City of Central Falls
City Council
Finance Committee Workshop
Friday, May 30, 2003
@ 3:30 p.m.
A meeting of the Finance Committee was held on the above date in the City Hall Council Chambers at 3:45 pm. Chairman Leger conducted the meeting. Councilman Patino and Councilman Noury were also present.
1. Discussion 2003/2004 Budget
The Fire and Police Chiefs were present to review their budget request.
Councilman Noury commented to the Fire Chief about overtime in the Department.
The Chief commented on the contract and responded to the overtime issues.
Councilman Leger stated that he doesn’t agree with the policy. He stated that if the City increased the size of the Department it would get more bang for the buck. Councilman Patino asked the Chief how much would it cost for another full time firefighter with benefits. The Chief responded about $50,000.
Chief Coutu stated that he doesn’t feel the overtime issue is related to injuries. Councilman Leger asked what the number of firefighters there are in the Department. The Chief stated that with the Chief there are 38 members.
The Council also questioned such items as equipment and other related expenses.
Councilman Patino stated that he has always supported the need for dispatchers for the fire department.
Chief Coutu stated that he and the Police Chief are looking for a shared space for the dispatchers. He also commented on the need for a carport and a boat and trailer. He spoke of the dock and the need for the boat.
The Council then focused on the Police Department Budget and asked Chief Wilson about the number of members on the force as well as the contract. He stated that there are 35 members plus the Chief. He stated that this also included a School resource officer. He said that there is currently 1 active duty 2 retire and 1 resignation. He also spoke on the number of police vehicles and the condition of these vehicles. He stated that none of the vehicles are running 24 hours but that they are assigned shifts. He commented on the seized vehicles and for what purposes they are used by the Department. He spoke on the heating and ventilation system at the Station and the need to replace it.
Councilman Patino questioned the Mayor on the Police Department.
The Mayor replied.
2. Other Fiscal Discussions
Mayor Matthews commented on the drop in revenues as a result of the Pawtucket Water Supply issues but that the City has still been able to meet is financial obligations.
Discussion Continued regarding the revenue and expenses of the City.
Pension Liability was also discussed. The Mayor also discussed the Fire Department’s average age as it relates to the Police Department and how this affects pensions, injuries and other issues within each department.
Councilman Leger commented on the Union Contracts and asked what the status of each is.
The Mayor responded that the Police Department’s contract has a new contract through 2006, the fire has 2 more years to 2005 and the Municipal has two year to 2005. The Mayor also explained sick issues as well as disability and retirement issues.
Councilman Patino stated that the more employees who live in the City the better for the City.
Councilman Leger commented on capital projects and the issues of sidewalk and street repairs.
Discussion also took place on special events, River Island Park and rubbish and recycling collections.
3. Unfinished Business
4. New Business
5. Adjourn
Meeting adjourned at 6:45 pm
Elizabeth A. Crowley, CMC
City Clerk