2007-11-09 - Laserfiche WebLink

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On November 1, the School Board approved its 2007-08 Budget. It will have an $39.8 million operating budget of , with an $800,000 deficit. However, by the end of the school year it will still have an operating fund balance (reserves) of $9 million or 22.66% of operating expenditures. The District expects to see an increase in its operating revenue of approximately $535,000 due to an increase from the reassessment of property within the District. The assessed value in University City increased 16.32% but because of the statewide Hancock Amendment, the District’s revenue is capped at the CPI of 2.6%. On November 19 at 6:30 in the EOC room at City Hall, Council will have a study session collaboration with the District with School District Administration to begin to improve its performance. Council will delineate why it wants a role in the operation of the School District and articulate questions for the administration concerning the budget, the facilities plan, test scores, and specific program question (relating to Pre-K and graduation rate improvement). It will also discuss a few joint initiatives that the District and the City could embark upon to begin that collaboration. The City will also ask the District to reconsider its decision to forego hiring a highly-qualified community engagement firm to bring all stakeholders to the table in determining the direction will take in the future. It will also ask to establish a joint task force of parents, educators, residents without school age children in their household, parents whose children attend private school and city representatives. Washington University is in its very preliminary stages of determining how it will BigBend and Forest Park Parkway redevelop its property at the northwest corner of . This is a prime redevelopment area because of its proximity to the University and to MetroLink. Currently, the University is in discussions to purchase homes directly west on Pershing to be used as faculty and staff housing until a major redevelopment plan is established within the next 5 to 10 years. Also, in the meantime, the University will do some façade improvements to the retail strip and is seeking input on potential businesses who may want to occupy vacant spaces. Winter Recreation Guide/City Articles or other information for the newly combined Scape is due to our Public Relations department is due November 16, 2007. seven year tree The Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry has rolled out its pruning plan for the City. Except for private subdivisions which handle their tree pruning independently, the city is divided into seven zones, with one zone per year comprehensively addressed. However, if a resident believes a city tree, not in the zone currently being serviced, is dangerous, the City will examine the tree and address any problems that may exist. single stream recycling carts The are being delivered this week. There have been some questions regarding the use of carts in the alleys verses curbs. I’ve included pictures delineating why the carts must be placed at the curb rather than in an alley. We are considering solutions for individuals with terraced yards and no drive way. conflict of I have included the email from Council Member Ricci regarding concerns of interest along with an opinion from Paul Martin. The City Clerk is working on coordinating a special council meeting to discuss the issue.