Committee of the Whole

CITY OF VERONA MINUTES COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING JUNE 17, 2013 1. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Jon Hochkammer at 6:00 p.m. 2. Roll call: Jon Hochkammer, Luke Diaz, Elizabeth Doyle, Mac McGilvray, Heather Reekie, Brad Stiner, Dale Yurs. Absent (excused): Mike Bare, Scott Manley. Also in attendance: Bill Burns, City Administrator; Cindy Engelke, Finance Director; Bernie Coughlin, Police Chief; Mike Harrigan, Ehlers and Associates. 3. Public Comments. None 4. Minutes of the May 20, 2013 Committee of the Whole Meeting. Motion by Doyle, seconded by Reekie, to approve the minutes of the May 20, 2013 Committee of the Whole Meeting. Motion carried 7-0. 5. Update on Planning for a Fire and EMS Facility and a Request for Proposal for Architectural Services. Mr. Burns provided an update on the planning process for a new Fire and EMS facility. The ad hoc committee has met several times to discuss facility tour reports, review preliminary space needs information, and to review a draft request for proposal for architectural services. After incorporating any comments, it is planned to release later this week with the intent of selecting a firm by the end of July. Mr. Stiner asked if the training facility will need to be moved to accommodate a new building. It was noted that the facility is located on the eastern property line and that the intent is to leave it in place if possible, but it can be relocated if needed. Mr. Yurs stated that he would like to see fire and EMS staff involved in the design process. Mr. Hochkammer noted that it is the consensus of the ad hoc committee members to utilize a construction manager for the project. 6. Update on a Potential Study on Fire and EMS Service Collaboration and Consolidation. Mr. Burns provided background on a potential study of fire and EMS service collaboration or consolidation. The City of Fitchburg initiated a discussion with Verona, Oregon, and the Town of Madison to look at opportunities for the communities to work together. A cost-benefit analysis was performed by students at the UW-Madison LaFollette Institute which indicated potential benefits to consolidation. The City of Verona included funds in the 2013 budget to participate in a professional study to recommend options for enhanced cooperation or consolidation. Staff are currently researching firms and collecting proposals. A recommendation is expected to come to the City Council in July. 7. Discussion of the City’s Financial Management Policy and Tax Increment Financing Districts. Mr. Burns, Ms. Engelke, and Mr. Harrigan presented information on the  City’s Financial Management Policy and topics including property taxes, debt service, capital levy and replacement funds, fund balance and tax increment financing districts. Mr. Harrigan also provided an explanation of the City’s bond rating and a comparison with other peer communities. The intent is that the Finance Committee review the specific details in the City’s financial management policy and make recommendation on any potential changes to the City Council. The Finance Committee and City Council will also be reviewing and updating the City’s long-term financial plans as part of the budget process. 8. Adjourn. Motion by Yurs, seconded by Diaz, to adjourn the Committee of the Whole meeting at 7:51 p.m. Motion carried 7-0. Bill Burns City Administrator/Recorder