09/20/07 Committee Meeting Minutes

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September 20, 2007 Personnel and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes Page 7 Charr~ber of Commerce: Mayor Luecke introduced Phil DeMicco to the committee. Mr. DeMicco provided cone-page handout entitled "The Business Growth Initiative-a City of South BendlChamber of Commerce Partnership" which he then reviewed (copy attached). Dr. Varner suggested that actual numbers be provided in the future instead of percentages. He stated that this is a good program. Youth Services Bureau,__page 122: Bonnie Strycker, Executive Director of the Youth Services Bureau noted that they are requesting $75,000 which is the same amount that has been budgeted for this year. She noted that they have been providing services since 1972; and went private in 9985. She stated that they have a good mix of federal, state and local monies in addition to private donations. All South Bend fire stations and all TRANSPO busses are now Safe Stations. Last year they had over 450 calls on their crisis line. They work closely with young people and try to assist them in solving problems. They work to "capture their enthusiasm and their momentum". Ms. Strycker noted that a growing area of concern is reflected on the following numbers: • 2006; Four (4) 18-year olds were homeless who they assisted • 2007 to date: Eighteen (18) 98Tyears olds were homeless who they have assisted They are facing many challenges as a result of having a waiting list for the Young Moms Program and with St. Joseph County cutting their funding for next year from $82,500 to $50,000. Their Board of Directors is very, very concerned. Council President Rouse inquired what component parts should be part of the solution. Ms. Strycker stated that they deal wifih: persons who are born into issues many persons who do not value education persons who have lived in a situation where drugs have been present She stated that she believes that there should be a great emphasis on treatment rather than the criminal justice system. There should be a great emphasis on drop-out programs and alternative educational programs.