Wanted to call the meeting to order as you know, we're trying to stay on time doing the people's business today Madam clerk wouldn't mind calling the roll, please Mr. Taylor miss harbert here dr. Bussles Here mr. Brennan Mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall President mayor recommend here. Thank you Can we stand for the pledge allegiance, please Reverend McDowell, can you hear us? Yes, sir. Are you feeling well enough to maybe give us a little invocation? Yes, sir. I am hiking Thank you, sir That was by our heads Gracious and eternal God For your goodness and mercy We're healing and restoration For this city of ours as It continues to expand and grow in positive and meaningful ways For every person that has gathered in this room today In the midst of all of the vicissitudes that each one of us share We know that your grace is sufficient particularly during this late and season as We move ourselves in a season of self-denial We ask that your mercy might wrap us up into your loving arms of care protection and that this city of ours continued to be Engendered with the real hope new possibilities with meaningful and sensitive conversations being had Grant us grace for the living of these days We ask it We claim it in your name And everyone said amen. Amen. Thank you, Reverend McDowell As we move to adopt the agenda we do have one Change we need to add a resolution Mr. Devall. Do you mind reading that out? Mr. May we need to add a resolution our 2022-028 Authorizing consumption of beer and wine only within Boyd Plaza adjacent to Columbia Museum of Art Well, I have on Boyd Plaza on Sunday, April 3rd 2022 to the resolution section. Are there any other additions or any other items need to be held at this point? Seeing none hearing none. I would I would entertain a motion to accept the agenda As presented we adopt the agenda. Is there a second? Madam Clark, could you read the roll, please? Mr. Taylor Miss Herbert. Hi, Dr. Bussells Hi, Mr. Brennan. Yes, Mr. McDowell Yes, Mr. Duvall. Hi, Mayor Rickerman. Hi We're at the point in our meeting where we have public input based on the agenda items before us Is there anyone here who wants to speak on the agenda items before us? There is a place for the public to speak at the end on any issue. This is just strictly for what's on our agenda At this point. Okay. I'm not Yes, ma'am Good evening. I'm Bernita Moultrie. I'm from the Greenview community And I'm here to First of all, congratulations, Mr. Rickerman and to all of you Our new electees. This is my first visit with you since you have been elected Thank you for being here. Congratulations. I'm here to speak on the ordinance number 2019-046 that I think is on your your Agenda today for a reading Yes, ma'am. If I'm in order, okay and in particular my concern along with members of our community is That you're using the word repeal of That ordinance be like an explanation of what in particular you wanting to appeal repeal our concern is And my understanding is that it relates to the gun Ordinance that is correct. Yes, ma'am and In our experience we have gone through the the problems of gun violence and crime in our community and in working and and in cooperation with the County Sheriff's Office The city police with all of our citizens we have seen a decline in gun violence and In within the Greenview community There are still some ongoing problems But not as much as it has been in particular in my own experience When I moved back to my my community Greenview that I grew up in After 30 years and I saw the decline in the climate of our community But by cooperating as I said with the Sheriff's Office to see the police We have seen great improvement and to see that you are addressing this issue And if I read it correctly you wanting to Repeal that certain ordinance listed under the nuances and in particular The guns within in the range or in the locality of our schools I would like to have some clarification on that hopefully you're still in our corner as citizens and Wanting safety for our residents in particular our senior citizens and our children and me Yes, ma'am. We want to be safe and that means taking the guns off of the streets Period. Thank you very much ma'am. So just so you you can understand I know I've sent some things to the north Columbia Civic as well some information so everybody had it We're repealing this because since 2019 when we passed the ghost guns and and the school zone Even though there is a school zone in now There is a state statute that does not allow Anybody to have guns at school or on the property or whatever and we will continue to enforce that and ask for the maximum these have been We have gone to court and and tried to repeal with we got sued by the state essentially is what it comes down to and We've lost we can't actually enforce these and so we're repealing these but Enforcing what's already on the books and going to continue to invest because we have not been able to use any of these ordinances since we've been We've had them since 2019 The good thing is is all the good work that the police department and the sheriff and everybody's investing is making a difference So we're going to continue to do that and increase that but we're repealing these ordinances because We've gone as far as we can in the court system and we would no longer We can't enforce these because we lost the court case. We were sued by the state because state statute the state preempts local legislation So we don't have any authority to go beyond what the state has and so we've come to a pass so we will continue to invest and in chasing gun violence we will continue to Increase our police force. We will continue to invest in our neighborhoods and do everything But we're not able to use these tools because this the state law doesn't allow us and we lost that battle in court So that means we have to pursue the state And the court system well to assure our safety Well, we continue to do what we're doing now which has been working because you just just let me know that which thank you for doing that We will continue to increase that we will continue to work And invest some of our ARPA money and other opportunities and work with our legislative team To see what we can do in the future to continue to protect our community Okay, and that's all we're concerned is the protection of our citizens in our community. Yes, ma'am We are not gonna we're not going to stop protecting you. I promise you. Thank you very much. You're welcome Any about anybody else had an agenda item they wanted to discuss bring forth Okay, not hearing that I would move that we approve the minutes second Any discussion any changes on the minutes Not hearing none and not seeing none. Would you please call the roll? Mr. Taylor From the lonely end You want me to come down there Joe Mr. Herbert I dr. Bussells Hi, mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. I may recommend I thank you So this is time for presentations So we have a proclamation declaring americorp's week who is here to to accept this Oh, we got a crowd y'all come on forward so Yeah, just y'all in case y'all want to say a few things I was just gonna just read just a little bit of this proclamation It says where service is a hallmark of the american character and has unique ability to bring people of all backgrounds together In common cause throughout our history citizens have stepped up to meet our most pressing challenges of the day by volunteering their communities americorp's has provided opportunities for more than 250,000 americans to serve their country through service at nonprofits schools public agencies And community along with faith-based groups across this country I gotta pause for a minute and give a I have to take that's incredible But I love this anymore in columbia south carolina more than 234 americorp members And senior volunteers of various ages and backgrounds help to meet local needs at more than 38 locations in our great city By responding to covet 19 tutoring mentoring children youth supporting veterans military families Combating the opioid epidemic Restoring the environment to responding to disasters So with that I'd like to on behalf of city council I will present this and we declare americorp's week this week I just want to say thank you on behalf of americorp south carolina and united way of the midlands For presenting this proclamation. It means a lot and I know um from experience of doing the direct service here in the community It has a huge impact. So We appreciate it. No y'all have what y'all have done just listening to those numbers that there are over 200 folks in 38 different Spots in columbia making a difference makes us very proud Thank you for what y'all do and we really appreciate the investment because I know it's a lot of hard work And we really appreciate what y'all doing in our community and thank you And for those who are here if you don't want to stay for the rest of government moving slowly You're welcome to leave at this point If you don't want to stay. Thank you Good afternoon We are moving into a period of your city council discussion and action items The first being the american rescue plan proposed allocations for fiscal year 2021 2022 It's missy kaufman our budget program management and grants director can come forward or I can assist you but essentially This is the action item discussion and also a follow-up ordinance through a budget amendment to a Prove the funding that we discussed with you all at the work session Last week and we sent a thorough memo with some Project descriptions attached as well as the ordinance that will Amend the budget for this approval to you. So if you have any questions, we're happy to take them at this time Miss caulkman Hello, good afternoon as miss wilson mentioned. We've provided information for you We don't have a necessarily a presentation for you unless you have any particular questions So we'll want to review we'd like to review again the allocations that are included in the budget ordinance It's on your agenda tonight for city council approval We're going to approve the budget Including the public health section up there. We had talked about only doing the public safety sure Yes, sir that we did include what's included in the budget amendment is an allocation of the five hundred thousand dollars for Cost incurred to date which is four hundred and fifteen thousand dollars We've incurred to date and then another sixty five thousand or so to accommodate or eighty five thousand four for Additional expenses between now and June 30th. We also have included the allocation for Premium pay and the vaccine incentives. That's reimbursing ourselves for those allocations those costs have already been incurred And then we've also incorporated funds for year one of the proposed pathways unit And then also allocation for the fire department bunker gear Second set of bunker gear I think I heard remember mcdowell College affirmation of that one as well as the gear extractors and then of course Year one for the demolition cost and we only of course doing one year because we only can improve one year at a time So it'll take care of everything that's supposed to go into 21 22 budget Correct, that would be amending the current year budget the other items that were pointed out We will bring back in more detail and more discussions for you as we complete those through the budget process for 22 23 So on the pathways, we're just doing one year Funding out of this for this allocation is for one year and then in next year's budget We would incorporate either one way. Yes, sir, but it would yeah It's still the program still continues just this year's budget amendment. It's just for the current fiscal year Motion to approve We do make the motion Yeah, yes, mr. forever mcdowell Yes, sir Mr. Listen, let me just say a word of thanks. I'm glad we've got my Got that got that other thing taken care of that pet peeve of mine, of course Very satisfying and we finally made it. Thank you. Thank you ma'am Yes, sir. Thank you We have a motion. Do we have a second second? Any discussion is it true that all of them will be label label mcdowell I think for an additional week we can make some considerations Thank you so much Hearing no more discussion madame clerk. Could you read the roll, please? Mr. Taylor I miss herbert dr. Bussells I mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. mcdowell Yes, mr. Duvall. I may recommend. I thank you Thank you all very much your consent agenda items four through ten are Next for your consideration Is there a motion I move approval of the consent agenda items four through ten. Is there a second? second Discussion I did want to just take a minute because we do have a rather large contract item eight Where we're spending a little over 10 million dollars part of this is or part of our investing in In reducing the amount of spills with not only investigating but replacing repairing and lining Probably about 70,000 linear feet of our sewer system As you know, this is is one of the things that we've we've marked is is one of the most important things that we need to continue To focus on is reinvesting in the system, but also preventing leaks and spills and this is uh A new way to do it with engineering led find and fix services Which has been a a new concept that we've been working on For months that now allows us really to work directly with the contractor and really putting more dollars into the system So I just wanted to make sure that I pointed that out that this is uh one of those good spins for the city and We appreciate The fact that our staff worked so hard to make this happen Does anybody have any other comments or questions? Any items madam clerk should you read the roll? Mr. Taylor. All right. Ms. Herbert. Hi dr. Bussells Hi, mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi mayor recommend. Hi Thank you all moving into a period of ordinances first reading number 11 ordinance number 2022 020 repealing ordinance number 2019 046 that amended The 1998 code of ordinances of the city of columbia south carolina chapter 8 environmental health and sanitation article 2 nuisances section 8 31 nuisance definitions a and b Ordinance number 2019 056 that amended the 1998 code of ordinances of the city of columbia south carolina chapter 14 offenses and miscellaneous provisions to add Article 12 extreme risk protection orders and ordinance number 2019 063 that amended the 1998 code of ordinances of the city of columbia south carolina chapter 14 offenses and miscellaneous provisions to add article 13 gun free school zones Is there a motion i move approval of the repeal do we have a second second discussion Yes, please Mrs. Dr. Bussells. I'm sorry Y'all are moving a little too fast for me. I did have some discussion. Um, because I thought we were gonna have a Uh, uh, yes, dr. Bussells was thing and then then you miss. Okay. Okay. Thank you. Yes, ma'am Well, I'd like to um, you know, and thank you to the constituent that stood up today and and talked about, um, you know her community's experience with Working with our with our city officials to address violence Just this past week we lost two individuals to a shooting in green crossing a student housing complex And I attended a candlelight vigil with councilman herbert in which I learned the stories of countless families torn apart due to violence And from a public health perspective, there's no doubt that violence and trauma are the root cause of so many problems that are facing our communities In fact, the centers for disease control found that More americans died related to firearms, um in 2020 than any other year I want to note to the public that while I was not on city council when these laws were passed They have now become unconstitutional and unenforceable. They are simply just words on paper I want every child in our city to succeed and meet their full potential And they deserve a life free from violence And so as we vote today on these unenforceable laws that we lost in court as mayor recommends shared with you all I am requesting that our staff including cpd and my colleagues Invest in violence prevention programs as we seek to allocate This historic funding that we've received through the american rescue plan And it should any of you have any questions about that. Please feel free to reach out to me Thank you. Dr. Bussells Miss herbert, and I'm sorry Mayor rickenman, um, I thought that we were gonna have someone to explain the The uh The process or explain what what the repeals are about Tk, can you just talk about the the process? Of where we ended up I think without Making any legal opinion So we passed the ordinances in 2019 thereafter Attorney general followed a suit. I think I think the mic you Yeah So daisy filed an appeal I went to richland county court We lost not the appeal, but he filed a suit The court did not hold them to be unconstitutional. They found it a violated state law and that the state preempted us from doing it So we filed an appeal to the court of appeals from that ruling Weeks ago. We withdrew the appeal So therefore we've got ordinances on the books that cannot be enforced And so we're seeking to repeal those question this um miss knots 2019 can you give me a specific date in 2019? September 17 2019 was the ordinance I think that's two of them that goes all three of them. I think we're done for ordinances Um, the other one was uh, eight eight six 2019 and Gotta get to the last page. Sorry Uh, the other one was september 17th as well. So one was done in august one was two were done in september 2019 And I did want to make sure that we were clear that We the city withdrew the appeal Is that correct? We did right So just for clarification We we didn't lose the battle. We we gave up on the battle. We withdrew the appeal Because state law preempted us We gave up the battle so I think what What we all I'm sorry Reverend me down I'll say something. No, go ahead and finish. I'm not sure Reverend me down. Are you there? Yes Did you say I guess TK the question yeah the question just for the general public I think we need to be very specific in terms of what uh item 11 Concretely talks about there has been there has been conversations Surrounding uh item 11 and of course this particular ordinance Could you Specifically say What that involved what's involved in there? I mean is it Is it ghost guns? bumper stops, I mean, I think the general public needs to know that But there's three separate ordinances and one has to do with Guns of firearms and mental health issues. One is school zones and one is the ghost guns There's three separate ordinances All we were sued on all three when one in one case Now is that inclusive of bumper stops? Bump stocks if that includes the bump stocks. No, we still have bump stops. We still have one gun ordinance on on the books That's a bump. Okay. Yes. All right. Thank you, ma'am Thank you and more questions for Ms. Knox moved the previous question I just had one comment. I won't hold us up long I will say that um, I just wanted to make sure that we were clear to the public That this is a decision that we have made and I do understand the direction that it's going But I think that when you know better, you do better And so I've learned a little more information And understanding and I will say that the reason despite knowing the procedural situation that we find ourselves in I particularly with in my district where people call me and literally say to their skater And say that they hear gunshots at night and I have one neighborhood president who says i'm tired. Ms. Herbert. I'm tired That in this moment, I couldn't do anything Um, to affirmatively repeal anything less than doing our best to protect citizens And so I just want people to understand my vote and I want my fellow council people to understand um, I understand the procedural consequences, but Um, I don't think based on what I'm experiencing in my community and in the calls that I get That I can be ever seen or do I ever want to be seen doing anything less than everything I can do Ms. Herbert, we appreciate your commitment to your to to your constituents as we all are and I think what you're going to hear from this council is is that that Where we are today and what we continue to invest into reducing gun violence Enforcing the laws that we have the ability to enforce We are going to do that with all the might we have Especially when it comes to gun violence As you know, most of us have spent time talking with legislature because this is a judicial issue as well not just A police issue. So we're going to continue to invest and do everything we can to keep every neighborhood safe in our community And that is a commitment By this council is a whole So Madam clerk You read the roll. Yes, sir. Mr. Taylor Just repeat the motion for me A motion to approve approve the repeal in ordinance 2022-020 I vote yes Yes, mr. Herbert No Dr. Bussells I Mr. Brennan. No Mr. McDowell No Mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor. Recommend. Hi. Thank you Number 12 is ordinance number 2022-025 amending the 1998 code of ordinances of the city of colombia, south carolina chapter 5 buildings and building Regulations section 5 3 26 rental permit required in section 5 339 permit fee Is there a motion? Move approval There's second second Any discussion Hearing none and seeing none. Madam clerk. Will you read the roll? Mr. Taylor. Hi, mr. Herbert. Hi dr. Bussells Hi, mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor. Recommend. Hi Item 13 ordinance number 2022-026 amending ordinance 2021-022 to amend the budget for the city of colombia, south carolina for the fiscal year ending june 30 2022 And again, this is the ordinance that is the mechanism to approve the actual funding through the american rescue plan funds Incorporating those into the current fiscal year's budget and just That's all this is right. Yes, sir. This didn't come till very late. So I We didn't you know, I think it was in the final agenda So I'm just now looking at it. It's just a r.a. Money that was approved early Yes, sir. It's incorporating those funds that we just discussed with you. Yes, sir motion to approve Have a motion to approve. Is there a second second any discussion? And I just and just to clarify because this is for the current fiscal year. Yes, ma'am Yes, yes, ma'am So essentially this I'm sorry reverend mcdowell Yeah, essentially Essentially miss wilson. This is a priority based budget Is that correct? No, sir Mr. Reverend mcdowell This is so that she can amend the city manager can amend the budget to add the aarp money that we just approved One After we added. Okay. I got you. All right. Just wanted to make sure Yes, sir. Thank you Yes, sir Madam clark Mr. Taylor. All right, miss harbert I dr. Bussells Hi Mr. Burnett. Yes, mr. Mcdowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor rickamon. I thank you Mr. Mayor, can I just ask just a seizure question as I get educated? So every time we add money from different sources and we'll vote to amend the budget like this Does that just kind of stand her up? Yes, sir. If we were if if it is additional funds that we would be adding to the budget. Yes, sir Thank you Can only change with it. Good afternoon miss hampton This is your public hearing and first reading for zoning planning matters our Planning and development services director christa hampton will assist Thank you, miss wilson. Good evening city council In addition to participants here in the chambers and viewing the meeting at the city's website The public may comment via telephone and when calling please include your name and the case number or address You can listen to the audio and participate in the meeting by calling<PHONE_NUMBER> The meeting code when prompted is 8651 You can press star one and stay on the line and listen until your case is announced Or you may press star two to leave a voice message that will be played back in the meeting Alternatively, you can press star three Be placed in the speaker queue to speak live and city staff will unmute callers during the comment period for each case Callers are limited to three minutes. And if you are participating by phone remember to turn off the audio on any other devices So that we can avoid feedback First matter for your consideration tonight is an annexation at 819 skyland drive A request to annex the property Assign a land use classification of urban edge residential large lot In a zoning classification of single family residential large lot at the time of annexation The property is currently classified as mixed residential high density And zoned rsld in richland county Do we have anybody here who's for or against this annexation? Madam clerk, we have anybody online Any comments questions or concerns from council? Do we have a second Madam clerk, can you read the roll? Mr. Taylor. Hi, miss herbert. Hi dr. Bussells Dr. Bussells Mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell Mr. Duvall, I may recommend I An annexation at 626 sally axter road a request to annex the property and assign a land use classification of urban edge residential large lot A zoning of residential single family large lot at time of annexation The property is currently classified as mixed residential high density and zoned rsld by richland county Do we have anybody who is for or against this annexation? anyone online Are there any questions from council? I have a motion to approve. Is there a second second since there Did you have anything mr. Herbert? Oh, okay, just getting ahead of the curb. I'm madam clerk. Would you read the roll, please? Mr. Taylor. Uh, miss herbert. Hi dr. Bussells I Mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi mayor rickamon. Hi An annexation at 1458 carolina road also known as 1458 trinity three road Request to annex the property and assigned a land use classification of urban edged mixed residential A zoning of office and institutional at the time of annexation the property is currently zoned Neighbor classified as neighborhood medium density and zoned r u by richland county Is there anybody here to speak in favor or against this property? Have mr. Norman jackson Mr. Jackson Good afternoon. Good afternoon. Mr. Jackson. How are you so far so good? Okay I see you Norman jackson 265 king charles road in columbia I came to speak On the rezoning of the property and notice it says that annexation comprehensive plan map amendment Which are three are grouped together I'm not again. I have nothing against the reason on the annexation or the conference comprehensive land use plan My concern. I received a lot of calls from the community about this property being re-zoned to office and institutional What is misleading or misunderstanding is that is zoned medium density Office and institutional can have multifamily housing And that's a confusion The community is is having so you're going from medium density To not even to a high density, but multifamily, which is a higher density And for my calculations The amount of units can be placed on per acre on multifamily right The traffic generated is located between two churches the property next to it will cause a domino effect and It just can't handle it. But For the community to have that change from medium density straight to office and institutional Right with that much increase in units I do not think it's fair. I think what I would recommend that they come in to do is to Just send it back to the planning commission and have the community meet with the developer to Come to some understanding of what's really in place there the notice I I saw Just says from zoning and public hearing On the 15th today I just realized that it was approved by the planning commission But I didn't see a notice for Planning commission hearing I just saw a notice for this and I dropped it to it every day because I have to use that road And I read the sign so there's some confusion I got calls from the community and that's why I'm here today uh, I support the the annexation and the map amendment for Comprehensive plan, but the zoning I just have concern for that and I'm pointing it out to you The main concern, all right. Yes, sir, but Ms. Hampton could you Could y'all maybe go through and and address some of the concerns I heard several from mr. Jackson one of them about the planning commission notice neighborhood notice Could you maybe just give us some background a little in depth where If we did have folks come and discuss it and then go through the them as he mentioned the the neighborhood medium density Certainly so for for these Annexation and rezoning's planning commission is not a required notice only the zoning public hearing So that is what is what has been noticed the zoning classification is obviously adjacent Office and institutional, but it is also what the developers require for their proposed development which is Series of duplexes It's a 70 unit rental duplex development comprised of 35 buildings For them to do that that is why the office and institutional was requested The zoning the medium density residential would not permit that It's also adjacent to this property, which is why staff recommended that zoning In in the project itself. Is it Is it capped out at the 35 Units that's their current proposal now as I've mentioned to council before You can't make rezoning's conditional So once you do office and institutional They have the rights to do whatever is permitted under that zoning classification This is just what the developers have indicated to us is their plan I believe we've also we've already received a A sketch plan for review pending our planning commission review That's not been submitted formally yet, but but that is what their intention is currently Did did you get any feedback from any any concerns from neighbors letters? Anything that we didn't get in our packet that you know No, sir. No, sir And the planning commission voted unanimous approval Yes, they advise you on the rezoning annexation is solely within your purview. So but they they did recommend for the the map amendment But could I offer up that? We give first approval to keep the system going But request that the development team sit down with the neighborhood and share with them The plan before we take this up on a second reading that way we can keep the process moving But also make sure that we're Communicating Just so that if there are any questions or anything out there would that be acceptable Yes Yeah Make the motion to approve it one more question. Yes, sir. Chris. Is that partial contiguous? Yes, you could the where the purple is that's the city The purple is the city. Yes, sir. Okay May the motion to approve is there a second second any more discussion We'll make sure that the developer gets With the neighborhood in between now in the next reading Madam clerk, we read the roll Mr. Taylor. All right. Ms. Herbert. Aye, dr. Bussells Aye, mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Aye, mayor recommend. Aye. Thank you Annexation at 1010 Edgefield street a request to annex the property and assign the land use classification Of urban core residential small lot in a zoning classification Of residential mixed and historic preservation overlay at the time of annexation the property is currently classified as mixed residential high density and zoned rmhd by richland county in the urlwood community Is there anyone here to speak for or against This annexation You have anybody online? No, sir Is there a motion There a second Any discussion Hearing none seeing none. Madam clerk. Would you please read the roll? Mr. Taylor. Aye, mr. Herbert. Aye, dr. Bussells Aye, mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell It is mr. Duvall. Aye, mayor recommend. Aye. Thank you Thank you This next case is a zoning text amendment related to that annexation So this annexation is in the middle of the urlwood protection area And this would amend the text to add that parcel that you just voted on to the urlwood protection area Is there anyone here to speak? In favor against the zoning tax amendment Do we have anybody online? No, sir Yeah Is there a motion so moved there a second Second discussion I would just can you kind of explain a little bit more about what this does Certainly when properties are in a historic district, there's two ways they are applied one is through the zoning map So that would be a map amendment and then within the actual text of the zoning ordinance itself The individual tax map some tax map numbers, pardon me are listed And so this being annexed within that district this will add that tax map to the list and property owner didn't request that Or did they request they are aware of and of the Of the application of the historic district overlay. Yes How did i'm just curious how did this arrive did you request it or the property owner requested? I wasn't involved in the conversations directly. So I did not request it, but I can't say whether they requested it directly And but I guess I can um, I was at the um One of the meetings I will say Councilman Taylor a lot of the neighborhoods are actually looking to extend their areas Um, so I've heard a lot about folks wanting to make sure they Stay in the area as opposed to making them smaller I understand. I mean again If this is something that was driven by the city, that's one thing if it affects somebody's property and I just want to make sure that the property owners are aware They are aware. I did confirm with it of the way of aware. I I can't tell you their opinion on it And we could get that information from them directly I do think that that is proper because one of the issues that I do have is folks not knowing They are they are aware. They are absolutely aware. I did confirm that. Okay, so your question joe was their opinion Well, I mean Again, I I don't like putting overlays on somebody's rule of state without knowing that they're they're fine with it Um It's that's the case. I would I would ask that we defer this Sure that the property owners I didn't get the last part joe Make sure the owners of the the property are okay with it My question here for clarification is the applicant is you miss hampton Why isn't the property owner the applicant for this? I believe they may be selling it So I am generally the applicant when these when text amendments actually it is a text amendment. So I there are only city councilman city manager Zoning administrator citizens can't request text amendments at all Did they provide a letter of support for for the action that they want you to take just a petition But we could we could see about getting and so this is for a single parcel. This is not a overlay extension of several It's correct. It's that parcel there Which is not part of the other overlay, correct? It's not in the city It's being annexed So because it's being annexed it is in what would you can see the hatch marks, which is where the boundary of the historic district could be Because it's within that that is why the overlay would be applied to all the surrounding neighbors they were to request annexation would have to Have the historic overlay as this parcel does According to this map right within that area up to park street Thank you You know my concern with this is the fact that we don't have anything from the property owner and the fact that they're going to Sell a piece of property which is in the past created a lot of havoc for new owners Can we get that before we take this up? I think it's very important to hear from the the property owner Before we move forward on this And I want to make sure that the petitioners are the ones purchasing and I don't know whether they've closed But they they are the ones that are petitioning the annexation and that I've stated are aware of it So I just want to make sure y'all know that they it was subdivided from the property That fronts park street. So we're getting a new a new lot with a new house, which is which is terrific So I guess my question is is since we've already taken the annexation They can come back to us when they actually own the property and request this, correct Because they don't actually own the people the people who are who have requested this don't actually own the property yet I can't speak to that for certain whether it's closed or not. I think when we did the last I don't have any issues So We have an option to Take back the motions I wouldn't take back. Well, I'm sorry go ahead You know come back and and then you could reinstate the motion that We would give it first So options are you could give it first reading and then request that this is resolved before we give it second Which means it can't get a second unless it's resolved Or we can just defer the whole item until we get everything. So what what's mr. Mayor? Can we approve the annexation? We've already approved the annexation Right So this is just on the the tech zoning text a message, which is why I think we need to to get that clarification And I agree I think we should treat it like we treated the other item and make sure that we are sure Of what their position is an understanding between now and the second reading So are we in agreement that we'll give it first reading with the understanding that if we don't get a Clarification that we will not give it second reading, which means it will Go away Well, the second reading would just be to deny Right No problems with that Yeah, okay Is that So you need us to well, we can't really put that in an amendment can we can't amend the motion I understand the direction So we've already made a motion someone would have to amend the motion to include that We can just give it first reading And then just Just get everything done and all right. Let's We'll go with the first reading And then take it from there Understand the direction. Thank you And we do have the option at the second reading to deny it. Is that correct? Yes, sir All right, thank you, sir Mr. Taylor No Mr. Herbert. Yes, dr. Bussells Yes, mr. Brennan Mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. I Mayor recommend I with the understanding that we will get clarification from the ownership at Of the property before second reading if not We will not approve it. Thank you And and just for clarity do we just want to get clarity that the the current owners know Are we trying to get their opinion on it? Well, I mean Christa has a good at knows exactly what she needs to find. I think at this point until the property sold the current owner Has has to make that decision if they don't want to do it Then the this will have to be withdrawn and resubmitted at the point of closing because we can't do this prior to closing Yeah, we'll we'll confirm the ownership and then and whoever the owner is of the property will get that information Thank you Your final case is a zoning map amendment So this is rezoning the property at 1810 allen benedict court a request to rezone the property from residential mix district That's an rm2 to a mixed-use two district This rezoning is requested to facilitate the redevelopment of this property Is there anyone here to speak in favor or against? zoning map amendment Move to approve. Mr. Mayor Is there a second? Any discussion I take it this is the zoning change needed to Or allen benedict court for the new development to move forward. Yes, sir. Perfect. Thank you Yes, madame clerk. Will you read the roll, please? Mr. Taylor. Hi, miss harbert. Hi dr. Bussells. Hi, mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor rickamon. Hi And that concludes your zoning public hearing. Thank you. Thank you, krista Moving into a period of event resolutions item 20 is resolution number R2020 2019 authorizing consumption of beer and wine beverages only at outfest columbia in the 1200 block of park street between gerbet street and ladies street On saturday june 4th 2022 Is there a motion? Move approval Is there a second? Second Any discussion Hearing none seeing none madame clerk. Would you please read the roll? Mr. Taylor. Uh, miss harbert. Hi dr. Bussells Hi, mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor rickamon. Hi Item 21 resolution number r 2022 022 authorizing consumption of beer and wine beverages only at the south carolina carnival in the 1800 block of main street between laurel street and richland street on saturday june 11th 2022 with a rain contingency date of saturday july the 16th 2022 Is there a motion? Move approval second Any discussion Concerns not seeing the un or hearing none Madam clerk. Could you read the roll, please? Mr. Taylor. Uh, miss harbert. Hi dr. Bussells Hi, mr. Brennan. Yes mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor rickamon. Hi Mayor rickamon. I'm gonna add item 21.5. I'm going to call it and we will Have you considered the amendment to your agenda resolution number r 2022 028 authorizing consumption of beer and wine only with emboit plaza adjacent to the colombia museum of art for live On bloat plaza on sunday april third 2022 Move approval sarah second second Any discussion Any concerns not hearing hon. Madam clerk. Can you please read the roll, mr. Taylor. Hi Miss harbert. Hi dr. Bussells Hi, mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor rickamon. Hi, thank you Moving into an additional period of resolutions item 22 resolution number r 2022 023 certifying building sites as abandoned buildings pursuant to the south carolina abandoned buildings revitalization act title 12 chapter 67 section 12 67 100 of the south carolina code of laws as amended regarding the properties located at 936 through 938 harden street in richland county And 944 through 946 harden street in richland county And 948 harden street in richland county as well as 950 harden street in richland county Motion to approve There a second It's okay. So I get it Any questions or concerns? Hearing non seeing none. Madam clerk. Could you read the roll, please? Mr. Taylor. Hi Miss harbert Dr. Bussells Hi, mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor rickamon. Hi Item 23 is resolution number r 2022 024 adopting the city of colombia use of force policy Move approval second any discussions concerns as you know, um The changes here that we're looking that the police chief is putting is is part of the calia standards update The department already made minor revisions to the use And however during may of 2020 site visit the sessor noted that changes That required immediate attention. And so we're doing those so that as part of the police research of calia re accreditation Commission view is coming forward that we're up to date and in order Is there any other discussion? Madam clerk, could you read the roll, please? Mr. Taylor. Hi, miss harbert. Hi dr. Bussells Hi, mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor rickamon. Hi. Thank you Moving into a period of appointments. Mayor recommend item 24 is the tax modernization committee Yes, um, I wanted to move forward, uh, three slates. Um, Stephen taylor James Bennett Scotty smith And as part of my motion making mr. Taylor the chair of the tax modernization committee That's my motion can I have a second mr. Stephen taylor or mr. Joe taylor, excuse me Scott we have two taylors here who has a brother named joe taylor Scotty smith mr. Mather was joe taylor James Bennett and is there another was there another name? Uh, scottie smith Hughes Okay, thank you sir. You're welcome. Is there a second? second Any discussion? concerns Madam clerk read the roll. Mr. Taylor. Uh, miss harbert. Hi dr. Bussells Hi, mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor rickamon. Hi. Thank you Thank you Other matters item 25 council is asked to approve reimbursement of the november 2nd and 16th 2021 city of columbia municipal election expenses as requested by the city clerk's office The award to the richland county voter registration and elections office and the amount of 184,846 dollars and 89 cents Is there a motion? move approval second Any discussion? Hearing none seeing none. Madam clerk Read the roll Mr. Taylor. Thank you. Miss harbert. Hi dr. Bussells Hi mr. Brennan. Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor rickamon. Hi. Thank you Item 26 the city council standing committee referrals process I think that the honorable daniel j rickamon will address Well, I think this is a follow-up from our discussion in our work session about the referral process and how The chairperson or referral from council Or the chairperson can then call a committee meeting as as long as they move it through the clerk's office to make sure that We have publicly noticed it and have staff available for that hearing Uh, that's my motion second Any questions or discussions? Hearing none seeing none. Madam clerk Mr. Taylor. Hi. Miss harbert. Hi dr. Bussells Hi mr. Brennan Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor rickamon. Hi Thank you item 27 moving to a priority zero base budget the honorable daniel j rickamon mayor As we've we've discussed previously about moving moving our budget process to a Priority and a zero base which means clearing out and not using Our budget last year as the basis but actually building it up from the base up for our department So that we can make sure that we're addressing the current priorities and needs For our community and this will allow us to redirect funding Into those departments to make sure that we're investing internally and Taking an account of the priorities that are in this budget year Um, I would ask that council support and move forward to allow Our staff to move forward on preparing that proprietary Priority or I brought priority, uh zero base budget moving forward Can we have an explanation of what this will do to the process we're in right now by Either missy or jeth Well The process right now I'm fine for missy to come forward mr. Duvall, but essentially we have received budgets from the various departments and so I don't really feel like it's going to detract from that process too much yet with where we are we We've received their budget requests We're about to as you know go into budget workshops with you all we usually start with going over revenues with you um and I guess knowing I think what the intent is here. I feel like missy jeff and I will be able to Redirect the staff and make some adjustments because we're really just beginning to dive into those budgets Well, this this is not too far from what the way we have been traditionally doing our budget is it not Yes, sir. I think what you're going to find probably is um us addressing with you The difference between how we may have budgeted for certain positions in the past um and authorized certain positions that may be um are held in the budget but not necessarily utilized and so if by giving a A real deep dive into looking at positions in my opinion is going to be where there's probably some some wiggle room here for um finding Funding to put into the priorities as we try to always do priority based budgeting based on what I'm hearing from the council And you know at your retreat you've identified some outcomes that you would like to see Um, we're going to have a part two discussion on that But that gives me somewhat of a guide of what I think you've identified as priorities thus far And of course during your budget workshops. I would be looking for you to tell me that even further Mr. Mayor Yes, sir. Mr. McDowell I guess Maybe I'll put the maybe I'll put the card uh the horses or the card in front of the horse Because I'm struggling a little bit with the uh zero based budget. Is that a conversation? Because I understand that all the departments from what I just heard have already submitted their budget Is that a conversation for this year or next year? No, this this is for this year Because those budgets by building those budgets up from the ground up not only does it create transparency But it also identifies what our true costs will be so we'll be able to go in there and prioritize But also take things like overtime and everything and really budget it so that we can move forward And we have a clear picture and how we Use those that funding we're talking about using the funding within our our departments to make sure that we're getting the priorities That we set forth completed Okay Okay, I need to Personally I need to know Exactly what's that's going to involve because if I'm correct the staff has already Put together a budget or we too could reconfigure that The figures that they already have worked hard at We don't have a budget put together No, I'm just once the departments do that Of course Do we zero? Do we do we make it zero based? Because if I understand zero based budget uh It involves of course expenditures that Expenditures that are that can be justified. Is that something that we're already doing? Yes, do you want me to talk? Reverend mcdowell, I think I understand what you're saying The budget Their budget requests at this point that the departments would have submitted so We are really in the just the beginning stages as we normally are at this point in the process Where we are the executive management team and myself the assistant city managers are looking at their respective department's budget requests And to be quite honest with you over the last several years I mean these budget requests are pretty flat to be honest and so When I mentioned a minute ago about Positions to me that is really maybe where the play will be so to speak as far as positions. We've always authorized But maybe not Utilized and so What I think I'm hearing is wherever there's play in these budget requests We're going to dive a little bit deeper based off what we know from operating differently during even the pandemic What programs are still essential versus maybe we're doing things differently Um, I heard me recommend mentioned looking hard at overtime things of that nature And then we will take these budget requests and begin to go over them very Um with a five tooth comb on the executive management level and then begin to share information with you all Answering your questions during the budget workshops. It's not A whole lot different really. I'm not alarmed by the request at all I think that it is provide an opportunity probably for this newly seated council to um You know put a spotlight on the prioritization of things Missy what would how would you add to that? I would add is as To that piece we may have also mentioned to you We are implementing an actual formal priority based budgeting utilizing a program With resource x which will actually the actual mechanism It is it is not um very different. It's really quite in line with what it is that you're proposing It is a way of us being able to actually allocate and out evaluate our budgets by programs Not just what departments are but the actual services that we offer and the programs that we provide to the community It's based on those and then you align those resources that we have to those priorities that are established by city council The mechanism to do that is is some some time mech to to do and to complete However, I think as miss wilson's mentioned And may as you've mentioned what we have at this point are departments requests So what we'll be able to do is at least be able to demonstrate Starting to align those resources towards those priorities being able to put those places put those resources Where it is that we that you that you've out highlighted as priority areas Especially as you're coming out of your which is a perfect timing of coming out of your Retreat and highlighting those and of course going forward. We'll be able to better demonstrate um the alignment of those resources towards those uh designated priorities Well, it it seems to me that we're talking about two methods, right? We're talking about a traditional budgeting method And of course the zero based this is budgeting. This is traditional but both of those both of those methods Of course, uh are used in my estimation to track it expenditures is that correct missing? So there is At the basis of every budget there is always a line item budget You still have to have those line items in order to the actual the actual mechanism of delivering expenses and costs That you you can't escape that piece But how you align those resources and how you allocate Funding towards programs and services That's really what the basis of what a priority basis and zero based budgeting would allow us to do Is it demonstrate and allows us to better demonstrate that those resources are going where the community says are the priorities That you're setting. So yeah, so we so in essence We're not escaping the line item budget in terms of how we have to prepare it How you approve it how you present it is really what what where we're getting into as well That's herbert and mr. Taylor And I just wanted to make sure but I think you all may have answered it because my concern You won't have to start back over the these decisions will be done on the executive management level But departments won't have to go back and resubmit There's always a little bit of give and take you recall as a former city employee Herbert about The budget process time and so No department head comes into their budget request ever thinking that the budget request is going to be what They submitted and a check and that's what they're getting so I can't recall It should it should not come as a surprise to anyone at this point. I never I never got my full Okay, well I think even if we have to give some more instructive Language to department heads just reiterating as council's motion does today what priority based budgeting The intent is here Then certainly I don't think that should come as a surprise to any of our department heads I think we're good. And I guess my question with that too is making sure we communicate Have we finished our Priorities from the retreat so that we can clearly articulate them to staff So that they know What we're aiming towards so I guess we need to make sure we finish that ma'am and and the staff and I are I am Really just beginning to let the staff know this as you are leading up to your part two of your retreat There's some homework the staff and I are working on knowing what those draft that draft vision and your strategic outcomes say Um, I'm gonna assume a little bit right now that those the time you all spent really good time at that retreat Putting those together is where you are and so we're already working along those lines I mean that would be what I would Be utilizing between now and when we can all be together with you again at the end of this month So that we can be using this time wisely I'm gonna take that unless you tell me otherwise that the Outcomes you came up with that the retreat give a good foundation for what you deem as the priorities at this point Thank you, mr. Wilson. Mr. Taylor I would just like to take a second and congratulate you and thank you miss wilson and miss coffman and jeff and mr Mayor I think as we come out of covet. This is a the right time to take a look at this You know, we saw lots of things change the way we operate in every arena business government everywhere Over the last two years. We saw things that work. We saw things that didn't work and and frankly, I think uh, reverb mcdowell this gives It should give our our executive management team the ability to To rethink things if you want to and and and how we operate and so forth and and as miss wilson mentioned, you know The staffing situation that we have faced I mean, we're not going to fix that in a single year So it lets you take that into it to effect I think it's a I think it's a very timely and a very positive thing for the city and and I thank y'all for doing for being willing to do this Thank you. Mr. Mayor. Yes, sir Now just as miss wilson or question Miss wilson, so we are talking about a combination in terms of usage A priority slash traditional zero balanced budget as we move forward Yes, sir. Yes, sir I i'm very comfortable and I appreciate your questions reverb mcdowell um that the Terminology is is pretty much the same. I mean, we've been doing priority based budgeting in my opinion for some time I think we're gonna refocus a little bit But um, we're good. Yes, sir Yes, ma'am. Well, thank you very much. The reason my interest, of course Is that for 42 years churches that I've worked with has always it's always been a priority based budget and um So it sort of peaks my interest that we're going to be using A combination of those things Thank you, ma'am. Yes, sir Yeah, unfortunately, we don't get to pass the plate like you did reverb mcdowell. So we we we Please mr. Mayor, let's not get into that Did we get a second second. Thank you. Um, is there any more discussion Hearing none seeing none. Madam clerk. Could you read the roll? Mr. Taylor. Ms. Herbert Hi, dr. Boussles Hi mr. Brennan Yes, mr. McDowell Yes, ma'am. Mr. Duvall Mayor recommend I Thank you all so much Um, a new item on your agenda, which will not always be on your agenda I don't think I will always have to utilize this time But a city manager's report and I sent you an email Suggesting that we incorporate this for times when maybe the council has requested some information You don't need a full blown presentation But you're asking for a report of some type, but you also would like to see that report Placed into the record the formal record of the council. And so that's what we Intended for today. I know that our last Council meeting on march the first the request was made for the original projections on the bull street project the cost What's been spent to date The revised estimate to complete our obligations and such and so we've sent you all an email About that, but we've also provided these big old binders in front of you that has all of what We have as far as agreements, which there are many And other documentation just for your record for your Reference and if you Find that meets what you're asking us for Then certainly this would be the time where you can put it on the record or ask any questions It's not I don't I know you don't have any questions of the information right now But we were just doing what we were asked to bring it back to you Mr. Mayor, I think this is a good addition to our agenda listing with a city manager's report Uh my concern is that we need to have a rule on the council That a major report such as this bull street report Which is this big Does not have to It needs to have four members of council request this report I think it's a bad practice if we have One member of council asked for an extensive report that's going to require a lot of staff time And come up with a document like this I think it's good that we ask for reports But if we ask for an extensive report it needs to have The majority of council asking for it. Mr. Mayor may I comment on that since I asked for the report I want to ask for three things Um, you know the original cost cost to date and projected cost to finish I think the city took it city staff took it upon themselves to to create a very extensive report Um, actually when we did it we basically said it was I thought it was going to be simple enough Where we would just be the email that I got earlier this week. Um, so I just I don't know if I You know one man's what's it one man's trash is another man's treasure. So How do you define extensive so I Well, I I would say, you know, first of all, I appreciate the time and effort that the staff Did to put this report because not everybody's been here and not everybody's on the bull street Commission So this is a good knowledge for us to understand but also as we move forward for for new council members And the rest of us to be reminded of where we are so that we understand as we move forward with other projects But you know, I do think that this is not out of the purview of an elected official's request And I think it has to have a majority of council as for it I don't believe that's the case but if we want to get into Rules then and really getting down into it then we can have a We can refer this to the administration Committee for discussing do that I think we need to be sensitive to what we're asking our staff to do our staff has been bending over backwards trying to assimilate New members of council and getting them up to speed but there is a limit to our staff time And when the when we they are asked to do an extraordinary report I think it needs to have the backing of a majority of the council members To put them on that sort of a time schedule Mr. DeVall, let me repeat one more time. I did not ask for an extensive report I appreciate the time and effort for the report because I do think it's a good thing for us all to be up to speed Because I don't think anybody at this table Could go through and and give a history of every piece of this And understand why expenses are where they are and so we need to know as we're moving forward As a city we have to understand where a where we came from b where we still have obligations in to go and I I know it was a real pain, but I appreciate what you've given. I'm going to utilize it as we move forward. I want to thank you I certainly want to thank you. I think you've done an excellent job. I just wanted to be a majority asked for Mr. Mayor Yes, sir. Mr. Reverend McDowell Is there any way we could refer this to put more tea into what Howard is saying? Can we refer this to the administrative committee for review and perhaps bringing back to council? You as a council member can refer anything you want to a standing committee all right I'd like to refer to just remember those rules will apply to all requests That's correct Yes, miss herbert So I move that we do that Miss herbert. We're still in discussion period reverend McDowell, but Oh, I'm sorry. Are you finished reverend McDowell? Yes, ma'am Thank you. No, I did want to echo. Yes, ma'am Echo those those sentiments because um, I do want to make sure That we are doing everything to make sure that staff is successful in the things that we need to do moving forward And so I'm very cognizant of how much time They have to use with historical stuff I do believe that there is going to be times where we need to do Have certain reports, but I really just want to make sure that we're not Because I've been there where I couldn't get the day-to-day things done or move my department forward Because I was dealing with historical information So I I do agree with their referral because we do need to make sure that we have some kind of process And maybe it's more of a communication and really understanding the expectations So that staff knows exactly like if you wanted two pages like I will say I want a two pager But we kind of have to figure out a way to make sure that we're clearly communicating What is expected? I will also say that these binders are expensive No, they really are so maybe sometimes check and see if everybody wants I love binders But and that's why I know that they're expensive. So, um, I just want to make sure that we probably At this point need to have some type of system some type of process to make sure um that we're not Taking up too much staff time On historical matters when we still have to get the day-to-day objectives done So I would second that motion that I think that we'll take a motion at the appropriate time We are not in council committee referrals reports or new business at this time. We're still in the city manager's report We'll allow the city manager to continue on And we'll make a joke for it at the appropriate time Yes, sir Thank you, sir That really concludes my report other than not to pile on the other binder that's in front of you regarding the Same information as requested regarding 1401 main So that includes concludes my report mayor That is this and the city manager's report Just to be clear as we used to do in the prior your plan is to once a month kind of to to give us the update On the on the city as you you used to do it I did we've been through many iterations as you know from your time on council mayor recommend that wasn't necessarily my intention It was really the mechanism because it was a you know, it was specifically requested to put things into the record and I really Didn't have another way to do that without doing a full-blown presentation on something you've requested So I was going to only do it as needed But I certainly can do it every time or once a month it it doesn't matter I was just doing it today because of what was asked and I thought you all wanted a formal You wanted to put it into the record. Yeah I would let you down the road is you to update us as things because there are a lot of moving you and I talk almost every day So but I do think it's good for the public and for the rest of council to get an update because there are a lot of issues I mean there are a lot of things going on around the city every day from from employment to contracts to future projects to questions about Other projects that we've spent lots of time on And haven't gotten anywhere so um, I'm happy to do that and we'll come up with a Frequency, I think that makes sense. That's awesome. Thank you very much. You're welcome I just had one question is councilman taylor is is your report in here? Is that included in here too? Is that something separate? That's only from the staff Are you ready to move for it with your committee referrals reports and any new business? Which we did at that language there too because i'm finding sometimes we're needing that as well um I know mr. Brennan had requested a referral. I'll start with him. Yes. Thank you, mr. Mayer I want to thank you for your time uh this week for council mcdowell and i'd uh Come visit with you on something that I think all of council members have voiced their frustration with all of citizens of columbia the county and In the midlands in general and that's litter in the appearance Of our of our city streets our rideaways our easements our private private property I wanted to bring forward a motion to to really For us to own the problem So many times we rely on the state and the department of transportation to come in and clean up and We all kind of see where that gets us um I think it's time that we own the issue of beautification litter And how that translates into community how that translates into community pride in our neighborhoods in our hospitality districts So I want to I want to put forward a a columbia Clean division under our columbia water columbia water is not just within the city as as we all know it It services parts of the county parts of lexington county and in several municipalities Surrounding columbia, so I think that's a good Vessel for us to really take on the bigger issue of trash appearance water quality issues Here in columbia and around the service area Of columbia water in its sixth district, so I'd like to make a motion and then hopefully open it up for for a comment I'd like to make a motion to send to the administrative and policy committee To study the creation of a columbia clean division Under columbia water in the six water districts to focus on servicing litter beautification And clean water initiatives Thank you Is there a second to refer it to the committee? Any discussion? I did want to say that, you know, we're all very concerned about litter So we also have been have been kind of limited on on Our ability to find folks for litter currently at the state house. There is Some legislation to up the fine that would give us some more teeth to put in against litter because It has become a problem. It's become a problem throughout our city It's become a problem in neighborhoods that have become empty lots have become dumping grounds weekend and weekend out Um, I think what mr. Brennan is bringing forth is part of a solution. It's not the hundred percent of the solution as we know We have some opportunities to work with our youth I've heard about some great programs with some folks in the neighborhood, which we also want to Incorporate into this where we we are cleaning up in our neighborhoods and working and and supplying some after school work And opportunities to put pride back in our neighborhood and part of that cleanup is is our funding with this aarp money That we have put forth as well to we have 68 Condemned homes that we will be Tackling between now and june and then really pushing forward to rebuild So as we clean and rebuild we start revitalizing our neighborhoods and making true investments And I think this is one part and I look forward to hearing from the committee of of where they end up and how we add The youth groups and other pieces to that Keep the midlands beautiful. We'll be holding a a community wide cleanup that I think we all ought to be part of Some of that's going to be announced in the next couple weeks But a great opportunity to jump start this type of program Making sure that that we take back columbia from the litter the cans the paper The dumping and and really show our our pride in columbia Are any other comments or concerns? Mr. Mayor Yes, sir. I think it's I think it's I just want to echo what Councilman Brennan said of course in our meeting. It gives our young folk an opportunity to Sort of be partners with us and with the city Team blue becomes a reality for our young folk. It gives them something to do and of course Particularly The pride In each community and them being a part of You continue to put a part of us. So yes wholeheartedly I support that Mr. Taylor Yes, mr. Mayor if we could have the city manager perhaps talk to our lobbyist And Convade of them that we'd like for them to convey to the house judiciary committee, which is where I think the litter The litter bill exists today to raise that we are fully supportive as the capital city of the state To raise the fine for littering to a level that That that basically tells folks this is important. I think today This the limit for a litter fine is a hundred dollars in the state of South Carolina And I think it should be raised to a thousand or something to where people understand. We're serious about about litter going for Yes Yes any more discussion Moved a previous question Madam clerk read the roll Mr. Taylor Hi, mr. Herbert. Hi dr. Bussells I mr. Brennan. Yes mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor recommend. Hi Any other referrals Mr. Mayor, do we refer that? The verbiage that Howard spoke of just a moment ago Do we do we refer that to the administrative committee? Would you would you clarify that verbiage for me? Yes, Howard do that for it, please He said he wants you to refer it to the committee the request for information Oh, no the request for information. Oh, I just want to I prefer to do it informally, but if you want to send it to the committee I think that there needs to be a an agreement on council that major reports requested of the staff Have at least a majority of the council asking for them I don't think that we should have a single council member Asking for reports that are going to take a lot of time staff time so We can work on some words if you want to councilman McDowell Can I take a stab at the motion? Yeah to refer to the committee whether or not we need some guidelines for council to handle staff requests that May take an extensive amount of time. I think that's a fix and and and just to clarify your motion. That's not historical That's all issues is what you're saying That is yes. Yes. I want to make sure That's great Is there any discussion? So mr. DeVall, would you restate your motion again? We've got it written down in This is just It's just going to the committee if you would if you would then have the clerk to restate that for us What I have so far is um, they're referring to the administrative policy committee a decision on whether or not Guidelines are needed for city council as it relates to the request for reports of staff Something to that nature. We'll clean it up Yeah Sounds good. Thank you, ma'am. All right, madam. Clark. Can you read the roll? Yes, sir. Mr. Taylor. Oh Herbert yes, dr. Bussells I Mr. Brennan Mr. McDowell Yes, mr. DeVall. I may recommend No Thank you Is there any other referrals? Yes, mr. DeVall. I just want a personal privilege here I've got a Mayor's fellow that has been assigned to me first time I've had a mayor's fellow. You're welcome. She's not a fellow But she she is Olivia Gillespie from the university of south carolina native of clinton north carolina And uh majoring in political science and wants to get a master's in public administration Which is the exact process that I used in my career. So I'm hoping that she will be able to Learn something in the next few weeks that we're together and I hope to Have a work on short-term rentals and other things.  I promise I wanted to take a moment to thank you mayor for Being creative with the fellows program to allow city council to have Some support as we as you all know love our details. We're learning a lot. We're asking a lot of questions and You know particularly as we seek to get more young people involved in local government I think this is a great avenue by which um You know our young folks can learn About what it what it is like and so I'm very thankful and Like uh councilman devol very excited to be working with grusial rupaul Who recently ran for student council ran a wonderful race at the university of south carolina Also loves public health And wants to go into health policy is an indian-american woman Which i'm very excited about it couldn't have been a better pick. So thank you And I look forward to working with her to research the various issues that we are passionate about to make our city better Thank you. Dr. Bussells. I had an opportunity to meet all the fellows today and I have to tell you what an impressive crowd of fellows we're very excited and and i'm Being in all of your shoes. I understand how important it is to have an extra hand and I think you're going to be really surprised at The ability of these young folks. They're very smart and talented I think they're going to have some some real great ideas to to work with each one of y'all. So I'm glad that we could do that With that City manager we've got a public input. Yes, sir any additional public input Did we have anyone sign up or wanted to speak? Mr. Gina Williams Ms. Wiley you you all right back there. I just want to check She's sitting on the wrong side She switched sides on us. Yep. She moved she moved to the right Hi, good evening miss Regina. How are you? Good It's always a pleasure to see you up and about and around and about Well, thank you First I want to thank you all for allowing me to sit in on the Meeting What was it the meeting that you had this past? The work session work session It allowed me to to learn a lot and I appreciate that I would encourage all citizens to To to do that so that we can help with our city The ordinance Looking at ordinance number 11 It's not ordinance 11, but it's number 11 on the First reading item 11. Yes first I did not understand it Completely when I started reading Reading it. So I'm wondering if in the future we could have a sort of a synopsis Of what the ordinances are about I was able to look up a few But everybody can't do that So If we can do that I would I would appreciate that So now I want to ask before I make my statement Am I correct in looking at these ordinances and saying that these ordinances are repealing Things that we've already voted on Yes, ma'am. So each one of those Ordinances were appealed because we're we're we're not able to enforce them at this time Now we do have ordinances on the book for each one of these Well, I should say there were four ordinances done three of them One of them is staying the test of time three of them haven't but school zones we do have have Some ordinances there as well to address guns on schools and etc. Yes, ma'am. So Let me make sure i'm listening to this Correctly because I want to make sure that when we repeal these that our neighborhoods will still be safe I looked at it correctly one of it was talking about ghost guns Do Do we really know what ghost guns are and how easily accessible they are and how we can just purchase them? They don't have serial numbers Any child can order it and put it together And you can't calibrate. Oh, yeah, I've checked out some of my some of my people now You can't calibrate. You don't know what kind of bullet The person used To shoot out of the gun Are we really going to make these? Legal now They're not legal, ma'am. They're not. I mean are we talking about repealing What we're repealing is at the state statute doesn't allow us to enforce these These things we have had them on the book since 2019 and we can't enforce any of them and its current state because the state statute State law preempts us from doing so Okay The other we got to work together to be creative to do other things The other thing is orders of protection Are we talking is this about When I feel like my life is in danger or something and Is that in here? Am I did I look at that and see See that in here and see I'm asking because I don't I'm not really sure I would refer to To our legal counsel to to to go through that because I am not an attorney So so but I do know that the universal citation code in the in the state right now There is Law similar to what this is already on the books that we need to make sure we enforce when it comes and that's Section 23 31 10 40 and I'll I'll get you copies of everything so you have what I have Okay, because I was fortunate enough to be able to sort of research it And look and see and I still didn't understand So I would think that if our if my peers in the community Understood they may be able to call you and express their opinions on this I think that's real important when you're talking about You know, you're in charge of the city of columbia um the other thing I'm concerned that um Guns have become a public health issue more so than um What I'm hearing if these are being repealed because there's nothing on the state statutes that can help us to um Enforce it that we need to look at that I don't want a public health issue to turn into a political issue Everybody has the guns now That is a public health issue Please let's look at this before our second reading Maybe have some folk to come in and talk about it explain it And then get again put Miss Williams, I appreciate you bringing that up in it, you know violent gun violence is certainly a public health issue And that was intentional and why I wanted to make sure that we um, you know, we acknowledged that and I am uh I am committed to making sure we do have the experts come in and talk to us about what the evidence-based Programs are that can reduce gun violence and reduce firearm related injuries And and it is something that I will implore my colleagues to ensure that we make happen through other mechanisms that allow us to You know do it within our purview. So essentially Be able to implement a gun safety initiative in a way that it doesn't Violate any, you know state-level laws. So I hear you and I appreciate you bringing that up Okay, I just want to make sure that we know or that other folk understand what it really means Finally, let me say that It's the colony Or north point or green view a Belvedere today But if we repeal some of these laws without putting something into place, it could very easily be shandan woodcrete farm rosewood tomorrow We just had a shooting at allen university last week This past weekend we had it right on usc's campus Please let's not politicize Something that's keeping our neighborhoods safe I'd appreciate that and I appreciate you all listening and I'll see you at the next meeting This Regina. I just want you to know that nobody here is backing off on trying to get things done to improve the issue We just got to make sure that whatever tools we have in the quiver We can actually use because having them and not being able to use them doesn't get us anywhere We need to make sure we continue to make an investment I think what you've heard from this council is that we're going to continue to invest in all our communities I want to be clear All of our communities and making sure that every child feels safe wherever they live I agree and I believe that you will I believe in you and Just know that we talked about transparency during the elections and I believe in you I'll call you if we have any problems Well, you that's one thing I know Yes, sir Thank you Is there anyone else Mr. Black Good evening now I might just want to say that The clement council neighborhoods will be having our annual awards banquet It's been on hiatus for a few years And this year we are back in person It will be on april 13th at seawells We will have congressman james cliburn And russian county sheriff leon lout as our keynote speaker speakers as well as Perhaps a surprise appearance by chief holbrook and perhaps The legend himself arbor jankins To name a few But I wanted to say that right now the clement council neighborhoods We are currently accepting nominations for The award of special recognition The ccn friend of the year The neighborhood volunteer of the year The neighborhood program of the year and the coveted neighborhood of the year nominations are open Until march 24th That's next thursday at the conclusion of our monthly membership meeting that will be at the oak lair print building For at six o'clock down on the enter And we're hoping to announce next week ticket sales and potential sponsors Income from organizations to help finance us And as far as the council goes we do want to say That we have made Since I took over the presidency I've Worked hard to bring in grass roots Organizations to come in and present each month You know, we we've had some amazing people come up I want to thank councilwoman herbert And councilman mcdowl For uh Coming to the meetings even if you know what we appreciated the most especially from Councilwoman herbert Was kind of sitting in the back and just kind of taking it in And then people realized who she was And then her table started getting full and after the meeting it's kind of so We do appreciate that but wanted to let the council know that we are offering a standing Open invitation To any and all council members and the mayor We are actually I've set a spot on the agenda For any council member that wants to come to our meeting and speak We're not going to hound you. We're not going to beg you to come You know, it's like if you want to come and see Be a part of organization that represents over 100 of your community neighborhoods And organized representatives of my times out. Thank you John what day was did you say april the 13th? Yes, wednesday april 13th And it is at the after the master's ends Was there anyone else who wanted to speak or has signed up? I do have a 30 second voicemail to play into the record. Yes, ma'am. Thank you And with the escalation of gun violence In the city of columbia We are requesting I am requesting that you keep ordinance number 2019 hyphen 063 on Until you have something better and enforceable Thank you for your time. That's all that I have Mr. Mayor, I move we go into executive session for receipt of legal advice relating to a pending threat and a potential Clean pursuant to seco 30 days 40 78 to miller manor versus city of columbia Mr. Taylor Ms. Herbert Dr. Bussells Mr. Brennan. Hi. Thank you. Mr. McDowell Yes, mr. Duvall. Hi, mayor recommend. Hi. Thank you


Hi Wayne, so supposedly this is going to be a surprise for you but I'm not sure where in your list of surprises this is going to fall because you've had a number of pleasant surprises by way of number of achievements that you've made in your last year and I think it all started with us putting in a paper for the Philippine Crop Science Society best paper competition to which you made it as a finalist and if you had just a few bits and pieces more of the data you would have probably won that also and then you came back from there to finish off your MSC in flying colors. I still remember your comprehensive exam that you took and also the presentation you made for your thesis which then obviously was recognized as the best thesis by the Department of Science and Technology and it came with a very prestigious certificate and a lot of cash award and you're already happy for you for that. And I think the next thing to follow was your two papers from your earlier work that you got in the last year and these were very good papers in the Journal of Experimental Botany and Plain Cell Reports so these were very good achievements as well and then again you won the best paper competition in the Society for Developmental Biologists when you presented your work again so there was surely a string of achievements for you and I think this award that you've got today of the outstanding scientific achievements is a great icing on the cake and you'd surely deserve this because you've also had a lot number of nasty surprises last year mainly relating to your own health and a couple of times to your family's health so all this has not come very easily to you we are all very aware of that and I know as a person with so many additional responsibilities at a personal level as a wife as a mother and as a person of faith I know you make a lot of time for that I think it is commendable that you have been very conscientiously been able to put extra time back into your work and achieve all that you have achieved in the last one year so I personally and from the entire group commend you for that congratulate you for that I think this award is a testimony to your hard work, to your determination, to your conscientiousness and you well deserve this and I do want to take an opportunity to say it once again as I have said to you in a number of meetings that you've always had that you have a tendency to start a number of things and finish just a few of them but you have great ideas in fact your MSc was based on one of your own ideas and we were able to validate those ideas and get a number of awards based on that you do tend to sort of drift away from some very interesting aspects and I'm aware that even before I joined you accumulated a lot of data which is very relevant for publications if certain gaps are filled and surely I'll take it on myself to ensure that those gaps are filled in the next year and we get some more good publications and you keep winning such awards but for now I think you should bask in the glory of your achievements you deserve this award better than anyone else and I just congratulate you once again from my side and from the entire group who is also very happy for you because as a senior member in the group you have you have been very supportive I still remember when I came here I think having you in my group made my life easy here at Erie by you facilitating a number of small bits and pieces for me by the fact that you've been at Erie for such a long time so I think I should stop now and let you get on with enjoying this whole atmosphere and take it all in and congratulations once again