CC Minutes - 08/05/98 Work Session

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Addressing a question from Mr. Farr, Mr. Johnson said the balance in the Measure 47/50 Reserve Fund is about a $500,000. Mr. Farr moved, seconded by Mr. Tollenaar, to approve the Volunteer Resource Link program proposal totaling $89,000 as described in Attachment A. The motion passed unanimously, 7:0. Mr. Farr moved, seconded by Mr. Laue, to approve Option B-2, $62,941 and 1.0 FTE for Targeted Outreach and Preventive Services for Youth. Mr. Tollenaar expressed concern with duplication of services and asked how this program compared to those offered by Looking Glass. Ms. Phelps said the City worked closely with the agency and added the program as a complement to its offerings. Ms. Taylor moved, seconded by Mr. Lee, to amend the motion by adding Option B-3, $29,778 and .5 FTE, to create an "Arts Magnet Center" at Amazon. Mr. Farr opposed the amendment because it targeted a narrow group and did not address the needs of the entire community. Ms. Nathanson wondered if there were a way that the concept could be beneficial citywide. She explained that the City seemed to emphasize sports and athletics and some youth were interested in other things. She said she hoped there were a way to address Mr. Farr's concern about this program. Ms. Phelps noted that the Arts Magnet Center at Amazon would serve kids from across the community, with transportation in the planning stages to move kids in from the entire community. Mr. Johnson asked the council to keep in mind the six-year financial forecast as it considers add- backs, adding that the out years of the forecast do not look favorable. Mr. Tollenaar agreed and said for that reason he must oppose the amendment as irresponsible. Mr. Farr ascertained that the City would be spending money on that program with or without the amendment. Mr. Johnson said the City was currently working with Maude Kerns and other nonprofits to run arts-related programs at Amazon Center, primarily because the center was originally designed as an arts center. Ms. Taylor said she continued to hope that the council will find another tax revenue source to support services. Mayor Torrey reminded the council that services were open to all youth, not just at-risk youth. He cautioned the council about moving too quickly and said he favored having the issue come back when other than one-time funding has been identified, and with the understanding that it would compete with other demands on the general budget during the regular budget process. MINUTES--Eugene City Council August 5, 1998 Page 4 11:30 a.m.