TITLE
Recommendation to receive supporting documentation into the record, conclude the public hearing, and adopt resolution amending the Master Fee and Charges Schedule for Stand-by Fire Safety Officer Fees related to Special Events and Filming. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The Long Beach Fire Department currently charges stand-by and spot-check inspection fees to ensure fire safety, water safety, and the presence of basic life support prior to and/or during City of Long Beach (City) special events and filming productions. At its September 3, 2019 meeting, the City Council adopted the FY 20 Master Fee and Charges Schedule, which included fee increases for stand-by services to $130 per hour to recover staff and material costs. However, it was recently discovered that stand-by services fees were not evaluated along with the City’s other special events and filming charges, and fees were raised unintentionally at this time. A user fee and cost-recovery study currently underway will evaluate direct and indirect costs associated with providing these services and will ensure consistency in review across the City’s special events and filming fees.
As a result, staff is proposing to readjust the fees and recoup for staff costs only. The proposed changes will reduce the estimated additional revenues reported as part of the Adopted FY 20 Master Fees and Charges Schedule from $47,520 to $16,560. The proposed fee changes are as follows:
|
Fee |
Per/Unit |
Current Fee |
Proposed Fee |
|
Stand-by Fire Safety Officer - Fire Prevention |
Hour, minimum billing of 4 hours |
$130.00 |
$105.00 |
|
Stand-by Fire Safety Officer - Marine Safety Land |
Hour, minimum billing of 4 hours |
$130.00 |
$101.00 |
This matter was reviewed by Principal Deputy City Attorney Gary J. Anderson on November 7, 2019 and by Revenue Management Officer Geraldine Alejo on November 12, 2019.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on December 3, 2019, to ensure timely implementation of the proposed fees.
FISCAL IMPACT
The recommendation will amend the Master Fee and Charges Schedule and reduce stand-by Fire Safety Officer fees related to special events and filming. The proposed fee changes are calculated to recoup staff costs only. There is no impact to FY 20 budgeted revenue since it was not increased due to the FY 20 adopted fees, following the common revenue budgeting practice that generally budgets for higher revenues once there is a history of actuals and an established pattern.
In terms of projected annual revenues, this recommendation will reduce the estimated annual revenue increase reported as part of FY 20 budget adoption from $47,520 to $16,560. The anticipated revenue will accrue in the Fire Department and is comprised of $13,440 in the General Fund Group and $3,120 in the Tidelands Fund Group. These estimates will vary based on annual requests for these services. This recommendation has no staffing impact beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is consistent with existing City Council priorities. There is no local job impact associated with this recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
BODY
[Enter Body Here]
Respectfully Submitted,
XAVIER ESPINO
FIRE CHIEF
APPROVED:
THOMAS B. MODICA
ACTING CITY MANAGER