08-24-10 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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ti damaged homes. Catherine explained the 24 hour legal requirement for owner notification and again for compliance. Councilmember White asked if the department had adequate resources to accomplish their task given that quality of life issues were a top priority for Council. Catherine said, yes, while stating her department is always looking for more efficient, effective applications. Toppel spoke to the opening of the new Animal Control Shelter in 2011. White cost estimates were $200,000 below bid cost the City was committed to open on schedule. Catherine also cited the use of wireless laptops for the inspectors as a major objective for 2011. As envisioned these would allow faster, more accurate, reporting of violations and subsequent enforcement. A side benefit would be a readily accessible data base to better plan and evaluate everything from vacant lot mowing to securing and either repairing or demolishing housing to better maintain and improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods. Moving to Parks & Recreation budgets, Chairperson LaFountain called upon Park Director Phil St. Clair to make the presentation. Using the same format of a handout (attached) and accompanying PowerPoint, Phil let the Committee through a long list of 2010 accomplishments as well as 2011 goals and objectives. For accomplishments Phil cited the creation of a 5010 Parks Foundation which would go hand in hand with forming a new strategic business plan that might tap into the Parks bonding capacity for major infrastructure like building a needed baseball facility. As a caution, Phil said any project or activity has to be evaluated for its fiscal sustainability. Councilmember Dieter asked whether the Park Police force had adequate manpower and resources. Phil said that the Park Police Force could be expanded from 3 to 5 or 6 to adequately cover park property. Derek also asked about the golf courses, giving credit to the grounds crews for their good condition. Phil said golf was a "tough business" in this economy; but hoped for a turnaround. Councilmember White asked about the skateboard park. Phil said use was down; but steady hope for improvement. Phil fielded several operations questions before Derek entered a list of questions for Phil into the record from Councilmember Henry Davis who was unable to be present at the hearing. The memo is attached and awaits response. There being no further discussions, Chairperson LaFountain adjourned the meeting at 6:24 p.m. ThoT!rnaFountain, Chairperson Personnel & Finance Committee