HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-2009 Annual ReportCITY OF LIVONIA
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FISCAL YEAR
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OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
JACK E. KIRKSEV l 33000 CIVIC CENTER DRIVE
LIVONIA, MICHIGAN 4815Y3W7
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December 23, 2009
Honorable Members of the City Council
City of Livonia, MI 48154
Dear Council Members:
The Annual Report for fiscal year 2008-2009 reflects activities of the Livonia City
Departments, Commission and Boards. The following is a sampling of the
information contained in various reports and some personal observations.
Department of Community Resources and Cable Commission
In 2009, City Channel 8 became "Livonia Television' when municipal
programming began cable casting on AT&T's L-Veme (Channel 99), in addition
to Bright House Network (Channel 8). Livonia Television staff produced 220
programs, alert bulletins were upgraded, and Livonia radio station WPZY, 1670
AM, was maintained. They also produced and updated monthly streaming
media on the City Website including all Council meetings.
W District Court
The Court, in conjunction with the Livonia Police Department, has implemented
electronic fling of traffic citations (E -Tickets) via the use of an internet-based
system. The process has reduced the amount of data entry previously required
by Court personnel, freeing them to do other job duties. This system also allows
for online internet payment of tickets issued through the E -Ticket process.
Fire and Rescue
In the spring of 2009, the Fire Training Center was initialed, consisting of two
different bum structures and two storage pods. Fire personnel trained
extensively in the chambers during the spring and fall. Their "Quick Drill"
program has provided their station officers with training information that can be
used easily. The program grew from their first year (2006) of 12 drills to an
additional 20 drills in 2007, 25 additional in 2008, and an additional 20 in 2009.
Housing
Neighborhood Stabilization funding was inilially awarded in the amount of
$591,250 on March 17, 2009. After this is exhausted, an additional $858,750 will
be requested. As of July 1, 2009, eight (8) HUD $1 homes and one (1) tax -
foreclosed home were purchased. Three of these homes will be demolished due
to blight, and the other will be rehabilitated and sold to new homeowners.
Further homes of this type will be purchased in the coming year.
Summary
We are in the midst of historically challenging economic times, with high
unemployment and declining revenues in many sectors of government, including
the City. With this backdrop, our City leadership staff has taken tremendous
strides to reduce spending and staff in a number of innovative ways, while
working hard to maintain the high level of services expected by our residents.
In the 2008-09 year, the City of Livonia has significantly changed the way we do
business.
We hosted a Town Hall meeting with our community to request the input of our
residents. We also took numerous suggestions through phone calls, letters and
e-mails. With that input, and after many meetings with the Council, Administration
and staff, we made significant reductions in overtime spending; not filling director
and other staff positions; eliminating and postponing capital expenditures; and
reducing spending on travel and copying costs.
While the pace of changes was certainly increased this past year, the City has
been working to reduce the size of its workforce since the 2000-01 budget year.
In total, we have almost 100 fewer employees now, through attrition and a
targeted hiring freeze. In order to continue providing a high level of services, the
smaller -sized City staff has shown a strong level of commitment, with fewer
hands pulling harder on the oars.
The City's economic future may indeed gel worse before it improves. We will
continue to need the collaboration of the Council and inspiration of our dedicated
staff to ensure the service to our community remains at a level of which our
residents can remain proud.
Sincerely,
Jack E. Kirksey
MAYOR
CITY OF L I V O N I A, MICHIGAN
ANNUAL REPORT
Fiscal Year 2008-2009
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page No.
Assessing Department......................................................................1
Review, Board of
2
CityClerk........................................................................................2
Civil Service Department
7
Trustees, Board of...............................................................
15
Community Resources Department and Cable
19
Aging Commission................................................................
24
Arts Commission..................................................................
25
Historical Preservation Commission
27
Historical Commission..............................................................29
Human Relations Commission
30
Youth Commission...............................................................
31
DistrictCourt .................................................................................
32
Finance Department
38
Information Systems.......................................................
41
Fire Department
46
Housing Commission......................................................................
54
Inspection Department....................................................................
57
Building Code Board of Appeals
59
Law Department
60
Library Department & Commission ..................................................
63
Parks and Recreation Department & Commission
68
Planning Department & Commission ................................................
81
Police Department and Emergency Preparedness .........................89
Public Works Department...............................................................
96
Engineering Division..............................................................
96
Public Service Division
100
Traffic Commission.......................................................................119
Treasurer....................................................................................121
Zoning Board of Appeals..............................................................126
The 2009 State Equalized Valuation of the City real and personal properly was
$5,235,749,690 which relates to the following statistics:
CLASS
PARCEL COUNT
VALUATION
Residential
38,244
3,154,097,800
Commercial
1,361
877,817,130
Industrial
863
564,836,380
Personal
4,437
638998380
$ 5,235,749,690
In addition, valuation under the Industrial Facilities Act 198 provided total
valuation of $110,522,650 as follows:
IFT Real 30,560,170
IFT Personal 79,962.48
$110,522,650
All property appeared on the assessment roll at 50.00% of true cash value as
mandated by State Law. Annual sales studies are conducted in order to
determine market growth by neighborhood. The results of these studies are
utilized to adjust area values to the required 50% of true cash value.
The appraisal and maintenance of all residential field data is the responsibility of
this department. Records for 11 new homes were created and revisions to
approximately 605 existing property field sheets were made. Commercial and
Industrial new buildings, alterations and additions numbered 115 and were
reviewed for value for the 2009 assessment roll.
The citywide canvass continues this year with the entering of the data gathered
in prior years and the continuation of the field review of property record cards.
This is an ongoing project with the goal of bringing the assessing office in closer
compliance with the requirements of the Stale Tax Commission with regard to
assessing procedures.
Homesteads, Transfers, Rescissions and Uncapping Affidavits are being
interpreted and processed on a daily basis. In 2009 this generated
approximately 2,933 forms.
Lots splits and combinations are processed by this department. This office
reviews petitioner's applications and departmental correspondence for
compliance to city ordinances and procedures. If a split is nonconforming,
Council action will be required. Approximately 19 splits and combinations were
completed in 2009. Of these, 3 required Council action.
Prior years' Michigan Tax Tribunal appeals were finalized, 42 full tribunals and 13
small daims, for the years 2000 — 2009.
Over 4,700 personal property statements were processed for the 2009
assessment roll. A continual inspection of properties in the city is being done to
verify the fixed assets in the business as of tax day of each year. Tax
Management Associates continues to audit random businesses within the City.
To date, 43 audits have been completed.
The December Board of Review meeting was held on Tuesday, December 9,
2008 in accordance with Section 211.53b of the General Property Tax Law of
Michigan to correct all mutual mistakes of fact and clerical errors.
The Livonia City Council, on January 28, 2009 (CR#33-09), set the place and
dates for the 2009 March Board of Review meetings as scheduled by the
Assessor, and notice was given and published in the local newspapers.
The Board of Review meetings convened Tuesday, March 3, 2009 for an eleven
(11) day session of public hearings, which included an evening session.
Members Conrad Gniewek, Jollietta Coleman and Linda Trewin were in
attendance. The Board heard 775 taxpayer appeals and acted on 249 mail -in
petitions. Determination notices were mailed on April 3, 2009.
The regular session of the 1985 83rd State of Michigan Legislature has amended
Section 53b of Public Act 206 to include a July Board of Review meeting to
correct clerical errors and mutual mistakes of fact. This meeting was held on
Tuesday, July 22, 2009.
CIN CLERK
This office is administered by the City Clerk, elected for a four-year term at an
odd year election conducted by the City of Livonia.
The powers and duties of the City Clerk are set forth in the City Charter and
statutes of the State of Michigan. The Clerk is assisted by an Assistant City
Clerk and a staff of seven who are trained specialists in delivering a variety of
services to the citizens of Livonia and the several departments of the City
administration, i.e.:
(a) 'The Clerk shall be clerk of the Council and shall attend all
meetings of the Council and keep a permanent record of its
meetings .. "
This responsibility involves receiving all correspondence and
communications fled with the Clerk for transmission to the Council;
preparing official agendas for both Council Regular and Study
Meetings; taking and transcribing complex minutes of all Council
proceedings for the official journal as well as for all Public Hearings
conducted by the Council as required by law; notification and
publication of Notices and Public Hearings and Council
proceedings in the official newspaper as designated by the City
Council; preparation and forwarding of true copies of Council
actions to the parties affected; maintaining the official record of all
Ordinances enacted by legislative actions.
City Council 2008 2009
Study Meetings 24 24
Regular Meetings 24 24
Special Meetings 0 2
Council Resolutions Recorded 506 436
Ordinances Adopted 20 35
Public Hearings Conducted 26 18
(b) 'The Clerk shall perform such other duties as are required of that
office by State or Federal law, the City Charter, the Council or
Ordinances of the City."
Required by State Statute to record and file a record of all deaths and births
occurring within the City for subsequent transmittal to the Stale and County
Department of Health and make available for certification copies of such records,
as can be legally released.
FEES COLLECTED $136,000.00 $125,000.00
(c) 'The City Clerk shall issue and sign all licenses granted and shall
register same.
2008
2009
Births Recorded
1,370
900
Deaths Recorded
1,550
1300
FEES COLLECTED $136,000.00 $125,000.00
(c) 'The City Clerk shall issue and sign all licenses granted and shall
register same.
LICENSING
During 2008 new software was implemented for processing of business, garage
sale, bicycle and pet licenses.
During the fiscal year this office of the City Clerk accepted and processed, etc.,
under Title 4 of the Livonia Code of Ordinances the following licenses:
TYPE
2008 2009
Gas Stations, Dry Cleaners, Amusement
Places, Taxi, Trailer Rental, Solicitors,
Vending Machines, Restaurants, Caterers,
etc.
1,400 1,298
FEES COLLECTED
$56,600.00 $54,050.00
Garage, Basement, Rummage Sales
3,900 3,466
FEES COLLECTED
$19,500.00 $17,330.00
Pel Licenses
3,119 3,077
FEES COLLECTED
$24,95200 $24,616.00
Bicycle Licenses
24 46
FEES COLLECTED
$72.00 $138.00
(d) "The City Clerk shall receive for filing: zoning petitions,
subdivision plats, security bonds, etc., comprehensive files
covering all phases of development of new subdivisions from
the Public Hearings of the
City Planning Commission in
proposed plats, to the filing
of all bonds and payment of
financial assurances established
in the City Council's Master
Bond Resolutions to the final signatures of the City Clerk
after the final plat approval is
given by the Council"
NUMBER AND TYPE OF PETITIONS FILED
2008 2009
Zoning
8 1
Vacating
1 0
Miscellaneous (Waivers)
30 16
New Plats Authorized (Preliminary)
0 0
Final Plats
0 0
Extensions
0 0
4
(e) Publication and Legal Notices
The City Clerk is responsible for the publication of the City
Council's proceedings in the official newspaper of the City and the
insertion of Public Notices required by law of Public Hearings and
all Ordinances duly adopted.
In addition, Ordinances are printed, collated and distributed to all
departments and interested parties. A complete file in excess of
2,806 separate Ordinances is maintained, and the Livonia Code of
Ordinances is continually updated, as amended, and on file in the
City Clerk's office.
(f) Duplicating and Mailing Figures
The City Clerk's office produces copies of the following materials
for meetings of the City Council.
'Tables indicate number of sets required per year for distribution for
each activity; number of pages varies by event and is not included
in total. (Agenda totals include copies for the public.)
All City Departments' outgoing mail is handled through mailing
equipment in the City Clerk's office and the required postage in
2009 totaled $135,826.00. All incoming mail is handled daily by the
Clerk's office and is distributed to the various departments of the
City.
(g) Election Commission of Livonia (Authority - State Statute)
The City Clerk presides as Chairperson of the three-member
Election Commission consisting of the Clerk, Mayor and City
Attorney, charged with the responsibility of conducting all elections
within the City. The compensation of election personnel shall be
2008•
2009•
Council Regular Agendas
4,800
1,983
Council Study Agendas
5,040
1,923
Special Regular Agendas
0
198
Special Regular Minutes
0
66
Council Regular Minutes
1,608
1,581
Council Study Minutes
528
504
Attorney Notes for Council Regular Meetings
960
912
Synopsis of Regular Council Minutes
1,944
684
Council Public Hearing Notices
0
0
Public Hearing Minutes
576
552
'Tables indicate number of sets required per year for distribution for
each activity; number of pages varies by event and is not included
in total. (Agenda totals include copies for the public.)
All City Departments' outgoing mail is handled through mailing
equipment in the City Clerk's office and the required postage in
2009 totaled $135,826.00. All incoming mail is handled daily by the
Clerk's office and is distributed to the various departments of the
City.
(g) Election Commission of Livonia (Authority - State Statute)
The City Clerk presides as Chairperson of the three-member
Election Commission consisting of the Clerk, Mayor and City
Attorney, charged with the responsibility of conducting all elections
within the City. The compensation of election personnel shall be
determined in advance by the Election Commission. In any case
where Election procedure is in doubt, the Election Commission
shall prescribe the procedure to be followed.
STATISTICS RELATING TO THIS FUNCTION
2008 2009
Elections Held in City 1 Presidential Primary 1 Regular School
1 Primary 1 City Primary
1 General 1 City Regular
1 School
2008 2009
New Registrations 7,419 6,922
Total Registered Voters 75,083 73,522
Change of Name 563 495
Change of Address 2,015 2,224
Cancellations 4,825 4,090
Registrations by Mail 1,153 327
Number of Absentee Ballots Issued 29,961 9,698
AV Applications Issued 29,961 9,698
Notices of Election Inspectors 1,735 795
Notice of Cancellation of Registration 102 231
Sale of Voter Registrations Lists $2,851.05 $1,577.73
(h) Other Duties and Responsibilities oflhe Clerk
The Clerk shall have power to administer all oaths required by
State Law, the Charter and Ordinances of the City.
The Clerk shall be custodian of the City Seal and shall affix it to all
documents and instruments requiring the Seal, and shall attest the
same.
The Clerk shall be custodian of all papers, documents and records
pertaining to the City of Livonia, the custody of which is not
otherwise provided for by the Charter.
As custodian of records, the office of the City Clerk, in 1985
instituted a program of microfilming the birth and death records of
the City. In 2007 all birth and death records were scanned to
create CD-ROM's.
The Clerk shall give the proper officials of the City ample notices of
expiration or termination of any official bonds, franchises, contracts
or agreements.
The Clerk shall examine and audit all accounts and claims against
the City.
In 2009 the Clerk examined, pre -audited and signed approximately
16,511 vouchers issued by the Department of Finance for
transmittal to the City Treasurer.
The Clerk shall possess and exercise the powers of a Township
Clerk so far as the same are required to be performed within the
City.
The Clerk shall certify by signatue all Ordinances and Resolutions
enacted or passed by the City Council.
The Clerk, as custodian of the cemeteries under City jurisdiction, is
in charge of all burial procedures and in 2009 there were zero
authorized openings and closings at the cemeteries.
The Civil Service Commission held twelve (12) Regular meetings and two (2)
Special meetings during fiscal year 2008-09.
LABOR RELATIONS
During fiscal year 2008-09, the City of Livonia completed negotiations with the
Livonia Fire Fighters Union (LFFU) for renewal of their contract for the period
December 1, 2008 to November 30, 2012; and the Livonia Lieutenants and
Sergeants Association (LLSA) for renewal of their contract for the period
December 1, 2006 through November 30, 2012.
Labor -Management Committee meetings have been held to resolve employee
grievances or concerns filed by members of the AFSCME Union Local 192, the
Livonia Police Officers Association, the Livonia Police Lieutenants and Sergeants
Association and the Livonia Fire Fighters Union. These Committees consist of
representatives of the Union and the City. In the event the employee grievance
cannot be resolved through committee, the procedure permits appeal to the Civil
Service Commission and, if not resolved, through mediation and/or formal
arbitration.
The Personnel Review Committee comprised of the Human Resources Director,
the Director of Finance, and the Director of Administrative Services mel sixteen
(16) limes during the current fiscal year and reviewed and made forty-two (42)
recommendations to the Mayor on all new hires, replacement personnel and
promotions.
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PROGRAMS
HOSPITALIZATION -MEDICAL INSURANCE PLANS
All general employees who participate in the City's health care plan are required
to pay a portion of their premium costs at $30.00 for single coverage, $35.00 for
two -person coverage and $40.00 for family coverage per month.
Effective March 1, 2009, the monthly premiums for Blue Choice Point of Service
(POS) health insurance coverage are greater than the premiums for Blue
Cross/Community Blue 2. According to language in the union contracts, all
general employees are required to pay the portion of the cost of their plan that is
higher than the cost of the Blue Cross/Community Blue PPO Plan. Therefore,
effective May 1, 2009, all AFSCME, District Court and elected, appointed and
unrepresented employees with Point of Service hospitalization coverage are
required to pay the difference between the rates on a monthly basis.
The annual Health and Wellness Fair was held on three (3) separate afternoons
during February 2009 at various City locations, including the Police Headquarters
Training Room, the Department of Public Works Administrative Conference
Room and the City Hall Fifth Floor Gallery. Employees and retirees, along with
their immediate family members, were encouraged to attend. Representatives of
the City's occupational health services providers were present to answer
questions. In addition, representatives from the Blue Cross/Blue Shield (BCBS)
hospitalization/medical insurance plans, sponsored by the City, were present to
permit employees to review and compare plan descriptions and obtain
assistance with health care questions or problems. The meetings were well
attended with more than one hundred seven (107) employees and family
members.
Effective April 1, 2006, BC/BS became the City's only hospitalization benefit
provider, offering the BC/BS Blue Preferred Plan (PPO) and Point of Service
plans. The BC/BS PPO was replaced by the Community Blue 2 (PPO) for LPOA
members effective October 1, 2006; general employees (excluding District Court)
effective December 1, 2006; LFFU employees effective May 1, 2008; and LLSA
and Police Command employees effective June 2009.
At the end of the fiscal year, the employee and retiree hospitalization/medical
insurance enrollments are:
BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD
17
Employee
subscribers
(BC/BS) Preferred Plan
429
Refiree
subscribers
325
Retirees on Medicare
0
COBRA
BC/BS
345
Employee subscribers
Blue Choice Point of Service
135
Retiree
subscribers
57
Retirees on Medicare
0
COBRA
BC/BS
195
Employee subscribers
COMMUNITY BLUE 2
20
Retiree
subscribers
6
Retirees on Medicare
0
COBRA
A total of fifty-four (54) full -lime employees "opted out' of insurance coverage
during the February 2009 open enrollment period and received $1,000.00 in lieu
of hospitalization/medical coverage.
LIFE INSURANCE & ACCIDENTAL DEATH & DISMEMBERMENT PLAN
The City of Livonia currently contracts for group life insurance with the Mutual of
Omaha Insurance Company at the rale of $.245 per $1,000 per month volume.
Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) group insurance coverage is also
provided by Mutual of Omaha at a rale of $.02 per $1,000 volume per month.
Currently, a total of six hundred fifty-six (656) employees have life insurance
coverage in the aggregate amount of $37,930,672.00. In addition, twenty-six
(26) refirees have a $3,000 death benefit coverage totaling $78,000; one
hundred thirty-seven (137) retirees have a $3,500 death benefit coverage totaling
$479,500 and one hundred fifty-seven (157) retirees have a $5,000 death benefit
totaling $785,000 for a total retiree group of three hundred twenty (320) having
aggregate life insurance in the amount of $1,342,500. During the fiscal year, a
total of $110,864.82 life insurance premium and a total of $8,724.40 AD&D
premium were paid to Mutual of Omaha. There were five (5) death claims fled
during this fiscal year (1 employee and 4 retirees) totaling $81,500.
WEEKLY DISABILITY INCOME PLAN
The City of Livonia is self-insured for the weekly disability income coverage.
Effective December 1, 2006 through November 30, 2009, the disability claims are
administered by the Accident Fund Insurance Company of America for a monthly
charge of $1.00 per eligible employee. This benefit provides $250/wk to disabled
general full-time employees, and $125/Wk to disabled part-time employees for up
to 45 weeks; $125/wk for disabled Police Dispatcher full-time employees for 45
weeks; and $42/wk for the first 12 weeks and $100/wk for the 40 week balance of
52 weeks for disabled police and fire employees. The total premium paid to
Accident Fund was $7,782.00 for this fiscal year.
During the Fiscal Year 2008-09, there were a total of twenty-six (26) weekly
disability income claims for employees. A total dollar volume of $21,279.93 was
paid by this self-insured program.
The Civil Service Department staff administers the general employee union
tuition reimbursement programs. Nine (9) members of AFSCME Union Local
192 expended $2,696.25 out of the maximum allocation of $10,000.00 during the
fiscal year. One (1) member of the AFSCME Supervisory and Technical Chapter
of Union Local 1917 expended $515 out of the maximum allocation of $3,475
during the fiscal year.
OPTICAL PLAN
The City offers an optical benefit program with two providers: Suburban Eye Care
(a private Livonia optometric practice), and retail provider, Co-op Optical who has
multiple area locations. Employee usage and costs incurred during the fiscal
year at these centers or through the reimbursement option were as follows:
Safety Glasses
9
$ 686.00
Direct Reimbursement
42
4,059.75
Co -Op Optical
71
5,682.00
Suburban Eye Care
126
10,475.00
Total
248
$20,902.75
All employees have a dental reimbursement or direct payment program to the
Dentist as the expenses are incurred. Billings for services rendered during the
fiscal year must be submitted within 30 days of the November 30th fiscal year end
for consideration. A summary of the employee reimbursements and hardship
advances during the fiscal year to dale are:
10
Number of
Total
Average
Transactions
Amount Paid
Paymen
Reimbumement/Direct Payment 1297
$362,099.21
$279.18
The dental reimbursement may also include payment for Dental Insurance
premiums.
General employees (including MAPE 1 District Court employees), LFFU, LLSA
and Police Command are eligible for 50% of the fees for orthodontic services for
a lifetime maximum of $1500 per family limited to the employee, their spouse and
dependents until the end of the year they reach age 19. LPOA and MAPE 2
Court employees are eligible for 50% of the fees for a lifetime maximum of $1000
per family.
The summary of the orthodontic service daims received this fiscal year is:
Number of Claims Total Amount Paid
Police/Fire 15 $12,008.25
General 12 $10,586.3
Total 27 $22,594.63
The City of Livonia contracts the self-insured worker's disability compensation
program with the third party administrator, Accident Fund Insurance Company of
America. The contract for these services is effective December 1, 2006 through
November 30, 2009. The net total incurred loss on open claims from December
1, 2008, through November 30, 2009, is $175,764.24, which is down from the
2007-08 loss of $351,543.47. This loss includes weekly wage loss indemnity
benefits, medical services, related legal, vocational rehabilitation and other
miscellaneous expenses for approximately ninety-nine (99) employee claims.
Employees receive treatment for work-related injuries or illnesses at Providence
Corporate Health Services and Midwest Health Center.
The City of Livonia participates in the Michigan Municipal League Unemployment
Compensation Group Account. The firm of TALX UC Express is the service
agent of this group account. The Civil Service Department responded to
approximately forty-two (42) former employee claims for unemployment benefits
filed with the Michigan Employment Security Administration (MESA). Charges
for 2009 are $108,979. Because of benefit challenges to our account a total of
$9,037.76 has resulted in credits over an eleven month period.
11
CIN PHYSICIAN AND MEDICAL CLINICS
Pre-employment, return -to -work and occupational injury/illness medical
examinations and treatment are provided by the authorized City Physician, St.
John Providence Corporate Health Services. Also, Sl. Mary Mercy Hospital has
provided medical services for Police and Fire personnel and emergency services
only for general employees. Our records indicate sixty-four (64) regular and
temporary employee pre-employment (full-time and part-time) examinations and
one hundred twenty-six (126) physicals for return to work. Dr. Lyle Danuloff,
Ph.D., the City's Consulting Psychologist, conducted two (2) MCOLES
examinations for Police at the completion of the Police Academy. Dr. Danuloff
also completed nineteen (19) evaluations for Public Safety new hire positions. In
addition, there were medical consultations with regard to employee health and
occupational safety matters as it related to infectious diseases and worker's
compensation claims, including continuation of pre-employment auditory, TB and
pulmonary function examinations for fire fighter and police officer new hires in
compliance with MIOSHA requirements. Alcohol and drug testing for employees
assigned to drive specific types of Department of Public Works vehicles are
being coordinated in compliance with federal regulations. Dr. Danuloff completed
six Fitness for Duty or Critical Incident evaluations. Providence provided onsite
support in the Fitness Testing Program for the Police Department. Thirty-one
(31) officers were tested and screened prior to the event.
SAFETY
A representative of the Accident Fund Loss Prevention Division, the third party
administrator of the City's self-insured Worker's Compensation Program,
conducted four (4) Bloodborne Pathogens Training Classes for Public Works
staff during the fiscal year.
One hundred nineteen (119) employees received service recognition awards in
FY 2008-09.
12
Service
Awards
Level of Service
Presented
Five Years
3
Ten Years
33
Fifteen Years
28
Twenty Years
31
Twenty -Five Years
6
Thirty Years
10
Thirty -Five Years
5
Forty Years
2
12
Forty -Five Years 0
Total 118
The Civil Service Department has continued an affirmative recruitment program
through newspaper advertisements in the Observer/Eccentric, the Detroit
News/Detroit Free Press, and notices to various colleges, training schools,
MESA, handicapper rehabilitation services, and minority community based
organizations. The total number of advertisements published during Fiscal Year
2008-09 were: the Detroit News — 9; Livonia Observer — 9; Michigan Municipal
League — 1; several professional association publications, the Internet
recruitment service Falcon Associates (Government jobs), the City of Livonia
Spring and Fall News, and Cable Channel 8.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION
In accordance with the Affirmative Action policy adopted by the Civil Service
Commission, the Civil Service staff continued its efforts to make examinations
and position descriptions as job-related as possible. Proposed qualifications for
each new examination were reviewed by the respective Department staff and the
Civil Service Commission in order to establish prerequisites which were
appropriate to the positions being filled. In addition, the Civil Service staff
completed several state and federal equal employment opportunity reports,
surveys from other communities and prepared a monthly summary report to the
Civil Service Commission conceming the race and gender charactenstics of all
applicants for open -competitive examinations, the resulting eligible lists, and all
regular employee hires and terminations.
The Civil Service staff continued to prepare and administer open -competitive and
promotional examinations as requested by City Department Heads. During
Fiscal Year 2008-09, a total of 7 open -competitive and 10 promotional
examinations were announced. The Civil Service Department received 428
applications as of October 14, 2009 for open -competitive examinations and 109
for promotional examinations during the fiscal year. In addition, the Department
received 642 applications for temporary employment opportunities in various
Parks and Recreation positions; 151 applications for Seasonal Laborer; 9
applications for Seasonal Laborer -Engineering; 33 applications for Seasonal
Clerk; 77 applications for Student Page; 172 applications for Library Page; 7
applications for Substitute Libranan; 62 applications for Temporary Clerical; 64
applications for School Crossing Guard; 43 applications for Police Reserve
Officer; and 2 applications for Police Matron.
13
During FY 2008-09, the Civil Service Department sponsored several employee -
training activities.
Between December 2008 and November 2009, Civil Service Staff coordinated
multiple educational presentations sponsored by financial representatives from
the Deferred Compensation 457 Plan providers including Nationwide Retirement
Solutions, ICMA Retirement Corporation and Community Choice Credit Union.
Ninety-five (95) employees scheduled individual appointments with the Deferred
Compensation 457 Plan on-site representatives.
Great West Retirement Services is the Plan Administrator for the 401(a) Defined
Contribution Plan. The Account Representative, Greg Wood, conducted
numerous on-site meetings and training sessions in 2009. Approximately
seventy-eight (78) employees attended the sessions in which enrollment,
investment education and training was discussed. Eighteen (18) new enrollment
fors were submitted.
It should be noted that the City's contract with Great West was scheduled to end
in September 2007; however, a month to month extension of the current
agreement has been authorized by City Council until the Request for Proposal
(RFP) process is completed.
A subcommittee comprised of a police/fire union representative, a general
employee union representative, the Youth Assistance Program Supervisor, two
(2) behavioral health service EAP providers and the Human Resources Director
continue to oversee the Emergency Behavioral Fbalth Service Referral Network.
For the FY 2008-09, a total of 15 employees, 7 employee family members and 3
residents received crisis intervention individual counseling sessions at the limit of
5 sessions totaling $400 per individual. In addifion, EAP providers have been
called upon to assist Departments with group conflict resolufion exercises.
Services totaled approximately $7,360.
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program has mirrored their
behavioral healll+counseling program to the City's EAP and uses many of the
same referral network of providers. A total of $3,095 in CDBG funds has been
expended during FY 2008-09 provided to 9 low-income residents.
1. The Civil Service staff coordinated one (1) Employee Blood Drive in 2009
and assisted in the coordination of two (2) additional drives at the
Community Recreafion Center and one (1) additional drive in the Police
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Department. A total of ninety-eight (98) pints of blood were donated by
City employees during the drives, conducted in March, May, August and
September.
2. The Critical Incident Response Team (GIRT) comprised of members from
Police, Fire, Law, Public Service, the Mayor's Office, the Council Office,
the Director of Emergency Preparedness and Civil Service continued its
mission during the past year. The Team continues to evaluate potential
violence problems and recommends assessment or intervention plans.
The members of the Team have not responded to any possible workplace
violence situations this year.
3. Dr. Kenneth Wolf continues to work with the Police Department on their
Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Program and work in DPW investigating
confrontational situations.
4. The Civil Service staff continued the onsite "Flu Shot" program in
cooperation with ProNdence Hospital Corporate Health Services.
Seventy-eight (78) employees and immediate family members received
inoculations for a nominal fee at several City worksite locations.
5. On June 29, 2009, Compensation Statements illustrating total
compensation, taxable earnings and the City's cost of various benefits
were mailed to all regular full-time and part-time employees. Also
included in the Statement were the actual value of paid time off used last
year and the sick leave balance as of December, 2008.
Following is a report on the activities and accomplishments of the Board of
Trustees of the Livonia Employees Retirement System for the period December
1, 2008 through November 30, 2009:
1. DEFINED BENEFIT PLAN
a) The Board of Trustees held twelve (12) Regular Meetings during this
period.
b) As of November 30, 2009, the retirement system Defined Benefit
Plan had five hundred thirty-seven (537) retirees or surviving
spouses plus seven (7) Eligible Domestic Relations Orders (EDRO's)
(Divorced Prior to Retirement) and five (5) Alternate Payees
(Divorced after Retirement) for a total of five hundred forty-nine (549)
receiving pension checks. Twenty (20) City retirees died during fiscal
15
year 2008-2009. The total pension payroll fiscal year to date is
$12,138,862 through November 2009.
c) The team of David Sowerby and Kenneth Johnson, Loomis -Sayles
and Company advises the Board on investments for the Defined
Benefit Plan and uses discretionary power regarding investments
subject to confirmation by the Board. The Board approved
investment transactions by Loomis -Sayles and Company at regular
meetings. The Defined Benefit fund had a value of $164,930,629 as
of October 31, 2009.
d) In May 2009, the Board reviewed the fifty-sixth (56th annual actuarial
valuation as of November 30, 2008, for the Livonia Employees
Retirement System, prepared by the Board's Actuary, Rodwan
Consulting Company. The Plan covered five hundred forty-six (546)
retirees, twenty-five (25) deferred and two hundred thirty-six (236)
employees for a total of eight hundred seven (807). The Actuary
reported that the accrued actuarial condition of the Retirement
System is "very good".
e) The funded ratio of actuarial value of assets to actuarial accrued
liability for the Retirement System Defined Benefit Plan was 105.7%
as of November 30, 2008.
f) Merill-Lyrch continues to provide quarterly performance evaluation
of the Defined Benefit Plan.
g) Effective July 5, 2000, the Board entered into a Securities Lending
Agreement with Comerica Bank. Total earnings from the Securities
Lending Agreement with Comerica from December 1, 2008 through
October 31, 2009 were $27,495.76.
h) In June 2001, the Board approved a $5 million investment with
MuniMae Midland LLC, in the Midland Multifamily Equity Real Estate
Investment Trust (REIT) offering. In April 2002, the Board approved
an additional $5 million investment for a total of $10 million invested
in the Midland Multifamily Equity REIT. Total interest earnings from
December 1, 2008 through November 30, 2009 were $466,944.44.
Note: In the first quarter 2009, the name of the REIT was changed to
the SAS Equity REIT, and management of the REIT was transferred
from Midland to Seminole Mortgage Partners 1 Limited Partnership
owned and operated by Robert Banks, formerly of Midland Advisers.
The Board designated Robert F. Biga, Human Resources Director
and Secretary to the Livonia Employees Retirement System, to serve
as its representative on the SAS Equity REIT Advisory committee.
IE
i) In March 2002, the Board approved a $5 million investment with
Cohen & Steers Capital Management Inc., in a Real Estate
Investment Trust (REIT), separately managed account. The account
market value reported as of October 31, 2009 was $3,944,893.
j) Approximately fifty (50) requests for refirement estimates under the
Defined Benefit Plan were processed by the Civil Service
Department Staff.
k) The Board of Trustees continues to distribute monthly pension
checks directly to members of the Defined Benefit Plan with these
checks being processed by the staff of the Civil Service Department.
In November 2009 the Board approved a Resolution to make direct
deposit mandatory for retirees effective January 1, 2010.
1) Members of the Board attended the Michigan Association of Public
Employees Retirement System (MAPERS) Conferences at Amway
Grand Plaza, Grand Rapids, Michigan, from May 17 to May 19,
2009; and at the Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, Michigan, from
September 13 to September 15, 2009.
m) In May 2009, the Board of Trustees approved a Resolution to
change the assumed annual rale of investment return from eight and
one-quarter percent (8.25%) to eight percent (8%); and the assumed
wage increase assumption rale from four and three-quarter percent
(4.75%) to four percent (4%) to be effective December 1, 2009.
n) In May 2009, the Board also approved an adjustment to the annual
actuarial valuation report, which will transfer from the Reserve for
Employer Contributions $527,578 from the General Employees
Division and $546,866 from the Police Division (total amount of inter-
division actuarial report transfer $1,074,444) to be credited to the
Fire Division. This inter -division actuarial adjustment is effective
December 1, 2008.
2. DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLAN
a) The Board of Trustees held twelve (12) Regular Meetings during this
period.
b) The Defined Contnbution Plan Administrator continues to be Great
West Retirement Services.
It should be noted that the City's contract with Great West was
scheduled to end in September 2007, however, a temporary
extension of the current agreement on a month to month basis has
17
been authorized by City Council until the Request For Proposal
(RFP) process is completed.
c) The Defined Contribution Fund had a total account ending balance of
$40,721,424 as of September 30, 2009, for four hundred twenty-
eight (428) active participants; seventy-six (76) participants who
terminated employment and have an ending account balance; and
len (10) participants with a zero ending amount balance.
d) As of November 30, 2009, a total of ninety-three (93) employees
have retired under the Defined Contribufion Retirement Plan.
3. LIVONIA RETIREE HEALTH AND DISABILITY BENEFITS PLAN (VEBA)
a) The Board held twelve (12) Regular Meetings for the VEBA Plan.
b) Mr. Sowerby and Mr. Johnson advised the Board on investments for
the VEBA. The VEBA had a value of $50,367,559 as of October 31,
2009.
Note: The VEBA was established at the recommendation of the
former -Actuary to the Board of Trustees, Gabriel, Roeder, Smith and
Co., forpurposes of placing in a tax free trust hospitalization -medical
insurance benefit funds for members of the DB and the DC Plans, as
well as to permit separate funding for DC Plan member disability
retirements.
c) In May 2009, the Board reviewed the eleventh (11th) annual actuarial
valuation as of November 30, 2008, for the VEBA, as prepared by
the Board's Actuary, Rodwan Consulting Company. The amortization
periods adopted by the Board of Trustees for the funding purposes of
this Plan are 30 years for disability benefits and 40 years for health
insurance benefits. The 40 year amortization period produces a
contribution that is less than the Annual Required Contribution
(ARC), and results in a contribution deficiency in the Plan's financial
report.
d) The funded ratio of actuarial value of assets to actuarial accrued
liability for the City of Livonia Retiree Health and Disability Benefits
Plan and Trust (VEBA) was 45.3% as of November 30, 2008. The
unfunded liability is $66,756,624.
e) Effective April 1, 2006, BC/BS became the City's only hospitalization
benefit provider, offering the BC/BS Blue Prefemed Plan (PPO) and
Point of Service plans. The PPO was replaced by the Community
Le
Blue 2 (PPO) for LPOA, LFFU, LLSA and all general employees
(excluding District Court employees).
f) LPDA, LFFU, LLSA and all general employees (excluding District
Court employees) are contributing 2% of pension eligible wages to
the City's Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VERA)
Retiree Health and Disability Benefits Plan. This does not include
overtime earnings and this contribution is in pre-tax dollars.
g) In May 2009, the Board of Trustees approved a Resolution to
change the assumed annual rale of investment return from eight and
one-quarter percent (8.25%) to eight percent (8%); and the assumed
wage increase assumption rale from four and three-quarter percent
(4.75%) to four percent (4%) to be effective December 1, 2009.
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY RESOURCES AND CABLE
COMMUNITY PROJECTS
PUBLICATIONS
• City Newsletter — Four (4) issues published and mailed to approximately
43,000 residences and businesses
• Brochures, newsletters and flyers were prepared for specific programs
COMMUNITY GARDENS
• Cash collected for garden plots $6,330
• Plots available for planting 243 + 18 corn rows
• Plots purchased 223
• Plots purchased by 100 residents 165 at $25
• Plots purchased by 50 nonresidents 63 at $35
Richard Strzalkowski's hours for 2009: 331 Hours
In January of 2009, the gardeners from 2008 were contacted to pay for their plots
if they wished to continue gardening in 2009. An article was put in the City
Newsletter which generated a big interest in the Greenmead Garden Program.
Open enrollment became available to all the last week of March. We had a large
show of new gardeners and signed up 74 new gardeners. We currently have a
wailing list of 40 interested individuals for the 2010 garden season. Two
gardeners donated their plots to charitable organizations for the 2009 season.
The City of New Baltimore has also expressed an interest in establishing a
Community Garden and has asked for our input. The gardens were plowed by
the Department of Public Works in May and staked by the 16th District Court
Probation Department. The Department of Public Works delivered six truckloads
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of mulch and four loads of wood chips. This was supervised by Richard
Strzalkowski, the Garden Supervisor. Richard repaired and purchased hoses,
helped all gardeners find their plots, and answered and resolved all garden
issues. Richard was available three to four days a week during the entire time
the garden was open in order to assist gardeners with any issues that might
arise. We, unfortunately, had two reports of purses being taken from unlocked
cars. A letter was sent to all gardeners advising them to be cautious when
gardening in a public area. There were very few complaints this year. In
September, we held the annual Gardeners' picnic which was well attended. In
our closing letter to the gardeners, we asked for donations toward the purchase
of hoses and repair kits as well as other necessary supplies. In October, we
closed the Gardens and once again the Department of Public Works plowed the
gardens under, after the 12th. The District Court's Probation program cleaned up
the gardens.
VOLUNTEER & SPECIAL PROJECTS
Information & Complaint Center — Three (3) volunteers and staff
responded to (757) telephone calls. No TTY/TDD calls or formal
complaints were processed.
City Hall Tours — There were no lours conducted.
Rouge Rescue — Rouge Rescue activities were held at Beverly Park on
May Z' and were coordinated by six (6) Public Service staff, three (3)
Livonia Police staff and two (2) Community Resource staff with 48
volunteers from Girl Scout Troops, Home Owner Associations, Livonia
Public Schools and Livonia Rotary Club. Volunteers filled 50 plastic
garbage bags with debris and removed an assortment of outdoor furniture,
barricade cones, a couch, aerosol cans, bottles & cans, metal pipes, a car
battery and pylons. 'Thank You' to Stan's Markel, Busch's Markel,
Biggby Coffee & Larry's Foodland for their generous donations of
refreshments & snacks.
RESIDENT ASSISTANCE
• Emergency Certificates — Emergency Service Program funds provided
(104) families with Stan's Markel, Value Center West and Larry's
FOodland gift cards totaling $5,830.00.
• Utility Assistance - CDBG funds assisted six(6) low-income households
with utility shut-off bills totaling $2,400.80 and Police Forfeiture Funds
assisted one (1) low-income household with utility shut-off bills totaling
$145.83
• Holiday Assistance —Referred 26 low-income families for food and gift
donations provided by nine(9) local sponsors
• Commodity Food (TEFAP) — Ordered 3,135 cases of food and distributed
9,702 bags of food to 2,714 low-income households with aid of 22
volunteers who worked a total of 991 hours
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• Focus:HOPE — Distributed 1,032 food boxes, with the aid of twelve(12)
volunteers, to 86 low-income senior households
• Non -Food Pantry — Referred 70 families to Holy Cross Lutheran Church
for 140 boxes of assorted personal hygiene & household goods/supplies
CITY COMMISSIONS/CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
Clerical, technical and budgetary assistance was provided to the Aging, Arts,
Cable, Historical, Historic Preservation, Human Relations and Youth
Commissions.
IVL•1�IL1<•1:•]hIhLit � IIVdhI CLCL•9YEl IN
Community Resources has the administrative responsibility of providing
transportation for Livonia senior citizens and disabled residents. Transportation
is available seven days a week on a first-come, first -serve basis. Livonia
Community Transit also provides "lo work" service for people using the SMART
and D -DOT bus systems. This service picks up riders from hubs located at
Millennium Park and near Botsford Hospital and takes them to pre -determined
work locations. 'To Work" riders are picked up in the morning at 6:00, 7:00 and
8:00 a.m. and again for the return trip at 4:00, 5:00 and 6:00 p.m. Municipal
Credit contracts and Specialized Services grants, administered by SMART, are
monitored and prepared by the Community Resources staff. The Livonia
Community Transit system has a fleet of 16 vehicles (small buses and vans).
The vehicles are driven by 24 part -lime bus drivers all with Commercial Drivers
Licenses. The Transit office is supervised by a Grant Manager and three other
part-time employees that help coordinate the drivers and the route schedules.
The system served over 45,000 riders. These rides totaled over 280,000 miles
and over 19,000 service hours.
S947IW rtNYrY1471 J rL•TH z7-1 Ly,
CIVIC PARK SENIOR CENTER
Participation in activities during 2009 totaled approximately 134,000 seniors.
14,200 congregate meals were served. Activities included: health screening,
educational classes, support groups, fitness classes, cards and games, arts &
crafts, senior sports, Medicare counseling, senior picnic, senior resource fair,
craft show, holiday parties etc. Volunteers logged 17,350 hours.
SUPPORT SERVICES, GIFTS, GRANTS, AND TRANSPORTATION
C. D. B.G. and Community Transit funds totaled $84,500. Donations in the
amount of $18,000 were received.
Federal and State grants and donations provided.
• Telephone Reassurance was disconfinued
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• 1000 hours of Information and Referral to 1500 seniors
• Home maintenance was moved to the Housing Department
• 15,487 one-way rides through the senior transportation program
• 35,000 meals were delivered by volunteers to home bound seniors
LIVONIA YOUTH ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
REFERRAL SOURCES:
2009 Referrals: 106 New Cases — (58 Male and 48 Female)
Carry Over Cases from 2008: 95
Total Cases served in 2009: 201
These numbers are accurate as of November 2, 2009.
2009 Cases represent the following referral agencies:
Livonia Police Department 55
Third Circuit Court -Juvenile Division 17
Surrounding Police Departments 29
(Westland and Novi)
Voluntary Referral 5
• 43 parents completed the Alternative Parenting Skills group.
• Program youth performed 920 hours of Community Work Service.
• 97 youth completed "Project Impact' (social Irving skills) group (12 hours
each).
• 43 males participated in the JAG (Juvenile Awareness Program) at Milan
Federal Prison.
• 40 males and 43 females attended the Wayne Co. Jail lour.
• 662 Youth used the services of the Youth Employment Resource Center
that listed over 647 job openings
• 29 youth (3 Livonia youth - others were from Westland, GC and Wayne),
attended a week long teen challenge camp sponsored by Wayne County.
Youth Assistance staff was responsible for the make-up of the week and
ultimately the success of the challenge.
• Wayne County grants: 1/10th Mill Fund $25,000.
LIVONIA CABLE TELEVISION COMMISSION
In 2009, City Channel 8 became Livonia Television when Livonia municipal
programming began cable casting on AT&T's L -Verse (Channel 99), in addition
to Bright House Networks (Channel 8).
22
Livonia Television produced 220 programs (3940 production hours) including the
live coverage of public City meetings: City Council Study and Regular meetings
and Regular Planning Commission meetings. 235 hours of volunteer assistance
from certified residents was utilized in the production of Livonia Television
programs.
The channel's alert bulletin override for emergency situations was upgraded and
cable staff trained other key emergency city personnel to use properly. The new
system has the ability to add a "crawl" to convey information.
Livonia Television staff logged 57 Bright House Networks and 25 AT&T
complaints/inquires re: rales, reception, programming choices and the desire for
additional competition for cable television and internet access using cable
modems.
Livonia Television staff continued to maintain radio station WPZY, 1670 AM,
providing up-to-date information regarding road closures, snow emergencies and
other vital information relating to the public safety and well being within our
community.
Livonia Television produced and updated monthly streaming media on the City's
website, including all Council meetings. Livonia Television is active on the social
networking sites, Facebook and Twitter.
The 2009 Cable budget supported several upgrades to Livonia Television's
services including: purchase of equipment to enable the cablecast to AT&T,
installing a new sound system for the City Hall auditorium and upgrades
(cameras and swilchers) to the remote production truck to complete the transition
to digital productions.
In 2009, changes to the Livonia Cable Television Commission were initiated.
2009 will be the final year that the Commission meets monthly. In the future, the
Commission will schedule four meetings annually, meeting every 3 months.
HISTORICAL PROPERTIES
Community Resources has administrative responsibility for the Historical and
Historic Preservation Commissions. The reports pertaining to these activities can
be found under the Historical Commission and Historic Preservation
Commission.
In addition, the Community Resources staff at Greenmead:
• Conducted day-to-day operation of Greenmead.
• Maintained Historical Commission records including minutes, volunteer
hours, caretaker reports, contracts, and budgets.
23
• Coordinated weekday lours, Sunday lours, Gift Shop operations, Newburg
School usage, Newburg Church, Alexander Blue House and Meeting
House rentals. Property usage includes weddings, meetings, luncheons,
and private parties.
• Implemented Historical Commission resolutions.
• Assisted with the development, planning and implementation of 23 special
events, fundraisers and community projects sponsored by the Historical
Commission, Friends of Greenmead, Livonia Historical Society, Queslers,
SL Andrews Society of Detroit, Greenmeadows — Native Lands, 17th
Michigan Civil War Re -enactors, A.M.C. Car Club, Mustang Car Show and
Garden Club.
• Worked with D.P.S. to define and prioritize maintenance work including
replacement of front door at the Alexander Blue House, installation of the
Bilco door at Shaw House, replacement of front steps and handrails at
Hinbem House, painting of kitchen at Blue House and a variety of
maintenance projects.
• Coordinated the painting of the Kingsley House and Blue House. Door
replacement at Church and installation of a new roof on the outhouse.
• Assisted Building Inspection with the coordination of emergency work at
both barns.
• Coordinated Greenmead's volunteer program, published issues of the
Volunteer Voice Newsletter, and scheduled volunteers for lours and
special events.
• Provided work site and supervision for community service probationers
and community service projects.
• Hosted several professional and volunteer gatherings such as the Midwest
Outdoor Museums Coordinating Council's Spring Conference, Volunteer
Reception, Friends of Greenmead Luncheon, Historical Society, and
Police Reserves Picnic and a Southeastern Michigan Museum meeting.
• Provided a project site for the Master Gardener Program and support for
the volunteer gardeners program. Assisted with Garden Club with the
restoration of the stone steps at the Hill House rock garden.
• Provided a site and support for several Eagle Scout Projects.
LIVONIA COMMISSION ON AGING
The Commission continues to publish the "Heritage' as part of the City News. It
is distributed to all homes in the City of Livonia. Commission funds are used.
In April the Commission helped organize the annual Senior Center Consumer
Fair.
24
In July the Commission co-sponsored the annual Senior Citizens Picnic held at
the Senior Center. The Commission paid for entertainment and a portion of the
food. The Commission was in charge of bingo and Share the Wealth.
In September the Commission provided transportation for an event for the Senior
Center volunteers. Handouts were purchased for the holidays. Commission
funds were used.
In October the Commission provided handouts and worked at Senior Celebration
Day. Commission funds were used.
At its November 2009 meeting, pursuant to its by-laws, the Commission held its
annual election. The following officers were unanimously elected to one-year
terms commencing December 1, 2009.
Chairperson: Joan O'Brien
1"Vice Chairperson: Josephine Smith
2o1 Vice Chairperson: Dolores Smith
Treasurer: Florence Yeomans
Secretary: Robert Carris
The Livonia Arts Commission held its meetings on the 4th Tuesday of each month
in the Mayor's Conference Room of Livonia City Hall.
The 2009 officers were: Chairperson: Donna Eno; Vice Chairperson: Dan
Spurling; Secretary: Grace Karczewski; Treasurer: Fred Acem.
During the year, a resignation letter was received from Fred Acerd.
Active Commission members include Virginia Bosak, Jason Claypoole, Donna
Eno, Mary Fisher -Smith, Conrad Gniewek, Grace Karczewski, Seymour Le Vine,
Frank Pelersmark, Carie Spurling, and Dan Spurling. The year's newest
appointed commissioners were Yvonne Bouchard and Bonita Collins. Al this
time there are three open positions.
Budgeted Free -Admission Activities: The Commission appropriated $1,800 to
co-sponsor the monthly Noontime Concerts held at the Civic Center Library.
Music from the Heart was held at Civic Center Park and at the Community
Recreation Center in July and August. Two Garage Band music dates for teens
were also held at the Civic Center Park. The Youth Commission donated $500
toward the series. Total expenses for both series were $11,750.
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Commission Sponsored Community Activities: $500 grant to Visual Arts
Association of Livonia. Four scholarships were awarded totaling $4,000 to
students planning on an art -related field at a post -high school learning institution.
Commission Donations: Livonia Symphony Oroheslra, $5,000; Greenmead's
Garden Walk, $50; Greenmead's Christmas Walk, $150; $150 for the
Symphony's season program; $500 to Churchill High School Livonia's Creative
and Performing Arts film camp.
The Commission held its 12th Annual Fine Ads Exhibifion in November. The
selected artwork was displayed in the Z' floor Art Gallery d the Civic Center
Library. One hundred twenty three entries were chosen from the over 400
submissions. The application fees netted $5,820 in revenue. Prize money
awarded totaled $2,250. A $250 corporate sponsorship was received from
Eastern Michigan University.
Artwork from regional artists and art groups was displayed monthly in the Civic
Center Library Gallery and in the City Hall Atrium. Arts Commissioners work was
displayed in the Library in July and City employees displayed at City Hall in June.
Livonia Public Schools displayed in the Library in April and Clarenceville Public
Schools in May.
Commission -Sponsored Receptions: The Fine Arts Exhibifion reception was
held in November in the Civic Center Library Atrium. The scholarship winners'
reception was held at Greenmead and individual artist receptions were held
monthly in the Library Gallery.
With the assistance of a $1,050 grant, the Commission presented Jazzistry. This
program was a lesson in the history of jazz and was held in the Library
auditorium.
Seymour Le Vine and Donna Eno attended an Arlserve regional meeting to
update arts groups on the progress of the Cultural Data Project.
Virginia Bosak attended an Artserve meeting to learn how to develop a strategy
to influence the future of the Michigan arts.
Virginia Bosak hosted a Town Hall meeting at her home to discuss solutions to
the state's cut in funding of the arts.
Several commissioners attended a ceremony in Lansing to receive the "MRPA
(Michigan Recreation and Park Association) 2009 Community -Service Award,"
honoring the Commission's outstanding contribution to Michigan's arts. The
nomination for this award was made by Karen Kapchonick, Superintendent of the
Department of Parks and Recreation.
26
The Arts Commission judged the artwork for the Human Relation Commission's
2009 Martin Luther King, Jr. event and helped with the program.
Livonia Public Schools again requested the Commission to judge its annual
PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association) Reflections competition. Frank
Pelersmark was one of the award presenters.
The Commission maintains a website, artsinlivonia.com, a Facebook site, and a
youlube.com/artsinlivonia.com account.
The Arts Commission mission statement is: 'To preserve, promote, sponsor and
develop the arts in Livonia. To continue community access to art experiences,
opportunities, and improving community awareness"
HISTORIC DISTRICT RESOURCES:
The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) met the first Wednesday of each
month but elected to not meet July and December of 2009 to help Livonia's
financial crisis. The Commission will meet the first Wednesday of the month, four
times a year (unless a special meeting is scheduled) at the Blue House at
Greenmead, Livonia, Michigan in 2010. A website is in development to highlight
the historic districts in Livonia on the City Websde.
The HPC ordinance sections 080B and 050 were amended this year to reduce
the number of meetings scheduled for the 2010 year due to budget constraints in
the City of Livonia. Due to the nature of the Historic Preservation Commission,
meetings may be added with the necessary approvals to accommodate owners
of Historic Properties requiring approvals.
KATOR — SHAY HOUSE
Exterior changes to the house approved by the Commission in 2008 were
completed in 2009. Discussion was held between the owners and the HPC. The
owners were guided to a more time appropriate color scheme for the house.
GREENMEAD
HPC recommends a Master Plan (Cultural Resource Management Plan) be
developed for Greenmead before any future decisions are made.
Alexander Blue House
The Blue House was repainted and a new door approved.
Hill House
HPC representatives attended the restoration committee meetings to plan
renovations to the Hill House. The committee meetings have been placed on
27
hold for the remainder of 2009. Various other projects were approved to update
the village, Hill House and fans buildings.
NEWBURG CEMETERY
The Commission was contacted by Livonia citizen Bill Hart. He expressed an
interest in cleaning up the cemetery on a voluntary basis. The Commission met
at the cemetery several times to review the conditions and to plan appropriate
maintenance jobs to be completed by volunteers. The Commission discussed
requesting a new line item to the budget to support the needs of the historic
cemeteries in Livonia. Due to the Livonia budget constraints, the Commission
has tabled the discussion for this year. The D.A.R. is planning to mark the
Revolutionary War veteran's grave markers, and the Civil war re-enactors are
planning to replace the Civil War veteran's grave markers. The HPC approved
requests by both groups after some discussion. There has been considerable
weathering and some destruction to the existing head stones of not only the Civil
War and Revolutionary veterans, but of most of the older graves as well. The
HPC plans to address these issues in 2010.
LIVONIA CENTRAL, CLARENCEVILLE and 6 MILE UNION CHURCH
CEMETERIES:
The remaining three historic cemeteries in the city require much needed
maintenance similar to the Newburg cemetery. The HPC plans to address these
issues in 2010.
ASA B. SMITH HOUSE
The Commission discussed the considerable exterior damage to the building and
has discussed taking issue with the owners as designated in the ordinance.
WILSON BARN
Friends of the Barn, Ken Sempian and Allen Meijer, made a presentation to
remodel the interior of the barn. HPC only needs to be involved if there are
exterior changes to the building. The HPC discussed and approved the
placement of the A/C unit and required openings for the cooling system.
UNION CHURCH — 6 MILE
The HPC discussed window repair and a door weather barrier placement with
members of Trinity House. HPC selected and printed material to help Trinity
House make appropriate decisions for the old church. Trinity House will develop
a proposal to present to HPC for approval.
COMMISSIONERS
Commissioner Kathie Glynn was reappointed to the Commission in February for
three more years. Commissioner Jeffrey Wiggins, was appointed to the
Commission in April.
28
OFFICER ELECTION
Election of officers held in November, results as follows:
• — Chairperson — Kathleen Johnson Bartshe
•
—Vice Chairperson — Don Knapp
• —
Secretary —Ralph Bakewell
• — Treasurer — James Kline
Over fifty thousand people have visited Greenmead this year. They have
attended special events, toured the buildings, walked the grounds and
community gardeners have cared for the gardens. Many other people have
aftended weddings or activities in the Church or at the Alexander Blue House.
Special events have included two flea markets, the Highland Games, two car
shows, four afternoon leas and Catherine's Table. The Michigan 17th Civil War
re -enactors have presented three lectures. Peter Rabbit and Shadows of the
Past, a Halloween activity, were also held. Volunteers spent over 1,000 hours
helping with activities and tours.
In May, the gardeners held a plant -sharing day. They cared for the flower
gardens around the Simmons -Hill House and the garden at Newburg Church
located in the Village. A small flower garden was also cared for alongside the
Shaw House.
In March, the Historical Commission hosted the MOMCC Regional Conference.
Thursday activities were held at Greenmead. The Friday and Saturday sessions
were held at the Embassy Suites. Tours of Greenmead were available on
Saturday afternoon.
The gift shop was enlarged at Hinbern. The two front rooms are now used for
sales and are open and manned by volunteers, Tuesday through Friday, from 12-
5 p.m.
The Operations Committee has helped with special events. Each member of the
Committee has a building to care for. They do spring cleaning for the building
and decorate it for Christmas.
Kathie Glynn and Sue Daniel have worked on the artifact collection. Kathie is
working on putting the collection on the computer using Past Perfect Software.
Maintenance — Kingsley House was painted and three sides of the Alexander
Blue House were painted. The Shaw House door to the basement was replaced
29
with a Bilco Door. The front and one of the side doors of the Alexander Blue
House were replaced. The Alexander Blue House ice machine has been
repaired twice and all three organs at the Church were serviced.
Newburg United Methodist Church held one of their 175th year celebration
activities at Greenmead in October.
Due to budgetary concerns, ordinance changes have been made to reduce
meetings to four limes per year and the number of Commissioners to nine
members.
LIVONIA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
On January 19, 2009, the Livonia Human Relations Commission, along with the
Livonia Arts Commission and People of Livonia Addressing Issues of Diversity
("P.L.A.I.D."), sponsored a celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday. The
keynote speaker was Freman Hendrix, with musical entertainment provided by
soloist Ange Smith and the Salvation Army's Deep River Choir. An art contest
was also held for the children of Livonia, with monetary prizes awarded.
The Livonia Human Relations Commission was represented at the Mayors State
of the City address for 2009.
From June 8th through June 30`h, 2009, the Livonia Human Relations
Commission sponsored an art exhibition at Livonia City Hall consisfing of
artworks created by members of VSA arts, an international nonprofit
organization founded 35 years ago by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith to
create a society where people with disabilities Team through, participate in, and
enjoy the arts.
In September of 2009, Chairperson Elaine L. Livingway met with Robert
Stevenson, Livonia Chief of Police, and Deputy Chief Curtis Caid to discuss how
the Livonia Police Department and the Human Relations Commission can work
together to foster the principles upon which the Human Relations Commission
was founded.
On September 8, 2009, the Human Relations Commission invited Valentina
Seely, an attorney with the Department of Justice, to speak regarding the role of
a Human Relations Commission in the community and services offered by the
Department of Justice. Deputy Chief Curtis Caid from the Livonia Police
Department was also invited, and spoke to the Commission regarding the Police
Department's commitment to diversity.
30
On November 8, 2009, the Livonia Human Relations Commission sponsored a
dance performance and lecture by Shreelina Ghosh, an international student
from India working on her doctorate at Michigan State University, with respect to
the ancient Indian dance form called Odissi. The event was held at the Civic
Center Library's auditorium, with sweets from India served after the performance.
Officers for 2009 were:
Elaine L. Livingway- Chairperson
James Roye - First Chairperson
Catherine Starks - Second Vice Chairperson
Chris Diehl - Secretary
LIVONIA COMMISSION ON CHILDREN AND YOUTH
In 2009, the Livonia Commission on Children and Youth continued the
administration of the scholarship program sponsored by the Livonia Anniversary
Committee. The Commission distributed brochures advertising the scholarships
to the local high schools and libraries. Information about the scholarships was
presented in the Winter News, on Livonia Television, the City's website and also
in the Department of Community Resources. More than thirty applications were
submitted for the five $2,000 awards. Commissioners, Dan Spurting, Jeff Nork,
Jessica Claypoole and Jerry Krause reviewed and selected the most deserving
recipients. Awards were presented during the Spree Breakfast in June.
Acknowledging that "Back to School' is a costly time of the year for parents, the
Commission held its school supply program for the second consecutive year.
The Commission distributed more than 345 backpacks and school supplies
purchased with its funds as well as donations, to families whose names were
provided by the Livonia Goodfellows. Commissioners Dan Spurting and Jeff Nork
were primarily responsible for this project and were assisted by other
Commissioners and City staff.
The Arbor Day Project, coordinated with the cooperation of the Livonia Public
Schools and the Clarenceville Public Schools, was repeated again. Seedlings
were packaged and distributed to all fourth grade classes in the two school
systems. Global Releaf and the Youth Commission shared the cost of supplying
more than eighteen hundred trees. Commissioner Kenneth Balcoff chaired the
committee this year.
The Youth Commission again monetarily supported the "All Night Senior
Graduation Parties" at the high schools that requested our help through
donations of $250 to each requesting school.
31
Honor Certificates were presented to all graduating seniors who had achieved a
3.0 grade point average or higher from all five high schools in Livonia.
Commissioner Dan Spuding spearheaded this project.
A donation was given to support the Livonia Police I.D. program.
Teamed up for a joint project with Livonia Parks and Recreation and Livonia
Save our Youth Task Force to do a lock in at the Recreation Center on August 22
for middle school children with food and merriment along with drug and alcohol
awareness. We had over 200 attend the event.
Emergency stickers, which are to be placed on the bedroom windows of children,
senior citizens or handicapped individuals, continue to be available at City Hall
and also from the Livonia Fire Department. Information regarding obtaining the
Ackers is shown on Livonia Television.
The Youth Commission joined with the Livonia Arts Commission to put on the
Garage Band concert series, Music from the Garage.
The Commission, in an effort to reach out to the needy youth of Livonia, hosted a
holiday party on two consecutive Saturdays in November for families who
registered with the Goodfellows. While the Goodfellows representatives
interviewed the parents, the children were invited to enjoy snacks, crafts, and
were given mittens and scarves. They visited and had their photograph taken
with Santa at the Senior Center. Commissioners Dan Spuding and Jeff Nork
headed this project and were aided by Commissioners and volunteers from the
community.
An informational pamphlet or CD entitled, "Who You Gonna Calf' is being
investigated by Commissioners Dan Spurling and Jessica Claypoole. The project
should yield a list of helpful phone numbers and website addresses that could be
distributed to troubled teens or made available to concerned parents.
Commission Officers for 2009-2010 will be: Dan Spurling - Chairperson; Jeff
Nork - Vice Chairperson; Jim Keller - Secretary; and Jessica Claypoole -
Treasurer.
W JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT
NEW CASES FILED
CRIMINAL
1. Felony (FY) 337
32
2.
Ordinance Misdemeanor (OM)
1651
3.
Statute Misdemeanor (SM)
188
TRAFFIC
4.
Felony Drunk Driving (FD)
30
5.
Felony Traffic (FT)
11
Total Felony Traffic
41
(#4 + #5 =)
6.
Ordinance Drunk Driving (OD)
279
7.
Ordinance Civil Infractions (OI)
30067
8.
Ordinance Traffic Misdemeanor (OT)
2161
9.
Statute Drunk Driving (SD)
19
Total Drunk Driving
298
(#6 + #9 =)
10.
Statute Civil Infractions (SI)
1078
Total Civil Infractions
31145
(#7 + #10 =)
11.
Statute Traffic Misdemeanor (ST)
146
Total Traffic Misd.
2307
(#8 + #11 =)
MISCELLANEOUS
12.
Criminal/Traffic Juries Selected
17
13.
Criminal/Traffic Cases Perfected to Appeal 0
NON -TRAFFIC CIVIL INFRACTIONS 8. PARKING
14.
Ordinance Parking (OK)
1636
15.
Ordinance Non -Traffic (ON)
6
16.
Statute Parking (SK)
01
Total Parking
1642
(#14 + #16 =)
33
17. Statute Non -Traffic (SN) 4
Total Non -Traffic 4
(#15 + #17 =)
Felony
Guilty Plea (reduced charge)
CIVIL DIVISION
Bench Verdict
18.
General Civil (GC)
2552
19.
General Civil Miscellaneous (GZ)
5
20.
Landlord Tenant (LT)
666
21.
Land Contract Summary Proceedings (SP)
7
22.
Small Claims (SC)
574
MISCELLANEOUS
23.
Civil Division Junes Selected
0
24.
Marriages
54
25.
Motions
1719
26.
Discovery/Debtor Exams
146
27.
Gamishments
5351
28.
Orders to Seize/Orders of Eviction
401
PROBATION
1.
Number of Placements on Probation
1896
2.
Pre -Sentence Investigation Reports
1205
3.
Violation of Probation Warrants Issued
847
4.
Show Cause Summons Issued
2676
5.
Probation Cases Closed
2272
6.
Number of Open Probation Cases
1296
7.
Total Number of Days Worked on the
Voluntary Work Program (in lieu of jail)
5741
Felony
Guilty Plea (reduced charge)
8
Bench Verdict
0
Bindover to V Circuit Court (after Examination held or waived)
324
Dismissed by Party
7
Dismissed by Court
20
Inactive Status (Warrant)'
143
34
Local Diversion 0
Case Type Change 0
Total 502
Misdemeanors (Ordinance and Statute)
JuryVerdict
1
Bench Verdict
11
Guilty Plea
1551
Dismissed by Party
314
Dismissed by Court
115
Inactive Status (WananQ'
370
Local Diversion
0
Case Type Change
1
Total 2363
TRAFFIC DEPARTMENT
Felony, Misdemeanor and Civil Infraction
Jury Verdict
1
Bench Verdict
2897
Guilty Plea/Admission
21814
Bindover to V Circuit Court (after Examination held or waived)
34
Dismissed by Party
1176
Dismissed by Court
3286
Default Judgments
7514
Inactive Status (WananQ'
681
Local Diversion
0
Case Type Change
1
Total
37394
`Note: Wamant/Bench Warrant/On Appeal/Pending Forensic Examination
Non -Traffic, Civil Infraction and Parking
Verdict at Hearing
84
AdmissionNVaivers
1130
Dismissed by Party
10
Dismissed by Court
77
Default Judgments
468
35
Case Type Change 0
Total 1769
Civil, Landlord/Tenant and Small Claims
Jury Verdict
1
Bench Verdict
175
Uncontested/Defaults/Settlements
2422
Transferred
46
Dismissed by Party
757
Dismissed by Court
681
Inactive Status"
76
Other Disposition
0
Case Type Change
0
Total 4158
"Note: Bankruptcy Stay
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
Due to City of Livonia General Fund
$3,444,910.08
Escrow Accounts:
Bonds $1,168,093.70
Restitution $ 58069.21
Work Program $ 214250.00
Miscellaneous' $ 28439.04
• includes garnishment payments, escrow rent, refunds,
etc.
Due to Slate of Michigan
$1,531,002.6
Due to County Library
$ 91 275.00
Other Miscellaneous Payments
$ 50 760.51
Court Building Improvement Fund
$ 596 635.00
Drug Court Fund (set-aside effective 10/01/05)
$ 43 016.00
UNAUDITED YEAR'S REVENUE TOTAL
(excluding interest income) $7.226.451.14
112
2008-2009 Projects
1. The Court has successfully ratified contracts with both the MAPE
Supervisory Union and MAPE Clerical Union. They were both 4 -year
contracts.
2. The Court, in conjunction with the Livonia Police Department, has
successfully implemented electronic fling of traffic citations (E -Tickets) via
the use of an internet based system. The system provides the ticket
information entered by the officer electronically to the court with the
ultimate goal of totally paperless ticket filing. The process has reduced
the amount of data entry that was previously required by the court
personnel, freeing them up to handle other job duties, including future
enhancement of collection actions on a frontline basis, without the
necessity of hiring more employees. Other than a few early glitches, the
system has been working excellently. The ultimate goal is that since ticket
writing will be somewhat simplified that it may generate additional citations
by the police department. The system also allows for full featured online
internet payment of tickets issued through the E -Ticket process.
3. The Court is also in the process of taking over the task previously
assigned to the Police department of the entry of warrants into Lien. Most
of the training has already been completed and should be in full swing
within the next month. This will free up a police officer's time for other
duties. Currently two employees have been trained for the entry of the
warrants.
4. The continued use of the Collection module has generated more past due
fines and costs. The court is currently investigating the use of a partial
payment system to help facilitate collections.
5. Increased use of assigning defendants to Voluntary Work Program in lieu
of jail has saved the city jail housing costs. The number of Voluntary Work
Program hours (5741) shows an increase of 37% over the prior year.
6. The collection of court appointed attorney fees, which is a large budget
item, indicates we have collected at least 83% of those fees, which goes
back to the city.
7. In Court, dispositions have assisted the cashiers so there are no long
backups to pay tickets.
37
8. To help keep the budget down for 2009-2010, the Court has eliminated 2
part time positions and has not replaced a probation officer position, in
addition to other cost saving measures.
9. During the month of April, an amnesty program was implemented which
generated an additional $58,702 of fines back to the City.
10. The Court has implemented several policies regarding how parties are
notified, through the use of items such as postcards versus letters which
save paper, time and postage. In addition, we have reduced the number of
witnesses on civil infractions being subpoenaed, unless actually
necessary, which has cul down costs to the court.
11. Effective May 4Lh, 2009, the Court implemented a new docket style called
Prehearing, wherein the officers are not required at the hearing, saving the
City costs of calling out the officer. It has been extremely effective in
moving along the docket.
12. The new courthouse continues to move along with an anticipated move -in
of April or May of 2010.
13. Finally, the most recent addition to the judiciary al the 161h District Court is
the Honorable Sean P. Kavanagh who has adapted well to his new
position as Judge.
The Department of Finance consists of Accounting, Management Information
Systems, Water and Sewer Usage Billing, and the Division of Budget and
Purchasing with a total staff of twenty-two people. The Director of Finance
serves as administrative assistant to the Mayor in financial matters and is under
the direct supervision of the Mayor. The function of the Department of Finance
includes:
Supervision over the administration of the financial affairs of the City.
Keeping of accounts and financial records of the City and all departments,
commissions and agencies of the City government.
Maintenance of payroll records for all City employees.
Preparation of checks for all financial obligations of the City.
38
Billing and collection of over 150,000 water and sewer bills.
Responsibility for all computerized reporting and budget analysis for City
Departments.
Responsibility for evaluating and recommending computer hardware and
software systems City-wide.
Preparation of the annual budget for the Mayor.
Taking of bids for all major purchases made by the City.
Responding to City Council questions and providing additional reports and
information as requested by Council.
The Finance Director serves on a three-person Personnel Review
Committee, which is responsible for review and evaluation of the hiring,
placement and replacement of all employees for the City.
Performs Treasurer function for the Plymouth Road Development
Authority.
Membership on the Community Development Block Grant Committee.
Responsible for risk management of casually and liability, worker's
compensation and medical insurance for the City and is the City's
representative to the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority
(MMRMA).
Representation at over 50 meetings of the City Council.
Preparation of all debt issued by City.
Responsible for investment of City funds in interest earning accounts in
accordance with State law.
Management of City -owned properties leased to third parties.
BUDGET -PURCHASING
The Budget -Purchasing office is under the supervision and direction of the
Director of Finance who also acts as Purchasing Agent for the City. The Budget -
Purchasing activity processed a total of 9,541 requisitions for the purchase of
goods and services for the City of Livonia. A total of 397 supply orders and
printing requests were also filled for City Departments.
39
ACCOUNTING
The volume of the Accounting Division activity is listed by comparative figures for
the past two years:
FISCAL YEAR ENDED NOVEMBER 30 2008 2009
General Fund & Other Fund Payables Checks 17,232 16,257
Payroll Items ' 34,540 29,532
Journal Entries 6,277 5,884
Retirement Checks (Payroll and Payables) 8,268 7,440
The 2008 figure includes both payroll checks and electronic fund
transfers.
Journal entry volume was decreased as a result of a new methodology
used to process journal entries in the recently upgraded financial
management system.
Accounts Receivable Invoices:
False Alarms
Rescue Runs
Other
Water Bills Mailed
Water Bills Paid by EFT
983
887
4,275
3,820
2,150
2,010
155,066
137,909
16,632
21,463
Temporarily idle General Fund cash was invested in Certificates of Deposit and
daily savings deposits, resulting in a total interest earned of $384,152 or 0.80%
of City General Fund Revenue.
SPECIAL PROJECTS
1. In 2009, the Finance, Accounting and Information Systems departments
continued implementation to a new financial management system called
"Logos.nef' from New World Systems, Inc. When fully implemented, this new
system will provide increased data management capabilities and online
services for residents and employees.
2. Numerous meetings were held with Department Heads, City Council,
employee Union representatives and citizens to brainstorm ideas for
balancing a budget that incurred a $3.6 million, or 6.7%, reduction. A
S
balanced budget was adopted based on the Administration's
recommendations.
3. The Finance Department continued to work with City Council and the Mayors
Office to maintain the City's excellent bond ratings, which currently are rated
AA3 at Moody's and AA at Standard and Poors. Because of these excellent
bond ratings, more people will invest in City of Livonia bonds resulting in more
competitive bidding from brokerage houses. Savings will continue into the
future for the City due to these ratings.
4. The City of Livonia audit was completed and, once again, the City's auditors
found no significant audit adjustments.
5. The Finance Department participated in several cooperative bids with
surrounding communities that resulted in more competitive bids and reduced
costs to the City.
The Information Systems Department is responsible for the computer hardware
and software used by the City. The IS Department assists other City
Departments in evaluating, selecting and implementing computer systems. It
also sets the standards for City computer systems. The Information Systems
Director is appointed by the Mayor and reports directly to the Finance Director.
The staff of the Information Systems Department consists of five (5) employees.
The Information Systems Department has five primary areas of responsibility.
These are Computer and Network Support, Application Software Support,
Training and End User Support, Website and Internet, and Geographic
Information Systems.
The IS Department maintains the following hardware
The AS/400 computer was retired and returned at the end of the lease. This was
a computer platform that had been in use at the City since 1985.
41
2006-
2007-
2008-
2007
2008
2009
IBM AS/400 Midrange Computer
1
1
0
Windows 2000/2003 Server
20
20
22
Personal Computers
309
323
331
The AS/400 computer was retired and returned at the end of the lease. This was
a computer platform that had been in use at the City since 1985.
41
We replaced the computers and software that are used in the Senior Computer
Lab. This equipment is utilized by seniors to access the Internet and basic
usage.
We expanded our network to support the new Housing Facility on Farmington
Road. This addition included adding an additional wireless bridge, equipment
installation and configuration. We also assisted with the implementation of a new
Windows Serverforlhe Housing Department.
In collaboration with the State of Michigan, we terminated a separate network
that was used for the Qualified Voter File and moved that functionality to our
network. This has resulted in improved support for the Clerk's office with higher
speed access. This also resulted in substantial cost savings for the Slate of
Michigan.
A major effort this year was made to improve the efficiency of our printer fleet.
We did an analysis on printing costs for our different printers. Based upon the
results of that analysis, the Mayor stopped the purchase of Inkjet printers and
supplies. This did result in the addition of some additional networked laser
printers. We found that our printers varied from a low of $4.00 printing costs per
ream of paper to $100 printing costs per ream of paper. An effort was made to
educate the employees on why these changes were necessary.
We also worked with the Cable Department to broadcast through the Internet on
AT&T U -verse network. This required upgrading the speed of our Internet
access, configuring the firewall and implementing new video capture equipment.
We also merged a hardware maintenance agreement with the City, the Library
and the Public Safety reducing that cost by 10%.
APPLICATION SOFTWARE SUPPORT
New World Logos Systems — Finance, Payroll and Utilities Billing
We did a number of service packs and fixes to the New World Logos
systems. We did one major upgrade of these systems moving to version
6.
We have begun testing the a -Suite software for self service.
We have also tested and now implemented Business Analytics for the
Financial and Payroll systems. This allows for ad-hoc reporting and
analysis.
We also converted our database server to use a 64-bit version and
operating system. This has dramatically improved performance.
42
Parks and Recreation
• Upgraded the Safan application software to version 4.3.18 in order to
support the new gateway requirements for Paypal.
• Worked with Parks and evalua0ng the a -Track plus proposal for services.
Have begun to install new T-1 circuit, have acquired a new Firewall, and
new monitors for this project. Have worked with Parks and
implementation planning.
TRAINING AND END USER SUPPORT
The IS Department has provided in-house training for City employees on how to
use computers and software packages in the past. Due to staffing level changes
we have been forced to put this effort on hold. We have tried to use a variety of
free on-line resources to provide some of the needed training. We did provide 22
training sessions on the DNN Web Content Software for 30 students and 1
Advanced Word Training Class for 3 students.
2005- 2006- 2007- 2008-
2006 2007 2008 2009
Number of Classes Conducted 40 6 36 23
Number of Employees Trained 109 58 185 33
In April of this year, we closed down our Help Desk due to staffing changes. The
help desk calls are now being distributed to the 3 Computer Administrators.
1,719 user support issues were recorded and resolved this year.
The Information Systems
Department also
manages
the City
Website
(http://www.ci.livonia.mi.us),
which continues to
find new
uses and
grow in
usage.
This year we implemented a new Intranet website called Inside Livonia using a
collaborative Microsoft product known as SharePoinl. This new website offers
advantages in that authorized users can post content to it, it provides an
interactive phone directory, provides for discussion groups, and can be used as a
document storage and information distribution system. Working with the Clerk's
Office, we were able to reduce the paper copies of agendas and minutes from
meetings. The Clerk's Office posts these items on the Inside Livonia website and
it automatically notifies users of the new documents.
43
We also replaced the content management tool we use to maintain the City
Website. The previous tool was known as Site Sage. The company, Starphire,
which developed the tool, went out of business three years ago. The new tool is
an open source tool known as DNN (Dol Net Nuke) and is being provided by
Zenacomp. This was a huge effort to convert the content and to train the users
on how to use it.
We worked with the Fire Department this year to redevelop their content on the
City website. The new content contains much more information, some great
graphics and photos.
We were also able to move tie Police Department's website inside the City's
website. This results in a savings of approximately $3,000 per year. This also
allows them to take advantage of the new content management system and has
given their site better exposure.
We also worked with the Parks and Recreation Department to move their L -
Magazine to a new tool known as flipbook. Previously we uploaded a PDF file to
the website. The files became so large that they were unusable. On high speed
networks, it would take up to 10 minutes to open. The new flipbook is very easy
to use and quick.
Website statistics include
2005-2006 2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Number of Page Views 1,107,921 1,947,426 5,591,853 3,024,950
The Department also provides e-mail and Internet access to City Employees.
2005- 2006- 2007- 2008-
2006 2007 2008 2009
Number of E-mail accounts 296 268 281 255
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS
The Information Systems Department also manages, operates and maintains a
Geographic Information System (GIS) to help manage its maps and spatially
referenced data.
2009 GIS Accomplishments
1. Introduction of ArcGIS Server — During the past year we have upgraded our
on-line mapping capabilities by implementing ESRI's ArcGIS Server software.
This package offers a number of advantages over our old online mapping
service (ArcIMS). First and foremost, ArcGIS Server reads data directly from
the City's GIS database. Therefore the web pages produced using this
44
software are updated continuously as the data are updated within the system.
Secondly, all map services are produced using our "standard" GIS mapping
software (ArcMap), so any of the City's ArcMap users are capable of
generating or maintaining a base map for our new web mapping service.
Thirdly, non -GIS users may update ancillary data for the online GIS through
the use of simple SOL queries. This has allowed, for example, DPW to
maintain their own "Brush Pickup Schedule' online map with little support
from the IS department. And finally, the web page interface is much more
powerful and easier to use than the older AncIMS system. New map services
produced using this new software include: (1) Livonia-gis — a generic web
mapping page containing layers for producing "tax maps," "zoning maps," and
other data layers displayed over aerial photography, (2) a new voter precinct
map, (3) brush pickup schedule map, (4) leaf pickup schedule map and (5)
bus route map.
2. New Data Layers - Several new data layers were added to our GIS during
2009. These layers included a new aerial photography layer obtained from
the US Geological Survey. The data were acquired during the spring of 2008
at 12 -inch resolution. The resulting ortho mosaic has been added to our
collection of aerial photography. Additional data layers have been added to
our SDE database as well including a layer depicting municipal salt routes,
two layers for our City bus routes (routes and slops), and additional layers
used to support our new online maps such as our brush pickup schedule and
leaf pickup schedule. Our "current roads' layer (CLEMIS) was also updated
during the past year.
3. Software Upgrades — During 2009 ESRI delivered a significant upgrade to
our GIS software, version 9.3. All ESRI software needed to be updated,
inducing ArcMap, ESRI's Spatial Data Engine (SDE), ArcIMS software, and
our "stand alone' versions of ArcMap. ArcGIS Server was installed at this
time as well. This was quickly followed by another update, version 9.3.1.
4. Mapping Support — Several City departments required mapping support
during 2009. Once again the Housing Department required maps depicting
city -owned property and houses receiving federal money for repairs. The
police department requested maps showing tine larcenies over a 6 -month
period. At the same time an animated map was generated showing fire thefts
over the City during this period. A number of miscellaneous maps were
produced for various City departments including an updated voter precinct
map, a modified municipal salt route map, leaf pickup map, an updated City
map, and maps for the Livonia Transit system.
5. Procedural Issues — The full implementation of ESRI's SDE has "formalized"
our database updates. There is a 3tier system of database "versions' in-
place at the City. Everyone works with the "Default" version of the database
for all applications. All of our maps and on-line map services point to this
version. A second version of this database, known as the "Draff' version, is
45
where all edits are placed prior to moving them to the Default database.
Finally, below the Draft version of the database are all of the "Personal"
versions of the Draft database that may be edited by users. Edits are passed
back to the Draft version, and finally to the Default version for everyone to
use. While initially somewhat cumbersome to use, this series of databases
protects our Default data while allowing considerable freedom for database
editors to manage the various data layers in the GIS.
6. New Database Types — New data layers have been produced over the past
year that are not part of the 'Vector" database, but are still part of the SDE
system and accessible by ArcMap and ArcGIS Services as well. These
"view" files and "stand -along feature classes' are useful in that data may be
associated with the various layers outside of the ESRI software suite. For
example, although the parcel layer is part of the Vector database, there is a
view file that not only contains the spatial data, but through the use of a 3d
party software system (GeoConnector), the view file contains attribute data
that the parcel layer does not. In addition, view files and stand-alone feature
classes may be accessed using simple SQL queries, thereby allowing non -
GIS users to update ancillary data without using the ESRI software.
LIVONIA FIRE & RESCUE
During the fiscal year 2009, Livonia Fire & Rescue responded to 8,363 incidents,
80% involved emergency medical services, while fire related responses
accounted for 20%. The following statistical breakdowns reflect the departmental
activity for the current fiscal year.
Incidents
Emergency Medical 6,951
Fire 383
Fire (other) 1,029
Total 8,363
For the Fire Incidents (other) category, carbon monoxide alarms accounted for
96 of the responses, 547 were false fire alarm calls and 191 for downed wire
incidents.
Incidents by day of week
Sunday 1,081 12.9%
Monday 1,261 15%
:L•'
Tuesday
1,247
14.9%
19
Wednesday
1,247
14.9%
12
Thursday
1,197
14.3%
5
Friday
1,197
14.3%
10
Saturday
1,133
13.5%
21
The busiest time (hour) of day is 10.00 a.m. through 11.00 a.m.
Throughout the year, in addition to the related activities listed below, this Division
is responsible for updating technical knowledge, maintaining job efficiency and
state certification for the department's Fire Inspectors. This is accomplished by
attending numerous seminars, job related schools and other continuing
education programs. These schools would include but are not limited to
SchoolcraR College, the National Fire Academy, Michigan Slate Police Arson
School, Michigan Fire Inspectors Conferences, Metro Detroit Fire Inspectors
Society and the various (I.A.A.I.) International Association of Arson Investigators
arson schools and seminars.
Inspections
Although not all encompassing, the following categories reflect the majority of
inspections conducted by the Fire Prevention Division:
Advice
125
Liquor License
19
Alarm
27
Liquid Propane Gas
12
Complaint
15
Life Safely Inspections
5
Chemical Surveys
90
New Construction
10
City License
53
Site Plan/Preliminary Plan
21
Carnival/Spree
14
Re -occupancy
140
False Alarms
24
Revision
5
Interior Alterations
89
System Report Deficiency
128
First Tenant
9
Suppression
40
Fireworks
35
Temporary Structure
12
Hydrant/Flow
15
Exterior
11
Alterations/Construction
History File
42
Total
941
Plan Reviews
Alarm
27
Construction
87
Site
21
Fire Suppression
44
47
Total 179
The above plan review totals reflect the number of projects received / assigned in
the Fire Prevention Office and do not include the actual number of inspections
made. Multiple site visits are required when inspecting various fire alarm,
suppression or structural systems to insure compliance with the adopted codes
and standards installation practices. A conservative estimate of site visits
needed to complete a project would be four inspections. More complex jobs
would require additional inspections, in some instances 10-20 site visits.
The Fire Marshal and his Inspectors regularly go to the fire stations and review
false alarms with the station Officers. This allows the Fire Prevention Division to
address those occupancies that are having multiple false alarms. Dialogue with
the suppression personnel gives the inspection division a second avenue for
finding and correcting building deficiencies.
This division also provides fire investigations for determination of origin and
cause. Whenever a question arises from a fire officer that a fire may not have
started accidentally, we are requested to respond. Also, any large loss or fatal
fres are also examined and documented. We responded to approximately 55
fires in 2009. Nearly 25% of these fires required extensive documentation and
follow-up varying from simple photography to exhaustive research and
interviews.
The focus of the training office for fiscal year 2009 was to continue to assure
compliance for the ongoing education (CEU) requirements for both EMT and
Paramedic within the department. The number of overall CEO's for Paramedics
is higher than that of an EMT and thus requires a more diligent training program
in order to ensure that the department's personnel are always compliant with
licensing requirements. New Stale of Michigan standards require the obtaining
of both lecture and practical credits, which brought on additional challenges, but
were mel without major problems. This year, Livonia Fire & Rescue became a
Continuing Education program sponsor, allowing us a bit more flexibility in the
scheduling and delivery of classes for EMS education. The training office
continues to improve its record management system related to training activities,
which in tum ensures compliance with OSHA, ISO and nationally accepted
standards on training and documentation. The training division continues to
provide training commensurate with the mission of our department. Although
EMS training takes up large amounts of resources and time, this office still
facilitates training in fire suppression, specialized rescue, hazardous materials,
utility emergencies and risk reduction.
48
The training office continues to be forward thinking in regards to capturing
available grant funding and alternative ways to finance departmental capital
needs both in training programs and equipment. Enhancing relationships with
both local businesses and community educational institutions has also been a
priority in hopes that a mutual sharing of resources increases overall operational
effectiveness. Grants through State Farm, MMRMA, and Belfour construction
have allowed the department to move ahead with programs that have been left
unfunded due to budgetary constraints over the last three years.
Fire Officer training commensurate with the CBA continues to be a top priority as
pertains to off-site training and in preparing our Company level officers for each
new position.
The RAFT (Regional Alliance for Fire Training) organization continues to offer
Company Officer I and II courses. Several of our members were involved in the
development and continue to teach the classes. RAFT continues to offer
firefighter training that many of our members have taken advantage of.
This office continues to look at ways to improve our overall service and maintain
the highest level of pre -hospital care to the cifizens of Livonia. The department's
EMS Quality Assurance (QA) program continues to strive to comply with
stringent county and state requirements regarding QI/QA. The training office
continues to administrate and facilitate the Medical Priority Dispatch system that
is used in dispatching EMS calls city-wide. The system has proven to be
extremely effective in risk reduction for responders, as well as the public, by
assigning a priority to the medical call. Because of the increasing EMS run call
volume each year, the MPD system allows the prioritizing of all EMS related calls
to ensure that the most life threatening emergencies receive assistance above
those of a lesser degree. The Training Coordinator and Fire Lieutenant Jon
Unruh continue to provide the needed continued education units (CEU) required
for recertification of dispatchers every two years. This office was also
responsible for tracking and fulfilling the MPD Quality Assurance requirements as
outlined in county Medical Control protocols. Since the MPD program came on
line in May of 2001, the training office meets and discusses QI related issues
quarterly, as to ensure compliance within county and state guidelines.
The "Quick Drill" program has armed our station officers with training information
that can be used easily. The program grew from our first year (2006) of 12 drills
to an additional 20 drills added in 2007. In 2008, this popular program has seen
an increase of 25 drills. In 2009, we had an additional 20 Quick Drills added to
the program.
In the spring, we initialed our Fire Training Center, consisting of two different
burn structures and two storage pods. We trained heavily in the chambers this
spring and fall. Much of the work was done by our members, with Ansteo
Construction helping with our concrete pad and placing the chambers on it.
M
The focus of the training office in 2010 will be to establish updated company level
drills, continue efforts in the monthly "Quick Drill" program, revise and implement
a new Driver/Operator program, and continue the in-house Company Officer
training program. With continued changes in the state's Fire Officer Programs,
new records and additional training will be required in order to fulfill the CBA and
meet the new state requirements.
With the addition of Tower 1 to our fleet (2006 American La France Aerial Tower),
advanced training took place for many weeks during the summer to get our
members ready to move into this vehicle. Similarly, boat rescue operations were
covered for all members this summer.
The videoconferencing system is being used for updates to fire station personnel,
and issues related to training and administration.
MAINTENANCE DIVISION
The Livonia Fire & Rescue Maintenance Division is comprised of one Fire
Apparatus Supervisor and one Senior Fire Equipment Mechanic who are
responsible for specification writing, ordering, care, maintenance and repair of all
mechanized and related fire, rescue and paramedic equipment. The division
provides firefighters, Livonia citizens, and visitors of Livonia with safe and reliable
ambulance, rescue and fire fighting vehides and related equipment.
This year the responsibilities of the Maintenance Division included the following:
Completed 483 work orders/requests.
Inspected pumpers, rescue vehicles, aerial tower, administrative cars, lawn
equipment, USAR trailer, W WC Hazmat trailer as well as Hazmal trucks, and all
equipment on each vehicle on a semi-annual and annual basis.
Annual Pump Tests on all Fire Pumps.
Inspection trip to Buffalo, New York to do final inspection of E-4.
Worked with American LaFrance on warranty of vehicles E-4, T-1.
Inspection trip to Goshen, Indiana to final inspect SQ1, SQ4.
Worked with Pierce on warranty of vehicles SQ1, SQ4.
In coordination with the Training Division, instructed Firefighter and E.M.T.D.'s on
the operational requirements of vehicles. Also aided in training exercises when
necessary.
50
Responded to major fires to assist the department in set up of equipment, filling
of SCBA bottles, repair and refueling of vehicles.
Provided assistance, as needed, to neighboring fire departments and members
of Western Wayne Mutual Aid Association.
Provided assistance to the following Project Managers:
SCBA Officer - ordering parts, repairing SCBA air packs.
Hose Officer - specification writing, ordering and mounting of nozzles, adapters,
and hose.
Building Maintenance Officer - repair of vehicle electrical drop lines.
EMT Officer - installation of ALS equipment.
Communications Officer — mounting hand held prep radio vehicle chargers and
installation of new radio and complete computer systems for ALS and relocation
of some radios in pumpers, and repair of same.
Apparatus Officer - ordering and mounting of new equipment/hand tools and
mounts.
Public Relations Committee - equipment.
This Division provides maintenance on all of the following items:
Vehicles
1 -1988 Pierce Dash Heavy Duly Rescue
1 - 1995 Ford Horton Fire Investigation Unit
1 - 1996 GMC 3/4-Ton Pick-Up
1 -1997 Navistar/Horton Swat Alpha Unit
1 — 1997 Navistar/Horton Water Rescue/Technical Unit
1 - 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe
2 — 2000 Freightliner/Medic Master Reserve Alpha Units
1 —2001 Freightliner/Medic Master Alpha Unit
1 — 2006 Freightliner/Medic Master Alpha Unit
1 — 2007 Freightliner/Medic Master Alpha Unit
2 — 2009 Freightliner/Medtec Alpha Units
1 — 1993 E-One 1250 GPM Pumper
1 - 1994 Smeal/Spartan 1250 GPM Pumper
1 — 2002 American LaFrence 2000GPM 75FT. SQURT Aerial
1 —2006 American La France 2000GPM 100FT. Mid-Mount Aerial Platform
3-2003 American LaFrence Eagle 1250 GPM Pumpers
51
1 — 2009 American La France Eagle 1250 GPM Pumper
1 - 2003 Ford 450 Maintenance Truck
1 — 2003 Mercury Marine Inflatable Rescue Boat, Motor and Trailer
1 — 2001 Ford Crown Vic Sedan
2 — 2003 Ford Crown Vic Sedans
2 — 2004 Ford Crown Vic Sedans
3 — 2006 Ford Crown Vic Sedans
1 — 2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer
1 —2007 Chevrolet 2500 Pick-up
1 — 2009 GMC 2500 Yukon XL
1 — 2003 Club Car Ambulance and Hauling LS Enclosed Trailer
1 —2006 Haulmark Trailer (C.B.R.N.E.)
1 — 2006 Spartan Spencer RRTN HAZMAT Truck
1 — 28ft USAR Trailer
1 — 2007 Fire Safety Unit
39 — Total Vehicles
Eauipment on Vehicles
Thousands of feet of fire hose
Fire hose nozzles
Axes and adapters
Foam equipment, hand and vehide mounted
Deluge equipment
110 V electrical lighting
Tools (hand and fire fighting)
9 - auxiliary generators
43 - ISI Viking Air Pack
94 - Air Bottles
89 — ISI Viking Masks
Bauer Air Compressor Cascade System
1 - 6000psi 4 Air Bottle Cascade System
1 — K-950 Saw
2 - K-12 Saw
7 - Chain saws
2 - Amkus Power Tools
2 - TNT Power Tools
7 - Life Jack PPV fans
1 - Hose repair tool and parts
Mounting of Medical equipment on Alpha Vehicles
Various hazardous material and confined space rescue equipment.
4 — Walk behind mowers
Lawn blowers, weed whips, edgers
Garage Equipment
1 — Hose test Pump
52
2 - lin-ground garage hoist hydro -testing
1 - Garage tool replacements
1 - Pumper pump test tool as needed to comply with NFPA 1911.
PUBLIC EDUCATION
The 2009 fiscal year was an exciting year for our Public Education division. The
division is tasked with educating our citizens on all fire and life safety topics at
different places and times that will have the highest impact.
Each year Livonia Fire & Rescue responds to numerous requests from the public
for Fire Safely Education programs. These requests are forwarded to either the
on -duly Battalion Chief or to the Fire Safety Education Committee, based on the
needs of the requesting person or group. If the caller is requesting to visit a fire
station or have fire apparatus brought to them as part of the educational effort,
the on -duly Battalion Chief handles the request. If the group requests an
individual to speak at a prearranged time and location that does not require
firefighting apparatus, the Fire Safety Education Committee is contacted.
Currently, most requests are handled by on -duly crews at the fire stations, while
remaining in-service to respond to emergency calls in our area.
Fire Prevention records indicate that we responded to approximately 200
requests during this fiscal year, reaching thousands of our citizens. These
requests are handled routinely by the Battalion Chiefs office and are conducted
by the on -duly crews working out of all five of Livonia's fire stations.
In October of 2009, Livonia Fire & Rescue held its annual Fire Prevention Week
Open House. The Open House has proven to be a highly anticipated event by
our community, reaching a crowd estimated at 2,000. While in attendance,
visitors received information on fire and life safety and are given an opportunity to
practice life safety skills. A live burn demonstration took place at our Open
House, where fires were lit in two side-by-side chambers to demonstrate free
burning, as well as the fast knockdown potential of residential fire sprinklers.
There was also an area where kids could practice their fire safety behaviors.
Livonia firefighters participated in a May event held at the Civic Center Area
called 'Passport to Safety". This project was a huge success with attendance
estimated in the thousands. After being involved in the five-year annual event,
more effort is being directed into this area. The large number of children that
attend the indoor event is encouraging.
Our dedicated efforts to educate our citizens are among the best anywhere. Our
ideas were shared with the fire service community in one article that appeared in
"Fire Engineering" magazine, (October 2009 issue), the nation's premiere fire
training magazine. Other ideas were presented to firefighters seen at the
53
website for Fire Engineering magazine, which has weekly featured articles. We
had approximately seven articles appear on the web, showcasing our efforts.
This is the fifth year we took on the project of creating a Fire Safety insert that
was carried along with the Livonia Observer newspaper. The eight -page insert
was designed for elementary -age students and families, and went out with the
21,000 copies of the Observer on October 4, and were handed out to our Open
House attendees on October 11.
The newsletter "Couplings" came out once this year, and we have been involved
in this form of communication/education for four years in a row. The newsletter is
an 8 -page newsletter designed for adult fire and life safety. It appears in
electronic format on the city website, and copies went out with the Observer as
well.
Several informational articles were prepared and ran in the Livonia Observer
Newspaper, to further reach out to our adult audiences with messages of fire and
life safety. This year, many articles appeared in the Observer written by Livonia
Firefighters.
We were also able to distribute our fire and life safely messages to the citizens of
Livonia through the use of the following sources:
Livonia Public Schools
City Channel
Time Warner Cable
Livonia Observer
HOUSING COMMISSION
The Livonia Housing Commission submits the following information on its
activities and accomplishments for Silver Village, Newburgh Village, Community
Development Block Grant Program, McNamara Towers #1 and #2, Section 8
Rent Subsidy Program and Brashear Tower.
[•91 \7 4 ra7l 4 UCH =111151c)CIll W7 � I d•]
Silver Village occupancy was at 100% at all times. The wading list consists of 49
"Livonia residents" and 25 "parents of Livonia residents"
Activities and Accomplishments
1. Silver Village had a turnover of 6 units in 2009
54
2. All apartment range hood fans were replaced
3. All apartments received new kitchen sinks and garbage disposals
4. The Community Laundry Room received new upgraded washers and dryers
5. All the apartments have been inspected and necessary repairs were made, in
order to insure decent and safe housing, whereby maintaining resident
satisfaction
NEWBURGH VILLAGE -11999 NEWBURGH ROAD
Newburgh Village occupancy was at 100% at all times. The wailing list consists
of 50 "Livonia residents" and 24 "parents of Livonia residents"
Activities and Accomplishments
1. Newburgh Village had a turnover of 8 units in 2009
2. The Community Laundry Room received new upgraded washers and dryers
3. All the apartments have been inspected and necessary repairs were made, in
order to insure decent and safe housing, whereby maintaining resident
satisfaction
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT -10800 Farmington Road
The Community Development Office administered the following programs during
the 2008-2009 fiscal year, which began on 7/1/08 and ended 6/30/09. Total
CDBG expenditures for the year were $480,391.00. Below please find the
accomplishments produced by each of these programs.
r1TAUMtr437rrF1TSS7id• MI ri HT1 7
1. Major Home Rehabilitation Loan Program
2. Emergency Home Rehabilitation
Loan Program
3. Minor Home Repair Program
4. Emergency Utility Shut -Off Assistance
5. Senior Van Transportation Program
6. Mental Health Counseling Program
7. First Step (Western Wayne County
Project on Domestic Assault)
8. Fair Housing Initiative
9. Scattered Site Rental Homes (Mngt./Maint.)
Total Served:
3 Households Served
9 Households Served
68 Households Served
7 Households Served
308 Persons Served
11 Persons Served
113 Persons Served
Not Applicable
15 Households Served
534 Households/Persons
In addition to the Community Development Block Grant, $135,523.00 in HOME
Wayne County Consortia Funds was expensed on major musing rehabilitation.
Five households were served.
55
Also through Consortia funding, 4 first-time homebuyers received down payment
assistance to purchase homes in Livonia.
Neighborhood Stabilization funding was initially awarded in the amount of
$591,250.00 on March 17, 2009. After expensing that portion of the grant, an
additional $858,750.00 will be requested. As of July 1, 2009, 8 HUD $1
homes and 1 lax -foreclosed home were purchased. Three of these homes will
be demolished due to blight; the others will be rehabilitated and sold to new
homeowners. Further homes will be purchased in the coming year.
Application was submitted to HUD for $103,762 in CDBG funds through the
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The application was approved
August 11, 2009 and will be used for major and minor housing rehabilitation.
Housing/ Community Development staff has submitted a grant application to U.S.
Department of Energy for a city-wide Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block
Grant. An initial $250,000.00 will be awarded with possibility of additional
funding of $721,100.00 to be received later. A city-wide strategy is being
developed for maximum use of funding.
McNAMARA TOWERS #1 & #2 - 19300 PURLINGBROOK & SCATTERED
SITE HOMES
ra[S09IMI7701aT�T�14 rMO rT7-711.
1. McNamara Towers #1 & #2 & Scattered Site Homes had a turnover of 20
units from 1/1/09 to 11/30/09
2. Major renovation of 148 bathrooms in McNamara Towers is underway and
will be completed in 2010
3. Extensive remodeling of 15 scattered site homes which included new
bathrooms, kitchens, roofs and windows
4. All the apartments and homes have been inspected and necessary repairs
were made, in order to insure decent and safe housing, whereby maintaining
resident satisfaction
The Public Housing Program was awarded a High Performer designation
according to HUD guidelines.
SECTION 8 RENT SUBSIDY HOUSING PROGRAM -10800 Farmington Road
The Livonia Housing Commission Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
assists 909 families with safe and affordable housing.
Fiscal Year 2008 Section 8 Management Assessment score designed the
Housing Commission as a High Performer. An independent audit was conducted
on the Section 8 program and no findings were identified.
56
The current Housing Choice Voucher Leasing rate is 100%.
WILLIAM W. BRASHEAR TOWER. 17841 N. LAUREL PARK DRIVE
The wailing list consists of approximately 23 applicants as of November 19,
2009, for the one -bedroom list, and three (3) applicants for the two-bedroom list.
196 units were inspected for health, quality and safety by the Livonia Housing
Commission on November 17-19, 2009. Annual inspections were performed to
the generator, fire suppression equipment, fire alarm system and elevators.
Activities and Accomplishments
1. Replaced boiler#1 and boiler#2
2. Repaired, resurfaced and restriped parking lot
3. Repaired all sidewalks and curbs around the perimeter of the building
4. All parking lot light poles were sanded, painted and bezels replaced. Five of
the light poles had cement bases replaced.
5. Completed repairs to exterior building panels from May -November 2009 to
correct exterior leaks to units and common areas
INSPECTION DEPARTMENT is responsible for all construction operations on
private property. Included in its jurisdiction is building inspection, plan review,
sanitation and ordinance enforcement. Areas of involvement induce Zoning
Board of Appeals, Building Code Board of Appeals, CDBG, Cost Recovery
Appeal Hearings, and various civic groups. In addition we are involved with
Greenmead with regards to construction projects and/or repairs. Coordination
with Stale government agencies involving building construction is handled by this
department. Plan Review for new buildings, alterations and additions, pools,
demolitions, zoning compliance and signs is an integral part of the department's
function, as well as the issuance of permits, sanitation and enforcing the City's
Code of Ordinances designated as Inspection's responsibility. Inspections were
made and permits issued for the rehabilitation of homes for the Community
Development Block Program. Additionally the Inspection Department reviews lot
splits for the Department of Assessment and reviews site plans and waiver use
petitions for the Planning Department and provides support to all other
departments as needed. We also work with the Economic Development Director
in promoting existing sites in Livonia.
BUILDING INSPECTION issued approximately 5500 permits in 2008/09 for
buildings, signs and mechanical installations, including new construction,
57
additions, renovations and alterations. 10 permits were issued for new
residential homes and 7 permits were issued for new commercialfindustrial
structures. In other activity, 1 single-family condominium unit was constructed or
is currently under construction. No permits for apartment buildings were issued
this year. Mechanical permits (plumbing, electrical, heating and refrigeration)
numbered approximately 2,822 for the year. Residential additions/alterations,
garages, decks/patios, fire repairs, pools, signs, zoning compliance,
commercial/industrial additions, demolitions and moving permits comprised the
remainder of permits issued. 38 demolition permits were issued during the year,
11 of which were residential structures. Perils for Christmas tree sales lots,
pennant and banner displays, awnings, and various special inspections were
issued as required. Certificates of Occupancy are issued for all new residences,
commercial and industrial buildings upon corrpletion. State building, mechanical,
plumbing, electrical, and sign contractor licenses are registered in this office.
Additionally, official records are retained on fence contractors, excavators and
demolition contractors.
The systematic annual inspection of existing commercial buildings for compliance
with B.O.C.A. National Property Maintenance Code 1996 continued through
2008-2009. In connection with this program, 1,129 inspections were made,
violations issued when necessary and compliance obtained. This program is
designed to maintain health and safely standards in the city. In addition to the
annual inspection program, the Inspection Department performs all functions
mandated by city ordinance that requires that all one, two and multiple family
rental dwelling units be licensed and inspected on an annual basis. This year
1,230 rental units were inspected by the Department.
In mid 2008-2009 we again started inspecting existing industrial factory buildings
which is designed to be done on an every other year basis. 293 inspections
were made, violations issued where necessary and compliance obtained.
Additionally, 264 formal complaints were received and responded to throughout
the year as they related to property, zoning and ordinance code violations. There
were approximately 719 rental inspection violations and 1,020 annual/biennial
inspection violations that were issued for various code infractions during 2008/09.
This office also provides the enforcement of special conditions of approval by the
Zoning Board of Appeals, Building Code Board of Appeals, Planning Commission
and City Council relative to site plans, variances, waiver uses and grants,
The valuation of new building activities for 2008/09 is $67,048,450. The revenue
collected from all building activities was approximately $1,644,528.
SANITATION AND ORDINANCE ENFORCEMENT has responsibility for
compliance with the City Zoning Ordinance #543 and also the Code of
Ordinances #1688 as it pertains to the majority of all nuisance and non -criminal
58
violations. These responsibilities include those things that affect the health,
safety and welfare of the residents of the City, such as pollution, hazardous
waste, trash and debris, vacant buildings, weed cutting, including direct
supervision of the city weed contractor, basic property maintenance and
supervision of the collection of municipal refuse. The enforcement of special
conditions of approval made by the Zoning Board of Appeals, City Council and
the Planning Commission relative to site plans, variances, and waiver uses may
also be delegated to Ordinance Enforcement.
STATISTICS
2008-09
Total General Inspections Made 19,453
Building Maintenance and Repair
329
Parking Lot Repairs
10
Trash and Debris
1514
Junk Vehicles
888
Noxious Weeds'
2545
Noise/Air/Odor
74
Nuisances
179
Illegal Signs on Commercial Property
299
Illegal Signs Removed from Public Property
3010
Illegally Parked Recreational Vehicles
618
Illegally Parked Commercial Vehicles
510
Illegal Sales, Use and Occupancy
120
Misc. Illegally Parked Vehicles
272
Right of Way encroachments
230
Vacant Buildings (Re-inspected/Posted)
76
Snow on Sidewalks
711
License Violations
175
Vehicle Parking Snow Emergency las or 081091
86
Sanitation activities included 1,206 citizen complaints regarding the collection of
municipal refuse and the delivery of 839 recycling bins.
Enforcement of the Noxious Weed Ordinance included the investigation of
citizen complaints and the abatement of violations through the mowing of weeds
and removal of debris from 1,155 properties by the City Weed Mowing
Contractor.
BUILDING CODE BOARD OF APPEALS
The Building Code Board of Appeals provides any person the right to appeal a
decision of the code official refusing to grant a modification of the building code
covering the manner of construction or materials to be used in the erection,
59
alteration or repair of a building or structure. An application for appeal shall be
based on a claim that the true intent of the code or the rules legally adopted there
under have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully
apply, or an equivalent form of construction can be used.
A summary of the activities of the Building Code Board of Appeals for the fiscal
year 2008-09 is as follows:
Meetings Scheduled
2
Appeals Filed
2
Hearings Held
2
Re -hearings
0
Appeals Granted/Modified
2
Appeals Denied
0
Appeals Dropped
0
Appeals Tabled
0
All records are on file in the offices of the Inspection Department.
DEPARTMENT OF LAW
LITIGATION
There are three (3) cases pending in the Circuit Court for the County of Wayne,
where the City of Livonia, and/or City officials, are involved either as plaintiffs or
as defendants. Twelve (12) other cases were resolved in 2008-09 either
pursuant to a stipulation or by final judgment of the Wayne County Circuit Court.
Two (2) cases are pending in the Oakland County Circuit Court. There are three
(3) civil cases pending in the 16th District Court. Six (6) civil cases were resolved
in the 16th District Court and four (4) of these cases had money judgments
granted by the Court which remain unpaid. In addition, one (1) case which had a
money judgment granted in 2005 was paid in full in 2009. There are no cases
pending in the Michigan Court of Appeals or the Michigan Supreme Court. Three
(3) cases are pending in the United Slates District Court.
60
Two hundred thirty-two (232) cases are pending before the Michigan Tax
Tribunal. Seventy-three (73) other cases were resolved. (NOTE: Settlement
agreements may have been reached in some of the cases reported as pending.
It is the practice of the Law Department to keep a case open until the Tax
Tribunal has entered a final order. The Tribunal often takes several weeks to
enter final orders after receipt of the stipulation of the parties.)
The Law Department has fled a claim to preserve and protect the City's interest
in the Bankruptcy Court relative to one (1) case.
The foregoing does not include any appeals taken in ordinance violation cases
from the District Court to the Circuit Court, and/or the Court of Appeals, and/or
the Supreme Court.
DISTRICT COURT
From December 2008 through November 2009, the following number of cases
were disposed of in the Livonia District Court.
Criminal Traffic Jury Trials
Ordinance
Misdemeanor 1,651 2161 3
Ordinance
Drunk Driving 279 2
There are three (3) cases which were appealed from the 16th District Court
which are pending in the Wayne County Circuit Court. Four (4) cases which
were appealed from the 16th District Court to a higher court have been resolved.
OPINIONS
No formal opinions were issued by the Department of Law during 2008-09. Upon
request, the Department issued a substantial number of recommendations in
correspondence to the various City Departments, Boards and Commissions and
the City Council by members of the legal staff upon various subjects and matters.
This office represents the City and its officials from time to time in formal appeals
and grievance proceedings before the Civil Service Commission. We also
appear in matters involving the City before various State agencies, including the
Michigan Public Service Commission, the Michigan Employment Relations
Commission and the Michigan Liquor Control Commission.
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ARBITRATION
At present there are no arbitration cases pending in which this office is involved.
CIVIL RIGHTS/EEOC COMPLAINTS
Two (2) civil rights complaints are pending before the Michigan Department of
Civil Rights and one (1) complaint is pending before the EEOC. Two (2) civil
rights complaints before the Michigan Department of Civil Rights were resolved.
MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
In 2008, The Law Department fled a Petition for Contested Case with the
Michigan Department of Environmental Quality with regard to an NPDES permit
which is currently pending.
ORDINANCES
The following number of ordinances, prepared by the Department of Law, were
submitted to the City Council and were adopted by the Council during the year
2008-09:
3 amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map;
5 amendments to the substance of the Zoning Ordinance;
0 vacating ordinances; and,
30 amendments to the Livonia Code of Ordinances.
In addition, one (1) proposed ordinance amendment has been prepared and
submitted to the City Council and is now awaiting Council action.
PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS
There were no properly transactions handled by the Department of Law in 2008-
09.
NOTE: Not included in this report are the numerous transactions involving the
acquisition of easements without monetary consideration.
OTHER BASIC FUNCTIONS
1. Preparation and dretting of proposed resolutions in connection with Oly
Council meetings.
62
2. Providing a representative at meetings of the Zoning Board of Appeals,
the Board of Ethics and, upon request, at meetings of the City Planning
Commission, the Civil Service Commission, the Board of Trustees of the
Employees Retirement System and other City commissions and agencies.
3. Preparation and review of all contracts entered into between the City and
other persons, as well as approving "as to form" all legal documents that
are processed in the City.
4. Approval, typing, and transmission to the District Court warrant requests
(878) as submitted by the Police Division and the Inspection Department;
in addition, 108 warrant requests were reviewed and refused.
5. Provide assistance to other departments in the collection of delinquent
fees, charges and taxes by taking whatever steps may be necessary,
including the institution of litigation.
6. Refer to the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority for
disposition all lawsuits and claims of action against the City which would
be covered through the City's agreement with the Authority.
7. Provide legal assistance to various City department heads and
supervisors with respect to labor matters, including review of proposed
disciplinary actions.
8. Citizens' disputes and problems requiring the advice and counsel of this
office are increasing and require more time than ever before.
LIBRARY COMMISSION
DIRECT SERVICE TO THE PUBLIC
Circulation of books and other materials, attendance at programs and use of
computer-related services have all increased since last year. There was a
significant rise in circulation in 2008 and an even greater jump in 2009. The
result was an increase in circulation of 20% over the last two years. Every month
in the last year saw an increase in activity. The smallest monthly increase was
8.5% and the largest was 25.9%. Internet use was up 10% and website use was
up 18%. The greatest statistical change was seen in attendance at Library
programs, which was up by 27.6% compared to the previous year. All
departments at the Library kept busy with a variety of programs and services this
year.
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Civic Center Adult Services:
An onlineflive chat reference service was added involving the other branches and
the other members of the regional library cooperative. Adult programming
continued to flourish including programs like: Film Movement, Classic Movies,
Wanderlust, Noontime Concerts, History Lives at the Library and Book Club.
Civic Center Library is one of the few insfitutions in the area that offers proctoring
services for distance learning. 180 students benefited from this service in 2009.
Staff finished setting up the basic collection of Book Club kits, which was started
by a private donation last year. There was an increase in the genealogy and
local history presence on the webpage with scanned historical images of Livonia,
Livonia Observer Obituary Index, Naturalization Index for the Detroit Recorders
Court and a genealogy link page. The extensive links on a wide variety of other
topics also continue to be a popular part of the Library's website. Patrons can
still search the library catalog and check their record from home, as well as
renewing items online, with staff assistance by phone, and via 24-hour toll-free
automated phone renewal service. Three years out, the "wireless" service at the
Library continues to be popular, giving library users the opportunity to make more
efficient use of library resources, by being able to interact directly with their
laptops at the same time. The installation of new furniture in the atrium was
completed and has been popular with entrepreneurs, job hunters and students
using the Library's wireless internet service, as well as small groups needing a
place to discuss business or study.
Civic Center Children's Services:
Inspired by last years presidential election, Livonia children joined in by voting
for their favorite books. "Daisy" the reading therapy dog, proved to be popular
again this year and book discussions were well attended, as well. The Summer
Reading Program maintained high student participation despite declining
enrollment in Livonia schools. 'Terrific Tuesday" programs, co-funded by the
Friends of the Livonia Public Library and the Michigan Humanities Council, drew
a record number of attendees this year. A full roster of regular storytimes was
maintained, despite a loss of staff due to the hiring freeze. Partnerships with City
departments and other organizations also supplemented Library offerings with
programs like ELVs (Early Literacy Volunteers) reading tutorials, and the Tree
Lighting Ceremony.
Civic Center Circulation:
The Library began its parficipaton in the new MELCAT (Michigan Electronic
Library) service this year, allowing patrons to directly search and request items
from academic, public, school, and special libraries throughout Michigan. There
has been an incredible increase in the number of items being circulated in the
pastyear.
Noble Branch:
Circulation increased significantly, and programs for all ages continued to be very
popular. Children's sloryfimes and musical programs and special events like the
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"Animal Magic" show drew large crowds (210 people for this program alone).
Noble hosted monthly Teen anime and Wi nights, including a Wii "Rockband"
tournament with 40 teen participants. Programs on personal finance conducted
by experts from the Michigan Office of Financial and Insurance Regulation
focused on avoiding investment problems in a down economy, were well -
attended. The Book Discussion Group and the "Books to Movies' series also
continue to be extremely popular.
Sandburg Branch:
Adult programs included topics like "How to Publish your Book" and "Weekend
Canoeing in Michigan" The library also hosted discussion groups for knitters
and horse lovers. "Teen Driving', "Buying your First Car" and "Babysitfing
Workshops' were all well -attended Teen programs this year. DDR, Mario Karl
and Guitar Hero gaming sessions proved to be very popular, as was the ongoing
Prom Dress Exchange which has given away over 100 dresses to area teens.
Children's offerings included drop-in slorytimes, Mothers Day crafts, Lego Day
and a Dr. Seuss Birthday celebration. "Fun Kits" were added to the collection
this year, offering books and other items with a particular theme to help parents
have creative home slorytimes.
Al all locations onsite public internet stations and electronic card catalogs
continue to serve citizens who may not have access to technology at home,
especially during these difficult financial times. The SAM system continues to
provide more efficient sharing of the Librarys public access computers by
allowing fair and equal use of library computers with minimal staff intervention.
The Library is going into its third year of participation in the MAP (Museum
Adventure Pass) program, which offers free passes to a variety of area cultural
institutions, by checking them out at your local library. A new "Park & Read"
program started this year in cooperation with Michigan's State Park system,
which offers free passes to various recreational facilites. The Library's E -
newsletter still remains popular and can also be viewed on the Library's website,
along with an interactive schedule of upcoming events.
Public meeting rooms provided at Civic Center, Noble and Sandburg branches
continue to be in high demand as a venue for performances and a forum for
community events and informational meetings, as well as the many library -
sponsored programs that are offered. Numerous small citizen groups, clubs, and
associations, as well as other City departments look to this significant public
resource as a vital and valuable public service. Civic Center branch is always in
particularly high demand with the public. Display areas at all locations remained
popular and the Art Gallery at Civic Center Branch hosted a number of beautiful
shows arranged by the Livonia Arts Commission.
65
YSyul rl x-9
Work was completed on the Civic Center Branch Library's auditorium. The
layout of the second floor of Civic Center Branch was redesigned by moving
materials and furniture to create a more open public workspace area. A
Microsoft Office island was created by '7e -purposing' the old microfilm station
and some older computers, thus allowing patrons to use Office applications
without having to share the Internet stations. An area was also added for laptop
users and those needing to do group study. A separate genealogy station with
inlemel access was also added near the genealogy collection.
Civic Center Library's network was enhanced for improved speed and security,
including a high speed fiber optic circuit. New Cisco routers were added and the
local area network was divided into three V -LANs at all 3 branches.
New public intemet stations with the latest versions of Internet Explorer and MS
Office were installed to replace outdated models at Civic Center. Training station
software was also upgraded. Several new staff workstations were installed to
handle increased activity brought about by participation in the MELCAT statewide
resource -sharing program.
Library Drive has been closed for most of the past year and parking has been
limited, due to construction on the new 16th District Court Building. Staff at the
Library and at City Hall have all been cooperative by parking farther away to
accommodate citizens during special events.
Library Commissioners Patsy Girnys and Audette Palmer were re -appointed to
serve another term beginning in October. Trudi Pinto retired from the
Commission in 2009. FT Clerk -Typist Maureen While and PT Clerk Pal Provis
refired from Civic Center Branch and Librarian II Cathryn Huch retired from Noble
Branch this past year.
Significant time was devoted this year to planning for the prospect of reduced
funding in 2009/2010 and the staffing, operational and service changes that
could potentially result. Ultimately, 2 positions were frozen, 4 positions were
eliminated and 1 staff member was "bumped" due to lay-offs elsewhere.
FUNDING
The Library reduced spending mid -year along with other City departments.
Millage funds have decreased in the last two years along with significant
decreases in State Aid to Libraries and Penal fine revenue. The porton of the
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Library's budget that comes from the millage has shifted in recent years due to
reductions in the contributions from the City's general fund and to various State
funding issues. State Aid to Libraries was distributed this year, but once again at
an even further reduced level (20.5% cut compared to 2007) and Penal fines
have fallen again for the second year in a row (43% cul compared to funding in
2007). State Aid reductions not only impact Livonia directly, but also indirectly
through the TLN library co-op that is our service organization. Services from this
source will either cost more or be eliminated. Unfortunately, funding from all of
these sources continues to be under threat of reduction or elimination at a time
when the economy causes citizens to need and use our services even more.
Unique Management Service continued to function as our collection agency,
recovering funds that allow the Library to replace lost and stolen items.
The Library continues to seek outside funding and support to help supplement
services to the community. The Livonia Arts Commission approved another
generous grant to help underwrite the costs of the Noontime Concert Series.
The Children's Department received a grant from The Michigan Humanities
Council to cover programs during National Library Week. Local businesses
generously donated incentives to the Library for its Summer Reading Program to
help encourage young readers. The Library extends its heartfelt thanks to the
many citizens who donated money to the Library in honor or in memory of their
loved ones over the past year. The Friends of the Livonia Public Library awarded
two $1000 scholarships to worthy staff members pursuing their college
educations this year. The Friends continue to work tirelessly to organize and
carry out their Book Sale events and the Friends Used Bookstore has proven to
be extremely popular. The Library is especially appreciative of their hard work
and generous donations, during these difficult economic times.
October 2008 October2009
Library Program Attendance
21,984
30,385
Meeting Room Attendance
64,593
64,473
Registered Borrowers
46,601
45,522
Items in the Collection
327,915
310,983
Circulation
818,193
941,547
Library Website Usage
197,671
241,314
Internet Workstations
79,498
88,874
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We Create Community Through People, Parks and Programs
A strong commitment to Parks and Recreation services is a key component to
the success of our community. We provide facilities, programs, classes and
opportunities where one's leisure time can: become wholesome, where
memories are created, skills are developed and where the quality of life of our
residents, their families and friends are enhanced.
With the assistance of 14 full time staff and 300+ dedicated and enthusiastic part-
time staff, and the Department of Public Services, Building Maintenance, and
Park Maintenance, we recorded:
? 20,597 individuals who participated in registered classes, programs, and
leagues.
? An average of 3,000 individuals visited the LCRC daily.
? 114,694 rounds of golf were played at our three courses.
? 8,400 participants in Special Events.
? 27,557 visits to the outdoor pools.
? 87,305 who attended an organized picnic at a pavilion.
We received $1,550.00 in donations for: parks, programming and special events.
Parks and Recreation works cooperatively with and delivers services to other
City Departments, civic organizations, community businesses and the Livonia
and Clarenceville Public Schools.
Our Department recognizes the dynamic and unique role we play in fostering a
healthy community and lifestyles of those we serve through one of our six
Service Divisions.
• Aquatics
• Athletics
• Community Center
• Gott
• Special Events
• Parks
Marketing
The Marketing Department strives to promote the assets of the department and
how they influence the lives of those we serve, as well as, develop and cultivate
partnerships, collaborations and volunteerism. As a department we are devoted
to offering quality programs and facilities while providing the highest standards of
customer service possible.
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The L Magazine continues to be our primary source of adverfisement to our
users. The L is distributed to Livonia's 39,000 plus households and the Livonia
Recreation Center's non-resident pass holders. The L Magazine is also available
on our website. Other avenues to promote and advertise are through email
blasts, news releases, website, flyers, posters, mailings, Livonia Television cable
releases, testimonials, and word of mouth. We have added a new component to
marketing the Community Center by offering two open houses a year.
Our first open house held in September proved to be a great success bringing in
the following results:
• Annual Memberships
• EFT Memberships
• Number of guests signed in
• Number of members scanned in
• Number of people to walk through
the doors between 10:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m.
64
16
600
354
1172 (this number
includes guests, members,
class participants, and 2
parties.
The Aquatics Division is comprised of two indoor pools at the Community
Recreation Center and three (Botsford, Clements Circle and Shelden) outdoor
pools. We provide safe, educational, and enjoyable aquatic services to the
citizens through a wide army of swim lessons, water fitness classes, open swim,
lap swim, diving lessons, pool rentals, synchronized swimming, special events,
and swim teams.
Community Recreation Center
Over the last year the classes and programs we offered had over 3,640
participants, not including the swim teams. This is a decrease from last year
when we had 4,257 participants.
We were the host of swim practices for four (4) swim teams, and are considered
the home pool for three (3) of those teams. We are also the home of the Catholic
High School League Swimming and Diving championships for both men and
women. We are also the host of the BC District meet for USA swimming. Other
large meets that we hosted include Tri County Swim League championships, and
the Snowball Splash. The listed meets had between 300 and 1,200 participants
each. In addition we hosted eight (8) dual meets for Ladywood High School, one
(1) dual meet for the University of Detroit Jesuit High School, and three (3) dual
meets for Catholic Central High School.
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Special events held at our Community Center this year included the 6 Annual
Cardboard Boat Races and the 3otl Annual Arctic Chill Indoor Triathlon which had
80 athletes competing.
The Lap pool was shutdown for routine and preventive maintenance in April, and
the Leisure pool was shut down in August. During the April Shutdown time the
lap pool was resurfaced.
Outdoor Pools
A total of 199 Community Center Pass Holders embraced the opportunity to
swim at any one of the three (3) outdoors pools by purchasing a $5.00 pass.
Botsford Pool was open June 6th through August 23`h, Clements Circle was open
June 13th through September Th and Shelden was open June 22° through
August 10. 17,934 visits were recorded at the pools this year (6,163 at
Botsford, 8,311 at Clements Circle, and 3,460 at Shelden) including day and
season passes. This was a decrease from last year's total of 19,603.
This year all three outdoor pools received a new surge tank. Botsford also got a
new filter pump and pump motor.
Our swim lesson program had 615 students at the Botsford and Shelden pools.
This was an increase of 26 students over last year. We had 320 season pass
holders. Five (5) different swim teams used our outdoor pools for summer
practice.
ATHLETIC DIVISION
Athletic Services provides a wide variety of athletic programs for adults and youth
of all ages. Programs include league play men's/women's softball, men's
basketball, youth basketball, t -ball, coach pitch, softball, baseball, ice skating
program, roller skating, soccer, archery, tennis and bowling.
League Plav
We offered over 31 different activities for team sports, had over 5,500
participants and played over 4,300 games. We offered the following team sports
for participants ranging in age from four years to over 65 years old. We had over
236,000 *contact hours in our athletic programs.
Programs Ages # Of # Of # of Avg Game Contact
Teams Games Players Time Hours*
Winter
Men's 18 & older 16 224 161 1 hour 6,720
Basketball
70
UAL
18 &
83
840
986
1.25 hours
25,200
Basketball
under
3.
Basketball equals number of games x 30
(2 teams @ 15/team) x length of game
4.
Programs
Ages
# of
# of
# of
Avg Game
Contact
Teams
Games
Players
Time
Hours*
Summer
Co-sponsored
16 &
100
1,060
1,303
2.5 hours
98,300
Baseball &
under
Softball
Collegiate
20 &
5
80
100
2.5 hours
8,000
Baseball
under
Men's Softball
18 & over
50
706
786
1.25 hours
31,770
Men's
18 & over
7
84
118
1.25 hours
3,780
Modified
Women's
18 & over
14
196
222
1.25 hours
8,820
Softball
Programs
Ages
# of
# of
# of
Avg Game
Contact
Teams
Games
Players
Time
Hours*
Co -Ed Softball
18 & over
14
196
218
1.25 hours
8,820
Senior Softball
55 & over
6
90
90
1.25 hours
4,050
Co -Ed
18 & over
4
10
33
1 hour
120
Volleyball
T -Ball
5-6 yr olds
22
176
389
1.25 hours
7,920
Coach Pilch
7-8 yr olds
30
240
507
1.25 hours
10,800
Girl's
10&
6
24
87
1.25 hours
1,080
Slowpilch
under
13 &
Cancelled due to low enrollment
under
Fall
Men's Softball 18 & over 27
Co -Ed Softball 18 & over 6
378 406 1.25 17,010
hours
84 98 1.25 3,780
hours
*Contact Hours:
1.
Baseball equals number of games x 100
(2 teams @ 20/team) x length of game
2.
Softball equals number of games x 45
(2 teams @ 18/team) x length of game
3.
Basketball equals number of games x 30
(2 teams @ 15/team) x length of game
4.
Volleyball equals number of games x 12
71
(2 teams @ 6/team) x length of game
5. Does not include practice time or number of spectators at games
The outdoor Archery Range opened this year on Saturday, April 5. The range
has seven (7) targets at various distances with an additional broad -head range.
Several area Boy Scout and Girl Scout groups utilized the range for badge
certifications. The range is open April through October on weekends from 10:00
a.m. — 4:00 p.m. and on Tuesdays and Thursdays in September through October
from 4:00 p.m. until dusk.
Over 496 people attended the range through general admission and season
passes and the revenue for the range is $2,686.00.
Ice Skating
The City owns two ice arenas, Eddie Edgar (2 sheets) and Devon -Aire (1 sheet).
The Livonia Hockey Association manages both rinks and offers leagues, clinics,
tournaments and open skating.
Our Learn to Skate program provided 885 enrollments. Representing Livonia
were 71 skaters in local and stale competitions. In addition, 39 girls joined one of
three Synchronized Skating Teams. The City hosted its bi-annual skating
competitions playing host to surrounding rinks with over 160 skaters competing.
The skating program touched over 540 different youth through the year. This is
down from 690 in 2008.
:d•]h1L Lit D IY\'Ly 47Y14 cl CVA61 •]7
The Community Center, in its sixth year of operation, continues to meet its
mission of serving the whole community by offering annual memberships, daily
admissions, class participation, league play, community group partnerships and
rentals.
Through all the ways we serve the community, the recreation center alone
averages over 3,000 visitors per day. Since the center is only closed nine (9)
days per year, over 1 million people come through the door each year.
Membership has declined by 2.8%. Certainly the economy has had an effect on
membership. Increased competition in the market place for fitness centers has
continued to impact our numbers. The overall selection of programs and facilities
at the Community Center continues to out perform any facility in the region.
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The Community
Center introduced the
electronic
fund payment plan for
membership fees.
Over 1,900 members
are utilizing
this convenient payment
method.
213
Couple
Water Exercise
Total Annual Membership 12,786
Family
8,673
Participants per activity
Youth/Teen
152
Adult
1,434
Special Events
Young Adult
213
Couple
Water Exercise
1,097
Matinee
71
Senior
floor hallway
837
Summer membership
1,349
Business/Corporate
309
5. Re -upholstered all couches
6. 16 new spinning bikes
Resident
Non -Residents
Total Day Passes
28,803
14,701
Youth
10,573
6,796
Teens
8,948
3,844
Adults
7,880
3,865
Seniors
762
196
Regular Military
459
Free Military (Leave)
181
Grand Total of 44,144 day passes.
Class activity has remained even. Many classes and leagues reach the
maximum enrollment each session. The aerobics program has over 100
offerings per week. Internet class registration is 10% of our total.
Total Enrollment 19,389
Participants per activity
Aerobics 8,106
Personal Training
Camp Swoosh 449
Special Events
Climbing Wall 170
Swim Lessons
Fitness Center 305
Water Exercise
Classes/Leagues 3,315
Special projects completed in 2009 were:
1. New carpel in fit hub, MPR and second
floor hallway
2. 14 new cardio equipment pieces
3. Refinished lap pool
4. Parking lot resealed and stripped
5. Re -upholstered all couches
6. 16 new spinning bikes
73
1,723
294
3,218
1,504
Fitness and Wellness
Fitness and Wellness programming in the LCRC continues to offer variety.
Members can take advantage of a number of services offered by the LCRC.
Fitness and Wellness offerings include: fitness hub workouts, fitness
assessments, climbing wall classes, personal training, nutritional counseling,
massage therapy, group exercise (aerobics) and Livonia's 100 Days to Health
wellness program. We have recently added STOTT PILATES reformer personal
training.
The fitness hub has remained a very busy area of the LCRC. Equipment
orientations are offered free of charge by the personal training staff. We also
offer Polar BodyAge assessments. The BodyAge assessment provides an
individual with a baseline measurement of their overall fitness level. The
assessment takes into account a number of health and fitness markers including
your strength, flexibility, percent body fat, nutdfion, cardiovascular fitness and
more to calculate the fitness of your body. For youth, we offer two types of youth
orientations: Teens in Training Part I and Teens in Training Part II. The fitness
hub has 86 cardio machines, 17 selectorized weight -training machines, 2 cabled
functional trainers, 2 sets of 5Ib-100lb dumbbells and 1 set of 20Ib-110lb fixed
curl bars. Cardio equipment is also available for member use on the bridge
leading to the track and in one of the track corners. Also available for member
use is an assortment of plate -loaded machines such as a smith machine, squat
rack, leg press, calf raise and chest press benches. Another feature of the fl hub
is the Enercise Cardio Theater function found on most of our cardio equipment.
The Eneroise unit enables the member to tune into a T.V. program while getfing
their cardio workout in.
The climbing wall continues to be a unique feature of the recreation center. The
wall has 13 routes ranging in degree of difficulty in order to challenge the novice
through elite climber. The wall remains open for use seven days a week. We
offer a range of youth and adult climbing classes throughout the weekends.
Some of the specialty programs that we offer at the climbing wall are the rock
wall climbing social every Friday night, a Boy/Gid Scout Merit Badge program
and a kids climbing challenge class. The Boy/Gid Scout Merit Badge program is
a 3-4 hour class with classroom lectures and climbing wall time. The LCRC
currently has a staff of 15 climbing wall aflendanls/instructors and a climbing wall
coordinator.
Personal training continues to be utilized on a consistent basis. Members can
utilize personal training as an individual, couple or in a group setting. Members
will typically meet with a personal trainer, 1X or 2X or 3X or greater than 3X, a
week, with frequency dependent on the individual goal. Personal trainers help
members become successful with their fitness goals. The LCRC currently has a
staff of 11 cerfifed personal trainers.
74
Nutrilional counseling is an additional service that the LCRC is offering. We
currently have 1 registered dietitian and 3 nutrition coaches on staff. Members
meet with the dietitian on an individual basis. This service is by appointment only.
Members meet with a nutrition coach through a Lifestyle class. We have
incorporated dietary services into some of our class and seminar offerings.
Massage therapy is a service that is offered to members as well as nonmembers.
We currently have 2 certified massage therapists on staff. This service is by
appointment only. Massage therapy is currently being offered on Tuesdays and
Wednesdays.
Group exercise (land aerobics) continues to be a popular offering here at the
LCRC. The LCRC currently offers 103 classes, seven days a week. The
majority of our group exercise classes are 50 minute class lengths. We now offer
30 minute classes as well. Women on weights, lifestyle/body makeover, yoga,
cycle, step, kickboxing and pilates are a few of our most popular classes. The
LCRC currently has a staff of 27 certified aerobics instructors.
Livonia's 100 Days to Health has become a successful community -wide initiative
to build partnerships with area businesses and increase community involvement
with the use of programming through the Livonia Community Recreation Center.
The goal of the program is to provide participants with simple, factual and
educational information on nutrition, exercise, health and wellness for the entire
family. The program runs from January to April. The 2009 event attracted 489
participants. Corporate partners included St. Mary Mercy Hospital, Dick's
Sporting Goods, Time too Savor, Running Fit, Madonna University Dietetics
Department and Masri Orthodontics. Grocery stores that are also participated
were Krogers, Busch's, Joe's Produce and Trader Joe's. Participants involved in
the 100 Days have access to exercise classes, nutrition seminars, wellness
seminars, grocery store tours, rock climbing and free workouts and swimming on
Fridays here at the LCRC during the length of the program.
Sports and Leisure
In 2009, we continued to offer a variety of leisure classes to our citizens, covering
all ages and all interests. We strive to offer quality programs at affordable prices
for all our customers. Between the 2 winter sessions, 1 spring session, 1
summer session and 2 fall sessions, we offered over 323 classes/clinics and over
34 multiple day camp experiences for youth.
The Recreation Center's Leisure classes include pre-school developmental
classes such as Little Explorers, 2's on the Move, Fun 2B Fit, and Interactive
Play Program. We also offer dance classes for adults and youth including hip
hop, tap, ballet, jazz, and ball room. Kids Night Out continues to add fun and
excitement every 3rtl Friday of the month for kids ages 5-12. We offer 20 different
martial arts classes ranging from Tae Kwon Do to Kung Fu to Karate. We also
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offer enrichment classes for youth in the form of art and music programs, as well
as Spanish language and painting classes for adults.
Indoor and outdoor sport programs include cheer/pom, baseball, volleyball,
basketball, football, soccer, and tennis. They are mn in a variety of formats
including seven (7) week class sessions, 2-3 day clinics, week-long camps and
instructional leagues.
Camp Swoosh continued to provide so much more then just a place for kids to go
in the summer. Each week, Camp Swoosh offered Idds the opportunity to make
friends, unforgettable memories, build leadership and social skills, use their
creative side through art and themed projects, stay physically active and involved
instead of sitting at home watching TV all day, and most of all it instills a sense of
pride to be a part of such a special group. This year Camp Swoosh generated
just under $39,000 in revenue and averaged just over 24 campers a week.
Kid Quarters
Our short term care operation continues to serve the needs of our members,
residents, and non residents, allowing parents to stay active and involved while
their children are in a safe, friendly, and fun environment while they work out.
Rentals
The opportunity for family, friends and neighbors to use the center for special
gatherings is a great way for people to lake advantage of the Community Center
services. The following events took place in 2009:
Birthday Parties
477
School Groups
18
Rentals
617
Bar/Bal Mitzvah
14
Party/gathering
55
Scout Groups
12
Meetings
18
Team party
6
Showers
39
Church groups
4
Company Outings
3
Total
1,263
Many teams rent gym time during off-season training to keep athletes in shape.
After hour outings are an opportunity to have a more private event.
GOLF DIVISION
The City of Livonia Golf Division has held on strong during this trying economy;
much of our season was filled with flourishing business and returning leagues
and outings. We are confident to say that while the economy has prevented any
substantial growth in revenue and higher costs, it has not hindered our ability to
fill our available times on nice days. Mother Nature was very unkind to golfers
this season; June, August and October in particular were horrible months due to
course flooding and mild temperatures. With nice weather in September and
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November, we will end the year with a -1% decrease in revenue. There were
35,684 rounds of golf played at Idyl Wyld, 38,738 played at Whispering Willows
and 40,272 played at Fox Creek. Revenue for outings at all three courses
totaled $74,768.00 which was $18,754.00 at Fox Creek, $23,023.00 at Idyl Wyld
and $32,991.00 at Whispering Willows.
The new clubhouse is underway at Whispering Willows and this project has been
a tremendous team effort between many City departments, TJW Inc, Nudell
Architects, Northwest Consultants and our contractor Summit Construction.
Last year at this time we shared that Idyl Wyld was receiving the most
compliments and an increase of future bookings for leagues and outings. While
junior golf look a slight hit and reduced revenue for Idyl Wyld, overall revenue is
up 3% this season at Idyl Wyld. The product and service has continued to
improve and we hope to see that continue.
We would like to share one fact that we have noticed due to the local economy.
Our business has experienced a shift in the day to day traffic away from weekend
play and more toward weekday play. We believe this is mostly due to more
layoffs and early retirements. Golf is cheaper during the week and those that
have the option to play either Monday through Friday or Saturday and Sunday
are choosing the cheaper option. This has decreased our overall revenue and
has made staying flat in revenue very difficult to achieve.
The Department places great emphasis on special events and programs. It is
our intent to play an integral role in developing community involvement by
working with local businesses and civic organizations that provide professional
input, volunteers and/or financial assistance.
A sense of family and individual pride and community spirt is developed through
such events as; Daddy/Daughter dance, Mother/Son dance, holiday activities,
summer playground program, Partaay @ thee Rec, Tree Lighting Ceremony,
Cardboard Boal Races, Elk's Soccer Shoot and Hoop Shoot, Indoor and Youth
Triathlon, and Outdoor Family Fun Nights, to mention a few.
Over 8,400 individuals have benefited from participating in our special events,
totaling 85,000 hours in which we had direct contact with them.
Event Ages # of Time # of Contact Co -Sponsored
Days People Hours By
Programs
Year -Round
Roller & Inline 5 & 24 1 500 12,000 Riverside
Skating up wks Arena
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Event
Ages # of Time
# of Contact Co -Sponsored
Summer
Days
People Hours By
Youth Bowling
18& 26 2
395 20,540 Merri-Bowl,
Leagues
under wks
Cloverlanes,
Tennis Lessons
6-10
Wonderland,
Triathlon
6-14
Woodland
Kids Night Out
5-12
1
Summer
Winter
8-13
Playground
Gr K- 1
Calling
Program
5-12
35
Tennis Lessons
6-10
6
Triathlon
6-14
1
Nature Camp
5-8 5
Special Events
under
Winter
8-13
Santa's Workshop
Gr K- 1
Calling
2
Santa Bowling
3-6 1
Santa Mailbox
7& 1
Dance
under
Essay Contest
5-12 1
Tree Lighting
All 1
Ceremony
All
Lunch with Santa
12 &
1 2.5
under
Elk's Hoop Shoot
8-13
Contest
144
MRPA Hoop
7-14
Shoot Contest
Sports and
Daddy/Daughter
4-16
Dance
Chorus, and
Mother/Son
4-9
Dance
170
Civic Chorus
All
Concert
Lodge
12 213 2,556
4 232
32,480
1 2.5
1 26
156
39
3 48
144
Wolverine
49
1 1
Sports and
Libraries, Civic
Conservation
Chorus, and
Club
2 17
170
125
0.5 161
1.5 165
0.5 268
1 219
2 400+
1 2
81
1 2.5
50
1 2
39
1 2
109
1 2
49
1 1
150
YEt
80.5
Livonia Kiwanis
247.5
Merri-Bowl
134
Livonia Kiwanis
219
Friends of the
Barn
800+
Rotary Club,
Libraries, Civic
Chorus, and
Youth Choir
162
Kiwanis
125
Livonia Elks
Lodge
78
MRPA
218
Livonia Elks
Lodge
98
Livonia Elks
Lodge
150
Civic Chorus
Event
Ages
# of
Time
# of
Contact
Co -Sponsored
Days
People
Hours
By
Guitar Hero
9-14
1
3
21
63
Tournament
Indoor Triathlon
18+
1
1.5
80
120
Cardboard Boal
All
1
4
53
212
Races
New Years Eve
All
1
3
351
1,053
Party
Sonny
Take Pride in
All
1
3
350
1050
Rotary Club,
Livonia Day
Scouts, and
School Groups
Passport to Safety
14 &
1
5
500+
2500
Various
under
Sponsors
Memorial Day
All
1
4
zoo+
800+
Veteran's
Ceremony
Alliance
Hunter Safety
10&
1
12
50
600
DNR
Course
up
Civic Chorus
18 &
2
2
200
800
Livonia Civic
Concert
up
Chorus
Easter Bunny
12 &
1
2
102
204
Kiwanis
Lunch
under
Rotary
Egg Hunt
12 &
1
3
600
1,800
Under
Pilch, Hit & Run
7-14
1
2.5
39
97
MRPA
Summer
Music From lh=_
All
8
1.5
zoo+
2,400+
Arts
Heart
Commission
Rotary BBC
All
1
6
100+
600
Rotary Club
WWCTR Picnic
All
1
2.5
62
155
WWCTR
Extravaganza
Outdoor Pool
All
3
5
41
615
Wolverine
Nights
Sports
Family Nights in
All
3
3
22
198
the Park
Fall
Lunch with
12 &
1
2
59
118
Kiwanis
Goblins
under
Elks Soccer Shoot
13 &
1
3.5
36
126
Livonia Elk's
under
Lodge
Haunted Stroll
12 &
1
0.25
1,370
342.5
Friends of the
under
Barn
79
Event
Ages
# of
Time
# of
Contact
Co -Sponsored
Days
People
Hours
By
Craft Hours
10&
1
2
61
122
Friends of the
under
Barn
Turkey Trot
All
1
3
607
1,821
Goodfellows
Punt, Pass & Kick
15 &
1
1.5
8
12
MRPA
under
Hunter Safety
10&
1
12
63
756
DNR
Course
Up
Partaay @ Thee
6, 7, 8
1
3
141
423
Wolverine
Rec
Grade
Sports and
Conservation
Club, Youth
Commission,
Save Our
Youth Task
Force
PARKS DIVISION
Our parks are a great place for families and groups to gather for picnics, outdoor
activities or just to visit, walk, hike or use various amenities; pavilions, grills, play
structures, ball fields, soccer fields, tennis courts, nature trails, walking paths,
fitness clusters, in-line courts, playgrounds, sand volleyball courts or Wilson
Barn. It is impossible to put a total number of individuals visiting our parks, now
that priceless"
Park Maintenance maintains all parks, handles inspections and works with us in
providing safe, clean and quality parks that our residents have raved about and
come to expect.
Approximately 330 pavilion perils were issued with approximately 87,305
attendees for Rotary, John Stymelski, Veteran's, Bicentennial, Clements Circle,
Mies and Shelden Parks. Our revenue for the pavilion rentals totaled
$28,475.00. Seven (7) picnic packs were rented.
The parks were also the sites of numerous special events and activities. Cross-
country ski trails were set at Bicentennial Park, Fox Creek, Whispering Willows
and Idyl Wyld Golf Courses and had limited use. The Rotary Club continues to
assist us in park improvements.
Improvements to the parks include pavilions at Bicentennial, Beverly, and
McCann Parks and Botsford Pool, tennis court refurbishing at Shelden and
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Bicentennial Parks, and new grills at Ben Celani, Rotary, Mies, John Stymelski,
Clements Circle, and Shelden Parks.
Activities and projects handled by the Planning Commission and the Planning
Department for the year 2009 included the following:
Subdivision Plats Considered Meetings Held
Preliminary Plats 0 Public Hearings (39 items) 9
Final Plats 0 Regular Meetings (21 items) 9
Study Meetings (53 items) 14
Special Regular Meetings (2 items) 2
Petitions Processed
Amendments
Rezoning
2
Master Plan Amendments
Waiver of Use
16
Language Amendments (Ord543)
Site Plans
9
Vacating
Site Condominiums
0
Sign Permits
1
Greenbelt & Landscape
1
Satellite Dish
0
Lot Splits
7
Extensions
2
Throughout the past year, the Department was closely involved in the planning of
several new developments, as well as several expansion and redevelopment
projects, including:
1) Expansion to the Marywood senior housing facility located on the south
side of Five Mile Road between Levan Road and Newburgh Road,
including the construction of a new physical therapy center and the
creation of a chapel area;
2) Facade remodel and other exterior improvements to the Jo -Ann Fabrics
store in connection with a Planned General Development (Livonia
Marketplace) located on the north side of Seven Mile Road between
Middlebelt Road and Purlingbrook Avenue;
3) Facade remodel and other exterior improvements to the Laurel Park
West adult assisted care facility located on the north side of Six Mile
Road between the 1-275/96 Expressway and Haggerty Road;
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4) Approval of a new elementary school (Montessori Center of Our Lady) to
be located on The Felician Sisters of Livonia property located on the
east side of Newburgh Road between SchoolcraR Road and Five Mile
Road;
5) Approval of a new full service restaurant with drive -up window facilities
located on the west side of Farmington Road between Clarila Avenue
and Seven Mile Road;
6) Approval of a new 125 R. high wireless communication antenna (cell
tower) for shared usage on the Livonia Board of Education properly
located on the west side of Farmington Road between Five Mile Road
and Lyndon Avenue;
7) Approval of a new wireless communication support structure (120 R. high
monopole) within Fairway Park, located north of Five Mile Road and east
of Levan Road (adjacent to Idyl Wyld Golf Course);
8) Development of a new clubhouse at the Whispering Willows Golf Course
located on the east side of Newburgh Road between Seven Mile Road
and Eight Mile Road;
9) Renovation of the exterior of the commercial center (Plymouth Place
Plaza) located on Joy Road between Inkster Road and Cardwell
Avenue;
10) Expansion of the Coburn-Kleinfeldl Eye Clinic located on the north side
of Six Mile Road between Farmington Road and Laurel Drive; and
11) Expansion of the existing restaurant Mama Vera's Eatery located on
northwest comer of Mernman Road and Five Mile Road.
2009 Existing Land Use Quarter Section Colored Maps
2009 Lot Splits Reports — 7
2009 — 2014 Capital Improvement Program
The Planning Department oversees and coordinates the activities and functions
of the office of Economic Development. The Department provides oversight,
guidance and assistance to the Economic Development Director. The new and
expanded program is to lend assistance to business and industrial firms in the
City by maintaining a list of available properties and buildings, provide guidance
through the permit process and by administering to the Economic Development
Corporation. Special emphasis of the new program is to assist in promoting,
retaining and attracting local industrial, commercial and retail enterprises within
the City thereby strengthening and protecting the local economy and tax base.
Below is a summary of the major activities that the City's Economic Development
Office has been involved with over the past year:
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A123 Systems: On April 14, 2009, A123 Systems, Inc. — a leading supplier of
high-power lithium ion batteries for the automotive industry — announced plans to
locate in Livonia. The Economic Development Office assisted the Mayors office
in negotiating a package of tax incentives to help convince the company to locale
its main research and prototype development center at the fonner Technicolor
facility at Seven Mile near Haggerty Road. The local incentive program includes
the City's first-ever Ad 328 Personal Property Tax abatement valued at
approximately $1.5 million over 12 years, along with a Wayne County TURBO,
which will save the company an estimated $372,645 over six (6) years. The
projected total capital investment is $29 million.
Western Wayne County Brownfield Coalition: Livonia is working with SME,
Inc. together with the communities of Northville Township, Plymouth Township,
Garden City and Westland, to apply to the Environmental Protection Agency for
FY2010 Brownfield Assessment Grant in the amount of $1 million. Livonia will
serve as the lead community in applying for the grant.
A&R Packing Company: In December 2008, fire destroyed the A&R Packing
facility located in Hamtramck, MI. A&R is a food processing company that cures,
smokes, packs, and ships a variety of meat products to markets across SE
Michigan. The City worked with the owners to relocate their operations to an
empty 47,000 square fool industrial building at 34165 Autry. For the past several
months, A&R has been undertaking a mul&million dollar conversion of the
building for its food processing operafion that, when complete, will employ
approximately 40 hourly workers and 5 salaried employees. In October, the City
Council approved A&R's requested for a tax abatement.
Establishment of a Northeast Livonia Redevelopment Authority: This item is
currently before the Legislative Affairs Committee and was last discussed on
August 18th. Mark Taormina and Jim Inglis are in the process of drafting a
Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to interested consultants to submit proposals to
complete a Northeast Livonia Corridor Study. It is anticipated that funding for the
Corridor Study will come from the City's allocation of CDBG monies. Prior to
sending out the RFQ, the daft will be submitted to the Mayor and Council for
review and authorization.
Quality Metalcraft: Quality Melalcraft specializes in manufacturing metal
stamping dyes for the automotive industry. Their operations, including a small
foundry, are housed in several buildings on Glendale Avenue just east of
Farmington Road. In July, Mark Taormina loured QM's facilities with its CFO,
Scott Bain, to learn more about the Company and to assist with a planned
investment of approximately $2.5 million in new machinery and equipment.
Quality Metalcrafi was recently approved for an Industrial Facilities Tax
Exemption Certificate.
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The Harvard Drug Group: Located in the Allied Commerce Center, The Harvard
Drug Group, LLC (THDG) is a lop pharmaceutical and healthcare product
wholesaler serving the United States as well as Canada and select global
markets. THDG maintains its corporate headquarters with an estimated 270
employees at its Livonia facility, where it leases approximately 76,000 square
feet. To meet its growth in the next couple of years, the Company needs an
additional 15,000 square feel of warehouse space. To help facilitate the
expansion and keep THDG in Livonia, the Livonia Economic Development Office
and the MEDC are working on a package of lax incentives that will most likely
include a P.A. 198 Tax Abatement and MEGA tax credits.
United Parcel Service (UPS): Earlier this summer, the Planning and Economic
Development Department along with the Engineering and Inspection
Departments worked closely with officials at UPS and their design consultants to
redesign and reconstruct the employee parking lot located on Industrial Road.
AM General: AM General is a world leader in the design, engineering,
production, and technical and parts support of military and special purpose
vehicles. The Company's main Livonia operation is located at the Allied
Commerce Center north of Plymouth Road and west of Merriman Road. In June,
officials from AM General and representafives of Grubb and Ellis, the company
that manages Allied Commerce Center, mel with the City's "rapid response' team
for possible assistance on a project that would allow AM General to lease
additional office and research space, as well as remove an obsolete building in
order to accommodate additional parking for the new employees. This project is
currently on standby pending the necessary federal appropriation.
McLaren Performance Technologies: McLaren continues to secure new
contracts and diversify its line of products both within and outside of the
automotive industry. The Company's most recent discussions with the City,
County and Stale involve the possible acquisition of an additional building to add
to its campus on Eight Mile Road. The new facility would house a combination of
engineering, product development, and back office operations. The Livonia
Economic Development Office continues to work with McLaren on a regular
basis.
TIFCO/Delta Gear -Delta Research: This Livonia -based business is considering
purchasing an existing vacant and obsolete building that would allow the
Company to both expand and consolidate some of its operafions. The building
would be completely renovated and retooled for the production of gears
associated with the aviation industry. The success of this project largely depends
on the ability of the Company to work with the City, County and Slate to lower its
capital investment costs. The final incentive package will likely include one or
more of the following: the creation of a Plant Rehabilitation District and approval
of an Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate (IFEC); approval of a Brownfield
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Plan by Livonia Brownfield Redevelopment Authority; Wayne County's TURBO
Program; and State of Michigan tax credits.
Berea Industries: Production al the GM Powertrain facility is scheduled to cease
on June 30, 2010. Floyd Brown, CEO of Berea Industries — a minority-owned
company based out of Clarksville, Tennessee — contacted the Mayor with an
interest in transforming the 1.1 million square fool factory into a new aluminum
smelting operation. The Mayor and the Livonia Economic Development Office
hosted a one -day visit from Mr. Brown that included a lour of the City and the GM
Plant, as well as meetings with several prominent corporate citizens and
members of local government. The City and Wayne County are continuing to
work with Berea Industries, as well as other prospects for reuse of the plant.
Linear Mold: Linear Mold and Engineering is a manufacturer of plastic injection
molds, foam tooling and prototype parts for a wide variety of industrial
applications. In 2007, the City Council approved a tax abatement for the
purchase of machinery and equipment to be installed at their facility on Glendale,
and last year, Linear Mold sought and obtained the City's first industrial TURBO
lax incentive through Wayne County's Land Bank Program. The company is
currently in the process of moving its operations to a building it purchased on
Stark Road. Staff is working with the owner, John Tenbusch, to transfer the IFEC
to the new address. In addition, the Company is considering an additional capital
investment of approximately $500,000, and will likely be requesting a lax
abatement.
JB Autotech: This small business designs and manufactures specialty machines
and equipment for the auto industry. The Company approached the City earlier
this year for assistance in establishing an engine development and component
testing facility. The Livonia Economic Development Office helped coordinate the
project with the MEDC, and accompanied the owner, Mr. Jeff Bucher, to Lansing
where he was approved MEGA lax credits valued at approximately $415,000
over seven (7) years. JB Autotech has since purchased a building at 34039
Schoolcraff, and has begun operations employing approximately 18 people. Staff
is working with Mr. Bucher and his accountant on a possible Act 198 application
scheduled for next year.
Kokam: Before choosing Midland, Michigan for the location of its manufacturing
operation as part of a joint venture with DOW, this developer of lithium -ion
batteries for the automotive industry considered building a 1.2 million square fool
facility on the remaining 55 acres of vacant land at Livonia Corporate Center
(Millennium Park). The Mayor and the Livonia Economic Development Office,
along with officials from Wayne County, worked closely with the Vice President of
Townsend Advanced Energy, Inc., which is the parent company of Kokam, and
Ashley Capital to convince the company to locale in Livonia.
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Misc. Retention and Attraction Projects: The Livonia Economic Development
Office meets with existing and prospective businesses on an on-going basis to
learn more about their operalions, address any concerns they may have, provide
information on local incenfive programs, and direct them to the proper State,
County and/or City agencies or departments for additional assistance. Below are
just a few of the companies that the Economic Development Office has had
contact with over the past several months:
• BridgeTec Services: Bridge and road repair general contractor (DBE)
considering relocating its operations from Oak Park into Livonia.
• Tooling Equipment International: Located on Tech Center Drive, TEI
maintains a state-of-the-art, 83,000 square foot facility where it manufactures
and designs tooling and equipment for the casting industry. In February,
Mark Taormina and Jeff Sand of the MEDC met with company officials to
discuss a possible $4 million capital investment project linked to a defense
industry contract.
• NeoCufis: NeoCutis is a bio -pharmaceutical company focused on wound
healing, dermatology and skin care. On August 4th, Mark Taormina, Jeff
Bryant and Jeff Sand of the MEDC mel with the president of the company to
discuss possible incentive progmms in an effort to consolidate the company's
manufacturing, distribution and research functions in Livonia.
• Chinook Metals: Chinook recycles aluminum using an advanced "gasification"
process. Earlier this year, the Company was interested in leasing a portion of
the former Kroger warehouse (Advantage Logistics) on Middlebell Road. The
existing 45 fool high ceiling height offered a unique opportunity for the type of
equipment that is used in the recycling process. The Livonia Economic
Development Office assisted by offering various incentives for the company to
locale here; however, the company was unsuccessful in negotiating a deal
with Kroger.
• PolyFlex Products: PolyFlex engineers and manufactures "dunnage" for
material handling and manufacturing process applications. The Economic
Development Office recently assisted the owner, Mr. Russ Campbell, on
obtaining information for fling a government procurement application.
Foremost USA. This startup company is comprised of key employees from its
predecessor company, Foremost Duct, which shut down its operations in
January 2009. The Economic Development Office is providing assistance to
the start-up group that is interested in investing upwards of $2.5 million in new
machinery and equipment for use in the fabrication of commercial sheet metal
and ductwork.
The Planning Department continues to provide oversight and clerical support to
the Plymouth Road Development Authority (PRDA). The full-time Director of the
Plymouth Road Development Authority works with the Planning Director and
department staff in coordinating and administering the various progmms as
86
assigned by the Authority. The Department secretary maintains custody of
records, books, documents and other papers of the Authority. Planning
Department personnel attend all meetings of the Board and keep a record of its
proceedings.
Work on the Plymouth Road Corridor in the year 2009 consisted of securing
easements for the construction and placement of the new mast arm type traffic
signals. The intersections targeted for these improvements in 2009 are at Tech
Center Drive and the drive directly across from Tech Center on the Wonderland
Village properly. Other intersections planned to have these new signals and
easements secured are Hubbard Road, Stark Road, Wayne Road and Levan
Road. Construction drawings were prepared and approved by MDOT for perils
and construction at Tech Center and also at Hubbard Road.
The Authority undertook the task of replacing electrical controller boxes at six
locations along the corridor. These controller boxes were in need of replacement
due to rust and corrosion. A contract for this work to both design and build a
stainless steel controller box and installation of the boxes was awarded to Shaw
Electric, a Livonia based contractor.
Another work item was the letting of a contract for a comprehensive street tree
trimming and pruning program. The goal was to improve the health, shape and
appearance of all street trees along the corridor and remove branches that
interfered with street light fixtures, commercial signs, street signs, banners and
electrical wires.
Conceptual plans were prepared by the PRDA Landscape Consulting firm for a
gateway feature to be located the westerly end of the corridor. The area
selected is near the Plymouth Road and Ann Arbor Road intersection just west of
the bridge for the Edward Hines Parkway Drive.
MAPS
The Planning Department has prepared many new maps for City use and has
revised others. These maps are used at the various public hearings conducted
by the Planning Commission and City Council. The maps are also made
available to other City departments and groups.
GIS
The Planning Department continues to work closely with the Information Systems
Department and other City Departments involved in the development and
maintenance of the City's desktop Geographic Information System (GIS). The
City's GIS is a powerful collection of computer hardware and software designed
to visualize, explore, query and analyze data geographically. The Planning
Department utilizes the GIS on a daily basis for a variety of planning related
87
tasks including: mapping, obtaining land use statistics and information,
generating mailing labels for public notification purposes, and much more. As
part of its responsibility of providing accurate and current land use information,
the Planning Department maintains the following spatial GIS layers and
accompanying attribute information:
Zoning Liquor Licenses
Existing Land Use Wireless Communication Facilities
Future Land Use Truck Routes
Building Footprints Vicinity Control Areas
Act 198 Industrial Districts
PLANNING DATABASE
The Planning Department continues to expand the use of its computer database,
which was designed and developed for the purpose of tracking and stoning
information about all of the various petitions that the Department is responsible
for overseeing. The new database was created with several benefits in mind,
including faster and more efficient delivery of information to residents, other City
Departments and developers, better record keeping, and expandability and
compatibility with other computer software programs including the GIS. The
Planning database was developed using Microsoft Access and includes detailed
information on each petition including the type of project, the review procedure,
the applicant, critical deadlines (i.e., public notification), past history, zoning, etc.
Select information can be linked directly with the GIS and viewed in a spatial
context. For example, maps can be generated showing the locations of all
properties involved in certain types of land use proposals (i.e., restaurants), over
a given period of time. As of November 2009, the Planning database contains
detailed information on approximately 1,729 petitions.
Hundreds of hours have been spent supplying other departments with technical
help including:
Community Resources Assessors Office Historical Commission
Engineenng/Inspection Legal Department Library Commission
Parks & Recreation Finance Department Historic Preservation
Housing Commission Police Department
SITE PLANS
Since the adoption in July of 1972 of the General Site Plan Approval Ordinance,
approximately 1,283 site plans for commercial and office developments have
been processed. Recommendations are made on site development proposals in
order that functional, aesthetically pleasing developments, which are compatible
88
to surrounding developments, are accomplished. Through landscape treatment
of sites, the Planning Commission and Department maintain strong emphasis on
quality of site developments.
LIVONIA DIVISION OF POLICE
Support Services is responsible for the efficient day-to-day operation of the
Department. Prepanng and maintaining the budget, purchasing, training,
personnel, labor relations, and contact with citizen groups, reports to the Mayors
Office, City Council and various City Commissions and investigating citizen
complaints are also important functions.
Tragi
During fiscal year 2009, Training coordinated the attendance of our officers at
123 off-site in-service training courses and administered the stale "302" training
funds as well as the Federal Bullet Proof Vest Grant. The Training Division also
implemented a new stale -wide firearms proficiency standard to comply with a
mandate of the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards; all
officers (regular as well as reserve) successfully qualified under the new
standard. The Training Division coordinated the hiring of two Police Service
Aides, and oversaw the completion of six in-house Police Officer Recertification
Training School sessions, which were forty hours each. These sessions
instructed or updated Officers on Defensive Tactics, Less Lethal techniques, and
Active Shooter Contingencies. Training also coordinated sending one
department member to the FBI National Academy and another member to the
Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command, both very
prestigious accreditalions.
Communications
Activities include the maintenance of the Department's Ericsson radio system
(consisting of over 600 mobile and portable subscribers citywide). The system
also includes its base site and the dispatch center equipment (computer assisted
dispatch terminals, Positron Lifeline 9-1-1 premise equipment, early warning
sirens, cable override capabilities, Law Enforcement Information Network
teletype equipment, etc). Maintenance was performed on the City's public
information radio antenna as well. Other activities include the building's
Uninteruptable Power Source system and its battery bank as well as the proper
testing and operation of our emergency generator. Communications also assists
the Vehicle Maintenance Coordinator with installation and removal of radio
89
equipment in all city vehicles when acquired or decommissioned as well as
assisting Computer Services with the maintenance of in -vehicle lap tops in
emergency response vehicles.
Significant progress has begun in the coordination of the 800 MHz public safely
spectrum re -banding mandate issued by the FCC. This will call for the re -tuning
or replacement of a good deal of our existing radio equipment, affecting master
site, base, mobile, and handheld radios. Progress has also been made into
expanding interoperability by exploring the possibility of joining the Michigan
Public Safety Communications System (MPSCS) and also the feasibility of a
Livonia/Canton shared dispatch services operation.
Computer Services
Computer Services is responsible for research and development, maintenance,
implementation, training, support, and purchasing for the Police and Fire
Departments 300+ computer devices, software and specialty equipment. This
includes desktops, mobile scout car computers, printers, servers, fingerprint
identification equipment, video and audio devices, surveillance equipment,
wireless and Bluetooth devices. Computer Services also supports multiple
networks including all fire stations, the CLEMIS consortium, the emergency
operations satellite communications and mobile scout car wireless
communication. In all, over 3,000 projects, support calls and requests for service
were completed for 2009.
In 2009, Computer Services deployed the E -Citation program, enabling Officers
to electronically issue traffic violations. E -Crash was also deployed to the Patrol
Bureau, which allowed for paperless traffic accident reporting. Working with the
CLEMIS organization, Computer Services helped deploy the E -Log program
being deployed by the end of the year. This program eliminates paper logs
currently used by every patrol officer. All three of these deployments provide
additional patrol time for officers and allows for much greater investigative
research capabilities as well as reduced administrative data input and filing.
LPD Computer Services dso researched and implemented for testing, remote
video monitoring and automatic license plate recognition technology.
A video training network was installed for the Fire Department, allowing for
Firefighters to remain at their stations to conduct training remotely.
A mobile based fingerprint identification unit has been implemented for use by
Patrol Officers. With the scan of two fingers from a small handheld device that is
carried in the patrol cars, an Officer can quickly identify a wanted subject.
A data storage server was deployed this year along with an electronic document
workflow for the Intelligence Bureau enabling large data and video files to be
all
uploaded, accessed and researched much more efficiently than the historic
paper documents.
Central Records
This bureau receives, reviews, and files all arrest and history information as well
as verifying and updating information on incident reports as required by State
mandated reporting procedures. In addition this bureau fills Freedom of
Information requests, discovery orders and subpoenas and issues pistol
purchase permits. Citations issued in lieu of using the E -Citation application are
manually entered by this bureau.
Property & Licensing
The main function of the unit is to receive, document, and store evidential and
non -evidential property coming into the possession of the Livonia Police
Department, in a safe and secure environment. Other work activities of the unit
include the control and tracking of impounded and abandoned vehicles, oversight
of vehicle auctions conducted by lowing agencies, categorize and submit
confiscated firearms to the Michigan Stale Police for destruction, licensing taxi
cab operators and other licensing investigations or certifications required under
Title 5 of the Livonia Code of Ordinances, and holding an annual property and
bicycle auction.
The Investigative Division is comprised of several units including: Detective
Bureau, Crime Scene Unit, Crime Prevention, Special Victims Unit, Court
Services/Liquor Control Enforcement, Internet Crimes Against Children, School
Resource, Crime Analysis and Western Wayne Auto Theft Task Force.
The Detective Bureau responsibilities include the investigation of most of the
reported crimes. These include assaults, robberies, burglaries, larcenies, and
frauds. The crime scene unit is responsible for processing crime scenes which
includes the collection and analysis of evidence. Crime Prevention duties induce
lours of the police station as well as leaching civic groups and businesses crime
prevention techniques. The Special Victims Unit investigates domestic violence
and sexual assault cases. One of the officers assigned here is also our
Polygraph Examiner. Court Services/LCC enforcement handles the daily court
activity and processes all warrants. They also investigate Michigan Liquor
Control Commission license applicants and enforce the MLCC laws.
A Police officer is assigned to the Michigan Slate Police Internet Crimes Against
Children Unit (ICAC). The ICAC Unit investigates individuals who, via the
Internet, attempt to lure minors for illicit acts. The officer assigned to the Western
Wayne Auto Theft Task Force is responsible for investigating auto theft
complaints in the City and also works as a task force member to deter,
91
investigate and prosecute auto theft cases at a regional level. The School
Resource Unit is comprised of Police Officers who are assigned to the middle
and high schools. They provide a liaison between the police and schools and
investigate any crimes that occur at the schools.
The Crime Analyst is responsible for research, compilation, analysis, mapping of
crime trends/pattems and distribution of such findings throughout the
department. This information assists patrol, investigative and administrative staff
in planning the deployment of resources for the prevention, intervention, and
suppression of criminal activities within the city.
Patrol Bureau
The Patrol Bureau provides around-the-clock assistance, protection and law
enforcement to the City of Livonia. It is the backbone of the Police Department.
Traffic Bureau
All Traffic Bureau personnel have been trained in traffic crash investigation,
which is the primary focus of this bureau. This bureau includes the Motorcycle
Unit and Motor Carrier (commercial vehicle) enforcement. Secondary
responsibilities include investigations of traffic related crimes and their
prosecution, selective enforcement activities, traffic crash pattern analysis,
engineering enhancements for improved traffic flow and increased safety, breath
test instrument calibrations, school crossing guards, planning board and zoning
board research and recommendations.
The Traffic Bureau Sergeant is an ad-hoc member of the Livonia Traffic
Commission and attends all meetings, is an executive board member of the
Wayne County Traffic Safety Committee, and assists the Traffic Improvement
Association of Oakland County in engineering projects and training.
Community Service Bureau
The Community Service Bureau is responsible for the administration of the Police
Reserve program, consisting of 41 Reserve Officers. This bureau also
supervises the Community Events Volunteers and Police Explorer Post #213.
The Police Explorer Post, in conjunction with the national Learning for Life
organization is a community-based group that gives young adults interested in
law enforcement careers a chance to experience law enforcement and
community service. There are currently 18 explorers actively involved who have
been engaged in a number of community based activities in 2009.
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The Community Service Bureau also coordinates the overtime staffing of and
support for emergency events including snow alerts, down power lines, and
crowd control as well as special events such as the Livonia Spree and Highland
Games. Uniformed personnel in this bureau worked 8,402 hours at special
events throughout the City of Livonia during 2009, including school functions,
Livonia Spree, and other civic events. The total cost of services for the year is
estimated at $196,270 with partial reimbursement at $92,230; discounted and
unsubsidized services amount to $104,040. Rates are determined by Council
resolution.
Special Operations Unit
This Unit is assigned to the Patrol Bureau and is under the guidance and control
of the Platoon III Lieutenant. The SOU works in undone and in plain clothes, as
the assignment demands. The primary function of the SOU is to study and
identify crime trends and patterns within the City of Livonia and saturate those
problem areas (problem oriented patrol) with the goal of making arrests. During
2009, the SOU participated in 136 arrests, including 80 felony arrests.
Additionally, the SOU has other roles within the Department. The unit works
closely with and assists the Intelligence and Detective Bureaus when the need
arises. The unit also fills the role of fugitive apprehension team, seeking out and
arresting subjects who have outstanding Livonia felony and misdemeanor
warrants. The SOU also assists the Patrol Bureau when needed and is the
Department's first contingent in a Mutual Aide callout.
The responsibilities of this bureau are as follows
As the Officer -In -Charge, the Lieutenant supervises all members of the bureau
and is responsible for the management and administration of the unit. The
Lieutenant reports directly to the Chief and Deputy Chief of Police.
Two teams share responsibility for narcotics enforcement and criminal
surveillance affecting the City of Livonia.
A Sergeant handles all narcotics evidence for the Department and narcotics case
preparation to include court presentation and civil forfeiture actions.
A Sergeant is assigned to a federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
Task Force. He works alongside local and federal officers developing and
prosecuting cases on large scale drug traffickers in the Detroit Metropolitan area.
A Sergeant is assigned to a United States Marshal Fugitive Apprehension Team.
This unit is responsible for the arrest of felony fugitives who have fled
prosecution in local, stale and federal criminal cases.
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A Clerk Typist serves as an Office Manager responsible for daily administrative
duties, records management, employee time records, and supplies.
The City of Livonia has a Police Lieutenant appointed as the Director of
Emergency Preparedness. The Director of Emergency Preparedness
coordinates planning, equipment, training exercises, management and
administraton of Livonia's resources to respond to and recover from major
emergencies, natural disasters and acts of terrorism. In addition to worlang with
internal personnel, the Director of Emergency Preparedness serves on the
Wayne County Local Planning Team for Homeland Security and with the regional
Urban Area Security Initiative committee.
ACTIVITIES
Central Records
Distributed
Est. FY 2009
Amount
FY 2008
Amount
Accident Reports $13 each
674
$8,762
322
$4,186
Incident Reports $5 each
182
$910
155
$775
Fingerprints @ $49.25
205
$10,100
193
$9,505
Fingerprints @ $15
647
$9,705
535
$8,025
Fingerprints N/C
180
163
LCC
18
$20,000
16
$14,950
Purchase Permits @ $5
634
$3,170
604
$3,020
Purchase Permits N/C
44
43
Record Clearance @ $6
232
$1,392
134
$804
Record Clearance N/C
232
559
Public Vehicle License @
$20
10
$200
28
$560
Public Vehicle License @
$12
88
$1,056
12
$144
FOIA/Discovery/Subpoena
1,000
$10,300
1,107
$9,789
Tapes(Video, Audio, CD
105
109
Pages Copied
9000
9059
Total Revenue
$65,595
$51,758
P 8. L Activities
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2008
2009
Public Vehicle Permit Applications/Renewals Investigated
115
161
Taxi Cab Inspectors
14
14
Business License Applications Investigated
79
86
Impounded/Abandoned Vehicles Processed
1312
1283
Property Items Received and Processed
3630
3670
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Investigative Division
Patrol Bureau
Activity
FY 2008
FY 2009
% Change
Total Cases Invesfigated
5359
5091
-5.00
Felony Warrant Requests
368
356
-3.26
Misdemeanor Warrant Requests
836
878
5.02
Precious Metal Documents
2180
2573
18.03
Crime Scenes Processed
80
72
-10.00
Vehicles Processed
50
45
-10.00
Pieces of Evidence Processed
3215
2010
-37.48
Latent Prints Identified
165
191
15.76
Reports by Crime Scene Unit
613
575
-6.20
AFIS Cases
413
787
90.56
Polygraphs Administered
36
66
83.33
Referrals to Youth Assistance
34
53
55.88
MLCC Reports
39
28
-28.21
MLCC Inspections one site and deco
170
124
-27.06
MLCC Violation Reports
17
16
-5.88
MLCC Applicants Investigated
47
63
34.04
Patrol Bureau
Activity
2008 Actual
2009 Projected
% Change
Calls for Service (Police)
35296
43200
22.39%
Calls for Service Fire
8059
7900
-1.97%
Reports Taken
6706
9700
44.65%
Adult Arrests
4282
4400
2.75%
Juvenile Arrests
286
278
-2.80%
Uniform Law Citations
33565
28700
-14.2%
Use of Force Incidents
77
80
3.90%
Vehicle Pursuits
32
44
37.50%
Traffic Bureau
Traffic Bureau Statistics
2009
2008
% Change
Serious Injury Investigation
12
16
-25
Traffic Crash Investigations
449
553
-19
At Scene Investigations
285
207
38
Other Traffic Crimes
32
40
-20
Drunk Driving Prosecutions
276
301
-8
Traffic Crash Data
Property Damage
2,253
2,217
1.6
Injury
586
576
1.7
Fatal
4
6
-33
Total
2,843
2,799
1.5
(Actual yeady crash data from 10/1 through 9/30 of the next year.)
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Intelligence Bureau
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
The Department of Public Works includes the Public Service Division and the
Engineering Division, which operates under the direction of the Director of Public
Works. The responsibilities of the two Divisions are as follows:
Public Service Division — This Division is responsible for the performance of a
wide variety of maintenance functions. These functions range from inhouse
activities such as building maintenance and vehicle maintenance (except Police
and Fire) to the more visible maintenance of public utilities, park sites and
roadways.
Engineering Division — The Engineering Division is under the direction of the City
Engineer and the Assistant City Engineer and is responsible for all construction
operations within public rights-of-way and/or public easements. The department
has provided engineering services as directed by the Mayor, the City Council,
other City departments and various Boards and Commissions, as well as for the
general public. During the past fiscal year, the work was handled by 10 full time
employees, one temporary employee and one part time contractual employee.
The department consists of three (3) sections: Administrative, Design and Field.
Highlights of the 2009 year's accomplishments include:
Administrative Section
This section is under the direction of the City Engineer. This section prepares
reports for the City Council, subdivision bond establishments and releases, and
various other reports; reviews the design of public improvements in connection
with the development of residential subdivisions, commercial and industrial site
plans; prepares legal descriptions as required by other departments; and
provides technical assistance and advice to administrative and legislative groups
within the City as well as State and County governmental units. This section also
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2008
2009
% Change
Assigned Cases
628
635
1.1
Search Warrants
85
41
-51.7
Cocaine Purchases
10
10
INC
Marijuana Purchases
36
33
-8.3
Heroin/Other Purchases
8
10
25.0
Criminal Surveillances
28
55
96.4
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
The Department of Public Works includes the Public Service Division and the
Engineering Division, which operates under the direction of the Director of Public
Works. The responsibilities of the two Divisions are as follows:
Public Service Division — This Division is responsible for the performance of a
wide variety of maintenance functions. These functions range from inhouse
activities such as building maintenance and vehicle maintenance (except Police
and Fire) to the more visible maintenance of public utilities, park sites and
roadways.
Engineering Division — The Engineering Division is under the direction of the City
Engineer and the Assistant City Engineer and is responsible for all construction
operations within public rights-of-way and/or public easements. The department
has provided engineering services as directed by the Mayor, the City Council,
other City departments and various Boards and Commissions, as well as for the
general public. During the past fiscal year, the work was handled by 10 full time
employees, one temporary employee and one part time contractual employee.
The department consists of three (3) sections: Administrative, Design and Field.
Highlights of the 2009 year's accomplishments include:
Administrative Section
This section is under the direction of the City Engineer. This section prepares
reports for the City Council, subdivision bond establishments and releases, and
various other reports; reviews the design of public improvements in connection
with the development of residential subdivisions, commercial and industrial site
plans; prepares legal descriptions as required by other departments; and
provides technical assistance and advice to administrative and legislative groups
within the City as well as State and County governmental units. This section also
96
issues permits for work in the public rights-of-way and/or easements.
Attendance at Council, Commission and citizen meetings is also a function of this
section.
The Administrative Section was involved with the following matters during 2009
in addition to attending meetings with Stale and County officials, and
investigating citizen complaints:
• Coventry Gardens Subdivision Sanitary Sewer Evaluation Project
• SchoolcraR Road Paving Project from 1-96 Bridge to Scone Cl.
• Received Federal Stimulus Funding (ARRA) to Pave Lyndon Avenue
(Middlebelt to Henry Ruff)
• Obtained Federal Safety Funds for Traffic Signal and Pedestrian
Improvements (FY 2010/ FY 2011)
• Five Mile Right Turn Lane Addition and Newburgh Road Resurfacing from
1-96 to Five Mile
• Numerous Pavement Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Projects in
conjunction with the Annual Paving Program
• Completed 2 -Year Water Main Replacement Project involving over 16
streets
• Numerous Utility Permits for AT&T/SBC Upgrade
• Tennis Court Rehabilitation Project
• Completed several Subdivision and Condominium Development Street
Light Installation Projects
• Idyl Wyld Golf Course Carl Barn Project
• Whispering Willows Clubhouse Demolition and Reconstruction Project
• Rosedale Elementary Variable Speed Limit Signs Project
• Verizon Cell Tower — Idyl Wyld Golf Course
• 16th District Court House Construction
• 1-275 Bike Path Improvements
• FEMA Open House held at the City of Livonia to explain Floodplain
Information to Residents
• 1-275 Cable Barrier Installation
• SB 1-275/1-96 Pavement Repairs (Seven Mile to Nine Mile)
• Reconstruction and Widening of Ramp Connecting EB 8 Mile to SB 1-275
• Extension of Merge Lanes 1-275/1-96/North of 5 Mile to 6 Mile
• 1-275 Freeway Sign Upgrading
• 1-275 NS Exit Ramp Improvements at 6 Mile
Eight site condominium projects, one subdivision, and numerous commercial and
industrial projects were also reviewed and/or inspected by the Division.
• Angela Hospice Addition (14100 Newburgh Road)
• BP Gas Station Renovations (Five Mile and Levan)
• Churchill Manor Condominiums
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• Civic Center Drive Relocalion
• Clarenceville High School Football Field (20210 Middlebell)
• Country Fresh Dairy Parking Lot Renovations (31720 Merriman)
• Curtis Creek Site Condominiums
• Franklin High School Pool Addition
• Golf Ridge Properties
• Hunters Park Estates Site Condominiums
• Idyl Wyld Golf Course Cart Barn Project
• Idyl Wyld Bell Creek Stream Bank Erosion Prevention Project
• Livonia Manor Condominiums
• Livonia Marketplace (Livonia Mall Redevelopment)
• Livonia Medical Center (33400 Six Mile Road)
• Madonna University
• Marycresl Heights Phase 1 (15475 Middlebett)
• Marywood Nursing Center Expansion
• McLaren Performance Addition (32233 W. Eight Road)
• Michigan Dairy Drive Relocation Project (29601 Industrial Road)
• Montessori Center of Our Lady (14200 Newburgh)
• New 16th District Court Building
• Parkview Baptist Church Addition (9355 Stark Road)
• River Pines Site Condominiums Paving
• Rosati Industrial Park Subdivision
• Sl. Mary Hospital Parking Lot Expansion
• Sarah Estates Condominiums
• Savile Row Condominiums
• Stonehouse Ave. Parcels Sanitary Sewer Extension (9344-9356
Stonehouse Ave.)
• UPS Parking Lot Renovations (29855 SchoolcmR)
• Verizon Wireless Building (15125 Farmington Road)
• Whispering Willows Golf Course Clubhouse Project
• Wilson Elementary School Demolition (28400 West Chicago)
• Wonderland Redevelopment
Design Section
This section, in conjunction with the Administrative Section, prepares plans,
specifications and bidding documents for the City's public improvement projects.
It also prepares legal descriptions as needed. In addition, this section provides
utility information to the public, assigns addresses and reviews residential site
plans.
The following major projects were designed and/or built in 2009:
• 2009 Pavement Joint and Crack Sealing Program
• 2009 Lane Line Marking Program
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• 2009 Tennis Court Rehabilitation Project
• 2009 Pavement and Sidewalk Repair — Water Main Breaks
• 2009 Sidewalk Program
• Coventry Gardens Subdivision Sanitary Sewer System Project
• Rosedale Elementary Variable Speed Limit Signs Project
• Idyl Wyld Golf Course Cart Barn Project
• Whispering Willows Golf Course Clubhouse Project
Field Section
This section, in conjunction with the Administrative Section and the Design
Section, prepares, administrates and provides all field inspection and survey
services in connection with contract plans and specifications for projects
constructed under the jurisdiction of the Engineering Division, as well as all
subdivision and commercial developments involving the installation of public
improvements.
Inspection and surveying services were provided for projects valued at
approximately $1,840,172.77, and were handled by the division during the past
year. These are summarized as follows:
• 2009 Pavement Joint and Crack Sealing Program = $123,715.00
• 2009 Lane Line Marking Program = $102,983.25
• 2009 Pavement and Sidewalk Repair — Water Main Breaks = $77,544.55
• 2009 Sidewalk Program = $603,677.00
• New 16th District Court Water and Sanitary Installation = $175,000.00
• Coventry Gardens Sanitary Sewer System Project = $587,881.45
• Tennis Court Maintenance Project = $126,849.52
• Hunters Park Estates Site Condominium Paving = $22,522.00
• River Pines Site Condominium Paving = $20,000.00
In addition to the public improvement contracts, this section was also responsible
for the field inspection and survey services of:
• All inspection of work under permits numbers 09-001 through 09-274
• 2010 Sidewalk Program
• 2011 Sidewalk Program
• Lawsuit Investigations
• Drainage Complaints
• Catch Basin Complaints
• Soil Erosion Permits
• Grade Inspections
• Miscellaneous Storm Sewer Extensions (Wentworth)
VZ
PUBLIC SERVICE DIVISION
Administrative Section
• Provided administrative services for the City telecommunications system.
• Prepared annual budget submittal for Public Service Division.
• Conducted employment interviews.
• Administered safety programs within the Department.
• Maintained an alcohol and controlled substance testing program per
requirements of Federal law.
• Provided public relations information for Rouge Sub -Watershed Project.
• Administered a West Nile Virus - Mosquito Control public information
program and a larviciding program for City parks, facilities and over
12,000 storm sewer catch basins.
Sanitation
• Prepared monthly payment submittals for solid waste contract
• Operated Recycling Center and City Office Paper Recycling Program.
Collected 227.5 tons of recyclable material.
• Administered Curbside Recycling Program. Collected 6,350.79 tons of
recyclable material.
• Administered Separated Yard Waste Collection Program. Diverted to
compost facility 28,864 yards of yard waste material.
• Conducted a Household Hazardous Waste Drop -Off Day at Ford Field on
May 2, 2009 - 1,426 total vehicles utilized the service with 1,075 being
from Livonia. (Northville/Northville Twp conducted a drop-off event on
September 26, 2009, which was utilized by 511 vehicles from Livonia).
• Maintained City Type III landfill in compliance with all Federal, Slate and
County requirements.
• Prepared and submitted all solid waste reports required by Stale of
Michigan and Wayne County.
• Continued community solid waste and recycling educational programs
through use of City newsletter.
• Prepared and distributed to all Livonia households a Bulk Leaf Pick -Up
Program brochure.
• Conducted a tire recycling event for Livonia residents at the DPW yard on
October 24, 2009.
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ROAD MAINTENANCE
Snow and Ice Control
• Maintained roads on primary salt routes in a "wet pavement or better'
condition 2417 throughout the 08-09 snow season. Salted primary routes 3
limes in November, 22 limes in December, 24 limes in January, 8 limes in
February, 0limes in March and 2 times in April for a total of 59 times. Placed
4,145 tons of road salt.
• Plowed all City maintained roads citywide (370 miles) 3 times during declared
snow emergencies, using a combination of City resources and contracted
road graders.
• Provided plowing and ice control services at municipal buildings, parks and in
City -owned public parking lots.
• Filled and maintained citizen -access salt barrels at key locations throughout
the city.
• Spot salted water break, problem area and house fire locations.
• Continued an&icing program on select areas of our major roads. Treated
bridge decks, deceleration lanes, road curves and ice -prone intersections 5
times. We will conduct additional performance trials early in the 2009 season,
and if a net cost savings results, we will look at expanding the program to
include more road miles and parlang lots.
Sweeping and Gradin
• Graded all parks, alleys and gravel roads 5 times using in-house equipment
and personnel, and did additional spot grading and added gravel as needed.
• Restructured drainage ditches, culverts and gravel road surfaces to improve
road surface longevity and improve drainage. Re -dug 2,425 feet of ditch and
replaced 5 driveway cross lubes.
• Applied brine solution to gravel roads 5 limes to solidify the gravel and
minimize dust. We replaced the more expensive chloride solution we
previously used with less expensive natural brine for all 5 applications, with
positive results.
• Swept City local streets 4 times, major roads 5 times, and industrial roads 7
times.
• Did street sweeping of SPREE grounds and surrounding area 3 times during
the event.
• Swept all remaining City parking lots 3 times.
• Swept all paved City streets after leaf pickup program.
101
Landfill Transfer Station and Recycling Center
• Maintained licensed City landfill, including clay closure cap, underground
leachate pumping system, exposed slopes, access roads, drainage pipes
and ditches in compliance with Stale of Michigan and Wayne County
regulations.
• Installed a gravel base in preparation for construction of a new salt storage
dome.
• Maintained and upgraded the methane containment system around the
sanitary landfill area as required by DEC.
• Disassembled and cleaned the contact water pump in the sanitary landfill 6
times.
• Installed 4 additional grout collars around underground utilities exiting the
Glendale landfill area to prevent methane gas from migrating off-site as
required by DEC.
• Saved 53,722 cubic yards of landfill space by composting leaves collected
from Iasi year's Leaf Pickup Program. This year's program is in progress,
and we anticipate saving even more landfill space this year.
• Saved 9,812 cubic yards of landfill space by sending woodchips to an electric
cogeneration plant.
• Maintained the berm and contact water pumping system along the limits of
the Glendale licensed landfill area in order to contain and dispose of
leachate.
• Accompanied State of Michigan and Wayne County on landfill site
inspection, made repairs and height adjustments to gas and groundwater
monitoring wells as requested.
• Maintained the solid street waste de -watering site, hauled de -watered solids
to the licensed area of the Glendale landfill.
• Maintained the cardboard, paper, glass, oil, battery and antifreeze recycling
facility per County and State regulations.
• Simplified recycling site signage and bins to streamline resident drop-off of
materials.
• Maintained the citizen solid waste drop-off / transfer area to County and
State specs.
• Pumped over 4,009,287 gallons of leachate water from the landfill to be
processed at the Detroit sewage treatment plant.
• Monitored the contractor bulk brush and woodchip disposal operation in
conjunction with the transfer site operation.
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Brush Pickup
• Picked up bulk brush throughout entire city every 15 working days, picking up
9,812 cubic yards of chipped up brush with 17,412 slops.
• Removed and disposed of chips resulting from slump grinding.
• Adjusted brush routes to allow reassignment of some personnel to other
crews.
Leaf Pickup
• Picked up 53,720 cubic yards of bulk leaves at curbside, provided two or
more pickups for each residence last season. Program for this season is in
progress.
• Provided street sweeping to clean paved streets and clear storm drain grates
after final leaf pickup.
Construction road maintenance and miscellaneous
• Repaired, adjusted or rebuilt 78 catch basins, gate wells, storm and sanitary
manholes.
• Repaired or replaced 18 sanitary and storm sewer lines.
• Placed asphalt caps at 7 locations.
• Milled concrete streets to eliminate heal pops or water ponding problems.
• Milled or chipped concrete major roads in 2 locations to eliminate pavement
heat pops.
• Completed 38 asphalt repairs or replacements.
• Patched potholes on 370 miles of City -maintained roads, as well as trip point
locations from the Engineering Division, parking lot repairs and sites from the
Water and Sewer section.
• Built 6 headwalls for culverts to control erosion
• Added rip -rap to Botsford walkway to prevent further erosion when creek
floods.
• Upgraded access roads to major drains to improve flood control response
time and access for regular maintenance activities.
• Repaired potholes reported on the Pothole Hotline within 48 hours.
• Responded to 1,630+ service requests from residents, businesses and other
City departments.
• Picked up and cleaned oil spills, large debris or lost loads from trucks on City
streets 10 times.
• Assisted Livonia Fire Dept. with trench rescue training activities.
• Closed roads, rerouted traffic as needed due to downed power lines, traffic
accidents, water main breaks and storm damage.
• Held training session for ail Roads equipment operators regarding anti -icing
techniques, using brine with road salt and the new salt application rates for
this year.
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• Assisted the Sewer Dept. in partially cleaning of the underdrain beneath the
Denmar Drain system.
• Mud jacked concrete pavement back to correct grade at 6 sites.
• Restored eroded sections of bank on the creek at Idyl Wyld Golf Course using
boulders, rip -rap and day.
• Changed truck and tractor attachments (buckets, blades, boxes, salt
spreaders) from construction season/summer mode to leaf pickup mode, then
to winter plowing/salting configuration.
• Cleaned outfalls and inlets of major City storm drains 27 times to prevent
flooding and storm drain backups.
• Performed illicit discharge inspections and water sampling on storm water
outfalls to maintain IDEP compliance.
• Repaired 2 storm outfall sites.
• Repaired or replaced 6 accident damaged guardrails.
• Cut and cleared brush from city -owned alleyways.
• Placed and removed over a mile of snow fence to prevent excessive drifting
and minimize the cost of snow removal on City roads.
• Made lawn and or sprinkler repairs resulting from Water Dept. and Roads
maintenance activities and occasional snow plow damage at 340 locations.
• Field -(mined employees for Equipment Operator II test.
• Conducted snowplow training for operators from other departments to assist
in snow emergencies.
• Delivered and picked up voting supplies for 3 elections.
• Assisted the Livonia Goodfellows with their annual holiday food and toy
program.
• Repaired or replaced 33 mailboxes after they were damaged or removed
during various maintenance operations.
• Patched pool decks and sidewalks at Sheldon and Clements Circle pools.
• Milled vertical separations in concrete slabs at LCRC during shutdown week.
• Worked with the Forestry section picking up logs and stump chips at 45
locations.
• Assisted LFD with haz-mal spill on Waco Dr.
• Programmed and delivered lighted message board for other City departments
7 times.
SIGN MAINTENANCE
• Traffic Signs:
Repaired or Removed:
965
Installed or Replaced:
1,629
• Traffic Posts:
Repaired or Removed:
231
Installed or Replaced:
190
• Street Name Signs:
Repaired or Removed:
77
Installed or Replaced:
98
• Street Name Posts:
Repaired or Removed:
52
Installed or Replaced:
31
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Engraved 60 signs for various City departments.
• Assisted with the setups, signing, snow fencing, barricading and traffic control
devices as needed for SPREE, Household Hazardous Waste Day, Passport
to Safety, Fire Dept. Open House, Rotary Easter Egg Hunt, Rouge Rescue,
Music From the Heart, several Wilson Barn shows, Livonia Heritage Festival,
the flea market, the Highland Games plus an additional 5 events at
Greenmead, as well as the Memorial Day Ceremony.
• Created trail markers for City nature trails.
• Updated the Signview module in our Cartegraph system. Added road sign
information and updated data to reflect numerous changes made again this
year from Traffic Control Orders to remove stop signs, change speed limits
etc.
• Restriped approximately 36 new and repaired vehicles with reflectonzed
striping material to identify them as City vehides and increase their visibility.
• Removed and or changed 300+ signs throughout the city as requested by the
Traffic Commission to bang our sign system into compliance with the newest
MMUTCD manual.
• Began replacing traffic control signs on major roads so we will be in
compliance with the new sign reflectivity requirements taking effect in 2012.
• Changed speed limit signs on Levan to reflect new 40-mph speed limit.
• Prepared and installed proposed cell lower signs.
• Assisted with setup for homecoming parade.
• Handled 185 service requests for making or replacing signs.
• Restnped City parking lots, added double parking lines where needed to
conform to code. Painted 65,500 feet of lines this year.
• Posted and removed notification signs at subdivision entrances for the Leaf
Pickup Program.
• Maintained barricades and construction signs for all City departments.
• Maintained and provided all barricades for citizen block parties.
• Did emergency road closures and created detours for Livonia P.D., Water
Dept.
Animal Control
The City's Animal Control department with a staff of two certified Animal Control
Officers provides public services for Livonia residents, businesses, and law
enforcement agencies. Responsibilities and duties include:
• Maintain community standards for Livonia by monitoring animal treatment
and wellbeing throughout the community, and by reducing animal related
nuisances, concerns, and dangers.
• Maintain public safety related to animal issues.
• Provide 24 hour around the clock response to LPD requests for Animal
Control assistance.
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Provide timely response and assistance to requests from residents.,
businesses, and law enforcement as needed.
Maintain awareness of changes in state laws related to animals and
enforce current standards. Consult with legal department as needed.
Monitor and address quality of animal conditions in Livonia pet stores,
kennels, and home complaints.
Educate and advise the public on animal related issues, including animal
welfare, neighborhood pet and wildlife nuisances, and handling concerns.
Build community interest and trust through education, assistance, and
prevention. Participate in Animal Control Community to share best
practices when possible.
Performed the following services for the community of Livonia in 2009:
• Patrolled all city neighborhoods, with focus on known problem areas.
• Patrolled all city parks to prevent or address patron complaints of dogs off
leashes.
• Added patrolling of school playgrounds this year.
• Provided 24 hour assistance upon request for LPD with all animal related
issues for vicious animals, animals injured from accidents, officers unable
to enter premises due to vicious animals, and containing vicious or injured
and transporting animals threatening the public or officers.
• Coordinated with Ordinance Enforcement on animal related issues.
• Transported animals for sick residents, from house fires, foreclosures,
evictions, etc. coordinated with Sherriffs department and other related law
enforcement.
• Responded to over 1,200 requests for service from residents and
businesses. Approximately 60% of these requests were dog related
(strays at large, barking annoyance, vicious, dog biles, etc.), 20% cal -
related problems (ferrel or stray, trapped, abandoned, and animal welfare
issues), 20% injured animals (sick or injured wildlife, hit by cars, etc.).
Animal cruelty comprised approximately 3% of these issues addressed.
• Issued approximately 60 animal ordinance violations when necessary and
followed up to educate and to ensure compliance. The Officer appeared
in court as required.
• Developed new vicious animal ordinance and new Pet Shop License
drafts in coordination with Law department.
• Provided courtesy inspections of all local pet stores and kennels to ensure
health and welfare standards. Worked with owners on compliance and
correcting issues.
• Actively participated in Animal Control legislation. Mel with Slate Board of
Pharmacy to assist with writing regulations for tranquilization.
• Trained and certified over 100 Michigan Animal Control officers from other
cities in technique and best practices for Chemical Immobilization of
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Animals for new mandatory state license. Planned class for an additional
55 officers scheduled for next April.
Hosted Wayne County meeting for Michigan Department of Agriculture
and state veterinarians for 27 people inducing Animal Control Officers
from Wayne and Oakland counties. Meeting provided rpdates from the
Slate of Michigan in state laws, current issues such as Chronic Wasting
Disease, spread of Rabies, etc. This was the first time a meeting of this
nature has occurred, with the intention of improving better communication
between Animal Control officers with State veterinarians. It further
developed the Animal Control community's network for sharing of
resources, knowledge and best practices with each other.
Significantly reduced number of routine specimens for rabies testing to
save costs to the city. Continue to manage testing for cases with possible
exposure.
Introduced cost saving measures, including signing over of cats to city to
reduce lengthy holding periods that accrue boarding fees, allowing more
home rather than shelter quarantines, sending birds of prey to free
rehabilitation centers rather than paying euthanization fees.
Coordinated animal abuse cases with Humane Society.
Updated standard operating procedures.
Completed Professional Development classes in self-defense, handling
dangerous animals, handling and safety of poisonous reptiles\exotic pets,
and large animal cruelty investigation.
PARK AND ATHLETIC FIELD MAINTENANCE SECTION
• Floated and lined all City baseball and softball diamonds, and painted
soccer field lines on a regular schedule.
• Performed all landscape maintenance activities on a regular schedule to
all City Parks and buildings. Applied fertilizers and pesticides to all City
buildings, mile road boulevard islands under our care, and prime athletic
fields on an as -needed basis.
• Installed banners at Civic Center and LCRC for Music Under the Stars,
Spree, Christmas, Hearts fund, and patriotic banners. Maintained US
flags at Vetemns Park, Ford Field, Mies, and light poles at the LCRC.
• Aenfied infields of baseball diamonds at Ford Field and Bicentennial, and
soccer fields at Greenmead and Bicentennial.
• Performed safety inspections, repaired or removed damaged playground
parts in all City parks and installed 640 yards of "Softfall" under
playground structures. Installed a new swing set at Greenwood Park from
a resident request.
• Met regarding Beverly Park play structure several times through the year
to determine its status. Closed it off in June when testing determined it
was leaching high levels of arsenic into the surrounding soil.
• Ford Field ball diamonds received a lot of attention this year. Parks
maintenance installed new foul poles, dugout roofs, safety padding,
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supplemental irrigation, backstop on diamond 2, painting of backstops, 30
evergreen trees along Farmington, pitching mound and home plate
renovations, and new player's benches.
• Oversaw three contractors doing work for Parks Maintenance. One
mowed twenty-five parks and three cemeteries covering 150 acres. Most
of these parks were non -recreational open space. The second contractor
maintained irrigation systems, and applied fertilizers and pesticides at
Wilson Barn, Fire Stations 4 — 6, Sandburg and Noble libraries and the Six
Mile boulevard islands. The third contractor removed 150 trees from
parks and nature preserves, and performed a few special removal
projects.
• Added chain link fence to protect the players benches at Beverly, and
Moelke Park. All ball diamonds in all parks now have this safety feature.
• Monitored treshcans on athletic fields that Waste Management couldn't
get to. Also cleaned dog stations and trashcans in City parks on
weekends.
• As a cost savings measure, weekend trash detail was not done saving
over 250 hours of overtime expense.
• Performed snow removal services for City buildings and Right -of -Way
sidewalks leading to parks on an as -needed basis. This included
shoveling, plowing and salting sidewalks.
• Removed the landscape at Civic Center library, and replanted ten trees
while the Friends of the Library replaced perennials and shrubs.
• Applied the Biological control Vectol-ex to control mosquito -breeding
populations in recreational Parks. One application was accomplished this
year. Also helped with the spring application to catch basins in Roads.
• Removed and replaced fifteen trees around City Hall with more suitable
species.
• Set out and brought in the picnic tables and trash barrels for the picnic
season.
• Repaired picnic tables as needed. Also built twenty-five new tables to
augment the inventory.
• Ordered and replaced rusted and broken trash cans.
• Pruned trees and shrubs in Parks, City buildings and Athletic Fields where
needed.
• Installed 2,000 assorted flower bulbs for the spring bulb display.
• Assisted with all Spree related activities including set-up, takedown and
daily garbage detail. Also repaired damage to Diamonds #3 — #7 as a
result of parked vehicles on the Diamonds.
• Completed 121 'Requests for Service" that related to special activities for
other City Departments (entailed delivering, setting up, laking down
canopies, lents, picnic tables and garbage cans), delivering and setting up
the Showmobile, delivering TEFAP commodities for Community
Resources, Wilson Barn, Greenmead activities, and other City activities.
• Repaired and maintained irrigation systems at Civic Center, LCRC, Ford
Field, Bicentennial Park and Greenmead.
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• Maintained the fountain at City Hall.
• Using contracted services, we completed the replacement of the
antiquated irrigation systems on the Five Mile and Farmington Rd.
boulevard islands. We also replaced the irrigation on the Six Mile and
Newburgh boulevard islands. The new system is automated and will use
less water.
• Maintained the LCRC, including soccer field renovations, and landscape
work.
• Cleared deadfall trees and branches off of Nature Preserve walkways.
• Continued testing vacuum breakers as part of Wayne County's DEQ
requirements regarding irrigation systems.
• Two employees attended the playground safety institute, which re -certified
them as playground inspectors.
• Set up and monitored the ice on the City's three outdoor ice rinks.
• Plowed the Community Garden two limes.
• Continued replacing Christmas decorations to change some of the lawn
ornaments for the City Hall display.
• Worked with two Eagle Scouts on their project. One worked in Golfview
Park and the other worked in Rotary Park.
Achieved Tree City USA status for the eleventh year and received our
sixth year 'growIh award."
Continued the young tree -(mining program for newly planted trees with
both City staff and contracted services. Young tree training helps trees
with proper form and strong structure as they mature. Young tree training
also helps reduce the amount of pruning later in the trees mature life.
Work was done on trees planted in 2003 - 2008.
Forestry personnel removed 50 small trees and slumps.
Supervised the removal of 350 trees and slumps by one contractor,
Patterson Tree Service. A few ash trees were part of the removal list but
almost all of the ash trees we had in the Right -of -Ways are gone.
Supervised and administrated the planting of 370 trees associated with
the 2009 -planting program. Also supervised the warranty replacement of
40 trees from the 2008 program.
Planted three trees in connection with the Arbor Day Program. The three
trees were a yellowwood and two black gums. The trees were planted in
the Munger Street right-of-way associated with Cass Elementary. Also,
450 seedling Spruce trees were handed out as part of the program to the
children at the school.
Removed approximately 500 yards of woodchips as part of the DPS brush
pickup program.
Treated approximately 48 wasp nest, mainly in August and September
with insecticide to kill the wasps.
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• Completed 48 storm related tree trimmings.
• Received and investigated 1,316 requests for service through September
23, 2009. Of those, 1,000 have been closed as either serviced or
answered. 781 of the requests were for tree trims.
• Performed miscellaneous repairs and blade sharpening on the Sections
saws and trimming equipment.
• Assisted other departments (Water, Engineering, Ordinance, etc.) with
emergency tree removals, site inspections and tree inspections.
• Performed snow removal operations to City buildings and Right of Way
sidewalks. Service included plowing, shoveling and salting.
• Assisted in the Rouge River cleanup day. This years event was held at
Beverly Park in association with Take Pride in Livonia day.
• Supervised one contractor who trimmed approximately 6,400 trees in eight
City sections. These trees were trimmed to current International Society
of Arboriculture Standards for street tree elevations.
• Supervised the same contractor doing resident call -out trim requests. Of
the 781 tree trim requests through Sept. 2V, 2009, 500 had been
trimmed.
• Tracked gypsy moth populations in Sections 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, and
22 as part of the gypsy moth egg mass survey. No spraying was needed
in 2009. Populations seemed to decrease in 2009 as compared to 2008.
• Attended these seminars to increase job knowledge: Michigan Nursery
and Landscape Association annual meeting; Michigan Turfgrass
Foundation annual meeting, Arborist Society of Michigan annual meeting,
Metro Detroit Landscape Association annual meeting, Society of Municipal
Arborists, various seminars on chain saw safely; tree climbing, hazard
assessment and aerial rescue training; roping and rigging training and
equipment repair training.
• Responded to 180 tree -planting requests.
• Issued eleven planting / removal permits.
BUILDING MAINTENANCE
Miscellaneous Repairs and Improvements
• Completed 2,123 work orders through 11-20-2009
• Open, closed, and winterized City out pool buildings and pumps
• Start-up, service and shut -down pump systems as needed
• Maintained and relamped City owned outside lighting fixtures at various
locations and buildings
• Perform preventative maintenance on equipment and appliances
• Semi-annually replace all flags, unless otherwise requested; maintain flag
poles
• Strip and finish floors in buildings as requested
• Spot and clean carpeting in buildings as requested
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• Clean inside and outside first floor windows on all buildings as needed
• Clean exterior windows at City Hall, Library and Community Center
• Monitor building automation and climate control systems
• Monitor, upgraded and expanded electronic access and systems
• Answer environmental complaints
• Perform yearly shut -down maintenance and custodial assignments at
Community Center
• Continue to enhance the custodial job assignment checklists and service
delivery program for all buildings
• Test and treated all process water systems
• Assist with all other departmental projects as requested
• Serviced overhead and pedestrian doors as needed
• Replaced pedestrian doors on Water Receiving crib, Annex Engineering
entrance, LPD
• Replaced electric eye openers / closers for City Hall garage
• Installed infrared heater in Roads barn, Water Receiving crib
• Wired new infra red heaters to door switches
• Replaced 3 cooling compressors on City Hall cooling equipment
• Worked on existing Courthouse boiler to gel through heating season
• Begin installing photo eyes on outside timed lighting
Roof Replacement Maintenance and Repair
• Repaired Sign Shop roof
• Repaired Annex roof
• Recaulked portions of Library atrium exterior
• Repaired LPD roof
• Repaired Devonaire roof
• Repaired leaks over City Council offices
• Repaired roof leaks at Fox Creek clubhouse, Noble library and Fire #6
Painting
• Painted all newly installed doors
• Painted ceilings in City Hall bathrooms
• Painted lunchroom, hallways and bath locker rooms in DPS Administrative
• Painted office, locker and restroom in Building # 13
• Painted offices and restroom in Water and Sewer building
• Painted and installed carpeting in Annex vestibule
• Repainted Assessors office
• Painted Sandburg library interior and exterior
• Painted offices in Senior Center
• Repainted boiler room at LPD and painted office and restroom in Building
#13
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Health and Safety
• Continued with Lock Out/ Tag Out program
• Tested fire alarms, sprinklers and suppression systems in City buildings
• Maintain compliance with Wayne County Backflow Certification program
as requested
• Maintained compliance with State of Michigan Boiler and Elevator
inspections, testing and certifications
• Maintained employee State required licensing, certifications and training
• Exterminated or remove pests in City buildings as needed
• Conducted safety inspections of City facilities with insurance control
specialists as requested
• PM and load -bank tested generators
• Reset all clocks, lighting and equipment for time changes
• Clean debris and growth from building rooftops, sumps and gutters
• Tested and repaired panc buttons in DPW administrative office
• Perform required CSD -1 test on all boilers
• Tested all elevator phones
• Replaced water heater in Assessor kitchenette
• Added Master Plumber to staff and certified him in backflow testing
• Replaced water heater in Water and Sewer building
• Worked on Fire Station kitchen exhaust hood replacement project
• Worked on LPD boiler replacement project
• Install waterless urinals in Water and Sewer bathroom
• Replaced domestic water heater at City Hall
• Installed auto -flush valves on City Hall water closets
• Cleaned and maintained sump discharge lines at various buildings
Greenmead
Assisted with all events held on grounds (Highland Games, Flea Markets,
Car Shows, Fall Harvest, Holiday Walks)
Install and remove decorations for holiday and special events
Move and set-up and install furniture, furnishings and equipment as
requested
Continue maintenance, set-up and custodial service
Installed new water heater in Meeting House, School House
Repainted kitchen, rear stairway and new front entrance door on Blue
House
Assisted with construction and maintenance projects as requested
Repaint gate house front porch
Replace furnace for Geer General Store
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Renovation and New Construction
Worked on and completed Fire Stations # 1, 3 and 4 remodeling projects
Worked on and completed C.C. Library auditorium audio, visual, and
electrical project
Worked on Whispering Willows clubhouse project
Worked on LCRC portable generator project
Worked wdh LPD on EOC expansion and emergency power projects
Retiled bath locker room floor in Building #13
Refiled office floor in Water and Sewer building; re -carpeted supervisor
office
Special Projects and Interdepartmental Assistance
• Assisted with various City Hall functions as requested
• Provide set up and tear downs for meetings and events as requested
• Maintained facilities leased from the City
• Moved furniture, computers, work stations and materials and equipment
as requested
• Respond to and perform daily maintenance requests on equipment and
facilities as requested
• Assist with Senior Citizen shows and events as requested
• Regularly cleaned out grease trap in Senior Center kitchen
• Jetted and maintained basement drains at Fire Stations #1, 5 and 6
• Assist with snow removal and cycles as requested
• TA personnel to leaf pick-up as needed
• Assist with special facility projects at LCRC
• Provide service for golf course buildings as requested
• Renewed and administered HVAC Service contract for Community Center
• Renewed and administered Honeywell Flex Service contract for traditional
buildings
• Relocated Tool Crib and operations from Fleet Maintenance to Building
Maintenance building; begin ordering and stocking supplies
• Initiated annual custodial and safety supply RFQ process
• Re-cored/keyed Rotary Park, Ford Field and Greenmead Park &
Recreation buildings and electrical panels
• Replaced deteriorated trim and sheathing on east gable end of Devonaire
Ice Arena building
• Repaired and finished equipment enclosures at Noble and Sandburg
libraries
• Installed dedicated circuits in libraries for network connections
• Completed heating equipment installation in Housing Administrative
offices
• Salvaged usable equipment from old Whispering Willows clubhouse
• Developed annual elevator service contract RFQ
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• Relocated electrical transformer in City Hall basement
• Worked on chiller issue with Honeywell for LCRC
• Installed booster pump for potable water at Rotary park building
• Provide heating and water source for Fox Creek golf course Maintenance
Garage
• Provide heating for Idyl Wyld Maintenance Facility restroom
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE
Responsibilities of the Equipment Maintenance Section include, but are not
limited to, the following:
• Maintain existing fleet of all City -owned vehicles and equipment, other
than Police and Fire.
• Maintain City Transit and Senior Center Busses.
• Maintain and operate City-wide computerized fueling systems at DPW,
Civic Center, and Golf Courses.
• Prep and maintain all seasonal equipment and vehicles, including
mowers, leaf and snow removal equipment.
• Place generators during power outages at required intersections in
coordination with Wayne County and LPD.
• Set up and monitor annual safety inspections for the man lift and
equipment hoists at both DPW and the Recreation Center.
• Write specifications, order, and put into service new equipment as
required for various departments.
Highlights of 2009:
Purchased and put into service the following new equipment in 2009:
• Two (2) single -axle dump trucks for the Roads section
• One (1) tandem -axle dump truck for the Roads section
• One (1) slake truck for the Roads section
• Three (3) leaf vacuums for the Leaf Pickup Program
• Three (3) brush chippers for the Brush Pickup Program
• One (1) pick up for the Fleet Maintenance section
• One (1) 3 yard dump truck for the Parks section
• Seven (7) mowers for the Parks section
• One (1) John Deere tractor for the Parks section
• One (1) aerial bucket van for the Parks section
• Two (2) gators for the Parks section
• Seven (7) Ranger pickup for the DPW Foreman
• Two (2) pickups for the Parks section
• One (1) Case loader for the Roads section
• One (1) backhoe for the Roads section
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• One (1) solar arrow board for the Water section
• One (1) Ranger pickup for the Housing department
• Two (2) aerator attachment units
• One (1) van/bus for the Transit department
• One (1) leaf claw for the Leaf Pickup Program
• Ten (10) Escapes for the Inspection department
• Auctioned off 16 cars and trucks to balance fleet size with new equipment
purchases.
• Reduced fleet size by sending 9 pieces of equipment to be auctioned off
to include our old John Deere grader. In addition to the sale money, this
saved money in insurance costs.
• Established new annual contract which transferred 17 Transit busses and
repairs to LPS to save overtime costs.
• Attended series of seminars for snow and ice control which focused on
safety and reducing cost using current best practices.
• Attended series of seminars to understand the new exhaust emission
requirements for 2010.
• Built from scratch and installed three leaf boxes for new trucks.
• Passed DEQ inspections at all fuel sites after making required repairs and
upgrades.
• Assist LPD in vehicle inspections on cars and trucks involved in drug
and/or money runs.
• Assist LPD, LFD and other various departments throughout the city with a
number of fabrication and modification projects during the year.
• Completed major repair to replace front post housing on in -ground hoist
#4 in the Equipment Maintenance garage.
• Completed over 2300 equipment repair work orders as recorded in the
Carlegraph system.
• Preventative maintenance work (full vehicle inspection with repair as
needed of oil change, air filters, coolants, tires) has dropped from
approximately 80-90 per month due to being short staff members.
Currently we are 324 pm's behind and that number will rise to around
1128 over the next six months.
• Oversaw two-way radios (handheld preps) for all nonuniform personnel.
• Without a full time radio technician we have been removing and installing
the city radios in our equipment ourselves.
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WATER AND SEWER MAINTENANCE
Water Distribution Svslem
• Inspected, exercised 1,271 water gate valves, the condition of the structure
and updated inspection fors, finished the program in mid-June.
• Repaired 77 water gale valves and replaced old gland packing with &ring
type about 6% in need of repair after exercising gate valves.
• Low flow tested, inspected and maintained 1,239 fire hydrants and exercised
the auxiliary valve, started program in mid-June within the, city 36 sections.
• Repaired 114 fire hydrants in the field in these sections above about 9.2%
need repair after exercising fire hydrant and inspection.
• Repaired 147 water main breaks or leaks, which is up 15% from last fiscal
year.
• Repaired or replaced 190 water curb stop boxes.
• Located and marked over 4,959 locafions for Miss Dig system for water and
sewer utilities.
• Made 25 service line repairs for various reasons.
• Disconnected and retired 9 water service lines.
• Rebuilt 12 fire hydrants in shop.
• Installed 3 new water gate valves and 15 new fire hydrants.
• Replaced 7 antiquated lead (Pb) with copper water service lines.
Meters
• Replaced 13 antiquated large commercial water meters.
• Repaired 41 large commercial meters.
• Replaced 461 water meters (meter only) for various reasons.
• Replaced (updated) 325 residential water meters and outside readers for
various reasons.
• Made 4,277 water related service request; up 396 from last fiscal year.
• Completed 3,049 service slips.
• Placed 917 note cards placed at residential homes requesting to gain access
to home for internal meter repairs.
• Installed 58 (ORD) outside touch read device systems.
• Installed 59 (MXU) radio read device systems.
• Installed 42 water meters for new accounts.
• Established 14 new commercial accounts.
• Established 28 new residential accounts.
• Established 1 new seasonal irrigation account.
• Installed and removed 463 seasonal irrigation meters.
• Tested 171 commercial meters.
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Storm Sewers
• Responded to 248 storm sewer and perimeter drainage complaints, due to
higher than normal rainfall this year.
• Jetted 102 restricted storm sewer lines generated from homeowner
complaints.
• Retrieved and replaced 80 catch basin covers.
• Started storm sewer catch basin cleaning, cleaned 2,166 -storm sewer catch
basins, worked 76 days cleaning for SWEPPI program which started on April
20th in section 34; working in descending order November, now in section 27.
• Administered and field operations, citywide, for the West Nile Virus mosquito
elimination program operations placing 5,510 briquettes into 4,395 -storm
sewer catch basins and 201 inlets in the city right of way.
Sanitary Sewers
• Cleaned 220.35 miles in 16 city sections of sanitary sewer lines by hydrant
flushing, power flushing, buckeling, and chemical and power root cutting.
• Cleared 7 sanitary sewer main backups Public Act 222 of 2001 claims.
• Investigated 129 sanitary sewer complaints.
• Televised 5,690' of sanitary sewer.
• Inspected 20 city sections for sanitary lines and structures.
• Completed 3,584' of sanitary sewer foaming for root control at various
locations.
Special Protects
• Administered cross training the office staff at front desk due to staff shortages
and cross training the water and sewer foremen for handling emergency
situations to improve response time.
• Finished updating 36 section sewer main maps to send master out for
duplicating to engineering.
• Updated computer programs relating to lawn, concrete and asphalt repairs
along with new tap list and Carte Graph associate work orders to other
sections for request to repair.
• Updated computer programs relating to Sensus water meter reading system
and hardware for Logos.net web based system that is operational.
• Coordinated hydrant repair requests for the Livonia Fire Department.
• Assisted Roads with asphalt, concrete, lawn, catch basin and pavement
restorations.
• Assisted the Engineering Department with water main and fire hydrant
replacement and completed projects for 2009 and planned 2010 water main
and sanitary sewer replacement programs.
• Continue working on updating the water slop box location, seasonal meter
stop box location and contact information in MS Access database.
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• Administered and inspected 17 water taps made by water section contractor
(17 -new construction).
• Administered and field inspection of 148 O.S.D.S. (septic systems) in
conjunction with the SWEPPI storm water annual report for the MDEQ.
• Helped with flow tests for water model, SCADA system and flow test with
Livonia Fire Department and water main replacement program that was
installed in 2009 and proposed for 2010 water master plan program.
• Assisted with hydro -excavation for the installation methane containment
system around landfill area as required by DEQ.
• Assisted with leachate system for the landfill to be processed at the Detroit
sewage treatment plant.
• Worked on inventory updating pacing database for future software changes to
take place with Carte Graph 7.0 a upgrade.
• Assisted Engineering with sidewalk, driveway approaches and major road
replacement projects.
• Worked with various contractors for road, water and sewer main installations
and repairs.
• Rebuilt the PRV # 4-16" completed on Friday July 3V 2008, completely
rebuilding the pressure regulating valve that is located at Eight Mile and
Newburgh Roads in DWSD LV -12 meter pit.
• Rebuilt the PRV # 6-10" completed on Wednesday October 7th 2008,
completely rebuilding the pressure regulating valve that is located at Seven
Mile and Newburgh Roads in underground vault.
• Checked road structures before road improvements and cleaned catch basins
after completion.
• I.D.E.P. Illicit Discharge Elimination Program inspections of storm sewer
outfall sampling and GIS mapping program.
• Assisted with water activities for the Livonia Spree, Race for the Cure and
other activities.
• Continue the replacement program for antiquated large commercial
compound Badger and Rockwell water meters.
• Continue with the replacement program for antiquated large commercial
piston type Badger and Rockwell water meters.
• Responded to 4 illicit discharge complaints and 2 emergency spill hazards on
public right of way.
• Finished updating 36 section water main maps to send master out for
duplicating to engineering.
• Received approval for the US EPA mandated water -sampling report for the
Disinfection By -Products (DBP) Program.
• Received approval for the M.D.E.Q. mandated Lead and Copper water
sampling program this year, next monitoring period JuneV 2011 to
September 30th 2011.
• Received approval for the M.D.E.Q. mandated Sanitary Sewer Operation and
Maintenance Program this year, next report due period January 15th 2010.
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In addition to the operation and maintenance of the public water distribution and
sewer collection systems, these sections are also responsible for the fielding
complaints, field inspection, and investigation services of:
• Assisting Engineering under permits numbers 09-001 through 09-274
• 2009 Pavement and Sidewalk Repair—Water Main Breaks
• 2009 Sidewalk Program
• New 16th District Court Water and Sanitary Installation
• Whispering Willows Golf Course Clubhouse Project
• Idyl Wyld Golf Course Carl Barn Project
• Coventry Gardens Sanitary Sewer System Project
• Tennis Court Maintenance Project
• Hunters Park Estates Site Condominium Paving
• River Pines Site Condominium Paving
• Lawsuit Investigations
• Storm Drainage and Catch Basin Complaints
• Soil Erosion and Grade Complaints
• 2010 Sidewalk Program
• 2011 Sidewalk Program
• Miscellaneous Programs as needed
The Traffic Commission is responsible for the planning, coordination, and
determination of proposed traffic control devices to improve traffic flow and to
provide maximum safety for all drivers, pedestrians, and property.
As provided by the City Charter, the Commission consists of seven citizens who
are appointed by the Mayor. The Commission meets once a month to discuss
and implement traffic control measures which have been brought to their
attention by citizens, as well as other City departments. The Commissioners
work in conjunction with the Traffic Bureau of the Police Department.
SIGNIFICANT ISSUES IN 2009
As with previous years, the main issue facing the Traffic Commission in 2008
related to the updating of traffic control devices along existing city streets in order
to comply with the Michigan Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices
(MMUTCD). This project began three years ago under Chairman Ian Wilshaw,
continued under Chairman Kevin Priddy, and then under the current
Chairmanship of Joe Steele.
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Over the course of the last year, in coordination with the Livonia Police Traffic
Bureau and the support of the City Council and Administration, the Commission
completed this project. In 2009, the Commission approved 28 new Traffic
Control Orders and studied and evaluated nearly 50 intersections.
Both the Commissioners and Livonia Sgt. Dave Studt deserve a tremendous
amount of credit for the amount of time and work they have put in during this
three-year project.
As in previous years, some of the intersection changes we implemented caused
some concern among local residents.
We have continued to implement the plan, as directed by the City Council and
the previous administration, to make residents aware of pending traffic control
device changes in their immediate area. This plan was originally developed in
response to some citizen complaints about lack of notification when changes
were being made to signage in their neighborhoods.
Throughout the year, concerned citizens and the Police Department bring issues
from placement of informational signs (Handicapped Child in Area for example),
review of existing signage, and requests for placement/removal of existing signs
to the attention of the Commission.
Some other areas we modified, included
Increasing the speed limit on Levan Road south of 5 Mile
Removing No Parking signs on Levan and Newburgh roads
Eliminating double -right turns to northbound Farmington and
Middlebell roads from SchoolcreR to reduce broadside crashes
We continue to monitor areas we have modified, specifically near schools and
new developments.
The Commission continues to work wth the TIA to obtain expert opinion and
guidance on traffic concerns in the community. Several individual agenda items
were referred to the TIA by the Commission during 2009, and was requested to
provide crash data for specific intersections related to agenda items.
The TIA has proven to be an invaluable resource to the Commission, especially
when reviewing and researching some of the more controversial and
troublesome intersections in the city.
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Furthermore, the TIA provided the Commission with traffic count data for all
major streets in Livonia, along with a report summarizing crash information for
major City intersections.
CONCLUSION
We believe the recent work done, jointly with the TIA and Sgt. Dave Sludl of the
Livonia Police Traffic Bureau, has been beneficial to the city and its residents.
The Traffic Commission will continue to monitor the changes it has made over
the past three years and adjust, if needed, accordingly.
The Commission will also continue to monitor traffic and parking conditions within
the City, and will be particularly concerned with monitoring areas of re-
development and construction.
The Commission will also continue to meet with citizens and business owners to
jointly address traffic and parking cencems and to act to alleviate dangerous
conditions. Ongoing monitoring of traffic concerns by this Commission will
ensure that Livonia's streets and highways will continue to be safe and well
maintained.
This Commission is a group the city should be proud of, and we will continue to
do everything we can to keep Livonia's streets and residents safe.
TREASURER
The Treasurers Department is responsible for collection, disbursement and
custody of all revenues belonging to and held in trust by the City. All funds
collected by City agencies are transmitted to the Treasurer, vented and recorded
through cash receipting, deposited and reported daily to the Finance Department.
In addition, the Treasurer's Office, on instruction from the Finance Director,
transmits instructions for the daily investment of City funds among City banks to
maximize the interest on its holdings.
The Treasurers Office has strict procedures in place regarding the handling of
City funds. All departments issue numbered receipts and timely deliver collected
funds to the Treasurers Office for processing. Large checks are deposited
immediately to yield a higher rate of interest.
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ADMINISTRATION
Beginning with the 2009 summer tax season, the Treasurers Department
changed the process for printing and mailing tax bills. These changes allow for
better control of information printed on the front side of the tax bill which enabled
the department to print additional information right on the bill rather than include
an additional insert with the tax bill. The Treasurers Department utilized a local
printing and mailing company with capabilities to reduce the mailing costs
considerably and increase the efficiency of mailing within our required
parameters. By utilizing the tax bill printing aspect of the BS&A Tax Software, we
are able to print receipts on regular copy paper, print copies of prior year tax bills
deleting the need for printing office copies of bills, and print information on the tax
bill pertinent to the individual taxpayer. The anticipated savings for the current
tax year in comparison to 2008 is approximately $6,100.
This year the Treasurer's Office opened on Saturday, February 28, to enhance
our customer service capabilities. The extended hours were announced on City
Channel 8, posted on the City's website, and in the Livonia Observer. The
Treasurer's Office anticipates future Saturday hours as due dales for property
taxes necessitate.
The Treasurer's Office once again sent letters to real and personal property
taxpayers whose taxes for the 2008 lax year had not been paid by February 15,
2009. A total of 3,794 letters were mailed to real and personal property
taxpayers.
4,137 letters were also mailed to real & personal property taxpayers after the due
dale for the summer 2009 season.
In 2002, the Treasurer's Office initialed the practice of mailing letters to notify
Livonia property owners that their property was listed in the Wayne County
Treasurer's Office court petition to foreclose on their property for delinquent real
property taxes. In 2009, the City of Livonia Treasurer sent out 28 such notices,
as compared to 97 notices in 2008, 54 notices in 2007, 33 notices in 2006, 45
notices in 2005, 89 notices in 2004, and 113 notices in 2003. As a result of this
effort, the Wayne County Treasurer sold no Livonia parcels at tax auction in
2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, or 2004.
The Treasurer's Office is responsible for monitoring and maintaining the files on
bankruptcy cases. Proof of Claims for personal property taxes are fled with the
courts by the City Treasurer. In 2009, 15 businesses with locations in Livonia
fled for bankruptcy protection as compared to 6 businesses in 2008, 11
businesses in 2007, 8 businesses in 2006, and 8 businesses in 2005.
The Treasurers Office filed 16 personal property jeopardy tax bills with the
Wayne County Register of Deeds for 2009. In 2008, we issued 52 personal
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property jeopardy tax bills, 8 jeopardy tax bills in 2007 and 11 jeopardy tax bills in
2006.
Applications for electronic fund debit for tax payments are available on line, on
the City's Website and also by request. This year we have seen a slight
decrease in the number of taxpayers utilizing electronic funds transfer for
payment of lax bills, possibly due to the foreclosure rale. During the summer
2009 season, 2,292 taxpayers participated in this convenient and no -cost service
as compared to 2,360 during the summer of 2008, 2,317 during the summer of
2007, 2,281 during the summer of 2006, 2,223 during the summer of 2005, 1,903
during the summer of 2004, 1,819 during the summer of 2003, 1,417 during the
summer of 2002, and 664 taxpayers during the summer 2001 tax season, with
approximately the same number of taxpayers in the same winter tax season.
Tax bills can be paid with a credit card through Official Payments Corporation,
and this information is printed on our tax bills and on the City's website. There is
a convenience fee collected and retained by Official Payments Corporation for
this service. There is no cost to the City of Livonia for this service to be offered
to the residents. During 2009, 394 taxpayers utilized this option, as compared to
452 taxpayers in 2008, 431 taxpayers in 2007, 399 taxpayers during 2006, 340
taxpayers during 2005 and 216 taxpayers during 2004.
TAX COLLECTIONS
There are 45,315 taxpayers in the City, the breakdown is as follows
2006 2007 2008 2009
Real Property 39,684 39,863 39,791 39,719
Personal Property 4,443 4,337 4,979 5,453
IFF 76 78 72 66
44,203 44,278 44,842 45,315
Sixty seven percent of residents are responsible for paying their own property tax
bills. Mortgage companies pay 33% of the real property lax bills.
The tax levy breakdown is as follows (includes Real, Personal, & IFF for 2008
Winter and 2009 Summer):
REAL PERSONAL IFF TOTAL
City of Livonia 51,095,745 6,176,834 722,954 57,995,533
Livonia Public Schools
Operating 23,960,106 2,153,208 276,400 26,389,714
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Debt
11,060,272
1,537,693
155,679 12,753,644
Supplemental Tax
1,221,437
250,712
18,649 1,490,798
Wayne Cty
Intermediate
School District
14,287,656
2,171,653
189,024 16,648,333
Clarenceville Schools
Operating
1,323,884
77,785
0 1,401,669
Debt
1,021,294
41,335
0 1,062,629
Supplemental Tax
94,270
4,475
0 98,745
Oakland Intermediate
School District
764,599
30,945
0 795,544
Slate Education Tax
26,107,583
1,666,905
84,613 27,859,101
Schoolcratl Comm
Coll
7,817,717
1,140,784
71,798 9,030,299
Wayne County
28,999,164
4,127,202
370,759 33,497,125
Wayne County Jail
4,191,554
506,710
59,303 4,757,567
Wayne County Parks
1,098,565
132,804
15,540 1,246,909
Huron Clinton Metro
Aulh
958,707
115,899
13,567 1,088,173
Zoo Authority
446,656
54,003
6,322 506,981
Special Assessments
2,310,877
0
0 2,310,877
TOTAL
176,760,086
20,188,947
1,984,608 198,933,641
The total number of original
lax bills mailed
for Summer
and Winter was 91,565.
Delinquent Tax Collections
Our personal delinquent
property taxes,
penalty and interest
collected from 12-1-
08 through 11-16-09 were $782,007.17.
The collections breakdown is as follows:
Personal Property
Tax Year Tax Year Tax Year Tax Year
Amount Due as
2005 2006 2007
2008 ( 3/1/2009)
Of 12/01/2008 1,441407 951,023 1,072,922 904472
Amount Collected
This Year
$78,140 $183,337
$209,327 $232,669
Invoices for Council authorized weed cuttings are mailed to taxpayers as well as
any special assessments approved during the year. The Treasurer's Office
records payment on these assessments and any unpaid amounts are added to
lax bills at year-end. In 2009, the Treasurers office issued 1,142 invoices for
weed bills, as compared to 1,195 for 2008, 1,084 for 2007, 631 for 2006, 557 for
2005 and 512 for 2004.
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TELLER COLLECTIONS
The Treasurer's two tellers processed $238,351,852 in cash, checks, and credit
cards for the following items during the course of conducting City business:
property taxes, water bills, the greens fees for the City's three municipal golf
courses, Livonia Community Recreation Center memberships and fees, park
permits, fees for swimming and skating, amusement park ticket sales,
registration fees for Parks and Recreation league sports, inspection and
engineering permit and bond fees, licenses, the fees for the City's three libraries.
Police Department adjudicated, non -adjudicated drug and D.A.R.E. funds, fees
for City sponsored special events such as the Highland Games and the Arts &
Craft fair, false alarm charges, accounts receivable items, SMART bus ticket
sales, City garage sale, fees for using the City Dump, Police auction, rent
payments for Silver Village, Newburgh Village, MacNamara Towers and city -
owned homes, record duplication fees, etc. Of the amounts collected,
$46,303,774 was for the general deposit items and $192,048,077 was for
property taxes. The tellers also receive walk-in water payments from residents.
During this fiscal year, 10,171 water payments were processed by the
Treasurers Office. The busiest day was December 16, 2008 with 194 water bills
being processed. The average amount of water bills processed was 41 per day.
Due to the changes in receipting water bill payments over the last year, the total
dollars collected were processed along with the Water Department's deposits.
DISBURSEMENTS
All payroll and payable checks are released through the Treasurers Office on
approval of the Finance Director and the City Clerk (internal auditor).
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# of Parcels
$ Amount
# of Parcels
$Amount
Billed on
Billed On
Billed On
Billed On
2008 Taxes
2008 Taxes
2009 Taxes
2009 Taxes
Special Assessment Districts
Sidewalk
134
$ 66,117
105
$ 32,220
Paving
298
$ 80,361
261
$ 58,938
Lighting
13,770
$ 889,006
15,909
$ 950,354
Weeds
366
$ 39,804
284
$ 42,388
Dlgl Water
1 742
$1,227.99
1 742
$1,472.27
16,310
$2,303,285
16,310
$2,556,180
TELLER COLLECTIONS
The Treasurer's two tellers processed $238,351,852 in cash, checks, and credit
cards for the following items during the course of conducting City business:
property taxes, water bills, the greens fees for the City's three municipal golf
courses, Livonia Community Recreation Center memberships and fees, park
permits, fees for swimming and skating, amusement park ticket sales,
registration fees for Parks and Recreation league sports, inspection and
engineering permit and bond fees, licenses, the fees for the City's three libraries.
Police Department adjudicated, non -adjudicated drug and D.A.R.E. funds, fees
for City sponsored special events such as the Highland Games and the Arts &
Craft fair, false alarm charges, accounts receivable items, SMART bus ticket
sales, City garage sale, fees for using the City Dump, Police auction, rent
payments for Silver Village, Newburgh Village, MacNamara Towers and city -
owned homes, record duplication fees, etc. Of the amounts collected,
$46,303,774 was for the general deposit items and $192,048,077 was for
property taxes. The tellers also receive walk-in water payments from residents.
During this fiscal year, 10,171 water payments were processed by the
Treasurers Office. The busiest day was December 16, 2008 with 194 water bills
being processed. The average amount of water bills processed was 41 per day.
Due to the changes in receipting water bill payments over the last year, the total
dollars collected were processed along with the Water Department's deposits.
DISBURSEMENTS
All payroll and payable checks are released through the Treasurers Office on
approval of the Finance Director and the City Clerk (internal auditor).
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2007 2008 2009
Payroll Checks 27,952 35,007 35,727
Vendor Checks -City 15,279 15,446 13,959
Vendor Checks -Court 1,808 1,842 2,139
The Zoning Board of Appeals is a seven (7) member Board created by Slate
statute and Zoning Ordinance No. 543, as amended, City of Livonia. The Board
hears appeals from residential and business property owners when they are
unable to comply with ordinance requirements and are rejected permits by the
Inspection Department. The Board meets on Tuesday evenings at 7:00 p.m.
The following is a breakdown of the Appeal Cases prepared and heard by the
Zoning Board of Appeals during the fiscal year December 1, 2008 through
November 30, 2009.
Granted with Tabled or
Granted Denied Modifications' Postponed***
Total
New Cases 28 2 1 13
44
Rehearings 1 0 0 1
2
Actual Cases Heard
46
Prepared and Scheduled"
3
No Further Action..«
1
Total Cases Heard and Prepared
50
Induces Cases which were Granted in Part/Denied in Part
Meeting material was prepared more than once, but for various
reasons
(Petitioner did not appear, asked to be rescheduled, etc.) these
cases
were not heard at the first scheduled meeting.
Meeting material was prepared and Board heard case at meeting
and
made a decision to table for revised plans, etc. All meeting
notices,
agendas, etc. were redone when new meeting date was scheduled.
Case was heard, but Board took no further action.
Number of Regular Meetings: 10
Number of Special Meetings: 17
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