11-10-03 Public Works & Property Vacation

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Public Works and Property Vacation Committee November 10, 2003 Page 2 Council Member Kirsits noted that he has received several calls about the quality of the equipment and in particular the quality of Channel 3 public access. He also inquired whether the term of the contact was standard. Ms. DeRose noted that the prior contract did not address equipment, and that such concerns should be made known. She added that the typical term of contract is 10-15 years. Dr. Varner noted that the rates appear to be higher,noting that Bloomington and Greenfield receive more channels for less money. He added that there is a perception that we are not getting our monies worth when compared to what other services which other communities are receiving. Dr. Varner also inquired whether the city has conducted a study of programming in other communities and their cost s for such services. The Council Attorney noted that Bloomington simultaneously transmits their Common Council meetings and other city meetings on their public access channels. She also noted concerns over the channel numbers changing without the cable company providing an updated list to its customers. Ms. DeRose stated that a study would be completed by the end of the year. The public hearing would be held on November 17, 2003, the Board of Public Works will then review the responses and at the last Board meeting in December the Board will determine whether to renew the contract. Council Member Kirsits noted that he knows of individuals in the 5th Councilmanic District that decrease payment on the bills based on the amount of down service days they experience. Dr. Varner requested that the comparables be shared with the Council and that the Council be advised as to the exact time and date of the Board of Works meeting in December when they will take action on the franchise agreement renewal. It was then requested by the City Administration that the update on the Studebaker National Museum be heard next. Gary Gilot, Director of Public Works, provided copies of a 14-page handout entitled"Studebaker National Museum" (copy attached) and noted that this information is available on the internet. Mr. Gilot stated that nine(9) proposals were received today and that the RFP process is moving along. There will be a four (4) month process for design. He then called upon Assistant City Attorney Cheryl A. Greene to provide a summary to the Committee on the ongoing negotiations. Ms. Greene stated that the negotiations are in three (3) basic categories namely: site assemble, construction, and operation & management. South Bend Heritage will oversee the house move. The Studebaker Museum and the Center for History will donate land to the Redevelopment Commission. Plans and specs are being prepared with the Studebaker Museum paying for these services. Construction costs are estimated to be $5.5 million, with the Board of Public Works being in charge of the binding process. The construction manager will be South Bend Heritage. Lease agreements and management agreements will be required as well as agreements between the parties for the use of common areas. Ms. Greene noted that there will be numerous contracts which are all very complicated. She noted that the Memorandum of Understanding is not finalized yet, and will not be a binding agreement, but rather will act as a road map.