Public Works Committee

Larry Bargy                               Joseph Allen, Chairman                   Eugene Dawson

Minutes

June 7, 2006

Members present:

Larry Bargy, Joe Allen and Gene Dawson

Members absent:

None

Others present:

Pete Garwood and Jack White

1.        Meeting called to order at 11:00 a.m.

2.        Public Comment

None.

3.        Building Department Complaint

Bob Edwards and Cindy Edwards as well as Bob Massey, Building Official, joined the meeting. Mr. and Mrs. Edwards explained that they have purchased a house in Bellaire to be used as their primary residence.  However, they are also in the process of beginning operation of a home based business (a financial advisor business) out of a portion of the home.  Mr. And Mrs. Edwards were unhappy with the requirements the Building Department was placing on them for the portion of the home in which the business will be located.  Mr. Massey explained that what is being required is in accordance with the code.  The Committee sympathized with the Edwards.  Mr. and Mrs. Edwards were told they could appeal for portions of the requirements to the State Barrier Free Commission and to the Construction Code Board of Appeals (if necessary) for other parts.

4.        Building Department Update

Mr. Massey distributed a monthly report to the Committee (attachments).  The report showed the revenue for April was behind the expenses by over $13,000, but the revenue for May looked like it will be above the expenses.

Mr. Massey informed the Committee that the State will be here on June 13 to conduct an audit of the department.  If the outcome is positive, the file on Antrim County will be closed.

Mr. Massey presented options for reducing expenses and/or increasing revenues.

Motion by Gene Dawson, supported by Larry Bargy, to recommend the Board of Commissioners raise the Building Department fees 10%.  Motion carried – unanimous.

Motion by Gene Dawson, supported by Larry Bargy, to recommend the Board of Commissioners temporarily waive the rent payment for the Building Department as well as the loan payment to the general fund.  Motion carried – unanimous.

5.        Elk Rapids Dam

Mr. Garwood informed the Committee about a meeting he participated in with Mark Stone, Drain Commissioner, and three representatives of Michiana Hydroelectric Co.  The Committee reviewed the proposal from Michiana Hydroelectric Co. (attachments). The Committee requested the proposal be distributed to the full Board of Commissioners.

The representatives from Michiana Hydroelectric Co. will be on the agenda for the next Public Works Committee meeting.

Meeting was adjourned at 1:10 p.m.