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10-01-2012 October 1, 2012 Mayor and Council Meeting October 1, 2012 All Council members were present. Also present were City Administrator Eric Taylor, City Attorney Scott Cochran, City Clerk Susan Hiott, Assistant City Administrator Tammi Jones Saddler, Executive Assistant to the Mayor and Council Christy Ullman, Public Relations Director Jennifer Bennett, Community Development Director Ken Suddreth, Kevin Klosterboer, Management Fellow Jessica Melton and representatives of the press. The regular scheduled meeting of Mayor and Council was held at Smyrna City Hall. The meeting was called to order by presiding officer Mayor Max Bacon at 7:30 o'clock p.m. Mayor Bacon acknowledged Pastor Shell Osbon of Life Church of Smyrna Assemble of God, who conducted the invocation and led all present in the pledge to the flag. 2. AGENDA CHANGES: Mayor Bacon stated that there were none. 3. MAYOR'S REPORT: (A) Resolution 2012-09 in support of preserving the current location of the historic Dobbins Air Reserve Base Chapel The Mayor explained that the resolution was a show of support for the ongoing movement to preserve the chapel. He noted that he had personally served in the National Guard and invited representatives of the movement to speak. Chairman Dick Roberts provided historical background and an update of the proposed demolition. He made known the members of the group and how it had been formed. Mr. Roberts explained that this was the second time the building had been slated for demolition and shared that the funds needed to move the edifice had not yet been fully raised. Councilwoman Anulewicz read aloud Resolution 2012- 09. MOTION: Councilmember Anulewicz moved to approve the resolution in support of preserving the current location of the historic Dobbins Air Force Reserve Base chapel. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Pritchett and approved 7-0. There was discussion about the involvement of Mayor Bacon's father in delivering and assembling the chapel in Smyrna. Mr. Roberts highlighted unique structural features of the building and Councilwoman Anulewicz presented the Resolution. Mayor Bacon recognized the candidates in the audience. Doug Stoner, candidate for State Senate informed all present of the deadline for voter registration and that absentee ballots were already being accepted. He noted dates for early voting, provided details and stated that additional information was available at www.dougstoner.com or on the board of elections website. October 1,2012 2 Hunter Hill, candidate for State Senate mentioned the rezoning of District 6, highlighting the newly included areas. He stated his honor at having won the nomination during the highly competitive primaries and shared his qualifying experiences in business and the military. He expressed that his understanding of business would facilitate revitalization of the area. 4. LAND ISSUES/ZONINGS/ANNEXATIONS: (A) Public Hearing- Approval of a name change for Imagine International Academy of Smyrna to International Academy of Smyrna - 2144 South Cobb Drive - Imagine International Academy of Smyrna (SW) Mayor Bacon inquired if any representatives of the school present. There were none. Mr. Taylor provided the background on the school's request for a name change. He stated that the school had severed ties with the Imagine parent company and was seeking removal of that moniker from their official name. Mr. Taylor confirmed that the requested change had been reviewed and that staff recommended approval. Mayor Bacon stated that this was a public hearing and called for comment. There was none. MOTION: Councilwoman Wilkinson moved to approve the name change for Imagine International Academy of Smyrna to International Academy of Smyrna- 2144 South Cobb Drive - Imagine International Academy of Smyrna. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Anulewicz. The Mayor remarked that due to the nature of the facility the request had to be approved by Council. Motion was approved 7-0. 5. PRIVILEGE LICENSES: (A) Public Hearing-new owner and new applicant-retail package sale of beer-Smyrna Tapas LLC dba Smyrna Beer Market-Kevin M Drawe-1265 W Spring St STE D (TA) Mayor Bacon asked the applicant to come forward and Mr. Taylor stated that Mr. Drawe would be responsible for the sale of alcohol at that location. He confirmed that Mr. Drawe had been provided with a copy of the city's alcohol ordinance and had attended the mandatory alcohol awareness workshop. Mr. Taylor explained that the police department had conducted a background check and found nothing to preclude the issuance of the license and that staff recommended approval. Mayor Bacon announced that this was a public hearing and called for comment. There was none. Councilwoman Anulewicz inquired if the applicant was familiar and comfortable with the licensing requirements in Smyrna. Mr. Drawe responded that he had held his license at Atkins Park for 10 years and was aware of the stings and tests conducted by the City. He shared that he performed his own testing. There was discussion about the nature of the new business and the definition of a growler. Mr. Drawe elaborated on the variety of brews, pre-packaged foods, grilling and home brewing supplies that would be sold. Councilwoman Anulewicz confirmed that all inspection requirements had been met. MOTION: Councilwoman Anulewicz moved to approve new owner and new applicant-retail package sale of beer-Smyrna Tapas LLC dba Smyrna Beer Market-Kevin M Drawe-1265 W Spring St STE. Motion was seconded by Councilman Fennel and the Mayor stated his support. Item was approved 7-0. October 1,2012 3 The Mayor mentioned the upcoming Oktoberfest to be hosted by Atkins Park and Councilwoman Anulewicz inquired about the start date of the new growler store. Mr. Drawe noted that it was contingent upon receiving the license from the State. 6. FORMAL BUSINESS: (A) Approval of Change Order for construction of Fire Station#5 and authorize the Mayor to sign and execute related documents (RF) Mr. Taylor stated that during the construction of the newly opened fire station #5 that the scope of work had changed to accommodate unanticipated site preparation challenges. The Mayor asked if any representatives from Croy Engineering were present and Councilman Fennel confirmed that he had observed someone in the audience. MOTION: Councilman Fennel moved to approve Change Order for construction of Fire Station#5 and authorize the Mayor to sign and execute related documents. Motion was seconded by Councilman Lnenicka and approved 7-0. The Mayor stated that the fire station project had been completed on time and under budget. (B) Approval to adjust start time/extend event dates for Smyrna Food Truck Tuesdays at Taylor-Brawner Park (TA) Mr. Taylor made known that the City Council had approved the establishment of food truck Tuesdays at Taylor Brawner to run for 16 weeks from 6-9 pm. He noted that the event had been more successful than anticipated and Council was desirous of extending the event until November 20th with the approved hours to be 5-8:30 pm. Mr. Taylor stated that staff had reviewed the item and recommended approval. Councilwoman Anulewicz remarked on the greater than expected level of success of the event. She expressed her sentiment that this activity unified the community by appealing to a broad cross-section of citizens. She commented that the event accomplished the goal of realizing the potential of the City's parks. Councilmember Anulewicz remarked that she was absent during the initial vote but was pleased to support the continuation of Food Truck Tuesdays. MOTION: Councilwoman Anulewicz moved to approve adjusting the start time/extend event dates for Smyrna Food Truck Tuesdays at Taylor-Brawner Park. Motion was seconded by Councilwoman Pritchett. Mayor Bacon remarked that the level of success of the event was underestimated and that unexpected issues regarding staffing and logistics were being worked out. He communicated his support of the event and remarked that it had been handled well. Councilman Lnenicka announced that he would support the motion and commended the staff and people that had worked on the event. He expressed his pride in the success of the event and highlighted the positive impact it had on Ward 6 families. Councilmember Lnenicka commented that he would like to see additional consideration given to improving the way the event was managed moving forward. He recommended that discussions be held to consider implementing an ordinance to address the specifics of this event. He cited the need to address vendor fees, limiting the city's expenditures and a reduction in the number of city staff working during the event. The Councilman requested that issues such as ensuring the issuance of proper permits, waste disposal and adequate due diligence be satisfied. He submitted that October 1,2012 4 clarification on the qualifications for participation be defined, with a goal of helping local businesses, taxpayers and residents. Councilman Pritchett remarked that many of the issues mentioned by Councilman Lnenicka had been discussed. She made known her position that she we not in favor of establishing a lot of regulations, preferring less government involvement and more community participation. Councilmember Pritchett shared the high volume of correspondence she received from citizens in support of the event. She stated that Food truck Tuesday was an amenity just like the library, community center, pools and senior center. Councilmember Pritchett shared that this had been a trial and that, due to its success, she was committed to its continuation. Councilwoman Anulewicz echoed the sentiments of Councilwoman Pritchett. She elaborated that the city of Atlanta had experienced difficulties with their food truck events due to excessive regulation. The Councilwoman reminded all present of the crowd of nearly 1000 that had attended the event's opening despite unfavorable weather conditions. Councilwoman Anulewicz agreed that the event was an amenity that enhanced Smyrna's appeal, noting that the Wolfe center serviced only a portion of the population but was funded with tax dollars. The Councilwoman remarked on the extraordinary press earned by the event and opined that it was an excellent return on investment from a public relations standpoint. She concluded that the event was one that residents supported and that Council recognized the benefit to the community. Councilwoman Andrea Blustein commented that no one was attempting to do away with food truck Tuesday but stated that she was in favor of establishing a budget and instituting a spending cap. She noted that Smyrna was proud of not having to raise taxes and successfully maintaining a balanced budget. Councilmember Blustein stated that Council did not receive adequate information and that their goal is to spend wisely in making this part of the City. She opined that publicity could be great one week and unfavorable another. She made known her desire for the event to become self sufficient. Councilman Welch expressed his opinion that the amount of funds being allocated was a minimal investment in an initiative that contributed to a sense of community. He invited all to attend and formulate their own opinions. Councilman Fennel shared that during the initial discussions he had raised questions which Council continued to work through. He stated that he supported the food trucks as a trendy, cutting edge event that encouraged people to live, work and play in Smyrna. The Councilman remarked that the goal was to be responsible with tax payer dollars. He announced his support of Smyrna's own, nationally recognized Happy Belly Food Truck. The Mayor called for additional comment. There was none. Motion passed 7-0. 7. COMMERCIAL BUILDING PERMITS: The mayor stated that there were none. 8. CONSENT AGENDA: Mr. Taylor read aloud the consent agenda. (A)Approval of September 17, 2012 Mayor and Council Meeting Minutes October 1,2012 5 (B) Approval of Bridal Show Agreement between City of Smyrna and Georgette Lake; authorize Mayor to sign and execute document (C) Approval of FY2012 Final Budget Amendment (D) Approval for use of Council Chambers for informational meeting October 4, 2012 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. regarding charter school amendment (E) Approval of Utility Relocation Agreement between City of Smyrna and Georgia Power for relocation of transmission structure located at Wells Fargo corner on Concord Road and authorize Mayor to sign and execute document (F) Approval of various easements for Georgia Power to place distribution lines along city-owned parcels on Concord Road and Mayor to sign and execute documents (G) Approval for Octoberfest date change to Oct. 27-28, 2012 during Fall Festival weekend MOTION: Councilwoman Pritchett moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Motion was seconded by Councilman Fennel and approved 7-0. 9. COMMITTEE REPORTS: Councilwoman Pritchett announced an upcoming educational roundtable to discuss the charter school amendment, education and vision for city. The Councilwoman commented on the importance of perception and reputation. She noted that the City did not have sole purview over the schools and mentioned the trend of people moving out of Smyrna to pursue their children's education elsewhere. Councilmember Pritchett stated that the amendment was designed to offer additional options and that legislators would be on hand at the roundtable for a question and answer session. She encouraged all to attend and educate themselves on the issue. Councilwoman Blustein yielded with no report. Councilwoman Anulewicz stated that she was pleased the food truck event was continuing. She observed that among the attributes that made it special was the extent of interdepartmental cooperation that took place. She acknowledged that there were some challenges that had become apparent but that the event had gone smoothly considering its magnitude. She announced her fifth Monday meeting to be held on October 29`x' and made known the time and location. Councilman Welch yielded with no report Councilwoman Wilkinson announced the upcoming movie night at Taylor Brawner Park that would feature the original Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory movie. She encouraged residents with younger children to attend the Casper's Castle event at the community center. Councilman Lnenicka thanked the residents and staff that had participated in the Concord Rd. project informational meeting. He noted that the large turnout indicated the necessity of hosting the event. The October 1,2012 6 Councilman expressed his gratitude to the residents of Vintage Square for inviting him to their meeting. He stated that he was looking forward to attending the upcoming Westchester Commons gathering. Councilman Fennel thanked all those who came out for the fire station grand opening. He noted the Mayor and Council that had attended and expressed his appreciation for the team of professionals that had hosted the kick off. The Councilman shared that the Chamber and SBA had recently recognized public safety personnel and announced that Smyrna's new 911 center was now operational. Councilman Fennel expressed the need for the business community to possess a better understanding of what was being done for the community and shared the upcoming SBA forum featuring State Senate candidates Doug Stoner and Hunter Hill. The Councilman encouraged all to express their gratitude to public safety officers in their community. There were no further reports 10. SHOW CAUSE HEARINGS: Mayor Bacon stated that there were none. 11. CITIZEN INPUT: Rhonda Gatch and Kimberly Cochran of 155 Concord announced that they were involved in hosting, in cooperation with Brighter Georgia Education Coalition, the upcoming forum mentioned by Councilwoman Pritchett. They stated their appreciation for Council's commitment to education and their belief that every city benefited from quality schools. As coordinators of Smyrna's education roundtable they shared their excitement at bringing a non-partisan, non-political forum to the citizens of Smyrna. Alex Backry of 3459 Shawnee Trail commented on the Concord Rd. informational meeting held the week prior. He mentioned Councilman Lnenicka assuming responsibility in his response to inquiries about the lack of town hall meetings. Mr. Backry opined that the entire Council, both current and previous, was to be held accountable for the lack of meetings and not solely Councilman Lnenicka. He questioned why the Mayor was in attendance but did not speak. Mr. Backry opined that for a one mile, 20 million dollar renovation town hall meetings should have been held sooner. He announced a citizen's discussion group he was hosting later that week and provided details. Mr. Backry requested that Council not attend. Howard Martin of 3435 Lee St. shared that he had been in city for 48 years and expressed his opinion that more town halls and citizen input should have been included during the Concord Rd. project planning. He asked that Council consider the significant negative impact to businesses and residents of the approved design. Mr. Martin commented on the Food Truck event, explaining that the traffic and parking in the surrounding neighborhoods was a hardship. He stated that he was in favor of local businesses and commented on the U turns proposed for the Concord Rd. project. Leo Smith, residing at 1116 Drewberry Ct., encouraged all to attend the educational forum. He shared that he was a contributing writer on the Patch and advocate for educational issues. Mr. Smith expressed his pleasure at being part of a community with an engaged Council and encouraged citizens to take advantage of growing interest on the charter school amendment topic and learn more directly from the legislators. 7 October 1,2012 Mayor Bacon observed that Councilman Lnenicka had conducted an excellent forum and that he was entitled to express his opinions on the matter regardless which other member of the City chose to speak. The Mayor noted that it was one of the largest forums he had seen. Without any further business, Mayor Bacon declared the meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. .44friain, & c41,4;6ti A. MAX BACON, MAYOR SUSAN D. HIOTT, CITY CLERK )1-. -2. . • -��i / ' � A t,, ,-t,�. EL NT RITCH TT, WARD 1 ANDREA BLUSTEIN, WARD 2 f It a - ti,f LIJ-, TE I ANULEWICZ, WARD 3 CHARLES A.WELCH, WARD 4 - ,.. &ace/LA/ i fialW-P.--- Z./ / ifi -. SUSAN WILKINSON, WARD 5 WA Iry S. 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