HomeMy Public PortalAbout19661116CCMeeting106
Savannah Beach, Tybee Island, Ga.
November 16, 1966.
The regular meeting of Town Council was held today at 3 P.M. in the Council Room in
the Town Hall and was attended by Mayor James A. Brown, who presided and Councilmen
Daniels, Cary, Hohenstein, Counihan, Fleetwood, Town Attorney Solms, Chief Davis, Supt.
Reed, Mrs. Evelyn Butler, Mrs. Langdon Cooper, Chris. Simon and John Hosti.
Mrs. Butter and Mrs. Cooper requested that "School Zones" signs regulating traffic
in the school areas be put up. Mrs. Butler stated that the nedessary signs could be
obtained from the State Highway Department. The Mayor stated that he would handle the
matter.
A petition was presented,with several hundred names requesting Council to permit a Bon
Fire this year, by John Hosti and Chris. Simon. After some discussion the matter was
referred to the Fire Committee for study.
Mrs. Cooper asked if the lot behind her property would be cleaned. The Mayor informed
her that a letter was being sent out to a number of property owners very shortly.
Councilman Counihan informed Council that he was opposed to some sections of the proposed
new Charter. The Mayor informed him that Council should have a meeting regarding this.
Councilman Cary asked if Council would have to approve the new Charter. The Mayor stated
that Council should agree on it.
Councilman Counihan asked if the Town charged licenses for persons who charge for cleaning
lots. The Mayor stated that no charge was made as it would help to encourage some to
clean lots for a fee.
The Mayor informed Supt. Reed that the Community House needs a new porch and other re-
pairs. Councilman Hohenstein stated that he understood that repairs would be made
several months ago. The Mayor stated that the cost to make necessary repairs would be
about $300.00 and that he would have the needed repairs Vie.
The Mayor called attention to a number of old automobiles parked on streets and oh' lots
and recommended that those that are on the streets be moved away. Councilman Cary asked
if the owner would have to be notified before this is done. Mr. Solms informed Council
that the matter should be handled carefully before any car is moved. It should be as-
certained who owns it.
Mr. Solms in a letter dated November 11, 1966 addressed to the Mayor recommended that
Lot 11 Block 12 owned by Mr. U.L.Harley is only a small parcel of the original lot and
that it be included in Lot 14, Block 12, Fort Screven Ward.
The Mayor asked Mr. Reed if he needed any material for work on the groins. Mr. Reed
stated that he would have to wait until the level of the beach drops to check it.
The Mayor asked Supt. Reed if he had talked to any of the several operators who cleaned
lots. Mr. Reed stated that so far he has only talked to Mr. Hendrix. The Mayor
suggested that any person requesting to have the lots cleaned be referred to Councilman
Cary as he was in charge of the operation. Councilman Cary recommended that prices
for cleaning lots be gotten from the three persons who clean lots on the island. Council-
man Cary called attention to some of the areas that the Town is responsible for and he
mentioned Maple Street next to where Mr. Bobby Losey has his billboard sign.
Chief Davis reported that the Police Department is operating all right and that water
had been arranged for the boys practicing basketball at the Legion Hall.
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The Mayor asked Mr. Reed if the old theatre in Fort Screven could be used as a recreational
area. Councilman Daniels suggested that a Committee be appointed to check on both the
IIItheatre and the - American Legion Hall. The Mayor appointed a Committee of Councilmen
Daniels, Cary, Supt Reed and Mr. Howell Tilton.
Councilman Daniels submitted a small form to Council which he had issued to the Police
Debartment with instructions that during their patrolling duties they check buildings
at random locations and write on the form the information requested and leave this form
at the place checked.
The Mayor informed Council that the Town purchase some of the water certificates that are
due in 1973 and 1979 out of some of the surplus that is in the "Sinking fund ". Council-
man Fleetwood moved that the Mayor be authorized to do this, Councilman Counihan seconded
and the motion passed.
Councilman Fleetwood informed Council that he examined the county tax records as applied
to Savannah Beach thit.Councilman Counihan and himself had written a letter to Judge
Lovell, Chairman of the County Commissioners, calling attention to three raises in county
taxes inx' several years. Councilman Fleetwood stated that Judge Lovett called to his
attention that the county has a bill against the Town for approximately $3,000.00 which
has been due for some time. The Mayor stated that he had been trying to get the county
to pay for this as it was work which was done in connection with the paving of Sixth
Street and that the Town had -paved Lewis Avenue, he felt that the county should absorb
this charge.
A bill was presented from Memorial Hospital for $6.75 which they claim covered treatment
for Policeman Sam.Weatherly. Councilman Daniels stated that the bill should be forwarded
IIIto the Hartford Insurance Company to pay.
Councilman Fleetwood asked what was to be done about the area from First Street on
Lovell Avenue back to Tilton. This area which has been flooded after heavy rains and
high spring tides for years. The Mayor stated that he hoped that a boulevard linking
Tilton Street with Lovell Avenue could be worked out.
Councilman Fleetwood informed Council thataround several areas on the island the
Mosquito Control had dug ditches but have never kept them cleaned out and stated that
they either clean the ditches out or close them.
Councilman Counihan asked when they intended to put in the new system to be used at the
Parking Lots that they should not wait until May, that it shoIild be done now. He also
asked when Parking Meters were to be installed around Memorial Park.
Councilman Counihan stated that in cases where property owners do not have water meters
on their property that they should be charged a flat rate until the meter is installed.
All should be given a choice of either installing a meterc'or paling an agreed upon flat •
rate•and that the Tybee Terrace cottages should have a meter for each unit. The Mayor
mentioned that Mrs. Charlotte Grimm Bailey does not have a meter and has not paid water
rent for some time although her water is connected. Councilman Counihan stated that
he and Supt. Reed will check the matter. W. Solms statedtthat the Town should try and
get everyone on meters as it should be fair for all. Councilman Fleetwood stated that
the Ordinance should be amended.
IIICouncilman Cary called attention to surplus fire fighting equipment and stated that he
had sent letters to Congressman Hagan and other departments to ascertain if the Town
could acquire some.
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Councilman Cary informed Council that the Officers of the American Legion Postt #154
want to get together with him regarding the Legion Hall but he decided to wait to
see what is to be done about the old theatre in Fort Screven.
The Mayor asked what plans had been made to pay for the new Ambassador recently pur-
chased for the Police Department. Councilman Daniels stated that the Southern Motors
agreed to go along with the Town regarding paying for it,that he had gotten $518.80
for the old 65 Ford which was delivered to the Dixie Auto Parts Company.
Councilman Daniels stated that he discussed with his Committee unsatisfactory condi-
tions existing in the Police Department and after a careful appraisal of many problem
areas in the department has revealed that corrective action must be taken at the
department head or administrative level. In his opinion serious deficiencies exist
in the Office of Police Chief. In an effort to increase efficiency, build morale,
improve personnel relations, and assure the best possible police protection for our.
citizens he proposed for Council's consideration the following motion. I move that
Police Chief Carlton Davis be relieved of his duties and responsibility as Police Chief
of the Town of Savannah Beach, Ga.,effective November 30, 1966. I further move that
the Police Committee of Council be instructed to actively seek a person to Fill this
position whom we feel would provide leadership, administrative ability, and improve
relations with the general public and our citizens, thereby providing incentive to the
department to function to it's fullest capacity. Councilman Hohenstein moved that no
action be taken on Councilman Daniels motion at this time and also that Council defer
action until all the members of Council are in attndance. Councilman Hohenstein also
stated the recommendation to dismiss Chief Davis is not the recommendation of the full
Police Committee. Councilman Fleetwood stated that he had considered the matter at
great length and that specific eharget should be made against Chief Davis and that he
be granted a hearing at which he could appear to answer the charges. The Mayor stat ed
that the matter should not be presented to Council without full agreement of the Police
Committee. The Mayor stated that in fairness he should wait for a full attendance
of Council. Councilman Cary stated that Councilman Hohenstein was not on the Fire
Committee but that he wanted to retain Fire Chief Solomon. Councilman Fleetwood
disagreed with Councilman Cary, Councilman Cary stated that Councilmen Fleetwood and
Hohenstein are not on the island all of the time. Councilman Daniels stated that some
things are better left unsaid, that no general charges are needed against the Chie=f,
that the Police Department must be upgraded, that the charge of inefficiency against
the Chief is enough. Councilman Fleetwood stated that Councilman Daniels at times
had given orders to the Chief without.eonsulting them but that they did not interfere.
Councilman Hohenstein stated there is more than meets the eye and wanted more facts.
The Mayor asked Councilman Daniels if there were any specific charges against the Chief
and Councilman Daniels stated that he would not go into that. The Mayor stated that
the income of the.Police Department so far this year was approximately $7000.00 over
last year's operation and he felt that it looked for the department. He suggested
that if Councilman Daniels, before Council took a vote, would agree to an Amendment
to it to give the Chief a hearing. Councilman Daniels stated that he had talked to
the Mayor four or five times regarding the Chief. Cbimcilman Fleetwood stated that
when Chief - McCutchen died there was a bickering at that time to appoint a new Chief,
that the department had an acting Chief for a long time. The Mayor called for a vote
on Councilman Hohenstein's amendment to defer any action on Councilman Daniels motion
until a full Board can meet or give the Chief a hearing. Councilman Hohenstein moved
that Councilman Daniels motion be,deferred until a full Board of Council meets, Council-
man Fleetwood seconded. Councilmen Fleetwood and Hohenstein voting "YES ", Councilmen
Cary, Counihan and Daniels voting "N0,1 the motion passed. The Mayor requested per-
mission to read a telegram and letters, Councilman Daniels agreed. Chief Davis asked
for the floor, which was granted, and stated that the department records can be seen
at any time and are up to date. What brought about the present situation he stated
that just before the summer season opened that a parking violation ticket was brought
to the Police Station and he was at the desk and the person wanted it cancelled.
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He asked if the Chief was going to accept it or would he have to get Councilman Daniels
to handle it. The Chief stated that he refused to cancel it. Councilman Hohenstein
interrupted to state that personalities should be left out and that the report be kept
on a business like basis. The Mayor stated that the man was discharged without reason.
Councilman Fleetwood stated that the whole proceeding was irregular that the Chief should
employ counsel and defend himself. The Mayor called for a vote on Ca noilman Daniels
motion to dismiss the Chief as of November 30, 1966. Those in favor of the motion were
Councilmen Counihan, Daniels and Cary who voted "Yes" those viting "No ", Councilmen
Fleetwood and Hohenstein, the motion carried. Councilman Hohenstein stated that the
Police Committee Chairman should work with the whole committee.
Councilman Hohenstein reported that he had been trying to get in touch with the Commanding
Officer of the ship "Peirce" without success. He also stated that the Hobby Shop had
given some ships models to the Tybee Museum.
Councilman Cary presented a letter from Mr. W.S. Rogers requesting permission to lease
the concession stand on the fishing pier at the expiration of the present lease with
Peyton Towns who had in turn rented the stand to Mrs. Pauline Hinter, who now operates
it. Councilman Hohenstein moved that the lease be transferred to Mr. Rogers when the
present lease expires at the rental charge of $500.00 for the year. Councilman Cary
seconded and the motion passed.
Councilman Fleetwood moved that the request of the petitioners for the bon fire on New
Year's Eve be granted, they to agree to o'.ean up the area after the bon fire. Council -
man .Counihan seconded and the motion passed.
E.C.;Bobo petitioned for permission to remove a billboard sign from Jones Avenue and
First Street to Lot 21, Fort Ward. Councilman 'Counihan moved that permission be
granted provided he complies with the necessary requirements. Councilman Cary seconded
and the motion passed.
Chief Davis asked what he should do with the equipment issued to him. Councilman
Hohenstein told him to wait for action from the Police Committee.
The Mayor informed Council of the death of Mrs. Katherine Huggins and stated that the
community had lost a fine citizen and her loss will be felt. Councilman Daniels moved
that the following Resolution be adopted. Councilman Hohenstein seconded and the motion
passed.
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, our community has felt the deep loss of one of it's most civic- minded
citizens by the recent death of Mrs. Katherine Huggins, and
WHEREAS, her ardent and sincere efforts in the area of beautification and cleanli-
ness resulted in many improvements over the past few years on Tybee Island, and
WHEREAS, she always displayed an intense interest in all areas of community im-
provement, thus showing immense pride and confidence in the future growth of Tybee.
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLMEID, that the Mayor and Council of the Town of Savannah Beach
duly recognize the efforts of this outstanding citizen by setting aside a page in the
minutes of this Council Meeting to the memory of Mrs. Katherine Huggins.
The Mayor informed Council that depending on the Town's income it may be necessary to
borrow not over $20,000.00 to meet a casual deficiency and asked that he be authorized
to do this if and when needed. Councilman Fleetwood moved that the Mayor be.authorized
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to borrow not over $200000.00 to meet.a casual deficiency if and when needed and
that the proper Resolution be drawn up at the time. Councilman Counihan seconded
and the motion passed.
Councilman Daniels reported that Councilman Drvis, Chairman Public Works, and hey
had agreed to recommend Council consider increasing the salary of Superintendent
Reed to $5700.00 annually, payable weekly, Councilman Daniels moved that the in-
crease be granted effective November 16, 1966 and that the increase be paid from
the Water Department. Councilman Fleetwood seconded and the motion passed.
Bills for the following were approved for payment: General Government $329.32,
Police Department $503.51, Public Works Department $1198.38, Fire Department $72.42,
Recreation, Museum, $178.07 and the Water Department $104.34.
Councilmani Fleetwood moved that the following Ordinance be adopted regulating traffic
on Jones Avenue from Fourth to Ninth Street to not over 25 M.P.H. between 7 :30 and
8:30 A.M. and between 2:30 and 3 :30 P.M. Councilman Cary seconded and the motion
passed.
I�
ORDINANCE
AN ORDINANCE TO ESTABLISH SPEED LIMITS OF 25 MILES PER
HOUR. ON BUTLER AVEME AVENUE FROM 4th STREET TO 9th STREET,
ON JONES AVENUE FROM 4th STREET TO 9th STREET, ON LOVELL
AVENUE FROM 4th STREET TO 9th STREET, AND ON SECOND AVENUE
FROM 4th STREET TO 9th STREET, SAVANNAH BEACH, TYBEE ISLAND,
CHATHAM COUNTY, GEORGIA: TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR THE VIOLAA
TION THEREOF: AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Councilmen of Savannah Beach, Tybee Island,
Chatham County, Georgia, in council assembled, and it is hereby ordained by
authority of the sane as follows:
SECTION 1: That the speed limit on Butler Avenue from 4th Street to 9th
Street shall be 25 Miles per hour from 7:30 A.M. to 8:30 A.M. and from 2:30 P.M.
to 3:30 P.M. on school days; otherwise, the speed limit shall remain as now -de-
signated by Ordinance.
SECTION 11. That the speed limit on Jones Avenue from 4th Street to 9th
Street shall be 25 miles per hour from 7:30 A.M.
to 3:30 P.M. on school days; oth ®rwisd the s to 8:30 A.M. and from 2:30 P.M.
signated by Ordinance, s peed limit shall remain as now de—
SECTION 111. That the speed limit 6n Lovell Avenue from 4th Street to 9th
Street shall be 25 miles per hour from 7:30 A.M. to 8•
3:30 P.M. on school days; otherwise, the speed limit shall .
remain now 2:30
by Ordinance.
SECTION IV: That the speed limit on Second Avenue from 4th Street to 9th Street
shall be 25 miles per hour from 7:30 A.M. to 8:30 A.M. and from 2:30 P.M' to Y :30 P.M.
on school days; otherwise, the speed limit shall remain as now designated by Ordinance.
SECTION V: That any person or persons violatin g of
Ordinance shall, upon donviction thereof, be subjecttobe be not to, exceed
100.00 and imprisoned not to exceed 30 days, either or both, in the discretion of the h®
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SECTION VI: All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the
proviions of this ordinance are hereby repealed.
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