07-14-03 Parks, Recreation, Cultural Arts & Entertainment

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Parks, Recreation, Cultural Arts and Entertainment Committee July 14, 2003 Page 2 Rick 011ett noted that this area is currently being researched as to whether there would be a savings generated by changes with regard to FICA. Council Member Coleman noted that the Park Department has more part-time employees than any other department. He then noted that he did not address CDBG funds, Cumulative Capital Development funds or General Fund dollars in this proposed initiative. He stressed the need to pursue leveraging dollars in light of the current market conditions. In response to a question from Council Member Coleman, the City Controller stated that interest rates are holding in the 4.5% to 6% range which are the best rates in forty (40) years. Lease/Purchase options would have higher rates than general obligation bonds. Council Member Coleman noted that Parks have their own bonding authority. He then reviewed an"action time line"of 90 to 120 days. He added that the public process takes 60 days. He further noted that the leadership of the Park Department and Park Board would play an important role. Council Member Aranowski noted that by the last week in August the Council would be in daily budget hearings. Bill Simon, President of the Zoological Society noted that there is an opportunity to bring new visitors and cash flow to various Park operations. Council Member Kuspa inquired about the amount of space needed for giraffe exhibits, noting his concern over the lack of space for expansion. Greg Bogheim stated that the American Zoological &Aquatic Association sets forth standards and guidelines in this area. Council Member Coleman stated that such concerns could be addressed when specific capital needs are discussed. Tish Rogers, Executive Director of the Zoological Society noted that the new Master Plan addresses space concerns and the need for usable space and visitor friendliness. To implement the Master Plan would cost approximately $ 30 million. She noted that visitors are up as well as memberships. Don O'Blenis, a resident on Poppy Road and the Business Agent for the Roofers Union noted that building projects at the University of Notre Dame have basically shut down; and that the only major construction work going on is being generated by the South Bend Community School Corporation. The building trades and the contractors are hungry for business. Council Member Aranowski stated that the City must find out from Rick 011ett, City Controller, what we have in dollars, noting that COIT dollars are tight in light of the building programs for the Police and Fire Departments. He stressed the need to have exact figures before selecting projects which might be feasible. He added that he is aware of contractors being hungry for business and notes that the initiative presents a great list of activities, but the Council and Administration must know what monies will be available. Council Member Coleman noted that these concerns would be addressed in upcoming meetings. Dr. Varner agreed Wlih'Council Member Aranowski's remarks. He noted that much of today is an