Andrew Bateman

The council workshop included discussions on the 2022 annual budget, covering topics such as the capital budget for water and sewer, increased safety measures, stormwater management, street maintenance, and fleet budget considerations. The General Fund was also reviewed, addressing revenue reductions, salary increases for the Mayor and Council, property liability insurance, and membership dues. Additional topics included contract services, general building and plant upgrades, municipal court modifications, police liability, fire department changes, stormwater maintenance, recreation improvements, and museum funding. Capital savings, security and IT budgeting, and fire capital were also discussed. The Water and Sewer Utility Fund was reviewed, with emphasis on reallocation for salaries and capital, rate considerations, and water conservation efforts. Additionally, there was a discussion regarding Short Term Vacation Rentals (STVR), focusing on the number of permits to be allowed and the permit process.

The meeting included a public hearing where residents discussed the Nellie Johnson Memorial Park improvements, community involvement, and plant choices. The regular meeting covered topics such as the Savannah-Chatham County Schools, Black History Month, Officer Benjamin Green Day, and recognized local businesses. The finance report was presented, and the council approved an alcohol license and an intergovernmental agreement. A marketing contract was approved, and department reports were submitted. The Town Administrator discussed roads, parks, water billing, and signage. The council discussed volunteer efforts for the River Drive Marsh Cleanup. The Thunderbolt Museum reported on the success of the Oyster Roast event. The council entered an executive session to discuss personnel, property, or litigation.

The meeting addressed outdoor event applications, focusing on police presence and parking concerns. There was discussion of issues related to the town's website, pothole repairs, and traffic concerns, including speeding and noise levels. Changes to recycling pick-up were clarified. The Finance Report and 2023 expenses were reviewed. The council considered and approved items on the Consent Agenda, including outdoor event applications and DPW purchases. Reports were submitted by the Police, Fire, and Public Works departments. Back taxes and treasury bonds were also discussed.

The meeting included discussions and approvals for several key items, including the Statewide Mutual Aid and Assistance Agreement, the FLG Production, LLC Agreement, and a Parade and Event Application and Fee Waiver for the Thunderbolt Community Improvement Association. Also discussed were a Garage Sale Outdoor Event and Fee Waiver, the use of Town Hall for a Candidate Forum by the Thunderbolt Community Improvement Association, and Lisa Goodman's December Invoice. The purchase of a new vehicle for the Police Department was also on the agenda. The Finance Officer provided a report on Municipal Tax Collections and Outstanding Taxes. The Town Administrator presented the 2020 Work Plan. Department reports were submitted by the Chief of Police, Fire Chief, and Public Works Manager. Committee reports were submitted by the Water & Sewer Chairperson and the Thunderbolt Tree Commission President. The Mayor and Council submitted written reports, including a presentation from the Cities United Conference, Georgia Cities Week, and Community Center Research and Funding. An executive session was requested for Legal, Real Estate, or Personnel matters.

The meeting included a presentation by the former Tybee Mayor Jason Buelterman, discussion of old and new business, including a request for conditional use in R-3, renewal of a home occupation permit, approval of outdoor activity event permits, approval of a film production application, approval to hire a company for a water/sewer rate study and capital expenditure plan, and approval of a sanitation increase. The finance report included municipal tax collections and outstanding taxes. Department and committee reports were submitted, along with reports from the Mayor, Council, and Town Attorney regarding a text amendment. An executive session was requested for legal, real estate, or personnel matters.