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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.