2013-08-12 and 08-13 Regular Meeting, including Budget Workshop of La Porte City Council minutes

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Chief of Police Ken Adcox provided information regarding additional funding and options for the new animal shelter. Mayor Rigby asked Councilmember Moser if he feels the Northside Spraypark can be placed on hold for an additional year. Councilmember Moser responded the Northside Spraypark is in the Northside Comprehensive Plan, and the citizens are eager to have it in the community. Mayor Rigby asked Councilmember Zemanek if he would consider placing the Fairmont Pool Renovation and Spraypark on hold for an additional year. Councilmember Zemanek responded he will be fine placing the Fairmont Spraypark on hold if it is in the next budget for consideration. Mayor Rigby requested City Manager Corby Alexander to contact Councilmember Clausen to see if he is fine placing the Fairmont Pool Spraypark on hold for an additional year but with repairs to the basketball court and the pool. Mayor Rigby asked Councilmember Moser if he would consider placing the Northside Spraypark on hold for an additional year since there are eight years left for the Northside Comprehensive Plan. Councilmember Moser responded he can wait an additional year. Mayor Rigby commented he is not against the citizens in Districts 4 and 6 having the Sprayparks; but by placing the projects on hold an additional year, it will benefit the entire City. Councilmember Moser questioned if there was any funding available in the Hotel/Motel account to fund the Historic School House Renovation. City Manager Alexander responded staff can propose a budget amendment once a good figure is available in the Hotel/Motel account. Councilmember Martin suggested maybe there are historical grants available for the Historic School House Renovation. Councilmember Zemanek asked how much is available in the Hotel/Motel account. Finance Director Michael Dolby responded $800,000. City Manager Corby Alexander discussed options for the new animal shelter. Councilmember Zemanek commented that considering the condition of the existing facility, something needs to be done; and the City should move forward with construction. Mayor Rigby asked Council if there were any objections to constructing an animal shelter for up to an additional $500,000. There were no objections. City Manager Alexander presented the proposed 2014 Fiscal Year Budget for the Utility Capital Improvement and Drainage Improvement Funds. Public Works Director Dave Mick presented the proposed 2014 Fiscal Year Budget for the Street Maintenance Fund. Councilmember Martin questioned how the City accommodates wheel chair bound citizens when replacing streets they may reside on. Public Works Director Dave Mick responded for large projects, a public meeting is held, notification letters are mailed and plywood planks are provided to accommodate wheelchair access. Page 7 of 10 August 12-13, 2013 City Council Meeting Minutes