09-06-01 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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Personnel and Finance Committee September 6, 2001 Page 4 Council Member White inquired about the goals which the Human Rights Commission has for the upcoming year. Mr. Douglas stated that he is focusing on obtaining funding for increased training. He also will be stressing increased education through more brochures to enable more public education on many topics. In response to a question from Council President Pfeifer, Mr. Douglas noted that last month there were 3-4 cases in the housing areas where his department works with Code Enforcement that dealt with undocumented workers. Mr. Douglas stated that his department will be publishing their 1st newsletter this Fall which they hope will begin on a quarter basis and then increase to a monthly basis. The Council Attorney suggested considering partnering with the St. Joseph Bar Association since all attorneys need to earn a minimum of six(6) continuing legal education credits each year. Council President Pfeifer suggested the Mr. Douglas participate in the IUSB "Conversations on Race" which will be held later this Fall. It was noted that Congressman John Lewis will be at IUSB on November 17th. 2002 Common Council Budget (General Fund # 101-0301) 2001 Budget: $ 239,397 Expenditure increase: 4.8 % 2002 Budget: $ 250,787 Total Expenditure increase: $ 11,390 Council President Charlotte Pfeifer provided copies of the "Council President Report" as well as the "Council Attorney Annual Report" (copies attached). Council President Pfeifer then summarized some of the major items addressed. She suggested that perhaps the city's web address should be added to the Council stationery next year. She noted that Council Member White's special sub-committee to the Zoning and Annexation Committee acted in a comprehensive and timely manner. She commended Sandy Parmerlee for her efforts in continuing getting a handle on the various committees and appointments which began the last year that Council Member Coleman was President. She noted that the quarterly luncheons with the State Senators and State Representatives have provided a good forum to discuss issues with them and the Commissioners and Administration. She noted that upcoming tasks include a special redistricting committee which she will appoint to work with the Committee of the Whole;continuing to work on the next two(2) "quality of life" ordinances with the Council Attorney and working with her in getting the draft of the Council brochure to the Council for their input. Council Member White noted that she sees the Status on the African American Males as a continuing challenge. Council President Pfeifer agreed noting that she worked hard to get the process going and had hoped that it would run on its own. She stated that she will be addressing this next year. Council President Pfeifer also stressed for the continuing need to get more citizens involved at all stages of government. She noted that the process is so important. Council President Pfeifer noted for example that the current budget review process is not as productive as it should be and she hopes that this will also be reviewed.