HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-2024-06-05COMMON COUNCIL MEETING
Voting Record
Date:
Location:
Wednesday June 5, 2024
City Hall Council Chambers
Attendance Record of Voting Members
Name Present Absent/Excused
Mayor - Robert Cantelmo X
1st Ward - Kayla Matos X
1st Ward - Phoebe Brown X
2nd Ward - Ducson Nguyen X
2nd Ward - Kris Haines-Sharp X
3rd Ward - David Shapiro X
3rd Ward - Pierre Saint-Perez X
4th Ward - Patrick Kuehl X
4th Ward - Tiffany Kumar X
5th Ward - Margaret Fabrizio X
5th Ward - Clyde Lederman X
Also Present: Alderperson Haine-Sharp and Alderperson Kumar are on excused absence for medical
reasons.
1.Call to Order
Discussion Summary: Mayor Cantelmo called meeting to order. Timestamp 0:30
YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=7tShuANfruc&list=PLfplo_VA57eoynrqxkGvi11vxHlwByjZw&index=1
1.1 Emergency Evacuation
Discussion Summary: The emergency evacuation notice was read for those in
attendance. Mayor Cantelmo took the time to recognize the month of June as
Pride month, PTSD Awareness month, the 45th anniversary of President Carter's
signing of the recognition of African American Music Appreciation month, and
Men's Health Awareness month, Timestamp 0:43-2:05
2.Agenda Review
2.1 Additions/Deletions or Changes to the Agenda.
Discussion Summary: Alderperson Shapiro requested to have item 8.4 moved
on the agenda prior to Statements from the Public. Mayor Cantelmo explained to
that the order of business is not able to be moved in that way; item 8.4 will not be
moved. No other requested changes to the agenda from council. Timestamp 2:27
3. Reports of Municipal Officials
Discussion Summary: Legislator Veronica Pillar was not present to give a report at this
time. No other colleagues from the town or other municipalities were present to give a
report. Timestamp 3:14
3.1 Reports from County Legislator
4. Proclamations and Awards
4.1 Quarterly Recognition for the Month of June 2024
Discussion Summary: Quarterly Employee Recognition award presented to
Darren Williams from DPW and Ithaca Fire Department Assistant Chief George
Apgar. Timestamp 3:27
5. Review and Approval of Minutes
5.1 May 1st 2024 Common Council Meeting Minutes
Discussion Summary: Review and approval of the May 1st, 2024, Common
Council Regular Meeting minutes by Council. Timestamp 8:03 Moved By: Patrick Kuehl
Seconded By: Pierre Saint-Perez
Motion Summary: Motion to review and approve the May 1st, 2024, Common
Council Regular Meeting Minutes.
Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously
Member Approve Oppose Recuse
Robert Cantelmo X
Kayla Matos X
Phoebe Brown X
Ducson Nguyen X
David Shapiro X
Pierre Saint-Perez X
Patrick Kuehl X
Margaret Fabrizio X
Clyde Lederman X
6. Petitions and Hearings of Persons Before Council
6.1 Statements from the Public
Discussion Summary: The following members from the public shared
their thoughts and comments with Council on various topics of concern. James Smith- Encampments, James Semp -520 Linn Street, Serenna McCloud,
Esq.- 2022 Tax Foreclosure, William Brazo Jr-2022 City Tax Foreclosure, Fay
Gougakis- Ithaca Bike Share, Robert Ohz- Mr. Brazo's Foreclosure, Leo Scott-
Bike Safety, Julius Won-Bike Safety, Theresa Alt-CIITAP, Caroline Byrne -
Foreclosures, Henry Hansteen-2022 Tax Foreclosure, Peter Wissiker-Tax Breaks,
Zach Winn-City of Ithaca, John Dennis-Foreclosures, Lili Clinger-Mr. John's
displacement, Peter Salton-Foreclosure. Timestamp 8:39- 50:12
6.2 Privilege of the Floor - Mayor and Council
Discussion Summary: By Unanimous consent Reports from Municipal Legislator
has been added to the agenda following the Privilege of the Floor. Each Council
member took the opportunity to speak to the public to respond to the public's
comments and concerns presented during Public Comments. Timestamp 50:17-
1:11:34
County Legislator Veronica Pillar presented Council with a report on updates from
Tompkins County after Council responded to the public's comments. Timestamp
1:11:40-1:16:14
7. Consent Agenda
Discussion Summary: No Discussion from Council.
Moved By: Kayla Matos
Seconded By: Patrick Kuehl
Motion Summary: Motion to approve Consent Agenda Items 7.1-7.10. Timestamp 1:16:26
Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously
Member Approve Oppose Abstain
Robert Cantelmo X
Kayla Matos X
Phoebe Brown X
Ducson Nguyen X
David Shapiro X
Pierre Saint-Perez X
Patrick Kuehl X
Margaret Fabrizio X
Clyde Lederman X
7.1 Amend Capital Project #929 for Cass Park Pavilion and Bathroom
7.2 Cass Park Pavilion and Bathroom Replacement-NYS Parks Grant Funding
7.3 Uniform Sidewalk Improvement: Fall Creek Drive and Oak Ave
7.4 Amendment to Personnel Roster - Fire Department
7.5 Amendment to Personnel Roster – DPW Electrician
7.6 Amendment to Roster - DPW Light Equipment Operator
7.7 Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility (IAWWTF) - Capital Improvement Plan
7.8 Temporary Amendment to Personnel Roster – Attorney’s Office
7.9 Access Oversight Committee Annual Budget Approval
7.10 PIT-Outdoor Dining Alcohol Permits
8. New Business / Member Filed
8.1 Approval of the HUD 2024-2028 Consolidated Plan
Discussion Summary: Approval of the Draft 2024 Consolidated Plan. Alderperson
Lederman moved and summarized the resolution. Timestamp 1:16:45 Moved By: Clyde Lederman
Seconded By: Pierre Saint-Perez
Motion Summary: Motion to Approve the HUD 2024-2028 Consolidated Plan
Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously
Member Approve Oppose Recuse
Robert Cantelmo X
Kayla Matos X
Phoebe Brown X
Ducson Nguyen X
David Shapiro X
Pierre Saint-Perez X
Patrick Kuehl X
Margaret Fabrizio X
Clyde Lederman X
8.2 Approval of the Draft 2024 Annual Action Plan
Discussion Summary: Approval of the 2024 Annual Action Plan. Alderperson
Saint-Perez moved and summarized resolution. Alderpersons Shapiro and
Brown offered brief comments reminding the community to apply for funds and
encouraging organizations, if qualified to ask for more money next year to assist
those in the community struggling with housing. Timestamp 1:17:49-1:23:02 Moved By: Pierre Saint-Perez
Seconded By: Patrick Kuehl
Motion Summary: Motion to Approve the Draft 2024 Annual Action Plan- HUD
Entitlement Program.
Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously
Member Approve Oppose Recuse
Robert Cantelmo X
Kayla Matos X
Phoebe Brown X
Ducson Nguyen X
David Shapiro X
Pierre Saint-Perez X
Patrick Kuehl X
Margaret Fabrizio X
Clyde Lederman X
8.3 Approval of Draft Update to the City of Ithaca Assessment of Fair Housing
Discussion Summary: Approval of the Draft Update to the City of Ithaca
Assessment of Fair Housing. Alderperson Saint-Perez moved and read resolution
for discussion. No discussion by Council. Timestamp 1:23:27 Moved By: Pierre Saint-Perez
Seconded By: Ducson Nguyen
Motion Summary: Motion to approve Draft Update to the City of Ithaca Assessment
of Fair Housing.
Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously
Member Approve Oppose Recuse
Robert Cantelmo X
Kayla Matos X
Phoebe Brown X
Ducson Nguyen X
David Shapiro X
Pierre Saint-Perez X
Patrick Kuehl X
Margaret Fabrizio X
Clyde Lederman X
8.4 Conveyance of Title to Properties Obtained During Tax Foreclosure Proceedings
Back to Former Owner(s) Upon Payment of Delinquent Taxes and Associated
Fees
Discussion Summary: Resolution moved and read by Alderperson Shapiro.
City Attorney Kessler gave a brief explanation of the process in response to
Alderperson Shapiro's question regarding checks dated after the June 17th
deadline. If payment is not met by the deadline it will default to RPTL "Real
Property Tax Law "process which is to go to auction. Timestamp 1:24:29 Moved By: David Shapiro
Seconded By: Pierre Saint-Perez
Motion Summary: Motion to Approve Resolution Conveyance of Title to Properties
Obtained during Tax Foreclosure Proceedings Back to Former Owner(s) Upon
Payment of Delinquent Taxes and Associated Fees.
Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously
Member Approve Oppose Recuse
Robert Cantelmo X
Kayla Matos X
Phoebe Brown X
Ducson Nguyen X
David Shapiro X
Pierre Saint-Perez X
Patrick Kuehl X
Margaret Fabrizio X
Clyde Lederman X
9. Mayor Appointments
Discussion Summary: There are no Mayoral Appointments to consider at this time.
Timestamp 1:27:13 10. Report of City Controller
10.1 City Controller's Report- Month of June
Discussion Summary: Controller Scott Andrew and Deputy Controller Wendy Cole
presented Council with the monthly financial report for the month of June and
responded to questions from Council members. In response to the mayor's question
regarding the audit report, Controller Andrew reports that the final revised audit
completing date is going to be July. In depth discussion continued with questions and
comments from Council members. Timestamp 1:27:19-1:36:03 11. Report of City Manager
11.1 City Manager Monthly Report- Month of June
Discussion Summary: City Manager Deb Mohlenhoff presented council with the
June 2024 month report and strategic theme updates. Police Chief Kelly was also
present to discuss Officer Wellness and the Peer Support Program. Discussion
began with questions regarding budget conversations, City Manager Mohlenhoff
stated there will be a Budget Presentation presented to Council at the June 20th
Committee of Whole Study Session meeting. Discussion continued with questions
and comments from Council on points of interest. Timestamp 1:36:09- 1:57:05
12.Reports From Staff
Discussion Summary: No report from City Clerk. No report from City Attorney.
13.Executive Session
Discussion Summary: There will be no vote coming out of the executive session. This
meeting will then adjourn. Timestamp 1:57:12
13.1 Executive Session to discuss a Real Estate Transaction
Moved By: Pierre Saint-Perez
Seconded By: Kayla Matos
Motion Summary: Motion to enter into Executive Session to discuss a Real Estate
Transaction. Timestamp 1:57:37
Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously
Member Approve Oppose Recuse
Robert Cantelmo X
Kayla Matos X
Phoebe Brown X
Ducson Nguyen X
David Shapiro X
Pierre Saint-Perez X
Patrick Kuehl X
Margaret Fabrizio X
Clyde Lederman X
14. Meeting Wrap Up
Discussion Summary: Meeting adjourned 7:55pm. Timestamp 1:57:43
Shaniqua Lewis, Deputy City Clerk
City of Ithaca
Recorded 7-2-2024
COMMON COUNCIL REGULAR SESSION AGENDA
AMENDED Date:Wednesday June 5, 2024
Time:6:00 PM
Location:City Hall Council Chambers
Watch Online:https://www.youtube.com/@CityofIthacaPublicMeetings
1. Call to Order 1.1. Emergency Evacuation 2. Agenda Review 2.1. Additions/Deletions or Changes to the Agenda. 3. Reports of Municipal Officials 3.1. Reports from County Legislator 4. Proclamations and Awards 4.1. Quarterly Recognition for the Month of June 2024
5. Review and Approval of Minutes 5.1. May 1st 2024 Common Council Meeting Minutes 6. Petitions and Hearings of Persons Before Council 6.1. Statements from the Public
6.2. Privilege of the Floor - Mayor and Council 7. Consent Agenda 7.1. Amend Capital Project #929 for Cass Park Pavilion and Bathroom
7.2. Cass Park Pavilion and Bathroom Replacement-NYS Parks Grant Funding
7.3. Uniform Sidewalk Improvement: Fall Creek Drive and Oak Ave
7.4. Amendment to Personnel Roster - Fire Department
7.5. Amendment to Personnel Roster – DPW Electrician
7.6. Amendment to Roster - DPW Light Equipment Operator
7.7. Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility (IAWWTF) - Capital Improvement Plan 7.8. Temporary Amendment to Personnel Roster – Attorney’s Office
7.9. Access Oversight Committee Annual Budget Approval
7.10. PIT-Outdoor Dining Alcohol Permits 8. New Business / Member Filed 8.1. Approval of the HUD 2024-2028 Consolidated Plan
8.2. Approval of the Draft 2024 Annual Action Plan
8.3. Approval of Draft Update to the City of Ithaca Assessment of Fair Housing
8.4. Conveyance of Title to Properties Obtained During Tax Foreclosure
Proceedings Back to Former Owner(s) Upon Payment of Delinquent Taxes and
Associated Fees 9. Mayor Appointments
10. Report of City Controller 10.1. City Controller's Report- Month of June
11. Report of City Manager 11.1. City Manager Monthly Report- Month of June 12. Reports From Staff 1. Report from Clerk's Office
2. Report for City Attorney 13. Executive Session 13.1. Executive Session to discuss a Real Estate Transaction 14. Meeting Wrap Up Announcements Next Meeting Meeting Adjourned
Public Comment Forum
The public can provide short statements during this portion of the meeting. 3 minutes is the maximum time allotted,
but the chair reserves the right to modify the amount of time per individual at the start of the meeting. Only the first
hour of the meeting is set aside for Public Comment. Groups of 3 or more speakers are allotted more speaking
time.
For Longer Speaking Time - Multiple speakers on the same topic can speak as a group with one Designated
Speaker to represent the Group. This will give you more time to share your thoughts and concerns during the
Public Comment Forum.
3-4 Persons with One Designated Speaker - Alotted 5 minutes
5 or More Persons with One Designated Speaker - Alotted 7 minutes
Can't Come to the Meeting but still want to speak?
Register to Speak Virtually - https://tinyurl.com/7ts9zmku
Attending the Meeting to Speak in Person? Pre-Registration Not Required Comment Cards are provided to those who attend in person. Once you have filled out your Comment Card, please
hand your card to the Clerk. Your name will be called to speak in the order the cards are received.
Please Note Comment Cards will be accepted up until the Public Comment Forum begins or a maximum of 30
speakers, whichever comes first.
Once we have reached a maximum of 30 speakers, you can submit your comment using the Written Comment
Link Below.
Want to Submit a Comment and Not Speak in Person? To
Submit Written Comments - https://tinyurl.com/mr9kdhw8
*Written comments submitted with be compiled and entered into the record.
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Mayor Robert Cantelmo
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Emergency Evacuation
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
3
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Mayor's Office
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Mayor Robert Cantelmo
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Additions/Deletions or Changes to the Agenda.
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
4
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Clerk's Office
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Mayor Robert Cantelmo
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Reports from County Legislator
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
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CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Human Resources
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Jennifer Greenawalt, Human Resources
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Quarterly Recognition for the Month of June 2024
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
Employee Recognition for the Month of June 2024
Darren Williams
George Apgar
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7
8
9
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CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Clerk's Office
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Shaniqua Lewis, Deputy City Clerk
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:May 1st 2024 Common Council Meeting Minutes
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
Approval of May 1st, 2024 Common Council Meeting Minutes.
11
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Common Council
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Clerk's Office
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Statements from the Public
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
Members of the Public share thoughts and comments of topics of interest
12
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Clerk's Office
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Mayor Robert Cantelmo
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Privilege of the Floor - Mayor and Council
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
Mayor and Council's Response To The Public
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CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Dept of Public Works-Engineering
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:John Licitra, Engineering/Sidewalk Program Manager
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Amend Capital Project #929 for Cass Park Pavilion and
Bathroom
CP#:
N/A
MEMORANDUM
A Resolution to Amend Capital Project #929 for Cass Park Pavilion and Bathroom Project to
increase Captial Project Funding.
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A Resolution to Amend Capital Project #929 for Cass Park Capital Improvements; Cass
Park Pavilion and Bathroom Project
WHEREAS, Capital Project #929 was established in the 2024 budget to design the
replacement of the 1970s Cass Park Pavilion and Bathroom, and
WHEREAS, Common Council has received a grant of $500,000 from NYS Office of
Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) for the project to subsidize part
of the construction costs and the current authorization of $50,000 is not sufficient for the
design costs, and
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Youth Bureau operates and maintains the Cass Park Pavilion and
Bathroom and Engineering staff, and the City’s design consultant, Barton & Loguidice,
have estimated design, construction, and construction support costs totaling $988,000
and
WHEREAS, Engineering staff has vetted and will continue to value-engineer the above
replacement estimates in a timely manner to allow for the fiscal use of limited City
resources and the vital services these amenities provide, and the budget increase will
enable for construction administration, inspection, material testing and a construction
contingency; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends Capital Project #829 by $ 938,000
for the project, bringing the total authorization to $ 988,000; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That funds needed for said amendment shall be derived from [ issuance of
Serial Bonds or ARPA], and be it further
RESOLVED, Common Council hereby authorizes the Superintendent of Public Works
to execute contracts with the low bidders for the approved Cass Park Capital
Improvements; Cass Park Pavilion and Bathroom project.
15
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
To: Common Council
From: Johnathan Licitra, Civil Engineer—DPW
Jim Dalterio, Deputy Director—Ithaca Youth Bureau
Date: 9 Apr 2024
Re: Cass Park Capital Improvement Project: Amendment to CP# 929
Pavilion and Bathroom Replacement Project
Please find enclosed a resolution to accept a NYS Office of Parks, Recreation, and
Historic Preservation (OPRHP) grant and a second resolution to amend CP#929
for the design and replacement of Cass Park pavilion and adjacent bathroom
facility.
In 2020, Common Council funded the Cass Park Capital Plan to assess the
current and future needs for using the park’s existing buildings and grounds. In
2023, the City applied for and received a $500,000 Environmental Protection Act
grant for the replacement of the Cass Park pavilion (approx. 42’ x 66’) and
adjacent bathroom facility. The bathroom building (approx. 480 SF) will have
four ADA-accessible, gender-neutral/family bathrooms. Fixtures will be water-
energy efficient and overall construction would be planned for low maintenance.
Both the pavilion and bathroom building will be built to be solar-ready as part of
the Green New Deal. The project would also provide for a driveway loop, two
ADA compliant parking spaces and 6 other parking spaces to serve the
bathroom, the pavilion, the nearby playground and users from the Black
Diamond Trail and Cayuga Waterfront Trail. In 2024, Common Council
established CP#929 with $50,000 for the bathroom design project.
The City’s design consultant, Barton & Loguidice, has established a preliminary
budget for the design and construction of these long overdue health and safety
upgrades:
• 2024 Additional Design costs $ 75,600
• 2025 Construction $ 888,400
• 2025 Construction Support and Inspection $ 24,000
Sum $ 988,000
With the $500,000 grant, the City’s local costs would be $488,000 or 49% of the
total project costs. Due to the nature of rising construction costs, past delayed
repairs, and an expressed need from the community for improvements to Cass
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Park’s amenities, it is highly encouraged to do this work. As a reimbursement
program, the State Parks grant needs to be authorized in the first instance, and
then the City will be paid back after expenditures. The resolution is written as
such to pass the resolution in the affirmative will fund the full provisions
$988,000. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you should have any questions.
Sincerely,
Johnathan Licitra Jim Dalterio
Civil Engineer, City DPW Deputy Director, Ithaca Youth Bureau
Photo: existing Cass Park Pavilion
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Photos: existing Cass Park Pavilion and Bathroom
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CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Dept of Public Works-Engineering
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:John Licitra, Engineering/Sidewalk Program Manager
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Cass Park Pavilion and Bathroom Replacement-NYS Parks
Grant Funding
CP#:
N/A
MEMORANDUM
A Resolution to accept NYS Parks Grant Funding
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Janary 2024
RESOLUTION
RESOLVED, that the City of Ithaca applied for financial assistance from the New York State
Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (“OPRHP”) under the Title 9 of the
Environmental Protection Act of 1993, for the purpose of funding the Cass Park Capital
Improvements project;
RESOLVED, that the City of Ithaca is authorized and directed to accept these grant funds in an
amount not to exceed $500,000 for the project described in the grant application;
RESOLVED, that the City of Ithaca is authorized and directed to agree to the terms and
conditions of the State of New York Contract for Grants ("Contract") with OPRHP for such Cass
Park Capital Improvements project;
RESOLVED, that City of Ithaca is authorized and directed to agree to the terms and
conditions of any required deed of easement granted to OPRHP that affects title to real
property owned by the municipality and improved by the grant funds, which may be a
duly recorded public access covenant, conservation easement, and/or preservation covenant;
and
RESOLVED, that the governing body of the municipality delegates signing authority to execute
the Contract and any amendments thereto, any required deed of easement, and any other
certifications to the individual(s) who hold(s) the following elected or appointed municipal
office(s) or employment position title(s): City of Ithaca Mayor and/or City of Ithaca
City Manager and/or Superintendent of Public Works or designee.
CERTIFIED TRUE COPY
I, Alan Karasin, Clerk of the City of Ithaca, hereby certify that the foregoing is a full, true,
and accurate copy of a resolution duly and regularly adopted by the governing body of the
municipality, at a meeting duly and regularly held on ____________ [date], at which quorum
was present throughout, and the required majority of the governing body voted in favor of this
resolution. I further certify that this resolution is still in full force and effect and has not been
revoked or modified.
Dated: _________ ______________________________
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CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Dept of Public Works-Engineering
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:John Licitra, Engineering/Sidewalk Program Manager
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Uniform Sidewalk Improvement: Fall Creek Drive and Oak Ave
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
Resolution to Approve Construction Cost Assessment for the Sidewalk Improvement along the
300 block of Fall Creek Drive and the 400 block of Oak Avenue
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Resolution to Approve Construction Cost Assessment for the Sidewalk Improvement
along the 300 block of Fall Creek Drive and the 400 block of Oak Avenue
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Works approved resolutions to construct new sidewalk
along Cornell University property located outside of the Sidewalk Improvement
Districts (SID) under the Uniform Sidewalk Improvement Policy (City Charter sections
C-73 & C-89) on 5/18/2021 and 6/15/2021, and
WHEREAS, in 2023, contractors under the direction of the City of Ithaca Engineering
Division, in consultation with relevant Cornell University staff and departments,
completed construction for new sidewalk sections along the 400 block of Oak Ave. and
the 300 block Fall Creek Dr., and
WHEREAS, in accordance with City Charter sections C-73 and C-89, the City Engineer’s
Office prepared post-construction final costs to be assessed against Cornell University as
the abutting property owner. Based upon final quantities and bid prices, this cost
calculates to $529,387.87. Supporting documentation was mailed to Cornell University
on 2/12/2024, and Cornell has waived a request to have a public hearing regarding this
assessment; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that Common Council hereby approves and adopts the final assessed costs
of $529,387.87 to Cornell University, and be it further
RESOLVED, that Common Council directs the City Chamberlain to invoice the property
owner, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the bill shall be payable to the City Chamberlain within 30 days of the
billing date or, upon written request to the City Chamberlain made within 30 days of the
billing date, shall be payable in no more than five annual installments. If any bill or
annual installment is not paid by November 1 of each year, the City Chamberlain shall
enter the same as a lien against the premises as provided in § C-54 of the Charter of the
City of Ithaca. The Chamberlain shall add the same to the next assessment roll of general
City taxes and shall collect and enforce the assessment in the same manner and by the
same proceedings, at the same time and with the same penalties as the general City tax
and as a part thereof, except that, in addition to the penalties provided for in the
aforementioned provisions, interest shall accrue on any unpaid balance from the date of
billing to the date of actual payment at 12% per annum or $3 per month, whichever is
greater as set forth in the City Charter.
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"An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification."
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
To: Common Council
From: Johnathan Licitra, DPW—Civil Engineer
Date: 11 April 2024
Re: Uniform Sidewalk Improvement: 300 block of Fall Creek Drive and
400 Oak Avenue
The Board of Public Works approved resolutions to construct new
sidewalk along Cornell Univesity property (outside of the Sidewalk
Improvement Districts (SID)) under the Uniform Sidewalk Improvement
Policy (City Charter sections C-73 & C-89) on 5/18/2021 and
6/15/2021. With coordinated consults from Cornell University Facility
Engineers and departments, the City of Ithaca completed construction by
contract for new sidewalk sections along the 400 block of Oak Ave. and
300 Fall Creek Dr. during 2023.
In accordance with City Charter sections C-73, C-89, the City prepared
post-construction final costs to be assessed against the abutting property
owner, in this case, Cornell University. Based upon final quantities and
bid prices, this cost calculates to $529,387.87. Supporting
documentation was mailed to Cornell University on 2/12/2024 and
Cornell has waived a request to have a public hearing regarding this
assessment.
The enclosed resolution requests Common Council to approve this
assessed cost and requests that the City’s Chamberlain invoice Cornell
University. A summary of the quantities and costs are included for
reference.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach me at 274-6534 or
jlicitra@cityofithaca.org.
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2023 TRANSPORTATION SAFETY 400 OAK AVE & 300 FALL CREEK DR
Table of Costs Outside of Sidewalk Improvement Districts (SID) vs. City Costs
•
subbase, concrete, detectable warning
units, embankment, topsoil, lawn
restoration) outside of SID
•
excavation, subbase, concrete,
detectable warning units, topsoil, lawn
restoration) inside of SID
•
repair)
•
subbase, asphalt repair)
•
Zone Traffic Control
•
pipe, structures, subbase, asphalt repair)
•
removals, valve adjustments, clearing &
grubbing, erosion and sediment controls,
etc.)
•
valve adjustments, etc.)
Notes and premise for the above parameters:
1. The City Charter states a 25% overhead fee shall be billed to the property owner
(C-73.1E2).
2. The new curbing is reduced by 50% to the property owner (C-89.D).
3. The City constructed some new drainage infrastructure due to the new sidewalk
installations, but this is not being billed back to the abutting property owner because
the City maintains stormwater infrastructure within the City ROW.
4. Lump sum items are not pro-rated since this project’s objective was to construct a new
sidewalk as initiated by the BPW resolutions and directives.
5. The construction contract with the City’s qualified low-bidder, P.F. Vitale Inc., was a
unit-price contract. Final costs differentiate from bid estimates due to field
measurements taken and agreed upon by the engineer in-charge and the contractor’s
superintendent.
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2023 TRANSPORTATION SAFETY 400 OAK AVE & 300 FALL CREEK DR
MAPS SHOWING CONSTRUCTION AREAS
Figure 1. Simple map showing 300 block of Fall Creek Dr.
Figure 2. Simple map showing 400 block of Oak Ave.
25
Cap Project #896 Contractor: P.F. Vitale 2023 TRANSPORTATION SAFETY 400 OAK AVE & 300 FALL CREEK DR
LINE # ITEM No. ITEM DESCRIPTION UNIT
CONTRACTED
ESTIMATED
QUANTITY BID UNIT PRICE
CONTRACTED
ESTIMATED VALUE
EXTENDED
FINAL OAK
AVE.
ACTUAL
QUANTITY
FINAL FALL
CREEK DR.
ACTUAL
QUANTITY
FINAL AS-BUILT
TOTAL
QUANTITY
FINAL TOTAL
PRICE
CORNELL
QUANTITY
CORNELL
COST CITY COST
1 201.06 Clearing and Grubbing LS 1.0 8,500.00$ 8,500.00$ 0.5 0.5 1 8,500.00$ 1 8,500.00$ -$
2 203.02 Unclassified Excavation and Disposal CY 1,615.0 37.00$ 59,755.00$ 255.7 185.6 441.3 16,328.10$ 260.22 9,628.16$ 6,699.94$
3 203.03 Embankment In Place CY 56.0 36.00$ 2,016.00$ 44 82.3 126.3 4,546.80$ 126.3 4,546.80$ -$
4 203.07 Select Granular Fill CY 350.0 130.00$ 45,500.00$ 70.6 120.5 191.1 24,843.00$ 0 -$ 24,843.00$
5 206.0201 Trench and Culvert Excavation CY 665.0 130.00$ 86,450.00$ 344.3 433.2 777.5 101,075.00$ 0 -$ 101,075.00$
6 209.1703 Drainage Structure, Inlet Protection, Prefabricated-Temporary LF 210.0 12.00$ 2,520.00$ 24 24 288.00$ 24 288.00$ -$
7 209.1901 100% Biodegradable Erosion Control Mat SY 100.0 4.50$ 450.00$ 46.4 46.4 208.80$ 46.4 208.80$ -$
8 304.12 Subbase Course - Type 2 CY 1,040.0 110.00$ 114,400.00$ 477.3 346.4 823.7 90,607.00$ 449.28 49,420.99$ 41,186.01$
9 402.098901 9.5 F9 T&L, or Shoulder Course WMA, 80 Series Compaction TON 36.0 175.00$ 6,300.00$ 36 36 6,300.00$ 16.1 2,817.50$ 3,482.50$
10 402.198901 19 F9 Binder Course WMA, 80 Series Compaction TON 344.0 150.00$ 51,600.00$ 88.5 126.1 214.6 32,190.00$ 125.66 18,849.60$ 13,340.40$
11 407.0102 Diluted Tack Coat GAL 39.0 24.00$ 936.00$ 26 140 166 3,984.00$ 35 840.00$ 3,144.00$
12 411.01 Stabilized Gravel Surface Course CY 10.0 185.00$ 1,850.00$ 0 -$ 0 -$ -$
13 603.77 Concrete Collars EACH 7.0 500.00$ 3,500.00$ 2 4 6 3,000.00$ 0 -$ 3,000.00$
14 603.9812 Smooth Interior Corrugated Polyethylene Culvert and Storm Drain 12 Inch LF 482.0 30.00$ 14,460.00$ 433.3 33 466.3 13,989.00$ 0 -$ 13,989.00$
15 603.9815 Smooth Interior Corrugated Polyethylene Culvert and Storm Drain 15 Inch LF 5.0 65.00$ 325.00$ 5.5 5.5 357.50$ 0 -$ 357.50$
16 603.9818 Smooth Interior Corrugated Polyethylene Culvert and Storm Drain 18 Inch LF 205.0 40.00$ 8,200.00$ 205 205 8,200.00$ 0 -$ 8,200.00$
17 603.9824 Smooth Interior Corrugated Polyethylene Culvert and Storm Drain 24 Inch LF 315.0 80.00$ 25,200.00$ 287.5 287.5 23,000.00$ 0 -$ 23,000.00$
18 603.9808001 Polyvinyl Chloride (Pvc) Sewer Pipe And Fittings, 8" LF 7.0 150.00$ 1,050.00$ 8 8 1,200.00$ 0 -$ 1,200.00$
19 604.07901 Altering Drainage Structures, Leaching Basins, And Manholes EACH 5.0 2,200.00$ 11,000.00$ 2 2 4,400.00$ 0 -$ 4,400.00$
20 604.300671 Rectangular Drainage Structure (Type F) for Cast Iron F1 Frame LF 39.0 925.00$ 36,075.00$ 13.6 22.5 36.1 33,392.50$ 0 -$ 33,392.50$
21 604.301471 Rectangular Drainage Structure (Type M) For Cast Iron F1 Frame LF 6.0 1,025.00$ 6,150.00$ 5.9 5.9 6,047.50$ 0 -$ 6,047.50$
22 604.301571 Rectangular Drainage Structure (Type O) For Cast Iron F1 Frame LF 7.0 1,125.00$ 7,875.00$ 0 -$ 0 -$ -$
23 604.4048 Round Precast Concrete Manhole Type 48 LF 17.0 550.00$ 9,350.00$ 4.9 5.4 10.3 5,665.00$ 0 -$ 5,665.00$
24 606.2701 Hpbo (Mod.) Corrugated Beam Guide Railing LF 270.0 55.00$ 14,850.00$ 202 202 11,110.00$ 0 -$ 11,110.00$
25 606.270101 Hpbe (Mod.) Corrugated Beam Guide Railing (Shop Curved)LF 75.0 80.00$ 6,000.00$ 25 25 2,000.00$ 0 -$ 2,000.00$
26 606.2703 Anchorage Units For Hpbo (Mod.) Corrugated Beam Guide Railing EACH 2.0 3,800.00$ 7,600.00$ 2 2 7,600.00$ 0 -$ 7,600.00$
27 606.61 Removing And Storing Corrugated Beam Guide Railing LF 225.0 15.00$ 3,375.00$ 229 229 3,435.00$ 0 -$ 3,435.00$
28 607.4101001 Temporary Plastic Barrier Fence LF 140.0 5.00$ 700.00$ 0 -$ 0 -$ -$
29 607.6502-00100 Split Rail Fence LF 425.0 38.00$ 16,150.00$ 419 419 15,922.00$ 419 15,922.00$ -$
30 607.9100-0011 Pipe Rail Fence - 2 Rail LF 31.0 110.00$ 3,410.00$ 56.6 56.6 6,226.00$ 56.6 6,226.00$ -$
31 608.0101 Concrete for Sidewalks and Driveways CY 230.0 675.00$ 155,250.00$ 94.3 107 201.3 135,877.50$ 170.95 115,391.25$ 20,486.25$
32 608.21000-003 Cast Iron Embedded Detectable Warning Units SY 11.0 230.00$ 2,530.00$ 4.4 5.4 9.8 2,254.00$ 6.5 1,495.00$ 759.00$
33 609.0212 Stone Curb, Granite, Near Vertical Face (NVF)LF 2,070.0 65.00$ 134,550.00$ 921 1101 2022 131,430.00$ 866.65 56,332.25$ 75,097.75$
34 609.0217 Stone Curb, Granite, Traversable Sloped (TR)LF 31.0 85.00$ 2,635.00$ 30.3 30.3 2,575.50$ 15.15 1,287.75$ 1,287.75$
35 609.0501 Cast -In-Place Concrete Curb and Gutter Type CF 150G LF 10.0 85.00$ 850.00$ 0 -$ 0 -$ -$
36 610.1403 Topsoil - Lawns CY 76.0 150.00$ 11,400.00$ 60.6 16.25 76.85 11,527.50$ 59.35 8,902.50$ 2,625.00$
37 610.1602 Turf Establishment - Lawns SY 626.0 3.00$ 1,878.00$ 460.5 140.6 601.1 1,803.30$ 467.9 1,403.70$ 399.60$
38 614.060204 Tree Removal Over 6 Inches To 12 Inches Diameter Breast Height - Stumps Grubbed EACH 2.0 1,600.00$ 3,200.00$ 2 1 3 4,800.00$ 2 3,200.00$ 1,600.00$
39 614.060504 Tree Removal Over 24 Inches to 36 Inches Diameter Breast Height-Stumps Cut to Below
Grade EACH 11.0 2,100.00$ 23,100.00$ 11 11 23,100.00$ 11 23,100.00$ -$
40 614.0702 Pre-Existing Stump Removal Over 24 Inches to 48 Inches Diameter at 6 Inches Above Grade EACH 1.0 500.00$ 500.00$ 0 -$ 0 -$ -$
41 619.01 Basic Work Zone Traffic Control LS 1.0 72,000.00$ 72,000.00$ 0.5 0.5 1 72,000.00$ 1 72,000.00$ -$
42 619.080101 Remove Pavement Marking Stripes, Traffic Paint LF 655.0 2.00$ 1,310.00$ 362 362 724.00$ 0 -$ 724.00$
43 625.01 Survey Operations LS 1.0 11,000.00$ 11,000.00$ 0.5 0.5 1 11,000.00$ 1 11,000.00$ -$
44 627.501408 Cutting Pavement LF 52.0 5.00$ 260.00$ 0 -$ 0 -$ -$
45 640.2 White Paint Reflectorized Pavement Stripes -20 Mils LF 2,445.0 3.00$ 7,335.00$ 906 906 2,718.00$ 0 -$ 2,718.00$
46 640.23 White Paint Reflectorized Pavement Symbols - 20 Mils EACH 9.0 400.00$ 3,600.00$ 0 -$ 0 -$ -$
47 645.5202011 Ground-Mounted Sign Panels With High Visibility Sheeting And Non-Retroreflective Sheeting
Without Z-Bars SF 33.0 45.00$ 1,485.00$ 41 1.5 42.5 1,912.50$ 0 -$ 1,912.50$
48 645.5102 Ground-Mounted Sign Panels Less Than Or Equal To 32 Sf, With Z-Bars SF 69.0 42.00$ 2,898.00$ 45.8 45.8 1,923.60$ 0 -$ 1,923.60$
49 645.81 Type A Sign Posts EACH 47.0 220.00$ 10,340.00$ 12 9 21 4,620.00$ 0 -$ 4,620.00$
50 647.41 Remove and Store Sign Panel, Sign Panel Assembly Size I (Under 30 SF)EACH 5.0 50.00$ 250.00$ 2 2 100.00$ 0 -$ 100.00$
51 650.113 Trenchless Installation Of Casing Under Highway With A Diameter Equal To 30 Inches LF 10.0 500.00$ 5,000.00$ 10 10 5,000.00$ 0 -$ 5,000.00$
52 655.0704 Cast Frame, F1, Unmountable Curb Box CU1 & Reticuline Grate G1 EACH 9.0 1,300.00$ 11,700.00$ 4 3 7 9,100.00$ 0 -$ 9,100.00$
53 655.1201 Manhole Frame and Cover EACH 2.0 1,100.00$ 2,200.00$ 3 3 3,300.00$ 0 -$ 3,300.00$
54 655.1202 Manhole Frame and Cover EACH 1.0 1,100.00$ 1,100.00$ 1 1 1,100.00$ 0 -$ 1,100.00$
55 662.6002001 Adjust Vavle Boxes For Resurfacing Work (Gas)EACH 3.0 1,100.00$ 3,300.00$ 4 4 4,400.00$ 3 3,300.00$ 1,100.00$
56 663.33 Adjust Existing Valve Box Elevation EACH 7.0 400.00$ 2,800.00$ 10 10 4,000.00$ 1 400.00$ 3,600.00$
57 697.03 Field Change Payment DC 25,000.0 1.00$ 25,000.00$ 3600 20872.6 5048.8 5,048.80$ 3300 3,300.00$ 1,748.80$
209.23010009 Biodegradable Sediment Filter Log, 12 inches LF 450 10.00$ 4,500.00$ 155 360 515 5,150.00$ 515 5,150.00$ -$
402.0989303
9.5 F3 Top Course
HMA, 80 Series
Compaction
TON 110 150.00$ 16,500.00$
46 46 6,900.00$ 0 -$ 6,900.00$
58 699.040001 Mobilization - 4% Max.LS 1 32,000.00$ 32,000.00$ 0.5 0.5 1 32,000.00$ -$ 32,000.00$
1,106,018.00$ 0 918,779.90$ subtotal 423,510.30$ 495,269.60$
25% Overhead 105,877.57$
SUM 529,387.87$
26
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Fire Department
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Rob Covert, IFD Fire Chief
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Amendment to Personnel Roster - Fire Department
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
Vote for three approved Firefighter positions to start in July 2024 instead of December 2024.
27
Amendment to Personnel Roster - Fire Department
26 April 2024
WHEREAS, the Fire Department has three Firefighter positions approved by
council to start on 1 December 2024, and
WHEREAS, retirements, injuries, extended military leave, and personnel on Family
Medical Leave has created staffing shortages, and
WHEREAS, hiring these three Firefighters in July would enable them to attend the
July Fire Academy, and
WHEREAS the approved 2024 Fire Department budget contains sufficient funds to
support this change, now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Personnel Roster of the Fire Department be amended to add
three Firefighter positions to begin on 8 July 2024, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the funds for these changes shall be derived from within the
approved 2024 Fire Department budget.
28
MEMORANDUM
TO: Common Council
FROM: Rob Covert, Fire Chief
DATE: 26 April 2024
RE: Request to Amend Personnel Roster
Recognizing the Fire Department’s need for increased staffing to address staffing vulnerabilities caused
by routine occurrences (retirements, injuries, pregnancies, military leave, unpaid family leave, etc.), the
Fire Department’s 2024 budget includes the addition of three Firefighters to begin 1 December 2024.
Due to the Fire Academy cycle, these Firefighters would not actually start until January 2025 and be on
shift until July 2025.
The proposed resolution would allow these three new Firefighters to start on 8 July 2024 and attend the
July 2024 Fire Academy. This would enable these Firefighters to be certified to be on shift by January
2025. This would minimize the staffing shortages caused by the occurrences outlined above.
The additional twenty-one weeks of salary (per firefighter) would be covered by the saving incurred by
the two Assistant Chiefs and one Firefighter who retired earlier this year, who will not be replaced until 8
July 2024 (to coincide with the start of the July Fire Academy) In addition, another firefighter is on
unpaid family leave. This is a total of ninety-six weeks of unused Step 1 Firefighter salary. Approving the
resolution would allow Ithaca Fire to use sixty-three of these already funded weeks to hire and train
three new Firefighters.
Position Step 1 Firefighter Salary Savings
Assistant Chief 1 - Retired 26 Weeks - $25,207.52
Assistant Chief 2 - Retired 14 Weeks - $13,573.28
Firefighter 1 - Retired 14 Weeks - $13,573.28
Firefighter 2 - FMLA 42 Weeks - $40,739.50
Total Savings: 96 Weeks - $93,073.92
Each new Firefighter salary cost is $969.52 per week. A total of sixty-three weeks will cost $61,079.76. As
illustrated above, this will be covered by the already approved 2024 Fire Department budget.
29
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Streets & Facilities
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Mark Verbanic
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Amendment to Personnel Roster – DPW Electrician
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
Consent Agenda Item to defund Electrical Technician position to fund Electrician Position.
30
Amendment to Personnel Roster – DPW
WHEREAS, the Streets & Facilities division of the DPW has a funded Electrical Technician
position, and
WHEREAS, this position has become vacant due to the promotion of an employee, and
WHEREAS, the DPW would prefer to fill this position at a higher skill level with an Electrician
rather than an Electrical Technician, now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Personnel Roster of the Streets and Facilities Division of the Department of
Public Works be amended as follows:
Defund: One (1) Electrical Technician
Add: One (1) Electrician
and be it further
RESOLVED, that funding for this position shall be derived from the approved 2024 departmental
budget.
31
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Streets & Facilities
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Mark Verbanic, Assistant Superintendent-Streets and Facilities
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Amendment to Roster - DPW Light Equipment Operator
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
Consent Agenda item to defund two (2) Maintenance Worker positions to fund two (2) Light
Equipment Operator
32
Amendment to Personnel Roster – DPW
WHEREAS, the Streets & Facilities division of the DPW has two vacant Maintenance Worker
positions, and
WHEREAS, these positions have routinely been assigned work within the Highway section of
maintaining highway/stormwater infrastructure, and
WHEREAS, these positions have been vacant since January 2022 due to the resignation of one
employee and the promotion of another, and
WHEREAS, the DPW currently has a greater need for Light Equipment Operators than
Maintenance Workers, and would prefer to fill the vacancies with Light Equipment Operators
rather than Maintenance Workers, now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Personnel Roster of the Streets and Facilities Division of the Department of
Public Works be amended as follows:
Fund: Two (2) Light Equipment Operators
Defund: Two (2) Maintenance Workers
and be it further
RESOLVED, that funding for this change shall be derived from the approved 2024 departmental
budget.
33
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Water and Sewer
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Scott Gibson, Assistant Superintendent- Water & Sewer
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility (IAWWTF) - Capital
Improvement Plan
CP#:
N/A
MEMORANDUM
Resolution to approve the City of Ithaca's share of a Capital Improvement Plan for wastewater
treatment plant operational planning.
34
Resolution for Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility (IAWWTF) – Capital Improvement Plan
Project
WHEREAS, the IAWWTF is a 38 year old, technically complex, and environmentally important facility that
is jointly owned by the City of Ithaca, the Town of Ithaca, and the Town of Dryden, and
WHEREAS, the IAWWTF has both short and long term capital needs to help maintain compliance, meet
energy goals, and provide adequate planning for necessary repairs, opportunities for better efficiency,
and a look toward the future, and
WHEREAS, plant staff and the Special Joint Committee (SJC) are desirous in developing a proper Capital
Improvement Plan Project (CIPP) to assist in planning, budgeting, and the procurement of potential
infrastructure related grants and low interest loans afforded to municipalities, and
WHEREAS, a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) was made to regional consulting firms and four responses
were submitted, and
WHEREAS, plant staff interviewed and evaluated presentations from each candidate, and
WHEREAS, at its February 14, 2024 meeting, staff and the Special Joint Committee (SJC) recommended
to its municipal boards the approval of Barton & Loguidice, D.P.C., 443 Electronics Parkway, Liverpool,
NY, as the consultant of choice to prepare the CIPP, and
WHEREAS, on February 21, 2024, B&L provided an Engineering Agreement proposal of services which
included an estimated project cost of $300,000, with anticipated 50% funding through a NYSERDA
Flextech grant, and anticipated local cost match of 50%, and
WHEREAS, staff endorses the funding of a project amount not to exceed Three Hundred Thousand
Dollars ($300,000) with anticipated 50% cost match, in the interests of better plant operational
efficiency, and longevity; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the City of Ithaca approves its share of the CIPP in the amount of One Hundred Seventy
One Thousand, Four Hundred and Twenty Dollars ($171,420.00), and, be it further
RESOLVED, that the total funds necessary for said project be derived from the following sources as
determined by the City Controller: 100% through capital reserves - Account J-1, with an anticipated
return to capital reserves using a 50% match through NYSERDA Flextech funding.
35
MEMORANDUM
CITY OF ITHACA
DPW – WATER & SEWER DIVISION
510 FIRST STREET
3/21/2024
DATE: MARCH 21, 2024
TO: ITHACA COMMON COUNCIL
ITHACA AREA WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY - SJC
CC:
FROM: SCOTT GIBSON
RE: CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN PROJECT
PRIORITY: HIGH
At its February 14, 2024 meeting the Special Joint Committee (SJC) of the Ithaca Area
Wastewater Treatment Facility voted to procure the services of Barton and Loguidice (B&L) to
plan and prepare a short and long term capital improvement project for the plant. On February
21, B&L provided a scope and cost for these services in the amount of $300,000, with an
anticipated 50% cost share from NYSERDA’s Flextech program with a local match of $150,000.
We fully expect to receive the grant but in the interests of moving the project forward, we are
asking to fund the full amount of the project with a reimbursement when the grant comes
through.
I am submitting the attached resolution with a request for approval on an agreement with
Barton and Loguidice using the following municipal contributions. Please move this through
your respective governmental bodies so that we can continue to provide the level of service
expected from our facility.
Thank you,
Scott Gibson, City of Ithaca Assistant DPW Superintendent, Division of Water & Sewer
36
7/24/23
Total Project Cost $ 300,000.00
Requested funding
City of Ithaca Share at 57.14% $ 171,420.00
Town of Ithaca Share at 40.88% $ 122,640.00
Town of Dryden Share at 1.98% $ 5,940.00
$ 300,000.00
Anticipated amount of grant reimbursement
Total Project Cost $ 300,000.00
NYSERDA Flextech cost share ($ 150,000.00)
Anticipated 50% Local Match $ 150,000.00
37
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Attorney's Office
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Victor Kessler, Acting City Attorney
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Temporary Amendment to Personnel Roster – Attorney’s
Office
CP#:
N/A
MEMORANDUM
Resolution to Approve Temporary Amendment to Personnel Roster – Authorize temporary
adjustment of rostered Assistant City Attorney Positions.
38
Resolution to Approve Temporary Amendment to Personnel Roster – Attorney’s Office
WHEREAS, the City Attorney’s Office currently faces several vacancies due to recent
departures; and
WHEREAS, the City Attorney’s Office requires additional flexibility with existing positions
while recruitment is underway to fill said vacancies; and
WHEREAS, the approved departmental budget for 2024 contains sufficient funds to support a
temporary change to the personnel roster; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that, effective immediately, the personnel roster for the City Attorney’s Office be
amended to increase one (1) Assistant City Attorney position from half-time to full-time; and be
it further
RESOLVED, that on January 1, 2025, without further action from Common Council, the
personnel roster for the City Attorney’s Office shall be amended to decrease one (1) Assistant
City Attorney position from full-time to half-time; and be it further
RESOLVED, that the funding for this change shall be derived from existing funds within the
approved departmental budget.
39
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
City Manager's Office
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:City Manager Deb Mohlenhoff
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Access Oversight Committee Annual Budget Approval
CP#:n/a
MEMORANDUM
AOC Recommendations for 2025 Budget
40
Approval of AOC Recommended Budget for 2025
WHEREAS, Section 15.12 of the Franchise Agreement of January 2003 between the
City of Ithaca and the franchisee Time Warner Entertainment-Advance/Newhouse
Partnership (TWC), subsequently assigned to Charter Communications, Inc. (d/b/a
Spectrum Networks) after Charter's 2016 acquisition of TWC, requires the participating
municipalities (City of Ithaca, Town of Ithaca, Village of Cayuga Heights) to provide the
franchisee with an annual written budget for Public, Educational and Governmental access
operations (PEG) by June 30 of each calendar year, and
WHEREAS, the Franchise Agreement authorizes Charter Communications to collect $0.15
per subscriber per month to be used for the purchase of equipment for the PEG Access
Studio, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca's Ordinance #2003-17, Par 18-4-G, requires the Access
Oversight Committee (AOC) to provide the Participating Municipalities with a
recommended annual budget by May 31 of each calendar year, and
WHEREAS, the AOC has reviewed PEG’s current equipment and facilities and anticipates
that new or replacement equipment and facilities will likely be needed, including certain
playback equipment; and
WHEREAS, at their regular meeting on April 2, 2024, the AOC recommended an $11,000.00
contingency to purchase equipment as needed for the functioning of PEG operations,
pending receipt and AOC approval of line-item estimates, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca accepts the AOC
recommended budget for Spectrum Network’s 2025 annual budget for Public, Educational
and Governmental access.
41
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Public Information and Technology
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Alan Karasin, Acting City Clerk
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:PIT-Outdoor Dining Alcohol Permits
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
Approval of Outdoor Dining Alcohol Permit for The Lotus Restaurant.
42
PIT - Approval of Outdoor Dining Alcohol Permits
WHEREAS, several downtown restaurants have requested permission to utilize certain
areas along the Primary and Secondary Commons and sidewalks in the downtown core for
outdoor dining, and
WHEREAS, the Downtown Ithaca Alliance has requested permission for wine, beer, and
hard cider tasting and sales as part of their special events for 202 4, and
WHEREAS, it is Common Council's responsibility to determine whether or not to allow the
serving and consumption of alcohol on City property, and
WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that the use of public property for outdoor
dining and special events including the responsible sale and consumption of alcohol, plays
an important role in the vibrancy of the downtown business district, and
WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that any use of this or similar public property
involving the sale and consumption of alcohol should be covered by a minimum of
$1,000,000 insurance under the Dram Shop Act; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, For the year 202 4, Common Council hereby approves the following revocable
alcoholic beverage permits for the outdoor sale and consumption of alcohol in accord with
the terms and conditions set forth in their applications, including minimum Dram Shop
coverage in the amount of $1,000,000 and the approval of an outdoor dining permit:
The Lotus
43
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Anisa Mendizabal
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Approval of the HUD 2024-2028 Consolidated Plan
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
Draft 2024 Consolidated Plan is a five-year strategy for use of the City's HUD Entitlement
Funds.
44
Ithaca Common Council
Proposed Resolution
May 8, 2024
2024-2028 Consolidated Plan Adoption – HUD Entitlement Program
WHEREAS, in the Fall of 2003, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD) notified the City that it qualified as an ‘Entitlement Community’ and it would be
receiving an annual allocation of HUD funds through the Community Development Block
Grant Program (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program, and
WHEREAS, in order to access these funds, the City is required to undertake a public input
process and prepare a Consolidated Plan which identifies priority community development
needs for the City of Ithaca, every five years, and
WHEREAS, the City’s fifth Consolidated Plan is required to be submitted to HUD by June 15,
2024, and
WHEREAS, the City has contracted with the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) to
administer, implement, and monitor the City’s HUD Entitlement Program in compliance with
all applicable regulations, and
WHEREAS, the Consolidated Plan may only be adopted by the City of Ithaca Common Council
after it has undergone a 30-day public comment period and been the subject of two Public
Hearings, and
WHEREAS, the first Public Hearing, in both its parts was held before the IURA on February 23,
and continuing on March 1, 2024, and the second Public Hearing will be held at the Common
Council Committee of the Whole on May 8, 2024, and
WHEREAS, following a citizen participation process to gain public input in identifying priority
community development needs, the IURA will issued a draft 2024-2028 Consolidated Plan for
a 30+-day public comment period that ends on May 28, 2024, and
WHEREAS, at its May 10, 2024 meeting, the Neighborhood Investment Committee reviewed
public input received, and discussed priority needs and goals for the draft Consolidated Plan,
now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby adopts the draft 2024-2028 Consolidated Plan for the HUD
Entitlement Program.
45
M E M O R A N D U M
Date: April 26, 2024
To: Ithaca Common Council
From: Anisa Mendizabal, Community Development Planner, Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
RE: Draft 2024 Consolidated Plan and Draft 2024 Action Plan for the City’s HUD Entitlement Program
The purpose of this memo is to provide background and context to the May 8, 2024 Public Hearing on two draft
plans—the 2024 Consolidated Plan and the 2024 Action Plan, and for the resolutions to adopt each one at the
Common Council’s June 5, 2024 meeting.
BACKGROUND
The draft 2024 Consolidated Plan is the City’s 5-year strategy for use of its HUD funds. (For more detail, see the
attached summary document).
The draft 2024 Action Plan (or “Annual Action Plan – AAP”) describes how the Consolidated Plan will be
implemented in Year I – what activities will be funded, at what level, and how many beneficiaries will be served.
The Year 1 Action Plan (2024 Action Plan) is embedded within the Consolidated Plan. The draft Consolidated Plan
and Year 1 Action Plan are developed concurrently. Year 2-5 Action Plans will follow the Consolidated Plan’s 5-year
strategy, but will be developed in upcoming years.
BUDGET IMPLICATIONS & FUNDING
This action has no significant impact on the City’s budget, unless in the future the City wishes to fund a project that
requires a match from the City.
VOTE TO ADOPT
Does the Council wish to adopt the 2024 Consolidated Plan and 2024 Action Plan? The resolutions on this items
(included here, one for each Plan) will come forward for a vote on the June 5, 2024.
NEXT STEPS
Staff will collect and summarize public comment for inclusion in the June 5, 2024 Common Council Agenda Packet.
If adopted, IURA staff will monitor progress toward the goals outlined in the Consolidated Plan and the
implementing activities named in the 2024 Action Plan, and fulfill the administrative duties associated with each.
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2024 City of Ithaca
HUD Consolidated Plan
SUMMARY
I. Introduction: What is a HUD Consolidated Plan?
The Consolidated Plan is designed to help local jurisdictions assess their affordable
housing and community development needs, and to make data-driven, place-based
investment decisions for the HUD funds coming to their communities over a 5-year
planning period.
Annual Action Plans (AAP) implement the Consolidated Plan’s 5 -year strategy, outlining
what activities will be funded each year, at what level, and how many beneficiaries will
be served.
The 2024 Annual Action Plan (Year 1) is contained within the Consolidated Plan.
II. Background
a. Entitlement Community Status Comes with Opportunities & Requirements: In
2004, the City of Ithaca transitioned from applying annually for HUD funding to
address housing and community needs, to attaining status as a HUD Entitlement
Community. As a result and since that time, HUD allocates Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership Program
(HOME) funding to Ithaca on a formula.
These two funding streams have become vital resources for the expansion of
affordable housing and for addressing myriad and varied community development
needs—everything from support of microenterprises to the building of public
facilities like community centers and sidewalk connections; to needed
rehabilitation of rental and homeowner properties, and innovative services for the
most vulnerable in our community. Though the amount of became HUD
Entitlement Community has generally diminished with the passing of years, since
2004, these funds have brought over $20 million dollars to the community for
investment, including funding for essential needs during the pandemic.
The City delegated authority to administer the funds to the Ithaca Urban Renewal
Agency (IURA), which has established an annual competitive process by which
community organizations, entities, City departments, and the occasional individual
may propose compliant uses for the funds. IURA also develops and manages
contracts for each subgrantee; reviews their regular reports; monitors activities and
expenditures for compliance; and submits required documentation, reports, and
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plans – such as this Consolidated Plan, the Annual Action Plan, and the annual
year-end evaluation—to HUD.
b. The Process: Ithaca’s 2024 Consolidated Planning process includes many required
activities, which have been augmented by additional outreach and engagement .
IURA posted a schedule of all of key aspects of the planning process on its website
as soon as the Request for Proposals was issued, which is kept current through any
additions or changes. 2024 Consolidated Planning involved the following:
• 4 public input meetings
• 2 virtual engagement and input opportunities
• 3 focus groups
• Over 40 consultations with subject matter experts and stakeholders
• Review and consideration of over 20 local plans and reports
• 2 Public Hearings
• Publication of the Draft Plan for comment
• Additionally, the City’s HOME-ARP Allocation Plan, a first-of-its-kind HUD
initiative, involved expansive outreach and consultation which took place
just one year ago. It, too, was considered in creation of this Plan.
• A note on data: Federal, regional (i.e. Tompkins County), and local data
are critical to this work.
o HUD provides its most recent available data to populate the many
tables throughout the plan.
o HUD-provided data tends to lag by at least three years , or, as in
2024, even greater periods.
o IURA provides updated data from alternate sources where possible.
For these reasons, local input, consultations, reports, and plans are
even more valuable in understanding our local context. In this,
Ithaca is fortunate to have a community of communicative residents,
service providers, coordinating bodies, networks, leaders,
employees, researchers, and other stakeholders who have produced
content and comment that contributed to the creation of this Plan.
III. Local Consolidated Plan Goals Guide our Work
CDBG and HOME programs advance the following statutory objectives, for the principal
benefit of low-and moderate-income (LMI) households:
• Provide decent, safe, and affordable housing (CDBG)
• Create suitable living environments (CDBG)
• Expand economic opportunities (CDBG)
• Expand the supply of decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing
(HOME)
The Goals of the Consolidated Plan guide the setting of local priorities and, in turn,
provide windows onto anticipated activities. The City’s local goals, identified by the
community and which support the statutory objectives above, are as follows:
• Improve & Expand Affordable Housing Options
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• Develop Economic & Employment Opportunities
• Remove Barriers to Opportunity
• Strengthen Neighborhoods
• Meet Essential Needs for Food, Shelter, and Safety
• Affirmatively Further Fair Housing
Over the coming years, needs may emerge as a result of conditions that could not be
anticipated earlier—such as onset of a global pandemic. For that reason, HUD and our
local Citizen Participation Plan provide a method by which the Consolidated Plan may
be amended with new priorities, if needed.
IV. The High Cost of our High Opportunity Community - Key Data Points
Analysis of HUD-provided and local data point to sustained trends for rising housing
costs and houselessness leading to critical conditions locally. The community impacts
of high housing costs include shortage of units at all affordability levels; housing cost
burden for the majority of Ithaca’s renters and a significant portion of homeowners;
inability of residents to afford their entire monthly housing payments without
assistance; inability to afford other basic needs such as food and transportation;
increased homelessness; insufficient capacity and type of emergency sheltering
options; need for homeless prevention and related public services. Stresses in the
housing market reverberate in other community development realms as need for
economic development activities to create jobs and increase employment skill training;
for public facilities and infrastructure to strengthen neighborhoods; and for public
services to promote opportunity and meet basic needs have become ever more
essential.
Given the conditions described in the Draft 2024 Consolidated Plan, the recommended
Draft 2024 Annual Action Plan, which serves to implement Year 1 of the Consolidated
Plan, prioritizes responses to the critical needs for housing and projects to prevent or
end homelessness.
Here are some key data points from the Draft 2024 Consolidated Plan:
a. Expensive to Buy: $379,750 is median sale price of home (single family,
townhome, condo) in City of Ithaca, up 35% since 2018. (Ithaca Board of Realtors,
May 2023-April 2024)
b. Expensive to Rent: Households are considered “cost burdened” when they
spend more than 30% of their income on rent, mortgage, or other housing
needs; “severe cost burden” is when they pay more than 50% of their
income on housing. Sixty-one percent of renters in Ithaca are cost burdened
and 46% are being severely cost burdened. This is an increase of 11% and
8%, respectively, since 2018. (Comprehensive Housing Affordability
Strategy [CHAS], 2016-2020).
c. Fair Market Rent (FMR): FMR is a figure developed by HUD to determine local rent
payment standards for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program and
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other housing assistance programs. FMRs are specific to metropolitan areas,
include basic utility costs, and are updated annually. (HUD Office of Policy
Development and Research, 2024)
• From 2020 to 2024, FMRs for efficiency units and 1-bedrooms have risen
43% and 48%, respectively (are now $1,311 and $1,424), which means
Ithaca now has the highest rent levels for efficiencies and 1 -bedrooms
than any other NY community north of Westchester County.
d. Small Area Fair Marlet Rent (SAFMR): In jurisdictions with significant housing
market challenges, in lieu of using the metropolitan-wide FMR, HUD provides a
calculation based on ZIP code. The SAFMR thus provides a higher rent payment
standard for smaller areas, which is expected to give HCV tenants access to areas
of high opportunity. (HUD Office of Policy Development and Research, 2024)
• The SAFMR for 14850 zip code is 6% higher than the Tompkins County-
wide FMR. Rents for a 1-bedroom in most areas outlying Ithaca are $300 -
$350 lower than an Ithaca 1-bedroom.
e. Homelessness: Admissions to emergency shelter rose 39% from 2018 to 2022
(from 502 admissions to 669). (Tompkins County Continuum of Care, 2022)
f. Consumer Price Index (CPI): CPI measures the average change in price over time
for a basket of goods and services. CPI rose 20% between 2020 and 2024. (US
Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024)
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SUMMARY OF COMMENTS RECEIVED
2024 Draft Consolidated Plan, Draft Action Plan, and
Draft Update to 2017 Assessment of Fair Housing
30+ Day Public Comment Period (April 15 - May 28, 2024)
2024 Draft Consolidated Plan
One individual commented during the 30+ Day Comment Period for this Draft Plan. See summary below.
1. Much of the Plan seems to talk of giving housing to the homeless; [it’s my] impression that the
homeless population is overlaid with an issue of addiction. The only way to make any good use of
additional housing is to have a comprehensive plan for dealing with addiction.
IURA Staff Response: Substance use and mental health services are prioritized in the Con Plan.
2. The commenter was curious about people who come to City for services but don’t spend a lot of time
here; perhaps supply creates demand.
IURA Staff Response: For HUD Entitlement-funded projects, the majority of the benefit must accrue to
Ithaca residents (at least 51% of those served must live in Ithaca). People who are encamped inside
City boundaries are residents of the City.
3. With housing issues, why don’t we consider expanding outside the City and work with other
communities where there might be space and infrastructure?
IURA Staff Response: The County works with municipalities throughout Tompkins County and has
published its most recent [2022] Housing Snapshot. The County looks for ways to collaborate on
housing outside the City. For HUD Entitlement-funded projects, the majority of the benefit must accrue
to City residents.
4. How are we setting metrics to evaluate the success of any [HUD Entitlement-funded] program?
IURA Staff Response: HUD is on the same wavelength! HUD wants to ensure that public monies are
being used for specified goals and that benefit is quantified. The Consolidated and Action Plans include
a number of metrics, including Goal Outcome Indicators (GOI) that will then be reported upon in the
annual Consolidated Action Plan Evaluation Report (CAPER), remembering that large projects may take
a number of years to complete and so will be captured in a future report. Each CAPER is available on
the IURA website. Application reviewers consider such metrics, anticipated beneficiaries, etc. when
recommending projects for funding.
Comments and responses summarized for length. Recording that includes the verbal public comment is available on the
City of Ithaca’s Public Meetings YouTube Channel.
2024 Action Plan
No comments received.
2024 Update to the 2017 Assessment of Fair Housing (AFH)
No comments received.
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CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Anisa Mendizabal
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE: Approval of the Draft 2024 Annual Action Plan
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
Council Discussion- Draft 2024 Annual Action Plan describes the recommended activities and
funding allocations to implement Year 1 of the 2024 Consolidated Plan. Included in this plan
are contingencies that will be used to adjust the recommended allocations should HUD's 2024
Entitlement funding award to the City of Ithaca differ from anticipated.
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Proposed Resolution
City of Ithaca Common Council
May 8, 2024
Draft 2024 Action Plan: City of Ithaca — HUD Entitlement Program
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca (City) is eligible to receive an annual formula allocation of funds to address
community development needs through the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD)
Entitlement program from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and the HOME
Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program funding sources, and
WHEREAS, the City has contracted with the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) to administer, implement,
and monitor the City’s HUD Entitlement Program in compliance with all applicable regulations, and
WHEREAS, on an annual basis, an Action Plan must be submitted to HUD to access HUD Entitlement Program
funding allocated to the City, and
WHEREAS, the 2024 Action Plan identifies a specific list of budgeted community development activities to be
funded from the 2024 HUD Entitlement Program allocation and associated funds administered by the IURA,
and
WHEREAS, the IURA employed an open and competitive project selection process for development of the
2024 Action Plan in accordance with the City’s Citizen Participation Plan, and
WHEREAS, a two-part Public Hearing to review 2024 Annual Action Plan proposals was held on February 23,
2024 and March 1, 2024, and
WHEREAS, due to the delayed adoption of the Federal 2024 budget, the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD) has yet to release the 2024 CDBG and HOME funding allocations for the City, and
WHEREAS, anticipated funds to be allocated through the 2024 Action Plan funding process include the
following:
$622,000.00 CDBG 2024 Allocation
$160,000.00 CDBG 2024 Projected Program Income
$277,000.00 HOME 2024 Allocation
$76,000.00 HOME Recaptured/Unallocated Funds $1,135,000.00 Total, and
WHEREAS, the IURA developed a draft 2024 Action Plan for public comment and Common Council
consideration that includes contingencies to accommodate the possibility that actual HUD allocations may
differ from anticipated allocations; now, therefore, be it
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RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Common Council hereby adopts the attached summary table titled “IURA
Recommended Draft 2024 Action Plan, City of Ithaca, NY,” dated March 22, 2024, for allocating the 2024 HUD
Entitlement Program award, along with associated funds listed above; and be it further
RESOLVED, should the City’s 2024 HOME allocation be greater than anticipated, funding for the following
recommended activities will be increased:
1. Up to $10,000 will be directed to Project #5, “Security Deposit Assistance for Vulnerable Households ,”
(CCTT), and
2. Any remaining amount will be directed to Project #1, “The Beacon” (INHS).
RESOLVED, should the City’s 2024 HOME allocation be less than anticipated, funding for the following
recommended activities will be decreased:
1. HOME funding will be reduced from Project #1, “The Beacon” (INHS), and substituted with a Housing
Development Action Grants (HODAG) funding commitment, and
2. Up to $20,000 will be reduced from Project #2, “113-115 Cleveland Ave.” (INHS).
RESOLVED, should the City’s 2024 CDBG allocation be greater than anticipated, funding for the following
recommended activities will be increased:
1. If the CDBG allocation is $80,000 or more than anticipated, Project #10, “DICC ADA Upgrades &
Modifications” (DICC), will be fully funded.
2. If the CDBG allocation is less than $80,000 more than anticipated, or if there is funding remaining after
fully funding Project #10, “DICC ADA Upgrades & Modifications” (DICC), Project #17, “Collaborative
Street Outreach Program” (OAR), will be funded to the maximum allowable level under the Public
Services cap, then
3. Economic Development Loan Fund (EDLF) up to $160,000, then
4. Project #9, “200 Cecil A. Malone Dr. Pedestrian Improvements” (City of Ithaca), will be fully funded, and
finally
5. Any additional remaining CDBG funds will be allocated to the Economic Development Loan Fund (EDLF).
RESOLVED, should the City’s 2024 CDBG allocation be less than anticipated, funding for the following
recommended activities will be decreased:
1. Project #9, “200 Cecil A. Malone Dr. Pedestrian Improvements” (City of Ithaca), by up to $20,000, then
2. Economic Development Loan Fund (EDLF) by the remaining difference.
3. To meet the reduced Public Services cap, funding to Project #11, “2-1-1 Information & Referral Helpline
with Housing Navigation” (HSC), will be reduced accordingly, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Urban Renewal Plan shall be amended to include activities funded in the adopted 2024
Action Plan.
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CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Anisa Mendizabal
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Approval of Draft Update to the City of Ithaca Assessment of
Fair Housing
CP#:
N/A
MEMORANDUM
Council Discussion- Draft Update to the City of Ithaca Assessment of Fair Housing. The Draft
Update describes the activities the City will undertake to affirmatively further fair housing, in
accordance with HUD requirements.
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Proposed Resolution
City of Ithaca Common Council
March 8, 2024
2024 Update to Assessment of Fair Housing – HUD Entitlement Program
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca (City) receives an annual grant funding from the U.S. Department
of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) Entitlement program, which requires the City to certify
it will affirmatively further fair housing (AFFH) as a condition for continued funding, and
WHEREAS, the HUD Interim Final Rule “Restoring Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing
Definitions and Certifications” does not require a particular fair housing planning process,
thereby allowing HUD grantees to define their own approach, and
WHEREAS, the City contracts with the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) to administer,
implement and monitor the City’s HUD Entitlement program in compliance with all applicable
regulations, and
WHEREAS, Federal fair housing law prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion,
national origin, sex, disability or familial status, and
WHEREAS, fair housing issues restrict housing choice or access to opportunity for protected
classes, and include:
• Patterns of segregation
• Racially or ethnically concentrated areas of poverty
• Disparities in access to opportunity
• Disproportionate housing need, and
WHEREAS, the City’s 2017 Assessment of Fair Housing (AFH) utilized HUD-provided data and
local information to assess housing issues; identified contributing factors that create, contribute
to, perpetuate or increase the severity of one or more housing issues; and developed goals to
address barriers to fair housing, and
WHEREAS, the IURA has conducted community engagement activities, analyzed fair housing
issues and completed a draft 2024 Update to the AFH, and
WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on May 8, 2024, and
WHEREAS, the draft 2024 Update to the City of Ithaca’s AFH is available for a 30-day comment
period ending May 28, 2024, now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Common Council for the City of Ithaca hereby adopts the 2024 Update to
City of Ithaca Assessment of Fair Housing, Ithaca, NY as amended to incorporate comments
received.
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M E M O R A N D U M
Date: April 26, 2024
To: Ithaca Common Council
From: Anisa Mendizabal, Community Development Planner, Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
RE: 2024 Draft Update to the City of Ithaca Assessment of Fair Housing
The purpose of this memo is to provide background and context to the May 8, 2024 Public Hearing on the Draft
Update to the City of Ithaca Assessment of Fair Housing (AFH) and for the resolution to adopt it at the Common
Council’s June 5, 2024 meeting.
BACKGROUND
HUD Entitlement Communities are required to affirmatively further fair housing (AFFH) in accordance with the
1968 Fair Housing Act. HUD’s Interim Rule, currently in place, does not describe a required process or method for
doing so; HUD communities may adopt their own approach. In 2017, the City of Ithaca analyzed HUD-provided
and local data to create local goals and a comprehensive strategy for fulfilling the AFFH requirement as part of the
then-required Assessment of Fair Housing (AFH). The Update to the City of Ithaca AFH revisits these goals,
summarizes the Cit’s progress to date in affirmatively furthering fair housing, and outlines next steps.
BUDGET IMPLICATIONS & FUNDING
This action has no significant impact on the City’s budget, unless in the future the City wishes to fund a project to
affirmatively further fair housing from resources other than the HUD Entitlement Program.
VOTE TO ADOPT
Does the Council wish to adopt the Update to the 2027 Assessment of Fair Housing? The resolution on this item
(included here) will come forward for a vote on the June 5, 2024.
NEXT STEPS
Staff will collect and summarize public comment for inclusion in the June 5, 2024 Common Council Agenda Packet.
If adopted, IURA staff will monitor progress toward the City’s Updated AFH goals. Further, it is anticipated that
HUD will adopt a revised final rule. When that occurs, HUD will promulgate guidance to communities regarding
the specific process that must be undertaken to demonstrate compliance with the expectation to AFFH. The City
will follow the prescribed procedure.
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2024 Update to City of Ithaca
Assessment of Fair Housing
I. BACKGROUND: TIMELINE OF FAIR HOUSING LEGISLATION & REQUIREMENTS
In short, “affirmatively furthering fair housing (AFFH)” means that HUD-funded activities
must proactively end discrimination and expand housing opportunity. HUD rules around
documenting and addressing local fair housing needs have changed several times, at times
becoming more specific, at times becoming less. HUD’s current interim rule expects
communities to affirmatively further fair housing but doesn’t specify how.
The timeline below briefly summarizes key changes in HUD’s AFFH rule and what is required
of its funded communities.
1968: The Fair Housing Act passes. Companion legislation includes provision to
ensure HUD uses its programs to end discrimination and segregation and expand
opportunity. This is known as the “Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH)”
provision.
1995: HUD adopts a rule requiring HUD communities conduct an Analyses of
Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AIs) to affirmatively further fair housing. The
rule does not include specific requirements for content, format, or timing.
2010: The Government Accountability Office (GAO) issues a report finding that
HUD’s AI regulation has not been effective in enforcing the AFFH provision of the
Fair Housing Act and recommends major changes.
2015: HUD adopts a new rule to implement the AFFH mandate. HUD
communities are to conduct an Assessment of Fair Housing (AFH) on a specific
schedule, to include specific HUD-provided data, supplemented by local data and
community input. HUD will create specific tools for communities to use. The AFH
is centered are locally created goals and milestones that result from data analysis.
HUD will monitor progress toward goals on a yearly basis.
2017: Ithaca creates its AFH for inclusion in its 2019 Consolidated Plan, becoming
one of the first 50 communities in the US to do so. (Staff time to complete the AFH
is estimated at 200 hours.)
2018: HUD suspends implementation of the 2015 AFFH rule to conduct
Assessments of Fair Housing.
2020-2021: HUD published an interim final rule entitled “Restoring Affirmatively
Furthering Fair Housing Definitions and Certifications.”
2023: The interim final rule is still under review. HUD communities are still required
to affirmatively further fair housing, but the method and format are not specified.
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2024: The City of Ithaca has updated its 2017 AFH to comply with this requirement,
creating further action steps where needed and highlighting where progress has
been made and where it has been lacking. When HUD issues new rule, City will
comply with the requirements, content, format, and timing of the process outlined
in the new rule. It is anticipated that a new and different process will
II. THE ROLE OF DATA, HUD-PROVIDED TOOLS, AND PUBLIC INPUT
In 2015-2017, HUD created and made available specific mapping and data tools so that
communities could learn more about their community’s fair housing landscape. Since the
suspension of the AFH rule in 2018, those resources have not been updated .
Both the AFH and Consolidated Planning process involve substantial public engagement
and input. During the 2024 Consolidated Planning process, comments about fair housing
needs were collected and incorporated into the AFH Update.
III. GOAL SUMMARY, PROGRESS TO GOALS, AND UPDATED ACTION STEPS
The chart below summarizes the 2017 AFH Goals, progress to date, and intended next
steps.
See the AFH link on the IURA website for complete 2017 Goal Summary language,
contributing factors, and milestones, and for entire AFH report.
GOAL
(2017-2018)
PROGRESS
(2019-2023)
UPDATE
(2024)
1. Prohibit discrimination
based on source of
income (SOI).
In 2019, the State of New
York enacted legislation
prohibiting discriminating
based on SOI. State law
supersedes local law.
Landlords must comply
with new SOI prohibitions.
Shortly after enactment of
the new law came the
onset of the pandemic and
the eviction moratoria.
In 2022, the NY Attorney
General brought suit
against local landlord
Jason Fane and Ithaca
Renting Company. Fane
prevailed. The ruling is
being appealed by the AG.
The City will continue to
monitor legal
developments in order to
inform next steps related
to this goal.
2. Increase supply and
access to affordable
housing options,
particularly for LMI
During the 2012-2022
period, 28% (731 units) of
the 2,638 rental housing
units and 53% (10 units) of
Despite gains, housing is
more costly than ever. Not
all developments came to
fruition (various reasons).
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people, especially in high
opportunity
neighborhoods.
the 19 for-sale units
approved in the City of
Ithaca, were identified as
affordable to LMI people.
HUD Entitlement funding
supported some of these
development projects, as
well as two Tenant Based
Rental Assistance (TBRA)
to expand access to
housing. Pandemic rental
assistance and other
CDBG-CV-funded projects
extended access to
affordable housing during
time of crisis. The City also
directed Entitlement funds
assisting LMI homeowners
with minor repairs and mid-
sized rehabs; such
programs maintain access
to affordable housing,
ensuring it does not fall
into disrepair and
condemnation.
The need for affordable
housing options for LMI
people remains high. The
City will continue work to
expand access along many
tracks including supporting
development of affordable
housing and use of
Entitlement funding for
TBRA and related
programs.
The City will continue to
support activities that
forward this goal.
3. Establish clear local
authority and
enforcement of fair
housing law.
Central New York Fair
Housing (CNYFH)
advocates for fair housing
on behalf of Tompkins
County residents.
At the time of the writing of
the AFH, the Tompkins
County Office of Human
Rights (OHR) also
advocated on behalf of
local residents. TCOHR
was reconfigured in 2017-
2018.
CNY Fair Housing
continues to advocate for
fair housing on behalf of
Tompkins County
residents.
CNYFH and TCOHR have
collaborated on
educational workshops
around fair housing.
There is a much wider
array of local organizations
and efforts focusing on fair
housing issues, and doing
advocacy/education than
in 2019, including LawNY,
the Ithaca Tenants Union,
the CoC, and a variety of
programs funded under
the umbrella of the Ithaca
Eviction/Displacement
Defense (IEDD) Project (a
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AFH-related City project).
The City will continue to
support activities that
support this goal.
Additional efforts will be
considered in order to
establish a clear local
authority and
enforcement.
4. Prevent residential
displacement.
Two privately-funded cash-
transfer programs created
by the IEDD stakeholders,
Ithaca Guaranteed Income
(IGI) and the Housing
Support Supplement
Payment (HSSP), were
implemented to increase
housing stability and
reduce residential
displacement due to
economic reasons
(evaluation from University
of Pennsylvania’s Center
for Guaranteed Income
Research forthcoming in
Fall 2024). Likewise, other
IEDD initiatives, along with
pandemic era rental
assistance and CDBG-CV-
funded programs were
funded with the goal of
preventing non-payment
evictions, which
disproportionately affect
women, women who are
single heads of
households, and people of
color.
A 2022 and 2023 item in
former Mayor Laura Lewis’
budget funded by the City
was a “Right to Counsel”-
style program in
partnership with LawNY.
The City will continue to
support creation and
preservation of
affordable housing in all
of its forms for LMI
residents. Many of these
efforts will be supported
with HUD Entitlement
funding.
The City will review the
evaluation of IGI the
forthcoming University of
Pennsylvania report for
insight into whether
programs like IGI can
prevent displacement. In
order to continue such
programs, however,
additional private funding
sources will likely need to
be identified.
The City may consider
directing other resources
to the array of low-to-high
touch initiatives created by
IEDD to prevent eviction
and displacement.
The City may consider
reauthorizing funding for
its “Right to Counsel” pilot
project with LawNY.
5. Address need for a
Language Assistance
The City created its LAP in
2019-2020, thus satisfying
The City will continue
subscribing to Language
61
5
Plan (LAP) for Limited
English Proficient (LEP)
individuals.
Goal #5. The City
subscribes to Language
Line, a real-time translation
service to support its LAP.
CDBG-CV funds were
directed to the Immigrant
Services Program of
Catholic Charities of
Tompkins-Tioga specifically
to conduct outreach
among non-English
speakers to prevent,
prepare for, and mitigate
the effects of COVID-19.
Line real time translation
service.
The City will explore ways
to engage its non-English
speakers to provide
necessary information and
promote engagement.
6. Address policies and
practices that result in
displacement, eviction
of, and/or lack of housing
support for victims of
domestic violence,
sexual assault, and
stalking.
As with Goal #4, IEDD
initiatives sought to
address policies and
practices that result in
displacement, eviction and
lack of housing support for
survivors. HSSP utilized a
vulnerability index to direct
assistance to people,
including survivors, who
were most likely to
experience housing
instability. Since women
and people of color are
most likely to be evicted in
Ithaca, IEDD eviction court
monitoring, legal
representation, and brief
legal advice, were each
likely to assist those most
affected (women and
BIPOC survivors of
violence).
Pandemic-era rental
assistance and CDBG-CV
funded projects were likely
to have met emergency
needs of survivors.
Founders Way is an
affordable housing
development with NYS-
The City will continue to
support affordable
housing projects and
efforts that increase
housing availability for
survivors, and will remain
vigilant to policies and
practices detrimental to
the housing stability of
survivors.
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6
funded Empire State
Supportive Housing
Initiative (ESSHI) units
designated to survivors.
While the City did not
contribute to the creation
of these special units, the
City did invest HUD
Entitlement funds into the
overall development of
Founders Way.
7. Create an Affirmatively
Furthering Fair Housing-
directed goal within the
2019-2023 Consolidated
Plan.
Goal #7 was intended to
provide opportunity to
identify and create another
AFFH-directed goal(s),
whether through analysis
gained from public input or
through further data
analysis. HUD feedback in
the accepted 2017 AFH,
however, indicated this
goal was not sufficiently
clear or specific.
Per HUD feedback, Goal
#7 will not continue
forward.
IV. WHAT TO EXPECT GOING FORWARD
It is anticipated that when HUD adopts its revised final rule, it is likely to involve a new
process that builds on the previous AI or AFH processes. HUD will issue specific
information on the process HUD communities like Ithaca must undertake to demonstrate
compliance with the expectation to AFFH. The City will follow the prescribed procedure.
63
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Attorney's Office
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Acting City Attorney Victor Kessler
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Conveyance of Title to Properties Obtained During Tax
Foreclosure Proceedings Back to Former Owner(s) Upon
Payment of Delinquent Taxes and Associated Fees
CP#:
N/A
MEMORANDUM
A Resolution Authorizing Conveyance of Title to Properties Obtained During Tax Foreclosure
Proceedings Back to Former Owner(s) Upon Payment of Delinquent Taxes and Associated
Fees
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A Resolution Authorizing Conveyance of Title to Properties Obtained During Tax
Foreclosure Proceedings Back to Former Owner(s) Upon Payment of Delinquent Taxes and
Associated Fees
WHEREAS, on January 31, 2024, the City filed a proceeding in rem pursuant to Article 11 of the
Real Property Tax Law (“RPTL”) to foreclose on properties with unpaid taxes dating back to
2022; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to RPTL 1110 and as indicated in the Petition and Notice of Foreclosure,
the last day to redeem delinquent taxes was April 30, 2024; and
WHEREAS, outstanding taxes and associated charges for three parcels were not timely
redeemed during the authorized redemption period; and
WHEREAS, RPTL 1110 does not authorize redemption of properties following the expiration of
the redemption period; and
WHEREAS, because these parcels were not timely redeemed, County Court is anticipated to
award title to these properties to the City prior to the County’s tax auction, which is scheduled
for June 24, 2024; and
WHEREAS, RPTL 1136(4) and 1166 permit the governing body of a tax district to authorize
conveyance of title obtained through foreclosure proceedings back to the former owner or
owners without a public auction, upon payment of the taxes, penalties, interest, and other lawful
charges owed; and
WHEREAS, the Common Council wishes to authorize City staff to reconvey title to this year’s
foreclosure properties to the former owners provided such payment is made; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that Common Council hereby authorizes and directs the City Chamberlain and the
City Manager, subject to the advice of the City Attorney, to convey title to any property obtained
during this year’s tax foreclosure proceedings (Index No. EF2024-0065) back to the former
owner or owners thereof in a manner consistent with the requirements of the RPTL, provided
that payment of all outstanding taxes, penalties, interest, and other charges for each such property
is made to the Chamberlain’s Office on or before June 17, 2024; and be it further
RESOLVED, that the City Chamberlain and City Manager, subject to the advice of the City
Attorney, are authorized to execute any and all such documents as may be necessary to effectuate
said transfer; and be it further
RESOLVED, that if payment for all outstanding taxes, penalties, interest, and other charges fore
any such property are not made on or before June 17, said property shall be disposed of by public
auction as contemplated by the RPTL.
65
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Controller's Office
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Controller's Office
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:City Controller's Report- Month of June
CP#:n/a
MEMORANDUM
Report from Acting City Controller Scott Andrew- 2023/2024 Financial Items
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Controller’s Report to Common Council 6/5/24
Our office is still busy closing out 2023, which will take us until June 2024. In addition, we are busy
catching up on the financial reporting for 2021 and 2022. The 2021 financial audit is in progress with the
plan of completing that by June 2024. We will then move onto the 2022 audit work with the estimated
completion date of December 2024. Also, we are trying to fill our open positions in the Finance
Department. We have an open position in the Chamberlain’s office and two open positions in the
Controller’s Office. It’s currently a difficult hiring environment. We have temporary assistance working
on audit work. In addition, we have Steve Thayer assisting us in his retirement, but his time is limited
due to NYS pension requirements regarding earnings in retirement. We have many new staff members
in the Chamberlian’s Office and training those members and doing the daily work is difficult. That’s the
reason for the limited hours in the Chamberlain’s Office currently. 2024 tax collections went as smooth
as possible considering all the new staff. It has been a real struggle filling our open positions. We look
forward to the day we have a fully trained staff.
2023/2024 financial items:
We still have several economic items currently impacting our city operations. Inflation, supply chain
issues, and staffing issues all are impacting the City operations. As a result, almost all costs are
increasing and making it more difficult to operate. Here is a look at some of the 2023 and 2024 activity:
Sales tax: We budgeted $17,108,600 in sales tax for 2023. We now have our final 2023 collections,
which are $18,016,269. 2023 sales collections started out strong but finished weaker during the last
quarter of activity. Overall, we finished over budget by 5.31%. In addition, we had our first sales tax
collections of Adult Use Cannabis. These collections are done on a quarterly basis. With one payment
remaining for 2023, we have collected an additional $148,500. Please note the Adult Use Cannabis store
on the Commons is currently under renovations, expected to open back up in April. The renovations will
have an impact on the 2024 collections. The 2024 sales tax budget is $18,500,000. This estimated
amount included Adult Use Cannabis collections as we did not receive a separate collection for Cannabis
tax until December 2023. To date our 2024 sales tax collections have been lower than compared to the
same time frame collections from 2023. We have collected $5,146,400 to date. We are currently
running 0.4% lower than 2023 collections. This gap from 2023 is decreasing as collections are showing
slow improvement. We still caution that collections can swing significantly during a one‐month period
due to timing of collections. We like to evaluate collections after a quarterly period has been
completed. So, don’t get caught up in the early lower percentage collections, but just be aware sales tax
collections are off to a slower start.
Update on parking revenues. Although we continue to see slow improvements in parking revenues, we
are still running well below budget. We have collected $2,073,000 in 2023 parking revenue to date. We
still have final collections to post from 2023, which should be done in the next couple of weeks. This
revenue source has never bounced back from the pre‐covid period. There are many reasons for the
lower revenues in this area. Lots of construction in and around the downtown area, safety concerns on
and around the commons, equipment issues, staffing issues, a frustrated attitude for the downtown
parking area, and lack of retail stores in the downtown area may all have a negative impact on our
parking revenues. We have made some rate increases for 2024 and we should closely monitor our
activity to see if on‐street parking rates need to be slightly adjusted as well. We will have the new
67
Conference Center coming online in mid‐2024 and the construction should ease in the downtown area.
We will see how revenues respond to those changes.
Building permit revenue for 2023 was budgeted at $1,320,000. Our budget estimate continues to
reflect the higher construction activity anticipated inside the city, but less than some recent years’
activity. We collected $1,930,000 in permit revenue for 2023. This is good news and hats off to the
hard work the Planning and Building Department does for the city! Site development fees were
budgeted at $300,000 in 2023. We collected $272,000. Overall, building revenue exceeded our budget
estimates. The 2024 permit revenue is budgeted at $1,480,000 and site fees at $140,000. This is a
difficult area to budget since many projects are out of our control and the economy can delay project
time schedules. For 2024 so far, we have collected $363,243 for Building Permit Fees and $22,050 for
Site Improvement Fees.
CPI 2023/2024 – It appears inflation hit its peak in June of 2022 at 9.1%. Since that time, lower CPI
percentages have been the trend. The 2023 CPI ended up at 4.1%. This compares to the 2022 CPI of 8%.
The April 2024 CPI was 3.9% ‐ a slight .3% increase. It has been a slow decrease in inflation for the last
several months. Good news, but overall prices and operations are still higher because of inflation. We
would love, and so would the Feds, to see the rate around 2%. On the one hand a higher CPI is good for
our Cornell MOU payment, which is driven by the CPI, but mostly it means higher operating costs for
City operations and higher costs for the consumers. Hopefully, we can see more reasonable pricing
increases for the remainder of 2024. The Cornell contribution payment was estimated to increase by 2%
in 2024. Instead, it will increase by 4.1%, bringing a total 2024 contribution of $4,164,000.
Room Tax collection update ‐ As you know we established a city room tax to help fund city costs related
to the Conference Center. We collected $1,374,819 in 2021 (started in April 2021), collected $2,306,259
in 2022 and collected $2,431,000 in 2023, final 2023 reconciliations have not been done (the 2023
budget is $2,349,869). All collections have exceeded estimates to date. We will be hoping that trend
continues.
New York State Budget – The NYS Budget, which was due by April 1st, was approved. We will give you
any applicable details that may affect the City when they become available. One item of note, there was
$50 million in temporary funding for AIM of which the City was allocated an additional $303,123 for
2024.
Another result of high inflation and high interest rates, Mortgage tax revenue is down from 2022, but
still meeting budget as we knew inflation would have a negative impact on our budget in this area. We
budgeted $600,000 in 2023 and will collect a total of $660,619 in 2023. That compares to a 2022 total
of $1,342,407. In 2024, we budgeted $625,000.
Early report on higher assessment rates. As most of you have heard, Tompkins County property
owners, including the city, are receiving their preliminary assessments for their 2025 tax period. Early
reports reflect a 20% average increase for the county overall. The city average increase looks to be
about 15%. The city won’t receive the final 2024 assessments from the county until July 1st, 2024. The
assessments are done by Tompkins County but are driven by the local housing pricing and the local
housing market. If housing prices continue to climb and properties are being sold at those higher prices,
the assessments will continue to climb. The 2024 assessments are the basis for the 2025 tax levy. The
2025 tax rate is the other piece of the equation. The 2025 tax rate and tax levy will not be finalized until
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November 2024. The Common Council has an opportunity in October to discuss, amend and approve
the City Manager’s 2025 budget. That budget will include recommendations for the 2025 tax rate and
tax levy. The 2024 tax levy for the city increased by 5%. The 2024 tax rate remained the same in 2024
at $11.98 per $1,000 assessed value. Please note there are many reasons why the tax levy increased in
2024. Some of the main reasons include increasing labor costs, including fringe. All labor rates
increased in 2024, with the lowest increase at 2.25% and many increasing well beyond 5%. We currently
have all labor contracts approved during 2024, which is a rare experience. Labor rates had to increase
significantly to be competitive with the local labor market. The city has had and still has significant
vacancies in many departments and the need to increase salaries is real and costly. Related 2024 fringe
benefit costs are also increasing much higher as health insurance premiums increased by 8% and
pension contributions for the city increased by 14.5% to 19.5%. With 70% of the city budget devoted to
personnel, it’s difficult to have much flexibility in making other adjustments. Not to mention, all costs of
city operations increased over the last two years due to the rising inflation. It’s a difficult balance of
services and costs for this community. As you learn more and more about city operations, you will see
how difficult it can be to keep costs to a minimum, but at the same time provide the community with
the necessary services. It’s a necessary balance and a constant battle, but one we take seriously and
work hard to achieve.
End of report.
All areas highlighted in magenta are changes from the previous month.
69
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
City Manager's Office
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Deb Mohlenhoff City Manager
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:City Manager Monthly Report- Month of June
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
Monthly Report to Common Council -June 2024
City Manager Strategic Themes Update - June 2024
70
M E M O R A N D U M
Date: May 31st, 2024
To: Common Council
From: Deborah Mohlenhoff, City Manager
RE: Monthly City Manager Report for June 2024
I am pleased to provide this monthly report to Council that will serve as an opportunity to highlight the work of our city departments
and give key updates on ongoing initiatives.
Ithaca Fire Department
• Firefighter interviews began the week of 5/20/24.
• Recruit Firefighters Piha, Chasman, and Vandermark graduated 15-Week Fire Academy on 5/24/24. Will return to
academy in a few weeks to complete a hazmat and rope rescue certification. Approximately eight weeks before
they are assigned to a shift.
• Recruit Firefighter Chasman was given the Professionalism award at graduation. This award is voted on by all
members of the class for the recruit who shows the highest level of professionalism.
• We have a Cornell work study student returning for the summer to continue to work on our records scanning
project. We have submitted to participate in the City’s YES program related to the same project and hope to
match with an interested local youth.
• Beginning to receive water rescue equipment from Fire House Sub Public Safety Grant
• A few highlights from IFD had a busy Memorial Day weekend.
➢ Saturday during thunder storms a hiker off the South Hill Recreation Trail was hit by a falling tree branch.
Minor injuries but had to be located and escorted out. Transported to CMC
➢ At the same time as above, responded to a capsized boat off from Stewart Park
o Occupants removed by another boat just prior to IFD arrival.
o NOTE: IFD boat out of water due to an aging seal that caused partial submersion at marina that was
discovered Sunday morning. Will work to repair ASAP.
➢ Saturday night responded mutual aid to Mecklenburg (Perry City) for two cars into a building. Needed
assistance shoring the building to remove vehicles (photos below)
o The crew did a great job due to recent shoring class.
o Learned many lessons that will improve our next response.
➢ Mutual aid to Trumansburg for electrical fires in two adjacent houses (on Taughannock, just outside our
district)
o NYSEG was making a repair and accidentally back-fed power into the spectrum cable lines.
o Minor fire, quick IFD return.
➢ Second broken ankle of the season from 20-year-old female jumping on the pump house by second dam.
➢ Responded to Cornell for a male in a spiderman costume climbing the Cornell clock tower. IFD cancelled by
Cornell
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Ithaca Police Department
• Officers were at the Mac and Cheese Fest hosted by FoodNet and learned more about the meal services they
provide to seniors in the community.
• Lt. Mary Orsaio and CARE Clinician Kristen Morse represented the IPD CARE team at the Whole Health "Better
Together for Mental Health" event.
• We participated in our first Community Healing Conversation for 2024 hosted by the CJC in May and have our
next date scheduled for June 13th between 5:00pm and 7:00pm. There is a link to sign up at
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/26J6BT9
• Our officer wellness group is continuing to explore different workout option for officer wellness. We are working
with the CJC to have a nutritionist to come talk to officers.
• We are processing the remaining candidates on the Civil Service List as we prepare for an anticipated Police Exam
this September.
• Our recruitment team is working with HR and Melody Faraday to update the IPD website Recruitment | Ithaca,
NY - Official Website (cityofithaca.org)
• We want to expand our Ithaca community recruitment and ask everyone to spread the word. As soon as the test
is officially announced, it will be on social media.
• May 15th is National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week it falls is National Police Week, we remember
Investigator Micheal A. Padula and Patrolman Levi M. Spaulding who lost their lives in service to the community
and City of Ithaca.
Ithaca Youth Bureau
• The volunteers of Big Brothers Big Sisters were honored for their service to local youth with the Tompkins
Community Bank James J. Byrnes Award for Excellence; presented by the Legacy Foundation of Tompkins
County.
• The Cass Park Pool Renovation project is behind schedule, but City staff are coordinating with contractors to
ensure that the project is completed as close to the original schedule as possible.
• Summer Camp spots are mostly filled, but there is some limited availability for Session 1 at Cass Park and our
AM/PM ½ Day Camps. All Rec programs can be viewed in Community Pass:
https://register.capturepoint.com/reg/cat_program_list.cfm?season_id=27960
• The annual Junior Olympics, held in collaboration with IHS Track and Field, hosted 214 local youth.
• Our Outings after-school programs, operating 5 days a week, are running at capacity; creating critical
opportunities for building community and connecting with nature.
• Ithaca Bike Rental is open for the season! Come try one out: https://www.ithacabikerental.com/
• 317 teens have applied to the YES Summer Jobs Program this year and the YES team has completed 240 one-on-
one interviews with teens over the past ten weeks! The YES Summer Jobs Program receives funding for
subsidized placements from the City of Ithaca, the Joint Youth Commission, the Tompkins County Workforce
Development Board, and the Danby Youth Council. Combined, the YES Summer Jobs program will be able to hire
~170 teens to work this summer.
• Friends of the Ithaca Youth Bureau hosted a community welcome event for Director, Gregg Houck, on Thursday,
May 23rd. The event was well attended with representation from many different community stakeholders.
Public Information & Technology/Clerk’s Office
• Please join us in welcoming Jeff Knight as the newest member of the PIT team. Jeff has been hired as a Desktop
Specialist to support the IT needs of the workforce as a member of the help desk group. Mr. Knight comes to the
City with a strong background in IT end user customer service and support with his most recent appointment as
a Network Specialist for Newfield Central School District. Over the coming weeks we will be going around to City
facilities to introduce Jeff and get familiarized with the IT resources at each site.
72
Public Works
Superintendent
• Held flood mitigation progress meeting with City, B&L, FEMA, and DHSES. Schematic design work continues.
• Finalized workplan for cleanup of Railroad property. Property is cleaned up (except for the shoreline) and a chain
link fence has been installed.
Engineering
• In design for Stewart Ave bridge over Fall Creek (deck replacement) and N Cayuga St bridge over Fall Creek (full
replacement)
• Finishing work for Black Diamond Trail bridge over Flood Control channel, planning ribbon cutting
• In design for trail extension from there to the Kirby Edmonds bridge over Rt 13 and the Town of Ithaca's Gateway
trail, including access to Buttermilk Falls state park
• Planning June/July ribbon cutting for the new GIAC teen rec center (old Immaculate Conception gym)
• Finishing Cass Park pool renovations, trying to stay on track for normal opening date.
• In design development for Cass Park pavilion and bathroom building replacement project
• Hector Street over Linderman Creek culvert replacement, adding extensive paving to the scope of work
• Hired Ari Hama as Assistant Civil Engineer in the Sidewalk program
• Promoted Addisu Gebre to position of Assistant Director of Engineering Services
• Safe Streets and Roads for All project will soon roll out a website and interactive map to report safety concerns.
Otherwise in data analysis.
• Active Transportation Network Plan starting public engagement
• Refining draft Design Report for Route 13/Cayuga Waterfront Revitalization project (BUILD grant). Design
Approval to follow
• Awarded construction contract for an addition to the large pavilion in Stewart Park to house IYB summer camp
equipment.
Streets & Facilities
• Completed Street Cleaning
• Awarded and started 2024 Mill & Pave contract with Contractor (Suit-Kote)
• Continued stormwater work on Warren Place
• Started on rehabilitation of Fall Creek streets (Short St., Adams St, & Franklin St.)
• Continue with repair of utility ditches (throughout City)
Water & Sewer
• Work on Stewart Park Splash Pad water supply troubleshooting continues. We will be installing another hydrant
or two on N. Cayuga Street to help flush out the antiquated supply line leading to the park.
• GIS held a successful "train the trainer" event for both W&S and S&F staff to help launch our new asset
management software from a global scale. Hands on modules will continue as we bring the department up to
speed.
• Work to replace a water main on South Cayuga Street is ongoing.
• Working with DOT to get highway permitting for the proposed Esty to Hancock water main replacement project
• Conceptualizing water main replacement on Seneca Street from Schuyler to Stewart
• Making plans for a soil bore operation behind the Buffalo Street P.S. (RIBS) in anticipation of a new pump station
design.
73
• Received bids on new grinder/chopper style pumps for the Buffalo Street p.s. and will be placing an order
soon. These pumps will replace an older style system that continuously plugs with rags and debris. The new
pumps will be rotated to the new pumping station when complete.
• Filled a vacant Water Meter Technician position
• Advertising a Utility Locating Technician position
• Completed the contract approval's process for Tetra Tech to begin the design on the 510 First Street Building
renovation project. We had our kickoff meeting to discuss likes/dislikes with the original concept provided by
Kingsbury Architects. Working with Planning on setback requirements and particulars in Green New Deal needs.
WWTP
• Finalizing the WWTP capital improvement plan project with Barton and Loguidice.
• Work continues on Dechlor Building retrofits
• Work continues on HVAC system upgrades in Admin Building
• Miscellaneous work continues on trucked waste transfer system improvements (key code machine, pumps, flow
meters, and valving)
• Work has begun on implementing an asset management/maintenance management system (Opworks)
• Had a sludge press bearing and shaft failure that is being repaired.
WTP
• Approved a water tank inspection program for our three steel tanks and glass lined tank
• Full implementation of an asset management/maintenance management system (Opworks)
Parking & Commons
• We continue to maintain a steady revenue stream despite damaged (vandalized) parking garage equipment. The
Dryden Road pay station should be back to completely operational by next week.
• We will be charging for parking in the Green Street and Seneca Street garages for Ithaca Fest (Event Parking) for
the first time since 2018.
• The Dryden Road garage construction project is on schedule to begin on June 10th.
• The Community Service Officers continue their booting operation for vehicles with multiple outstanding tickets
• The Commons water feature is preparing to start up for the season.
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City Manager Action Items – 6/5/24 Updates
This document is a merger of the City Manager’s original 100-day plan and the Strategic Themes set by council at their Legislative Retreat. Items that were
completed on the 100-day plan have been removed. Remaining items have been sorted into the council's strategic theme categories. Legislative priorities
assigned to staff have also been added to this document.
CLIMATE JUSTICE, RESILIENCE, & SUSTAINABILITY
-Mitigate impacts of climate change and develop plans for resilience while prioritizing climate justice communities.
Goal/Action Item Progress/Action Taken Other Notes/Updates
Pass Justice 50
into selection process
SOCIAL HEALTH & BELONGING
-The City of Ithaca works to make sure that every person, regardless of race, religion, sex, sexuality, nation of origin, or socioeconomic status is a part of a
vibrant community. Every person should have access to economic stability, community cohesion, vibrant and beautiful neighborhoods, educational
opportunities, and accessible healthcare.
Goal/Action Item Progress/Action Taken Other Notes/Updates
Start collaboration with Collegetown BID
to date to create a BID in Collegetown
NO UPDATES
Equity and Justice statement to all departments be guiding this process
ONGOING
Explore a required diversity training component to
employee onboarding process recommendation to HR and City Manager
ONGOING
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EFFECTIVE, TRANSPARENT, & COLLABORATIVE GOVERNMENT
-A government that provides regular, timely information to the public on progress, opportunities, and challenges; collaborates with municipal and institutional
partners to deliver cost-effective services; and offers clear processes and rationales for decision-making.
Goal/Action Item Progress/Action Taken Other Notes/Updates
Reestablish Advisory Boards
-first meeting set for 6/4/24
up on previous work completed
Create a framework for capital
spending/prioritization built from needs study
June 8) process
Capital project process is dictated in the City Code:
https://ecode360.com/8385913
charter/code for identified minor inconsistencies
COMPLETED
firm, is working on the search process)
municipal accounting temporary employee
-utilizing outside consultant to review job
description and organizational structure
-splitting responsibilities among both Deputy
Common Council & staff for feedback implementation of project the public to view real time budget data both for the
city as a whole as well as per department
are any changes needed to come in line with the
more recently negotiated contracts; review
management compensation plan and recruitment
practices
to meet weekly to review issues and organize
new structure
-proposal for management compensation plan
and will be presented at 6/20 meeting
comprehensive redesign of city’s website and
design process for regular content review and
updates
-will be addressed with PIT reorganization
NO UPDATES
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EFFECTIVE, TRANSPARENT, & COLLABORATIVE GOVERNMENT (cont’d)
Work with staff to identify additional processes
or policies that need to be modified or created at an upcoming Department Heads meeting
-looking at other municipalities policy books and
using them as a benchmark for our design
EXAMPLE MODEL:
https://tompkinscountyny.gov/ctyadmin/policy/index
NO UPDATES
the City’s brand, media relations, social media
strategies, public information strategies, and
crisis communication.
reorganization
that employees are receiving regular feedback department heads agenda
ONGOING
budgeting and KPIs
ONGOING
public
COMPLETED
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & ECONOMIC VITALITY
-The City will strive to be fiscally sound, multi-resourced, diverse, and affordable for all renters and property owners, while balancing available funding with
sensible spending.
Goal/Action Item Progress/Action Taken Other Notes/Updates
Reevaluate CIITAP
take any action at a later date
COMPLETED
profits, local leaders of color, etc.
help coordinate logistics
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SAFE & ACCESSIBLE HOUSING
-Increase housing access, quality, stability, and sustainability across a range of incomes and housing types, with equitable availability in neighborhoods
throughout the city
Goal/Action Item Progress/Action Taken Other Notes/Updates
Implement a comprehensive approach to serving
unhoused population
-Encampment Response Coordinator position on
agenda to add to the roster (funded at $37,000 –
part-time, no benefits)
-Bridge to Shelter working group continuing to
meet
-using national data from research and
leading practices that has been proven
to be effective in improving the lives of
those experiencing homelessness – in
April of 2024 the federal government
published an update report called “19
Strategies for Communities to Address
Encampments Humanely and
Effectively”
-working on strategies for a ‘Navigation
Hub/Outreach Center’ and low-barrier
shelter (the Navigation hub would be a
better option than temporary amenities
in the non-enforcement area.)
-Notice of Violation: Plan submitted on time to the
County
- The cleanup work will occur in three general
phases: Phase 1 (May-June 2024) will focus on
the construction of a fence to discourage entry
into the area, Phase 2 (May-November 2024) will
consolidate, sort, and dispose of most of the
debris, and Phase 3 (November-February 2025)
will remove debris from the banks and
shoreline. The City of Ithaca Department of
Public Works will manage and perform the work
with assistance from WATCO and manage any
contractors that are needed. The schedules
provided assume that any permits from the
NYSDEC and agreements between the City and
WATCO can be obtained in a timely manner.
As of last week, this area is cleaned, and we are
in the process of a fence being installed.
COMPLETED
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MOBILITY, ACCESSIBILITY, & INFRASTRUCTURE
-Respond efficiently to community infrastructure needs & ensure safe and accessible streets and sidewalks for all.
Goal/Action Item Progress/Action Taken Other Notes/Updates
Innovating solutions to address snow and ice
maintenance background
-Schedule discussion at upcoming Council meeting
‘request tracker’ categories
-working on public marketing campaign
ONGOING
Live link:
https://www.cityofithaca.org/772/SeeClickFix
-repurposed Commons position will be key to
Submitted as part of the City Manager’s report for the June 5, 2024, meeting of Common Council
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CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590
Mayor's Office
Shaniqua Lewis,
TO:Common Council
FROM:Mayor Cantelmo
DATE:June 5, 2024
RE:Executive Session to discuss a Real Estate Transaction
CP#:N/A
MEMORANDUM
proposed acquisition of real property
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