DRAFT

CITY OF ROCKY RIVER

FEBRUARY 21, 2006

The Committee-of-the-Whole was called to order by Mrs. Bobst, President of Council, at 8:00 p.m.

Council Members Present: Mr. Gollinger, Mr. Moran, Mr. Frost, Mr. Hurtuk,

Mrs. Bartolozzi, Mr. Hagan, Mrs. Bobst

Administration: Mayor Knoble, Mr. Linden, Mr. Koran

Law Director: Mr. Bemer

The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.

ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR'S REPORT:

Mr. Koran reported briefly on developments under way:

• •Representatives of the developers of Beachcliff Market Square were in town recently, and the project is going very well. At this point, they claim that it is 70% leased, but are still trying to fill the front restaurant. Talks are ongoing with local restaurants.
  
  
• •Grandview on River Oaks is also progressing. The infrastructure is going in and the foundation will soon be seen.
  
  
• •Cici's Pizza will open soon; their hiring sign is now up.
  
  

The first meeting for the fourth annual Business to Business expo has been held. The show continues to grow.

Planning is also under way for the second annual Taste of River. It has been decided that it will again be held on the same day as the Community Challenge Day with a donation to be made to that group from the proceeds. It is hoped that this event will be larger this year, and there are plans to include River businesses in conjunction with a "Buy River" campaign as well as restaurants.

Mr. Koran also has begun receiving responses from a survey he conducted of those residents who used the services of the Cleveland Restoration Society under the Heritage Home Loan Program. Approximately twenty questionnaires were sent; and so far, eight or nine responses have been received, with all but one positive.

Discussion: Mr. Hagan mentioned that the Design and Construction Board of Review had met this evening to review the Lowe's project, among others. The east side wall and landscaping have been approved. Signs and traffic issues remain to be discussed.

• •Mr. Koran commented that a week ago, Lowe's submitted a new package with revised plans, and they included a traffic study which shows projected traffic counts by lane for major thoroughfares and intersections. Work remains to be done by various boards: the Planning Commission is still undergoing preliminary review and the BZA has not yet dealt with parking issues. Letters from neighbors voicing their concerns continue to be received.
  
  

MAYOR'S REPORT:

The Mayor was out-of-town during the past week, so he had no actual report except for comments on an article which appeared in The Plain Dealer over the weekend. The article stated facts which were true, e.g. the City spent almost $20,000 to send newsletters to residents; this occurred during an election year. The article implied, however, that these two facts created an unethical situation. Mayor Knoble stated that the newsletter, inaugurated under the administration of Mayor Umerley and reviewed by Mr. Knoble at that time as President of Council, was and remains non-political. It is edited by his assistant, Mrs. Burt, and contains information of use and interest to residents, but not political rhetoric. The Mayor was especially incensed because he provided copies of past newsletters, recreation bulletins and Senior Center publications to the reporter. Reading those would make it clear that none of them is a political document.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Ordinance No. 12-06 and Ordinance No. 13-06: Mr. Hurtuk indicated that these two ordinances, the budget and salary ordinances, are part of the budget process and will be further discussed in the report of the Finance Committee.

Ordinance No. 14-06: This ordinance will authorize the execution of the HELP Program through a Link Deposit Program. Mr. Gollinger met this week with Mr. Koran and the Finance Director for reassurance that there would be no monetary impact upon the City. In this program, residents will be able to improve properties with loans at a lower interest rate. Five banks will participate. This program is broader than the program passed last week because it imposes fewer restrictions. The major requirement is creditworthiness. (Consent Agenda)

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:

Rental Conversion Program: Mayor Knoble briefly explained the proposed program. Discussions began when residents wondered why so many rental properties are vacant. In response, he and Mr. Koran have worked together to find a way to encourage buyers of single and double rental properties to live in them. They feel that many renters or first-time buyers would be happy to own their properties and care for them if they had help with the down payment. To that end, the proposed program would lend these buyers up to 5% of the purchase price, up to $10,000 for a property which costs $200,000. For every year the property remains owner-occupied, the amount of the loan would be reduced by 10%.

Mr. Koran added that when the Master Plan was updated, Cleveland State looked at the City's situation. It found that 29% of the City's dwelling units are rentals. Of that number, a significant number are one and two family units. While the appraised value of owner-occupied units has risen consistently, the value of these rental units has not risen commensurately and has been level for the last ten years or so. It is hoped that setting up this fund as an incentive to purchase rather than rent will eventually reduce the inventory of rental properties. Mr. Koran was surprised to find that there are 173 known single-family rental units in the City and 102 doubles. As yet, he has been unable to find other cities who have tried this, although Euclid has a $3000 per building subsidy. If approved by Council, Mr. Koran will proceed with the Law Director to prepare lien documents, contracts, etc. He anticipates that the Finance Director would maintain records and that the Building Department would make certain that the buildings remain owner-occupied.

Discussion: Mr. Gollinger asked if there would be out-of-pocket expenses.

• •Mr. Moran asked if renters would be encouraged to purchase buildings for which they hold leases, or whether owners would be targeted.
• •Mrs. Bobst asked if there are currently properties for sale.
• •Mr. Hagan asked if contracts would be transferable, or if shorter periods than ten years would qualify for any reduction of the loans.

In discussing possible answers and different scenarios for these and other questions, it was determined that more time and discussion would be necessary before Council can make a decision on the program.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Parks and Recreation Committee: Mrs. Bartolozzi reported that the Parks and Recreation Commission met last Wednesday to hear updates on improvements to the Don Umerley Civic Center and to discuss corporate memberships for the pool. More information will be forthcoming on revisions of pool fees.

Finance Committee: Mr. Hurtuk indicated that the first budget meeting was held last Thursday. He thanked Council members for attending and taking the lead in discussions of sections of the budget in which they have expertise. Mr. Hurtuk noted that it was a good process, but expressed surprise that some presenters were not aware that items they had requested had been deleted from the finished document. The Mayor acknowledged that that step had been omitted with some departments this year, and has discussed the situation with the Council President. It had nothing to do with the Finance Director. After the initial presentation to the Administration, the Mayor made cuts and gave the draft to the Finance Director to assemble.

Mr. Hurtuk added that despite a year of projected flat revenues, directors were not bashful in stating their needs. He considered this meeting a first effort, looking for direction from the Mayor as to whether he would like Council to ask departments to make further cuts in future meetings. He commented that he knows that costs are high and he always worries about having a "rainy day fund".

• •Mayor Knoble responded that the directors' requests are in response to residents' needs and desires. All directors have a "wish list" that will assist in the function of their departments. To further complicate matters, some police and fire equipment have a built-in obsolescence factor. Often an expiration date is prominently displayed on equipment such as bulletproof vests and turnout gear. This raises questions of liability and employee safety, and the Administration attempts to keep up with replacement of these items. The big cost is labor. The City's capital expenditures were light last year, and that fund can act as a "rainy day fund" as it will not be exhausted, even if all proposed projects are undertaken.

Mr. Hurtuk expressed his opinion that the City needs to explore alternative sources of revenue. Next Monday a second meeting of the Finance Committee will be held at which key components of revenue will be discussed. Also engineering, equipment and capital improvement will be discussed. Mr. Hurtuk will confer with Mr. Thomas to set the agenda. After this meeting, a decision will be made as to whether or not a third meeting will be needed. If so, it can be held before the Public Hearing which has been rescheduled for March 13 at 8:00 p.m. in the David J. Cook Council Chambers.

Mr. Hurtuk asked about the information which Mr. Koran had assembled showing property taxes which are projected for Astor Place. County figures show that when all units are sold, the increase in value will generate approximately $50,000 in property tax over that paid by Lesco during its last year. Mr. Thomas will add information on income taxes generated when available. Mr. Hurtuk noted that regardless of figures, revenues from property taxes over the past three years remains flat. He suggested the possibility that a shift in emphasis from residential to office might increase revenues.

• •Mr. Koran acknowledged that he has heard the same question over many years. He has been assured that amounts are registered on the tax duplicate immediately-residents are paying taxes.
  
  
• •The Mayor commented that at the same time as the increases in residential property are registered, there may be decreases in the re-evaluation of office buildings to offset it. Center Ridge Road is tired. He is hopeful that when Westgate is completed with its restaurants, parking and other amenities, there may be interest in redevelopment of these properties. It remains to be seen what incentives are necessary.
  
  
• •Mr. Koran indicated that there are four or five troubled buildings on Center Ridge. A meeting is needed to facilitate redevelopment.
  
  
• •Mayor Knoble commented that the Lake Road property across from Bradstreet's Landing would be a prime office location. He does not feel that the City will receive aid to help in remediation of the property, and that it is up to Council to reclaim the site.
  
  
• •Mr. Hurtuk again emphasized the need for alternate source of income.
  
  
• •Mr. Gollinger pointed out that a full 12 months from completion of construction would be necessary for the City to realize property taxes for Astor Place. The full impact will not be felt until the last unit is sold.
  
  
• •Mr. Frost asked about the low taxes listed for some Astor Place units. Mr. Koran thought they might be pre-sale figures assessed while construction is proceeding. He noted that some units are being offered for resale at higher prices.

NEW BUSINESS:

Ordinance No. 19-06: This ordinance authorizes the purchase of street striping paint. Mr. Linden commented that the price in this ordinance is lower than the cost under the State Purchasing Act. This ordinance is required because the cost is greater than $15,000. This housekeeping ordinance should be passed this week. (Consent Agenda)

Ordinance No. 20-06: Mr. Hagan again turned to Mr. Linden to explain this change order for the 2005 Paving Program. Mr. Linden noted that information from Mr. Mackay, the consulting engineer was attached to the ordinance. The additional costs to be covered by the change order were incurred during the paving program in order to complete the project as it should be done. Completing streets in the right way meant adding some curbs and full depth repairs where they were not anticipated. This has been discussed earlier in Council meetings. Mr. Linden noted that there will be a 10% holdback until all work is satisfactorily completed. (Consent Agenda with 10% holdback)

Ordinance No. 21-06: This late addition will appoint Mr. Gollinger to the S.A.F.E. Council of Governments. (Consent Agenda)

COMMUNICATIONS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Mr. Gollinger requested an Executive Session to discuss the purchase of property.

MOTION:

Moved by Mrs. Bobst, seconded by Mr. Hurtuk, that at the request of Mr. Gollinger, an Executive Session be held immediately following the meeting to consider the purchase of property for public purposes under Article X, Section 6, Subsection (2).

Vote: Gollinger - aye Moran - aye Frost - aye Hurtuk - aye

Bartolozzi - aye Hagan - aye Bobst - aye

7 ayes 0 nays PASSED

Mrs. Bobst announced that the Senior Center Volunteer Luncheon last Friday was very successful. She was surprised at the variety and number of hours seniors devoted to helping one another and the community. She also praised the staff for organizing and maximizing their service.

As there was no further business by members of Council, the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 p.m.

_____________________________ _____________________________

Pamela E. Bobst Misao Kurokawa

President of Council Clerk of Council

Please note: This is a draft copy of the minutes of the meeting of the Committee-of-the-Whole of February 21, 2006. These minutes may be amended or revised at the next Legislative Meeting.

DRAFT

CITY OF ROCKY RIVER

FEBRUARY 16, 2005

Finance Committee

The meeting of the Finance Committee was called to order by the Chairman, Mr. Hurtuk, at 8:30 a.m. in the David J. Cook Council Chambers.

Finance Committee Members Present: Mr. Hurtuk, Mrs. Bobst, Mr. Gollinger, Mr. Hagan

Council members present: Mrs. Bartolozzi, Mr. Moran

Administration: Mr. Thomas, Mr. Linden, Chief Flynn, Chief Wagner, Mr. Harrington,

Mr. Bemer, Mr. Patterson, Mrs. Calladine, Mr. Winterich, Mr. Reyes

Also present: Judge Fitzsimmons, Judge Gravens, Magistrate Valponi, Magistrate Serrat,

Ms. Comery

Mr. Hurtuk opened the meeting by acknowledging background given by the Mayor in past Council meetings, and indicating that today he would like to concentrate on major expenditures planned by each department. He noted that revenues are not up, but they are stable. Offices on Center Ridge Road, a key component to the City's revenue, are aging, and Mr. Hurtuk challenged Mr. Koran, the City's Economic and Community Development Director, to work with owners to maintain a high occupancy rate. He commented that although expenditures should be challenged, what is needed is alternative revenues. Over the next month, his committee, in reviewing the budget, will be mindful of the uncertainty of revenue such as the estate tax, which at some point may be eliminated.

Proceeding to a consideration of this year's expenditures for the Fire Division, Chief Flynn came forward. He noted that during the past year, the City had been awarded a $250,000 grant which helped in the purchase of a new fire pumper.

• •The Fire Division's major expenditures are in protective equipment and personnel. Needs this year are for replacement of airpacks, now available with upgraded technology, and turnout gear, now in its fourth year of use with a life expectancy of five years. He estimated the replacement cost at $40,000 for the turnout gear and $63,909 for the airpacks.

• •The other large expenditure foreseen by the Chief was for a new rescue squad vehicle. Because of an accident, one is now under major repair, and the City is functioning with one ambulance and a vehicle borrowed from Lakewood. Both City vehicles are aging, however, and the Chief requested consideration of a new one, either replacement or supplemental, within the next few years.
  
  
• •Mr. Thomas then took time to explain that these items would not be from the Fire Division operating budget, but from equipment purchases. He further reported that last year police and fire employees cashed in their comp time. A property tax levy is used to fund pension contributions for police and fire. The levy is not sufficient to pay the entire cost, and per a recommendation from the auditors, the levy is supplemented by funds taken from the General Fund.
  
  
• •Mr. Hagan further clarified pension contributions by stating that the Ohio Revised Code sets the percentage of what the City must contribute based on the total salary.
  
  

• •Mrs. Bobst pointed out that last year the Safety-Service Director compiled an inventory of City vehicles with purchases projected for 2005 to 2010, and an ambulance was listed for replacement consideration in 2007.
  
  
• •Other budget items briefly discussed included increases in local travel and education for increased continuing education and paramedic/training school in Bowling Green; a suspended hydrant water fee pending clarifications with Cleveland Water, technological advances in airpacks, and the central dispatch system which is slated to open March 2.
  
  
  
  

The Police Division was represented by Chief Wagner who, in response to Mr. Hagan who led the discussion, addressed some items from his "wish list".

• •A full-time traffic officer to be taken from present shifts and replaced at a later date. This would address the most frequent resident complaints of speeders.
  
  
• •A second canine. There would be no cost to the City until 2007 because the acquisition and training costs would be donated. The cost would come after 11 months of training for equipping a vehicle and maintaining the training.
  
  
• •A part-time dispatcher during peak hours. As the department becomes busier, a dispatcher for routine calls during busy times would free the lieutenant or sergeant who bears the main responsibility to do other tasks, but still be available for difficult decisions. As central dispatch becomes reality, the department will also handle 911 calls.
  
  
• •Another part-time CSO (community service officer) for Saturday and Sunday. The present CSO has helped tremendously in freeing officers from tasks that take them from patrol duties.
  
  
• •As for salary and other equipment, large increases were not requested, and the Chief noted that POPAS funds can be used for traffic which, in turn, generates funds from I-90 enforcement. Responding to Council queries, he noted that recently purchased motorcycle equipment has been received, and following training in March, officers should be ready to go when 50 degree temperatures are experienced in April.
  
  
• •Mr. Hagan noted that prisoner expenses are difficult to predict. The Chief agreed, adding that medical expenses are also the responsibility of the City and that most prisoners have some medical issues. Mrs. Bobst noted for Council members that POPAS figures are found under Tab 10 of the appropriations book.
  
  
  
  

Superintendent Jeff Harrington addressed the needs of the WWTP, including:

• Higher utility costs. The cost for this year's electricity was less because one of the screw pumps was not in service for a good part of the year.
  
  
• Professional services. Since the City no longer has an in-house engineer, much of the work must be outsourced. Qualified firms are now under consideration, as well as a plan to place an engineering firm on retainer v. a strictly hourly charge.
  
  
• Higher costs for equipment maintenance. These costs are unpredictable, but the plant will try some preventive maintenance to save breakdowns and higher expenses later. Replacement of major equipment through Issue 2 funding takes time, and thus, more maintenance.
  
  
• Rising costs for supplies. Costs are rising and the weather is unpredictable. More rain would mean more water to be processed, and more chemicals.
  
  
• Asked about the item for land lease, Mr. Harrington explained that the City owns the property, and all member cities pay part of the lease expense. According to the agreement, increases are scheduled soon. Also discussed was the EPA requirement to maintain $400,000 in an equipment replacement fund. It has been increased this year to address an existing loan. Mr. Thomas noted that this would go to the Capital Fund, used to pay for the screw pump replacement and other capital projects.
  
  
• Mr. Gollinger leading the discussion, asked about the significant increase in revenue and asked if it is based upon the flow measurement study. Mr. Harrington explained that revenue is based upon that year's expense budget and percentages are paid according to each member city's allocation of budget costs based upon the flow study. He noted that in the future, the study will be done at the same time of year, in the spring which should produce a more consistent result. Rocky River's share has remained fairly consistent, but Bay Village has experienced much more variation. Mr. Harrington cautioned Council members that the amount of I and I (inflow and infiltration) permitted by the EPA will be cut and the City's sewer program which decreases I & I is essential.
  
  
  
  

The Law Department was represented by Law Director Bemer, who indicated that in keeping with his aim for a greater presence at City Hall, he wished to hire a part-time secretary. Instead of the $5700 annual secretarial allowance appropriation of his predecessor for services in his downtown office, Mr. Bemer stated that he would prefer an assistant working 15 hours per week, for a total appropriation of $15,300. As yet, he is accepting applications and conducting interviews while awaiting Council action. Mr. Thomas noted that the figure is included in the proposed salary ordinance.

In discussing legal services, the Law Director asserted that he felt that the hiring of former Law Director Matty to continue as outside counsel in several pending cases constitutes multiple layers of attorneys, since other counsel is already involved. Further, Mr. Matty was paid a higher rate for his work for the City in labor negotiations.

Finally, citing rates of law directors in some other municipalities, Mr. Bemer requested an increase in the hourly rate now paid, from $85/hour to $100/hour. He also mentioned that he would like to have members of his law firm assist him in litigation, including a paralegal working at $65 per hour.

• •Mr. Hagan, taking the lead in the discussion, noted that in the ordinance hiring Mr. Matty which was passed in December, the former Law Director was requested to conduct negotiations with three unions. For services for attorneys involved in labor negotiations, Mr. Hagan has found that rates of $200 to $250/hour are the norm. Mr. Matty's experience in previous negotiations and his knowledge of the parties were the reasons to hire him as outside counsel. Mr. Hagan also indicated that salary rates are set before the election, noting that it will be up to Council to approve his request for a secretary. He asked if Mr. Bemer has had any indication that new cases are upcoming which would warrant extensive legal assistance from members of his firm. Mr. Bemer responded that as of now, only the Dominion East Ohio case, which he inherited, remains. For that case, he has attended briefings and conferred with Mr. Mackay.
  
  
• •Mr. Hurtuk commented that, in the light of the overall economy, all City departments are being challenged to eliminate any unnecessary expenditures. While he agrees with the goal, Mr. Hurtuk is concerned that implementing this percentage of increase will set a bad tone. However, he does not feel that Council should determine policy, and since the staff addition is supported by the Administration, he does not wish to register an objection. The salary increase, however, while it may be deserved, must be considered further.
  
  

Mr. Bemer requested that council give careful consideration to his request to allow his firm to assist him, particularly in paralegal services.

• •Mr. Hurtuk further noted that Ordinance No. 76-05 sets the stipend for legal services. He will discuss a new ordinance with the Finance Director. He said that although this is a small part of the budget, he feels challenged by the exponent increase which makes the finance job more difficult.
  
  
• •Mrs. Bartolozzi asked if the hiring of a secretary would save money. Mr. Bemer acknowledged that it would not, but said that it would make his work more efficient. It has been his intention, unless he has other commitments, to remain at City Hall every morning until 10:30 a.m. He has, however, found himself staying until noon.
• •Again, Mr. Hurtuk indicated that since the Mayor is supportive, he will not object.
  
  
• •Mrs. Bobst asked if the $100/hour rate would be subject to a cap. It was determined that it would, and that the services of Mr. Bemer's firm would also be included in the $93,000 cap set forth in Ordinance No. 76-05.
  
  
• •Mr. Gollinger asked if, with the potential of higher spending in the budget, time logs are kept. It was determined that billing will provide records of time spent on any particular case.
  
  

Finally, the Law Director noted that he wished to acknowledge the help he has received from both Mr. Hurtuk and Mr. Thomas in his early days at City Hall.

Mr. Patterson, Director of Recreation, then proceeded to discuss his budget requests. He began by stating that his highest costs are for employees, including overtime for snow removal and increases because of the on-time opening of the outdoor pool and its extended season. He noted, however, that pool revenues have increased by $90,000.

Reviewing expenses, Mr. Patterson noted that increases in utilities were caused partly by additional motors. Other unavoidable expenses are equipment maintenance, including the Zamboni, higher quantities of pool chemicals and concession supplies.

In land improvements, a park irrigation system will soon repay its cost in labor savings.

Turning to equipment purchases and capital improvements, the director noted that the Cox fund is scheduled to finance the construction of terraces at Rocky River Park. An additional contribution of $20,000 from the Parks and Recreation Foundation will enable the City to refurbish the playground. Improvements to the skate park at the high school will cost $10,000, and $150,000 has been budgeted for rink improvements. Also, a deck will be constructed at Elmwood Park cabin.

Mr. Patterson was pleased to report that revenues for his department were up 15% over 2004 including the pool, memberships at the Civic Center gym and rentals of the facility which were up significantly.

• •Mr. Gollinger asked about personnel at the concession stand. Mr. Patterson confirmed that it was manned by part-time personnel with adult supervision and student employees. A short discussion of profitability of concessions ensued with Mr. Patterson acknowledging that turning a profit is the goal. Higher profit items will be added to the menu.
  
  
• •Mr. Hurtuk explained that further discussions would be held at the Committee-of-the-Whole and directors would be notified of any changes in budgeted amounts. Mr. Linden indicated that in the process, each director was interviewed as to a "wish list" which would be fulfilled as funds permit.
• •Mr. Gollinger inquired about rental rates, and Mr. Patterson responded that this year, the Don Umerley Civic Center fees would be reviewed. The Administration's policy of being conservative in predicting revenues and more liberal in estimating expenses was once more stated.
  
  
  
  

The Senior Center budget was discussed by Director Carole Calladine, who commented that it was very similar to last year's budget. The Center is staffed by 8 full-time employees, 24 part-time employees, and approximately 150 volunteers. Important among her requests:

• •Electronic equipment - an HD analog TV, a new HD cinema projector for community movies, and a digital camera.
  
  
• •A new car to transport seniors, particularly to distant doctor's appointments. This would save wear and tear on the vans (particularly the expensive wheelchair van) and save on gas, too.
  
  
• •A freezer to help in the feeding of 90 to 95 seniors every day in the deli lunch program.
  
  
• •Repair of the roof which has been an ongoing concern for some time
  
  
• •Landscaping along the walkway installed for safety reasons last year. This would make the area more usable.
  
  

Mrs. Calladine noted that the deli lunch program has been separated from other budget items for a clearer picture of its finances. Also, the budget for senior trips has been increased because of the popularity of the program. However, all of the money which must be advanced to tour promoters is replaced when seniors pay for their trips.

Asked about some of these requests by Mr. Moran, leading the discussion, Mrs. Calladine responded that the projector is on the verge of breakdown; that the camera can save by allowing Center personnel to do more of their own work.

Mr. Gollinger commented that the roof should be a top priority before collateral damages occur.

Commissioner Winterich came forward to discuss appropriations of the Service Department. He distributed a folder with information on his department expenditures to Council members which answered many of their questions, noting that there were no extraordinary requests. He reminded them that even if collectibles were down, the footprint of the City must be covered, and therefore savings in time and personnel are difficult. Furthermore, landfill prices are increasing. His equipment must be ready 24/7, so equipment maintenance and repair are a priority.

In discussing the functions of his department, Mr. Winterich noted that street construction is an ongoing function. Trucks and crews are out working every day. Some of the repair is concrete work following Cleveland Water repair crews.

A large item is the sanitary sewer transfer, an amount charged by the WWTP which is not under the control of the Service Department.

Sewer remediation, another very important function, requires that crews return when corrections have been made to be certain that all necessary changes have been well done. The work is done according to a schedule compiled by the Administration: work has been done on Riverwood and Laurel, and dye-testing is now proceeding on Riverview. Cleanouts (T's) are being replaced, and a laptop tracks the work and records the locations of the T's so that should future construction obscure the location, it will always be known to the Service Department.

Parks were then discussed by Assistant Commissioner Reyes whose department is charged with cleaning and maintaining all City parks, improvising solution to problems, and acting as the City's forester. Mr. Reyes' department works with the Recreation Department to insure that conditions are suitable for all residents' recreational activities.

• •Mr. Gollinger commented that one of the main concerns communicated to him by residents is the early spring cleanup in the parks, particularly on the beaches. Recognizing that college students, used for this cleanup are not always available when needed, he wondered what, if anything, can be done to improve conditions. Mr. Reyes acknowledged that labor availability is his largest problem in this regard, but he is hopeful that weather conditions will allow him to borrow personnel from the Service Department. In past years, he has had to ready two parks with only five workers. One aid this year will be a new piece of equipment especially designed to clean debris from sand. Mr. Reyes is hopeful that this will be a big timesaver and will make a difference.
  
  
• •Mr. Linden explained that the workload carried by this department is heavy. Just cutting grass in eight parks is an enormous job, and one that is being very well done with limited resources.

Mr. Hurtuk noted that because of time constraints, discussions of other topics scheduled will be postponed, possibly to the Committee-of-the-Whole. He asked Mr. Thomas about the delay in the collection of the projected increase in property tax due to the new construction in the City, wondering when the City will see the increase. Mr. Thomas responded that the City collects about 98% of the taxes applied by the County, but that the amount fluctuates. Mr. Hurtuk will be looking for an overview on this year's activities.

Mr. Hurtuk then welcomed representatives of the Court: Administrative Judge Gravens, Judge Fitzsimmons, Magistrate Valponi, Magistrate Serrat, and Ms. Comery from the office of the Clerk of Courts. Ms. Valponi observed that the judges' budget is essentially the same as last year. A change in the firm handling the law library is being discussed, but has not, as yet, been made.

• •Mr. Hurtuk asked how the determination of salaries and increases are made. Judge Gravens responded that joint judicial meetings are held so that salaries will be consistent for employees of both judges. She noted that circumstances are noted such as the fact that the staff is very lean, employees are efficient and not very many employees work very hard in stressful situations

  . This has enabled the Court to function with fewer employees, even in a three-tier courthouse with a large number of cases.

  
  
  
• •Judge Fitzsimmons added that generous increase schedules were seen in the other court districts. A good deal of thought and time went into this Court's schedule.
  
  
• •Judge Gravens also noted that this Court has many experienced long-time employees which it is anxious to retain. Part-time employees mean overall savings but the core group has been together for a long time. Responding to Mr. Hurtuk's question of replacing workers at retirement, Judge Gravens concluded that they will have to search for staff with experience. Because of the economy, she feels they will be able to replace when necessary, but with valuable employees whose training is difficult, it is better to keep present employees happy so that they will stay longer.
  
  
• •Mr. Hurtuk asked about overtime. Judge Gravens said that Court employees are usually flexible, and arrangements can be worked out.
  
  
• •Mr. Gollinger asked about the decrease in part-time employment for judges last year. Judge Gravens responded that it was due to an open position for some time. She has, however, hired someone with experience. Ms. Valponi added that some part-time employees of the probation department are now being paid from probation fund.
  
  
• •Mrs. Bobst asked about the amount appropriated for mediation services. Judge Gravens answered that the Court is allowed to collect for a mediation program. The Court had such a program in 1995 for one year, and it is currently under discussion. Collection for the program has been done for some time, and now discussions are being held on its implementation. Funds for any program established would be self-generating.
  
  
• •Mr. Gollinger asked about part-time security personnel and how their raises were calculated. Judge Fitzsimmons indicated that they had conferred with Mr. Gareau's office because some employees work in both areas of the Court building. She commented that they were fortunate to have the funds to keep salaries competitive across the board. She also noted that the Court is ahead in the fund that pays for the Court building.
  
  
• •Asked about the new prosecutor, Judge Gravens commented that he has been most cooperative so far.
  
  
• •Mr. Hurtuk then turned to residency requirements and asked the judges how they felt about the development of a nepotism policy as requested by Mayor Sutherland. They responded that it is discussed in the Ohio Ethics Rules and that a policy can be developed by examining issues which would generate a lot of good ideas. Mrs. Bobst asked if the Court Employee Manual has a nepotism policy. The response is that it does. The Court used the Rocky River Employee Manual as a starting point. They found residency requirements difficult.
  
  
• •Court income depends largely upon police departments. Departmental programs such as POPAS or STOP have been very good sources of revenue. Bay Village is considering such a program, even though it does not have a freeway.
  
  
• •Mr. Hagan asked about the collection agency which helps to collect fines. Ms. Comery of the Clerk's office said that it has been very successful, and they have collected many fines from out-of-state, an area where violators often ignore citations. She finds it interesting that a credit threat is the most efficient way to collect fines

There was no further discussion from Council, and the meeting was adjourned at 11:53 a.m.

_______________________________ _______________________________

Brian A. Hurtuk, Chairman Misao Kurokawa

Finance Committee Clerk of Council

Please note: This is a draft copy of the minutes of the meeting of the Finance Committee of February 16, 2006. These minutes may be amended or revised at the next Legislative Meeting or the next meeting of the Finance Committee.