09-11-96 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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Committee Report Personnel and Finance Committee September 11, 1996 Page 2 Matt Chlebowski then introduced George Zanna and Kelly Picket to the Committee. Mr. Chlebowski then reviewed the budget summaries and highlighted increases. He noted that two new programs would be on line which would include the maintenance of the fire fleet and the transfer of mechanics from the Fire Department and also the inspections of taxi cabs. It was noted that security is being increased with fencing being installed. Council Member Luecke questioned the paint room and whether there were environmental concerns. It was noted that this has been looked at and that all regulations are being met. It was also noted that incentives for mechanics and increased training are being encouraged which results in an increase in the education and training budget. In response to a questions raised by Council Member Luecke, Mr. Zanna noted that Central Stores is on line with their projections in that there is better overall participation. Currently Central Stores is bidding with the South Bend School Corporation on limited items. Mr. Zanna also noted that ongoing discussions with the School Corporation, county and city officials are taking place with regard to the bidding out of other supplies. Council Member Coleman noted that many innovated programs have been implemented and that over the past three years there have been tremendous strides in these areas. ENGINERING BUDGET 1996 Budgeted $4,980,075 1997 Requested $5,089,089 • Mr. Carl Littrell noted that the overall Engineering budget reflects an 1.8%increase overall. He noted that there are five basic divisions which constitute the Engineering Department, namely the Bureau of Traffic and Lighting; Design and Administration; Public Construction; Good Neighbors,Good Neighborhoods; and Interdepartmental Transfers. Mr. Littrell noted that the department is very multi-faceted. He noted that there are 108 inter-connected enclosed loop systems in the city. In response to a question raised by Council Member Luecke it was noted that there are currently nine proposals with regard to U.S. 31 alternatives. Mr. Littrell also noted the Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices approved by the Feds,will be adopted by each state which will result in capital projects and capital monies. These new regulations will require changes even in street signs. There are ongoing negotiations with regard to taking over certain state highways that meet city standards. In response to a question raised by Cathy Roemer it was noted that the Telephone Telegraph reflects long distance calls and that salt is bought at the beginning of each year for the entire year. She also noted that an additional sum equal to that in the Engineering budget for salt is in the Street Department budget. In response to a question raised by Council President Kelly, it was noted by Mr. Rinard that they do bid out long distance carrier service and that currently individuals must use a calling code in order to activate long distance service.