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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006-06-14 - TB Town of Ulysses Special Board Meeting PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM WATER DISTRICT #5 6/14/2006 PRESENT : Supervisor Doug Austic , Councilpeople Don Ellis, Roxanne Marino, and Lucia Tyler. Deputy Supervisor Dick Coogan, Engineer Eric Pond, Town Clerk Marsha Georgia, Deputy Clerk Patti Halloran, and Typist Karin Lanning. Councilperson Rod Ferrentino absent . ALSO PRESENT : (taken from the sign in list at the Informational Meeting — we apologize if the name is spelled incorrectly or someone was omitted because they did not sign in) Village of Trumansburg Trustees John Hrubos , Rose Hilbert, Mary Bouchard, and David Filiberto , John Anderson of the Tompkins County Health Department, Jeff McDonald of the NYS Parks — Finger Lakes Region , Jim Dennis, Tompkins County Representative, Liz Lawyer of the Ithaca Journal, Bill Chaisson of the Trumansburg Free Press, Tammy Morse, Robert Bennett, John Feller, Lynn Boruchowitz, Amy Smith, Kurt VanNess, Brian Cutler, Beverly Westervelt, Edith Foster, Ed Snyder, Stan Goldberg, Krys Cail , Diane Hillman, Margaret Denmark, Joan Denmark, Margaret Buchiel , Fred Denmark, Sr. , Lucille Poley, Harry Davis, Emma Lou Sheikh, Chuck Dickson, Karen Dickson, David Irish, Rick Rainey, Devi Rainey, Nancy George, Bill George, Peter Cooke, William Hogan, Melinda Butler, John G . Wertis, Maureen Shallish, Carl Mann, Jason Fulton, Allison Pritts, Peter Pennimen, Gretchen Peck, Sandra Lowe, Brad Lowe, Barry Hayes, Joan Ormondroyd, Ruth Scott, Mike Addicott, Edward Wolf, Emma Kay, Sue Poelvoorde, Joan Stewart, Phil Soyring, Doris Soyring, Doug Duddleston, Penny McGuire, Robert McGuire, Pat Gleason, Al Rakowski , Marilyn Rakowski , Rob Schoffel, Bob Sullivan, Susan Sullivan, Sarah Koski , Susan Ritter, Patricia Bonsall , Jackie Merwin, Ian Merwin, Archie Mielty, Patricia Splaine-Hillman, David Tyler, Larry Shinagawa, John Wertis, Philip Smith, Ben Guthrie, Loretta Heimbuoh, Sally Sutcliffe, Jean Donahue, Philip Stillman, Joseph Sibley, Susan Anton, John B , Kate Sinko, Joan Hogan, Floyd Cole, Alice Cole, Calista Smith, Ruth Kredell, Marilyn Smith, Nikki Clark, David Boyd, David Means, Carolyn Kreisel, Anne Koreman, Kaye Borden, Delano Borden, Marion Boratynski , Valerie French, Randy Luoma, Michael Butler, Rick Kippola, Bill Couch, Margaret Burlew, Glen Breed, Bess Simmons , Gayle MacLean , Ronald MacLean, Nancy O ' Brien, Billy O ' Brien, Don Murray, Ruth Murray, Mary Soong-Brock, Adele Robinette, Virginia Snedden, Lee LaBuff, Kyle LaBuff, Rob Covert, Ellie Zimet, Sue Tyczinski, Jim Dennis, Leo Luoma, Carissa Mann Parlato, Ed Koppel, Joanne Molino, Gerald VanOrden, Nancy VanOrden, Bill McClure, Brandi Smith, Richard W . Smith, Scott Sutcliffe, Martin Jorgensen, Susan Means , Garry Fowler, Jennifer Wapinski-Mooradian, Jonathan Cook, Naralie McKenna, Carolyn Duddleston , Ed Sutherland , Al S , Susan Beckley, Jane Bowen, Lorne Mahoney, Lois Mahoney, Dick Burlew, Kim Wheeler, Rebecca Schneider, Stephen Morreale, Richard Koski , Jason Koski , Sarah Koski , David Filiberto , Ron Loz, Jesse Miller, Mike Marshall, Jodi Marshall , JB Lockwood, Eugene Burpee, William Coon, Geraldine Keil, Gunther Keil, Chris Carey, Beckie Cardina, Eric DeJager, John Mielty, Durga Bor, Alan Jamison, Mary Jamison, Rick Bair, Cathy Bair, Larry Reverby, Matt McLennan, and Rodney Porter. RECORDING MINUTES : Ulysses Town Clerk Marsha Georgia, Deputy Clerk Patti Halloran, and Typist Karin Lanning. The meeting was called to order at 7 : 17 pm . Ulysses Town Supervisor Doug Austic opened the meeting by noting that he hopes to limit the duration of this meeting to 9 : 30 pm and by stating Water District residents will be given first option to pose questions or make statements in the question and answer portion of this evening ' s meeting, after which outside-district residents may pose questions and statements . Supervisor Austic gave a very brief history of the proposed water district, stating it started on April 18 , 2002 with a joint Town of Ulysses and Village of Trumansburg meeting to discuss potential issues associated with Ulysses Water District #3 . At that time, it was Town of Ulysses 2 Special Board Meeting PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM WATER DISTRICT #5 6/14/2006 agreed that the Town would connect and serve as the Village ' s secondary water source at such time as it became feasible to undertake this project. Since that time, the Taughannock Falls State Park' s water source was determined by the Health Department to be "Ground Water Under the Direct Influence of Surface Water (GUDI), so they approached the Town of Ulysses about interconnection as well . The Town has decided to undertake these two projects and to provide municipal water to as many Town residents as feasible while accomplishing these two goals . Supervisor Austic stated the purpose of tonight ' s meeting is to answer any questions Town residents have about the proposed Water District. Supervisor Austic asked attendees to abide by the following ground rules : 1 ) Try to limit first questions/statements to one minute; 2) Avoid discussion amongst attendees and speakers/representatives ; 3) Try to be civil . Austic stated people will be asked to leave if there are major problems . Additionally, Austic asked that all speakers come to the podium, state their names and speak into the microphone. Supervisor Austic introduced himself, Town Engineer Eric Pond of Barton & Loguidice, Councilpeople Lucia Tyler, Don Ellis and Roxanne Marino, and Town Clerk Marsha Georgia. Brian Cutler requested a brief overview of costs before the question and answer session begins. Supervisor Austic explained Engineer Eric Pond will make a brief presentation before the question and answer portion of the meeting and a resident of Ulysses Water District #3 will tell of her costs and experience with that recent Project. Supervisor Austic introduced Dianne Hillman, a resident of Ulysses Water District #3 . Water District #3 Personal Experience & Costs Dianne Hillman related her experiences with polluted water at her Jacksonville home, the expensive systems she needed to treat her water, her expense and trouble with hauling drinking water, and how Water District #3 addressed her problems . Hillman stated her average annual cost before connecting to the Water District was $352 per year. In the two years immediately before connecting, her cost was more like $650 per year. District water service for the past year cost just $ 167 on top of infrastructure costs, and besides the cost savings, she no longer has expensive equipment in her basement to worry about, her clothes do not get stained with chlorine, she can drink water from her faucet, and does not need to haul or store heavy 5 -gallon water jugs . Hillman explained it was difficult to ascertain exactly what she spent on making the connection to the Water District because she had a new septic system installed at the same time, but her neighbor paid approximately $ 1 ,050 and her plumber advised that the water connection portion of his work was in this range. Hillman concluded by stating that she is very appreciative of Water District #3 . It finally gave her what she wanted. Supervisor Austic thanked Hillman for coming and speaking, and introduced Town Engineer Eric Pond of Barton & Loguidice, P . C . Engineer 's Water District #5 Overview Presentation Eric Pond began by stating he has been working through Barton & Loguidice with Supervisor Austic and other Town representatives for about 8 years and was responsible for the full planning and design of Water District #3 . Pond stated the proposed Water District #5 project will address mutual needs of the Town of Ulysses, Village of Trumansburg and Taughannock Falls State Park with mutual benefits . Pond explained, at - ; the time Water District #3 was being planned, the Town realized it was not presently feasible to go any further than what that project accomplished, but the Town was aware of . .� the Village ' s need for a back-up water supply and suspected the State Park ' s need . The proposed Water District #5 will address the needs of both the Village and State Park and will benefit the Town of Ulysses in benefiting all of Water District #3 as well as other Town residents . Pond explained the needs to be met by the proposed Project. The Village of Trumansburg needs a back-up water supply. Its present back-up supply is insufficient and does not allow enough chlorine-contact time between the well and the first Town of Ulysses 3 Special Board Meeting PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM WATER DISTRICT #5 6/14/2006 customer. The NYS Department of Health requires an adequate redundant water supply. Additionally, the western portion of the water system provides technically adequate pressure, but does not provide enough pressure for fire protection. Pond noted that the Village paid $ 80,000 to the Town towards the construction of Water District #3 to pay for larger water main and an additional pump at the Wolfe Lane Pump Station in order to make the proposed interconnection possible . The Taughannock Falls State Park has a well, like the Village of Trumansburg, but its well has been determined to be "Ground Water Under the Direct Influence of Surface Water" (GUDI) . In the eyes of the Health Department, a GUDI water source might as well be a surface water source — the Park may as well be drawing water straight from Cayuga Lake. This is a public health risk posed to the 4, 000 people who visit the State Park daily during the summer months . The State Park has received a letter from the Health Department notifying it of the need to address this problem , which can be done via one of two means — interconnection with another water supply or construction and subsequent operation of a water treatment plant . The Town of Ulysses, as Water District #3 was being planned and designed, received many questions of "Why stop here?" and was made aware of many other areas where Town residents need water. Water District #3 was viewed and designed to be a starting point. The Village of Trumansburg has placed a moratorium on new water service connections outside the Village pending the formation by the Town of Ulysses of a water district to serve these areas . The Village system infrastructure located outside the Village is 50 to 60 years old, and has been subject to breaks . The water main runs through overgrowth and difficult terrain, making maintenance very challenging and expensive. This portion of the Trumansburg water system also lacks adequate water pressure for fire protection. The hydrants in front of the Cayuga Addiction Recovery Services building proved useless in fighting the fire that destroyed their former building. Moreover, the system includes a long dead-end run of water main — an inefficient setup . Additionally, the proposed Water District will also address water contamination problems including gasoline/MTBE, E-Coli/Coliform and Methane/Sulphur contamination. The proposed District would benefit Water District #3 residents in that the district is oversized for the purposes it currently serves because it was designed to serve as the backbone for further water projects . Finally, the proposed water district will allow the Village of Trumansburg Water System to serve as the back-up supply for the Town of Ulysses and for those portions of the Town of Ithaca served by Town of Ulysses lines . Pond explained the proposed Project was introduced four years ago in different forms and has been developed since then. The thresholds of affordability, as defined by the NYS EFC, were critical to making the Town, Village and Park projects eligible for financing, and the joint project will make it possible to obtain no- interest financing. Pond next described the infrastructure to be constructed . Water District #5 infrastructure will consist of water main and one pump station. Pond showed a cross-section of a typical water service connection. Pond next reviewed the estimated costs for the Project . Water District #5 is expected to cost a total of approximately $4 . 8 million . Assuming this money is borrowed with 0% interest hardship financing and a 30- year payback schedule through the NYS DWSRF, which a letter received today advises will be the case, there will be an approximately $ 5 million cost savings compared to the costs for financing the same work with a low-interest USDA loan with 4 . 5 % interest . Pond explained the combination of needs result in a DWSRF score that makes the Project eligible for no -interest hardship financing, and thereby makes the Project possible. Pond reviewed estimated per user costs . Static estimated costs include debt service, estimated at $267 per unit annually, O&M, estimated at $ 58 per unit annually, and Water District #3 reimbursement, estimated at $ 12 per unit annually. These costs would be levied regardless of whether a unit is connected to or uses any water from the Water District. Water consumption costs would be on top of this and are estimated to cost $233 per year for a household using 200 gallons per day or $ 164 per year for a household using a more modest 140 gallons per day. In total, Water District water service is expected to cost $ 570 per year for a household or unit using 200 gallons Town of Ulysses 4 Special Board Meeting PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM WATER DISTRICT #5 6/14/2006 per day, $ 501 per year for a household or unit using 140 gallons per day, and $337 per year for households or units that are not connected or do not use any water. Pond noted that $ 570 per unit is considered by NYS DWSRF to be affordable for Town of Ulysses residents . This figure assumes a median household income of $46,000 . Pond noted that $452 is considered affordable for Village of Trumansburg residents, but Village water service costs substantially less than this figure. Pond then reviewed estimated costs associated with connecting to the water district. These figures would be one-time expenses, and typically would average between $ 1 ,000 and $ 1 , 500 depending on how far one ' s residence is from the water main. Pond reviewed the remaining steps through Water District construction. Open to the Floor for Questions and Comments Supervisor Austic called on residents of the proposed Water District in order of their arrival at the meeting, to the best of his ability. Brian Cutler — South Street Extension — I live two houses outside of the Village and have Village water service . A couple of years ago some neighbors and I submitted a petition to form a water district so we won ' t have to pay rate-and-a-half for our water anymore . I read a couple of studies recently, though none from New York, where it ' s been found that water service extension to rural areas increases property values . I do have some questions . One : Is the Town considering a tiered fee table that charges those who already have water infrastructure differently from those who are being served by new infrastructure? Two : I would like a disclosure of which Town and Village officials and employees own property in the proposed District. Could that be compiled and made available? Three : How close did Water District #3 costs come to the estimates for that Project? Supervisor Austic answered Kilter ' s first question by stating the Town has not yet considered a tiered fee table, but can look into whether or not that would be feasible. Such a table would increase the estimated costs for those who will be served by new infrastructure. Supervisor Austic answered Cutler' s second question by stating he owns 700 feet of property along NYS Route 227 . Other Town officials stated whether they own property within the proposed District and how much. Cutler asked that this information be gathered in regards to all Town of Ulysses and Village of Trumansburg officials and employees and be assembled in writing and made available to the public . Town Clerk Marsha Georgia agreed to undertake this task. Supervisor Austic answered Cutler' s third question with input from Eric Pond. Water District #3 came in slightly under budget. The Town is currently using $ 60,000 surplus funding to address some needs that were not provided for in the Project plan. David Filiberto — Trumansburg Village resident and Trustee — I have a question about the possible loss of revenue for the Village water system . The water system relies on Auble ' s Manufactured Home Park, the Shur Save, and some other businesses that appear to be within the proposed District for funding. If these properties are to be served by the District, how will the Town make up for the Village ' s revenue losses? Supervisor Austic answered the Town and Village Boards started to discuss this matter last week, but more discussion needs to take place. There is a possibility that the District could buy some of its water from the Village and thereby lessen the Village ' s revenue loss . David Filiberto followed up by stating it ' s his understanding that the Town applied for financing for the proposed Project saying that Auble ' s Manufactured Home Park needs water, and he believes this was misrepresentation of the facts because the Park already has water service. Town of Ulysses 5 Special Board Meeting PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM WATER DISTRICT #5 6/14/2006 Supervisor Austic stated the application didn ' t necessarily say that Auble ' s needs water, but rather that the Town could address needs in that area . Austic submitted the interconnection with Trumansburg water system as a similar example in that the Village doesn ' t need water but the Project will rather address its need for a back-up water supply. Michael Butler noted that the decision ultimately comes down to a vote and stated he is concerned about over-budgeting and believes everyone should be thus concerned. Butler asked how much the State Park will pay towards the proposed Project, and whether the Town Board can guarantee that the O &M and Debt Service costs will remain at the estimated annual totals . Eric Pond acknowledged this is a good question. So stating, Pond answered the numbers are estimates . The figures have been inflated because construction is not expected to occur for one to two years . Additionally, the estimates include contingencies . Pond stated he feels the estimates are conservative and good, but of course there are no guarantees . Pond noted that a capital project such as the proposed district would have a maximum figure to be expended and an increase to this figure would be subject to a permissive referendum . In regards to the per unit O&M and debt service charges , Pond explained these costs will change as more people come into the district. More people sharing the same cost equal lower costs per unit. Pond looked up the number of units ascribed to Taughannock Falls State Park and reported it as 84 equivalent dwelling units . Supervisor Austic explained this means that the Park will pay 84 times the per unit charge each year. His understanding is the specific State Park will pay for water consumed while the Department will pay for O&M, debt service and the payback to Water District #3 . In the course of answering the last question, Supervisor Austic discussed the two options for payback of the no-interest loan — straight and 50% rule variable . Austic noted he believes the Town Board has a choice and they will have to discuss which option to go with. Austic noted he does not personally believe there will be enough development as a result of Water District #5 to warrant using the 50% rule variable option. Austic added as a note to Pond ' s answer to whether or not the Town can guarantee O&M and debt service charges will remain the same that O &M costs will go up and costs will increase unless the Town is able to realize cost saving efficiency measures , however these costs will not go up more than anything else. David Tyler requested a better explanation of the 50% variable payback rule . Eric Pond explained, because it is a no -interest loan, all payments are principle and fees . There is no interest . With a levelized payment plan , each annual payment is the same dollar amount. In the case of a 50% rule variable payment plan the payments increase each year by about 1 % . The 50% rule applies in that the 30th payment is to be no more than 50% more than the 1St payment. Pond noted this plan makes sense because the annual increases in payments are below the CPI, so the net increase has less of an impact than inflation. Rebecca Schneider posed a question about the Waterburg spur. Schneider stated this spur will serve 14 households including her family and will increase costs and property taxes . Schneider asked what the real costs will be in connection to this project. Schneider also noted the Waterburg area is something of a historical area which they want to preserve and there are also many nice trees that they want to keep . Schneider added that she knows of at least five neighborhood families who are opposed to being in the Water District, and asked why the area is included in the District and if anything can be done to protect the historical area and the trees . Supervisor Austic addressed the tree question first, noting there was a lot of concern about trees when Water District #3 went in. The Engineer and Town came up with some ingenuous solutions and not one tree was lost as a result of the construction . Although they cannot guarantee that all trees will survive the construction of the proposed District, they will do everything they can to protect them . Town of Ulysses 6 Special Board Meeting PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM WATER DISTRICT #5 6/14/2006 In terms of the real costs question, Austic stated he has spoken with the Tompkins County Assessment Department and been advised that assessments are not increased because of water service extension unless sale prices increase . The Assessment Department assumes a residence has a functional water system in place . In answer to Schneider ' s question about the need for her neighborhood to be in the Water District despite apparent opposition thereto, Austic agreed to get the data showing E-Coli contamination in one neighborhood well. Donald Murray — Trumansburg Road — Murray stated he represents the Murray and Smith family, located just 200 feet outside of Water District #3 , whose homes are not included in the proposed Water District #5 . Murray asked why the Town isn ' t going up NYS Route 96 to serve his home and others. Murray noted he has been advised not to consume or cook with his water and has a chlorine system. Murray also stated that he asked the Town Board to extend Water District #3 by 200 feet to serve his residence and has received no reply to his request. Supervisor Austic stated he received the request, explained the process for making an official request to form a Water District and provided a very rough estimate of what such a district would cost. No application was submitted. Brandy Smith asked why the proposed district doesn ' t follow NYS Route 96 . Supervisor Austic replied because it is a shorter route for the water main to follow . Eric Pond observed that he is hearing one neighborhood that perhaps does not want to be in the district and another neighborhood that wants to be added in. So noting, Pond stated the proposed district is a plan, but it is not set in stone. There is a possibility to change some areas so long as the changes do not substantially change the project. Pond added that every such situation would have to be considered on a case-by-case basis, but the plan can be changed somewhat. Supervisor Austic added that this happened with Water District #3 . One road was taken out of the plan in exchange for a different road. Joanne Molino asked who will get to vote on Water District #5 and who has the final say, the Town Board or the district residents? Eric Pond explained the Town Board authorizes the formation of a water district either by petition, in which at least 51 % of the residents of the proposed district must favor its formation, or by order of the Board, which is subject to permissive referendum. Joan Ormondroyd stated most ()filler questions have been asked and answered, but she does have one comment. Ormondroyd stated she and her husband have been retired for some years and their income increases very little from year to year. Their house is located 500 feet off the road and, consequently, it would cost them over $ 5 ,000 to connect to the water service. They can ' t afford to do so, and the base charges seem like a lot to pay for something they cannot use. Ormondroyd stated she knows some people really need the water, but it is a hardship for others . Edward Ormondroyd asked if he correctly understands that a large project cost overrun would require a referendum . Eric Pond explained the Town Board would have to pass an amendment to the bond resolution, which would be subject to permissive referendum. Edward Ormondroyd asked what would happen if the cost overrun occurred when the project was mid-construction and the referendum failed. Eric Pond answered he has not experienced this. The cost estimate includes contingency lines for construction and inflation factors for specific items. If this happened, Pond stated Town of Ulysses 7 Special Board Meeting PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM WATER DISTRICT #5 6/14/2006 he guesses the project would only be able to go as far as the available money could get it and the Town would have to make do with that . Gerry Keil — Rabbit Run Road — stated she is happy about the district. She needs water. Keil explained she was innocent of water problems when she moved to the area; she saw two great big lakes and figured it would be no problem . They have since drilled two wells and still haven ' t solved their water problems . They received permission from the Village to connect to its system, but it would cost approximately $ 35 ,000 to do so . Keil expressed understanding for those who don ' t need water and are in the district, noting we are talking about money, water and people, but stated everyone pays school tax regardless of whether they have children in the school district and she would appreciate it if everyone living in the district will make it possible for those who do need the water it will bring to live here . Joan Stewart — Stated she is unofficially speaking on behalf of the residents of Auble ' s Trailer Park. They would like the Town Board, Engineer and Mr. Auble to explain what the district will mean for park residents . She stated most of the residents of the Park are on fixed incomes, and asked the Town Board to please work with the Park owner and residents . Supervisor Austic stated the Town Board can seek to set up a meeting with Mr. Auble and the park residents, but will first need to work out a plan with the Village of Trumansburg for this portion of the proposed Project . Ellie Zimet stated she feels that the people in the proposed district who desperately need water have been under represented tonight. Zimet thanked the Town Board for considering the district and stated there is a great need . Bill Hogan noted the map that was sent out indicates a pumping station will be built on his property and asked if he has any options as the property owner? Supervisor Austic apologized and explained the Town was at one point talking to the Latter Day Saints Church about a water district and got permission to put a pump station on the church ' s property. He believes this must be what is indicated on the map . Rick Rainey — Curry Road — posed the following questions : 1 ) There has not been a solid cost analysis provided of what it would cost to fix the problems with the current system instead of install all new infrastructures . What would it cost to fix what exists currently? 2) Is water service extension a precursor to development? 3 ) Are the larger issues of contamination being addressed ? And what portion of the population will benefit from this district? 4) Lastly, I realize this is a very emotional issue, but is looking for sound analysis . How have you defined need? 5) Please provide a solid cost analysis . Eric Pond explained the Town is working to address the Village and the State Park ' s needs as well as the Town ' s . Rainey clarified what information he is seeking. Eric Pond responded to Rainey' s first question, stating that a separate source for the Village would be very expensive; it could easily cost more than $ 1 Million . The next step is to work with the Village and do this economic analysis . The proposal will address the Village ' s and State Park ' s needs , but whether or not it is the most economical solution is currently unknown . Councilperson Roxanne Marino spoke first to question number two and reported the State assumes a 50% probability of development as a result of water district formation. Marino then thanked Rainey for his request and concern for cost analysis . Marino stated some feel Town of Ulysses 8 Special Board Meeting PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM WATER DISTRICT #5 6/14/2006 that delay or stalling at this point is unjustified, but personally as a Town Board member, she is seeking sound analysis before she will vote in favor of a $ 5 million project. Supervisor Austic spoke to the contamination issue question, explaining there is no single contamination issue or source. The most common problem in the area is sulphur or methane gas . Austic stated he is not familiar with any system that would address these problems on an individual basis, although such technology probably exists . Sally Sutcliffe thanked the Town Board for informing the citizens of the proposed project at this point rather than proceeding forward without doing so and for digging deep, rather than forging ahead without looking into the full details . Susan Beckley — Curry Road — Part of my concern is the impact this will have on those whose household income is less than $46,000. My household income is less than half that, and $ 570 will be quite a hit. Is there any help available for offsetting the costs for fixed or low-income households? Eric Pond noted this is a good point. DWSRF looks at median incomes and is not tailored to fit the incomes that are higher or lower than the median, but it is still the best financing program for this type of project available . There are some programs that assist with the cost for initial connection to the water system . USDA offers one such grant program, and he can meet with people who are interested in pursuing these grants . Pond added he is unfortunately not aware of any programs, however, that help with the annual costs beyond conservation measures. Susan Beckley asked how many households in the proposed district fall below the median household income? Supervisor Austic answered he does not know. Susan Buckley asked how many users the proposed district will serve . Supervisor Austic answered it will serve about 430 units, but this differs from the number of households because some customers are rated for multiple units . The State Park, for example, is rated as 84 units and Auble ' s Manufactured Home Park is rated as approximately 100 units. Susan Buckley asked if she correctly understands that, regardless of house size or property size, every residence will pay the same amount? Supervisor Austic answered yes, all single-family residences will pay the same base charges . Ron Loz began by thanking the Board for holding this informational session, and stated he would like to address the Waterburg area. Loz stated he talked with people representing 11 or 12 of the 14 households in this area. Of these, 8 households wanted water. Loz stated he is one of the 8 . His well is contaminated with E-Coli, sulphur and iron. His water is sometimes black. There are some people in the Waterburg area who need and want water. Marion Boratynski — Curry Road — stated it seems like the State Park ' s inclusion has sparked the formation of a triangle and, to pull that triangle off, you need certain numbers for funding. What I wonder, is what it would cost for the Park to build a treatment facility, the Village to address its problem on its own, and the Town to provide water to those who need it on its own. Boratynski explained that it seems like this triangle formed to meet the needs of all three and affects all the residents. Boratynski stated she doesn ' t need the water but will have to pay since she is along the route. Boratynski stated she is on a fixed income and asked what the real costs of the district will be. Boratynski concluded by stating she feels there are missing pieces of information. Eric Pond explained the proposed project needed a sufficiently high point score in order to be eligible for hardship financing. Pond held the DWSRF Intended Use Plan up for Town of Ulysses 9 Special Board Meeting PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM WATER DISTRICT #5 6/14/2006 display, stating this thick booklet is full of small print listings of projects that don' t have sufficiently high point scores . With the inclusion of both the interconnection with the Village and the service to the State Park, we have a project that is affordable because of hardship financing and that meets needs . Whether it is wanted or not has yet to be determined. If not, then so be it . Pond stated the process doesn ' t particularly make sense as you go through it. There are a lot of hoops to jump through with this funding program, which is the best deal out there . Pond further explained his job is to try to make the maximum sense out of what he ' s been given to work with. This is what he has sought to do in developing the project as proposed . Pond also noted the Town is not committed to borrow the money through DWSRF . If that closing does not take place in the next two years, so be it. In order to respond to Boratynski ' s request for information about the costs for the Park and the Village to undertake their projects separately, Pond introduced Jeff McDonald of the State Parks Department and John Hrubos, Trumansburg Village Water Commissioner/Trustee. Jeff McDonald introduced himself, stating he is the Capital Facilities Manager for the Finger Lakes Parks Region. McDonald explained the proposed project will cost a similar amount to what it would cost to construct a treatment facility; however operation and maintenance of a treatment facility are very substantial costs, so it is worthwhile, wherever possible, for State Parks to be connected to municipal water. In fact, most State Parks in his region are already connected. Taughannock is one of a very few that is still served by its own water supply. McDonald also explained that construction is not the only cost associated with a water treatment facility. McDonald also noted that the State Park will be paying for a substantial portion of the proposed project. John Hrubos , Trumansburg Village Trustee and Water Commissioner stated the Village has three issues . One, it needs the proposed interconnection . This is both required by the State Health Department and makes sense. Two, the Village is concerned about the loss of revenue associated with the project as proposed . Each Village water meter will have to pay approximately $ 150 more each year, forever, to make up for the revenue loss that will come about as a result of this project as proposed. Three, the Village is concerned about development in the Town of Ulysses that will come along with the proposed project. The Village Board thinks both the Town and the Village are beautiful as they are now, and while they realize some development is needed to keep taxes reasonable, the Village Board wants the Town to enact Zoning that will balance the needs to keep the character of the community and allow for appropriate development . Hrubos cited Bostwick Road in the Town of Ithaca as an example where water service extension has immediately preceded development . Hrubos continued by stating that a plan where one side wins and another loses isn ' t a very good plan. Hrubos suggested one solution whereby there would be no winners and no losers would be formation of a single water company. Hrubos stated the Village has done a lot to improve its water system and pointed out that 25 % of the proposed water district is already served by the Trumansburg Water System. Hrubos stated another problem he has with the proposed project is the fact that the Village Board has yet to have a plan presented that is clear, understandable and concrete. Each time the project has been presented it has been slightly different. Numbers change and there ' s a lot of maybe we could do this or something else statements . Hrubos concluded by stating that, in his opinion, the project as proposed currently is not in the best interests of either the Village or the Town. Supervisor Austic asked Hrubos if he knows what it would cost for the Village to develop its own second source . Hrubos answered he believes it would cost more and reaffirmed that the Village Board is fully committed to the interconnection with the Town of Ulysses, but just wants the project that is undertaken to be fair and affordable for everyone . Councilperson Don Ellis took the floor to say it would be unfortunate for attendees to leave tonight with needs and questions unsatisfied and noted all kinds of real issues have been posed. Ellis thanked those who came for their valuable input and stated it is great that so many citizens care about these issues . So noting, Ellis stated the project as proposed is a starting point. The Board had to start someplace to get someplace. Ellis stated the Town Town of Ulysses 10 Special Board Meeting PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM WATER DISTRICT #5 6/14/2006 . Board needs continued input and time from citizens, and also steadiness . Ellis noted it will not be easy to develop a project that balances all the needs and issues in the community and is still affordable, but it is not impossible. As an example of a situation requiring steadiness, Ellis noted the funding is available for a set time — two years — and it would be risky to anticipate being eligible again after this period of time. This is something that could easily be blown up . We need a steady situation. Brian Cutler — We heard from the State Park and the Village . I want real numbers for what the Park will pay. It appears it will be paying for approximately 15 % of the project and the map seems to indicate that the Park makes up a more substantial piece of the project. I want real numbers with good explanations . Krys Cail — (Excused herself) — Is there some other means for addressing comments to the Board, since it doesn ' t seem like those of us outside the proposed district will ever get the chance to speak tonight? Supervisor Austic — Written comments will be accepted, but I will give you the chance to speak after those within the proposed water district have their chance. After a brief confusion, Supervisor Austic invited Cail to speak. Krys Cail — Dubois Road — We have had water problems in my neighborhood since we built our house in 1979 . I worked with neighbors on NYS Route 89 throughout the 1980 ' s to identify problem wells. I joined the Comprehensive Plan Committee and, later, the Planning Board with the hope that we could address water needs through good planning measures. After serving on the Planning Board, I went to Cornell and received my Masters in Planning. On a side note, there is huge agricultural protection issues associated with this project, and I wonder, do the farmers even know what ' s happening? That is a side note, and we don ' t have time to discuss it tonight. One neighbor on NYS Route 89 has sold her house and left the area. She said to me, "We ' re never going to get water. " A few years ago, three neighbors and I had a deal with the Town of Ithaca to get its water system extended to our residences . A very small line that could not be extended was installed. After that, neighbors came in with a petition to extend the line. Now, my house is not even shown on the map of the proposed district. The Supervisor and Engineer have been working on getting water to the areas and people that they want to work for at the expense of all Town residents . Now, there ' s a whole lot of development . . . Doug (Supervisor Austic) is going to cut me off now; he cuts me off at Town Board meetings, too . The Town is choosing not to invest in proper planning and there are issues of planning and economy here that are not being looked at in any kind of a rationale, planning way. The way this is being handled leaves the Town very open to lawsuits and I ' m happy because my baby sister, after watching me returns to college to get my masters, has just now graduated from law school. Supervisor Austic — The line that was installed with Water District #4 was an 8" line and it was designed to be extended. Nancy Young — It seems like a lot of people want to comment and there should be more meetings to allow for that. Supervisor Austic — Agreed . Richard Smith — Trumansburg Road — My house is located just past the Cold Springs Road cut-off for Water District #3 . Will any portion of the proposed expansion be paid for by taxes? Supervisor Austic — Each year, there will be tax lines for Operations & Maintenance and Debt Service on the tax bills of all those within the water district. Richard Smith — What would it take to get water service extended to three residences near the Cold Springs Road corner? Supervisor Austic — Come in to the Town Hall to discuss this . There is a possibility that one neighborhood could be added into the district while another area could be removed . Town of Ulysses 11 Special Board Meeting PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM WATER DISTRICT #5 6/14/2006 Richard Smith — For anyone who might be on the fence about whether they want water, I had a house fire recently and the hydrant connected to Water District #3 helped a lot. You can ' t put a price on good fire protection. Supervisor Austic — I ' d like to pause at this point and ask whether you would like to continue this meeting or schedule another. After brief discussion, all those who wished to comment tonight were invited to form a line behind the microphone. Councilperson Lucia Tyler — I appreciate everyone who came tonight . I 'm the new person on the Town Board. My concern with the proposed district is that the numbers keep changing. I would really like to work with the Village Board to develop an equitable plan for everyone . Jonathan Cook — There ' s not a lot of point in speaking to the room and repeating what has already been said. John Hrubos said it well . The District needs to be better represented and it does not work well to have a conversation with so many people . Those of us who are outside the proposed district want to speak too, and we want a meeting set up where we will have the chance to do so earlier in the evening . Bill George — The loan term is proposed for thirty years . What ' s the expected life of the equipment and infrastructure? Eric Pond — Municipal law requires that a bond term be less than the expected life of items to be purchased with the funding, and this is the case with the proposed water district. Water systems can last 100 years . Larry Reverby — I initially resent being asked to pay for something that I don' t need. The Village has taken care of its system and is very organized and others are not so organized. The proposed project seems to be a not-well-thought-through, cookie cutter approach to addressing state requirements . Reverby suggested some other solutions and asked for more information. Rose Hilbert — Trumansburg Village Trustee — I have three questions . One, I heard you have a financing letter and I understand the State will need to know if you accept this financing. When will that acceptance need to be stated ? Eric Pond answered the Town would have to close on the loan in two years . Brief discussion ensued to clarify that this is the form of acceptance of the loan . Rose Hilbert — My next question is can the Town sign off on the loan without the Village doing so first? Eric Pond — Inter-municipal agreements will have to be reached first, and that is the form in which the Village will sign off Rose Hilbert — I believe the NYS DEC is involved and I believe the State doesn ' t allow one water district to take customers from another district . If that is true, and the Village is supplying water to 42% of the proposed water district, how will the Town finance the water district? Eric Pond — John Anderson of the Health Department might be better able to speak to this question, but I will try first . Water systems evolve over time. They may start with a Village, but extend over time to serve many "permissive service areas". The NYS DEC has no record to these permissive service areas being served . John, is that correct? John Anderson — Answered in the affirmative and introduced himself, then explained the Village and Ulysses Water District #3 are approved to take certain amounts of water daily. Water District #5 will be regulated in the same way. Because most areas of the Town that Town of Ulysses 12 Special Board Meeting PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM WATER DISTRICT #5 6/14/2006 are served by the Trumansburg Water System are permissive service areas, the NYS DEC will look favorably on a Town district that will serve these areas even if they are already served . Anderson added it ' s a little confusing, but there is a procedure and both municipalities should contact NYS DEC . Name unclear — Can we do a survey of who wants this district? Supervisor Austic — We will eventually, but it is more important to find out which parts of a proposed district want water. We understand petitions are circulating, so we will have a better idea soon. Kate Merriman — The Village residents will have to pay for this, too, and you made us wait. You ' ve treated us like second class citizens ! Supervisor Austic — The Town Board and Village Board have to negotiate what the impacts on the Village will be . Kate Merriman — Our water bills will double ! Supervisor Austic — Maybe they won' t. Let ' s work together! Jack Katz — Will the Village pay for the system as well as the Town? And, is the Village in the proposed district? Supervisor Austic — The Village is not in the proposed district . There will be a cost to the Village because the Town will finance the infrastructure to connect to the Village system. The Village will have to pay this cost back to the Town in annual shares, estimated at $9- $ 10k per year. Ed Koppell — Did I understand correctly that John Hrubos is not interested in this plan? Are there ongoing negotiations between the Town and Village? David Filiberto — Trumansburg Village Trustee - The Village Board is still working with the Town Board. Councilperson Roxanne Marino — A joint meeting of the Town and Village Boards is planned, it just hasn 't been scheduled yet . Amelia Stevens — Is there more than one proposal out there? Perhaps a smaller version of the project? Eric Pond — Unfortunately, it all boils down to funding. The current plan is the only one that really met funding requirements . If the project is not affordable, then it ' s not a plan, so, no there are no other proposals because, at this point, this is the only configuration that is feasible. The Village has options as well, however. Councilperson Marino — I just want to say that this is the Plan that meets all the requirements that was given to the Town Board. We did not discuss the options . We weren ' t given the options until after the application was submitted. Devi Rainey — I heard more specifics requested in the form of a survey of water problems so you could gather data on and map the problems out . This would tell if there are real problems and what percentage of the area is affected. Has this been done? Supervisor Austic — No, but it could be done . Hearing no further comment this evening, Supervisor Austic stated a future meeting will be scheduled to continue this discussion, and closed the meeting at 9 : 42 pm . Respectfully Submitted, Town of Ulysses 13 Special Board Meeting PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM WATER DISTRICT #5 6/14/2006 Marsha Georgia Ulysses Town Clerk KTL: mg