1999 NOV 02 REG MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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District 3 - CM Chastain spoke on the City's Annual Business Breakfast; the Mt. Vernon Project Meeting and applauded Staff for the quick response to a recent water main break, in her District. At Large - Mayor Gaytan announced that the Veterans' Day Parade would commence at 10:00 A. M., on November 11, 1999 and that the Governor would be present in the afternoon for Veterans' Day Ceremonies. ACTION ITEM Temporary Hiring Freeze The following items were raised after discussion on the proposed resolution for the temporary hiring freeze: Past financial history, bond ratings, a stop -gap measure; insufficient staff for community needs; unnecessary spending for community events; waiving fees for business; items of neglect especially restrooms at all City parks and untimely closing of the Cemetery; the possible curtailment of police grants; address priorities at a workshop; the City Manager; LLMD services not provided; the airport loan; travel moratorium; reorganization of departments; and, development of the best business plan. In response to inquiry, Finance Director Al Holliman stated that the City was on line regarding expenditures and receipt of revenues and indicated that he saw nothing that would cause him alarm at this time. He said he felt positive about the financial situation. He said the reserve level was at a strong level of 6% or $1,063,000 fund balance and a cash balance of $500,000 to $2 million. Director Holliman and Police Lt. Frank Sullivan described the application process and the need for matching funds for the COPS grants. They explained how the proposed hiring freeze of safety positions would impact the program that could result in the curtailment of the grant funding. City Treasurer Mike Williams said the cash levels were adequate and that the City's financial picture was better now than four years ago. He expressed confidence in the Finance Director and assured that he would call attention to the City Council if he perceived any problems with cash flow. He confirmed that the City did not have any risky investments. SBPEA Representative Elaine Craig and Rev. Steve Henderson presented rebuttal. MOTIONNOTE; After further discussion, it was moved by CM Sanders that all resolutions be accompanied by a staff analysis to provide all background detail, i. e., financial detail, treasury position, and staff's position and summary. City Attorney Carvalho joined the recommendation and asked for clear direction to guide her when asked to write a resolution by individual members of Council. CM Bennett seconded the motion upon the condition that, initially, the concept be brought before Council for determination on whether or not a resolution is necessary. The maker of the motion agreed to include the proviso. Mayor Gaytan proposed to rescind the proposed resolution. Discussion followed on whether or not to act on the proposed resolution. City Attorney Carvalho advised that there were two City Council Mins Nov 2, 1999 2