2012-12-10 Regular Meeting of La Porte City Council

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Another policy related issue comes about throughout the permitting process — when different inspectors come on the job throughout the process, it may make some items have to be re -done because one inspector finds something another inspector didn't find. It is a policy related issue as to whether the City wants one inspector assigned to a particular job for the entire job. If that's the case, then each inspector would need to be licensed in all disciplines, and expertly understand the workings of all areas, such as electrical, piping, plumbing, building, etc. It is a policy issue for the City to determine if it wishes to go that route. He stated the focus groups were very candid, and provided very interesting perspectives. With this in mind, they tried to determine the organizational culture of the department. They received positive and negative comments. In the area of communications, there is a disconnect from city staff to external customers to acquire updated information on the progress of permitting a job. There is no software access on the web that will allow customers to get an update, and they may have to call 3 and 4 times to be connected with the proper person. All departmental staff needs to be more communicative other external customers and those staff members affected on projects. Councilmember Zemanek requested clarification that necessary software is not available to provide answers to customers, and also questioned the cost of better software. Mr. Mueller responded those are issues; he could not provide cost on software due to not specializing in computers, but Mueller Management would be able to suggest work flow and process improvements for individuals working with new or the existing software. Councilmember Zemanek requested clarification on the difference of opinions of Councilmembers on economic development and the affect on the operation of the Planning Department. Mr. Mueller responded it was the opinion of the focus group that a better understanding of Council's economic development philosophy would be helpful to staff to ensure Council's direction is achieved. Mayor Rigby requested City Manager Alexander confirm the Naviline software is being utilized as intended. He stated he would. Councilmember Leonard commented he hopes staff has never felt they've been admonished based on Council not always being in agreement. Councilmember Leonard believes if staff has those feelings, they stem from Council sometimes asking tough questions and staff not always having answers. (d) Discussion or other action regarding amended budgets and projects for inclusion in the upcoming quarterly budget amendment — T. Leach Assistant City Manager Traci Leach presented a summary regarding amended budgets and projects for inclusion in the upcoming quarterly budget amendment. Councilmember Leonard suggested staff continue with the Lomax Arena Improvements. Mayor Rigby questioned if the La Porte Development Corporation Board had agreed to fund Project Nebula. City Secretary Patrice Fogarty responded yes. Councilmember Martin questioned what would be purchased with the $1,000,000.00 for Emergency Preparedness. City Manager Alexander responded back-up generation for Pump and Lift Stations. Assistant City Manager Traci Leach provided the following re -cap: The La Porte Development Corporation Board would be presented a request for additional funding for the Lomax Arena Improvements; staff would begin preliminary assessments for restoration of the First African American School; staff will incorporate the generator list into the budget; and then Council may wish to later discuss restoration efforts on the BATTLESHIP TEXAS. Page 7 of 9 December 10, 2012, City Council Meeting Minutes