[Music] I'm going to look through here. [Music] [Music] So are the times in or so we need to put the time. [Music] We'll just worry about that first. Okay. Yeah. Nope. [Music] Oh shoot. He [Music] wanted to get this Can you print that screen? Can you print that screen? Can you print screen? You can't sign in. Good afternoon. I'm Doug Shipman, Atlanta City Council President, calling to order this meeting regularly scheduled May 19th, 2025. Like to welcome everybody back to council chambers after some repairs that were made. You'll notice the new lighting and new screens. We're glad to be back in our regular chambers. Madam clerk, would you please call the opening role? Good afternoon, Council President, members of council. We have council president Doug Shipman, present. Council member Michael Julian Bond, post one at large. Council member Matt West Morland, post two at large, here. Council member Isa Collins, post three at large. Here. Council member Jason H. Winston, District 1, here. Council member Council member Byron D. Amos, District Three, here. Council member Jason Dozer, District 4. Present. Council member Liliana Bakari, District 5. Here. Council member Alex Juan, District 6. Council member Howard Shook, District 7. Council member Mary Norwood, District 8. Council member Dustin Hills, District 9. Council member Andrea Boon, District 10. Council member Marcy Coler, Over Street, District 11. Council member Antonio Lewis, District 12. Mr. President, we do have a quorum of members present. Thank you. Next, we'll move to the adoption of the agenda. It was sent out ahead of time. If there are no changes or updates to the agenda, I'd entertain a m motion to adopt. Moved by council member Lewis, seconded by council baktiari. Any discussion on the motion to adopt the agenda? We can do this vanous consent. Without objection. Any objection? Madam clerk, please sign on the counter unanimous consent on the motion to adopt the agenda. 12 yay, zero nays. 128 Z. A motion to adapt the agenda carries. Next, I am very pleased to welcome back with us for today's invocation, Chaplain Roosevelt John's from the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department. We're very glad to see you and offer the microphone to you. Good afternoon everyone. Will you please bow your heads for a moment of prayer? Eternal God, our father, we come today once again to give your name honor and praise. We exalt you in the presence of this assembly and we thank you for all the many blessings that you have bestowed on each of us here. We welcome you here today and we pray that you will guide all that takes place in this hall. Lord God, you are a God of order and we pray that everything that is done is done in the spirit of excellence and in order. Father, we pray that you would bless the city of Atlanta at this time and the work that shall take place here today. Bless everyone under the sound of my voice as they reason together, making decisions developing plans, delivering judgments as it relates to the operations of the city of Atlanta. Help them to always be mindful of the people to whom they serve. Bless each one with wisdom and clarity as they work on the good or work for the good of the people. May all that they do please you and bless the people in the matchless name of Christ Jesus we pray. Amen. Amen. As we remain in a moment of reflection for a moment I'd like to ask my colleagues if there are any remembrances. Councilman Bakiari. Yes. Um, thank you. I thought it would be appropriate at this time for us to keep in our prayers Adriana Smith, a woman who is being used uh who is brain dead and being used as a human incubator. Um, this is a very scary time. It is something that I believe I should use my platform to draw attention to and something that we should all be wary of because this should not and cannot happen. So, if we could all please be cognizant and keep her in our prayers, um, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you. Thank you. Any others? Would you all please join me in a moment of silence? [Music] Thank you. Would you please join me in the pledge of allegiance? I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Next, we will move to proclamations, commendations, and other special awards. First, I'd like to invite Council Member Michael Julian Bond and all of those here who are for joining us for the recognition and celebration of actor, director, and humanitarian Bill Duke to please join us up on the podium. You're already dressed. Yeah, they told me to go ahead and get dressed. Here come the mirror, too. So, Oh, no. This for Bill, too. I know. I know. Oh, yeah. Oh, yeah. I met him when I was working with Louis Jr. [Music] [Music] Mr. Man right here. Right here. Right here. How you doing, young man? Come on up here. Do you want to lean on this chair here? Okay. Sit down here. if you need to. Hey, how's it going? Good to see you. Doing all right. I'm doing all right. It's good to see you, too. Oh, good. Appreciate you coming. I want to say good afternoon to everyone as our guests gather up and we have room on either side of the podium. So you can come come on up across to the other side. Yeah. You don't have to have to be shy. Come on up on that side as well. We got plenty plenty of room on on my left. So, come on around. Now, we operate like a church in a jail. There's always room for one more, right? But I want to say good afternoon to everyone. It is a pleasure uh to be here today to honor someone who has not just entertained us extremely well over their career but has been a teacher and a inspiration uh to those in and out of the film industry. I know you want to tape if you want to come on around. And so we're here today to honor producer, director, and actor Bill Duke. Where where is he? No, I know you, but we want you to stand where everybody can see. Okay. And so we're we're here to honor you today. Uh Mr. can use here's the chair right here for you. if you want to sit. If you want to sit a little bit, I got it right behind you. And so I will read the uh proclamation and pertinent part. And I know that uh council member Amos and and maybe and of course the old lamies want to give a word and you may have someone else that may want to give a word to you and I will read the proclamation in pertinent part in recognition and celebration of actor, director and humanitarian Bill Duke. Whereas the Atlanta City Council proudly recognizes acclaimed actor, director, and humanitarian Bill Duke, whose influential career in the arts spans more than five decades, leaving an indelible mark on film, television, and global media. And whereas Mr. Duke's exceptional talents have brought to life unforgettable roles in films such as Predator, American Jigalo, Deep Cover, uh, and Get Rich or Die Trying. While the while his directoral achievements include landmarks uh like A Rage in Harlem, The Killing Floor, and serving as the co-writer and f in the final episode of the hit TV sitcom Good Times and whereas Why didn't they ever get out the ghetto? I'm just I'm just teasing. And whereas his powerful voice uh behind the camera has extended to television, documentaries, film making, directing and impactful NAACP, image awards, uh nominated for works such as Dark Girls and Light Girls, and contributing memorable performances in the series like Black Lightning, which I love, Dallas Fame, and Tyler Perry's The Oval. And whereas uh Mr. Duke has demonstrated a deep commitment to education, to mentorship, having served on the board of trustees of the American Film Institute, been appointed to national and state commissions, and has published the Duke Media Foundation to teach film making, media literacy, financial management to youth. And whereas in recognition of his groundbreaking contributions to lifelong dedication to the arts and public service, Mr. Duke has been honored with a lifetime achievement uh tribute by the Director's Guild of America, a star on the Hollywood's Walk of Fame, and in in 2025, prestigious awards from the Atlanta Film Festival and American Film Institute, serving on its board of trustees. He was appointed to by President Bill Clinton to the National Endowment of the Humanities and was selected to the California uh state uh film commission uh by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. And whereas Bill Duke, a proud alumnest of the Butress Community College, Boston University and NYU's Tish School of the Arts, has cons consistently exemplified power ed and education using his academic foundation to uplift others as a champion of diversity, inclusion, and excellence in media and story ter storytelling. Now therefore, we the members of legacy council as the citizen city of Atlanta hereby proclaim this day as Bill Duke Day in our fair city in witness thereof. I've set my hand and have caused the seal of the city of Atlanta to be here into a fix. Congratulations, Mr. Bill Duke. Take a quick photo. Okay. All right. Thank you. No, you're But wait, as they say on late night television, but wait, there's more. There's more. Okay. So, we have uh Council Member Byron Amos' like to say a word. And if there any other colleagues from the council, if you'd make your way forward if you'd like to speak. Say the video is ready, too. Oh, well, let's do the video first. Well, first before we bring uh Byron up, we have a video prepared uh about Mr. Duke. So, we turn towards the monitors, please. [Music] Whether he's in front of the camera or seated in the director's chair, Bill Duke's presence commands the room. With over five decades in the industry and several blockbuster films in his rear view, Duke has blazed a trail that many actors could only hope to follow. He moved to Atlanta last year. We wanted to know more about this gifted talent from Pipsy, New York. So, we stopped by for a visit. I had two of the greatest parents I can ever describe. Um, my mother and father were great people and they never allowed my sister or I to use any kind of excuse not to be successful. That included being mocked for his skin tone as a child and a painful racial slur from a white classmate that drove him home. I went home. I got in the bathtub and um there was bleach in the bathroom. I tried to rub the back off of my skin. My mother was going to drink some too. My mother came to the bathroom just in time and stopped me. [Music] For Duke, adversity served as a catalyst. His career path came into view years later at Duchess Community College. There was a great teacher there, Constance Q, and she taught the speech and drama class. And um every year you had to do a play and so I don't know what she saw in me, but we did a play called The Emperor Jones by Eugene O'Neal. and I played the part of the league character and something, it's hard to explain, something clicked in me. But his parents were pragmatists and suggested he become an English professor or a doctor. And one day I just told my parents, I can't do that no more. I can't do it no more. He saw a film that would intensify the initial spark he felt during his previous college play experience. Was Mr. Colbert ever in this greenhouse? Say last night about midnight. Is that the answer across the face? I said what? What? I want to be like him. Go find the kid that was in the schoolyard. That's right. If I could find him. Oh man, life be sweet. I guess they just left a snot out of his nose. It wasn't always easy. Times were pretty tough between auditions. There was intermittent homelessness, odd jobs at the&p, even washing dishes at the Howard Johnson's to make ends meet. I had an apartment in New York City and I ran out of money to pay the rent. So, I'm standing in front of the apartment building and I'm begging people, "Can I have some money?" I feel a tap on my back. I turn around. There's this older black lady. I'll never forget this. She looks in my face. She says, "Baby, do your mama know y'all here doing [Music] this? I never beg for a penny after that." [Music] The rest, as they say, is history. From his first film, Car Wash to Commando, Predator, Minister Society, to his directoral success in The Killing Floor and directing Whoopy Goldberg in Sister Act Two. Multiple television appearances would continue. But Bill Duke has not slowed down. He's involved in humanitarian work in the fight against HIV and AIDS. The Duke Media Foundation provides film making and media literacy. and he has a huge project in the works, one that will tell the story of a legendary artist we all know. He says he's grateful for this honor from the Atlanta City Council. I really, really appreciate their recognition and um I'm humbled by it. I enjoy what I do. I don't want to stop until I drop. [Music] [Applause] [Applause] Well, good afternoon everyone. Um, I'm Atlanta City Council member Byron Amos and I don't know Mr. Um, Duke, probably about four years ago, you pulled up to the Fedville home of Louiswis Gossson Jr. and I was serving as this special assistant at that time. And I let you in and and the three of us sat there and to sit at the feet of two great men such as yourself and and Mr. gossip to hear the stories, to hear the laughter, to hear the heartaches, but more importantly to hear the good times that that the two of you share um definitely touch me and changed my life. And I I'm going to say to you what I said to you then, you know, people talk about all of your movies, but my generation men to society in the clip that they was just showing and you playing the detective and you looked Kane directly in his eye and say, you know, you just effed up, right? Let me just effed up. I have taken that with me every day of my life. And every time I talk to a reporter, I keep in my mind it's their job to ask the questions, but it's my job to answer them. So, sir, thank you for being who you are and for all of the fun times, the times we have laughed, the time we have celebrated you, and it it is an honor to serve on this body to say thank you again for being who you are. Thank you sir. [Applause] Are there any other council members like to speak? No, we'd like to bring up someone who is no stranger to the Atlanta community and and the film word film world, Mr. Aimoami. Thank you, Councilman. When I heard about this honor, I told him, I need to come and just pay my tribute to one of my heroes who has blessed my life. And my wife and I have dedicated ourselves to this city over three decades or more. And when you said you were coming here, I knew that was that extra shot of energy to propel our city even further. into a future that's bright and that is opportunities for many young people who simply wouldn't have that. I'm honored and you and I share something very personal. Michael Schultz gave me my first film job and my first starring role on Broadway and I know what he did for you in Carw Wash. That's right. And that brother has done that for you, me and many others. And now you are doing that. Thank you. I'm here for you. Hosea help carry on the legacy of Hosea Williams and my wife Elizabeth. I just want you to know if you need to call us for whatever it is you're doing, count me in. You understand? Count me in, sir. God bless you. Thank you. Mayor Dickens, would you like to say a word? But I have, as the mayor makes his way, I have a question. What I've always wondered, uh, when in car wash, y'all listen to this. It's important. In car wash, why did you come back to rob the car wash? Everybody knew that was you. Just kidding. Mayor Dickens, please. First, let me meet you. God bless you. God bless you. It's an honor. It's an honor. Well, good afternoon everybody. I'm Andre Dickens, mayor of Atlanta. Thank you uh Michael Julian Bond and Byron Amos for uh really paying tribute to one of our uh entertainment greats. I do uh love that line as you do Byron Amos. um for our generation. We watched that movie uh Minister Society and saw that line and I mean every day I have to you know that's a that's a pure line right there man but you've been in so many other movies and um I've enjoyed watching your career and I'm you know grateful that you have chosen Atlanta Georgia to be where you are for such a time as this and so um all of your work has really been instrumental in guiding other people's careers to want to join and be actors and then directors and um and that's meaningful for to see African-Americans on the front and behind uh the cameras. And so the things that you've done uh has been remarkable. And so enjoy this moment in Atlanta. Continue to move our film and entertainment industry forward. We're number one in TV and film for a reason. So uh let's continue to keep that train going. Thank you, Michael Julian Bond, for honoring this great American and now Atlanta. Welcome. [Applause] All right. Well, without further ado, Mr. Bill Duke. [Applause] Well, your recognition of my work is more than appreciated. Words cannot express. And thank you. I want to thank the mayor Oh, I did. You good now? Okay. All right. Am I okay now? There you go. Um, Councilman Bond and um, of course, the mayor and city of Atlantic Council and everyone who made it out here today. like to thank my hardest family who is here. Um my daughter, Heidi, um Stevie who helps me. There's so many people in my life that I owe this gratitude toward, but all of you for coming here and allowing me to be here today. It's uh very important to me. Um, at 82 years old, you know, you don't count the years, you count the minutes. And every minute is very, very important. Do you all like jokes? It's a little risque, but can I tell it? It's your day. Thank you. A little black boy's helping his mother bake a cake. [Laughter] Okay. And he gets white flour all over his entire body. He goes to his father and say, "Daddy, daddy." Father says, "Yes, look, I'm a little white boy." Boom. Father hits him on his butt. Go tell your mother what you just said. Goes into his mother's room. Yeah, baby. Look, I'm a little white boy. Boom. Hits him out. Go tell your grandmother what you just said. What did I Go tell your grandmother. Goes to his grandmother's room. Grandma. Where am I? You got to spit it out, baby. I'm a little white boy. Boom. His mom's butt. Goes back to his mother. His mother says, "What did you just learn? You tell me the lesson you just learned." Little boy says, "What I learned is I only been white for five minutes and I hate you black people already." Silly. I'm so sorry. I apologize. I'm sorry. But this um this means a great deal to me. I want to thank everybody sincerely, everybody here, the officials etc. I mentioned and I will say one thing, my last word. Um, aspire to inspire before you expire. [Applause] We're going to take a group shot, but I would be remiss if I did not mention that on Friday, Mr. Duke had a street named in his honor in his hometown. So, let's give him a big round of applause for that. So, we're going to move in front of the podium here. Everybody can move up. If everybody can move up so you get in the picture. Oh, but we too short to get I know. We're too. Okay. I'm definitely a [ __ ] Can I come to the front? see us. Oh well. [Music] All right. 1 2 I'm trying to answer. Do you mind if I Is what you're saying more important? I don't know. I'm trying to Okay. [Music] No, you don't have to stay in the color section man. I was drawn to the back. Right. Right. Right. There you go. Yes. Hold still. Thank you. Thank you. I appreciate that. Yeah. All over the place. Great job. That's awesome. For sure. I'm just doing like if you saw a pothole 20 [Music] yesterday. There you go, baby. Thank you all very much. Next, I would like to invite Council Member Antonio Lewis forward. and all of those who are here for the recognition of the Atlanta Department of Public Works during National Public Works Week 2025 to please join us on the podium. Your third all those who are here for Department of Public Works National Public Works Week, please join us. How are you? How are you? How are you? How are you? Oh, [Music] it How are y'all? Come on in. Don't be Yeah. [Music] Great work. Great work. Yes, sir. Yes, sir. Yes, sir. How are you? How are you? How are you? Let's see. See, it's extremely good week. Anytime you get to honor DPW, you know, it's a good week. The the the essential workers and the frontline workers that we we we learned during the pandemic. We got as loud as possible during CO 19 telling the world who our frontline workers were. So, this is their week. Uh this is our essential workers week. So, I'm extremely proud to be presenting this proclamation. My name is Antonio Lewis, Atlanta City Council member, District 12, and I have the also chair of the city utilities committee. I have the distinct honor of presenting the proclamation and recognizing the Atlanta Department of Public Works during National Public Works Week 2025. extremely happy to be a part of this because as most folks know I spent six to 10 years of my life working for ASME labor union traveling 200 days a year working with public sector workers across the country making sure they fight for workers rights and for weeks like this and so without further ado I'd like to present read the proclamation and present it to our commissioner commissioner Garmin and the amazing people men and women of DPW the proclamation reads as rec the Atlanta City Council recognizes the Atlanta Public Department of Public Works during National Public Works Week 2025. Whereas the Atlanta City Council is pleased to recognize the Atlanta Department of Public Works as as a part of the National Public Works Week. And whereas public works professionals focus on infrastructure, facilities and services that are vital importance that are of a vital importance to sustainable and resilient communities and to the public health, high quality of life and well-being of the people of Atlanta. And whereas these infrastructure, facility and services cannot be provided without the dedicated efforts of public work professionals who are engineers, managers and employees at all levels of government and the private sector who are responsible for re for rebuilding, improving and protecting our nation's transportation, water supply, water treatment and solid waste systems, public buildings and other essential structures and facilities. and RAZ. It is in the public interest for the citizens, civic leaders and children in Atlanta to gain knowledge of the main knowledge and maintain of ongoing interest and understanding of the importance of public works and the public works program in their respective communities. And whereas the city of Atlanta serves as a central municipality in the metro Atlanta area and a key entity for the Georgia American public works association metro Atlanta branch which includes counties of Fulton Dicab Clayton Henry Newton Rockdale for Cherokee Cobb Douglas Kawiti Kawita Fed and Carol and fosters collaboration and the sharing of best practices among member organizations to advance public work initiatives, advocate for public work first responders, and support the well-being of the greater metropolitan region. And whereas the year 2025 March 6 marks marks the 65th National Public Works Week sponsored by the American Public Works Association and RAZ. The theme for National Public Works Week 2025. Make sure we remember this part right here. Right. People, purpose and presence. People, purpose, presence speaks mightily to the essential nature of the public works services in support of our everyday quality of life. Now therefore, it be it proclaimed that we, the members of the Atlanta City Council, on behalf of the Atlanta residents, do hereby honor the men and women of the Atlanta Department of Public Works and proclaim the week May 18th, 2000 May 18th through through 24th, 2005 as National Public Works Week. We urge all citizens to join representatives of the American of the American public works association and government agencies in act in and activities, events and ceremonies designed to pay tribute to our public work professionals, engineers, managers, employees, and to recognize the contributions they make protecting our national health, safety, and advancing quality of life for all. signed by all 15 members plus our president of the Atlanta City Council. Thank you. [Applause] So, first I'm going to ask if any of my colleagues would like to speak. Okay. Anyone from the administration? Because I I see our I won't say his name. I just say anybody from the administration right? Thank you, Mayor. Thank you, Council Member Lewis. Thank you for honoring our public works leaders and our public works workers across the city of Atlanta during this National Public Works Week um 2025. I did a video for you guys um for this event that you're having. And I want to really just thank you for all that you're doing across the city of Atlanta um to make sure that our city is is safe, clean, uh orderly, and that um you do it with a smile. I see the men and women on the trucks each day. I see them out picking up trash, picking up litter, recycling, yard waste, doing a fantastic job. But you're also in the city of Atlanta, you are behind our fleet. You fix all our vehicles. Uh this department is instrumental in making sure our fire trucks, police vehicles, are uh of course our public works vehicles, etc. are all taken care of and that they're on the road and maintained well and safe. So, thank you all for what you do. uh unsung heroes are behind me as well as throughout all of these offices that go out there and do this hard work. The various divisions of public works are very very vital to our city's uh safety and and and our well-being and our uh way of life. And so we just really uh salute you and thank you and thank you to the city council for honoring uh these this great department with a proclamation. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. and and any of my colleagues once again. All right. So before we pass it to Commissioner Garmin, I my six years would ask me my last year I worked in the communications department. So I I always tell people I was in the room when they were thinking of the word frontline worker and essential worker and it showed the reason we came up with those words was to show the importance of our of our employees who had to work during the pandemic when everybody else was at home. So, I truly truly appreciate the men and women of DPW across the nation. And thank you, Commissioner Garmin, who's been a a impeccable person of of efficiency and effectiveness since she took over of commissioner. I'll pass to our commissioner, Commissioner Garmin. Thank you. Thank you so much. Um, of course, honoring our our mayor, Andre Dickens. Thank you so much for your kind words. Mayor Councilman Lewis, thank you so much for your continued support of this department. Thank you to the city council for their continued support of this department. Um, of course, this is a small representation of the mighty force of DPW that continues to do the good work of civil service on a everyday basis. Want to point out um two of the deputy commissioners that are here, Deputy Commissioner Robertson, if you could raise your hand, and Deputy Commissioner Greenley. Uh we could not do it without their continued leadership and support throughout this department. If you could please just give the good men and women of DPW another round of applause. It has certainly been a busy week for DPW with presentations in our quarterly and also our budget briefing. But there's just some things that I want to just share to support exactly what the mayor is talking about when he um says and he didn't use this language, but DPW continues to show up and show out and providing services to the men and women of the city of Atlanta. The mayor champions Atlanta as a city built for the future, focused on innovation and the use of technology to improve the lives of Atlantians. towards that end. DPW is people focused, innovative seeking and a datadriven organization to just share a bit of our performance because I want you to know the service that we provide and how well we're doing. We're committed to continuous improvement, but I think you need to know how well the men and women of DPW are showing up and showing out. So, our frontline heroes completed curbside collections, that's garbage, recycling, and yard trimmings for more than a million stops for this quarter, averaging a 99.9% garbage collection success rate. I think that deserves a round of applause for the good men and women of BTW. Our frontline heroes successfully completed over 5,000 requests for new carts. That's recycling carts and garbage carts via the cases for this past quarter. We completed over 9,000 book collection stops. That's when you put your items and debris out on the curb side and we come by and pick it up. Over 9,000 bulk collection stops. A 99% success rate for the quarter. And we serviced over 70,000 public receptacles um stops uh for the quarter. Again, the men and women of DPW doing the good work of service delivery. And the mayor mentioned our fleet team. Our fleet labored for more than 29,000 unified collected hours to keep APD vehicles rolling, Atlanta fire and rescue vehicles rolling, and department of watershed vehicles rolling. Please give them a round of applause. The mayor states regularly that that uh Atlanta is a group project. We do this collectively. It is a combined effort and we need your continued support to continue to provide that excellent service. Again, thank you council Lewis for your continued support and thank you to the city council and mayor. Thank you for your continued support of this department. Thank you so much. Thank you all. Oh, Mr. Bun usually says this, but we'll take the photo. Come up for the photo. Oh, my fault. Everyone seems Next, I'd like to invite Council Member Michael Julian Bond back up to the microphone and all of those who are here in honor of the 250th anniversary of Prince Hall Freemasonry to joined us up on the dis. Come on up. [Music] Oh my god. Yes sir. my uh It's right there, man. Oh, good. Thank you. Oh yeah. Yes. God bless you. [Music] pass on all [Music] sides on that side on this side. Yeah. [Music] Brother, brother Gay, we need to let Hard stale up front right here. Right here. Is it coming to? Yes. Yeah. Okay. Let's get it. Grab the chair for [Music] him. You going to stand? You going to stand or you want to chair? You going to stand? Will you stand right here? Yeah. [Music] No, we want you right here. [Music] How you feeling? I'm glad you're here. Where's brother Gay? Dr. Gray. Dr. Gay. Trying to get off the whole line. Where's D? I don't see him. Okay. Okay. Everybody know. Okay. [Music] [Music] Is that everyone? Well, I'd like to say good afternoon to everyone. It is a honor, privilege, and pleasure uh to be here with you today to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Prince Hall Freemasonry, not just in the United States because it predates the United States of America. So for over 250 years, pre Prince Hallmasonry has has existed. And so we're here uh brothers and others are gathered to celebrate this anniversary. We do have a film uh prepared. So before I make any other remarks, I will defer to the [Music] video. The Prince Hallmason's organization is the oldest and largest black Masonic fraternity in the United States. We stopped by the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia recently to learn more about this institution. Masonry starts in the heart and not in the head. We like to take what we call a good man and make him a better man. And we can train them and bring them up and give them the knowledge and understanding of what it is to be out in this world. I think that makes them a good Mason and a good man. Grandmaster Primus T. James joined the organization at the age of 18. He's coming up now on 3 years in this role, which presides over the state of Georgia. We try to solve all the problems in the world. um within our memberships. With a membership of 300,000 nationwide, this fraternity touts a diverse group of men from a variety of fields. From the Supreme Court to the basketball court and a myriad of other professions, all contributing significantly, all leaving a mark. When Maynard Jackson was about 8 months old, his grandfather John Wesley DS was serving as the Grandmaster of the Prince Grandard, Georgia. and he wrote him a letter and he told him about who he was and everything that he had done in his life and the type of man that he wanted him to grow up and be. He says Dobs felt he wouldn't get to see Jackson grow up, but hoped he would read this letter, follow the blueprint, and become an outstanding man. May not read that letter and became the first black mayor of Atlanta. Steeped in activism, the Prince Hall Freemasons engaged in the fight for civil rights, supporting even housing organizations that aligned with its mission. The founder, Prince Hall, was a former slave who became a prominent businessman and abolitionist in Boston. Prince Hall was a man that seemed to be determined to make sure that his people were seen as equals. Prior to the Revolutionary War and after learning of the Freemason's mission of service and equality, Hall and a small group of free black men were denied admission into the city's all-white Masonic Lodge, but were initiated in 1775 by lodge number 441 of the Irish Registry attached to the 38th British Foot Infantry at Castle William Island in Boston Harbor. Hall was elected Grandmaster. In 1784, the lodge was issued a charter granting them authority to meet, go in procession, and bury their dead. Memberships flourished. The Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia was incorporated in July of 1890. Basically, we just out there on the battlefield just fighting for what's right. The organization is celebrating 250 years of history and grateful for this recognition by the Atlanta City Council. I retired from the city in 2020 and uh to go back to be honored by the city that you retired from is indeed an [Music] honor as elected members of the organization that are present and affiliated with uh the city of Atlanta and state of Georgia. if you could kind of make make your way forward. And as I begin to read the proclamation, I'd like to have the mayor. I'm right here. Oh, you're right. Oh, okay. You're right here. All right. Just wanted to make sure. Uh I have a proclamation from the city of Atlanta and it reads in pertinent part as as follows. in honor of the 250th anniversary of Prince Hallmasonry. Whereas on March 6, 1775, Prince Hall and 14 free African-American men were initiated into Freemasonry by lodge number 441 under the British Army in Boston, Massachusetts, marking the historic birth of African-American Freemasonry in America. Whereas Prince Hall, a visionary leader, patriot, and abolitionist, was granted a permit to meet and conduct Basonic ceremonies, leading to the founding of the African Lodge on July 3rd, 1776, with Hall serving as the first worshipful master. And whereas in 1784, African Lodge received a charter from the Grand Lodge of England as African Lodge number 459, becoming the first recognized Masonage Lodge established by men of African ascent. Whereas under Prince Hall's leadership, Freemasonry expanded beyond Boston to cities such as Philadelphia and Providence. And following his death, these lodges united to form the African Grand Lodge, which has which was renamed in 1847 as the Prince Hall Grand Lodge in his honor. And whereas after the Civil War, Freemasonry flourished in the southern states, Reverend James M. M. Sims, a Baptist minister and and free man from Savannah, Georgia, who had been initiated in Boston, returned to Georgia and with Masonic authority as a district deputy grandmaster established Eureka Lodge number one free and accepted Masons on February 4th, 1866. And whereas later that year, Hilton Lodge number 13 and Banaker Lodge number 38 were established in Georgia with warrants from the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts and Pennsylvania respectively. On June 24th, 1870, these lodges united in Savannah, Georgia uh to form the most worshipful Grand Lodge of Georgia, free and accepted masons with Reverend Sims presiding as the first Grandmaster. Whereas over the decades, the Grand Lodge chartered more than 500 lodges and welcomed more than 20,000 members, weathering economic hardships such as the Great Depression, and to continuing to thrive today in the spirit of peace and harmony. Whereas the Grand Lodge has formally uh incorporated on July 11th, 1890 as the most worshipable Union Grand Lodge of the most ancient and honorable fraternity of African free and accepted Masons for the state of Georgia. Later renamed on July 19th, 1950 as the most worshipable Prince Hall Grand Lodge, free and accepted Mason's jurisdiction of Georgia. Whereas we honor 250 years of Prince Hall Freemasonry and its enduring legacy, a powerful force uplifting communities, advancing education, fostering leadership, and championing civil rights through unwavering dedication to brotherhood and service. Whereas we recognize the distinguished leadership of the honorable Primus T. James 33 degrees the the 19th most worshipful grandmaster whose steadfast commitment continues to guide and inspire principles of masonry of the Prince Hall Freemasonry. Now therefore, be it proclaimed that we, the members of the Atlanta City Council, on behalf of the residents of the city of Atlanta, do hereby recognize the Princeaw Freemasonry and celebrate its 250 years of endearing legacy and continued contributions to our society. On this day, we proclaim it as Prince Hall Freemasonry Day in our fair city and witness thereof. I have caused my I have set my hand and have caused the seal of the city of Atlanta to be here into a fixed. Congratulations. Say a quick phone. What's up? Oh wow. Okay. Oh, where are you? He's up in the balcony. All right. Next, we'll have the Honorable Andre Dickens. All right. Good afternoon, brothers. Good afternoon. It's good to be with all of you today. To the 19th most worshipful Grandmaster, the Honorable Promisey James 33rd, and the brethren of the most worshipful Prince Hall, Grand Lodge, jurisdiction of Georgia. I have this letter here that I wrote uh and I'm honored to be here standing before you. Um 250 years. It's the 250th anniversary predating this whole country. Um as this country will celebrate its 250th anniversary soon. Today we celebrate our brotherhood and I'm honored to be joined with my tool line with me. Uh Byron Amos and I went over together. Um, so he knows all about me and uh you guys don't don't don't quiz him on it. And so as the 61st Huh? St. James. Yeah. Yeah. St. James. As the 61st mayor of Atlanta and a proud brother of the St. James Lodge, I'm honored to join the members of the Atlanta City Council and the people of this great city as we gather at Atlanta City Hall to commemorate 250 years of Chris Hallmasonry. This moment means a lot to me, the people of our city, and the generations of men whose lives have been shaped by this fraternity. Two and a half centuries ago, Brother Prince Hall and 14 other free black men founded this Masonic order at a time in our nation when most African-Americans were enslaved, denied basic freedoms, and had few opportunities for advancement. For 250 years, we have been a source of strength, guiding men toward a life of purpose. Dedicated to forging a brighter future for themselves and for those who would come after them. It has helped shape men who have become forces of positive change, whether in the fight for civil rights, the advancement of education, or through countless other contributions that continue to impact our society today. As a Freemason, I can attest in how to how these principles have shaped my life. And so, on behalf of the people of this great city, we are honored to commemorate this historic occasion signed by me, mayor of Atlanta. Thank you. Yeah. Come on, brother. there. Oh, forgot about up top. Now, our brother, State Representative, Teddy Reese. Thank you, Mr. Councilman. What a great day it is. 250 years we celebrated organization that have made men, created leaders, and directed history. A great leader once said that some of us are called upon to plant seeds that would grow trees for shade we would never benefit from. And I think about people like my great-grandfather who was a 33rd degree Mason and the seeds that he must have planted that made way for people like me because we all stand on the shoulders of those that come before us, right? But it's our responsibility to make sure that our shoulders are broad enough to carry those into the next generation. So on behalf of the Georgia House of Representatives and the people of Columbus, Georgia, Mount Piscolarge 53, I want to say congratulations brothers to 250 years and 250 years more to go. Thank you. Brother Byron Neighbors, behold how good and pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity. All right. I used to mumble that as I was brushing my teeth because that was one of the things we had to learn. But on October 21st, 2023, I was welcomed into this family. I was welcome into this brotherhood. And on that day, I learned what I thought I knew, I didn't know. And what I know now is there are a lot more to know along the way. So that thirst for knowledge to plant those seeds um is is truly um something that has been developed. And I will leave it at this. Long before this generation was 10 toes down standing on business, it was brothers like you, brothers like us standing on the square that made it possible. I am Atlanta city council member Byron Amos, a proud member of St. James number four. We have a few additional colleagues that'd like to speak. First, Councilwoman Andrea Boon and then Council Member Antonio Lewis will follow and then we'll hear from our most worshipful Grandmaster to Grandmaster Primus James. Today, I would like to remember the honorable dean of the city council, CT Martin, and the honorable Marcel Reed, who poured so much into this organization. I learned so much about this organization from past Grandmaster Barksdale. Thank you, sir. Thank you. and to Ed Bowen who worked with my late father, the Reverend Joseph Ibon. I am so proud of this organization. Congratulations on 250 years. Thank you, Council Member Lewis. And and I wouldn't just say thank you, Council Member Bond, for this amazing recognition. free man. Brother Lewis, brother Kash, son of Mount Zion, number lies number seven. I just want to make sure I want to make sure Scott is right. I want to make sure that people know that we we we stand fully fully 10 toes down and on the square when they say I'm I'm I'm part of the generation that they say standing 10 toes down. But super proud to know that last year I I crossed those sands and and and I'm standing in the square, too. So super happy to be about that. Thank you. And now we will hear from our most worful grand ma master Master Primus T James recognized. Oh, come on up. Deputy good afternoon. Y'all understand being volunttoled. My name is uh Deputy Grandmaster uh Jonathan White and I humbly serve this jurisdiction under the leadership of our 19th most worship grandmaster, the Honorable Primus James. He wanted me to acknowledge a few people who are here present today. And if I could acknowledge our Grand Senior Warden, Duran Kanty. Just raise your hand. Grand Junior Warden Reggie Walker, Grand Secretary Antonio White, one of the strong ones of whose standards we show, whose shoulders we stand upon, past Grandmaster Benjamin Bogsdale, past Grandmaster Ramsay Davis Jr., Past Grandmaster Corey Shakford Senior. Of course, acknowledging from officers from across the state, we have all of our Grand Lodge other appointed officers as well as all of these brothers here who assemble today. Uh not to mention those who have already come to the podium who are leaders in the city of Atlanta in the state of Georgia that are serving in these political positions. Thank you all for coming in and showing up and showing out. Thank you. I'm nervous, y'all. Uh, as y'all know, it becomes my duty to introduce my brother as well as my friend, the Honorable Prime T. James. Please receive him. Thank you. just like to say good evening and once again um give an honor to God who's the head of my life as well as my my household. I'd like to say to the honorable mayor Andre Dickens and Councilman Michael Bond and other members of the Atlanta Council and all city officers present. I thank you for that awesome recognition to brother Bill Gay, distinguished brothers of the most restful Prince Hall Grand Lodge for the jurisdiction of Georgia. Devoted sisters of the Prince Hall Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Stars, and all our visitors. I greet you in the bonds of brotherhood and peace. I stand before you today, honored to accept this historic proclamation on behalf of the jurisdiction of Georgia, where I, Promise T. James, humbly serve as the 19th most worshipful Grandmaster. Today we celebrated 250 years of an enduring legacy built on the principles of faith, fortitude, and fraternity. Prince Hallmason was born in a time of struggle. Yet it has thrived in every generation since because its foundation was rooted in truth and service and unwavering belief in the potential of our people. We have been builders not just of lodges but of communities. We have been keepers not just of our traditional style but of hope. In the spirit of brotherhood, we have strived every day to continue that remarkable legacy through mentoring our youth and supporting our seniors, uplifting our communities, and upholding the principle of charity, integrity, and unity. This proclamation is more than a document. It is a treatment of the lives touched. That barrier is broken in the future still being built by Prince Hallmasons across this great state. As we honor our past, we committed to an even greater future. One where our light comes to shine for generations to come. On behalf of the mostful press grand lords of Georgia and this entire jurisdiction, I extend our deepest gratitude. Again, I would like to thank Councilman Bond, Dr. William Gay for the efforts in ensuring that this presentation will be recorded in the history of Prince Hallmasons. May God bless you. May God bless our craft and may God continue to bless the city of Atlanta. Thank you sir. Yes. Now, we're going to gather up uh with our colleagues on the council and we're going to take a photo in here and then we're going to go out to the steps in the atrium. Uh we will proceed out there to gather for a larger um photo in total. And so, if we can just step up in front of the podium with the mayor's letter proclamation, I'll carry it for you. I'll carry it for you. [Music] Okay, behind. Can y'all see the camera? I think so. If they got it on you, I'm good. Yes. All right. And three, two, one. Here please. [Music] Brothers don't even count on the last. Y'all know we know Jacob well enough. He raised a hand. [Laughter] All right. Congratulations. Thank you. Thank you. City council for a minute. Eight years. Eight years. Eight years. I'm running for president now. All right. Yes sir. Oh yeah. You said you said connect with Dave Johnson. took the right back. We trying to kick it in. Step right down to the step. You're the one I tell you about. His daughter went his daughter went to school with you. [Music] Well, I got the microphone. All right. Campus. I know what it is. I want to stand back here and do this. Yeah. I promise I need a picture, but I ain't I ain't going to be ugly. I'm going to slide right beside you. Oh, I'm sorry. You're fine. [Music] Let's go. [Music] Thank you, mayor. Thank you all. Next, I would like to invite Council Member Marcy Collier Over Street forward and all of those who are here to celebrate the contemporary artist Freddy Styles to please come and join us up on the podium. [Music] [Laughter] Now they send you back. Yeah. about 75. Mr. Styles and everyone with you just come forward. Thank you, sir. They look so distinguished. Wait a minute. Am I Can you probably hear me like trying to hear These mice are different. Yeah, got it. You come on up, Stefan. Now that we have the podium to ourselves, this is Mr. Styles. Come on over. Hey, come on over. you come over here. How you doing, beautiful? Give everybody just a second to come on in, get settled. So this proclamation is about celebrating contemporary artist Freddy Styles. Yep. [Applause] Those in the art world, you are a huge name. It is my honor to give you this proclamation today. And I'm going to read this proclamation. Then we'll hear from September. She's here and um then you anyone else would like to speak. Okay. And then our very own Camille Love will speak also. So we're going to have you last. All right. So first I'll read this. from the Atlanta City Council recognizing contempor contemporary artist Freddy Styles. Whereas Freddy Styles, a native son of Georgia, a proud resident of Atlanta, and a long and has long stood as a leading voice in contemporary art, American art, devoting his life and work to abstractionism while masterfully weaving elements of natural world into his richly layered and evocative creations. Whereas Mr. Style's distinguished career has been marked by a unique fusion of artistry and environmental reverence where his passion for gardening informs his visual work resulting in a body of art that reveals the profound interconnection between nature and human creativity. And whereas employing a distinct and environmental technique used using crinkled kalincoated fax paper on wet acrylic and silver jolded surfaces. Oh, how artsy. Freddy Styles. That is so artsy. Freddy Styles produces works uncommon resonance as seen in his acclaim evolving in Silver Trees collage series which I've seen with each piece reflecting a delicate dance between control and unpredictability. And whereas Mr. Style's visionary work has garnered local, national, and international acclaim, including prestigious exhibitions at institutions such as the High Museum of Art, the Georgia Museum of Art, and the American Embassies abroad, as well as inclusion in renowned private and public collections across the globe. And whereas his commitment to artist mentorship and public service is evidenced by his role as an artist and residents at Morehouse Brown I mean Morris Brown College, Clark Atlanta University, Clayton State University and Spellelman College and as gallery director and curator of City Gallery East where he advanced the city of Atlanta's art on loan program brought contemporary art to civic spaces. And whereas Mr. Styles's achievement also included major commissions and honors such as the vodka the absolute vodka artist campaign, a cultural exchange grant from the King Baldwin Foundation and purchase awards from the Atlanta University Arts Annuals and the Atlanta Life Insurance Company. Whereas through decades of creativity, community engagement, and artistic innovation, Freddy Styles has not only shaped the cultural landscape of Atlanta, but has also offered generations of audiences and emerging audiences, artists, a window into the nature's existence of spiritual depth of abstraction. Now therefore, be it proclaimed that we, the members of the Atlanta City Council, on behalf of the Atlanta residents, do hereby recognize and proclaim this as Freddy Styles Day. [Applause] I will say that even your proclamation is artsy. It it is it's poetic. It it it there is a definite flow there. So, um, in that vein, we're going to pass the mic to September, Miss Gray. Thank you so much, City of Atlanta and Council Member Marcia Over Street for this wonderful honor, honoring just an incredible artist that's a huge part of the fabric of this city that's been creating for 65 years plus. I've had the pleasure of knowing Mr. Styles for about 34 years. And we actually met maybe 35 years ago at Camille Lo's Gallery, one of the first African-American womenowned galleries here in Atlanta. And it's evolved over time where I was a collector of his work. And now I'm representing his work. And I'm extremely proud that we have this honor to acknowledge him. As you know, the arts is a huge part in the fabric of a society of being an interesting society. So, I thank you again for honoring this amazing artist that has been so part so much a part of Atlanta and what's going on in the city culturally and through the arts. Um, as well as Mayor Andre Dickens who's not with us at the moment, but I know he is sending his well wishes as well. Thank you so much. Again, my name is September Gay with September Gay Fine Art Gallery, and I am the vehicle which shows the work and gives people the opportunity to enjoy it, collect it, and appreciate this amazing artist. So, thank you again to the city of Atlanta and those that are on the stage with me that are a big part of the family of Freddy Styles. We all truly love him and are honored to be here. And I just want to say thank you again, Marcia, for this honor and the opportunity to speak and honor Freddy. Thank you. Of course, [Applause] Camille Love. Hi, Freddy. I love Freddy Styles. Um, as September mentioned, I used to have a gallery before I uh joined the city of Atlanta. And Freddy was one of the artists that I represented. But beyond that, Freddy was my friend. Um, I don't know how long I've known Freddy, but it's long. Late 70s, mid7s. Yeah, it's a long time. Oh, yeah. Yeah. You were with IBM. Wow. Yeah. I was with IBM at the time, but I, you know, I collected Freddy and uh then when I got my gallery, I represented Freddy. What I know about Freddy is that he is such a generous soul. He has mentored so many young artists. uh he has shown them how you have to be persistent and deliberate and how you just have to stick with it and a lot of artists don't understand that. He's also through the longevity of his career has taught collectors that you actually are investing in the artist when you collect their work. you're allowing them to continue to um create because they can pay their bills uh because you have supported them. And we also know that the hand of the artist is left in the work. So when you get something original by Freddy, then you're getting a piece of him. And Freddy, we are so proud that you're part of the Atlanta cultural scene. And as he knows, I do love him. Thank you. Now we'll we'll hear from the artist Freddy Styles himself. Please introduce your family. Don't forget that part. I'm surrounded by I think of them as my angels because on February 28th of this year, my house burned down and I lost everything. I only escaped with I was I was working on a painting. I only escaped with the clothes I was wearing. And I lost a little bit of hair right here. Um cuz when I'm working, my hair doesn't look like this. I look more like Albert Einstein. So the hair was standing out. So when I discovered the fire, I went downstairs. A blast of hot air, cinched some hair right here. Um but since then, I've been surrounded by what I think of as my angels. Carl Christian um was one of the people I called when I realized that my house was gone. And I said to him, "Carl, I have to come to your house later because my house is burning down." And he said, "I will come and get you." And he did. And I've been at his home ever since. Since then, my parents my parents has stepped up to lead the effort to help me rebuild my home. September Gay is a part of that. Lucy and Raymond Allen are all a part of it. And um um so I think of them as my angels. Now I don't know where to start. I know I would know where to start. In 1952, a scared, hurt little's kid rode the train from Madison, Georgia to Atlanta with with sister and his mother with no thought of ever accomplishing anything. And boy, I've come a long way since then. Yes, she has. Now, an important part of my history with Atlanta was left out of the proclamation, which gives me the opportunity to tell stories. Oh, boy. You know, I love stories. People who know me know I love stories. Uh, every first every second and fourth Thursday for six years, I appeared in these chambers to serve as artist representative on the Urban Design Commission. I don't don't think my service was all that memorable, but there was some bright spots. I always thought of myself as kind of enabling them to make quorum, but there were times times when I when I sort of buzzed in and I'll share three quick stories. Once there was a female architect representing the renovation of a school with these what I call slither windows and it was shortly after the dicap county jail was completed. So I buzzed in and said I attended Krogman Elementary School and Price High School with expansive windows. I said your design looks like the Decap County Jail. So she clutched her up earl. Um, another moment was when a group of people appeared before the Urban Design Commission wanting to change Cone Street to honor Zenona Clayton. And I said, I met Mrs. Clayton many times. She's an elegant, beautiful woman. Why would she want that ugly street to have her name? I said, "I think what you should do is turn this enthusiasm for changing the name of Cone Street into a fundraiser and maybe purchase one of the these street level parking lots and make it a small park with a bus or statue of her in it and honor her in bronze and not 10." And then the pier resistance. The board of education appeared before us wanting to tear down Krogman Elementary School. So my fellow commissioners talked about his architectural qualities and I think it was designed by the same architect who designed the old city hall. But I knew I buzzed in with a sheepish smile on my face and I said I know something about Krogma that none of you know. I said Krogman Elementary School is important to Atlanta's historic black community. And I said, I attended fifth, sixth, and seventh grade at Krogman Elementary School. And the reason I'm here is because I was sent to a room to talk to this lady at Krogman Elementary School who suggested I should be an artist. At the time in the late 50s, I didn't know that we'll be color. What were we? Black. No, we know we weren't black. Negro. Definitely. I think we were negro. Negro. I didn't know a negro could be an artist. So, she told me about Hail Woodruff and Henry Otana, both of whom had ties to Atlanta. And she let us call her Miss Jeannie Jackson, but I later found out that she was Mayana Jackson's sister. So, the Masons aren't the only one here with connections to Maya Jackson. Um, and I think that's it. Yeah. Well, you know, and it's like a I showed with Camille many years ago. Now I'm showing work with September Gray and thank all of you for coming. Thank you and Mayor Dinkens and the city council for honoring me. I was telling someone earlier, I first met Mayor Dinkens at the home of my best friend Barney Sims hosted a brunch and he was there. He had not announced for mayor yet, but Barney told me he was going to be running for mayor, and I decided then that I would vote for him. Nice. Okay. I think I that I think that I I did everything. You did. You did. I have more than everything. Oh, go ahead. I'd like to add one more thing. I currently have a major exhibit of my work at the University of Maryland Global Campus. It's up until July 13th. Fortunately, all of the work had been shipped before my fire. Nice. [Applause] We have any colleagues that would like to speak? Okay. With that, we're going to take a picture with you. Thank you so much for allowing us to do this for you. Well, thank you for doing it. Want us to get up here? Yes, we're going to go up. Whatever. All right. Three, two, one. What's up? Congratulations. Congratulations. Finally, today I want to invite Council Member Antonio Lewis forward and all of those who are here to honor both Michael Smith for his 50 years of service and Gregory Smith for his 51 years of service both to come forward and join us in 101 years. We're about to honor I don't have my phone. Thank you. Congratulations. Congratulations. [Music] It's I've lost. Yes. Okay. Okay. Extremely honored. Extremely honored to to be a part of the proclamation for 101 years of service today. Mr. Brother Greg, the Atlanta City Council has the has given me the opportunity to honor and present the proclamation honoring Gregory Smith for his 51 years with the Department of Waterhed Management. I think that deserves a round of applause. This is an essential worker, essential worker, frontline worker for the city of Atlanta and for the United States of America. And I have the I have this distinct honor of giving the highest honor that the city of Atlanta city council person can give any person. So it's the highest honor that a council can give a person. And so it reads honoring Gregory Smith for his 51 years with the with the department of watershed management. Whereas Gregory Smith has honorably served the city of Atlanta for 51 years in one month, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the department of watershed management, office of linear infrastructure and RAZ. Mr. Smith began his distinguished career with the city of Atlanta on February 11th, 1974. And through hard work, resilience and dedication, he rose to the position of watershed construction maintenance worker too. A role in which he has diligently served in for over 20 years and two months and res. During his tenure, Mr. Smith played a critical role in installing and maintaining vital infrastructure, including fire hydrants, water meters, and water manes of various sizes, ensuring the integrity and reliability of the city's water distribution center system and RAZ. He was instrumental in desegregating the water department, overcoming discriminary practices and actively participating in civil rights marches to advocate for better working conditions for himself and his colleagues. And whereas Mr. Smith contributed to major infrastructure projects across Atlanta, including Coca-Cola, Underground Atlanta, State Farm Arena, and Hartsfield Jackson International Airport, further solidifying his lasting impact on the city's growth and development. And whereas his leadership and mentorship in training new employees has ensured the safe and effective repair of water mane brakes, fire hydrants and meters, leaving behind leaving behind a legacy of skilled and prepared workers and RAZ. Mr. Smith's dedication, perseverance, and impact will felt will be forever felt for generations to come. And his retirement marks the end of an era of excellence in public service. And whereas the city of Atlanta also acknowledges and celebrates the retirement of his brother, his brother Michael Smith, as both siblings conclude their careers in public service together, a testament to their family's commitment to the betterment of community. Now therefore, it be proclaimed that we, the members of the Atlanta City Council, on behalf of the citizens of this great city, do hereby recognize and commend Gregory Smith for his extraordinary service, commendable achievements, and invaluable contributions made to the city of [Applause] Atlanta. And and so first I want to ask if any of my colleagues would like to say anything. Okay. And so I'll ask if our commissioner would like to say anything. Come on. Our our new watershed commissioner, Mr. Arrowley. Thank you, Council Member. The Office of Linear Infrastructure. What do they do? They uh they bring water to your faucet. Council member um council member Lewis taught me that we say faucet here. That's it. [Music] Which in Atlanta can be pretty hot and uncomfortable. and our staff that work in the office of linear in infrastructure, they uh they sacrifice day and night to keep water running into homes. And 50 years is a long time, 51 years. And when uh Gregory Smith started, the number one song in America in 1974 was The Way We Were by Barbara Strasand. to show you how much things have changed in his years of service. Luther by Kendrick Lamar is the number one song in America. So, I'm so appreciative of the work uh that the Smith brothers have brought to Atlanta. It's emblematic of all the work that our frontline staff do every day anonymously. And I can't say anything more about that other than I too started as a frontline worker like you. I so and and when our commissioner talks about faucets, we know I I grew up in in on Cleveland Avenue. My grandmother always say, "Turn that faucet off." And I grew up drinking faucet water. So my goal is is to make it to where people can start drinking faucet water in Atlanta because we do know that the price of that bottle water is getting Mr. Mr. Smith the man of the hour. But first, did anyone of his colleagues, any of his co-workers want to say anything about him? Good afternoon. Afternoon. Um, when I started this job, the first person I met was Mr. Smith. We worked at Chastain Park. Um, it was hard work then. A lot of the things that we use nowadays was it uh was just a picture or a token we can look at like the back holes, the power drills. None of that was able to use by us. Mr. Smith made sure we learned everything with our hands. With our hands and our minds. Um, doing water work is very hard work. It's very dangerous. We had a lot of friends that got seriously hurt. But one thing I can remember, um, when I first started, we jumped out the truck and I remember plain as day, we jumped out the truck and I'm looking at the machine just sitting on the trailer and I looked at everybody else. They got a show. I looked at the machine. when the next time I turned around, I got popped in the head. So, you looking at the wrong thing, you get grab a shovel. So, I appreciate him showing me hard work pays off because the hard work that he showed me how to do led me to this position today as a wed manager. And I just want to say I appreciate you and I thank you and I love you, man. [Applause] any of any of his other colleagues would like to say anything? So, the man of the moment, man of the hour for 51 years of service. You got you you started when Mayor Mayor Jackson came in. And so, we we truly Yes. 1974. That's that's a huge and big year for our city. So, you've been a part of the uplift of our city. So, the man of the hour, Mr. Gregory Smith, come on to the Come on down. [Applause] Well, well, well. I thank y'all and the God above and my family, my mother, my daddy, my sisters and brothers for letting me be here today to have this honor. Thank y'all. [Applause] And so I have everybody come to the front so we can take a photo. Yep. That's what council's real good at. Come on. I got you. We're gonna take some photos up front. Everyone see us. Are you sure? Congratulations. [Music] Wow. It's okay. One two three six You are watching. [Music] [Music] Book of Washington. Congratulations. [Music] Thank you all. Next, we'll move to remarks from the public. Again, I would like to remind everybody you have two minutes unless you've been yielded time on the list by someone else. Um, I uh we cannot yield on the fly. Uh, I will do my best to pronounce your name, but if I get it mispronounced, please um do correct on the record. First up will be Kevin Bacon. You'll have up to two minutes. All right. Um, hi. Um, just want to say he grew on me. I don't mean it that way. I I I mean it as as a person, as a um politician. Okay. the mayor. I respect the mayor. I used to not like the mayor, but I respect the decisions that he's made. I respect his leadership. And uh thank you for holding this ceremony this afternoon for uh to honor the what it look like black men. I mean, we we need to honor black women as well. But thank you for for this uh celebration to honor to honor these achievements. And um when I think of black excellence that that's what they exemplify, black excellence. And um although we see black excellence today, it is hard for a black man to achieve to be a good man in societ in society today. Although Atlanta is the most surveiled city in America, people still do what they want to do. And by you, the city council, y'all think that crime is okay as long as you don't kill anybody. All right? You can't go on the m train and without getting robbed. A lot of people ride the motor train because that's their only means of transportation. Some people don't don't have to. So some people it's an option. White people I told a white professional I said I feel I feel I don't feel safe riding the m train and he said I ride m too. I said well they don't target you. They target people that look like me. So, so when you're shutting down facilities and I I don't want people to see people locked up, but people that are that are destroying the community, they need to be dealt with accordingly. Thank you. Thank you. Next up will be Henry Jordan. You will have up to two minutes. Give it unto the spirit of God everyone that's here. Enter in at the straight gate. For wide is the gate, and broad is the way that leadth to destruction, and many there be which go in there at. Matthew 7 chapter 13 verse. Enter in at the straight gate. Narrow means that one must come through the narrow gate in order to reach the path that leads to eternal life. I attempt to tell James Griff and others that I desire Jesus way, the straight gate. But where are false prophets which come to you in sheep's clothing, but in willy they are ravening wolves. Matthew 7 chapter 15 verse false prophets appear in sheep clothing but are in reality raven and wolves. James sold me his wife cheated on him and he didn't tell me of his 10 outside children in the marriage have the workers of iniquity known knowledge who eat up my people as they eat bread. They have not called upon God. Psalms 53rd chapter 4 verse. While the fool may deny that God is the righteous, finds in him the object of hopeful prayer for deliverance. Can no one deliver you like Jesus can? Why boast of thyself and mischief, oh mighty man? The goodness of God endure it continually. Psalm 52 chapter first verse. Because of his betrayal though it will be dest. The righteous will learn from it. and David a righteous man will continue to flourish. Christ says it is a blessing to seek his righteous will and is a curse to obey the devil. If God give me a job that's protection of his people and you fight against it, you fighting against your life that Christ want to have, want you to have and you won't see it until it come to pass cuz I've seen it and I'm telling you about it. Warning you about your way of destruction is the way of death and not life. Thank you. Next will be Valerie Anderson. Due to yielded time, you'll have up to 10 minutes today. Good afternoon. First off, I would like to Well, Mr. Boon is Mr. Bond is not here, but I would um wanted to thank him for coming out to my son's celebration for Mother's Day. So that was very very good to see that he did follow through on that. But I'm here to express that I am at the mercy of a dysfunctional system. A dysfunctional system. Oh, and before I get into that, I would like to also thank Miss Batiari for always um words of encouragement and for just always asking me how I'm feeling, how I'm doing. That means a lot to me, your concern because kindness is free. Kindness, respect, all of that is free. And to Mr. Farooqi. Um, I would like to thank you also for um, every time I send you um, message about the DUIs with police and stuff, you always get back to me because I always go back to that was the first question that you asked and 9 months in. I'm still dealing with it. So, thank you for always getting back to me. And Miss Over Street, thank you for introducing yourself to me today. Appreciate that. And um, you know, like I said, kindness, showing kindness is free. and Miss um Collins. Yes, you introduce yourself also to me. So, thank you very much. Yes, back to what I was saying now. Yes. So, I'm at the marsh. You have an ineffective dysfunctional system, meaning Sal Fton arrested Melvin Potter. He posted a bond. He got out. So, that's a failure. That's the ineffective. That's dysfunction. judges um had warrants on him that those wasn't upheld. That's dysfunction. Again, like I've always said, if it was my son, all of this was would would never happen. Again, the judge I mean the jail denied the warrant. The hospital denied the warrant. Ineffectiveness and dysfunction. Again, if that was my son, that would never happen. He My son would never gotten away with all the stuff that Melvin Potter, murdering Melvin, lawless, drunk potter, has gotten away with. And this is a system that I'm supposed to believe in. This is seriously a system that I'm supposed to believe in that don't do the right do right by my son being murdered by a lawless drunk who has a record been on probation with a um for DUI. It can't be. And I'm here to let you all know today I don't accept or acknowledge what murdering Melvin Potter did to my son. At some point I'm going have to to get on with my life. But as for right now, no, I'm not accepting it and I'm not acknowledging what Melvin Potter did to my son. Melvin Potter murdered my son. And I would also like to thank the media for um showing up to my house also. But I would like to um correct channel 5 as far as stating that my son had an argument with Melvin Potter. No such thing happened. My son was trying to deescalate a situation on Melvin murdering part of behalf but she killed my son. Why? Because he was drunk. Because if he wasn't drinking, he would have known that my son was trying to protect him helping him. So why did you kill my son? Why did you murder my son? And then 9 months in in 3 months it'll be one year I lost my son that my son was murdered and nothing has been done. Nothing has been done. Is this normal? It it can't be normal for for Melvin Potter to get every benefit because this is how I feel. Melvin Potter has gotten every benefit. My son is the victim. Melvin Potter is the murderer. The murdering, lawless, drunk police officer. And I'm going to state every time if it was my son, he would not be afforded all the stuff that Melvin Potter is getting away with. And I stand by what I say that APD is covering his ass and everybody else as far as the system is covering his ass. I don't give a damn who feel how they feel, but this is how I feel because I did not rent my son out to the system. Okay? I did not rent my son out to the system and I'm pissed that I have no control over what happening to my son. Not a word about what happened to my son. Not one word. Nine months in. All I know is lawless drunk murdering Melvin Potter is who murdered my son. Nine months in. Where is the justice? There's It can't be. This is normal. the ineffectiveness of this dysfunctional system that I have to rely on for justice. It can't be. It cannot be. So, how am I supposed to feel about all this stuff Melvin Potter has gotten away with? Like I said before, if it was my son killing an officer, they have dragged his ass to jail. If he did get to jail, beat him before he got to jail. Okay. My son wouldn't have had a chance. My son would not have had a chance if if he did it was the other way around and he killed a police officer. So why is it different that he's an officer and my son is the victim, but he's getting the benefit of every doubt? Why is that? again. Why is that? Because there's no way Melvin Potter record, okay, as plain as the as it is, that he has he should not at least be fired. His record alone should have made him gotten fired. But no, he's home collecting a check. He's home collecting a check. no accountability at all for what? For murdering my young 38-year-old son. And I'm not and I'm supposed to be fine with that. But you know what I always say? If the plan is to wear me down, you all going to be thinking a long, long time because I'm not going anywhere by any means. that is going to have to stop me from coming down here because like I said, I'mma I'mma come. I'mma show up. I'mma be present because Melvin Potter needs to be fired, charged, and go to prison for what he did to my son. He need that order. He needs to be charged. He's not He need He don't need to be home doing whatever because guess what? I'm sure Mother's Day, he called his mother and said whatever he said to her. And Mother's Day fell on my son's birthday. I didn't get that kiss. Mother's Day. I didn't get that hug. I didn't get that mom I love you, which I never get again. Never. because of some lawless drunk police officer who was on probation for a DUI when he murdered my son. His record is not clean. His record is not clean. So why is he still on the force? Why is APD or why is the system still covering this lawless drunk? Why? And nobody's here to give me an answer. the district because I had to wait months to get the GBI to speak with me. I guess I again I have to get wait months for the district attorney to reach out to me again. I did not rent my son to the system. My son is my son Valerie Lance Anderson. I am that I am his mother, not the dysfunctional, ineffective system that I'm witnessing. Okay, I need answers. I want answers and I'm demanding answers because like I said, I'm not going to let this go. Melvin Powder murdering my son. That's not going to happen at all. So, yes, I am going to be present. I don't give a damn who tired of seeing me, hearing me, or what, but I'mma be here. Valerie Lans Anderson, Devonne Anderson Jr. Mama. Thank you. Thank you. Next will be Liza Ramsey. Go up to two minutes. Good afternoon, council members. My name is Lisa Ramsey and I'm a professional driver on the Uban black platform. I'm also an organizer with the Atlanta va share drivers union. I have invested heavily in my vehicle and certification to provide a premium service. But despite our professionalism, we're being set up to fail, especially at Hatchfield Jackson airport where current city regulations and platform rules are putting us in impossible situations. Right now, black drivers face a hard choice at the airport. Risk a ticket or lose an income. Because the city only allows us to operate on one platform at a time, we can't accept requests from Uber X or other services. We wait sometimes for hours and then when a black request finally comes in, we rush to pick up the client only to get ticketed or chased away by airport authorities for picking up black riders. We're not soliciting, we're working. Yet, we're penalized as if we're doing something wrong. The airport won't issue my car sticker even though I have limousine plate because I drive a Volvo XC90. For some unknown reason, the airport has deemed this car this car unqualified for airport pickups. On the other hand, I can't use the ride share hang tag either because I'm not supposed to do ride share while I have limo plates. In addition to that, I'm not supposed to wait for rice at the airport. Even we have to ask us to wait for rice on Virginia Avenue. But the other the businesses ask the police to make drivers leave. If this sounds confusing, it's because it is. One more issue I have is I'm losing my ability to do Uber and love black SUV at the end of this month. Black SUV is the highest tier on the platform. So this change will will change my income quite a bit. It's very disappointing since I chose to get a premium car but would not lose money. All of these issues create anxiety, financial risk, and confusion for drivers. Professional drivers are being punished for trying to do our jobs. Meanwhile, the city loses out on maintaining a reliable, high quality transportation system for airport commuters commuters. We're asking you to work with us to fix this. We need a designated way at the airport for black drivers. We need protection from ticketing while performing legal work. Thank you. Time is expired. We need the ability. Thank you. Oh. Next up will be Pahendra Choan. You'll have up to two minutes. Thank you very much. Uh good afternoon honorable council members. My name is Bupendra Choan. I have been a full-time ride share driver with ATL in Atlanta for the past 5 years. In March last year, I made a bold costly investment to purchase a brand new Tesla Model Y so I could uh offer premium limosine services and qualify for Uber Lift and uh uh uh Uber and Lyft's high-end black ride share categories. I base this decision on the official list of eligible vehicles provided provided by Uber and Lyft on their platform. Uh but this but that now is under threat. Uh Uber recently announced that as of September Tesla Model Wise will no longer qualify for Uber Black. Instead my vehicle will be relegated to a lower tier service like Uber X comfort and Uber share despite still delivering the same premium services and experiences for my ride. Uh this means that my earnings could be slashed by over 50% whilst my operating costs either stay the same or continue to rise. Uh council members, um we are the workers, mothers, fathers, immigrants, and neighbors are doing everything we can to contribute to our communities. But we are being squeezed out by billiond dollar corporations that hide behind apps while threatening uh and as and dispose and treating us as disposable. Uh this is a call to action. We urgently request uh the formation of a TNC task force that brings together city, state officials, drivers and platform representatives to ensure fair, transparent and accountable practices in this industry. Um, I take this opportunity to thank you all. Thank you. Next will be Felipe Martinez. You duty, you'll time you have up to four minutes. Yeah, I have um Thank you so much. Uh, we've been going to transportation meetings from time to time. Sorry, I'm a little stumbled and a little bit upset because of the woman who lost her uh son. Um, we do a lot of uh I'm a ride share driver advocate and organizer, social justice organizer. And I have a big long speech here, but I'm going to pass on it because I just want to tell you from my heart. I've been organizing drivers since 2018. Came here in Georgia. Uh three years ago started organizing ride share drivers here in Georgia. There is a big problem with Uber and Lift and TNC's exploiting people of color, women, and Uber and Lift drivers. We know this. We are the drivers. We know how to use the app. Again, we've been going. We see familiar faces. We they they know us. We've been going to transportation commission meeting. But we want to ask for the city council to put together a TNC task force commission. It would be investigating and recommendating solutions to address low driver pay and ensure fair compensation. Establishing clear and comprehensive regulations and oversight in driverless vehicles. Developing and implementing in stringent safety protocols. oversight mechanisms prevent exploitation of TNC platforms for human trafficking. We know there's issues here with the TNC regulations. The state of Georgia is like the wild wild west and it needs to stop. We understand corporations run the state of Georgia and maybe the city of Atlanta, but it's the people that move. It's these people in the audience. It's the people listening. It's the people in the streets. It's the people under the bridges, not the corporations. But the corporations have us like this. Uber and Lyft have us like this. We deserve a voice. We move the people in Georgia safely, expeditiously, especially at the airport. We believe that establishing the TNC task force or commission with the crucial involvement of the ride share drivers, the Atlanta City Council can be may take proactive steps to ensure fair, safe transportation ecosystem for all. This is an opportunity to support hardworking ini individuals to keep our city moving and um safety and well-being and and I I got this to give to everybody. It's just a whole speech or whatever, but you have to understand this. I'm going to give a little bit of example. Ura just bought a vehicle Tesla 60 80 grand last year because Uber said he could use it. Uber now said he can't use that car. What's he going to do? He can't use the Tesla anymore because Uber snapped the figures and said, "Well, no, you can't use the $75,000 car now. You'll have to do Door Dash and get paid less." Same thing with Lisa. Lisa bought a vehicle. She wants to do uh limousines and Uber black at the airport. Now the airport says that she can't use it because of stringent regul stringent certifications that you can't even find anywhere on the website. Things need to change in Atlanta, especially with the airport in the TNC. Sorry, I'm very animated, but this is how I am. I believe in labor. I believe in people. I believe in social justice. I believe in the city council. I believe in you. Believe in us. Believe in the people of Atlanta because we will keep coming. Again, we we want change. We believe in change. So, I'm hoping that you guys will uh city coun city council will put together a uh TNC task force in which we could work uh cohesively with the transportation committee and uh Mr. Cavendish, I believe, is on the transportation committee uh in transportation department in Atlanta. Thank you so much. I appreciate it. I'll make sure everybody gets one of these envelopes. Thank you. I'm Felipe Martinez. Next up will be Helen D. Williams. You'll have up to two minutes. Good afternoon. Good afternoon. Let me tell you what that D mean. It means Delila. I am not Delois. I'm having an issue with identity theft and that's who they want me to be. Now, I'm also here to speak in reference of Cook Park. I was there last night. I tried to stop a fight. Um, and in that process, it just didn't work out well. It was about 50 kids. and not to tell the whole story. I'm here to request and ask Byron, Councilman Byron, to fix a park rangers at a time frame at Cook Park as a permanent schedule. And the reason I'm standing before you, Mr. Byron, to say that because I tried to stop a fight and a a lady came up behind me. I thought it was a child, but that woman straight out cold cocked me. She hit me and before I knew it, I was going to get off my bicycle and go right into it like I was a knucklehead. But God stopped me. So, I'm here because I had no sleep. But I wanted to look you in the eye and to say to you, Cook Park is on fire. We need your help in reference of monitoring how it goes. You know how it roll. just help us do it a little bit better. Now that I have 39 seconds, let me tell you why I keep coming here. It's because of identity theft. If they would have left me alone, I wouldn't have to come down here and tell you that Rodney Cook is signing my name. James Ar is signing my name. It's unfair. And I would like to tell Mr. Rodney Cook, I live at 642 Lester Street. You invited me to a meeting that I didn't know about which had greater Ponty Grove members sitting there. Mr. Rodney Cook, I met your mother. I need to see you at my address. You know where I live. 642. [Music] Thank you. Next will be LA Pink. Due to yielded time, you'll have up to six minutes. Mr. President, one Sorry, Council Amos. Sorry, I missed you. Hold on just a second. Just just want to say thank you, Miss Williams, for bringing that to um our attention. It was probably two years ago that a paper I sponsored on, my colleague, Council Member Bun, and I created the park rangers. Now, we're in budget season and we're actually talking about how do we completely fund that and expand it. We will talk to the park rangers to see what their schedule are. I know we're mostly there doing heavy peak hours. Don't know what time of day you was talking about, but just want to thank you for bringing that to um our attention. and we are working on not only cook part but all of our well-used parts in the city. So, thank you. Uh may I respond? Just briefly. Okay, just briefly. Thank you for responding and just to say the time frame if you can interrate that will be 5 to 12. Children get out 5 to 12. Thank you. Now, Miss Pink, you'll have up to six minutes for you. I might not even need all that six. Um, so of course I come down here today, haven't been down here in a little while. Um, been handling a couple of things, um, in the community, uh, with the homeless up under the bridge, helping them get into their places. So, big shouts out to partners of homes for homes and partnering with a couple of other organizations to get our people up off the street. Um, and it's once again a show, [ __ ] show actually right here in Atlanta. You know, I'm not saying it's a bad thing to give the proclamations to the people because, you know, I'm not saying none of them don't deserve it, but some of y'all be giving proclamations for friendship. You know, some of these proclamations ain't because nobody done did nothing in the community or doing anything in the community. You know, we just seen a whole bunch of black men. And I'm not knocking their organization, but we need them at the jail. She just said, the park rangers that you just said, they your brothers. I mean, they can't get on some horses and go down there. I mean, I don't know. But I feel like if we going to honor some black men, let they asses be doing some real work, okay? And that's just being 100% real. We are tired of the proclamation cover up. We tired of the shows. We tired of the faux foes. We tired of all of this. Know why? Cuz none of this benefits us as black people, as people in general, white people, Hispanics, everybody y'all want to fight for. It ain't beneficial. You know why it ain't beneficial? Because the Democrats walked out for five. Five transgenders. Five. And only one bill was passed. One. One. So, while we come down here and we're going off about this and we're talking about that, we going off about the jail and the and the and the officers that's killing our babies and all this stuff. Y'all have five inmates that they walked out for. The demon rats states that they people come up and we done voted in. And I say we, you know why? because my elders call me to ask me who they should vote for. My community asks me who they should vote for. That's the reason why I get out here and I I try to push. But what we're seeing now is that it doesn't matter about who you push because if you're going to honor Mayor [ __ ] and say because he came up here and stood with y'all, he's great with all of the dirt he doing. If we gonna allow him to pop up at the homeless houses when we know he ain't did nothing for them, these particular ones to enter into their homes for a show cuz this is what this is, a show. And we are tired of the show because we watching now. Everybody don't come down here. Don't get it twisted cuz I know y'all want a soo of us to just swoo down here so that it could just look like it's make sense. But it only take one. That's what God said. They can only take one one. And trust me, they pay attention. My elders, they give me they what what what they need. They tired of this. They tired of the repeatedly seeing the same people giving proclamations. And you know what? The people that you giving it to, I'm not even knocking them. It's just how can corrupt give proclamation? How can corrupt give something good to to to something good? How I don't see it. You don't see it either, Bone, do you? No, you don't. How can you sit up here and know that you have done something that was displeasable to your community and ain't fixed it? Now, you might think you done fixed it because you brushed it up under the rug, but trust me, what's up under that rug is too much dirt. It's too much to keep covering up. Then for the new ones that's coming in and for those that's going out, trust and believe you me for the ones coming in because a lot of time y'all come in on hidden agendas and lies and well we going to do this and we going to do that and I'm ask you to stay above the water. Please don't get in bed with the corrupt. Don't don't try to be befriending them and and I just won't say nothing cuz silence is violence. We all know that. and I just won't say nothing and I'll just stay over here in my own lane so that it won't look like we cool or that we, you know, so that I don't get the the the heat on me because trust me y'all, I know what's going on. I get it every day. It's a lot of stuff I don't even discuss when I come up here. And some of y'all be feeling like, "Oh, there she go again." But trust me, there's some behind the scenes stuff going on. God said this was the year for removal. Don't be removed with handcuffs cuz he said it and he ain't a man. He going to lie. So I'm praying for some of y'all and some of y'all I'm praying for y'all to get up out of office and I'mma help do that. Thank you. Next up will be Nikki Bugs. You'll have up to two minutes. Thank you. Good afternoon. All right. So, let's I and have nothing to do with what just happened, but I was going to bring up the proclamations. So, my my thing is at the Landmark condominiums, we deserve an award. We deserve a proclamation for what we have experienced at the Landmark due to the hands of the Airbnb investors and the HOA board. We deserve an award for that. for the bullying, the unwarranted retaliation, mental abuse, physical abuse, the degradation and defiling of the property, the ever evolving hostile atmosphere that we live in. Ever evolving. Ever evolving. What's interesting about that is just the mere fact that when we come home, we don't have a home. We actually live in a hotel. Imagine that. Imagine that. walking into a hotel and there are different people there every day to every two, three days. Airbnb is not an STR. It's a hospitality event. The building that they stole, they're trying to steal from the rest of us that live in that building. They could have purchased another building and built that that that um that option out and then had their own building and they could have done whatever they wanted. but instead they decided to steal our homes and make things difficult. That's what we're living with. Abuse, retaliation bullying terroristic tactics. We realize there are big events coming into Atlanta, descending into Atlanta. We realize that it's a money-making event for the city and maybe for some of you and and and whoever. That's fantastic. We deserve award for the three plus years we've been fighting for our homes and nothing has been done yet. Please step up. We need an emergency inter intervention. Thank you. Thank you. Uh finally today, James Davenport. [Music] You'll have up to two minutes today. Thank you for your time. First, giving an honor to God who I often times call my conductor. I don't have a PhD. You all know that. I got a go. We got a problem. We got a problem. I'm I'm watching the news. I'm watching the news. 71y old man get attacked on a M train. Mr. Bond, did I tell you what's going to happen? And it's not over. It's just getting started. It is just getting started, people. I've asked you all to emulate the program that Fton County does for lift rides for seniors. You all have not booed. Haven't even thought about it. Not one time. Not once. Just as LA Pink says, it's just like going in one ear and coming out the other. When we sit up here and beg you all time and time again, how many of you can honestly say that you think about what we talk about? How many of you can actually tell me that you have actually considered providing lift rides like Fulton County does? They used to provide 16 rides per night per month. Now it's like four rides per month. It's gonna get worse, y'all. And y'all do understand that it's going to get worse. People getting put out of their houses, people getting beat up in their own neighborhood. It's going to get worse, y'all. One of the reason it's going to get worse is because you all don't give a damn. You support special interest groups expired and leave alone the people who pay your salary. That's sad. You can you can go knock on my door and beg for my vote after election day. Thank you, Mr. Davenport. Where you at? Where you at? Time's expired. Thank you. Thank you. I want to thank all the members of the public who came forward today to provide public comments. Council member Bond, would you like to respond? Just to respond again, Mr. Davenport point as I've explained to you from this microphone and in person Fulton County receives a federal grant to run that program that grant is going away and that is why Fulton County has cut back the rides on that program. We we've had talks with the uh people in the administration about the city potentially applying for a similar grant. Because of the change in administrations, that grant is no longer available. So, we would have to find an alternative funding source to either match what Fulton County does or to supplement that. And so, I've continued to to work on that on your behalf. How long have I been asking for this? Okay. So, I'm responding to you. This isn't the point of having a conversation. This is to give you a response to the issue that you raised. We have each other's cell phone numbers and we can continue to talk online and I'm more than happy to do that. Thank you. It's passed. Thank you, Mr. Brown. Thank you, Mr. Davenport. I want to again thank all the members of the public who came forward to provide remarks before the body today. We will now move to a report of the journal. Madam clerk, good afternoon, council president and members of the council. I, Kurin Alando, municipal clerk of the city of Atlanta, do hereby certify that the minutes of the regular meeting held on Monday, May 5th, 2025th were true and correct. Thank you. If there are no revisions to the minutes, I would entertain a motion to adopt. Moved by council member one, seconded by council member Shook. Any discussion on the motion to adopt the journal? We do this unanimous consent without objection. Any objection? Madame clerk, please sign on the count of unanimous consent on the motion to adopt the journal. 13 yay, zero nays. 13A z. Motion to adopt the journal carries. Next, we'll move to communications. Madam clerk, item number one is 25 C0067. This is communication from council members Dustin Hillis District 9, Andrea Elon, District 10, Marcia Color Over Street, District 11, Antonio Lewis, District 12, and Isa Collins, post three at large, appointing Miss Kimberly Wright to serve as a member of the city of Atlanta Americans with Disabilities Act, Advisory Committee, staff recommendation to refer to Transportation Committee, and Committee on Council. Let the item follow that course. Mr. President, if I may take items two and three as a block, please proceed. Item number two is 25 C0068. This a communication from Tanya Greer, county clerk to the Fulton County Board of Commissioners, submitting the appointment of Mr. Jeff Jeff Mullivy to serve as a member of the Beltline Tax Allocation District Advisory Committee. This appointment is for a term of two years. Item number three is 25 C0069, a communication from Mayor Andre Dickens appointing Mr. David Simpkins to serve as a member of the city of Atlanta Fulton County Recreation Authority. This appointment is for a term of four years. Staff recommendation for both those items is refer to community development human services committee and committee on council. The items follow that course. If I may take item four and five is a block. Please proceed. Item number four is 25 C000. This is a communication from council president Doug Shipman appointing Miss Robin Craig to serve as a member of the city of Atlanta audit committee. This appointment is for a term of four years. Item number five is 25 C0071. It's a communication for Mayor Andre Dickens appointing Miss Janna Edmonson Cooper Squire to serve as a contract compliance hearing officer for the city of Atlanta. This appointment is for a term of two years. Staff recommendation for both those items is to finance executive committee and committee on council. Let both items follow that course. If I may take items six and seven as a block. Please proceed. Item number 20. Item number six is 25 C 0072. This is a communication from the fiscal year 2025 budget commission submitting a copy of the fiscal year 2025 budget report. Item number seven is 25 C003. This is a communication from council members Liliana Bacteri district 5, Alex Juan, district 6, Howard Shook, District 7, Mary Norwood, District 8, and Mass West Morland, post two at large, appointing Mr. Joe Sutherland to serve as a member of the artificial intelligence commission. Staff recommendation for both those items is to uh accept and file. Both items follow that course. That concludes the communications, Mr. President. Thank you. Is there any vetoed legislation for consideration? There are none. Thank you. There is one piece of unfinished business that was held in the breast of council again last meeting 25-1163. Council member Wes Morland had made the motion to um move it to the breast of council. So I'm going to ask him uh where we are with this. Mr. Chair, I'll make a motion to refer back to committee. There's a motion by council member Wes Morland, seconded by council member uh Bond to refer this back to committee. I'm assuming it's going back to the CDHS committee. believe that's where it came from. Sounds good, Mr. Parliamentary. Is that correct? You think? Yes, it was a CDHS. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Chair Winston. Should you read the caption? Um, yeah, let's go ahead and read the caption. I'll I'll read the caption quickly. An ordinance by Council Member Michael Jun Bond to amend FY2025 budget to transfer funds in the amount of $200,000 to the Atlanta Student Movement Trust Fund pursuant to ordinance 1901 1156 and for other purposes. Is there any discussion on the motion to refer this item? Hearing none, we'll move to a vote. Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to refer 25-1163 to the CBHS committee. Thank you. One moment. [Music] The vote should be open. [Music] The vote is closed. That's 13 yay, zero naysay. 13 zs. The motion to refer carries. We will now move to the consent agenda section one. These are items found on starting on page five of your materials. They are items for second reading. Therefore, the appropriate motion will be to adopt. But first, let me ask, are there any items to be removed from the consent agenda section one? Council member Shook. Uh yes, that would be 25 0 1078. Uh item three, page six, 251078. Any other items to be removed from the consent agenda section one? Hearing none, I would entertain a motion to adopt the consent agenda section one. Moved by council Bakiari, seconded by councelor Juan. Is there any discussion on the motion to adopt the consent agenda section one with one item removed? Hearing none, move to vote. Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to adopt the consent agenda section one with one item removed. The vote is open. Thank you. [Music] [Music] The vote is closed for four. 14 yay, zero nays. 14 yay, zero nays. The motion to adopt carries. Council member Amos. Yes, sir, Mr. President. Um item number 24 on page 1225-1244 like to send forward to the mayor post haste. There's a motion by council Amos uh seconded by council Juan to move 251244 to the to the mayor's office post haste. Any other items for post haste? Council Lewis item 25R3452. Can we send that to the mayor post haste? 25 R2342. 25R3452. 3452. Council Amos, would you accept an addition to your motion? Great. So, there's a motion to move two items to the mayor's office post haste. Any others? Any discussion on the motion to move these items post haste? We do this vanous consent. Any objection? Madam clerk, please sound the count on the unanimous consent on the motion to move these two items to the mayor's office. Post haste. 14. 14 yay, zero naysay. 14 yay, zero nays. Motion uh carries. We will now move to the consent agenda section two. These are items that begin on page 26 of your materials. They are items for first reading. Therefore, the appropriate motion will be to refer. First, let me ask, are there any items to be removed from the consent agenda section two? Hearing none, I would entertain a motion to refer. Moved by council one. Is there a second? Seconded by council member Shook. Any discussion on the motion to refer these items? Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to refer the consent agenda section two. One moment. Thank you. [Music] The vote is open. Will everyone please vote? [Music] The vote is closed. 14 yay, zero nays. 14 yay 14 14 yay, zero nays. The motion to refer carries. We'll now move to the report of standing committees. First up today will be the committee on council, Chair Collins. Thank you, Mr. Council President. We have nine items on the report for today. Um, I am going to take the first item, item number 25- C-00005501. uh com communication from Katie Kilpatrick, president and CEO of Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, submitting the appointment of Mr. Christopher Burrus to serve as a member of the governing board of the office of the inspector general. This this appointment is for a term of three years and the recommendation is favorable from the committee. There's a motion coming out of committee to uh adopt 25 C50. Does not need a second. Is there any discussion on the motion to adopt this item? Hearing none, we'll move to vote. Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to adopt 2550. The vote is open. Yeah, I can't vote. The votes closed. 14 yay, zero nays. 14 yay, zero nays. The motion to adopt carries. Can I be on? Okay, great. Thank you. We will now jump to item number 25- C- 00583. A communication from council members Liliana Batiari, District 5, Alex Juan, District 6, and Matt West Morland, post two at large, reappointing Mrs. Roseanne Maltise to serve as a member of the water and sewer sewer appeals board. This appointment is for a term of two years to begin retroactively on March 4th, 2025 and expire on March 3rd, 2027. The recommendation is favorable from the committee. There's a motion committed out of committee to adopt 25- C-58. It does not need a second. Is there any discussion on the motion to adopt this item? Hearing none, move to vote. Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to adopt 25 C58. The vote is open. [Music] The vote is closed. You got colors. One moment. [Music] The vote is closed. 14 yay zero nays. 14 yay zs. The motion to adopt carries. Great. We will now jump to item number 25- C-000062. Item number five, a communication from Mayor Andre Dick Dickens appointing Mr. Byron Gibbs to serve as a member of the license review board. This appointment is for a term of two years and the recommendation from the committee is favorable. There's a 25 C62 coming out of committee. Favorable to adopt. It does not need a second. Is there any discussion on the motion to adopt this item? Hearing no move to vote. Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to adopt 25 C62. The vote is open. The vote is open. Will everyone please vote? The vote is closed. 14 yay, zero nays. 14 yay z. Motion to adopt carries. Great. for items 25- C-0000582, I'm excuse me, 0057 2 and item numbers 25- C-0000594. I make a motion to enter into committee of the whole um to not only recognize these recommend these recommendations, but possibly allow the appointees to speak. There's a motion by council Collins to enter committee of the whole. Is there a second? Second by council viari. Any discussion on the motion to move committee of the whole? We do this unanimous consent. Any objection? Madam clerk, please sign the calendar unanimous consent on the motion to move into committee of the whole. 14 yay z. 14 y z. Uh the motion carries. We are now in committee of the whole. Sher Collins. Great. Thank you all so much. For item number 25- C-000057 to a communication from Mayor Andre Dickens appointing Mr. Ricky Smith to serve as our new aviation general manager for the city of Atlanta. this recommendation becomes is favorable from the committee. Mr. Smith is joining us today and would like to see if he would like to say a few a few words. [Music] [Laughter] Thank you for being here. Mr. Smith, you have the floor. Good evening. I'm going to need four and a half. Joking. Um, good evening. It is it is truly an honor to be here. I want to thank um first of all, Mayor um Andre Dickens for um showing this level of confidence in me to come in and and lead what is the busiest and most efficient and soon to be the most resilient airport in the world. Um we have an amazing team at the Department of Aviation and the opportunity to um to work with that team is um is also an honor. Um, I've spent um I've had the great pleasure of um spending a great deal of time with u madam COO who has provided me amazing guidance and um has been a steady hand helping me with this transition. So I want to thank her as well. But I also want to thank the members of the council. I've met with um with many of you um haven't met with all of you yet. Um and the sage advice and counsel that you've provided me will go a long way in allowing me to work with the team um to find what we call at Department of Aviation next level. Um so again, thank you for considering this opportunity. Hopefully I get your approval um because we have a lot of work to do and um I want to get to it. So again, thank you for the consideration. There's already a motion coming out of committee. It doesn't need to be moved. So, any discussion on the motion to adopt this item? Hearing none, we move to a vote. Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to adopt 25 C57. One moment. The vote is open. The the vote closed. 14 yay, zero ns. 14 nay, zero nays. The motion carries. Thank you. Congratulations, Mr. Smith. Congratulations, Miss Smith, and welcome. We're really excited. Thank you. Godspeed and safe travel. Yeah. Next up is item number 25- C-000059. Item four, a communication from Mayor Andre Dickens appointing Mr. James Greg Irely to serve as our new commissioner of the Department of Watershed Management for the city of Atlanta. Mr. Irely is joining us today as well and would love to give him a few minutes a few moments to speak. Thank you for being here. It is an honor and pleasure. Thank you, council members. Uh, also thank you uh, COO Burks. I would not be here uh, she's the first person I met from Atlanta and a big reason why I'm here. Uh I promise uh in my tenure here as commissioner if I'm so voted in that uh I will tell you 100% um transparency uh what I believe is the right course ahead and give you my just honest opinion and um and I won't hide anything at all. Our primary mission in watershed management is to protect public health safety and the environment and do that in the most equitable manner as possible. Uh I was just talking to general manager Smith about the airport and the challenges we have ahead in watershed. You know, getting it right 99.9% of the time is is not good enough when you bill 174,000 accounts. If you get it right 99.9% of the time, that means still a thousand bills or potentially not right. And so, we're going to have to get it better than 99.9%. And I promise to get us on the road towards that. So with that, it's an honor to be here in Atlanta and honored to have my wife here with me and uh we are enjoying Atlanta. And that's all I have to say. Thank you. There's a motion coming out of committee to adopt 250059. It does not need a second. Any discussion of motion to adopt? Councelor Baktiari. No, just as Alex Juan pointed out, we're gonna work with M. commissioner on how to properly say Atlanta. There's no second There's no second T. Atlanta. Atlanta. It's spelled A T L A N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N U H. You got this. Any other discussion? Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to adopt this item. The vote is open. Will everyone please vote? The vote is closed. 14 yay, zero nays. Great. Thank you all so much. Congratulations, Mr. Arley, and we look forward to your leadership. Thank you all again, Miss Arley. With that being said, Mr. President, would love to make a motion to exit out of the committee of the whole. There's a motion by council member Collins, seconded by Council Member Doer to exit out of committee of the whole. There any discussion on the motion to exit committee of the whole? We do this for unanimous consent and objection. Madam clerk, please sound count on unanimous consent on the motion to exit committee the whole 14 yay. Zay to approve all the actions on committ. Sorry, say that again. 14. The motion to exit committee of the whole carries. We are now back in regular section. Chair Collins. Yes. I now make a motion to approve all of the items from communications. I'm taking items one through five together. It's just actually just the items that we did in committee the whole Oh, sorry. Yes. Um, I would like to make a motion to approve item numbers 25- C-0000572 and 25- C-0000594. There's a motion to approve the items we took in committee of the whole by council Collins. Is there a second? Second by council member Hillis. Any discussion on the motion to approve the it actions taken in the committee of the whole hearing? No, move to vote. Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to approve the actions. The vote is open. [Music] The votes closed. 14 yay, zero nays. 14 yay zs. The motion is carried. Great. Thank you. This brings us to our communications and resolutions. If there are no objections, we will take items six and seven together. Please proceed. Okay. 25-R34936, a resolution by the finance executive committee to reappoint Mr. Donald Mr. Donald Penovi to the city of Atlanta audit committee as one of the three at large members appointed by the entire city council for a said term to begin upon approval of this resolution and for other purposes. The recommendation from the committee is favorable on this one. 25-R3494 item number seven a resolution by the finance executive committee to appoint Mr. Charles Bell to the city of Atlanta audit committee as one of the three at large members appointed by the entire city council said term to begin upon approval of this resolution and for other purposes. This this item is also recommended favorable from the committee. There's motions coming out of committee to adopt 25R 3493 and 3494. They do not need seconds. Is there any discussion on the motion to adopt these two items? Hearing no move to vote. Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to adopt these items. The vote is open. Will everyone please vote? The vote is closed. 13 yay, zero nays. Thank you. Oh, hold on just a second. Counc, how would you like your vote reflected? Council member Vons and I 14 yay zero nays. 14 yay zs. The motion to adopt these two items carries. Okay. Thank you. This now brings us to our ordinance for first read. An ordinance, excuse me, item number 25- excuse me-1291. Um item number eight, an ordinance by committee on council to amend part two, chapter 2 under administration, article two, legislative of the city of Atlanta code of ordinance to add a new section section 2-106 to codify procedures for the city of city council when meetings as a committee of whole and for other purposes. This is to be accepted and referred back to committee on council for it for its second reading. Sir, are you making a motion to refer? Yes. Making a motion to refer back to committee. There's a motion to refer uh to communial council by council member Collins, seconded by councelor Juan. Is there any discussion on the motion to refer? Hearing none. Move to vote. Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to refer 251291. The vote is open. Try close and see. The votes closed. 14 yay, zero nays. 14 yays, zero naysay. Motion refer carries. Great. Thank you. And finally, our resolution item number 25-R3502, item number nine, a resolution by committee on council requesting that all legislation creating a board authority commission committee or other other similar body also known as base include specific court information to promote transparency, accountability, and engagement and for other purposes. This item comes before the body with the favorable recommen recommendation from the committee on council and our recommendation is to adopt. There's a motion command committee to adopt 25 R3502. It doesn't need a second. Any discussion on the motion to adopt this item hearing? No. Move to vote. Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to adopt. The vote is open. The post closed. 14 yay, zero naysay. 14 nay, zero naysay. Motion to adopt carries. Great. Thank you so much, Mr. Council. Mr. Council President and Council, that is all we have um for today's report. Thank you, Chair Collins. Thank you. Next up will be zoning committee. Chair West Morland. Thank you, Mr. Chair. We have no report. Thank you. Next up will be public safety and legal administration chair Boon. You come. Mr. President, we do not have a report today. Thank you. Thank you. Next up is City Utilities Committee Chair Lewis. Good afternoon, Mr. President. Thank you. May I have a motion to bring forth the substitute to read the substituted caption? There's a motion to bring forth the substitute. Just just for clarification, this is the item that was pulled from consent agenda 240 1078. There's a motion to bring forth substitute by council member Lewis. Is there a second? Seconded by council member Over Street. You want to go ahead and read the Does the caption change? It it it does change a little. Okay. So, why don't you go ahead and read it before we take up consideration? A substitute ordinance by city utilities committee authorizing the chief financial officer to amend the fiscal year 2025 water and wastewater renewal and extension fund 5052 budget in the amount of 6,493,69941 to transfer funds from the wershed reserves to the appropriations to add funds to the water supply tunnel project and for other purposes. Motion to adopt on substitute. Well, the got to adopt the substitute first. So, we've got a motion to substitute. Just for clarification, it's just changing the amount. Is that correct, Chair Le? The substitute increases the funding amount to 6.4 million. Thank you. So, any discussion on the motion to bring forth the substitute? Okay. Um, hearing none, we'll move to a vote on the motion to bring forth the substitute. Madam clerk, please open the vote. The vote is open. Will everyone please vote? The votes closed. 14 yay, zero nays. 14 yay, zero nays. The motion to bring forth the substitute carries. Council president, that concludes my report. Motion to adopt the substitute. We've got a motion to adopt on substitute by council Lewis. Is there a second? Second. Seconded by council member West Morland. Any discussion on the motion to adopt a substitute to council one? Thank you, Mr. President. Um, this may be question for finance, but I'm curious as to why the amount changed from when we met last week to this week. And wasn't there a companion paper in committee that was the actual contract? Just want to make sure everything is ticking and tying. ask finance department if they want to respond. Uh, council member one, I don't have any immediate information on the change to the the amount, but I can get back to you before the end of the meeting. I mean, if the the rest of the body wants to move forward, I there's unreadiness on my part, but if y'all are ready to go, it's fine. Any other discussion on the motion to adopt on substitute 240 1078? Council shook. Well, he's asking a valid question. I'm wondering if there's an appetite to set this aside until later on in today's agenda and hopefully we'll have an answer to the question. We would entertain a motion to postpone. I believe is the what you're trying to do. Council Shook, if you'd like to do that. I'll make that motion. There's a motion to postpone by council member Shook. Seconded by Who is that? Council member Baktiari. Y we will just postpone until the last part of the meeting. Council member Shook, if that's acceptable as a motion, right? Any discussion on the motion to postpone? We can do this vanous consent. Any objection to the motion to postpone until the last part of the meeting. Madam clerk, please sound the count or unanimous consent on the motion to postpone. 14 yay, zero nays. 14 yay, zero nays. We will now postpone this item till the end of the meeting. Thank you, President. Thank you, Chair Lewis. We'll see you in a little while. Uh, next up is CDHS Chair Winston. Thank you, Council President. We have no report. Thank you. Next up is Transportation Committee Chair Amos. Thank you, Mr. President. I have no report. Thank you. Finally today, Finance Exec Committee Chair Shook, who looks as if he's reporting. Mr. President, we have first uh three communications. I would like to take them as a block. Without objection, please proceed. 25 C0063 is a communication from Miss Hampton, who's chair of the audit committee, submitting the performance uh audit on paid administrative leave. 25 C0064 is a communication from Miss Hampton uh chair of the audit committee submitting a performance audit on service delivery and remote work and 25 C0065 is a communication from Miss Hampton chair of the audit committee submitting perform performance audit timeliness of payments. The motion is accept and file. There's a motion coming out of committee to accept and file these three items and it does not need a second. Any discussion on the motion to accept and file these items hearing? Now move to vote. Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to accept and file these three items. The vote is open. Will everyone please vote? The votes closed. 14 yay, zero nays. 14, zoo to accept and file these items carries. Uh, thank you. We have 251256 an ordinance by Boone uh Amos Hillis Collins Winston Doure Bond and West Morland authorizing a payment an amount not to exceed $24,000 from various accounts to the city of Atlanta office of cultural affairs to pay for expenses relating to the 2025 Jazz Festival events and for other purposes. Uh the motion is to adopt. There's a motion to adopt 25 vote 1256 coming out of committee. It doesn't need a second. Any discussion on the motion to adopt this item hearing? No. Move to a vote. Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to adopt. The vote is open. Will everyone please vote? The vote's closed. 14 yay, zero naysay. 14 yay, zero naysay. The motion to adopt carries. That is all. Thank you, Chair Shook. We will now move to personal papers. I don't see any for immediate consideration. So once again, I will go by the list. And the list today begins with Council Member Winston. [Music] You've been kind to the clerk and you've been rewarded. Thank you. Thank you. Um, first item is Elms ID 37978, an ordinance by council member Jason H. Winston authorizing the mayor or his design on behalf of the Atlanta Department of Labor and Employment Services to wave the competitive source selections provisions contained in the section number listed of the article of the procurement and real estate code of the city of Atlanta code of ordinances as well as any other conflicting code provisions to execute the first amendment to the cooperative purchase agreement listed ADP implementation and integration with ADP Inc. to add the Atlanta Department of Labor and Employment Services and Atlanta Department of Labor and Employment Services as work source Atlanta as an additional authorized users and to add additional funding on behalf of the ADLE ES in an amount not to exceed $800,000 all contracted work to be charged to and paid from the fund department organization and account number listed herein and for other purposes. Elms ID 37978 will be referred to the FEC. Thank you. Elms ID 38038, an ordinance by Council Member Jason Winston and Matt West Morland reading the two the 2013 Lakewood Liverable Centers Initiative LCI study without modification for the purpose of reactivating the plan. Thank you. And then last, Elms 38. Was that all of 3838? Yes. Sorry. Elms 38308 will be referred to the CDHS committee. Thank you. And then Elms 38045, a resolution by council members Winston Baktiari Doer Ferro and West Morland requesting that the mayor or his designate conduct a feasibility study to address the challenges small businesses face in accessing affordable retail space in Atlanta to consider tax incentives, lease subsidies, pilot programs, and other support strategies and for other purposes. Elms ID 38045 will be referred to the CDHS committee. Thank you. Thank you. Council Morland. Elms ID 38037 resolution by West Morland authorizing the city of land to donate a total amount not to exceed $10,000 cents from the district 8 discretionary account to the Ardmore Park Neighborhood Association pursuant to 6306 of the city's charter authorizing CFO or designated to donation. Response to this house to make the donation authorized hereby from the council listed herein and for other purposes. Elms ID 38037. We refer to the CDHS committee. Council Juan. Yep. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. It's Elms ID 38049, an ordinance by council member Alex Juan to amend chapter 10 alcohol beverages of the city of Atlanta code of ordinances a section blank to create an alcohol license auto plea program and for other purposes. Elms ID 38049 will refer to the public safety and legal administration committee. Council member Shook. Thank you. Elms 38035 resolution by Shook authorizing the CFO to refund customers for overp payments to water and sewer accounts in the amount of blank. All funds to be charged to and paid from the sources indicated. Elms 38035 will be referred to the excuse me the FECLMS 38034 resolution by shook authorizing the commissioner of the department of wershed management to adjust water and sewer service charges on certain customer accounts in accordance with the Atlanta city code section indicated in the amount of blank. Elms ID 38034 will be referred to the finance exec committee. Elms 38018 is an ordinance by Shook to amend the fiscal uh FY25 budget by undertaking an operating transfer to the general fund from the capital finance fund and other transfers related to the indirect cost allocations by adding to anticipations and appropriations and the amounts listed herein and for other purposes. Elms ID 38018 will be referred to the findings exact committee. And then lastly, I have an ordinance that appears not to um have an ELMS number. This is an ordinance by Shook authorizing a donation and amount not to exceed $10,000 to the Peach Tree Park Civic Association from the District 7 carry forward account for the Peach Tree Park neighborhood master plan and for other purposes. That item we refer to the finance exact committee. Thank you. That is all. Thank you, Council Member Over Street. I only have one. It's Elms ID number 38019. An ordinance by council member Marcy Collier Over Street to one ratify the imposition of certain nonadalurum property assessments levied upon properties participating in the city's property assessed clean energy program. and two, authorize the transmitt of information to the applicable tax commissioner for the billing and collection of PACE assessment. Three, direct the applicable tax commissioner to bill and collect the pace assessment in the same manner on the same day as the assessment for solid waste charges and for other purposes. E 38019 will be referred to the finance exe committee. Thank you. Thank you, Council Member Lewis. Thank you. And thank you, President. Elms ID 3805, an ordinance by council member Antonio Lewis, waving part two, code of ordinance, general ordinances, a chapter 2, administration, article 10, procurement and real estate code, division 4 of the Atlanta city code to authorize the mirror or is designate to exercise the fourth renewal option for the intergovernmental joint funding agreement. IGAS1210119 long-term water quant quantity and water quality monitoring program services with the United States ge United States survey on behalf of the department of watershed management for a term of one year retroactively effective from January 1st 2025 through December 31st 2025 in an amount not to exceed $56,310 to authorize the mayor or his designate to ratify services rendered In connection with the agreement retroactively effective beginning January 1st, 2025 through the exercise of the fourth renewal option under under the agreement all contracted work will be charged to and paid from the fund department organization and account nor number listed herein and for other purposes. Elms ID 3805 will be referred to the city utilities committee. Okay. And huge deal for the south side of Atlanta Pitman Park community. Elms ID 38050, a resolution by council member Antonio Lewis authorizing the mayor on behalf of the city of Atlanta to accept the donation of enhancements and site improvements as outlined in exhibit A valued at approximately $80,000 from the Atlanta Hawks Foundation Incorporated for Pitman Park Recreation Center located at 950 Gerabaldi Street Southwest Atlanta, Georgia 30310 for the purposes of improving the facility and for other purposes. ID 3805 will be referred to the CDHS committee. Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Council Member Hillis. First item is Elms ID 38008, an ordinance by council member Dustin Hillis authorizing the mayor, his designate on behalf of the city of Atlanta to enter into a temporary access and construction easement agreement and a permanent access and utilities easement agreement with 3B South LLC to re relocate certain city installed infrastructure from adjacent property to authorize the mayor on behalf of the city of Atlanta to execute and execute the easement agreements. and any other agreements necessary to effectuate the purpose of this ordinance and for other purposes. ID 3808 will be referred to the CHS committee. Next item is Elms ID 37996, a resolution by council member Dustin Hillis authorizing the mayor his design on behalf of the city for on behalf of the Atlanta Department of Transportation to execute amendment number one to the project management agreement with the PATH Foundation a Georgia nonprofit corporation for the Silver Comet Connector MacArthur Boulevard Northwest project to add funds in amount not to exceed $250,000. All contracted work to be charged to and paid from the fund, department, organization, and account numbers listed herein and for other purposes. ID 37996 will be referred to the transportation committee. Complete my items. Thank you. Thank you, Council Member Ferro. Thank you. Elms ID 38043, an ordinance by council member Mir Feroki to amend the 1982 Atlanta zoning ordinance as amended by amending chapter 20 v Pansia Highland Historic District to add convention centers as a prohibited use in the use table and for other purposes. City 38043 will be referred to the zoning committee. Council member Collins. Yes. Um, Elms, uh, ELMS item number 38039, Work Source Innovation and Opportunity Act. Um, a resolution by Council Member Isa Collins pursuant to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014 authorizing the mayor or his designate on behalf of the Atlanta Department of Labor and Employment Services, also known as Work Source Atlanta, to execute a OneStop Partners Memorandum of Understanding with Onetop Partners in local workforce development area number three concerning the operation of the one-stop part the one-stop delivery system in the local area and for other purposes. 38039 will be referred to the CDHS committee. Yes. I'm sorry. Yep. That is it. Thank you. Thank you, Council Boon. Thank you, Mr. President. Elms ID number 38033, an ordinance by council members Andrea Elb Boon and Michael Julian Bond to amend the city of Atlanta code of ordinances at chapter 10, article 2, division 2, subdivision 3, section 10-109. Penalties for due cause findings by the license review board and penalties imposed by the mayor such that the mandatory minimum of 5 days suspension shall only be imposed upon the second offense of failure to renew a license on or prior to January 1st within 2 years and for other purposes. ID 38033 will be referred to the public safety legal administration committee. Elms ID number 38040, an ordinance by council member Andrea Elbone to amend the land use element of the 2021 comprehensive development plan, CDP, so as to redesate property located at 745 Bolton Road, parcel ID number 14024100030049 from single family residential SFR land use designation to medium density residential MDR land use designation and for other purposes ID 38040 will be referred to the zoning committee. Elms ID number 38041 an ordinance by council member Andre Elbone to reszone from R4 single family residential to MR3 multifamily residential for property located at 745 Bolton Road. Parcel ID number 1402410000030049 to modify the official zoning map and for other purposes. Homes ID 38041 will be referred to the CDHS. owns ID number 38047, a resolution by council member Andre El Moon to amend the proposed FY2026 budget to transfer funds in the amount of $50,000 to the Atlanta Commission on Women to support its operations, programming, and initiatives and for other purposes. ID 38047 will refer to the Finance Exec Committee. ID number 38046 and orders by council member Andrea Elbo Boon authorizing the conveyance of city-owned real property located at Jamestown Court parcel ID number 0299031047 to the city of College Park for the purpose of supporting the development of the Fulton County Ba Botanical Gardens to authorize the mayor, the chief procurement officer and city attorney to execute all necessary documents to effectuate said conveyance to wave conflicting ordinances and for other purposes. Elms ID 38046 will be referred to the CDHS committee. Helms ID number 38030, an ordinance by Council Member Andre El Boon authorizing the office of the public defender on behalf of the city of Atlanta to accept the grant in the amount of $156,000 $50 over the period of two years from immigrant justice corps for the placement of a fellow to assist the office of the public defender in providing immigration deportation defense and advisor or counsel waving the presid isions of section 2910 of the Atlanta Code of Ordinances requiring prior authorization of grant applications amending the FY2026 budget to reflect grant funds anticipated and appropriated and for other purposes. Elms ID 38030, we refer to the public safety legal administration committee. Elms ID number 38042, a resolution by council member Andrea El Boon authorizing the city of Atlanta authorized donations pursuant to section 6-306 of the city of Atlanta's charter to the following nonprofit charitable organizations. The Winning Edge Leadership Academy, Camp Kinsey, Inc., Dream Above the Influence, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $5000 to each organization and to in an amount not to exceed $1,500 and0 cents $1,500 to support each organization strong commitment to improving the lives, experiences, and opportunities of women and girls in Atlanta to authorize the chief financial officer or his designate to make the donations authorized hereby from the accounts listed herein and for other purposes. Elms ID 38042 will be referred to the CDHS committee. An ordinance by council member Andre El Boon authorizing the chief financial officer to amend the FY25 general fund budget to create a mayor's office of equity, diversity, and inclusion MEDI support trust fund for the purpose of funding initiatives and events as may be authorized. Waving article division 4 of the procurement and real estate code of the city of Atlanta code of ordinances to authorize the mayor or his designate to execute contracts with sponsors to supported events authorizing the mayor or his designate on behalf of dii to accept a donation from the community foundation for greater Atlanta in amount not to exceed $9,670 for the purpose of supporting MODI initiatives and events to amend the FY25 budget by adding to anticipations and appropriations donated funds in an amount not to exceed $9,670 and 0. All funds to be charged to and paid from the fund accounts listed herein authorizing donations and sponsorships funds as may be subsequently approved by council to support future MOE.D. DI initiatives to be deposited into the trust fund account created hereby and for other purposes. That was 38044 will be referred to the CDHS committee. Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Council Bond. [Applause] Thank you, Mr. President. and have M's ID number 37 966 an ordinance by council member Michael Julian Bond to wave provisions of part three code of ordinances land development code part 16 zoning chapter 11 C1 community business district regulations section 16-11.003 003 permitted principal use and structures of the city of Atlanta code of ordinances for the purpose of waving a distance requirement for a service station located at 2836 Lakewood Avenue Southwest and for other purposes. Elms ID 37966 will be referred to the zoning committee. Elm's ID number 38036, an ordinance by council member Michael Julian Bond to provide the second amendment to ordinance 25-1138, which originally authorized the city of Atlanta to donate funds to in an amount not to exceed $12,000 each to East Atlanta Business Association, Little Five Points Business Association, West End Merchants Coalition, Virginia Highlands District Association, and Sweet Auburn Works. uh and which is authorized the mayor and his designate to execute corresponding agreements therew with for terms of 12 months to support and encourage participation in the Atlanta Main Street's program and which was intended pursuant to the ordinance [Music] 25246 to remote remove certain organizations unauthorized to receive donations under chapter section 6-306 and to redirect the donation intended for the Little Five Points Business Association, the Little Five Points Cultural District to redirect the donations intended for East Atlanta Business Association and West End Merchants Coalition to Sweet Auburn. works and for other purposes. Elms ID 38036 would refer to the CDHS committee. Elm's ID number 3806, an ordinance by council member Michael Junian Bond, waving part two, code of ordinances, general ordinances, chapter 2, administration, article 10, procurement and real estate code, division four of the Atlanta, I'm sorry, the Atlanta city code of ordinances to ratify services rendered in connection with an agreement FC8919. 9 annual contract for security guard services with uh Thorp uh Building Services Incorporated. All-in-One Security Services Incorporated, AJV, beginning February 14, 2025 to June 14th, uh, 2025 through execution of the new contract to authorize the mayor or his designate to execute the seventh amendment to the agreement on behalf of the Department of Watershed Management, Public Works, and Transportation to extend the term of the agreement for the period of four months retroactively affected from February 14th to June 14, 2025 to add funds to the agreement in the amount not to exceed 2,319,873. All contracted work will be charged to and paid from the fund department and organizational account there listed therein and for other purposes. Home ID 3806 will be referred to the city utilities committee. Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Council Baktiari. Thank you. Um, Elms ID 38048, an ordinance by council member Liliana Bactiari, council members Winston Ferroi Amos Doer West Morland, Collins, Bond, Over Street, Boone, Hillis, Juan, and Shook to amend the city of Atlanta building code to add a new section for roofing reflectance standards to reduce heat produced by darker roofing materials and for other purposes. ID 38048 will be referred to the city utilities committee. Council Amos Yes, sir. Mr. President M's ID 38010 ordinance by council member Byron the aim of supplementing the and reinstating restating and amended master bond ordinance of the city of Atlanta adopted on March 20th 2019-1896 as previously amended and supplemented providing for the insurance by the city of Atlanta and its of its airport general revenue bonds and the combined aggregate principle amount not to exceed 1 bill3 $300 million in multiple series designated herein as series 2025AB bonds and any additional subseries designated as herein permitted providing funds for the purpose of among other things financing and refinancing and whole or in part the cost of planning engineering design acquisition equiping and constructing of certain improvements to Hartsville Jackson Atlanta international airport providing for a reasonable required debt service reserve providing for the payment of cause of issuance, including bond insurance, if any, providing for the forms of and um of and authorizing execution of said series 2025AB bonds. Providing for the rights of the holders and said series 2025AB bonds. Providing for the rights of the holders of said series 2025AB bonds. Authorizing and approving the report reporation, use and distribution of primarily official statement and final official statements in connection with the offer and sales of said series 2025AB bonds. Granting the chief officer the finance the city finance officer or airport manager authority to deem final the preliminary official statement for purposes of securities and exchange commissioner rule 15C 2-12 and the authority to approve and execute a final official statement authorizing execution of a continuing disclosure agreement a bond purchase agreement certain other agreements in connection with said series 2025AB bonds and providing for incidental related um actions provided an effective date and for other purposes. ID 38010 will be referred to the finance exec committee ID 3809 ordinance by council member Byron D. Amos, an ordinance supplementing and restating the amended master bonds ordinance of the city of Atlanta adopted on March 20th, 2099- dash 189 1896 as previously amended and supplemented to provide for the reestablishment of the 2025 airport short-term note program in connection with the insurance time to time by the city of Atlanta and its a third lean airport general revenue short-term note series 2025. 5 STNA in the aggregate principal amount not to exceed $300 million outstanding any debt third lean airport general revenue short-term note series 2025 STNB and the aggregate principal amount not to exceed $300 million out standing at any time and C um third lean airport general revenue short-term note series 2025 STNC C um the dollar amount to exceed 300 million outstanding at any time and in the combined aggregate principal amount not to exceed $150 million 0 outstanding at any time in support of the airport ATL nets plan incumbent authority and for the purpose of financing in an inrim basis in the whole or in part in the cost of planning engineering designing acquiring contracting equip discerning improvements to Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Hartsville Jackson International Airport to authorize and improve the form of revolving credit agreement to be enter into and certain other agreements in connection with the 2025 airport short-term note program to authorize city of Atlanta general revenue bonds to be issued as takeout bonds if and to the extent required to pay the principle of and to acquire interest on the series 2025 short-term note. at maturity all to the extent deemed to be in the best interest of the city by the finance officer and for other purposes. Elms ID 3809 will be referred to the finance exec committee. Thank you council Amos for your service on both of those long bills. Council Overreet, I believe you have one more paper for us today. Thank you. Elms ID Elm's ID 38051 an ordinance by council member Marcy Collier over street to amend the city of Atlanta code of ordinances at chapter 54 article 1 section 54-1 affordable housing to provide an exemption from the mandatory affordable housing requirements for publicly subsidized multifamily residential properties for student housing and for other purposes. Homes 38051 will be referred to the zoning committee. Thank you. Thank you. Any other papers for referral today? Hearing none, we are now at the point where we can consider again our postpone legislation. Let me just pause for a minute on Council Lewis. Well, first let me just ask councelor one, you had raised a concern. Yes, thank you Mr. President and colleagues. Thank you for the uh pausing on this one. I did confirm with um finance as well as legislative staff who talked to watershed. Uh this paper does have a companion paper that needed the extra funds. Um, we were supposed to have substituted this in committee. Um, but for some reason it did not happen there. So, we're it caught up here and they caught the gap and that's why we're bringing the substitute forward now. So, it in my opinion is uh ready to go. Got it. Uh, move approval. There's actually it's actually still moved. It's still under the consideration for adoption. So, um, any other discussion on the motion to adopt this item? Hearing none, we'll move to vote. Madam clerk, please open the vote on the motion to adopt 25-1078 as substituted. The vote is open. Okay. 13 yay, zero nays. 13 yay zs. The motion to adopt as substituted carries. Um we will now move to general remarks of the body. Councilman Bakiari. Um, thank you. Uh, well, first I just wanted to reemphasize again um the issues of Ariana Smith because I don't of Adriana Smith. I don't think a lot of people know that she's being held in Georgia and was previously held at Emory. And just so you all know, this is a woman that is brain dead that is being forced to that they are attempting to force to carry a child to treat as an incubator. Why this is so scary? It means that corpses have more rights than we do as women. Um, so I want to note that because it is something that is affecting our state and our country and it's terrifying. The second thing on a much happier note is I really want to um congratulate Alex Fenel from my team for graduating from GSU law school. So really proud of her. Just want to give her an applause and that's all for me. Thank you Council Boon. Yes. Thank you Mr. President. I'd like to invite everyone over to celebrate the birthday of President Shipman and Dustin Hillis. We have wonderful cupcakes. Thank you all and happy birthday. Happy birthday. Thank you, Council Member West Morland. Thank you, Mr. President. Um, it is graduation week for Atlanta Public Schools. Wanted to give a special shout out to the 3,74 seniors who will walk across the stage at a string of 13 commencement exercises this week. um and will join seven of us on this day as uh as proud alums of APS. Thank you, Council Member Shook. Uh thank you. A reminder that uh budget hearings will resume at 9:30 right here in these chambers. Thank you, Council Winston. Thank you, Council President. Um I just want to send a very special happy birthday to my daughter, Decker, who will be turning three this Saturday. So, happy birthday, Decker. Daddy loves you. See you soon. Thank you, Council Member Collins. Yes, Matt. Uh, Councilman West Ma took part of my celebrations, but also wanted to celebrate that Jquila Rouse that is in my office as uh my operations director graduated with her masters from Georgia State and criminal justice. And my intern Darien Johnson, graduated yesterday from Morehouse College and will be going to Harvard in August. Um, in addition to getting ready to celebrate the 3,000 plus students um at for APS, this will be my first graduation in 11 years where I am in the audience versus on the stage. So really excited. Council member Street, I'd like to thank uh Council Member Baktiari for inviting me to Kirkwood this weekend. Saturday was so much fun at the Kirkwood uh festival. That was a ball. And we had lots of wings. Uh I didn't get the update on who won, but we also did a grand opening for the the uh the new entrance there at the Bessie Park and um had a ball. So, thank you to Kirkland for being so hospitable. And I want Michael Bond to talk about James Bond. Yep. We got a new Morehouse man in the house. Council Bond. Well, thank you, Council Member Over Street. Thank you, Mr. President. Yes, I want to congratulate my nephew, James Bond, for graduating from Morehouse yesterday. And of course, that name was a name passed down from in my family prior to the creation of the famous character. uh but he is on his way to a new he's going to be a teachers assistant during the summer and uh he'll be moving to Minneapolis to take on a very heady uh corporate job. So be able to take his uncle to lunch. So we're very very very happy about that and congratulations to he and all the uh graduates that uh happened this weekend and those in the future this week on the APS level. Thank you. Just before I get to you, Council Amos, I want to update two referrals. Um, ELMS 38048 uh should be both CUC and CDHS. Council Bakiari's paper. That should be a dual referral. Apologize for that. and council over street's last one that she brought in 38051 actually should be I didn't have it in front of me but it actually should be CDHS not zoning thank you council Amos yes sir just want to um give a shout out to Lorenzo Fanning um Fannon born and raised here in the city of Atlanta actually graduating tonight from the Atlanta Fire Rescue Academy he will be an official city of Atlanta fireman um a couple hours from now and then also I believe tomorrow is um we're doing a APD class um from the training institute as well. So we're delivering fresh faces to public service to the city of Atlanta. Thank you C Amos. Uh I just want to remind everybody not this week, next week, Memorial Day will be celebrated on Monday, May 26. Therefore we will not have committee meetings. The revised committee schedule will be city utilities on the 27th at 10, CDHS on the 27th at 1, public safety on the 27th at 3, and then on Wednesday the 28th, we'll have zoning at 10, transportation at 11:00, and finance exec at 1:30. So, we'll have two days of committee meetings week after next. Any other remarks for the body? Hearing none, I would invite the clerk to call the closing role. Thank you. We have council president Doug Shipman here. Council member Michael Julian Bond post one at large. Council member Matt West Morland post two at large here. Council member Eay Collins post three at large here. Council member Jason H. Winston district 1. Here. Council member Maria Feroki district two. Council member Byron G. Amos district three here. Council member Jason Dosa district four. Present. Council member Lana Bakiari, District 5. Here. Council member Alex Juan, District 6. Council member Howard Shook, District 7. Council member Mirror Norway, District 8. Council member Dustin Hillis, District 9. Council member Andrea Obun, District 10. Council member Marcy Coler, Over Street, District 11. Council member Antonio Lewis, District 12. Without objection, we stand a journ. Thank you, everybody. It's a good one, right?