Norwood City
Council
Council
Chambers
A) CALL TO ORDER
The Council for the City of Norwood met in regular session on the above date with President Jane M. Grote presiding. The meeting opened with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance.
B) PRAYER
C) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
D) ROLL CALL
On roll call, the following members answered present: Mr. Sanker, Mr. Tracey, Mr. Moore, Mr. Fulmer, Mr. Geers, Mr. Mumper, and Mrs. Brown.
E) AMENDMENT OF AGENDA:
On a
motion by Mr. Fulmer, seconded by Mr. Mumper, it was moved to amend the agenda
by adding Committee Report 5), Adding Ordinance B) and C) and by removing
Ordinance A). All members present voted
YES.
F) Requests to address council on agenda items
G) Reports of Standing committees of council
1. Finance and Claims Committee RE: FEMA Grant Money.
Mr. Sanker explained that the City received funds from FEMA to pay for the Fire Department radios. The associated ordinance keeps the required funds separate and available.
The Chair noted that
Mr. Gabbard is now present in Council Chambers.
On a motion by Mr. Fulmer, seconded by Mr. Tracey, it was moved to accept the report and add the associated ordinance as H-D). All members present voted YES.
2. Finance and Claims Committee RE: Trash Collection Fees.
Mr. Moore mentioned that the Safety-Service Director and Rumpke are finalizing the numbers. Administrative work also required to determine how the fees will be billed. When these items are finalized, the Ordinance can then be drafted.
On a motion by Mr. Fulmer, seconded by Mr. Geers, it was moved to accept the report and request this Ordinance be drafted. All members present voted YES.
3. Finance and Claims Committee RE: Payroll Based on Cash Flow.
Mr. Moore mentioned that the drafting of a Resolution could be requested in coming pay periods to establish partial payment of payroll. By law the Auditor cannot cut partial checks without a preceding Resolution authorizing this partial payment.
Mr. Sanker added that reporting this out of committee now and giving the Law Department advanced notice allows us to react quickly in future pay periods.
On a motion by Mr. Moore, seconded by Mr. Fulmer, it was moved to accept the report. All members present voted YES.
4. Law and Ordinance Committee RE: Vicious Dogs-Pitbull Terriers.
Mr. Moore explained that several years ago this was looked into and determined to be an unnecessary action. Since then other communities, most notably Cincinnati, have banned Pit Bulls and other vicious breeds. Breeders have since moved out of Cincinnati and into Norwood. Since adding this to the agenda the Law Department has requested to give the wording one final review and therefore this will be on an upcoming meeting agenda.
On a motion by Mrs. Brown, seconded by Mr. Mumper, it was moved to accept the report. All members present voted YES.
5. Finance and Claims Committee RE: 2004 Budget.
The Chair noted that
Mr. DeLuca is now present in Council Chambers.
Mr. Moore explained that the bulk of the changes since February reflect the refinancing of debt and a slight increase in earnings taxes.
Mr. Sanker added that this is certainly not the final appropriation as this will be reviewed weekly on a department by department basis. A good week with respect to cash flow is the only reason we are able to make payroll this coming period.
On a motion by Mr. Tracey, seconded by Mr. Fulmer, it was moved to accept the report and add the associated Ordinance as H-E). All members present voted YES.
H) Introductory readings of Ordinances
A) ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 505.15 “PROHIBITED ANIMALS” AND 505.17 “DANGEROUS AND VICIOUS DOGS” OF THE CITY OF NORWOOD CODIFIED ORDINANCES, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
This item was removed from the agenda.
B) ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AN AGREEMENT RELATIVE TO THE REALIGNMENT OF CARHTAGE AVENUE AT MONTGOMERY ROAD BETWEEN THE CITY OF NORWOOD AND THE BOARD OF HAMILTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.
Mrs. Brown asked if the Mayor or Safety-Service Director could explain this in further detail.
The Mayor and Safety-Service Director explained that this secures funding for the intersection at Montgomery, Carthage, and Norwood Ave. This is an Issue 2 Grant with additional funds coming from OKI worth $962,000. The City outlay for this project is $20,000 and this project should be under construction in the 2006- 2007 timeframe. Mr. Geers added that this is simply entering into an agreement for these funds; if something were to come up we could always decline.
Mr. Fulmer asked if this also included traffic lights. Mr. Geers responded that this includes many traffic lights along Norwood Ave. as well as those required on Montgomery Rd. We also hope to have these traffic lights synchronized by the latest technologies to further assist traffic flow.
Mr. DeLuca also thanked the engineers at TEC Engineering for their hard work on this project and putting the funding plan requiring the small initial outlay. This will make any development at the Globe-Wernicke site that much more significant and viable.
On a motion by Mr. Fulmer, seconded by Mr. Tracey, it was moved to suspend the rules and have all 3 readings of the Ordinance. All members present voted YES.
On a motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. Tracey, it was moved to pass the Ordinance. All members present voted YES.
C) ORDINANCE GRANTING A RESIDENCY WAIVER TO FIREFIGHTER RICH GLISSON.
On a motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. Tracey, it was moved to suspend the rules and have all 3 readings of the Ordinance. All members present voted YES.
On a motion by Mr. Tracey, seconded by Mr. Mumper, it was moved to pass the Ordinance. All members present voted YES.
D) ORDINANCE CREATING AND ESTABLISHING THE FEMA GRANT FUND.
On a motion by Mr. Fulmer, seconded by Mr. Tracey, it was moved to suspend the rules and have all 3 readings of the Ordinance. All members present voted YES.
On a motion by Mr. Fulmer, seconded by Mr. Mumper, it was moved to pass the Ordinance. All members present voted YES.
E) ORDINANCE TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE CURRENT EXPENSES AND OTHER EXPENDITURES OF THE CITY OF NORWOOD, OHIO DURING THE CALENDAR YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2004.
Mr. Fulmer asked the Chair of the Finance Committee if these new appropriations have eliminated any employee or department or if it was simply making adjustments to existing keys.
Mr. Sanker responded that some major adjustments have been made to some items in order to put together the budget, but that no departments have been cut at this time. Given the state of the financial situation, departments will have to be shut down in the near future. Some departments are already running extremely low, Recreation for example, but at this time no department is being eliminated.
Mr. Fulmer expressed his concern for the lack of funding of the Recreation Department Mr. Fulmer declared that he would vote against the appropriation if and when the appropriation included eliminating Recreation.
Mr. Sanker responded that no one wants to eliminate the Recreation Department, but when money is short, cuts will be made on a priority basis. Non essential services will need to be temporarily eliminated. When it comes time to decide between salting streets and keeping a particular recreation program, the obvious choice will be made. A letter went out in the January – February timeframe warning department heads of the upcoming financial situation, some have responded while others have not. The Recreation Department funding from the general fund has increased over the past years.
Mr. Fulmer expressed his concern over the amount of funding directed towards Police and Fire as opposed to the lack of funds to the Recreation Committee.
Mrs. Brown asked about the difference in Treasurer’s Earning Tax key. Mr. Sanker responded that the difference is in eliminating the tax commissioner’s salary and adjusting the amount of taxes that can be collected accordingly.
Mr. Moore, in response to the original question, mentioned that cuts in employees are unlikely since those cuts will actually be more expensive this year due to sick banks, severance, etc. Many of the costs are directed at Police and Fire and those are contractual obligations. Mr. Moore added that the Finance Committee is working on getting answers from the State on what actions will trigger a Fiscal Emergency.
Mr. Fulmer asked Mr. Moore if the Police and Fire total was indeed $11 million. Mr. Moore responded that when you add up materials and equipment, that number is accurate.
On a motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. Tracey, it was moved to suspend the rules and have all 3 readings of the Ordinance. All members present voted YES.
On a motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. Tracey, it was moved to pass the Ordinance. All members present voted YES.
I) ADMINISTRATION REPORTS
Mayor
Williams was present and mentioned he greatly appreciates the Finance Committee
and all their hard work. The Mayor has
multiple conversations each day with the Finance Committee as the situation
seems to be constantly changing with the State Auditor’s Office. All of the upcoming decisions are difficult,
but they are business decisions based on cash flow and priorities. This involves significant work and the Mayor
again thanked the members of the Finance Committee for the extensive hours they
are putting into the present situation.
On a
more pleasant note, the Mayor attended the Norwood Soccer Opening Day
celebration this past weekend. It was
very well attended, the weather was nice, and he greatly appreciates the
invitation.
The
Mayor mentioned that the team inspections continue and are still very
productive. There have been multiple
citations and multiple stiff fines.
Several problem properties have been vacated. A particular owner with several violations on
his 3-4 properties is ready to sell and get out of the City limits. The message is getting out – these team
inspections are not meant to harass, just meant to address citizen complaints
and enforce the building code.
The Mayor commented on the intersection of Montgomery Rd., Norwood Ave, and Carthage
that was discussed earlier was last altered in 1969 and is in dire need of an
update. This project will really enhance
that area and be a huge improvement to the traffic flow.
When
opened for questions Mr. Fulmer as the Mayor to have the Building Department
look at a vacant property on Floral and Elsmere that appears to be missing a
roof. The Mayor mentioned that he
recently saw that property as well and the inspectors will pay that property a
visit.
J) REQUEST TO ADDRESS COUNCIL RE: NON-AGENDA ITEMS:
K) UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Mr. Fulmer thanked Public Works for fixing the hole at Burwood and Morton that was mentioned during the last meeting.
Mr. Mumper, commenting on the residency waiver granted earlier, suggested that during the next round of negotiations residency should again be emphasized. Even if residency is not forced, it could be rewarded by paying resident members of the Police and Fire a bonus over those not residing in City limits.
Mr. Sanker mentioned that while we hear of the team inspections on a regular basis, we also want to hear about those properties that are going above and beyond the expectation to maintain their property and in fact are beautifying their property. Please call the Clerk of Council’s office at 458-4594 to nominate a property, whether business or residential.
Mr. DeLuca mentioned that the Community Development and Small Businesses committee met with the I.B.E.W. on their plans to relocate to Norwood. They have purchased property on Section Ave., and will be demolishing the current structure and building 3 new buildings on the site. This new facility will be home to the IBEW Administration, a training facility, and a Social Hall. This will complement the renovations at the old American Laundry facility.
Mr. DeLuca announced that the City Wide Street Sale is scheduled for September 3rd and 4th. Permits can be obtained by contacting the Clerk of Council’s or the Treasurer’s Office. Mr. DeLuca thanked Michelle Vogelsong and Mary Ann Teeter for their work in administering the permit process.
Mr. DeLuca mentioned that at the last Community Development and Small Businesses committee meeting, the committee discussed the preferred vendors list. While there are some legal concerns in implementing such a list, he encouraged residents to contact the Better Business Bureau when they have issues with local contractors or as they are considering local contractors for work.
Mr. DeLuca noted that with regards to Cornerstone, the developer submitted plans for Phase II to the Planning Commission.
Mr. Deluca asked that a letter be sent to the Safety-Service Director requesting the speed wagon to be placed at the following locations over the next few weeks – Highland Ave., Indian Mound, and Quatman Ave. There have been several complaints of cars traveling in excess of 50 mph on these back streets.
Mr. Fulmer thanked Public Works for the newly painted lines and crosswalks around the City’s schools. It is encouraging to have these repainted prior to school starting for a change.
Mr. DeLuca mentioned that it is no secret that Zumbiel Box is moving out of Norwood and in fact out of the state of Ohio. The Community Development and Small Businesses committee has received word that they will be pulling out of their location over the next 3 years. While this is a temporary setback, this is also an opportunity for the area. Any new development in the vicinity will be viable and an asset to both Xavier University and the entire community. The committee is working on development being managed by a local developer. Mr. DeLuca called this the last frontier in Norwood and the committee is actively pursuing all options to insure that a solid anchor is developed at this site.
L) NEW BUSINESS
Mr. Gabbard asked that a letter be sent to the Law Director, Treasurer, and Auditor requesting their presence at future Council Meetings. It is important in these tough financial times to have these City officials present for immediate answers to Council questions.
Mr. Sanker reminded residents that school is in session and asked all to be extra careful when driving on the City’s streets. Mr. Sanker also wished the local Athletic teams the best of luck as they begin their seasons.
Mr. Geers mentioned that he attended the July West Norwood Neighborhood Association. One topic of discussion was Fireworks. Mr. Geers reminded residents that fireworks within the City are illegal with the exception of sparklers.
Mr. Gabbard asked that the Law and Ordinance Committee look into the legalities of implementing a hiring and salary freeze. He noted that the City has given 124 employees some sort of pay raise this year.
Mr. Moore responded that the Law and Ordinance committee looked into this in past years and the Law Department was concerned about the legality of such a freeze. Mr. Moore also commented that many of the pay increases given this year were governed by contract.
M)COMMUNICATIONS:
1. Letter from Chief William Schlie RE: Joe Lacinak, Randy Weitlauf, Kevin Meinking.
On a motion by Mr. Fulmer, seconded by Mr. Moore, it was moved that the letter be received and filed. All members present voted YES.
2. Letter from Ohio Dept. of Liquor Control RE: Transfer of Liquor License (Thriftway to Kroger).
Mr. DeLuca mentioned that while attending a recent Liquor Control hearing he was complimented on behalf of the City. It was mentioned that Norwood is the only city in the State of Ohio that uses delinquent taxes as a reason for entering an objection to license renewal and he does not understand why other communities do not follow our lead. Mr. DeLuca thanked the then Tax Commissioner John Hanrahan for his diligence in seeing this through.
On a motion by Mr. DeLuca, seconded by Mr. Fulmer, it was moved that the letter be received and filed as if read and that the request be granted. All members present voted YES.
N) EXCUSE ABSENT MEMBERS
All members are present.
O) ADJOURNMENT
On a motion by Mr. DeLuca, seconded by Mr. Mumper, it was moved to adjourn. All members present voted YES.
______________________________ ______________________________
J. Brian Mumper Jane
M. Grote
Clerk of Council President
of Council