kicklighter that the Order
which was filed in Court on August 1, 2011 is
unenforceable at this time. Therefore, please
take this as formal notice to the City of
Springfield that it is our position that Mr.
Northway is still effectively in office and
intends to act as such until the law provides
otherwise. Further we request that you read this
objection and protest into the record of the
meeting tonight.
After reading the
email City Manager Bennett gave the email to the
City Clerk for record.
ATTORNEY WARREN RATCHFORD ADDRESSED THE MAYOR
AND COUNCIL
Attorney Warren
Ratchford addressed the Mayor and Council
advising that he had received an email today
that was sent at 5:21 p.m. pertaining to the
Action that was taken from the Judge, per a
period of ten days after its entry.
In Attorney
Ratchford’s opinion the nature of this case was
seeking some type of injunction to remove Mayor
Northway from the position of Mayor. In that
instance it requires that a bond be placed and
further that the court then modifies or restore
a grant of injunction as the court deems best.
In Attorney Ratchford’s opinion that was not
done in the filing order of the Court. Ratchford
stated that however Northway is here, he is
seated. We have complied with the request of his
attorney. If Northway decides to proceed he will
proceed under the understanding that the law, on
this particular matter, requires that certain
things be done.
Ratchford stated
that he had contacted the Clerk of Superior
Court pertaining to the payment fees, her
estimate of fees at this point $935.00 has not
been paid. There is also a temporary hearing
scheduled on this matter August 17th,
2011 at 9:30 which would not be helpful for us
tonight. So in light of that and the fact that
Mr. Northway is presently seated Attorney
Ratchford suggested that a continuation as we
were doing right now as if nothing else is
happening and that Northway would be seated as
Mayor, continue to be seated as Mayor; they
could ask that the Mayor Pro-Tem be appointed
tonight as Mayor with his position to proceed,
Mr. Northway would still be seated at the table;
or they could ask that Mr. Northway leave; with
the final matter that they could adjourn this
meeting until such time as the court has heard
all matter which will not happen before August
17th. (A portion of this paragraph
was asked by Council Member Usher to be repeated
due to the fact that Mayor Northway, while
sitting in the seat of Mayor, was on a cell
phone in conversation with someone during a
portion of the items discussed in this
paragraph.)
Ratchford also
included that in light of what was proceeding
before this Council tonight the Council would
need to make that determination their selves. In
as far as the law goes that is the best that
Ratchford could find in thirty minutes research.
Attorney
Ratchford advised Mayor Northway directly “Mr.
Northway we had no means about seeking to deny
you of any of your rights, or to deny you to
seek you the right to represent the citizens of
Springfield.” Ratchford continued saying that
“There is a judge order out there and if you
(Northway) decide that you (Northway) are going
to take this action you (Northway) will be
subject to whatever the court determines. I
(Ratchford) did not make that decision.”
Northway responded “Yes sir.”
Attorney
Ratchford’s final suggestion was for Council to
go forward, that they are here to service the
City of Springfield, these issues with this, any
personal issues, or anything else should not
make any difference to benefit to the City of
Springfield. Attorney Ratchford’s determination
would be to go forward.
Attorney
Ratchford then addressed Northway directly, “Mr.
Northway you understand you will be subject to
whatever subjections, if any, that the Superior
Court determines.” Jeff Northway responded
“That’s right.” Attorney Ratchford continues,
“But, in my opinion right now you are violating
the terms of the Court. That is my opinion, not
the opinion of the Judge.”
Attorney
Ratchford stated he would have to leave it with
Council to make the determination.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to continue with the
meeting.
Second: Kieffer seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Mayor Northway
began to proceed with the meeting.
ATTORNEY RATCHFORD ADDRESSED MAYOR NORTHWAY
Attorney
Ratchford asked directly to Mayor Jeff Northway,
“Mr. Mayor you understand that they (Council
Members) are taking with the advice of Counsel,
sanctions could be brought against you by the
Superior Court Judge of Effingham County?” Mayor
Northway responded “Sir?”
Ratchford then
asked, “Do you understand that you could face
sanctions from the Superior Court Judge of
Effingham County?” Mayor Northway responded
“Yes, I am here under the direction of my
Attorney.”
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
MOTION:
Weitman made a motion to approve the
Agenda.
Second: Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE 07/26/2011 REGULAR
MEETING
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to approve the
minutes of the Regular Meeting of 07/26/2011.
Second: Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPEARANCES
Robert J. Scroggs would like to discuss the
process for opening a package store in
Springfield.
City Manager
Brett Bennett advised that we will have to
conduct research in order to be aware of all the
procedures for a referendum to be taken to the
voters. A brief discussion followed, such as
types of restrictions that could be placed, etc.
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to direct the City Manager
and the City Clerk to research and bring back to
Council the procedures for a referendum which
could possibly be taken to the voters.
Second: Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Timothy Winemiller requested consideration for a
business license at 503 North Laurel Street, in
the name of “Effingham Service Center”, for
automotive repair.
Mr. Winemiller
was not present at this time, but was present
later in the meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Jamey Stancell
– Jamey Stancell, President of the Springfield
Merchants Association, addressed the Mayor and
Council. Mr. Stancell expressed his
disappointment, that we have some issues here
and that he thought these issues were resolved
by a Judge. Stancell went onto advise that if
Northway really cared about the people who voted
him in that he would have listened to what the
Judge said.
Stancell then
expressed his concerns with area water drainage
problems.
Pete Lancaster
spoke before the Mayor and Council in reference
to the water drainage issues. Lancaster
explained that he has had discussions with the
City Manager in which they discussed different
things that could be done to relieve the
problem. Pete Lancaster asked for some help to
get rid of that water.
The discussion
continued resulting in the following discussion.
Bennett would recommend, based on what he has
seen and talked to Engineers and Contractors is
to work on the area behind those buildings and
get those areas graded and potentially section
by section add on additional line on the other
side of First Street, which will eliminate some
of the drains that are running perpendicular to
First Street, down Pine, and down Oak and down
the lane behind the buildings there, which all
dump into the same pipe. The line in front of
Pete Lancaster’s shop is severely over loaded.
A brief
discussion followed.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to authorize the
City Manager to go ahead and grade behind the
store and to also authorize the City Manager to
get cost and estimates for water lines to go
from First Street to Cleveland.
Second: Kieffer seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
OLD BUSINESS
Melisa Scott Bragg request consideration to use
the City Meeting Room to conduct CPR/First aid
Classes on some Saturday mornings and
occasionally in the evening during the week,
(This request was tabled at the 07/26/2011
Meeting).
Brett Bennett
discussed the possibility of costs, with this
request, and suggested that he felt that a fee
of $25 would be fair.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to lease the Meeting
Room to Ms. Bragg in coordination with Ms.
Rineair for the scheduling of such and set the
fee at $25.
Second: Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
NEW BUSINESS
Consideration for approval of the City of
Springfield Election Notice, which notified the
public that a Municipal General Election will be
held on November 8, 2011 and provides
information on the Candidate Qualification
period beginning August 29th and
ending on September 2nd.
A brief
discussion followed.
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to approve the
Election Notice to be advertised.
Second: Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
award a contract to Y-Delta, Inc. in the amount
of $66,487.40, in reference to the 07/26/2011
bids received on the Ebenezer Road Pump Station
Rehabilitation project.
Brett Bennett
addressed the summary bid tabulation, in
reference to the bids received on the Ebenezer
Road Pump Station Rehabilitation Project, which
could be paid out of SPLOST funds. A brief
discussion followed.
MOTION:
Usher made a
motion to authorize the City Manager to award a
contract to Y-Delta, Inc. in the amount of
$66,487.40 in reference to the Ebenezer Road
pump Station Rehabilitation Project.
Second: Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration to establish the position of Fire
Chief and authorize the City Manager to
advertise for the position.
City Manager
Brett Bennett advised Council that the Service
Delivery Strategy Agreement, reference the Fire
Department, provides a budget for the City and
outlining area and is split up 65% County, 35%
City and is based on three City positions. The
Council had been provided a few options to
consider, with option “B” being identical to the
County. Bennett suggested that this can be
scaled down and does not have to take place
overnight. An Ordinance or Resolution would have
to be brought back for adoption. A brief
discussion followed.
Bennett reminded
Council that the actual request, at this time,
was in reference to the position of Fire Chief
and the advertisement.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to authorize the City
Manager to establish the position of Fire Chief
and authorize the City Manager to advertise for
the position.
Second: Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
Discussion of the City of Springfield Fire Fees
This item was
discussed during the “Consideration to establish
the position of Fire Chief”.
MAYOR NORTHWAY REQUESTED A TWO MINUTE BREAK
Mayor Northway
did not request, nor receive, a motion for a
brief recess. Northway left the Council room at
6:51 p.m. and returned to his seat at 6:54 p.m.
Mayor Northway
did not request, nor receive, a motion to
reconvene the meeting. Mayor Northway reconvened
the meeting at 6:54 p.m.
Timothy Winemiller requested consideration for a
business license at 503 North Laurel Street, in
the name of “Effingham Service Center”, for
automotive repair.
Timothy
Winemiller appeared before the Council and
apologized for being late, he thought the
meeting started at 7:00 p.m. Winemiller then
explained the location of the business. Mr.
Winemiller advised that he will try to move the
rest of the vehicles located at 503 North laurel
Street by the end of the week. A brief
discussion followed.
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to approve the
business application of Timothy Winemiller for
the “Effingham Service Center” located at 503
North Laurel Street pending the City Manager
checking to be sure that the vehicles have been
removed from the site.
Second: Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
REPORTS
Administration
The City Manager
explained that on Thursday, 08/11/11, a
pre-construction conference will be held at 1:00
p.m. in reference to the sidewalk improvement
project which is a non TE portion.
In reference to
the Historic Society the Coastal incentive Bid
project is in the works.
We should hear
something on the CDBG for the railroad project,
any day now.
Police Department
The Police Chief,
Paul Wynn, advised that he felt that the
“National Night Out” event went good and also
briefly discussed recent thief’s by entering
autos.
Fire Department
Travis Zittrouer
had provided the Fire Department Report for
review. He was unavailable during this portion
of the meeting, as he had been called out due to
bad weather.
City Department Liaisons
No reports were
given.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE
REGULAR MEETING INTO AN EXECUTIVE SESSION
– reference Personnel and Pending Litigation.
The City Manager
advised the Mayor and Council that the City
Attorney Rick Rafter was unable to attend the
meeting tonight and was out of town. Bennett
went on to say that they could hold the
executive session or perhaps wait until the City
Attorney could be present. An Executive Session
was not held.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO ADJOURN THIS
MEETING.
MOTION: Kieffer made a motion to adjourn this
meeting at 7:05 p.m.
Second: Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection. ==================== 08/10/2011 Posted on City Website - The Minutes of the 07/26/2011 Meeting were approved on 08/09/2011
Minutes of the Mayor and Council Meeting
Council
Chambers
July 26, 2011
Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the City of Springfield Mayor
and Council was held on July 26, 2011 in the
Council Chambers in Springfield, Georgia. This
meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by
Mayor Pro-Tem Jeff Ambrose.
MAYOR PRO-TEM JEFF AMBROSE AND THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL MEMBERS WERE
PRESENT:
Troy Allen
Charles Hinely
Butch Kieffer
Kenny Usher
Gary Weitman
Mayor Jeff Northway was unable to attend this
meeting. A Quorum of Council was represented at
this meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Brett Bennett, City Manager
Linda Rineair, City Clerk
Rick Rafter, City Attorney
GUEST PRESENT
Johnnie M. Martin
Robert Scruggs
Melisa Bragg
Richard Loper
John Meador
Tammy Meador
David Bragg
Paul Scott
Jamey Stancell
INVOCATION
– Given by Mayor Pro-Tem Ambrose
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
– led by Mayor Pro-Tem Ambrose
AMENDMENT TO AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to amend the Agenda
under New Business to add Consideration to
rescind the vote to award Springfield Chrysler
with the purchase of a Dodge Charger, (which had
been approved at the 06/28/11 Meeting), and to
also add under New Business Consideration to
authorize the purchase of a 2011 Dodge Charger
from Butler Chrysler.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to approve the
Agenda as Amended.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE 07/12/2011 REGULAR
MEETING
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to approve the
minutes of the Regular Meeting of 07/12/11.
Second:
Kieffer seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPEARANCES
PAUL SCOTT, representing First Effingham Bank,
requests an extension of the deadline in water
service agreement, (originally Timlan, Inc.).
Paul Scott spoke before the Council in reference to
this request. A brief discussion followed.
MOTION:
Weitman made a motion to amend the
contract to change the date to October 1, 2011.
Second:
Kieffer seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
JOHNNIE MAE FIELDS MARTIN, request consideration for
a business license, with the location being 107B
North Laurel Street, for a Beauty Supply Store,
with the name of the business being “Da Sistas
Beauty Supply Store”.
A brief discussion followed.
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to approve Johnnie
Mae Fields Martins request for a business
license at 107B N Laurel Street for a Beauty
Supply Store, with the business name being “Da
Sistas Beauty Supply Store”.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
TAMMY MEADOR requests consideration for a business
license, with the location being 107A North
Laurel Street, for a General Merchandise Store,
with the name of the business being “Simple
Things”.
A brief discussion followed.
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to approve Tammy
Meador’s request for a business license at 107A
N Laurel Street for a General Merchandise Store,
with the business name being “Simple Things”.
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
MELISA SCOTT BRAGG request consideration for to use
the city meeting room to conduct CPR/First Aid
Classes on some Saturday mornings and
occasionally in the evening during the week.
A discussion followed. City Manager Brett Bennett
advised that a few non-profit organizations have
used the Council Room to hold their meetings and
suggested that we may wish to consider some sort
of minimal fee associated with this type of
request.
MOTION TO TABLE:
Usher made a motion to table this request
until the next meeting.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION TO TABLE PASSED unanimous without objection.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Jamey Stancell expressed his appreciation, once
again, for the assistance that has been given to
the Springfield Merchants Association in
reference to the sign that has gone up on the
hill by the Sheriff’s Department. The sign is up
and running and Stancell has already received
requests for advertisements.
NEW BUSINESS
Consideration to approve construction plans for the
Effingham Historic Society’s “Living History
Site” related to the Coastal Incentive Grant.
A brief discussion followed.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to approve the
construction plans for the Effingham Historic
Society’s “Living History Site”.
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration to rescind the vote to award
Springfield Chrysler with the purchase of a
Dodge Charger (awarded at the 06/28/2011
Meeting).
A brief discussion followed.
MOTION:
Weitman made a motion to rescind the
06/28/11 vote to award Springfield Chrysler with
the purchase of the Dodge Charger.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION TO RESCIND VOTE PASSED unanimous without objection.
Consideration to authorize the purchase of a 2011
Dodge charger from Butler Chrysler, (in the
amount of $23,164).
A brief discussion followed.
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to authorize the
purchase of a 2011 Dodge Charger from Butler
Chrysler in the amount of $23,164.
Second:
Kieffer seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Mayor Pro-Tem Ambrose reminded everyone that
Tuesday, August 2nd, will be
“National Night Out” at Ulmer Park from 6 p.m.
to 9 p.m.
City Manager Brett Bennett gave a brief update in
reference to the anticipation of an upcoming DOT
notice to proceed.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO ADJOURN THIS MEETING
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to adjourn this
meeting at 6:38 p.m.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
07/27/2011 Posted on City Website - The Minutes of the 07/12/2011 Meeting were approved on 07/26/2011 Minutes of the Mayor and Council Meeting
Council
Chambers
July 12, 2011
Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the City of Springfield Mayor
and Council was held on July 12, 2011 in the
Council Chambers in Springfield, Georgia. This
meeting was called to order at 6:01 p.m. by
Mayor Northway.
MAYOR JEFF NORTHWAY AND THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL MEMBERS WERE PRESENT:
Jeff Ambrose
Troy Allen
Charles Hinely
Butch Kieffer
Gary Weitman
Council Member Kenny Usher was unable to attend this
meeting. A Quorum of Council was represented at
this meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Brett Bennett, City Manager
Linda Rineair, City Clerk
Rick Rafter, City Attorney
Paul Wynn, Police Chief
Travis Zittrouer, Assistant Fire Chief
Amber Nettles, Accounting Clerk
GUEST PRESENT
J. C. Madison
Jenny Coker
Donald Caines
INVOCATION
– Given by Mayor Northway
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
– led by Mayor Northway
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to approve the
Agenda.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE 06/28/2011 REGULAR
MEETING
MOTION:
Weitman made a motion to approve the
minutes of the Regular Meeting of 06/28/11.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPEARANCES
Jennifer Coker with Liberty Mutual presents the
“Bring Back the Fourth” Grant check in the
amount of $10,000 to the City of Springfield
Jennifer Coker with Liberty Mutual presented the
“Bring Back the Fourth” Grant check in the
amount of $10,000 to the City of Springfield
Mayor and Council Members. This is the second
year in a row that the City of Springfield has
received this grant to go toward the
Independence Day Fireworks Celebration.
Donald Caines presents results of the annual audit –
reference the year 2010.
Donald Caines, representing Caines Hodges Pace &
Company PC CPA, presented the results of the
annual audit reference the year 2010. Caines
referred to the correspondence that was
forwarded along with the Audit to the Mayor and
Council for their review. Caines noted no
significant unusual transactions during the
audit.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
No public comments were made.
OLD BUSINESS
Consideration for approval of the City of
Springfield Purchasing Policy (Tabled at the
06/28/11 Meeting)
A brief discussion followed. City Manager Brett
Bennett advised that the changes that were
requested at the last meeting have been made and
that copies were sent out in Council Packets
with a strike-though thereby noting each change
for their review.
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to approve the City
of Springfield Purchasing Policy.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
NEW BUSINESS
Consideration to authorize pay-off of the 2005 E-One
Typhoon Fire Truck
A brief discussion followed.
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to authorize the
pay-off of the 2005 E-One Typhoon Fire Truck.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
REPORTS
Administration
City Manager Brett Bennett advised that a sidewalk
preconstruction conference should be held next
week or shortly thereafter, reference
Streetscape improvements.
Bennett also advised the Mayor and Council that a
pre-bid meeting was held today in reference to
the Ebenezer Pump Station. Bids will be due on
July 26st. The cost estimate was high, but we
will not really know until the bids come in.
Police Department
Police Chief Paul Wynn had provided copy of the
monthly report in the packets sent out to the
Mayor and Council for their review. Wynn
indicated that citations are up. Wynn reminded
the Mayor and Council that August 2nd
is scheduled for National Night Out.
A brief discussion followed in reference to police
vehicles.
Fire Department
Travis Zittrouer had provided copy of the monthly
report in the packets sent out to the Mayor and
Council for their review. Zittrouer advised that
$3,200 was raised for the MDA (Muscular
Dystrophy Association).
Zittrouer also advised that the State had come in
and conducted an inspection on training records
and the Fire Department passed with 100%
compliance.
City Department Liaisons
No reports were given.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO ADJOURN THIS MEETING
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to adjourn this
meeting at 6:38 p.m.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED unanimous without objection.
07/13/11 Posted on City Website - The Minutes of the 06/28/11 Meeting were approved on 07/12/11 Minutes of the Mayor and Council Meeting
Council
Chambers
June 28, 2011
Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the City of Springfield
Mayor and Council was held on June 28, 2011 in
the Council Chambers in Springfield, Georgia.
This meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by
Mayor Northway.
MAYOR JEFF NORTHWAY AND THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL
MEMBERS WERE PRESENT:
Jeff Ambrose
Charles Hinely
Kenny Usher
Gary Weitman
Troy Allen was unable to attend this meeting.
Butch Kieffer would arrive later in the meeting.
A Quorum of Council was represented at this
meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Brett Bennett, City Manager
Linda Rineair, City Clerk
Rick Rafter, City Attorney
Travis Zittrouer, Assistant Fire Chief
Amber Nettles, Accounting Clerk
GUEST PRESENT
Ruth Lee
Jamey Stancell
Melissa Reagan
Betty Waller
INVOCATION
– Given by Mayor Northway
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
– led by Mayor Northway
AMENDMENT TO AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to amend the Agenda
by adding under Appearances item c – Ruth Lee
requests consideration for a Resolution
proclaiming the beginning of the 150th
Commemoration of the Civil War (2011 – 2015) as
part of National Observation to bring attention
to the timeline and the many sites from this
epic battle.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION:
Weitman made a motion to approve the
Agenda as amended.
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE 06/14/2011 REGULAR
MEETING
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to approve the
minutes of the Regular Meeting of 06/14/11.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPEARANCES
Betty Waller presents the Effingham County
Scenic Byway
Was not present at the time her name was called.
She would speak later in the meeting.
Donald Caines was to present the results of the
annual audit – reference the year 2010
City Manager Brett Bennett advised that Donald
Caines had noted an error on the report and that
he will get the updated report to Brett Bennett
tomorrow and will get it to the Mayor for review
so that it can be submitted to the State by
Thursday. Donald Caines will formally present
the results of the annual audit at the next
regular meeting.
Ruth Lee appeared before the Mayor and Council
to request consideration for a Resolution (#
R2011-5) proclaiming the beginning of the 150th
Commemoration of the Civil War (2011-2015) as
part of National Observation to bring attention
to the time line and the many sites from this
epic battle.
Ruth Lee discussed the importance of tourism.
The Resolution would be a show of support and
offers no commitments other than support. This
is a joint resolution that is expected to be
signed by the County and local governments.
A discussion followed ending with Ms. Lee
reading the Resolution out loud.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to approve the
Resolution.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Council Member Butch Kieffer arrived at 6:24
p.m. and took his seat with the Mayor and
Council Members.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
MELISSA REAGAN
spoke to the Mayor and Council about the
possibility of a Farmers Market, but is not sure
what sort of support she would need from us.
Liability is a problem that she expressed
concerns about. The Mayor stated that the
fairgrounds require proof of insurance.
The Fairgrounds is a large site with ample
parking. Different suggestions were given.
Melissa Reagan explained that this would not be
a Flea Market. It will be a Farmer’s Market and
explained that the plans would to be in
Springfield the 2nd and 4th
Saturday of each month. Reagan has approximately
10 vendors interested in this venture.
The Mayor and Council expressed interest in this
idea. Attorney Rafter will discuss this with
Brett Bennett and contact the insurance
representative to see if there is any downside
to this.
JAMEY STANCELL
provided updates in reference to the Springfield
Merchants Association. He explained that the
sign will be up and running by next Friday.
They are working with Brett Bennett on the
planters throughout the downtown area, which
will be painted black with the intentions of
placing an evergreen in each one with seasonal
flowers.
A raffle will be held, the local merchants in
town have the tickets. The $1,500 that will be
made from the raffle will go to restore the old
clock.
Stancell said it has been a good year for the
Springfield Merchants Association. The common
goal is to bring people to Springfield.
NEW BUSINESS
Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
purchase a 2011 Dodge Charger from Springfield
Chrysler in the amount of $22,978, to be
purchased from SPLOST funds.
A brief discussion followed. Ambrose advised
that the vehicle is need within the next few
months, advising that 4-6 weeks delivery is not
bad. Several members of Council suggested the
use of a local dealer. Mayor Northway advised
that he personally had recently purchased a car
from Springfield Chrysler.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to authorize the
City Manager to purchase a 2011 Dodge Charger
from Springfield Chrysler in the amount of
$22,978, to be purchased from SPLOST funds, with
the stipulation of a delivery not longer than
eight weeks.
Second:
Kieffer seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Betty Waller arrived and appeared before the
Mayor and Council in order to present a
Resolution that she had received from Vance
Smith, head of the DOT to the City of
Springfield.
Betty Waller presented to the City of
Springfield a framed resolution that she had
received from Vance Smith, head of the DOT. Ms.
Waller spoke of Sherman’s march, which will be
reacted at the living history site. A supper
will not be served this year, but cookies and
sweets will be available.
Consideration to authorize the surplus of the
Fire Department 1995 Red Chevy Blazer 4x4.
Discussion followed with Travis Zittrouer
advising that the transmission is locked up in
one gear. Zittrouer said this vehicle could be
surplus then auctioned off, accept sealed bids,
or the Fire Department could use it for training
purposed. The vehicle could be used for
excavation training and then go to the scrap
yard afterwards. All 25 volunteers could be at
the station and able to participate with the
training. A local wrecker service would haul it
off at no charge.
MOTION: Usher
made a motion to authorize the surplus of the
Fire Department 1995 Red Chevy Blazer 4x4 and
also donate the vehicle to the Fire Department
to use in training as they see fit.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration for approval of the City of
Springfield Purchasing Policy.
Several minor changes were discussed. The
Accounting Clerk, Amber Nettles, took note of
each requested change suggested by the Council
and City Attorney.
MOTION: Ambrose
made a motion to table the City of Springfield
Purchasing Policy until the next meeting,
thereby providing time for the requested
changes.
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO ADJOURN THIS
MEETING
MOTION: Kieffer
made a motion to adjourn this meeting at 7:18
p.m.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection. ==================== 06/29/2011 Posted on City Website - Minutes of the 06/14/2011 Meeting were approved on 06/28/2011 Minutes of the Mayor and Council Meeting
Council Chambers
June 14, 2011
Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the City of Springfield
Mayor and Council was held on June 14, 2011 in
the Council Chambers in Springfield, Georgia.
This meeting was called to order at 6:03 p.m. by
Mayor Northway.
MAYOR JEFF NORTHWAY AND THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL
MEMBERS WERE PRESENT:
Jeff Ambrose
Charles Hinely
Kenny Usher
Gary Weitman
Butch Kieffer was unable to attend this meeting.
Troy
Allen would arrive later in the meeting. A
Quorum of Council was represented at this
meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Brett Bennett, City Manager
Linda Rineair, City Clerk
Rick Rafter, City Attorney
Paul Wynn, Police Chief
Travis Zittrouer, Assistant Fire Chief
GUEST PRESENT
Russell Hightower
Jamey Stancell
Lawanda Davis
Parker Rahn
Linda Rahn
Charlie Brown
Athena Northway
INVOCATION
– Given by Council Member Charles Hinely PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – led by Mayor Northway
AMENDMENT TO AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA MOTION: Ambrose made a motion to amend the Agenda by adding under New Business item f – amendment to the budget.
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to also amend the
Agenda by removing the Executive Session from
the Agenda and approve the Agenda as amended.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE
05/31/2011 REGULAR MEETING
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to approve the
minutes of the Regular Meeting of 05/31/11.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPEARANCES
Lawanda Davis appeared before the Council
requesting consideration for a home occupation
located at 1030A Ash Street, for “Touch of
Beauty Cleaning Service”, in order to conduct
commercial and residential cleaning services.
A brief discussion followed.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to approve Lawanda
Davis request for a home occupation.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
– No public comments were made.
Council Member Troy Allen arrived at
6:10 p.m. and took his seat with the Mayor and
Council.
NEW BUSINESS
Consideration of Council for approval of a Sign
Variance for a permanent sign requested by F.
Parker Rahn for the Rahn Company, Inc. d/b/a
Southside Chevron, located at 1283 Hwy 21 South.
(This was brought before the Planning and Zoning
Board on 06/06/11. The Planning and Zoning Board
recommends approval of this sign variance).
F. Parker Rahn appeared before the Mayor and
Council in reference to the requested sign
variance. Mr. Rahn explained that the sign will
have the capability to change from one message
to another, but will not be like a strobe light.
Concerns were expressed by Hinely and Usher. Mr.
Rahn advised that the sign will have the same
type of technology as the sign that was
requested and approved to be placed on the hill
near the Sheriff’s Department.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to approve F. Parker
Rahn’s request for a Sign Variance at 1283 Hwy
21 South.
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration of Council to incorporate Section
2.14 of the City of Springfield Standards of
Practice (Personnel Policy), titled “Effingham
County Prison Outside Detail Guidelines”.
City Manager Brett Bennett advised that if any
rules change that they will be updated and that
personnel will be trained. In fact another
training session is scheduled for Friday.
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion incorporate
“Effingham County Prison Outside Detail
Guidelines” into section 2.14 of the City of
Springfield Standards of Practice (Personnel
Policy).
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration of Council for CRC
appointment
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to reappoint Herb
Jones to the CRC Board.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration of Council to award a contract to
E & D Coatings, Inc. in the amount of
$155,801.17 for the City of Springfield SR21
Streetscape Project
City Manager Bennett explained what the project
entails and suggested an estimate of
approximately 3 – 6 months for the project.
MOTION:
Weitman made a motion to award a contract
to E & D Coatings, Inc. in the amount of
$155,801.17 for the City of Springfield SF21
Streetscape Project.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration of Council to authorize a
recycling pilot program for up to 100 homes on
Ash Street, Laberta Circle, and a portion of
Early Street.
Russell Hightower with Waste Management appeared
before the Mayor and Council and discussed the
potential pilot program. Mr. Hightower explained
that during the pilot program that the residents
will continue the normal garbage pickup schedule
of two pickups a week but will add a recycling
pickup every other week. Hightower suggested
that once the recycling pilot
Program is underway that we will notice a
considerable reduction in the actual garbage
quantity. Plastic, aluminum cans, and glass
containers take up a lot of space and can easily
be placed in the recycling containers. Surveys
will be sent to participants in the pilot
program. A town meeting will be held in order to
discuss the findings and also to receive input
from citizens.
If the Council chooses to move forward with this
program, after the recycling pilot program, it
may very well reduce trash pickup to once weekly
with recycling pickup every other week.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to authorize a
recycling pilot program for up to 100 homes on
Ash Street, Laberta Circle, and a portion of
Early Street.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION OF COUNCIL OF AN ORDINANCE (#
2011-05) TO AMEND THE 2010 BUDGET ORDINANCE
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to approve the
Ordinance to amend the 2010 budget Ordinance.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
OLD BUSINESS
Consideration for approval of the Resolution and
Adoption Agreement for the 457(b) Deferred
Compensation Plan (Tabled at the 05/31/11
Meeting)
MOTION:
Weitman made a motion to approve the
Resolution (# R2011-4) and Adoption Agreement
for the 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
– No discussion
REPORTS
Administration
A draft of the Purchasing Policy was given to
the Mayor and Council for their review. City
Manager Brett Bennett asked for their review and
comments and advised that this will be brought
back before Council at the next meeting for
consideration for their approval.
The Coastal Incentive Program is moving along.
The design is almost completed. The WWTP Project was completed as of last week.
The Fire Department will be advertising for 2
new hires, daytime only. Effingham County will
provide the City of Springfield the cost of
these two firefighters.
Police Department
Police Chief Paul Wynn provided a
copy of the Police Department report to the
Mayor and Council. Chief Wynn noted that things
are running fine at the Police Department, but
that one car is currently down.
Fire Department
Travis Zittrouer provided a copy of
the Fire Department report to the Mayor and
Council. Zittrouer advised that last month was
another busy month.
City Department Liaisons
The pledges that have been received toward the
fireworks celebration were discussed.
Congratulations were offered to
Travis Zittrouer for the completion of the
leadership training program. Brett Bennett
advised the Mayor and council that in the month
of July the Council will need to decide if they
wish to officially name Travis Zittrouer as the
Fire Chief.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO ADJOURN THIS
MEETING
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to adjourn this
meeting at 6:57 p.m.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
06/15/2011 Posted on City Website - Minutes of 05/31/2011 Meeting were approved on 06/14/2011
Minutes of the Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers May 31, 2011 Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the City of Springfield
Mayor and Council was held on May 31, 2011 in
the Council Chambers in Springfield, Georgia.
This meeting was called to order at 6:01 p.m. by
Mayor Northway.
MAYOR JEFF NORTHWAY AND THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL
MEMBERS WERE PRESENT:
Troy Allen
Jeff Ambrose
Charles Hinely
Butch
Kieffer
Kenny Usher
Gary Weitman was unable to attend this meeting.
A Quorum of Council was represented at this
meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Brett Bennett, City Manager
Linda Rineair, City Clerk
Rick Rafter, City Attorney
GUEST PRESENT
Yunsun Yang
Chelsea Bernardo
Jessica Hughes
Marissa Shadel Taylor
Lambert
Jordan Shields
Dahyanna Rosario Carine Lam AnneMarie Malin
Corey Fitch Allison Bietsch
Estefania
Vega Sammy Jones Lena Yue Chelsea Porter
Sarah Leicht Amanda
Holmes
Jessenia Clemons Rachel Self Teresita Hollins Trinity Falter
Tripp Armstrong
Tori
Spriggs
Gussie Nease
Jamey Stancell
Levi
Davis
Charlie Brown
INVOCATION
–
Given by Mayor Northway
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
–
led by Mayor Northway
AMENDMENT TO AND APPROVAL OF THE AMENDED AGENDA
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to amend the Agenda
by moving appearances to after Minute Approval
prior to the SCAD Workshop and to also add item
“d” under New Business – “Consideration to
authorize the City Manager to sign a contract
with Port City Design group in the amount of
$6,300 for Engineering Services related to the
Rehabilitation of the Lift Station at Ebenezer
Elementary School and to approve the Agenda as
amended.”
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CORRECTION TO AND APPROVAL OF THE
AMENDED MINUTES OF THE 04/26/2011 REGULAR
MEETING
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to make corrections
to the 04/26/11 minutes; the 1st
correction was on page 2 under “Additional
Amendment to the Agenda” – Change motion made by
Mayor Northway to Motion made by Ambrose. The 2nd
correction was on page 4 under “Consideration to
Approve Joint Resolution and Stipulation
regarding Service Delivery Strategy” – Change
motion made by Northway to motion made by
Ambrose. Ambrose requested approval of the
minutes of the Regular Meeting of 04/26/11 as
amended.
Second:
Kieffer seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE
05/10/2011 REGULAR MEETING
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to approve the
minutes of the 05/10/2011 regular Meeting.
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPEARANCES
Lawanda Davis request consideration of Council
to open a home occupation, located at 1030A Ash
St. Ext., called “Touch of Beauty Cleaning
Service”, in order to provide commercial and
residential cleaning services.
Ms. Davis was not present. No action was taken
on this request.
SCAD WORKSHOP
–
Presentations from the Savannah College of Art
and Design (SCAD) students – The project is a
study of potential uses for the current City
Hall building that can contribute to the
revitalization efforts in Downtown Springfield.
It is a collaboration between the Interior
Design Department and the Graphic Design
Department.
The Professor of Interior Design gave a brief
description of the upcoming presentation
explaining that seven ideas, seven groups, will
be presenting their designs.
The first team, “Governeur’s
American Biergarten” - On the first floor is
a main entry, a restaurant with indoor seating,
a gift shop, an outdoor Biergarten with picnic
areas, a bar, and gaming pits. The second floor
offered three residential lofts each one
slightly different.
The second team, “Copper
Porch Brewery and Grill” - The first floor
offers a restaurant with a encased in glass
interior brewery to provide a clear view of the
brewing process, with kettle seating at the
front and on the right side and with booth
seating at the left front and 2 private rooms
available with seating areas to the left of the
brewery. This presentation also features an
indoor and an outdoor bar and also has a porch
seating area with a stage.
The third team, “Nancy
Hanks Station”, offered the three “C’s”;
cuisine, converse, culture, providing a
multi-tenant space which could attract people
from the other areas with the flexibility for
different investors to establish buildings. To
the left you could enter the café. Behind the
café is the bar. To the right of the Café is the
waiting room, with the restaurant area to its
right. The restaurant has an upper area for
additional seating. To the right of the
restaurant is an outdoor patio area with a large
parking area. Behind the parking area is a
museum with a gift shop. Behind the museum is an
outdoor train exhibit.
The forth team, “Zuhaus”,
which means “at home” in German, featured a
brewery, restaurant, venue with the objective to
revitalize Springfield providing space that is
warm and make people feel at home. The
exhibition kitchen would be in view of dinning.
The floor plan provided for open space that
leads to a large exterior Lounge and Beer
Garden, with a greenhouse and a stage. Behind a
small dining area is also an entertainment
lounge.
The fifth team, “Eurohaus”
– The first floor offers a restaurant with an
entry that ties the countries together with the
use of the European Union stars located on the
floor. From the entry you enter the center stage
with a bar at the far end which offers a flavor
of Spain. To the left of the entry is a dining
area representing Italy, behind this area is an
open & airy dining room representing Greece, and
further back is an area reminiscent of a British
Pub with bench and high back seating with pool
tables. To the right of the entry is a dining
area with contemporary furnishings & rustic
details that blend Switzerland’s past & present.
To the right is a large outdoor beer garden. The
second floor affords four apartments each with a
galley style kitchen.
The sixth team, “RR130””,
offered on the first floor a waiting area, gift
shop, restaurant with indoor seating, a take-out
area, outdoor seating with an outdoor stage area
with an adjacent playground, and also a gaming
area, where there is a step up lounge area. The
second floor offered an arcade on both sides
open to the bottom floor and also a gaming area.
A BRIEF RECESS WAS REQUESTED IN
ORDER FOR THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL TO GET A CLOSER
LOOK AT THE PRESENTATIONS AND ASK QUESTIONS OF
THE SCAD STUDENTS
MOTION:
Ambrose requested a brief recess at 6:31
p.m.
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
THE MEETING BRIEFLY RECONVENED AT 7:03 P.M. IN
ORDER FOR THE SEVENTH TEAM, WHICH HAD ARRIVED,
COULD ALSO PROVIDE THEIR PRESENTATION
The seventh team, “Brinson
Station” - came up with the name because
this building was originally the Brinson Store.
Their design offered convenience. . The
Restaurant can be entered from the left and
offers a variety of seating options. To the
right of the restaurant entrance is the Bar. To
the right of the bar is the Coffee Shop &
Bakery. Behind this is the Ice Cream & Candy
Shop. Behind this is the indoor Farmer’s Market.
To the right of the Coffee Shop is a large
outdoor patio space with bench seating and also
with seating around a fire pit which provides a
quick stroll to a nearby pavilion.
ANOTHER BRIEF RECESS WAS PROVIDED AT 7:08 P.M.
SO THAT THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL COULD CONTINUE
LOOKING OVER THE DESIGNS THAT WERE PROVIDED AND
SPEAK INDIVIDUALLY WITH THE SCAD STUDENTS.
REQUEST TO RECONVENE THE REGULAR MEETING
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to reconvene the
Regular Meeting at 7:15 p.m.
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
SCAD PRESENTERS TO BE RECOGNIZED
Usher asked that the City Manager come up with a
way for the SCAD presenters to be recognized.
Bennett will contact the professor in order to
obtain some suggestions.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
– No public comments were made.
NEW BUSINESS
Consideration of Council of a Resolution and
Adoption Agreement in reference to the GMA
457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to table this item
in order for more information to be provided to
Council.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION TO TABLE PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration of Council to award a contract to
E & D Enterprises for the City of Springfield
Sidewalk Improvement Project (Non-TE)
The City Manager advised that he had sent out
two separate emails and noted that this contract
would be outside the TE Grant and would be
funded locally.
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to award a contract
to E & D Enterprises in the amount of $47,367.46
for the City of Springfield Sidewalk Improvement
Project (Non-TE).
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration of Council to award a contract for
the lease and maintenance of the Sprayfield
Three sealed bids were received and were opened
during the “Bid-Opening Process” on Friday May
27th at 3:30 p.m. City Manager Brett
Bennett disclosed that Ben Boyd is his cousin.
He disclosed this to the Mayor and Council even
though Bennett does not have a vote in this
matter, but just wanted them to be aware of
this.
It was suggested that Attorney Rafter add a line
in the contract specifying no hunting.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to award a contract
for the lease and maintenance of the Sprayfield
to Coastal Plains Farming Company with the bid
amount of $6,230.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
sign a contract with Port City Design group in
the amount of $6,300 for Engineering Services
related to the Rehabilitation of the Lift
Station at Ebenezer Elementary School
A brief discussion followed. When asked about
the possibility of using SPLOST funds, Bennett
advised that this would be a complete rehab and
that he will check with the auditor to be sure
SPLOST funds could be used.
The engineer will inspect the project to be sure
that it is done correctly. Bennett advised that
we will still look into what we can do, if
anything, about the original project, but that
we need to go ahead and get this fixed and
advised that 60 days is conservative, but that
it can probably be done in a couple of weeks.
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to authorize the City
Manager to sign a contract with Port City Design
Group in the amount of $6,300 for engineering
services related to the rehabilitation of the
Lift Station at Ebenezer Elementary School.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
Discussion of the Water/Sewer agreement for
Shadowbrook Subdivision and Habitat for Humanity
Jimmy Roland, with Habitat for Humanity stepped
forward to address the Mayor and Council. Copies
of the original water/sewer agreement had been
sent out in packets for the Mayor and Council’s
review prior to the meeting.
Mr. Roland expressed his concerns for the impact
fees, suggesting that this is steep for Habitat
for Humanity. The whole purpose of Habitat for
Humanity is to provide decent housing. Bennett
advised that we have more flexibility with a
Water/Sewer agreement outside the City. Attorney
Rafter will look into this.
Mr. Roland stated that they will serve only
residents in Effingham County and that the
Heritage Bank may be working with them. The City
of Guyton helped out Habitat for Humanity until
the last house which was charged $6,000. Roland
also suggests that perhaps the City does not
need to have fees higher than the County.
Jimmy Roland also advised the Mayor and Council
that they are well into the process of becoming
HUD certified builders and also HUD lenders.
City Manager Brett Bennett suggested that
Attorney Rafter and he look at some other
communities in the area and also check with the
banks as well. Habitat for Humanity was
recognized as a great organization for all that
they do. More details will be obtained and
brought back before Council.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE
INTO AN EXECUTIVE SESSION
– Reference Personnel
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to move from the
Regular Meeting into an Executive Session to
discuss personnel, at 8:14 p.m.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
The City Clerk exited the Council Room at 8:14
p.m.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION BACK INTO THE REGULAR MEETING
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to move from the
Executive Session back into the Regular Meeting
at 8:36 p.m.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
The City Clerk returned to the Council Room at
8:36 p.m.
CONSIDERATION TO TAKE ANY ACTION NEEDED ON THE
ITEM(S) FROM THE EXECUTIVE SESSION
Consideration to approve a contract with Rick
Rafter to provide professional services as City
Attorney
A brief discussion followed.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to approve a contract
with Rick Rafter to provide professional
services as City Attorney.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO ADJOURN THIS
MEETING
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to adjourn this
meeting at 8:41 p.m.
Second:
Kieffer seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED unanimous without objection. ==================== 06/02/11 Posted on City Website - The Minutes of the 05/10/11 Meeting were approved on 05/31/11 Minutes of the Mayor and Council Meeting
Council
Chambers
May 10, 2011
Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the City of
Springfield Mayor and Council was held on May
10, 2011 in the Council Chambers in Springfield,
Georgia. This meeting was called to order at
6:07 p.m. by Mayor Northway.
MAYOR JEFF NORTHWAY AND THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL
MEMBERS WERE PRESENT:
Jeff Ambrose
Charles Hinely
Butch Kieffer
Kenny Usher
Gary Weitman
Troy Allen was unable to attend
this meeting. A Quorum of Council was
represented at this meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Brett Bennett, City Manager
Linda Rineair, City Clerk
Rick Rafter, City Attorney
Paul Wynn, Police Chief
Travis Zittrouer, Assistant Fire
Chief
GUEST PRESENT
Ricky Deas
Charlie Brown
INVOCATION
– Given by Butch Kieffer
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
– led by Mayor Northway
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to approve the
Agenda.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE
04/26/2011 REGULAR MEETING
Ambrose noted a typo that needed to be corrected
as to Jeff Ambrose gave the invocation and Mayor
Northway led the Pledge of Allegiance at the
04/26/2011Meeting.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to approve the
minutes of the Regular Meeting of 04/26/11 with
the typo correction.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPEARANCES
Ricky Deas, of Coastal Fellowship of Christian
Athletes (FCA), appeared before the Mayor and
Council, requesting consideration for the use of
Ulmer Park for a boy’s baseball camp and a
girls’ softball camp, hosted by the Springfield
United Methodist Church, for various dates (As
listed on the Agenda request)
A brief discussion followed with the
clarification that the fence needs to go back
up. City Manager Brett Bennett advised that we
will get it back up.
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to approve Ricky
Deas request.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
– No public comments were made
NEW BUSINESS
Consideration of Council of a Resolution (Number
R2011-3) adopting an Employee Seat Belt Policy.
City Manager Brett Bennett advised the Mayor and
Council that this came up during the process of
researching a grant that Travis Zittrouer is
working on. The Employee Seat Belt Policy will
be incorporated into the Personnel Policy at a
later date when it is again updated.
MOTION:
Weitman made a motion to approve the
Resolution adopting an Employee Seat Belt
Policy.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration of Council to rescind the vote
made on 04/26/11 in which Brannen Motor Company
was awarded the bid for the purchase of a truck
for the Fire Department.
City Manager Brett Bennett explained that
Brannen Motor Company had advised that they
could not meet the requirement of the delivery
date and stated that it would be a minimum of
two months on the delivery.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to rescind the vote
made at the 04/26/11 meeting in which Brannen
Motor Company had been awarded the bid for the
purchase of a truck for the Fire Department.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Motion to reject all other bids in reference to
the 04/26/11 meeting for the purchase of a truck
for the Fire Department.
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to reject all other
bids discussed at the 04/26/11 meeting for the
purchase of a truck for the Fire Department.
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration of Council to approve the purchase
of a truck for the Fire Department through GSA
(Ford F150 4x4 Crew Cab Pickup Truck).
The City Manager Brett Bennett explained that
the GSA price comparison was actually less than
the other sealed bids which had received.
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to accept the GSA
price of $24,356.15 for the purchase of a Ford
pick-up truck for the Fire Department.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
Liberty Mutual “Bring Back the Fourth” Contest
Brett Bennett advised that he had sent out
emails last week. Bennett requested that others
be asked to take the quiz and be sure they enter
Springfield 31329. We will receive points
regardless of right or wrong answers taken in
the quiz. We also have received a good response
this year.
Bennett also remarked about the pledges of
donations we have already received in reference
to the Independence Day Fireworks Celebration.
We have received pledges from the Effingham
Board of Commissioners, EFACEC, and the City of
Guyton, along with several others.
Mayor Northway asked questions in reference to
the Storage of Materials
Attorney Rafter stated that he did
not believe that a business license will be
needed. The storage trailers will be on private
property, reference Hospital Materials.
REPORTS
Administration
SCAD Project
Bennett had sent an email a month or so ago
reference potential projects. SCAD selected this
building (The City Hall Building), as a possible
revitalization project. SCAD would like to
provide a public presentation on the 31st
at 6:00 p.m.
TE Grant
Two meetings were held today, one at 1 p.m., the
other at 2 p.m. It is moving along. Both
projects will go through bids. Once we have
ordered a bidder it should be a two week
turn-around period. Two local contractors from
Effingham attended.
Coastal Incentive Grant
Council had previously approved
Engineers to be obtained. The project design of
Kern and Coleman should be moving along pretty
soon.
Police Department
Police Chief Paul Wynn presented the Police
Department report. Wynn advised that warrants
were issued on one incident that occurred at
Harvey’s yesterday.
Police Chief Wynn expressed his
thanks for all of the support he has received
during the last few weeks (reference the death
of his father).
Fire Department
Assistant Fire Chief Travis
Zittrouer presented the Volunteer Fire
Department report and remarked that two building
fires were in the service area. They were able
to save a single-wide trailer. The other was a
three story garage that had burnt to the ground.
The Fire Department also installed a smoke
detector for a senior citizen.
City Department Liaisons
No reports were given.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE
INTO AN EXECUTIVE SESSION – Reference Pending Litigation
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion at 6:30 p.m. to
move from the Regular Meeting into an Executive
Session to discuss pending litigation.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION BACK INTO THE REGULAR MEETING
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion at 6:37 p.m. to
move from the Executive Session back into the
Regular Meeting.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION TO TAKE ANY ACTION NEEDED ON THE
ITEM(S) FROM THE EXECUTIVE SESSION
No Action was taken.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO ADJOURN THIS
MEETING
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to adjourn this
meeting at 6:38 p.m.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
06/02/11 Posted on City Website - The Minutes of the 04/26/11 Meeting were Approved as Amended on 05/31/11 Minutes of the Mayor and Council Meeting
Council
Chambers
April, 26, 2011
Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the City of Springfield Mayor
and Council was held on April 26, 2011 in the
Council Chambers in Springfield, Georgia. This
meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by
Mayor Northway.
MAYOR JEFF NORTHWAY AND THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL MEMBERS WERE PRESENT:
Troy Allen
Jeff Ambrose
Charles Hinely
Butch Kieffer
Gary Weitman
Kenny Usher was unable to attend this meeting. A Quorum of Council was
represented at this meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Brett Bennett, City Manager
Linda Rineair, City Clerk
Hillary Burns, City Attorney
Travis Zittrouer, Fire Department
GUEST PRESENT
Charlie Brown
Darrin Brown
Jamey Stancell
Athena Northway
INVOCATION
– led by Jeff Ambrose
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
– led by Mayor Northway
AMENDMENTS TO THE AGENDA
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to amend the Agenda
by adding the following items to the Agenda:
10 (a) Consideration to approve Joint
Resolution and Stipulation regarding Service
Delivery Strategy
10 (b)
Consideration to approve Water/Sewer Map
for Service Delivery Strategy
10 (c)
Consideration to approve Fire Response
and Automatic Aid Maps
10 (d)
Consideration to approve updated Service
Delivery Strategy for Recreation
10 (e)
Consideration to approve updated Service
Delivery Strategy for Road Construction and
Maintenance
10 (f)
Consideration to approve updated County
Jail Agreement
10 (g)
Consideration to approve updated Fire
Services Agreement
11 (a)
Consideration of the April 14, 2011
Resignation letter of City Attorney
7 (b)
Consideration of the purchase of a pickup
truck for the fire department
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
ADDITIONAL AMENDMENT TO THE AGENDA
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to add Item 7 (c)
to the Agenda – Approval of the GMA slate of
officers listed nominated as GMA’s District 12
Officers for the year 2011 - 2012
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AS AMENDED
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to approve the Agenda
as amended.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE 04/12/2011 REGULAR
MEETING
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to approve the
minutes of the Regular Meeting of 04/12/2011.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Cedar Creek Resident, Mr. Brown, commented that he
is seeing activity coming along on the Cedar
Creek drainage issues. City Manager Brett
Bennett discussed the various ways that staff
have looked for drainage problems and of the
different areas looked into.
NEW BUSINESS
Consideration for approval of Ordinance # 2011-04 to
impose license fees on insurers (GMA provided
sample Ordinance).
The City Manager and the City Clerk briefly
explained that a sample Ordinance had been
forwarded to us from GMA and essentially this
Ordinance would increase the current fee from
$25 to $40 on insurers, (effective 01/01/2012 as
specified in the Ordinance).
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to approve an
Ordinance to impose license fees on insurers.
Second:
Weitman seconded the motion
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration to approve the purchase of a truck for
the Fire Department
City Manager Brett Bennett and Assistant Fire Chief
Travis Zittrouer went over the two sealed bids
received and also the GSA Price Comparison which
can only be used for the purchase of emergency
vehicles. Zittrouer recommended the bid received
from Brannen Motor Company as they noted no
exceptions to the bid specifications.
Mayor Northway asked if Brannen Motors could be
contacted to see if they would increase the
warranty from a 5 to a 6 year warranty. Brett
Bennett explained that this was a sealed bid
process and the warranty was specified by the
actual bidder.
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to approve the
purchase of the 2011 Ford F150XL Crew cab Truck
from Brannen Motor Company at $25,465 plus an
additional cost of $1,370 for a 5 year/100,000
mile Premium Care Warranty.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration for Approval of the GMA slate of
officers listed for nomination as GMA District
12 Officers for the year 2011 – 2012
Mayor Northway read the list of nominees on the
ballot: as President – Charles Frasier, Mayor
Pro Tem of Hinesville; First Vice President –
Tony Thomas, Council Chairman of Savannah;
Second Vice President – Luciria Lovette,
Councilmember of Walthourville; Third Vice
President – Keith Post, Councilmember of St.
Marys.
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to approve that the
city is in favor of the proposed slate of
officers for the GMA District 12 Officers for
the year 2011 – 2012.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE REGULAR
MEETING INTO AN EXECUTIVE SESSION
– Reference Personnel and Pending Litigation
MOTION:
Weitman made a motion to move from the
Regular Meeting into an Executive Session at
6:35 p.m.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
The City Clerk exited the Council Room and was not
present during the Executive Session
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION BACK INTO THE REGULAR MEETING
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to move from the
Executive Session back into the Regular Meeting
at 7:24 p.m.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
The City Clerk returned to the Council Room at 7:25
p.m.
CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE ALL AGREEMENTS,
STIPULATIONS, AND RESOLUTIONS, AND SUPPORTING
DOCUMENTS RELATED TO THE SERVICE DELIVERY
SETTLEMENT NEGOTIATIONS
CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE JOINT RESOLUTION AND
STIPULATION REGARDING SERVICE DELIVERY STRATEGY
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to approve Joint
Resolution and Stipulation regarding Service
Delivery Strategy.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE WATER/SEWER MAP FOR SERVICE
DELIVERY STRATEGY
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to approve
Water/Sewer map for Service Delivery Strategy.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE FIRE RESPONSE AND AUTOMATIC
AID MAPS
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to approve Fire
Response and Automatic Aid Maps.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE UPDATED SERVICE DELIVERY
STRATEGY FOR RECREATION
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to approve updated
Service Delivery Strategy for Recreation.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE UPDATED SERVICE DELIVERY
STRATEGY FOR ROAD CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to approve updated
Service Delivery Strategy for Road Construction
and Maintenance.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE UPDATED COUNTY JAIL
AGREEMENT
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to approve updated
County Jail Agreement.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE UPDATED FIRE SERVICES
AGREEMENT
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to approve updated
Fire Services Agreement.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION TO TAKE ANY ACTION NEEDED ON OTHER
ITEM(S) FROM THE EXECUTIVE SESSION
CONSIDERATION OF THE APRIL 14, 2011 RESIGNATION
LETTER OF CITY ATTORNEY
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to accept the April
14, 2011 resignation letter of the City
Attorney, Hillary Burns, while maintaining
Attorney Burns representation on the Service
Delivery action.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION TO APPOINT A CITY ATTORNEY
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to appoint Rick
Rafter as the City Attorney.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO ADJOURN THIS MEETING
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to adjourn this
meeting at 7:30 p.m.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED unanimous without objection. ==================== 04/28/11 Posted on City Website - The Minutes of the 04/12/11 Meeting were approved on 04/26/11 Minutes of the Mayor and Council Meeting
Council
Chambers
April, 12, 2011
Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the City of Springfield
Mayor and Council was held on April 12, 2011 in
the Council Chambers in Springfield, Georgia.
This meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by
Mayor Northway.
MAYOR JEFF NORTHWAY AND THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL
MEMBERS WERE PRESENT:
Troy Allen
Jeff Ambrose
Charles Hinely
Kenny Usher
Butch Kieffer was unable to attend this meeting.
A Quorum of Council was represented at this
meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Brett Bennett, City Manager
Linda Rineair, City Clerk
Hillary Burns, City Attorney
Paul Wynn, Police Chief
Travis Zittrouer, Fire Department
GUEST PRESENT
Stephanie Weitman
Dixie Weitman
Wade Brown Robert
Dudley
Jamey Stancell
Athena Northway
INVOCATION
– led by Mayor Northway
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
– led by Mayor Northway
SWEARING IN CEREMONY, BY JUDGE ED REDDICK, OF
THE NEWLY APPOINTED COUNCIL MEMBER, GARY
WEITMAN, TO FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF MAX
NEIDLINGER
Judge Ed Reddick performed the swearing in
ceremony of the Newly Appointed Council Member,
Gary Weitman, to fill the unexpired term of Max
Neidlinger which will end on 12/31/2011. After
the ceremony Council Member Gary Weitman was
congratulated by the Mayor and Council then took
his seat with Council.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to approve the
Agenda.
Second: Ambrose
seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE
03/22/2011 REGULAR MEETING
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to approve the
minutes of the Regular Meeting of 03/22/2011.
Second: Hinely
seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPEARANCES
Chad Jung request consideration to open “Low
Country Baseball and Softball Academy” located
at 606 Laurel Street (Change in Ownership)
A brief discussion followed. Mayor Northway
noted that this is just a change in ownership.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to approve Chad
Jung’s request to open “Low Country Baseball and
Softball Academy”, a change in ownership,
located at 606 Laurel Street.
Second: Hinely
seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Robert Dudley request consideration to open a
home occupation “Dudley’s landscaping”, at 105
Dogwood Court
Robert Dudley appeared before Council requesting
consideration to open a home occupation, with
the name of the business being “Dudley’s
landscaping”, with the location being 105
Dogwood Court.
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to approve Robert
Dudley’s requested for a home occupation,
“Dudley’s landscaping”, at 105 Dogwood Court.
Second: Weitman
seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Council Member Gary Weitman excused himself and
stepped out of the Council Room.
Dixie Weitman requests consideration to open a
home occupation, “Springfield Traditions,” a
catering service, at 202 North Railroad Avenue
Dixie Weitman appeared before Council requesting
consideration to open a home occupation, with
the name of the business being “Springfield
Traditions”, with the location being 202 North
Railroad Avenue. Dixie Weitman explained that
she will be cooking and delivering to each site.
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to approve Dixie
Weitman’s request for a home occupation,
“Springfield Traditions”, at 202 North Railroad
Avenue.
Second: Ambrose
seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Council Member Gary Weitman returned to the
Council Room and took his seat with the Council.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
– No public comments were made
NEW BUSINESS
Consideration of Council to authorize the City
Manager to sign the contract with Falcon
Fireworks for $15,000, reference the
Independence Day Fireworks Celebration, which is
scheduled to be held on 07/02/2011 at the
Effingham County High School Athletic Field.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to authorize the City
Manager to sign the contract with Falcon
Fireworks for $15,000 reference the Independence
Day Fireworks Celebration.
Second: Hinely
seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration of Council to approve an Ordinance
to regulate transient merchants and peddlers
within the City of Springfield
City Manager Brett Bennett explained some of the
reasons for this Ordinance resulting from the
recent yard sale Ordinance. Bennett explained
that some property owners do not mind their
vacant property being used for yard sales.
Perhaps those property owners could provide
documentation to the City of Springfield giving
permission for others to set up on their
property. Attorney Burns explained that quite a
bit of language was set up in this Ordinance
from another city’s ordinance and advised that
this may give other business owners a sense of
fairness. Burns stated that festival peddler had
been taken out of the Ordinance and that she
would make changes that Council request be made.
Discussion followed on the possibility of
property owner’s obtaining a business license to
allow yard sales on their vacant property;
difficult to enforce Yard Sale Ordinance as it
is now.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to Table this
Ordinance until the next meeting.
Second: Ambrose
seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
TO TABLE
- unanimous without objection.
REPORTS
Administration
Brett Bennett advised that he has sent out
emails reference the Streetscape Project –
waiting on authorization to go out for bids. It
is a matter of going through the steps with the
DOT.
The Dike Project at the Waste Water Treatment
Plant is 70% completed.
Reference DNR Funds – We are in the process of
getting proposals from engineers.
Hwy 119 Bypass is being put on unconstrained
projects list.
The Temporary Sign Ordinance is coming along
with a few challenges.
“Ole Effingham Days” will be held in Ulmer Park
and will have a child’s play area set up. Mayor Northway reminded everyone of the Barbecue Cook-off that will be held at the Fairgrounds this weekend.
Police Department
Police Chief Paul Wynn presented the City of
Springfield Police Department report and advised
that the department is running fine. The fuel
line item is up.
Fire Department
Assistant Fire Chief Travis Zittrouer presented
the City of Springfield Volunteer Fire
Department report and advised that the numbers
have gone up. During the past few months a lot
of training has been done. When asked about the
Pension Fund Zittrouer advised that eight are
eligible members for the pension program and
that we have paid the second months dues.
City Department Liaisons
No reports were given.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE INTO AN
EXECUTIVE SESSION
– Reference Pending Litigation
MOTION:
Allen made a motion at 6:35 p.m. to move
from the Regular Meeting into an Executive
Session to discuss pending litigation.
Second: Ambrose
seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
City Clerk, Linda Rineair, excused herself from
the Council Room.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION BACK INTO THE REGULAR MEETING
MOTION:
Allen made a motion at 7:06 p.m. to move
from the Executive Session back into the Regular
Meeting.
Second: Ambrose
seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
City Clerk, Linda Rineair, returned to the
Council Room.
CONSIDERATION TO TAKE ANY ACTION NEEDED ON THE
ITEM(S) FROM THE EXECUTIVE SESSION
No Action was taken.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO ADJOURN THIS
MEETING
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to adjourn this
meeting at 7:08 p.m.
Second: Allen
seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Posted on Website 04/13/2011 - Minutes of the 03/22/2011 Meeting were approved on 04/12/2011
Council
Chambers
March 22, 2011
Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the City of Springfield Mayor
and Council was held on March 22, 2011 in the
Council Chambers in Springfield, Georgia. This
meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by
Mayor Northway.
MAYOR JEFF NORTHWAY AND THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL MEMBERS WERE PRESENT:
Jeff Ambrose
Troy Allen
Charles Hinely
Butch Kieffer
Kenny Usher
A Quorum of Council was represented at this meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Brett Bennett, City Manager
Linda Rineair, City Clerk
Hillary Burns, City Attorney
GUEST PRESENT
Wade Brown
Darrin Brown
Charlie Brown
Craig S. Bonnell
Jamey Stancell
Athena Northway
INVOCATION
– led by Council Member Kieffer
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
– led by Mayor Northway
AMENDMENT TO AGENDA
MOTION:
Hinely made a motion to remove discussion
of the City Charter from the Agenda, per request
of the City Attorney.
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
AMENDMENT TO AGENDA
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to add item “i”
under New Business – Consideration to authorize
the Mayor to sign the “Match Letter” to the GA
DCA reference CDBG funding.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AS AMENDED
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to approve the Agenda
as Amended.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE 03/08/2011 REGULAR
MEETING
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to approve the
minutes of the Regular Meeting of 03/08/2011.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
APPEARANCES
Craig S. Bonnell addressed the Mayor and Council
with an inquiry into the release to the
newspaper of the Ante Litem Notice that Attorney
Bonnell served on the City Manager on Tuesday,
03/01/11, specifically to have Council address
the following issues:
1.
To whom, when, and how did the City Manager distribute the Ante Litem
Notice after it was served on him?
2.
Do the Council and Mayor consider the disclosure of the Ante Litem Notice
a breach of ethics, or an impropriety?
3.
If the Council considers the disclosure unethical, will it refer the
matter to the newly constituted ethics committee
for investigation?
Council Member Usher asked that Attorney Bonnell
explain what an Ante Litem Notice is to those in
attendance at the meeting. Attorney Bonnell
advised that this is a notice given to a
Municipality before a claim can be given. It is
just a preliminary notice and is a requirement
in order to be able to make a claim against a
Municipality. Attorney Bonnell stressed that
this does not mean a claim will be filed.
Attorney Bonnell asked to whom, when, and how
the City Manager distributed the Ante Litem
Notice after it was served on him.
City Manager Brett Bennett answered that it was
served via email to the Mayor and Council and
possibly copied to the City Attorney on March 2nd
around 11:22 a.m.
Council Member Hinely advised that he opened the
email around 6:30 p.m. and did not notify
anyone. Council Member Usher advised that his
wife was on the computer and he went over to
open the email about an Ante Litem Notice. Usher
stated that this was around 7:00 p.m. that night
and that he notified no one. Council Member
Kieffer stated that he opened it about 5:30 p.m.
that afternoon and notified no one. Council
Member Ambrose opened the email about 5:00 p.m.
and notified no one. Council Member Allen opened
the email shortly after it was sent and advised
that he has not notified anyone of it.
Mayor Northway was asked if he wished to respond.
Mayor Northway declined to respond.
Attorney Bonnell asked if the Council and Mayor
considered the disclosure of the Ante Litem
Notice a breach of ethics or an impropriety.
Attorney Burns advised that items 2 & 3 is a
matter to be discussed by the Mayor, Council,
and the City Attorney. When asked by Bonnell if
there is a plan to meet with Council on this
matter, Attorney Burns responded that the
Council could discuss this with her if they
choose to. Attorney Bonnell brought up the
question that had been raised on the unsigned
Ante Litem Notice. Bonnell presented a signed
copy to the City Manager at approximately 6:15
p.m. Attorney Bonnell went on to explain that an
unsigned notice was still a valid notice.
Also during the discussion it was made clear that
Ethical Complaints can be filed by anyone
feeling that an ethical violation has taken
place.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
– No Public Comments were made.
NEW BUSINESS
Consideration to open the floor for nominations to
fill the vacant council seat (of former Council
Member Max Neidlinger which will expire at the
end of this year)
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to open the floor for
nominations to fill the vacant council seat.
Second:
Ambrose seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Nominations to fill the vacant council seat
Council Member Ambrose offered the nomination of
Gary Weitman.
Consideration to close the floor for nominations to
fill the vacant council seat
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to close the floor
for nominations to fill the vacant council seat.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration of an appointment to fill the vacant
council seat.
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to appoint Gary
Weitman to fill the vacant council seat.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration to appoint Attorney Rick Rafter as
Judge for a day – April 2, 2011.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to appoint Attorney
Rick Rafter as Judge for a day – April 2, 2011.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration to approve the Springfield Fire
Department Standard Operating Procedures
(SOP’s).
A discussion followed with Assistant Fire Chief
Travis Zittrouer advising the Mayor and Council
on the long process that Amber Nettles and he
went through in developing the SOP’s prior to
forwarding them to the City Attorney for review.
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to approve the
Springfield Fire Department Standard Operating
Procedures (SOP’s).
Second:
Usher seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration to authorize the surplused trailer,
(which had been surplused at the 02/08/11
Council Meeting) serial # 2330-00-898-6780 Model
# M116A1 to be donated to the Effingham County
Fire Department.
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to authorize the
surplused trailer to be donated to the Effingham
County Fire Department.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration to approve a donation to the Olde
Effingham Days Committee for the funding of the
Olde Effingham Days Festival that will be held
on April 15th and 16th.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to approve a donation
of $1,000 to the Olde Effingham Days Committee
for the funding of the Olde Effingham Days
Festival.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
solicit bids for a pickup truck for the Fire
Department.
The condition and numerous repairs made to the
current vehicle for the Fire Department were
discussed. City Manager Brett Bennett suggested
the need for a crew cab truck, one similar to
Nate’s truck. The discussion continued. Usher
would like this bid out. Bennett advised that
this could be bid out by the end of the week and
run for 15 days. Bids would come back before
Council for their review. Bennett also suggested
the possibility of a State Contract.
MOTION:
Usher made a motion to authorize the City
Manager to solicit bids, including State
Contracts, for a pickup truck for the Fire
Department.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
Consideration to authorize the Mayor to sign the
“Match Letter” to the Georgia Department of
Community Affairs reference CDBG funding –
advising that the City of Springfield will make
available $75,000 in direct cash match toward
completion of the proposed program.
MOTION:
Ambrose made a motion to authorize the
Mayor to sign the “Match Letter” to the GA DCA
reference CDBG funding – advising that the City
will make available up to $75,000 in direct cash
match toward the completion of the proposed
program.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
Discussion of Cedar Creek drainage system
City Manager Brett Bennett explained what has
already been reviewed and what other drains need
to be checked. Bennett also advised that he has
a meeting with the Engineer scheduled for
Thursday. Bennett will have more information to
report after Thursday’s meeting.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE REGULAR
MEETING INTO AN EXECUTIVE SESSION
– Reference Pending Litigation
MOTION:
Kieffer made a motion to move from the
regular meeting into an executive session at
6:40 p.m. – reference pending litigation.
Second:
Allen seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO MOVE FROM THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION BACK INTO THE REGULAR MEETING
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to move from the
executive session back into the regular meeting
at 7:23 p.m.
Second:
Hinely seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED
unanimous without objection.
CONSIDERATION TO TAKE ANY ACTION NEEDED ON THE
ITEM(S) FROM THE EXECUTIVE SESSION
No action was taken.
CONSIDERATION FOR A MOTION TO ADJOURN THIS MEETING
MOTION:
Allen made a motion to adjourn this
meeting at 7:25 p.m.
Second:
Kieffer
seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED unanimous without objection. ====================
Minutes of the Mayor and Council
Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the City of Springfield Mayor
and Council was held on March 8, 2011 in the
Council Chambers in Springfield, Georgia. This
meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by
Mayor Northway.
MAYOR JEFF NORTHWAY AND THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL MEMBERS WERE PRESENT:
Jeff Ambrose
Charles Hinely
Butch Kieffer
Kenny Usher
Troy Allen was unable to attend this meeting. A
Quorum of Council was represented at this
meeting.
ALSO PRESENT
Brett Bennett, City Manager
Linda Rineair, City Clerk
Hillary Burns, City Attorney
Paul Wynn, Police Chief
Travis Zittrouer, Fire Department
GUEST PRESENT
Wade Brown
Charlie Brown
Floyd Masters
Carolyn Masters
Adam Harden
Jamey Stancell Kare |