09-25-06 Zoning & Annexation - Laserfiche WebLink

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September 25, 2006 Zoning and Annexation Committee Meeting Minutes Page 4 Council Member White voiced concern that the Council had not received a response from the Park Board to Council Member Kuspa and Council Member Dieter's letter of September 14, 2D06. She noted that the Council is entitled to information and as elected public officials it is difficult to act without cooperation. Council President Rouse inquired of Mr. Gilot about the overall cost to operate the greenhouses and conservatories. Mr. Gllot stated that it could only be calculated on past usage. Calking and fixing the glass will offset some of that cost. Citizen Member Talley suggested that the matter of operations be costed-out on a "savings vs. maintenance" basis. Council Member Dieter also voiced displeasure that the Council had not received any response from the Park Superintendent and the Park Board from the letter which he and Council Member Kuspa sent requested information on the greenhouseslconservatories. Dr. Varner noted that this issue has generated a lot of telephone calls and interest in the community. He would like information since a lot of people are inquiring. He noted that he toured the facilities on Saturday with Council Member Dieter and there were several heating & air conditioning representatives. He stated a lot of people would like to get on board to make the greenhouses and conservatories more self-sufficient. Council Member Dieter noted that he and the Council Attorney met with the Trust Officer at Wells Fargo regarding possible grant possibilities .for the greenhouses. Citizen Member J. Edward Talley noted that in his investigations there are two (2) grants which may be possible for the greenhouses, in addition to Major Moves. He added that PHCC and MACIAF representatives were part of the tour on Saturday. He noted that the Council has passed a budget which would permit the greenhouses and conservatories to be operational through December 31, 2D06. He recommended considering land-marking and interim protection possibilities in order to save these facilities. In 1993, the buildings on the city survey were ranked "S-12" which is the second highest rating far landmark status. Council Member Kirisits noted that Jan Majelski has filed a petition with the Office of the City Clerk which contains 1,430 signatures in favor of saving the greenhouses. 825 of these are city residents and 605 are non-South Bend residents which is a wide representation of individuals. Council President Rouse inquired whether the ranking of the greenhouses has changed in the past thirteen years.