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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011/04/05-Minutes-HEDCCITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Present: Committee Member Jungus Jordan, Chairman Committee Member Carter Burdette, Vice Chairman (arrived at 1:02 p.m.) Committee Member Mike Moncrief Committee Member Salvador Espino Committee Member W. B. "Zim" Zimmerman Committee Member Danny Scarth (arrived at 1:19 p.m.) Committee Member Frank Moss Committee Member Kathleen Hicks Committee Member Joel Burns (arrived at 1:10 p.m.) City Staff: Susan Alanis, Assistant City Manager Peter Vaky, Deputy City Attorney Marty Hendrix, City Secretary Jay Chapa, Director of Housing and Economic Development Department Cynthia Garcia, Assistant Director, Housing and Economic Development Department Dr. Gleniece Robinson, Library Director Other City Staff in Attendance: Tom Higgins, Interim City Manager (arrived at 2:05 p.m.) Vicki Ganske, Senior Assistant City Attorney, Law Department LeAnn Guzman, Assistant City Attorney, Law Department Robin Bentley, Business Community Development Coordinator, Housing and Economic Development Department Henry Day, Senior Management Analyst, Housing, and Economic Development Department Guests: Leslie Sisk, Chairman of the Workforce Development Board Joe Warren, Board staff, with Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County Lacey Douglas, Communications and Events Manager, with Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County Merval Johnson, Workforce Collaborations Manager, with Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County Mac Belmontes, Business Services Coordinator, with Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County Brenda Harris, Systems Manager, with Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 2 of 21 With a quorum of the committee members present, Chairman Jungus Jordan called the meeting of the Housing and Economic Committee to order at 1:00 p.m., on Tuesday, April 5, 2011, in the Pre - Council Chamber of the Fort Worth Municipal Building, 1000 Throckmorton Street, Fort Worth, Texas 76102. Committee Members Burdette, Scarth and Burns were temporarily absent. Approval of Minutes of the February 8, 2011, Housing and Economic Development Committee (Agenda Item 2) Chairman Jordan opened the floor for a motion on the approval of the minutes. MOTION: Upon a motion made by Committee Member Moss and seconded by Committee Member Moncrief , the Committee Members voted six (6) and zero (0) "nays ", to approve the minutes of the February 8, 2011, Housing and Economic Development Committee meeting. The motion carried unanimously. Written Reports (Agenda Item 3) Jay Chapa, Director of the Housing and Economic Development Department, provided the following written reports as a matter of information to the committee members: A. Economic Development Agreement Extension for Parole Office located at 4900 Carey Street B. Walking Trail Improvements in Carver Heights Neighborhood There was no discussion and /or comments on these reports. Chairman Jordan acknowledged receipt of the reports. Presentation on Workforce Solutions (Agenda Item 4) Chairman Jordan recognized representatives from the Workforce Solutions of Tarrant County who were present at the meeting as follows: Leslie Sisk, Chairman of the Workforce Development Board; Joe Warren, Board staff, Lacey Douglas, Communications and Events Manager; Merval Johnson, Workforce Collaborations Manager; Mac Belmontes, Business Services Coordinator; and Brenda Harris, Systems Manager. Leslie Sisk, Workforce Development Board Chair, provided the committee members with handout information, identified the additional presenters and using a PowerPoint presentation CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 3 of 21 Presentation on Workforce Solution (cont'd) (Agenda Item 4) spoke before the committee on the mission and goal of Workforce Solutions of Tarrant County as follows: ■ Enriches the local economy through improving the quality of the workforce. ■ Is led by a board of public, private sector and community leaders who ensure the quality investment of over $60 million dollars annually. ■ Partners with businesses and community groups to prepare the future workforce and enhance the skills of the current workforce. ■ Helps local businesses, especially smaller businesses, recruit, retain, and upgrade in workforce. ■ Serves all county residents through seven Workforce Career Centers, three Youth Centers and other community based locations. ■ Has received national, state and local recognition and awards for innovation, quality services and high performance. She stated that their goal was simple: "Keep Tarrant County Working" She explained that their fiscal year was from October 1 through September 30; therefore, the following information was for the year 2009 through 2010. She pointed out who they have affected in the most recent program year in Tarrant County Workforce Centers: 77,829 customers were employed 10,000 businesses were assisted with workforce needs 1,178 homeless individuals were place in jobs 12,579 veterans were placed in jobs 2,182 ex- offenders were placed in jobs 1,841 welfare recipients were placed in jobs 178 youth living in poverty were placed in jobs or education Ms. Sisk explained that they would provide updated information for this fiscal year, if the committee wanted to see that information. CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 4 of 21 Presentation on Workforce Solution (cont'd) (Agenda Item 4) She presented a chart showing the comprehensive Workforce Development System throughout the State of Texas. Ms. Sisk explained that approximately 15 years ago the Texas Legislature created the workforce program and combined 28 different workforce programs. She pointed out that if that legislation had not been created, different programs would have been created in different parts of the state. Ms. Sisk also explained the streamlining of the funding sources at the federal level. She pointed out that available services were almost identical across the Workforce Development Area, but administered independently by each local board. She presented the Workforce Governing Board as follows: Glen Whitley, Tarrant County Judge, was the Chair Mike Moncrief, Mayor of Fort Worth Robert N. Chuck, M.D., Mayor of Arlington She advised that the Workforce Development Board was made up of 29 different entities as follows: Leslie Sisk, Chair Victor "Buddy" Puente, Jr., Vice Chair Judy McDonald, Executive Director Representatives of the following: Austin Real Estate Company Birdville Independent School District B. P. Powell & Associates Byrne Construction Services Career Solutions Cornerstone Assistance Network Department of Assisted & Rehab Services Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce Gaylord Texas Resort General Motors Greater Fort Worth Literacy Council Girls, Inc., of Tarrant County Harris Methodist Fort Worth Hospital Union North American, Inc. Liberation Community, Inc. CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 5 of 21 Presentation on Workforce Solution (cont'd) (Agenda Item 4) Lockheed Martin Mercado Gifts Southwest Office Systems, Inc. Tarrant County College Texas Health and Human Services Texas Workforce Commission United Way of Tarrant County University of Texas at Arlington She presented a flow chart of how the Workforce worked on the federal level, state and local levels. Ms. Sisk stated that since most of their funding was from the federal government, they were concerned about the status of their federal funds. She explained that if they were funded again, it will be at the 2010 funding level. She also presented a color -coded flow chart of how the Workforce in Tarrant County worked. Ms. Sisk explained the impact of the chart in different colors was to show the committee members the impact of programs that could be cut if Congress did away with the federal Workforce Act and they did not receive their federal dollars. She explained that $170 million would be lost to the State of Texas. She added that it would affect about 100 of their employees locally. Committee Member Moncrief requested further clarification of this particular slide. He asked if everything in the color red (or pink) would go away and everything in the color blue would remain. Ms. Sisk explained that was correct. Committee Member Moncrief pointed out some of the successful programs that would be lost, such as Project Wish, ex- offender re -entry projects, veterans' services, etc. He added that was pretty dangerous ground. Ms. Sisk spoke about their efforts to remain focused in their mission despite the issues going on in Washington, D.C. At this time, Chairman Jordan introduced Committee Member Burdette and advised that he was the Chairman of the City Council's Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs Committee. Chairman Jordan explained that the City Council Members would be traveling to Washington, D.C. in the next week and that it might be a good idea that she provide to him a position paper so that they might be able to help in this cause in their discussions with members of Congress. Ms. Sisk indicated that was possible as they already had a white paper, along with the chart and some talking points. CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 6 of 21 Presentation on Workforce Solution (cont'd) (Agenda Item 4) At this time, Brenda Harris, Workforce Programs Manager, continued the presentation. She provided a list of the Workforce Center locations as follows and explained that these centers were for their adult workforce services: Alliance Workforce Center 13825 Aviator Way Arlington Workforce Center 140 W. Mitchell Eastside Workforce Center 4701 E. Lancaster Street Mid - Cities Workforce Center 7001 Blvd Northside Workforce Center 2100 N. Main Street, Suite 100 Resource Connection Workforce Center 1400 Circle Drive Westside Workforce Center 8000 Western Place Suite 700 Ms. Harris provided information on the job seekers services. She advised that basic services were available to all job seekers with a focus on job readiness, job placement and job retention. She pointed out that visitors to a Workforce Center could access: • Initial assessment of skill level, aptitude, abilities and supportive service needs • Job search, placement assistance and career counseling • Resource room services — access to telephone, fax, copier, resource library, computer, internet and resume assistance • Employment and labor market information • Job listings via WorkinTexas and other on -line employment resources • Job referrals CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 7 of 21 Presentation on Workforce Solution (cont'd) (Agenda Item 4) She emphasized that their job seekers services comparison chart showed a chart of services and that their fee was "free." Those services included internet access, resume copying, telephone calls, fax service, computer usage, resume writing, career assessment, job search seminar and placement services. She reviewed the programs and funding stream as follows: Workforce Investment Act • Workforce Innovative Solutions to Homelessness • Low Income Adults • Low Income Youth • Dislocated Workers • Adult Basic Education and Literacy • Child Care • Choices program which assists individuals who receive Temporary Assistance to Needy Families benefits • Food Stamp Employment & Training Program • Employment Service under Wagner - Peyser • National Emergency Grant • Non Custodial Parent Grant • Re- integration of Ex- Offenders (Project RIO) • Rapid Response • Trade Adjustment Assistance • Worker Profiling and Re- employment Services • Veterans Employment Services She talked about Project Wish which was the Workforce Innovative Solutions to Homelessness. She spoke about the supportive and training services as follows: Supportive services were services that were necessary to enable an individual to participate in the required Workforce Program activities in order to achieve their employment goals. She advised that these services vary based on the program activities and may include: CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 8 of 21 Presentation on Workforce Solution (cont'd) Transportation services Child Care Services Emergency Support Tools and uniforms for training and /or work related experiences Auto maintenance and repair (Agenda Item 4) She spoke about their training services and that they were available to assist a job seeker who wanted or needed information regarding financial assistance including but not limited to supportive services, work related expenses, education and training. Workforce Solutions provided eligible job seekers with financial aid for these services in order to help them obtain or retain employment. She spoke about the various types of training services as follows: Occupational skills training On-the-job training Subsidized Work Experience Job readiness Adult education and literacy Ms. Harris spoke about the youth services. She explained that the youth programs were a year -round program that provided education, training and employment services to eligible low - income at -risk youth between the ages of 17 — 21. She explained the services offered were as follows: Pre - employment preparation Job development & placement assistance GED preparation Preparation for post- secondary education Occupational skills training She pointed out that the Youth Workforce Center was located at 4709 E. Lancaster, Fort Worth, Texas 76103 and there was a Northside Location at 2100 Main Street, Suite 215, Fort Worth, Texas 76164 and an Arlington Location at 140 W. Mitchell Street, Room B 1 OOJ, Arlington, Texas 76010. CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 9 of 21 Presentation on Workforce Solution (cont'd) (Agenda Item 4) Mr. Merval Johnson, Workforce Collaboration Manager, with Workforce Solutions of Tarrant County, spoke about the successful and innovated partnerships that they have created and he indicated that they were the mainstay of the successful programs that were provided to Tarrant County. He presented the information on the Tarrant County Fatherhood Coalition, which was one of those long and very successful partnerships that began in 2000. He stated the mission statement was a collaboration to strengthen the role of fathers, men and families in the lives of children in Tarrant County. He explained the target populations (Nov. 2000) was teen fathers, court- ordered fathers, incarcerated fathers and at -risk fathers. He added that the accomplishments have been Partner in National Pilot Project with four (4) sites located in Texas, Colorado, Indiana and Washington State. The program performance (noncustodial parents) was 75% job placement rate and 70% making child support payments. He added that the services and information have been provided to over 3,000 fathers and families in Tarrant County and over 4,000 have attended forums and trainings. He presented a chart showing the Fatherhood Initiative Community Partners as follows: Catholic Charities Child Care Associates City of Fort Worth Health Department Department of Health and Human Services Dispute Resolution Services Fort Worth ISD Fort Worth Star Telegram Foundation Communities Healthy Marriage /Healthy Families Coalition Internal Revenue Services Legal Aid of Northwest Texas Muslim Community Center NewDay Services Office of the Attorney General Santa Fe Youth Services Strong Fathers, Strong Families Tarrant County College The Parenting Center Mr. Johnson referenced the red folders that had been provided to the committee members and in particular the "Dad's Pocket Resource Guide." He talked about the value of that guide and that they were in the process of updating this guide and placing it on their web site. He talked about their community outreach and showed the homepage of Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County's website which was used for community outreach. He added that the website highlighted services of "surviving a layoff', Hot Jobs E- Newsletter, Inter - Agency Workforce Group, Chicano Luncheon, FW /TC Minority Leaders and Citizens Council, Hispanic Wellness Fair, African American Health Expo and Community Job Fairs. He indicated that "surviving a layoff' was one of their popular links. CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 10 of 21 Presentation on Workforce Solution (cont'd) (Agenda Item 4) Mac Belmontes, Business Services Coordinator with Workforce Solutions of Tarrant County, spoke about the role of business services in community outreach which was having liaisons with the local Chambers of Commerce, partnering with community and professional organizations, providing outplacement services, hosting countywide job fairs, and facilitating inter - agency workforce group. He added the other role was economic development as follows: • Assist with hiring needs • Offer or assist in meeting training needs • Develop partnerships with other entities as needed • Develop business /community projects • Business recruitment and retention • Tarrant County Industry Clusters He presented a chart showing the employer services as follows: Employee Recruitment Personal attention from one of their account managers Job Fairs — on location or in one of their workforce centers The Texas Back to Work Program Recruiting assistance /placement WorkIn Texas — Internet based job posting and matching systems Interview Space Internships Training Services for Employees On-the-job training Customized training Current employee training Special Programs and Resources Current labor market information Professional outplacement services for companies who are restructuring, downsizing or closing operations. He showed a chart of the employer services comparison chart that showed their services that that their fee was free. He then showed a web site of WorkInTexas.com. He spoke about the Regional Workforce Leadership Council (RWLC) and provided the following information: CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 11 of 21 Presentation on Workforce Solution (cont'd) (Agenda Item 4) ■ The Dallas /Fort Worth Regional Workforce Leadership Council is the driving force for a cooperative approach to promoting the region's strongest industries. ■ The RWLC worked to meet industries' needs through the collaboration of the local workforce boards, chambers of commerce and business leaders. ■ By addressing the employment, training and certification needs of the region's industries, the RWLC aids in the further growth and success of the Dallas /Fort Worth economy. ■ The defense industry is a major economic driver of the DFW economy. ■ Collectively, the three (3) major aerospace companies bring millions of dollars annually into the region. Even though their workforce and training needs are similar, they have always kept a safe distance because of the competition for federal contracts. ■ Armed with a mission and a drive to accomplish something bigger than themselves, Lockheed Martin, Bell Helicopter and Vought Aircraft signed on to the DFW Aerospace Cluster, facilitated by Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County since early 2000. Ms. Leslie Sisk completed up their presentation and presented a screen shot of "Keeping Tarrant County working for 15 years ", which was a recent ad that had been placed in local news media. She referenced also the materials that had been provided in the red folders presented earlier in the meeting to the committee members. She also spoke briefly about providing copies of letters that they had written to congress men and women regarding their funding needs. The presentation was concluded on this agenda item. Chairman Jordan opened the floor for questions and /or comments. Committee Member Moncrief requested to see again slide 8, which was the color -coded chart of programs and services. He stated assuming that the worst could occur; he was very disturbed by seeing the number of programs or services that could be eliminated. He referenced the veterans' services program. He indicated that he heard in the presentation that 12,000 veterans had been served and he requested clarification on how many of those veterans had been CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 12 of 21 Presentation on Workforce Solution (cont'd) (Agenda Item 4) placed in jobs. Ms Sisk stated that 12,979 were placed in jobs and the period represented for that figure was from September 30, 2009 to October 1, 2010. Committee Member Moncrief expressed his concerns with the elimination of that program. Committee Member Moncrief than talked about Project Wish, which he felt was near and dear to the City of Fort Worth. He requested clarification on the number of people that had been placed in jobs in Project Wish during the same fiscal year and he wondered how many of them were retaining those jobs. Ms Sisk stated that they had 348 homeless individuals that were served and 144 homeless that were employed. Ms. Brenda Harris spoke to be number of homeless individuals that had received jobs and the figure was corrected to be 1,178. She stated that as far as the job retention figure, they have this information; however, she did not have that information with her. Committee Member Moncrief pointed out that this was occurring during a recession. Committee Member Moncrief spoke about the City's Directions Home Project for the homeless and indicated that this program had reduced the number of homeless individuals by 30 %. He stated that one of the reasons that had occurred was due to Project Wish and finding individuals' jobs. Committee Member Moss indicated that he appreciated the presentation and spoke about a more detailed presentation that he had received a week earlier. He stated that he felt the Workforce Solution programs were critical in his district as he had so many people approaching him about what was available for job opportunities. Committee Member Moss requested clarification on the youth summer program. He stated that he understood that they did not have a summer program such as the one that they had conducted in previous years. Ms. Harris explained that Committee Member Moss's comments were correct. She added that they were not able to have a summer program due to lack of funding. She added that what they have been able to do with their year round program was to allocate money to serve a certain number of youths during the summer months. Ms. Harris added that she had been at a Department of Labor Conference in the previous week wherein they were suggesting organizations ask the private sector to donate money for summer jobs for low - income youth. She indicated that she understood that people have been asked to donate a lot lately; therefore, she was not sure how that was going to be addressed. She added that they were going to continue to have their year round program that would serve the youth of Tarrant County. Committee Member Moss indicated that he was aware in years past that there was an effort to get with the private sector and have them to pledge jobs that young people could be placed in. He posed the question of whether they would be able to help in that overall process as far as identifying the young people. Ms. Harris indicated that they have the young people. CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 13 of 21 Presentation on Workforce Solution (cont'd) (Agenda Item 4) Committee Member Burdette also referenced the color -coded chart showing on the screen and explained that he understood that the programs and services colored in red (or pink) would be cut back or eliminated due to reduction in federal funding. He requested a clarification as to whether it was a fund allocation issue by Workforce Solutions or that the funds that were directed particularly to the programs or services would be lost. Ms. Harris indicated that they had prepared the chart to show how dramatic it would be if the federal government cut their Workforce Act (WA) funds. She clarified that WA funding was used for administrative costs and other costs. She provided further clarification on the restrictions on certain program funds that could not be used for administrative costs or supportive services for different programs. She clarified that the WA funding had been serving as the "glue" for the funding of all of the other programs. Committee Member Burdette indicated that he needed further clarification due to the City Council's trip to Washington, D. C., and the opportunity to meet with and talk to the Congress members regarding the status of these funds. He stated that what he needed to know was whether the direct funding would be cut off or was it an allocation issue here on a local basis. Ms. Sisk explained that they would be eliminated due to the fact that the WA funds had been eliminated. She explained that the federal funds were funneled though the state to the local level. She indicated that in certain situations there were local matches that had to be in place in order to obtain the federal monies. She explained that they managed a budget of over $60,000,000 annually. She explained that over half of that was funded for child care services. There was further discussion on information that was needed by the City Council Members to be able to talk with the Congress men and women on their visit to Washington, D. C. Committee Member Burdette requesting clarification as to what the local employers contribute to their programs and services since Workforce Solutions provided services to them. He added that he saw on their charts where their services were provided for free. He suggested that it was possibly a source of revenue that they could receive for their services. Ms. Sisk explained that local businesses were providing training to individuals so that they could apply for and get jobs. She gave the example of fork -lift training and that a private business opened their business for this training to individuals and they provided the equipment and training experience. Committee Member Burdette advised that this appeared to be "in kind" services by the private company. There was further discussion about getting the hard dollars donated rather than the in- kind services. Ms. Sisk indicated that this was certainly something to consider. Committee Member Zimmerman requested clarification on the exact dollar amount of funding that could be lost at the federal level. Mr. Joe Warren, staff to the Workforce Solutions CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 14 of 21 Presentation on Workforce Solution (cont'd) (Agenda Item 4) Board, spoke before the committee. He stated that their base budget was $57,000,000. He stated that when the child care amount was taken out of that figure, which was $32,000,000, plus another $4,000,000, there was only $20,000,000 for all of the other services. He indicated that the reduction would be approximately 53 %. He indicated that the costs for the facilities and centers would be lost. He continued to explain how difficult it would be to reallocate the funding across the city to determine which centers could remain open and which centers would have to be closed. Committee Member Zimmerman rephrased his question. In further discussion, Mr. Warren clarified that they would be looking at a loss of the WIA funding, which would be between $9,000,000 and $10,000,000. He talked again about the base amount of $20,000,000 and that they would be loosing half of that figure. There was considerable discussion on the color -coded chart not matching to the explanation that was being provided by Mr. Warren. Mr. Warren again explained that the child care funding had to be taken out immediately from the total figure. He explained that of the color -coded chart there was only about $20,000,000 going to that system shown on the chart. Chairman Jordan reiterated what he had heard regarding the dollar amounts. He stated that their budget was $57,000,000, which had been rounded up to about $60,000,000. He stated that of that amount $20,000,000 went into the job placement programs in Tarrant County. He stated that of that amount they were at risk of loosing $9,000,000. Chairman Jordan stated that with the $20,000,000 they had placed 7800 people in the work force, which equaled to about $4,000.00 per job. Mr. Warren requested to provide further clarification regarding the rounding up to the $60,000,000 figure. He stated that while they start with $57,000,000 throughout the year they were able to acquire additional funding through other resources that they apply for. Chairman Jordan requested again information from Ms. Sisk that Committee Member Burdette could take to Washington, D. C. He also requested clarification on which federal agency their funding came through and what committee would be a relevant committee to speak with regarding this matter. Committee Member Moss added that in attending various meetings around the country with other elected officials, there was a real concern that local elected officials become very familiar with this system. He added that many of them were doing lobbying and being called upon to do the lobbying in order to save these programs. He added the need to emphasize the impact of these programs on employment and the economy. Committee Member Moss stated CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 15 of 21 Presentation on Workforce Solution (cont'd) (Agenda Item 4) that he felt that it was something the City Council needed to become very familiar with in order to take an active role in order to ensure that these services stay within the community. Ms. Sisk stated that Workforce Solutions in Texas were unique in the way that they fund and run their programs. She added that if the WIA funds were to go away, there would be state programs that would be literally obliterated. She stated that she felt they were fortunate in saying that their funds would just be cut. Chairman Jordan went back to the homeless program. He stated that as he remembered 4600 homeless people had been identified in the community; however, some of these people were the women and children. He talked about finding jobs for 1200 of them. There was further discussion on the matching fund dollars and the fact that the local funds were received through the state. Committee Member Moncrief talked about taking the message to Washington that if they support the troops, then they should be supported when they return home and need services and jobs. He pointed out that they have families and they have needs. He also spoke to the chronic homeless problem in the City and that it was being addressed because of the Project Wish. He added that when something was working, then it needed to continue to be done. Committee Member Moncrief added that people from all over the country have come to see what Project Wish was all about. He indicated that all of this was worth fighting for. Chairman Jordan expressed appreciation to the individuals that spoke. The presentation and discussions were concluded on this agenda item. Presentation on the Proposed Renovations to Meadowbrook Branch Library (Agenda Item 5) Library Director Dr. Gleniece A. Robinson, spoke before the committee on the proposed renovations to the Meadowbrook Branch Library and the innovative public /private partnership of the program that was named "eSkills" between the library and the Workforce Center. She recognized Cynthia Fisher Miller, with the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, and Bunny Gartner, President of the Friends of the Library. She explained that "eSkills" meant: employment, entrepreneurial, electronics and early literacy. She added that the partners in this process were: Tarrant County Local Workforce Development Board CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 16 of 21 Presentation on the Proposed Renovations to Meadowbrook Branch Library (cont'd) (Agenda Item 5) Friends of the Fort Worth Public Library, Inc. Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce Loan Star Libraries Grant Program Fort Worth Library Dr. Robinson stated that the purpose was to improve customers' ability to secure employment by: Improving skills through classroom instruction and workshops Providing job search resources She showed a photograph of the exterior of the Meadowbrook Library and provided a map of the library's service area. Dr. Robinson provided the demographics of the service area as follows: Total Population 41,437 Employment In labor force 68% Not in labor force 27% Income Median Household Income $35,749.00 Education Bachelor's 10% Graduate Degree 6% Associate Degree 6% Some college, no degree 24% High school graduates 38% No high school diploma 16% Dr. Robinson spoke about the Workforce services as follows: Job search workshops and classes Preparing for Your Job Search CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 17 of 21 Presentation on the Proposed Renovations to Meadowbrook Branch Library (cont'd) Resume Writing and Thank You Letters Developing a Job Search Plan Labor market information Career assessment Preparing an application Advanced interviewing tips She then presented the library services as follows: Materials for check -out Request, pick up, return library materials Seven (7) new desktop computers and 20 laptops Early literacy stations Open 30 -hours (5 days) (Agenda Item 5) She explained that they were hoping to gain another partner in this process to provide funding to be open 40 hours in 2012. Dr. Robinson provided the outcome measures would be quarterly evaluations on customers served, number of classes conducted, customers employed and customers promoted. Dr. Robinson presented an update on the renovations to the library as follows: Construct classroom Improve electrical /network infrastructure Replace flooring Remove asbestos Repaint Install new furniture Replace ceiling Install new lighting She presented the floor plan of the library showing the various areas. Dr. Robinson provided the communications plan regarding this renovation and project as follows: CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 18 of 21 Presentation on the Proposed Renovations to Meadowbrook Branch Library (cont'd) (Agenda Item 5) Completed: Posters and Web site announcements for closing and renovations Next 14 Days ■ Mayor's Message on CFW Web site • Version of Mayor's Message to run in Meadowbrook News • Explore promotional partnership with Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce • Flier promoting new service to be distributed at ESTR, EBY, MBK Two Weeks Prior to Reopening • Reopening will be announced on • Star- Telegram, Meadowbrook invited to reopening Dr. Robinson advised of the timeline as follows: Friends Book Sale Renovation begins Anticipated opening Web sites and Constant Contact dews, La Vida, and television media April 8 — 10, 2011 April 11, 2011 Early June 2011 She recognized again the partners in this project and expressed deep appreciation to them. Dr. Robinson completed her presentation and provided a model of the floor chart and color chart for the interior to the library. Chairman Jordan opened the floor or questions and /or comments. Committee Member Moncrief pointed out that he felt this was good example of "outside the box" thinking. He added that it was taking the services to where they were needed. He congratulated all of the players in this process for trying to make a difference. He added that the other thing that the City always looked for quantifiable, measurable results and this following piece was in place and he indicated he would look forward to seeing what those numbers state. Committee Member Moss stated that he appreciated all of the work that Dr. Robinson had done on this overall effort. He added that when the City Council had started talking about closing this library one of the points that jumped out was the number of people that actually came to the library to look for work. He added that he felt the east side of the City was one of CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 19 of 21 Presentation on the Proposed Renovations to Meadowbrook Branch Library (cont'd) (Agenda Item 5) the areas that were hard hit with unemployed individuals and they needed to have a source to go to. Committee Member Moss stated that the library was a critical piece to the overall development of the area and this move would give the area the potential of bringing in other partners to the area that might want to be involved in this overall effort. He expressed again his appreciation for the overall effort and that it was going to give this area the opportunity to do something really innovated and provided the opportunity to put a library back to work even though it was an older facility. He added the meeting room and other facilities were something that was needed at this location even if it did stay just a library. Committee Member Moss indicated that he felt it was moving along very well and that they would be looking to find other partners as it was an opportunity to get some other ventures going here. Committee Member Scarth requested clarification as to whether the budget reductions that were discussed earlier in the meeting would put this program at risk as well or was it fully funded. Dr. Robinson explained that this project was funded by Workforce Solutions, the Friends of the Library and a grant from the Texas State Library. She indicated that with those partners, it reduced the cost to the City of Fort Worth by two - thirds. She explained that the City was putting in $100,000 to maintain the building and other issues. Mr. Warren with Workforce Solutions indicated that if their funding was reduced it would affect this project. He added that they were very excited about this project. He stated that it was a good example of coordinating services and reaching out into the community. Committee Member Scarth indicated that he was excited to see the recreation of what that library has been to the community. He stated jokingly that he was offended that Committee Member Moss stated that it was an old facility as he used to visit this location as a child every Tuesday. Committee Member Moss indicated that the reason he had said that it was old was because it had been previously stated that this location was not salvageable because of its age and being outdated. Committee Member Moss then requested clarification on the staffing of this location and whether it would be City of Fort Worth library staff for Workforce Solutions staff. Dr. Robinson stated that it would be library staff funded by Workforce Solutions. She added that the Workforce Solutions staff would come in and train the library staff to be more skilled at providing the type of services that they provide. She reiterated that the staffing would be on the City's payroll; however, the funds would be provided by Workforce Solutions. CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 20 of 21 Presentation on the Proposed Renovations to Meadowbrook Branch Library (cont'd) (Agenda Item 5) Committee Member Moncrief requested to go back to the question that was posed by Committee Member Scarth regarding the loss of the federal funding and if this entire project would go away. The gentleman from Workforce Solutions indicated that was the understanding that he had. He explained that their allocations were on an annual basis and they could loose the funding for next year. In further discussion, it was clarified that Workforce Solutions was putting up $37,000.00 for the remainder of this year and they were appropriating another $50,000.00 for next year. Chairman Jordan indicated that he had calculated some figures in his head when Mr. Warren was making his presentation earlier regarding costs per employee and he explained that he had given out the wrong information. Chairman Jordan requested that Mr. Warm provide to the City some relevant numbers when the budget is divided up how does it help the City and what was a good formula to use. Chairman Jordan reiterated that the number he provided was wrong. He further clarified that it was not for this project but for their overall budget. This concluded the presentation and discussion on this agenda item. Chairman Jordan adjourned the regular meeting of the Housing and Economic Development Committee into Executive Session at 2:06 p.m. in accordance with the requirements of the Texas Open Meeting Act. Executive Session (Agenda Item 6) Chairman Jordan called to order the Executive Session at 2:06 p.m. in order to discussion the following items: A. Seek the advice of its attorneys concerning the following items that are exempt from public disclosure under Article X, Section 9 of the Texas State Bar Rules, as authorized by Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code: (i) legal issues related to any current agenda items; (ii) legal issues regarding Community Housing Development Organizations set aside for HOME funds; B. Discuss the purchase, sale, lease or value of real property, as authorized by Section 551.072 of the Texas Government Code. Deliberation in an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the position of the City in negotiations with a third party; and, CITY OF FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2011 Page 21 of 21 Executive Session (cont'd) (Agenda Item 6) C. Discuss or deliberate negotiations relating to any economic development negotiations, as authorized by Section 551.087 of the Texas Government Code. Chairman Jordan adjourned the Executive Session at 2:40 p.m. Chairman Jordan reconvened the regular session of the Housing and Economic Development Committee at 2:40 p.m. Request for Future Agenda Items (Agenda Item 7) There were no requests for future agenda items. Date of Next Regular Meeting — March 1, 2011 (Agenda Item 8) Chairman Jordan advised that the next regular meeting of the Housing and Economic Development Committee would be held on Tuesday, May 3, 2011. Adjourn (Agenda Item 9) With no further presentations or discussions, Chairman Jordan adjourned the regular meeting of the Housing and Economic Development Committee at 2:41 p.m., on Tuesday, April 5, 2011. These minutes approved by the Housing and Economic Development Committee on the 3rd day of May, 2011. APPROVED: Jun s Jor n, Ch rman Minutes Prepared by and Attest: Marty Hendrix, Ci y qecretary