08-16-05 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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She suggested that they work with the police department in order to assist them in getting more persons for color. She also questioned whether there is enough money being budgeted for training and inquired about how many firefighters speak Spanish. Chief Taylor thanked the Council President for her remarks but noted that they too have challenges with regard to diversity on the department. He noted that he has worked with Chief Fautz and will continue to do so. Chief Taylor stated that they hope to do more in-house training in light of the new Central Fire Station and its classrooms; and he continues to work toward a regional training facility. Chief Taylor noted that a voluntary program for Spanish has been ongoing for quite some time and that there are firefighters who know Spanish who work out of Station# 4 and# 6. They also have CD's available for Spanish which are being utilized. Chief Taylor noted that the education incentive program which began this year and was created by the Council is working well. Chief Switalski stated that of the $21,500 budgeted for the program, $19,000 has already been committed. They are trying to spread this benefit to as many firefighters as possible. The partnership with Ivy Tech is working well with paramedic classes and advanced classes now being available there instead of at the hospitals. Chief Switalski noted that in 2007, 8 of the 13 Chiefs will be retiring. Council Member Kelly thanked Chief Taylor and Assistant Chief Switalski for their presentations. He then called for a presentation on the Building Department. Building Department (Fund#600) 2006 Revenue $1,414,240 2006 Increase $ 41,837 3.0% 2006 Expenditures $1,352,231 2006 Increase $ 39,723 3.0% Building Commissioner Don Fozo made the presentation. He noted that Becky Neese, his Fiscal Officer and Office Manager was also available to answer questions. Mr. Fozo noted that his department has followed the suggested budget guidelines for this enterprise fund. In November 2004 the new fee ordinance took effect because of the budget deficit at that time. 4 1/2 positions have not been filled; however they are now interviewing to fill two(2) of the inspector positions. The supply accounts are the same as this year. They rotate their vehicles every four (4) years instead of every three(3)years; and wages have been proposed at a 2% increase. Mr. Fozo noted that building permits are starting to pick up. In response to a question from Council Member Kelly, he noted that the number of permits being issued is good. Red tags are used when necessary in order to get compliance. They work with bonding companies. He noted that the assessor gets a copy of all permits and the Building Department makes sure that all new construction and remodeling is safe. Architects and engineers working with the Building Department are part of the team. Mr. Fozo noted that in his 26 years with the department, the University of Notre Dame utilizes his staff for inspections whereas N South Bend and Ivy Tech do not in light of governing state August 16,2005 Personnel and Finance Committee Meeing Minutes -page 3-