04-26-04 Health & Public Safety - Laserfiche WebLink

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I l Police Chief Thomas Fautz spoke in favor of Substitute Bill No. 24-04. He commended Council Member Dieter for sponsoring the Bill and believes that it will be a great step in the right direction to curtail noise complaints throughout the city. He believes that dedicated the revenue generated from the fines to the training fund is also a great idea since good professional police officers is an ongoing goal of the Police Department. Council Member Kuspa voiced concern with regard to the amount of the fine for 1st offenders at$100.00,noting that he has no objections to the other amounts for repeat offenders. In response to a question from Dr. Varner, Council Member Dieter noted that the fine amount has not been changed since the 1980's and that many people"just laugh"at the amount. In response to a question from Council Member Kelly,Council Member Dieter noted that officers have discretion when issuing tickets, and that they do issue tickets for loud car stereos. Council Member Kelly noted that a"kick in the butt instead of a pat on the wrist"is needed. Council Member Puzzello suggested that in light of time restrictions and several more committee meetings that if Jeff Sims and Diane Anton have any written material that they could leave it with her. Following discussion,Council Member Kelly made a motion, seconded by Council Member Dieter that Substitute Bill No. 04-45 be recommended favorably to Council. The motion passed. Council Member Puzzello then made a presentation on Substitute Bill No. 27-04 which would amend Chapter 20,Article 3 of the South Bend Municipal Code addressing Abandoned Vehicles. She noted that the Bill would update the regulations so that they are consistent with state law;that it would permit the enforcement against cars without licenses; and it would include a$10 administration fee to help offset the costs of enforcing the ordinance. Code Enforcement Director Catherine Brucker spoke in favor of the Bill. The Council Attorney noted that she has copies of the Mishawaka ordinance which has authorized the collection of an administrative fee for several years,as well as a copy the state law address the abandoned vehicle fund(copy attached)for any one who would like to review them. Following discussion,Council Member Kirsits made a motion, seconded by Council Member Kelly that Substitute Bill No. 27-04 be recommended favorably to Council. Council Member Puzzello then called for a presentation on Bill No. 04-45 which would appoint an agent/negotiator to represent the Common Council and the City Administration and would address an Advisory City Negotiating Team for the upcoming Fire Department negotiations. Council President White noted that she will be calling on the Chairpersons of the Personnel and Finance Committee and the Public Works and Property Vacation Committee this Health and Public Safety Committee April 26,2006 Page 2