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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11.19.2025 Agenda1 Zoom Link 4118425407 Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees Monthly Meeting November 19, 2025 7:00 p.m. 1. Call To Order EXHIBIT/PAGE a. Approval of October 15, 2025, Meeting Minutes 2026 - 085 pgs. 2-15 2. Report of Fire Superintendent Tamborelle: Submitted Report: 2026 - 086 pgs. 16-17 3. Privilege of the Floor: 4. Report of Treasurer Dolch: Submitted Report: 2026 - 087 pgs. 18-19 5. Report of Mayor Woodard a. Public Hearing on Proposed Local Law E of 2025 2026 - 088 pgs. 20-21 b. Schedule a Public Hearing on Proposed Local Law F of 2025 2026 - 089 pgs. 22-23 c. Schedule a Public Hearing on PDZ E. Upland Estates d. Group of Six Update e. T.G. Miller Water Infrastructure Report & Presentation 2026 – 090 pgs. 24-25 f. SEQR for Cayuga Heights Road Sidewalk 2026 – 091 pgs. 26-35 6. Report of the Trustees: . 7. Report of Superintendent of Public Works Cross: 8. Report of Police Chief Wright: Submitted Report: 2026 - 092 pg. 36 9. Report of Assistant Superintendent of Public Works Cowder: 2026 - 93 pg. 37 10. Report of Clerk Walker: Submitted Report: 2026 - 94 pgs. 38-39 11. Report of Attorney Shah: 12. Adjournment 2 EXHIBIT 2026-085 Present: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Biloski, Conway, Hubbell, Rennekamp, Robinson, and Salton; Fire Superintendent Tamborelle, Police Chief Wright, Superintendent of Public Works Cross, Assistant Superintendent of Public Works Cowder; Village Attorney Shah; Village Clerk Walker. 1. Call to Order: Mayor Woodard calls the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. 2a. Approval of the September 17, 2025 Board Meeting Minutes (Exhibit 2026-070) Resolution: 9899 BE IT RESOLVED THAT: the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees approves the September 17, 2025, Board Meeting Minutes as presented. Motion: Trustee Conway Second: Trustee Hubbell Ayes: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Biloski, Conway, Hubbell, Rennekamp, Robinson, and Salton Nays: none Abstentions: none Motion Carried 2b. Approval of the September 29, 2025 Board Meeting Minutes (Exhibit 2026-071) Resolution: 9900 BE IT RESOLVED THAT: the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees approves the September 29, 2025, Board Meeting Minutes as presented. Motion: Trustee Biloski Second: Trustee Robinson Ayes: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Biloski, Conway, Hubbell, and Robinson Nays: none Abstentions: Trustee Rennekamp and Salton Motion Carried 3. Report of Fire Superintendent Tamborelle: Submitted Report (Exhibit 2026-072) 3 •Fire Superintendent Tamborelle states that we had seventy-six people attend the recruitment dinner. We interviewed thirty applicants and accepted ten for the fall class. •Fire Superintendent Tamborelle states that E-One is still on track for delivery in July 2027. He intends to sell the current truck at the beginning of 2027. •Fire Superintendent Tamborelle states that Tompkins County received a grant for portable radios. The department is unsure if they will participate because the radios do not come with microphones. The microphones are key for hands-free use. 3. Privilege of the Floor: Village Resident Joy Barr is present to speak to the Board. •J. Barr states that she has been experiencing terrible phone service from Verizon. Every now and then, she has static or just dropped calls. •J. Barr states that she spoke to Verizon, and they stated that the lines on E. Upland Rd. are exposed copper and need to be buried underground to reduce the interference. •B. Cross states that he has not heard about this before and would ask that Verizon give him a call to discuss this issue. -Village Resident Ilene Lambiase submitted a letter to the Board for Mayor Woodard to read. I have just one question for the board regarding this evening's agenda. Why is the board considering a planned development zone for an area that has only 2 acres to develop? Further, those 2 acres have, for at least the last 60 years, been zoned as residential for the specific purpose of providing a buffer between the village's commercial zone and the already existing residential homes on the west side of East Upland Road. Why would the board be considering changing the use of that land to the absolute detriment of the existing homeowners when the developer is free to develop the property he purchased under the residential zoning rules under which he purchased it under? Then there would be no need for the board to be involved at all. Thank you for your consideration. •Mayor Woodard states that N.Y.S.D.E.C. has changed the wetland setbacks from twenty-five to one hundred feet, which eliminated the development of more of the parcel. We have to allow the whole property to be considered a Planned Development Zone. 4. Report of Treasurer Dolch: Submitted Report (Exhibit 2026-060) •Treasurer Dolch states that the September bank-to-book reconciliations are complete and have been signed off by Trustee Rennekamp. •Treasurer Dolch states that the Village AUD has been submitted. 4 Approval of Abstract 5: Resolution: 9901 BE IT RESOLVED THAT: the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees authorizes and approves Abstract # 3 for FYE 2026, consisting of TA vouchers 32-39 in the amount of $15,351.34 and Consolidated Fund vouchers 277-353 in the amount of $638,141.37, and the Treasurer is instructed to make payments thereon. Motion: Trustee Rennekamp Second: Trustee Bilosski Ayes: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Biloski, Conway, Hubbell, Rennekamp, Robinson, and Salton Nays: none Abstentions: none Motion Carried 5. Report of Mayor Woodard: a. Upland Heights Planned Development Zon (PDZ) Application Update: •Mayor Woodard states that she wants the Board to ask questions before they consider approving this application. •Trustee Rennekamp states that she would like more information on the target market for these homes. •Property Owner M. Mecenas states that he is thinking about family income levels of two hundred thousand dollars and above for the target. •Trustee Hubbell states that he would like to know more about the type of construction. •Property Owner M. Mecenas states that he will follow the N.Y.S. Building code and standard wood framing, and possible basements. •Mayor Woodard states that she is concerned about the fill that is on the property from the Community Corners Shopping Center. •Property Owner M. Mecenas states that core studies have been completed and show no issue with the property. •Trustee Salton states that he would like to know what M. Mecenas will do with the rest of the property. •Property Owner M. Mecenas states that he is willing to wait and hopes that N.Y.S.D.E.C. will change the setbacks. •Mayor Woodard states that she and others would like to see height balloons set up for residents and others to 5 get a feel for the overall height of this proposed project. •Mayor Woodard states that she also would like to make sure stormwater management is addressed. •Property Owner M. Mecenas states that it has to be done in any development. He is required to have a plan that is part of any site plan. •Superintendent of Public Works Cross states that he appreciates the idea that the development would consider porous surfaces to collect the rainwater. •Mayor Woodard states that the next step for the Board is to approve the application and also resolve itself as the lead agency for the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA). •Trustee Salton states that he is not sure what is complete or needs to be completed on this action. •Trustee Robinson states that if Superintendent of Public Works Cross agrees that the application is complete, then yes, the Board should move forward and accept the application. •Trustee Conway states that by doing this, we are accepting the PDZ on all six acres, not just the two acres currently associated with this proposal. •Village Planning Board Chair F. Cowett states that a PDZ can be amended at some future date, depending on any changes. Resolution: 9902 BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees accepts the application as complete for the proposed Planned Development Zone on East Upland Road for further review. Motion: Trustee Robinson Second: Trustee Salton Ayes: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Biloski, Conway, Rennekamp, Robinson, and Salton Nays: none Abstentions: Hubbell Motion Carried •Mayor Woodard states that we will be working with the Village Planning Board in a joint effort to develop the zoning changes for this project. Resolution: 9903 WHEREAS, the applicant is proposing a Planned Development Zone (PDZ), which involves the construction of ten townhouses on two parcels located on East Upland Road; and 6 WHEREAS, the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees has stated its intent to serve as lead agency for the SEQRA environmental review of the project and categorized the project as an Unlisted action under SEQRA; and WHEREAS, development of the project will require site plan approval by the Village of Cayuga Heights Planning Board; and WHEREAS, the project is an Unlisted action under SEQRA and will be conducted as a coordinated review amongst the various agencies that have discretionary decision authority to approve certain aspects of the project; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees requests concurrence from the Village of Cayuga Heights Planning Board with the designation of the Board of Trustees as lead agency for the purpose of overseeing the SEQRA environmental review of the proposed Planned Development Zone on East Upland Road in a coordinated review with the Planning Board. Motion: Trustee Biloski Second: Trustee Salton Ayes: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Biloski, Conway, Hubbell, Rennekamp, Robinson, and Salton Nays: none Abstentions: none Motion Carried b. Schedule a Public Hearing on Proposed Local Law E of 2025. Removal of Street Trees and Shrubs •Village Forrester F. Cowett states that this is an amendment to the existing shade tree law. We have had trouble in the past with the utility companies trimming or removing trees, then leaving the wood behind. This amendment will give us the ability to require them to remove the wood or be subject to a fine. •Trustee Salton states that one week is too short a period of time. •Mayor Woodard states that the new language for this proposed local law will be two weeks versus one week to remove the wood. Resolution: 9904 BE IT RESOLVED THAT: the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees does hereby schedule a Public Hearing on Proposed Local Law E of the year 2025 – Removal of Street Trees and Shrubs on November 19, 2025, at 7:10 p.m. Motion: Trustee Biloski Second: Trustee Robinson Ayes: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Biloski, Conway, Hubbell, Rennekamp, Robinson, and Salton Nays: none Abstentions: none 7 Motion Carried c. Village Job Description for the Village Fire Superintendent •Trustee Biloski states that, as discussed and voted on at the September Special Board of Trustees meeting on September 29, 2025, we decided to increase the Village Fire Superintendent's hours to thirty with the addition of health care benefits paid by the Village. •Trustee Biloski states that we added this language also to support the position going to forty hours if warranted by additional responsibilities. •Trustee Rennekamp states that she doesn’t feel like that wording belongs in a job description. •Trustee Biloski states that we have done this for other staff positions, like Deputy Clerk, so it just seemed to make sense. •Trustee Salton states that this seems like something that could be in the resolution and not the actual job description. •Mayor Woodard states that there was some discussion at the Village Finance Committee meeting on this combined Fire Chief and Fire Superintendent job description. •Trustee Conway states that he does not have any comments on the job description at this time. •Trustee Rennekamp states that she does not feel there is enough distinction between the two. •Fire Superintendent G. Tamborelle states that historically, the fire chief is a civil service position, and the Village appoints that person as Fire Superintendent. •Fire Superintendent G. Tamborelle states that this job has been a full-time job for a long time. •Trustee Salton states that if you are combining two positions, won’t this affect the Cayuga Heights Fire Company? •Fire Superintendent G. Tamborelle states that they all support this change, and we will have to modify our by- laws to state that the Cayuga Heights Fire Company Chief is also the Fire Superintendent. Resolution: 9905 BE IT RESOLVED THAT: the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees authorizes and approves the updated job description for the Village Fire Superintendent as presented. Motion: Trustee Hubbell Second: Trustee Salton Ayes: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Biloski, Conway, Hubbell, Rennekamp, Robinson, and Salton 8 Nays: none Abstentions: none Motion Carried d. 2026 Water Rate: •Mayor Woodard states that Bolton Point has met and has increased their rate by six percent for 2026. The Village Finance Committee met this morning and agreed to increase the internal rate by nine percent. •Mayor Woodard states that we need to fund the upcoming water infrastructure projects to bring the village water system up to par. Resolution: 9906 WHEREAS, the Village of Cayuga Heights is served by the Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission; and WHEREAS, the Village of Cayuga Heights has entered into an amended, supplemental, restated, and consolidated agreement of municipal cooperation for the construction, financing, and operation of an intermunicipal water supply and transmission system dated as of June 5, 1979, as the same has been amended from time to time (the "Agreement"); and WHEREAS, pursuant to the Agreement, the Village of Cayuga Heights agreed to pay to the Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission (hereinafter referred to as “Commission”), water revenues based upon, in part, a water rate billing structure based on a quarterly 5,000 gallon minimum; and Bolton Point rate is $7.13 per 1000 gallons, and the Village of Cayuga Heights surcharge is $7.34 per 1000 gallons totaling $14.47 per 1000 gallons WHEREAS, in consideration of the premises and the mutual undertakings of the parties pursuant to the Agreement, the parties agreed to amend the Agreement effective January 1, 2026 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees authorizes and approves the new Village of Cayuga Heights water rate to $14.47 per 1000 gallons consumed, resulting in a quarterly minimum bill of $72.35, effective January 1, 2026. Motion: Trustee Hubbell Second: Trustee Rennekamp Ayes: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Biloski, Conway, Hubbell, Rennekamp, Robinson, and Salton Nays: none Abstentions: none Motion Carried e. Yaws Contract: 9 •Mayor Woodard states that she and the Village Public Works Committee have been informed that the contractual costs associated with running the Village Wastewater Treatment Plant will increase by sixty percent. •Mayor Woodard states that Yaws would also agree to a five-year contract that locked in an annual increase of three percent each year. We will be discussing this more during budget time. f. Plant to Plant Agreement Update. •Mayor Woodard states that at a meeting with the Town of Ithaca, with regard to the sewage that flows from the Town of Ithaca to the City of Ithaca Plant. •Mayor Woodard states that we (the Village) will not be paying for any sewage we send to the City of Ithaca; instead, we will credit the Town of Ithaca for any of their sewage that we send to the City of Ithaca Plant at the rate they pay us. •Mayor Woodard states that this is a great savings for us and will be discussed further in a legal agreement. •Trustee Salton states that he has read the whole document. •Mayor Woodard states that the two Lansing’s are working on an agreement for sewage that passes through the Village of Lansing from the Town of Lansing. •Superintendent of Public Works B. Cross states that this was a three-page agreement, which has now grown to ten. There were only two topics that the Village of Lansing was concerned about: 1. They wanted to be compensated by the Town of Lansing for the flow through their pipes. 2. An engineering review of sewer pipes in the Town of Lansing before installation. •Trustee Salton states that there is language that changes, and it is not clear why they went from an arbitration clause to a mediation clause. 6. Report of the Trustees: a. Employee Handbook Update: •Trustee Biloski states that this was previously approved, but with confusing language, we felt that a new update would make the most sense. •Trustee Biloski states that we are proposing to eliminate the section ( C) part, under which part-time employees may enroll in the Village Healthcare plans, upon start of employment or during other such periods as permitted by the insurer. Part-time employees shall pay the full cost of any coverage they elect. •Trustee Biloski states that the new language will state that full or part-time employees are eligible for Village Funded health insurance at thirty (30) work hours per week or more. •Trustee Conway states that section (b) should read that the Village pays the remainder of the cost for the health insurance program for part-time and full-time employees and eligible family members. 10 Resolution: 9907 BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees authorizes and approves the Village Employee Handbook changes related to part-time and full-time healthcare coverages as presented in Exhibit 2026-078, with the modified changes to section B as well. Motion: Chair Trustee Biloski Ayes: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Biloski, Conway, Hubbell, Rennekamp, Robinson, and Salton Nays: none Abstentions: none Motion Carried b. Performance Review Schedule: •Trustee Biloski states that she will be sending out the updated job descriptions and self-evaluations with a goal of completing these by November 7, 2025. •Superintendent of Public Works Cross states that at one time, there was an attempt to balance the performance reviews with the non-bargaining employee on when a compensation discussion could occur. It does not seem like there have been any improvements with that. •Trustee Robinson states that the opportunity always exists; the Mayor is the one an employee should speak to about compensation. •Superintendent of Public Works Cross states that it has always felt like the non-bargaining group annual increases are based on what is left after the budget has been decided. •Trustee Robinson states that we have changed that, and we gave the non-bargaining group a base range increase before we go into budget discussions. •Mayor Woodard states that we get this same criticism every year, and I am not saying it isn’t valid, but she is not sure what to do about it. •Mayor Woodard states that the performance review session does allow for an employee to discuss a merit increase, which has been granted for employees in the past. She will look into the past increases to see if Superintendent of Public Works Cross has received any merit increases. c. Village Public Works Committee: •Trustee Robinson states that we are still waiting for the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to approve the engineering plans. We are also still waiting for the NYSDOT to approve the maps for easements. •Trustee Robinson states that we are working on getting letters of violation on property maintenance out in the mail. 11 •Trustee Robinson states that the Renwick Brook Culvert Pipe project is still in flux. We have now decided to install a new pipe inside the deteriorating one as a solution. •Trustee Robinson states that North Triphammer Rd. Streetlights are being rewired for meters. d. Village Wastewater Committee: •Trustee Robinson states that we are still waiting for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System SPDES Permit. •Trustee Robinson states that the solar project is complete. •Trustee Robinson states that the rail system will be completed by the end of this month. e. Greater Tompkins County Municipal Health Insurance Consortium: •Trustee Salton states that the health consortium is finding more and more municipalities moving to the high- deductible plans, which results in an income loss of around six million dollars in premiums. •Trustee Salton states that understanding the money flow is complicated and there are many questions to be answered. f. Village Finance Committee: •Trustee Rennekamp states that we already covered the 2026 water rate and the Yaws contract. The only other thing discussed was related to personnel issues, but we do not have enough data to further the discussion right now. g. Village Public Safety Committee: •Trustee Biloski states that the new hire for the vacant full-time position will be starting on November 9, 2025. •Trustee Biloski states that Chief Wright is working with Grant Champs for potential grants. •Trustee Biloski states that the AXON body-worn cameras are now updated with language recognition. Testing has been impressive. h. Cayuga Lanke Watershed Intermunicipal Organization Committee: •Trustee Hubbell states that the committee is working on the moratorium on the former Millican Station and the future uses. 7. Report of Superintendent of Public Works Cross: •Superintendent of Public Works Cross states that he has a meeting with NYSDOT on the Cayuga Heights Road Sidewalk Project this coming Friday. 12 •Superintendent of Public Works Cross states that he is working on a property maintenance violation where the resident was confused about the extent of the violation. He is leaning towards granting a waiver of the fine and will bring that to the Board next month. •Superintendent of Public Works Cross states that he would like T.G. Miller to present to the Board their water infrastructure plan. In order to get on the list for grants or subsidized funding from N.Y.S., we will need T. G. Miller to produce a project plan in the amount of one hundred twenty-nine thousand dollars, which is eligible for reimbursement if we are awarded a grant. 8. Report of Police Chief Wright: Submitted Report (Exhibit 2026-080) •Chief Wright states that there is talk of N.Y.S. offering a grant for law enforcement once again. •Chief Wright states that the Grant Champs is a great opportunity for the department, especially since it is free to the Village. •Chief Wright states that the only action item he has tonight is for Board approval to hire Officer Trimm to fill the vacant full-time position. Resolution: 9908 BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees authorizes and approves current Village of Cayuga Heights part-time police officer Geoffrey Trimm to fill the Village of Cayuga Heights full- time police officer vacancy starting November 9, 2025, at the current PBA Contract rate of $32.21. Motion: Trustee Hubbell Second: Trustee Rennekamp Ayes: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Biloski, Conway, Hubbell, Rennekamp, Robinson, and Salton Nays: none Abstentions: none Motion Carried •Mayor Woodard states that she would like to know what defines a call for service. •Chief Wright states that a call for service could be anything that is a call for service. 9. Report of Assistant Superintendent of Public Works Cowder: Submitted Report (Exhibit 2026-081) •Assistant Superintendent of Public Works Cowder states that the contractor for NYSEG (DDS) finished up the Village's natural gas lines for this year. •Assistant Superintendent of Public Works Cowder states that they attempted to repair a water valve on E. Upland but were met with difficulties. •Trustee Salton asks if we have any idea of the age of the water lines or valves. 13 •Assistant Superintendent of Public Works Cowder states that most likely, they are the original lines. Bolton Point provides the Village with a list of valves that are either working, or are not sure, or are known to be draining. We then build that into a schedule for repairs. •Assistant Superintendent of Public Works Cowder states the new leaf vacuum has arrived, and our auction items resulted in a revenue of just over nine thousand dollars. •Assistant Superintendent of Public Works Cowder states that he recently found that there is no service support for the LED Streetlights. There is a programming issue with the software; currently, we have sixteen lights that are not working. •Clerk Walker states that the software was a separate part of the New York Power Authority that contracted for LED Streetlights. •Assistant Superintendent of Public Works Cowder states he has been in touch with an individual subcontractor who might be able to work on the software that runs the street light program. •Clerk Walker states that he will reach out to Casey Mastro, who was the first contact on this project. •Assistant Superintendent of Public Works Cowder states that the only action item he has for the Board is to declare surplus the 2015 GU532 Mack dump truck and plows. Resolution: 9909 BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees authorizes and approves declaring surplus the 2015 Model GU532 Mack dump truck and plows, VIN # 1M2AX02C88M0, to be auctioned off by Tietsworth Auctions at the next available auction. Motion: Trustee Biloski Second: Trustee Robinson Ayes: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Biloski, Conway, Hubbell, Rennekamp, Robinson, and Salton Nays: none Abstentions: none Motion Carried •Trustee Robinson states that he has found the T.G. Miller proposal discussed earlier, and the total proposal is one hundred ninety-two thousand dollars. The first three were highlighted by B. Cross, totaling one hundred twenty-nine thousand dollars. Seventy-two thousand dollars were allocated for this current fiscal year. 10. Report of Clerk Walker: •Clerk Walker states that he has no action items for the Board tonight. •Clerk Walker states that he and Deputy Clerk Perkins will need to close the office for a couple of hours on 14 October 22, 2025, for a Bolton Point billing meeting. •Clerk Walker states that he will also be attending a SIREN training on November 10, 2025. •Clerk Walker states that October is when we conduct our workplace harassment training, and links have been- -sent to all employees and are due by the end of the month. •Mayor Woodard has requested that the Board review and possibly sign a supporting letter from Anna Kelles to the Town of Lansing Town Board requesting a moratorium on the proposed Terawulf data center at the former Millikan Station. •Mayor Woodard states that if anyone wants to sign their name to this letter, please let Clerk Walker know tomorrow morning. •Mayor Woodard states the last page has an update on our newly installed solar panels at the Village Wastewater Treatment Plant. •Mayor Woodard states that we installed a separate meter that tracks the solar energy that is sent directly back to the grid. 11. Report of Attorney O. Shah: •Village Attorney Shah states that he has nothing to report at this time. 12. Executive Session: Resolution: 9910 WHEREAS: The NYS Open Meeting Law §105 prescribes matters for which a public body may conduct an executive session; and, WHEREAS: Upon a majority vote of its total membership, taken in an open meeting under a motion identifying the general area or areas of the subject or subjects to be considered; and, WHEREAS: The conduct of an executive session for these enumerated purposes only, provided, however, that no action by formal vote shall be taken to appropriate public money: THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT An Executive Session of the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees is conducted for subsection (F) the medical, financial, credit, or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal, or removal of a particular person or corporation. (D) discussions regarding proposed, pending, or current litigation. Motion: Trustee Robinson Second: Trustee Biloski Ayes: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Conway, Hubbell, Rennekamp, Robinson, and Salton Nays: none Abstentions: none 15 Motion Carried Resolution: 9911 BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Village Board of Trustees exit an Executive Session and return to an open meeting. Motion: Trustee Salton Second: Trustee Robinson Ayes: Mayor Woodard; Trustees: Conway, Hubbell, Rennekamp, Robinson, and Salton Nays: none Abstentions: none Motion Carried 14. Adjournment: Mayor Woodard adjourns the meeting at 10:32 p.m. 16 EXHIBIT 2026-086 November 19, 2025 Honorable Linda Woodard Board of Trustees Village of Cayuga Heights Monthly Report September 2025 We experienced an increase in activity in October, responding to a total of 64 calls for service. Of these, 43 occurred within the Village of Cayuga Heights, 18 in the Town of Ithaca, and 3 were mutual aid requests. The calls included 39 EMS incidents and 25 fire responses. In mid-October, crews responded to a car vs. bicycle accident at A Lot on Cornell’s campus. The cyclist was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. Later in the month, we were requested to Warrenwood Apartments for a cat stuck in a tree. Upon arrival, we found the pet’s owner already in the tree attempting to coax the cat down while her children watched from below. One of the children was visibly upset, as it was his birthday and the cat was his pet. After assuring the mother that we would attempt a rescue, the crew from L231 deployed a 35’ extension ladder and successfully retrieved the cat. Both mother and child were relieved, and the situation ended safely. October is always a busy month for training. We conducted two SCBA recertification sessions, ensuring all members maintain annual compliance. Several roll-in drills were held focusing on hose line advancement and ladder placement. Before the start of the recruit class, we held a Train-the-Trainer refresher for our checklist evaluators to review updates to the recruit evaluation process. Our weekend recruit class welcomed ten new members. As often happens, one recruit withdrew after the first day upon realizing the physical demands of the program. The smaller class size allowed for efficient hands-on rotations with three groups of three recruits each. In October, we presented the proposal to transition the Fire Superintendent’s position to a non-elected, full-time role to both the Fire Council and department membership. Support for the change was overwhelming, with no dissent expressed. Both the Fire Council and Fire Company Executive Committee are working on bylaw revisions to reflect the change, with votes scheduled for the December meetings. The bunker area kitchen renovation remains on track to begin during Cornell’s winter break in December. We experienced two major apparatus issues in October. E203 required a turbo replacement, taking the truck out of service in Syracuse for one week. During that time, the engine retarder (Jake Brake) was also inspected, revealing an issue with downshifting during braking. Later in the month, E203 developed a fuel leak due to a rusted tank. A replacement tank was shipped from KME’s Florida facility, and Rick installed it immediately upon arrival. We are in communication with KME regarding possible cost assistance, though the truck’s expired warranty may limit support. We also contacted E-One through our dealer to confirm the production and delivery timeline for E202. While they continue to assure us of a July 2026 delivery, we have emphasized the need for a firm production start date. A deadline of November 21st has been set for E-One to provide a confirmed timeline. The Village plans to sell the current engine early in 2026 to secure the best possible resale value, making timely delivery critical. Our new recruits have shown exceptional motivation and teamwork. With a smaller class, evaluators have been able to give more focused attention, and the recruits have quickly bonded as a cohesive unit. They are frequently at the station, completing checklists and responding to calls — a testament to both their dedication and the effectiveness of our training staff. We have launched a “Duty Crew” program for members who do not live at the station. The overnight room is being cleaned and reconfigured into a more functional space for those who wish to stay overnight. Duty crew members commit to specific nights at the station and receive apparatus assignment preference, helping them gain experience while improving response times. This program also gives our bunking members some relief. 17 Early results have been very positive. Overall, October was a productive and encouraging month. Call volume increased, training efforts were robust, and membership morale remains high. The department continues to demonstrate professionalism, adaptability, and strong teamwork across all areas of operation. Sincerely, George Tamborelle Fire Chief/Fire Superintendent 18 EXHIBIT 2026-087 VILLAGE OF CAYUGA HEIGHTS TREASURER’S REPORT November 2025 Revenues and Expenses: October month end bank to book reconciliations are complete and has been signed off by Deputy Treasurer Rennekamp. The report from Williamson is attached to this report. Audit: We completed the in-house work with the audit team. There are a few outstanding items that need to be completed before we have the final report. Budget Adjustments: To account for the increase in Fire personnel budget items, the following budget adjustments need to be made. There is currently $157,017 in the Contingency budget. For 2026 budget adjustments     From Contingency (A1990.400): 30,098   To the following accounts:     A3410.100 FIRE PERSONNEL (salary/phone)   1,825 A3620.100 NYSUFPBC PERSONNEL (salary/phone)   2,945 A9015.850 Fire Retirement NEW   4,242 A9015.800 Police/Fire Retirement   471 A9060.800F Health insurance Premiums - Fire NEW   11,932 A9060.800N Health insurance Premiums   1,326 A9060.811F BRI - Fire NEW   6,300 A9060.811 BRI   700 BE IT RESOLVED THAT: the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees authorizes and approves moving $30,098 from Contingency into the above accounts. Approval of Abstract 6: BE IT RESOLVED THAT: the Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees authorizes and approves Abstract #6 for FYE2026, consisting of: • TA vouchers 40-47 in the amount of $16,646.08 • Consolidated Fund vouchers 354-430 in the amount of $819,302.63 and the Treasurer is instructed to make payments thereon. Respectfully Submitted Laura W. Dolch Laura W. Dolch, CFO 19 20 21 EXHIBIT 2026-088 VILLAGE OF CAYUGA HEIGHTS DRAFT PROPOSED LOCAL LAW E OF THE YEAR 2025 A LOCAL LAW TO AMEND THE VILLAGE OF CAYUGA HEIGHTS CODE CHAPTER 248, “STREET TREES AND SHRUBS,” SECTION 248-12, “UTILITIES” PROVISIONS Be it enacted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cayuga Heights (the “Village”) as follows: SECTION I PURPOSE AND INTENT The Village’s Board of Trustees has found that in cases where a utility company and/or its contractors leaves behind wood after cutting, pruning and removing trees and shrubs in the Village’s public street right-of-way and on private properties, the Village Code is silent as to whose responsibility it is to remove said wood pursuant to Chapter 248 thereof. Further, the Village Board has determined that Section 248-12 should be amended to provide utility companies and any contractors employed thereunder clear directives to remove the aforementioned wood in such cases. The purpose of this Local Law is to modify the text of Village Code Chapter 248, Section 248-12 as stated below. SECTION II AUTHORITY This Local Law is enacted pursuant to the grant of powers to local governments provided in Section 10 of the Municipal Home Rule Law to adopt and amend local laws not inconsistent with the provision of the New York State Constitution and not inconsistent with any general law relating to its property, affairs, government or other subjects provided for in said Section 10 of the Municipal Home Rule Law. SECTION III AMENDMENT OF VILLAGE CODE CHAPTER 248, “STREET TREES AND SHRUBS,” SECTION 248-12, “UTILITIES” Section 248-12 of Chapter 248, “Street Trees and Shrubs,” of the Village Code, is hereby amended by adding a new paragraph (B) to read as follows: (A) If trees or shrubs are interfering with utilities, including, but not limited to, overhead utility wires, it is the responsibility of the appropriate utility company to correct the situation. Prior to commencing any action pursuant to this § 248-12, the appropriate utility company shall give the Village Forester written notice of at least 10 business days. (B) If a utility removes all or part of any tree or shrub interfering with the utilities, whether said tree or shrub is located within the Village’s public street right-of-way or on private property, the utility shall remove and dispose of all wood or, if a contractor is employed by the utility to remove all or part of any tree or shrub, the contractor shall remove and dispose of all wood within two (2) calendar weeks of removal, unless (a) the Village or property owner on whose property the tree or shrub is located requests that the wood be left behind or (b) it is arranged to be left behind pursuant to prior agreement between the utility and the Village or property owner. 22 SECTION IV SUPERSEDING EFFECT All Local Laws, Articles, resolutions, rules, regulations and other enactments of the Village of Cayuga Heights in conflict with the provisions of this Local Law are hereby superseded to the extent necessary to give this Local Law full force and effect. Without limiting the foregoing, to any extent that the terms of Chapter 248 of the Village Code are deemed to be in conflict of the requirements of this Local Law, the terms of this Local Law shall govern and control. SECTION V PARTIAL INVALIDITY In the event that any portion of this Local Law is declared invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the validity of the remaining portions shall not be affected by such declaration of invalidity. SECTION VI EFFECTIVE DATE This Local Law shall be effective immediately upon filing in the office of the New York State Secretary of State, except that it shall be effective from the date of its service as against a person served with a copy thereof, certified by the Village Clerk, and showing the date of its passage and entry in the Minutes of the Village Board of Trustees. 23 EXHIBIT 2026-089 VILLAGE OF CAYUGA HEIGHTS DRAFT PROPOSED LOCAL LAW F OF THE YEAR 2025 A LOCAL LAW TO AMEND THE VILLAGE OF CAYUGA HEIGHTS CODE CHAPTER 305, “ZONING,” ARTICLE III, “TERMINOLOGY,” SECTION 305-5, “DEFINITIONS” AND ARTICLE V, “RESIDENCE ZONE,” SECTION 305-16(H), “PERMITTED PRINCIPAL USES” PROVISIONS Be it enacted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cayuga Heights (the “Village”) as follows: SECTION I PURPOSE AND INTENT The Village’s Board of Trustees has found that the Village Code as currently drafted prohibits many lawful, non-commercial activities or “hobbies” of Village residents/occupants due to their not being enumerated as a permitted principal use within residence zones. Further, the Village Board has determined that Section 305-5 and Section 305-16(H) should be amended to resolve the apparent conflict between the current Zoning Law and the aforesaid hobbies. The purpose of this Local Law is to modify the text of Village Code Chapter 305, Article III, Section 305-5 and Article V, Section 305-16(H) as stated below. SECTION II AUTHORITY This Local Law is enacted pursuant to the grant of powers to local governments provided in Section 10 of the Municipal Home Rule Law to adopt and amend local laws not inconsistent with the provision of the New York State Constitution and not inconsistent with any general law relating to its property, affairs, government or other subjects provided for in said Section 10 of the Municipal Home Rule Law. SECTION III AMENDMENT OF VILLAGE CODE CHAPTER 305, “ZONING,” ARTICLE III, “TERMINOLOGY,” SECTION 305-5, “DEFINITIONS” Section 305-5 of Chapter 305 of Article III, “Terminology,” of the Zoning Law of the Village Code is hereby amended to add the following definition: HOBBY — A pursuit or activity engaged in one’s leisure time for personal pleasure, not as second employment or as a commercial enterprise. SECTION IV AMENDMENT OF VILLAGE CODE CHAPTER 305, “ZONING,” ARTICLE V, “RESIDENCE ZONE,” SECTION 305-16(H), “PRINCIPAL PERMITTED USES” Section 305-16(H) of Chapter 305 of Article V, “Residence Zone,” of the Zoning Law of the Village Code, is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: (H) Activities of an occupant/resident engaging in a hobby, including but not limited to home gardening, woodworking, etc., such that the products of that hobby are primarily for use by that occupant/resident and his or her family or occupants of the dwelling and not for commercial purposes; SECTION V SUPERSEDING EFFECT All Local Laws, Articles, resolutions, rules, regulations and other enactments of the Village of Cayuga Heights in conflict 24 with the provisions of this Local Law are hereby superseded to the extent necessary to give this Local Law full force and effect. Without limiting the foregoing, to any extent that the terms of the Zoning Law are deemed to be in conflict of the requirements of this Local Law, the terms of this Local Law shall govern and control. SECTION VI PARTIAL INVALIDITY In the event that any portion of this Local Law is declared invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the validity of the remaining portions shall not be affected by such declaration of invalidity. SECTION VII EFFECTIVE DATE This Local Law shall be effective immediately upon filing in the office of the New York State Secretary of State, except that it shall be effective from the date of its service as against a person served with a copy thereof, certified by the Village Clerk, and showing the date of its passage and entry in the Minutes of the Village Board of Trustees 25 EXHIBIT 2026-090 VILLAGE OF CAYUGA HEIGHTS WATER INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS ENGINEERING REPORT Village of Cayuga Heights, Town of Ithaca Tompkins County, New York May 30, 2025 Prepared for: Village of Cayuga Heights PWS ID NY5404411 Prepared by: T.G. Miller P.C. 605 West State Street, Suite A Ithaca, New York 14850 (607) 272-6477 26 Executive Summary The Village of Cayuga Heights (“Village”) is pursuing capital improvement projects for its existing aging water distribution infrastructure to replace fragile water system components, improve fire flow capacities, improve dependability, and maintain and prolong the life for current users and future- developments within the Village. Investigations have been performed in the past using computer modeling software to help identify and prioritize specific components of the existing water system to replace or improve. Based on these investigations, significant improvements are deemed necessary to ensure responsible and sustainable system operations. Project Background and History 1. Site Information The Village was incorporated in 1915 within the Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County. Water distribution within the Village is provided by a network of distribution mains, valve stations and services supplied by the Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission (aka Bolton Point) from a source located at Bolton Point on the east shore of Cayuga Lake. The Village system is classified as a Community Public Water System (PWS ID NY5404411) regulated by the New York State Department of Health. Geologic Conditions – Most if not all surface soils within the Village have previously been disturbed. Bedrock, in most cases shale formations, is relatively shallow over the majority of the Village with numerus outcropping throughout, especially along the creeks and gorges that traverse the Village from east to west. Surface Water Features – There are 6 to 8 relatively minor Class C streams that flow from east to west though the village, which converge to form 3 distinct streams that discharge at the easterly shoreline of Cayuga Lake. Two of the streams are identified as Renwick Brook and Pleasant Grove Brook. Flood Plain Considerations – Based on the current FEMA flood insurance rate maps for the area, there are no known flood plans within the Village. Environmental Resources - The approximate western third of the Village closer to Cayuga Lake has been identified as being in the vicinity of Lake Sturgeon which is listed as a threatened species. There are also a number of freshwater wetlands, ponds, and municipal parks scattered about the Village. Otherwise, most areas of the Village have been developed, and environmental resources are limited. Given that most if not all water system components in the Village are located within street or road rights-of-way, improvements are not expected to impact any existing environmental resources. For the full report, CLICK HERE 27 EXHIBIT 2026-091 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 RESOLUTION WITH REFERENCE TO THE PROPOSED VILLAGE OF CAYUGA HEIGHTS, TOMPKINS COUNTY, NY CAYUGA HEIGHTS ROAD SIDEWALK CONNECTIONS STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW ACT (SEQRA) LEAD AGENCY ESTABLISHEMENT WHEREAS, the Village of Cayuga Heights (hereinafter the “Village”) proposes to undertake the construction of a sidewalk on Cayuga Heights Road (collectively, the “Project”); and WHEREAS, the existing roadway shoulder is narrow to safely accommodate pedestrians; and WHEREAS, the proposed improvements consist of the installation of a new sidewalk; and WHEREAS, various regulatory, funding and public approvals will be needed in the planning and development of the proposed improvement project: NOW, THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT: 1. The Village Board of the Village of Cayuga Heights determines pursuant to Article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law and the regulations contained in 6 NYCRR Part 617, hereafter called SEQRA, that the proposed project is an Unlisted Action under SEQRA Section 617.4 and 617.5, and therefore a Short Environment Assessment Form (SEAF) must be prepared. 2. The Village Board declares its intent to establish itself as Lead Agency in the coordinated review of this action; 3. The Village Mayor or agent of the Village shall notify all Involved Agencies of the Village’s intention to designate itself Lead Agency. 4. A coordinated review will be performed. 5. This resolution shall take effect immediately. STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW ACT RESOLUTION REGARDING VILLAGE OF CAYUGA HEIGHTS CAYUGA HEIGHTS ROAD SIDEWALK CONNECTIONS WHEREAS, the Village of Cayuga Heights (hereinafter the “Village”) maintains the local roads and associated structures; and WHEREAS, the Village is proposing to install a new sidewalk on Cayuga Heights Road (collectively, the “Project”); and WHEREAS, the Village is obligated under SEQRA and corresponding regulations to review the Project, and if necessary, undertake a review of the potential environmental impacts associated with the Project before undertaking the same; and WHEREAS, the Village is the appropriate agency to be the Lead Agency to undertake the project review under SEQRA; and 35 WHEREAS, based upon an examination of 6 NYCRR § 617.4 and § 617.5, the Village classified the Project as an Unlisted Action. A Short Environmental Assessment Form was prepared for the Project, and pursuant to 6 NYCRR § 617.6(b), a coordinated review was undertaken by the Village and no objections were received regarding the Village serving as Lead Agency. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT: RESOLVED, that the Village Board hereby makes the following findings: The Project consists of the installation of new concrete curb and sidewalk along Cayuga Heights Road, from Devon Road to Berkshire Road, that will meet current design requirements. IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED, that: The Village Board hereby designated itself Lead Agency pursuant to 6 NYCRR § 617.6(b)(2) and § 617.6(b)(3) with respect to the Project. IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED, that: Based upon an examination of the components of the Project, the Short Environmental Assessment Form, and the criteria contained in 6 NYCRR § 617.7(c), and based upon its knowledge of the areas including and surrounding the Project site, and discussions with professionals retained by the Village, the Village Board, as Lead Agency, hereby makes the following determinations with respect to the Project pursuant to SEQRA: A. The Project constitutes an “Unlisted Action.” B. Based upon review by the Village Board of the Short Environmental Assessment Form, any input provided by other involved agencies, and other necessary criteria set forth in SEQRA, the Village Board hereby finds and determines that the Project will result in no significant impacts and, therefore, (a) the action is not one which “may include the potential for at least one significant adverse environmental impact,” (b) “there will be no significant adverse environmental impacts,” and (c) no “environmental impact statement” need be prepared, as such quoted terms are defined in SEQRA. This determination constitutes a Negative Declaration for purposes of SEQRA and it has been prepared in accordance with Article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law. C. A copy of this resolution, together with notice of Negative Declaration, shall be placed on file in the office of the Village Clerk where the same shall be available for public inspection during business hours and such notice of Negative Declaration shall be filed in such offices, posted in such places and published in such manner as shall be necessary to conform to the requirements of SEQRA. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution shall take effect immediately. 36 EXHIBIT 2026-092 Village of Cayuga Heights Police Department __________________________________________________ Jerry L. Wright Chief of Police In the month of October, the police department received 425 calls for service. In addition to these calls 100 uniform traffic tickets were issued and 0 parking violations were cited. The breakdowns of calls are as follows: No felony incidents were reported. One misdemeanor incident of Fraud was handled. The complainant stated they were being exploited by a person they met over the internet. No further contact from the suspect has been reported by the complainant, they simply wanted a report on file pending any further contact with the scammer. Officers conducted ten traffic stops resulting in 12 misdemeanor vehicle and traffic arrests; seven for AUO 3rd and five for Suspended Registration. Two incidents of penal law violations of Harassment were handled. One report involved two individual sending harassing text messages. The case was closed as the complainant was not willing to provide necessary information to officers. The second incident occurred as an individual spit on another individual during a confrontation. This case is pending. Officers responded to six reports of local law violations, all for Noise. Five of these complaints reported loud music in the area. At each location, the music was determined to be coming from an area outside of Cayuga Heights jurisdiction. No action was taken. The remaining complaint was made by a resident stating a car alarm was going off in a neighboring parking lot. Contact was made with the vehicle owner and the issue was resolved. Officers executed an Arrest Warrant after a subject wanted out of Cayuga Heights Court was apprehended by a neighboring county police agency. The subject was taken to Tompkins County Jail for processing. Five traffic accidents were investigated, two of these involving deer. The two accidents involving deer both occurred on State Route 13 North. Two others occurred on Pleasant Grove Road and the last was on Triphammer Road. One Mental Hygiene arrest for MHL22.09 was made after investigation of a Trespass complaint. An individual was taken into custody after attempting to gain unauthorized entry into a residence and found to be under the influence of alcohol. Officers arrested twelve people, having filed a total of 14 charges: 1-MHY 22.09, 1-Execute Arrest Warrant, 7- AUO 3rd, 5-Suspended Registration. CHPD officers responded to five calls for service assisting other agencies while other agencies assisted CHPD officers with one call occurring in the village. Over the course of the month officers took part in the following training and/or events: Three Governor Traffic Safety Details were conducted, one on the 2nd, Operation Safe Stop on the 22nd, and the last on the 26th. On the 9th and the 16th Officers conducted Commercial Vehicle Safety Inspections. On the 23rd Police Clerk Carr attended a NYSPILL conference held at the Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES. On the 27th full time officers completed night range qualifications while part time officers did so on the 28th. On the 31st Officers Gray and Miller assisted Northeast Elementary School by providing traffic control during their Halloween Parage. 37 The full-time officers worked a total of 54 hours of overtime and the part-time officers worked a total of 190 hours. EXHIBIT 2026-093       Village of Cayuga Heights Board of Trustees Report Department of Public Works - Aaron Cowder November 20, 2025 Street & Sidewalks We have completed winter preparations for snow plowing and sidewalk clearing on most of our equipment. The truck doing leaves will not be transitioned until mid-December. Regarding sidewalk cleaning during the winter and reviewing with Brent due to safety concerns, pending when the crews get called in for plowing we may not be doing sidewalk plowing/sweeping between 10 PM and 4 AM. The roads and intersections will be the focus overnight, and the sidewalks will be taken care of during the day when visibility and safety are better. Water System We have fixed a few water breaks over the last few weeks, and we are hoping for the best as colder weather approaches. We have exceeded the planned number of replacements for lead service lines this year. We completed two additional lines this month on East Upland Road, where NYSEG is doing gas line service. We utilized the vacuum truck from the Town of Lansing for the service line replacements on East Upland. We will also continue to take care of any residents who are updating their services. We started the year with 25 lead services and 11 others that still fall under the lead service list, and have completed a total of 9 replacements or removal from the list due to being updated. We have 27 remaining on the list for future replacement; some will be done when the residents upgrade their line. Sanitation Sewer System We have, in conjunction with TG Miller, continued to monitor sewage flows in manholes where meters have been installed for I&I tracking. TG Miller is working on their finding report and will soon be giving recommendations for the Village to review. Beautification Leaf pick-up will start around October 15th and continue through Friday, December 12th. Culvert Repair The next culvert to be planned on is Renwick at Cayuga Heights Road. TG Miller is working on having plans together to go out for quoting on the 1st of the year 2026, and the project will be over the current and next fiscal year. Action Items 38 The Mack Dump Truck did sell at auction for $47,200. We had planned on bringing a minimum $40,000, so we are satisfied with the results. EXHIBIT 2026-094 Clerk’s Report: -Greater Tompkin County Municipal Health Insurance Consortium Update: We met on November 6th, 2025, and learned that the consortium is considering a HYBRID Metal level plan for 2027. More to come on this. Property Tax Update: Transmittal: I, Jeffrey D. Walker, the duly appointed and qualified Village Clerk of the Village of Cayuga Heights, New York, do hereby certify that the following Resolution # was adopted at the November 19, 2025 Board Meeting and is incorporated in the original minutes of said meeting and is on file and of record, and that said resolution has not been altered, amended or revoked and is in full force and effect. Resolution: WHEREAS, Diligent efforts to collect unpaid taxes by the Village of Cayuga Heights of the Town of Ithaca in the County of Tompkins have been made; and WHEREAS, The Collector of Taxes has certified a list consisting of the taxes remaining unpaid upon the Village Tax Roll; and WHEREAS, Pursuant to the Real Property Tax Law of the State of New York Section 1442, an alternative method for collection of delinquent village taxes exists. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The Board of Trustees requests the collection of delinquent Village of Cayuga Heights real property tax in the amount of $34,427.42 on (13) properties with $2,754.20 in penalties, totaling $37,181.62 to be submitted to Tompkins County. 39