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Maumee City Council
March 5, 2007, March 8, and March 19, 2007
Minutes

Monday, March 5, 2007

The Council of the City of Maumee, Ohio, met on the above date and time with the following members present: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Coyle, Pauken and Zimmerman (7).
Mayor Wagener presiding.

Mr. CARR moved to suspend reading the minutes of the February 19, 2007 meeting and approve the Minutes Journal. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

The Mayor presented a donation of $2,453.28 to the Maumee Senior Center, representing profits from the 2006 Holiday Hustle 5K Run. Stefanie Woolford, Executive Director, accepted the donation and thanked the City for its support.

A letter from the Municipal Planning Commission recommending approval of an amendment to Chapter 1135 - Signs, to establish sign regulations for retail uses within the Fallen Timbers Overlay district was read. He stated that the Municipal Planning Commission, at their February 26, 2007 meeting, made its recommendation to approve new signage regulations, drafted February 14, 2007, adding 1135.22, Fallen Timbers Overlay Retail Signs General Provisions; 1135.23, Signs Prohibited; 1135.24, Wall Signs; 1135.25, Entrance Identification Signs; and 1135.26, Projecting Signs.
Mrs. BARLOS moved to refer the matter of amending Chapter 1135 to provide regulations for retail uses within the Fallen Timbers Overlay district to the Land Use, Planning, and Zoning Committee. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A letter from the Finance Director requesting approval of water rate increases was read. He stated that on February 16, 2007, Toledo City Council implemented water rate increases of 4.5% each year over the next four years. He said that, because Toledo is Maumee's supplier of treated water, these increases directly affect the cost of operation of the City's Water Division. He requested legislation to amend the Schedule of Rates and Fees increasing water rates by 4.5% effective April 1, 2007, and January 1 of 2008, 2009, and 2010.
Mr. ZIMMERMAN moved to refer the matter of an amendment to the Schedule of Rates and Fees increasing water rates by 4.5% to the Finance Committee. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A letter from the Chief of Police requesting authorization of Safety City teacher contracts was read. He recommended approval of contracts with Brittany Patterson in an amount not to exceed $2,700 as a teacher-coordinator and with Shannon Blaesing in an amount not to exceed $1,976 as a teacher for the 2007 Safety City Program. He stated that the dates for the 2007 Safety City Program will be June 18 through June 29 and July 9 through July 20, 2007, and that cost of the two contracts is the same as in 2006.
Mr. BRAINARD moved the necessary legislation be prepared authorizing Safety City teacher contracts at a total cost of $4,676 for the 2007 Safety City Program. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A letter from the Fire Chief requesting authorization for purchase of furniture for the Fire Station was read. He stated the architect proposed the furniture, most of which is available through the state's Cooperative Purchasing Program. He requested authorization of a contract with American Interiors, Toledo, Ohio, in an amount not to exceed $119,885.87, employing the State Term pricing, and with La-Z-Boy Furniture, Toledo, Ohio, at a price not to exceed $8,392. He stated this brings the total price for furniture to $128,277.87, which is $31,722.13 below what was identified in the project budget.
Mr. COYLE moved the necessary legislation be prepared authorizing the purchase of furniture for the Fire Station from American Interiors in an amount not to exceed $119,885.87 and from La-Z-Boy Furniture in an amount not to exceed $8,392. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

The annual report of the Police Division was presented. Mr. Buehrer requested the recap of citations by type and street be included in future reports.
Mr. CARR moved to the place the report on file. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A letter from the Chief Building Official regarding regulations for parking of large vehicles in the right-of-way was read. He stated the Division of Building and Zoning Inspection continues to receive complaints due to parking of commercial vehicles in residentially zoned neighborhoods. He also stated that operating a commercial business enterprise within a residentially zoned district is permitted providing there is not a change to exterior appearance of the building or premise or other visible evidence of the conduct of such home business. He recommended a revision to the Parking Regulations, Section 351.22, be forwarded to the Safety Committee for review.
Mr. BRAINARD moved to refer the matter of amending Section 351.22 concerning parking of large vehicles in the right-of-way, to the Safety Committee. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A letter from the Mayor regarding publishing the City's newsletter was read.
Mr. PAUKEN moved to refer the matter of publishing the City's newsletter to the Public Information Committee for review and discussion of possible improvements. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A letter from the Administrator requesting authorization of a subsidized spay/neuter service to Maumee residents was read. He stated that the City was approached by Humane Ohio regarding control of the number of unwanted cats and dogs within the community. He stated a proposal was submitted outlining a request to fund subsidized surgeries at a cost of $2,500.
Mr. CARR moved to allow Mrs. Barlos to abstain due to a conflict of interest. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried. Mr. CARR moved to refer the matter of a subsidized spay/neuter service through Humane Ohio to the Safety Committee. Roll call: Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Coyle and Pauken (5) voting yea; Zimmerman (1) voting nay; and Barlos (1) abstaining; the Chair declared the motion carried by a 5-1 vote.

A letter from the Administrator regarding a proposal for financial consulting was read. He stated that in order to respond to an ever-changing operating environment, the City should undertake a review of its financial position and fiscal policies. He stated he has requested and received a proposal from Schonhardt and Associates to assist in a review and exploration of options relative to the City's financial matters and he requested that this matter be referred to the Finance Committee for further review.
Mr. CARR moved to refer the matter of hiring a consulting service for a financial review to the Finance Committee. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A letter from the Police Chief requesting authorization of a contract for expanded planning/scheduling software module was read. He stated that the module would help schedule meetings and estimate regular and overtime costs enabling the division to determine the most cost effective time to schedule meetings. He stated the price for this software enhancement is $1,250.
Mr. BUEHRER moved the necessary legislation be prepared authorizing the Mayor and Clerk to enter into an agreement with RightStuff Software in the amount of $1,250 for a meeting estimation feature. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

Notice from the Ohio Division of Liquor Control regarding an application for transfer of ownership for permits at 501 West Dussel Drive was read.
Mr. PAUKEN moved to place the application on file. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

Mr. Carr reported the Committee of the Whole met just before tonight's meeting and discussed the proposal for financial services, a proposal by Mr. Brainard to hold a special Committee of the Whole to interview consulting firms that specialize in human resources, and items on the agenda.

Mr. Brainard read the following report from the Personnel Committee:

                                                                         Personnel Committee
        The Personnel Committee of Council met on February 15, 2007. Present at the meeting were Linda Wilker, Susan Noble, Dave Hazard, Joe Camp and Larry Gamble. Todd Zimmerman, Brent Buehrer and Doug Brainard of Council were also present.
        The first order of business was to receive an update from Mrs. Wilker pertaining a Human Resource consultant. She provided the committee with several handouts of three companies that she and Mrs. Noble had an opportunity to look at. She indicated that they were pleased with the services that any of the companies could provide. The thought on this matter was that perhaps we should schedule a meeting with the entire Council and provide everyone the opportunity to ask questions and make sure that the City is getting the best type of services available. Mrs. Wilker indicated that she would look into setting up meetings with the companies where they would make a presentation and have time to answer questions from members of council.
        The next order of business was supervisory training within the Service Department. Mr. Gamble indicated that he has had discussions with Mrs. Wilker and has had the opportunity to review services from some of the recommended consultants and stated that they did, in fact, offer exactly the type of training he was looking for. Again, this should be kept in mind when reviewing the selected companies that will come before Council.
        The next order of business had to do with the Human Resource Division falling under the City Administrators' command. Mr. Jezak had to attend another meeting on this after, but did provide a draft of several scenarios that he was thinking could work for the H.R. Division. The draft will be reviewed and discussed at a future meeting.
        The next order of business was pertaining to the secretarial position within the Safety/Administrator office. According to what was said, everything was working well and that there may not be a need to fill this position immediately.
        The meeting adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Doug Brainard, Chairman
Jenny Barlos, Member
Brent Buehrer, Member

Mr. Brainard read the following report from the Parks & Recreation Committee:

                                                                         Parks & Recreation Committee
        The Parks & Recreation Committee met on February 15, 2007. Present at the meeting were Joe Camp, Larry Gamble, Dave Hazard of Administration, and Brent Buehrer, Doug Brainard and Todd Zimmerman of City Council.
        The first order of business was to receive an update on the weather alert system for Rolf Park. A quote had been obtained and Mr. Camp and Mr. Gamble took a careful look at the proposal. After much discussion over the matter, it was determined that at this time perhaps an alternative means could be tried. For example, an all-weather band radio, a television, or even a computer. In any event, it was decided to look into an alternative means for weather notification/ alert at this time.
        The next order of business was the County's request to have volunteers from the Service Department to assist in the set-up and teardown of Children's Wonderland. Mr. Gamble indicated that it is getting harder to get someone to volunteer to work on this project. When the City first agreed to assist in the Wonderland project, the County approached the City asking for help. At that time, the County was exercising extreme caution in expenditures. The City agreed to help in order that Wonderland would be preserved at the Recreation Center. Since that time, the exhibit has gone on and there has been reported a profit. Unfortunately, there was no agreement to split any profits with the City even through assistance was being provided to set up. Usually the request for assistance comes late in the year and one of the concerns is that there isn't enough time to get the job done. It was suggested that Mr. Gamble notify the County now about our intention of not providing any labor assistance this year.
        The last order of business was to discuss the possibility of a Youth Center. Some residents recently had been inquiring about several sites that may come available in the very near future. There were some discussions of youth centers in other areas failing recently. There was mention of a survey that had been done several years ago but that most of those surveyed have graduated now and would no longer be involved in a youth center. It was suggested that perhaps a new survey would provide the information necessary to proceed with a youth center or not to. It was apparent that the majority of the committee did not support this idea and would not support the matter with Council. Additional discussion centered on financing such a project. It was suggested that perhaps a partnership with the schools, private business and the City could support a center. Again, majority of the committee did not agree and felt at this time the idea should be mute. No further discussions took place and the Parks & Recreation Committee meeting concluded.
Respectfully submitted,
Doug Brainard, Chairman
Brent Buehrer, Member
Todd Zimmerman, M ember

Mr. Carr read the following report from the Safety Committee meeting:
                                              Safety Committee Report February 26, 2007 - 6:00 pm
        The Safety Committee of Council met on the above date and time with the following individuals in attendance: Chairman Rich Carr, committee members Jenny Barlos and Doug Brainard, and John Jezak, Robert Zink, and Linda Wilker from the administration.
        The committee met to review Police Division staffing in three specific areas - sergeants, patrol officers, and school crossing guards - in anticipation of upcoming vacancies. Chief Zink is expecting a sergeant's retirement by the end of March and noted that replacing the officer would keep the staffing for that position at full, authorized strength. Chief Zink also outlined the process for determining a replacement which included administering a Civil Service exam, putting the 6 top-scoring candidates through an assessment center, and interviewing the top 3 overall candidates. Although a cost estimate was not provided for the Civil Service exam, the cost of the assessment center was estimated at $4,600. The committee voted unanimously to recommend initiating the process to promote a current patrol officer to the sergeant's position.
        The committee then discussed filling two patrol officer vacancies created by Patrolman Randall's retirement in January and the anticipated promotion of a patrol officer to fill the sergeant's upcoming vacancy. With the Shops at Fallen Timbers grand opening in the fall, Chief Zink requested the committee's consideration to maintain full-authorized strength on the department. Based upon his conversations with local officials, the Town Center at Levis Commons has not generated a significant number of calls for service and thus, Chief Zink is not requesting additional personnel at this time. The committee voted unanimously to recommend filling the two patrol officer vacancies.
        Finally, the committee discussed reducing the hours for school crossing guards by eliminating duty during school lunch hours. A study by the Police Division revealed that there is no student activity during that time and eliminating the duty would generate a cost savings for the Division. Chief Zink suggested implementing the new school crossing guard schedule in the fall to coincide with the new school year. The committee voted unanimously to recommend reducing school crossing guard hours as recommended at the beginning of the 2007-2008 school year.
Respectfully submitted,
Richard Carr, Chairman
Jenny Barlos, Member
Doug Brainard, Member

Mr. CARR moved to recommend approval of filling a sergeant position, and to approve the expenditure of $4,600 to administer an assessment center to evaluate candidates. Mr. Coyle expressed concern for proceeding prior to the completion of the 2007 operating budget. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.
Mr. CARR moved to recommend the filling of two patrol officer vacancies. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.
Mr. CARR moved to recommend reducing the school crossing guard hours as recommended at the beginning of the 2007-08 school year. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

Mr. Hazard requested that the matter of amending the Schedule of Rates and Fees be referred to the Finance Committee.

Mr. ZIMMERMAN moved to refer the matter of an amendment to the Schedule of Rates and Fees to the Finance Committee. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

Legislation was considered at this time.

ORDINANCE NO. 35 - 2007 AUTHORIZING CONTRACT RELATIVE TO RENDERING TEACHING AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES IN THE CITY OF MAUMEE, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mr. COYLE moved the ordinance be passed as an emergency measure. Roll call: Zimmerman, Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Coyle and Pauken (7) voting yea; nays, none.
Mr. COYLE moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Zimmerman, Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Coyle and Pauken (7) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

ORDINANCE NO. 36 - 2007 AUTHORIZING CONTRACT RELATIVE TO RENDERING TEACHING SERVICES IN THE CITY OF MAUMEE, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mr. BRAINARD moved the ordinance be passed as an emergency measure. Roll call: Zimmerman, Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Coyle and Pauken (7) voting yea; nays, none.
Mr. BRAINARD moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Zimmerman, Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Coyle and Pauken (7) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

ORDINANCE NO. 37 - 2007 AUTHORIZING PURCHASE OF FURNISHINGS FROM AMERICAN INTERIORS FOR NEW FIRE STATION, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mrs. BARLOS moved the ordinance be passed as an emergency measure. Roll call: Zimmerman, Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Coyle and Pauken (7) voting yea; nays, none.
Mrs. BARLOS moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Zimmerman, Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Coyle and Pauken (7) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

ORDINANCE NO. 38 - 2007 AUTHORIZING PURCHASE OF FURNISHINGS FROM LA-Z-BOY FOR THE NEW FIRE STATION, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mr. CARR moved the ordinance be passed as an emergency measure. Roll call: Zimmerman, Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Coyle and Pauken (7) voting yea; nays, none.
Mr. CARR moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Zimmerman, Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Coyle and Pauken (7) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

ORDINANCE NO. 39 - 2007 AUTHORIZING CONTRACT WITH RIGHT STUFF SOFTWARE CORPORATION RELATIVE TO ENHANCEMENT TO SCHEDULING SOFTWARE FOR THE CITY OF MAUMEE, OHIO, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mr. PAUKEN moved the ordinance be passed as an emergency measure. Roll call: Zimmerman, Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Coyle and Pauken (7) voting yea; nays, none.
Mr. PAUKEN moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Zimmerman, Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Coyle and Pauken (7) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

ORDINANCE NO. 40 - 2007 APPROPRIATING AND ADVANCING FUNDS FOR VARIOUS PURPOSES.

The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mr. ZIMMERMAN moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Zimmerman, Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Coyle and Pauken (7) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

Mr. PAUKEN moved to adjourn to executive session to discuss purchase and sale of real estate. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

When Council returned to regular session, Mr. PAUKEN moved to adjourn until 7:30 p.m., Monday, March 19, 2007. Motion carried v.v

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6:00 P.M. Thursday, March 8, 2007 - Special Meeting

The Council of the City of Maumee, Ohio, met in special session in Council Chambers at the above time and date with the following members present: Barlos, Brainard, Carr, Coyle, Pauken and Zimmerman (6); Buehrer (1) absent.
Acting Mayor Carr presiding.

A letter from the Service Director requesting the bidding requirements be waived and a contract be awarded to perform repair work on a sinkhole at the intersection of Key Street and River Road was read.

The Service Director stated that the intersection and sidewalk area had been barricaded on March 8th due to impending weather conditions and further deterioration. The surrounding structures, catch basin, regulator and regulator chamber appear secure and neighboring residents will have access to their driveways, away from the affected area.
Mr. PAUKEN moved to declare a real and present emergency, waive bidding requirements, and authorize a contract with Anderzack-Pitzen to perform repair work at the intersection of Key Street and River Road on a time and material basis in an amount not to exceed $100,000 and for the necessary legislation to be prepared. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried

Legislation was considered at this time.

ORDINANCE NO. 41 - 2007 DECLARING A REAL AND PRESENT EMERGENCY TO EXIST AT THE INTERSECTION OF KEY STREET AND RIVER ROAD, AUTHORIZING AGREEMENT WITH ANDERZAK PITZEN CONSTRUCTION, INC., FOR EMERGENCY REPAIRS AT THE INTERSECTION OF KEY STREET AND RIVER ROAD, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mrs. BARLOS moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Carr, Coyle, Pauken and Zimmerman (6) voting yea; nays none; Buehrer (1) absent. So the Ordinance was passed by a 6-0 vote.

ORDINANCE NO. 42 - 2007 APPROPRIATING AND TRANSFERRING FUNDS FOR VARIOUS PURPOSES. The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mr. BRAINARD moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Carr, Coyle, Pauken and Zimmerman (6) voting yea; nays none; Buehrer (1) absent. So the Ordinance was passed by a 6-0 vote.

Mr. ZIMMERMAN moved to adjourn until 7:30 p.m., Monday, March 19, 2007. Motion carried v.v.

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7:30 P.M. Monday, March 19, 2007

The Council of the City of Maumee, Ohio, met on the above date and time with the following members present: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman (6); Coyle (1) absent.
Mayor Wagener presiding.

Mr. CARR moved to suspend reading the minutes of the March 5, 2007, regular meeting and March 8, 2007, special meeting and approve the Minutes Journal. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A letter from the Mayor appointing Dale J. Seymour, 1750 Indian Wood Circle, and Cynthia B. Smith, Hollister Street, to the St. Luke's Hospital Board of Trustees, to three-year terms expiring on March 1, 2010, was read.
Mr. CARR moved to confirm the appointment of Dale J. Seymour to the St. Luke's Hospital Board of Trustees to a three-year term expiring on March 1, 2010. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.
Mr. CARR moved to allow Mr. Buehrer to abstain due to a conflict of interest. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.
Mr. CARR moved to confirm the appointment of Cynthia B. Smith to the St. Luke's Hospital Board of Trustees to a three-year term expiring on March 1, 2010. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman (5) voting yea; Buehrer (1) abstaining, the Chair declared the motion carried by a 5-0 vote.

A letter from the Mayor accepting the retirement of Sgt. Gayle Lohrbach, effective March 30, 2007, was read.
Mr. BRAINARD moved to confirm acceptance of the retirement of Sgt. Gayle Lohrbach, effective March 30, 2007, as requested. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A letter from the Director of Public Service requesting authorization of an easement for the construction of the public infrastructure for the Shops at Fallen Timbers was read. He stated that Isaac Land Investments, Ltd., has provided a utility easement along the northwest side of the intersection of Fallen Timbers Lane and Russell Road. He stated this easement is needed for the construction of the public infrastructure for the Shops at Fallen Timbers.
Mrs. BARLOS moved the necessary legislation be prepared accepting a utility easement along the northwest side of the intersection of Fallen Timbers Lane and Russell Road for the construction of the public infrastructure. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A letter from the Director of Public Service requesting approval of a contract change order with the Shelley Co. in the amount of $19,090 for the purchase of traffic control equipment for the Russell Road and Fallen Timbers Lane improvements was read. He stated that the bid specifications included as an alternate certain traffic control video detection equipment and signal controllers that are compatible with the units that are currently being used within the City. He said there was some confusion among the bidders as to how the bids were to be presented for this alternate and no alternates were recommended with the contract award. He stated that the Shelley Co. was asked to submit a proposal for this equipment, as well as agreeing to forego the normal prime contractor markup for this change. He requested approval of a contract change in the amount of $19,090 for this equipment and if approved, the contract amount will be adjusted to $4,911,677.27.
Mr. BUEHRER moved the necessary legislation be prepared authorizing a change order with the Shelley Co. in the amount of $19,090 for traffic control equipment. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A letter from the Fire Chief requesting approval of a change order with The Spieker Company in an amount not to exceed $14,770 for reconstruction of a cupola for the new Fire Station was read. He stated that during the bidding phase of the Fire Station, an alternative bid was taken for the restoration of the cupola/bell tower. After review of the bids it was determined that none of the general contractors looked at cupola condition and although Spieker Company submitted a site unseen bid in the amount of $30,000, which was not accepted. He reported that a detailed quote was received from The Spieker Company for the restoration and installation of the cupola in the amount of $14,770.
Mr. CARR moved to refer the matter to the Finance Committee. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A letter from the Administrator requesting authorization to enter into an agreement with Pyrotechnico, New Castle, PA, in the amount of $14,850, for the City's portion of the 2007 Fireworks Display scheduled July 3, 2007, was read. He stated that this year the fireworks display would cost $27,000, which is $405 less than last year. He added that Maumee's share (55%) in 2007 will be $14,850 with the remaining $12,150 paid by Perrysburg (45%).
Mrs. BARLOS moved the necessary legislation be prepared to authorize an agreement with Pyrotechnico, New Castle, PA, in an amount not to exceed $14,850 for the City's portion of the 2007 fireworks display. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A tabulation of nine bids received by the Commissioner of Public Service for the Rolf Park Walkway, Phase 1 project utilizing the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG FY06) program was read. He stated that he recommends authorizing a contract with Buckeye Asphalt Paving Company, in the amount not to exceed $36,795.65.
Mr. PAUKEN moved the bid of Buckeye Asphalt Paving Company be declared the lowest and best and the necessary legislation be prepared to authorize a contract with Buckeye Asphalt Paving Company in the amount of $36,795.65 for the Rolf Park Walkway, Phase 1 project, utilizing the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG FY06). Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

A letter from the Fire Chief requesting authorization to enter into a service agreement with Pneu-Matic Engineering, Inc., Whitehouse, Ohio, for bi-annual maintenance of the air compressor and air sample testing in the fire station in an amount not to exceed $957.84 for one year to April 13, 2008 was read. He stated that this price is the same as last year.
Mr. ZIMMERMAN moved the necessary legislation be prepared to authorize a service agreement with Pneu-Matic Engineering, Inc., in the amount of $957.84 for bi-annual maintenance and testing of the air compressor for a one-year period. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

Mr. Carr reported the Committee of the Whole met just before tonight's meeting and discussed items on the agenda. He stated that the Committee of the Whole adjourned to Executive Session to discuss matters of collective bargaining.

Mr. Zimmerman read the following report from the Finance Committee:

                                                                                                FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT

        On February 12th and 21st and March 1st, 6th, 7th and 12th, the Finance Committee met to discuss the 2007 operating budget. Present were Jenny Barlos, Doug Brainard, Todd Zimmerman and Dave Hazard, Linda Wilker and Amber Rathburn from the Finance Department. At various appropriate times, also present were other members of the administration including, Larry Gamble, Joe Camp, John Jezak, Chief Zink, Chief Monto, Bruce Wholf, John Arnsby, Sheila McAdams and other persons.
        It was noted that prior to the start of formal Finance Committee meetings on the budget, meetings with an extensive group of administration management, Mr. Zimmerman and Council President Carr were held to discuss past budgets, the City's financial position and prospective budget issues. These meetings dated as far back as May of 2006. Meetings were also held between the Finance Department and other departments to assist them in further understanding the budget and making the budgeted numbers more accurately reflect actual expected expenditures. Based upon the initial meetings it was explained that the City appeared to be projecting a deficit in its operating budget. As a result, all departments were asked to review their budgets and significant cuts were made in the budgets prior to even coming to Finance Committee for formal review.
        During the first three Finance Committee meetings, a very extensive focus was placed by the committee on making certain that the overall projected revenue and expenditure numbers were accurate. While capital budget numbers were not approved through the process of the meetings, proposed capital requests were considered in looking at how both budgets will ultimately impact the general fund at the end of the 2007 fiscal year in order to better plan. The committee also questioned the extent that the Ford closing would impact the projected revenues.
        During the budgeting process, it was also explained in more detail that the projected deficit is in the operating budget or "Fund A" versus capital expenditure driven which comes from "Fund B". Fund B monies, are not legally permitted to be used for non-capital expenditures and therefore the operating budget must come from Fund A. Thus the committee made sure that it was not the recent building projects that were creating the projected deficits in the operating budget and Fund A. In better understanding the driving force of the operating budget the Finance Department showed that approximately sixty percent of the operating budget was for personnel costs. With the labor contracts currently in place, it is projected that the personnel costs will increase approximately another $600,000 in 2008.
        During the meeting with individual departments, discussion was had in detail regarding what cuts had been made prior to meeting with the Finance Committee. The various directors and chiefs were also made aware of the projected deficits for the end of fiscal 2007 even with the cuts that had been made. A detailed review of requested line item budgets was then done for all departments. After review and questions, several budgeted numbers were further cut and/or adjusted to reduce costs and more accurately reflect what the anticipated actual cost would be.
        As a result of the meetings, the finance committee has reached a unanimous recommendation that the operating expenditures attached hereto be passed as the 2007 operating budget.
        Throughout the Finance Committee meetings a big emphasis was placed on looking at additional ways to create revenues and/or reduce costs, while trying to minimize impact on city services and avoid more drastic cuts and potential lay offs. As a result, the committee also has several other unanimous recommendations as follows:
        The administration should:
        1. Plan to do internal repair to the water tower by using city personnel versus contracting this work out;
        2. Look into the possibility of whether recycling costs can be shifted to the county;
        3. Begin looking at actual costs pertaining to dispatch costs related to surrounding communities;
        4. Investigate the possibility of seeking bids for vehicles collectively and whether a savings could be recognized;
        5. Investigate possible savings on fuel by bidding or purchasing substantial amounts from a particular supplier;
        6. Investigate possible savings on cleaning services both at the administration building and/or the senior center;
        7. Look at potential savings in leasing equipment versus purchases in the future.
        The committee also makes the following unanimous recommendations:
        A. Capital expenditures that are normally funded from Fund A to the extent legally permissible should be funded from Fund B during 2007;
        B. To the extent permissible, tax refunds and tax sharing should be paid out of the respective Funds where these amounts of money are originally placed when taken in as revenues. To the extent that ordinances or the charter do not permit this to occur, the topic is sent to the finance committee to look into proposed changes to the ordinances and/or rules to permit such refunds/payments;
        C. All replacement or hirings of employees and/or staff must go through the finance committee prior to beginning to replace and/or hire additional persons. This particular requirement shall not apply to part time summer help (i.e. authorized lifeguards, summer recreation employees and summer service employees) nor shall it apply to the hiring of volunteer firefighter positions;
        D. The issue of special event staffing and summer concert staffing and/or contributions is sent to the Finance Committee.
        Finally, even with the extensive reductions and cuts made in this budget, the current net effect that the operating budget will have on the projected general fund is a $900,000 to $1,000,000 deficit. The committee is cognizant of this fact and while willing to recommend the budget in the short term (i.e. 2007), makes clear that it will not continue to recommend projected deficit budgets in the long term. Thus, the Finance Committee made clear in the meetings and wishes to be clear that if the attached cuts and recommendations are not able to control the projected shortfall, additional avenues including reducing personnel costs will need to be addressed in future budgeting years.
Respectfully submitted,
Todd Zimmerman, Chairman
Jenny Barlos, Member
Doug Brainard, Member

Mr. ZIMMERMAN moved that the necessary legislation be prepared implementing the recommendations of the Finance Committee. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

Mr. ZIMMERMAN moved the matter of a water rate increase be removed from the Finance and Economic Development Committee. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.
Mr. Zimmerman stated the proposal to increase water rates should be addressed tonight if increases are to be effective beginning April 1, 2007.
Mr. ZIMMERMAN moved the necessary legislation be prepared to authorize amendment of the schedule of rates and fees to increase the water rates by 4.5% effective April 1, 2007, and again to increase the water rates by 4.5% each year effective January 1, 2008, January 1, 2009, and January 1, 2010. Roll call: All members present voting yea, the Chair declared the motion carried.

Legislation was considered at this time.

ORDINANCE NO. 43 - 2007 ACCEPTING UTILITY EASEMENT FROM ISAAC LAND INVESTMENTS, LTD, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mr. BRAINARD moved the ordinance be passed as an emergency measure. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none.
Mr. BRAINARD moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

ORDINANCE NO. 44 - 2007 AUTHORIZING CHANGE ORDER TO CONTRACT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE FOR THE SHOPS AT FALLEN TIMBERS IN THE CITY OF MAUMEE, OHIO, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mrs. BARLOS moved the ordinance be passed as an emergency measure. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none.
Mrs. BARLOS moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

ORDINANCE NO. 45 - 2007 AUTHORIZING CONTRACT RELATIVE TO FIREWORKS DISPLAY, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mr. CARR moved the ordinance be passed as an emergency measure. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none.
Mr. CARR moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

ORDINANCE NO. 46 - 2007 ACCEPTING BID RELATIVE TO CONSTRUCTION OF ROLF PARK WALKWAY PROJECT PHASE 1, AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF CONTRACT, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mr. PAUKEN moved the ordinance be passed as an emergency measure. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none.
Mr. PAUKEN moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

ORDINANCE NO. 47 - 2007 AUTHORIZING AGREEMENT WITH PNEU-MATIC ENGINEERING, INC., RELATIVE TO PROVISION OF MAINTENANCE SERVICES FOR CERTAIN AIR COMPRESSOR IN THE DIVISION OF FIRE OF THE CITY OF MAUMEE, OHIO, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mr. ZIMMERMAN moved the ordinance be passed as an emergency measure. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none.
Mr. ZIMMERMAN moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

ORDINANCE NO. 48 - 2007 AMENDING SCHEDULE OF RATES AND FEES IN THE CITY OF MAUMEE, OHIO, AND REPEALING CERTAIN ORDINANCE, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mr. BUEHRER moved the ordinance be passed as an emergency measure. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none.
Mr. BUEHRER moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

ORDINANCE NO. 49 - 2007 MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR CURRENT EXPENSES AND OTHER EXPENDITURES OF THE CITY OF MAUMEE, OHIO, DURING THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2007. The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mr. BRAINARD moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

ORDINANCE NO. 50 - 2007 APPROPRIATING AND ADVANCING FUNDS FOR VARIOUS PURPOSES.
The Clerk read the Ordinance by title only.
Mrs. BARLOS moved the ordinance be placed on its final passage and passed. Roll call: Barlos, Brainard, Buehrer, Carr, Pauken and Zimmerman, (6) voting yea; nays, none. So the Ordinance was passed.

Mr. CARR moved to adjourn until 7:30 p.m., Monday, April 2, 2007. Motion carried v.v.