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Ms. Dennis inquired if the model is reaching the point of being too complex and should we start over with a new model. Ms. Michelotti asked whether it is feasible for the City to take over the upkeep of the model versus hiring a consultant? She feels updates should be built into the model to accommodate new technology in computers. She would like to look into having a peer review of the model and whether it is cost effective to have the City take over the model. Mr. Tarver noted his frustration that after spending $200,000 with TJKM, the City still must purchase the traffic model. He agrees that if the City can do the modeling, and it is cost effective, we should pursue that course. Mr. van Gelder advised that maintaining the model in-house was considered three years ago at an estimated cost of $40,000. He feels that any one of the traffic personnel can be trained to do this ~omputer work, however, other projects will not be getting serviced. Ms. Acosta advised that three years ago it was not considered to be cost effective, however, it could be reviewed again. Ms. Michelotti inquired what costs TJKM incurred to keep the program up and running. Mr. van Gelder spoke of the various computer software packages used such as MLITP, a commercial traffic assignment element, Microsoft, Lotus, Excel, and five different customized programs by TJKM which they feel are intellectual properties to be licensed. He doesn't feel they have much upkeep expense. He noted that staff spends a significant amount of time cross- checking and reviewing the work done by the consultants. This aspect may be lost if done in- house. Ms. Michelotti clarified with staff that they feel the present peer review is adequate. Mr. van Gelder feels comfortable with the current system of review. He also feels if the cost per year is approximately $9,000 for the next couple of years, staff could not internalize it and do it cheaper. Mr. Pico inquired of staff how receptive TJKM would be to a peer review. Mr. van Gelder described that he has done a peer review of sorts when he asked TJKM to host the competition and describe the model. Mr. van Gelder noted that Barton-Aschman expressed comfort with the model and using the model. He believes a peer review could be done through a computer modeling company. Mr. Pico asked that Council get a report on such a peer review. If the report proves of concern to the Council, next year's decision could reflect that. Ms. Mohr would like the City to have ownership of the model documentation and supports the staff recommendation. She is inclined to support doing the modeling in-house, however, she understands not wanting to hire additional staff. Furthermore, she inquired how we would protect ourselves from falling into the same "traps" of missing important data, as using the same consultant year after year. Mr. van Gelder concurs with this. He noted that by using a consultant for this work, two staff persons review the work. Ms. Mohr inquired if the 04/18/95 -9-