12-13-99 Council Meeting Minutes

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REGULAR MEETING DECEMBER 13. 1999 thousand dollars ($275,000.00) which is still a good marking budget which will work toward reducing the City's contribution. Finally, Councilmember Varner asked that the Director of the Hall find six hundred thousand dollars ($600,000.00) in savings in personnel and benefits, whether it be for one position or several. This would provide a net result in a reduction of the City's obligation from six hundred thousand dollars ($600,000.00) to three hundred fifty thousand dollars ($350,000.00) to bring it at least in line with the contribution the City expects from the NFF. He noted that his above comments are in the form of a motion. Since no one seconded the motion made by Councilmember Varner, he withdrew his motion. Councilmember Kelly stated that as interest rates hold the City could se that mount come down to what the NFF is contributing and he believes the City is on the right track. Councilmember Aranowski stated that if nothing changes during the first six (6) months in 2000 he will agree with Councilmember Varner to slash dollars. He indicated that he would like to see how the Mayor's negotiations work out with the NFF. Councilmember Sniadecki noted that he believes that the Hall is at a crossroads at this time. This Council asked the Mayor a couple months ago to go out and find a new vision and he has worked hard to achieve a new direction. He is concerned that the NFF maintain minimum standards of operation when the NFF takes over and the City assert themselves to assure to maintain that facility. Also, he is concerned that the NFF consider the contributions of the citizens of South Bend and include them in event planning and administrative standards. Councilmember Uj dak noted that three (3) months ago the Mayor was asked to attempt to strengthen the Hall and it was left in the Mayor's hand. At this time there is no signed agreement but progress has been made but they need to have a budget and in order not to weaken the City's hand the Council needs to go forward. Councilmember King indicated that he concurs with the comments made by Councilmember Uj dak. Therefore, Councilmember King made a motion for favorable recommendation to full Council concerning his bill. Councilmember Kelly seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of seven (7) ayes with Councilmember Varner voting nay. RISE AND REPORT Council President Coleman made motion to rise and report to the full Council. Councilmember Sniadecki seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of eight (8) ayes. ATTEST: Loretta J. a City REGULAR MEETING RECONVENED ATTEST: e Charlotte Pfeifer, I airp rs Committee of the Whole Be it remembered that the Common Council of the City of South Bend reconvened in the Council Chambers on the fourth floor of the County -City Building at 7:59 p.m. Council President Sean Coleman presided with eight (8) members present.