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Home My WebLink AboutMN-COWB-2026-06-17JUNE 17TH 2026 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING B MEETING MINUTES Voting Record Date:Wednesday June 17, 2026 Location:108 E. Green Street Ithaca NY 14850 YouTube Link:https://tinyurl.com/3ct9vxej Attendance Record of Voting Members Name Present Absent/Excused Mayor - Robert Cantelmo X 1st Ward - Kayla Matos X 1st Ward - Jorge DeFendini X 2nd Ward - Ducson Nguyen X 2nd Ward - Joe Kirby X 3rd Ward - David Shapiro X 3rd Ward - Pat Sewell X 4th Ward - Patrick Kuehl X 4th Ward - Robin Trumble X 5th Ward - Margaret Fabrizio X 5th Ward - Hannah Shvets X 1. Call To Order (5Min) Discussion Summary: The June 17th 2026 Committee Of The Whole is called to order at 6pm. Alderpersons Nguyen and Kuehl are excused. There are 9 members in attendance. Alderperson Trumble has added a Resolution Congratulating the NY Knicks on winning the 2026 Championship as the New Item 5.2. The May 13th, 2026 COWA meeting minutes were adopted by Council. Timestamp 0:26- 1.1 Emergency Evacuation Notice 1.2 Agenda Review 1.3 Approval of the 05-13-2026 COW A Meeting Minutes Moved By: Jorge DeFendini Seconded By: Kayla Matos Motion Summary: May 13th 2026 Committee Of The Whole Meeting Minutes are moved by Alderperson DeFendini, Seconded by Alderperson Matos. All In Favor 9-0. Carried Unanimously (Absent-Kuehl, Nguyen) Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously Member Approve Oppose Recuse Robert Cantelmo X Kayla Matos X Jorge DeFendini X Joe Kirby X David Shapiro X Pat Sewell X Robin Trumble X Margaret Fabrizio X Hannah Shvets X 2. Petitions and Hearings of Persons Before Council (30Min) 2.1 Statements From The Public Discussion Summary: 7 speakers from the public appeared before Council to share thoughts and comments. Timestamp 3:03-32:11 3. Intergovernmental Relations (25Min) 3.1 Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council- Presentation Discussion Summary: Tom Knipe offered a slide show presentation to build awareness and connection between Ithaca-Tompkins Council Transportation Council. Questions and comments from Council followed for discussion. Timestamp 32:13- 1:01:37 4. Finance & Administration (90Min) 4.1 ROOTS Job Description: Community Responder & Working Supervisor Discussion Summary: Resolution adopting the Community Responder job description and the 2026 Programmatic Budget is discussed between Council. Monalita Smiley, Director of Community Justice, responded to questions and comments from Council. Acting City Manager Dominick Recckio explained how the Encampment Response Coordinator and Community Responder mesh together. Timestamp 1:01:39-1:23:27 Moved By: Jorge DeFendini Seconded By: Joe Kirby Motion Summary: Moved by Alderperson DeFendini to open for discussion. Seconded by Alderperson Kirby. Item is moved to the July 8th Common Council Consent Agenda. All In Favor 9-0 (Absent-Kuehl, Nguyen) Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously Member Approve Oppose Recuse Robert Cantelmo X Kayla Matos X Jorge DeFendini X Joe Kirby X David Shapiro X Pat Sewell X Robin Trumble X Margaret Fabrizio X Hannah Shvets X 4.2 Preliminary Budget Guidance Discussion Discussion Summary: Resolution establishing City Budget Priorities for FY2027 is moved by Mayor Cantelmo and opened for Discussion. Resolution as amended moved to the July 8th Common Council regular voting meeting. Timestamp 1:23:31- 2:43:42 Mayor Cantelmo proposed to strike "Mayor-Council Manager" from the first whereas. - stricken without objection. Alderperson Fabrizio proposed to amend language by adding 3 changes: No formal motion made 1. " A freeze on creating new administrative positions (new positions) unless an existing position is eliminated or measurable savings are demonstrated." 2. a comprehensive review of all consultant and professional service contracts with the goal of reducing those expenditures by 15 to 20%. 3. a policy requiring every vacant position which has been unfilled for one year to receive explicit council reauthorization before it can be filled rather than being automatically refilled. - Proposed amendments will be brought forward for consideration at the July 8th Voting Meeting. Moved By: Robert Cantelmo Seconded By: Robin Trumble Motion Summary: Moved by Mayor Cantelmo, Seconded by Alderperson Trumble. Open for discussion. All In Favor of moving to the July 8th Common Council regular voting agenda as amended. Carried 9-0 ( Absent- Nguyen, Kuehl) Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously Member Approve Oppose Recuse Robert Cantelmo X Kayla Matos X Jorge DeFendini X Joe Kirby X David Shapiro X Pat Sewell X Robin Trumble X Margaret Fabrizio X Hannah Shvets X Moved By: Kayla Matos Seconded By: Jorge DeFendini Motion Summary: Mayor Cantelmo suggested council should take discussion into an Executive Session to discuss Personnel Matters. Moved by Alderperson Matos, Seconded by Alderperson DeFendini. All In Favor 5-4 with Alderpersons Shapiro, Sewell, Trumble, and Fabrizio Opposed. (Absent-Kuehl, Nguyen) Vote Passed 5-4 Member Approve Oppose Recuse Robert Cantelmo X Kayla Matos X Jorge DeFendini X Joe Kirby X David Shapiro X Pat Sewell X Robin Trumble X Margaret Fabrizio X Hannah Shvets X Moved By: Kayla Matos Seconded By: Robin Trumble Motion Summary: Motion to Exit Executive Session. Moved by Alderperson Matos, Seconded by Alderperson Trumble. All In Favor 9-0 (Absent-Kuehl, Nguyen) Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously Member Approve Oppose Recuse Robert Cantelmo X Kayla Matos X Jorge DeFendini X Joe Kirby X David Shapiro X Pat Sewell X Robin Trumble X Margaret Fabrizio X Hannah Shvets X Moved By: Robert Cantelmo Seconded By: Jorge DeFendini Motion Summary: Mayor Cantelmo proposes to amend add #11. over target requests may only come from members of the Common Council and the City Manager. Moved by Mayor Cantelmo, Seconded by Alderperson DeFendini. All In Favor 9-0 (Absent- Kuehl, Nguyen) Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously Member Approve Oppose Recuse Robert Cantelmo X Kayla Matos X Jorge DeFendini X Joe Kirby X David Shapiro X Pat Sewell X Robin Trumble X Margaret Fabrizio X Hannah Shvets X 4.3 Standards of Conduct for Employees Policy Discussion Summary: Resolution approving city staff to make future modifications to standards of conduct for employees' policy without further approval from Common Council is moved by Alderperson Sewell and opened for discussion. Timestamp 2:43:54-2:48:53 Alderperson Sewell proposed to remove the word "further" as a non- substantive change. The Mayor moved to amend the last RESOLVED clause to read “without further approval from the Common Council,” require that all subsequent updates to the policy be transmitted in writing to Common Council prior to taking effect, strike the remainder of the sentence, and strike the fourth WHEREAS clause in its entirety. The motion was seconded Moved By: Robert Cantelmo Seconded By: Pat Sewell Motion Summary: The Mayor moved to amend the last RESOLVED clause to read “without further approval from the Common Council, require that all subsequent updates to the policy be transmitted in writing to Common Council prior to taking effect" strike the remainder of the sentence and strike the fourth WHEREAS clause in its entirety. Seconded by Alderperson Sewell. All In Favor of Amendment 9-0. (Absent- Kuehl, Nguyen) Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously Member Approve Oppose Recuse Robert Cantelmo X Kayla Matos X Jorge DeFendini X Joe Kirby X David Shapiro X Pat Sewell X Robin Trumble X Margaret Fabrizio X Hannah Shvets X Moved By: Pat Sewell Seconded By: Jorge DeFendini Motion Summary: Resolution approving City Staff Make Future Modifications to Standards of Conduct for Employee Policy Without Further Approval from Common Council is moved by Alderperson Sewell, Seconded by Alderperson DeFendini. Open for Discussion. Is Moved to the July 8th Common Council Consent Agenda as Amended. All In Favor 9-0 (Absent-Kuehl, Nguyen) Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously Member Approve Oppose Recuse Robert Cantelmo X Kayla Matos X Jorge DeFendini X Joe Kirby X David Shapiro X Pat Sewell X Robin Trumble X Margaret Fabrizio X Hannah Shvets X 5. Public Works and Operations (25min) 5.1 Building Division Presentation- Code Enforcement Discussion Summary: Mayor Cantelmo called for a 5 Minute Recess prior to the presentation. Planning and Development Director Lisa Nicholas and Director of Code Enforcement Rob Fell-Dewalt presented an overview of the Building Division. The presentation was divided into three parts: (1) Mission & Duties, Staffing & Function Initiatives; (2) Codes Enforced; and (3) Administration & Constraints. Council followed up with questions and comments for discussion. Timestamp 2:54:25-3:59:18 Moved By: Robert Cantelmo Seconded By: Motion Summary: Mayor Cantelmo moved for a 5 Minute Recess with no formal Second. All In Favor 8-1, Trumble Opposed. (Absent-Kuehl, Nguyen) Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously Member Approve Oppose Recuse Robert Cantelmo X Kayla Matos X Jorge DeFendini X Joe Kirby X David Shapiro X Pat Sewell X Robin Trumble X Margaret Fabrizio X Hannah Shvets X Moved By: Jorge DeFendini Seconded By: Robin Trumble Motion Summary: Motion to extend meeting 10 Minutes. Moved by Alderperson DeFendini, Seconded by Alderperson Trumble. All In Favor 9-0 (Absent- Kuehl, Nguyen) Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously Member Approve Oppose Recuse Robert Cantelmo X Kayla Matos X Jorge DeFendini X Joe Kirby X David Shapiro X Pat Sewell X Robin Trumble X Margaret Fabrizio X Hannah Shvets X 5.2) Knicks Resolution 2026 Championship Win Discussion Summary: Added to the agenda as New Item 5.2. Moved and read into the record by Alderperson Trumble. Mayor called a Roll Call. Meeting Adjourned. Timestamp 3:59:35-4:02:20 Moved By: Robin Trumble Seconded By: David Shapiro Motion Summary: Moved to July 8th Consent Agenda. Moved by Alderperson Trumble, Seconded by Alderperson Shapiro. All In Favor of moving to Consent. 9-0 (Absent- Kuehl, Nguyen) Vote Passed 9-0 Carried Unanimously Member Approve Deny Recuse Robert Cantelmo X Kayla Matos X Jorge DeFendini X Joe Kirby X David Shapiro X Pat Sewell X Robin Trumble X Margaret Fabrizio X Hannah Shvets X 6.Reports From Committee/Commissions (30Min) 6.1 Reports From Council Liaison 6.2 Reports From Working Groups Carried 9-0 (Absent: Kirby) Submitted 08-19-2026 Adopted: 08-19-2026 Shaniqua Lewis, Deputy City Clerk Date: Time: Location: Watch Online: Wednesday June 17, 2026 6:00 PM 108 E. Green Street Ithaca NY 14850 https://www.youtube.com/@CityofIthacaPublicMeetings JUNE 17TH 2026 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING -SESSION B AGENDA-AMENDED 1.Call To Order (5Min) 1.1. 1.2. 1.3. 2.Petitions and Hearings of Persons Before Council (30Min) 2.1. 3.Intergovernmental Relations (25Min) 3.1. 4.Finance & Administration (90Min) 4.1. 4.2. 4.3. 5.Public Works and Operations (25min) 5.1. 6.Reports From Committee/Commissions (30Min) 6.1. 6.2. 7.Reports From City Staff 8.Meeting Wrap-Up Emergency Evacuation Notice Agenda Review Approval of the 05-13-2026 COW A Meeting Minutes Statements From The Public Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council- Presentation ROOTS Job Description: Community Responder & Working Supervisor Preliminary Budget Guidance Discussion Standards of Conduct for Employees Policy Building Division Presentation- Code Enforcement Reports From Council Liaison Reports From Working Groups Public Comment 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 - Allotted 5 minutes 5 or More Persons with One Designated Speaker - Allotted 7 minutes Can't Come to the Meeting but still want to speak? Register to Speak Virtually - Click Here To Register 1 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 - Click Here To Submit Written Comment *Written comments submitted with be compiled and entered into the record. 2 Scan QR Code for Full Agenda Packet CITY OF ITHACA 108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590 Clerk's Office Shaniqua Lewis, Deputy City Clerk TO:COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING B FROM:Deputy City Clerk DATE:June 17, 2026 RE:Approval of the 05-13-2026 COW A Meeting Minutes ITEM #:1.3 MEMORANDUM Review and approval of the May 13th, 2026 COW A meeting minutes 3 CITY OF ITHACA 108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590 City Manager's Office Shaniqua Lewis, Deputy City Clerk TO:COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING B FROM:Mayor Cantelmo DATE:June 17, 2026 RE:Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council- Presentation ITEM #:3.1 MEMORANDUM Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council presentation from Tom Knipe to build awareness and connection between the ITCTC and Council. 4 CITY OF ITHACA 108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590 City Manager's Office Shaniqua Lewis, Deputy City Clerk TO:COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING B FROM:City Manager's Office DATE:June 17, 2026 RE:ROOTS Job Description: Community Responder & Working Supervisor ITEM #:4.1 MEMORANDUM Resolution Adopting Community Responder Job Descriptions and 2026 Programmatic Budge ATTACHMENTS: Resolution Adopting Community Responder Job Descriptions and 2026 Programmatic Budget.pdf Job Description WM Community Responder 2026.pdf Job Description WM Working Supervisor- Community Responder.pdf 5 Resolution Adopting Community Responder Job Descriptions and 2026 Programmatic Budget WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has committed to a Reimagining Public Safety initiative including the introduction of unarmed community responders; and WHEREAS, on February 4, 2026, Common Council adopted a Resolution Re: The Phased Establishment of a Community Responder Model in the City of Ithaca, committing to the phased establishment of a community responder program in alignment with the proposal delivered in a September 17, 2025, legislative memo prepared by the Deputy City Manager and Community Justice Center; and WHEREAS, the previously adopted resolution sets the initial mission and vision for a community responder program to be called ROOTS (Responders Offering Outreach Trust and Support) as: Mission Statement: Ithaca's community responder unit conducts outreach, builds trust, and offers support to community members in need. They respond when dispatched, when requested by IPD, and when they proactively observe a situation where they can help. A teamwork approach with police and other community agencies enhances the capacity and effectiveness of the existing emergency response and social services systems. Vision Statement: Ithaca’s community responder program reduces overreliance on policing and disproportionate contact between minorities and the criminal justice system while providing ample access to supportive services for community members in need. and WHEREAS, City staff were directed to draft job descriptions for community responders; and WHEREAS, the Human Resources Department, in collaboration with the City Manager’s Office, Community Justice Center, Ithaca Police Department, and other partner agencies, developed and processed job descriptions for Community Responder and Working Supervisor - Community Responder via the City’s Civil Service Process; and WHEREAS, the positions were adopted by the Civil Service Commission and graded as follows as follows: Community Responder: CSEA Admin grade 7 - $53,521 entry 6 Working Supervisor - Community Responder: CSEA Admin grade 14 - $66,718 entry and WHEREAS, up to $750,000 in funding has been encumbered from past budget cycles to launch such a program, and it has been previously recommended by staff that those funds be leveraged over a three-year period to phase in the development of this program; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the City of Ithaca Common Council adopts the titles of Community Responder and Working Supervisor - Community Responder as approved by the City of Ithaca Civil Service Commission on June 10, 2026, and adds one full-time Working Supervisor, one full time Community Responder, and two part-time Community Responders to the roster; and be it further RESOLVED, that the following estimated program start-up budget is adopted with the expectation that previously encumbered funding in account A3010-5700 will cover the entirety of program costs for 2026-2027, • Personnel - $57,919 (payroll) $38,762 (fringe) (pro-rated for September-December 2026) o Full Time Working Supervisor - $22,239 (payroll) $11,347 (fringe) o Full Time Community Responder - $17,840 (payroll) $10,408 (fringe) o Part Time Community Responder - $8,920 (payroll) $8,503 (fringe if opted-in) o Part Time Community Responder - $8,920 (payroll) $8,503 (fringe if opted-in) • Communication Equipment - $20,000 • 2 Vehicles - $80,000 (or consider leases at est. $8,600 each/yr) • Office Equipment and Supplies- $5,600 • Staff Safety and Preparedness - $4,200 • Training and Associated Equipment - $8,000 • Case Management and Incident Reporting Systems - $8,000 • Contracts - $5,000 • Miscellaneous Expenses - $500 Total Year One Startup Costs Estimate: $227,981 and be it further, RESOLVED, in 2027, the City Manager shall present the Common Council with a plan for covering 2028 program expenses after encumbered funds are expended, alongside program and performance measures; and be it further 7 RESOLVED, that the Common Council thanks the staff, community partners, community members of color, Ithaca Police Department, and all others who have contributed to the development and implementation of this community responder program. 8 Jurisdiction: City of Ithaca Jurisdictional Class: Competitive Adopted: 06/10/2026 COMMUNITY RESPONDER DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The work involves providing non-law enforcement, community-based response to incidents deemed appropriate for alternative response under established triage and safety protocols, including behavioral health, emotional distress, psychiatric crises, conflict resolution, quality-of-life concerns, and other situations where a supportive, self-oriented response is appropriate. Community Responders do not respond independently to incidents involving reported or suspected violent criminal activity in progress. The Community Responder conducts outreach to individuals and groups within the community, including vulnerable and marginalized populations, to build trust, strengthen relationships, and connect residents to the appropriate supportive resources and services. Community Responder serves as part of a multidisciplinary team that enhances the City’s emergency response by offering an alternative, person -centered approach to situations that may not require ongoing law enforcement intervention. The work involves ongoing collaboration and close partnership with the Ithaca Police Department, emergency communications, and community agencies to enhance coordination across public safety and human services systems. Work is performed primarily in the field through walking, biking, or driving within assigned areas, including locations with elevated need for outreach and community response services. The role includes collecting and documenting dat a, preparing clear and accurate reports, and communicating with partner agencies to support referral, follow-up, and service coordination. The work is performed under the general supervision of the Deputy City Manager or designee. Does related work as required. TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: (The following activities are listed as examples only and in no event shall an employee be limited to only those examples listed here.) Responds to non-violent calls for services involving behavioral health, substance use, housing instability, conflict resolution, and other quality-of-life concerns; Conducts outreach to individuals and groups in the community to build trust and provide support; De-escalates crises using trauma-informed and person-centered approaches; Assesses individual and community needs and connect individuals to appropriate social services, healthcare providers, and community resources; Collaborates closely with the Ithaca Police Department, emergency dispatch, and community -based organizations; Provides follow-up support and case coordination as appropriate; Documents interactions, services provided, and outcomes in accordance with program policies; Participates in team meetings, case reviews, and ongoing training; Engages in proactive community presence in designated areas with elevated service needs; Supports public education and community engagement efforts related to program goals. FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Good knowledge of trauma-informed response, de-escalation, and crisis intervention practices; good knowledge of community-based service systems and interagency coordination; thorough knowledge of established protocols for coordinated response with law enforcement, emergency communications, and community providers, including handoffs and follow-up procedures; skill in communicating effectively both verbally and in writing, including preparation of clear, accurate reports and documentation; skill in conflict resolution and advanced de-escalation in complex or high-stress situations; ability to 9 independently assess behavioral health or crisis situations and determine appropriate response actions, including referral or escalation; ability to exercise sound judgment and work autonomously in Community Responder Page 2 FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued): field settings; ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with diverse community members and multidisciplinary partners; ability to apply policies and procedures consistently in unpredictable environments; empathy, cultural competency, integrity, emotional resilience, and commitment to equitable, community-centered service delivery. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma. NOTE: Background in community outreach, behavior health, crisis intervention, social services, peer support, conflict resolution, public health, emergency response, or a closely related area, as well as lived experience and strong connection to the community, may be considered favorably in the selection process. SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Possession of a valid New York State Class D driver license or a valid driver license equivalent to a New York State Class D driver license at the time of appointment and maintenance of said license for the duration of employment. 10 Jurisdiction: City of Ithaca Jurisdictional Class: Competitive Adopted: 06/10/2026 WORKING SUPERVISOR – COMMUNITY RESPONDER DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The work involves responsibility for supervising, coordinating, and participating in providing non-law enforcement, community-based responses to incidents deemed appropriate for alternative response under established triage and safety protocols, including behavioral health, emotional distress, psychiatric crises, conflict resolution, quality -of-life concerns, and other situations where a supportive, self-oriented response is appropriate including behavioral health crises, emotional distress, conflict resolu tion, and quality-of-life concerns. The Working Supervisor has daily oversight of response activities, assigning and directing staff in the field, and confirms that appropriate coordination with Tompkins County 911 Emergency Communications, the Ithaca Police Department, and community-based service providers. The Working Supervisor provides direct supervision, guidance, training, and support to the Community Responder to maintain effective service delivery and operational success. The work is performed under the general supervision of the Deputy City Manager or designee with leeway to exercise independent judgement in carrying out the program operations and field response activities. Does related work as required. TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: (The following activities are listed as examples only and in no event shall an employee be limited to only those examples listed here.) Supervises, coordinates, and participates in community-based alternative response services involving behavioral health needs, substance use concerns, housing instability, emotional distress, conflict resolution, and other quality-of-life concerns; Schedules staff assignments to provide adequate field coverage for designated response areas and operational periods; Assigns, prioritizes, and monitors calls for service and directs field operations in accordance with established protocols and safety procedures; Provides direct supervision, guidance, and real-time support to Community Responders during routine, complex, or high-stress situations; Reviews field activities and operational decisions to ensure consistency, effectiveness, safety, and compliance with program policies and procedures; Leads team meetings, case reviews, and coordinates ongoing training; Conducts outreach to individuals and groups in the community to build trust and provide support; De-escalates crises using trauma-informed and person-centered approaches; Assesses individual and community needs and connect individuals to appropriate social services, healthcare providers, and community resources; Collaborates closely with the Ithaca Police Department, Tompkins County 911 Emergency Communications, and community-based organizations; Provides follow-up support and case coordination as appropriate; Documents interactions, services provided, and outcomes in accordance with program policies; Engages in proactive community presence in designated areas with elevated service needs; Supports public education and community engagement efforts related to program goals ; 11 Does related work as required. Working Supervisor - Community Responder Page 2 FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Thorough knowledge of trauma-informed response, de-escalation, and crisis intervention practices; thorough knowledge of community-based service systems and interagency coordination; thorough knowledge of established protocols for coordinated response with law enforcement, emergency communications, and community providers, including handoffs and follow -up procedures; good knowledge of supervisory principles and practices, including staff coordination, scheduling, training, and performance oversight; good knowledge of municipal geography and community dynamics; skill in communicating effectively both verbally and in writing, including preparation of clear, accurate reports and documentation; skill in conflict resolution and advanced de -escalation in complex or high-stress situations; ability to independently analyze behavioral health or crisis situations and determine appropriate response actions, including referral or escalation; ability to exercise sound judgment and work autonomously in field settings; ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with diverse community. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Either: A. Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with an associate’s degree or higher in human services, social work, psychology, criminal justice, public health, behavioral sciences, or a closely related field and two (2) years of full-time paid experience, or its part-time equivalent, in community outreach, behavioral health, crisis response, social services, peer support, emergency response, or a closely related field; or B. Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and four (4) years of full-time paid experience, or its part-time equivalent, in community outreach, behavioral health, crisis response, social services, peer support, emergency response, or a closely related field. NOTE: Lived experience and strong connection to the community may be considered favorably in the selection process. SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Possession of a valid New York State Class D driver license or a valid driver license equivalent to a New York State Class D driver license at the time of appointment and maintenance of said license for the duration of employment. 12 CITY OF ITHACA 108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590 City Manager's Office Shaniqua Lewis, Deputy City Clerk TO:COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING B FROM:Mayor Cantelmo DATE:June 17, 2026 RE:Preliminary Budget Guidance Discussion ITEM #:4.2 MEMORANDUM Resolution Establishing City Budget Priorities for FY2027 ATTACHMENTS: Resolution Establishing City Budget Priorities for FY2027 (2).pdf 13 Resolution Establishing City Budget Priorities for FY2027 WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca operates under a Mayor-Council-Manager form of government, in which the city manager serves as the responsible party for the daily administration of government and the policies and directives of the mayor and Common Council; and WHEREAS, on September 3, 2025 the Common Council adopted the vision statements and strategic goals drafted by the Mayor’s advisory committees on legislative policy (Appendix A); and WHEREAS, the Mayor was charged by Council to work with the administration to develop and bring forward draft proposals, amendments to existing laws, and policy briefings for consideration of the Common Council that reflects said adopted findings; and WHEREAS, on April 8, 2026 Council formally adopted its “resolution establishing city policy priorities for executive administration”; and WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council find it desirable to enumerate budgetary objectives in alignment with its policy priorities, enumerate requirements and restrictions for the executive budget, and provide general guidance; now therefore be it RESOLVED, that the Acting City Manager, City Controller, and City administration be directed to take all appropriate steps to implement and administer the budgetary guidance of the Mayor and Common Council; and be it further RESOLVED, that the Mayor is directed to serve as Council’s executive agent for the budget process and shall participate in the development of the executive budget to ensure fidelity of implementation of the budgetary guidance herein; and RESOLVED, that this resolution take effect upon adoption; and be it finally RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Common Council adopt the following budgetary guidance for FY2027:: 1. The proposed executive budget shall not exceed the estimated FY2027 tax cap; 2. The proposed executive budget shall include municipal benchmarking to evaluate the costs and service delivery. Relevant factors to evaluate shall include population, cost of living, AMI, funding sources, median home value and tax burden, total FTE counts by division;1 3. Positions that have remained vacant for more than one year (effective June 17, 2026) shall only be included in the proposed executive budget as over-target-requests; 4. The proposed executive budget shall be accompanied by workplan presentations from each city department head, or their designee, making explicit how it services the administrative requirements and aligns with Council’s adopted goals, as well as identifying why these budgetary asks are necessary for workplan goals and metrics included; 5. The proposed executive budget shall include necessary operational and capital expenses to ensure comprehensive zoning reform, elimination of mandatory parking minimums, and an objective design standard ordinance can be delivered to Council on time;2 1 Derived from Council’s policy priorities to “develop performance-informed budgeting frameworks and long-range capital planning for 2028 budget cycle and beyond.” While performance-informed budgeting is not mandated for FY2027, this sets a baseline level of accountability, monitoring, and evaluation for future improvement. 2 Pursuant to the City’s policy to require minimum residential densities of 20 dwelling units per acre in urban core and 10 dwelling units per acre in urban edge areas. 14 6. The proposed executive budget shall include necessary operational and capital expenses to ensure infrastructure needs within the West Martin Luther King Jr. Corridor are on track to support measurable progress towards the housing and economic development goals for the City; 7. The proposed executive budget shall include no new short-term borrowing for capital projects not offset by grant reimbursement and property transactions. The proposed executive budget shall include no new BANS for operational expenses;3 8. The proposed executive budget shall maintain the general fund balance target of fifteen percent;4 9. The proposed executive budget shall include a capital project total that complies with adopted Justice50 policy. 10. The proposed executive budget shall support the City’s adopted legislative priorities for 2026-27. 3 Pursuant to City Resolution Prohibiting the Use of Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs) for the Purchase or Financing of Vehicles and Short-Lived Equipment, adopted November 2025 and Resolution Establishing an Interim Debt Management Policy and Limiting Short-Term Debt Obligations for Fiscal Year 2027. 4 Pursuant to City Resolution Establishing a Preliminary General Fund Balance Policy and Directing the Development of a Permanent Policy, adopted November 2025. 15 CITY OF ITHACA 108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590 Common Council Shaniqua Lewis, Deputy City Clerk TO:COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING B FROM:Alderperson P. Sewell DATE:June 17, 2026 RE:Standards of Conduct for Employees Policy ITEM #:4.3 MEMORANDUM Resolution Approving City Staff to Make Future Modifications to the Standards of Conduct for Employees Policy Without Further Approval from the Common Council. City Manager, in consultation with the Attorney’s Office and Human Resources Department, is authorized to make future modifications to the “Standards of Conduct for Employees” policy without further approval of the Common Council, and that the City Manager will inform Common Council on any such changes made. ATTACHMENTS: Resolution giving City Manager control of standards of conduct (1).pdf 16 Resolution Approving City Staﬀ to Make Future Modiﬁcations to the Standards of Conduct for Employees Policy Without Further Approval from the Common Council WHEREAS, in November 2022 voters overwhelmingly approved an amendment to the city charter creating an appointed City Manager position responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations and city staﬀ, and WHEREAS, the role of the City Manager is administratively focused, requiring expertise in public administration, management, human resources, budgeting, infrastructure, long-term planning and other executive skills as outlined by the Common Council, and WHEREAS, the role of Common Council is to represent their constituents by providing vision and direction through policy, budgeting oversight and supervision of the City Manager, and legislators are neither expected nor required to hold administrative expertise or experience in order to fulﬁll their responsibilities, and WHEREAS, policies involving speciﬁc staﬀ responsibilities, day-to-day supervision and behavioral expectations fall squarely under the authority of the City manager, as aﬃrmed by a ballot referendum and reﬂected in the city charter § C-12(B)(2)(e); “To prescribe the duties and ﬁx the compensation of all oﬃcers appointed by the City Manager and of all employees of the City not otherwise provided for by this Charter,” WHEREAS, Common Council wishes to grant City staﬀ the authority to make future modiﬁcations to the “Standards of Conduct for Employees” policy without the need for Common Council approval, for the purpose of ensuring that the policy can be eﬃciently updated to remain consistent with best practices and any developments in the law that would impact the policy, and WHEREAS, Common Council retains the power to repeal any resolution delegating authority to city staﬀ, if deemed necessary; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the City Manager, in consultation with the Attorney’s Oﬃce and Human Resources Department, is authorized to make future modiﬁcations to the “Standards of Conduct for Employees” policy without further approval of the Common Council, and that the City Manager will inform Common Council on any such changes made 17 CITY OF ITHACA 108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850-6590 Building Department Shaniqua Lewis, Deputy City Clerk TO:COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING B FROM:Building Division DATE:June 17, 2026 RE:Building Division Presentation- Code Enforcement ITEM #:5.1 MEMORANDUM Presentation 18