06-26-06 Community & Economic Development

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Joint Committee Meeting of the Utilities Committee and the Public Works and Property Vacation Committee June 26, 2D06 Page 3 Council President Rouse stated that the general public has the right to know the facts. Council Member White noted that the process appears to be complicated and that there are many issues involved. She noted that other users should have the opportunity to make their case far special rate consideration. Mr. Gilot stated that the agreement with the university sets forth in its preamble seven (7) areas which are addressed. The Council Attorney asked Mr. Gilot about the "BPW annual Council update on utility operations" noted in today's email, since she has checked with the Office of the City Clerk and she could not locate any filings of this type. She also suggested that perhaps Mr. Gilot could send copies of the Notre Dame and New Carlisle contracts to the Council, along with copies of all minutes of public meetings when such contracts were approved, so that the Council could review them. Mr. Gilot stated that the annual review is part of his annual report for the Department of Public Works, and that he would provide copies of the requested documents. Counci! Member Kirsits stated that he would like all Council Members to have the opportunity to vote on the proposed substitute Bill, and stated that with three (3) Council Members missing today, that perhaps the Bill should be continued. Council Member White suggested that there should be a special meeting on the ordinance if it is continued perhaps on anon-Council meeting night. Following discussion, it was suggested that there be a joint committee meeting on Wednesday, July 19, 2006 at 3 p.m.; and that the public hearing before the South Bend Common Council be held on July 24tH Council Member Kirsits added that he does not believe that "`we are that far apart". He commended Mr. Gilot for his efforts and that he would like to see a process in place perhaps similar to tax abatement where the city administration review the requests and sends an informational packet to the Council and then the Council has the final authority to adopt or not adopt a resolution. There being no further business to come before the joint committee meeting the meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m.