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Joint Committee Meeting <br /> April 16, 1991 <br /> Page 4 <br /> She also noted that she has proposed a definition for <br /> "handyman" in light of concerns raised at the last Committee <br /> Meeting. <br /> Council Member Duda noted that currently not everyone who <br /> calls themselves a contractor is operating under the same <br /> rules and regulations. She noted that those who are <br /> following current regulations, are at a disadvantage in <br /> light of the extra costs required for insurance and <br /> Workmen's Comp. She noted that this is a consumer protection <br /> Bill. She stated that typically no more than $600.00 is <br /> covered on a homeowners insurance policy for potential <br /> liability for contractors. She stated that the insurance <br /> provisions are protections for the public as well as <br /> protections for the worker. <br /> Mr. Ray Milliken noted that the Home Builders Association <br /> attempted to do this approximately ten years ago. Council <br /> Member Duda noted however that the main difference between <br /> then and now, is that the contractors themselves have <br /> requested the City for these regulations. <br /> Patricia DeClercq, the head of the Department of Code <br /> Enforcement, then noted areas of concern. She stated that <br /> she is concerned about what would be gained by the City if <br /> such an Ordinance would be passed. She voiced concern with <br /> regard to workmanship, and believes that requirements of <br /> insurance and Workmen's Compensation would raise false <br /> expectations on behalf of the public. She stated that the <br /> permit and inspection process is currently working <br /> effectively. She stated that the Bill has good motives <br /> behind it, however she does not believe the City should <br /> become a watchdog. She noted that she had been in contact <br /> with Mr. Norris of Allen County, and that their regulations <br /> with regard to public liability insurance had been struck <br /> down by the Court. She did note however, that the need to <br /> see the decision as the Council Attorney requested is <br /> important. She did not see the proposed Bill as being <br /> burdensome, however the current system for building permits <br /> is perceived as being burdensome. She noted that she is <br /> pleased to see that the fee schedule has been suggested to <br /> be reduced, and stressed that she is not attempting to get <br /> away from doing any work. She then presented a letter from <br /> Mr. Don Fozo, the County Building Commissioner, for review <br /> by the Committee. (copy attached) <br /> Mr. Greg Pal noted that currently the City cannot issue a <br /> stop work order if someone does not have Workmen's <br /> Compensation, in response to a question raised by Council <br />