PC 111208 - Laserfiche WebLink

and the State was fine with that. Commissioner Fox inquired if the State's response was in writing; Mr. Pfund said he did not have them in writing. Commissioner O'Connor inquired if it was Mr. Pfund's understanding that the background check submitted in April was still being conducted and said he was baffled why it would betaking so long. Mr. Pfund replied that there was first a delay in getting started because it was at the beginning of a new school year when he applied for the license, and there were many people needing licenses across the State. He added that Trust Line is also doing background checks for nannies and other positions. He stated that his file was then misplaced, which further delayed the process. James Baker stated that he has known John Pfund for seven years and thanked Commissioner Olson for acknowledging how long the matter has dragged on. He noted that Mr. Pfund has spent all of his operating capital and that he was involved in the entire accusation case against Mr. Pfund. Mr. Baker stated that he came to know Mr. Pfund when his 2nd grade daughter was enrolled in his program for three years. He noted that it is an amazing program, which should be facilitated by the City. He indicated that there are numerous people operating after-school camps for all kinds of activities, including a little time to do homework but with the core focus on recreational activities. Mr. Baker stated that when he started investigating this in 2000, the American Society of Pediatrics had an article stating that martial arts actually improves grades. He continued that he noticed a superman complex; the students would put on their uniform and were respectful, there was no bullying, there was a hierarchy, and they learn humility. He said there was a waiting list of students to sign up because the grades of the children enrolled in the program went up. He added that after six months, he signed up for the adult classes, and he has been a studenteversince. Mr. Baker noted that this is a wonderful thing for children, and the community benefits from the program. He encouraged the City Council to facilitate this and understood that while the City would be concerned with the building and safety issues of parking and fire, the State has the overriding responsibility of monitoring it, and it is tightly reined on this. He noted that the State is familiar with after-school camps and knows what it takes to keep children safe. He asked the Commission to allow Mr. Pfund to operate and have the State take over. Jeff Nibert stated that he has known Mr. Pfund for 12 years. He stated that his son has gone through this program during that time, starting in a junior level program, and got his black belt recently all because of Mr. Pfund's model. He noted that he has seen successes with other kids, teenagers, and adults and has nothing but the highest praise for Mr. Pfund. He stated that Mr. Pfund is a strong role model and asked the Commission to let fairness and common sense prevail in its consideration of his application. He indicated that he has been attending the sessions on this application and has seen how this has been strung out for months. He stated that Mr. Pfund has PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, November 12, 2008 Page 13 of 29