11/16/1977 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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. problems seem to be created by in-migration and hard-core unemployed. He did not know whether the city was taking care of the hard-core unemployed through CETA funds. He wondered, in talking in Utopian terms, if popula- tion were limited whether or not that would solve the unemployment prob- lem. Mr. Whitelaw stated restricting population had not been done. He said the unemployment rate among those covered by FICA is 4.2 percent locally; however, the total unemployment rate is 9.3 percent. This means among the self-employed and those not covered, there is a larger percen- tage unemployment rate. If net in-migration. were reduced, the Council would be looking at a 4.25 percent unemployment rate, which is a pretty steady rate. The other individuals which make up the bulk of unemployment are not obtaining these covered jobs. He said it would be unlikely that limiting in-migration would affect the changes of unemployment and increased earnings. He said if one looks at the supply side of the labor force among the chronically unemployed, there would be more effect on the overall unemployment rate. Mr. Delay wondered if the argument favoring limiting in-migration would allow those chronically under-employed to compete for available jobs. Mr. Whitelaw replied that was right, and a good point. He said, however, there were other complications, noting the effect of increasing particular rates, among women for example, would increase the unemployment rate that corresponds to full employment. He said as more of those kinds of per- sons were brought in, it is likely a larger unemployment rate would occur. In other words, a city could have general standards improved even in face of increasing unemployment. e In pursuant discussion regarding Council taking action, it was decided Council would delay action until Wednesday, November 23, to allow fur- ther discussion and in-depth review at the Friday, November 18 meeting. I I!. Counter-cyclical Funds Transfer Manager said these were federal monies which the City had been receiving, with federal regulations and specific limitations on how the money could be spent changing almost weekly. He said staff expected to have a more comprehensive discussion on all countercyclical funds in a few weeks, noting the total might be $700,000. However, the two proposals being presented have high priority and acting on them now would be cost-effective. A. Rehabilitation of Ventilation and Heating System--Memo distributed. Manager referred to memo which outlined for Council the various buildings to be affected. He said the recommendation had come as a result of a study with recommendations for improving efficiency and reducing energy costs. He noted the savings in energy costs would eventually pay for these improvements. He said Council action would not be to pass a resolution, but rather to authorize preparation of an ordinance to transfer the funds. Mr. Haws moved, seconded by Mr. Hamel to authorize the City Man- ager to prepare ordinance to transfer funds. Motion carried unanimously. e 11/16/77--5 KLf~