04/18/07 Committee Meeting Minutes

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Health and Public Safety Cornrnittee April 18, 2007 Page 6 however they have found that they receive a better return when doing such collection in- house. In some instances court action was pursued. Council Member White then asked for comments from Assistant City Attorney Ann- Carol Nash. Ms, Nash thanked the Council for their efforts in attempting to resolve this long-standing problem. She stated that this is a "wonderful start for the better quality of life". She noted that earlier today she had the opportunity to meet with Council Member Puzzello, Ms. Toppel and the Council Attorney. The proposed amendments in the Bill reflect the good dialogue which took place. Ms. Nash then reviewed portions of the Home Rule state legislation; enhancing public safety and zoning and noted various decisions from the 7th Circuit and the Indiana Court of Appeals. She noted that a decision involving the City of New Have involved land use regulations which were zoning in nature. She suggested that perhaps some of the proposals be set forth in the companion zoning ordinance. She noted that the parking problems raise public safety issues, quality of life issues and enforcement issues. She added that she and Deputy Attorney Jeff Sanford fife many lawsuits in Small Claims Court for violations of Chapter 21 of the City Code. Council Member Puzzello noted that she represents many residents who want the City to move forward in addressing this city-wide parking problem. The Council Attorney noted that she is willing to continue to meet with Ms. Nash, Ms. Toppel and Council Member Puzzello since there mee#ing earlier today did not provide enough time to review all of the proposed regulations., He noted however, fihat the public safety concerns raised may be properly addressed through reasonable regulations which are consistent with the Home Rule authority and related public safety authority provided to the Council by state statute. Council Member Pfeifer suggested that the Council Attorney continue to work with the Assistant City Attorney especially with regard to the ongoing vacant and abandoned house issue and land use issues. She noted that the Mayor has proposed that $500,000 has been proposed to be used to address the vacant and abandaned house issue and that dialogue with Community and Economic Development Director Jeff Gibney needs to take place on non-conforming uses in neighborhoods. In response to questions raised by Council Member Kirsits, Ms. Toppel stated that she feels comfortable with regard to the regulations and busy city streets. Building Commissioner Don 1=ozo added that pouring concrete over front and side lawns is becoming a growing issue in the city, and he showed a picture of such a problem.