2007-08-13 Budget Workshop Meetings of La Porte Ctiy Council

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City Council Budget Workshop Meetings — August 13-15 2007 - Page 7 Planning Director Wayne Sabo provided an overview of the Planning Department Budget. Concerns with weeds/brush mowing (private property and public property) were addressed. Interim Finance Director Michael Dolby was requested to provide Council with a history of mowing charges including billing and payments.. City to provide report on number of rescheduled court cases. Research and bring Council information on possible rate increase for mowing. Negotiate additional short term contract with mower to catch up on mowing. Councilmember Moser asked about purchase of Code books — staff has reviewed them at the request of the Board and is to review and correct at the meeting to be held on August 15, 2007. Councilmember Rigby advised staff could talk with Purchasing and Mr. Joerns if a temporary sub -contractor is needed to assist staff with mowing catch-up. Mayor Porter felt City should find out if legislation exists that lets a city take properties where tax payers have to maintain the property. If it doesn't exist, he felt legislation should be initiated to help cities eliminate repetitive "unmaintained" lots. Councilmember Malone directed staff to check mowing fees in other cities and provide information on possible rate increase. Moser asked about high number of resets occurring in code enforcement cases; has concerns. Ms. Wilmore advised staff is prepared to testify when cases come before the judge. City prosecutor decides resets. Moser expressed concerns on parking of truck tractors along both sides of N. Broadway right-of- way; dangerous and creates traffic problems. Since this deals with public right-of-way, Police Department (Chief Reff) will look into this matter. 8. Golf Course -5-20 — Golf Course Manager Alex Osmond provided an overview and answered Council's questions on August 14, 2007. Golf Course Manager Alex Osmond provided Council with an overview of the golf course budget. Concerns were noted about the loss of revenues with the Golf Course. 9. Other Miscellaneous — Section 7 Council took a break on August 14, 2007, from 7:34 p.m. until 7:50 p.m. with no discussion and no actions taken during the break. Human Resources Manager Robert Swanagan provided Council with an overview of the Insurance Fund. Council requested staff provide claims experience to date. MIS Manager Al Owens provided Council with an overview of the Technology Fund.