I attended the Public Works meeting to discuss curbs, curb ramps, streets, and sidewalks for 2012. Official minutes are below.
Cortney
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Meeting was called to order 6:30PM on Jan 30, 2012 to talk about street and sidewalk rehabilitation for 2012. Chris Ertel conducted a review (done every November) and takes resident requests for recommended curbs, streets, sidewalks, ramps.
One Street: Albert Place Lane (behind Albert Place) only reco’d street this year. Cost using square yard calculation: $22-$26/sq yard estimate. Includes grinding, replacing curbs if there (none). Jeff asked rating of Albert Place. Chris uses 4 pt scale: Poor for Albert Place.
Curbs. Mariemont Inn curbs, talked last fall. Leave steel edge in place. Cost $3500.
Emery Lane. Curb repair could cut between driveways, but reco 100% roll curb replacement. Jeff asked about who’s responsible. Chris said usually drive touching edge of curb becomes owner's responsibility. Practice done for last 8 years. Sidewalks are officially owners responsibility to maintain. Village can step in if it wants to. Jeff asked if owners asked for help. One owner called. Normally do curb with street but street in Fair condition. Jeff asked if can patch for a few more years. Chris recos entire width of driveway. Cortney said a couple driveways = 1/3 of the job so less economical.
Curb Ramp installations. Albert Place wheel chair inaccessible w lip. Regrade, then add “Detectable warnings” (Add bumps). 4 ramps. Composite fiberglass bumps bolted on. Cortney asked about longevity and Chris was satisfied so far.
Chestnut & Lane I ramps & crosswalks needed E-W, N-S. Cortney asked if we need a crosswalk towards the school when it will be decommisioned. Denise said E-W yes, N-S no. Agreed to hold off N-S until later.
Miami @ West Street. Sidewalk current ends on Miami just S of West St. Want to connect it via ramps and crosswalk to other side. Cross the street both ways.
Denny @ Pleasant. 2 ramps crossing Denny Place.
Mariemont at Pleasant. Ramps SE, SW, crossing E-W (1), N-S (1)
Wooster @ Indianview, S side. 2 Ramps E-W.
Wooster @ Park. Replace damaged ramp surface.
Madisonville @ West. Ramps E-W crossing N side of intersection. Jeff asked if in conjunction w School project? Chris said not yet in coordination. If conflicts we can wait.
Elm @ Oak ramps.
Cortney said we had a big curb bill last year on Bramble Hill, so what was full amount for 2011? Chris said $25-$30K. Cortney said with few curbs in 2012 it's the same order of magnitude vs last year. Chris confirmed few curb ramps, so cost is net less for curb ramps and curbs.
New Sidewalks.
East St @ Wooster. N-S on median on E side of Street. Jeff asked if we have data that shows crossing here vs at blinking light one block east? Cortney confirmed h asked for this last year. He uses it a lot and see others on it but has no data to show the utilization. Cortney said what he ikes is concept of connectivity of North and South for 1)parking like the study that says S of Pike parking is empty because of no easy egress 2)we do have curb ramps already built southern West and sidewalks both Northern West and Southern West encouraging people to cross. This was the motivation. Would like to petition State of Ohio to paint crosswalk. Cortney asked Chris what is process. Chris will followup with ODOT. Cortney said this will make it a continuous cross. Jeff asked if we should look at overall N-S connectivity for the Village? 2 yrs ago talk of critical few streets needed + LED in pavement. Pleasant all the way to Indianview. Cortney said he would like us to revisit LED lighting near the Square. Realize cost is a huge concern. Parking and Connectivity are big enough deals to warrant conversation. If we ever have parking on street on E bound Wooster (south side), bookending the block with crosswalks is a good thing. In conclusion this starts to address issues of Parking Study.
Miami Rd new sidewalk, E of Lytle Woods, N side of Miami (hilly portion). Extend to sidewalk up to 4009 Miami, up to house before Rex Bevis (in attendance @ Meeting). Cortney asked residents for their opinion. Mr Quiambo at 4009 Miami is supportive. Jeff: why not extend past Rex's? Rex - guard rail and sewer swail complicate the project. Chris confirmed difficulty. Cortney likes extending the reach sidewalks. Area is difficult to navigate today. Chris confirmed the location directly adjacent to swail along street. Can further extend later. Cortney: "game of inches" revisit when swail needs redone. Iterate towards a goal of connectivity. Chris: Sidewalk to extend to the Quiambo driveway.
Murray Avenue between Oak and Beech, currently asphalt sidewalk. Complete replacement of asphalt sidewalk w concrete. Denise asked why not Plainville to Beech? Chris said the sidewalk is narrow but is already concrete. Cortney said asphalt sidewalks are a mess aesthetically, probably not a safe surface either. Denise said it causes people to walk on the narrow street.
Wooster Pike south side @ East Street, heading eastbound (address 6993 Wooster Pike). Cortney said currently the corner crosses Wooster to nowhere (proposed new sidewalk along E side of East St). Chris said we could create sidewalk to first driveway. He reco's stopping there because many existing trees in the way. Cortney asked have we engaged the homeowner. Chris said not yet. Cortney said if we deem it a good thing we should contact resident. Cortney said he thinks it's a dangerous spot for pedestrians (travelling east on Wooster). Jeff said for residents of Indianview, Petoskey, Pocahontas, & East that wants to cross, would they walk on south side vs cross at Indianview blinking light? Is it our plan to line both sides of the street with sidewalks? Cortney said they're far enough apart to warrant it. New sidewalk laid last year from Municipal building to East is a great investment, inch by inch. However it's a fair question. Jeff said should we do just a small portion (East bound) vs waiting and doing majority of the block. Cortney said he considers it opportunistic and to do what you can. Jeff said he worries about deadend sidewalk as poor investment, we may be viewed as spend-easy with money. Chris suggested maybe doing only East Sidewalk between Wooster Pike E and W bound as compromise. Cortney agreed it's a good compromise. East bound Wooster Pike should be put on hold since crossing Wooster is a priority. Chris said eastbound would require jogs in sidewalk to get to Indianview. Cortney asked if lines on Wooster will be repainted to add bike lane. Chris said it's a safe routes to school project. Shared space will probably happen here because of narrow section.
Cortney said he would like to understand year ago costs for each category.
Sidewalk Replacement
Albert Place Sidewalks (made of brick). Chris said damage is extensive, reco replacement with concrete base and optional brick pavers. Cortney said it is a $17K line item. Chris said he recos complete replacement around "U". Cortney asked if this was this done originally (as part of Nolen's plan). or done after. Is it original fabric? Are there other streets made of brick (not done by Greiwe). Chris said other ares is square. Cortney wondered if evidence suggests non original. Chris recos talk to Dennis Malone. Cortney said maybe we offer to put concrete back, either as finiashed surface or a base for your (Albert residents) paver project add-on. Cortney said this may not be a good idea. If original we should pay. If not, we should share burden. Jeff said fair question in economic climate we're in. If it's original he thinks 1 thing, if not then this directly benefits only a few. Chris confirmed budget 2x vs just concrete. Jeff doesn't know legal requirements but it's appropriate to say what the village standard is, and if not historic then plan for concrete. Cortney asked if Chris can talk to Dennis M and Cortney will ask Millard R. Cortney said these little cloisters exist like Sheldon Close and Denny Place. Really old and really tight, but don't remember brick. Jeff said if he lived on Albert he'd want brick replaced; adds character. Cortney said situation is like statues at Dale Park. Can't just remove, need to repair them since original. We should withhold our reco until we get additional info from experts. Something needs done, should be high priority.
Chestnut, Plainville to Oak. Chris said 300 ft2 in two areas where trees have caused sidewalk undulation. Process is to jackhammer out old and re pour concrete. Sometimes can go over roots, sometimes cut. Denise said residents will be very happy as she's received many calls about sidewalks there.
6625 Mariemont, near Pleasant. Chris said undulating sidewalks. Cortney asked if we could you grind first one. Chris said could but not sure of thickness, could disintegrate. Plus see aggregate. Cortney agreed grinding is unsightly.
6908 Mt Vernon neaer Emery Place. Chris recos replacement.
3812 Settle, 2 areas. Chris said deterioration and damage at driveway.
Cortney offered up an additional address for later. 6948 Nolen, not needed this year. Suggest adding to next years list.
Cortney thinks this list is worthy of attention. Jeff said items in question: S side of Wooster Pike east bound from East St. for $4200. Cortney added Albert Place sidewalks. Chestnut at Lane I 2nd crosswoalk at Dale park will reduce cost. Maybe $2400 vs $3600.
Cortney said what about uneven sidewalks on Miami near Graeters paid for with Ohio Public Works Commission grant money. Chris confirmed yes. Also part of grant: Miami Rd from Wooster to Rembold resurfacing via State Matching Funds grant. Village pays $40K, Ohio pays $60K. Cortney asked if Miami Rd. needs it? Rowan Hills portion of Miami Rd. done in 2005 or 2006. Chris called lower area "Fair" condition. Chris considers it more of a sidewalk project with paving as bonus.
Cortney asked if Jeff is ok with full Emery Lane curb? Chris confirmed $10K for entire, at least width of driveway less cost: $4000. Chris asked if aesthetically would it be ok? Bramble hill did parts only and got complaints. Cortney said 5 Driveways on Emery means $5K-$6K. Could be complaints. Jeff said he's ok since such a big portion of total is driveways.
Chris said Village usually budgets $120K-$140K each year and then he checks how bids come in. If low add work, if high subtract work. Number this year is high vs typical. Possibility of help with $40K (Miami) grant from Hamilton County Municipal road fund. Would be worth $20K, won't know til March, we put up full amount now. 2011 was $139,050 reco 2/12/2011, was for 2011 expenses. In packet in April 2011. If we drew down Dale Park Jr High crosswalks -$1200 and also Wooster Pike sidewalk, total is $4200, puts it in $160K's, +$30K vs year ago. If grant money would bring it down to +$10K, Albert Place -$8K to net +$2K vs Year Ago. Still a little high. Denise confirmed this work has to be done, should be done. Cortney - none were unnecessary, investing in infrastructure is smart planning. Cortney said he's ok w/ up vs year ago.
Jeff - we could priorize curb ramps and do half this year, half next, if budget pressure in this area. Have a plan to get appropriated, options to prioritize if needed. We have liability in sidewalk issues, not sure about curb cuts and ramps. Chris said ramps risk not yet defined. Jeff - no reason to think we can't prioritize if necessary. Can quickly meet if necessary. Cortney confirmed we're in an ok place to put in front of Council.
Cortney said thank you to Chris for great research and detail. Cortney asked Chris to followup with Dennis M. on Albert, Cortney to followup w/ Millard. Chris' doc is what we need to walk into council with. Chris will follow up with State of Ohio on crosswalks across Wooster.
Cortney one additional one - Island on Wooster. If in future we added sidewalk to connect to Memorial near parking area on the square. Add crosswalk from Admin bldg to Memorial, then Memorial to corner w/ bike rack (NE Corner Miami @ Wooster). Jeff asked if redundant crosswalk. Cortney said both/and would be valuable. Brought up for future discussion only.
Meeting adjorned 7:30PM.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Committte of the Whole 2/1
I attended the Committee of the Whole Meeting to discuss Annual Perm Improvement Budget Appropriations, and here's what I saw.
First agenda topic, unrelated to Approp was a change to the Medical Pool we entered in in 2010. I support the change to make the entry and exit of communities more equitable. Costs are higher than I'd like, but there is reason to believe they will come down to more modest levels and this is already occurring.
Maintenance Needs. I support replacing the final severely rusted (pre garage) pickup truck. I think we need to get into the habit of a 10 year outlook on these charges. Then we have fewer, maybe no surprises. Dumptruck in yr 1, ATV yr 2, pickup truck yr 3, etc. I pushed to get an additional $17K for trees above and beyond the $23 set aside for Ash removal, however it's not included in the minutes. I will followup at the next Council meeting.
Police. I support a new car this year. I would like to see us get into a 5 year rotation for Cruisers, since the liability becomes an issue at 6-7 years. I would also like us to take a hard look at how many cruisers we need. Can we share the tahoe w Fire and go down 1-2 vehicles? Can we make that Tahoe a hybrid when its time for replacement? Instead of the ideal 4 marked and 2 unmarked, since we have no more than 2 officers patrolling at any one time (I think this is correct), can we get by with 3-4 cars + shared Tahoe (all marked)?
Fire. I support working through the turnout gear in annual chunks. While we received confirmation that we have the right number on the roster, it still feels like a lot of turnout gear. I don't have the understanding of those on Safety, but I wonder about more sharing of equip, and/or fewer on the part time roster.
Tax. I think it's premature to allocate money for the software until we learn more about it. But, conceptually, it's a great idea. And I would like to see more streamlining and automation for the annual tax process. Ideally a process that mirrors TurboTax (that is cost net-net neutral for the Village to operate)would be fantastic.
Pool. Hot Dog machine will probably pay for itself, so it's a yes for me.
Improvements to the Municipal Bldg. Windows are overdue and I support them. I think making this building more energy efficient is a worthy investment since lower fuel bills will save in the general fund. I do not and support any addition to the Muni building with the exception of a modest footprint for an elevator (ADA access). We have wasted space in old Mayor's Court that could be great space with the addition of big window wells for light & egress. Our document storage is inefficient as well. We should get it out via cheap fireproof storage offsite or digitally scan and discard. We should eliminate the dedicated Mayor's office and instead have a soundproof conference room for Tax, Mayor, Interrogation etc for confidential conversations. The days of dedicated offices are gone in many Corporations, let's reapply. I know there are difficulties in both Fire and Police, and I can't say I fully understand them. But we have to wring out inefficiencies like the above first. Our roster of Village Employees keeps going down, yet we need more space? At a macro level, it doesn't line up for me.
Using savings for the Municipal Bldg. I support drawing down this savings account to a balance for around $250K since there is no need for an addition. I do support continuing saving for the new fire truck - agree this is the right way to be ready or at least more ready for big expenses that happen infrequently.
Cortney
First agenda topic, unrelated to Approp was a change to the Medical Pool we entered in in 2010. I support the change to make the entry and exit of communities more equitable. Costs are higher than I'd like, but there is reason to believe they will come down to more modest levels and this is already occurring.
Maintenance Needs. I support replacing the final severely rusted (pre garage) pickup truck. I think we need to get into the habit of a 10 year outlook on these charges. Then we have fewer, maybe no surprises. Dumptruck in yr 1, ATV yr 2, pickup truck yr 3, etc. I pushed to get an additional $17K for trees above and beyond the $23 set aside for Ash removal, however it's not included in the minutes. I will followup at the next Council meeting.
Police. I support a new car this year. I would like to see us get into a 5 year rotation for Cruisers, since the liability becomes an issue at 6-7 years. I would also like us to take a hard look at how many cruisers we need. Can we share the tahoe w Fire and go down 1-2 vehicles? Can we make that Tahoe a hybrid when its time for replacement? Instead of the ideal 4 marked and 2 unmarked, since we have no more than 2 officers patrolling at any one time (I think this is correct), can we get by with 3-4 cars + shared Tahoe (all marked)?
Fire. I support working through the turnout gear in annual chunks. While we received confirmation that we have the right number on the roster, it still feels like a lot of turnout gear. I don't have the understanding of those on Safety, but I wonder about more sharing of equip, and/or fewer on the part time roster.
Tax. I think it's premature to allocate money for the software until we learn more about it. But, conceptually, it's a great idea. And I would like to see more streamlining and automation for the annual tax process. Ideally a process that mirrors TurboTax (that is cost net-net neutral for the Village to operate)would be fantastic.
Pool. Hot Dog machine will probably pay for itself, so it's a yes for me.
Improvements to the Municipal Bldg. Windows are overdue and I support them. I think making this building more energy efficient is a worthy investment since lower fuel bills will save in the general fund. I do not and support any addition to the Muni building with the exception of a modest footprint for an elevator (ADA access). We have wasted space in old Mayor's Court that could be great space with the addition of big window wells for light & egress. Our document storage is inefficient as well. We should get it out via cheap fireproof storage offsite or digitally scan and discard. We should eliminate the dedicated Mayor's office and instead have a soundproof conference room for Tax, Mayor, Interrogation etc for confidential conversations. The days of dedicated offices are gone in many Corporations, let's reapply. I know there are difficulties in both Fire and Police, and I can't say I fully understand them. But we have to wring out inefficiencies like the above first. Our roster of Village Employees keeps going down, yet we need more space? At a macro level, it doesn't line up for me.
Using savings for the Municipal Bldg. I support drawing down this savings account to a balance for around $250K since there is no need for an addition. I do support continuing saving for the new fire truck - agree this is the right way to be ready or at least more ready for big expenses that happen infrequently.
Cortney
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
1/23/2012 Council
I attended Council on 1/23 and here's what I saw
New Tot Lot Playground Equip. I have seen the deterioration first hand and think the request is reasonable. I also appreciate MPPG's financial commitment. I look fwd to discussing in Committee.
New Windows in Admin Bldg. Efficiency investments are a great idea. I do not support additions to the building (save an elevator-sized one) but think we should invest in lowering our General Fund liabilities like energy bills.
Pool Board - I will not support Pool Board expansion unless I see verbal or written evidence of this body requesting the change.
Parks Board - Since they've asked for expansion, I will support their request.
New Mowing Vendor and Contract - I am thankful for Grass Cor's service to the Village and look fwd to 4 Seasons service in 2012.
I voted in the affirmative on all since they were procedural in nature. The one exception: Mowing contract. We'll save $5000 annually vs 2011 and I trust John S.' affirmation of 4 Seasons ability to execute the contract.
Cortney
ICRCTV.com
New Tot Lot Playground Equip. I have seen the deterioration first hand and think the request is reasonable. I also appreciate MPPG's financial commitment. I look fwd to discussing in Committee.
New Windows in Admin Bldg. Efficiency investments are a great idea. I do not support additions to the building (save an elevator-sized one) but think we should invest in lowering our General Fund liabilities like energy bills.
Pool Board - I will not support Pool Board expansion unless I see verbal or written evidence of this body requesting the change.
Parks Board - Since they've asked for expansion, I will support their request.
New Mowing Vendor and Contract - I am thankful for Grass Cor's service to the Village and look fwd to 4 Seasons service in 2012.
I voted in the affirmative on all since they were procedural in nature. The one exception: Mowing contract. We'll save $5000 annually vs 2011 and I trust John S.' affirmation of 4 Seasons ability to execute the contract.
Cortney
ICRCTV.com
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Council 1/9/2012
I attended Council on 1/9 and here's what I saw
Interest Rates - I'm glad Tony and Andy are already considering other options for our sizable balances. There's money to be made that we're forgoing today.
December missed payments - this is a big deal, regardless of cause. As I see it, there was either a purposeful act or an accidental one. I have no evidence of purposeful, so as I've learned over the past couple years (the hard way), I won't pursue concerns/accusations without evidence. So I'll assume accidental. However, this delay of payment creates a shocking choice in the narrative of our Village's finances: "Mariemont has experienced deficits in 4 out of the last 5 years" OR "Mariemont has experienced 2 surpluses in a row". Which is true? The choices could not be more different. I think regardless of our final-final balance in 2011, the former appears true. And unless I'm shown a mistake in my logic, I'll communicate this as I talk with Residents. We must do more to solve our ongoing financial problems ahead of the State's reductions Village revenue beginning in 2013.
December missed payments part 2 - I think Jeff's comments were fair and reasonable. I appreciate his detailed study of the issue (I didn't notice the discrepancy). Irregularities in our income and/or in our expenses are examples of topics that should be ok to to be discussed real-time in public. At the end of the day, I like some back and forth, and some debate and disagreement during Council is a good thing.
December missed payments part 3 - Andy K's comments gave me an idea (and as I learned later, Andy had this idea too) - why not implement a delayed payment program, especially if we can improve the interest rates? I would support implementing a process for staggering payments. The longer we hold onto $$, the more that we can make in interest....
Andy B as Vice Mayor - Andy's done a nice job, and I happily support him.
I voted in the affirmative on all votes as they were procedural in nature.
Cortney
ICRCTV.COM
Interest Rates - I'm glad Tony and Andy are already considering other options for our sizable balances. There's money to be made that we're forgoing today.
December missed payments - this is a big deal, regardless of cause. As I see it, there was either a purposeful act or an accidental one. I have no evidence of purposeful, so as I've learned over the past couple years (the hard way), I won't pursue concerns/accusations without evidence. So I'll assume accidental. However, this delay of payment creates a shocking choice in the narrative of our Village's finances: "Mariemont has experienced deficits in 4 out of the last 5 years" OR "Mariemont has experienced 2 surpluses in a row". Which is true? The choices could not be more different. I think regardless of our final-final balance in 2011, the former appears true. And unless I'm shown a mistake in my logic, I'll communicate this as I talk with Residents. We must do more to solve our ongoing financial problems ahead of the State's reductions Village revenue beginning in 2013.
December missed payments part 2 - I think Jeff's comments were fair and reasonable. I appreciate his detailed study of the issue (I didn't notice the discrepancy). Irregularities in our income and/or in our expenses are examples of topics that should be ok to to be discussed real-time in public. At the end of the day, I like some back and forth, and some debate and disagreement during Council is a good thing.
December missed payments part 3 - Andy K's comments gave me an idea (and as I learned later, Andy had this idea too) - why not implement a delayed payment program, especially if we can improve the interest rates? I would support implementing a process for staggering payments. The longer we hold onto $$, the more that we can make in interest....
Andy B as Vice Mayor - Andy's done a nice job, and I happily support him.
I voted in the affirmative on all votes as they were procedural in nature.
Cortney
ICRCTV.COM
Monday, January 16, 2012
Public Works Report 1/16/2012
Here is our Committee Report for Mowing in 2012.
Cortney
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Public Works and Services met on Jan 16, 2012 to discuss Mowing Bids. The committee makes the following recommendation: accept 4 Seasons bid of $43,338 for 2012, a savings of approx $5000 vs 2011.
Cortney Scheeser
Denise McCarthy
Jeff Andrews
(text may be modified as necessary to meet formatting/style standards)
Cortney
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Public Works and Services met on Jan 16, 2012 to discuss Mowing Bids. The committee makes the following recommendation: accept 4 Seasons bid of $43,338 for 2012, a savings of approx $5000 vs 2011.
Cortney Scheeser
Denise McCarthy
Jeff Andrews
(text may be modified as necessary to meet formatting/style standards)
Public Works Minutes 1/16/2012
Meeting came to order 7PM on Monday Jan 16. Attending were Jeff Andrews, Denise McCarthy, John Schirpenberg, and representatives from bidding companies.
Cortney asked for a recap of the bids. John called them very good bids, all close. 6 returned, one new comer. 4 Seasons is new and lowest at $43K. all 6 are capable and have met requirements.
$49,500 in 2010, 0% increase in 2011. 2011 same. Eventually $48100K w lower acreage in 2011 (Dale Park elimination).
John's recap of Grasscorp: ups and downs as to be expected. Bagging concerns (Wooster Island) in 2011. Used sometimes, other times did not. Bagged for safety more than aesthetics. Very good working w Village, Bills on time. Extra work performed outside contract. They have done "nice job for us".
Jeff asked about accumulated incidents that would prohibit them from doing the job in 2012. None. Cortney asked if Leasing guys vs traditional employees an issue. Non issue.
Jeff asked about the companies without $ values. John said bids not returned. Cortney asked if the bidders present wanted to speak.
Four Seasons - 3 yrs in business, parent business since 1940. Maintenance, hardscape, pesticide, fertilizer, treework. Have heavy construction equipment. Parent company doing Mariemont Schools work now. 25-30 employees seasonally. American equip. Employees ok to work in the US. Bid job aggressively. Same crew each week. HQ on Fields Ertel near 71. Mariemont not biggest job, but would be only municipality. Lots of HOA/POA work.
Swisher - not the lowest bid, however only based out of Mariemont, paying Corp tax here. Mariemont should support local businesses. Comparable quality work vs other vendors.
Lawnscapers - not the lowest, we will follow the contract. Misses in 2011: stick edging not done, bagging not done. Owner lives in Mariemont, hire local college kids. Low bid makes sense to look there first. 18 employees peak season.
Blue Sky - multiple bids. All very capable, experienced. Not lowest bidder. Any extra money has disappeared - concerned about $ vs service. No fat left. Not much room to lower further.
Cortney said a lot like 2010. Successful incumbent, faced with newer to business Vendor. I supported lowest and best. Similar today. Some issues with Grass Corp. Some exceed, some misses. Lowest and Best on the page is 4 Seasons.
Denise similar place, supports, Cortney's leaning. Financial environment requires it.
Jeff asked about 2010 difference: $4K-$5K lowest vs 2nd. Same timing as Deficit roadmap, employee austerity There is value in continuity. Local vendor is preferred. What is cutoff? Asked John - is there more work for a new vendor.
John - 1 sq mile, not a huge concern of helping their learning curve.
Cortney said Alex at Grasscorp made admirable effort. Some nagging misses, "wasn't perfect". No overt loyalty for a good job vs a "wow" job. If Alex low bidder I would support continuing with Grasscorp. 10% revenue goes away before the contract ends due to state Cuts. Savings wherever I can find it. $2000 savings is a good steward of our finances.
Cortney asked about oversight. Is there a need for the Committee to meet quarterly for instance throughout the year? Village resident input, John quick learning curve? Stay closer to this? Should we take a more hands on role?
Jeff asked about learning curve. John said not a lot of time w Grasscorp. Hours, not days.
Cortney asked if we had alignment? Jeff has concerns but financial situation is significant. However, so is local levels of service.
Cortney asked about getting out if poor service? John said Bid Bonds aren't kept, they're returned. Never has been an issue. 4 Seasons offered 30 day cancellation because they are confident in their work.
Denise asked why we don't keep the bonds. John said wasn't worth Council's trouble - setup escrow required. Don't do with Garbage either.
Jeff asked 4 seasons which is most difficult part. High level of service is unique. No unlike Condo Association. Offer all customers 30 day cancellation clause. Issues will arise, oppty is how to deal with it.
Cortney said 3 areas to watch out for: island bagging, stick edging, fall leaf. Challenge 4 seasons to have watchful eye. 4Seasons: drive back is long so want to do job right 1st time. callbacks are inefficient.
Jeff asked if timing, equip similar for residents? John said yes
4 seasons: uniforms, new john deere equip.
Committtee agreed lowest and best is 4 seasons.
Ongoing oversight. Cortney would like ongoing touchpoint. Jeff suggested no meeting needed, ongoing communication, quarterly, 1/monthly during season. Cortney said he likes John's ongoing log of issues and asked if John would share. John agreed. Denise suggested monthly. John agreed. Cortney said overcommunicating is good, both ways.. Meetings unnecessary, monthly emails would be ideal.
Denise asked if foreman - 4seasons said yes.
Meeting adjourned 7:40PM
Cortney Scheeser
Cortney
Cortney asked for a recap of the bids. John called them very good bids, all close. 6 returned, one new comer. 4 Seasons is new and lowest at $43K. all 6 are capable and have met requirements.
$49,500 in 2010, 0% increase in 2011. 2011 same. Eventually $48100K w lower acreage in 2011 (Dale Park elimination).
John's recap of Grasscorp: ups and downs as to be expected. Bagging concerns (Wooster Island) in 2011. Used sometimes, other times did not. Bagged for safety more than aesthetics. Very good working w Village, Bills on time. Extra work performed outside contract. They have done "nice job for us".
Jeff asked about accumulated incidents that would prohibit them from doing the job in 2012. None. Cortney asked if Leasing guys vs traditional employees an issue. Non issue.
Jeff asked about the companies without $ values. John said bids not returned. Cortney asked if the bidders present wanted to speak.
Four Seasons - 3 yrs in business, parent business since 1940. Maintenance, hardscape, pesticide, fertilizer, treework. Have heavy construction equipment. Parent company doing Mariemont Schools work now. 25-30 employees seasonally. American equip. Employees ok to work in the US. Bid job aggressively. Same crew each week. HQ on Fields Ertel near 71. Mariemont not biggest job, but would be only municipality. Lots of HOA/POA work.
Swisher - not the lowest bid, however only based out of Mariemont, paying Corp tax here. Mariemont should support local businesses. Comparable quality work vs other vendors.
Lawnscapers - not the lowest, we will follow the contract. Misses in 2011: stick edging not done, bagging not done. Owner lives in Mariemont, hire local college kids. Low bid makes sense to look there first. 18 employees peak season.
Blue Sky - multiple bids. All very capable, experienced. Not lowest bidder. Any extra money has disappeared - concerned about $ vs service. No fat left. Not much room to lower further.
Cortney said a lot like 2010. Successful incumbent, faced with newer to business Vendor. I supported lowest and best. Similar today. Some issues with Grass Corp. Some exceed, some misses. Lowest and Best on the page is 4 Seasons.
Denise similar place, supports, Cortney's leaning. Financial environment requires it.
Jeff asked about 2010 difference: $4K-$5K lowest vs 2nd. Same timing as Deficit roadmap, employee austerity There is value in continuity. Local vendor is preferred. What is cutoff? Asked John - is there more work for a new vendor.
John - 1 sq mile, not a huge concern of helping their learning curve.
Cortney said Alex at Grasscorp made admirable effort. Some nagging misses, "wasn't perfect". No overt loyalty for a good job vs a "wow" job. If Alex low bidder I would support continuing with Grasscorp. 10% revenue goes away before the contract ends due to state Cuts. Savings wherever I can find it. $2000 savings is a good steward of our finances.
Cortney asked about oversight. Is there a need for the Committee to meet quarterly for instance throughout the year? Village resident input, John quick learning curve? Stay closer to this? Should we take a more hands on role?
Jeff asked about learning curve. John said not a lot of time w Grasscorp. Hours, not days.
Cortney asked if we had alignment? Jeff has concerns but financial situation is significant. However, so is local levels of service.
Cortney asked about getting out if poor service? John said Bid Bonds aren't kept, they're returned. Never has been an issue. 4 Seasons offered 30 day cancellation because they are confident in their work.
Denise asked why we don't keep the bonds. John said wasn't worth Council's trouble - setup escrow required. Don't do with Garbage either.
Jeff asked 4 seasons which is most difficult part. High level of service is unique. No unlike Condo Association. Offer all customers 30 day cancellation clause. Issues will arise, oppty is how to deal with it.
Cortney said 3 areas to watch out for: island bagging, stick edging, fall leaf. Challenge 4 seasons to have watchful eye. 4Seasons: drive back is long so want to do job right 1st time. callbacks are inefficient.
Jeff asked if timing, equip similar for residents? John said yes
4 seasons: uniforms, new john deere equip.
Committtee agreed lowest and best is 4 seasons.
Ongoing oversight. Cortney would like ongoing touchpoint. Jeff suggested no meeting needed, ongoing communication, quarterly, 1/monthly during season. Cortney said he likes John's ongoing log of issues and asked if John would share. John agreed. Denise suggested monthly. John agreed. Cortney said overcommunicating is good, both ways.. Meetings unnecessary, monthly emails would be ideal.
Denise asked if foreman - 4seasons said yes.
Meeting adjourned 7:40PM
Cortney Scheeser
Cortney
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Council 12/27
I attended Council on 12/27, and here's what I saw.
Pool Board expansion. I think changing this setup does not benefit the Village. The Board themselves told the Mayor in Nov/Dec that they thought 7 was right. We have a good number @7, and there is no data, no rationale for this change. I support diversity, for sure, and I challenge the Mayor to manage that with his appointments.
Scott McIntosh being left off the Board. Scott did a nice job in his short tenure, and I think he should be allowed to continue. Considering all his work on the Board this year, this action feels partisan. As Andy Black shared with me last year, volunteers are hard to come by and you take them when you can get them. Let's keep Scott.
Jeff Andrews action to override the decision. I support leaving the Board at 7, and I support Scott M. So it's a no brainer that I would try to preserve both. And with a 5-0 vote, it's not a minority position. Well done, fellow Council members.
Parks Board expansion is also concerning. With the information provided, I don't support a change. I understand the need for more sleeves-rolled-up-work vs Pool Board, but there is nothing wrong with deputizing volunteers as needed. There are many would-be volunteers that are unaware of opptys to serve. To that end, why don't we drive awareness when boards have vacancies, when volunteers are needed. It's unfair to the handful of folks who volunteer for nearly everything. Let's open this up to all!
South 80 Trail. I don't support implementation before Council & Public review (Denise brought up this point and I share some of these concerns), but a staked layout is appropriate as a next step. I look fwd to this pre-step.
Jeff Travers resignation. I'm a fan of Jeff and I'm sorry to see him go, but I understand the difficulty of 2 full time jobs simultaneously. Good luck Jeff. Related, I've been a fan of Tim Feichtner for a while. I know he'll do a good job. Of interest - we only have 1 full time firefighter (+ Rick the Chief) on the fire side. It's an interesting model and worth trying. The savings are nice if it works.
I voted in the affirmative on everything as all votes were procedural except for the spending ordinance. This is common late in the year and it seemed reasonable. Also of note was the mowing ordinance, which again is reasonable and only lets us advertise for bids.
Cortney
ICRCTV.COM
Pool Board expansion. I think changing this setup does not benefit the Village. The Board themselves told the Mayor in Nov/Dec that they thought 7 was right. We have a good number @7, and there is no data, no rationale for this change. I support diversity, for sure, and I challenge the Mayor to manage that with his appointments.
Scott McIntosh being left off the Board. Scott did a nice job in his short tenure, and I think he should be allowed to continue. Considering all his work on the Board this year, this action feels partisan. As Andy Black shared with me last year, volunteers are hard to come by and you take them when you can get them. Let's keep Scott.
Jeff Andrews action to override the decision. I support leaving the Board at 7, and I support Scott M. So it's a no brainer that I would try to preserve both. And with a 5-0 vote, it's not a minority position. Well done, fellow Council members.
Parks Board expansion is also concerning. With the information provided, I don't support a change. I understand the need for more sleeves-rolled-up-work vs Pool Board, but there is nothing wrong with deputizing volunteers as needed. There are many would-be volunteers that are unaware of opptys to serve. To that end, why don't we drive awareness when boards have vacancies, when volunteers are needed. It's unfair to the handful of folks who volunteer for nearly everything. Let's open this up to all!
South 80 Trail. I don't support implementation before Council & Public review (Denise brought up this point and I share some of these concerns), but a staked layout is appropriate as a next step. I look fwd to this pre-step.
Jeff Travers resignation. I'm a fan of Jeff and I'm sorry to see him go, but I understand the difficulty of 2 full time jobs simultaneously. Good luck Jeff. Related, I've been a fan of Tim Feichtner for a while. I know he'll do a good job. Of interest - we only have 1 full time firefighter (+ Rick the Chief) on the fire side. It's an interesting model and worth trying. The savings are nice if it works.
I voted in the affirmative on everything as all votes were procedural except for the spending ordinance. This is common late in the year and it seemed reasonable. Also of note was the mowing ordinance, which again is reasonable and only lets us advertise for bids.
Cortney
ICRCTV.COM
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