HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012-11-19 Government Operations Committee Minutes
Government Operations Committee
November 19, 2012
(Immediately Following Finance)
Approximately 5:30 p.m.
MINUTES
Council Members: Hawes, Baldacci, Civiello, Nealley, Gallant, Blanchette, Longo, and
Sprague
Staff: Farrar, McNeil, and Arno
Others: Mike Myatt, Bangor Housing Authority
1. Election Ballot for Municipal Review Committee Board of Directors
As a Charter Municipality of the MRC, the City has the opportunity to vote for a
candidate for the Board of Directors. City Manager Conlow has been nominated
for a three-year term, and it is recommended that Bangor cast its ballot for Ms.
Conlow. Background information is attached.
Assistant City Manager Bob Farrar explained that five municipal members were
nominated including Cathy Conlow, chosen by the City of Bangor. This Committee
oversees the Waste to Energy Operations in Orono and manages joint assets held
between the municipalities. There are nine members on the Board of Directors. It is
essential that we have strong City representation on this board as they will handle
critical issues with both PERC and Bangor Hydro.
Sprague expressed his disagreement with the vote for Conlow because he feels her
time is better spent at City Hall. Bob Farrar has sat on this board for the past 20 years
and explained the importance of City Representation. Blanchette added that the
Committee meets quarterly, so there is not be a significant amount of time away spent
by our City Manager.
Baldacci moved that Bangor’s ballot be cast for Ms. Conlow, seconded and voted by the
Committee
2. Community Connector Renewal Agreements with Husson University
and Eastern Maine Community College.
Both entities have requested to renew their existing agreements with the
Community Connector providing rides for their students and staff members.
These arrangements have worked well for all parties involved, and this parallels
an agreement in place with the University of Maine. Background material is
attached and staff recommends approval.
Joe McNeil, BAT Superintendent said that these agreements have worked well and the
bus routes are showing increases in ridership growth. McNeil recommended
continuation of both contracts. Sprague questioned the extension of hours for the
Community Connector and Mc Neil said that it’s been discussed in the past, but the cost
is not feasible.
It was moved, seconded and was approved.
3. Designation of Drug-Free Safe Zones
The Bangor Housing Authority has requested that Birch Circle at 1160 Ohio
Street and Griffin Park at 194 Griffin Road, be designated as Drug-Free Safe
Zones. Both locations have playgrounds and meet the criteria established under
State Statute. A background memorandum from Interim Police Chief Arno is
attached and staff recommends approval.
Peter Arno, interim Police Chief explained that these areas must be frequented by
miners and clearly marked as Drug-Free Safe Zones and treated the same as school
zones. Under the law, there are enhanced penalties for activity within 1000 feet of the
property. Arno added that the Bangor Housing Authority has agreed to cover any costs
involved.
Baldacci moved to approve, it was seconded and approved.
Meeting Adjourned at 6:00 p.m.