07-20-2015 M&C Meeting Minutes - SIGNED - LFCity of Smyrna 2800 King Street
.. City i'
Smyrna, Georgia 30080
Meeting Minutes - Final
City Council
Monday, July 20, 2015 7:30 PM Council Chambers
Roll Call
Present: 7 - Mayor Max Bacon, Mayor pro tem/Councilmember Melleny Pritchett,
Councilmember Andrea Blustein, Councilmember Charles Welch,
Councilmember Susan Wilkinson, Councilmember Wade Lnenicka and
Councilmember Ron Fennel
Absent: 1 - Councilmember Teri Anulewicz
Also Present: 18 - Toni Jo Howard, Ken Suddreth, Scott Cochran, David Lee, Russell Martin,
Eric Randall, Kay Bolick, Terri Graham, Heather Com, Scott Stokes,
Jennifer Bennett, Roy Acres, Mary Moore, Steve Ciaccio, Tammi Saddler
Jones, Ann Kirk, Dat Luu and Amy Snider
Call to Order
Mayor Max Bacon called the July 20, 2015 meeting of the Mayor and Council to order
at 7:30 PM.
Invocation and Pledge:
The invocation was given by Father JoJoe, St. Thomas The Apostle Catholic Church
(4300 King Springs Rd).
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by the Smyrna Little League teams.
2. Agenda Changes:
There were no agenda changes.
Mayor Bacon mentioned that Councilmember Teri Anulewicz was absent and on
vacation.
3. Mayoral Report:
A. Recognize Smyrna Little League All-Star Teams - GA State Champs
The Smyrna Little League All-Star Teams were present and recognized. Both teams
played the State Championship in Warner Robins, Ga. during the weekend of 6/19.
The Rookie Team won the district, sectional and state title.
The Sandlot Team won the sectional and state title.
The manager recognized each of the players by name.
-8u Rookie Team Roster -
Brody Archie
Will Benny
Caden Dawson
Gabriel Hester
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Benjamin Homansky
Brady Hubbell
Alex Johns
Sam Oakley
Cash Peterson
Jackson Ramon
Zayd Rogan
Edward Van Nort
Manager: Brodderick Archie
Coach: Brian Hubbell
Coach: Eric Homansky
Coach: Joe Dawson
-9u Sandlot Roster -
Taylor Craig
Alex Dominguez
Drew Duelmer
Boomer Dunn
Jason Goldblatt
Lucas Grantham
Will Holland
Zach Johnson
Wesley James
Tyler Koenig
Kevin Stephens
Conlon Walker
Manager: Boomer Dunn
Coach: David James
Coach: Chad Koenig
Coach: Bruce Hollmuller
The coaches and managers spoke about what led up to the teams being able to
compete for the championship.
4. Land Issues/Zonings/Annexations:
A. Public Hearing - Zoning Request Z15-002 - Rezoning of the subject
property from Residential Townhouse District (RTD) to General
Commercial (GC) for use of the property for commercial purposes -
5.039 Acres - Land Lot 342 - Vacant landlocked property off South
Cobb Drive at the terminus of Ask -Kay Drive - William L. Askea.
Sponsors: Wilkinson
Interim City Administrator Toni Jo Howard read the background for this item stating
that the Planning and Zoning Board had heard this rezoning request at the April 13,
2015 meeting and made a recommendation for approval by a vote of 7-0. Prior to
being heard at the Mayor and Council meeting, the rezoning request was tabled at
the request of the applicant, to the May 18, 2015 and then again to the June 15, 2015
meeting.
Mayor Bacon announced the Public Hearing and noted for the record that no one
came forward to speak in opposition to or to make comment regarding this item.
Sponsoring Councilmember Susan Wilkinson asked Community Development Senior
Planner Russell Martin for additional background.
The applicant was requesting a change in the zoning for the subject property from
Residential Townhome District (RTD) to General Commercial (GC) for commercial
use. The applicant would be proposing to develop the subject property in a similar
fashion as the adjoining commercial property to the east. The proposal is for one
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metal building similar to the existing metal buildings along Ask -Kay Drive.
Community Development recommends approval of the proposed rezoning subject to
adherence to all provisions and requirements for the General Commercial (GC)
zoning district as outlined in the Zoning Ordinance and the following conditions:
The following uses shall not be permitted on the subject parcel:
1. Adult Entertainment Establishments and Adult Novelty Store
2. Ambulance Services
3. Animal Hospital and Veterinary Clinics
4. Art Shows, Carnival Rides and Special Events of Community Interest
5. Automobile, Truck & Trailer Leasing
6. Automobile Parts & Tire Stores (both retail & wholesale)
7. Automobile & Truck Sales
8. Automobile Repair (Major & Minor Repairs)
9. Automobile Wash Services
10. Baseball Batting Cages
11. Billiard Parlor (Shall not preclude a restaurant/brew pub from having billiard
tables. However, the billiard tables shall not exceed 35% of the gross floor area of
the establishment)
12. Boarding and Breeding Kennels
13. Boat Sales and Repairs
14. Bowling alley
15. Carnivals
16. Circuses
17. Clubs and Lodges
18. Colleges and Universities
19. Day Nurseries and Kindergartens
20. Drive-in restaurants
21. Drive-in Theater
22. Emissions and Inspection Stations
23. Farm Equipment Sales and Services
24. Fireworks Sales (both retail and wholesale)
25. Funeral Homes
26. Game Arcade
27. Golf Driving Range
28. Gun Shop
29, Healthcare Clubs
30. Health Spa
31. Hospitals
32. House of Worship
33. Junk Yard
34. Landing Area for Rotary Wing Aircraft
35. Linen and Diaper Services (plant only)
36. Lumber, Hardware and Other Building Material Sales Establishments (outdoor
displays)
37. Massage Parlor
38. Mobile Home and Travel Trailer Sales
39. Motorcycle Sales and Service
40. Nursing, Convalescent and Rest homes
41. Package Store
42. Parking Lots and Parking Garages (both private and public)
43. Pawnshops and Check Cashing Establishments
44. Printing Plant
45. Schools
46. Service Station
47. Skating Rink
48. Stations and Terminals for Bus and Rail Passenger Service
49. Target Range
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50. Tattoo and Body Piercing Parlors
51. Taxi Stands
52. Theaters
53. Wholesale Establishments (which sell only to businesses and not to customers)
54. Wrecker Service
The applicant is agreeable to the list of 54 not permitted uses for this property.
Councilmember Wilkinson asked a question of City Engineer Eric Randall.
Compensatory fill and cut refer to the flood plain. She also inquired if there would be
a letter of map revision. Mr. Randall responded that a no rise certification would be
required in order to receive the building permit.
A motion to deny was made by Councilmember Wilkinson, but Mayor Bacon
interjected that the applicant still needed to speak. City Attorney Scott Cochran
concurred and Mr. Kevin Moore, a representative of the Askea family came forward.
Mr. Moore noted the property was currently zoned for townhomes and not accessible
through the current Askea site. There was discussion with some of the neighbors and
the concerns and questions they had were addressed and they were satisfied
regarding the proposed use of this property. He remarked that this property was
landlocked and did not provide any benefit to the City. This request would utilize its
only public access and the method of development was acceptable. He believes this
is a good zoning. He offers to answer any questions Council has.
Councilmember Charles "Corkey" Welch asked Mr. Moore if his client (the applicant)
was comfortable with the list of restrictions and he responded in the affirmative.
Additional comment was made by Councilmember Wilkinson as she remarked that
the Planning and Zoning Board did not have all the pertinent information when they
voted for approval. At the Planning and Zoning meeting there was no report given by
the City Engineer, nor did any of the citizens come and ask questions. She has
several concerns, the most prominent being surrounding residential properties and
the property currently being located in a flood plain. She stated there would be over
an acre of impervious surface. With her research and investigation she remains
uncomfortable being in favor of this request.
City attorney Scott Cochran instructed her to make a new motion. She repeated her
original motion to deny.
Mayor Bacon made a statement that he had concerns regarding the motion to deny
that was made before the applicant got a chance to speak which intimated that a
decision had been made on the item prior to hearing all the evidence.
A motion was made by Councilmember Susan Wilkinson to deny item 2015-124 for
zoning request Z15-002 - rezoning of the subject property from Residential
Townhouse District (RTD) to General Commercial (GC) for use of the property for
commercial purposes on 5.039 Acres in Land Lot 342, this is vacant landlocked
property off South Cobb Drive at the terminus of Ask -Kay Drive the applicant is
William L. Askea; seconded by Councilmember Wade Lnenicka. The motion failed
by the following vote:
Aye: 2- Councilmember Wilkinson and Councilmember Lnenicka
Nay: 4- Mayor pro tem/Councilmember Pritchett, Councilmember Blustein,
Councilmember Welch and Councilmember Fennel
Absent: 1 - CouncilmemberAnulewicz
A second motion was made for item 2015-124 by Councilmember Ron Fennel to
approve zoning request Z15-002 for the rezoning of the subject property from
Residential Townhouse District (RTD) to General Commercial (GC) for use of the
property for commercial purposes on 5.039 Acres in Land Lot 342 this is vacant
landlocked property off South Cobb Drive at the terminus of Ask -Kay Drive the
applicant is William L. Askea; seconded by Mayor Pro Tem/Councilmember Melleny
Pritchett. The motion carried by the following vote:
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Aye: 4- Mayor pro tem/Councilmember Pritchett, Councilmember Blustein,
Councilmember Welch and Councilmember Fennel
Nay: 2- Councilmember Wilkinson and Councilmember Lnenicka
Absent: 1 - CouncilmemberAnulewicz
B. Public Hearing -Zoning Request Z15-011 -Rezoning from R-15 to
RAD -Conditional for the construction of three new single-family homes
- 0.668 Acres - Land Lot 560 -1498 Walker Street - Georgian Fine
Properties, LLC
Sponsors: Fennel
Mayor Bacon requested the background be read and it was stated by Interim City
Administrator, Toni Jo Howard that Georgian Fine Properties, LLC was requesting
the rezoning for 1498 Walker Street from R-15 to RAD -Conditional for the
construction of three new single-family homes at a density of 4.49 units per acre.
Mayor Bacon announced the Public Hearing and noted for the record that no one
came forward to speak in opposition to or to make comment regarding this item. He
also remarked that Councilmember Ron Fennel would address this item in
Councilmember Teri Anulewicz's absence.
Senior Planner Russell Martin showed the proposed site plan, the storm water
management facility and the proposed home elevations. Pictures of the subject
property as well as the adjoining properties were also shown. Planning and Zoning
voted to approve this item with a vote of 7-0. Community Development
recommended approval with the following conditions:
Standard Conditions
(Requirement #2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10 and 17 from Section 1201 of the Zoning Code is not
applicable)
1. The composition of the homes in a residential subdivision shall include a mixture
of elements including; but not limited to: brick, stone, shake, hardy plank and stucco.
No elevation shall be comprised of 100% hardy plank siding. The residences whose
lots abut external roadways shall not be permitted to utilize hardy plank for any
elevation facing these roads.
2. The detention pond shall be placed and screened appropriately to be unobtrusive
to homes inside and outside the development. The storm water detention plan shall
be designed to create at least a 10% reduction in a 2 -year to 100 -year storm event.
The City Engineer shall approve all plans.
3. All utilities within the development shall be underground.
4. The developer shall be responsible for any traffic improvements (including
additional right-of-way dedications) deemed necessary by either the City or the
County during construction plan review. Sidewalks shall be provided by the
developer inside the subdivision and outside the subdivision adjacent to any public
right-of-way consistent with City's requirements for the extent of the development. A
grass buffer with a minimum width of 2' shall be provided between the back of curb
and sidewalk.
5. No debris maybe buried on any lot or common area.
6. The developer will comply with the City's current tree ordinance (unless noted
elsewhere). All required tree protection measures shall be adhered to by the
developer during construction.
7. All landscape plans must be prepared, stamped, and signed by a Georgia
Registered Landscape Architect for any common areas or entrances.
8. All yards and common areas are to be sodded, and landscaped. Irrigate as
appropriate.
9. All single-family and/or duplex residential lots shall provide the following at the
time of certificate of occupancy: either four 3" caliper trees or three 4" caliper trees,
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unless otherwise approved by the City's Arborist. The following species of trees may
be used: Nuttall Oak, Swamp Chestnut Oak, Allee Elm, and Village Green Zelkova.
Other species may be used if approved by the City.
Special Conditions
10. The development shall maintain the following setbacks:
Front - 25'
Side - 7.5'
Rear - 40'
11. Driveway - 22' minimum length from building face to back of sidewalk.
12. The development shall be developed with a minimum lot size of 9,400 square
feet.
13. The right-of-ways along Walker Street shall be increased to 50 feet. Therefore a
dedication of approximately 10' feet is required along both right-of-ways.
14. The developer shall provide a 5' sidewalk with a 2' grass buffer along Walker
Street for the length of the development.
15. All trees within the limits of disturbance and not located within a tree protection
area must be removed during the land clearing and grading phase of the
development.
16. The developer will be required to install a sanitary sewer main extension in
Walker Street to serve all lots in the development. Elevations are the responsibility of
the developer.
17. Approval of the subject property for the Residential Attached Detached (RAD)
zoning district shall be conditioned upon the development of the property in
substantial compliance with the submitted site plan dated 5/29/2015 created by Craig
Wrigley.
18. The applicant shall be bound to the elevations submitted and dated 5/8/2015.
Approval of any change to the elevations must be obtained from the Director of
Community Development.
Mr. Martin offered to answer any questions and Councilmember Andrea Blustein
responded that she had a question regarding the price point for these homes for the
applicant.
Mr. Ryan Jacobs is the applicant and represents Georgian Fine Properties, LLC. The
expectation was to price the homes between $475,000 and $500,000. He would be
removing the existing home. Mr. Jacobs stated he has built homes before and is a
third generation builder.
Councilmember Wilkinson asked that he confine that these homes would all have
different elevations as well as floor plans and he responded yes.
Mayor Bacon asked Mr. Jacobs to give his entire presentation and then Council could
ask further questions. He started by explaining that what he was proposing was
removal of the existing house on the property and building three new homes. He
talked about these homes having the nicest back yards in the neighborhood with
deep lots for children to play.
There was no futher dicussion from Council.
A motion was made by Councilmember Ron Fennel to approve item 2015-186 a
zoning request Z15-011 for rezoning from R-15 to RAD -Conditional for the
construction of three new single-family homes on 0.668 Acres in Land Lot 560
located at 1498 Walker Street the applicant is Georgian Fine Properties, LLC;
seconded by Mayor Pro Tem/Councilmember Melleny Pritchett. The motion carried
by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Mayor pro tem/Councilmember Pritchett, Councilmember Blustein,
Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Councilmember
Lnenicka and Councilmember Fennel
Absent: 1 - CouncilmemberAnulewicz
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5. Privilege Licenses:
A. Public Hearing - Privilege License Requests 2015-211 - Beer, Wine,
and Liquor Pouring- 2772 Cumberland Boulevard - AKSM LLC dba
Bollywood Zing Indian Restaurant with Sailesh Makhijani as agent.
Sponsors: Pritchett
Due to the absence of the applicant, a motion was made by Mayor Pro
Tem/Councilmember Melleny Pritchett to table 2015-211 to the August 3, 2015 Mayor
and Council Meeting for a Privilege License Request for Beer, Wine, and Liquor
Pouring at 2772 Cumberland Boulevard the applicant is AKSM LLC dba Bollywood
Zing Indian Restaurant with Sailesh Makhijani as agent; seconded by
Councilmember Ron Fennel. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Mayor pro tem/Councilmember Pritchett, Councilmember Blustein,
Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Councilmember
Lnenicka and Councilmember Fennel
Absent: 1- CouncilmemberAnulewicz
B. Public Hearing - Privilege License Request 2015-219 - Beer, Wine
(Retail Pouring) - 1651 Roswell Street - Gursha Ethiopian Cuisine with
Genet Tenaye as agent.
Sponsors: Welch
Due to the absoense of the applicant, a motion was made by Charles "Corkey" Welch
to table item 2015-219 to the August 3, 2015 Mayor and Council Meeting for a
Privilege License Request for Beer, Wine (Retail Pouring) at 1651 Roswell Street the
applicant is Gursha Ethiopian Cuisine with Genet Tenaye as agent; seconded by
Councilmember Ron Fennel. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Mayor pro tem/Councilmember Pritchett, Councilmember Blustein,
Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Councilmember
Lnenicka and Councilmember Fennel
Absent: 1- CouncilmemberAnulewicz
6. Formal business:
A. Adoption of 2015 millage rate of 8.99 mills.
Sponsors: Pritchett
Finance Director Toni Jo Howard commented that the 2015 millage rate needed to
be formally adopted by Council.
The FY16 budget that was approved by council and included revenue projections
based on 8.99 mills. This item was the formal adoption of the 8.99 millage rate.
Mayor Bacon requested that City Attorney Scott Cochran explain the legal issues
regarding thie roll back. He remarked that the economy was turning around due to
rising home values. For a single owner that has Floating homestead there would be
no tax increase. The City had been operating this way for over 20 years.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem/Councilmember Melleny Pritchett to approve
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item 2015-216 for the adoption of 2015 millage rate of 8.99 mills; seconded by
Councilmember Ron Fennel. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6- Mayor pro tem/Councilmember Pritchett, Councilmember Blustein,
Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Councilmember
Lnenicka and Councilmember Fennel
Absent: 1 - CouncilmemberAnulewicz
B. Approval of the Joint Use Agreement between the City of Smyrna and
Cobb County School Board for use of the athletic field at Smyrna
Elementary School
Si2onson Wilkinson
The background for this item was read aloud and it was stated that City staff had
been working with Cobb County School District Staff to development a joint use
agreement for use of the athletic field next to Smyrna Elementary School. The
agreement would allow the City, our residents, and sports leagues to use the field
after bpm until dark during the weekdays of the academic school year. The City
would also have use of the field between the end of each academic year and the
beginning of the next academic year. The agreement would be for 5 years and would
automatically renew for an additional 5 years at the end of the first term and each
subsequent term. In regards to maintenance of the property, the Board would do
regular mowing of the grass and the City would assist with maintaining the trash
receptacles and locking the field gates at night. City staff recommended approval of
the joint use agreement with Cobb County School Board.
A few years ago, the City of Smyrna and the Cobb County School Board entered into
a Development Agreement whereby the City would construct a road on the City
property by the school and provide areas suitable for parallel parking and the Board
would construct and maintain the athletic fields on the School Property. The
Development Agreement further provided that the Board would provide the City with
a joint use agreement permitting the use of the School Property by the City and our
residents/sports leagues subject to the Board's use of same. The City and the Board
wanted to memorialize this joint use agreement. Such Agreement was authorized as
an intergovernmental agreement pursuant to Article IX, Section III, Paragraph I of the
Constitution of the State of Georgia. The City Attorney had reviewed the proposed
agreement.
A motion was made by Councilmember Susan Wilkinson to approve item 2015-225
the Joint Use Agreement between the City of Smyrna and Cobb County School Board
for use of the athletic field at Smyrna Elementary School; seconded by
Councilmember Charles "Corkey" Welch. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Mayor pro tem/Councilmember Pritchett, Councilmember Blustein,
Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Councilmember
Lnenicka and Councilmember Fennel
Absent: 1 - CouncilmemberAnulewicz
C. Approval of adjustment payment to Georgia Municipal Association in
the amount of $1,602,911.83 to the Defined Benefit Plan and
authorize Mayor to sign any related documents
sponsors: Lnenicka
Mayor Bacon requested the background be read aloud by Ms. Toni Jo Howard and
she read the following:
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As a result of an internal audit of retiree benefit calculations conducted by the City,
outside auditors and GMA, several retiree accounts were identified as receiving
incorrect benefit payments, requiring the City to make an adjustment payment to the
plan to cover the under/over payment (plus interest) due to the affected retirees and
to the plan.
106 retirees (or beneficiaries) were or are currently underpaid, amounting to
$1,507,084.91 and 32 retirees (or beneficiaries) were or are currently overpaid,
amounting to $95,826.92. This will be paid from funds currently committed for
retirement in the general fund's fund balance.
Staff recommended approval of adjustment payment to Georgia Municipal
Association in the amount of $1,602,911.93 to the Defined Benefit Plan and authorize
Mayor to sign any related documents.
Councilmember Wade Lnenicka explained that under the previous Human
Resources Director, the benefit calculations were not done correctly. It was brought
to his attention by HR Director, Kay Bolick and staff had done extensive review and
retrieved years of documentation in order to produce the most accurate information.
Although there were some overpayments made, those retirees would not be asked to
return the overpaid monies. Their checks have been adjusted as of August 1, 2015
for any future benefits. For retirees that were underpaid, they would receive a check
for the difference plus interest. This would also include some deceased retirees and
efforts were being made to locate those estates. He remarked that he was satisfied
that the City had arrived at the right conclusion noting that it was a responsibility to
make it correct.
A motion was made by Councilmember Wade Lnenicka to approve item 2015-239
the adjustment payment to Georgia Municipal Association in the amount of
$1,602,911.83 to the Defined Benefit Plan and authorize Mayor to sign any related
documents; seconded by Councilmember Ron Fennel. The motion carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 6 - Mayor pro tem/Councilmember Pritchett, Councilmember Blustein,
Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Councilmember
Lnenicka and Councilmember Fennel
Absent: 1- CouncilmemberAnulewicz
D. Approval of extended work hours for the Jonquil Village
redevelopment project - 12.62 Acres - Land Lots 559 & 594 -
Northeast corner of the intersection of Atlanta Road and Spring Road -
Plateau Excavation, Inc.
Sponsors: Pritchett
In regards to the background for this item, Interim City Administrator Toni Jo Howard
remarked that Plateau Excavation, Inc. (Jonquil Village Grading Contractor) was
requesting an extension of normal work hours during the grading of the site in
preparation of the new redevelopment project. The grading permit for this project was
issued on July 1, 2015 with a total estimated cost of construction of $659,610. The
grading permit does allow for land disturbance activities and infrastructure
removallreplacement. Plateau is currently working in coordination with the
contractors on the Brave's Stadium site to bring in fill dirt to raise the elevation of the
site by three to five feet. To avoid delays and remain in coordination with the work
going on at the Braves Stadium site, Plateau is requesting an extension of normal
work hours on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. This will provide two additional work
hours on Saturday and allow Plateau to make up any production lost during peak
traffic flows during the week. The completion date for the project is set for September
2015.
Councilmember Welch stated that he would not support the item as requested
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because he felt 7:O0am was too early. He preferred the hours be from 8:00am -
7:00pm.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem/Councilmember Melleny Pritchett to approve
item 2015-233 to extend work hours to 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM for the Jonquil Village
redevelopment project on 12.62 Acres in Land Lots 559 & 594 located at the
Northeast corner of the intersection of Atlanta Road and Spring Road the applicant is
Plateau Excavation, Inc.; seconded by Councilmember Ron Fennel. The motion
failed by the following vote:
Aye: 2 - Mayor pro tem/Councilmember Pritchett and Councilmember Fennel
Nay: 4- Councilmember Blustein, Councilmember Welch, Councilmember
Wilkinson and Councilmember Lnenicka
Absent: 1 - CouncilmemberAnulewicz
A second motion was made for item 2015-233 to approve the amended hours set
forth by Councilmember Ron Fennel for 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM extending the work hours
for the Jonquil Village redevelopment project on 12.62 Acres in Land Lots 559 & 594
located at the Northeast corner of the intersection of Atlanta Road and Spring Road
the applicant is Plateau Excavation, Inc.; seconded by Mayor Pro
Tem/Councilmember Melleny Pritchett. The vote carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Mayor pro tem/Councilmember Pritchett, Councilmember Blustein,
Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Councilmember
Lnenicka and Councilmember Fennel
Absent: 1 - Councilmember Anulewicz
E. Vote on whether to begin the process to amend the charter to
increase the salaries for subsequent City elected Officials
Sponsors: Lnenicka
A change in the salary for elected officials must be done by Charter amendment.
The amendment would not affect the current Mayor and Council salaries but would
commence for the subsequent elected officials January 2016.
Councilmember Lnenicka was called on by Mayor Bacon as the sponsor and he
stated he would defer discussion to his fellow councilmembers becasue he was
unsure where others stood on this issue. Mayor Bacon asked if he was going to
make a motion and Councilmember Lnenicka did so making a motion to start the
process to amend the charter for councilmembers salaries.
Councilmember Welch responded by stating that a discussion took place where a
suggestion was made that Council get salaries of fellow councilmembers in the area
for comparison. He opined that this Council was well compensated for what they do.
Smyrna is within surrounding cities and in most cases at a higher rate. He stated he
would vote against the increase.
Councilmember Fennel remarked that he differed slightly with Mr. Welch's
characterization that Council is well paid for what they do. If calculated by the hour
they may be in the minimum wage category but he does think that coming into this, it
is a public service position to take on these responsibilities and he felt that at this
juncture and based on the information provided, he would decline supporting an
increase in pay as well.
Mayor Bacon remarked that in looking at the studies provided, the Smyrna Council is
the highest compared to Sandy Springs, Roswell, John's Creek, Alpharetta, Marietta
and Kennesaw, Also Woodstock, Canton, Acworth, Powder Springs and Austell. He
does not feel a need to increase salaries for the Mayor and Council.
Councilmember Blustein wanted to add to the discussion by saying that she would
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hate to see running for a local office get as bad as it is on a national level or in the
legislature where a person has to have gazillions to participate and run. She does not
take City benefits. She remarked that she feels unsure but she probably will not
support it. It is a hot button issue.
Councilmember Lnenicka echoed what Councilmember Blustein said. He noted that
some Councilmembers had more freedom financially than other council members.
When he began Council he was the only one with a college degree. There were
mostly blue collar workers who took time away from their jobs to serve. All of us
should be doing it for service, and not solely for financial gain. If we want a
representative of all classes and people, we need to provide means for them to
serve. He has served on six councils who voted to increase salaries.
A motion was made by Councilmember Wade Lnenicka to approve item 2015-241
and begin the process to amend the charter to increase the salaries for subsequent
City elected Officials; seconded by Councilmember Susan Wilkinson. The motion
failed by the following vote:
Aye: 2- Councilmember Wilkinson and Councilmember Lnenicka
Nay: 4- Mayor pro tem/Councilmember Pritchett, Councilmember Blustein,
Councilmember Welch and Councilmember Fennel
Absent: 1- CouncilmemberAnulewicz
7. Commercial Building Permits:
There were no commercial building permits
8. Consent Agenda:
A motion was made by Councilmember Ron Fennel to approve the Consent agenda
as read aloud; seconded by Councilmember Charles "Corkey" Welch. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6- Mayor pro tem/Councilmember Pritchett, Councilmember Blustein,
Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Councilmember
Lnenicka and Councilmember Fennel
Absent: 1 - CouncilmemberAnulewicz
A. Approval of Mayor and Council Meeting Minutes for July 6, 2015
Sponsors: City Council
B. Award RFP 15-045 Paving Projects to the lowest bidder C.W.
Matthews Contracting Company for $1,216,695.16 and authorize the
Mayor to execute any related documents.
Sponsors: Welch
C. Award bid to Sears Pool Management Consultants; RFP15-046 Wolfe
Center Therapy Pool Replastering in the amount of $20,982.00. This
is a SPLOST funded project.
Sponsors: Wilkinson
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D. Approval of the FY15 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistant Grant
(JAG) for Criminal Investigation Software and Employee Workout
Equipment for the Wellness Program; the amount of $14,036 awarded
to the Smyrna Police Department.
Sponsors: Fennel
E. Authorize permit for Atkins Park Tavern Beer Trailer for the Smyrna
Birthday Celebration on August 1, 2015
Sponsors: Anulewicz
F. Approval to change precinct boundary and polling location for Smyrna
7A (Griffin Middle School) and 7B (Life Church Smyrna Assembly of
God) to be combined to one precinct voting location at Life Church
Smyrna Assembly of God. Griffin Middle School will no longer be a
precinct polling location.
sponsors: City Council
G. Approval to use Council Chambers on Wednesday, August 12, 2015
from 7:00-9:00 PM for the Smyrna Arts & Cultural Council (SACC)
First Annual Meeting.
Sponsors: Pritchett
9. Committee Reports:
Ward 1 Mayor Protem / Councilmember Melleny Pritchett gave the information for the
Smyrna Arts and Cultural, on August 12th in the Council Chambers. This is one of
the groups formed from the Smyrna Vision process and she is pleased with the
swiftness with which the groups were meeting and making plans.
Ward 2 Councilmember Andrea Blustein called upon Community Development
Director Ken Suddreth to give his departmental report and he said they issued 17
new single family permits in May and 22 in June. over 1100 inspections in May and
June and went out over 350 times to complete these inspections. He expects July to
be quieter.
Councilmember Blustein commented that homes, condos and townhomes are selling
like hotcakes. Some of the couples purchasing are the millennials who did not want
to settle down and are getting to be of age where they do not want to pay rent for an
apartment.
Ward 4 Councilmember Welch asked Keep Smyrna Beautiful Director Ann Kirk to the
podium and she discussed the summer Adopt -a -Mile Event. It was held Saturday,
and 102 volunteers cleaned 32 miles of roadway and collected 79 bags of litter in
about two hours. It was the first event held at the new Recycling Center and it went
well. Keep Smyrna Beautiful would be hosting a free document shredding event on
September 26, 9:00 am -12:00 pm, at the Wolfe Center on Church Street. Paper
only for shredding.
Do not miss out on the great produce at the Smyrna Fresh Market Saturdays from
8:00 am - 12:00 pm at the First Baptist Church parking lot. The local tomatoes and
corn are in, but you need to come early for the best selection. There was 600 people
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in attendance at the last fresh market.
Public Works Director Scott Stokes gave the following updates:
-Concord Road SPLOST project:
Croy Engineering and City Staff have completed the punch list of items to complete
the road project. C.W. Matthews water/sewer contractor continued working this week
raising manholes to grade.
-Windy Hill/Atlanta Road SPLOST intersection improvement project:
The contractor and soils engineer took soil samples this week where all the retaining
walls are to be constructed on the project.
-Gann Road Storm Sewer:
The contractor has completed pouring the top sections to the box culvert, The
downstream and upstream wing walls and head walls should be poured next week.
-Belmont Sewer Rehabilitation:
The contractor punch list items this week that included a missing sewer tap, replacing
ring and covers at the Greens and Carriage House Apartments and re -installing chain
link fencing behind the Greens Apartments.
-Lake Court Park building painting contractor still has not shown up. We will revoke
their PO and award to the next lowest vendor.
-Curb replacement started this week on Howell Drive and is about 20% complete.
-Restroom repairs to Campbell Middle Park School Park are underway.
-Crews are currently lowering manholes and water valves on the streets to be milled
and paved.
-Preconstruction meeting held on 7-20-15 with the paving contractor, all the streets to
be paved this year were visited and marked. Paving should begin next week and is to
be completed by the end of August.
-Projects Scheduled:
Water main replacement So. Cobb, Concord to Wisteria Lane
CCN and Cleaning of 52,000 feet of sewer main
Water main leak detection Vinings Estates
-Projects out for Design:
Hickory Acres Drive Storm culvert
Smyrna Powder Springs Road Sanitary outfall
Sub -basin 1 Sanitary Sewer Outfall
Antler Trail Sanitary Sewer Outfall
Lake Drive at Magnolia Dr. Storm Sewer Replacement
Fox Creek Lake
Hickory Hill Dr Sanitary and Storm Sewer Rehabilitation
Lois Street at Lois Point
Lake Drive at Brentwood
King Springs Road near Kings View
Walker Court near Morris Circle
Doeskin Ln
Pat Mall Rd
-Projects out for bid:
Village Parkway Multi Use Trail Spring to Windy Hill
Ward 5 Councilmember Susan W Ikinson asked Library Director Mary Moore to give
a department report. She read the following report:
Library Announcements
This is the last week of the Summer Reading program. So far, our Smyrna readers
have logged over 400,000 minutes of reading. Please come by the Youth Services
desk this week to collect your prizes. And join us for the Summer Wrap -Up
Celebration on Saturday, July 25, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for superhero
activities and free ice cream provided by the Friends of Smyrna Library.
Starting Tuesday, July 21, Smyrna Library cardholders will be able to check out up to
seven (7) DVDs at a time. Up to now, the limit has been five; but we have really
beefed up our collection over the past three years, so we feel that we can
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accommodate the extra activity. Not only do we have new releases, we have really
worked on collecting favorite titles from many decades, as well as family and
children's titles, and a very respectable Foreign Film collection.
On Sunday, August 2, the Friends of Smyrna Library will hold their monthly "First
Sunday Lecture" with another segment of the World War II commemorative series.
We will screen the short film, "The Return of the Violin." This film depicts a famous
violinist, Bronislaw Huberman, and his struggle to save Jewish musicians from the
Nazis. A discussion will follow the film which starts at 3:00 p.m. on August 2 in the
Library Meeting Room.
The Library will have an irregular schedule the first week of August. We will close at
2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 1, for Birthday Celebration preparations. We will also
be closed Wednesday, August 5; Thursday, August 6; and Friday, August 7; for a
parking lot re -paving as well as interior maintenance projects. The CobbWorks
Mobile Career Center, which visits us every Wednesday, will park in front of the
Community Center on August 5. Thanks go to the Community Center for hosting for
US.
Parks and Rao Director Steve Ciaccio gave his departmental report.
-The Saturday, July 18 feature movie "Annie" - a Movie by Moonlight production —
was cancelled due to impending weather. Another date in September will be selected
to show a movie in its place. The August movie "Boxtrolls" will be shown on the 15th.
•Regarding parking for those with Disabled tags or displayed stickers on the date of
the Downtown Birthday Celebration event on August 1 st, , part of the Library lot will
be reserved for those with special needs. Access to this lot can only be gained from
Powder Springs Street at Hamby Street as the Green will already be closed for the
concert setup.
-An award for replastering the Wolfe Therapy Pool was made this evening. This is
one of several projects that will happen simultaneously there. The replacement of the
boiler and sand filtration tank will be made and we are also looking at the addition of
interior lighting in the pool space. These upgrades with the plaster and tile work will
take 2 — 3 weeks so we are planning on a 3 week closure, dates to be announced.
We will have a better understanding of when, specifically the closure will be once the
replastering vendor is notified of the award tomorrow, July 21 St. Thereafter, the
contractors will be pulled together to figure the dates for this collective of individual
projects. We would like to get the work done in late August into early September but
do not yet know vendor availability. We will give the patrons there as much
notification as possible.
Ward 6 Councilmember Wade Lnenicka asked City Clerk, Terri Graham for a Coirt
Services and Clerks office report.
COURT SERVICES UPDATE
-Cases processed:
In June 2015 there were 801 citations received and processed for court dates
-Docket count:
In June 2015 there were 740 cases that ended up on 9 dockets
-Bond forfeitures:
In June 2015 there were 328 cases that paid prior to their court date
-Failure to appear:
In June 2015 a total of 161 defendants failed to appear for their court date
-Web payments:
In June 2015 a total of 397 defendants paid with our online payment system
CLERK'S OFFICE REPORT
Police Department processed 60 record requests
Clerk's office processed 23 open records requests
Qualifying will be Monday August 31st through Wednesday September 2nd
8:30 AM —4:30 PM in the HR Conference Room list floor City Hall building
We will be qualifying for all 8 seats.
Qualifying fees for Councilmembers seats $567.00 and Mayor's seat is $756.00
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City Council Meeting Minutes - Final July 20, 2015
There are 7 polling places located in Smyrna a map will be posted on our website
and available at city hall. If you would like a copy of our ward map with polling places
indicated it can be emailed to you. Contact the city clerk's office.
Councilmember Wilkinson asked if a copy of the new map could be posted and
available for residents in City Hall as well as the library.
HR Director Kay Bolick read the names of employees with service milestones:
Eric Cooper — Supervisor Water & Sewer (25 years)
Claire Phillips — AP/Payroll Coordinator (20 years)
Metra Wearing — GCIC Specialist (15 years)
James Bennett —Crew Worker (15 years)
Jodi Mills — Recreation Coordinator (5 years)
Councilmember Lnenicka announced that Uncle Maddio's Pizza was officially open.
Recognized Linda Hedrick, an army veteran who was recognized by the Smyrna
American Legion Post 160 as Legionaire of the Year.
Ward 7 Councilmemebr Ron Fennel noted a new business, Jimmy Johns, open in his
ward. He called upon Fire Chief Roy Acree. He spoke about heat related
emergencies:
Summer in Georgia is a time for camping trips, cookouts and afternoons by the pool.
However, it's also a time to be aware of the dangers soaring temperatures can bring.
Extreme heat is the No. 2 weather-related killer in the U.S. after excessive cold,
according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Smyrna Emergency
Management Agency (EMA) urges City of Smyrna residents to take steps now to
beat the heat.
"People most at risk for heat -related illness are seniors, infants and people with
circulation problems, but staying indoors and drinking plenty of water will help you
stay cool and hydrated when temperatures rise," says Smyrna EMA Director Roy
Acres.
Follow these 10 tips to ensure a safe summer for every family:
1. Never leave children or pets alone in dosed vehicles.
2. Fluids are lost through perspiration, so it's important to stay well hydrated. Drink
plenty of water, even when you're not thirsty.
3. Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible and limit exposure to
the sun.
4. Dress in loose -fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin
as possible.
5. Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Drink two to four cups of
water every hour when you are working outside.
6. Check on elderly neighbors and family and friends who do not have air
conditioning.
7. Make sure pets have plenty of water and shade, be careful to not overexercise
them, and keep them indoors when it's extremely hot.
8. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat
exhaustion symptoms are heavy sweating, fatigue, muscle cramps, confusion, cold,
pale and clammy skin, a weak rapid pulse, and possible fainting and vomiting. Heat
stroke is a severe medical emergency that occurs when the body temperature
reaches 106° F. or higher. Symptoms include hot dry skin, rapid and strong pulse,
and possible unconsciousness. Summon immediate emergency medical assistance.
9. Insulate your home by installing weather stripping around your doors and
windowsills to keep the cool air inside.
10. Closely monitor a local radio station, TV station or NOAA Weather Radio or
download the Ready Georgia app for the latest information on excessive heat
watches and warnings.
To help Georgians prepare, Ready Georgia, a statewide emergency preparedness
campaign created by the Georgia Emergency Management Agency/Homeland
Security, offers the tools needed to make an emergency supply kit, develop a
communications plan and stay informed about potential threats. Visitors to Ready
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City Council Meeting Minutes - Final July 20, 2015
Georgia's website can create an online profile to receive a tailored plan for the entire
family that includes the specific amount of supplies to put in their household Ready
kits. In addition, the newly upgraded free Ready Georgia mobile app provides
weather alerts, traffic updates and preparedness information for people on the go.
For more information, contact Smyrna EMA at 770-434-6667 or visit
www. smyrnacityfire.corn.
Councilmember Fennel thanked Chief for the use of the training room for his Town
Hall meeting. He also mentioned the Smyrna Swim teams has over 500 swimmers in
the Smyrna Sharks were co -division champions. 69 of 104 swimmers that went to
district went on to state and 10 swimmers set new state records.
Police Chief David Lee came forward and spoke about the Smyrna PD Explorers
going to a state competition at Georiga Public Safety Training Center. There were 20
teams from 14 agencies. The Smyrna Explorers came in first for The Trouble
Unknown Call competition. The Call Before You Go Program has taken off and
Wendy Corona from WSBTV did a report on this public service and she filmed an
officer escorting a business to their bank.
The program has received statewide attention and the departemnt has received calls
from other agencies in Georgia wanting information. Master Patrol Officer Defense
met with the Chamber of Commerce and they were pleased to hear about the
program as well.
PIO Chris Graeff is leaving law enforcement to pursue a career in Engineering. He
has recently receiived his degree and was offered a lucrative job. He will be missed
as he is an outstanding officer.
Some of the local banks have contacted the PD and are pushing the program to their
business clients.
K9 Paco assisted Cobb County in a tracking and apprehention of a homicide suspect.
Please do not leave valuables inplain site in your vehicle.
Operation Safe Sale is also a positive program where sellers on the internet can use
the PD parking lot to meet potential buyers and sellers and the PD will run serial
numbers for free.
Councilmember Fennel will hold a Town Hall meeting on August 11th, 7:30pm at
Vining Estates for the annexation and zoning request for the Pebblebrook application
of the Maxwell property.
Ward 3 Councilmember Teri Anulewicz was absent so Mayor Pro tem Pritchett called
upon Community Relations Director Jennifer Bennett to give her report. She asked
water bill residents to look for the new City Newsletter in their bill. It includes a recap
of happenings as well as upcoming events. Development and Property updates as
well as the qualifying information. Smyrna Birthday celebration will run from 6:OOpm -
10:00pm with live bands, fireworks and food, specifically a huge McEntyre Birthday
Cake. Additionally, two of the new digital signs are up and running in the City.
10. Show Cause Hearings:
There were no show cause hearings
11. Citizen Input:
There were two people signed up for citizen comment, Alex Backry and
Councilmember Charles "Corkey" Welch
Alex Backry expression his frustration with the lack of conversation regarding term
limts,
Charles "Corkey" Welch announced his campaign for re-election at Ward 4
Councilmember.
12. Adjournment:
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City Council
Meeting Minutes - Final July 20, 2015
9:36 PM
Mayor Max Bacon adjourned the meeting at 9:36 PM
Cify o/Smyrna Page 17 Printed on 8/3/2015
MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING
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