HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-22-02 Utilities Committee Qommitt a Zeport
Itiiities Committee
The April 22, 2002 meeting of the Utilities Committee was called to order by its Chairperson,
Council Member Al`Buddy"Kirsits at 4:03 p.m. in the Council Informal Meeting Room.
Persons in attendance included Council Members Varner, Kirsits, White, Coleman, Aranowski,
King, and Pfeifer; Public Works Director Gary Gilot, City Engineer Carl Littrell, Beth Leonard,
Michael Beitzinger, Water Utilities Director John Stancati, Director of Economic Development Jon
Hunt, Beth Leonard,
Terry Bland of the &MO fkutf tribunt and Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand, Council Attorney.
Council Member Kirsits noted that the first item on the agenda was to review Bill No. 25-02 which
is an ordinance amending Article 6, § 17-49 of the South Bend Municipal Code which would
delete the shutoff valve repair provision.
Mr. Stancati made the presentation. He noted that the original leak insurance ordinance was passed
by the Council in 1976 and did not include the curb valve replacement. That topic was later
addressed in the 1980's. The proposed ordinance would remove the curb valve from the leak
insurance fund and therefore would eliminate the shortfall in the leak insurance fund. $40,000 is
still outstanding for payback. There were 420 valve box repairs in 2001. By the passage of this
Bill,it would eliminate the need for a rate increase.
Dr. Varner inquired about repair procedures. Mr. Stancati stated that when a valve is opened it is
repaired at the same time if it is leaking.
Following discussion, Council Member Aranowski made a motion, seconded by Council Member
Pfeifer that Bill No. 25-02 be recommended favorably to Council. The motion passed.
Under miscellaneous business, Mr. Littrell noted that the Water Works Division received an award
for the renovations made at the Olive Street Station.
Council Member King inquired about the wheel tax memorandum. Council Member Kirsits stated
that he was interested in the legislative intent and whether it could be directed to public safety since
it is basically a user based fee. He noted that seventeen (17) counties currently have a county
wheel tax.
Council Member Aranowski stated that the full impact of the hydrant rental fee will not be known
until July of 2003.
Dr. Varner voiced concern over the apparent"flip/flop"of such monies.
There being no further business to come before the Committee, Council Member Kirsits adjourned
the meeting at 4:13 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Council Member Al "Buddy"Kirsits, Chairperson
Utilities Committee
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