Government Operations Committee

Tuesday, June 23, 2009 at 5:00 pm

City Council Chambers

AGENDA

1. Authorizing the Application for and Acceptance of $5,419 from the Maine Department of Health and Human Services to Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening Rates in the Penquis Public Health District

This grant will provide funds for community based education and information regarding the need for and benefit of colorectal cancer screening. The Health Promotion Program in the Department of Health and Community Services will develop and disseminate the information.

2. Authorizing Acceptance of up to $3,800 for the US Department of Justice, Project Safe Neighborhoods, for a Ballistic Bullet Catcher for the Police Department

This grant will provide funds for the purchase of a ballistic bullet catcher. The equipment will allow for the recovery of the ammunition casings and projectiles involved in crimes. Once recovered, these will be sent to a national laboratory for entry into the national Integrated Ballistics Identification Network, which is a database that can be accessed for comparison purposes in other crimes. The City will purchase the equipment and be reimbursed; there is no local match required.

3. Formalizing Liquor License Processing Policy

This new policy would establish guidelines for the processing of new and renewal liquor licenses for Bangor establishments that serve alcohol on premises. This will formalize existing procedures and detail the necessary steps involved for the applicant and City departments. A conceptual discussion was held previously, and staff has now prepared the written policy for review and consideration.

4. Consideration of City Position on November Referendum Question – An Act to Provide Tax Relief; also known as TABOR II

The above described referendum question will appear on the November State ballot. The intent of the Act will be to amend LD #1, the current State law that places certain limitations on the property tax levy at the municipal level, and overall State spending. There is concern with the implications that would result to Maine communities, as well as the State. A background memorandum from the City Manager and an overview of the Act is attached.

5. Consideration of City Position on November Referendum Question – Revisions to Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Rates

A referendum question will appear on the November State ballot that would make significant revisions to the existing Motor Vehicle Excise Tax schedule. If passed, this would significantly cut the excise tax rates that are applied when cars and trucks are registered annually. It is estimated that the City of Bangor would lose approximately $1.8M in annual revenue should the referendum question be approved. A background memorandum from the City Manager is attached outlining concerns with this proposal.