09-11-03 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Personnel and Finance Committee September 11, 2003 Page 4 In response to a question from Dr. Varner it was noted that the department works more closely with the various neighborhood organizations and also are participating in the monthly meetings on property owners/tenants which Council Member Pfeifer hosts. 2004 Junk Vehicles 2003 Expenditures $65,942 General Fund # 101-1204 2004 Expenditures $68,726 Catherine Brucker noted that there have been miscellaneous changes in the fund. She further stressed that all of the personnel have been cross-trained. 2004 Animal Control 2003 Expenditures $361,853 General Fund # 101-1207 2004 Expenditures $432,073 Catherine Brucker noted that the most significant changes are occurring in Animal Control and then reviewed the replacement page which summarizes the major changes. She noted that since 1996, 934 new homes have been built in the City; and several new areas have been annexed into the city limits with a potential for 805 new single family homes. Animal Control is thus a city service which is directly affected by residential annexation. They have conservatively estimated that 1,401 new animals have come into the City in light of such annexations. Thus an additional Animal Control Officer is proposed ($41,021 salary &benefits), with the costs for this position being partially paid by the reduction of two(2) Summer weed positions. Currently they partner with County Police, the Prosecutors Office and the Humane Society on a task force, with a smaller task force in effect just for the City of South Bend. It is proposed that the Senior Animal Control Officer would concentrate on more educational programs and would help coordinate the"Pit Bull Task Force"within the city. Council Member Aranowski thanked Ms. Brucker and Mr. Libbey for all of their efforts. Council Member Kelly thanked the department for assisting him in located the family pet within a 48-hour period,despite the fact that the dog's tags were in his house. Council President White inquired about the Summer in the City Festival and the implementation of the "no pets" ordinance. Ms. Brucker stated that they had no problems and anticipate giving improved notice next year of these regulations. Council Member Kuspa told Ms. Brucker that she is going a good job in a"tough job". Under miscellaneous business, the Committee was updated on the health condition of Deputy City Attorney Thomas Bodnar. Prompt action by employees on the 14th floor and the County Health Department took immediate action until the paramedics arrived. A problem with the size of the gurney utilized by the paramedics was most evident when trying to transport him on the elevator. He is undergoing open heart surgery. Dr. Varner suggested that the size of the gurney be check first before looking at the size of the elevator.