MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER 30, 2006

   SPECIAL MEETING OF THE ALLIANCE CITY COUNCIL

The meeting was called to order by President Benincasa at 7:00 p.m. 

ROLL CALL: Alan Andreani, Steve Okey, Phyllis Phillips, Warren Price, Roger Rhome, Sue Ryan and Larry Thompson present.

Council Clerk Yost read the notice of the Special Meeting and noted its publication in the Alliance Review and posting on City Bulletin Boards.

President Benincasa gave a presentation on Municipal finances and an outline of Alliance Municipal finances.  President Benincasa then opened the forum up for discussion from council, administration and the audience.

George Saunders of 111 Ramsey Court discussed a 1% sales tax on Alliance Real estate and the potential income it would generate.

Pat Kirshner of 921 Fernwood Blvd. questioned the items taxed by the municipal income tax and if that could / should be broadened as well as the possibility of an increased real estate tax.  Also discussed was a license plate tax or motor vehicle (valuation) tax.  Law Director Zumbar provided answers as to the legal issues.

Dave Puterbaugh of 1051 W. Milton Ave. questioned comparasion with other similar municipalities and where Alliance ranks in those comparasions. John Blaser, Warren Price and Steve Okey addressed the question.

Nick Hustus of 130 East Milton Street questioned gaining income from further taxing Mount Union Collage.

Janice Menegay of 1108 Parkway Blvd. questioned what happens of the revenue fails to meet budget needs which was addressed by representatives of the State Auditor's Office.  Ms. Menegay also questioned the expense of a Zoning study with such tight finances.  Mr. Benincasa, Mr. Blaser, and Mr. Price addressed the financing coming from different sources and the reason for the need of  the Zoning study.

Norita Webb of 2149 Crestwood Ave. asked if enough has been done to save and asked specifically about incentives to department heads and employees for effective cost cutting ideas, employee contributions to insurance, limiting or modifing work schedules, and making engineering department more effecient and responsive.  Discussion and response came from Mr. Benincasa, Mr. Okey, Mr. Blaser, Law Director Zumbar, Mr. Andreani, and Mr. Price.

Denny Clunk of 1535 Glenking commented on the Blue Ribbon committee work and recommendations and on the income tax credit reduction.

Lt. Danielle Kemp of the Alliance Fire department addressed the possibility of expanding the first responder system into a paramedic service which could bill for treatment and transportation generating revenue.  Also addressed the possible need to re-organize the fire department if it would save money and benefit the city.  Mr. Kemp also addressed the need to persue aggressive annexation as a way to generate income from outlying business, industry and individuals.  Discussion and response came from Law director Zumbar, Mr. Price, Mr. Andreani, and Mr. Blaser.

Mr. Blaser read excerpts from the Conciliator's award with the fire department where he commended the cost saving efforts by the City but critized the failure to attempt to  generate new taxes through  tax increase or tax levies.

Motion and second to enter executive session with Council members, Council President, Safety Service Director, Mayor, Council Clerk, Auditor, and Attorney Thomas Collins to discuss eminent litigation involving Clerk of Court. MOTION PASSED BY ACCLAMATION OF ALL MEMBERS.

Council entered executive session at 8:55 P.M.

Council returned from Executive session at 10:00 P.M.

ADJOURNMENT: Noting no further business to come before this Council, President Benincasa adjourned the meeting at 10:00 P.M.

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JOHN BENINCASA, PRESIDENT                                   GERARD T. YOST, COUNCIL CLERK