minfin 12-21-20 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

COVID budget actions. Mr. Litten stated that both positions in the office have been beffed up in title and duty, and that the mayor should be able to set her office up in a way that she sees fit. President O'Malley echoed Councilmember Litten's comments and commended the mayor for her performance as an administrator of the office, and added that the chief of staff position is more appropriate for a city of Lakewood's size. Councilmember Kepple inquired whether professional services or a consultant for the anti- racism taskforce is included in the office's budget. Mayor George noted that those funds are not within the general fund budget portion, however other funds can be used to pay for a consultant. Director Rancatore added that the city's operating funds could be used for professional services. Chairman Bullock asked what the $10,000 professional services line item would be used for in the mayor's office's budget. Mayor George indicated it could be for legal consulting or communications to the community. Council Office Budget Clerk Maureen Bach Clerk Bach gave an overview of the office's efforts over the past year, noting how the office played a key role in pioneering virtual public meetings while expanding the public access to the video recordings. The office also successfully on-boarded 3 new members and coordinated a competitive appointment process. Deputy Clerk Lascu reviewed data that was collected over the past two years in regard to the number of meetings that Council has had and the amounts of legislation it has passed. Clerk Bach reviewed staffing levels,which have remained stable over the past couple years, with an eye on bringing an intern on in 2022. She also reviewed the office's budget book, reviewing the professional services and memberships that Council holds. President O'Malley thanked the staff for their work and encouraged Councilmembers to take advantage of the membership and training operations available to them. Other councilmembers thanked staff as well. Councilmember Rader asked whether the office was considering moving to new codification software, and expressed his satisfaction with the one currently being used. Clerk Bach indicated that a buyout of Walter Drane by American Legal Publishing caused a drop in price and an upgraded web experience,which has dissuaded the office from looking elsewhere. Chairman Bullock requested more information on a potential reserve fund for Council budget priorities. Clerk Bach indicated that there is about$25,000 budgeted for professional services,which was barely used over the last two years. Councilmember Kepple noted a significant percentage change in the travel/transportation portion of the budget, inquiring whether 2020 was just a low year due to COVID and that