Ron Knox

The council discussed and approved various home occupation permits, a sideyard variance, and a real estate issue addressed in executive session. New business included the approval of a firefighter property program, the adoption of a joint multi-hazard mitigation plan, the establishment of a joint comprehensive plan workgroup, and an amended policy for contractual development agreements. The council also received a policy update regarding body worn cameras, approved an ordinance concerning fireworks usage, and awarded a bid for hypochlorite supply and delivery.

The council performed the oath of office for a new police officer and recognized a safety grant award. Key actions included the approval of a development agreement between the city and a retail developer, the award of a construction loan bid for the Boone Street Project, and the awarding of a bid for utility bill printing and mailing services. Furthermore, the council approved the subdivision of a city-owned parcel for use as a new borrow pit and authorized moving forward with an RFP for telephone and computer network and data systems.

The council meeting addressed several public and administrative matters. A presentation was made regarding a proposal to establish a national park, monument, education center, and museum at the former Thiokol site. Multiple planning and zoning applications were reviewed, resulting in approvals for two home occupation permits and a special use permit for a title pawn service, while a request for a junk yard operation was denied. Additionally, the council approved three joint proclamations and a proclamation regarding Mental Health Month. Financial matters included the approval of fiscal year mid-year budget revisions. The council also adopted a new Community Risk Reduction Ordinance, appointed a voting delegate for the GMA Annual Savannah meeting, and received announcements concerning public health precautions related to the Zika virus.

The meeting included the administration of the oath of office for the Mayor and City Council members. Key appointments were finalized for the positions of Mayor Pro Tem, City Attorney, City Clerk, Chief of Police, and City Treasurer. The council approved an alcohol beverage license for DWG Acquisitions LLC, the extension of a lease agreement for ambulances, and a joint resolution regarding funding for a greenway project. Additionally, the council addressed appointments for the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Kingsland Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Authority Board of Directors, and discussed local infrastructure projects including sidewalk construction.

The council received presentations on a proposed conditions assessment of the city's water and wastewater infrastructure and an update on the 2016 GEFA/CDBG project. Discussions were held regarding animal nuisance issues in local neighborhoods, and actions were taken to approve an update to building code references, the annexation of the Williams Tract, and year-end budget revisions. Additionally, the council authorized the submission of the 2016 Community Development Block Grant, a revised Memorandum of Understanding for a transportation enhancement project, and the renewal of alcohol beverage licenses. Further business included approval of rehire policy amendments and the award of a bid for the purchase of five police pursuit sedans.