09-02-03 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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z s i I.i Dk/1111 l anti i'iiuuit.e lA,11L lllt Lee JepieiItIe1 L., 4UUY 1Qi'l.L. vnectur of recreation Susan I/Connor noted that they have taken on concessions for their programs, with two of the largest programs being softball and the skateboard park. They have made proposed cuts in travel and subscriptions. in response to questions from Council President White, it was noted that Special Events include the East Race Concerts, the skate park special events, and the softball events. Susan O'Connor noted that the skateboard park has had 3,249 residents and 1,160 non-residents in attendance. Expenditures were $11,043 for a net profit of$7,593.00. She noted that the attendance numbers are not what they had projected and as a result they have made staff cuts. She noted that they have not been full all the time with weather being one factor affecting the overall attendance. 2004 Parks and Recreation Department 2003 Expenditures $179,142 Special Events Nonreverting Fund # 272 2004 Expenditures $167,643 Overall Expenditure Increase,excluding capital - $ 8,501 2003 Revenues $174,250 Expenditure Increase as a%,excluding capital-: 5.3% 2004 Revenues $175,750 Susan O'Connor noted that they are working on marketing and infra-structure proposals. In light of the problems at this year's Summer in the City Festival, they are working on changes including moving the festival location. Council President White inquired about safety issues involving the Summer in the City Festival. Ms. O'Connor noted that there will be a cost for added security which is currently paid for in the South Bend Police Department budget. Ms. O'Connor noted that Mayor Luecke would be presenting proposed changes on the Summer in the City Festival to the Council at a later date. Dr. Varner inquired about projections for "Donations (Sponsorships)" which was budgeted in 2003 at $64,000; projected to be $35,019; and the 2004 proposed budget is at $65,000. Ms. O'Connor noted that they have taken "a major hit" in this area and that they have to rebuild trust back into the community. Dr. Varner stated that the projected $65,000 for 2004 in donations and sponsorships will be hard to explain, and suggested that the City Administration reconsider this amount. Phil St. Clair noted that the Park Administration has a net $2,694,609 Dr. Varner inquired about the East Race User fees. Susan O'Connor stated that they have cut hours of operation at the Fast Race by eliminating all week day hours and being open to the public only on weekends. Tennis revenues are also down. Council President White inquired about the greenhouse. Mr. St. Clair stated that they have real problems at this facility. He stated that the South Bend Community School Corporation has stopped taking field trips to the greenhouse and have stopped field trips to the zoo. Mr. Noted that the greenhouse is in need of major renovations. Council President White inquired about a progress report on improvements on Greenlawn Avenue. She noted in particular the portion between Potawatomi Zoo and Adams High School, and asked when it would be completed. She stated that she recalls that it was to be completed by this Fall and that representations with regard to lighting, walking paths, etc., were made to the residents.