03-28-05 Informal Meeting Common Council

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Council Member Puzzello inquired about the procedures for adding signs to the entrances to the city, suggesting that David Tidmarsh is a national figure. Mr. Gilot stated that this signage is being addressed in the CIP and that all such signs will be redone. Director of Code Enforcement Catherine Bruecker then provided two (2) handouts, namely a brochure entitled "Adopt-A-Block" and a multi-page handout entitled "South Bends Spring Cleanup Gets Underway with Major Project"(copies attached). Ms. Bruecker stated that Adopt-A-Block begins on April 23rd. Another innovative idea is renting of a park. Now that the snow is thawing many environmental cases are being uncovered as detailed in the large handout. Approximately 1/2 of the properties are rentals. She noted that SBMC Section 16-53 covers notice provisions and that hang tags are placed on doors. She stated that unfortunately illegal dumping is continuing. She is working with Dave Woods on this issue. Inspections will begin April 1st in the eight(8)quadrant areas. Council Member White noted that at the last Council meeting Lucille Spalding brought up the smoke coming from 2623 Lincoln Way West. Ms. Bruecker stated that originally they did not have a permit in place, but that they do now. Odor and smoke problems have been received about Temple Tree. They are operating legally and have installed equipment consistent with manufacturer's specifications. She noted that in some cases, fuel costs can be cut by 80-85%by using such woodburning stoves. In response to a question from Council Member Rouse, Ms. Bruecker noted that James Markle sits on the committee which looks at air standards. In response to a question from Council Member Kuspa, Ms. Bruecker stated that inoperable cars on private property still need to be tagged under a 21-day time period to comply. Re-inspections then take place. Ms. Brucker stated that she has eight(8) inspectors for 47,000 properties.. In response to a question from Council Member Kirsits, Ms. Bruecker stated that they pursue daily illegal parking on front lawns, noting that Miami is a prime example. Council Member Dieter stated that if a police officer sees them park on the front lawns, that they can be cited. Council President Pfeifer suggested that the Health and Public Safety Committee look into wood burning stoves. Council Member Kirsits noted that there are now devices where woodburning stoves can be used to heat water. March 28,2005 Informal Meeting of the South Bend Common Council -page 2-