Columbus public meetings in 2024

City Council

The council will discuss and approve awards to the lowest responsive bidders for Propst Park tennis court rehabilitation ($423,250 to Weathers Construction, Inc.) and fencing ($81,000 to Paradigm Contractors, LLC). It will also approve memoranda of understanding to allocate $100,000 of ARPA funds for a blight elimination program and $400,000 for vehicles and equipment. Additional items include hiring a maintenance technician for Recreation and a custodian for Police, both pending testing.

• Award contracts for Propst Park tennis court rehab ($423,250 to Weathers Construction, Inc.) and fencing ($81,000 to Paradigm Contractors, LLC)
• MoU to obligate $100,000 of ARPA funds for the Blight Elimination Program
• MoU to obligate $400,000 of ARPA funds for vehicles and equipment
• Discuss/approve hiring a Maintenance Technician for the Recreation Department (pending testing)
• Discuss/approve hiring one Custodian for the Columbus Police Department (pending testing)

The Columbus City Council approved a $504,250 contract for Propst Park tennis and pickleball court rehabilitation, awarded to Weathers Construction ($423,250) and Paradigm Contractor ($81,000). They also approved rezoning and permitted use for an event venue at 320 19th Street North, and authorized negotiations for surveyor and appraiser contracts for the FY2023 Dilapidated Housing Initiative. All votes were 5-0.

• Approved Propst Park tennis/pickleball rehab to Weathers Construction ($423,250) and Paradigm Contractor ($81,000) (5-0)
• Approved rezoning at 320 19th Street North from R-1 to C-1 for event venue (5-0)
• Approved permitted use for event space and outdoor functions at 320 19th Street North (5-0)
• Authorized negotiation with Neel-Schaffer Engineers for survey services (5-0)
• Authorized negotiation with William Blair for appraisal services (5-0)
• Approved $518,530 property/casualty/liability insurance renewal (5-0)
• Approved $100,000 ARPA MOU for Blight Elimination Program (5-0)
• Approved $400,000 ARPA MOU for vehicles and equipment (5-0)

City Council

The Columbus City Council will vote on a consent agenda including personnel resignations and a webmaster payment, then consider policy items such as a $30,000 TVA grant for Propst Park lighting, an MDOT grant for the CLCA Hangar, and a memorandum of understanding with the VA police. The council will also fill several board vacancies, including three seats on the City Planning Commission and one on the Zoning Board of Adjustments & Appeals.

• Approve $30,000 TVA grant for Propst Park Lighting Project
• Discuss/approve applying for MDOT Strategic Multi-Modal Investments Fund grant for CLCA Hangar
• Discuss/approve MOU between Columbus Police and VA Medical Center Police
• Discuss/approve hiring one entry-level and three certified police officers plus one Public Works laborer
• Fill vacancies on Columbus Housing Authority, Golden Triangle Regional Waste Management Authority, City Planning Commission, and Zoning Board of Adjustments & Appeals

The Columbus City Council approved multiple derelict property abatement orders, hired four police officers and one laborer, and accepted several grants. All votes were unanimous (5-0). The council also reappointed members to the City Planning Commission and Zoning Board.

• Approved derelict property orders for 6 properties (5-0)
• Approved $719,463.16 docket of claims (5-0)
• Approved hiring 4 police officers and 1 laborer (5-0)
• Approved applying for MDOT SMIF grant for airport hangar (5-0)
• Approved MOU with VA Medical Center Police (5-0)
• Approved applying for Science Discovery on Main Street grant ($12,500) (5-0)
• Accepted TVA grant of $30,000 for Propst Park lighting (5-0)
• Reappointed 3 members to City Planning Commission and 1 to Zoning Board (5-0)

City Council

The council will consider consent items including training expenses and tourism tax disbursements, hear monthly department reports, and take up policy items such as a $975,000 fire truck purchase, awarding bids for softball field conversion at Propst Park, and approving a derelict property docket.

• Approve purchase of Rosenbauer Commander Aerial Fire Truck for $975,000 using state and city funds
• Award bids totaling $445,400 to Weathers Construction, JZS, and Beckwith for Propst Park softball field conversion
• Approve $205,032.62 in tourism tax disbursements to Lowndes County, Golden Triangle Development LINK, City of Columbus, and Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Discuss/approve derelict property docket
• Authorize USDA-APHIS-Wildlife Services to trap and remove beavers and dams

The Columbus City Council approved buying a Rosenbauer Commander Aerial Fire Truck for $975,000, using state fire insurance rebate and state appropriation funds plus $285,000 from city capital reserve funds, and passed a budget amendment for it. The council also approved a $2,425,120.87 docket of claims, a $205,032.62 tourism tax disbursement, and several property abatement orders on the derelict property docket. All votes recorded were 6/0, and no substantive items were denied or tabled.

• Approved purchase of Rosenbauer Commander Aerial Fire Truck for $975,000 with budget amendment (6/0)
• Approved Docket of Claims for $2,425,120.87 (6/0)
• Approved 2% Tourism Tax disbursements totaling $205,032.62 (6/0)
• Approved Propst Park Lower Field Softball Conversion bids: Weathers $161,800, JZS $236,300, Beckwith $48,000 (6/0)
• Approved derelict property abatement orders for 5 cases under Section 21-19-11 (6/0 each)
• Approved hiring DeAndra T. Lewis as Entry-Level Firefighter and Christian Guyton as Truck Driver, pending testing (6/0)
• Approved real estate listing contract with Jeffrey Carter for old Fire Station #4 at $35,000 (6/0)
• Approved vacating and abandoning unopened municipal street section on 7th Avenue North (6/0)

City Council

The Mayor and City Council are deciding on several infrastructure payments and event permits. The body is discussing funding for the Senator Terry Brown Amphitheater and watershed infrastructure, as well as park lighting retrofits.

• MOU for $1,000,000 for completion of the Senator Terry Brown Amphitheater
• Bids for Propst Park Field Lighting Retrofit: Hattaway Electric ($249,880) and Consolidated Electrical Distributors ($153,100)
• Payment of $103,543.89 to Tabor Construction and Development of MS, Inc. for Airport Box Hangar Construction
• MOU for $190,808.00 for watershed infrastructure
• Payment of $23,100 to Ingram Equipment Company for debris airburner rental

The Columbus City Council approved multiple funding agreements, including a $1,000,000 MOU for the Senator Terry Brown Amphitheater and a $190,808 MOU for watershed infrastructure. They also awarded contracts for Propst Park lighting retrofit, approved demolition for a burned structure, and hired Nathan J. Katona as part-time Building Inspector after a split vote. The council denied a motion to stop annexation proceedings.

• Approved $1,000,000 MOU for Senator Terry Brown Amphitheater completion (6-0)
• Approved $190,808 MOU for Watershed Infrastructure (6-0)
• Awarded Propst Park Field Lighting Retrofit bids: Hattaway Electric $249,880 and Consolidated Electrical Distributors $153,100 (6-0)
• Approved demolition contract for 1015 Park Circle to Johnathan S. Burns Enterprises $9,000 and asbestos abatement to EAC $3,485 (6-0)
• Hired Nathan J. Katona as part-time Building Inspector (4-3, Mayor broke tie)
• Denied motion to stop annexation process (2-4)
• Approved $23,100 payment to Ingram Equipment for debris airburner rental (6-0)
• Approved Pay Request No. 1 of $103,543.89 for Airport Box Hangar Construction (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider several consent items, including tourism tax disbursements and event permits. The body will also discuss the derelict property docket and the sale of the old Fire Station #4.

• Tourism Tax payments totaling $223,478.20 to Lowndes County, Golden Triangle Development LINK, City of Columbus, and Columbus Visitors Bureau
• Sponsorship of the Columbus Bassmaster Opens in the amount of $15,000
• Permit for 3rd Annual Fall Festival on October 19, 2024, at 810 Fir Street
• Proposed sale of surplus property (Old Fire Station #4) via broker Jeffrey Carter
• Discussion and approval of the Derelict Property Docket

The City Council approved a docket of claims totaling $696,314.51 and authorized $223,478.20 in tourism tax payments. The council also issued several orders for derelict property remediation and approved the sale of a surplus fire station.

• Approved Docket of Claims for $696,314.51 (5-1)
• Approved $223,478.20 in 2% Tourism Tax disbursements (6-0)
• Approved $15,000 sponsorship for Columbus Bassmaster Opens (6-0)
• Approved listing Old Fire Station #4 for sale with broker Jeffrey Carter (6-0)
• Reappointed Dennis Erby to Redevelopment Authority Board for 5-year term (6-0)
• Issued remediation orders for multiple derelict properties under Section 21-19-11 (6-0)
• Approved permit for 3rd Annual Fall Festival at 810 Fir Street (6-0)
• Approved travel and training expenses for Fire and Rescue and Public Works staff (6-0)

City Council

The council will consider a range of items, including event permits, travel reimbursements, and staffing requests. They will discuss hiring two entry‑level firefighters and four entry‑level police officers, pending required testing. A purchase of two Stalker Lidar Handheld Radars for $5,165 will be reviewed. Additional topics include leadership plaza improvements and unallocated paving funding.

• Approve purchase of two Stalker Lidar Handheld Radars for $5,165 using state grant funds
• Approve $1,202.70 travel payment for Landfill Supervisor to attend SWANA Fall Conference
• Approve $877.77 travel payment for Public Works Assistant Director to attend MS811 Summit
• Discuss and approve hiring of two entry‑level firefighters pending exams and drug screen
• Discuss and approve hiring of four entry‑level police officers contingent on testing

The Columbus City Council approved the $937,056.48 docket of claims (4-2), hired two entry-level firefighters, and adopted a redistricting ordinance. It also approved multiple property abatement orders, a $5,165 police radar purchase, and allocated paving funds. The meeting included several consent agenda items and a $5,000 donation to Columbus Middle School.

• Approved Docket of Claims for $937,056.48 (4-2)
• Approved hiring two entry-level firefighters (6-0)
• Adopted Redistricting Ordinance (6-0)
• Approved $5,165 for two Stalker Lidar radars (6-0)
• Allocated $26,000 to pave Cooper Road, divided $77,000 among wards (6-0)
• Approved $5,000 for Columbus Middle School parade (5-1)
• Approved property abatement orders for multiple properties (6-0)
• Approved 2024 Municipal Compliance Report (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss several infrastructure and policy items, including the repair or demolition of 161 Maple Street and paving on Cooper Road. The body will also review various event permits and professional development expenses for city staff.

• Application for Department of Justice's Byrne Equipment Grant in the amount of $1,873,500
• Payment of $10,800 to Falcon Contracting for the repair of the 5th Street void
• Discussion on the repair or demolition of the property at 161 Maple Street
• Proposed paving of Cooper Road at Burford Electric Service, Inc.
• Permit requests for events including a 'Fall Fest Block Party' at 324 Fifth Street South

The Columbus City Council approved the demolition of the city-owned structure at 161 Maple Street by a 4-2 vote, after hearing that roof repairs alone would cost $18,000-$20,000 and full renovation an estimated $220,000. The council also approved paving Cooper Road at Burford Electric Service, Inc., awarded an engineering contract for the Safe Streets for All Grant, and approved a $1,873,500 Byrne Equipment Grant application. The consent agenda, including multiple training and permit approvals, was passed unanimously, and the docket of claims for $628,239.50 was approved 5-1.

• Approved demolition of city-owned structure at 161 Maple Street (4-2)
• Approved paving Cooper Road at Burford Electric Service, Inc. (6-0)
• Awarded engineering contract to Neel-Schaffer, Inc. for Safe Streets for All Grant (6-0)
• Approved applying for DOJ Byrne Equipment Grant of $1,873,500 (6-0)
• Approved Docket of Claims for $628,239.50 (5-1)
• Approved consent agenda including training, permits, and payments (6-0)
• Denied rezoning of 900 block Highway 45 North from R-1 to C-3 (6-0)
• Approved NLC conference attendance for council members (4-2)

City Council

The City Council will consider and vote on several policy items, including awarding major construction contracts and accepting state grant agreements. They will also act on personnel matters, permit requests for downtown events, and routine approvals such as minutes and insurance renewal. Additional items include hiring for recreation and community outreach, and a promotion within Fire and Rescue.

• Approve award of CLCA Runway Pavement Rehabilitation contract to APAC for $1,877,861.40
• Approve award of CLCA Box Hangar Construction contract to Tabor Construction & Development for $1,063,775.58
• Accept MDOT AIP Matching Grant Agreement for $103,379.00 for the runway pavement rehabilitation project
• Approve permit for the "Downtown Art Walk" on Main Street and Fifth Street on September 28, 2024
• Approve hiring of three entry‑level police officers and one certified police officer contingent on testing

The Columbus City Council approved several major airport projects, including a $1.88 million runway pavement rehabilitation contract and a $1.06 million box hangar construction contract, along with related grant agreements. The council also approved a $605,091.02 docket of claims (5-1), a redistricting plan, and various personnel hires and promotions. A request for engineering services for the Safe Streets for ALL Grant was tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved $1,877,861.40 runway pavement rehabilitation contract to APAC (6-0)
• Approved $1,063,775.58 box hangar construction contract to Tabor Construction & Development (6-0)
• Approved $605,091.02 docket of claims (5-1)
• Approved MDOT AIP matching grant of $103,379.00 for airport runway project (6-0)
• Approved MDOT AIG matching grant of $24,889.00 for hangar project (6-0)
• Approved redistricting plan (6-0)
• Tabled engineering services for Safe Streets for ALL Grant until next meeting (6-0)
• Approved $54,069.69 appropriation to Columbus Cultural Heritage Foundation (unanimous)

City Council

The Mayor and City Council will discuss accepting two FAA grants for runway rehabilitation and hangar construction. The body is also considering the purchase of storm shelters and the installation of speed humps on several streets.

• FAA AIP Grant of $1,860,805.00 for CLCA Runway Pavement Rehabilitation
• FAA BIL-AIG Grant of $448,000.00 for CLCA Box Hangar Construction
• Purchase of 11 concrete storm shelters for $69,795.01
• Payment of $20,000 to Bostick Construction, LLC for Regal Hall Exterior Renovations
• Speed hump installations on Hemlock Street, 26th Street North, Fallwood Drive, and Williamsburg Road

The Columbus City Council approved two FAA grants totaling $2,314,805 for the Golden Triangle Regional Airport (CLCA) runway rehabilitation and box hangar construction, with the city's share covered by local and county matches. The council also approved a $1.54 million docket of claims, several speed hump installations, and multiple personnel hires and promotions. All votes were 4-0 except the docket of claims, which passed 3-1 with Councilwoman DiCicco opposing.

• Approved $1,866,805 FAA AIP grant for CLCA runway rehabilitation (4-0)
• Approved $448,000 FAA BIL-AIG grant for CLCA box hangar construction (4-0)
• Approved $1,537,156.03 docket of claims (3-1)
• Approved speed hump installations on Hemlock St, 26th St N, Fallwood Dr, Williamsburg Rd (4-0 each)
• Approved hiring Ariadna Santos as Property and Evidence Custodian at $15.85/hr (4-0)
• Approved hiring Glenda Richardson as Community Liaison at $45,000/yr (4-0)
• Approved hiring two entry-level and one certified police officer (4-0)
• Approved purchase of 11 storm shelters for $69,795.01 (4-0)

City Council

The Columbus, MS City Council will vote on consent items including police training expenses, resignations, and event permits. They will also discuss economic development, derelict properties, and infrastructure projects without taking final votes.

• Approve $4,440 for CPD Investigators' homicide training in Hattiesburg
• Approve $270 parking for NOBLE conference in New Orleans
• Approve $8,000+ for two officers' training at North Mississippi Law Enforcement Center
• Permit Scouting America's Bicycle Rodeo at Hitching Lot Farmers Market on October 5
• Permit blocking 900 block of 6th Avenue North for Friendly City Book Festival on August 6

The Columbus City Council approved a new pay structure for the Columbus Fire and Rescue Department and Columbus Police Department, effective with the first paycheck in August 2024. The council also approved a $1,018,949.16 docket of claims, a $700,000 grant application for a Crime Gun Intelligence Center, and a $19,094.92 boom truck repair. A request to dedicate a street in honor of Kent Willis was tabled.

• Approved new pay structure for Fire and Police departments (6-0)
• Approved Docket of Claims for $1,018,949.16 (5-1)
• Approved application for $700,000 Crime Gun Intelligence Center grant (6-0)
• Approved $19,094.92 boom truck repair by Hol-Mac Corporation (6-0)
• Approved $3,866,666.67 storm water grant application (5-1)
• Approved Safe Haven Baby Box installation at Fire Station No. 1 (6-0)
• Tabled street dedication request for Kent Willis (6-0)
• Approved hiring Tabitha Caitlin Berry as Accounts Payable Clerk at $14.37/hour (6-0)

City Council

The Columbus City Council will consider a range of items including a proposed pay structure for Fire & Rescue and Police, acceptance of a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers grant for storm water improvements, a $700,000 grant application for a crime gun intelligence center, and several street closure permits for community events. The agenda also includes routine approvals of training expenses, a tourism tax distribution, and monthly departmental reports.

• Approve 2% Tourism Tax disbursement totaling $226,206.91
• Discuss/Approve adopting proposed pay structure for Fire & Rescue and Police
• Discuss/Approve acceptance of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Section 592 Grant for storm water channel improvements
• Discuss/Approve request to apply for FY24 Local Law Enforcement Crime Gun Intelligence Center Integration Initiative Grant ($700,000, no match)
• Approve permit requests for Back 2 School Sneaker and School Supply (July 20) and United Way 2025 Campaign Kick-Off (Aug 29) blocking Third Street North

The City Council adopted a new pay structure for the Columbus Police and Fire and Rescue Departments effective August 6, 2024. The council also approved over $1 million in claims and authorized applications for two federal grants.

• Approved new pay structure for Police and Fire and Rescue Departments (6-0)
• Approved Docket of Claims for July 16, 2024, totaling $1,018,949.16 (5-1)
• Authorized application for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers storm water grant (5-1)
• Authorized application for $700,000 DOJ Crime Gun Intelligence grant (6-0)
• Approved closing and vacating road right-of-way for Old Aberdeen Road (6-0)
• Granted permission to install a Safe Haven Baby Box at Fire Station No. 1 (6-0)
• Approved $226,206.91 in 2% Tourism Tax disbursements (unanimous)
• Reappointed Kedgra Gray to the Columbus Housing Authority (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider several infrastructure projects, including a street overlay contract and storm water improvements. The meeting includes discussions on police recruitment, redistricting, and various municipal funding agreements.

• Awarding 2024 Bituminous Hot Mix Overlay & Street Improvements project to Falcon Contracting Company, Inc.
• Hiring six police officers contingent upon successful testing
• $8,500 appropriation request for Columbus Lowndes County Emergency Management
• $3,000 expenditure for National Night Out on Crime sites
• Permit for Townsend Park Blues Festival on July 5 & 6, 2024

The Columbus City Council approved a $5,765,429.25 street overlay and improvements contract with Falcon Contracting Company, Inc., the lowest responsive bidder among four bids. The council also approved demolition of the Presbyterian Manse at 112 7th Street North, hired six entry-level police officers pending testing, and approved a $1,114,881.26 docket of claims on a 4-1 vote. A motion to accept a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Section 592 grant for storm water channel improvements failed for lack of a second.

• Awarded 2024 Bituminous Hot Mix Overlay & Street Improvements to Falcon Contracting Company, Inc. at $5,765,429.25 (5/0)
• Approved demolition of the Presbyterian Manse at 112 7th Street North (5/0)
• Approved hiring six entry-level police officers pending preliminary testing (5/0)
• Approved Docket of Claims for $1,114,881.26 (4/1, DiCicco opposed)
• Approved Consent Agenda including event permits, travel expenses, and $8,500 Emergency Management appropriation (5/0)
• Adjudicated two derelict properties at 1220 Ash Street and 1106 18th Street North for abatement (5/0 each)
• Appointed Shane Tompkins to City Utilities Commission and reappointed Elizabeth 'Liz' Terry to Convention & Visitors Bureau (4/0 and 5/0)
• Motion to accept U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Section 592 grant for storm water improvements failed for lack of a second

City Council

The Mayor and City Council will review various departmental reports and several consent agenda requests. The meeting includes discussions on derelict property, a Public Works promotion, and the purchase of bulletproof vests.

• Payment of $2,123.76 for four Fire and Rescue personnel training
• Estimated travel expenses of $1,325.86 per person for Mississippi Policy Conference attendance
• Estimated travel expenses of $1,319.04 per person for Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway Conference attendance
• Request to purchase bulletproof vests with 50% reimbursement via federal partnership
• Acceptance of three Fire and Rescue firefighter retirements effective June through July 2024

The Columbus City Council approved the claims docket, the consent agenda, and several property remediation and derelict property orders. The council also appointed Jerry Fortenberry to the Historic Preservation Commission, approved $1,500 in financial support for the Columbus Elite baseball team, and promoted a public works employee. Additionally, the council heard monthly department reports and reviewed the 2021 audit report.

• Approved Consent Agenda (4/0)
• Approved Docket of Claims for $1,654,523.05 (3/1)
• Appointed Jerry Fortenberry to Historic Preservation Commission (5/0)
• Approved $1,500 financial support for Columbus Elite baseball team (4/1)
• Adjudicated derelict property orders for 707 Industrial St, 1408 Military Rd, 1905 4th Ave N, 701 16th Ave S, and 106 Maple St (5/0)
• Accepted four property clean-up notices for $250.00 or less cases (5/0)
• Approved promotion of Lonnie Hill from Public Works Truck Driver to Assistant Foreman at $16.00/hour (5/0)
• Approved purchase of bulletproof vests with 50% reimbursement from the Bureau of Justice (5/0)

City Council

The City Council will consider several personnel requests including hiring new police officers and laborers. The meeting also includes discussions on purchasing fire safety gear and amending ordinances regarding beer and wine consumption in parks.

• Request for Columbus Fire and Rescue to purchase boots and turnouts for $35,930.18 plus freight
• Proposal to hire two entry level Officers and one certified Sergeant
• Proposal to hire three Laborers
• Payment of $37,891.38 for ESCO Project Debt service
• Amendment to allow beer and wine consumption in parks smaller than 11 acres under specific conditions

The City Council approved a claims docket totaling $595,050.03 and authorized the hiring of several police officers and laborers. The council also issued abatement orders for multiple derelict properties and approved funding for firefighting gear.

• Approved Docket of Claims for June 4, 2024 in the amount of $595,050.03 (5-1)
• Approved $35,930.18 plus freight for fire boots, coats, pants and turnouts (6-0)
• Approved hiring two Entry-Level Officers and one Certified Sergeant (6-0)
• Approved hiring three Laborers at $12.88 per hour (6-0)
• Approved application for FAA BIL Grant for Airport Box Hangar project (6-0)
• Rejected bid for sale of surplus municipal property (6-0)
• Adjudicated multiple properties as public menaces and ordered abatement (6-0)
• Approved $37,891.38 for ESCO Project Debt payment (6-0)

City Council

The council will discuss grant applications for runway and hangar rehabilitation at CLCA. The agenda also includes advertising for upcoming street paving projects and the hiring of two new police officers.

• Grant applications for CLCA runway pavement and hangar rehabilitation
• Proposal to hire two certified Columbus Police Department officers
• Advertising for upcoming street paving projects
• Sale of municipal surplus property at 249 Airline Road
• Swearing in of eight new Columbus Police Department officers

The City Council approved a $1,200,785.09 docket of claims and authorized grant applications for airport runway and hangar rehabilitation. The council also issued several derelict property orders and appointed Emily Johnson to the City Planning Commission.

• Approved $1,200,785.09 docket of claims (5-1)
• Approved application for $2,067,561 FAA AIP Grant for runway rehabilitation (6-0)
• Approved application for $346,400 MDOT Multimodal Grant for open hangars (6-0)
• Appointed Emily Johnson to the City Planning Commission (6-0)
• Approved hiring certified police officers Johnny Vaughn and Jason Gilmore (6-0)
• Approved advertising for street paving project bids (6-0)
• Approved Blight Elimination Program agreement with MS Historic Preservation Office (6-0)
• Issued remediation orders for 12 derelict properties (6-0)

City Council

The Columbus City Council approved a $517,500 interior renovation contract for the James M. Trotter Convention Center and adopted an amendment to the city ordinance on discharging firearms within city limits. It also approved a real estate brokerage agreement for property on Leigh Drive and Bluecutt Road with a $1,000 commission, and set election worker pay at $250 for the May 14 school bond election. The council approved a $1,843,791.20 docket of claims 3-1, with Councilwoman DiCicco opposed, and took no action on annexation expenses after discussion.

• Approved $517,500 interior renovation contract for James M. Trotter Convention Center (4/0)
• Adopted amendment to City Ordinance Section 20-61 on discharging firearms within city limits (4/0)
• Approved real estate brokerage contract for Leigh Drive and Bluecutt Road property with $1,000 commission (4/0)
• Set election commissioner pay at $250 for May 14 school bond election, for that election only (3/2)
• Approved $1,843,791.20 docket of claims (3/1, DiCicco opposed)
• Approved consent agenda including festival permits, training travel, and $12,718.98 payment to Turner Excavating & Erosin LLC (4/0)
• Approved hiring five laborers at $12.88/hr, one truck driver at $14.00/hr, and three certified police officers (4/0)
• Set Vice-Mayor compensation at $200 per day when serving in the Mayor's absence (3/2)

City Council

The Columbus City Council will consider various permits and personnel changes, including firefighter and police officer resignations. The meeting also includes discussions on updating city ordinances and reviewing environmental services for a housing initiative.

• $211,925.77 in 2% Tourism Tax payments to several local entities
• Permit request for Victory Tabernacle Block Party at 324 Fifth Street South
• Contract to recodify City Ordinances in the Municipal Code Book and website
• Waggoner Engineering, Inc. Task Order No. 1 for environmental review services
• $1,955.00 for CPD personnel training in New Orleans

The City Council approved a claims docket and several consent items, including tourism tax payments. The council adjudicated multiple derelict properties and approved a contract for environmental review services for a dilapidated housing initiative. A request for an elderly residential living facility was tabled.

• Approved Docket of Claims for April 16, 2024, totaling $617,057.94 (5-1)
• Approved $211,925.77 in 2% Tourism Tax payments (6-0)
• Adjudicated derelict properties at 2518 6th Avenue North and 1317 8th Avenue North (6-0)
• Granted 45-day remediation extension for property at 529 20th Street North (6-0)
• Approved ownership transfer of existing child daycare at 225 Byrnes Circle (5-0)
• Tabled request for elderly residential living facility at 1702 7th Street North (5-0)
• Approved $73,300 contract with Waggoner Engineering, Inc. for environmental review (4-1)
• Approved contract with Giovanna Smith as Market Manager for Hitching Lot’s Farmers’ Market (5-0)

City Council

The Columbus City Council will review a derelict property docket and discuss street improvements that may affect local access. Members will consider accepting a $40,000 state safety grant, awarding a $99,000 bypass cutting contract to S & S Landscaping & Nursery, LLC, and hiring an interim IT director from Interel Technologies, LLC at $6,698 per month. The council will approve festival funding totaling $45,000 through the 2% Restaurant Tax Agreement and review permits for several upcoming street closures that will temporarily block local roads.

• Discuss/accept FY2024 Safe Streets and Roads For All Grant with a $40,000 match
• Award bypass cutting contract to S & S Landscaping & Nursery, LLC for $99,000
• Approve $15,000 each from the 2% Restaurant Tax Agreement for Market Street, Juneteenth, and 7th Avenue Heritage festivals
• Review derelict property docket and handrail installation on the 500 block of 2nd Avenue North
• Consider permits blocking sections of Championship Loop, 20th Street North, and Third Avenue North for upcoming events

The City Council approved permits and funding for the Market Street, Juneteenth, and Heritage festivals. The council also awarded a bank depository bid to Regions Bank and approved several personnel promotions and hires.

• Approved $563,152.28 Docket of Claims (5-1)
• Awarded Bank Depository bid to Regions Bank (6-0)
• Approved $99,000 Bypass cutting contract for S & S Landscaping & Nursery, LLC (6-0)
• Approved $6,000 for Columbus-Lowndes Public Library HVAC unit (5-1)
• Approved $1,000 for Golden Triangle Tennis event (6-0)
• Approved beer sales in Sim Scott Park for Juneteenth Festival (5-1)
• Approved $6,698 monthly contract for Interim IT Director with Interel Technologies, LLC (6-0)
• Banned free use of Trotter Convention Center and Regal Hall for non-governmental functions (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider various items including festival funding, police hiring, and a $3,000,000 transfer for the Burns Bottom project. The meeting also includes several departmental monthly reports and requests for professional training expenses.

• $15,000 each for Juneteenth Festival, 7th Avenue Heritage Festival, and Market Street Festival
• $3,000,000 transfer for the Burns Bottom urban renewal project
• $148,572 bid for cemetery grounds maintenance by BAM LLC
• Hiring of two entry level and two certified police officers
• $40,000 Safe Streets and Roads For All Grant

The City Council authorized the receipt of $2 million for the Burns Bottom Urban Renewal Project and approved the 2024 COLA payment. The council also approved several cemetery maintenance contracts and the hiring of four police officers.

• Approved $2,000,000 for Burns Bottom Urban Renewal Project (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution approving 2024 COLA Payment (6-0)
• Awarded grounds maintenance for Friendship and Sandfield Cemeteries to BAMs LL for $148,566 (5-0)
• Approved hiring 2 entry-level and 2 certified police officers (5-0)
• Approved implementation of Conflict Resolution & Counseling Pretrial Diversion Program (5-0)
• Approved permitted use for drug and alcohol rehab facility at 125 Yorkville Road West (5-0)
• Approved naming a private drive off Military Road as 'Margie Lane' (5-0)
• Tabled Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant and three festival funding requests (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider several police department requests for uniforms, holsters, and vehicle mounts. The meeting also includes discussions on fire and rescue personnel promotions, hiring, and accreditation standards.

• Police purchase of computer mounts from Jackson Communications, Inc. for $15,876.00
• Police purchase of uniforms from The Southern Connection for $25,830.00
• Police purchase of holsters from The Southern Connection for $10,917.84
• Police purchase of gun lock cage mounts from Acme Window Tinting for $12,750.00
• Fire and Rescue personnel training and certification expenses totaling $2,450.00

The City Council approved an ordinance to enlarge the corporate limits and boundaries of the city. Other key actions included approving a $712,774.86 docket of claims and awarding several police and infrastructure contracts.

• Adopted annexation ordinance for Lowndes County (4-2)
• Approved Docket of Claims for March 5, 2024 in the amount of $712,774.86 (4-1)
• Awarded Regal Hall Façade renovations to Bostick Construction LLC for $49,802.00 (6-0)
• Approved $15,870.00 for police patrol vehicle computer mounts (6-0)
• Approved $25,830.00 for police uniforms and $10,917.84 for holsters (6-0)
• Approved $12,750.00 for police gun lock cage mounts (6-0)
• Awarded 2024-2025 Legal Publications Bid to The Columbus Packet (6-0)
• Reappointed Bo Harrison and Kevin Stafford to the Zoning Board of Adjustments & Appeals (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider several personnel matters, including fire and police promotions. The agenda also includes various event permits for street closures and monthly departmental reports.

• $400.00 for Fire and Rescue Haz-Mat training
• Street closure permit for St. Patty's Day Pawty at Zachary's Restaurant
• Street closure permit for National Day of Prayer at Lowndes County Courthouse
• Street closure permit for Black History Month Event on 2nd Ave
• Promotion of two Fire and Rescue personnel to Certified Firefighter

The City Council approved a docket of claims totaling $1,757,128.40 and appointed James Richardson to the Columbus Municipal School District Board for a five-year term. The Council also voted to apply for a $20 million EPA Community Change Grant and ordered immediate repairs or demolition of a burned structure at 1015 Park Circle. Several other decisions included approving a bridge construction contract, promoting police and fire personnel, and tabling one property maintenance case.

• Approved Docket of Claims for $1,757,128.40 (5-0)
• Appointed James Richardson to School District Board (4-2)
• Voted to apply for $20M EPA Community Change Grant (6-0)
• Ordered repairs/demolition of burned structure at 1015 Park Circle (6-0)
• Approved Propst Park Bridge Construction Contract with VFW easement (6-0)
• Promoted Lt. Terence Ware to Police Captain (6-0)
• Promoted two firefighters to Certified Firefighter (6-0)
• Tabled overgrown lot case at 1110 7th Avenue North (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider several policy items including a handgun trade for the police department, fire department grants, and property management for CLCA's hangar. The meeting also includes discussions on drainage improvements, municipal court amnesty, and the transfer of ARPA funds for a blight program.

• Trade of 109 Glock 23 handguns for 70 Glock 45 handguns for $31,620.00
• Transfer of $450,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds for the Blight Program
• AFG grant of $21,000.00 for fire department washer and dryer purchase
• Drainage improvement change order for Beech Street in the amount of $3,500.00
• Hazard Mitigation Grant Program agreement for storm shelters estimated at $15,031.19

The City Council approved a $910,633.46 docket of claims and a $99,000 engineering agreement for airport hangar construction. The council also authorized the demolition of a decommissioned aircraft hangar and approved a $450,000 fund transfer for watershed projects. Additionally, a Municipal Court amnesty program was established to run from February 12 to April 15, 2024.

• Approved Docket of Claims for $910,633.46 (5-1)
• Approved $99,000 engineering agreement with Neel-Schaffer, Inc. for airport hangar construction (6-0)
• Approved demolition of decommissioned aircraft hangar (6-0)
• Approved $450,000 ARPA funds transfer from Lowndes County for watershed (6-0)
• Approved Municipal Court Amnesty Program from Feb 12 to April 15, 2024 (6-0)
• Approved $31,620 purchase to trade 109 Glock 23s for 70 Glock 45s (6-0)
• Approved $21,000 AFG Grant for fire department washer and dryer (6-0)
• Rescinded Lis Pending and abatement order for 602 6th Avenue South (6-0)

City Council

The Columbus City Council will consider several personnel actions, including police hiring and a resignation. The meeting also includes approving tourism tax payments and festival funding.

• Distribution of $195,615.67 in 2% Tourism Tax payments to various entities
• $15,000.00 funding request for Townsend Park Blues-Southside Festival
• Proposal to hire one full-time officer and two certified police officers
• Permit request for the 'Catfish in the Alley' event on April 6, 2024
• Amendment to the City's Substance Abuse Policy

The City Council approved a $1,124,734.95 docket of claims and amended the city's substance abuse policy to maintain a zero-tolerance approach toward medical cannabis. The council also hired three police officers and approved various tourism and festival funding requests.

• Approved $1,124,734.95 docket of claims (5-1)
• Amended Substance Abuse Policy to maintain zero-tolerance for medical cannabis (6-0)
• Approved $195,615.67 in 2% Tourism Tax payments (6-0)
• Approved $15,000 for Townsend Park Blues-Southside Festival (6-0)
• Hired Eric M. Lewis, Traveon Williams, and Brian Webster as police officers (6-0)
• Reappointed Wythe Rhett and Quinn Brislin to City Planning Commission (6-0)
• Tabled request for drug and alcohol rehab facility at 125 Yorkville Road West (6-0)
• Ratified administrative leave for employees on Jan 16 and 17 due to weather (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider several personnel matters, including firefighter promotions and the swearing in of new officers. The council will also discuss a grant application for the Columbus Police Department regarding traffic services.

• Police Traffic Service Grant application: ~$207,000 for FY24 and ~$400,000 for FY25
• Fire and Rescue training and registration expenses totaling $1,219.00
• YMCA Centennial Celebration Block Party permit request for April 26-27, 2024
• Swearing in of one Fire & Rescue Firefighter and two CPD Officers
• Filling vacancies for the Golden Triangle Regional Waste Management Authority, Columbus Housing Authority, Board of Adjustments & Appeals, and City Planning Commission

The City Council approved a claims docket exceeding $910,000 and authorized the police department to apply for homeland security grants. The council also adjudicated several derelict property cases and filled three board vacancies.

• Approved Docket of Claims for January 2, 2024, in the amount of $910,134.45 (6-0)
• Approved application for Homeland Security Police Traffic Service Grants of approx. $207,000 for FY24 and $400,000 for FY25 (6-0)
• Appointed James “Jim” Brigham to Golden Triangle Regional Waste Management Authority (5-1)
• Appointed Glenda Richardson to Columbus Housing Authority (6-0)
• Reappointed Bryan Brown to Board of Adjustments & Appeals of Development Codes (6-0)
• Ordered abatement for derelict properties at 1113 1st Street North and 115 14th Street North (6-0)
• Set February 2, 2024, deadline for remediation of 1015 Park Circle before city abatement (6-0)
• Approved promotion of one probationary Firefighter to Certified Firefighter effective Jan 8, 2024 (6-0)