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Regular City Council Minutes - 4/14/03 Page 7 discussions held by the Public Works and Transportation Discount Program Commission as requested by the City Council and their consideration of six (6) options; with the Commission unanimously recommending the continuation of the senior discount currently offered by the City, as well as offering a similar program to those under age 65 who met Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. The Commission recommended that those applicants under age 65 would need to reapply or certify annually that they met the income guidelines for the program. Finance Director Chris Miller reviewed implications for administrative oversight duties and anticipated that it would be minimal with the annual recertification form used similar to an affidavit that would be on an "honor" system in order to keep administrative costs to a minimum. Mr. Miller estimated that approximately 200 households may be eligible to apply for the under age 65 needs-based program, with an estimated cost to the City of $4 - 5,000 annually, with other utility customers subsidizing those households through increased rates to the overall utility program. Discussion ensued regarding the estimated cost of the program to the City, and the estimated number of households, based on 2000 census figures; and the Public Works and Transportations rationale for their recommendation. Councilmember Klausing questioned the reason for the Public Works and Transportation Commission considering a needs-based program for those under age 65, but not considering similar criteria for those over age 65, with annual recertification for all receiving the discount. Mr. Schwartz reviewed the comments of the Public Works and Transportation Commission when specifically queried by staff on that issue; with the Commission's consensus being that the existing senior discount program, with all seniors eligible, seemed to be a good program that was working well; and they recommended no changes.