HomeMy WebLinkAboutProgram Analysis Committee - January - March 1998 PROGRAM ANALYSIS COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS
Regular Meeting 7 :30 p.m. January 12, 1998
PRESENT:
Alderperson Vaughan, Chair
Mayor Cohen, Vice-Chair
Alderpersons (8) Farrell, Blumenthal, Manos, Shenk, Taylor,
Marcham, Gray, Sams
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk - Conley Holcomb
City Controller - Cafferillo
Deputy City Controller - Thayer
EXCUSED:
Alderperson Spielholz
REPORT OF THE CHAIR:
Alderperson Vaughan opened the meeting and welcomed
everyone to the first meeting of the Program Analysis
Committee (PAC) . Alderperson Vaughan reported that the
City Clerk will be providing staff support for the
committee . She further announced that the PAC meetings
will be open to public, however the meetings will not
include public comment sessions . Alderperson Vaughan
stated that the Committee will meet the second (7 : 30 pm)
and fourth (3 : 30 pm) Mondays of each month until August .
PURPOSE OF COMMITTEE:
Alderperson Vaughan distributed a Program Analysis
Committee information sheet to Committee members .
Discussion followed on the floor regarding the role of the
Committee . The Purpose Statement was amended to read as
follows :
Purpose : To define and analyze City departmental programs
in a consistent manner that will allow Council to
understand the costs, benefits and revenues associated with
each program as it is presented to Council for
consideration for funding during the budget process .
COMMITTEE METHODOLOGY:
Alderperson Vaughan requested Committee input on the
information collection process . After discussion, the
Committee approved the following methodology:
The Committee will acquire information about City
departments and their programs and budgets, analyze that
information, and transmit these analyses to Common Council,
the Mayor, and the Department, accompanied by the
Committee' s recommendations on how best to use the City' s
resources .
I . What will we do?
A. Gather Information from Departments
1) briefings by department heads and their
deputies
2) briefings by others with particular expertise
example: Attorney' s office on general
impacts of labor contracts
3) comparative information from similar upstate
communities
B. Analyze this information so that we understand
what departments do - why they do it, and the
resources required
C. Work with departments to identify sustainable
revenue and cost saving initiatives
D. Present this information to the Mayor and to
Council before budget season (September 15th ) ,
accompanied by recommendations of various kinds
1 . revenue generation opportunities
2 . reorganization/combination of programs
3 . most effective and most economical use of
resources - labor, buildings, programs,
equipment
4 . exploration of new technologies or expanded
use of computers
5 . cost/benefit analyses
E. Serve as a resource during budget hearings
II . The Process
A. General information from briefings by specialists
EX: personnel for affirmative action
attorney for labor contracts
personnel for Civil Service environment
B. Briefings by departments lx for uncomplicated
departments 2x or more for complicated ones
C. Comparative data as possible - with explanations
(interns to this, as possible)
D. Small working groups assigned to particular
departments - a possibility
Information we' ll ask for:
A. Equipment inventory, including anticipated ' 98
purchases and information on department
replacement schedule
B. Computer inventory, including anticipated ' 98
purchases and explanation of how various items are
used
C. Information on labor contracts for each department
D. Current budget in program format
E. Personnel information: rosters, titles, salaries
F. Goals in some kind of quantifiable format
G. A brief narrative about each program
H. Recommendations/ideas on ways this department can
generate more revenue
I . An organization chart for your department,
including names of current personnel in each job
Cost Saving Initiatives:
Alderperson Blumenthal requested that the Committee explore
initiatives to encourage employees to make suggestions
regarding reducing operational costs . Alderpersons
Blumenthal and Farrell volunteered to serve on a sub-
committee to investigate possible incentives.
Revenue Generation:
The Committee identified the need for a policy regarding
revenue generation to answer questions such as : are
departments who raise revenues entitled to a portion of
those funds?
Committee Expectations:
The Committee reviewed the list of information that
Department Heads are expected to provide. Alderperson
Vaughan noted that the information materials are expected
to be forwarded to the Committee members on Tuesday or
Wednesday before the meeting. She further noted that by
having all of the program budgets submitted in a uniform
format will assist Committee members in reviewing the
information.
Purchasing Practices:
The Committee requested a report from Deputy Controller
Thayer regarding the City' s current purchasing practices as
it relates to items such as office supplies .
:i •r
MUNIS Presentation:
City Controller Cafferillo conducted an online presentation
of MUNIS, the City' s financial software package. The City
Controller' s office will be working with department heads
on creating program budgets as well as providing training
on use of the software.
Next Meeting:
The next meeting will be on Monday, January 26, 1998 at
3 : 30 pm in Common Council Chambers . Items on the agenda
include :
Labor Contracts - Assistant City Attorney Kennedy
Civil Service - Personnel Administrator Saul
Affirmative Action - Personnel Administrator Saul
Adjournment:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 9 :25 pm.
i
0 ' " '',, CITY OF ITHACA
ii";• `T'f'` .', 108 East Green Street Ithaca,New York 14850-5690
/�/ � -!4;‘:::f,d' ,
y ' t f;hi OFFICE OF THE MAYOR • ALAN J.COHEN
es••,,«• •••.•'V -
�� Q_ Telephone: 607/274-6501 Fax: 607/274-6526
To: Department Heads
From: Alan J. Cohen, Mayor
Re: Common Council Program Analysis Committee
&L.
Date: 12/27/97 i� c\\,t
C i4.c I t 7f
To facilitate the work of Common Council's Program Analysis Committee, 09 b J
please prepare the following for distribution to committee members (please note 4p 'K' � .5
that this only applies to programs funded by the General Fund): / �` n
1) A listing of your programs within your department, with a brief (no more — �ti� ,
than one page) narrative for each program. You may also submit longer narratives
and/or other documentation, but the shorter version is also required. In addition,
lto�
please think about a goal(s) for each program, to be discussed with the committee. `L
2) An employee roster for your department, identifying job title, salary, and 2 '�'
hire date as it applies to seniority in their present bargaining unit (different from
original hire date in cases when employee has moved between bargaining units)
3) A budget for each program, including all expenses, all directly attributable
revenues for each specific program and all individual employees funded by each
program. Departmental adminstrative costs are to be allocated amongst programs.
4) Recommendations to increase outside revenues to your department.
5) An organizational chart of your department.
6) A current inventory of your computer hardware, and a list of computer
hardware purchases for 1998.
7) An equipment replacement schedule, including not only large ticket items
that make it to the capital project list, but smaller equipment purchases like copiers.
If you have any questions or need clarification of any item, please contact me
at your earliest convenience.
cc Pat Vaughan, Chairperson, Program Analysis
An Equal Opportunity Employer with an Affirmative Action Program' �«�
PROGRAM ANALYSIS COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS
JANUARY 26, 1998
3:30 PM
PRESENT:
Chair Vaughan
Alderpersons : Farrell, Blumenthal, Marcham, Spielholz, Sams
Shenk, Manos, Taylor, Gray
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk - Conley Holcomb
City Controller - Cafferillo
Deputy City Controller - Thayer
Assistant City Attorney - Kennedy
Personnel Administrator - Saul
EXCUSED:
Mayor Cohen
DRAFT OF THE GOALS AND METHODS DOCUMENT:
Chair Vaughan asked for comments and/or possible revisions
to the draft version of the Program Analysis Committee
purpose, goals, and methods statement .
Alderperson Blumenthal requested a revision to item I (C)
to incorporate wording regarding soliciting suggestions
from city employees as well as department heads . The
following wording was approved:
I . What will we do?
C. Work with department heads and city employees to
identify new revenue and cost saving initiatives and to
solicit suggestions .
REPORT OF CHAIR:
Chair Vaughan reported that she has met with all city
department heads except for the Youth Bureau, and she is
meeting with Sam Cohen, John Doyle, Marcia Fort, Alice
Green, and Allen Green on Wednesday, January 28, 1998 .
During these discussions she has explained the Program
Analysis Committee review process, reviewed the information
that should be submitted, and attempted to respond to
concerns expressed by department heads .
REPORT OF THE COST-SAVING/REVENUJE INITIATIVES SUB-
COMMITTEE:
Alderperson Farrell reported on the Cornell University
Employee Incentive Program. This program is administered
through the National Association of College and University
Business Officials . Employees may submit award
applications for programs and/or systems that have been in
place for a year, and have proven cost reduction data.
There are two awards, the Management Achievement Award,
based on increasing the quality of department and campus
wide programs, and the Process Improvement/Resource
Enhancement Award, which is based on re-engineering, re-
design or restructuring processes that have reduced costs
or increased revenues . After the application is submitted
to Cornell, Cornell will select a few projects . The
department of the employee that submits the application is
awarded between $100-$500 (award is most likely shared with
the employee) , and a special luncheon. The projects that
are selected by Cornell will be sent forward to the
National Organization, along with all of the other
participating universities, who will rank projects and
award between $1, 000 - $10, 000 .
The sub-committee will investigate how such a program might
be implemented within the city.
EXPECTATIONS OF DEPARTMENTS WHO GENERATE REVENUE:
Appointment of a Sub-committee
Alderperson Vaughan requested that a sub-committee be
established to review issues related to incentives for
revenue generation initiatives (i .e. Who gets the
additional revenue generated? Department vs . General Fund;
What percentage is each entity entitled to? Etc. )
Alderpersons Taylor, Spielholz and Chair Vaughan will work
with City Controller Cafferillo on this issue.
COMPARATIVE DATA:
Appointment of a Sub-committee
Chair Vaughan requested that a sub-committee be established
to review comparative data related issues (i .e. which
community demographics should we be looking for?
Population, college communities, upstate vs . downstate,
etc. What types of questions should we ask? ; What is the
most effective way to conduct the surveys?)
Alderperson Gray, Chair Vaughan, and City Clerk Holcomb
will meet to discuss these issues .
TENTATIVE PRESENTATION SCHEDULE FOR 1998:
Chair Vaughan presented the tentative presentation schedule
as follows :
FEBRUARY:
9th — Mayor' s Office
City Clerk' s Office
City Controller' s Office
23rd — Building Department
MARCH:
9th - City Prosecutor' s Office
City Chamberlain' s Office
Citywide Purchasing Program - Steven Thayer
23rd — City Attorney' s Office
Summary/Recall
APRIL:
13th — Fire Department
27th - Youth Bureau
MAY:
11th - Youth Bureau
26th - Youth Bureau - if needed
Summary/Recall
** Please note change in date from Monday to Tuesday
JUNE:
8th - Department of Public Works
22nd - Department of Public Works
JULY:
12t11 - Police Department
Personnel Office
27th - Department of Public Works
AUGUST:
10th - Police Department
Summary/Recall
24th - Planning Department
Summary/Recall
SEPTEMBER:
8th Extra meeting if needed to clear up unfinished
business
LABOR CONTRACTS:
Assistant City Attorney Kennedy distributed a memo to the
committee which detailed the city' s bargaining units and
information relating to contract negotiation and
arbitration, along with copies of the current labor
contracts .
The city has six labor unions, five of which are currently
involved with contract negotiations . The city' s workforce
is divided into labor unions as follows :
Administrative Unit of the CSEA - approx. 111 active
members, typically clerical, financial, technical and/or
professional positions .
Department of Public Works Unit of the CSEA - approx. 109
active members, typically laborers, machine operators,
truck drivers, maintenance positions .
Executive Association - approx. 13 active members,
typically supervisory positions . This unit is not
affiliated with a statewide organization.
Police Benevolent Association - approx. 74 active members,
police officers (with the exception of the Police Chief and
Deputy Chief) .
Ithaca Paid Firefighters Association - approx. 57 active
members, firefighters, fire lieutenants, fire alarm
superintendent .
The Chief Officers Unit - approx. 5 active members,
assistant fire chiefs .
City employees not covered under union contracts are as
follows :
Management Employees - approx. 22 employees, department
heads, deputies, and assistants (with the exception of the
Deputy Building Commissioner - Executive Unit, and the
Assistant Fire Chiefs - The Chief Officers Unit)
Confidential Employees - approx. 16 employees,
administrative secretaries and assistants where employee is
entrusted with a large amount of confidential information.
Elected Officers - 11 members, Mayor and Common Council
Seasonal Employees
The Taylor law was adopted by New York State in 1967 . The
Taylor law was developed to govern the relationship between
municipalities and unions, along with other laws such as
NYS Labor law, Civil Service law, Human Rights law as well
as other state and federal laws . The Taylor Law
established the Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) to
oversee the fair enforcement of the law' s provisions
including:
The method of selecting or recognizing a union and
assigning a new or altered position to a particular union;
It addresses a union' s responsibility to fairly
represent all members of the unit;
It prohibits striking by public employees;
It prohibits municipal employers for "privatizing" or
contracting out work done exclusively by bargaining unit
members;
It prohibits municipal employers from altering the
terms of an expired labor agreement without bargaining with
employees; and
It requires bargaining with employees on all
"mandatory" subjects of negotiation.
PERB continues to determine what subjects are mandatory
subjects of bargaining, what subjects are non-mandatory
subjects of bargaining, and what subjects are excluded or
prohibited from bargaining. Public employers must bargain
over "terms and conditions of employment" . Items such as
salary, wages, benefits, hours are conditions of employment
which cannot be imposed and must be bargained. Non-
mandatory subjects are those which may be discussed, but
are not required. Subjects prohibited from bargaining are
items that are forbidden by statue or are against public
policy.
Assistant City Attorney Kennedy further discussed Interest
Arbitration, which provides for contract mediators and
arbitrators, and is only available to police and
firefighters .
LAYOFF PROCEDURES FOR CITY POSITIONS:
Personnel Administrator Saul distributed handouts which
detail the layoff procedures for city positions following
Civil Service Law, and Labor Contracts . She highlighted
the following topics :
Civil Service Law:
Layoff procedures apply only to competitive class
employees .
Employee' s rights are determined by appointment status and
seniority.
Appointment status retention rights, from greatest to least
are as follows :
1 . Permanent employee who has completed probationary period
2 . Permanent employee who is still serving probationary
period
3 . Non Permanent employees
Contingent Permanent employees
Provisional employees - law doesn' t govern order of
layoff, but labor contract may
Temporary employees - neither law nor contract governs
order of layoff
Seniority is determined by the date of the employee' s
original permanent appointment in the classified service
which has been followed by continuous service. Continuous
service is defined by state law and local rule. All layoff
rights and procedures are contained with the specific city
department impacted.
ri
Layoff rights and procedures include:
Bumping - displacing another employee in a lower level
position. The positions into which an employee may bump
are narrowly and specifically defined. To bump, an
employee must have greater retention rights than the
employee in the lower position.
Retreat - displacing another employee serving in a position
in the layoff unit in the last lower level title the
displacing employee held on a permanent basis . There are
specific, restrictive rules governing the conditions under
which retreat can occur.
Preferred Lists - an employee who is laid off or displaced
from a position is placed on a preferred eligible list for
up to four years . During the life of the preferred list,
the employee has an absolute right to reappointment to
future vacancies in the same, similar or lower level
positions .
Noncompetitive class and labor class employees who are war
veterans or exempt volunteer firefighters have rights to
transfer to similar vacant positions upon abolishment of
their positions .
Labor Contracts:
All employees represented by the Executive Association,
Ithaca Paid Firefighters Association, Police Benevolent
Association, and CSEA Administrative Unit hold competitive
class positions, therefore layoff procedures for these
employees are defined by Civil Service Law. Labor contract
provisions in the CSEA Administrative Unit contract
regarding seniority apply in situations that Civil Service
Law does not cover, such as layoff order of provisional
employees .
Competitive class employees represented by the CSEA
Department of Public Works Unit are governed by Civil
Service layoff procedures . Once they exhaust their
statutory rights, however, they may exercise additional
bumping rights granted by the labor agreement .
Noncompetitive and labor class employees represented by the
CSEA Department of Public Works Unit are governed by the
layoff procedures specified in the Department of Public
Works labor agreement .
Alderperson Sams noted that one of the problems associated
with layoffs is affirmative action hirings . Although the
city has been successful in hiring minorities and women
recently, these employees are the most vulnerable to
layoffs due to the fact that they have the least seniority.
Further discussion followed on the floor regarding the
Vacancy Review Committee appointment procedure and charges.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 5 :30 PM.
F��y R-A5
PROGRAM ANALYSIS COMMITTEE
SCHEDULE OF PRESENTATIONS
February 9, 7:30 p.m. Mayor's Office
Clerk's Office
Controller's Office
February 23, 3:30 p.m. Building Department
March 9, 7:30 p.m. Prosecutor's Office
Chamberlain
Citywide Purchasing - S. Thayer
March 23, 3:30 p.m. Attorney's Office
Summary/Recall
April 13, 7:30 p.m. Fire Department
April 27, 3:30p.m. Youth Bureau
May 11, 7:30 p.m. Youth Bureau
May 26, 3:30 p.m. NOTE THE CHANGE IN DATE
FROM MONDAY TO TUESDAY
Youth Bureau, if extra time is needed
Summary/Recall
June 8, 7:30 p.m. Department of Public Works
June 22, 3:30 p.m. Department of Public Works
j3
July IA, 7:30 p.m. Police Department
Personnel Department
July 27, 3:30 p.m. Department of Public Works
August 10, 7:30 p.m. Police Department
Summary/Recall
August 24, 3:30 p.m. Planning Department
Summary/Recall
September 8, 7:30 p.m. Extra meeting if needed to clear up unfinished business
presentsched.doc
. •
Program Analysis Committee
Purpose: To define and analyze City departmental programs in a consistent manner that
will allow Council to understand the costs, benefits and revenue associated with each pro-
gram as it is presented to Council for consideration for funding during the budget process.
The Committee will acquire information about City departments and their programs and
budgets, analyze that information, and transmit these analyses to Common Council,the
Mayor, and the Department, accompanied by the Committee's recommendations on how
best to use the City's resources.
How will the Committee use the information it gathers?
1) To inform Council about departmental activities and programs.
2) To provide a consistent method of examining programs across department lines that
will provide Council with a basis for thoughtful comparison of costs and benefits of
each program.
3) To work with departments to identify additional revenue initiatives and cost saving
measures, and to help departments develop feasible revenue initiatives to a point
where they can be implemented.
4) To summarize and analyze the information presented, to set priorities and make
recommendations to the Mayor for incorporation into the budget for the next fiscal
year.
5) To inform other Council Committees of its findings and the priorities that have been
established, and to recommend that these be incorporated into the budget for the next
fiscal year.
I. What will we do?
A. Gather information from departments
1) briefings by department heads and their deputies
2) briefings by others with particular expertise
example: Attorney's office on general impacts of labor contracts
3) comparative information from similar upstate communities
B. Analyze this information so that we understand what departments do - why they
do it, and the resources required
C. Work with department heads and employees to identify new revenue and cost
saving initiatives and to solicit suggestions
D. Present this information to the Mayor and to Council before budget season,
accompanied by recommendations of various kinds
1. revenue generation opportunities
2. reorganization/combination of programs
3. most effective and most economical use of resources - labor, buildings,
programs, equipment
4. exploration of new technologies or expanded use of computers
5. cost/benefit analyses
E. Serve as a resource during budget hearings
II. The Process
A. General information from briefings by specialists
EX: personnel for affirmative action
attorney for labor contracts
personnel for Civil Service environment
B. Briefings by departments lx for uncomplicated departments
2x or more for complicated ones
C. Comparative data as possible -with explanations
(interns to this, as possible)
D. Small working groups assigned to particular departments - a possibility
III. Information we'll ask for
A. Equipment inventory, including anticipated ` 98 purchases and information on
department replacement schedule
B. Computer inventory, including anticipated `98 purchases and explanation of how
various items are used.
C. Information on labor contracts for each department
D. Current budget in program format
E. Personnel information: rosters,titles, salaries, etc.
F. Goals in some kind of quantifiable format
G. A brief narrative about each program
H. Recommendations/ideas on ways this department can generate more revenue
I. An organization chart for each department, including names of current
personnel in each job.
Program Analysis Worksheet
Program Description
Department Program Program# Budget#
What community needs does this program address?Briefly summarize any documentation of need or demand.
What are the mission and goals of this program and how do they relate to the city's mission and goals?
To whom are the services of the program provided? What are those services?
How many people are served by these programs?
What significant changes in the program,if any,are planned for 1998?
Is there any other information Common Council should know about this program?
Q:\CENTRAL\proganal.doc Page 1 of 2
Program Analysis Worksheet
Program Goals
Department Program Program# Budget#
Please list measurable 1998 goals which are appropriate for your department.If possible,show 1997 actual figures for the
measures you list
Goal 1997 Actual 1998 Goal 1999 Goal—Est.
Define each measure and add additional comments
In addition to the measures listed above,you may give a qualitative description of how well the program is meeting its goals,
including comparisons with last year,this year and next year.
QA CENTRAL doc
Page 2 of 2
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77171
`i
CITY OF ITHACA
1 OB EAST GREEN STREET
ITHACA, NEW YORK 14950
OFFICE OF TELEPHONE
CITY CLERK (607)274-6570
February 4, 1998
Mr. Charles F. Savage, City Clerk, City of Auburn
Ms . Kathryn A. Peterson, City Clerk, City of Elmira
Ms . Shirley A. Sanfilippo, City Clerk, City of Jamestown
Mr. Richard P. Mullaney, City Clerk, City of Lockport
Mr. John W. Wylucki, City Clerk, City of North Tonawanda
Ms. Kathleen Athanas, Chamberlain, City of Poughkeepsie
Mr. Edward Valentine, COA, City of Saratoga Springs
Dear Fellow Clerks;
The City of Ithaca has recently created a new standing
committee named the Program Analysis Committee. The
purpose of this committee is " to define and analyze City
departmental programs in a consistent manner that will
allow Council to understand the costs, benefits, and
revenues associated with each program as it is presented to
Council for consideration for funding during the budget
process" . The Program Analysis Committee is requesting
comparative data from each department to help the members
understand how the City of Ithaca compares with other
municipalities of comparable size and demographics.
I would appreciate your assistance in completing the
following survey at earliest convenience, and faxing it
back to me at (607) 272-7348 .
Thank you in advance for your assistance. I would be happy
to share the collected data with you if you are interested.
Sinc411&LI ely,
lie Conley Holcomb, CMC
City Clerk
I'
"An Equal Opportunity Employer with an Affirmative Action Program" ft) Recycled Paper
City of Ithaca Comparative
Data Study
Please complete and fax to:
(607) 272-7348
1 . What is your official title?
2 . How many employees work in your office?
Please list their titles :
3 . Have you or your Deputy received your CMC
Certification?
4 . How many committees to you provide staff support
for, and what functions do you support?
Agenda Preparation
Minute Preparation
Photocopying, Distribution
5 . How often does your Council meet?
6 . What is the average length of your Council
minutes?
7 . How long does it take you to complete the
minutes?
8 . How many Local Laws did your municipality approve
In 1997? Ordinances?
9 . Describe your involvement in Election procedures?
10 . Do you participate in the SARA Records Management
Program?
If yes, how many grants have you been awarded?
In what categories/funding amount?
11. Which of the following licenses/permits do you
issue, and how many do you issue annually?
Marriage Licenses
Marriage Transcripts
Domestic Partnerships
Hunting/Fishing Lic.
Dog Licenses
Handicap Parking
Bingo - # of Organizations
Games of Chance/Raffle # of Org.
Going Out of Business
Auctioneer' s Lic.
Transient Merchant
Events (downtown) Permit
Please list any other licenses/permits you issue,
and the number you issue annually:
12 . Do you use software applications to assist you in
issuing these licenses or storing the
information?
If yes, please explain
13 . Does your municipality have a computer network
(LAN/WAN) ?
If yes, to what extent do your share data with
different departments?
14 . Does your municipality have internet access, a
web page, etc . ?
If yes, what information does your office post on
the web?
15 . Please list your professional affiliations:
(NYCOM, NYALGRO, IIMC, etc. )
PROGRAM ANALYSIS COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS
FEBRUARY 9, 1998
7 :30 PM
PRESENT:
Vice-Chair Cohen
Alderpersons : Farrell, Blumenthal, Marcham, Sams, Manos,
Shenk, Gray
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk - Conley Holcomb
City Controller - Cafferillo
Deputy City Controller - Thayer
Systems Administrator - Kinne
City Chamberlain - Parsons
EXCUSED:
Chair Vaughan
Alderpersons : Taylor, Spielholz
Vice-Chair Cohen opened the meeting and explained that
Chair Vaughan was not able to attend tonight' s meeting due
to a family medical emergency.
Vice-Chair Cohen also reported that he will not be
presenting information from the Mayor' s Office as
scheduled, as he has not yet received his program budget
numbers .
PRESENTATION OF THE CITY CLERK'S OFFICE:
Alderperson Shenk inquired as to the amounta•of time it took
to prepare the information that will be presented. City
Clerk Conley Holcomb responded that she worked on it for
approximately three full days . City Controller Cafferillo
and Mayor Cohen noted that they have contributed a
significant amount of time to this project as well .
Alderperson Shenk noted that the Committee should monitor
the amount of information requested, as she felt that it
could become overwhelming to department heads, and that
some of the information may not turn out to be useful .
Alderperson Blumenthal requested that the information be
submitted to the Committee a few days before the scheduled
presentations so that Committee members would have a chance
to review it .
City Clerk Conley Holcomb presented the following
information from the City Clerk' s Office:
City Clerk Revenue Sources:
Marriage Licenses - $25 . - 369 issued in 1997
Marriage Transcripts - $10 . - 150 issued in 1997
Domestic Partnerships - $25 . - 6 issued in 1997
Sporting Licenses - varies - 343 issued in 1997
Dog Licenses - varies - 807 issued in 1997
Bingo Licenses - 4 organizations
Games of Chance Licenses - 10 organizations
Going out of Business Licenses - 2 issued in 1997
Transient Merchant Permit - repealed in 1997
Auctioneer' s Licenses - varies - 3 issued in 1997
City Code Book sales & Supplementation
Minor sales
City Clerk Conley Holcomb explained that most of the
license fees are set by New York State agencies .
Discussion followed on the floor regarding which licensing
functions were offered through other local governmental
agencies, and why the City should continue to offer these
services .
City Clerk Conley Holcomb explained how the Clerk licensing
and financial software, purchased in 1996, has improved the
efficiency of the Clerk' s office dramatically, and how the
equipment ordered for 1998 will enhance the licensing
program.
Discussion followed on the floor regarding which license
fees the City had the ability to alter. City Clerk Holcomb
responded that the local fee for dog licenses could be
raised from $5 . 00 to as high as $10 . 00 ; Auctioneer
Licenses; and Domestic Partnerships, and city code/pamphlet
fees . Further discussion followed regarding investigating
new license fees for home-based businesses, Commons Use
Permits, and Transient Merchants . Another area identified
as in need of review is the city' s overall permitting
process .
City Clerk Holcomb reviewed the following programs
administered through the City Clerk' s Office:
Program 3200 - Committee Support - $21,614
The City Clerk' s Office provides clerical support in form
of agenda and minute preparation, photocopying, mail
distribution, meeting scheduling, filing, administering
oaths of office, and roster preparation for city committees
including, but not limited to: Common Council, Board of
Public Works, Program Analysis Committee, Community Issues
Committee, Six Mile Creek Advisory Board, Conservation
Advisory Council, Disability Advisory Council and the Cable
Commission. The City Clerk' s office ensures that accurate
information is duly recorded and filed so that the public
has accurate information relating to government proceeding
at all times . The City Clerk' s office is also charged with
recording and maintaining the history of the City of
Ithaca.
Program 3201 - Legislation Preparation - $7,792
This program ensures that legislative acts approved by
Common Council are prepared, published, and codified in
accordance with State and local laws . Included in this
program is notification to the citizens of Ithaca of public
hearings, legislation being considered, and legislation
that will become effective in the near future.
Codification in a timely manner allows Council, Department
Heads, and the public, access to all of the City' s current
laws and ordinances . Preparation of Local Laws, including
"laying on the table" , preparation of local law forms,
scheduling of public hearing, and filing with NYS Secretary
of State, and possible referendum, are critical functions
which assure that local laws are deemed valid.
Program 3202 - Information Processing - $12, 938
The City Clerk' s Office processes and files records for
many City functions, including, but not limited to : claims
against the city, city contracts, permanent files,
affidavits of publication, freedom of information requests,
abandoned car sales, application/renewal notices for liquor
licenses, certificates of insurance, civilian complaints
against police officers, as well as offering notary public
services . Proper processing and filing ensures that these
records may be used for future reference, and are
accessible to staff and the public.
Program 3203 - Elections - $27,481
This program provides for the establishment of polling
locations within each ward, the delivery of voting machines
and election bags, programming voting machines, re-
canvassing voting machines, and payment for services of
Election Custodians and Inspectors . This program also
involves maintenance and repair of voting machines as well
as the conversion of voting machines to allow printer
packs, and handicap panels . The city has 23 voting
machines, to date 12 machines have been converted, and six
more machines are scheduled for conversion in 1998 . The
city has 5 election wards, and 19 election districts with
ten polling locations . The city hires the services of 2
Election Custodians and approximately 76 Election
Inspectors during the General Election.
Program 3204 - Records Management - $21,744
The City of Ithaca Records Management Program utilizes
competitive grant funds from the Local Governmental Records
Management Improvement Fund to protect and conserve
permanent, vital records, store inactive records, and
destroy obsolete records . To date, the city has received
$137, 059 of grant funds and has been awarded and the city
has renovated storage rooms in the basement to create an
inactive record storage facility with mobile aisle shelving
units, inventoried, organized and boxed all of the city' s
inactive records, destroyed approximately 800 cubic feet of
obsolete records, created an automated index of Common
Council minutes, photocopied 47 Common Council/Board of
Public Works minute books onto acid-free paper, and is in
the process of conducting a land based record process
study.
Program 3205 - Licensing - $32, 891
The City Clerk' s Office issues a variety of licenses and
permits for the State of New York as well as the city
including, but not limited to: marriage, dog, sporting,
handicap parking, domestic partnership, marriage
transcripts, bingo, games of chance, going out of business,
auctioneer' s license, Commons use permits, mobile vending,
outdoor dining.
Program 3206 - General Administration - $13,819
This program is a catch-all for all of the administrative
functions of the City Clerk' s office including payroll,
purchasing, employee relations, training/coaching, etc.
Program 3207 - Public Information/Research Assistance -
$40,037
This program includes all of the questions that City Clerk
staff field from customers at our counter, on the phone, e-
mail, and regular mail . Information provided can be as
simple as directions to another department or as
complicated government process and procedures. Research is
conducted in old minutes (1821+) , marriage records (1888+) ,
permanent files (1821+) , city directories (1900+) ,
contracts, committee files, etc .
Program 3208 - Meetings Attended - $14, 572.
In order to provide accurate information, and offer
expertise to city staff and the public, the City Clerk must
attend in house meetings, as well as required Common
Council, Board of Public Works, and Program Analysis
Committee meetings. The City Clerk is a member of the
following internal committees : Computer Committee, IMPACT,
Support Staff, GIS Working Group, Senior Staff and the
Workforce Transition Committee.
PRESENTATION OF THE CITY CONTROLLER'S OFFICE
City Controller Cafferillo noted that the 1999 city budget
will be developed in the same manner that the individual
program budgets have been created. A detailed method of
keeping time records will be required in order to obtain
accurate measures of time distribution for programs . This
type of system may be manageable for smaller departments,
however could become extremely time intensive for larger
departments . He further noted that he will continue to
work with the Program Analysis Committee and Department
Heads to develop a time record keeping system that will be
manageable for all departments, as well as meaningful in
terms of budget preparation.
City Controller Cafferillo and Deputy Controller Thayer
presented the following program information from the City
Controller' s Office:
Program 3100 - Accounting, Budgeting and Reporting -
$93,460
This program includes all the accounting activity for the
City. Maintaining and auditing City accounting records,
preparing and managing City budget activity and preparing
applicable internal, State and Federal reports .
Program 3207 - Public Information/Research Assistance -
$40, 037
This program includes all of the questions that City Clerk
staff field from customers at our counter, on the phone, e-
mail, and regular mail . Information provided can be as
simple as directions to another department or as
complicated government process and procedures . Research is
conducted in old minutes (1821+) , marriage records (1888+) ,
permanent files (1821+) , city directories (1900+) ,
contracts, committee files, etc .
Program 3208 - Meetings Attended - $14, 572.
In order to provide accurate information, and offer
expertise to city staff and the public, the City Clerk must
attend in house meetings, as well as required Common
Council, Board of Public Works, and Program Analysis
Committee meetings . The City Clerk is a member of the
following internal committees : Computer Committee, IMPACT,
Support Staff, GIS Working Group, Senior Staff and the
Workforce Transition Committee. ICS
PRESENTATION OF THE CITY CONTROLLER'S OFFICE — 21q'" `�
City Controller Cafferillo noted that the 1999 city budget
will be developed in the same manner that the individual
program budgets have been created. A detailed method of
keeping time records will be required in order to obtain
accurate measures of time distribution for programs . This
type of system may be manageable for smaller departments,
however could become extremely time intensive for larger
departments . He further noted that he will continue to
work with the Program Analysis Committee and Department
Heads to develop a time record keeping system that will be
manageable for all departments, as well as meaningful in
terms of budget preparation.
City Controller Cafferillo and Deputy Controller Thayer
presented the following program information from the City
Controller' s Office:
Program 3100 - Accounting, Budgeting and Reporting -
$93,460
This program includes all the accounting activity for the
City. Maintaining and auditing City accounting records,
preparing and managing City budget activity and preparing
applicable internal, State and Federal reports.
City Controller Cafferillo noted that department heads will
be asked to make budget transfers on a weekly or monthly
basis whenever an account may be overrun.
Program 3101 - Payroll/Leave-time Administration - $62, 129
This program includes all collection, input and management
of City payroll and leave records . Includes administration
of compensated absences City-wide.
Alderperson Manos inquired whether a bi-weekly payroll
system would result in cost savings . City Controller
Cafferillo responded that a bi-weekly payroll system would
have to be negotiated with the labor unions . He further
noted that the city has realized cost savings by utilizing
a direct deposit system.
Program 3102 - Labor Contract Negotiations/Administration -
$8,195
This program includes the Controller' s Office involvement
with labor contract negotiations . Also includes
administration of the labor contracts during the year.
Program 3103 - Water, Sewer, Joint Entity Administration -
$15, 579
This program includes time spent on water and sewer system
operations and improvements . Also, time spent on joint
entity administration for the Sewer Joint Sub-committee
(SJS) and the TCAT activity.
Program 3104 - Financial System Supervision - $17,284
This program includes time spent on maintaining, updating
and supervising the City' s financial system. MUNIS
administration is included in this program.
Program 3105 - Debt and Investment Program Management -
$117, 646
This program includes time spent on preparing and
coordinating debt issues during the year. Working with
Bonding Attorneys and Fiscal Advisors and preparing
official statements for debt sales . Program also includes
administration and management of City' s investment program.
Program 3106 - Employee Benefits and Insurance Risk
Management - $19, 915
This program involves time spent of City-wide employee
benefit programs including: Health insurance program;
Worker' s Compensation program; and other benefit
administration. Also includes administration of all City
insurance programs and evaluating risk.
Program 3107 - Purchasing and Contract Administration -
$24,364
This program includes all purchasing activity for the City.
Various activities include dealing with vendors, preparing
and administration of procurement policies, approval of
purchase orders and preparing, administering and approving
of bids, RFP' s and quotes . Program also included
preparation and administration of various City contracts .
Alderperson Marcham inquired about the city' s office supply
purchasing practices . Deputy City Controller reported that
he is currently developing a new purchasing program, on
State Contract, which would allow staff to input their
supply requests into the computer system, after several
requests have been received, he would approve the order and
send it to the vendor ensuring that the city would receive
the lowest prices for products based on quantity.
Deputy City Controller Thayer will make a separate
presentation at another PAC meeting on the city' s
purchasing system.
Alderperson Shenk suggested that the computer and equipment
inventories requested for this committee should be reviewed
by another entity such as the Computer Committee, who could
forward recommendations back to the PAC for consideration.
Program 3108 - General Administration and Staff Supervision
- $39,431
This program includes general City administration, staff
development, meetings and staff supervision.
Program 3109 - Capital Program Administration - $13,030
This program includes capital program administration of all
City capital projects . Includes preparing, maintaining and
accounting for capital projects and capital activity City-
wide.
VACANCY REVIEW COMMITTEE:
Common Council members confirmed that members appointed to
the Vacancy Review Committee in 1997 will still serve in
their capacities until the March, 1998 Common Council
meeting.
`./
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 10 :45 p.m.
PROGRAM ANALYSIS COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS
FEBRUARY 23, 1998
3:30 PM
PRESENT:
Chair Vaughan
Vice-Chair Cohen
Alderpersons (9) Farrell, Blumenthal, Marcham, Sams, Manos,
Shenk, Taylor, Gray, Spielholz
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk - Conley Holcomb
City Controller - Cafferillo
Deputy City Controller - Thayer
Systems Administrator - Kinne
Building Commissioner - Eckstrom
Deputy Building Commissioner - Radke
REPORT OF CHAIR:
Chair Vaughan thanked Mayor Cohen and Committee members for
continuing on in her absence at the last meeting.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION WORKSHEET:
Chair Vaughan noted changes that have been made to the
Program Description Worksheet including the addition of the
following fields :
"Number of people who work on program?"
"How often is this service performed?
"How much time does it take to perform the service?"
"Is special equipment required to perform service?"
INCENTIVES FOR REVENUE GENERATION OR SUGGESTIONS:
Alderperson Farrell reported that Cornell University has
another program similar to an exemplary employee program.
All employees are given nomination forms and may nominate
other employees for outstanding performance based on
established criteria. An employee based nominating
committee and screening committee has been created and
membership is rotated annually. Awards include $300 for
the employee and a breakfast for the department in which
the employee works . The UAW did not object to this
program.
Alderperson Farrell further noted that a program like this
would need to be developed with City staff members to make
it meaningful and successful .
Alderperson Shenk suggested that Common Council set a
maximum amount to spend and refer the project to IMPACT or
another employee based committee to develop.
Chair Vaughan and Alderperson Taylor are working on a plan
to address the expectations of departments who create new,
and sustaining, revenue generation initiatives . Further
discussion on this item was referred to the next meeting.
BUILDING DEPARTMENT PRESENTATION:
Building Commissioner Eckstrom and Deputy Building
Commissioner Radke presented the following information:
Based on a comparable data study completed by Building
Department staff, the City of Ithaca Building Department is
one of the most efficiently run departments in the country
compared to cities of comparable size.
Building Commissioner Eckstrom stressed that good, and
effective Code enforcement is the key to economic
development, and successful neighborhoods .
Alderperson Blumenthal noted that a community based peer
group worked with City staff in 1991 to assist the Building
Department in becoming consumer oriented, and in making
improvements to the permitting system.
Building Commissioner Eckstrom noted that as a result of
the work of that peer group, the "turn-around" time for
building permits is now two weeks . He further stressed
that the Building Department staff is supportive of
building developers and also spends a lot of time assisting
non-professional developers . The Building Department
encourages potential developers to discuss their proposed
projects in the early stages and has established office
hours from 8 : 00 - 10 : 00 am, Monday - Friday, for the Deputy
Building Commissioner to meet with people to discuss their
projects .
2
Housing Inspections
Deputy Building Commissioner Radke reported that other
municipalities do not conduct owner-occupied inspections .
She further noted that she supports owner-occupied
inspections as it discourages deteriorated housing, which
results in a healthy tax base. The City of Ithaca
Municipal Code requires the Building Commissioner to
inspect owner-occupied units at least every five years .
Owner-occupied inspections are not viewed favorably by
homeowners, but they are a fire prevention measure, and
mortgage lenders require inspections for real-estate
transactions . Due to the need to prioritize staff
resources, the 3 year inspection cycle of rental property
takes precedence over owner-occupied inspections .
Alderperson Farrell recommended that the City charge
separately for owner-occupied inspections .
BUILDING DEPARTMENT SOFTWARE :
Building Commissioner Eckstrom reported that
Geodemographics Inc. , is developing a software application
for the Building Department which will be a key to improved
departmental efficiency and record tracking. The visual
basic programming language has been written, the data
structures have been designed, additional modules are being
prepared, and beta-testing will begin shortly. The
Building Department is hoping to run dual software systems
in March.
Building Commissioner Eckstrom further noted that he is
planning to replace departmental computers on a three year
cycle. It was recommended that Common Council establish a
city-wide computer equipment replacement schedule.
BUILDING INSPECTIONS:
Deputy Building Commissioner Radke noted that each
Inspector in the Building Department would have to complete
approximately 5. 99 inspections per day to accomplish
everything that the City Code requires . Currently,
Inspectors are completing approximately 3. 99 inspections
per day.
Deputy Building Commissioner Radke suggested that a chart
may be useful for the Committee to review various options
such as :
3
If an additional Inspector is hired, how many more
inspections can be completed?
If rental housing was inspected on a four year cycle as
opposed to a three year cycle, how many more inspections
can be completed?
If the Department did not inspect owner-occupied housing,
how many more inspections can be completed?
If existing conditions in properties were noted, could
certain properties be inspected on a more frequent/or less
frequent schedule than other properties?
Extensive discussion followed on the floor regarding
current inspection cycles and staffing levels .
DEPARTMENTAL ALTERNATIVES:
Chapter C Program
Mayor Cohen reported that the report generated on the
proposed Chapter C Inspection program has been submitted to
him for review. Chapter C includes maintenance for
existing commercial buildings.
Deputy Building Commissioner Radke explained that currently
the Fire Department only inspects assembly buildings such
as restaurants, theaters, etc. It is difficult for IFD
staff to perform these inspections as current staffing
levels and rotating schedules require firefighters to leave
inspections for fire calls if needed and does not allow for
consistency in the program.
Consolidation of inspection services to one agency may be a
viable option.
Plan Review
Mayor Cohen requested further information on a Self-
Certification of Plans Program that has been instituted in
New York City.
Building Commissioner Eckstrom explained that the New York
City Building Commissioner decided that he wanted to crack
down on contractors working without building permits . He
instituted a self-certification program in which developers
could bring in an architect' s statement that verified that
the project complied with all of the City' s codes, and
receive a building permit. The New York City Building
4
Department randomly reviews 40-45% percent of the submitted
plans .
Building Commissioner Eckstrom stated that he is not in
favor of this program based on his experience with design
professionals . Deputy Building Commissioner Radke
explained the process of plan review, and stated that major
problems could arise with construction projects that have
not been subjected to plan review.
REVENUE GENERATION:
Building Commissioner Eckstrom recommended the following
increases in fees that were approved with the 1998 budget:
Building Permits Fees - increase to $6. 00 per $1, 000 or
fraction thereof
Requested inspections outside normal hours - $45
Additional Plan Review - $35
Certificates of Occupancy - $35
Temporary Certificates of Occupancy - $35
Demolition Work - $6. 00 per $1, 000 or fraction thereof
Potential New Fees:
Out of Town Electrical Contractors - $100
Use Variance Application Fees - $200
Non-compliance Fee - either double the price of the
building permit or the issuance of an appearance ticket and
corresponding penalty
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 5: 40 pm.
5
•
PROGRAM ANALYSIS COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS
FEBRUARY 23, 1998
3:30 PM
PRESENT:
Chair Vaughan
Vice-Chair Cohen
Alderpersons (9) Farrell, Blumenthal, Marcham, Sams, Manos,
Shenk, Taylor, Gray, Spielholz
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk - Conley Holcomb
City Controller - Cafferillo
Deputy City Controller - Thayer
Systems Administrator - Kinne
Building Commissioner - Eckstrom
Deputy Building Commissioner - Radke
REPORT OF CHAIR:
Chair Vaughan thanked Mayor Cohen and Committee members for
continuing on in her absence at the last meeting.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION WORKSHEET:
Chair Vaughan noted changes that have been made to the
Program Description Worksheet including the addition of the
following fields :
"Number of people who work on program?"
"How often is this service performed?
"How much time does it take to perform the service?"
"Is special equipment required to perform service?"
INCENTIVES FOR REVENUE GENERATION OR SUGGESTIONS:
Alderperson Farrell reported that Cornell University has
another program similar to an exemplary employee program.
All employees are given nomination forms and may nominate
other employees for outstanding performance based on
established criteria. An employee based nominating
committee and screening committee has been created and
membership is rotated annually. Awards include $300 for
the employee and a breakfast for the department in which
the employee works . The UAW did not object to this
program.
Alderperson Farrell further noted that a program like this
would need to be developed with City staff members to make
it meaningful and successful .
Alderperson Shenk suggested that Common Council set a
maximum amount to spend and refer the project to IMPACT or
another employee based committee to develop.
Chair Vaughan and Alderperson Taylor are working on a plan
to address the expectations of departments who create new,
and sustaining, revenue generation initiatives . Further
discussion on this item was referred to the next meeting.
BUILDING DEPARTMENT PRESENTATION:
Building Commissioner Eckstrom and Deputy Building
Commissioner Radke presented the following information:
Based on a comparable data study completed by Building
Department staff, the City of Ithaca Building Department is
one of the most efficiently run departments in the country
compared to cities of comparable size.
Building Commissioner Eckstrom stressed that good, and
effective Code enforcement is the key to economic
development, and successful neighborhoods .
Alderperson Blumenthal noted that a community based peer
group worked with City staff in 1991 to assist the Building
Department in becoming consumer oriented, and in making
improvements to the permitting system.
Building Commissioner Eckstrom noted that as a result of
the work of that peer group, the "turn-around" time for
building permits is now two weeks. He further stressed
that the Building Department staff is supportive of
building developers and also spends a lot of time assisting
non-professional developers . The Building Department
encourages potential developers to discuss their proposed
projects in the early stages and has established office
hours from 8 : 00 - 10 : 00 am, Monday - Friday, for the Deputy
Building Commissioner to meet with people to discuss their
projects .
2
r `
Housing Inspections
Deputy Building Commissioner Radke reported that other
municipalities do not conduct owner-occupied inspections .
She further noted that she supports owner-occupied
inspections as it discourages deteriorated housing, which
results in a healthy tax base. The City of Ithaca
Municipal Code requires the Building Commissioner to
inspect owner-occupied units at least every five years .
Owner-occupied inspections are not viewed favorably by
homeowners, but they are a fire prevention measure, and
mortgage lenders require inspections for real-estate
transactions . Due to the need to prioritize staff
resources, the 3 year inspection cycle of rental property
takes precedence over owner-occupied inspections .
Alderperson Farrell recommended that the City charge
separately for owner-occupied inspections .
BUILDING DEPARTMENT SOFTWARE:
Building Commissioner Eckstrom reported that
Geodemographics Inc. , is developing a software application
for the Building Department which will be a key to improved
departmental efficiency and record tracking. The visual
basic programming language has been written, the data
structures have been designed, additional modules are being
prepared, and beta-testing will begin shortly. The
Building Department is hoping to run dual software systems
in March.
Building Commissioner Eckstrom further noted that he is
planning to replace departmental computers on a three year
cycle. It was recommended that Common Council establish a
city-wide computer equipment replacement schedule.
BUILDING INSPECTIONS:
Deputy Building Commissioner Radke noted that each
Inspector in the Building Department would have to complete
approximately 5. 99 inspections per day to accomplish
everything that the City Code requires. Currently,
Inspectors are completing approximately 3 . 99 inspections
per day.
Deputy Building Commissioner Radke suggested that a chart
may be useful for the Committee to review various options
such as :
3
If an additional Inspector is hired, how many more
inspections can be completed?
If rental housing was inspected on a four year cycle as
opposed to a three year cycle, how many more inspections
can be completed?
If the Department did not inspect owner-occupied housing,
how many more inspections can be completed?
If existing conditions in properties were noted, could
certain properties be inspected on a more frequent/or less
frequent schedule than other properties?
Extensive discussion followed on the floor regarding
current inspection cycles and staffing levels.
DEPARTMENTAL ALTERNATIVES:
Chapter C Program
Mayor Cohen reported that the report generated on the
proposed Chapter C Inspection program has been submitted to
him for review. Chapter C includes maintenance for
existing commercial buildings .
Deputy Building Commissioner Radke explained that currently
the Fire Department only inspects assembly buildings such
as restaurants, theaters, etc. It is difficult for IFD
staff to perform these inspections as current staffing
levels and rotating schedules require firefighters to leave
inspections for fire calls if needed and does not allow for
consistency in the program.
Consolidation of inspection services to one agency may be a
viable option.
Plan Review
Mayor Cohen requested further information on a Self-
Certification of Plans Program that has been instituted in
New York City.
Building Commissioner Eckstrom explained that the New York
City Building Commissioner decided that he wanted to crack
down on contractors working without building permits . He
instituted a self-certification program in which developers
could bring in an architect' s statement that verified that
the project complied with all of the City' s codes, and
receive a building permit. The New York City Building
4
Department randomly reviews 40-45% percent of the submitted
plans .
Building Commissioner Eckstrom stated that he is not in
favor of this program based on his experience with design
professionals. Deputy Building Commissioner Radke
explained the process of plan review, and stated that major
problems could arise with construction projects that have
not been subjected to plan review.
REVENUE GENERATION:
Building Commissioner Eckstrom recommended the following
increases in fees that were approved with the 1998 budget:
Building Permits Fees - increase to $6. 00 per $1, 000 or
fraction thereof
Requested inspections outside normal hours - $45
Additional Plan Review - $35
Certificates of Occupancy - $35
Temporary Certificates of Occupancy - $35
Demolition Work - $6. 00 per $1, 000 or fraction thereof
Potential New Fees:
Out of Town Electrical Contractors - $100
Use Variance Application Fees - $200
Non-compliance Fee - either double the price of the
building permit or the issuance of an appearance ticket and
corresponding penalty
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 5: 40 pm.
5
r
PROGRAM ANALYSIS COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS
MARCH 9, 1998
7 :30 PM
PRESENT:
Chair Vaughan
Vice-Chair Cohen
Alderpersons : (7) Blumenthal, Farrell, Sams, Manos, Shenk,
Spielholz, Taylor
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Prosecutor - Falkson
City Clerk - Conley Holcomb
City Controller - Cafferillo
Deputy City Controller - Thayer
Systems Administrator - Kinne
City Chamberlain - Parsons
Fire Chief - Wilbur
EXCUSED:
Alderperson Marcham
SPECIAL MEETING:
Chairperson Vaughan noted that there will be a Special
• Common Council meeting preceding the March 23, 1998 Program
Analysis Committee meeting at 3 : 30 p.m. to discuss and vote
on the TCAT appointments .
ADDITIONS TO OR DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA:
Chairperson Vaughan requested the deletion of the Interim
Report on Computer Policies .
No member objected.
Chairperson Vaughan further noted the revised scheduling of
presentations to accommodate Superintendent Gray and Police
Chief Basile' s schedules .
REPORT OF CHAIR
Chairperson Vaughan reported that she and Alderperson
Taylor have met with City Controller Cafferillo and Fire
Chief Wilbur to discuss the expectations of departments
that create new and sustaining revenues . A meeting with
Building Commissioner Richard Eckstrom is scheduled for
March 10, 1998 . A report will be forthcoming.
Summary/Recall - Chairperson Vaughan noted that she would
like to implement summary/recall sessions after every three
(3) or four (4) presentations to summarize what has been
learned, to recall staff members to address unanswered
questions, and to make recommendations . She asked for any
recommendations, comments and/or suggestions .
It was recommended that the City Clerk compile a log of
questions for the Committee to address, as well as a log of
recommendations made by the Committee.
CITY PROSECUTOR'S REPORT:
City Prosecutor Linda Falkson outlined the crimes under her
jurisdiction and highlighted what she considered the most
important items .
Drug crimes - 243 cases in 1997
She described the general process of a prosecution,
emphasizing the determinations she must make whether to
offer a treatment or incarceration type of sentence .
Criminal Cases - 2, 000+
Vehicle and Traffic Cases - 6, 000+
Collaborative Efforts: - City Prosecutor Falkson noted her
interaction with the Neighborhood Watch programs, the
Community Drug Task Force, the City of Ithaca Drug Task
Force, and the Criminal Justice Committee.
Domestic Violence Crimes: - City Prosecutor Falkson noted
that she spends a great deal of time in the prosecution of
domestic violence crimes . She prosecuted 126 cases in
1997 . The service she provides attempts to make the
victims of these crimes safer through referrals to the Task
Force for Battered Women and other agencies, and by
properly sanctioning defendants by seeking convictions and
sentences which may include incarceration, probation and
treatment through the DOORS program. Prosecutor Falkson
conducts outreach in this area as well . She is a member of
the Domestic Violence Investigation Team, and is actively
involved with enhancing prosecution without requiring
victims to testify with the assistance of the preservation
of 911 tapes and photographs . A pamphlet has been prepared
to offer information regarding agencies and services
available in this area.
Vehicle & Traffic Violations:
Fines are mandatory for this type of violation. In 1994,
$108 , 838 in fines was collected. Deputy City Prosecutor
Sherman spends most of his time prosecuting vehicle and
traffic violations and quality of life violations, which
are approximately 300-400 cases per year.
Violent Crimes - non-domestic: - City Prosecutor addresses
treatment needs, criminal histories, etc. The Tompkins
County Crime Victims Assistance Program will assist victims
of violent crimes in regards to perpetrator restitution,
crime victims' advocacy and counseling.
Property Crimes - This includes petty larceny, stolen
property, etc. Restitution to crime victims is always
attempted. Many crimes are inter-related; therefore the
City Prosecutor sees her position as discerning how to
prosecute individual cases .
Public and Interoffice Services and Community Education
City Prosecutor Falkson believes she has an obligation to
keep communication open with the police department and
individual officers as victims frequently call asking for
the status of their case and other pertinent information.
She also teaches seminars for area merchants on
shoplifting, trains volunteers at the Task Force for
Battered Women regarding how a victim receives an order of
protection in a criminal court and in family court, and
provides training for the Tompkins County Domestic Violence
Legal Education Forum on domestic violence .
Alderperson Sams asked if the City Prosecutor' s Office
keeps statistics on how many drug related crimes are
committed by people from out of town. City Prosecutor
Falkson responded that she did not keep such statistics .
Alderperson Sams asked if we know how many defendants are
repeat offenders and how many are in the drug court
program. City Prosecutor Falkson reported that there are
approximately 40 people in the Drug Court program. No
information was available on repeat offenders .
City Prosecutor Falkson reported that Police Officer
Ostrander transports drugs to the Port Crane Crime Lab to
confirm the composition of drug substances . The turn
around time for evidence testing has dropped in half due to
the efforts of Officer Ostrander.
Alderperson Sams asked about the coordination of training
with the Community Police Board and the public on Police
Procedures as well as proper arrest procedure training for
Police Officers.
Prosecutor Falkson noted that she would like to work
closely with the Police Department on these topics .
Alderperson Farrell noted that many of the items Prosecutor
Falkson mentioned seemed to be integrated with other
departmental programs and budgets . Is there a way to
reflect the complete cost of specific programs?
Alderperson Blumenthal inquired about the pros and cons of
turning the prosecution of crimes over to the Tompkins
County District Attorney' s Office .
Prosecutor Falkson responded by mentioning that the
District Attorney handles murder, rape, burglaries, and
other felony cases, as well as some misdemeanor and
criminal violations . She feels that if the City
Prosecutor' s Office was abolished that the quality of life
issues and vehicle and traffic violations would not receive
the level of attention that City residents expect . The
City receives approximately $127, 000 annually in fines,
which would be drastically reduced if the District Attorney
prosecuted these cases.
Alderperson Blumenthal asked, if there were legal
requirements regarding the transportation of evidence.
Prosecutor Falkson replied that during trials the chain of
custody of evidence materials must be reported: the
transporter has to testify in court regarding
transportation, the chemist must testify, etc. Therefore
it makes sense to have a Police Officer provide the
transportation of evidence.
Alderperson Shenk asked if the City does seizure of
property related to drug forfeitures . Prosecutor Falkson
reported that seizures can only be conducted at the felony
level, which is prosecuted at the County level . The City
does receive a small percentage of the seizures .
Alderperson Manos asked how long it takes to prosecute a
crime . Prosecutor Falkson replied that violations are not
usually in the system for more than a few months . A
misdemeanor crime can take as long as six months . Jury
trial terms are conducted every couple of months . Time
lengths vary with the number of trials being carried out at
the same time.
• Alderperson Shenk asked about how Prosecutor Falkson makes
the determination as to who handles a particular case. When
and where is it determined whether a drug crime is a
possession or a sale? How is a crime considered a felony?
Prosecutor Falkson explained that the police officer or
investigator makes the initial charging decisions . All
charges are statutory.
The Prosecutor' s Office only has one computer for three
people to use and conduct significant research. A second
computer has been purchased, but is not set up yet .
Chairperson Vaughan asked about On-line services . If there
was a combination effort with the City Attorney' s office
would Westlaw be of service to the Prosecutor' s Office.
City Prosecutor Falkson agreed that such a service would be
beneficial . She has a couple of Interns who have access to
the Internet and do research at the Cornell University
libraries . The Supreme Court in the Tompkins County
Courthouse has a small library for research possibilities
and Deputy Prosecutor Sherman has some research capability
at his private office .
Prosecutor Falkson will check on the price of the packages .
Chairperson Vaughan noted that the Committee would like to
see the Prosecutor' s Office set quantifiable goals and
report on the results of those goals next year.
Discussion followed on the floor regarding collection of
fines and where the collected moneys are budgeted.
CITY CHAMBERLAIN'S OFFICE:
City Chamberlain Debra Parsons presented the following
information from the Chamberlain' s Office:
Tax Collection
The Chamberlain' s Office collects
- City 1st and 2nd property tax installments
- County Taxes
- Delinquent School taxes, and
- Enforces the collection of city taxes and school taxes
The goal of the Chamberlain' s Office is to
1) Provide information to the public regarding:
Delinquent School taxes
Tax searches
Tax info
Penalty calculations
Mailing receipts and copies of receipts
Liens on property converged to re-levy to be included in
the city tax bills in January.
2) Make sure the money is collected and processed as
quickly as possible.
City taxes: 3 . 5 million -collected by 2/3/98
County Taxes : 4 .2 million -collected by 2/3/98
all money was invested by 2/5/98
3) Provide timely and complete information to those who
request it . In 1996 1, 000 tax searches were conducted,
and 610 tax searches were completed in 1997 .
To date, City tax collection is a manual process . The
Chamberlain' s Office expects to install the MUNIS module
when it is complete. Price comparisons have been completed
and the other companies are approximately 7-8 times higher
than the contractual price with MUNIS.
The MUNIS system will allow the Chamberlain' s Office to do
electronic posting, balancing, and searching by property.
There are provisions in real property tax law to allow for
electronic posting.
Alderperson Shenk asked how much time the MUNIS system
would save. City Chamberlain Parsons responded that to be
able to search by property rather than by tax number will
result in tremendous savings of time. They expect a great
deal of time savings not only with the posting issues but
also in the balancing issues, because the roles and cash
receipts need to be balanced at the end of each day.
However, she pointed out that switching to an electronic
program would be a huge time commitment in the beginning.
All the departments who have access are using the MUNIS
system for their financial records .
There is a possibility the Chamberlain' s Office may have
MUNIS by 1999 .
The Chamberlain' s Office receives approximately $5, 000
annually from Tompkins County for County tax collection.
The City receives approximately $50, 000 annually in
penalties and interest on school tax bills .
Water and Sewer Bill Collection
City Chamberlain' s office collects approximately 1, 700
water and sewer bill per month for 12 months a year. A
third of the City is billed every month, everyone receives
quarterly billing. This involves :
Entering the readings into the computer system,
Handling address changes,
Accepting payments,
Answering questions about increased consumption,
Making bill adjustments as necessary,
Speaking with people about their penalties when the bills
aren' t paid,
Providing information to the Water and Sewer Department
about consumption,
Recording names, addresses and billing histories .
Water turn-offs .
If someone has two delinquent bills and is going on the
third delinquent bill, the Chamberlain' s Office notifies
them that their water can be turned off . Water and Sewer
bills can be turned into liens on property.
The Chamberlain' s Office has matched water services with
property address and tax map numbers . A lot of hours have
been committed to this project to allow the information to
be integrated into the MUNIS billing system which will be
on line in the near future.
There was a question regarding electronic meter readings .
Radio controlled meters are already in place in some areas .
The goal is to conduct physical readings with equipment
similar to what NYSEG uses. This information will be
downloaded into the system. City Chamberlain Parsons noted
that she does not believe that there will be a significant
time saving available in this process .
Alderperson Blumenthal asked about the user-friendliness of
Ithaca' s water bills . Chamberlain Parsons responded the
bills would remain in the postcard form however a new
printing format will be instituted.
Parking Lot Revenue Collection
Approximately $1, 000 a day is collected in the various
parking lots . The parking fees are submitted to the
Chamberlain' s office to be deposited. The new parking lot
equipment allows for improved internal controls and audits .
No significant drop has been noticed in revenues in
conjunction with the closing of Woolworth' s .
The question was raised whether the parking equipment would
be upgraded at the Dryden Road Parking Garage. City
Chamberlain Parsons responded that the Dryden Road Garage
equipment is much newer, than the equipment that was
replaced in the Woolworth Lot . There is an intention to
review the Dryden Road equipment for alternatives to the
present system.
Parking Violations
The Police Department issues approximately 70, 000 parking
tickets per year, approximately 5096+ are issued using hand-
held ticket writer system. The rest are hand written and
are put into the system manually. The Chamberlain' s Office
maintains records, processes payments, collects and
enforces the payments . They have a variety of enforcement
techniques : appeals, scofflaws, collections, tag and tow
for more than five unpaid parking tickets after notice .
The MUNIS parking ticket module is due in late spring. The
City is working with the company to develop the program.
An equitable way to distribute moneys collected from
violation fees is that late payments and penalties
($150, 000) , should go to Chamberlain' s while fines should
go to IPD.
Cash Management
The Chamberlain' s Office provides support for funding
payrolls, capital project payments, accruing interest on
170 accounts and investments, and balancing accounts 13
checking accounts and 14 savings accounts .
Partial reconciliation (electronic) is available through
Tompkins County Trust Company. She is negotiating with the
bank right now. This has not been done previously because
the two systems (TCTC and the City' s) have not been
compatible . They are much closer now.
The Chamberlain' s Office also provides backup support to
the accounting, budgeting, and payroll systems for the
Controller' s Office.
City Chamberlain Parsons recommended merging the parking
violations budget with the Chamberlain' s budget .
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 10 : 00 p.m.
•
To: Senior Staff
From: Pat Vaughan, Chairperson, Progr. •.lysis Committee
Date: March 13, 1998
Subject: Computer Inventory
As part of the Program Analysis Committee's work, we have put together a group to examine
some aspects of the city's computer policy. This subcommittee has three members: Rick Gray,
Doc Kinne, and me.
In particular, we would like to explore replacement/upgrade policies within departments and also
across departments, and to do this, we need accurate information on what computer equipment is
actually in each department. I realize that we have asked you to give us this information as part
of your department's appearance at the Program Analysis Committee,but we would like you to
send this to the subcommittee in advance of your scheduled presentation. In fact, we'd like to
have it by Friday, March 20, 1998.
When we received an equipment list from the Controller's department, we realized that these
files were no longer up to date. We will pass your information on to Steve Thayer so that he can
update his files.
A spread sheet format is probably most useful, but because we would like so much information,
you may want to print this on an 1 1 x 17 sheet or to use two pages. Try to use a readable type size. We
appreciate your help.
Here's what we would like to know:
Name of current user
Computer's departmental name (Mickey Mantle, Marilyn Monroe, etc.)
Manufacturer
Serial number
CPU (Pentium II-300, 486/66, etc.)
Hard drive size
RAM
3.5 floppy (yes/no)
5.25 floppy (yes/no)
CD ROM (yes/no)
Other accessory (describe)
Year acquired
Cost to acquire (if you can find this easily)
Warranty remaining, if any
Operating System now used
Monitor Size
How this computer is used (CAD, email, spreadsheets, word processing, etc.)
Revised AGAIN 3/17/98 PROGRAM ANALYSIS COMMITTEE
Changes are underlined SCHEDULE OF PRESENTATIONS
February 9, 7:30 p.m. Clerk's Office
Controller's Office
February 23, 3:30 p.m. Building Department
March 9, 7:30 p.m. Prosecutor's Office
Chamberlain
March 23, 3:30 p.m. Mayor's Office
Summary/Recall
April 13, 7:30 p.m. Fire Department
April 27, 3:30p.m. Youth Bureau
May 11, 7:30 p.m. Youth Bureau, continued
May 26, 3:30 p.m. NOTE THE DATE CHANGE FROM MONDAY TO TUESDAY
Youth Bureau, continued, if extra time is needed
Summary/Recall
June 8, 7:30 p.m. Department of Public Works
June 22, 3:30 p.m. Police Department
July 13, 7:30 p.m. Department of Public Works, continued
Citywide Purchasing
July 27, 3:30 p.m. Department of Public Works, continued
Personnel Department
August 10, 7:30 p.m. Police Department, continued
Attorney
Summary/Recall
August 24, 3:30 p.m. Planning Department
Summary/Recall
September 8, 7:30 p.m. PLEASE NOTE THE TIME CHANGE TO TUESDAY
Extra meeting if needed to clear up unfinished business
presentsched.doc.
PROGRAM ANALYSIS COMMITTEE
MONDAY, MARCH 23 1998
3:30 P.M.
COMMON COUNCIL CHAMBERS
AGENDA
A. Amendments to today's agenda
B. Report of the Chair/Vice-Chair
C. Possible report- subcommittee on revenue expectations
D. Appointment of a subcommittee to study the feasibility of a community survey
E. Today's presentations/questions to departments
Mayor's Office - A. Cohen
F. Further questions on previous presentations
G. Summary statements on previous presentations
H. Recommendations from this Committee
Handouts in this packet:
Revised Presentation Schedule
PROGRAM ANALYSIS COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS
MARCH 17, 1998
7 :30 PM
PRESENT:
Chair Vaughan
Vice-Chair Cohen
Alderpersons : (7) Blumenthal, Farrell, Sams, Manos, Shenk,
Spielholz, Taylor
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Prosecutor - Falkson
City Clerk - Conley Holcomb
City Controller - Cafferillo
Deputy City Controller - Thayer
Systems Administrator - Kinne
City Chamberlain - Parsons
Fire Chief - Wilbur
EXCUSED:
Alderperson Marcham
SPECIAL MEETING:
Chairperson Vaughan noted that there will be a Special
Common Council meeting preceding the March 23, 1998 Program
Analysis Committee meeting at 3 : 30 p.m. to discuss and vote
on the TCAT appointments .
ADDITIONS TO OR DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA:
Chairperson Vaughan requested the deletion of the Interim
Report on Computer Policies .
No member objected.
Chairperson Vaughan further noted the revised scheduling of
presentations to accommodate Superintendent Gray and Police
Chief Basile' s schedules .
REPORT OF CHAIR
Chairperson Vaughan reported that she and Alderperson
Taylor have met with City Controller Cafferillo and Fire
Chief Wilbur to discuss the expectations of departments
that create new and sustaining revenues . A meeting with
Building Commissioner Richard Eckstrom is scheduled for
March 10, 1998 . A report will be forthcoming.
Summary/Recall - Chairperson Vaughan noted that she would
like to implement summary/recall sessions after every three
(3) or four (4) presentations to summarize what has been
learned, to recall staff members to address unanswered
questions, and to make recommendations . She asked for any
recommendations, comments and/or suggestions .
It was recommended that the City Clerk compile a log of
questions for the Committee to address, as well as a log of
recommendations made by the Committee.
CITY PROSECUTOR' S REPORT:
City Prosecutor Linda Falkson outlined the crimes under her
jurisdiction and highlighted what she considered the most
important items .
Drug crimes - 243 cases in 1997
She described the general process of a prosecution,
emphasizing the determinations she must make whether to
offer a treatment or incarceration type of sentence.
Criminal Cases - 2, 000+
Vehicle and Traffic Cases - 6, 000+
Collaborative Efforts: - City Prosecutor Falkson noted her
interaction with the Neighborhood Watch programs, the
Community Drug Task Force, the City of Ithaca Drug Task
Force, and the Criminal Justice Committee.
Domestic Violence Crimes : - City Prosecutor Falkson noted
that she spends a great deal of time in the prosecution of
domestic violence crimes . She prosecuted 126 cases in
1997 . The service she provides attempts to make the
victims of these crimes safer through referrals to the Task
Force for Battered Women and other agencies, and by
properly sanctioning defendants by seeking convictions and
sentences which may include incarceration, probation and
treatment through the DOORS program. Prosecutor Falkson
conducts outreach in this area as well . She is a member of
the Domestic Violence Investigation Team, and is actively
involved with enhancing prosecution without requiring
victims to testify with the assistance of the preservation
of 911 tapes and photographs . A pamphlet has been prepared
to offer information regarding agencies and services
available in this area.
Vehicle & Traffic Violations:
Fines are mandatory for this type of violation. In 1994,
$108, 838 in fines was collected. Deputy City Prosecutor
Sherman spends most of his time prosecuting vehicle and
traffic violations and quality of life violations, which
are approximately 300-400 cases per year.
Violent Crimes - non-domestic: - City Prosecutor addresses
treatment needs, criminal histories, etc. The Tompkins
County Crime Victims Assistance Program will assist victims
of violent crimes in regards to perpetrator restitution,
crime victims' advocacy and counseling.
Property Crimes - This includes petty larceny, stolen
property, etc. Restitution to crime victims is always
attempted. Many crimes are inter-related; therefore the
City Prosecutor sees her position as discerning how to
prosecute individual cases .
Public and Interoffice Services and Community Education
City Prosecutor Falkson believes she has an obligation to
keep communication open with the police department and
individual officers as victims frequently call asking for
the status of their case and other pertinent information.
She also teaches seminars for area merchants on
shoplifting, trains volunteers at the Task Force for
Battered Women regarding how a victim receives an order of
protection in a criminal court and in family court, and
provides training for the Tompkins County Domestic Violence
Legal Education Forum on domestic violence.
Alderperson Sams asked if the City Prosecutor' s Office
keeps statistics on how many drug related crimes are
committed by people from out of town. City Prosecutor
Falkson responded that she did not keep such statistics .
Alderperson Sams asked if we know how many defendants are
repeat offenders and how many are in the drug court
program. City Prosecutor Falkson reported that there are
approximately 40 people in the Drug Court program. No
information was available on repeat offenders .
City Prosecutor Falkson reported that Police Officer
Ostrander transports drugs to the Port Crane Crime Lab to
confirm the composition of drug substances . The turn
around time for evidence testing has dropped in half due to
the efforts of Officer Ostrander.
Alderperson Sams asked about the coordination of training
with the Community Police Board and the public on Police
Procedures as well as proper arrest procedure training for
Police Officers .
Prosecutor Falkson noted that she would like to work
closely with the Police Department on these topics .
Alderperson Farrell noted that many of the items Prosecutor
Falkson mentioned seemed to be integrated with other
departmental programs and budgets . Is there a way to
reflect the complete cost of specific programs?
Alderperson Blumenthal inquired about the pros and cons of
turning the prosecution of crimes over to the Tompkins
County District Attorney' s Office.
Prosecutor Falkson responded by mentioning that the
District Attorney handles murder, rape, burglaries, and
other felony cases, as well as some misdemeanor and
criminal violations . She feels that if the City
Prosecutor' s Office was abolished that the quality of life
issues and vehicle and traffic violations would not receive
the level of attention that City residents expect . The
City receives approximately $127, 000 annually in fines,
which would be drastically reduced if the District Attorney
prosecuted these cases .
Alderperson Blumenthal asked, if there were legal
requirements regarding the transportation of evidence.
Prosecutor Falkson replied that during trials the chain of
custody of evidence materials must be reported: the
transporter has to testify in court regarding
transportation, the chemist must testify, etc. Therefore
it makes sense to have a Police Officer provide the
transportation of evidence.
Alderperson Shenk asked if the City does seizure of
property related to drug forfeitures . Prosecutor Falkson
reported that seizures can only be conducted at the felony
level, which is prosecuted at the County level. The City
does receive a small percentage of the seizures .
Alderperson Manos asked how long it takes to prosecute a
crime. Prosecutor Falkson replied that violations are not
usually in the system for more than a few months . A
misdemeanor crime can take as long as six months . Jury
trial terms are conducted every couple of months . Time
lengths vary with the number of trials being carried out at
the same time.
Alderperson Shenk asked about how Prosecutor Falkson makes
the determination as to who handles a particular case. When
and where is it determined whether a drug crime is a
possession or a sale? How is a crime considered a felony?
Prosecutor Falkson explained that the police officer or
investigator makes the initial charging decisions . All
charges are statutory.
The Prosecutor' s Office only has one computer for three
people to use and conduct significant research. A second
computer has been purchased, but is not set up yet .
Chairperson Vaughan asked about On-line services . If there
was a combination effort with the City Attorney' s office
would Westlaw be of service to the Prosecutor' s Office.
City Prosecutor Falkson agreed that such a service would be
beneficial . She has a couple of Interns who have access to
the Internet and do research at the Cornell University
libraries . The Supreme Court in the Tompkins County
Courthouse has a small library for research possibilities
and Deputy Prosecutor Sherman has some research capability
at his private office.
Prosecutor Falkson will check on the price of the packages .
Chairperson Vaughan noted that the Committee would like to
see the Prosecutor' s Office set quantifiable goals and
report on the results of those goals next year.
Discussion followed on the floor regarding collection of
fines and where the collected moneys are budgeted.
CITY CHAMBERLAIN' S OFFICE:
City Chamberlain Debra Parsons presented the following
information from the Chamberlain' s Office:
Tax Collection
The Chamberlain' s Office collects
- City 1st and 2nd property tax installments
- County Taxes
- Delinquent School taxes, and
- Enforces the collection of city taxes and school taxes
The goal of the Chamberlain' s Office is to
1) Provide information to the public regarding:
Delinquent School taxes
Tax searches
Tax info
Penalty calculations
Mailing receipts and copies of receipts
Liens on property converged to re-levy to be included in
the city tax bills in January.
2) Make sure the money is collected and processed as
quickly as possible.
City taxes : 3 . 5 million -collected by 2/3/98
County Taxes : 4 . 2 million -collected by 2/3/98
all money was invested by 2/5/98
3) Provide timely and complete information to those who
request it. In 1996 1, 000 tax searches were conducted,
and 610 tax searches were completed in 1997 .
To date, City tax collection is a manual process . The
Chamberlain' s Office expects to install the MUNIS module
when it is complete. Price comparisons have been completed
and the other companies are approximately 7-8 times higher
than the contractual price with MUNIS.
The MUNIS system will allow the Chamberlain' s Office to do
electronic posting, balancing, and searching by property.
There are provisions in real property tax law to allow for
electronic posting.
Alderperson Shenk asked how much time the MUNIS system
would save. City Chamberlain Parsons responded that to be
able to search by property rather than by tax number will
result in tremendous savings of time. They expect a great
deal of time savings not only with the posting issues but
also in the balancing issues, because the roles and cash
receipts need to be balanced at the end of each day.
However, she pointed out that switching to an electronic
program would be a huge time commitment in the beginning.
All the departments who have access are using the MUNIS
system for their financial records .
There is a possibility the Chamberlain' s Office may have
MUNIS by 1999.
The Chamberlain' s Office receives approximately $5, 000
annually from Tompkins County for County tax collection.
The City receives approximately $50, 000 annually in
penalties and interest on school tax bills .
Water and Sewer Bill Collection
The City Chamberlain' s office collects approximately 1, 700
water and sewer bill per month for 12 months a year. A
third of the City is billed every month, everyone receives
quarterly billing. This involves :
Entering the readings into the computer system,
Handling address changes,
Accepting payments,
Answering questions about increased consumption,
Making bill adjustments as necessary,
Speaking with people about their penalties when the bills
aren' t paid,
Providing information to the Water and Sewer Department
about consumption,
Recording names, addresses and billing histories .
Water turn-offs .
If someone has two delinquent bills and is going on the
third delinquent bill, the Chamberlain' s Office notifies
them that their water can be turned off. Water and Sewer
bills can be turned into liens on property.
The Chamberlain' s Office has matched water services with
property address and tax map numbers. A lot of hours have
been committed to this project to allow the information to
be integrated into the MUNIS billing system which will be
on line in the near future.
There was a question regarding electronic meter readings .
Radio controlled meters are already in place in some areas .
The goal is to conduct physical readings with equipment
similar to what NYSEG uses. This information will be
downloaded into the system. City Chamberlain Parsons noted
that she does not believe that there will be a significant
time saving available in this process .
Alderperson Blumenthal asked about the user-friendliness of
Ithaca' s water bills . Chamberlain Parsons responded the
bills would remain in the postcard form however a new
printing format will be instituted.
Parking Lot Revenue Collection
Approximately $1, 000 a day is collected in the various
parking lots . The parking fees are submitted to the
Chamberlain' s office to be deposited. The new parking lot
equipment allows for improved internal controls and audits .
No significant drop has been noticed in revenues in
conjunction with the closing of Woolworth' s .
The question was raised whether the parking equipment would
be upgraded at the Dryden Road Parking Garage. City
Chamberlain Parsons responded that the Dryden Road Garage
equipment is much newer, than the equipment that was
replaced in the Woolworth Lot . There is an intention to
review the Dryden Road equipment for alternatives to the
present system.
Parking Violations
The Police Department issues approximately 70, 000 parking
tickets per year, approximately 50%+ are issued using hand-
held ticket writer system. The rest are hand written and
are put into the system manually. The Chamberlain' s Office
maintains records, processes payments, collects and
enforces the payments . They have a variety of enforcement
techniques : appeals, scofflaws, collections, tag and tow
for more than five unpaid parking tickets after notice.
The MUNIS parking ticket module is due in late spring. The
City is working with the company to develop the program.
An equitable way to distribute moneys collected from
violation fees is that late payments and penalties
($150, 000) , should go to Chamberlain' s while fines should
go to IPD.
Cash Management
The Chamberlain' s Office provides support for funding
payrolls, capital project payments, accruing interest on
170 accounts and investments, and balancing accounts 13
checking accounts and 14 savings accounts .
Partial reconciliation (electronic) is available through
Tompkins County Trust Company. She is negotiating with the
bank right now. This has not been done previously because
the two systems (TCTC and the City' s) have not been
compatible. They are much closer now.
The Chamberlain' s Office also provides backup support to
the accounting, budgeting, and payroll systems for the
Controller' s Office.
City Chamberlain Parsons recommended merging the parking
violations budget with the Chamberlain' s budget .
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 10 : 00 p.m.
PROGRAM ANALYSIS COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS
MARCH 23, 1998
3:30 P.M.
PRESENT:
Chair Vaughan
Vice-Chair Cohen
Alderpersons (9) Farrell, Blumenthal, Marcham, Sams, Manos, Shenk,
Taylor, Gray, Spielholz
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk - Conley Holcomb
REPORT OF REVENUE GENERATION INITIATIVES:
Alderperson Vaughan noted that the report of revenue generation
initiatives recommends that departments receive a portion of new and
sustainable revenues .
PRESENTATION OF NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR' S OFFICE:
Network Administrator Kinne presented the following information:
Account 3510 - Departmental Support - $24, 534 . Departmental support
takes about 40% of the Network Administrator' s time. This will
increase as usage of the computer network increases . The department
is looking into remote diagnostics, publications such as frequently
asked questions, and upgraded training programs .
Account 3511 - General Administration - $9, 628 -This is about 10%
of the Network Administrator' s time. This is a catchall account that
consists of items such as hooking up printers and attending meetings
of the Electronic Futures Committee and the Partnership for an
Electronic Future.
Account 3512 - Network Administration/Planning and Development -
$13, 501 - This consists of making user accounts, deleting user
accounts, printing, security
overviews, installation/design of the Novel Network and the internet
TCPIP Network. The year 2000 issues are also incorporated in this
program.
The Youth Bureau and GIAC are now on the network. Streets and
Facilities and Water and Sewer will be next .
Account 3513 - Training Support - 8, 573 - This includes assessing
training needs, curriculum development, lectures and seminars .
Account 3514 - Web Development and Support - $8, 417 - This consists
of basic web server maintenance, web site design,
coordinating/consulting with departments on their web sites,
coordinating web site updates from departments, and researching
advanced web technology.
MAYOR' S OFFICE:
Mayor Cohen presented the following information:
Account 3500 - Policy - $39, 000 - This includes attending meetings,
NYCOM conferences, meeting with various New York State
representatives, and general policy making.
Account 3501 - Administration - $29, 328 - This includes presiding
over meetings, supervision, making appointments, etc.
Account 3502 - Constituent Outreach - $13, 411 - The Mayor' s Office
receives between 35-50 calls per day. Outreach also includes the
Op-Ed page in the newspaper, production of the cable show, and doing
a monthly TV appearance on News Center 7 .
Account 3503 - Ceremonial - $8, 006 - This includes speaking
engagements, ribbon cuttings, and other duties associated with the
Mayor' s Office.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting was adjourned at 5: 30 P.M.
DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT
Program Analysis Committee
Purpose: To define and analyze City departmental programs in a consistent manner that
will allow Council to understand the costs, benefits and revenue associated with each
program as it is presented to Council for consideration for funding during the budget
process.
The Committee will acquire information about City departments and their programs and
budgets, analyze that information, and transmit these analyses to Common Council, the
Mayor, and the Department, accompanied by the Committee's recommendations on how
best to use the City's resources.
How will the Committee use the information it gathers?
1) To inform Council about departmental activities and programs.
2) To provide a consistent method of examining programs across department lines that
will provide Council with a basis for thoughtful comparison of costs and benefits of
each program.
3) To work with departments to identify additional revenue initiatives and cost saving
measures, and to help departments develop feasible revenue initiatives to a point
where they can be implemented.
4) To summarize and analyze the information presented,to set priorities and make
recommendations to the Mayor for incorporation into the budget for the next fiscal
year.
5) To inform other Council Committees of its findings and the priorities that have been
established, and to recommend that these be incorporated into the budget for the next
fiscal year.
I. What will we do?
A. Gather information from departments
1) briefings by department heads and their deputies
2) briefings by others with particular expertise
example: Attorney's office on general impacts of labor contracts
3) comparative information from similar upstate communities
B. Analyze this information so that we understand what departments do - why they
do it, and the resources required
C. Work with departments to identify new revenue and cost saving initiatives
D. Present this information to the Mayor and to Council before budget season,
accompanied by recommendations of various kinds
1. revenue generation opportunities
2. reorganization/combination of programs
3. most effective and most economical use of resources - labor, buildings,
programs, equipment
4. exploration of new technologies or expanded use of computers
5. cost/benefit analyses
E. Serve as a resource during budget hearings
II. The Process
A. General information from briefings by specialists
EX: personnel for affirmative action
attorney for labor contracts
personnel for Civil Service environment
B. Briefings by departments lx for uncomplicated departments
2x or more for complicated ones
C. Comparative data as possible-with explanations
(interns to this, as possible)
D. Small working groups assigned to particular departments - a possibility
III. Information we'll ask for
A. Equipment inventory, including anticipated ` 98 purchases and information on
department replacement schedule
B. Computer inventory, including anticipated `98 purchases and explanation of how
various items are used.
C. Information on labor contracts for each department
D. Current budget in program format
E. Personnel information: rosters,titles, salaries, etc.
F. Goals in some kind of quantifiable format
G. A brief narrative about each program
H. Recommendations/ideas on ways this department can generate more revenue
I. An organization chart for each department, including names of current
personnel in each job.
Program Analysis Committee
Purpose: To define City departmental programs in a consis�te�nt m e� r�``th� at 11 allow
Council to understand the costs and benefits e€ emg eac program as it is presented to
Council for consideration for funding.
The Committee will acquire information about City departments and their programs and
budgets, analyze that information, and transmit these analyses to Common Council, the
Mayor, and the Department, accompanied by the Committee's recommendations on how
best to use the City's resources. Some of these analyses and recommendations may be
used to support the Mayor's budget which is presented to Council. , a1 i.t I tea L1cl Got"
I. What will we do? Val- ( per) J
A. Gather information from departments 9
1) briefings by department heads and their deputies
2)briefings by others with particular expertise
example: Attorney's office on general impacts of labor contracts
3) comparative information from similar upstate communities
B. Analyze this information so that we understand what departments do - why they
do it, and the resources required ,ivd j 5av,nc D1t
C. Work with departments to identify evenue initiatives
D. Present this information to the Mayor and to Council before budget season, .. I . IS'-
accompanied by recommendations of various kinds
1. revenue generation opportunities
2. res 'ganization/co bina s'o o
ro s
3. most efective u o Ne o urces
- a or, buildings, programs, equipment
4. exploration of new technologies or expanded use of computers
5. cost/benefit analyses
E. Serve as a resource during budget hearings
II. The Process
A. General information from briefings by specialists
EX: personnel for affirmative action
attorney for labor contracts
personnel for Civil Service environment
B. Briefings by departments lx for uncomplicated departments
2x or more for complicated ones yeD/GioL, Doz�Qp1,C-t-L� /
C. Comparative data as possible - with explanations �-
(interns to this, as possible)
D. Small working groups assigned to particular departments - a possibility
III. Information we'll ask for
A. Equipment inventory, including anticipated ` 98 purchases and information on ✓
department replacement schedule
B. Computer inventory, including anticipated `98 purchases and explanation of how
various items are used.
C. Information on labor contracts for each department 4"
D. Current budget in program format ✓
E. Personnel information: rosters,titles, salaries, etc.`
F. Goals in some kind of quantifiable format}
G. A brief narrative about each program
H. Recommendations/ideas on ways this department can generate more revenue's
I. An organization chart for your department, including names of current ✓
personnel in each job.
Program Analysis Committee
Purpose: To define and analyze City departmental programs in a consistent manner that
will allow Council to understand the costs, benefits and revenue associated with each pro-
gram as it is presented to Council for consideration for funding during the budget process.
The Committee will acquire information about City departments and their programs and
budgets, analyze that information, and transmit these analyses to Common Council, the
Mayor, and the Department, accompanied by the Committee's recommendations on how
best to use the City's resources.
How will the Committee use the information it gathers?
1) To inform Council about departmental activities and programs.
2) To provide a consistent method of examining programs across department lines that
will provide Council with a basis for thoughtful comparison of costs and benefits of
each program.
3) To work with departments to identify additional revenue initiatives and cost saving
measures, and to help departments develop feasible revenue initiatives to a point
where they can be implemented.
4) To summarize and analyze the information presented,to set priorities and make
recommendations to the Mayor for incorporation into the budget for the next fiscal
year.
5) To inform other Council Committees of its findings and the priorities that have been
`./ established, and to recommend that these be incorporated into the budget for the next
fiscal year.
I. What will we do?
A. Gather information from departments
1) briefings by department heads and their deputies
2)briefings by others with particular expertise
example: Attorney's office on general impacts of labor contracts
3) comparative information from similar upstate communities
B. Analyze this information so that we understand what departments do - why they
do it, and the resources required
C. Work with department heads and employees to identify new revenue and cost
saving initiatives and to solicit suggestions
D. Present this information to the Mayor and to Council before budget season,
accompanied by recommendations of various kinds
1. revenue generation opportunities
2. reorganization/combination of programs
3. most effective and most economical use of resources - labor, buildings,
programs, equipment
4. exploration of new technologies or expanded use of computers
5. cost/benefit analyses
E. Serve as a resource during budget hearings
II. The Process
A. General information from briefings by specialists
EX: personnel for affirmative action
attorney for labor contracts
personnel for Civil Service environment
B. Briefings by departments lx for uncomplicated departments
2x or more for complicated ones
C. Comparative data as possible-with explanations
(interns to this, as possible)
D. Small working groups assigned to particular departments - a possibility
III. Information we'll ask for
A. Equipment inventory, including anticipated ` 98 purchases and information on
department replacement schedule
B. Computer inventory, including anticipated `98 purchases and explanation of how
various items are used.
C. Information on labor contracts for each department
D. Current budget in program format
E. Personnel information: rosters,titles, salaries, etc.
F. Goals in some kind of quantifiable format
G. A brief narrative about each program
H. Recommendations/ideas on ways this department can generate more revenue
I. An organization chart for each department, including names of current
personnel in each job.
Program Analysis Worksheet
`"?ro ram Descri tion
Department Program Program# Budget#
What community needs does this program address?Briefly summarize any documentation of need or demand.
What are the mission and goals of this program and how do they relate to the city's mission and goals?
To whom are the services of the program provided? What are those services?
What significant changes in the program,if any,are planned for 1998?
Is there any other information Common Council should know about this program?
C:\WINDOWS\DESKTOP\Program Description.doc Page 1 of 2
Program Analysis Worksheet
Program Goals
Department Program Program# Budget#
Please list measurable 1998 goals which are appropriate for your department. If possible,show 1997 actual figures for the
measures you list
Goal 1997 Actual 1998 Goal 1999 Goal—Est.
Define each measure and add additional comments
In addition to the measures listed above,you may give a qualitative description of how well the program is meeting its goals,
including comparisons with last year,this year and next year.
C:\WINDOWS\DESKTOP\Program Description.doc Page 2 of 2
_.
PROGRAM: Food -p,CC i a 4 -. „/.47 PROGRAM# ,
1. What community need does this program address? Briefly summarize any documentation of need or demand
Seniors wish to remain at home as long as possible. Provision of a daily nutritious need is essential to A
prev et hpspitalization or institutionalization. In 1996, 5,865 more meals were served than in 1995. The
only''home-delivered meal service in the County serves less than 25 people in a limited geographical area.
In 1996, 68,613 meals were delivered to 510 homebound seniors. 25,411 meals were served to
356 seniors in congregate sites. 1,422 meals were served through Foodnet Select. Nutrition Education and
Counseling were also provided. The 60+population increased 12.5%from 1980 to 1990 and is projected to
increase 23%by 2005.
2. Iv7Tat are the mission and goals of this program and how do they relate to the County's mission and goals?
To help the elderly remain in independent living as long as possible and appropriate through maintenance of
healthy diet, opportunity for socialization and referrals to other needed services, thus improving the
efficiency and coordination of health and human services.
a-r i
3. To whom are the services provided? What are those services?
County residents 60 years of
age and older. Home-delivered
a meals require documentation of Home-delivered meals, congregate meals, nutrition education and counseling,
medical-physical need. 44'
Seniors returning from hospital
and/or receiving in-home care referral to other services.
and/or becoming too frail to
provide or otherwise obtain a
meal for themselves. A small
number of younger people
receive home-delivered meals
on a pay for service basis,and
county residents under 60
with same criteria
4. What significant changes,if any,are planned for 1997?
a. Foodnet continues to seek new space in the wake of the closing of Biggs A.
b. Foodnet is reanalyzing its staffing patterns in order to maximize its ability to continue to provide a high quality
service to increasing numbers of seniors. Needs emerging from this analysis are reflected in an over-traget request.
5. Is there any other information the Board of Representatives or public should know about?
Foodnet solicits voluntary contributions from clients. In 1996, 5134,704 was contributed, an increase of 110
over 199f A variety of community organizations also contribute to the program in various ways.
Number Page
°� �
0106..
PROGRAM.D Oi TIO!► : Sheet 2 t f ... ......:. '' ':>.:.
,GRAM: Food — bkt', eE co k Thic. ) l /Ai(s PROGRAM# va, ,5--
t a6= v " . 4:4 ` yam - pimt� - - . 5 , - -ii-
i '} -4:-.- x -51%.} , --4--,y' ' rt:-t & ' _A`.. "r d y ,sue .R` i �`, i 'i"° +. t'T547-�'a^&-_
a,« ` i.. s. ''3 '`t�-' `-',_s." '� .4, xj' _ �'.sT• t-i.r �,�.,. _.-'' ''':7-7•'.--7.i,' 9.s`':�-}�' �.a.
1 1998 Objective 1998•Objcctive
•
? 1997 Jan June w/aut:Over- w/Over-Taiget
Statistical Measures: 1996 Objective :•1996:Actual .Objective 1997 Actual Target Request Request
L
i
87,742 94,616 93,000 39,52a May) 93,000 96,000
y)
1. # of meals
2.
3.
. tk v,-r, .__�., _z:.... .:• ..�c.;K t_.._. ate; _tr �-r-. .,
i. Define each measure and add any additional comments:
•
Unit of service is each meal served.
In addition to the measures above,you may give a qualitative description of how well the proeram is meeting its goals,including
•
comparisons among last year,this year,and next year.
In 1996, 5,865 more meals were served than in 1995. Contributions from clients increase 11%.
• N,,mhP- 1 Page r
�� i J1n7 1
1
li .samiL;rsimisis,zm3swnmnwrmnnmwamamanuwiwswisisiissaiazaiww
�.•' ::...:: ::v :.:.::::::::::.;.:.,...::v :..::�::•:::......;.•.y y •v: :i:Wf.Wrr'ii':i"::::::::..... ...::.::::: :::::::::.:i:?ii:gi:iiii'.}i:ii!i•:^i'Li:<C::.i:.;i::r:.
.. :..:. .:. :.::. .. W. .:.x //Jf.f.W�: .q.f::.......:::::J,4i:;:iiJii:.........:...::::.::.....:..... .....:...... •. ::iFr::•ii:iiiii:::i•i::::::Q::':•r':Y.:i:ti i:ii;>::: :
../ •v}:y sfii F^::.J nir:• JJ '�� IX •. .J. :/. F.:{:p.
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.../:........ { SJf.:...i'•.;iT.:::.J"•.�ti�FV.7-'f4/h'FJ, JllW�f J :... ......... .................. ..... ..................................
PROGRAM:',Supportive Services. . :.:`PAT/[L 710 k T, 1 Ac t 410 ]PROGRAM# cReg0 ZOO
1. What community need does this program address? Briefly summarize any documentation of need or demand
The County population increased 8.1%between 1980 and 1990. The sixty and older population increased by 12.7%,
and is projected to increase by 23%by 2005. These services singly and/or in various combinations help seniors
maintain themselves in independent living and with a decent quality of life. At the same time,the program is much
less costly to the county and the taxpayer than the residential care placements or local income supplements
available through Social Services. In 1977 over 2,738 seniors were served in this program.
2. What are the mission and goals of this program and how do they relate to the County's mission and goals?
Maintenance of independent living for seniors as long as possible and appropriate as well as maintenance of a decent
quality of life,thus improving the efficiency and coordinating of health and human service outcomes.
3. To whom are the services provided? What are those services?
County residents 60 years of age and
older needing health, safety and income
a assistance Information,referral,public information,counseling to obtain support,benefits and
Caregivers of seniors who are
b functionally disabled services,employment,housing and legal assistance, in home visiting,mini-home
\f 1
�\ 1
c Residents of Nursing Homes repairs,food shopping,socialization,help to obtain energy related home
d improvements,workshops and support groups for caregivers,financial help for
e adult day care,health insurance conseling and ombudsman services for residents
of residential care facilities.
4. What significant changes,if any,are planned for 1997?
a. Acceleration of bringing elder cottages and shared living residences into the community.
b. Development of a"college experience"for developmentally disabled adults with the cooperation of TC3.
c. Development of an integrated long term care community-based services data base.
S. Is there any other information the Board of Representatives or public should know about?
These funds provide for the administrative operation of the entire program; our current capacity is severely strained.
I uxnbet
, ..
——-- .'.1ir;' ''R'' 'il,,,5';•? ' •• .4 )
...."." .' . " .10,--.....1. -•- iiry.yviAmr"..f:.-" - .. . .... ..,....,..4u-----.---'-;;-...-.-::::.:::-..:......
..,,,,..„....,kaw,••••••••••,-„,...• " .. <:,.1„........„........:,..:...,......:"—•-•••••••••.,—..„::„,„......::::......v.4..3■Aws.isq§,y,x1wwwer- A.:::::Kox4&o....:7?.-•,--.m.,.2-.z. •,..::,6-1„,-...21.o,-n..e.k..?-: :::,.:::::i:::::::::::::
, •-
—`714r.'- -1;<1 --414777riti-44,.....;,.,:ier.4-5!PROGRAM -...0 DO
- ----,---=-...,-,-,------=-,- - -----------r--- ----------.- .. ----- .. .- .:... -.- -*::::-.7'*S.. .:-..--.*:-:*•••—•-:::*•;*.....-.**:•,, . *--.-:.'" .7--:72. i.::-... `:,:-..";
- ...-.1-.-:-v;--,'-':--1-. :.:-.1; ;.$.':'f:'':-:e0.,,,-,V3 .4-.''-'-'..:-:.:-%':,;:- CA-'::..,:::::*: ,""i'.-'-:''..4..''', ':::ga;::4 :::..':-:',: 1:-"..i'.'5:"`:::4"i4' ..'':',',`, ',...-..5c%*.'-'7.•:.'. 0.%'''-:,,,:"..'.'2::i1;?6"i%;:-IM::::.01.°----
: .. , -. . -- , - , .."-. ...:-;....0;..00K,f4,..i:::::::::,,,..&;E*-::):...,e A - ......:-. ., . ...... ....,-. , ..:.,-.:.,,,:...,. r...4„,.2k,.,.:. I,.1 . .. e...::::1991340bjectivef.:
- : .. . . - - -...: 3-.,....„••:-.. .,'.',......:‘,..,....p....,-**$:,-.::!::..,'•....:9:-.f.i::,:.:*::$:::::,:,:::•••••::941.. -;:'"".'•••:.:w'...•5:•••'*:•:','.••••':::.,' ••:'"fR-••,•, :,..,:,:i$:•:•••5::':.„Wz' ?. _......:::•,:::::':•:::*_„=.:.•••••::::::',.:,..,...:•::::.7.,
*— • 1.1''::,,:i.:::`.*".':•:••••:•:••• ss:'::;:;:;:;::::M:•::::::::::::::%::':,:,:::::::*::*:::::;:::.::- 1::::::M,'•::.:•C.K:?..,.:1K::::•:•,;:k::::"::::,'.s,,' ...';,'''tine::::,::::;:•;::_ 1:::•AZift0tO:VrferZf.:::::i;:rWl Itryiee;iiiieee,
.r.."..a.,....__,...$iii:".....'.:•'*..._••••••••••4_,.... ::i:i:Li:iiii.*:'•:?:::::„.. _..„4::—W,-,._•.:::&•••:.:•.:•::::::.....:•:-.::----i::..:*:,*frmi,*- ::. .-.:,,:::-Rii k.,:-......-. --
,tical Measures: '''-'''.*1.996ObJiittiVe:':::::.M996.,:iitettlarig: . i:::::1951:Objeafirs:::,::::KI.,997Aebier;§:::::- i:',,TairgetiRtqueiv::::::::,:gatqueiv.:::::::::-.
rid
- *'
.;:.
...
doors or#of people served for 19 -_ 11,400 12,327 9 11,766 4763 (Jan 11,698 11,800
vices -i
-.2..12, May)
,r
-A --i-
, ilk. •••..,.._.,1
4,,,• _ ,`,*,*"!, KA :0
12
1 a
..a.
„_..
Define each and additional t
measure an add any ationa comments: -- - • -
, I
3,-.... ---T
,... .,
fi.
:Without our OTR,we would be able to serve fewer seniors seeking housing counseling and options as well as fewer caregivers seeking informatigg;
-
--, .
'--"T referral and support. Our administrative ability would be severely strained. -,--
...?. -.f..-
-.,.,
--: -
A , .
-4
- • '.-.-7; '
..-,... , .
....
c...4. In addition to the measures above,you may give a qualitative description of how well the program is meeting its goals,including
comparisons among last year,this year,and next year.
.-V
1 ....i 1
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4
tt;
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Number . Page# 1 i
2200 -0 105 1, 1
1
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#
,._..
_.1.-_,_-..„.._ — _ •----- - , -7,,--7.7— ---- —, -. — 41
OGRAM: RECYCLING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES PROGRAM# £700
,/. 1. What community need does this program address? Briefly summarize any documentation of need or demand.
To provide an integrated and efficient system for the management of recyclable materials diverted from disposal by residents,businesses,and
institutions. To provide a convenient and cost effective curbside collection of recyclable materials,materials which have been diverted from
disposal and which will provide a guaranteed feedstock to the county RSWC. A program to divert reusable goods from disposal will help stimulate
economic development,facilitate skill training,reduce waste needing disposal,and provide usable goods at reduced cost to county residents. •
Post closure monitoring&maintenance of the closed facilities is mandated by NYSDEC. The closed landfills represent a potentially huge risk t
to the public and the environment,proper monitoring and maintenance of these facilities is crucial to mitigating and minimizing that risk.
A permanent Household Hazardous Waste management program will address the lack of a safe outlet for managing household hazardous waste(HHW.)
2. What are the mission and goals of this program and how do they relate to the County's mission and goals?
To provide long term program stability,flexibility and cost effective management or recyclable materials at a cost less than disposal,to comply with NYS mandated
goals as defined by the NYS Solid Waste Management Act of 1998 and county goals for safe and wise resource management. A reuse program will further the county's
need to comply with state waste reduction goals,reduce the environmental impacts of waste disposal,promote diverse economic enterprises,and provide employment
opportunities. To manage the closed/inactive solid waste facilities in Tompkins County in a manner that is environmentally sound,cost effective,socially responsible
and safe. To provide Tompkins County HHW generators and Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generators(CESQG)with a safe,responsible,convenient,
cost-effective disposal option,while providing educational outreach on reducing HHW and safe storage,use and disposal of hazardous household products.
3. To whom are the services provided? What are those services?
a Tompkins County Community Receive,process,and marketing of recyclable materials
Tompkins County Residents, and small,
b qualified commercial generators. Curbside collection of recyclable materials
All Tompkins County residents&
c visitors to the county. Protection of human health and the environment
Household generators of hhw and
d CESQGs A permanent program for proper HHWM.
e Tompkins County Community Outlets for reusable goods and purchase of used goods at reasonable or no cost.
4. What significant changes,if any,are planned for 1998?
The Solid Waste Division continues to explore economically alternative methods to manage the leachate generated at the closed landfills.
Currently,the division is investigating methods to reduce the volume of leachate collected by capturing a greater amount of leachate and
less groundwater.SWD will be planning for a reuse initiative that would promote reuse,both on-site and through reuse enterprises off'site.
An evaluation is underway to determine what sampling protocol and frequency will be implemented in the future. Implementation of a permanent
HHWM program through the construction of a drop-off facility and operation of a year-round program. Through this new facility and program,
Tompkins County citizenry will obtain a new HHW disposal method.
5. Is there any other information the Board of Representatives or public should know about?
The alternative options for leachate management are being evaluated from the dual perspective of being both more
environmental friendly and result in an overall cost savings.
The County has committed itself to the implementation of a permanent HHWM program through its 20 year Solid Waste
Management Plan(SWMP). The initial term of the curbside collection contracts will expire in October 1998 and must be
extended or rebid.
Budgeting Unit Number Page# l
Sl�o 0192
3
_ — — -- .1
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION (Sheet 2 of 2) -
2OGRAM: RECYCLING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES PROGRAM# 57 CO
i 99 `''''v•'::
•••ecs
99..01.. ec e 8 e
a t. .1.. QD .• i .
J
/ 1
I
..............................• ' ...1111 ant.... �:•:•A'/OUt�QPC.......Qttr-T;ref;:
Statistical Measures: •::3996:01iJectfvr::•:::t996::Actual:::. ::3991:Odfeeiive:• :110- oval>:.• •:'i Fftequeii;::.:.:.equest:::>:•:
1.Total Tonnage Recyclable Materials 13,853 14,777 14,457 7998 15,180
819,621 513,750 454,294 Pending June 475,402
2.Total Net Revenue Numbers
3.Number of vehicles using the Public
Dropoff Area. N/A 79,037 80,000 41322 80,000
4. Total Tonnage Collected N/A 5866 N/A 3200 6500
5.Average Participation Rate 80i. 72% _ 80% 78% 80%
Proper
6.Gallons of Leachate Management Achieved same 2,400,000 gals Same as 1997 N/A
em
7.NYSDEC Violations Zero Violations Achieved same Zero Violations Same as 1997 N/A
8.Hillview Closure N/A Achieved N/A N/A N/A
9.Quantity of HHW collected 50-55 gal drums - 51-55 gal/month
10.Total Number of participants 4'/.o( 2000/yr 2000/yr
38,000 households 4%of 2,000 1520/yr - 1520/yr
CESQG 80/vr 80/vr
Define each measure and add any additional comments:
1. Total recyclable material tonnage is a measure of materials diverted from disposal.
2.Total revenue from the sale of recyclable materials.
3.Total number of vehicles using the PDO as a measure of customer satisfaction and facility effectiveness.
4.Total tonnage of materials collected through the curbside collection program which represents a cost saving to customer users since
recycling costs less than disposal.
5. Average participation rate for curbside collection program based on selected collection routes. —
1 6. Actual number of gallons of leachate that are managed per DEC regulations.
7. Post-closure monitoring and maintenance conducted in compliance with all applicable DEC regulations and local laws.
8. The Phase III capping construction was completed on time and in budget,and in accordance with DEC regulations and the DEC approved closure plan and specifications.
9. Based on an annual household generation rate of.17(55 gal drum):51 55 gal drums/month.
10. Annual participation goal is 4%of households&CESQG,or approximately 2,000 participants/year.
In addition to the measures above,you may give a qualitative description of how well the program is meeting its goals,including
comparisons among last year,this year,and next year.
Budgeting Unit page
Number
Si 60 019 3
: Y> - - rasg
PROGRAM,DESCRIPTION (Sheet 1 of 2)
PROGRAM: Maintenance,Traffic Control,Snow Rethoval — • -- !PROGRAM 6oco
411L741
1. What community need does this program address?Briefly summarize any documentation of need or demand
This program provides the community and traveling public a highway system
Pr a variety of personal,professional and recreational activities within the county.
The county highway provides year around access to other highway systems for
local and inter-county travel. Residents and non-residents are further provided
a means to receive emergency services such as police,fire and ambulance.
2. What are the mission and goats of this program?
The mission and goals of this program are to provide a safe and effective highway
infrastructure through efficient maintenance and improvements throughout the
calendar year. And further respond to snow and ice conditions and other
emergencies due to inclement weather in a timely manner.
3. To whom are the services provided? What are those services?
a Residents and traveling public road paving, construction and repairs
b snow and ice maintenance
c pavement markings,roadside signs
d ditching and drainage maintenance
roadside mowing, tree and brush removal
emergency repairs due to flooding, wind, etc
g guiderail installation and repairs
4. What significant changes.if any,are planned for 1998?
There are no significant changes.
S. Is there any other information the Board of Representatives or public should know about?
The pavement conditions are deteriorating at a rate exceeding our ability
to repair and upgrade because funding has not kept pace with cost of
improvements. Twenty miles of pavement improvements per year and
related maintenance are needed to adequately maintain our 307 miles of
county highways in order to accomplish our mission and goals. Without
the requested funding the cost of maintaining the system will continue to increase.
Budgeting Page N
Unit Num
5006 n t 8 8
K}
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PROGRAM DESCRIPTION (Sheet 2 of 2)
toGRpWL: Maintenance,Traffic Control,Snow PROGRAM# OW
1998 Objective 1998 Objective
6 Jan-June w/out Over- w/Over-Target
Statistical Measures: 1996 Objective 1996 Actual 1997 Objective 1997 Actual Target Request Request
•:6 39 16 6 '14 6 1.3 10 __
1. miles paved
?_ I
3. Jr r
Define each measure and add any additional comments. r
I. 20 miles per year need to be paved,with a pavement li:e of 15 yrs..to maintain our 307 miles of roadways
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ho..
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'Based on adopted budget j f
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In add:ren to the measures above.you may is a quaiaa:r.e de.scrio*.ion of how well the pro€ram is meeting its goals.including_
comparisons among last year,this year.and next year
I;. ;
Our long stated goal of 20 miles per year is not being achieved. It IP
The cost to rehabilitate a mile of roadway is increasing yearly. Costs for materials are easily averaging S70,000/mile for paving alone. !
Subbase repairs can easily cost an additional 530-50,000 per mile.
It
Highway supplies.which include not only paving products but gravel,guiderail,culverts.stone,and other materials,will "
require 1 ;million dollars per year for the forseeabie future in order to meet our 20 mile per year goal. it I
Without adequate funding repair expenses will increase as the quality of the county road system decreases
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ii ilased on ,.,.,
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5000 t 1 39
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B.vV1%AINI vG*7'.+rs.ir I RAN (aneet 1 OT 1)
JROGRAM: BRIDGES PROGRAM# JAS
I. What community need does this program address? Briefly summarize any documentation of need or demand
Bridges addresses community needs to travel safely and efficiently
on county and town road systems that may otherwise create detours and
delays if bridges were not open.
2. What are the mission and goals of this program and how do they relate to the County's mission and goals?
The mission and goals of this program are to provide safe and effective bridges
within the county system through timely maintenance and replacment of two(2)
bridges per year and related bridge maintenance to ensure our bridges remain
functional.
3. To whom are the services provided? What are those services?
a Residents and traveling public structural repairs
b painting
c reconstruction/replacement �*
d scour and erosion protection
e inspection/design
4. What significant changes,if any,are planned for 1997?
The county will be administering the replacment of two(2)
bridges beginning in 1998 with Federal funding
through the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act
5. Is there any other information the Board of Representatives or public should know about?
50%of county bridges are classified as functionally obsolete or
cannot carry loads they were designed for. This has resulted in
bridges being posted with reduced load ratings which restricts
use of larger trucks,farm equipment and emergency vehicles.
Budgeting Unit Number Page#
5003 019 0
- f PROGRAM DESCRIPTION (Sheet 2 of 2)
(BRIDGES PROGRAM N,5006
(,Federal, and other
.cipal revenue Sources 1998 Objective 1998 Objective
Jan-June w/out Over- w/Over-Target
ical Measures: 1996 Objective 1996 Actual 1997 Objective 1997 Actual Target Request Request
2 2 ('4) 6 1 ongoing ('3) 3 4
'4 OF BRIDGES REPLACED
2 1 2 0 2 2
i
2.#BRIDGES PAINTED
('2) 5 3 ('4) 6 6 ongoing ('2) 6 6
3.#BRIDGES DESIGNS
Define each measure and add any additional comments:
1. Replacement of 2 bridges per year is the program goal. Additional replacement or
major rehabilitation have been possible and are projected due to availability of state,
federal and town revenue sources.
2. Painting 2 bridges per year is the program goal given the number of metal bridges
and an expected paint life of 15 years.
3. The program goal is to have 1 design"on the shelf' so if a schedule bridge cannot
e built,a design for a substitute location will be ready.
In addition to the measures above,you may give a qualitative description of how well the program is meeting its goals,including
comparisons among last year,this year,and next year.
Due to an increase in the number of flagged and deficient bridges,additional expenses for miscellaneous
design and repair are anticipated for 1998.
tin
•
Budgeting Unit
Page
Number
500$ 0191
9
To: Members of Program Analysis Committee
From: Subcommittee on Departmental Expectations from Revenue Initiatives
(P. Vaughan and J. Taylor)
Date: March 23, 1998
Subject: Draft Report
The Program Analysis Committee has asked all departments to identify areas which
might produce more revenue for the City. We would like to examine the various sources
of such increased revenue, and we believe that under certain circumstances this increase
might be eligible for partial retention within the department generating such revenues.
Some increased revenue will most likely be derived from increasing existing fees, but
other increases could come from the creation of new programs or from provision of
services in a new and different manner. There are also some instances where the
department now provides a service at no charge, and believes that charging a fee would
be appropriate because of the complexity of the service. In most cases, we would expect
that any service for which a new fee is charged would be one which is used by a clearly
defined subset of citizens, such as people selling their homes or homeowners requesting a
building permit.
It is our opinion that income that comes from an increase in existing fees is not a
"revenue initiative"that would normally qualify for special consideration in retention of
the extra income. These fee increases generally do not involve anything beyond an
adjustment of the price charged to the consumer, and do not include provision of new or
improved services.
In other situations, where the department proposes provision of a service in a different
and"improved"manner, we feel that a portion of the net income generated by that new
or improved service should be available for use by that department. An example of this is
a possible expansion of the role of the Fire Department in providing certain emergency
medical services.
One example of placing a fee on what had been a"free" service is the Fire Department's
very tentative proposal to begin billing insurance companies for extrication of accident
victims. This is a labor-intensive service requiring both special training and equipment,
but because the need for this service is tied so closely to saving lives, we would need to
examine closely how a charge of this type would be perceived by the community. We
should look at the experiences of other municipalities and hear the opinions of our
constituents before we agree to charge a fee for any life safety services.
A less complex case is the proposal of the Building Department to charge fees for
providing zoning information to those selling their properties. Although this information
is available to those who come in person to search the department's files, many property
sellers make telephone requests for this service rather than come to City Hall. The
department reports that fulfilling such requests can sometimes be time-consuming, and
proposes to institute a modest charge for the service. When the new Building Department
software is completed, probably in late spring or early summer,this information will be
more accessible, which is why the Department proposes only a modest fee for the service.
We believe that this kind of charge is one which could be eligible for retention of some of
the net revenue by the department. It is a cost which would be borne by a clearly defined
and specialized group of citizens.
Another example of a new revenue-generating activity is the Fire Department's proposed
Regional Fire Training Center. Expansion of the current training center into a regional
facility would serve a new set of customers (other municipalities and businesses) and
would not create the problems that arise when new fees are imposed for a service that was
previously free. With new activities of this kind there may be questions about startup
costs, but we hope that the proposing department's business plan for a new initiative
would be able to answer all of these.
Certain departments, especially those providing public safety services, have long-
standing mutual aid agreements or understandings with similar departments in other
municipalities. Although it may seem logical to charge a fee for specialized services such
as gorge rescues or underwater searches which are provided to other municipalities, we
need to be very careful that we do not undermine the spirit of the mutual aid traditions
which have been so important in providing the best coverage to citizens in all areas.
The City also needs to be sensitive to citizens' concerns that they are already paying
substantial tax bills, and do not want to pay extra for services which should reasonably be
considered part of the "normal"package of municipal activities. We also need to be
mindful of the "hassle factor", the difficulty of increasing a fee that will yield minimal
extra income but which will have substantial negative impact on citizens' lives and/or
pocketbooks. An example of such an undesirable fee increase is raising the cost of dog
licenses.
In a perfect world, each department and each employee would expend significant effort to
increase the City's revenues and fiscal stability with no thought of personal or
departmental gain. Until that Utopia is achieved, however, we must recognize that both
employees and managers are more motivated to put forth extra effort if they can expect
some tangible result that will improve their corner of the world. Accordingly,this
committee believes that the department should receive some assurances that at least a
portion of the net proceeds of most new revenue initiatives will accrue to the
department's benefit.
.
Although there are undoubtedly some instances where a straight percentage of the net
applied to general operations is the most appropriate reward for this effort and initiative,
we are inclined to view departmental programmatic goals as more worthy of
consideration. These programmatic goals could take the form of retention of a program
that might be endangered in a difficult budget climate, or of clearly described
enhancement of one or more existing programs.
For an example of a programmatic goal we can look to the Fire Department, which has
been requesting increased staffing in order to open the West Hill Station during the
daytime. This increased staffing would require hiring at least two more firefighters at a
cost(including fringes) of about $50,000 per person per year It is unlikely that the
department can cut non-salary expenses by an amount that would cover the cost of even
one additional firefighter, but with selected cuts plus a share of new revenue initiatives,
the department might be able to find the money to reach this programmatic goal.
This Committee tried to determine an equitable formula for sharing the benefits of any
increased revenues. We realize that almost any revenue initiative has many costs, and we
therefore agreed that only the net revenues after all expenses, (including departmental
overhead and salary fringes)should be considered available for sharing. After considering
various figures, we agreed that we would recommend that the department might be
permitted to receive one half of its net new income from selected eligible revenue
initiatives.
Departments use many strategies to maximize their return from the budget process, and
one of these is the "generous estimate"method. We recognize that new initiatives cannot
absolutely guarantee their revenue streams,but we would be naturally suspicious if a
department's estimates and the revenues achieved were far apart at the end of the fiscal
year. We would be even more uncomfortable if that situation persisted for a second year.
If a department expects to receive a portion of the new net revenues it generates, it must
provide a very good business plan with its request, including carefully calculated expense
estimates and realistic revenue estimates. This is one aspect of the revenue generation
process where creativity is not encouraged.
This Committee will be hearing presentations from each department during the year, and
we expect that many departments will outline a variety of suggestions to increase the
revenue they generate. We welcome all such suggestions, but we want to remind
everyone that it will not be possible to share the proceeds of every revenue increase. We
nevertheless ask departments to bring their suggestions to us so that we can offer early
encouragement and so that we can recommend appropriate initiatives for further
consideration of sharing a portion of the new revenues.
Program Analysis Worksheet
Program Description
Department Program Program# _ Budget#
What community needs does this program address?Briefly summarize any documentation of need or demand.
What are the mission and goals of this program and how do they relate to the city's mission and goals?
To whom are the services of the program provided? What are those services?
How many people are served by this program? How many employees are involved in this program?(FTE)
What significant changes in the program,if any,are planned for 1998?
Is there any other information Common Council should know about this program?
Q:\CENTRAL\proganal.doc Page 1 of 3
Program Analysis Worksheet
Program Goals
Department Program Program# Budget#
Please list measurable 1998 goals which are appropriate for your department.If possible,show 1997 actual figures for the
measures you list
Goal 1997 Actual 1998 Goal 1999 Goal—Est.
Define each measure and add additional comments
How often is this service performed? How much time is spent doing this program?(hours per year
What special equipment is used to perform this program? What is the value of this equipment?
Q:\CENTRAL\proganal.doc Page 2 of 3
Program Analysis Worksheet
In addition to the measures listed above,you may give a qualitative description of how well the program is meeting its goals,
including comparisons with last year,this year and next year.
Q:\CENTRAL\proganal.doc Page 3 of 3
To: Program Analysis Committee Members
From: Pat Vaughan, Chair
Date: January 21, 1998
Subject: New Draft
Attached is a new draft of document outlining the committee's goals and methods. I have
inserted a section on how the committee will use the information that we collect, and
have also made the changes we discussed at our last meeting.
Please review this document and bring comments or suggestions for additional changes to
the meeting on Monday afternoon.
Program Analysis Committee
Purpose: To define and analyze City departmental programs in a consistent manner that
will allow Council to understand the costs, benefits and revenue associated with each pro-
gram as it is presented to Council for consideration for funding during the budget process.
•
The Committee will acquire information about City departments and their programs and
budgets, analyze that information, and transmit these analyses to Common Council, the
Mayor, and the Department, accompanied by the Committee's recommendations on how
best to use the City's resources.
How will the Committee use the information it gathers?
1) To inform Council about departmental activities and programs.
2) To provide a consistent method of examining programs across department lines that
will provide Council with a basis for thoughtful comparison of costs and benefits of
each program.
3) To work with departments to identify additional revenue initiatives and cost saving
measures, and to help departments develop feasible revenue initiatives to a point
where they can be implemented.
4) To summarize and analyze the information presented,to set priorities and make
recommendations to the Mayor for incorporation into the budget for the next fiscal
year.
5) To inform other Council Committees of its findings and the priorities that have been
established, and to recommend that these be incorporated into the budget for the next
fiscal year.
I. What will we do?
A. Gather information from departments
1) briefings by department heads and their deputies
2)briefings by others with particular expertise
example: Attorney's office on general impacts of labor contracts
3) comparative information from similar upstate communities
B. Analyze this information so that we understand what departments do - why they
do it, and the resources required
C. Work with department heads and employees to identify new revenue and cost
saving initiatives and to solicit suggestions
D. Present this information to the Mayor and to Council before budget season,
accompanied by recommendations of various kinds
1. revenue generation opportunities
2. reorganization/combination of programs
3. most effective and most economical use of resources - labor, buildings,
programs, equipment
4. exploration of new technologies or expanded use of computers
5. cost/benefit analyses
E. Serve as a resource during budget hearings
•
II. The Process
A. General information from briefings by specialists
EX: personnel for affirmative action
attorney for labor contracts
personnel for Civil Service environment
B. Briefings by departments Ix for uncomplicated departments
2x or more for complicated ones
C. Comparative data as possible -with explanations
(interns to this, as possible)
D. Small working groups assigned to particular departments - a possibility
III. Information we'll ask for
A. Equipment inventory, including anticipated ` 98 purchases and information on
department replacement schedule
B. Computer inventory, including anticipated '98 purchases and explanation of how
various items are used.
C. Information on labor contracts for each department
D. Current budget in program format
E. Personnel information: rosters,titles, salaries, etc.
F. Goals in some kind of quantifiable format
G. A brief narrative about each program
H. Recommendations/ideas on ways this department can generate more revenue
I. An organization chart for each department, including names of current
personnel in each job.
Program Analysis Worksheet
Program Description
Department Program Program# Budget#
What community needs does this program address?Briefly summarize any documentation of need or demand.
What are the mission and goals of this program and how do they relate to the city's mission and goals?
To whom are the services of the program provided? What are thoe'services?
How many people are served by these programs?' •
What significant changes in the program,if any,are planned for 1998?
s
Is there any other information Common Council should know about this program?
ft./
Q:\CENTRAL\proganal.doc Page 1 of 2
Program Analysis Worksheet
Program Goals
Department Program Program# Budget#
Please list measurable 1998 goals which are appropriate for your department.If possible,show 1997 actual figures for the
measures you list
Goal 1997 Actual 1998 Goal 1999 Goal—Est.
Define each measure and add additional comments
P
ate. _N x.
` ' n
In addition to the measures listed above,you may give a qualitative description of how well the program is meeting its goals,
including comparisons with last year,this year and next year.
-111
Q:\CENTRAL\proganal.doc Page 2 of 2
DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT
Program Analysis Committee
Purpose: To define and analyze City departmental programs in a consistent manner that
will allow Council to understand the costs, benefits and revenue associated with each
program as it is presented to Council for consideration for funding during the budget
process.
The Committee will acquire information about City departments and their programs and
budgets, analyze that information, and transmit these analyses to Common Council, the
Mayor, and the Department, accompanied by the Committee's recommendations on how
best to use the City's resources.
How will the Committee use the information it gathers?
1) To inform Council about departmental activities and programs.
2) To provide a consistent method of examining programs across department lines that
will provide Council with a basis for thoughtful comparison of costs and benefits of
each program.
3) To work with departments to identify additional revenue initiatives and cost saving
measures, and to help departments develop feasible revenue initiatives to a point
where they can be implemented.
4) To summarize and analyze the information presented, to set priorities and make
recommendations to the Mayor for incorporation into the budget for the next fiscal
year.
5) To inform other Council Committees of its findings and the priorities that have been
established, and to recommend that these be incorporated into the budget for the next
fiscal year.
I. What will we do?
A. Gather information from departments
1) briefings by department heads and their deputies
2)briefings by others with particular expertise
example: Attorney's office on general impacts of labor contracts
3) comparative information from similar upstate communities
B. Analyze this information so that we understand what departments do - why they
do it, and the resources required
C. Work with departments to identify new revenue and cost saving initiatives
D. Present this information to the Mayor and to Council before budget season,
`./ accompanied by recommendations of various kinds
1. revenue generation opportunities
2. reorganization/combination of programs
3. most effective and most economical use of resources - labor, buildings,
programs, equipment
4. exploration of new technologies or expanded use of computers
5. cost/benefit analyses
E. Serve as a resource during budget hearings
II. The Process
A. General information from briefings by specialists
EX: personnel for affirmative action
attorney for labor contracts
personnel for Civil Service environment
B. Briefings by departments lx for uncomplicated departments
2x or more for complicated ones
C. Comparative data as possible -with explanations
(interns to this, as possible)
D. Small working groups assigned to particular departments - a possibility
III. Information we'll ask for
A. Equipment inventory, including anticipated ` 98 purchases and information on
department replacement schedule
B. Computer inventory, including anticipated '98 purchases and explanation of how
various items are used.
C. Information on labor contracts for each department
D. Current budget in program format
E. Personnel information: rosters, titles, salaries, etc.
F. Goals in some kind of quantifiable format
G. A brief narrative about each program
H. Recommendations/ideas on ways this department can generate more revenue
I. An organization chart for each department, including names of current
personnel in each job.
To: Acting Mayor Diann Sams and
`./ the Program Analysis Committee of Committee Council
From: Pat Kennedy, Assistant City Attorney
Re: Basic Labor contract Information
date: 26 January 1998
Pat Vaughn asked me to provide some basic information about the labor contracts and the
parameters established by state law and the contracts themselves that impact on CC's ability to
make any plans involving restructuring of the work force. You should all have received copies of
the union contracts in your mailboxes last week.
Bargaining Units:
The majority of the city workforce is generally represented by 6 unions.
1. Administrative Unit of the CSEA.
Admin represents approximately 111 current active city employees who hold positions
that can be characterized basically as clerical, financial, technical and/or professional.
2. DPW Unit of the CSEA.
DPW represents approximately 109 current active members who hold jobs that are
primarily "blue collar", e.g., laborers,truck drivers, bus drivers, heavy machine operators and
various employees with a variety of repair and maintenance skills.
3. Executive Association
Exec. represents approximately 13 current active members who hold jobs that are
basically supervisory. With the exception of the Deputy Building Commissioner, the Exec. are
DPW employees. This unit is not affiliated with a statewide organization.
4. Police Benevolent Association
PBA represents approximately 74 current active members who are all police officers,
with the exception of the Chief and Deputy Chief.
5. Ithaca Paid Firefighters Association
The Firefighters' unit represents approximately 57 current active members, all of whom
are firefighters or fire lieutenants, as well as one fire alarm superintendent.
6. The Chief Officers Unit
This Unit is an affiliate of the IPFFA and represents approximately 5 current active
members, all of who are assistant fire chiefs. The Fire Chief and the Deputy Fire Chief are not
part of a unit.
There are four groups of city employees who are not covered by union contract:
A. Management Employees - not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
This group of 22 employees is comprised of the Department Heads, all deputies (with the
exception of the Deputy Building Commissioner) and most assistants (with the exception of the
assistant fire chiefs).
B. Confidential Employees - not covered by collective bargaining agreement
This group of 16 employees is comprised of the departmental assistants where a strong
degree of trust must exist between department head and employee and the employee is entrusted
with a large amount of confidential information.
C. Elected Officers
Alder persons and the Mayor
D. Seasonal Employees
The number of employees in this group fluctuates, by season and job. They are not in a
union.
Some General theories governing municipal employment in New York:
1. The Taylor Law
�./ In 1967, NYS adopted the Taylor Law. To a large extent the Taylor Law governs the
relationship between municipalities and their unions. This relationship is also guided and to a
certain extent controlled by the state's labor law, civil service law, human rights law, as well as a
variety of federal and state laws and the state and federal constitution. However, the labor
contract relationship is basically within the parameters of the Taylor Law.
The Taylor Law establishes an administrative Board, the Public Employment Relations
Board (PERB) to oversee the fair enforcement of the Law's provisions. Among other subjects,
the Law cover:
the method of selecting or recognizing a union and assigning a new or altered position to
a particular union;
it addresses a union's responsibilities to fairly represent all members of the unit;
it prohibits striking by public employees;
it prohibits municipal employers from"privatizing" or contracting out work done
exclusively by bargaining unit members;
it prohibits municipal employers from altering the terms of an expired labor agreement
without bargaining with employees; and
it requires bargaining with employees on all "mandatory" subjects of negotiation.
2. The Scope of Bargaining
PERB has determined and continues to determine what subjects are mandatory subjects
of bargaining, what subjects are non- mandatory subjects of bargaining, and what subjects are
excluded or prohibited from bargaining. Basically, a public employer must bargain over all
"terms and conditions of employment." Topics like salary, wages, benefits, hours, and agency
shop fee deductions are classic examples of terms and conditions of employment which cannot
be imposed and must be bargained. I've included a sample of some others as an attachment to
this memo.
Prohibited subjects, which cannot be bargained are those that are forbidden by statue or
which are against public policy.
Non mandatory subjects are those which may be discussed, but need not be.
3. Triborough (carrying over provisions of expired contracts)
In 1972, PERB ruled, and the courts upheld, the concept that an employer could not
refuse to carry over the provisions of an expired union agreement. An employer's refusal, for
example to pay employees, was seen as too powerful a tool to force the union to reach
settlement. So, all provisions of an expired contract, unless specifically covered by a"sunset"
provision are carried over even after the agreement expires. This concept is currently being
challenged in the state court of appeals. The contract in issue contains a minimum staffing
requirement which the municipality says it cannot afford.
4. Interest Arbitration
Police and firefighters have been given a benefit by state statute which is not available to
other government employees. If a contract cannot be reached between the municipality and its
uniformed service union, the union may file for impasse, bring in a mediator from PERB, and if
mediation fails, have the contract dispute over salary and other mandatory subjects of negotiation
decided by a team of three arbitrators. Other employees may demand mediation and public
hearing review, but ultimately have no method of forcing an agreement on a municipality.
LAYOFF PROCEDURES FOR CITY POSITIONS
1. Civil Service Law
• Layoff procedures apply only to competitive class employees.
• An employee's rights in a layoff are determined by two things: appointment status and
seniority
• Appointment Status
Retention rights, from greatest to least:
1. Permanent employee who has completed probationary period
2. Permanent employee who is still serving probationary period
3. Non Permanent employees
• Contingent Permanent employees - have greatest rights of non-permanent
employees
• Provisional employees - law doesn't govern order of layoff, but labor contract
may
• Temporary employees - neither law nor contract governs order of layoff
• Seniority
Seniority is determined by the date of the employee's original permanent appointment
in the classified service which has been followed by continuous service. Continuous
service is defined by state law and local rule. Seniority dates are adjusted for war
veteran status, blindness, prior service in another jurisdiction, etc. as prescribed by
state law and local rule.
• All layoff rights and procedures are contained within the specific City department
impacted.
• Layoff rights and procedures include:
Bumping - displacing another employee in a lower level position. The positions into
which an employee may bump are narrowly and specifically defined. To bump, an
employee must have greater retention rights than the employee in the lower position.
Layoff Procedures for City Positions
`./ Page 2
Retreat - displacing another employee serving in a position in the layoff unit in the last
lower level title the displacing employee held on a permanent basis. There are
specific, restrictive rules governing the conditions under which retreat can occur.
Preferred Lists - an employee who is laid off or displaced from a position is placed on
a preferred eligible list for up to four years. During the life of the preferred list, the
employee has an absolute right to reappointment to future vacancies in the same,
similar or lower level positions.
• Noncompetitive class and labor class employees who are war veterans or exempt
volunteer firefighters have rights to transfer to similar vacant positions upon abolishment
of their positions.
2. Labor Contract Layoff Procedures
All employees represented by the City Executive Association, Ithaca Paid Firefighters
Association and Police Benevolent Association hold competitive class positions.
Therefore, layoff procedures for these employees are defined by civil service law.
All employees represented by the CSEA Administrative Unit hold competitive class
positions. Layoff procedures for these employees are defined by civil service law. Labor
contract provisions regarding seniority apply in situations that civil service law does not cover
(i.e. layoff order of provisional employees).
Competitive class employees represented by the CSEA DPW Unit are governed by civil
service layoff procedures. Once they exhaust their statutory rights, however, they may
exercise additional bumping rights granted by the labor agreement.
Noncompetitive and labor class employees represented by the CSEA DPW Unit are
governed by the layoff procedures specified in the DPW labor agreement.
LAYOFF PROCEDURES FOR CITY POSITIONS
Civil Service Bargaining
Title Classification Unit Layoff Procedure Layoff Unit
Building Department
Building Commissioner Unclassified None None Department
Deputy Building Commissioner Competitive Exec Assn Civil Service Law Department
Plan Review Officer Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Rental Housing Specialist Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Code Inspector Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Code Enforcement Officer Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Administrative Secretary Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Senior Typist Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Typist Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
City Attorney's Office
City Attorney Exempt None None Department
Assistant City Attorney Noncompetitive None None Department
Confidential Secretary Exempt None None Department
Legal Assistant Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
City Chamberlain's Office
City Chamberlain Unclassified None None Department
Account Clerk Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Customer Sew Representative Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
\./ Office Manager Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Principal Account Clerk Competitive CSEA Admin 1.CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department ;
1
City Clerk's Office
City Clerk Unclassified None None Department
Deputy City Clerk Exempt None None Department
Administrative Secretary Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
City Controller's Office
City Controller Unclassified None None Department
Deputy City Controller Exempt None None Department
Administrative Secretary Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
City Buyer Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2.CSEA Admin Department
Payroll Coordinator Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
City Prosecutor's Office
City Prosecutor Exempt None None Department
Deputy City Prosecutor Exempt None None Department
Asst to the City Prosecutor Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
./
„
Layoff Procedures for City Positions-Page 2
Civil Service Bargaining
Title Classification Unit Layoff Procedure Layoff Unit
Department of Public Works
Superintendent of Public Wks Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Asst Supt of Public Wks- S&F Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Asst Supt of Public Wks-W&S Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Administrative Secretary Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Fiscal Manager Competitive Exec Assn Civil Service Law Department
Principal Account Clerk Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Senior Account Clerk-Typist Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Senior Typist Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Bldg Maint&Solid Waste Supr Competitive Exec Assn Civil Service Law Department
City Forester Competitive Exec Assn Civil Service Law Department
Motor Equipment Maint Supr Competitive Exec Assn Civil Service Law Department
Supervisor of Streets Competitive Exec Assn Civil Service Law Department
Asst Building Systems Supr Competitive Exec Assn Civil Service Law Department
Transit System Manager Competitive Exec Assn Civil Service Law Department
Supervisor of Water&Sewer Competitive Exec Assn Civil Service Law Department
Golf Course Manager Contractual None None Department
Electrician Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Assistant City Electrician Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Parts and Supplies Manager Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Storekeeper Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Working Supervisor Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Working Supervisor-Bridges Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Working Supervisor-Sanitation Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Automotive Mechanic Supr Competitive CSEA DPW 1. CS Law;2. CSEA DPW Dept/Barg Unit
•-'W Automotive
Mechanic Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Automotive Mechanic Helper Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Asst W/WW Tr PIt Mechanic Competitive CSEA DPW 1. CS Law;2. CSEA DPW Dept/Barg Unit
Bus Driver Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Custodial Worker Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Laborer Labor CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Maintainer Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Maintenance Worker Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Motor Equipment Operator Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Parking Lot Attendant Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Supr of Water/WW Systems Competitive CSEA DPW 1. CS Law;2. CSEA DPW Dept/Barg Unit
Senior Water Meter Servicer Competitive CSEA DPW 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA DPW Dept/Barg Unit
Meter Servicer Competitive CSEA DPW 1. CS Law;2. CSEA DPW Dept/Barg Unit
Plumbing Inspector Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Senior Laborer Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Tree Trimmer Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Truck Driver Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Civil Engineer Competitive Exec Assn Civil Service Law Department
Assistant Civil Engineer Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Engineering Aide Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Engineering Technician Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Engineering Systems Manager Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Traffic Systems Engineer Competitive Exec Assn Civil Service Law Department
Chief Water Tr Pit Operator Competitive Exec Assn Civil Service Law Department
Water Treatment Pit Operator Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Chief Wastewater PIt Operator Competitive Exec Assn Civil Service Law Department
Asst Chief WW Pit Operator Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
\.../ Wastewater Tr Pit Operator Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Director of Laboratories Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Instrumentation Electrician Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Pretreatment Coordinator Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
.
Layoff Procedures for City Positions -Page 3
Civil Service Bargaining
Title Classification Unit Layoff Procedure Layoff Unit
Fire Department
Fire Chief Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Deputy Fire Chief Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
E Assistant Fire Chief Competitive IPFF/COU Civil Service Law Department
Fire Lieutenant Competitive IPFF Civil Service Law Department
Firefighter Competitive IPFF Civil Service Law Department
Fire Alarm Superintendent Competitive IPFF Civil Service Law Department
Administrative Secretary Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Admin Assistant- Financial Competitive CSEA Admin 1.CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Account Clerk-Typist Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Volunteer Coordinator Competitive CSEA Admin 1.CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Mayor's Office
Administrative Assistant Exempt None None Department
Systems Administrator Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Personnel Department
Director of Personnel Noncompetitive None None Department
Deputy Director of Personnel Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Administrative Secretary Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Senior Typist Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Planning Department
Director of Planning &Devel Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Director of Economic Devel Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Historic Pres and N'hood Plnr Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Envir and Landsc Planner Competitive CSEA Admin 1.CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Planning Systems Manager Competitive CSEA Admin 1.CS Law;2.CSEA Admin Department
Administrative Secretary Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Senior Typist Competitive CSEA Admin 1.CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Police Department
Police Chief Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Deputy Police Chief Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Police Captain Competitive PBA Civil Service Law Department
Police Lieutenant Competitive PBA Civil Service Law Department
Police Sergeant Competitive PBA Civil Service Law Department
Police Officer Competitive PBA Civil Service Law Department
Administrative Secretary Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Senior Account Clerk-Typist Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Senior Police Dispatcher Competitive CSEA Admin 1.CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Police Dispatcher Competitive CSEA Admin 1.CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Sr Community Sery Officer Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Community Service Officer Competitive CSEA Admin 1.CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Senior Typist Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
Typist Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law; 2. CSEA Admin Department
Data Processing Operator Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law;2. CSEA Admin Department
., Custodial Worker Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
r •
Layoff Procedures for City Positions -Page 4
Civil Service Bargaining
Title Classification Unit Layoff Procedure Layoff Unit
Youth Bureau (including GIAC)
Youth Bureau Director Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Special Asst to YB Director Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Youth Development Coord Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Youth Program Coordinator Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Youth Prog Coord-Auto Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Youth Worker Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Youth Devel Program Leader Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Youth Devel Prog Ldr-Auto Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Youth Devel Prog Ldr-Outing Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Educational Instructor Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Volunteer Coordinator Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Activities Center Coordinator Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Asst Activ Center Coordinator Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Recreation Facilities Manager Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Recreation Supervisor Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Recreation Supr-Expr Arts Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Recreation Supr-Spec Popul Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Recreation Spec-Spec Popul Competitive CSEA Admin 1.CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Recreation Leader Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Office Manager Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Administrative Assistant Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Administrative Secretary Competitive None Civil Service Law Department
Senior Stenographer Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2. CSEA Admin Department
Principal Account Clerk Competitive CSEA Admin 1. CS Law/2.CSEA Admin Department
Custodial Worker Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
Maintenance Worker Noncompetitive CSEA DPW CSEA DPW contract Bargaining Unit
L./
To: Senior Staff
From: Pat Vaughan, Chairperson, Progr lysis Committee
Date: March 13, 1998
Subject: Computer Inventory •
As part of the Program Analysis Committee's work, we have put together a group to examine
some aspects of the city's computer policy. This subcommittee has three members: Rick Gray,
Doc Kinne, and me.
In particular, we would like to explore replacement/upgrade policies within departments and also
across departments, and to do this, we need accurate information on what computer equipment is
actually in each department. I realize that we have asked you to give us this information as part
of your department's appearance at the Program Analysis Committee,but we would like you to
send this to the subcommittee in advance of your scheduled presentation. In fact, we'd like to
have it by Friday, March 20, 1998.
When we received an equipment list from the Controller's department,we realized that these
files were no longer up to date. We will pass your information on to Steve Thayer so that he can
update his files.
A spread sheet format is probably most useful, but because we would like so much information,
you may want to print this on an 11 x 17 sheet or to use two pages. Try to use a readable type size. We
appreciate your help.
Here's what we would like to know:
Name of current user
Computer's departmental name (Mickey Mantle, Marilyn Monroe, etc.)
Manufacturer
Serial number
CPU(Pentium II-300, 486/66, etc.)
Hard drive size
RAM
3.5 floppy (yes/no)
5.25 floppy (yes/no)
CD ROM (yes/no)
Other accessory(describe)
Year acquired
Cost to acquire (if you can find this easily)
Warranty remaining, if any
Operating System now used
Monitor Size
How this computer is used(CAD, email, spreadsheets, word processing, etc.)
To: Members of Program Analysis Committee
From: Subcommittee on Departmental Expectations from Revenue Initiatives
(P. Vaughan and J. Taylor)
Date: March 23, 1998
Subject: Draft Report
The Program Analysis Committee has asked all departments to identify areas which
might produce more revenue for the City. We would like to examine the various sources
of such increased revenue, and we believe that under certain circumstances this increase
might be eligible for partial retention within the department generating such revenues.
Some increased revenue will most likely be derived from increasing existing fees,but
other increases could come from the creation of new programs or from provision of
services in a new and different manner. There are also some instances where the
department now provides a service at no charge, and believes that charging a fee would
be appropriate because of the complexity of the service. In most cases, we would expect
that any service for which a new fee is charged would be one which is used by a clearly
defined subset of citizens, such as people selling their homes or homeowners requesting a
building permit.
It is our opinion that income that comes from an increase in existing fees is not a
"revenue initiative"that would normally qualify for special consideration in retention of
the extra income. These fee increases generally do not involve anything beyond an
adjustment of the price charged to the consumer, and do not include provision of new or
improved services.
In other situations, where the department proposes provision of a service in a different
and"improved"manner, we feel that a portion of the net income generated by that new
or improved service should be available for use by that department. An example of this is
a possible expansion of the role of the Fire Department in providing certain emergency
medical services.
One example of placing a fee on what had been a"free" service is the Fire Department's
very tentative proposal to begin billing insurance companies for extrication of accident
victims. This is a labor-intensive service requiring both special training and equipment,
but because the need for this service is tied so closely to saving lives, we would need to
examine closely how a charge of this type would be perceived by the community. We
should look at the experiences of other municipalities and hear the opinions of our
constituents before we agree to charge a fee for any life safety services.
A less complex case is the proposal of the Building Department to charge fees for
providing zoning information to those selling their properties. Although this information
is available to those who come in person to search the department's files, many property
sellers make telephone requests for this service rather than come to City Hall. The
department reports that fulfilling such requests can sometimes be time-consuming, and
proposes to institute a modest charge for the service. When the new Building Department
software is completed,probably in late spring or early summer,this information will be
more accessible, which is why the Department proposes only a modest fee for the service.
We believe that this kind of charge is one which could be eligible for retention of some of
the net revenue by the department. It is a cost which would be borne by a clearly defined
and specialized group of citizens.
Another example of a new revenue-generating activity is the Fire Department's proposed
Regional Fire Training Center. Expansion of the current training center into a regional
facility would serve a new set of customers (other municipalities and businesses) and
would not create the problems that arise when new fees are imposed for a service that was
previously free. With new activities of this kind there may be questions about startup
costs, but we hope that the proposing department's business plan for a new initiative
would be able to answer all of these.
Certain departments, especially those providing public safety services,have long-
standing mutual aid agreements or understandings with similar departments in other
municipalities. Although it may seem logical to charge a fee for specialized services such
as gorge rescues or underwater searches which are provided to other municipalities, we
need to be very careful that we do not undermine the spirit of the mutual aid traditions
\./ which have been so important in providing the best coverage to citizens in all areas.
The City also needs to be sensitive to citizens' concerns that they are already paying
substantial tax bills, and do not want to pay extra for services which should reasonably be
considered part of the"normal"package of municipal activities. We also need to be
mindful of the"hassle factor",the difficulty of increasing a fee that will yield minimal
extra income but which will have substantial negative impact on citizens' lives and/or
pocketbooks. An example of such an undesirable fee increase is raising the cost of dog
licenses.
In a perfect world, each department and each employee would expend significant effort to
increase the City's revenues and fiscal stability with no thought of personal or
departmental gain. Until that Utopia is achieved, however,we must recognize that both
employees and managers are more motivated to put forth extra effort if they can expect
some tangible result that will improve their corner of the world. Accordingly,this
committee believes that the department should receive some assurances that at least a
portion of the net proceeds of most new revenue initiatives will accrue to the
department's benefit.
Although there are undoubtedly some instances where a straight percentage of the net
applied to general operations is the most appropriate reward for this effort and initiative,
we are inclined to view departmental programmatic goals as more worthy of
consideration. These programmatic goals could take the form of retention of a program
that might be endangered in a difficult budget climate, or of clearly described
enhancement of one or more existing programs.
For an example of a programmatic goal we can look to the Fire Department, which has
been requesting increased staffing in order to open the West Hill Station during the
daytime. This increased staffing would require hiring at least two more firefighters at a
cost(including fringes) of about $50,000 per person per year It is unlikely that the
department can cut non-salary expenses by an amount that would cover the cost of even
one additional firefighter,but with selected cuts plus a share of new revenue initiatives,
the department might be able to find the money to reach this programmatic goal.
This Committee tried to determine an equitable formula for sharing the benefits of any
increased revenues. We realize that almost any revenue initiative has many costs, and we
therefore agreed that only the net revenues after all expenses, (including departmental
overhead and salary fringes)should be considered available for sharing. After considering
various figures, we agreed that we would recommend that the department might be
permitted to receive one half of its net new income from selected eligible revenue
initiatives.
Departments use many strategies to maximize their return from the budget process, and
one of these is the "generous estimate"method. We recognize that new initiatives cannot
absolutely guarantee their revenue streams, but we would be naturally suspicious if a
department's estimates and the revenues achieved were far apart at the end of the fiscal
year. We would be even more uncomfortable if that situation persisted for a second year.
If a department expects to receive a portion of the new net revenues it generates, it must
provide a very good business plan with its request, including carefully calculated expense
estimates and realistic revenue estimates. This is one aspect of the revenue generation
process where creativity is not encouraged.
This Committee will be hearing presentations from each department during the year, and
we expect that many departments will outline a variety of suggestions to increase the
revenue they generate. We welcome all such suggestions,but we want to remind
everyone that it will not be possible to share the proceeds of every revenue increase. We
nevertheless ask departments to bring their suggestions to us so that we can offer early
encouragement and so that we can recommend appropriate initiatives for further
consideration of sharing a portion of the new revenues.