08-31-04 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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eornmit t z eRE,20''Lt of LizE [� /� ( n n (� E'L�OnIZEL and inanaE eOmmittEE of LI �OutI BEn C.�0mozon (..�OLtYLG*LL having the administrative offices in this building and the community development staff across the street, which she hopes to address "down the road but not in 2005". She stressed the need for interaction which includes identification of the needs of the city, develop an evaluation plan, leverage monies, redevelop areas, market, create jobs, enhance neighborhoods, address educational needs, and be able to adapt efforts to changing demands. One must plan and execute. She noted the positive elements of business retreats, noting that programs should be expanded and partnerships should be enhanced with the Chamber and Project Future. Each staff member is being evaluated. She plans to have increased training and cross-training; more outreach, etc. City Plan is close completing the analysis phase. There is now an emphasis of returning the investment of money,time and staff to the community; as well as determining how and where the city can be more effective. A program performance-based budget utilizes a cost/benefit analysis and proper accounting. One of their goals is levering more dollars in the next three (3)years. They are also evaluating the tax abatement program which will include reviewing fees and the actual costs related to them. Efficiencies will be questioned and reorganization will take place where deemed needed. Ms. Kendall noted that this city provides numerous services which are not provided by other cities. Ms. Kendall noted that overall the proposed budget reflects a 4.7% increase. She noted that the department will experience a loss of $20,000 of state funds and a loss of$50,000 in CDBG funds. A review of the personnel changes was then made. Council Member Kelly inquired whether the city is paying enough, noting that there have been several people leaving in the past six(6)months. Ms. Kendall stated that this area is tough, even at the state level. She noted that organizations are often flat. She suggested that the city needs to look at working more closely with businesses. She suggested that "we need to do better" in housing, distribution, information technologies and life sciences for example. Advanced manufacturing is using new processes and technology. Ms. Kendall stated that Warsaw is just one(1)hour away and suggested that the city partner with them as well as develop better relations with the University of Notre Dame. Agri-Sciences and the use of agricultural products is also an area of interest. Council Member Kelly then inquired about the city's tax abatement program, noting that a considerable amount of time was spent by the Council and Administration in developing the current regulations. Ms. Kendall stated that we must use this tool wisely and evaluate the kind of return which the city is receiving. She stated that she believes it is a balanced system at this point. Personnel and Finance Committee Meeting of August 31,,2004 Page 2