07-17-12 Zoning & Annexation & Health & Public Safety

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Oliver Davis then asked Council Attorney Kathy Cekanski - Farrand to summarize points in the proposed agreement. She opened by giving credit to interim City Attorney Aladean DeRose for her primary role in drafting the agreement. Aladean, in turn, thanked everyone for their cooperation. This enable her to draft an agreement satisfying the safety concerns of several city departments while protecting the migrants. Derek Dieter wanted assurance that the watch person named in the agreement would be competent. Tim Scott urged the development of a fire safety plan including training and fire drills. Council Attorney Kathy Cekanski - Farrand agreed to add that provision. A representative of the company owning the facility expressed gratitude for the City's willingness to fashion a workable agreement that keeps the facility open and safeguards the residents. Several City Administration officials followed with comments of their own. Mike Schmuhl speaking for the Mayor said this was a good example of positive results coming from working together. Cathy Toppel, Chuck Bulot, and Ann Carol -Nash all expressed similar sentiments. Turning to the public for comment, Mr. Davis recognized Mario Sims. Mr. Sims agreed that the solution agreed upon was fine, but wondered why it had taken so long for the City to get to this point. He speculated that because eviction was the first recourse, their might be racial overtones in that the migrants were people of color. He said at the very least, the city did not show sensitivity in this situation. He said the city should welcome and respect everyone. He added that all stakeholders should be party to discussions affecting the well -being of under- represented, disadvantaged groups. George Lane emphasized the growers' responsibility in this situation. Any financial consequences should not be borne by the City. The Council Attorney suggested the need for accurate information, identification and participation of all stakeholders, and the development of pro- active long -term solutions to effectively address these issues. For migrant worker issues this might include Purdue Extension, Farm Bureau, and the Institute for Latino Studies and of Social Concerns. Councilmember Henry Davis, Jr., said the focus of concern for the rights and welfare of the migrant workers should be expanded to all people. He said the administration was deficient in making the quality of life issues for all people a priority. The issue was the lack of proper enforcement of city codes already on the books. Gregorio Chavez and Jesusa Rodriguez both spoke to the need to look beyond South Bend's borders to the County and the State. Oliver offered summary comments and then accepted a motion from Councilmember Karen White to register a favorable recommendation of the agreement. Tim Scott seconded and all affirmed.