CROWN POINT | Discussion about a proposed business database for the city Monday focused on the question of how to contact whoever is in charge of businesses.

After about an hour discussing the intent and scope of the database, the City Council's Ordinance Committee voted that Keith Stevens, Mayor Dave Uran's chief of staff, have a meeting with department heads to discuss the best methods of implementing and organizing the database.

The committee began discussing the database earlier this year believing it would be a good way for city public safety officials to know who to notify to address public safety concerns. For example, if a kitchen in a restaurant catches fire in the middle of the night, the Crown Point Fire Rescue Department would check the database to know who the owner is to contact.

"We're talking about how to enforce (the registration) but I haven't heard anyone say it isn't good information to have," City Councilman Bob Corbin said.

Curt Graves, director of community development, suggested the database be added as an amendment to the city's code where it addresses fire inspection because a fire inspector already makes a yearly check of businesses.

Corbin said it was likely some businesses would fall through the cracks, but the city should use a variety of methods to get in touch with as many businesses as possible.

Preliminary ideas for the registration include a $25 registration fee and a yearly renewal process.