01-14-08 Joint Committe Meeting - Health and Public Safety Committee & Personnel and Finance Committee

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January 14, 2008 Joint Meeting of the Health and Public Safety and the Personnel and Finance Committees Page 2 student housing. She hopes that they can work collectively together to find a solution. Dr. Varner noted that at the last joint committee meeting held in December, the Manager of the downtown Holiday Inn noted that the regulations as proposed would have a negative impact on the growth of the downtown. Rules and regulations which are unduly burdensome to hotel operations with a good track record will impede the growth of the downtown. He noted that she saw the regulations as proposed as counter-productive. Mr. Leone noted that a proper balance is being sought and that he is open to suggestions. Council President Rouse noted that James Masters comments at the last joint committee meeting highlighted that perhaps the focus of the proposed regulations was wrong. The focus should not be on the hotel/motel operators but rather on the improper behavior. Council Member Oliver Davis inquired whether other cities have passed similar legislation. Mr. Leone noted that he has been using the Department of Justice (DOJ) publication entitled "Disorderly Conduct at Budget Motels". That publication focuses on a city in California. He is unaware of any cities in Indiana which have such regulations. Council Member Dieter noted that with the new South Bend Police Administration there is "vigorous enforcement" of laws currently on the books. He cited past examples of closing down the Bullseye, and perhaps this is a better route to pursue problem budget motel operations. The Council Attorney noted that copies of the (DOJ) publication are on file in the Office of the City Clerk for any new Council Member who wishes to review them. In response to questions from Council Member LaFountain, Mr. Leone stated that he is unaware of any court cases which have reviewed similar regulations. There was no one from the public to speak in favor or in opposition to the Bill. Council Member Dieter made a motion, seconded by Council Member Puzzello, that Bill No. 71-07 be recommended to be continued indefinitely at the request of the petitioner. The motion passed.