HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-22-00 Personnel & Finance (Oitttttitt JOvt:
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The August 22,2000 meeting of the Personnel and Finance Committee was called to order
by its Chairperson, Council Member James Aranowski at 3:00 p.m. In the Council Informal
Meeting room.
Persons in attendance included Council Members Aranowski, Pfeifer, King, Varner,
Ujdak,Kirsits and White;Citizen Member Isabele Gonzalez, Police Chief Larry Bennett, Division
Chief Richard R. Kilgore, Fiscal Officer Don Pinckert, City Controller M. Catherine Roemer,
Terry Bland of the gottab fttai IgribUilt,and Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand, Council Attorney.
Council Member Aranowski welcomed members of the South Bend Police Department to
the Committee meeting to provide information on their proposed budget for 200L
POLICE DEPARTMENT (G FUNERAL FUND # 101-08011
2000 Expenditure Projection: $ 19,740,087 2001 Expenditure Projection: $20,868394
$1,239,328 reflecting a 6.3 %increase
2000 Revenue for Gen'' Fund: $ 623,552 2001 Revenue Projection: $455,666
Police Chief Larry E. Bennett thanked the Council for their support, noting that this was
his first budget proposed for the police department. He stated that he was in a one-week school
recently in Indianapolis in order to maintain his appoint as Chief of Police. Forty-three(43)Police
Chiefs from throughout the State of Indiana were in attendance. He noted that he was proud to
oversee a police department budget of approximately $ 19 million whose officers are dedicated to
making the City as safe as possible.
Chief Bennett noted that the proposed budget is proposed to fund the salaries and monetary
fringe benefits for 258 sworn officers (one new sworn officer over the 2000 budget), 48 non-
bargaining and bargaining civilian employees, 28 crossing guards, 5 crossing guard subs, and 2
part-time secretaries. Chief Bennett further noted that he is proposing 28 non-bargaining and
bargaining employees in Communications. He noted that the additional sworn officer will have 90
% of his/her salary and fringe benefits reimbursed by a Juvenile Accountability Incentive Block
Grant. The grant will permit the police department to partnership with the Juvenile Justice Center
by enforcing the terms of probation place on juvenile offenders.
Chief Bennett noted that the police officers are dealing with a more dangerous element of
crime than ever before in the City's history. The police department needs strong civilian support
along with state of the art equipment in order to contend with the criminal element.
Chief Bennett then called upon Fiscal Officer Don Pinckert to review the proposed 2001
police department budget in greater detail. Mr. Pinckert noted that the budget reflects an increase
in the salary classification of Sergeants by 24, and a corresponding decrease in the salary
classification of Corporals by 24 positions. Twenty (20) officers were promoted in 2000 for a
new cost to the department of $ 31,000. With the elimination of the tier-system, pays of
approximately$44,000 were also eliminated. The Council passed an ordinance earlier this year to
address the tier-system elimination, with corresponding action being taken by the Board of Public
Safety.
Personnel and Finance Committee
August 22,2000
Page 2
Mr. Pinckert noted that all new police officers are under the 1977 plan with eighteen (18)
officers being hired this year to date. He noted that the City is required to pay 21$ of the
Patrolman First Class salary for pension purposes, with the salary for this salary classification
increased by 8 % or $ 2,700 for year 2001. Health insurance is proposed at a$ 98,000 increase
for an 8 % increase in this line item. In the supply area, gasoline is proposed at a $ 110,000
increase calculated on $ 1.50 per gallon costs for over a 300-vehicle fleet. Most police vehicles are
out of warranty thus the budget is proposed at a$50,000 increase for vehicle maintenance.
Computer equipment is up by approximately $ 60,000. The computer system was
purchased three(3)years ago and is off warranty. Video cameras are being installed in squad cars.
$600,000 additional is being proposed for the police pension fund.
Council Member King inquired about the police officers in the various South Bend
Community Schools. Mr. Pinckert sated that there are four(4) School Resource Officers(SRO) in
the high schools,which are funded by an $ 80,000 federal grant which runs out in 2000. There is
a contract with the South Bend Community School Corporation which requires them to pay 75 %.
In 2001, the split between the City and the School Corporation will be a 50/50 split with each
paying $ 100,000. Council Member King suggested further discussion should take
place as to whether this position should be a sworn police officer, and he also
raised this same concern with regard to DARE officers.
Council President Pfeifer inquired about the training budget and the percentage of such
training devoted to cultural diversity. It was noted that this topic is addressed annually at the
refresher academy as well as at the City's academy. Fifteen(15) people per class for one(1)week
of training is a summary of the training which was started this year. Council President
Pfeifer requested to see the curriculum on the training program, noting the
conflict resolution was essential.
Council Member White inquired as to whether the training budget is adequate with regard
to the depth and scope necessary to have a properly trained professional police force. Chief
Bennett stated that he would continue to monitor this area closely, noting that the 5th Citizens
Police Academy would soon be underway.
Dr. Varner questioned the number of vehicles comprising the vehicle fleet and whether it
could be reduced in light of the additional costs of insurance, maintenance, etc. Division Chief
Kilgore stated that the department averages two (2) squad cars out of service on a regular basis.
The vehicle fleet is being reduced overall with ten (1) vehicles not being replaced, however the
number include the SWAT truck and vehicles, motorcycles, etc. Between 50-60 vehicles will be
replaced this year. Division Chief Kilgore noted that Impalas are being tested but are too small for
some of the officers and there appears to be equipment problems on them such as the siren switch.
Dr. Varner suggested looking at the bumpers on the vehicles.
Council Member King inquired about the bicycle patrols noting that in the Spring Division
Chief Larry Blume informed him that there was no funding for the bike patrols along the East
Race. Chief Bennett stated that there are no police bicycle patrols on the East Race this year. The
Department would have been required to recall officers for the three (3) details needed. He noted
that two (2) corridors, South Gateway and Lincoln Way West each received $ 20,000 of cDBG
money and requested bicycle patrols. Additionally at HUD grant is used for bike and foot patrols.
In another corridor makes a similar request for bicycle patrols, the City does not have .Rokilk
Personnel and Finance Committee
August 22,2000
Page 3
manpower to fill these requests. Chief Bennett stressed that the first priority is to working on the
streets and for the safety of the officers.
Council Member King noted that the police bicycle patrol was very effective and provided a
sense of security in the areas they patrolled. He stated that they are a terrific example of
community-oriented policing and are good for the police department as well as the City.
Chief Bennett noted that there are fifteen (15) individuals currently in some phase of
training to bring the police department into being fully staffed. He cannot control who retires and
how they give notice which is typically by a two (2) week notice being given to the Department.
It was suggested that a bonus be considered for those officers who provide notice
of six (6) months or greater to the City.
Chief Bennett stated that sixty-five (65) police officers are eligible to retire today. He
voiced concern about the number who may retire next year since the County Jail will be opening
and supervisory personnel will be needed. Chief Bennett noted that overall staffing is
not a money problem but rather a staffing problem which must be creatively
addressed by the City.
Dr. Varner inquired whether auxiliary police would be a possibility for use
in the East Race and Howard Park areas. Chief Bennett said he would be open to
this, however discussions would need to take place also with the Park Department
and the role of Park Police.
Council Member White asked about the Operation Safe Neighborhoods Program funded at
$60,000. Mr. Pinckert stated that thirty-five (35) officers currently live in the areas designated by
the Council, with a total of forty (40) positions being funded. He noted that several officers have
inquired about the program and he anticipates that it will go to 37 to 38 in the near future. Mr.
Pinckert stated that he would provide where the officers live by District to the
Council. Dr. Varner inquired as to whether forty(40) slots would be enough. It was noted that
the City would be obligated to pay for all persons who qualify regardless of the number budgeted.
Dr. Varner stated that the City should do all that is necessary to discuss ideas to
increase residency of our police officers, and would be open to continuing the
discussion on this topic.
Council Member White asked the Chief about what special challenges are being presented
to the police department. Chief Bennett stated that he is considering recommending significant
changes within the department which would provide for better accountability. He hopes to have
recommendations to the Administration and the Council yet this year if at all possible.
Council Member Kirsits inquired about the increase of ten percent(10%) in the self-funded
insurance area. It was noted that the reclassification of various accounts contributed toward some
of this increase.
Citizen Member Gonzalez inquired about the amount of money proposed to be budgeted for
education. She inquired about the programs in place to address bi-lingual concerns for Asian
Americans for example. She inquired whether the City actively pursues applicants who are bi-
lingual especially in light of the growing concerns for 911 responses. Division Chief Kilgore
noted that courses are noted with officers being asked to volunteer for such programs. Chief
Bennett noted that Hispanic Instructors are utilized at roll calls in the 12-week academy with 2
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Personnel and Finance Committee
August 22,2000
Page 4
weeks being devoted to cultural diversity. Chief Bennett also noted that the police department
actively recruits minorities.
Council President Pfeifer stated that the majority officers need to be trained with regard to
cultural and sensitivity awareness,just as much as the department needs to recruit minorities to be
police officers.
Citizen Member Gonzalez inquired about how pro-active the department was in the liability
areas, specifically with regard to medical surveillance and back injuries in light of the time spent in
squad cars. She stressed the need for physical fitness.
The Council Attorney noted that the current salary ordinance contains a provision for a
reduction in health insurance premiums for those officers who successfully participate in a city-
sponsored program on physical fitness. That program has not been created, however discussions
with the Police Administration have taken place.
Chief Bennett noted that at roll calls he personally stresses the need to be physically fit. He
is currently in discussions on a potential program in this area which will increase stamina at no
charge to the department which he will soon be discussing with the Council Attorney. A facility on
Olive Street may be available which has basketball courts,a weight room,etc.
Council President Pfeifer inquired about beat officers coming to the
Partnership Centers. Chief Bennett stated that they do have access to these
buildings, but have not tracked how many officers actively participate, but agreed
to follow up.
Council President Pfeifer noted that she agreed with Dr. Varner that the
city must do all that it can to provide incentives if necessary for police officers to
live within the city, especially in light of the state law which does not require
residency. She noted that several incentive programs are in place in the State of
Florida. She suggested again looking into reductions in city-owned utility
service bills, mortgage reductions, etc.
Chief Bennett noted that on September 8th he will be attending a consortium addressing the
concerns of beat officers and public safety and security issues.
Council Member King stated that as the police department continues to
struggle with manpower availability, that the Council would work closely with
the department to creatively address this problem.
Dr. Varner again suggested that the police department look into a financial
incentive being made available for police officers who provide at least six (6)
months notice before they retire.
Council Member Kirsits inquired about the staffing of the police beats, especially as the
City continues to pursue annexation on its boundaries. Chief Bennett stated for the interim the
numbers are satisfactory,however this is another area that needs to be carefully monitored.
Chief Bennett stated that he hopes to have his recommendations in place for reorganizing
the department by November of this year.
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Personnel and Finance Committee
August 22,2000
Page 5
COMMUNICATIONS CENTER (GENERAL FUND # 101-0802)
2000 Expenditure Projection: $1,006,592 2001 Expenditure Projection: $1,078,739
$41,370 reflecting a 4%increase
Don Pinckert then reviewed the Communications Center proposed budget, noting that there
are no personnel changes.
Council Member King noted that he participated in the Y2K preparations and that the City
is on the leading edge in this area.
Council President Pfeifer inquired about the"critical mass"and the overall communications
systems on a 24-hour basis. Division Chief Kilgore stated that he could update her in this area.
Council President Pfeifer noted that she is excited about the potential changes that
will be proposed for the police department and welcomed their introduction for
discussion. She also encouraged the Chief to communicate to the officers who
work in her District to contact her on a regular basis with regard to any concerns
which they may have.
Council Member Ujdak inquired about the manpower needs required for proper
enforcement of the proposed adult business ordinance which will have its public hearing on
Monday. Chief Bennett noted that NEST officers would probably be involved on enforcement.
Council Member Kirsits inquired about the semi-auto defibulators. 25 may be proposed in
the capital budget.
Council Member White requested an update on the thirty (30) plus crack
houses and their status, since there was no longer time at this meeting to have
such an update.
The Council Attorney thanked Police Chief Bennett and Fiscal Officer Pinckert for their
input and assistance on the critical duty day policies which were utilized during the fire
negotiations.
Council Member Aranowski thanked Chief Bennett, Division Chief Kilgore and Fiscal
Officer Pinckert for their detailed presentation and handouts. He then noted that the Committee
would review the Internal Service Funds. At this stage in the meeting Personnel Specialist
Catherine Hubbard-Shead, Benefits Specialist Susan Wallace and Safety and Risk Specialist
Kegan Rowan joined the meeting.
INTE' •_ S 'V FUN I-L •BIL_TY I SU' ._NC RES ;V N• #226
2000 Expenditure Projection: $1,639,816 2001 Expenditure Projection: $1,770,744
$4160,854 reflecting a 10%increase
Cathy Roemer then reviewed the organizational chart for the Controller's Office and related
material on the internal service fund as part of an overview. They address workers compensation,
property and the safety net being the self-funded liability catch-all. She noted that Dean Tinkel
Personnel and Finance Committee
August 22,2000
Page 6
investigates all self-insurance claims. Property insurance coverage is increasing in light of the
property values increasing plus several new building being added for coverage purposes. Self-
insurance assumes a 7.1% increase. The Controller noted that police officers are required to pay
annually $ 260 toward insurance premiums with the average cost of a take-home police vehicle
being $ 60,000.
Kegan Rowan reviewed the performance based budget information on safety and risk
management. He noted that a written trench and rescue program and training program will be in
place this Fall. Training for solid waste and street department employees will also be taking place.
Council Members Varner and Ujdak inquired about the bid process in this area. Council
Member Ujdak requested a copy of the true value increase in properties. The City
Controller noted that the value increased by 60 %and that they go to the market annually.
Council Member Ujdak and Citizen Member Gonzalez suggested that
Gibson Insurance do a presentation to the Council so that the Council has a better
understanding of the types of services they provide to the City. Council Member
Ujdak requested specific information from Gibson as to what the City is receiving
for their money. Ms. Gonzalez also requested a written report breaking down
incidents by department as well as costs by types of incidents. She also
recommended that quarterly reports should be furnished highlighting the
frequency and amount of monies paid. She noted that for workers compensation,type and
frequency data should be regularly maintained. The Council Attorney suggested that such
data be provided on a quarterly basis to the Health and Public Safety Committee.
M. Catherine Roemer noted that settlements are reviewed on a case by case basis. Cathy
Hubbard-Shead agreed to provide pie charts noting that there is a safety driving bonus in place for
Teamster employees.
Council President Pfeifer noted that many of the payroll stuffers are
ineffective and that the city should be more pro-active in making employees aware
of the programs offered through Madison Center addressing substance and
alcohol abuse, depression and suicide. She noted that in the long-run it would save the
City money if there was better participation.
Citizen Member Gonzalez suggested that the City be more pro-active
especially in the Park Department and in Traffic and Lighting in light of the
fatalities. The City Controller stated that better departmental education and
training will be a top priority from the grass roots to top management. The
Committee requested to be updated on a regular basis in this area.
Council Member Kirsits suggested mandatory safety training city-wide
since many middle and top management employees do not know proper policies
and procedures. He noted that many departments have not had needed training since Ms.
Gonzalez left her employment with the City. Susan Wallace noted the refreshers are provided
every three(3) years.
Personnel and Finance Committee
August 22,2000
Page 7
INTERNAL SERVICE FUND-SELF-FUNDED EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (FUND #711)
2000 Expenditure Projection: $6,207,947 2001 Expenditure Projection: $6,618,768
$367,080 reflecting a 5.9%increase
2000 Revenue Projection: $6,191,702 2001 Revenue Projection: $6,618,903
$367,129 reflecting a 5.9%increase
The City Controller noted that the steerage rate is 83%which reflects a 9%in one year.
Citizen Member Gonzalez inquired about employees who live outside of the city limits and
out be out-of-network, as well as employees who have children who are students at colleges
outside of the area. Ms. Roemer stated that life threatening situations would be treated as in
network, The mile radius requirement is 50 miles.
In response to a question from Dr. Varner it was noted that the stop loss was $75,000 and
now is$ 100,000. One (1) employee had$400,000 of expenses and within 1 1/2 years will reach
the life-time maximum.
In response to a question from Council Member Ujdak, it was noted that the City is in the
2nd year of a five year agreement with St. Joseph Medical Center. He then inquired into a dual
network option. Ms. Roemer noted that that option was reviewed but that the savings were over
$250,000 by going to the current program.
Susan Wallace noted that the City is in the 1st year of a dental and vision program and that
she would provide copies of the contracts with Gibson.
Council Member Aranowski suggested that the Gibson representatives be scheduled for the
September 6th Committee meeting.
Dr. Varner requested a copy of the tentative agreement with the NFF.
There being no further business to come before the Committee, Council Member
Aranowski adjourned the meeting at 5:35 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Council Member James Aranowski, Chairperson
Personnel and Finance Committee
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