Approved 6/19/07

COUNTY SERVICES

June 5, 2007

Minutes

Members Present:         Debbie DeLeon, Deb Nolan, Dale Copedge, Tim Soule, Mike Severino, Steve Dougan and Board Chairperson Marc Thomas

Members Absent:         None

Others Present:             Matthew Myers, Harold Hailey, Tony Lindsey, Rick Terrill, Jim Hudgins, Bob Moore, Eric Schertzing and Tom Schewchuk

The meeting was called to order by Chairperson DeLeon at 7:01 p.m. in the Personnel Conference Room of the Human Services Building, 5303 S. Cedar, Lansing.

Approval of the May 15, 2007 Minutes

MOVED BY COMM. DOUGAN, SUPPORTED BY COMM. NOLAN, TO APPROVE THE MAY 15 MINUTES AS AMENDED.  MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

The Minutes were amended as follows:

Page One:  Members Present – Todd Tennis changed to Tim Soule

Page Three:  Item 2a – the following language was added to the end of the one sentence:

            “and not under this Committee’s purview.”

(Board Chairperson Thomas arrived at 7:03 p.m.)

Additions to the Agenda

9a.         Overnight Travel Approval – MIS Department, Lois Lee

9b.         Overnight Travel Approval – MIS Department, John Barber

Limited Public Comment

Ms. Ellen Sullivan, President of the Friends of Greater Lansing Dog Park, spoke in support of agenda item 3b.  She spoke briefly about the new off-leash dog park and the entities involved with this project. 

Mr. Myers introduced Mr. Schewchuk to the Committee at the new MIS Director.  The Committee welcomed Mr. Schewchuk to Ingham County.

MOVED BY COMM. SEVERINO, SUPPORTED BY COMM. SOULE, TO APPROVE A CONSENT AGENDA FOR THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:

5.         Human Resources Department – Resolution Establishing the Employees of Teamsters Local 580 and UAW Local 2256 as a Division within the MERS Defined Benefit Program

9.           MIS Department

              a.    Overnight Travel Approval – MIS Department, Lois Lee

              b.    Midnight Travel Approval – MIS Department, John Barber

MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

MOVED BY COMM. SEVERINO, SUPPORTED BY COMM. SOULE, TO APPROVE THE ITEMS ON THE CONSENT AGENDA.  MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

1.         Prosecuting Attorney’s Office – Resolution to Authorize the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office to Enter into a Contract to Evaluate In-Take Procedures

MOVED BY COMM. SEVERINO, SUPPORTED BY COMM. SOULE, TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE THE PROSECUTING ATTORNEY’S OFFICE TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT TO EVALUATE IN-TAKE PROCEDURES.

Comm. Dougan stated his concern regarding the hiring of a retired employee on a contractual basis.  He also stated his hope that if this becomes a permanent position, it will be posted through the normal process.  Comm. Dougan stated he has great respect for Mr. Dunnings and his Office.

Comm. Severino asked if the vacant assistant prosecutor position has been filled.  Mr. Hailey stated he is not aware that the position has been filled.  Comm. Severino stated he is comfortable with the Prosecutor’s Office hiring a retired prosecutor on a contractual basis due to the volume of work in the Office.   It has been many years since the Prosecutor’s Office has received additional staff. 

MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

2.         Treasurer’s Office – Resolution Approving the Establishment of the Tax Forfeiture/Foreclosure Coordinator Position in the County Treasurer’s Office

MOVED BY COMM. SEVERINO, SUPPORTED BY COMM. NOLAN, TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION APPROVING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE TAX FORFEITURE/FORECLOSURE COORDINATOR POSITION IN THE COUNTY TREASURER’S OFFICE. 

Comm. Nolan asked how this position will be funded.  Mr. Schertzing stated it is sad that the current economy is good for his Office.  The current prevention specialist has been dealing with an increased work load.  The new position will be funded through revenue his Office receives from the forfeitures and foreclosures. 

Comm. Severino stated he appreciates the fact that the position will not be funded with County general funds.  Comm. Copedge asked if the new position is a union position.  Mr. Hailey stated the new position will be a union position.  He further explained that if funds are not sufficient to continue the position, it will be eliminated.

MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

3.         Parks and Recreation Commission

a.         Resolution Modifying the Ordinance Establishing the Ingham County Park Rules and Regulations

MOVED BY COMM. DOUGAN, SUPPORTED BY COMM. SOULE, TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION MODIFYING THE ORDINANCE ESTABLISING THE INGHAM COUNTY PARK RULES AND REGULATIONS.

Comm. Dougan offered a Friendly Amendment to the Resolution to refer to the “Off Leash Dog Park” as the “Howard and Erna Soldan Off Leash Dog Park” throughout the Resolution.  The Committee accepted the Friendly Amendment.

MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

b.         Resolution to Pursue an Agreement with the City of Lansing for the Maintenance and Operation of Scott Woods Park

MOVED BY COMM. DOUGAN, SUPPORTED BY COMM. COPEDGE, TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION TO PURSUE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF LANSING FOR THE MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION OF SCOTT WOODS PARK.

Comm. Dougan offered a Friendly Amendment to the Resolution to refer to the “Off Leash Dog Park” as the “Howard and Erna Soldan Off Leash Dog Park” throughout the Resolution.  The Committee accepted the Friendly Amendment.

MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

d.         Resolution Authorizing Parking, Admission, and Shelter Fees for Potter Park and Potter Park Zoo

MOVED BY COMM. NOLAN, SUPPORTED BY COMM. SEVERINO, TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PARKING, ADMISSION AND SHELTER FEES FOR POTTER PARK AND POTTER PARK ZOO. 

Comm. Dougan asked if the County would receive revenue from Annual Family Passes that are purchased through the Potter Park Zoological Society (Society).  Mr. Moore explained the County would not receive revenue from such purchases.  He further stated the Park receives so much more from the Society throughout the year.

Chairperson DeLeon asked Mr. Moore to explain the difference in revenue.  Mr. Moore reviewed the proposed changes in the agenda material.  He stated the Parks Department will see how things go in the first year and then make any necessary budgetary adjustments.  He further stated he does not anticipate a decrease in entrance revenue.  Mr. Moore clarified that the Committee would be approving a six month budget at this time. 

The Committee held a general discussion regarding the proposed changes.  Mr. Moore stated he believes there will be an annual free day for Ingham County residents.  Chairperson DeLeon stated there should still be a distinction between residents and non-residents. 

Comm. Severino asked if “resident” means County resident.  Mr. Moore indicated that is the case.  Comm. Severino then asked about the shelter costs.  Mr. Moore stated the proposed shelter fees are more consistent with the County parks’ shelter fees.  County residents have not complained about the current shelter rates. 

Comm. Copedge asked about the oversized vehicle parking fees.  Mr. Moore explained the oversized vehicle fees pertain to recreational vehicles.  He further stated the revenue generated from this fee does not begin to cover the trouble associated with enforcing same.     

Chairperson DeLeon asked about a low income waiver for entrance into the park.  Mr. Moore stated he does not believe it has been considered as of this date.  Chairperson DeLeon stated it should be considered. 

Comm. Nolan suggested the following Friendly Amendment:

Don’t delete the school category and indicate a $2.00 per student entrance fee.  Also indicate there will be a fee structure for schools with 50% of their students enrolled in the free or reduced lunch program.  These students would enter the park free of charge. 

Comm. Severino stated students should enter the park free of charge.  Comm. Nolan stated most students can come up with $2.00 for the entrance fee.  Her amendment deals with those students who are part of the free or reduced lunch program.  The Committee held a lengthy discussion regarding this issue.  Board Chairperson Thomas suggested the County consider making the entrance fee free all school children.  Mr. Moore explained the revenue generated from school children is very little. 

Board Chairperson Thomas stated under the City’s plan, Lansing school children enter the park free.  This would not happen according to the Friendly Amendment above.  Chairperson DeLeon stated that is the intent of the Amendment.  Board Chairperson Thomas stated the Amendment could create a hardship for some families.  The free entrance should be expanded to all Ingham County school children. 

Comm. Nolan proposed an amendment to her Friendly Amendment to state that all Ingham County school children enter the Park free of charge.  This was accepted as a Friendly Amendment to the Friendly Amendment. 

Comm. Severino stated he appreciated Comm. Nolan’s second amendment. 

Comm. Dougan asked if the attendance will be tracked. Mr. Moore stated actions are being taken to identify a data base for tracking attendance.  The tracking will not be implemented before July 1, 2007.  Zoo attendance is tracked automatically. 

Board Chairperson Thomas stated he assumes the entrance fee for the Zoo will be handled the same as above for the park entrance in regard to school children.  Mr. Moore stated that issue should be taken up by the new Zoo Board.  Chairperson DeLeon stated the Committee should discuss this issue further.  The fee structure should be in place by July 1. 

Chairperson DeLeon asked if low income residents will receive a free annual pass to Potter Park as they receive for the Ingham County Parks.  Board Chairperson Thomas stated there may be a different dynamic between the Ingham County Parks and the Potter Park Zoo.  The Committee continued the discussion regarding a free annual pass or a free daily entrance for low income residents.  Chairperson DeLeon stated this issue deserves further discussion. 

MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

            c.         Resolution Authorizing the 2007 Potter Park and Potter Park Zoo Budget

MOVED BY COMM. DOUGAN, SUPPORTED BY COMM. COPEDGE, TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE 2007 POTTER PARK AND POTTER PARK ZOO BUDGET.

Comm. Nolan stated her concern that the Parks Department will request additional positions than what are proposed in the 2007 budget.  Mr. Moore stated his Department has asked for two new maintenance positions through the Facilities Department.  The only new position in the budget is the Zoo Keeper position.  This position does not currently exist.  Mr. Hailey explained two of the four maintenance positions are currently vacant.  Mr. Moore is proposing to fill the vacant positions.

Mr. Moore clarified questions from Comm. Dougan regarding the proposed budget.  Comm. Dougan reminded the Parks Department that the Zoo Millage will decrease over time.  Mr. Moore stated he expects to receive the five-year plan for Potter Park soon.  Mr. Myers explained there will be some one-time expenditures in the first year of the budget.  Staff is considering the terms of the Millage as it prepares the budget.  Comm. Soule stated maintenance positions are important to get the park up to speed.

Chairperson DeLeon stated emergency access to the Park should be considered in relation to access cards for the Park.  Mr. Terrill explained that his staff is coordinating with local police regarding this matter.

Comm. Copedge stated the Park budget should reflect the administrative hours spent on the Park.  This issue was discussed.  Comm. Dougan stated he would like to see the administrative time tracked.  Comm. Severino asked if the cost of tracking the time would be cost prohibitive.  Mr. Myers stated the administrative costs should decrease over time.  Chairperson DeLeon stated the Committee is only asking for the Departments’ best guess regarding time spent on the Park.

Mr. Hailey explained there are a number of departments involved in this process.  Comm. Copedge stated any true costs should be reflected in the budget.  Mr. Myers stated he will instruct staff to provide their best guess on administrative time on a regular basis. 

Chairperson DeLeon asked for an update regarding the vet tech position discussion.  Mr. Moore stated this issue involves the creation of an entirely new position.  Mr. Hailey stated his office has established the salary and job description for a vet tech position.  The next step is to draft a resolution to approve the new position and salary.  The unions will be notified of the creation of the new position.  The resolution should be before this Committee at its next meeting. 

Mr. Myers explained there has been some discussion regarding the actual need for the vet tech position.  This determination will be made by this Committee. 

Comm. Nolan asked about any further anticipated new positions.  Mr. Moore stated there may be a request for a horticulture manager as well as the vet tech.  Mr. Hailey explained this Committee made the original request for the vet tech position.  Mr. Myers stated the Parks and Recreation Commission plan to have the new Zoo Board evaluate the need for a vet tech position. 

Board Chairperson Thomas asked if the request for a vet tech position was made in relation to the accreditation process.  Chairperson DeLeon stated the Zoo staff has expressed this concern. 

MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

4.         Facilities Department – Resolution Authorizing the Award of a Contract with M. One Limited, Inc. DBA:  Mark 1 Restoration Services for Exterior Weatherproofing and Restoration at the Human Services Facility

MOVED BY COMM. DOUGAN, SUPPORTED BY COMM. SEVERINO, TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE AWARD OF A CONTRACT WITH M. ONE LIMITED INC. DBA:  MARK 1 RESTORATION SERVICES FOR EXTERIOR WEATHERPROOFING AND RESTORATION AT THE HUMAN SERVICES FACILITY.  MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

6.         Commissioner Tennis – Resolution Supporting State Revenue Enhancements

MOVED BY COMM. NOLAN, SUPPORTED BY COMM. SEVERINO, TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION SUPPORTING STATE REVENUE ENHANCEMENTS.

Chairperson DeLeon stated discussions have been held regarding possible changes to the Resolution.  Board Chairperson Thomas stated he has received emails from Commissioners regarding this item.  Chairperson DeLeon stated this Committee will review the Resolution and forward any questions or concerns to Board Chairperson Thomas in time for the Finance Committee meeting.

MOTION CARRIED with Comms. Dougan and Severino voting NO.

8.         Board Referrals

            a.         Letter from the City of East Lansing Regarding the Development of a Dog Park

Board Chairperson Thomas explained that the City of East Lansing approached him, as well as Comms. Grebner and Hertel, regarding the possibility of funding a dog park approximately three years ago.  The argument was made that since the dog park would be near a County park it would be appropriate for the County to provide funding for the park.  It was unclear if the East Lansing park would be a regional effort.  This matter should be investigated further.

Board Chairperson Thomas further stated Comm. Hertel has made it clear that the Board has not made any funding promises to East Lansing for the park. 

The Committee held a lengthy discussion regarding this matter.  Mr. Myers stated the funding request has not been submitted through the normal budget process.  He further explained the funds have not been earmarked as stated in Mr. McCaffrey’s May 3, 2007 letter. 

Comm. Hertel has it made clear that the Board has not made any promises.  Board Chairperson Thomas asked if this should be referred to the Parks Board for consideration.  Chairperson DeLeon stated that is a good idea.

Board Chairperson Thomas asked if the Parks Board should investigate this matter and develop criteria for funding dog park requests.  The Committee referred this matter to the Parks Board.  The Parks Board is to forward a recommendation to this Committee and establish funding criteria. 

Board Chairperson Thomas stated he will notify Mr. McCaffrey to get back with us when he has more details. 

            b.         Resolution from Hillsdale County Expressing Opposition to House Bill 4398

            c.         Letter from Shiawassee County Regarding the Proposed Shiawassee County

                        Future Land Use Plan

The Board Referrals were received and placed on file.

7.         Review of Zoo Board Applications

The Committee held a discussion regarding the make up of the Zoo Board.  The Committee consented to have three County Commissioners serve on the Zoo Board.

The Committee reviewed the applications and determined which applicants would be scheduled for interviews at this Committee’s June 19, 2007 meeting. 

Public Comment:          None

Announcements:           None

The meeting adjourned at 9:27 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Debra Neff