Government Operations Committee

Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at 5:00 pm

City Council Chambers

AGENDA

1. Paul Bunyan Statue Restoration Project and Possible Fundraising Effort

The Parks and Recreation Department has been approached by a group of individuals who are interested in repainting/restoring the Paul Bunyan Statue. The last repainting effort on Statue was approximately ten years ago. There may be a need for a fundraising campaign as well as to cover the cost of the project. Parks and Recreation Director Willette has prepared a background memorandum, and we anticipate some of the interested individuals in this effort will attend the meeting as well.

2. Request to Place Cellular Antenna Panels on Lightpole Mast at Mansfield Stadium

The City has been approached by KJK Wireless on behalf of US Cellular about leasing space at Mansfield Stadium for the installation of telecommunications equipment including antenna panels and a small equipment building. A background memorandum from Parks and Recreation Director Willette is attached, along with an introductory letter of KJK Wireless outlining certain proposed terms and conditions. If the concept is approved by the Committee, a lease would be negotiated between the parties and prepared for full Council consideration.

3. Council Ordinance 09-118 Amending Chapter 124, General Assistance, Sections 134-27, Amount of Assistance and 134-27.1, Rental Assistance

This proposed Ordinance will make required changes to the City’s General Assistance Ordinance. The changes have been prepared by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, and communities are required to adjust their ordinance provisions to conform with the adjustments. The changes primarily related to maximum weekly and monthly food assistance levels.

4. Request to Apply for Federal COPS Grant Funding

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Federal Stimulus Program) included funding for the COPS Hiring Recovery Program (CHRP) to address personnel needs of state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies. The Police Department has been notified that the grant application period is now open. Chief Gastia is seeking permission to apply for funding for six officer positions. A detailed memorandum is attached from Chief Gastia outlining terms of this grant opportunity and his justification for the funding and positions he is seeking.