06-06-11 Personnel And Finance (2)

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�.,� - � ;�. � � _ � E 'e�, �n-'� PERSONNEL AND FINANCE JUNE 6, 2011 Committee Members Present: Tom LaFountain; Oliver Davis; Karen White; David Varner Other Council Members Present: Derek Dieter; Ann Puzzello; Tim Rouse Others Present: See Attached Sign-In Sheet Agenda: Bill No. 27-11 —Appropriation Major Capital Investments 2011 Personnel & Finance Committee Chairperson Tom LaFountain opened the hearing by introducing Mayor Luecke who described the capital spending Bill 27-11. The Mayor characterized the requested funding as strategic investments. He said the projects outlined were part of South Bend's continuing re-investment program assuring the Council revenue streams were adequate to make the projects affordable. The Mayor then called upon Parks Director, Phil St. Clair who briefly described the three items under his purview. They are: 1.The Conservatory at Potawatomi; 2. Miracle Park; 3.An irrigation water pump at Elbel Golf Course. Miracle Park was described as being a 106 acre park for the physically challenged just south of Blackthorn which, would be leased from the Airport Authority for$1.00 year. Councilmember David Varner asked the eventual projected investment total, to which Phil said approximately$5 million. Councilmember Karen White wondered who made the location decision? Were other sites considered? Who was involved? Is the park part of City Plan? Phif St. Clair cited the favorable lease cost for the site of$1 year. He further cited the positive experience with the small area at Potawatomi built to provide accessible recreation for all. In response to Oliver Davis, Phil said Council input was welcome. Derek Dieter expressed support for Miracle Park citing its potential regional draw and economic benefit. Councilmember Puzzello was also supportive, noting the proposal was thoroughly studied. Karen White expressed concern the dollars available for other recreation centers would be compromised. Phil St. Clair maintained they would not be shortchanged. Regarding the Conservatory Greenhouse, Phil St. Clair said the$1.2 million would be used to demolish the 90 year old glass greenhouse while upgrading the Conservatory to make it more energy efficient and ADA compliant. Councilmember Rouse asked if the greenhouse area was being considered as a location for the proposed new River Park Firehouse. Phil said it could. Phi!also addressed the Elbel pump request saying it was necessary due to the failure of the 1964 pump it would replace. The Mayor added that the Miracle Park proposal was much broader than the$1 million start-up request.