HomeMy Public PortalAbout20000531SCMeetingMay 31, 2000
Tybee Island City Council — Special Meeting to Discuss May 6th "CRUSH" Events
Mayor Walter W. Parker convened the Special Meeting at 7:05 PM on Wednesday,
May 31, 2000. Present were Councilmembers Anne Monaghan, Pamela O'Brien,
Shirley Sessions, Jack Youmans and Jimmy Burke. Councilman Mallory Pearce
was attending a college reunion in Chicago. Representing TIPD were the Chief of
Police Jimmy Price and Sergeant Chris Case. Also present were the City Attorney,
Edward Hughes, Interim City Manager Ro Fripp and the chairman of the citizens
committee Nancy Heffernan. Also present were two representatives of the National
Guard.
There were approximately 50 citizens in the audience. Representatives of the media
were also present.
Nancy Heffernan was given the floor and said that her work as a freelance
photographer made it possible for her to spend the time canvassing the local
business people, visitors and others about their experiences on May 6th. She stated
that the issue is one of public safety, and is not a racial issue. There were many
documented incidences of public indecency and substance abuse. Numerous local
ordinances were violated, but manpower dictated that a large percentage of these
infractions had to be overlooked so Tybee's patrol officers could remain on the
street to attempt to unsnarl traffic and control crowds. Intervention was, for the
most part, limited to protecting people and property and unsnarling traffic jams.
She contacted local colleges and her best response was from Dr. Henry, former
President of Georgia Southern University, who offered to Lead a class this summer
quarter to study the event and prepare a report.
A letter from John Hunter of the Hunter House Bed & Breakfast and Restaurant
was read. John was present in the audience.
A letter from IGA food market owner Mike Hosti to Governor Barnes was read.
Mike also spoke, outlining incidents in his store, and the loss of revenue caused by
the disruption of May 6th.
Chief Price made a short report, praising the efforts of the TIPD officers during the
event. The audience agreed that the police department deserves a strong
commendation for the excellence of their judgement in controlling the crowds. The
Chief thanked other agencies such as the State Patrol and Chatham County for
their aid. In spite of all efforts it was agreed that the traffic gridlock would have
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prevented emergency services such as EMS and Fire Department from reaching
most of the island's citizens for several hours during the event.
Mayor Parker and the City Council were urged to make these safety concerns
known to the Chatham County Commission and to the Governor.
Nancy Heffernan stated that our local State Representative Burke Day, who lives on
Eleventh Street, was at home on the 6th, and that he is willing to sponsor legislation
in the General Assembly if that is the best solution. Senator Eric Johnson agreed.
She said Tybee is unique in its limited access, and in its vulnerability to out -of-
control crowds and traffic gridlock's
The Mayor and Council were urged to write letters to the Governor, the Chatham
Delegation and the Chatham County Commissioners requesting assistance. It was
noted that the county controls the rental of the Pavilion, that the organizer falsely
advertised the event widely, then dropped out by not paying the fees to honor his
reservation. It was noted that advertisement of an event within the city limits of
Tybee Island without the city's approval violates a local ordinance.
Berta Adams said she called Dr. Stuart Stevens of GA DNR and asked him for
guidance regarding safety issues on public beaches and the ecological impact of the
event. Information on these subjects is not available tonight, but will be
forthcoming.
A National Guards spokesman said that the National Guard is available for crisis
control, and is usually the last resort in cases of civil disruption. The unit is not
allowed to carry weapons, but can offer support, under direction of the Governor.
Mayor Parker asked if the Governor could be asked for support in advance and the
answer was affirmative.
James E. Carter III spoke, offering his support. Colette Diehl, restaurant manager
and member of the Tybee Chamber Board of Directors, suggested that the city find
ways to make the event "not fun ".
Nancy Heffernan introduced her two young daughters as the reason she became
involved in this issue, saying that the safety and welfare of our children should be
our utmost concern.
The meeting was adjourned.