HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-10-14 Personnel and FinancePERSONNEL & FINANCE MARCH 10, 2014 4:15 P.M.
Committee Members Present: Valerie Schey, Derek Dieter, Dr. David Varner, Henry Davis
Other Council Present: Tim Scott, Oliver Davis, Dr. Fred Ferlic, Gavin Ferlic, Karen White
Others Present: Mark Neal, Carol Davis, Martin Wolfson, John Voorde
Agenda: 1. Bill No. 14 -21 Resolution supporting expansion of Medicaid
in Indiana
2. Bill No. 14 -22 Resolution supporting raising the fair minimum
Wage
Two resolutions were scheduled to be heard before Valerie Schey's Personnel & Finance Committee.
With full Committee and Council in attendance Valerie called upon Henry Davis to make the
presentation for Bill No. 14 -21.
This bill would if passed, be sent to Indiana Governor Pence urging him to expand Medicaid in the state.
Henry agreed that expanding Medicaid, in other words, participating in the Affordable Care Act, was in
the best interests of both that state and the thousands of Hoosiers unable to afford healthcare. He said
the state was turning its back on millions of federal dollars and on poor Hoosiers who need access to
healthcare.
Dr. David Varner asked why now and why not just a resolution to discuss the Affordable Care Act.
Henry said it was the right thing to do and should be pressed to candidates before the fall election.
Derek Dieter asked what benefits come from accepting the Affordable Care Act provisions. Henry said
simply, improved healthcare and healthcare related jobs.
Dr. Varner expressed reservations about the state incurring huge healthcare bills in future years. Henry
countered that 33 states had already signed on for Affordable Care Act. Why not us?
During the public portion Deputy Mayor Mark Neal spoke in support as well as Martin Wolfson, who
emphasized all people have a right to health insurance.
Derek Dieter moved to support, Henry Davis seconded and all affirmed except Dr. David Varner who
voted against.
The next Bill No. 14 -22, supports increasing the federal minimum wage from the current $ 7.25 to
$ 10.10 over the next three years.
Henry Davis presented the Bill which if passed would be sent to Congress and candidates in the fall
election for their stance on minimum wage issues. Henry went on to point out that the current
minimum wage if paid for a full -time job would leave someone below the federal poverty line.
Professor Martin Wolfson, bolstered the economic fairness of it all. Mark Neal offered the support of
the City. Carol Davis emphasized the plight of the poor.
Dr. Varner spoke against, basing his argument on losing jobs. He said job creation would be stymied.
Back and forth it went until Derek Dieter moved and Valerie Schey seconded a favorable
recommendation. Only Dr. Varner voted nay.
Valerie Schey adjourned the meeting at 4:42 P.M.
Res ctfully; bmitte :A
\Valerie Schey, Chairperson
Personnel & Finance Committee