Government Operations Committee

Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at 5:00 pm

City Council Chambers

AGENDA

1. Request to Appropriate BAT Community Connector Capital Funds

Staff is seeking the Committee’s recommendation to expend certain Federal capital funds in the amount of approximately $4,700 to assist in replacing the security video system at Pickering Square (BAT hub) and to purchase fireproof file cabinets at the BAT office. A background memorandum from Finance Director Cyr is attached, and both Joe McNeil, BAT Superintendent, and Ms. Cyr will be present to answer any questions.

2. Update – Local Government Access Channel Issues

As the Committee is aware, City staff, with the assistance of outside service vendors, has been working to improve the audio and visual quality of the City’s Local Government Access Channel. This update is our monthly review of our on-going efforts to improve the broadcast. A background memorandum from Deb Cyr is attached outlining the actions over the last month.

3. Discussion of Issues and Challenges Surrounding Bangor’s Homeless Population

Given the onset of winter months and the daily challenges that face a number of City departments, Shawn Yardley and other Department Heads, and several interested parties have spent considerable time discussing the issue of homelessness in Bangor. A background memorandum is attached from three City Department Heads, and others interested and involved with this topic will be present to participate as well.

4. Influenza Update

Health and Community Services Director Yardley will brief the Committee on the most recent information regarding both seasonal and H1N1 Influenza including a recap of flu clinics recently held in Bangor.

5. Property Assessed Clean Energy Financing Program

With the renewed interest in energy conservation, a number of states have adopted legislation that would authorize financing programs at the local level. Under these programs, local units of government are authorized to lend property owners funds to undertake efficiency improvements and to amortize them over time through their property tax bills. State legislation would be required to establish such a program. Staff is seeking the Committee’s approval to further explore and develop details for such a program in addition to approaching our State delegation to seek statutory authorize to establish such a program. A background memorandum from the City Manager is attached providing further information and details.