HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-12-09 Information and Technology Committee!l 11
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INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE February 12, 2009
Committee Members Present: David Varner, Chairperson; Henry Davis; Tom
LaFountain; Al "Buddy" Kirsits
Other Council Members Present: Oliver Davis; Karen White; Derek Dieter; Timothy
Rouse; Ann Puzzello
Other's Present: Rich Hill; Randy Rompola; Martha Lewis; Mark Dobson; Chuck
Leone; Phil Damico; Chuck Bulot; Daniel Jones; Rita Kopala; Carol Davis; Beth
Leonard; Becky Drury
Council President Derek Dieter introduced IT Committee Chairperson David Varner who
welcomed all attending then recognized SBCSC superintendent James Kapsa who
proceeded to provide a summary handout as he walked the Council through the
information provided page by page.
Superintendent Kapsa explained a majority of the school board supported the creation of
a high tech high school in South Bend. He said the Board investigated 6 such schools in
Indiana and traveled to California to evaluate a school in operation. He said 41 high tech
high schools operate nationwide. The school board by a vote of 5-2 voted to move
forward hoping to open a tech school by August 2009. This type of school is seen as one
that would prepare tomorrow's work force, attract business, and improve graduation
rates. The start-up would begin with 100 students. Opening the informational session for
questions, Superintendent Kapsa was asked by Tom LaFountain what type of student
would the facility attract. Kapsa said it was not a gifted/talented program; but a pool
reflecting the diversity of the student population. President Dieter asked Kapsa to further
explain. Kapsa said the particulars were yet to be determined. Tim Rouse asked how the
program would differ from the "Crossings." The response was differences in curriculum.
General discussion of funding followed, all outlined in Kapsa's handout.
Karen White questioned the use of TIF dollars to support the concept. Does this use
reflect the city's priorities? What are the city's priorities for TIF dollars? How are these
priorities set and who sets them? Oliver Davis wondered if the proposed use of TIF
funds required City Council approval? David Varner wondered if initial city
participation further obligated the city financially in the future? Oliver Davis also asked
if the Redevelopment Commission was required to submit a plan for the use of TIF
dollars to the City Council for approval?
Rich Hill said TIF statutes are subject to interpretation, but it would seem the use of TIF
funds for the tech school was permissible. Such a new use would require the submission
of a plan to the Council for approval, Hill stated.
Jeff Gibney said funds were available and the Mayor applauded the opportunity to
cooperate with the school corporation in a project to boost economic development.
Kapsa spoke to the need for a strategic vision and a financial commitment from the city
to make the school a go. Timing is critical.
There being no further business to come before the committee at this time. Chairperson
Varner adjourned the meeting at 6:48 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
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David Varner, Chairperson
Information and Technology Committee
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