HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-08-2018 Work Session-Budget Meeting MinutesSTATE OF ALABAMA ) (
COUNTY OF BALDWIN ) (
The City Council met in a Work Session/Budget Meeting
at 4:00 p.m., Fairhope Municipal Complex Council Chamber,
161 North Section Street, Fairhope, Alabama 36532,
on Monday, 8 October 2018.
Present were Council President Jack Burrell, Councilmembers: Jay Robinson (arrived
at 4:14 p.m.), Jimmy Conyers (arrived at 4:17 p.m.). Mayor Karin Wilson, City
Attorney Marcus E. McDowell, and City Clerk Lisa A. Hanks. Councilmembers
Robert Brown and Kevin Boone were absent.
Council President Burrell called the meeting to order at 4:17 p.m.
The following topics were discussed:
• Mayor Wilson addressed the City Council and discussed the personnel requests for
the Budget being on Page 43. She mentioned an increase of 3 percent for General
and six percent increase for Utilities. The Captain position was discussed; and the
position for Special Events.
Council President Burrell questioned the Labor Cost Adjustment. Operations
Director Richard Peterson explained the "LCA" and what was added. Council
President Burrell said this is a complicated factor that is done once a year; and
intended to help with the expense of employees in the Utilities. Mr. Peterson
mentioned a "Cost of Service Survey" and we want benchmark with other utilities.
It was commented we cannot grow 40 personnel each year. Both Council President
Burrell and Councilmember Robinson commented we had 18 to 20 full-time
requested last year; and now we have 34 requested this year. Councilmember
Robinson said this is being present as catching up. He stated there are two different
perspectives: (1) want more employees and (2) don't want idle employees.
Public Works Director Richard Johnson addressed the City Council regarding the
need for garbage hoppers instead of inmates. He mentioned the reliability is not
good; there is criminal activity; and the travel to and from Loxley to pick up and take
back. Other departments and needs were discussed and questions answered.
Assistant Superintendent of Gas Terry Holman addressed the City Council and
explained the need for his new employees and being behind three weeks and the
overtime.
Economic and Community Development Director Sherry-Lea Botop addressed the
City Council regarding City sponsored events along with video production. Coast
360, and hospitality supplies. She also mentioned the need for a Volunteer
Coordinator for the Welcome Center to formalize the volunteers.
Museum Director Philip Bowlin addressed the City Council regarding satellite
exhibits that would keep him offsite a great deal. Councilmember Conyers
commented maybe a more detailed spreadsheet would suffice. Councilmember
Robinson stated it is not a bad idea for a permanent person, but may only need part-
time.