City Council Meeting 06-16-2026

The City Council meeting of Columbus, Georgia, held on June 16, 2026, included several procurement and budget-related discussions. Key procurement actions included approval of contract extensions and amendments such as the post-accident drug screening contract extension, inmate food management services contract amendment with increased per meal costs, and purchases including salt sand tailgate spreaders, washer extractors for the Muscogee County Prison, and grant writing services. A significant capital improvement project update was provided on the Columbus Uptown Pickle Ball Complex, with a $4 million general fund allocation and $2.66 million in TAD funding authorized, and a design-build contract awarded to Brasfield and Gory. The council discussed potential additional funding to include four courts under the Second Avenue Bridge, estimated at $600,000. Budget adjustments were approved for the Golf Authority and the Tax Commissioner's office, reallocating salary savings to cover operational expenses and increased postage and advertising costs, respectively. The council also approved a $500,000 settlement in a federal court case and a $27,000 settlement related to a personal injury claim. Additionally, a technology overlay district amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance was approved to facilitate future technology-related developments, including data centers, with council members emphasizing that this ordinance is not an approval of any specific project. The meeting included policy discussions on an Uptown curfew ordinance, which was approved with amendments and will sunset on September 30, 2026. Board appointments and vacancies were addressed, and an add-on agenda item approved updating the Muscogee County Hazard Mitigation Plan. No votes were taken during the executive session on litigation and personnel matters.