04-09-01 Public Works & Property Vacation

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Public Works and Property Vacation Committee April 9, 2001 Page 2 Mr. Gilot stated that currently Mr. Phair has six (6) ways in and six (6) ways out of his property and with the proposed vacation four(4) of those alternatives would be terminated. He also noted that there is a concern with regard to trash pick-up for Mr. Harris. He requested to see the site plan and the architectural plans. Mr. Gilot stated that clarification from the Board of Public Works on the proposal would be sent to the Council by their April 23rd meeting. Following discussion, Mr. Hosinski requested that Bill No. 9-01 be continued to the meeting of April 23rd. Council Member King then made a motion which was properly seconded that Bill No. 9-01 be continued until April 23rd. The motion passed. Council Member Varner then began the discussion on project labor agreements. He noted that on January 22, 2001 the Board of Public Works approved language on utilizing a project labor agreement, which is believed to be used by the city for the first time. Dr. Varner stated that it is his understanding that contractors who are not members of the St. Joseph County Building Trades are effectively prohibited from bidding on the project. Mr. Gilot apologized to the Council, noting that the Mayor had made a similar apology earlier to each of the Council Members in not informing the Council about the project labor agreement being utilized for the Public Works Public Service Center project. Mr. Gilot stated that PLA's are important tools when time lines are tight and that they minimize labor disputes. He noted that prevailing wages are always paid and that non-union contractors could bid so long as they agree to all of the terms of the PLA for that specific project. The Union Hall will focus on all compliance issues. Council Member White inquired whether the city had any prior experience in using project labor agreements and was advised that they did not by Mr. Gilot. Council Member Aranowski noted that he believes that they have been used in the City of Indianapolis. Dr. Varner noted that he brought this topic up so that there would be open discussion on whether there were other ways to do business and whether PLA's are in the best interests of the community. He noted that the more people that bid usually results in the best bid, since prevailing wages have to be paid regardless of whether a PLA is used or not. Mr. Gilot stated that liquidated damages are used to enforce timeliness also. Mr. Gilot noted that the project labor agreement being used is considered a"pilot program" and will be evaluated. He also added that the bids have not been opened yet. Dr. Varner noted that it is his understanding that the problems which took place at the North Pumping Station were very complex and it was difficult for contractors to comply. Dr. Varner stress the need to get the best bet. He added that he has asked the Council Attorney to provided background information on project labor agreements and that her memorandum will be available as soon as the copier in the Clerk's Office is up and running.