Councilors debated a late-file request on Jan. 21 to transfer $24,780 from the city's vacant building revolving fund to fund the property-maintenance and demolition supervisor position that has been vacant for more than three years.

Councilor Mike Sullivan filed the order and urged the council to take immediate action so the city could rehire a qualified demolition supervisor to reduce demolition costs and address blight and safety hazards, including partially collapsed buildings and unsecured vacant structures.

"This position has been vacant for over 3 years now," Councilor Mike Sullivan said. "...the city has gone backwards over the last 3 years with this position empty."

Supporters said the revolving fund has generated revenues from prior demolition and boarding activity and could be used midyear to fill the post. Opponents and procedural critics said the matter belongs in the finance committee to review long-term funding, pay grade, and where the position would appear in next fiscal year's budget.

The council voted on a motion to suspend the rules and take final action that evening. The motion failed on a roll-call vote and the clerk announced the outcome as eight in favor and five opposed; under council procedures the matter will now be considered by the finance committee. Council members asked the finance chair to place the item on the committee agenda so councilors could review job description, longer-term funding, and demolition financing options.

Ending: The finance committee will take up the transfer request at its next scheduled meeting and report back to the full council with recommendations.