02/04/1980 Board of Public Works Minutes

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OR REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 4, 1980 letter that he was presently employed at Mishawaka Plating Company, but has found it necessary to seek a second job in order to support his family. She indicated that it was her impression that he has performed his job in a responsible and satisfactory manner. Mr. Stratton's extensive prior record was referred to by Ms. Mann, but she pointed out that the majority of the traffic offenses occurred prior to 1971. It was noted that Ms. Mann had been present at the start of the Board meeting but had been called back to her office. Deputy City Attorney Terry Crone indicated that the Board did not want to embarrass Mr. Stratton but felt it was necessary to question him concerning the several convictions listed on his application form. He stated that the most recent conviction was conspiracy for theft. He asked about the conviction, and Mr. Stratton indicated that he had purchased three television sets and re -sold them and had been under the impression that they were from a bankruptcy sale. He had been found guilty but had pleaded to the lesser charge. Mr. Crone asked about the reckless driving charge. Mr. Stratton indicated that he had not been operating the vehicle. Mr. Crone asked about any other traffic - related charges or offenses, and Mr. Stratton indicated that, in 1955, he had been convicted of involuntary manslaughter and had pleaded guilty to negligent homicide. The incident involved an automobile accident, and Mr. Stratton indicated that he had not been drinking but had gone through an amber light and hit a vehicle which was turning at that intersection. Mr. Crone asked about the armed robbery charge, and Mr. Stratton indicated that he had robbed a service station in Elkhart. He stated that he had not used a gun. Mr. Crone asked about the three counts of burglary, and Mr. Stratton indicated that he had been found guilty of all three counts. He admitted burglarizing three business establishments. Mr. Crone referred to the firearms violation, and Mr. Stratton explained that he had been operating a service station in Indianapolis and had been carrying a gun. He stated that he had not used it, but was hitchhiking one evening and was stopped by policemen and the gun was discovered. Mr. Crone asked if there were any other charges or convictions, and Mr. Stratton indicated that there were not. Mr. Hill indicated that the letter from Ms. Mann was very supportive of Mr. Stratton, and it appeared that he was performing well in his present employment. He stated that there were a number of serious offenses which involved the use of automobiles. He indicated that, although there was a period of time without additional offenses, the most recent offense occured in 1979, and he felt he would be somewhat reluctant to approve the taxi license in view of that. He stated that, although his probation officer felt Mr. Stratton would avoid future problems, he was hesitant to approve the license at this time. He asked Mr. Stratton to consider re- applying after some additional time had passed in light of his recent conviction. He felt he would like to see Mr. Stratton complete his period of probation, and he felt the Board should not grant the license at this time in view of that. Mr. Crone asked if Mr. Stratton had any comments to make on his behalf, and Mr. Stratton indicated that he did not. Upon a motion made by Mr. Hill, seconded by Mr. McMahon and carried, the application was denied. 1