Regular Meeting of the Mayor and City Council
City of Ball Ground, Georgia
Ball Ground City Hall ~ 7:00 P.M.

Minutes
February 7, 2019

1.  Call Meeting to Order – Mayor Roberts

 

1.  Pledge of Allegiance

 

1. Appearances – None

 

1. Announcements – City Manager Eric Wilmarth

Tour of the Southern Highlands Bicycle Event will be held March 1-3, 2019.

 

1. Consider Approval of January 10, 2019, Council Meeting Minutes

Council Member Stoner put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to approve the minutes of the January 19, 2019 meeting as submitted in writing by the City Clerk.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Old Business

1. Consider 2nd Reading of Ordinance of changes to the City of Ball Ground Comprehensive Development Code

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Homiller to approve the second reading of the proposed ordinance as presented.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider 2nd Reading of Amendment to Code of Ordinances Chapter 14 Municipal Court Judge Term of Office

Council Member O’Malley put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Byrd to approve the second reading of the proposed ordinance as presented.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. New Business

1. Consider Adoption of Fee Schedule

City Manager Wilmarth presented a Schedule of Fees for various city services for Council Members consideration.

Council Member Homiller put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Stoner to approve the Schedule of Fees as submitted.

Motion Unanimously Approved.

 

Mayor Roberts asked that the Schedule of Fees be posted on the City Website.

 

1. Consider Amendment to Ball Ground Municipal Code of Ordinances Chapter 105 Title Floodplain Management; Section 105-4 Applicability.

City Manager Wilmarth stated Jack Krolikowski, Environmental Engineer for the Georgia Environmental Protection Division submitted the proposed ordinance changes for council consideration.

 

Council Members reviewed the proposed ordinance which outlines the current ordinance and the proposed changes.

 

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to approve the first reading of the proposed ordinance changes as submitted.

Motion Unanimously Approved.

 

1. Consider Amendment to Ball Ground Municipal Code of Ordinances Chapter 28 Titled Utilities to regulate fees and charges for storm water utility services, define the scope of responsibility, establishes an enterprise fund, credit and appeal policies, billing and collection policies, and other policies and procedures related to establishing the storm water utility.

 

City Manager Wilmarth stated per the Federal Clean Water Act the City of Ball Ground is required to adopt such ordinance as to regulate fees and charges for stormwater utility services define the scope of responsibility, establishes an enterprise fund, credit and appeal policies, billing and collection policies, and other policies and procedures as related to establishing the stormwater utility.

 

City Manager Wilmarth further stated a stormwater service fee shall accrue beginning July 2019 and shall be billed on the water/sewer/sanitation bill or on an annual base for customers, not on another City of Ball Ground utility billing account.  A fee schedule will be presented to the Mayor and City Council for consideration prior to June 30, 2019.

 

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Homiller to approve the first reading of this ordinance as presented.

Motion Unanimously Approved.

 

1. Consider Proposal from Georgia Power for Installation of Streetlights along Valley Street

Mayor Roberts expressed his excitement to see the Valley Street Streetscape underway.   This will be a great addition to our inventory of parks.

 

City Manager Wilmarth presented Mayor and Council Members with a proposal from Georgia Power for the following scope of work:

Install (20) 16ft Mounting Height Black Poles with 100w Post Tops installed behind sidewalk on Valley Street.   Bore in service wire to feed street lights.

The upfront cost of Pole/Boring totaled:  $44,611.01

 

Street City Manager Wilmarth proposed council members authorize a line item transfer of funds to pay for the installation of streetlights along Valley Street.  In the 2018/2019 Budget funds was budgeted to add an additional person to the public works staff. The position was not filled thus the request to transfer these funds to assist with this cost.

 

Council Member Homiller put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Stoner to transfer funds not to exceed $30,000.00 from the public works salary account to assist with the cost of installing street lights associated with the Valley Street Streetscape Project.

Motion Unanimously Approved.

 

1. Consider Extension of Service Delivery Strategy Agreement

Mayor Roberts explained that the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners submitted a request to the Department of Community Affairs in 2018 for an Extension of the Existing Service Delivery Strategy.  The application included an incorrect extension date of March 31, 2019, along with other discrepancies thus being rejected by DCA. The Cherokee BOC will resubmit the application with a correct extension date of June 30, 2019, and the discrepancies corrected.  Mayor Roberts asked Council Members to approve the extension date of June 30, 2019, for the Service Delivery Strategy

 

Council Member O’Malley put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member to approve the extension date of June 30, 2019, for the Service Delivery Strategy.

Motion Unanimously Approved.

 

1. City Managers Report

A written and oral operational and financial report was presented to Mayor and Council Members by City Manager Wilmarth.

 

City Manager Wilmarth reported to Mayor and Council that the existing internet server failed earlier in the week.  Our IT contractor, Ellijay Telephone Company came out to reload the operating system. Because the existing server is no longer able to meet our needs it recommended a new server be purchased and installed as soon as possible before the existing one failed and caused additional problems. A quote of $10,025.10 was submitted along with an additional cost of $75.00 per hour for setup time.

 

Mayor and Council Members discussed the necessity of providing the equipment necessary for the operation of City Hall.

 

Council Member Homiller put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Byrd to purchase a new internet server at the cost of $10,025.10 and approve the cost of $75.00 per hour for set up time.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

City Manager reported work had begun on implementing our GIS System.  Upon completion, this will be a great asset in so many ways to the city staff.

 

Chief Reeves presented a report of the Police Department’s activity for the month of January 2019.

 

Chief Reeves stated he is currently working with City Manager Wilmarth to compile a list of city residents in violation of City Ordinances.  City Manager Wilmarth stated violators will first be sent a letter notifying them they are not compliant with city ordinance and a date which to be compliant.  If they fail to meet the specified deadline citations will be issued.

 

1. Mayor Roberts Comments

Mayor Roberts stated he would appoint a group of city residents and business owners to serve on the Historic Preservation Committee at the March Meeting.

 

Mayor Roberts commended Chief Reeves for his diligence in working to clean up the City.

 

Mayor Roberts put forth his recommendation of appointees to fill the seats on the Natural and Historic Preservation Committee.  They are Frank Homiller, Andrenia Stoner and Karen Jordan.

 

Council Member Byrd put a motion, Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to accept the recommendation of Mayor Robert to appoint Frank Homiller, Andrenia Stoner and Karen Jordan to the Natural and Historic Preservation Committee

Motion Unanimously Approved.

 

Mayor Roberts reported that he along with Council Members John Byrd and Mickey O’Malley and City Clerk Karen Jordan attend the Mayor’s Day Conference held in Atlanta.

 

Mayor Roberts announced that Arbor Day would be celebrated one week later on February 22, 2019.  The annual tree planting would take place in City Park at 10:30 AM.

 

1. Council Members Comments

Council Member O’Malley reported that the Ball Ground Pickle Ball Team has joined the Cherokee County Pickle Ball League.  Currently, there are 36 members of the Ball Ground Team. The group met with Council Member O’Malley to inform him of the condition of the tennis court.  It was stated the courts are beginning to crack and the group asked if the courts could be stripped to accommodate the playing of the sport.

 

Council Member O’Malley then met with City Manager Wilmarth to discuss their request.  Since Southeastern Tennis Courts Resurfacing and Repairs of Cumming, Ga. has long been providing service for the courts City Manager Wilmarth called the company for a quote.   A price of $9,060.68 was submitted to make the necessary repairs. City Manager Wilmarth asked Council Members to transfer $10,000.00 of SPLOST money to make the repairs.

 

Council Member O’Malley put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Byrd to approve the transfer of $10,000.00 of SPLOST Money to fund the repairs of the tennis courts by Southeastern Tennis Courts Resurfacing and Repairs of Cumming, Ga.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

Council Member Homiller expressed his interest in implementing a tax on properties owners who have a building(s) in downtown that is rundown and have become an eyesore.  I would like to see businesses in these buildings rather than sitting empty stated Council Member Homiller.

 

1. Public Comments – None

• At this time Mayor Roberts left the meeting and Mayor Pro Tem Byrd conducted the remainder of the meeting.

 

1. Executive Session

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to adjourn into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing future acquisition of real estate. (O.C.G.A. 50-14-3(4))

 

At the conclusion of the Executive Session Council Member Homiller put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Stoner to adjourn the Executive Session and reconvene back into the open meeting.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

Council Member Homiller put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Stoner to authorize City Manager Wilmarth to begin acquisition of properties identified as 2019A, 2019B, 2019C, 2019D and 2019E.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Adjourn

There being no further business for Council consideration Council Member Homiller put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Stoner to adjourn at 8:40 PM.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

The minutes of this February 7, 2019, Council Meeting approved this 14th Day of March 2019.

 

_______________________________ _____________________________

Mayor A. R. Roberts, III Mayor Pro Tem John Byrd

 

______________________________ _____________________________

Council Member Frank Homiller Council Member Mickey O’Malley

 

______________________________ _____________________________

Council Member Lee Prettyman Council Member Andrenia Stoner

 

Attest:  _____________________________

Karen L. Jordan, City Clerk

Regular Meeting of the Mayor and City Council
City of Ball Ground, Georgia
Ball Ground City Hall ~ 7:00 P.M.

Minutes
November 15, 2018

 

1. Call Meeting to Order by Mayor Rick Roberts

Council Members Present:  John Byrd, Lee Prettyman, and Andrenia Stoner

Council Members Absent:  Frank Homiller and Mickey O’Malley

 

Staff Present:  Chris Lully, Darrell Caudill, Bryon Reeves, Eric Wilmarth, and Karen Jordan

 

1. Pledge of Allegiance

 

1. Appearances – None

 

1. Announcements – City Manager Eric Wilmarth

 

November 30, 2018 – Annual March of the Toys Parade for Toys for Tots

March 1-3 2019 – The Tour of the Southern Highlands Bike Race

 

1. Consider Approval of October 11, 2018, Council Meeting Minutes

Council Member Stoner put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Prettyman to approve the minutes of the October 11, 2018, Council Meeting as submitted in writing by the City Clerk.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Old Business

1. Consider 2nd Reading of Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with Cherokee County on Magistrate/First Appearance Agreement (Municipal Court)

Council Member Prettyman put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Byrd to approve the second reading of the IGA between the City of Ball Ground and Cherokee County Board of Commissioners.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. New Business

1. Consider Grease Control Program Policies/Ordinances

A Grease Control Program Policy for the purpose of minimizing the introduction of grease, fats, and oils, into the City of Ball Ground’s wastewater collection system was presented for Council consideration.

 

Council Member Stoner put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Prettyman to approve the implementation of this policy.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

An Ordinance to regulate Grease Control and Industrial Pre-Treatment and that sets forth uniform requirements for users of the sewage collection and treatment system owned and operated by the City of Ball Ground and enable the City to comply with all applicable State and Federal laws, including the Clean Water Act (33 United States Code § 1251 et seq.) and the General Pretreatment Regulations (40 Code of Federal Regulations Part 403) was presented for Council consideration.

 

Council Member Stoner put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Prettyman to approve the first reading of this ordinance as presented.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider request from Michael and Elizabeth Hall to abandon a portion of Blackwell St. right-of-way

 

City Manager Wilmarth presented a letter from Michael and Elizabeth Hall, 295 Old Canton Road requesting the City abandon a portion of the Blackwell Street right-of-way.  A 1989 survey depicts a portion of the residential structure adjacent to Blackwell Street encroaching upon the City’s the forty (40) foot right-of-way. Mr. and Mrs. Hall propose the City abandon a five (5) foot strip of right-of-way along the entire length of the Hall property.

 

City Attorney Caudill advised Council Members to abandon only that portion of the right-of-way upon which the residential structure physically encroaches.

 

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion, seconded by Council Member Stoner to abandon only the portion of right-of-way upon which the residential structure physically encroaches adjacent to Blackwell Street.  The abandonment of said right-of-way is conditioned upon Mr. and Mrs. Hall preparing the survey and abandonment documents, and said survey and documents shall meet the approval of the City Attorney and City Manager.

Motion Unanimously Approved.

 

1. Consider Lowe Engineering Proposal for Services (Valley Streetscapes Project)

 

City Manager Wilmarth presented for Council consideration a proposal from Lowe Engineer for services including but not limited to additional construction management requirements and inspection services for all Valley St. Streetscape Project and to meet current GDOT standards.  The contract price for services is $23,833.38.

 

Council Member Stoner put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Prettyman to approve the proposal for services submitted by Lowe Engineering in the amount of $23,833.38.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider Jack Burnside NEPA & Project Administration Consultant Proposal for Services (Valley Streetscapes)

 

City Manager Wilmarth presented for Council consideration a proposal of services as related to the Valley Street Streetscape Project from Jack Burnside in the amount of $9,000.00.  The scope of services described is to assist the City of Ball Ground with the construction phase implementation and administration of a federally funded streetscape infrastructure project utilizing TE program funds.

 

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Prettyman to approve the proposal for services submitted by Jack Burnside, NEPA & Project Administration Consultant in the amount of $9,000.00

 

1. City Managers Report

 

A written and oral operational and financial report was presented to Council Members by City Manager Wilmarth.

 

City Manager Wilmarth reported city voters went to the polls on Tuesday, November 6, 2018, to vote in a Special Election to determine should the governing authority of the City of Ball Ground be authorized to permit and regulate Sunday sales of distilled spirits or alcoholic beverages for beverage purposes by the drink from 11 AM to 12:30 PM.  He stated the referendum passed 634 to 358. Restaurants in the City of Ball Ground can now begin serving alcohol on Sundays at 11:00 AM.

 

A Storm Water Utility Ordinance is being drafted and will be presented to Council Members for consideration at the January 2019 council meeting.

 

Chief Reeves presented a written operational report of the Police Departments activity for the month ended October 31, 2018, for Council Members review.

 

City Manager Wilmarth reported that Chief Reeves has been accepted into the 2019 Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Cherokee program.  The program is designed to prepare and build upon leadership resources within the county.

 

1. Mayor Roberts Comments

 

Mayor Roberts commented on the October Work Session which he and council members discussed a draft of a Historic Preservation Ordinance and Property Maintenance Ordinance.  He stated the consensus of the group was not to move forward at this time with a Property Maintenance Ordinance. However, the consensus of council members did agree to move forward with a Historic Preservation Ordinance in increments.  Council Members will consider approving a portion of the ordinance and approval of a Historic Commission in 2019.

 

1. Council Members Comments

 

Council Member Prettyman spoke of his experience participating in the City of Canton Police Department Citizens Police Academy and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department Citizens Academy.  He sated the programs provide a great opportunity for him to gain an inside perspective of the respected department’s operations.

1. Public Comments – None
2. Executive Session (If Needed)

 

1. Adjourn

 

There being no further business for Mayor and Council consideration motion was duly made as seconded to adjourn at 7:45 PM.

 

The minutes of this November 15, 2018 City Council Meeting approved this 10th Day of January 2019.

 

______________________________ _____________________________

Mayor, A. R. Roberts, III Mayor Pro Tem Frank Homiller

 

______________________________ _____________________________

Council Member John Byrd Council Member Mickey O’Malley

 

______________________________ _____________________________

Council Member Lee Prettyman Council Member Andrenia Stoner

 

Attest:  _____________________________

Karen L. Jordan, City Clerk

Regular Meeting of the Mayor and City Council
City of Ball Ground, Georgia
Ball Ground City Hall ~ 7:00 P.M.

MINUTES
October 11, 2018

1. Call Meeting to Order – Mayor Roberts

Council Members Present:  Mickey O’Malley, Lee Prettyman and Andrenia Stoner

Council Members Absent:  John Byrd and Frank Homiller

 

Staff Present:  Darrell Caudill, Donna England, Bryon Reeves, Eric Wilmarth and Karen Jordan

 

1.  Pledge of Allegiance

 

1. Appearances

 

Marie Harrington representing the Cherokee County Volunteer Aging Council (VAC) appeared before council to invite them along with others to upcoming events sponsored by the VAC.

 

Mayor Roberts thanked Ms. Harrington for her attendance.  He also expressed his appreciation to Ms. Harrington for her their involvement with the VAC.  Mayor Roberts stated what the members of the VAC do for the senior community is very important.

 

1. Announcements – City Manager Eric Wilmarth

October 20 – 5K Road race to support victims of domestic violence

October 26 – Annual Spooktacular Event

November 6 – Special Election

November 30 – Annual March of the Toys Parade for Toys for Tots

March 1-3, 2019 – The Tour of the Southern Highlands Bike Race

 

1. Consider Approval of September 27, 2018 Council Meeting Minutes

Council Member O’Malley put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Prettyman to approve the minutes of the September 27, 2018 Council Meeting as submitted in writing by the City Clerk.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Old Business

1. Consider Second Reading of Application for New Alcohol License

Applicant:  Ball Ground Convenience, Inc./Khuram Ramzanali

Location:  8615 Ball Ground, Hwy.

Council Member Stoner put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to approve the Application for New Alcohol License as submitted.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider Second Reading of 2017/2018 Budget Amendments

Council Member Prettyman put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Stoner to approve the second reading of the 2017/2018 Budget Amendments as presented.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. New Business

1. Consider bids for Valley Streetscapes Project

Bids for the Valley Street project were received and opened at a formal bid opening on October 4, 2018.  Bids from the following companies were received.

 

Excellere Construction, LLC – $334,600.

EMES, INC – $521,991.00

A1 Contracting, LLC – $510,000.00

Vertical Earth, Inc. – $422,157.33

Triscapes, Inc. – $431,187.75

 

City Manager Wilmarth reported that Excellere Construction, LLC submitted the lowest bid in the amount of $334,600.00.  Cost of Alternate A, B, C, D, E, F are identified below for Council review and consideration.

 

Item	Cost	Recommendation
Base Bid (Sidewalk, curb, gutter, storm Depot to Coy H. including Beck Street	$334,600	AWARD
Alternate A (Street Lights)	$277,332.80	NO
Alternate B (Shade Structure Including Brick Pavers)	$29,056.45	AWARD
Alternate C (Sidewalk Coy M Holcomb to Howell Bridge)	$67,080.75	AWARD
Alternate D (Sidewalk west side of stream @ school property)	$56,332.54	NO
Alternate E (Decorative Brick Pavers around signs, around pull off parking areas)	$23,985.00	NO
Alternate F (Landscaping)	$100,794.87	NO

 

City Manager Wilmarth explained the bid award of $430,737.20 goes against a grant of $560,000.00 and a match of $140,000.00.  The City has presently spent $19,000.00 more than our obligation which will be added to the $430,737.20. An additional $43,553.38 is expected to be paid to the engineers, consultant and material testing adding to the $430,737.20.  This amount is deducted from the $560,000.00 of grant funding. The balance of $66,709.42 is being designated as contingency funds. It is anticipated at the end of the project a change order can be issued to use the contingency monies to purchase landscape items.  January 2019 is the anticipated start date of this project.

Discussion followed the report given by City Manage Wilmarth.

 

Following the discussion Council Member Prettyman put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to accept the bid proposal from Exellere Construction, LLC as identified above in the report by City Manager Wilmarth.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with Cherokee County on Magistrate/First Appearance Agreement (Municipal Court)

 

City Manager Wilmarth put forth an Intergovernmental Agreement between Cherokee County and the City of Ball Ground for consideration.  The Agreement stated the City and County does hereby wish to enter into an Agreement for the Magistrate Court of Cherokee County to assist the City of Ball Ground Municipal Court with the conducting of first appearance bond hearings on criminal matters and other services as identified in the agreement.

 

Council Member Prettyman put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Stoner to approve the Intergovernmental Agreement between the City of Ball Ground and Cherokee County for services identified in the agreement for Magistrate Court of Cherokee County.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. City Managers Report

A written and oral operational and financial report was presented to Council Members by City Manager Wilmarth.

 

A written report of the Police Department Activity was presented to Council Members by Chief Reeves.

 

1. Mayor Roberts Comments

Mayor Roberts called for a work session to be held on October 24, 2018 to discuss the proposed Historic Preservation and Property Maintenance Ordinances.

 

1. Council Members Comments

Council Member O’Malley commended Marshal Murphy for his hard work and dedicated service to the City.

 

1. Public Comments

Mr. Harvey Satterfield, residing at Mound Street stated there is a drainage problem along the street and asked if the matter could be looked into.  Mr. Satterfield also stated he viewed the vehicles that sometimes park on Mound St. at the intersection of Gilmer Ferry Road as an obstruction when entering and exiting onto Mound Street and Gilmer Ferry Road.

 

Mayor Roberts thanked Mr. Satterfield for his comments and asked City Manager Wilmarth and Chief Reeves to look into the issues.

 

1. Executive Session

 

1. Adjourn

There being no further business for Mayor and Council Members consideration a motion was duly made and seconded to adjourn at 7:45 PM.

 

The minutes of this October 11, 2018 City Council Meeting approved this 15th Day of November 2018.

 

______________________________ ________________________________

Mayor, A. R. Roberts, III Mayor Pro Tem Frank Homiller

 

______________________________ _______________________________

Council Member John Byrd Council Member Mickey O’Malley

 

______________________________ ______________________________

Council Member Lee Prettyman Council Member Andrenia Stoner

 

Attest:  _____________________________

Karen L. Jordan, City Clerk

Regular Meeting of the Mayor and City Council
City of Ball Ground, Georgia
Ball Ground City Hall ~ 7:00 P.M.

MINUTES
September 27, 2018

 

1.  Call Meeting to Order – Mayor Roberts

Council Members Present:  John Byrd, Mickey O’Malley and Lee Prettyman

Andrenia Stoner

 

Council Member Frank Homiller was absent

 

Staff Present:  Donna England, Bryon Reeves, Darrell Caudill, Eric Wilmarth and Karen L. Jordan

 

1.  Pledge of Allegiance

 

1. Appearances – None

 

1. Announcements – City Manager Eric Wilmarth

 

• October 26, 2018 – Spooktacular will be held in City Part
• November 30, 2018 –  March of the Toys Parade for Toys for Tots
• March 1-2, 2019 – The Tour of the Southern Highlands Bike Race

 

1. Consider Approval of August 16, 2018 Council Meeting Minutes

Council Member O’Malley put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Prettyman to approve the minutes of the August Council Meeting.

Motion Unanimous Approved

 

1. Old Business

1. Consider Second Reading of Defined Benefit Plan Ordinance

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Stoner to approve the second reading of the Defined Benefit Plan Ordinance as submitted.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. New Business

1. Consider Comprehensive Plan Update Transmit Resolution

Council Member Prettyman put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Byrd to approve a Resolution stating Ball Ground has prepared an update to its Comprehensive Plan that covers the years 2018 through 2022 and that it was prepared in accordance with the Minimum Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning and is therefore to be submitted to the Atlanta Regional Commission and the Georgia Department of Community Affairs for official review.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider First Reading of Application for New Alcohol License

Applicant:  Ball Ground Convenience, Inc./Khuram Ramzanali

Location:  8615 Ball Ground, Hwy

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to approve the Application for a New Alcohol License by Khuram Ramzanali as submitted.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider Proposal from InterDev for GIS Services

City Manager Wilmarth put forth a proposal from InterDev GIS Services for Council consideration.  The proposal is to build a set of Geographic Information System (GIS) layers and publish them online where a mapping application containing those layers can be accessed by city staff as well as the public. The layers would identify the city limits, zoning and other useful information.  Initial startup cost is $15,900.00 and a yearly fee of $5,500.00 thereafter.

 

Council Member Stoner put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Byrd to approve the proposal from InterDev GIS Services as submitted.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider Intergovernmental Agreement Between Cherokee County and City of Ball Ground Regarding a Cherokee County Simulcast Remote Radio Site to be Constructed and Located on Property Owned by the City of Ball Ground

City Manager Wilmarth put forth an Intergovernmental Agreement between Cherokee County and the City of Ball Ground for consideration.  The agreement stated that Cherokee County will implement a Voice Trunked Wide Area Radio System on property owned by the City of Ball Ground.  The term of this IGA shall be for a period of fifty (50) years beginning on the effective date. The IGA may be modified or amended only in writing properly executed by both parties.

 

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Prettyman to approve the IGA as presented upon review and approval by City Attorney Caudill.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider petition for Speed Humps on Old Canton Road

Council Members was presented with a petition from residents beginning at 211 Old Canton Road to 311 Old Canton Road requesting speed humps be placed to deter cars from speeding on the street.

 

City Manager Wilmarth stated a traffic study performed did not warrant speed humps on Old Canton Road, but asked Council to consider installing a speed hump south of the intersection of Blackwell Street and Old Canton Rd.

 

Mayor Roberts asked if a thru traffic sign be installed.

 

Following discussion Council Member O’Malley put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Byrd to install one speed hump on Old Canton Road south of the Blackwell St. intersection.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider Intergovernmental Agreement Between Cherokee County and City of Ball Ground for Animal Control Services

Council Member Prettyman put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to approve an Intergovernmental Agreement between Cherokee County and City of Ball Ground for Cherokee County to perform certain animal control serviced in the City of Ball Ground as outlined in the agreement.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider Request for 5 Month Extension on Service Delivery Strategy

Mayor Roberts stated negotiations between the Cities and Cherokee County are ongoing.  We have yet to finalize an agreement before the deadline to submit the agreement to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. Mayor Roberts asked Council Members to approve a five (5) month extension which would allow everyone involved additional time to complete the agreement.

Council Member Stoner put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Byrd to approve the five (5) month extension needed to complete the Service Delivery Strategy Agreement to submit on or before February 28, 2019 to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider FY 17-18 Budget Amendments

 

City Administrator Wilmarth presented a written report of FY 2017/2018 budget amendments for Council Members consideration.

 

Council Member Stoner put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Byrd to accept first reading of An Ordinance to amend the FY 2017/2018 Budget of the City of Ball Ground in compliance with the Laws of the State of Georgia.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider authorization to pursue GEFA Loan for $300,000.00 for acquisition of Greenspace Property 2018-01

 

City Manager Wilmarth asked Council Members to support a resolution supporting the submittal of an application to the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA) for a loan of $300,000.00 for possible future purchase land identified as Greenspace Property 2018-01.

 

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to authorize staff to submit an application to the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority for a loan of $300,000.00 for future land acquisition.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider Resolution in Support of Grant Application with Georgia Department of Natural Resources

City Manager Wilmarth asked Council Members to consider supporting the submittal of an application for grant funding to purchase certain property identified for greenspace.  The Resolution stated the City of Ball Ground would purchase certain property that if obtained would benefit the community by preserving greenspace, protecting wild life, provide outdoor trail areas while at the same time preserving a significant historical site, stream buffers and wetlands.

 

Following a brief discussion Council Member Byrd put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Stoner to approve the Resolution supporting the submittal of a grant application to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources in the amount of $100,000.00 to purchase property for the purpose of Land and Water Conservation.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. City Managers Report

A written and oral operational and financial report was presented to Council Members by City Manager Wilmarth

 

City Manager Wilmarth commended Donna England, Finance Director and her staff for their hard work preparing for the 2017/2018 Financial Audit.

 

A written operational report of the Police Department’s activity for the month ended August 30, 2018, was presented by Chief Reeves.

 

1. Mayor Roberts announced the Ball Ground Historical Society would host an event at the Ball Ground Community Center on Saturday, September 29, 2018 commemorating the City’s 135th Birthday.

 

1. Council Members Comments

 

Council Member O’Malley updated Council Members on the use of City Gym and other sporting events held at the athletic fields.

 

Council Members Byrd and Prettyman thanked the staff of the Police Department and Public Works Department for their continued efforts to make Ball Ground the best place to live, work and play.

 

Council Member Stoner asked how many defibrillators did the city own and where were they placed.

 

City Manager Wilmarth stated the City had three.   One is located in City Hall, City Gym and the third one is kept in the car of the on duty police officer.

 

1. Public Comments

A resident asked the status of a waste transfer station locating on Old Howell Bridge Road.

 

City Manager Wilmarth stated staff is currently drafting an ordinance to allow Heavy Industrial in certain areas of the city.  The site currently being considered for the location of the waste transfer station is zoned Light Industrial (LI). This type of industry is not a permitted use in Light Industrial (LI).

 

1. Executive Session:  For Discussion of Land Acquisition

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Stoner to close this meeting as permitted by the Open Meetings Act of Georgia for the purpose to discuss future acquisition of real estate.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

During the discussion of property acquisition, Mayor Roberts excused himself from the meeting citing potential conflict of interest.

 

Council Member Stoner put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Byrd to close the Executive Session and open the meeting.

Motion Unanimously Approved.

 

Council Member Byrd stated Council Members discussed potential property acquisition and no action taken.

 

1. Adjourn

There being no further business for City Council consideration Council Member Stoner put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Byrd to adjourn the meeting at 8:48 PM.

 

The minutes of this September 27, 2018 City Council Meeting approved this 11th Day of October 2018.

 

_____________________________ _____________________________

Mayor A. R. Roberts, III Mayor Pro Tem Frank Homiller

 

____________________________ _____________________________

John Byrd, Council Member Mickey O’Malley Council Member

 

_____________________________ _____________________________

Lee Prettyman, Council Member Andrenia Stoner, Council Member

 

Attest:

 

_____________________________

Karen L. Jordan, City Clerk

Work Session of the Mayor and City Council
City of Ball Ground, Georgia
Ball Ground City Hall ~ 5:00 P.M.

MINUTES
August 16, 2018

1.  Call Meeting to Order – Mayor Roberts

 

Council Members Present:  John Byrd, Mickey O’Malley and Lee Prettyman

 

Council Members Absent:  Frank Homiller and Andrenia Stoner

 

Staff Present:  Donna England, Bryon Reeves, Abby Roach, Eric Wilmarth and Karen Jordan

 

1. Review/Discuss the proposed City of Ball Ground Downtown District Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) Study.  The regular monthly meeting of the City Council will begin at 7:00 PM.

 

Mr. Dan Reuter, the consultant hired to lead the Livable Centers Initiative Study presented the final report to Mayor and City Council for review.

 

1. Adjourn

There being no further business for Council consideration the meeting was adjourned.

 

The minutes of this August 18, 2018 Council Meeting approved this 27th Day of September 2018.

 

_____________________________ _____________________________

Mayor A. R. Roberts, III Mayor Pro Tem Frank Homiller

 

_____________________________ _____________________________

John Byrd, Council Member Mickey O’Malley Council Member

 

_____________________________ _____________________________

Lee Prettyman, Council Member Andrenia Stoner, Council Member

 

Attest:

 

_____________________________

Karen L. Jordan, City Clerk

---

Re Regular Meeting of the Mayor and City Council
City of Ball Ground, Georgia
Ball Ground City Hall ~ 7:00 P.M.

MINUTES
August 16, 2018

1.  Call Meeting to Order – Mayor Roberts

Council Members Present:  John Byrd, Frank Homiller (by phone) Mickey O’Malley and Lee Prettyman

Andrenia Stoner was absent

 

Staff Present:  Donna England, Bryon Reeves, Abby Roach, Eric Wilmarth and Karen L. Jordan

 

1.  Pledge of Allegiance

 

1. Appearances

Presentation by Ball Ground Lions Club

Ball Ground Lions Club Members Nancy Sosebee Madden, Sue and Glenn Densmore and Jennifer Anglin presented Mayor Roberts with an $8,000.00 check to be applied to the cost of installing a heat/air conditioning system in City Gym.  The money is proceeds from their annual Summer Fest 5K Race.

 

Mayor Roberts and Council Member commended the Lions Club Members for their dedication and commitment to making Ball Ground the best place to live, work and play.

 

1. Announcements – City Manager Eric Wilmarth

August 25th, 2018 – T James Band will perform at 7:00 PM

September 8th – Local Legends will perform at 7:00 PM

 

1. Consider Approval of July 12, 2018 Council Meeting Minutes

Council Member Prettyman put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to approve the minutes of the July 12, 2018 Council Meeting as submitted in writing.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Old Business

1. Consider Second Reading of Application for New Alcohol License

Applicant:  Sanvi Business, LLC/DBA Chevron Food Mart-Mikramdip Sign

Location:  155 Howell Bridge Rd

 

Council Member O’Malley put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member

Byrd to approve the application as submitted.

Motion Unanimously Approved

1. Consider Second Reading of An Ordinance Amending Article II (Alcoholic Beverage Dealers)

 

Council Member Prettyman put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Byrd to approve the Ordinance as read.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider Second Reading of an Ordinance Amending Division 3 (Operational Rules) Section 4-111 (Hours of Operation of the Code of the City of Ball Ground, Georgia

Council Member O’Malley put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Byrd to approve the Ordinance as read.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. New Business

1. Consider Fire Services Agreement with Cherokee County

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Prettyman to enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement between Cherokee County and the City of Ball Ground for fire and emergencies services, as well as the addition of fire inspection services for a period of five (5) years and shall automatically renew for an additional five (5) years, unless the governing authority of one or both parties takes affirmative action not to renew at the term of the initial term as outlined in the Agreement.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider first reading of revised Defined Benefit Plan Ordinance.

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to approve the first reading of An Ordinance to amend and restate the Retirement Plan for the Employees of the City of Ball Ground, GA in accordance with and subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Adoption Agreement, any Addendum to the Adoption Agreement, the Georgia Municipal Employees Benefit System (GMEBS) Master Plan Document, and the GMEBS Trust Agreement. When accepted by the authorized officers of the City and GMEBS, the foregoing shall constitute a Contract between the City and GMEBS, all as authorized and provided by O.C.G.A. §47-5-1 et seq.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider adoption of Short Term Work Plan

City Manager Wilmarth presented the 2018-2022 Short Term Work Program (STWP) for review and consideration of adoption to Mayor Roberts and Council Members.  City Manager Wilmarth also noted that this document is a component of the City’s Comprehensive Work Plan that is sent to the Department of Community Affairs (DCA).

 

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to adopt the Five (5) Year Short Term Work Program as submitted.

Motion Unanimously Approved.

 

1. Consider adoption of Capital Improvements Plan

City Manager Wilmarth presented the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for the period 2018-2023 for review and consideration of adoption to Mayor Roberts and Council Members.

 

City Manager Wilmarth stated the plan runs according to the SPLOST revenue and outlines capital projects identified through SPLOST, STWP, LCI and other studies necessary for completion.

 

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to approve the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) as submitted.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider appointment to Downtown Development Authority (DDA)

Mayor Roberts recommended Council consider the appointment of Sheri Little to fill a vacancy on the Downtown Development Authority Board.

 

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member Prettyman to appoint Sheri Little to fill a vacancy on the Downtown Development Authority Board.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Consider Adoption of LCI Study

Mr. Dan Reuter presented the Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) Study in a power point presentation to Mayor Roberts, Council Members and Staff in a Work Session prior to tonight’s council meeting.

 

The Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) is a program developed by the Atlanta Regional Commission that awards planning grants to local governments to prepare and implement plans to enhance existing activity centers and corridors. The program also awards Federal transportation funding to implement the transportation elements (i.e. streetscapes, pedestrian connections) of LCI studies.

 

Council Member Byrd put forth a motion, Seconded by Council Member O’Malley to adopt the Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) Study as presented in writing.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

Mayor Roberts thanked the members of the Core Team involved in compiling the information for the LCI Study.

 

1. City Managers Report

A written and oral operational and financial report was presented to Council Members by City Manager Wilmarth

 

A written operational report of the Police Department’s activity for the month ended July 31, 2018, was presented by Chief Reeves.

 

1. Mayor Roberts Comments

Mayor Roberts reported that he along with Cherokee County Mayors and City Managers have been meeting with a consultant to discuss The Service Delivery Strategy agreement.

 

1. Council Members Comments

Each council member thanked members of the Lions Club for all they do for Ball Ground.  Their service and commitment to the City is to be commended.

 

Council Members thanked and expressed appreciation to Chief Reeves and his department for their work.

 

Council Member Homiller asked if downtown parking was still an issue.

 

City Manager Wilmarth stated he had talked with the downtown merchants at a meeting earlier in the week about the downtown parking issue.  Several ideas were discussed. City Manager Wilmarth stated he will be talking with the business owners again to further discuss options and ideas as to how to address the issues.

 

1. Public Comments

Glenn Densmore thanked Mayor Roberts, Council Members and Staff for their support of the Ball Ground Lions Club.

 

Mayor Roberts told Mr. Densmore that the Ball Ground Lions Club is the most civic minded club anywhere around thanked him for all he does for the community.

Kyle Wolfe of 203 Lower Dove Court asked for an update of street repairs before the final paving of streets in the Sage Hill Development.

 

Mayor Roberts stated all the issues would be addressed before the final asphalt was applied.

 

Nancy Sosebee Madden, President of the Ball Ground Historical Society announced that on September 29, 2018 the Historical Society plans to hold a 135th Birthday Celebration of the City at the Community Center beginning at 10:00 AM.

 

Ball Ground churches, organizations, businesses, families and the elementary school are being asked to prepare a display table to include photos, historical documents, memorabilia and really any kind of historical presentation that shows its history and operation in Ball Ground.

 

Mrs. Madden made a formal request to Mayor Roberts and Council Members to use the City Seal on a commemorative t-shirt which the Historical Society would sale at the event.

 

Council Member Prettyman put forth a motion; Seconded by Council Member Byrd to approve the Historical Society’s request to use the City Seal on a commemorative t-shirt with the condition the mayor and city council approve the design.

Motion Unanimously Approved

 

1. Executive Session (If Needed)

 

1. Adjourn

There being no further business for consideration a motion was duly made and seconded to adjourn at 8:15 PM.

The minutes of this August 18, 2018 Council Meeting approved this 27th Day of September 2018.

 

_____________________________ _____________________________

Mayor A. R. Roberts, III Mayor Pro Tem Frank Homiller

 

_____________________________ _____________________________

John Byrd, Council Member Mickey O’Malley Council Member

 

_____________________________ _____________________________

Lee Prettyman, Council Member Andrenia Stoner, Council Member

 

Attest:

 

_____________________________

Karen L. Jordan, City Clerk