09-13-04 Council Meeting Minutes

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REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 13,2004 Councilmember White advised that she believes that during the ongoing budget hearing process that the Council needs to look into the College Football Hall of Fame Fund. The Council needs to address the City's contribution toward the Hall. Councilmember White stated that from her perspective she would like to have a clear understanding of what the legal obligations are, so that the Council would be in proper state that they need to be in. Likewise, she stated that does not like getting information at the last minute and being asked to vote upon an amendment tonight. Councilmember White stated that she respects Dr. Varner's concerns and that he has been consistent and has valid concerns that we as a Council must address. Councilmember White stated that she would not support Councilmember Varner's amendment. Councilmember Kuspa stated that everyone agrees that the College Football Hall of Fame is a beautiful place. However, each time we go through the budget process the College Football Hall of Fame is assessing the City of South to support this non-local organization. Councilmember Kuspa questioned when the City of South Bend would be getting revenue back from the hall. Councilmember Kuspa stated that enough is enough and that the hall should seek other revenue outside the City. Councilmember Kuspa advised that he does not have anything personal against the hall, but cannot see spending money and keep burdening the citizens of the City of South Bend. Councilmember Dieter advised that the Hotel/Motel Tax monies that go to the College Football Hall of Fame could not be used for streets or other projects in the City; however, they could be used for Palais Royale, Century Center and the Coveleski Stadium. The College Football Hall of Fame started with good intentions, unfortunately, it has not worked out. It's not fault of the administration or Bernie Kish and his staff. They have tried to make every attempt to make the College Football Hall of Fame work. Now is the time to make the National Football Foundation step up to the plate and assist the City of South Bend to make the hall work. Councilmember Dieter stated that he believes that the City legal obligations are being met, and he will support Councilmember Varner's amendment. Councilmember Coleman stated that there are future budget meetings scheduled regarding the College Football Hall of Fame Fund#377. He stated that to take action tonight would be premature, in light of the fact that there are still questions that Councilmembers would like to have answered. Councilmember Coleman stated that the Council would not be prevented from taking any action even at our next meeting since this bill is going to be continued in the Council portion at the next meeting September 27, 2004. Councilmember Coleman stated that he would not support Councilmember Varner's amendment. Councilmember Varner called for a roll call vote. The amendment passed by a roll call vote of 5 to 4. Those in favor (Councilmembers Dieter, Puzzello, Varner, Kuspa, Kirsits.)Those opposed(Councilmembers Pfeifer, Kelly, Coleman, White.) BILL NO. 49-04 PUBLIC HEARING ON A BILL OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, TO AMEND VARIOUS ARTICLES OF CHAPTER 6, BUILDING, OF THE SOUTH BEND MUNICIPAL CODE ADDRESSING BUILDING CODES AND PERMIT FEES Councilmember Varner, Chairperson, Public Works and Property Vacation, reported that this committee met this afternoon on this bill and sends it to the full council with a favorable recommendation. Don Fozo, Building Commissioner, St. Joseph County/City of South Bend, 125 S. Lafayette Boulevard, South Bend, Indiana made the presentation for this bill. Mr. Fozo advised that this ordinance would allow the update of building codes and fees. 13