04-28-14 Personnel and Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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PERSONNEL & FINANCE APRIL 28, 2014 3:52 P.M. Committee Members Present: Valerie Schey, Derek Dieter, Dr. David Varner, Henry Davis Other Council Present: Tim Scott, Dr. Fred Ferlic, Oliver Davis, Gavin Ferlic, Karen White Others Present: Kathy Cekanski - Farrand, Erin Blasko, John Murphy, Cecil Eastman, Rahman Johnson, Kathryn Roos, Phil St. Clair, Michelle Adams, Chris Fielding, David Buggs, Brian Givens, Jennifer Hockenour, Mark Neal Agenda: Bill No. 14 -49 Resolution calling for creative and sustainable addressing unemployment and entrepreneur programs Bill No. 29 -14 Authorizing departments to accept credit card payments Two bills were scheduled for Valerie Schey's Personnel and Finance Committee. The first for consideration was Bill No. 14 -49 sponsored by Councilmembers Henry Davis, Valerie Schey, and Oliver Davis. This bill calls for creative initiatives that would address more comprehensive programs for youth entrepreneur and unemployment programs. Henry Davis made the presentation referencing conversations he had with Deputy Mayor Mark Neal in which Henry suggested a stronger financial commitment by the City for staff and programming at the City recreation centers. Henry also suggested closer ties and more utilization of school corporation facilities like, gyms, pools, and computer labs. He referenced as well, the bills cover letter (attached). During Council comments, Dr. Fred Ferlic cautioned that only limited tax dollars were available. Derek Dieter asked if there was a projected cost to which Henry said was approximately $10 thousand per recreation center. Dr. David Varner voiced concern about funding expensive new programs. Phil St. Clair, Director of Parks, said many good programs were already being run out of the centers; but would welcome increased funding. In response to Valerie's concerns about affordability for some kids, Phil said no one was turned away. During the public portion Davis Buggs stressed the importance of investing in kids. Brian Givens, who rehabs houses, said kids could be trained for and given summer jobs to foster a work ethic. Derek Dieter asked Henry what the next step would be if the bill passed. Henry said help for the City's youth was needed now. Funding would provide that help. A favorable recommendation to Council followed after a motion by Derek, a second by Dr. David Varner and support echoed by all.