2008 APPROPRIATION BUDGET

PUBLIC HEARING

MINUTES – OCTOBER 25, 2007

The meeting was called to order by President Pleasant at 6:45 p.m.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Mr. Marshall, Ms. Sellers, Mr. Fogt, Mr. Pleasant, Mr. Reams, Mr. Gore EXCUSED: Mr. Burke

OTHERS PRESENT: Ryan Horns – Journal Tribune, Deborah Groat, Chris Schmenk

PUBLIC HEARING

Citizen Comments – No comments

Council Comments: Mr. Fogt commented on Page 1 of the Operating Budget. He feels the revenue numbers are too optimistic. He noted that $1.3M more is estimated next year than was expected this year. Mr. Morehart said that is inflated due to some expected grant money.

Mr. Fogt questioned the one additional employee to Stormwater Department (Page 134/136). He commented that every dollar spent out the Stormwater budget for personnel means less projects that get done. Mr. Green said that is an error. The verbiage was not removed from last year’s budget, but the dollars budgeted does not include an additional employee.

Mr. Fogt asked if the City is purchasing three police cars. Mr. Morehart said only two. Regarding LEADS capability, Mr. Fogt asked if the cars could be purchased already equipped? Ms. House said no. Mr. Fogt wondered if it wouldn’t be cheaper to install the equipment when the cruiser is new. Ms. House will check with the Police Chief.

Mr. Fogt asked about an item in the Sewer Replacement Improvement Fund, Pg. 96/97, the $300,000 for a semi-dump. He asked if that was a carryover from last year. Mr. Green said that is a new vehicle because of the additional waste that will be produced at the Water Reclamation Facility. He explained it’s a different type of process and City can do better hauling it out versus contracting it out, because of the type of end product at the new plant versus the type of end product at the existing plant. Mr. Fogt said you can buy two units for that amount of money. You don’t need a brand new truck. You are probably only going to drive it 400 miles a week. Doesn’t feel you can justify $300,000 to drive only 400 miles a week. He noted Scotts hires out most of their trucking.

Meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m.