HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-08-08 Health and Public Satety Development CommitteeHEALTH 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.
There being no further business to come before the committee, Chairperson White, adjourned the
meeting at 4:28 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
~~f
Tom LaFountain, Chairperson
Personnel and Finance Committee