10-17-01 Public Works and Property Vacation & Health & Public Safety

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Joint Committee Meeting of the Public Works and Property Vacation Committee and the Health and Public Safety Committee October 17, 2001 Page 2 divergence in the work force in light of women; addresses the image of both departments with regard to their facilities; the wellness of employees and their quality of life; and service based programs. In response to a question from Council Member Kirsits it was noted that the drawing is not complete since it does not depict the area for special fire apparatus however it is accounted for on page 15. Mr. Zimmerman noted that the gross square footage will generate the budget. He then reviewed the program analysis. Council President Pfeifer inquired whether the City and Memorial Hospital work together with regard to the evidence in rape cases. Chief Bennett noted that the chain of custody is protected and that such evidence as well as infectious disease concerns must be developed and more involved. Chief Taylor noted that he sees the fire department as being a training magnet with adequate classrooms as well as offsite training in burn towers, etc. Isabelle Gonzalez noted the ongoing need for such training facilities as a regional level. She also noted the need for training facilities which would enable training for public works employees also with cross-training possibilities. In response to a question from Ms. Gonzalez it was noted that a separate ventilation system is proposed at the shooting range which would meet all OSHA requirements. The six (6) options were then briefly reviewed by Mr. Steve Kromkowski. He noted that Option# 4 is the preferred option and calls for the police department taking over the current site and relocating the fire department. Council Member Kelly inquired where the fire department would be located. He also noted that a training facility and the potential revenue stream that it would create as a regional training center has been discussed for many years by the city. He noted that the City has a fiduciary duty but it should do the right thing so that the facilities will meet the needs of the city for the next 50 years. He hoped that the City would not"nickel and dime this project to death". Mr. Steve Kromkowski stated that 6,800 square feet have been identified for training and that 5-8 acres would be explored for a site. He noted that a burn building and other training would have high noise levels, along with live burns and all such items would be taken into consideration. Police Chief Larry Bennett noted that currently the City pays overtime for officers to travel to the FOP's shooting area as well as rent to use the facility. He sees a savings by having the shooting range as a part of the police facility. The Council Attorney noted that Warren Township Fire Department has expressed an interest in having their firefighters trained in South Bend. Additionally, Michigan City currently sends its firefighters to Illinois at a cost of approximately$ 2,000 per firefighter for training. Dr. Varner asked Mr. Gilot if he utilized"value engineering"on this project. Mr. Gilot noted that his assessment did utilized value engineering without cutting effectiveness.