Public Works Committee Meeting
October 1, 2003

On Wednesday evening, October 1, Cuzzy Rowles, Jane Billings and the Public Works Committee met to develop the ’04 Budget. After considerable discussion we are making one significant recommendation: that the current 20-hour per week custodian position in the Public Works Department be increased to a full-time position, bringing the number of full-time employees in the Department from four to five. The new position would include both current custodial duties as well as general work on the Public Works crew.

We feel that there is not only ample justification, but that in fact we have been conservative over the past few years. This is supported by the following:
• It has been 23 years since the staffing of the crew has been increased;
• Council’s plan, as well as that of the Swarthmore Town Center, Inc., is to increase the number of events in town;
• There is an increased workload in our public parks such as Thatcher, Gateway and Little Crum Creek Parks; this is in response to community desires.
• With an increased focus on the town center, as well as the expected implementation of the Task Force Recommendations, our streets should be cleaned more frequently and trash collected as necessary;
• Composting, a benefit that many residents avail themselves of, has increased 35% over the past year and continues to grow;
• The new Recycling Center has had a positive impact on increasing the amount of recycling; however, this also necessitates additional clean up and maintenance; finally –
• Given the longevity of the crew, the total of vacation days, personal days and floating holidays is 20 weeks or 102 workdays. This does not include any sick time.
The financial costs associated with the proposed change are attached. We look forward to responding to any questions from Council.

Respectfully submitted,

Peg Hebner
Chair, Public Works