09-05-12 Personnel & Finance (2)

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Personnel and Finance Committee Meeting September 4, 2012 Page 3 Council Member White stated that several residents voiced their concerns about Kennedy Park at a recent Common Council meeting. It was her understanding that the gate which had been locked by Kennedy School was now unlocked so that the park could be used. Council Member Scott noted that the park equipment can be used, however a "No Trespassing" sign is posted there to deter after hours activities. Under the topic of "Curbs, Sidewalks & Streets ", City Controller Mark Neal noted that years ago when subdivisions were being added to the city many were developed without curbs and sidewalks. There is an ongoing effort to try to address these areas. Residents brought the following concerns to the Committee's attention under this topic: A resident on Bonds Avenue stated that the "bump outs have created a disaster area ". The streets have been narrowed and she believes it is a "disgrace ", which do not comply with the original plans for the area. She noted that this area has no alleys and that many of the individuals who worked on this project were from out of state. Mr. Neal noted that the Council passed a diversity ordinance last year which focuses on creating more opportunities for MBE/WBE businesses. The City is working through the new board created as a result of this ordinance so that there will be more participation in complying with the State of Indiana's procurement laws. Council Member White stated that on October 18th there will be a workshop at the Century Center focusing on diversity to help businesses be aware of the state requirements. A resident stated that she has seen contractors from Elkhart working on Bonds Avenue. She has also witnessed an Ohio contractor dig a hole in her front yard and gave her no information. When she contacted the City, they had no knowledge of it. She believes that actions like this may bring her property down. Council Member White encouraged residents who have concerns like this to contact the Council. Another resident stated that AARP is conducting a "Complete Street Project" where they review the timing of traffic lights to see if persons can cross safety through a crosswalk. She added that she brought to the attention of the City at a recent Mayor's Night Out that a curb cut out near the Double Tree is needed. The resident who was part of the focus group who earlier presented a plan for Kennedy Park to Council Member Ferlic, had a preliminary petition signed by residents on the topic of curbs and sidewalks. She noted that attention should be given to Birdsell and Fassnaucht, and that more police patrols are needed. She noted that the city should highlight the history of its landmarks better, with far too many being ignored. In this area, landmarks have been given no attention for