Public Meetings - Pooler, Georgia

The Pooler City Council met on November 2, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at 100 US Highway 80 SW, Pooler, GA. The meeting covered the consent agenda, two public hearings on conditional use requests, and a major discussion on a proposed PUD amendment for a large mixed-use development known as 'The District'. The council approved a site plan, denied a conditional use for a container storage yard, and voted down the rezoning request for 'The District' after extensive public testimony and council deliberation. Consent Calendar - Approved City Council Workshop Minutes and City Council Meeting Minutes from October 19, 2026. Planning & Zoning Item A: Site Plan Approval (840 Towne Center Boulevard) - Staff presented a proposal for a 22,602 square foot multi-tenant commercial building with 9,937 square feet of ground-floor retail and approximately 11,000 square feet of second-floor office space within the Godley Station PUD. Staff and the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval. - No speakers from the public or questions from council. - Motion to approve passed unanimously. Planning & Zoning Item B: Withdrawn (1114 Forest Drive) - This item, a conditional use request for a home occupation for a mobile food truck business, was withdrawn by the applicant prior to discussion, despite being scheduled for a public hearing on the agenda. Planning & Zoning Item C: Conditional Use Request Denial (1485 Pine Barren Road) - Staff Presentation: The request was for a container storage yard, including container stacking, as an accessory use to the existing DST trailer yard in the I-1 zoning district. A similar request was denied in December 2023. Staff recommended approval with three conditions: maintaining the container storage and stacking area at less than 50% of the area previously approved for the trailer yard, restricting operating hours to 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and requiring a site and landscaping plan for screening. - Public Hearing: - Amy Gillum (3 Redfield Drive) opposed the request, citing increased traffic and safety risks on Pine Barren Road and questioning traffic enforcement. - Michael Bartouche (323 Casey Drive) expressed opposition, questioning enforcement of the operating hours and highlighting frequent truck traffic violations on Pine Barren Road, as well as potential hazardous material risks from stacked containers. - Pat Lynch (135 Pine View Crossing) objected to the impact of additional trucks on a road not designated for through trucks and noted the road was already deteriorating due to violations. - The petitioner, Carson Mellinger, stated the containers would be empty and no hazardous materials would be stored. The mayor added that the police department actively patrols the road, but enforcement is challenging due to trucking navigation apps directing trucks there. - Council Action: Motion to deny. Passed unanimously. Planning & Zoning Item D: PUD Amendment for 'The District' (Jabot PUD Amendment 20) - Staff Presentation: The request was to rezone three parcels (totaling 117 acres) from the Jabot PUD to C-2 (Heavy Commercial) with a Planned District Overlay. The proposed 'District' development included 1,060 multifamily residential units, 440 hotel rooms, a 100,000 square foot grocery store, gas stations, restaurants, offices, and an amphitheater. The Jabot PUD currently has only 88 unused multifamily unit allocations remaining. Staff and the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended denial, primarily due to the significant traffic congestion the development would create on Pine Barren Road, Pooler Parkway, Galloway Drive, and Memorial Drive. - Petitioner Presentation: Liz Gillespie and traffic engineer Amr Alampati presented the project. They stated the city's traffic consultants (Kimley Horn) had accepted their traffic impact study, and they committed to implementing its recommended improvements, including signalization and turn lanes. They acknowledged the Pooler Parkway widening is a system improvement and committed to coordinating with the city. - Public Comment (Limited to 3 minutes each as the public hearing was held on September 21, 2026): - Amy Gillum (3 Redfield Drive) spoke against the project, citing 38.43 acres of wetlands on the site and previous flooding in the area. She read a prepared statement criticizing the council for perceived disrespect of public time, lack of communication with residents on safety issues, and fiscal irresponsibility regarding redundant studies. - Pat Lynch (135 Pine View Crossing) urged the council to deny the request, arguing the location was wrong and that the city has already reached a tipping point for traffic and development without sufficient answers from the applicant. - David Brown (102 Wayview Gardens) expressed support for the project, stating he was proud of the city and hopeful the project would be approved. - Joshua Soviy (210 Silverbrook Circle) expressed opposition, raising concerns about gridlock and the developer's reliance on state road expansion projects (Pooler Parkway, I-16) facing long delays. He reported a hostile interaction with a developer representative after the previous meeting. - Stephen Aspel (Richmond Hill, representing GeoVista Federal Credit Union) asked for approval to facilitate their branch relocation from Godley Station to Pooler Parkway. - Kristen Wilson (137 Pine View Crossing) opposed the project, stressing that area schools are already overcrowded and cannot accommodate the additional students generated by 1,060 residential units. - An un-named resident questioned the developer's financial track record (citing bankruptcies and failed projects) and asserted that community amenities like the amphitheater would rely on taxpayer funding. - Carson Strickland (122 Jumpson Way) spoke in favor, calling the project an asset to Pooler. - Lee Yochum (2405 Points Set Way) spoke in favor, comparing the project to similar successful developments in other cities and arguing that concerns should not be a reason to block progress. - Michael Bartouche (323 Casey Drive) spoke against the project, criticizing the density of apartments, the lack of funding secured for parking structures and the amphitheater, and the absence of the Pooler Parkway expansion from the state's 15-year plan. - Curtis Faircloth (former Pooler resident) spoke in favor, stating the project would raise the tax base, bring jobs, and create opportunities for small businesses. - Council Discussion: - Mayor Pro Tem Henry questioned the petitioner on funding for parking garages (no funding secured, concept plan available) and the amphitheater (a placeholder requiring future feasibility and funding). - The Mayor consulted the City Attorney regarding enforceable conditions. The attorney advised that tying residential phasing to commercial development is not enforceable under the current city code, but a condition requiring compliance with the accepted traffic study is legally viable. - Key Outcomes: - Motion 1 (Henry/Bashler): Approve the PUD amendment with a condition requiring compliance with the Kimley Horn Traffic Impact Study memo dated October 28, 2026. - Vote: 2 Ayes (Bashler, Henry), 4 Nays (Carpenter, Wilcher, Vallum, Hutcherson). Motion Failed. - Motion 2 (Wilcher/Vallum): Deny the PUD amendment and rezoning request. - Vote: 4 Ayes (Wilcher, Vallum, Hutcherson, Carpenter), 2 Nays (Bashler, Henry). Motion Passed. Adjournment - The meeting was adjourned following a unanimous vote.

The City Council of Pooler, Georgia, held its regular meeting on October 19, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. The meeting included a proclamation for Retired Educators Day, approval of a consent agenda with routine items, second readings of ordinances on impact fees and special events, updates to the fee schedule, and several infrastructure and safety project awards. All votes were unanimous except for the special events ordinance (4-1). Proclamation & Announcements - Retired Educators Day Proclamation: Mayor Karen L. Williams proclaimed November 1, 2026, as Retired Educators Day in Pooler. Representatives from the Chatham Retired Educators Association accepted the proclamation and expressed gratitude for the city's recognition. - Early Voting Reminder: The mayor noted that early voting is ongoing at City Hall through October 30, 2026, and is open to all Chatham County residents regardless of precinct. Record numbers were reported in the first week. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (with a correction on item H—fee waiver not requested): - A & B: City Council meeting minutes and executive session minutes of October 5, 2026. - C–F: Release of various performance and maintenance bonds (Chick-fil-A, Harmony Phase 7, Whitaker Park Towns A-2, Cross Creek Phase 3A). - G: Special event permit (no alcohol) for Trunk or Treat at Pooler Karate on October 24, 2026, with a fee waiver request. A representative of Pooler Karate described the free community event, now in its sixth year. - H: Special event permit (no alcohol) for the Hobby Classic Card Show on November 21, 2026. - I: Special event permit (temporary alcohol) for Livingood's Grand Opening on October 22, 2026. - J: Special event permit (no alcohol) for Tanger Ice Skating Rink, November 16, 2026–January 3, 2027. A Tanger representative noted the extended dates and theme nights. - K: Special event permit (temporary alcohol) for the Wild Game Dinner on December 12, 2026, with a fee waiver request. A representative of Special Kicks described this as their biggest annual fundraiser for special needs families. - L: Department reports (Public Works, Finance, Fire-Rescue, Police, Recreation, Planning & Development). Ordinances & Resolutions Ordinance O2026-03.C – Impact Fees (Second Reading) - Overview: City Manager Lloyd presented the ordinance as the culmination of a year-and-a-half effort. He highlighted that the city missed an estimated $24–50 million in revenue by not implementing impact fees after a 2008 study. The fee schedule, developed by consultant Tischler Bice under the Georgia Development Impact Fee Act, sets maximum allowable fees for residential (by square footage) and non-residential (per 1,000 sq. ft.) developments. Fees fund parks, police, fire, and streets. Residential fees range from $2,173 (1,000 sq. ft. home) to approximately $11,276 (5,500+ sq. ft. home). Non-residential fees average $8,800 per 1,000 sq. ft. Commercial and industrial developments are exempt from parks fees per state law. Annual revenue is projected at $3,930,685 based on current development. - Council Discussion: Mayor Pro Tem Henry asked for clarification on why commercial/industrial are not charged for parks; Mr. Lloyd confirmed state law prohibits it. Councilmember noted that such developments typically do not use local parks. - Vote: Approved unanimously (all in favor). Ordinance O2026-08.A – Special Events (Second Reading) - Overview: Mr. Lloyd summarized amendments to Chapter 74, Article 4, including administrative approval for permits, a required sanitation plan, and a clear appeal process. - Public Comment: Deborah Powers (215 Silverbrook Circle) asked whether all events would be handled administratively and if residents would have opportunity for input. Mr. Lloyd responded that the administrative process is intended but public comment is always available under the city’s 24-hour comment policy. The city manager noted that large events impacting residents will still be considered for feedback. - Vote: Approved 4–1 (one nay). Resolution R2026-10.A – Amendment to the 2026 Schedule of Fees - Overview: Mr. Lloyd explained the resolution incorporates the newly adopted impact fees and adds fees for racking/roofing permits, fire suppression, alarm, and sprinkler permits. - Vote: Approved unanimously. New Business Rogers Street Parking Lot Lease Agreement for Development Authority - Overview: The city will lease approximately 0.25–0.3 acres of a 7.92-acre city-owned property to the Pooler Development Authority, which will sublease it for overflow parking. The goal is to minimize dangerous pedestrian crossings at the mid-block crossing near Rogers Street Park. The Development Authority manages the lot and assumes liability. A representative of Pooler Karate spoke in support, noting the need for handicap and veteran parking. - Vote: Approved unanimously, subject to city attorney approval. Individual Project Order with Kimley-Horn for Pooler Recreation Complex Traffic Analysis - Overview: Authorization of $43,500 to conduct a traffic analysis at the intersection of Pooler Parkway and Isaac LaRoach/Durham Park Boulevard. The study will evaluate weekday/weekend conditions, including during baseball tournaments and stadium events, and produce a conceptual layout for intersection improvements. - Vote: Approved unanimously. Award Structure Removal and Site Restoration at 1323 East Highway 80 - Overview: The city purchased a 27-acre property with an abandoned home. After inspection, the structure is unsalvageable. Four bids were received; staff recommended FitzHugh and Sons Deconstruction (lowest bidder at $48,526) for demolition and site restoration, including donation of salvageable materials. A public commenter (Deborah Powers) inquired about rehabbing the structure for a history/nature center; Mr. Lloyd confirmed the building is unsafe. - Vote: Approved unanimously, subject to city attorney approval, for an amount not to exceed $48,526. Award Pooler Parkway/Mill Creek/Benton Boulevard/I-95 Ramp Improvements - Overview: A major roadway construction project to add a third lane in both directions from I-95 southbound ramps through Benton Boulevard and Mill Creek. Changes include signalization and an R-cut at Mill Creek to restrict left turns across traffic. Four bids were received; staff recommended Astra Group LLC (lowest bid at $4,312,700). The project has a $2 million commitment from Georgia DOT. Construction is expected to begin in early 2027 with an 18-month schedule, avoiding the 2026 holiday season. Consultant Leon Davenport of Thunderbolt Consultant presented details. - Vote: Approved unanimously, subject to city attorney approval. Award Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Comprehensive Safety Action Plan - Overview: The city received a federal SS4A grant to develop a comprehensive safety action plan. Nine firms submitted proposals; after evaluation, staff recommended Pond and Company at $299,387.31 (with a local match of $60,000). The plan will analyze citywide pedestrian and traffic safety. - Vote: Approved unanimously, subject to city attorney approval. Key Outcomes - Unanimous votes on consent agenda, impact fees, fee schedule, parking lot lease, traffic analysis, structure demolition, Pooler Parkway improvements, and SS4A safety plan. - Special events ordinance passed 4–1 after public comment on resident input. - Next steps: Impact fees will be implemented; design and construction will proceed under approved contracts; the safety plan will be developed by Pond and Company. - No executive session was held; meeting adjourned unanimously.

The Pooler City Council held its regular meeting on October 5, 2026, at 6:01 p.m. at 100 US Highway 80 SW, Pooler, GA. The meeting included the inaugural Pledge of Service for the Pooler Youth Council, approval of a consent agenda, first readings of ordinances on impact fees and special events, adoption of the Comprehensive Plan update, and two planning and zoning items. All votes were unanimous (6-0). The meeting recessed to executive session at 6:57 p.m., reconvened at 7:10 p.m., and adjourned. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes (workshop, meeting, executive session) from September 21, 2026. - Release of Sidewalk Performance Bond ($270,187.50) for Outpost Bay, 0 Jimmy Deloach Parkway. - Release of Maintenance Bond ($167,491.23) and Sidewalk Performance Bond ($145,863.00) for Westbrook Area K-4/Holloway Hill. - Alcoholic Beverage License for Apple Georgia, LLC dba Applebee's (existing license, change of licensee) at 160 Tanger Outlets Boulevard. - Five Special Event Permits: (1) Temporary alcohol service for Panda Fest (Oct 16-18) at Tanger Outlets; (2) Polk's Fall Festival (Oct 17, no alcohol); (3) Trunk or Treat at West Chatham YMCA (Oct 17, no alcohol, fee waiver requested); (4) PBC Trunk or Treat (Oct 28, no alcohol, fee waiver requested); (5) Foodees Fest (Nov 13-15, no alcohol) at Tanger Outlets. - Note: During the meeting, it was noted that the motion approved the consent agenda as printed but two items (I and J) required fee waivers. After discussion, council allowed the motion to stand as approved with no changes. Public Comments & Testimony - Impact Fees (Ordinance O2026-03.C): Grace Porterfield, representing Savannah Area Realtors, urged the council to reconsider the proposed impact fee rates, stating they would be the highest in Chatham County and could increase construction costs and discourage affordable housing. She suggested a phase-in period. Joshua Soave (210 Silverbrook Circle) echoed concerns, noting that residential fees appeared higher than commercial/industrial, potentially discouraging housing development. - Zoning Map Amendment (Baxley Road): Joshua Soave spoke in favor of the rezoning, stating it was positive to return industrial-zoned properties to residential use for homeowners who want to make improvements. Discussion Items - Ordinance O2026-03.C – Impact Fees (First Reading): City Manager Heath Lloyd presented the ordinance, which establishes impact fees under the Georgia Development Impact Fee Act. Fees are structured per square foot for residential (e.g., $2,100 per 1,000 sq ft) and per 1,000 sq ft for non-residential (e.g., $8,800 per 1,000 sq ft for commercial). Funds will be used for parks, police, fire, and streets. The council discussed the long-term need for infrastructure investment. Councilmember Michael Carpenter noted that larger commercial developments like Walmart would pay over $1 million in fees. The motion passed unanimously. - Ordinance O2026-08.A – Special Events (First Reading): This amendment streamlines the special event permitting process by allowing administrative approval and adds an appeal process. No public hearing was held as it is not a zoning action. Passed unanimously. - Resolution R2026-09.B – Comprehensive Plan Update: The resolution adopts the 2026 update to Pooler's Comprehensive Plan, which covers goals for growth, land use, transportation, and more. The update was approved by the DCA on July 31, 2026. Adoption is required by October 31, 2026, to maintain Qualified Local Government status. Passed unanimously. - Conditional Use Request – Wholesale Trade with Storage (78 Columbia Drive Unit D): The applicant seeks to operate a distribution business for cigars, cigarettes, and vape products in the I-1 Light Industrial district. No walk-up sales will occur; only storage and distribution. Staff and Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval. Passed unanimously. - Zoning Map Amendment – 175, 183, and 189 Baxley Road: A rezoning from I-1 (Light Industrial) to R-A-2 (Residential Agriculture) to allow for new single-family homes and alterations to existing homes. The properties were part of a larger 2022 rezoning for a warehouse project that did not proceed. The surrounding area remains residential. Staff and Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval. Petitioner Greg Chafin stated his daughter wants to build a single house on a vacant lot. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All six agenda items passed unanimously (6-0). - The consent agenda was approved including fee waivers for items I and J. - First readings were approved for Impact Fees and Special Events ordinances; second readings will occur at a future meeting. - The Comprehensive Plan update resolution was adopted. - Both planning and zoning items were approved. - The council entered executive session at 6:57 p.m. and reconvened at 7:10 p.m., then adjourned.

The Pooler City Council held its regular meeting on September 21, 2026, at City Hall (100 US Highway 80 SW). Mayor Karen Williams called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. The meeting began with an invocation led by Councilmember Shannon Valim. Present were Mayor Pro Tem Aaron Henry and Councilmembers Wesley Bashlor (via teleconference), Michael Carpenter, Tom Hutcherson, Shannon Valim, and John Wilcher. The meeting included a consent calendar, a proclamation, the adoption of a Capital Improvement Element (CIE), several routine planning and zoning items, and a lengthy public hearing and council debate over a major proposed mixed-use development known as "The District." Proclamation Mayor Williams read and presented a proclamation declaring September 15 through October 15, 2026 as Hispanic Heritage Month, accepted by Alejandro Del Razo of Migrant Equity Southeast. Consent Calendar The council approved the consent agenda (Items A through Q, excluding Item N) unanimously (6-0). Items included approval of minutes, release of maintenance and performance bonds, alcoholic beverage licenses, special event permits, a quarterly vehicle surplus list, and department reports. Item N (Special Event Permit for Crown Rally South) was pulled from the consent agenda and postponed to the October 5, 2026 meeting because the event had not been coordinated with the property owner, Tanger Outlets. Ordinances & Resolutions The council adopted Resolution R2026-09.A to adopt the Capital Improvement Element (CIE) to support the Development Impact Fee Program (6-0). City Manager Heath Lloyd confirmed this is a required step before the impact fee ordinance is presented. A public commenter, Amy Gilliam, questioned whether the fee structure would disproportionately burden new homeowners compared to commercial builders. Planning & Zoning Items (Routine) Several routine zoning items were approved unanimously (6-0): - Item A: Decorative fence at 117 W. Whatley Street. - Item B: Conditional use for a home occupation (cottage bakery) at 123 Como Drive. - Item C: Conditional use for a DUI school at 329 SE US Highway 80. - Item D: Zoning amendment for a martial arts studio at 950 Morgans Corner Road. - Item E: Zoning map amendment for 1515 and 1600 Quacco Road. Withdrawn by the petitioner. - Item F: Annexation and rezoning of 1.241 acres off Pine Barren Road (down-zoning from Chatham County IH to City of Pooler I1). Public Comments & Testimony (Item G: "The District") The public hearing for Item G was the central focus of the evening, drawing dozens of speakers. Applicant Presentation: Representatives from the development team (Lamar Wakefield of Nelson Worldwide and Liz Gillespie) presented the vision for "The District," a 116-acre mixed-use project. They argued that planned, concentrated development with 1,060 residential units (capped at 975 apartments with 85 homes) and commercial amenities is preferable to fragmented parcel-by-parcel growth. They emphasized internal trip capture for traffic mitigation, a planned overlay district for city control, and the replacement of planted pines with 2,000 specimen trees. Residents Expressing Opposition: Dozens of residents urged the council to reject the rezoning or delay the vote, citing significant concerns: - Pat Lynch: Called it the "wrong location," citing traffic congestion on I-16 and Pooler Parkway. - Amy Gilliam: Accused the council of having the highest rezone rate in coastal Georgia, leading to deforestation, flooding, and loss of community character. - Debra Power: Argued the local population base (Chatham County 331,000) does not support the high-end retail and restaurants seen in the developer's Metro Atlanta projects. - Uma Nagaraj: Questioned the developer's track record on past projects (Bailey Johnson School, Statesboro student complex) and criticized the lack of a fixed site plan, calling the vote an "entitlement." - Charlotte Moore (30-year planner): Advised strongly against voting that night due to missing information, including the unreviewed traffic study and the planned overlay text. - Others: Raised concerns about flooding, loss of wetlands, sewer capacity, schools, tree loss, and the lack of guarantees for the proposed vision. Residents Expressing Support: A group of residents spoke in favor of the project or its overall concept: - Pete Chaison: Supported the project, noting the developer has a right to build, and the alternative under existing C-2 zoning could yield a worse outcome, such as traditional strip malls. - Shirlinia Daniel: Appreciated the developer referencing the city's comprehensive plan and argued for strategic, long-term planning. - Beth Moraitakis: Shared a positive experience with The Battery development in Smyrna, GA, stating it increased her property equity and provided a community gathering place. - Carson Stricklin: Urged approval, claiming the Planned Overlay is the right tool to prevent "another Mosaic" and control the outcome. - Others: Argued the project would provide a needed "third space" and attract new dining and entertainment options to Pooler. Discussion Items (Council Deliberation on Item G) Council deliberation revealed a clear division. - Councilmember Michael Carpenter: Was the most vocal in opposition. He questioned the traffic study timing, population base for retail, need for apartments (citing 2,200 unaffordable units already in the city), and lack of plans for parking garages. He concluded the council is being asked to vote on "a thousand apartment units" and nothing more. - Councilmember John Wilcher: Echoed Carpenter's concerns about the unknowns and voted against the item. - Mayor Pro Tem Aaron Henry: Was a key proponent. He visited Avalon and Halcyon, advocating for the walkable, activated spaces the developer proposes. He argued the Planned Overlay is the crucial tool to ensure the city retains control and avoids power centers, but acknowledged the need for the traffic study peer review. - Councilmembers Wesley Bashlor, Tom Hutcherson, and Shannon Valim: Voted in favor of postponing the item to allow the traffic study to be independently reviewed. New Business - City Hall Third Floor Buildout, Phase I: Awarded the contract to Tim Edenfield Construction for $87,462 to create two offices, a conference/training room, and storage rooms. Approved 6-0. - Geographic Information System (GIS) Services: Awarded a field services contract to Cypress River Designs for $282,300, plus a yearly maintenance fee of $16,000, to establish a city-owned, editable GIS system for water and sewer assets. Approved 6-0. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda & Routine Items: Approved as presented. - Resolution R2026-09.A (CIE): Adopted 6-0. - Item G ("The District"): The council voted 4-2 to postpone the vote until the city's traffic consultant, Kimley-Horn, completes its peer review of the applicant's revised traffic study, with the cost of the review to be borne by the city. Voting to postpone: Councilmembers Bashlor, Henry, Hutcherson, and Valim. Voting against: Councilmembers Carpenter and Wilcher. - City Hall Expansion: Phase I contract awarded. - GIS Mapping: Contract awarded. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 9:43 p.m. following an executive session.

The City of Pooler City Council held its regular meeting on August 17, 2026, at 6:01 p.m. at City Hall. The meeting included unanimous approvals of the consent agenda, two resolutions (Planning & Zoning Commission appointments and establishment of a Youth Council), and a contract award for ADA transition plan services. No public comments were made. The meeting adjourned at 6:20 p.m. Consent Calendar - City Council Workshop Minutes of August 3, 2026 – Approved. - City Council Retreat Minutes of August 7, 2026 – Approved. - Release and Acceptance of Bonds for Tract W Townhomes – Release of a performance bond in the amount of $2,238,425.48, acceptance of a maintenance bond of $382,778.00, and a sidewalk performance bond of $81,450.00, subject to City Attorney approval – Approved. - Alcoholic Beverage License Application for Cracker Barrel 192 – Change of licensee for an existing restaurant at 1000 US Highway 80 E – Approved. - Special Event Permit (Temporary Alcohol Service) for Wine and Shine on August 28, 2026 – At Ace of Spades Event Center, Fortune Plaza, 311 US Highway 80 – Approved. - Department Reports (Public Works, Finance, Fire-Rescue, Police, Recreation, Planning & Development) – Received and filed. The consent agenda was moved by Councilmember Tom Hutcherson, seconded by Councilmember John Wilcher, and passed unanimously (6-0). Ordinances & Resolutions Resolution R2026-08.A – Appointment of Commissioners to the Planning & Zoning Commission City Manager Heath Lloyd presented the resolution filling two vacancies. The motion by Mayor Pro Tem Aaron Henry, seconded by Councilmember Tom Hutcherson, passed unanimously (6-0). Resolution R2026-08.B – Establishment of the Pooler Youth Council City Manager Heath Lloyd presented the resolution, noting funding was approved in the FY2026 budget. Councilmember Michael Carpenter introduced Ms. Jennifer O'Neal as the first Volunteer Pooler Youth Council Coordinator and announced he would serve as Chair. The council discussed that the Youth Council will include students in grades 9–12 from Pooler, including homeschooled students, with an initial cohort of 5–8 members. The program runs September through May and includes monthly meetings, community service, leadership development, and an overnight trip to the state capital. The motion by Councilmember Michael Carpenter, seconded by Councilmember Wesley Bashlor, passed unanimously (6-0). New Business (Report Only – No Action) City of Pooler Title VI Plan Update Heath Lloyd reported five key accomplishments: verification of department compliance, continued availability of Title VI notices and complaint forms in English, Spanish, and Korean, posting of language assistance information, availability of ISP language identification cards, and emphasis on stakeholder engagement. Councilmember Wesley Bashlor noted appreciation for the multilingual materials. Chatham County Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan Annual Status Update Heath Lloyd explained that the annual update documents progress on reducing risk to residents and property, maintaining compliance, preserving eligibility for federal/state grants, and meeting National Flood Insurance Program requirements. No action was taken. Key Outcomes - Contract Award for ADA Transition Plan Services – The contract was awarded to Hussey Gay Bell in an amount not to exceed $35,000, subject to City Attorney review and approval. The other bidder, Kimley-Horn, proposed $35,000–$40,000 plus an additional $70,000 to evaluate the previous plan. The motion by Mayor Pro Tem Aaron Henry, seconded by Councilmember John Wilcher, passed unanimously (6-0). - Announcement – City Hall will be closed on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for building maintenance. Normal operations resume Thursday, August 20.

The City of Pooler City Council held its regular meeting on August 3, 2026, at 100 US Highway 80 SW, Pooler, GA. Mayor Karen Williams called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m., and the meeting adjourned at 6:19 p.m. All six councilmembers were present, with Councilmember Michael Carpenter participating via teleconference. The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, a conditional use request for a tank wash facility, and an agreement for municipal court probation services. Announcements & Proclamations - Mayor Pro Tem Aaron Henry invited the public to a service at Wesley Monumental Baptist Church in Savannah on October 3, 2026, commemorating the completion of the sanctuary reconstruction. - Councilmember John Wilcher wished City Manager Heath Lloyd a happy birthday. - Mayor Williams announced that the City had been awarded a Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) grant of $800,000 for the conceptual design of the Pooler Park-to-Park Trail Project, which includes an 80-20 local match and will connect Roger Street Park and Pooler Recreation Park. Consent Calendar - Approved the City Council Workshop Minutes and City Council Meeting Minutes of July 20, 2026. - Approved the release of a maintenance bond in the amount of $512,322.85 and a sidewalk performance bond in the amount of $173,487.60 for Ellis Park Phase 4, Kraft Cove, Charles Lane, and Windrush Pines. - Approved a special event permit application (no alcohol service) for the Home Depot Christmas Tree Sale from November 6, 2026 – December 6, 2026 and December 6, 2026 – January 6, 2027, at 190 Pooler Parkway (one event, two permits). - Motion to approve passed 6-0, moved by Mayor Pro Tem Henry and seconded by Councilmember Wilcher. Public Comments & Testimony - Mayor Williams opened and closed the public hearing for the conditional use request without any public comments. - No public comment was received on the Southeast Corrections agreement. Discussion Items - Conditional Use Request – Total Clean, LLC (6 A.J. Garcia Road): City Manager Heath Lloyd presented the request for remediation and other waste management services to operate a tank wash and maintenance facility in the I-2 Heavy Industrial Zoning District. He detailed mitigation measures: all tank cleaning and maintenance would occur inside the existing 55,813 square foot building; a perimeter trench drain and secondary containment system would prevent release of wash water; collected washwater would be stored in an on-site holding tank and transported to a permitted treatment facility in Garden City (Georgia EPD permit number GAP050134); and the applicant submitted a spill prevention and countermeasure (SPCC) plan. Staff and Planning & Zoning recommended approval. Petitioner's attorney, identified in the minutes as Mark Lieberman and in the transcript as Mark Liverman, stated that a June 10 site walkthrough with Fire Chief Simmons occurred, that the high-pressure low-volume system uses about 30 gallons of water per isotank compared to about 300 gallons for traditional systems, and that only about two tanker trucks of washwater per month would be transferred to the Garden City facility. A councilmember asked about the trench drain, sump, pump, and 12,000-gallon above-ground holding tank; the attorney explained the system and noted that residual chemicals could vary from food-grade products to industrial chemicals. Council discussion noted the significant water savings and dilution factor. The motion to approve passed 6-0, moved by Mayor Pro Tem Henry and seconded by Councilmember Bashlor. - Agreement with Southeast Corrections, LLC: City Manager Lloyd presented the agreement for provision of probation services for the Pooler Municipal Court. The agreement is effective September 1, 2026, with a five-year term ending August 31, 2031, and is executed among the City, Southeast Corrections, and the municipal court judge. Probation services would be provided at no direct cost to the City; the contractor would be compensated through statutorily authorized supervision fees paid by probationers, not through City appropriations or general fund dollars. During discussion, a councilmember noted the agreement is similar to the prior year's, that the fee structure changed, and that paragraph 28 states the City will not be billed or invoiced in any circumstances, and that an annual report is provided. The motion to approve, subject to City Attorney review, passed 6-0, moved by Councilmember Bashlor and seconded by Councilmember Hutcherson. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 6-0. - Conditional use request for Total Clean, LLC approved 6-0. - Agreement with Southeast Corrections, LLC approved 6-0, subject to City Attorney approval. - No executive session was held; the meeting adjourned at 6:19 p.m. on a motion by Councilmember Wilcher, seconded by Councilmember Bashlor, passed 6-0.

The Pooler City Council met on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 100 US Highway 80 SW, Pooler, GA. Mayor Karen Williams presided; all six councilmembers were present. The minutes record a 5:59 p.m. call to order, although the agenda listed a 6:00 p.m. start. Assistant City Manager Matt Saxon gave the invocation and led the pledge, and Mayor Pro Tem Aaron Henry noted the passing of South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham. The council approved the consent agenda, three special event permits, a fee schedule amendment, and two contracts, then adjourned at 6:29 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved the July 6, 2026 City Council meeting minutes, the June 15 and July 6, 2026 executive session minutes, release of a maintenance bond in the amount of $305,080.50 and a sidewalk performance bond in the amount of $83,835.00 for Drayton Park Phase II/North Trail Way, Fern Road, and Freemont Lane, and department reports. - Councilmember Shannon Valim recused herself from Consent Agenda Item D (bond releases). The minutes record the consent motion as passing 5-0-1; the transcript described the voice vote as unanimous. Councilmembers voting yes were Bashlor, Carpenter, Henry, Hutcherson, and Wilcher. Special Events - Elegance Community Fest – Approved the temporary alcohol service permit for August 1, 2026, at 120 Towne Center Drive. Event hours were stated as 3:00–9:00 p.m., with music, food, giveaways, and a back-to-school component. Motion passed 6-0. - Hobby Classic Card Show – Approved the no-alcohol permit for August 22, 2026, at 900 South Rogers Street. Motion passed 6-0. - Big Bash Fall Festival and Car Show – Approved the no-alcohol permit for October 24, 2026, at 200 Tanger Outlets Boulevard. Petitioner William Bannon said the event would run from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with $15 admission, and would feature Dukes of Hazzard cast members. Motion passed 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Rick Ali and Kasim Ali, property owners along Old Louisville Road, said they were not opposed to the sewer line or the related quick trip development, but raised questions and concerns about the water line route, connection costs, easements, wastewater billing, and whether the easement would be sufficient for future road widening. City Manager Heath Lloyd recommended moving the engineering and right-of-way details offline with Assistant City Manager Matt Saxon and the project manager. Ordinances & Resolutions - Resolution R2026-07.A – Amendment to the 2026 Schedule of Fees – City Manager Heath Lloyd presented two new fees: a $50 pre-warrant hearing fee to offset administrative costs of pre-warrant hearings, and a $300 disinterment fee to cover administrative and operational costs for removing human remains from a cemetery burial site at a family’s request. Motion passed 6-0. New Business: Old Louisville Road Water and Sewer Extensions - City Manager Heath Lloyd presented a competitively bid construction contract for water and sewer infrastructure along Old Louisville Road, including approximately 3,264 linear feet of 10-inch sanitary sewer pipe, connection to an existing lift station, and approximately 533 linear feet of 16-inch water main. Three bids were received: Vertical Earth at $1,392,370, Tyson Utilities at $1,416,549.32, and BRW Construction Group LLC at $2,553,015. Engineer Coleman Company reviewed the bids and recommended Tyson Utilities as the most qualified bidder; staff concurred. - After public comment and discussion, council awarded the contract to Tyson Utilities in the amount of $1,416,549.32, subject to City Attorney approval. Motion passed 6-0. New Business: Peachtree Recovery Services Agreement - City Manager Heath Lloyd presented a contingency-based agreement with Peachtree Recovery Services for property damage recovery. The firm would investigate, document, invoice, and pursue reimbursement for damage to city-owned property caused by contractor activities, vehicle crashes, or other incidents, at no direct cost to the city, with an 80/20 split. Councilmember Wesley Bashlor noted a typo on page eight; the city attorney had corrections. Council approved the agreement subject to City Attorney approval. Motion passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda (5-0-1; Valim recused from Item D). - Approved all three special event permits (6-0 each). - Approved Resolution R2026-07.A amending the 2026 Schedule of Fees (6-0). - Awarded the Old Louisville Road Water and Sewer Extensions contract to Tyson Utilities for $1,416,549.32, subject to City Attorney approval (6-0). - Approved the Peachtree Recovery Services agreement, subject to City Attorney approval (6-0). - No executive session was held; the meeting adjourned at 6:29 p.m.

Mayor Karen Williams called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. All council members were present except Shannon Valim (absent for personal reasons). The meeting lasted until 10:07 p.m., with a 10-minute break from 7:25 to 7:35 p.m. and an executive session from 9:58 to 10:05 p.m. Notable actions included approval of most consent and regular items, denial of a tobacco retail conditional use, postponement of a major mixed-use rezoning ("The District"), and adoption of a millage rate rollback. Consent Calendar - Approved 5-0 (Bashlor, Carpenter, Henry, Hutcherson, Wilcher) all consent items except Item C (Executive Session Minutes of June 15, 2026), which was withdrawn and postponed to the July 20, 2026 meeting. - Items included minutes, an alcoholic beverage license change of ownership, and two sidewalk performance bond releases. Public Comments & Testimony - Public hearing on tobacco retail denial (Item VIII.D): No public comments were offered. - Public hearing on retreat condition change (Item VIII.E) and retreat at 1337 S. Rogers (Item VIII.F): No public comments. - Public hearing on "The District" PUD amendment (Item VIII.I): Over a dozen residents spoke, with positions as follows: - Pat Lynch, Joshua Soave, David Brown, Amanda Bradmire, Barbara Sharon, Jeffrey Beauvais, Matt Myles, Carson Stricklin, Laukik Patel, Kim Iler-Morgan, Sari Fioravanti, Theresa Cameron all expressed concerns about traffic, density, environmental impact, and lack of community benefit. Several urged denial or a smaller scale. - Michael Bartusch (323 Casey Drive) opposed the project, arguing it would lead to overdevelopment, congestion, and loss of homeownership opportunities. He suggested condos instead of rentals and questioned the need for more apartments. - Opollo Johnson (Savannah resident) supported the project, citing the need for quality-of-life infrastructure, a gathering space, and preparation for regional growth. - Note on absent member: The minutes list Shannon Valim as absent, while the transcript refers to "Councilwoman Shannon Ballum." This discrepancy is recorded without resolution. Discussion Items - Special Events: Two permits approved unanimously – Savannah Tacos and Treats Festival (temporary alcohol, Sept. 19) and Patriot Day Celebration (no alcohol, Sept. 12). - Site Development Plans: Two hotels (LivSmart 121-room and StudioRes 124-room) at 850 Patel Drive approved 5-0. A one-story multi-tenant commercial building at 200 Suri Avenue approved 5-0. - Conditional Uses (public hearings held on each): - Mobile Italian Ice business at 1114 Forest Drive: Approved 5-0 with condition that all storage be inside garage or behind fence. - Tobacco retail at 329 SE US 80: Denied 5-0 after staff and planning commission recommended denial, finding the use inconsistent with the Main Street Overlay District's family-friendly goals. - Retreat condition change at 1336 S. Rogers Street: Approved 4-1 (Wilcher opposed) with conditions prohibiting hotel/short-term rental and requiring a 20-foot vegetated buffer and berm. - New retreat at 1337 S. Rogers Street: Approved 4-1 (Wilcher opposed) with conditions for vegetated buffer, construction hour restrictions, and prohibition of hotel/short-term rental. - Material testing lab at 195 Nordic Way: Approved 5-0 with condition that lab area not exceed 45,000 sq ft. - Variance for Culver's drive-thru canopy at 121 Tanger Outlets Blvd: Approved 4-1 (Wilcher opposed) to allow expansion within the 60-foot front yard setback. - "The District" PUD Amendment (rezoning three parcels from Jabot PUD C-2 to City C-2 for 1,060 multi-family units and mixed-use): After lengthy public testimony and council debate, council voted 4-1 to postpone final action to a date uncertain, pending further discussion with staff on proper process and the use of a Planned Overlay district. Wilcher voted no. The petitioner's representatives (Lamar Wakefield, Robert Forest, Mary Thermani) presented detailed plans, discussed traffic improvements, stormwater management, and community amenities. Many residents opposed; some supported. The city attorney cautioned against "agreements to agree" on future road improvements. - Unfinished Business: Purchase and Sale Agreement for former alley at West Whatley Street approved 5-0 (price $2,997.90). - New Business: - Program for Public Information Annual Evaluation Report (no action): Reported CRS Class 6 rating, 1,500 flood insurance policies, and committee finding no major revisions needed. - 2026 Millage Rate Adoption: Rollback rate of 4.096 mills (down from 4.197, a 2.4% decrease) adopted 5-0, providing property tax relief. - Executive Session & Additional Item: After executive session (9:58–10:05 p.m.), council added and approved 5-0 a Fire Truck Litigation Contingency Agreement with the Conn Law Firm, subject to city attorney approval. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved except one withdrawn item. - Special events (two) approved. - Site plans (two) approved. - Conditional uses: One denied (tobacco), four approved (Italian ice, two retreats, lab), all with conditions or without opposition except the retreat items (4-1) and tobacco denial (5-0). - Variance for Culver's approved 4-1. - "The District" PUD amendment postponed to a date uncertain (4-1). - Alley sale approved. - Millage rate rolled back to 4.096 (adopted 5-0). - Fire truck litigation contingency approved. - Meeting adjourned at 10:07 p.m.

The City Council of Pooler held its regular meeting on June 15, 2026, starting at 6:02 p.m. and adjourning at 7:04 p.m. after an executive session. All members were present except Councilmember John Wilcher. The council unanimously approved consent items, three special event permits, two ordinances/resolutions, and several new business items, including a roadway overlay contract and a development agreement with Quiktrip. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes: Approved the June 1, 2026 regular and executive session minutes. - Maintenance Bond Release: Released a $309,907.73 maintenance bond for Drayton Park Phase 1. - Department Reports: Accepted the monthly reports from Public Works, Finance, Fire-Rescue, Police, Recreation, and Planning & Development. Special Events - Donate to Dunk Family Fun Day: Approved a special event permit (no alcohol) for June 27, 2026, at 100 Kita Avenue, including a fee waiver for the 501(c)(3) organization. - Holiday Fireworks Sale: Approved a permit (no alcohol) for June 29–July 6, 2026, at 2331 Pooler Parkway, with a fee waiver. - EggRoll Food Truck: Approved a permit (no alcohol) for July 2–5, 2026, at 1565 Pooler Parkway. Public Comments & Testimony - Debra Power (215 Silverbrook Circle) spoke during the discussion of the Comprehensive Plan update. She requested a moratorium on development until the master plan is adopted, urged the council to prioritize citizen health and well-being over commercial growth, and called for the implementation of ordinances on conservation, wetlands, and historical sites. She also submitted a petition with 198 resident signatures supporting these priorities. Discussion Items - Hotel-Motel Excise Tax (Ordinance O2026-05.A) – Second Reading: City Manager Heath Lloyd explained that the ordinance codifies previously approved local legislation allowing a portion of the hotel-motel tax to be used for tourism product development (TPD). Examples include interchange beautification, wayfinding signage, and parks/trails. Councilmember Carpenter asked for examples to inform the public. The ordinance passed unanimously (5-0). - Comprehensive Plan Update (Resolution R2026-06.B): Lloyd presented the resolution to transmit the 2026 draft update to the Coastal Regional Commission and the Department of Community Affairs, as required by state law. Public comment by Debra Power raised concerns. The council voted unanimously (5-0) to authorize the transmittal, with final adoption expected before the October 31, 2026 deadline. - Annual Evaluation Report – Substantial Damage Management Plan (Presentation, No Action): Planning and Development Director Nicole Johnson presented the annual evaluation. No storm events occurred in the past year, so no damage assessments were needed. The plan was reviewed and updated to add a code enforcement officer. Participation in the Community Rating System (CRS) may lead to a five percent discount on flood insurance for residents, pending FEMA funding. - S.H. Morgan Parkway Overlay Project: Lloyd reported that the road was identified as a priority using the city's Road Management Tool (RMT). Three bids were received; the lowest responsible bidder was Crossroads Construction Inc. at $246,734. The project will resurface approximately 16,340 square yards (6,654 linear feet) of roadway. The council awarded the contract (5-0), subject to city attorney approval. - Development Agreement with Quiktrip Corporation: The agreement covers the extension of water and sewer infrastructure to serve a proposed Quiktrip at Highway 80 and Dean Forest Road. The city will extend utilities at an estimated cost of $1.3–$1.5 million, and Quiktrip will contribute $455,976.78 as its proportional share. The council approved the agreement (5-0), subject to city attorney approval. - Purchase and Sale Agreement (West Whatley Street Alley): City Attorney Craig Call requested postponement due to a minor administrative issue. The council voted unanimously (5-0) to postpone the item to the July 6, 2026 meeting. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (5-0). - Special Event Permits: Approved three permits unanimously (5-0 each). - Hotel-Motel Excise Tax Ordinance O2026-05.A: Passed unanimously on second reading (5-0). - Comprehensive Plan Resolution R2026-06.B: Approved unanimously (5-0). - S.H. Morgan Parkway Overlay Contract: Awarded to Crossroads Construction Inc. for $246,734, subject to city attorney approval (5-0). - Quiktrip Development Agreement: Approved, subject to city attorney approval (5-0). - West Whatley Street Alley Purchase: Postponed to July 6, 2026 meeting (5-0). - Executive Session: Entered at 6:38 p.m. and returned at 7:04 p.m., followed by adjournment.