09-09-04 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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eommittEE cfeEfio't of traz n r p /� (� / /j /� . E'LSOrznz an 9inanaz C omtnittz,c of the 'outI BEnc &mown &Linai Mayor Fund# 101-0101 2005 Proposed $770,292 3.3% increase Mayor Luecke stated that his front-line person,Mary Aim Myers,Manager of Secretarial Services, would make the presentation. She noted that there are 7 FT employees in the office which includes three Mayoral Assistants,and also student interns. The proposed salary increases are consistent with the guidelines. An adjustment for dues and memberships is requested since that line-item has not increased for many years,and the membership fees are increasing. In response to a question from Dr. Varner, Tom Skarbek noted that each cost center will also reflect increases to reflect the fact that there will be twenty-seven(27)payrolls in 2005. Director of Communications & Special Projects Mikki Dobski Shidler requested to review her cost center's budget at this time. It was noted that the position of "Director of Community Affairs" is in the Mayor's budget which is the former title she held. The Mayor's budget also includes two (2) Managers'of Special Projects at $33,835 each. They also use interns from Notre Dame who earn credit for their service. They are trying to beef-up their e-list to stakeholders throughout the community. Ms. Dobski Shidler then provided a draft of a proposed new publication to be called "Mid Year Report" (copy attached) which may be called a"Progress Report". She noted that it is currently 24 pages. She is using media briefings instead of formal news conferences. They are also working on a public access tv program, but do not have adequate funding at this time. The are therefore looking at partnering with the Chamber for paid advertising possibilities. Potential political business ventures at the airport could also be used as a marketing tool. 1999 was the last customer service survey and she suggested that this also be a priority in the future. They are considering quarterly reports in the South Bend Tribune, and other ways to be creative and proactive. Dr. Varner noted that the Mid Year Report states that the city has a budget of $460 million. Ms. Dobski Shidler requested any other comments or suggestions about the draft be directed to her. Dr. Varner inquired about all of the Notre Dame flags and lighted shamrocks downtown. Ms. Dobski Shidler stated that they were purchased by Downtown South Bend, Inc. and would remain up during the football season. Costs of the flags and lighted shamrocks were requested. Council President White thanked the Administration for their email updates. Council Member Pfeifer noted how helpful and pleasant the Mayor's office has been this year. Council Member Deiter then called for an update from the City Attorney's Office. Personnel and Finance Committee Meeting of September 9,2004 Page 3