11-25-02 Utitilities Committee - Laserfiche WebLink

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November 25, 2002 Page 2 Council and then continue the public hearing,and not open the hearing to public comment. Council Member King stated that he appreciates Council Member Coleman's suggestion, however he does not believe that that would be consistent with the South Bend Municipal Code. Mayor Luecke stated that he did not want the Council in the position of having to cut anyone off from making a comment. Council Member White noted that this bill addresses a critical issue. She suggested that the Administration consider rescinding the notices which have been sent and re-issue new notices to the 2,000 persons who were initially notified. She suggested that the City should make ever effort possible to make sure that the public is aware of the proposed rates, as well as their opportunity to participate in the process. Council Member Pfeifer stated that she appreciates the willingness of the Mayor to continue the bill since she is concerned about the "ordinary citizens"who are not present today. She suggested that the City should always to"the right thing". Mr. Rosen inquired why the City Administration does not withdraw Bill No. 88-02 like they did the first bill that was filed this summer. Mayor Luecke stated that the Administration would then have to go through having a new bill have a first reading and then be set for 2d and 3rd readings and public hearing. Mr. Richard Nussbaum inquired whether the Utilities Committee would be meeting between now and January 13,2003 to discuss the substitute bill after it is filed with the City Clerk. Council Member Kirsits stated that there would be at least one more Utilities Committee meeting before January 13,2002. The Council Attorney suggested that once the substitute bill is filed with the City Clerk that it be published in its entirety so that all members of the public will have access to the proposed revised rates. Mr. Hoye inquired whether persons like himself would be required to be present at this evening's Common Council meeting. He was advised that they would not have to be present since the Council, by proper motion and vote, would continue Bill No. 88-02 at the request of the Administration. Following discussion, Council Member Aranowski made a motion, seconded by Council Member Pfeifer that Bill No. 88-02 be continued until January 13,2002 at the request of the Administration and that the Bill be set for further hearing before the Utilities Committee. The motion passed. There being no further business to come before the Committee, Council Member Kirsits adjourned the meeting at 4:37 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Council Member Al "Buddy"Kirsits, Chairperson Utilities Committee KCF:kmf