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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-05-12 Personnel & Finance (2)i ` Personnel and Finance Committee 2012 South Bend Common Council The September 4, 2012 meeting of the Personnel and Finance Committee of the South Bend Common Council was called to order by its Chairperson, Council Member Karen L. White at 5:32 p.m. at the Charles Martin Youth Center located at 802 Lincolnway West, South Bend, Indiana. Persons in .attendance included Council Members Gavin Ferlic, Dr. Varner, Karen L. White, Tim Scott, and Council President Derek D. Dieter; City Controller Mark Neal, Public Works Director Gary Gilot; Gloria Norris, Vera Peele, Dea Andrews, Rhonda Neal, Charlotte Bridges, Teresa Marcy, Penny Hughes, Glenda Rae Hernandez, Bernice Gray, Lynn Collier, Mark Pyclik, Conrad Damian, John Hagen, Jerry Niezgodski, Malcolm Phelan, Marguerite Taylor (see sign -in sheet attached) and Kathleen Cekanski - Farrand, Council Attorney. Council Member White welcomed everyone to the second off -site Personnel and Finance Committee focusing on the 2013 civil city operating budget and the Council's and Administration's priorities. Council Member White noted that the members of her Committee who were present included Vice - Chairperson Dr. David Varner, Gavin Ferlic a member of the Committee and herself who serves as the Chairperson. Council Member White explained that meetings of this sort provide an opportunity to share priorities and visions. She noted that a series of budget workshops were held in the Council Chambers in March, April, May and June which reviewed the various revenue streams, tax incremental financing (TIF) and many other critical financial issues. Council Member White further stated that to date the Personnel and Finance Committee has held four (4) meetings on the proposed 2013 civil city budget where various departments have made their presentations to the Committee. The proposed budgets for the fire and police departments will be heard tomorrow at 4 p.m. in the Council's Informal Meeting Room. Council Member White thanked Gladys Muhammad and Jackie Martin for their assistance in arranging to have use of the Charles Martin Youth Center for this outreach meeting. Council Member White added that a sign -in sheet was being circulated and asked everyone present to sign it. Council Member White then introduced City Controller Mark Neal. Mark Neal, City Controller noted that he and his staff have prepared a brief power -point presentation and encouraged everyone to pick up a copy of the 3 -page handout (copy attached along with the Committee meeting notice dated August 22, 2012). Mr. Neal stated that off -site committee meetings like this provide opportunities to discuss issues and receive feedback. He encouraged interaction. Mr. Neal noted that tonight's discussions will focus on three (3) primary areas: Personnel and Finance Committee Meeting September 4, 2012 Page 2 --+ The Common Council's Priories —� The Mayor's Vision and Strategy —� The Mayor's Priorities The Common Council's Priories: Mr. Neal then highlighted the eight (8) primary priorities identified by the South Bend Common Council namely: • Economic Development [Jobs, living, working & investing in South Bend] • Public Safety [Police, Fire & Neighborhoods] • Parks [Fifty -seven city parks] • Curbs, Sidewalks & Streets • City Corridors • Vacant & Abandoned Housing • Code Enforcement • Quality of life Mr. Neal stated in response to questions from the public that the city invests in parks on a "needs basis" which address small work projects but not large ticket items. It was noted that Council Member Gavin Ferlic is the Chairperson of the Parks Committee. Council Member Ferlic encouraged persons to contact him with regard to their concerns and he passed out several of his business cards. The Park Board meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at O'Brien Center. Council Member Ferlic added that the Park Department has a Master Plan which guides the department on goals and short and long -term investment projects. At this point in the Committee meeting, many residents voiced concerns which are summarized as follows,[ names and addresses were not given when each person spoke]: • A resident presented to Council Member Ferlic a multi -page plan for Kennedy Park, noting that she believed it has been overlooked. The plan was developed by a focus group and lists various upgrades which they believe are needed. She stressed that the area has many neighborhood children, many of which cannot afford to pay the fee at the water park. Some of the park improvements requested included the planting of more trees, more landscaping so that it would not look like a desert. • Another resident stated that improvements at Kennedy Park might help the values of the homes in that area, noting that the park used to be very family- oriented however much of the equipment has been eliminated. Personnel and Finance Committee Meeting September 4, 2012 Page 3 Council Member White stated that several residents voiced their concerns about Kennedy Park at a recent Common Council meeting. It was her understanding that the gate which had been locked by Kennedy School was now unlocked so that the park could be used. Council Member Scott noted that the park equipment can be used, however a "No Trespassing" sign is posted there to deter after hours activities. Under the topic of "Curbs, Sidewalks & Streets ", City Controller Mark Neal noted that years ago when subdivisions were being added to the city many were developed without curbs and sidewalks. There is an ongoing effort to try to address these areas. Residents brought the following concerns to the Committee's attention under this topic: A resident on Bonds Avenue stated that the "bump outs have created a disaster area ". The streets have been narrowed and she believes it is a "disgrace ", which do not comply with the original plans for the area. She noted that this area has no alleys and that many of the individuals who worked on this project were from out of state. Mr. Neal noted that the Council passed a diversity ordinance last year which focuses on creating more opportunities for MBE/WBE businesses. The City is working through the new board created as a result of this ordinance so that there will be more participation in complying with the State of Indiana's procurement laws. Council Member White stated that on October 18th there will be a workshop at the Century Center focusing on diversity to help businesses be aware of the state requirements. A resident stated that she has seen contractors from Elkhart working on Bonds Avenue. She has also witnessed an Ohio contractor dig a hole in her front yard and gave her no information. When she contacted the City, they had no knowledge of it. She believes that actions like this may bring her property down. Council Member White encouraged residents who have concerns like this to contact the Council. Another resident stated that AARP is conducting a "Complete Street Project" where they review the timing of traffic lights to see if persons can cross safety through a crosswalk. She added that she brought to the attention of the City at a recent Mayor's Night Out that a curb cut out near the Double Tree is needed. The resident who was part of the focus group who earlier presented a plan for Kennedy Park to Council Member Ferlic, had a preliminary petition signed by residents on the topic of curbs and sidewalks. She noted that attention should be given to Birdsell and Fassnaucht, and that more police patrols are needed. She noted that the city should highlight the history of its landmarks better, with far too many being ignored. In this area, landmarks have been given no attention for Personnel and Finance Committee Meeting September 4, 2012 Page 4 over thirty (30) years. The petition was given to Dr. Varner, Public Works and Property Vacation Committee Chairperson. Council Member Tim Scott noted that he has been working with Gary Gilot in the Department of Public Works. Many individuals cannot participate or take advantage of the 50150 split of expenses for curbs and sidewalks. Unfortunately, there are many drainage problems which have been created by street paving projects which are flooding sidewalks. Council Member Scott suggested that resident contact the Street Department to address sidewalks which may cause a tripping problem as a result of tree roots or are experiencing severe deterioration. Under the topic of "City Corridors ", Mr. Neal noted that the Council have identified a need to better address the entryways to the City — Lincolnway, Western, Michigan and SR 23. A resident stated that the first impression of entering the City of South Bend from the south on Michigan needs attention. Weeds and other growth surround the welcome to South Bend sign. Similarly, he stated that there should be landscaping by the sign erected by the former location of the St. Joseph High School on Michigan to the north. Cleveland Road has medians filled with "just weeds "; Western Avenue should be a great gateway and businesses should partner with the city. He stated that the "city looks crummy and it is inexcusable ". He added that on Notre Dame football weekends when visitors drive in they see a "City that looks like crap ". He noted that the Angela & Riverside round about is also filled with weeds. He suggested that simple things can and should be done because " looks like we have no civic pride or common sense ". He suggested that programs be developed for students. Mr. Brent Bennett stated he is a business owner in the city and appreciates the comments and the passion of the last speaker. When he drives around South Bend he finds it "insulting ", and suggested that the city be more proactive and have a beautification project. Another resident noted that the Ironwood railroad underpass south of Lincolnway has beautiful flowers. The Garden Society is working with the County Commissioners on that location. She added that TIF monies were used for the Mishawaka railroad underpass which has won awards for its design and "it looks beautiful ". A resident stated that too often the issue is one of ongoing maintenance and "getting people to be proud of where they are ". A resident suggested that an effort should be mounted "to take back Lincolnway West ". Children should get involved with adult volunteers. Gene's Camera Shop on Lincolnway does a great job. Simple things such as planning trees and strategic placement of trash cans should be considered. Personnel and Finance Committee Meeting September 4, 2012 Page 5 Mark Neal stated that the city is challenged with regard to its resources, but that opportunities to look for more partnerships with businesses and neighborhood groups. Council Member White added that many excellent suggestions have been made and the City needs to come back into the community to report on how they have addressed these concerns. She likes competition and the city has to develop viable programs and opportunities which can be sustained. Mark Neal then highlighted the "Mayor's Vision" which provides that "our goal is to ensure South Bend is a strong and connected city for everyone, where: 1: Public safety — safe streets and neighborhoods for everyone 2: Good government — clean water, safe and functional streets, communicate with citizens, fix problems and use resources wisely 3: Economic development — good job opportunities, strong neighborhoods and great quality of life ". Mr. Neal stated that these long term goals are "why the Mayor ran for office" People have the opportunity to live any where and they need opportunities to participate here. He noted that the Mayor is unable to be at today's meeting, but that the Mayor and the Council have shared goals and objectives. Mr. Neal then highlighted the "Mayor's Strategy" (see attached). He noted that an expenditure of $1 million is proposed to tear down about 200 vacant and abandoned homes. Currently the program is funded with $1/2 million. Several residents questioned the feasibility of tearing down so many homes. It was noted that "in the old days, homes were sold for a dollar ". It was suggested that Code Enforcement needs to "be beefed up ". It was noted that South Bend has lost 1/3 of its population. It was noted that Council Member Tim Scott and Penny Hughes, both of whom were present, are members of the Mayor's task force on vacant and abandoned homes. 1,960 structures have been identified some for rehab and others for demolition. Council Member Scott stated that the 0 Councilmanic District has more vacant and abandoned structures than any where else in the City. The task force is looking at both short and long -term goals. They focus on properties up for tax sale where there has been no response. They are attempting to make neighborhoods safer and turn properties into being rehabbed; for pocket parks; etc. Personnel and Finance Committee Meeting September 4, 2012 Page 6 Mr. Neal then reviewed the "Mayor's 2013 Priorities" which include: "vacant & abandoned housing; youth violence; illegal dumping; curbs & sidewalks /infrastructure; 311 Call Center; City Performance Measures — CitiStat ". Mr. Neal added that over 5 million pounds of illegal dumping waste have been collected; that a 311 Call Center where dedicated existing City Resources with "live voices" is being developed along with AT & T; and that performance measures to see what "we are getting for our spending" are being developed. A resident noted that Council Member Henry Davis is working with residents on the Kennedy Park concerns. He suggested that quarterly reports from all departments be filed with the City Council each year to see if they are meeting their priorities. He also suggested that the "spend it of lose it" mentality for city budgets be discontinued. Marguerite Taylor who stated she is a resident on Corby Boulevard stated that she also attended the off -site budget meeting held at the Robinson Center last week. She noted that "no one will give you anything and that we have to do it ourselves ". Partnerships do work and people should go to City Council meetings. She noted that she and many others in her neighborhood `have been pounding the pavement ". It has been an 8 -year process working with the neighborhood associations and developing partnerships for infrastructure improvements. Their problems revolve around illegal student housing, with limited vacant and abandoned homes. Another resident noted that there used to be a rental rehab program where matching funds were given up to $20,000 to encourage landlords to rehab and provide quality rental opportunities. Specific criteria had to be met to qualify for that program. Gary Gilot of the Public Works Department stated that Parks mows the Redevelopment Commission -owned properties; city -owned properties and properties where the structures have been demolished. Mr. Gilot stated that Parks mows when they get an order from Code. Residents can petition the Board of Public Works if they are interested in having a lot transferred for a nominal fee. A resident stated that those crews should be monitored better. That such areas are "hurtful and disrespectful of the residents living nearby, with plenty of bugs and rodents. Code is not doing its job ", noting that there are a lot of good neighbors in these areas. She added that the Kennedy Park Association has a team which is working hard. Bertrand and Fassnacht need attention. Mr. Gilot also noted that an excavation permit is needed for someone to work in the public right - of -way. Council Member White thanked everyone for taking the time to come to this outreach meeting of the Personnel and Finance Committee and for sharing their concerns and ideas. She noted that Personnel and Finance Committee Meeting September 4, 2012 Page 7 the Council will be looking at where Kennedy Park is addressed in the Administration's proposed park budget. She summarized the following items as some of the key items of concerns /frustrations which were raised this evening: • Kennedy Park • Curbs and sidewalks • Economic development — opportunities for minorities and women • Corridors and roundabouts • TIF expenditures • Weeds • Taking pride in our city • Developing partnerships Council Member White noted that city budgets should reflect priorities and that these two (2) off -site committee meetings are a good part of the process. She stated that she plans to come back and provide an update and receive more feedback. Council Member White thanked everyone for their input which she stated is valued. She noted that: --� Dr. Dave Varner chairs the Public Works & Property Vacation Committee —� Council Member Gavin Ferlic chairs the Parks Committee —� Council Member Tim Scott chairs the Residential Neighborhoods Committee and the Utilities Committee — * Council Member Karen White chairs the Personnel & Finance Committee She encouraged residents to contact these individuals, and added that the City will "do its very best ". Council Member White again thanked everyone for their input and then adjourned the Committee meeting at 6:55 p.m. Respect lly submitted, ,�r Karen L. White, Chairperson Personnel and Finance Committee Attachments