October 20, 1997 Council Meeting
October 20. 1997
The regular scheduled meeting of Mayor and Council was held at Smyrna City Hall. The meeting was called
to order by presiding officer Mayor A. Max Bacon at 7:30 o'clock p.m. All council members were present
with Mr. Newcomb arriving late due to a work conflict. Also present was City Administrator Howard Smith,
City Clerk Melinda Dameron, City Attorney Charles E. Camp, Fire Chief Larry Williams, Public Works
Director Scott Stokes, Police Chief Stan Hook, Library Director Michael Seigler, Parks and Recreation
Director Steve Ciaccio, Clean and Beautiful Coordinator Ann Kirk, Human Resources Director Mary Ann
White, City Engineer Ken Hildebrandt, Chief Building Official Robin Broyles, Community Relations Director
Maryclaire Andres, and representatives of the press.
Invocation was given by Reverend John Hearst, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, followed by the pledge to the flag.
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CITIZENS INPUT:
Mayor Bacon recognized Sue Brissey. Ms. Brissey stated Smyrna Clean and Beautiful would like to present
an award to AI Cochran, Chuck Camp and Kate Morris for Image Enhancement at their office location.
Mayor Bacon recognized Mary Ann White who recognized "STAR Fundraisers" Melisa Singley and Greg Van
Antwerp. Ms. Singley accepted her award and Ms. White stated she would present Mr. Van Antwerp with
his award tomorrow. Ms. White stated several employees had worked very diligently to raise funds for the
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Awareness Program. Ms. White thanked all the employees for their
participation in the program.
Ms. White recognized the STAR Employee of the Month, Ms. Tonda Morris, Children's Librarian. Ms.
Morris was presented with a plaque commemorating this achievement as well as a gift certificate and was
given a day off from work. Mr. Seigler commended Ms. Morris for the excellent job she has done as the
Children's Librarian.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Councilman Hawkins asked that Item (J) be heard as the first item on the agenda. See narrative below.
(J)
Rezoning Request - 3670 King Springs Road - Rezone 22.38 Acres from R-15, Single Family
Residential to RAD Conditional, Single Family Residential
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Mr. Smith stated the applicant, Russell Barnett of Graystone, Inc., is proposing to develop this site and the
request before the city indicates a 140-10t subdivision. Mr. Smith stated this may be revised hut that plan was
presented to the Planning and Zoning Board for their review. He stated the density requested on the original
plan was 6.25 units per acre. Mr. Smith stated alternative plans have been submitted tonight. Mayor Bacon
asked Mr. Barnett to step forward. Mayor Bacon stated this is a public hearing and asked if anyone was
present in opposition to the granting of this rezoning request. Mayor Bacon asked those in opposition to come
forward and he sworn in. City Attorney Chuck Camp administered the oath to those wishing to speak to this
Issue.
Councilman Hawkins stated the reason he requested this item be moved to the first of the agenda is due to the
large number of people present for this hearing. Mr. Hawkins asked Mr. Barnett to report on the progress
of his proposed project and briefly describe what he plans to do at this location. Mr. Barnett stated the original
plans for this project included 140 units, single-family homes. Mr. Barnett stated they revised the plan after
the Planning and Zoning Board meeting and have met since that time with the surrounding neighbors as well
as King Springs Baptist Church located near the property. He stated he felt that most of the issues had been
resolved but have come to realize in the last few days that there is still some opposition to the project. Mr.
Barnett stated he would like to request that this issue be tabled until the December 1, 1997, council meeting.
He stated tabling this issue would allow them to go back to the neighborhood and resolve the two main
remaining issues - access to the project and lot sizes. Councilman Hawkins stated he has discussed this with
the City Attorney and been advised that in the future anyone making a substantial change in their plans must
take the plans back before the Planning and Zoning Board. Mr. Hawkins stated he would like to move that
.... the rezoning request at 3670 King Springs Road to rezone 22.38 acres from R-15 Single Family Residential
to RAD Conditional, Single Family Residential, be tabled until December 1, 1997. He stated this will allow
the developer ample time to file that plan, re-advertise the plan, and bring it back to the Planning and Zoning
Board. Mr. Hawkins further stated Mr. Barnett has indicated to him that the lot sizes can be increased, the
price of the homes increased and a lot of concessions could be worked out. Mr. Hawkins stated he wanted
to be sure that when the plan is re-drawn, it will be substantially different from what the first plan the P&Z
Board voted 7-0 to deny. Mayor Bacon stated that before a second on the motion is accepted, he wanted to
allow anyone present an opportunity to comment on the issue.
October 20, 1997, meeting - continued
Mayor Bacon recognized Roy Swain, Kingsview Drive. Mr. Swain stated he did not trust Mr. Barnett and
feels he is insulting the City of Smyrna. He stated he was concerned the homes would be shanty-type homes
and his neighborhood did not want that type home in their area. He further stated they wanted the same types
homes that are being built on Creatwood, South Cobb Drive/Cooper Lake Road. He stated he has lived in
Smyrna for twenty years and does not want to move out of the city. He stated he would like to see his area
of Smyrna upgraded and urged the city not to approve this request.
Mayor Bacon stated the city has worked with Mr. Barnett and would not characterize him as a "shyster" and
further stated Mr. Barnett has been very open with the city. Mayor Bacon stated the city has told Mr. Barnett
what the city feels will work in that area and what will not work and have come a long way. He further stated
obviously the city and Mr. Barnett are not where they should be at this point in time, but reassured the citizens ......
the city was not going to allow any development in Smyrna that would hurt the city, homeowners, churches
nor the community. Mayor Bacon stated he feels Mr. Barnett is requesting an opportunity to go back to the
drawing table and propose something that will be acceptable.
Mayor Bacon recognized Watson Petty, 3713 King Springs Road. Mr. Petty stated on the original plan there
were 140 houses with a heated floor space of 1200 square feet. He then stated on the revised plan shows 77
houses with a heated floor space of 1000 square feet. He stated the plan deducted four acres for commercial
lots. He stated he was concerned about the revised edition of the plan.
Mayor Bacon recognized AI Graves, 1079 Pinehurst Drive. Mr. Graves stated he was not present to reflect
on the number of families and the houses but he was concerned about the traffic. He stated King Springs Road
has become a major thoroughfare and stated he had come before council in the past and requested a traffic
signal at McCauley Road and Concord Road. He stated his request at that time was primarily a safety concern
but now feels if the land is developed, the issue will be one of increased traffic. He further stated he did not
feel the road could support the increased traffic and feels if a traffic signal is installed at the intersection of
McCauley and Concord Road, some of the residents could use it as an access out of their neighborhood and
stop using King Springs Road. Mr. Graves asked the Mayor and Council to consider the installation of the
traffic signal at this location prior to approving this request. Mr. Hawkins stated he has addressed the issue
of the traffic signal on several occasions and has been advised by the city's engineering department that this
would add to the problem of traffic on Concord Road. Mr. Hawkins stated he would resubmit the reqnest
for a traffic signal and arrange for the City Engineer to meet with Mr. Graves to discuss the findings of that
study. ....,
Councilman Hawkins recognized June Nethery Brazil, 3589 King Springs Road. Ms. Brazil indicated the
driveway is at the bottom of the hill coming over King Springs Road. She then stated it is virtually impossible
to back out of the driveway at 3589 King Springs Road. She proposed that some type driveway be poured
from Hayes Drive, regardless of what goes in on King Springs Road. She stated this is a dangerous location.
Mayor Bacon stated one of the main issues in the discussions with Mr. Barnett and Mr. Hawkins has been a
curb cut on King Springs Road.
Mayor Bacon recognized Gina Fite, King Springs Road. Ms. Fite asked the developers not to mess up King
Springs Road anymore because they have a nice neighborhood and there is traffic that is tolerable now on the
road. She stated if a development is put on King Springs Road she encouraged them not to talk about putting
one hundred houses there and if they are building cluster homes she felt they would be future slums. She
stated she did not think those were the types of homes that people buy and stay there for twenty years. She
stated if a very nice neighborhood was proposed for that location, the neighbors would probably be in favor
of it.
Mayor Bacon recognized Bill Bailey, 4021 Bennell Court, who asked the city to consider, not only in this
situation but also future situations, the school systems.
Councilman Hawkins stated he would like to make a few comments regarding this rezoning request. Mr.
Hawkins stated there is some perception in the community that he is in favor of this development. Mr.
Hawkins further stated he has been neutral on this issue since the beginning and has tried to negotiate to get
the very best development for the property. He stated this has been a long process beginning a couple of .....
months ago. He stated he was first approached about the possibility of putting town homes on the property
an d stated he refused to meet with anyone to discuss that possibility. He stated he felt it was his responsibility
as an elected official to meet with anyone requesting an opportunity to discuss a proposed development for the
Ward he represents. He stated he has encouraged Mr. Barnett to improve his plan and Mr. Barnett has done
that. He further stated he has not told nor will he tell Mr. Barnett that he will support his plan or make a
motion to approve the plan. He stated the original builder pulled out of the development because he felt Mr.
Barnett was going too high on his standards. Councilman Hawkins stated Mr. Barnett is now without a builder
but wants to pursue the rezoning with the stipulations put in there and then those stipulations would have to be
October 20, 1997, meetinl! - continued
met. He further stated Mr. Barnett, after meeting with the citizens, realized his plan was not good enough.
Mr. Hawkins stated he had told Mr. Barnett he needs to go back through the original process and the zoning
board as if it were a brand new zoning. Mr. Hawkins stated he is trying to work with Mr. Barnett as much
as he can because he feels it is important that a quality development is planned for that area. Mr. Hawkins
stated he is neutral on the project and will remain neutral. He further stated he had not met Mr. Barnett until
several months ago but feels he is a fine and honorable individual.
Councilman Hawkins made a motion that the rezoning request for 3670 King Springs Road be tabled until
December 1, 1997. Councilman Scoggins seconded the motion. Motion was approved 6-0 (Mr. Newcomb
was absent).
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(A) Variance Request - 1761 Mackinaw Place - Reduce side Yard Setback from 23.3. Feet to 20 Feet
Mr. Smith stated Items (A) and (B) are for the same property. Mr. Smith stated the applicant, Edward
Winfrey, is requesting the variances to allow him to build a garage that will enable him to store and work on
his five cars. Mr. Smith stated Mr. Winfrey is requesting to build a 576 square foot garage and that exceeds
the allowed square footage according to the ordinance. He further stated Mr. Winfrey's garage will have vinyl
siding to match the exterior of his home, a concrete driveway with a turnaround. Mayor Bacon stated this is
a public hearing and asked if anyone was present in opposition to the granting of this variance request. Mayor
Bacon asked those wishing to address this issue be sworn in. City Attorney Chuck Camp administered the
oath. Mayor Bacon recognized Mr. Winfrey and asked him to come forward.
Councilman Lnenicka asked Mr. Winfrey to explain why the variances are being requested. Mr. Winfrey
stated the building line is right next to his home and there is no other place he could build a garage. He further
stated he needs a double garage for storage. He stated he has five cars and he is not allowed by city ordinance
to park the cars in the yard and he does not want to park them on the street. He stated he needs a place to park
the cars and that is why he wants to build a double garage. He further stated he has a camper top to go on his
truck and the garage would allow him to get it out of the yard. He stated the double garage will go over the
building line. Councilman Lnenicka stated the ordinance requires that a separate building or an accessory
building can be no larger than 25% of the main building. Mr. Lnenicka asked Mr. Winfrey to explain why
the garage could not be built in the back yard. Mr. Winfrey stated behind his house there was quite a drop
which has been filled in and a rock wall was built behind the house before he purchased the home. He further
... stated the wall is right on the line and there would be no room between the house and the edge of the lot behind
the house to build a double garage. Mr. Winfrey stated he did not want to put the garage right next to his
house because there are several large trees that he wants to keep. Mr. Lnenicka asked Mr. Winfrey if this
building will be an improvement to the property and Mr. Winfrey responded it would. Mr. Lnenicka asked
Mr. Winfrey if he plalllled to do any commercial work on repairing cars for other people in this garage and
Mr. Winfrey responded he did not. Mr. Lnenicka asked if the exterior of the building will be vinyl siding to
match the aluminum siding on the house and Mr. Winfrey responded that was correct. Mr. Hawkins stated
the necessary notification to the adjoining neighbors was in the packet and there were no objections from those
neighbors.
Councilman Lnenicka asked Mrs. Brissey to come forward. Mrs. Brissey stated her only concern is whether
or not commercial repair work will be done in Mr. Winfrey's garage. Mayor Bacon asked Mr. Winfrey if
these vehicles are his personal cars and he responded they are. Mr. Winfrey stated he would not do
commercial repairs.
Councilman Lnenicka stated Mr. Winfrey currently parks two of his cars at his daughter's home and would
like to park them at his property.
Councilman Lnenicka made a motion the variance request at 1761 Mackinaw Place to reduce the side yard
setback from 23.3 feet to 20 feet be approved. Councilman Cramer seconded the motion. Motion was
approved 6-0 (Mr. Newcomb was absent).
(B) Variance Request - 1761 Mackinaw Place - To Build an Oversized Accessory Structure
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See narrative above. Councilman Lnenicka made a motion the variance request at 1761 Mackinaw Place to
build an oversized accessory structure be approved. Councilman Cramer seconded the motion. Motion was
approved 6-0 (Mr. Newcomb was absent).
(C) Rezoning Request - 900 Windy Hill Road - Rezone .81 Acres (Corner of Windy Hill Road and Ward
Street) From N.S. (Neighborhood Shopping) to G.c. (General Commercial) and Land Use change
from Neighborhood Activity Center to Community Center and Land Use Change - From
Neighborhood Activity Center to Community Center
October 20, 1997, meeting - continued
Mr. Smith stated this request is from Gordy Tire Company who want to relocate to this site from South Cobb
Drive. Mr. Smith further stated they are also asking for a Land Use Change in order to build an automotive
repair shop and tire sales center at 900 Windy Hill Road.
Mayor Bacon asked the applicants to come forward. Mayor Bacon stated this is a public hearing and asked
if anyone was present in opposition to the granting of this rezoning and Land Use Change request. There was
none.
Councilman Cramer asked Mr. George Bartelme to briefly describe what they plan to do at this location. Mr.
Bartelme stated he is representing the applicants Melvin Vukas and Brad Kacher and Tenneco Oil Company,
the owner of the property. Mr. Bartelme stated they are requesting a change in the zoning for the purpose of
constructing an automobile tire and repair center. He stated the property is located at the southwest corner
of Windy Hill Road and Ward Street. He stated the property adjoining the subject property to the west is the
Post Office and immediately east and across Ward Street are the E-Z Serve and McDonald's, both of which
are zoned General Commercial. He further stated across Windy Hill Road is the Tenneco station and Oga' s
Restaurant which are also zoned General Commercial. Mr. Bartelme further stated Mr. Vukas and Mr.
Kacher have operated the Gordy Tire Store in its present location in Smyrna for over fifteen years. He stated
they desire to build a new state-of-the art service center that will be approximately 8,000 square feet and have
eight bays, a reception and office area. He stated it will be constructed of decorative split-face block that will
blend with the surrounding buildings and the planned landscaping will be very attractive and also blend with
the surrounding property. Mr. Bartelme presented the Mayor and Council with pictures of state-of-the art
buildings similar to what they are proposing. Mr. Bartelme explained they will be using the split face blocks
because they present a very clean service center, very nice looking building that they feel will be appropriate
for the area.
Councilman Cramer asked about outside storage. Mr. Bartelme responded there will be no outside storage
and they plan to build a block wall with a gate and have everything inside but may store tires near the wall.
Me. Bartelme stated this area will be back toward the parking lot of the Post Office. Mr. Cramer asked if
that is where they plan to store tires and Mr. Bartelrne responded that was correct. Mr. Cramer asked if there
would be much overnight parking. Mr. Bartelme stated there is plenty of parking in the back of the building
and with eight bays, they hope to get as many cars inside as possible. Councilman Cramer asked if they were
going to try to save some of the trees on the property and Mr. Bartelme responded they will save as many of
the trees as possible. Mr. Cramer asked if the repairs performed at that location will be basically brake work
and tires - light auto repair. Mr. Bartelme responded that was correct. Mr. Bartelme stated they will be
moving from their South Cobb Drive location and will lease that building to a transmission repair business.
Mr. Smith encouraged Mr. Bartelme to nicely landscape the area, as it is an entranceway to Campbell High
School. Councilman Wood asked if there will be an entrance off both Ward Street and Windy Hill Road. Mr.
Bartelme responded there will be a right-in/right-out on Windy Hill Road and an entrance off Ward Street.
Councilman Lnenicka asked about the type and location of signage on the property. Mr. Vukas responded
they will comply with whatever the codes require. Mr. Lnenicka asked Mr. Vukas to consider using a
monument-style sign, indirectly lit and tastefully done. Mr. Vukas stated he did not think that would be a
problem and stated again they have been in Smyrna fifteen years and have been good citizens. He further
stated they plan to have the nicest building on that street.
Councilman Cramer stated for the record that there will only be right-in/right-out off Windy Hill Road to
accommodate the traffic and this was approved 7-0 by the Plalming and Zoning Board. Councilman Lnenicka
commented he felt if Mr. Bartelme came back for a variance to reduce the number of parking spaces in order
to accommodate additional landscaping, he would support that request.
Councilman Cramer made a motion that the property at 900 Windy Hill Road (.81 acres) be rezoned from
Neighborhood Shopping to General Commercial with the following stipulations:
1.
Reversionary clause. If the construction is not started within one year, the zoning will revert to
Neighborhood Shopping.
Landscaping and a buffer zone
Outside storage will be blocked and in the rear parking lot (off Ward Street). Outside parking in the
front will be minimized to make the area more attractive.
Letter will be obtained from the Environmental Protection Department stating the property is clean
2.
3.
4.
Councilman Wood seconded the motion. Motion was approved 7-0.
Councilman Cramer made a motion to change the Land Use Plan for 900 Windy Hill Road from
Neighborhood Activity Center to Community Center. Councilman Hawkins seconded the motion. Motion
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October 20_ 1997_ meeting - continued
was approved 7-0.
(D) Ordinance Amendment - Remove Section 712.34 - First Reading
Mr. Smith stated the city is in the process of proposing a special land use section that will address television,
communication, radio transmission towers and this amendment will remove the section of the code that deals
with it (Section 712.34). This will also allow the city to propose a new zoning category at a later time. Mayor
Bacon asked if anyone present would like to comment on the proposed ordinance amendment. There was no
comment.
... Councilman Scoggins stated this is for the removal of an ordinance section and then add the new section
501.16. He stated this is a first reading of the ordinance and requires no action at this time.
(E) Ordinance Amendment - Addition of Section 501.16 - Special Land Use Standards for Television,
Land Mobile, Communication, Microwave and Radio Transmission Antennae and Towers - First
Reading
Councilman Scoggins stated this is the new ordinance that will replace the removed section of the ordinance
discussed above. Councilman Scoggins stated this is a four-page document and will be on file in the office of
the City Clerk should anyone want to review it. Councilman Scoggins stated this is the first reading and no
action is required at this time. Mayor Bacon asked if anyone would like to comment on this proposed
ordinance amendment. There was no comment.
(F) Annexation of Unincorporated Island (#43) - Old Concord Road
Mr. Smith stated this annexation is being done under the Island Annexation law. Mr. Smith stated this
particular island contains 5.34 acres and sixty-two individual parcels on Old Concord Road. Mr. Smith stated
notices of the annexation have been mailed to the owners of record according to the tax records of Cobb
County and when the allllexation is approved, will become effective November 1, 1997. Mayor Bacon stated
this is a public hearing and asked if anyone was present who wished to comment on this annexation. There
was no comment.
_ Councilman Cramer made a motion that the property identified as Island #43, Land Lot 342, Parcels 3, 12
and 15, 5.3 acres (two parcels on Old Concord Road) be annexed to become a part of Ward 5 effective
November 1, 1997. Councilman Hawkins seconded the motion. Motion was approved 7-0.
(G) Annexation of Unincorporated Island (#41) - Church Road and Old Concord Road
Mr. Smith stated this annexation is also being done under the Island Annexation law. Mr. Smith stated this
island contains 8 acres consisting of eleven individual parcels on Church Road and Old Concord Road. Mr.
Smith stated notices have been mailed to the owners of record according to the Cobb County tax records. Mr.
Smith stated this annexation when approved will become effective November 1, 1997. Mayor Bacon stated
this is a public hearing and asked if anyone was present who wished to address this annexation. There was
no comment.
Councilman Cramer made a motion that Island #41, consisting of 8 acres in Land Lot 308, Parcels 2, 4, 5,
and 8; Land Lot 341, Parcels 49, 4, 6, 48, Land Lot 342, Parcels 5, 6, 7 and 8, be annexed to become a part
of Ward 5 with an effective date of November 1, 1997. Councilman Newcomb seconded the motion. Motion
was approved 7-0.
(H) Annexation of Unincorporated Island (29) - Church Road, South Cobb Drive and Ask-Kay Drive
Mr. Smith stated this island contains 16.65 acres consisting of five individual parcels on Church Road, South
Cobb Drive and Ask-Kay Drive. Mr. Smith stated notices have been mailed to the owners of record according
to the Cobb County tax records. Mr. Smith stated the annexation will become effective November 1, 1997.
... Mayor Bacon stated this is a public hearing and asked if anyone was present who wished to address this issue.
There was none.
Councilman Cramer made a motion that Island #29, consisting of five parcels on Church Road, South Cobb
Drive and Ask-Kay Drive, containing 16.65 acres in Land Lot 379, Parcels 3, 4, 16, 7, 9; Land Lot 380,
Parcel 18 be annexed'into the city and become a part of Ward 5 effective November 1,1997. Councilman
Newcomb seconded the motion. Motion was approved 7-0.
October 20, 1997. meeting - continued
(I) Annexation of Unincorporated Island (#27) Turner Drive, Woodland Trail and Belmont Circle
Mr. Smith stated this island contains 14.7 acres and consists of 30 individual parcels on Turner Drive,
Woodland Trail and Belmont Circle. Mr. Smith stated there is an issue concerning notification of the owners
of record.
Councilman Cramer stated there were one or two residents who were not notified by mail of this annexation
hearing. Mayor Bacon stated this is a public hearing and the item will be tabled. Mayor Bacon asked if
anyone was present who wished to address this issue. Councilman Cramer made a motion that the annexation
of Island #27 be tabled until the November 17, 1997, council meeting. Councilman Newcomb seconded the
motion. Motion was approved 7-0.
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Mayor Bacon recognized Mike Johnson, 939 Turner Drive, who asked if the residents of Island #27 would
be on the city sewer system. Councilman Cramer stated the homes would be on the sewer system if that was
possible. Councilman Cramer stated he would be happy to meet with any of the residents present who wished
to discuss this pending annexation.
FORMAL BUSINESS:
(A) Bid Opening (Bid 97045) - Concrete Work at Church Street Center
Mayor Bacon asked if there were any bids in the audience. There were none. The bids were opened and read
as follows:
Newnan/Atlanta Group, Inc.
Capricorn Construction
$28,900
$98,900
Councilman Hawkins made a motion the bids be turned over to the Parks and Recreation Department for their
review with a recommendation brought back before council at the next meeting. Councilman Wood seconded
the motion. Motion was approved 6-0 (Mr. Cramer was absent during the vote).
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(B) Appointment to Parks and Recreation Commission - Ward 4
Councilman Hawkins stated Debra Clayton, the Ward 4 representative for Ward 4, has resigned effective
November 1, 1997, and will be moving into Ward 7. Councilman Hawkins made a motion that Howard
"Red" Martin, Jr., 3435 Lee Street, be approved to serve as the Ward 4 representative on the Parks and
Recreation Commission. Councilman Lnenicka seconded the motion. Motion was approved 6-0 (Mr. Cramer
was absent during the vote).
(C) Appointment to Senior Advisory Council - Ward 1
Councilwoman Capilouto stated the Ward 1 appointees to the Senior Advisory Council, Mr. and Mrs.
Hillhouse have moved away from Smyrna. Ms. Capilouto appointed Fred and Faye Pittman, 2489 Rolling
View Drive, to serve as the Ward 1 appointees on the Senior Advisory Council. Councilman Newcomb
seconded the motion. Motion was approved 6-0 (Mr. Cramer was absent during the vote).
(D) Bid Opening (Bid #97048) - King Valley Road Tract Water Main Extension
Mayor Bacon asked if there were any bids in the audience. There were none. The bids were opened and read
as follows:
Ardito Ditching and Pipeline
$9,300
Councilman Lnenicka stated this may be the last bid to be opened in a public hearing. He further stated the
Finance and Administration Committee will be meeting with the new Purchasing Agent, Joe Davis, this week
and shortly hereafter the bids will be handled through the Purchasing Department. Councilman Scoggins made
a motion the bids be turned over to the Public Works Department for their review with a recommendation
brought back before council at the next meeting. Councilman Wood seconded the motion. Motion was
approved 6-0 (Mr. Cramer was absent during the vote).
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COMMERCIAL BUILDING PERMITS:
October 20, 1997, meeting. - continued
There were none.
BID AWARDS:
(A) Bid Award (Bid 97038) - Pick Up Truck for Community Development Department
Councilman Scoggins made a motion the bid be awarded to the low bidder meeting specifications, South Lake
Ford, for a total delivered price of $15,200. Councilman Hawkins seconded the motion. Motion was
approved 6-0 (Mr. Cramer was absent during the vote).
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(B)
Bid Award (Bid 97040) - Soil Shredder for Parks and Recreation Department
Councilman Scoggins made a motion the bid be awarded to Sand Science, Inc., sole bidder meeting
specifications for a total price of $17,890. Councilman Hawkins seconded the motion. Motion was approved
6-0 (Mr. Cramer was absent during the vote).
(C) Bid Award (Bid 97041) - Water Main Replacement (Sharon Circle)
Councilman Hawkins made a motion the bid be awarded to the low bidder meeting specifications, Ardito
Ditching and Pipeline for a total of $29,900. Councilman Lnenicka seconded the motion. Motion was
approved 6-0 (Mr. Cramer was absent during the vote).
(D) Bid Award (Bid 97(42) - Water Main Replacement (Wayland Court and Frances Drive)
Councilman Hawkins made a motion the bid be awarded to the low bidder meeting specifications, Ardito
Ditching and Pipeline, for a total delivered price of $42,893. Councilman Lnenicka seconded the motion.
Motion was approved 6-0 (Mr. Cramer was absent during the vote).
(E) Bid Award (Bid 97(43) - Water Main Extension (Old Concord Road)
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Councilman Hawkins made a motion the bid be awarded to the low bidder meeting specifications, Ardito
Ditching and Pipeline, for a total of $19,600. Councilman Lnenicka seconded the motion. Motion was
approved 6-0 (Mr. Cramer was absent during the vote).
(F) Bid Award (Bid 97044) Tennis Court Resurfacing - Tolleson Park
Councilman Scoggins made a motion the bid be awarded to the low bidder meeting specifications, Court
Makers, for a total of $8,950. Councilman Hawkins seconded the motion. Motion was approved 6-0 (Mr.
Cramer was absent during the vote).
(G) Bid Award (Bid 97046) Trailer Mounted Sewer Jet Cleaner
Councilman Hawkins made a motion the bid be awarded to the low bidder meeting specifications, Sewer
Equipment Company of America, for a total price of $30,622. Councilman Lnenicka seconded the motion.
Motion was approved 6-0 (Mr. Cramer was absent during the vote).
CONSENT AGENDA:
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(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
(E)
(F)
(G)
Approval of October 6, 1997, Minutes
Approval to Install a 4-Way Stop Sign at Intersection of Bank Street and Parkwood Road
Approval to Request Bids - Copier for Fire Department
Approval to Request Bids for Pavement Markings - Public Works Department
Budget Amendment - FY98 One Percent Road Improvement Budget
Approval to Advertise Ordinance Amendment to chapter 50 - Fire Prevention Code
Approval to Request Bids for Asbestos Removal- Old City Hall and Police Station**
Councilman Scoggins made a motion the consent agenda be approved. Councilman Hawkins seconded the
motion. Motion was approved 6-0 (Mr. Cramer was absent during the vote).
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Councilman Wood asked Michael Seigler for a report on the Library. Mr. Seigler reported there were 12,074
items circulated during the previous month and over 14,000 patrons visit the library. He stated the Inter Net
growth has been tremendous over the past year. Mr. Seigler expressed special thanks to Elizabeth
October 20, 1997, meeting - continued
Reichenberg for her help in organizing a Book Fair during the Jonquil Festival. Mr. Seigler further stated the
book fair sold over $1500 worth of books. Mr. Seigler invited everyone to see the display in the art gallery
by Nettie Wells Jones who lived in Smyrna during the turn of the century and the Wood Turners of America
have eighteen different items on display. Mr. Wood thanked Mr. Seigler and his staff for the excellent job
they do at the Library and again congratulated Tonda Morris for her work as the Children's Librarian.
Councilman Wood asked Mary Ann White for a report on the Human Resources Department. Ms. White
announced the job opening for the city - Laborer II for the Public Works Department - Water/Sewer Division,
with a closing date of September 24, 1997.
Councilman Lnenicka stated the city has been told we will receive a good audit and a more detailed report will
be available later.
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Councilman Lnenicka reminded everyone that the Marietta-Cobb County Water Authority that their long-term
plan calls for price increases either every year or every other year for another five to six years. He stated the
increase will be 2% for water rates and 4% for sewer rates effective January 1, 1998. He further stated he
expects this council to have to pass this increase through to the city's citizens.
Councilman Lnenicka reported the city has been notified by Moody's Investors Services that the city's rating
has been increased to a "Aa3" which represents the confidence of the investor community in the financial
performance and future of the city. Mr. Lnenicka expressed his appreciation to Finance Director Claudia
Edgar for her work that has helped make this increased rating possible. He also expressed his appreciation
to all the Department Heads for their prudent management of their budgets.
Councilman Cramer asked Ann Kirk for a report on Smyrna Clean and Beautiful. Ms. Kirk thanked all the
volunteers for their participation last weekend's Adopt-A-Mile pickup. Ms. Kirk reported on the recycling
efforts for the month of September. Ms. Kirk stated the city had 75% participation and the city picked up
109.32 tons saving the city $3,252 in tipping fees. Ms. Kirk stated the citizens have saved the city, to-date,
and $9,948 during this fiscal year in tipping fees and encouraged them to keep up the good work. Ms. Kirk
stated the jonquils were sold out at the Jonquil Festival but hope to get another shipment this coming weekend.
Ms. Kirk reported there are still available at Burger's Market, Reeves' Garden Shop and the Smyrna
Museum. Ms. Kirk reported new ordinance digests were mailed out in the recent water bill. Ms. Kirk
announced America's first-ever Recycles Day is scheduled for November 15, 1997. Ms. Kirk announced that
Smyrna Clean and Beautiful was awarded second place in the United States for our population category as a
"Keep America Beautiful System" an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful. She stated the city won this award
previously in 1989 and is quite an honor. Ms. Kirk also reported that the Chairman of the Keep America
Beautiful, Frank Adams, received the honor of being a Chairman of Excellence.
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Councilman Cramer asked Maryclaire Andres for a report on the Community Relations Department. Ms.
Andres reported the Jonquil Fall Festival was very successful and received a lot of good publicity through the
Marietta Daily Journal. Ms. Andres reported approximately 10,000 people visited the festival. Ms. Andres
expressed special thanks to Rich and Barbara Hellmann for their assistance with the festival. Ms. Andres
reported on Kids Day at Cobb Park scheduled for November 1, 1997, from 1 - 4 p.m. She stated it is in
honor of the dedication of the new playground equipment. Ms. Andres stated she had done an exhibit at the
Atlanta Regional Commission this past week and the event was very successful.
Councilman Hawkins asked Scott Stokes for a report on the Public Works Department. Mr. Stokes gave an
update on current projects. He reported the curb and gutter project on Mann Street is complete; the McLinden
Avenue curb and gutter project has begun and should be finished within the next few weeks; November 3 the
sidewalk projects will begin with the first area being from Vineyard Way to Old Concord Road, down Powder
Springs Road; water main projects - Balmoral Drive is complete and operational; Lochlomand Road water
main was started today and some taps were made to begin construction and should be finished in about two
weeks; the leaf vacuum program began October 6. Councilman Hawkins asked Mr. Stokes for an update on
a request from the homeowners in the Village Green area regarding garbage pickup. Mr. Stokes reported the
sanitation pickup for those residents will be from the rear instead of the front of the residences. Mr. Hawkins
further stated some of the residents had expressed concerns that the sanitation trucks were too heavy for the
street that goes behind those homes. Mr. Stokes responded the city did not think the truck was too heavy, as
that was the first route for that particular truck so the truck is not full when it starts that route. Mr. Stokes
indicated the residents had been told if the city truck begins to cause damage to the rear entry, the city will re-
route the truck or go to another alternative method of collecting garbage. He stated they might have to pick
up at the three entrances to the complex. Mr. Stokes reminded the residents there is some mulch available
for city residents. He further stated the EP A had notified the city it had to get rid of 60l]f, of the mulch and
the city has gotten rid of about 90% of the mulch so there is only 10% of the mulch still available. He stated
the city will deliver the mulch to city residents who call the city Public Works Department.
.....,
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October 20. 1997. meeting - continued
Mayor Bacon asked about the request to bid for the removal of asbestos in the old city hall and police station
buildings. Mayor Bacon stated the city had hoped to have the buildings demolished by November 1. He then
stated he would like to allow Mr. Stokes to negotiate with the three vendors identified to get the best price and
report back to the Public Works Committee and move forward instead of waiting until the bids could be opened
at the November 3 meeting.
Councilman Hawkins made a motion to suspend the rules for the purpose of removing an item from the
Consent Agenda. Councilman Newcomb seconded the motion. Motion was approved 7-0.
Councilman Hawkins made a motion to remove Item G from the Consent Agenda - Approval to Request Bids
for the Asbestos Removal at the Old City Hall and Police Station. Councilman Newcomb seconded the
motion. Motion was approved 7-0.
**Councilman Hawkins moved that Mr. Stokes be allowed to negotiate for the asbestos removal at those
buildings and report back to the Public Works Committee for their recommendation. Mr. Hawkins further
stated this will allow the city to move forward with the demolition of the buildings. Mr. Stokes was instructed
to report back on the action taken at the next council meeting. Councilman Newcomb seconded the motion.
Motion was approved 7-0.
Councilman Hawkins asked Ken Hildebrandt about the issue of installing a traffic signal on Concord Road at
McCauley Road. Mr. Hawkins asked Mr. Hildebrandt to re-visit that issue and conduct a study to see if a light
is warranted at that location. Mr. Hildebrandt stated there are about eight standard criteria that engineers use
to look at an intersection to see if a signal is warranted. He further stated that is based on accidents, traffic
volume, delay, sight distance, etc. and when the site was studied a few years ago, it did not meet the criteria.
He stated if a signal is installed at that location, it will increase traffic on McCauley Road due to everyone
from the side streets will begin to use that road as an exit onto Concord Road. Mr. Hawkins asked Mr.
Hildebrandt to conduct the study and compile all the data. Councilman Hawkins then stated he will then
contact some of the residents who have approached him about the installation of this signal at this location.
Councilman Scoggins asked Steve Ciaccio for a report on the Parks and Recreation Department. Mr. Ciaccio
reported on statistics for his department. He reported there were 186,600 people who have visited the facility
so far this year which is a 9% increase over 1996; room rental at the center has totaled 1,580 which is a 10%
increase over 1996; the aquatics center hosts 22 classes; 925 water aerobic or therapy classes; 1,627 persons
visited the pool in September; 67% increase over 1996 in the number of persons participating in the Senior
Programs. Mr. Ciaccio reported on the closing of Tolleson Park pool and stated there were 23,990 people
use the pool between May and August. Mr. Ciaccio stated the Halloween Carnival will be at the Community
Center from 6 _ 10 p.m. and the Great Pumpkin Picnic for seniors will be at the Community Center on
Halloween from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Mr. Ciaccio reported that the Facilities Division has done an
excellent job in transforming the open space at Cobb Park into a park for children. He further stated the
playground equipment is primarily for children ages 5 - 12 years old. Mr. Ciaccio reported the Senior
Citizens Health Fair will be Thursday, November 6, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Community Center
and is co-sponsored by the Parks Department and Emory Adventist Hospital. Mr. Ciaccio reported new lights
have been installed at Ward Park for the Varsity Baseball program at Campbell High School; at Jonquil Park
the pool has been converted to an under-six soccer field and lengthening one of the fields to accommodate
twelve-year olds and the concession building at Ward Park has been bricked.
Councilman Newcomb asked Chief Hook for a report on the Police Department. Chief Hook reported the new
jail is full. Councilman Newcomb stated the city is hoping that the cost of feeding the prisoners will be
reduced due to having a full-time cook as opposed to purchasing the food from an outside source and bringing
it in. Chief Hook stated they hope to save 50% on the cost of food and should save substantial money on the
clothing with the washer and dryer that are now at the complex. Councilman Newcomb stated the transition
of the 911 Center has been smooth. Mr. Smith expressed his appreciation to Chief Hook, Robin Broyles and
Scott Stokes for their efforts in planning the move of the police personnel into the new facility. Councilman
Newcomb reported the Police Committee is continuing to look at the issue of jaywalking and have studied the
State law as it pertains to this issue. He further stated they have not come up with a solution to the problem
yet but they are continuing to look at the problem.
Councilman Newcomb reported on the Spring Road widening project. He stated it is frustrating that the
project is not complete and will not be complete for approximately six months. He stated they are about to
enter a three-month period where folks along Beech Valley, Arden Way, Spring Creek Place, Countryside
and County Park will only be allowed to make right-in/right-out turns off Spring Road. He further stated in
about six months that portion will be completed.
October 20, 1997. meeting - continued
Councilwoman Capilouto asked Chief Larry Williams for a report from the Fire Department. Chief Williams
reported October is "Fire Prevention" month. He stated this month was selected as a result of the Great
Chicago Fire. Chief Williams reported the Fire Department has had 2,622 contacts during the month of
October; 569 of those were children going through the Fire Safety House on Atlanta Road. Chief Williams
reported the Fire Department has received a grant from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources
Pollution Prevention Assistance Division. He stated there were three grants available for the State of Georgia
and Smyrna was selected for one of those three. Chief Williams reported the City of Smyrna Fire Department
was the only fire department selected for this grant. He stated the grant is to make the citizens aware of Radon
and there will be a brochure included with the November water bill titled "The Radon Newsletter." He further
stated if a citizen wants to purchase a Radon test kit, the grant will be used to purchase the kit. Chief Williams
stated the city would like a copy of the Radon test results that citizens conduct. Chief Williams reported that
Radon is actually a radioactive gas given off by decaying uranium lying deep in the earth and is the second
leading cause of lung cancer with cigarette smoking being the number one cause.
--
With no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:37 p.m.
~~~
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MELINDA DAMERON, CITY CLERK
A. MAX BACON, MAYOR
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, WARD 1 RON NEWCOMB, WARD 2
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JACK CRAMER, WARD 5
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CHARLES PETE WOOD, ~~
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