07-29-09 Personnel and Finance Committee Minutes

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Personnel and Finance Committee Meeting July 29, 2009 Page 7 City Controller Fanello stated that she forgot to invite the Fire Pension Secretary to today's meeting ,and suggested that that presentation be given when the Fire Department comes back to give their updated proposed 2010 budget. Council Member LaFountain thanked the Fire Administration for their presentation and stated that he looks forward to their updated information. Presentation on the Proposed 2010 Park Department Budget: Council Member Tom LaFountain then called for a presentation on the proposed 2010 Park Department budget. Joining the Committee at this time were Park Superintendent Phil St. Clair, Administrative Director Betsy Harriman, Fiscal Officer Bill Carleton, Zoo Director Terry DeRosa, Director of Recreation Susan O'Connor, other Park Department personnel who did not speak, and Director of Communications and Special Projects Mikki Dobski Shidler. Mr. St. Clair stated that his department will face significant challenges in light of HEA 1001. For example, in 2008 they received $8.5 million in property tax support; in 2009 $7.5 million and in 2010 it is projected that they will receive only $6.0 million, which reflects an overall reduction of 30%. In 2008, they had 121 full-time employees and are projected to have in 2010 88 full-time employees, reflecting a 28% decrease. He then highlighted a series of other significant reductions if the Council had not passed LOIT. In response to a question from Council Member White, Mr. St. Clair stated that the projected 2010 budget would be $ 6 million, plus the additional $900,000 which the Mayor has authorized be added back in. Even with those dollars, the Maintenance Division will be significantly cut. They will make their best efforts to keep facilities open. In response to a question from Council Member Rouse, Mr. St. Clair stated that in three years the Park Department will be doing basic things. Mayor Luecke stated that the Police and Fire Departments will have some capital dollars; but that some needs in the older fire stations will not be able to be addressed. $4 million is projected from EDIT, which he would be proposed be prioritized for capital across the city. Mr. St. Clair stated that those park and recreation programs which are funded by user fees were most vulnerable. Council President Dieter stated that the Youth PAL should coordinate with Youth Squads Coordinator which is currently vacant.