Partial List of Key Accomplishments for 2003
by Department and/or Division
Presented by Mayor Lewis K. Billings
January 6, 2004

 

Community Development:

• New Rental Dwelling Licensing Program - An entirely new application process for the rental dwelling licensing program was created. Six new employees were hired to assist in the administration of the program and public training and information meetings were held.
• Formation of Neighborhood Alliance - An alliance was formed with a resident committee from the Franklin Neighborhood to perform concentrated zoning enforcement during a nine-month period which resulted in over 100 enforcement cases.
• Continuation of Enforcement and Research - There have been 607 zone verifications and 774 enforcement cases completed to-date.  There are 2,725 rental dwelling license properties currently under review.
• Efforts with Redevelopment Agency - Inspections have been performed and construction advice given for the remodel and sale of homes as part of the Redevelopment Agency’s neighborhood revitalization projects.
• General Plan Five-year Update - Three public open houses and seven separate public hearings with the Planning Commission were held as part of a major review of the General Plan.

Economic Development & Redevelopment:

• Construction of Wells Fargo - A deal with the developer, including the financing of a 523-car parking structure, was successfully negotiated; the remaining parcels of real estate were acquired; the site was demolished and prepared; and construction is underway.
• Construction of Home Depot - Site preparation and infrastructure costs were financed, making this project possible.
• Progress of Ironton Project - An agreement with HUD to draw down 108 Loan funds was entered into and $3,500,000 was transferred to City accounts. A $180,000 reimbursement from an EDA Special Purchase Grant was received by Phase One Engineering.  An Army Corps of Engineers 404 permit was applied for and received for construction of the spine road and utility improvements at Ironton.  A land exchange with BYU was completed for property at Ironton.
• Activity in 80-20 Program - 47 new homeowners in the Pioneer Neighborhoods were provided with 80-20 down payment assistance for a total of 118 since this program was initiated.
• Activity in Home Ownership Programs - Site acquisition of the Franklin Commons for NHS  was financed (17 new owner-occupied homes). Thirty-eight new homeowners citywide were provided with down payment/closing cost assistance. Two additional homes for purchase/rehabilitation/resale were acquired.  Rehabilitation was completed or is underway on five purchase/rehabilitation/resale homes. The Herring house was demolished and neighborhood consultations conducted regarding future use of the site.  Efforts of the Provo City/Franklin Neighborhood Alliance were joined to determine the direction of continued activities in the Franklin Neighborhood.  Rehabilitation of one NHS purchase/rehabilitation/resale was financed. Purchase by Provo Housing Authority of a six-plex and a duplex for special needs housing was financed.  An ad hoc committee of neighborhood revitalization agencies was joined in a study of how to improve interagency coordination and effectiveness (CNRCC).
• Progress on Other Central City Projects - Expansion of the Center for Women and Children in Crisis was financed. The site at approximately 1030 West Center Street was purchased and cleared. The Economic Development Initiatives (EDI) Grant to address home ownership in the Pioneer Neighborhoods was successfully lobbied for.
• New Kuhni Rendering Plant - Three draw downs on the State IFA funding for the new Kuhni rendering plant in Juab County were facilitated. The plant is under construction and on schedule for a July 2004 start up.
• Business Retention Efforts - Management team business visits to top sales tax revenue producers and downtown businesses were facilitated. (Booklets were produced for each of the 108 business visits.) Stabilization efforts commenced for the Shops at Riverwoods. The process to establish an incubator program was initiated. The downtown and citywide street banner policy was modified.
• Business Liaison Activities - The sale of new taxis to Mr. Taylor to upgrade a local taxi service was completed.  Atchafalaya was assisted in their efforts to obtain a permit for an outdoor café. The Business Resource Guide was developed jointly with the Finance Department.  (Information was gathered from various departments and compiled into a brochure for local businesses to answer frequently-asked questions, similar to the Citizen’s Reference Guide.)
• Development of the City’s Web Site - The presence of Provo City on the web was maintained and expanded with the following web sites: Current Issues, Economic Development Department, Engineering, Public Works Department, Arts Council, Mayor’s Office, Police Department, Redevelopment Agency, Sister Cities, Provo Foundation, Emergency Management, Winterfest/First Night.  An interactive virtual tour of Provo was developed and is accessed from www.provo.org/tour
• NHS Efforts - Staff member Julie Beck served as the chair of the Housing Development Committee for NHS, meeting twice a month to plan the Franklin Commons project. NHS is currently constructing the first three homes in this 17-home development.
• Sister City Activities - A citizen Sister City committee was established. The Timpview High School Meissen Educational Exchange Program was supported through a City reception and awards presentation. Letters and small gifts were provided to be delivered to Meissen.  NuSkin executives were scheduled to represent Provo City at the 2003 Nanning International Folk Song Art Festival. Displays were exhibited at the Academy Library highlighting Provo City’s Sister Cities.

Energy:

• Maintenance of Existing Rates for 2003 - Rates were held at existing levels for the 15^th consecutive year and retail rates maintained at below average for the state while high reliability and excellent customer service marks were achieved.
• Receipt of National Award - The Community Service Award from the American Public Power Association was presented to Provo City Power for its community service in the 2002 Olympics held in Provo.
• Achievement of One Million Hours of No Time Lost Accidents - An unprecedented milestone of no time lost accidents was reached by Provo Power employees from January 21, 1999, through November 22, 2003 (one million man hours).
• Issuance of $21,530,000 in Energy System Revenue Refunding Bonds - A $1,662,000 net present value benefit was yielded through the refinancing of this energy system debt which was more than 7.5% of the refunded principal (greater than twice the customary 3% benchmark).  This will result in an annual savings for the remainder of the life of the bonds of approximately $120,000 per year up to the year 2014.
• Sale of Geothermal Power Plant - The Provo-lead sale of the under-performing Cove Fort Geothermal Power Plant was achieved, allowing the department to retire approximately $8,000,000 in associated debt. Lower power costs and retired debt equal savings to Provo of nearly $1,500,000 per year for the next 10 years. Other members of UMPA benefitted with an equal percentage in power supply cost savings.
• Successful Control of Inventory - Nearly $1,300,000 in inventory was successfully managed by the Warehouse Division with a year-end physical count variance of only $400 or total of approximately $2,000 for both physical count and cost variation adjustment. In addition, the overall inventory of approximately $1,400,000 was reduced by $175,000 or over 10%.
• New Meter Reading Training - New written instructions and improved testing programs were developed for meter readers to maintain the quality and efficiency of the reads. The cost per read at $0.22 and accuracy of over 99% is a significant improvement over the last five years. Safety training on dog attacks continues to be a challenge, and more remote read meters are being installed.
• Completion of New Transmission Power Line - A new 46 kV transmission line was completed through the middle of Provo, extending from 2230 North and 200 West to the Gillespie Substation near 5600 North Canyon Road. An agreement with Utah Power enabled the project to be completed and extensive public relations work facilitated the line to be built with minimal problems to the public.
• Completion of New Distribution Power Line - A new main backbone 600 amp distribution line was completed from the Tanner Substation near 1700 South State, extending along Nevada Avenue to 700 South 1500 East. This new line will allow a full capacity backup for two circuits out of two different substations, substantially increasing the reliability.
• Completion of New Distribution Substation - A new distribution substation will be completed by the end of the year at the relatively low cost of $450,000.  Existing equipment was used and located in the Tanner Substation to drastically cut the cost of the project.  This will increase the capacity of southeast Provo by 20 MW, providing power to the future Ironton development and backup to residents in southeast Provo.
• New Street Lighting - Two blocks of decorative street lighting on University Avenue from 200 South to 300 South and from 200 North to 300 North were installed.  The new lights will improve the aesthetics of the downtown area and offer electrical outlets for holiday lighting.
• Upgrading of Electrical System - The old, over-sized system in the Scenic Drive area which was purchased from UP&L many years ago was upgraded.  Poles were replaced and transformers moved from the interior yards to the streets for better accessibility during outages. Additional work is planned for the coming year.
• Electrical Upgrade for New Medical Center - The existing overhead lines were converted to underground lines for the new 500 West Medical Center.  This required installing a new 600 amp underground power line and new service drops and removing all overhead lines.
• New Development and Maintenance Electrical Jobs - A total of 225 work projects were completed by the engineering division and operation crews; including; new subdivisions, maintenance work, new street lights, distribution upgrade projects, pole relocations for street widening programs, etc.
• Electrical Service for Utah County Health and Justice Building - An existing 4 kV power line and a 12 kV power line were removed and relocated, allowing the new health building to be constructed without delay.
• Ongoing Tree Trimming and Conservation Efforts - A total of 7,807 trees conflicting with the power system were pruned by the Forestry Division, exceeding their annual goal and reducing the number of tree-related outages to 19 for the year. In addition, a total of 626 new trees were planted and another 1,115 given away as part of the energy conservation program.
• Upgrading of Billing System Software - A major system upgrade to the customer information (billing) system was completed after three years to improve system performance and efficiency, enhance billing information to the customer service representatives, and add modules for future online payment options. In addition, the billing system became interoperable with the finance system, automating the transfer of utility revenue on a daily basis and eliminating manual intervention and process time.
• Extension of Customer Service Hours - The hours for handling customer service inquiries dealing with utility billing or other city-related work have been successfully extended for over a year.  Calls continue to increase as more consumers become aware of the extended service hours. The help desk software continues to improve in order to deal with the variety of customer issues and to assign the work to appropriate departments.
• Implementation of Maintenance Program at Substations - Testing, fixing, inspecting, and cleaning activities have been initiated at all twelve substations for the entire backbone of the system.  This enables the system to continue operating at peak capacity and provides for backup services in a emergency situations.
• Continuation of Meter Maintenance and Replacement Programs - Testing, repairing, and replacement of hundreds of meters per year continue to be performed by the meter technicians to ensure accurate reads for the consumers. 645 new meters were added to the system this year. Developments in automated meter reading practices are being monitored and a variety of systems tested in pilot programs.
• Status of Telecom Fiber-To-The-Home Demonstration Project - Video, data, and telephone services are being offered over fiber optics to 273 homes located in the Grandview area, providing an opportunity to prove the technology and understand the costs for deployment using a variety of construction methods and materials. Several cities and utilities have visited Provo to learn more of the FTTH technology.
• Status of iProvo Telecom System - In addition to the FTTH demonstration project, the system is connected to approximately 500 apartment units and 15 businesses with services from a retail provider.  Provo is helping and benefitting from telecom connections to other non-Provo projects such as the Canyon Meadow development (60 units), the Parkway Crossing development (188 units), and data services to Spanish Fork and American Fork.
• Community Outreach Activities - A monthly Mayor’s message and newsletter were circulated which provided reminders about energy conservation and safety. The Community Fair was held at Provo Towne Centre as part of the public power celebration, and special attention was given to key commercial accounts.

Finance:

• Restructuring of Department - The department was restructured, eliminating a management position, and the skills and abilities of each staff member better utilized to empower key staff members with more responsibility, making the reorganization successful.
• Administration of Rental Dwelling Business License Policies & Procedures - Landlords were encouraged to fill out required information on the Internet, saving costs and preventing the need to hire additional staff. Landlords were also enabled to renew their annual business licenses online and make payments via the Intranet.
• Establishment of Procedure for Computer Surplusing - A new policy and procedure to surplus outdated computers was established.
• Organization and Administration of Cell Phones - The responsibility to organize and administer cell phones for all City departments was assumed by the department. Timely and accurate information will be provided to directors to facilitate better decision-making and allow for higher accountability of cell phone costs.
• Increase in Usage of Procurement Card Program - Usage of the procurement card program, which streamlines the purchasing process and saves administrative costs for the City, increased by 183%.
• Distribution of Documents on CD - The annual budget and Comprehensive Annual Financial Report were distributed on CD and made available on the Provo City web-site, saving on printing costs and increasing their usability.
• • Implementation of One-Stop Business Registration Program - A new one-stop business registration program was successfully initiated in cooperation with Salt Lake City, Sandy City, a number of state agencies, and the IRS to develop a system through which a new business owner can register with all necessary agencies at one time.
• Reporting Under GASB34 Model - The GASB34 Reporting Model was used again this year for the City’s reporting. This is a major effort involving much of the Finance Department and Budget Office personnel’s time.
• Certification from the Government Finance Officer’s Association - Certification from the GFOA was received for FY2002, the eleventh consecutive year this prestigious recognition has been given.

Fire & Rescue:

• New Training Outlines and Manuals - Training outlines were standardized and a new probationary manual for recruits created.
• Restructuring of Duties - Several tasks from upper level management were reassigned to first line supervisors; including; staffing, Kronos/payroll tracking; calendaring/scheduling; and monthly summaries (business inspections, training activities, and shift duty logs).
• New Paramedic Transport Ambulance - The specification, bidding, and purchasing processes were completed to place a new paramedic transport ambulance into service.
• Upgrading of Cardiac Defibrillators - The cardiac defibrillators on all five paramedic rescue ambulances were upgraded to Lifepak 12 with capnography enhancement, enabling carbon dioxide to be measured in the respiratory tube to ensure correct placement in the patient’s windpipe.
• Placement of Defibrillator at Eldred Center - An Automatic External Defibrillator was purchased and placed at the Provo Eldred Center, enabling the general staff to provide life-saving cardiac defibrillation to heart attack victims while awaiting the arrival of an ambulance.
• Creation of Electronic Standard Operating Procedures - The SOPs for the Fire Department were made available in electronic format on the citywide F: drive.
• Conservation/Cost Saving Efforts - The City’s Intranet was utilized to post policies, procedures, maintenance manuals, and other publications to reduce the usage of paper. Online purchasing was employed to facilitate direct procurement of items.
• Preservation of Department Historical Records - Photos, news clippings, magazine pictures, and other items were electronically scanned for long-term preservation.  Efforts were initiated to update the department historical records which currently only cover from 1888 to 1959.
• Completion of Paramedic Courses - Final paramedic courses for all shift members were completed.  Future hiring practices will require that the eight-month certification courses be completed prior to employment.
• Funeral Services for Mario W. Guerrero - Funeral services for Provo City Paramedic Mario W. Guerrero who was killed in a Life Flight helicopter crash January 10 were organized and conducted.

Human Resources:

• Work Force Diversity Efforts - Greater focus was placed on workforce diversity by: improving the City’s Affirmative action plan, adding 150-plus targeted posting notifications, and providing dual language labor law posters throughout City buildings.
• Conversion to 4-10 Work Weeks - The official conversion of all participating departments and employees to a 4-10 work week was accomplished, including the revision of 14 applicable personnel policies and procedures. Numerous inquiries from other agencies across the country who are interested in following Provo’s lead have been responded to.
• Recapturing of Unemployment Costs - Close monitoring of ongoing unemployment claims throughout the year resulted in a recovery of $6,000 to-date in unqualified payments.
• Reduction in Worker’s Compensation Claims - Through improved claims tracking and employee return-to-work efforts, plus new departmental safety program efforts, claims have dropped significantly, trending at a reduction of over $100,000 for the second year in a row.
• Performance of Annual Compensation Market Study - An analysis comparing City compensation levels to the market was performed.  Findings were favorable with a few minor changes being recommended to the Administration.
• Improvement in Risk Exposure - Safety, insurance, and risk control audits were performed throughout the City and a number of joint ventures.  Physical, procedural, and coverage improvements were made, resulting in reduced exposure for the City and associated agencies.  Aggressive business insurance negotiations were made which also resulted in below-market-average and budgeted rate increases.
• Implementation of Nation’s First HRA for a Municipality - The nation’s first Health Reimbursement Arrangement for a municipality was implemented in January 2003. Employees who manage current healthcare employer dollars judiciously can carry unused funds forward for future and post-employment use.  The City was spotlighted in national publications and gave numerous presentations on this progressive approach to consumer-driven health care management.
• Distribution of Health Care Benefits on DVD - A comprehensive overview of employee benefit options were provided to employees on a professionally-produced DVD to educate and assist them in the annual open enrollment process.  Provo City is the first municipality in the region to utilize this innovative approach to employee benefits education and was able to do so at no cost inasmuch as the entire funding was covered by benefit providers.
• Upgrading of Computer System - A major upgrade to the Human Resource Management, Payroll, and Benefits software programs was achieved, converting the system to an Internet architecture. This was a significant effort by HR staff and will provide departments and employees with greater and more simplified access to desired information.
• Increase in Application Form Processing - Over 200% more job application forms were received and processed in each of the past two years due to the increase in the nation’s unemployment rate.
• New LTC Program - A new voluntary Long-term Care benefit program was made available to employees this year.
• Evaluation of Position Refills - Each vacated position was carefully reviewed with departments to consider need, alternatives, and justification for refill.  Recommendations were then made to the City Administration.

Information Systems:

• Ongoing Service to Departments - Standard hardware and software configurations were implemented, purchasing procedures established, and almost 300 PC’s and laptops replaced.
• New Data Center - A new data center consisting of 24 new servers, a Storage Area Network with 3 terabytes of capacity, and a new backup system with tape jukebox were installed.
• New Unicenter Enterprise Management System - A new enterprise management system with Network and System Monitoring, Asset Management, and Software Deployment was installed.
• Upgrading of Servers - The file and print servers were upgraded to Netware 6.0.
• Upgrading of Groupwise - The Groupwise system was upgraded to version 6.5, and the first user training in recent times on this product was provided for City employees.
• Upgrading of PeopleSoft Human Resource Information System - The PeopleSoft HRIS was upgraded to version 8.3, enabling employees to obtain answers to many HR and payroll questions directly from the PeopleSoft system. This was a major shift in technology from traditional client-server architecture to Web-based architecture and will allow new versions to be immediately distributed rather than requiring installation on individual PC’s. The upgrade was completed on schedule, without incident or disruption to payroll or other critical HR functions, and without the assistance of outside consultants, saving the City thousands of dollars.
• Upgrading of Public Safety Backroom Infrastructure - An upgrade to the Public Safety backroom area was completed which included the replacement of servers, upgrade of the NetRMS report management system, installation and conversion of the existing Police CAD system, installation of a new firewall and router on the state WAN, and a new VPN solution for secure remote access to police records.
• Upgrading of CDPD Systems - All CDPD systems in police vehicles were upgraded to GPRS for 5x increase in speed and improvements in coverage. This also included upgrading and enhancing the PSI software for patrol cards to allow near-realtime dispatch information and department-specific search capabilities.
• Reorganization of Department - The department was reorganized to allow resources to be dedicated to the purchase, deployment, and support of desktop and laptop systems without increasing budget.
• Upgrading of Utility Billing System - The utility billing system was successfully upgraded to Banner 3.0 which also required the upgrading of associated systems.
• Integration of Business Licensing with Case File Program - Business licensing functions were integrated with the Community Development case file program which included a web-based application to accommodate Rental Dwelling Licensing.

Legal:

• Continuation of Efforts to Acquire Property - Efforts to acquire property for the 4800 North connector road between University Avenue and Canyon Road were continued.  The case was argued before the Utah Supreme Court with a result expected by Spring. In the alternative, support from the Utah County Commission for a condemnation by the county if the Supreme Court rules against Provo City’s condemnation was negotiated.
• Use of Innovative Domestic Violence Prevention Measures - The prosecution of domestic violence was actively pursued by Provo City staff on a state-wide basis, bringing about an innovative approach to fighting this growing crime. The Deseret News reported, “Provo is the only city in the county to address the problem through domestic violence court.  The regular sessions help authorities track offenders in court-ordered counseling programs and ensure victims are protected.”
• Court Ordering of Ignition Interlocks - Court-ordered ignition interlocks have been successfully obtained by prosecutors in certain DUI cases (second or more offense; blood alcohol above 0.16) which should lead to the reduction of DUI-related accidents.
• Dismissal of Claims for Future Earnings - In a civil rights suit where liability against the city had already been determined, a dismissal of the claims for future earnings was achieved. This was substantial inasmuch as the plaintiff had sought between $11,000,000 and $20,000,000. The plaintiff was ordered to pay the City’s attorney’s fees associated with this portion of the case.

Library:

 Administration:

• Feliz NavideZa Celebration - Feliz NavideZa, a true Hispanic Christmas celebration of many Spanish cultures, was organized and presented with tremendous success–approximately 3,500 were in attendance.
• Reorganization of Administrative Functions - Administrative functions were reorganized to allow for full time effort to secure additional funds through fund raising and grant development.
• Election of Director to Association Presidency - The Library Director, Gene Nelson, was elected Utah Library Association President.
• Public Speaking Engagements - Director Nelson spoke to various civic and church groups.

  Children’s Services:

• Sponsoring of Programs - Over 800 programs were sponsored during the last year with over 70,000 in attendance.
• Appointing of Division Manager to Committee - The Children’s Services Manager, Carla Morris, was appointed to the Randolph Caldecott Committee, which is responsible to award the annual Caldecott Medal for Children’s Literature.
• Participation in Literacy Pilot Project - An emergent literacy pilot project sponsored by the Public Library Association was participated in by Provo City as one of 11 libraries throughout the country.  These efforts were recognized in American Libraries and The School Library Journal.
• Public Speaking Engagements - Director Gene Nelson and Manager Carla Morris spoke at the national Public Library Association’s Spring Symposium.
• Status of Annual Summer Reading Program - A record high of 4,201 participants was reached for this year’s annual summer reading program. Over $305,000 of “in-kind” donations were contributed by the business community.

 Adult Services:

• Ongoing Public Service Activities - Approximately 130,000 queries from the public were fielded during the last year.
• Service to Slate Canyon Youth Detention Center - Library service to the Slate Canyon Youth Detention Center was established.
• Expansion of Spanish Collection - Materials for the Spanish collection were increased, and the area for collection was expanded.
• Reclassification of Collection - The reclassification of the nonfiction LDS collection was completed.
• Sponsoring of Adult and Teen Summer Reading Program - The 2^nd Annual Adult and Teen Summer Reading Program was sponsored with over 1,050 participants.
• Ongoing Programs - Approximately 221 programs were presented this past year with over 3,000 attendees. Fifty-nine of the programs were presented in Spanish.

 Support Services:

• High Level of Circulation - A high level of circulation was maintained at approximately 100,000 per month.
• Increase in Collection - An additional 25,311 items were added to the collection.

 Information Systems:

• Upgrading of System - A major upgrade of the Horizon (Dynix) system was completed.
• New Wireless Network - A wireless network for patron laptops was installed.
• Reconfiguration of Library Network - The library network was configured to allow the training lab to connect directly to the City network for utilization in training exercises.

 Events:

• Ongoing Events - Approximately 1,200 events were facilitated.  These ranged from weddings, reunions, high school proms, and graduations to business lunches, film festivals, lectures, and support groups.
• Status of Rental Fees - Total rental fees of $115,313 were received.
• Sponsoring of First LiterArtcy Event - The first Provo City Library LiterArtcy Gallery competition and show was sponsored.
• Obtainment of Sculpture - The Avard Fairbanks sculpture of Brigham Young was secured.

Parks & Recreation:

• Adjustment in Organizational Structure - The structure of the park maintenance division was reorganized to promote accountability, improve efficiency, and conserve water.
• Completion of New Park - The Indian Road Trailhead Park was completed and grand opening ceremonies held as a part of National Trails Day.
• Development of Park Safety Action Plan - An action plan to address safety issues at Wilderness Park was developed, and low brush and trees were cleared out to improve visibility.
• Acquisition of Foothill Park - Foothill Park was acquired through a private donation of 65 acres of property.  Public access to the park trail system was created.
• Sesquicentennial Commemoration - The Cemetery Sesquicentennial Commemoration was planned and organized in conjunction with Memorial Day.  A decorative fence and entrance arch were installed around the perimeter of the Cemetery.
• Acquisition of Property for Cemetery - Four acres of property to the west of the Cemetery were obtained for future expansion.
• Development of Web Page - A web page for the Provo City Cemetery was developed for the convenience of patrons.
• Completion of City Property Projects - Several construction projects on City property were completed; including the following: physical improvements to the City Gym;  remodel of Eldred Senior Center office; remodel of Police Department training room; repair of flooding areas at City Center; and acceptance of janitorial bids.
• Improvements in Employee Safety Program - A more aggressive safety education program was implemented, and a safety incentive program was initiated.
• Completion of Feasibility Study for New Arts Center - A feasibility study was completed for the new Arts Center in the old library building. The fund raising phase has commenced with focus on construction funding.
• Creation of New Recreation Programs - New programs were offered by the Recreation Division with no impact to current budgetary guidelines.  These included: a park movie series, Start Smart sports programs for preschoolers, Monday Nights Live concert series, weekend softball tournaments, and additional citywide special events.
• Involvement in Special Events - Winterfest and First Night were again handled by the Recreation Division as liaison with citizen leadership. Many new activities and improvements were added to enhance the events.
• Initiation of New Field Rental System - A refined field rental system for group use of sports facilities was implemented by the Sports staff.  Fees generated will be used to assist in field maintenance and field improvements; including; dug out covers, cooling misters, and drinking fountains.
• Activities of The Center - Many community programming partnerships were created to allow groups such as country dancing, family counseling, sports, scouting, and others to utilize The Center as their venue. A new skate park and improved game room facilities are being developed to meet user requests and to make The Center the facility of choice.  Students are now being transported to The Center from school to eliminate the hurdles associated with participation in programs.  Grants are being obtained for scholarship registration costs for underprivileged youth.

Police:

• Remodel of Training/Conference Room Area - The training/conference room area was remodeled into a “state-of-the-art” training facility. It also provides four new offices for victim advocates and public relations personnel as well as a much needed conference room.  The training area and conference room are available for the use of others.
• New DARE Car - A detective division vehicle was converted into a DARE car equal to any in the state with the help of local businesses who donated paint, wheels, tires, lighting, and decal work.
• Continuation of Grant - In addition to the $791,000 that has been received in the previous five years, a Department of Justice grant for $390,000 was continued for two years which goes to the Victim Assistance Program, Child Victim Assistant, two Children’s Counselors, and a full-time and part-time Public Relations Specialist.
• Charging of Robert Allen Kartchner - Through the teamwork of the Provo City Police force, Robert Allen Kartchner, who has been charged with the kidnaping of a child in Mapleton, Utah, was charged with kidnaping and attempted kidnaping.  The stalking case of another child was also solved.
• Development of New Public Information Videos - Two new videos–Faces of Domestic Violence and Provo Emergency Preparedness–were created, providing meaningful insight to Provo residents on these important subjects.
• Arrest of Burglary Suspects - Several individuals involved in burglaries throughout Utah County were arrested during the month of November through the combined efforts of CID, Patrol, and COP.  This resulted in the recovery of thousands of dollars worth of stolen property.
• Conversion to New Crisnet System - The Dispatch Center’s and Records Division’s computer systems were successfully converted to the new Crisnet computer system. The existing computer-aided dispatch system, which had been in place for 15 years, had become archaic and unable to integrate with newer programs and technologies currently in use.  Through the efforts of IS, records/dispatch personnel, and MEGG associates, the system was obtained at a substantial savings.

Public Works:

 Engineering:

• ITS (Intelligent Transportation System) Efforts - All traffic signal systems citywide were connected via fiber optics cable.  Traffic signals were timed and coordinated.  Eight downtown CCTV cameras, video detection, and Impath communication equipment for 14 intersections were installed.  A contract for a Traffic Operations Center was obtained and the initial installation completed.
• Work on Traffic Signals - Seven location traffic signal projects, including six locations along 200 West and 1230 North and 700 East 700 North were completed.  Two new traffic signals were installed at 4400 North University Avenue and 450 North 900 East. Traffic signals were upgraded at 900 North Campus Drive which included connection to the traffic system. Traffic signal detection equipment was rebuilt along the 1230 North corridor, the 2230 North corridor, and Canyon Road in conjunction with the installation of storm drains and the water main upgrade project.  Traffic signal knock down repair work was completed at 900 East Birch Lane and 1860 South Novell Place.  Traffic signal cabinets were replaced at 500 West Center Street, 300 South University Avenue, and 1230 North 500 West.
• Special Improvement District 103 Activities - Improvements along 1100 West, including storm drain and sidewalk upgrades, were installed. Street improvements along 600 South, including storm drains, and along 1600 West, including the intersection realignment at 1600 West and 600 South, were made.
• Status of Street Overlay Program - The following streets were included in the program for this past fiscal year: 2200 North from Canyon Road to Stadium Lane, 900 East from Center Street to State Street, 200 West from 920 South to 300 South, 600 South from 200 West to 100 East, and West Center Street from Geneva Road to 3100 West.  In conjunction with this project, several bike lanes were installed at 2200 North, 200 West, 900 East, 600 South, and Center Street.
• Completion of College Connector Trail - A connector trail was completed along University Parkway, 900 East, Temple View Drive, and 2300 North which included the installation of sidewalk improvements along the north side of University Parkway opposite the Marriott Center.
• Completion of Various Studies - A pavement management study was completed during which an inventory of all streets were provided in coordination with Samsung for the GASB 34 requirements and all city streets were inventoried and condition assessments completed.  A geologic hazards study was completed in the Sherwood Hills area. Several studies of a proposed Traffic Impact Fee were completed to look at assessing new developments for proposed impact on the transportation system within the City.
• Street Widening Projects - The project to widen 820 North, 1375 West to Independence Avenue, included the installation of a new traffic roundabout at the intersection of 820 North and 1375 West. The project to widen 920 South Street from 200 West to 500 West is underway.  Property owners have been contacted to secure rights-of-way and install improvements to help minimize the cost to the City.  A storm drain from approximately 200 West to 400 West was also installed. The street along 600 South from 200 West to 100 East was widened to provide better access to businesses in that area. 200 North Street, approximately 1200 West near Action Target, was widened which included acquiring a right-of-way as well as installing improvements along a portion of the street. 
• Installation of Right-Turn Pocket - A right-turn pocket was installed for east bound to south bound traffic at Columbia Lane and 500 West and the signal re-timed to include a right-turn overlap for west bound traffic.
• Reconfiguration of Intersections - The intersection at 4500 North University Avenue, which has historically been a high accident area, was modified, and, in coordination with the neighborhood, access to the Northgate neighborhood was reconfigured through the new signal at 4400 North University Avenue. The intersection at 1460 North Jordan Avenue was reconfigured, including the installation of left-turn lanes to increase safety and provide better access to the school.
• Status of Provo Harbor Bridge on Center Street Project - Construction on this project will begin once the design is completed which is currently underway.  The necessary environmental approvals have been obtained.
• Installation of Interactive Control Message Sign - An ICM sign was installed to help alert drivers to speed violations along Foothill Drive.

 Public Services:

• New Air Traffic Control Tower - Funding for construction of an air traffic control tower was secured and site prep-construction has commenced.  Construction of the actual tower should be out for bid by the end of the year.  Two important issues associated with the project were resolved; namely, lowering the tower height below the transition surface area and having the FAA commit $450,000 to upgrade to a Doppler VOR.
• Implementation of Right Hand Pattern - A right hand pattern was implemented for runway 13/31 which was a critical step in the master plan and in constructing an air traffic control tower.
• Completion of Airport Construction Project - The North Apron Rehabilitation Project was completed which included realignment of FBO tie-downs and completion of the North Taxiway.
• Installation of “No Outlet” Signs and Pedestrian Crosswalks - All Dead End signs were replaced with the new “No Outlet” signs and pedestrian crosswalk flag stations at six highly-trafficked pedestrian crosswalks were installed.
• Status of Sidewalk Maintenance Program - Sidewalk replacement efforts have exceeded any performed in the previous year including many in the CDGB area. All outstanding requests for the City/Property Owner shared program have been completed.
• Status of Crack Sealing Program - One-third more square feet of roads were sealed this year, equaling over seven times greater than totals from two years prior.
• Implementation of Curbside Recycling - An agreement was made with Waste Management to begin a subscription curbside recycling program. There are currently 1,647 residents participating.
• Compost Yard Activities - Revenue in compost yard operations was nearly $10,000 more than last year.  The number of residents in the yard waste program increased by 275 for a total of 2,297 residents.
• Implementation of New Fleet Management System - The fleet management system was upgraded from Peregrin’s Fleet Anywhere to CFA Fleet Management software. The new program is more user friendly and will save over $5,000 in annual maintenance costs.
• Achievement of Surplus in Fleet Management Budget - The fiscal year was ended with a $69,000 surplus in the Fleet Management budget, a significant improvement over the past trend of going over budget.

 Storm Water:

• Completion of Diversion Channel - Construction of the debris diversion at the mouth of Buckley Draw below the burn area was completed in late July, safely diverting future mud flows and preventing damage and cleanup efforts for homes and neighborhoods.
• Herding and Removal of Carp - Thousands of carp were “herded” downstream to avoid the need for their extermination.  In addition, approximately 15,000 carp were removed from this area in coordination with the UDWR, avoiding a possible ecological and environmental disaster.
• Construction of Storm Drains - A 30" - 54" storm drain was constructed along Freedom Boulevard between 920 South and 400 South and along 600 South between Freedom Boulevard and 400 West, marking the completion of the second phase of the project to significantly improve storm drainage in the city south of 800 North. In addition, an 18" - 27" storm drain was constructed along 1100 West between 1400 South and 600 South and along 600 South between 1220 West and 1100 West in coordination with SID #103.
• Response to Upper East Union Canal Piping - As a result of the piping of the private irrigation canal, new storm drains were designed and constructed along 2230 North (Canyon Road to Provo River), Birch Lane/1200 East (Ash Avenue to 820 North), and Nevada Avenue/900 South (1000 South to 1150 East).
• Pursuit of NPDES Storm Water Quality Permit - In compliance with new Federal regulations, a Notice of Intent was submitted to the State Division of Water Quality in March.  Ongoing efforts are being made to work with the State and other communities to comply with these regulations in a cost effective manner.
• Status of SCADA Project - Remote monitoring and control of the five most critical storm water pumping stations in the City is being achieved by this project.  This will enable more effective operation of these stations and more timely response to problems.
• Completion of Major Maintenance Projects - In coordination with the Parks Division, the Cemetery parking lot was reconstructed to improve drainage conditions. Several small projects were completed in Ironton with the Economic Development Department to improve surface drainage and to monitor ground water movement. Several small drainage projects were also completed in response to the piping of the UEU Canal.
• Mapping of Storm Drain System - Approximately 25% of the City’s storm drain system was incorporated into the City’s GIS mapping system.
• Completion of Impact Fee Study - An updated analysis was completed which documented the need and justification for adjusting the storm water impact fee.

 Water Resources:

• Drilling of New Wells - The Timpview Well was drilled and equipped and a well house constructed.  The University Avenue well was also drilled and equipped and work on the pump house began. Both wells should be online before next summer’s peak season.
• Meeting of Water System Demands - Despite the ongoing drought, community demands for water were successfully met while over a substantial amount of water in Deer Creek Reservoir was held for possible ongoing shortages.
• Achievement of Zero Standards Violations - Absolutely no violations of State or Federal standards were identified during Water Quality testing in the areas of wastewater and drinking water.
• Maintenance of Healthy Fiscal Position - Water and sewer funds were maintained at a fairly healthy level despite funding an aggressive Capital Improvement Program as well as providing a $2,300,000 loan to the General Fund to assist in the Kuhni buyout.
• Construction of Transmission Line - A 24" water transmission line along 1230 North from 500 West to Canyon Road and north on Canyon Road from 1230 North to 1650 North was completed by Condie Construction who was under contract with Provo City Water Resources. This critical line replaces a steel line that was built in the 1930's and was experiencing numerous leaks.
• Upgrading of Water Reclamation Plant - A major upgrade project was completed at the Water Reclamation Plant which included: the construction of a centrate stabilization tank, replacement of the grit and screenings washer, conversion of a fourth aeration basin to fine bubble diffusion, and the conversion of two aeration blowers to variable frequency drive. This conversion should save $5,000 to $6,000 per month in energy costs.
• Results of Conservation Program - Working voluntarily with a cooperative community, water usage was reduced by as much as 13.9% during peak summer months.
• Up-sizing of Sewer Line - Working with the Storm Drain Division, a critical sewer trunk line was up-sized along Freedom Boulevard between 600 South and 900 South.
• Replacement of SCADA System - Working with Westin Engineering, a detailed criteria was developed for the replacement of water and sewer SCADA systems. Proposals for construction were evaluated and ADCO, Inc. was selected as the contractor. This project is ongoing and should be completed in late spring of 2004.