09-11-96 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Committee Report Personnel and Finance Committee September 11, 1996 Page 3 Council Member Pfeifer voiced concern with regard to the curb and sidewalk program. It was noted by Mr.Littrell that they had three contractors which they utilized however they could have utilized twelve contractors. Problems overall included contractor performance and meeting deadlines. The city is divided into zones and penalties are set forth if a contractor does not meet a specific deadline. It was noted that backlogs in this area are still being addressed. In response to a question raised by Council Member Luecke, it was noted that new areas within the city should open up next year. Council Member Luecke thanked Mr. Littre11 and his staff for providing opportunities for bikers in making the city more"bike friendly". Mr.Littre11 noted that this was a by-product of MACOG Bicycle/Pedestrian Use Committee and that he does plan to respond in a "Michiana Point of View" to the concerns raised. He noted that the major problem is passing on the right. He also noted that"traffic calming devices"are being reviewed and may be implemented in the future. Council Member Pfeifer voiced concern with regard to the use or non use of yellow caution lights and specifically brought to Mr.Littrell's attention her concern of Jefferson Boulevard by the Century Center in light of the pedestrians and bikers. The Committee thanked Mr. Littrell for his presentation. WATER WORKS GENERAL 1996 Budgeted $5,821,269 1997 Requested $5,995,186 Mr. John Stancati, Director of the Water Works and LeAnn Bassi, Utilities Finance Director, then presented the Water Works budget. It was noted that metered sales for residential customers were up to $3,276,383. Approximately 150 new customers have been added. Backflow prevention inspections are up to$75,960. Approximately one-half million dollars in reserves is being maintained plus $1,000,000 in deposits. Backflow prevention is required by law to be done twice each year. In response to a question raised by Council Member Broden noted that sprinklers will not be addressed for the next three to five years. Chemicals have been increased in the line item in order to make the city water supply iron free by the year 2,000. Building repairs are down in light of the new Water Works Facility Building. A rate increase is being anticipated and thus fees of approximately$37,000 and fees of approximately$53,000 for a rate and bond study are included within the budget. A new well field will take place in the year 1998. In response to a question raised by Council Member Luecke regarding the protection of ground water,it was noted that contamination travels over a five to ten year period and that the city is working in cooperation with the county with a county-wide ordinance which should improve and protect water supplies. In response to a question raised by Council President Kelly it was noted that automatic pay of the approximate 25,000 customers is only at a 6% rate. Mr. Stancati noted that automatic pay by NIPSCO customers is at a 4%rate. It was also noted that cash in lieu of taxes is back on the tax rate and that fixed assets are up with 1996 being at$301,913 and 1997 projected to be$389,277.