12-08-08 Health and Public Satety Development Committee

Home Browse Search

HEALTH AND PUBLIC SAFETY PERSONNEL AND FINANCE DECEMBER 8, 2008 The December 8, 2008 joint meeting of the Health and Public Safety and Personnel and Finance Committee of the South Bend Common Council was called to order by Tom LaFountain, Chairperson of the Personnel and Finance Committee Health and Public Safety Committee Members Present: Ann Puzzello, Vice Chairperson, Henry Davis, Donald Brubaker-Citizen Member Personnel and Finance Committee Members Present: Tom LaFountain, Chairperson, David Varner, Vice Chairperson, Oliver Davis, AI "Buddy" Kirsits Others Present: Councilmember Timothy Rouse, Councilmember Henry Davis, Jr. Rita Kopala, Jamie Loo, Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand, Martha Lewis, Mayor Steven Luecke, Catherine Fanello, Assistant Fire Chief Stephen Cox, John Voorde AGENDA: Bill No. 72-08 - Adjustin4 Ambulance/Medical Use Fees This was a joint hearing of both the Health and Public Safety Committee and the Personnel and Finance Committees. Councilmember Tom LaFountain, Chairperson, Personnel and Finance Committee deferred to Council Attorney Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand to provide some background. She said the review of user fees and establishment of a minimum amount to be transferred annually to the EMS fund was a promise made to the firefighters during last summer's wage negotiations. Representing the South Bend Fire Department (SBFD) Assistant Chief Stephen Cox explained there had been no fee increase since 2002. The suggested increases mirrored Medicare reimbursement rates and rates surveyed from other Indiana cities. Tim Rouse expressed concern for the timing of the increases, coming during difficult economic times. Councilmember Oliver Davis suggested and was subsequently assured the rates would be reviewed annually. Councilmember Timothy Rouse again expressed concern for those having difficulty making ends meet. Chief Cox said the Fire Department allowed time payments for the uninsured. Councilmember Varner suggested the $150 non-transport fee be increased to cover costs. Councilmember Rouse again cautioned the burden an increase places on those least able to pay. Councilmember AI "Buddy" Kirsits who arrived at 4:18 disclosed he was a member of the South Bend Fire Department and has on file a conflict of interest form with the Office of the City Clerk, and after discussion with Council Attorney Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand, it was determined that no conflict exists and would be able to vote on this bill. On a motion by Councilmember Kirsits, seconded by Councilmember Puzzello, the bill was sent to the full Council favorably.