Norwood City Council
Council Chambers
August 11, 2009
A) CALL TO ORDER
The Council for the City of
B) PRAYER
C) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
D) ROLL CALL
On roll call, the following members answered present: Mr. Gabbard, Mr. Sanker, Mr. Schneider, Mr. Moore, Mr. Thornbury, Mr. Barlow and Mr. Mumper.
E) AMENDMENT OF AGENDA
On a motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr.Moore, it was moved to amend the agenda, putting Communication P-1 as the first order of business, moving Communication P-3 prior to K-B and adding Communication P-9, a request for executive session. All members present voted “Yes”.
f) MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
On a
motion by Mr. Thornbury, seconded by Mr. Schneider, the minutes of April 28,
2009, May 12, 2009, and May 26, 2009 were accepted as if read. All members
present voted “Yes”.
G) REQUESTS TO ADDRESS
COUNCIL ON AGENDA ITEMS
There
were no requests.
As
amended, Council then considered the following item.
P-1. Letter
from Connie Bickford Re: Council on
Aging Programs
Richard
Kidd and Andrea Herzig, from Council on Aging provided an update on programs
and service availability to Norwood seniors.
When
opened for questions, Mr. Sanker asked if contact is by referral only or if
clients come directly to the agency. Mr.
Kidd answered that both are acceptable, in addition to word of mouth, clients
are referred from hospitals and agencies, as well as outreach to local
groups. Mr. Sanker followed up and asked
if they work with Sharon Hobbs, our director of Senior Services, through the
Community Center. Mr. Kidd said they
will follow up with Ms. Hobbs.
Mr.
Thornbury asked for the Council’s phone number.
Mr. Kidd provided about the 721-1025
as the best number with which to start the process.
On a
motion by Mr. Moore, seconded by Mr. Mumper, it was moved to receive and file
the letter and grant the request to present with no time limit. All members present
voted “Yes”.
H) REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES OF COUNCIL
1. Finance and Audit Committee Re: Appropriations
On a
motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. Moore, it was moved to accept the
report. All members present voted “Yes”.
2. Community Development Re: Linden Pointe - Amedisys
Signage
Mr.
Schneider asked the nature of the Amedisys business. Mr. Moore answered that it is a home health
care service and the work is rated office in scope.
On a
motion by Mr. Schneider, seconded by Mr. Sanker, it was moved to accept the
report. All members present voted “Yes”.
3. Community Development Re: Rookwood - Banasch’s Signage
Mr.
Moore noted that this would be permanent signage to replace the banner
currently in use.
Mr.
Schneider asked if Banach’s will maintain the warehouse facility on Highland
Avenue. Mr. Moore responded that he
doesn’t believe the facility is active.
On a
motion by Mr. Thornbury, seconded by Mr.
Mumper, it was moved to accept the report.
All members present voted “Yes”.
4. Community Development Re: Rookwood - Anthropologie
Entrance
Mr.
Moore explained that he approves of the temporary entrance because it is
improving their business and anything in this economy is a worthwhile
consideration.
On a motion
by Mr. Schneider, seconded by Mr. Mumper, it was moved to accept the report.
All members present voted “Yes”.
I) SECOND
A.
ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICE-SAFETY TO
ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH INTEGRYS ENERGY SERVICES, INC. FOR THE PURPOSE OF
IMPLEMENTING THE CITY OF NORWOOD GAS AGGREGATION PROGRAM, AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY.
On a
motion by Mr. Schneider, seconded by Mr. Barlow, it was moved to suspend the
rules and hear the second and third readings of the Ordinance. All members present voted “Yes”.
On a
motion by Mr. Schneider, seconded by Mr. Thornbury, it was moved to pass the
Ordinance. All members present voted
“Yes”.
B. ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICE – SAFETY TO ADVERTISE FOR BIDS AND ENTER INTO A CONTRACT FOR THE SMITH ROAD WATER LINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT (OHIO PUBLIC WORKS COMMISSION PROJECT NO.CB29M, JMA #3257) WITHIN THE CITY OF NORWOOD, OHIO, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
On a
motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. Moore, it was moved to suspend the rules
and hear the second and third readings of the Ordinance. All members present voted “Yes”.
On a
motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. Moore, it was moved to pass the
Ordinance. All members present voted
“Yes”.
J) SECOND
A.
RESOLUTION TO OBTAIN TECHNICAL SERVICES FROM THE AUDITOR OF THE STATE OF OHIO
FOR THE PERIOD JULY 1, 2009 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2010, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY
Mr.
Schneider asked if the State Auditor provides these services free of charge.
Mr. Stith said yes and the value of such services is approximately $2,000.
On a
motion by Mr. Moore, seconded by Mr. Schneider, it was moved to suspend the
rules and hear the second and third readings of the resolution. All members present voted “Yes”.
On a
motion by Mr. Thornbury, seconded by Mr. Schneider, it was moved to pass the
Resolution. All members present voted
“Yes”.
K) INTRODUCTORY
A. ORDINANCE
TO CHANGE APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE YEAR 2009, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY
Mr.
Schneider asked Finance and Audit Chair, Mr. Barlow, how we could be this far
off halfway through the year. Mr. Barlow said we are not so far off of budget,
this is just being appropriated. Mr.
Barlow further explained that the last two items are grants which need to be
appropriated.
On a
motion by Mr. Barlow, seconded by Mr. Moore, it was moved to suspend the rules
and hear all three readings of the ordinance. All members present voted “Yes”.
On a
motion by Mr. Barlow, seconded by Mr. Mumper, it was moved to pass the
ordinance. All members present voted “Yes”.
As
amended, Council then considered the following item
P-3) Letter from Health Commissioner Re: Request for Property Liens
Mr.
Mumper encouraged residents to call either Council or the Health Department to
report unattended property.
On a
motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. Schneider, it was moved to receive and
file the letter. All members present voted “Yes”.
B. ORDINANCE
AUTHORIZING THE CLERK/TREASURER TO CERTIFY UNPAID BILLS FOR THE COST OF GRASS
CUTTING TO THE HAMILTON COUNTY AUDITOR FOR FILING AS A LIEN ON THE TAX
DUPLICATE OF THE OWNER(S) OF SAID PARCELS AND TO BE COLLECTED AS OTHER TAXES,
AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
Mr. Sanker asked if repeat offenders require a new ordinance or may we directly
add to the lien? The Law Director said the law requires a separate ordinance.
On a
motion by Mr. Moore, seconded by Mr. Barlow, it was moved to suspend the rules
and hear all three readings of the ordinance.
All members present voted “Yes”.
On a
motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. Moore, it was moved to pass the
ordinance. All members present voted
“Yes”.
C. ORDINANCE
AUTHORIZING THE SAFETY-SERVICE DIRECTOR TO ENTER INTO A LABOR-MANAGEMENT
AGREEMENT WITH THE E-911 BARGAINING UNIT EFFECTIVE UPON EXECUTION-DECEMBER 31,
2011, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
Mr.
Mumper stated that the clock starts when it is presented to Council so we do
have a time constraint with this Ordinance.
Mr.
Sanker asked if there had been input from Mr. Clemons and Mr. Nelson on the
contract; Mr. Sanker also asked for clarification on the timeline. Mr. Kiser answered that the tentative
agreement was posted August 5th and
they have fourteen days to present to Council and then Council has 30 days to
act.
Ms.
Babcock representing the bargaining unit presented an executive summary to
Council.
Council
then went to recess in order to review the contract and summary.
Upon returning
from recess Ms. Babcock explained objectives of this contract and key items in
negotiations.
On a
motion by Mr. Thornbury, seconded by Mr. Moore, it was moved to hear the first
reading of the ordinance. All members present voted “Yes”.
L) ADMINISTRATION
REPORTS
The
Mayor reiterated the need for caution in City revenue and finances. There is a
6-8% increase in earnings tax collection, however, U.S. Playing Card and
Siemens implications are not yet fully known.
We will
spend money on our buildings, streets, parks, etc. however, we must continue to
spend wisely and conservatively. Mayor
Williams encouraged all to proceed with caution. We should be proud of the City for working
together and pulling ourselves up, but continue to err on side of caution.
Regarding
street repair, the City will continue to update our streets as we are able with
grants and matching funds.
Mr.
Schneider applauds cautious optimism however, how are we getting the word out
to market our city in this environment?
The Mayor responded that we have had 3-4 good articles in the Enquirer
and Business Journal recently. We have
talked to prospective businesses and the word among the business community is
that funding is scarce and nearly all development has stalled. We want to be sure that when it turns around
we will be able to react quickly and capitalize. Mayor Williams then noted some projects that
are in fact underway including Nordstrom,
KOI Auto Parts, Cinna, medical facilities, Seek Research, and the new
Indian restaurant - so the word is getting out, but movement is slow currently.
Mr.
Moore agreed regarding the addition of new business. Our City’s great assets
are New Plan, Linden Pointe, and Rookwood and they are working to market their
own existing space.
Mr.
Schneider asked if there is any ability for
Mr.
Sanker mentioned that he had a picnic at Fenwick Park recently and heard many
positive compliments and asked if we have received the grant money for the
project yet? The Mayor answered not at
this time and that Mr. Geers is looking into it.
The
Mayor invited Pamela Walker Bauer and Dr. Frank Perrino to the podium for an
introduction and a chance to come to Council with an update on H1N1 contingency
planning.
Ms.
Walker Bauer said it has been a pleasure to serve the tight knit community thus
far and presented information on Health Department pandemic breakout plans and
plans for upcoming clinics. There will be a $15 charge for seasonal flu
vaccinations and the Health Department anticipates a federal supply of H1N1
vaccinations in the fall.
Mr.
Gabbard asked for the benefits of our Health Department structure over the
County program. Ms. Walker-Bauer said
local decision making and control makes a world of difference in administering
programs quickly.
Mr.
Thornbury asked for insights on H1N1.
Dr. Perrino said the effort is similar to other flu strains with respect
to development of vaccine. Mass immunization will keep this under control.
Mr.
Gabbard asked for any recommendations to City residents. Dr. Perrino answered that residents should
get vaccinated when available, stay isolated if symptoms exist, and call your
medical professional.
During
the Auditor’s Report, Mr. Stith noted that the Auditor’s Report is available
online at the Auditor’s website. With
regard to appropriation changes he explained that expenses are tracked
continually and compared to forecasts and echoed the cautionary words from the
Mayor. Mr. Stith then shared a report
from County Auditor announcing a decrease in funding to local governments.
Mr.
Mumper asked about the NatureWorks grant timing. Mr. Stith said the check has not yet been
received.
With
regard to the current debate in the City of Cincinnati, Mr. Schneider asked how
the City of Norwood controls access to the books. Mr. Stith answered that our books have always
been open to anyone and are now available online.
Mr.
Moore asked for the update on the mid-year forecast status. Mr. Stith answered that they went through
each key in Finance and Audit Committee to flag any keys that were overspent
and explained that those close to their current appropriation should submit a
written request to the Finance Committee.
During
the Law Director’s Report, Mr. Kiser said progress has been made on Juvenile
Court and the first case is to be heard on Thursday.
Regarding
E-911 contract Mr. Kiser has a version with additions and subtractions that can
be shared after tonight’s Council meeting.
Mr. Kiser requested that Council withdraw into Executive Session.
Mr.
Mumper asked for an update on the Franklin Avenue property. Mr. Kiser answered that the case was heard
and the City prevailed. Mr. Kiser
further explained that demolition orders are in place, but we will address the
next actions with the court.
M) OTHER REQUESTS TO
ADDRESS COUNCIL
No
requests were made.
N) UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Mr.
Barlow announced the City Wide Sale to be held September 18th and 19th.
Mr.
Moore announced that there would be no Community Development meeting tomorrow.
O) NEW BUSINESS
Mr.
Thornbury announced the Service League Food Closet takes donations year round
and may be a chance to offload extra harvest from your own gardens as fresh
vegetables are always in high demand.
Mr.
Gabbard reminded everyone to be caution on the roads with school starting
Wednesday, August 19th.
Mr. Moore
announced that the “All About Dogs Expo” will be held August 22nd at
P) COMMUNICATIONS
1. Letter from Connie Bickford Re: Council on Aging Programs
As
amended, Council considered this item previously.
2. Letter from Health Commissioner Re: Interim Health Commissioner
On a
motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. Sanker, it was moved to receive and file
the letter. All members present voted “Yes”.
3. Letter from Health Commissioner Re: Request for Property Liens
As amended,
Council considered this item previously.
4. Letter from Mayor’s Office Re: Mayor’s Court Fines:
July 2009
On a
motion by Mr. Moore, seconded by Mr. Thornbury, it was moved to receive and
file the letter. All members present
voted “Yes”.
5. Letter from Tax Dept. Re: Earnings Tax Report: June 2009
On a
motion by Mr. Thornbury, seconded by Mr. Mumper, it was moved to receive and
file the letter. All members presented
voted “Yes”.
6. Letter from Tax Dept. Re: Earnings Tax
Report: July 2009
Mr.
Mumper reminded that the next Earnings Tax Report will reflect the decrease due
to Siemens and US Playing Card employment.
On a
motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. Moore, it was moved to receive and file
the letter. All members present voted
“Yes”.
7. Letter from Service-Safety Director Re: Rumpke & state of Ohio Fees
On a
motion by Mr. Moore, seconded by Mr. Thornbury, it was moved to receive and
file the letter. All members present voted “Yes”.
8. Letter from Joe Geers Re: Stimulus Funds
On a
motion by Mr. Barlow, seconded by Mr. Mumper, it was moved to receive and file
the letter. All members present voted “Yes”.
9. Letter
from Law Dept. Re: Executive Session
As was requested by the Law Department this item was
removed from the agenda.
Q) EXCUSE ABSENT
MEMBERS
There
were no absent members.
R) ADJOURNMENT
On a motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. Moore, the meeting was adjourned. All members present voted “Yes”.
______________________________ ______________________________
J. Brian Mumper Jane
M. Grote
Clerk of Council President
of Council