2008-08-04 Study Session Dr. Terry Jones survey

Home Browse Search

MINUTES OF UNIVERSITY CITY COUNCIL Study Session August 04, 2008 At the Study Session of the City Council of University City held in the Chambers of the City Hall, on Monday, August 04, 2008, Mayor Adams called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. In addition to Mayor Adams, the following members of the Council were present: Ms. Lynn Ricci Mr. Robert Wagner Mr. Byron Price Mr. Terry Crow Mr. Michael Glickert Also in attendance were City Manager Julie Feier, Deputy City Manager/Finance Director Janet Watson and survey consultant Dr. Terrance Jones. Mr. Arthur Sharpe, Jr. was absent. The purpose of this Study Session was to discuss the survey results completed by Dr. Terry Jones on University City Finances. Ms. Watson passed out the final Fiscal Year 09 Budget books and briefly explained some additions that were incorporated. She said she would also have a copy at Centennial Commons and the Library for anyone interested in looking at it. Dr. Terrance Jones’ survey consisted of 413 interviews, equally distributed in each of the three wards. Dr. Terry Jones presented the Council with twenty key findings as follows: 1. Citizens were largely unaware of recent budget cuts. 2. More concern was given to cuts in public safety as Fire and Police. 3. Less concern was shown for cuts in code enforcement, parks/recreation maintenance positions and lastly there was little concern over the cut in the mailing of a City newspaper. 4. On future cuts the largest concern was over reducing the number of police patrols. Second and third most concerned over cuts were closing Heman Park Pool and having property owners be responsible for maintaining sidewalks and street trees adjacent to their property. Fourth most concern was to substantially reduce the number of City Recreational programs especially involving the youth. 5. On future cuts, the lowest concerns would be the reduction of repaving frequency, reducing Centennial Commons hours or to reduce park improvements. 6. Support for tax increase was favored when it would maintain public safety and when it would help to maintain University City’s regional and national leadership, as it is a part of the City’s tradition. Support was strong for maintaining the City’s ambulance and emergency medical services. 7. Lack of support for tax increase came from residents acknowledging the weak economy and it was not a good time to raise taxes.