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MN-BFC-2007-12-11
OFFICE OF BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS CITY OF ITHACA 310 WEST GREEN STREET ITHACA, NEW YORK 14850 - -- NOTICE - -- THE REGULAR MEETING OF TEL (607) 272 -1234 FAX (607) 272 -2793 THE ITHACA BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS WILL BE HELD ON: TUESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2007 AT 6:00 P.M. ITHACA FIRE DEPARTMENT 310 W. GREEN ST. ITHACA, NY 14850 "An Equal Opportunity Employer with an Affirmative Action Program" 0 Recycled Paper ITHACA BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS DECEMBER 11, 2007 AGENDA I. CALL TO ORDER - II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES IIl. ADDITIONS /DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA IV. PERSONS WISHING TO SPEAK TO BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS V. CORRESPONDENCE VI. MEMBERSHIP CHANGES: VII. MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS: A. TOWN OF ITHACA B. AUDIT C. TOMPKINS COUNTY FIRE ADVISORY BOARD VIII. DEPARTMENT REPORTS: A. CHIEF: B. DEPUTY CHIEF /TRAINING C. FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU REPORT - Codes Division - Fire Investigation Unit - Juvenile Firesetters Program - Public Education IX. OLD BUSINESS - X. NEW BUSINESS - XI. EXECUTIVE SESSION - XII. ADJOURN ITHACA BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS DECEMBER 11, 2007 MINUTES PRESENT: Commissioners Robert Romanowski, William Gilligan, Steven Williams and Thomas Farlow; EXCUSED: Commissioner Alexander. I. Chair Romanowski called the meeting to order at 1800 hrs. Chair Romanowski made a motion to approve the minutes of the July 2007, August 2007, October 2007 and November 2007 meetings as written. (The September meeting was canceled). Seconded by Comm. Williams. Carried unanimously. II. ADDITIONS /DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA - Chief Wilbur is proposing 3 resolutions that will be considered under New Business: Confined Space Rescue Resolution; Regarding Foreign Fire Insurance Distribution; and Citizens Emergency Response Teams. - Possible resolution from Comm. Gilligan regarding Re- establishing a Bunker/Volunteer Program - to be discussed under New Business; - Discussion of information received from Tim Logue regarding the Mini Traffic Circle at South Plain and Center Streets - under New Business. III. PERSONS WISHING TO SPEAK TO BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS: Lyman Baker, speaking on behalf of the Ithaca Veteran Volunteer Firefighter's Assoc. urged the Board to come to some agreement or resolution with the Town of Ithaca so that they will distribute the 2% funds allocated to the City volunteer companies and to the Vets. IV. CORRESPONDENCE: (note taker was out of the room) V. MEMBERSHIP CHANGES - None. VI. MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS: - Town of Ithaca Report - see written report from Chair Romanowski in the Minute Book; - The audit was reviewed and approved; - Tompkins County Fire Advisory Board - no report. VII. DEPARTMENT REPORTS: CHIEF'S REPORT: (see complete report in the Minute Book). Chief Wilbur highlighted his report and answered questions as follows: Ithaca Board of Fire Commissioners December 11, 2007 - Minutes Page 2 Company 3 vacated their office on the 2nd floor of Central - freeing up space for Training Officer, Assistant Chief Sheldon's office. There's been no decision on the disposition of the door that belongs to Co. 3 - will remain until Co. 3 wants to do something different. Explorer Post details have been shared with the Union to establish a clear line that leaders of the group are volunteers, not a paid activity; is considered a public education activity if on -duty; Firefighter Sullivan is completing the paperwork and recruiting volunteers - probably will get going after the first of the year. The monthly summary of service hours for volunteers is a dilemma - there is a disparity between what we have said volunteer fire fighters must provide, and what has actually been provided. If in- service training and on -duty minimums are not met, the Chief cannot say with any degree of certainty the volunteer qualifies for ongoing fire ground service. In light of this, and previous discussions about changing the direction of volunteer service to groups like Citizens Emergency Response Teams (CERT) and FireCorps Programs will be addressed with the Chief's proposed resolution to be presented under New Business. It appears the fire contract between the City and the Town of Ithaca has specific language requiring the proceeds received by the Town from the 2% Foreign Fire Insurance Tax be distributed on the basis of the area served. Chief Wilbur is presenting a resolution for consideration of this item under New Business, and Chair Romanowski agrees that the issue should be resolved according to the current contract. Chief Wilbur suggested that the Board present a brief resolution to endorse removal of speed bumps on Wood and South Streets in conjunction with the information provided by Tim Logue. DEPUTY CHIEF/TRAINING - Deputy Chief Dorman highlighted his report and answered questions as follows (see complete written report in the Minute Book): Deputy Chief Dorman reported that the department is fully staffed with the exception of the office - which will be complete soon; Due to the temporary departure of Lt. Deis - who goes on active military leave on January 4th, 2008 - we have been approved to hire a temporary Firefighter and a temporary Lieutenant to cover his position; For the second month in a row - there have been no major fires to report! Apparently, the Fire Prevention Bureau is doing a great job! NYS has provided a Flammable Liquids Fire training session to all shifts; In response to a question by Comm. Williams regarding vehicle replacement, Deputy Chief Dorman described the vehicle replacement plan and what has been authorized to date. Ithaca Board of Fire Commissioners December 11, 2007 - Minutes Page 3 VIII. OLD BUSINESS: A discussion of the status of Fire Police will be delayed until Comm. Alexander can report directly. IX. NEW BUSINESS: Chair Romanowski made a motion to approve the resolution regarding Confined Space Rescue and IFD's inability to be named (per OSHA standards) as the on -site rescue service in the permitting process for agencies conducting confined space work (see complete resolution in the Minute Book). Seconded by Comm. Williams. Discussion highlights are as follows: IFD's position has been to provide confined space rescue service only in response to a 911 call for help; Comm. Gilligan inquired about the impact on agencies doing this kind of work. Chief Wilbur reported that we have not provided this service when requested to do so - by Cornell University and Ithaca College - we don't have the resources to provide this service; DC Dorman reported that there are companies who provide this service for a high price; he also reminded the Board that IFD went to Common Council in 1997 with a list of equipment and personnel required to do this, and the request was denied - it's a very unique service and too difficult to manage; Comm. Gilligan asked what agencies have requested this service - City of Ithaca Dept. of Public Works departments, State Parks, CU and IC are some. Board members asked that those agencies, the City Clerk's Office, as well as Common Council be informed of this resolution so there are no surprises to anyone. Board members agreed that by approving this resolution will solidify (and the City of Ithaca) of potential liability if there was no formal policy. After discussion, the resolution was unanimously approved. Chair Romanowski made a motion to approve the resolution regarding Foreign Fire Insurance Distribution that requests the Town of Ithaca to distribute their portion according to the current contract, and that there exists sufficient difference of opinion regarding any other method of distribution that the BFC seeks to enter discussions between the parties to resolve the differences of opinion (see complete resolution in the Minute Book). Seconded by Comm. Gilligan. Discussion highlights are as follows: Comm. Williams believes that the distribution method being used goes against State Law and that issues need to be resolved prior to the distribution; A lengthy discussion followed regarding the history of these funds and local laws that define local distribution. After discussion, the motion carried with Comm. Williams opposing. Ithaca Board of Fire Commissioners December 11, 2007 - Minutes Page 4 CERT Resolution (see complete resolution in the Minute Book). Chief Wilbur provided this information at the request of the Board from the November meeting He is attempting to address the right way for volunteers to service the community - the best bang for the buck. He believes the current volunteer system does not work anymore - we don't have the fires as in the past and many current firefighting duties require very specialized training (hazardous materials, etc.). He feels a need to move toward more citizen engagement as an alternate activity and focus for citizen volunteers in the Ithaca Community. Comm. Gilligan also provided two proposals regarding revitalizing the Ithaca Fire Department's volunteers for interior and fire ground support, Bunker Program and Fire Police Program (see complete proposals in the Minute Book) Since both items were just presented at tonight's meeting, Chair Romanowski asked the Board to study the proposals and be prepared for more discussion and possible action at the January meeting. At the 11/14/07 meeting of the City Emergency Services Committee, there was discussion of removal of the diverters on South and Wood Sts., but no discussion of removal of the speed bumps. After discussions, it was agreed that Chair Romanowksi will draft a letter to the DPW to suggest consideration of taking out the speed bumps as well to help with preservation of emergency vehicles and equipment. He will distribute the draft via e -mail for approval prior to sending the letter. X. Hearing no other business, the meeting adjourned at 2045 hrs. Respectfully submitted, Christine M. Wilbur, Clerk Ithaca Board of Fire Commissioners (Minutes will be reviewed for approval at the February 12, 2008 meeting) CITY OF ITHACA 310 West Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850 -5497 OFFICE OF THE FIRE CHIEF Telephone: 607/272 -1234 Fax: 607/272 -2793 Monthly Report of the Fire Chief to the Board of Fire Commissioners, for the December 13, 2007, meeting. LIFE SAFETY DIVISION Administration 1) Career Personnel Report a) See report from Deputy Chief Dorman. b) Todd Wilber started work as a fire fighter on 28 NOV 07. He comes to us from the Manlius (NY) Fire Department, where he worked as a fire fighter /paramedic, and has already completed his 229 hour NYS basic training. C) Interviews for candidates for our office positions are underway and we hope soon to make employment offers for existing vacancies. 2) Operating Budget Status a) Operating budget account distribution and balances as of 30 NOV 07, are included in the packet. The extraordinary incident cost summary is being brought up to date and will be ready for distribution at the next meeting. 3) County Communications and 911 Program a) 800 MHz Trunked Radio System: Senator James Seward held a press conference at the Ithaca Fire Department on 04 DEC 07. He announced $80,000 in funding for a member item to support the purchase of subscriber equipment (portable, mobile, and base radios, and accessories) that will go to Tompkins County. This will help reduce the local impact of the $2,000,000 cost for this equipment. Also, they are calibrating the six gigahertz microwave system the week of 03 DEC 07. This is the foundation for both the paging system and the 800 MHz trunked radio system. Once the microwave is calibrated, both the paging and 800 MHz systems can be brought on line for calibration and testing. Radio consoles at the Communications Center are being fitted out so they will run both new and legacy equipment. This will permit all consoles to be fully functional when the transition to the new system occurs. An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification." 11 Fire Chief's Report for December 2007 4) Grants and Donations 07 DEC 07 Page 2 of 6 a) CEDAP Grant: A CEDAP grant application was filed on 29 JUN 07. This grant asks for an Ahura FirstDefender and MSA Sirius Multigas Detector package to complement our hazardous materials team's ability to detect and identify potential hazardous substances as the result of a spill or release. As of this writing, award announcements are scheduled for December 2007. b) 2007 Grants: An application for a 2007 SAFER grant was submitted. The application requested four additional fire fighters. There has been no word on an award. [Same report as last month.] C) NIMS Compliance: IFD and City personnel continue to attend various classes related to compliance with federal requirements with the National Incident Management System (NIMS). [Same report as last month.] d) Child Safety Seat Grant: The grant was submitted last month and we are awaiting word on its status. [Same report as last month.] e) Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Discussions with WalMart and with the Women's Fund of the Community Foundation have created the possibility of donations and funding that will allow us to include carbon monoxide detectors along with the smoke detector program. A proposal has been submitted and we are awaiting word on the funding that will be awarded as a result. [Same report as last two months]. f) SWAT /LINT /CP Vehicle: Discussions continue on developing funding for this vehicle, but the City has not made a commitment to fund it as yet. [Same report as last month.] g) Arson Investigation: Fire Investigator Chris Hamilton is working with the Tompkins County Fire and EMS Chief Officers' Association to advocate for the startup of a County Fire Investigators' Association. He has met with the Chiefs' group, and is planning a meeting in January 2008, to gauge interest from around the county. 5) Strategic Funding for Firefighters (S4F) The S4F group will convene as soon as possible to approve a status report. [Essentially the same report as last month.] 6) 2008 Budget Preparation Common Council approved the 2008 budget, as modified, at their regular November meeting. Fire Chief's Report for December 2007 07 DEC 07 Page 3 of 6 7) City -Town Fire Contract Negotiation The City -Town Fire Contract expires on 31 DEC 07. A second negotiation session was held 28 NOV 07. As the next session will not be held until January, both the City and Town agreed to consider a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to extend the terms of the agreement for three months to insure seamless coverage and additional time to conclude negotiations. Common Council approved the MOU at their regular December meeting. The Board of Fire Commissioners is a signatory on the MOU. Fire Prevention Bureau 1) See Assistant Fire Chief Parson's report of Fire Prevention Bureau activities for the month of October. 2) The Smoke Detector Program is still operating, and we expect the combination smoke and carbon monoxide detector program we anticipate will reduce risks to the community even further. [Same report as last two months.] Safety Section A change in the NFPA standard governing protective equipment will impose a maximum ten year service life on protective equipment worn by fire fighters. While no regulatory standard exists as yet that will mandate compliance, the fact that a generally accepted standard has been written to this effect will require us to consider this for future budgeting decisions. OPERATIONS DIVISION Response 1) Monthly Call Report See distributed reports for 2007, year -to -date. 2) Emergency Management a) Emergency Management Exercise: The City Exercise Design Team determined that training levels were not optimal for maximum value from an exercise. As a result, City Senior Staff are engaged in a planning effort to define exercise topics and goals for the next three to five years. This will help focus the training needed to insure a good return on the investment. b) Pre- Disaster Mitigation Grant: Starting in 2002, the City of Ithaca engaged in a project to develop a pre- disaster mitigation plan. This plan is required to insure eligibility for future mitigation grants. As of 04 JAN 07, we have been advised Fire Chief's Report for December 2007 07 DEC 07 Page 4 of 6 the grant application has been submitted to FEMA for final review and action. This is the last step for this grant and we are still waiting to hear what the decision will be. [Same report as prior months.] 3) Cornell University Emergency Medical Services ( CUEMS) Over the past several months, we have been asked by CUEMS to agree to their participation in the Tompkins County Mutual Aid Plan. As other priorities have interfered, no meetings have been held recently. Among other smaller meetings, a large group meeting is scheduled for 11 DEC 07 to continue the discussion. 4) Confined Space Rescue Policy It has been the practice of the Ithaca Fire Department to not serve as the standby rescue agency for confined space work in or around our district. To do so would require a standby crew at significant expense to the department. Even if reimbursed, the ability to field a dedicated team to deliver this service is not sustainable at this point in time. What we do tell people who inquire about this service is that we will respond as an emergency rescue agency to a 911 call and provide OSHA compliant rescue services at that point. I am asking the Board of Fire Commissioners to endorse the continuation of this policy so that we can send a clear message when asked to serve as a confined space standby rescue agency. A resolution to this effect will be provided at the meeting. Support 1) See Deputy Chief Dorman's reports for NOV 2007. 2) Training Center Reports — Report not available for this month. a) Reminder from prior months: a comprehensive strategy is needed to construct a new burn building. The question of funding must be addressed. b) FF Tom Basher is working on plans for an addition to the classroom to focus on SCBA usage. The intent is to involve both Ithaca and Tompkins County with Tompkins County funding the project. We have had difficulty nailing down the funding stream that would support this project. 2) Company Three Room at Central Fire Station: The Company Three office at Central Fire Station was vacated by Company Three to allow its use as an office for the Municipal Training Officer. Company Three has not determined what they want to do with the historical wood door that was installed at the time Central Fire Station was renovated in 1990. I have indicated we will preserve it in place for them as long as needed. Fire Chief's Report for December 2007 07 DEC 07 Page 5 of 6 Training 1) See report from DC Dorman. VOLUNTEER SERVICES DIVISION Recruitment and Retention 1) Explorer Post: On the heels of last month's Board resolution for the Ithaca Fire Department to serve as the sponsoring organization, work continues as potential committee members and advisors are recruited to serve in support of this concept. FF Pat Sullivan and I met with Brian Weinstein to present the concept to the Union so they would be on board. President Weinstein will meet with his officers to review the proposal. The Baden - Powell Council is anxious to get the post running and is standing by to offer any assistance necessary. Service 1) Summaries of Service Hours: In past months, summaries of service hours have been provided to the Board for reference. A cursory review of these summaries reveals disparities between what we have said volunteer fire fighters must provide, and what has actually been provided. This presents a dilemma in terms of my ability to insure the readiness of volunteer fire fighters. If in- service training and on -duty minimums are not met, I cannot say with any degree of certainty the volunteer qualifies for ongoing fire ground service. Last month I described both the Citizens Emergency Response Teams (CERT) and the FireCorps program. At the same time I asked the Board to consider one of both of these programs as alternatives to the current model. A resolution to this effect will be provided at the meeting. 2) Foreign Fire Insurance: It appears the fire contract between the City and the Town of Ithaca has specific language requiring the proceeds received by the Town from the two percent Foreign Fire Insurance tax be distributed on the basis of the area served, as follows: 18. Payment of moneys from Foreign Insurance Companies. The Town agrees to pay over to the City the percentage collected by or received by the Town from foreign insurance companies writing property insurance in the area protected for the benefit of the Ithaca Volunteer Firemen's Relief Fund, or its successor, as required by law. Fire Chief's Report for December 2007 07 DEC 07 Page 6 of 6 This has been conveyed to Chief Tambourelle at the Cayuga Heights Fire Department, who wishes to convene a meeting to discuss this. The Town of Ithaca is aware of the contract language and is considering next steps as well. Respectfully submitted, $ � 4 KLL Brian H. Wilbur Fire Chief Attachments ITHACA FIRE DEPARTMENT BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS REPORT December 2007 PERSONNEL STAFFING LEVELS 1 Chief 2 Deputy Chiefs 5 Assistant Chiefs 8 Lieutenants 49 Fire Fighters 65 On duty personnel 1 Fire Fighter on Injury Leave 2 Recruit Fire Fighters 1 Fire Alarm Superintendent 0.5 Executive Assistant 0.5 Financial Clerk 0.5 Financial Clerk 1 Office Temporary Total employees as of 12/01/07 — 71.5 MUTUAL AID CALLS — From: To: Newfield, Enfield SELECTED CALLS — No Report SUPPORT 21 Vehicle work orders were written and 22 were closed. TRAINING — All shifts have completed NYS Flammable Liquids training delivered in- house. See Attached report. Submitted by: J. Thomas Dorman, Deputy Chief Date Printed: 12/4/07 Page 1 N O) 00 n f'- M O O O 6) D1 n W 00 'I', V) n 0 0 n W m m n V n (OM') W O E - CV) W L9 O M 0 O � W N M ac0 1 M NN W W M N VL' O Ln U) W LL O J ti "n Ln CD I� ti W W H 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ Q M Ln n W W Ln N d• 0) W M W I� W W V• 00 \ 00 \ r \ \ 0) N \ \ N \ N \ N \ \ \ O \ 00 \ 0) \ \ N \ 0 00 W W W f� M d• n \ N 0) \ 00 \ 't J W N W 00 N W f- co f- 00 W 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 N N W 00 N to \ 0) N r \ W M r 00 CO V- O Z O- M- N Ln N W O m co O O O N W O W O O � O N M 00 Ln 2 (D Z w O Z W Ln .-- N m W 0 O CD N .-- W W N N M W O Ln N O N M- - V' N N N m N N N 00 Ln N L!) 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Q (n cn fh CYJ 4 y � (n O O GJ O D, cT Y3 0 N N O O !- Oo Ch Cl) �O V N Ut Ui p O -t,, 14 (D (D _ 00 o Q Ln Q O CD � Q Q C n N Oo J.9 of O O W - V - N N Cl) O V O a (n � P N v 00 O _ O W OD V, co O � 1 N 00 � O O 00 0. a 00 Gl v O Q N N Ln O v N N 00 U V O D V Cn1 O C 3 v ` a 0 7 N Budget Numbers of I In°i I� I� l° I�I� I I I I I Im MINI Administration Planning i 12050 I P o o, Fire Prevention Bureau 12100 z 14 V O ap V V V W N O O P O O AO O O W U W A O O W O O A O O P P A W V N O N P A U O O O V O O U O O W O M W V U p O O W V o A W O W CO A O A A A V i A O A (AA O A WA NA A A _ A A N NO N_ N Budget Numbers of I In°i I� I� l° I�I� I I I I I Im MINI Administration Planning i 12050 I P o o, Fire Prevention Bureau 12100 aD o w p w °p o a � 'O a N _ Safety Section Cn 00 - N U _ U N 12150 0 CD O 14 a 00 P N m ^ a a P CO Response Section („ to In 12200 W N O V O C) W C', Support Section 12250 p O A a W W P P `C OW V W O A N P V A P U , Ln Emergency C 14 a , A A N Management Q N C3 Op 0 00 °0 00 a ° 12300 Training Bureau Ca 12350 N u; "� po o A W � Membership u o. Section 12400 ° W N W W N P U Service /ID Section p Balance V (n A Z V W N O P W A A O. V A (Wit o V A O N 'W A O O O N P O A U W W O V a, N W O W P P v W 00 W O V V W O W A U U Percent Expended 0 U V OJ V 'O 09 09 09 09 a9 C9 09 0 0 09 0 0 1,89 0 o a o 09 0 d 09 V 09 II^>^Z (D Z r4 0 m O -K Un W ^"= m W N D 0 n 11 O O F f = rt W S a) m n O in Statistical Summary ITHACA BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS - DECEMBER 11, 2007 There are 32,184 records in the Incidents Table. Between Monday, January 1, 2007 and Thursday, )ecember 6, 2007 there were 4,052 incidents. Currently there are an average of 11.95 incidents per day. Average response time for the department is 4.35 minutes. The average duration of an incident is 18.88 minutes. 200 150 100 50 0 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Incidents by Hour of the Day 250000 200000 150000 100000 50000 0 O r N M 't M W I- W O O In T M (D T W O O r N M O O O O O O O O O O r r �--. It r — N N N N Incidents by Day of the Week ike SUN MON TUE W® THU FRI SAT Dollar Loss by Hour of the Day O N C7 �t CO f� 00 O) O N C7 O - LO c0 Il- W O O N M O O O O O O O O O r r r — r N N N N Loss Statistical Summary ITHACA BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS - DECEMBER 11, 2007 There are 32,184 records in the Incidents Table. Between Monday, January 1, 2007 and Thursday, )ecember 6, 2007 there were 4,052 incidents. Currently there are an average of 11.95 incidents per day. Average response time for the department is 4.35 minutes. The average duration of an incident is 18.88 minutes. 400000 350000 300000 250000 200000 150000 100000 50000 0 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 10 8 6 4 2 0 Dollar Loss by Day of the Week SUN MON TUE W® THU FRI SAT Incidents by First Responding Unit I 0 0 rn rn rn (D N ct 0 M rn rn M rn rn w rn LO Average Response Time by Unit MEN FA Y >Ys (D 0 O 0 0 0 0 (o M (D (D It 't O 't CITY OF ITHACA 310 West Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850 -5497 OFFICE OF THE FIRE CHIEF Telephone: 607/272 -1234 Fax: 607/272 -2793 December 7th, 2007 Board of Fire Commissioners Ithaca Fire Department 310 W Green St Ithaca, NY 14850 Dear Board Members: The following is the Fire Marshal's report for November 2007. Codes Division: The Codes Division received 22 complaints in the month November. There were 15 complaints closed out, and 7 complaints that still remain open. The Codes Division performed 35 Inspections and issued 22 notices of violation. The division issued 20 operating permits for occupancies, 3 fire suppression system certificates, and 5 fire alarm system certificates. The Codes Division issued 32 parking violations: 18 Fire Lane / Fire Hydrant Violations, 7 Handicap Parking Violations, and 7 Prohibited Areas Fire Investigation Unit: There were no fire investigations in the month of November. Public Education: There were 4 Public Education Details, 1 Fire Drill Observation, and 5 Child Car Seat Inspections in the month of November. Respectfully Submitted, C Thomas Parsons Deputy Fire Chief Fire Marshall `An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification." 41% W Resolution Citizens Emergency Response Teams Whereas, like many fire departments utilizing citizen volunteers, the Ithaca Fire Department has seen the number of active volunteers available to provide fire fighting service decrease significantly over the years; and, Whereas, in Ithaca the volunteer force has dwindled from several hundred active volunteers in the 1960's and before, to three today; and, Whereas, as a function of budget and financial pressures the community has reduced funds and support over time which has contributed to this loss of personnel; and, Whereas, significantly increased call volume and types of calls have changed dramatically the nature of services provided by the Ithaca Fire Department; and, Whereas, the response time goal of the Ithaca Fire Department is four minutes from notification of alarm; and, Whereas, the need for a response from home or work of volunteers to assemble at the scene of a fire is rare, as compared with the rapid intervention that occurs now from fire fighters responding aboard fire apparatus; and, Whereas, the federal government champions a new program known as Citizen Emergency Response Teams (CERT), which seeks to engage citizens in community service in a new way; now, therefore be it Resolved, the Board of Fire Commissioners hereby endorses the concept of Citizens Emergency Response Teams (CERT) as an alternative activity and focus for citizen volunteers in the Ithaca Community; and, be it further Resolved, the Board of Fire Commissioners offers to take the lead in evaluating and recommended policies and practices necessary to implement Citizen Emergency Response Teams in the City and Town of Ithaca. 12 DEC 07 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) !11 firy EMMAIENCY ONSt i6Ahi About CERT Introduction Tuesday, December 11, 2007 5:42:16 PM America /New_York Following a major disaster, first responders who provide fire and medical services will not be able to meet the demand for these services. Factors as number of victims, communication failures, and road blockages will prevent people from accessing emergency services they have come to expect at a moment's notice through 911. People will have to rely on each other for help in order to meet their immediate life saving and life sustaining needs. One also expects that under these kinds of conditions, family members, fellow employees, and neighbors will spontaneously try to help each other. This was the case following the Mexico City earthquake where untrained, spontaneous volunteers saved 800 people. However, 100 people lost their lives while attempting to save others. This is a high price to pay and is preventable through training. If we can predict that emergency services will not meet immediate needs following a major disaster, especially if there is no warning as in an earthquake, and people will spontaneously volunteer, what can government do to prepare citizens for this eventuality? First, present citizens the facts about what to expect following a major disaster in terms of immediate services. Second, give the message about their responsibility for mitigation and preparedness. Third, train them in needed life saving skills with emphasis on decision making skills, rescuer safety, and doing the greatest good for the greatest number. Fourth, organize teams so that they are an extension of first responder services offering immediate help to victims until professional services arrive. Background — "e Community Emergency Response Team concept was developed and implemented by the Los Angeles City Fire Department .FD) in 1985. The Whittier Narrows earthquake in 1987 underscored the area -wide threat of a major disaster in California. Further, it confirmed the need for training civilians to meet their immediate needs. As a result, the LAFD created the Disaster Preparedness Division with the purpose of training citizens and private and government employees. The training program that LAFD initiated makes good sense and furthers the process of citizens understanding their responsibility in preparing for disaster. It also increases their ability to safely help themselves, their family and their neighbors. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recognizes the importance of preparing citizens. The Emergency Management Institute (EMI) and the National Fire Academy adopted and expanded the CERT materials believing them applicable to all hazards. The CERT course will benefit any citizen who takes it. This individual will be better prepared to respond to and cope with the aftermath of a disaster. Additionally, if a community wants to supplement its response capability after a disaster, civilians can be recruited and trained as neighborhood, business, and government teams that, in essence, will be auxiliary responders. These groups can provide immediate assistance to victims in their area, organize spontaneous volunteers who have not had the training, and collect disaster intelligence that will assist professional responders with prioritization and allocation of resources following a disaster. Since 1993 when this training was made available nationally by FEMA, communities in 28 States and Puerto Rico have conducted CERT training. Starting We recommend a number of steps to start a CERT: • Identify the program goals that CERT will meet and the resources available to conduct the program in your area. • Gain approval from appointed and elected officials to use CERT as a means to prepare citizens to care for themselves during a disaster when services may not be adequate. This is an excellent opportunity for the government to be proactive in working with its constituency. • Identify and recruit potential participants. Naturals for CERT are community groups, business and industry workers, and local government workers. • Train CERT instructor cadre • Conduct CERT sessions. • Conduct refresher training and exercises with CERTs. Delivery http://www.citizencorps.gov/cert/about.shtm Page 1 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Tuesday, December 11, 2007 5:42:16 PM America /New_York The CERT course is delivered in the community by a team of first responders who have the requisite knowledge and skills to instruct the sessions. It is suggested that the instructors complete a CERT Train - the - Trainer (TTT) conducted by their State iining Office for Emergency Management or the Emergency Management Institute in order to learn the training techniques that are used successfully by the LAFD. The CERT training for community groups is usually delivered in 2 1/2 hour sessions, one evening a week over a 7 week period. The training consists of the following: • Session I, DISASTER PREPAREDNESS: Addresses hazards to which people are vulnerable in their community. Materials cover actions that participants and their families take before, during, and after a disaster. As the session progresses, the instructor begins to explore an expanded response role for civilians in that they should begin to consider themselves disaster workers. Since they will want to help their family members and neighbors, this training can help them operate in a safe and appropriate manner. The CERT concept and organization are discussed as well as applicable laws governing volunteers in that jurisdiction. • Session ll, DISASTER FIRE SUPPRESSION: Briefly covers fire chemistry, hazardous materials, fire hazards, and fire suppression strategies. However, the thrust of this session is the safe use of fire extinguishers, sizing up the situation, controlling utilities, and extinguishing a small fire. • Session III, DISASTER MEDICAL OPERATIONS PART I: Participants practice diagnosing and treating airway obstruction, bleeding, and shock by using simple triage and rapid treatment techniques. • Session IV, DISASTER MEDICAL OPERATIONS, PART Il: Covers evaluating patients by doing a head to toe assessment, establishing a medical treatment area, performing basic first aid, and practicing in a safe and sanitary manner. • Session V, LIGHT SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATIONS: Participants learn about search and rescue planning, size -up, search techniques, rescue techniques, and most important, rescuer safety. • Session VI, DISASTER PSYCHOLOGY AND TEAM ORGANIZATION: Covers signs and symptoms that might be experienced by the disaster victim and worker. It addresses CERT organization and management principles and the need for documentation. • Session VII, COURSE REVIEW AND DISASTER SIMULATION: Participants review their answers from a take home examination. Finally, they practice the skills that they have learned during the previous six sessions in disaster activity. During each session participants are required to bring safety equipment (gloves, goggles, mask) and disaster supplies (handages, flashlight, dressings) which will be used during the session. By doing this for each session, participants are building isaster response kit of items that they will need during a disaster. Maintaining Involvement When participants have completed this training, it is important to keep them involved and practiced in their skills. Trainers should offer periodic refresher sessions to reinforce the basic training. CERT teams can sponsor events such as drills, picnics, neighborhood clean up, and disaster education fairs which will keep them involved and trained. CERT members should receive recognition for completing their training. Communities may issue ID cards, vests, and helmets to graduates. First responders need to be educated about the CERT and their value to the community. Using CERT as a component of the response system when there are exercises for potential disasters can reinforce this idea. Resources FEMA supports CERT by conducting or sponsoring TTT's for members of the fire, medical, and emergency management community. The objectives of the TTT are to prepare attendees to promote this training in their community, conduct TTT's at their location, conduct training sessions for neighborhood, business and industry, and government groups, and organize teams with which first responders can interface following a major disaster. Conclusion CERT is about readiness, people helping people, rescuer safety, and doing the greatest good for the greatest number. CERT is a positive and realistic approach to emergency and disaster situations where citizens will be initially on their own and their actions can make a difference. Through training, citizens can manage utilities and put out small fires; treat the three killers by opening airways, controlling bleeding, and treating for shock; provide basic medical aid; search for and rescue victims safely; and organize themselves and spontaneous volunteers to be effective. http,//Www.citizencorps.gov/cert/about.shtm Page 2 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) IAAi 'JMM41NttY CMMIN {Y RF PON3E UAM CERT Background Information CERT Overview Tuesday, December 11, 2007 5:42:42 PM America /New_York CERTs are formed by members of a neighborhood or workplace who want to be better prepared for the hazards that threaten their communities. Beyond Disaster Response Initially, CERT programs were developed to assist communities in taking care of themselves in the aftermath of a major disaster when first responders are overwhelmed or unable to respond because of communication or transportation difficulties. As the CERT concept has taken hold across the country, however, CERTs have become much more than originally envisioned. CERTs have proven themselves to be an active and vital part of their communities' preparedness and response capability. For example, CERTs have been used to: • Distribute and /or install smoke alarms and batteries to the elderly and disabled. • Assist with evacuations and traffic control. • Promote community awareness of potential hazards and preparedness measures. • Supplement staffing at special events, such as parades. • Act as victims in training exercises. CERTs are an investment of local government's time and resources. To capitalize on this investment, program sponsors can view CERT members as a volunteer resource that can assist with public safety activities. Such an approach will actively involve members in serving their communities beyond disaster response and add value to the CERT program. CERT Standards and Protocols The best source of help in an emergency or disaster is the paid or volunteer professional responder. But, if they are not available to address immediate life- saving needs or to protect property, CERT members can help. CERTs are not intended to replace a community's response capability, but rather, to serve as an important supplement to it. The agency sponsoring the CERT program is creating a volunteer resource that is part of the community's operational capability following a disaster. That agency should develop training standards for CERT personnel and protocols for their activation and use. CERT members must keep their safety in mind as their first priority. CERT volunteers must know their capabilities and the limitations of their training and equipment and work within those limitations. CERTs do NOT: • Suppress large fires. • Enter structures that they consider heavily damaged and dangerous (e.g., leaning or moved from foundation). • Perform hazardous materials cleanup or respond to incidents involving radiological, chemical, or biological agents. • Perform medical, fire, or search and rescue operations beyond their level of training. • Activate or deploy unless called for in their procedures. CERTs are considered "Good Samaritans" and covered under the Volunteer Protection Act. CERT volunteers do not have any authority beyond serving as "Good Samaritan" when helping others. When deployed appropriately, however, CERTs can complement and enhance first- response capability in neighborhoods and workplaces by ensuring the safety of themselves and their families working outward to the neighborhood or office and beyond •il first responders arrive. CERTs can then assist first- response personnel as directed. http://www.citizencorps.gov/cert/start-0-l.shtm Page 1 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) �iiy'�PII .i?rAhrur,GrtY tm(AGINCY' Rt$PC3N$t TEAM Frequently Asked Questions • What is CERT? • How does CERT benefit the community? • Is there a CERT near me? • How do we start a CERT program? • How is the CERT funded? • Why take the CERT training? • Who can take the training? • How do I take CERT training? • What if I want to do more than just the basic training? • How do CERT members maintain their skills? • Can someone under the age 18 particioate? • What if I have concerns about my age or physical ability? • What about liability? Q: What is CERT? Tuesday, December 11, 2007 5:43:01 PM America /New_York A: The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community. The About CERT section of this site gives you a complete description of CERT. ;k To Tor) Q: How does CERT benefit the community? A: People who go through CERT training have a better understanding of the potential threats to their home, workplace and community and can take the right steps to lessen the effects of these hazards on themselves, their homes or workplace. If a disaster happens that overwhelms local response capability, CERT members can apply the training learned in the classroom and during exercises to give critical support to their family, loved ones, neighbors or associates in their immediate area until help arrives. When help does arrive, CERTs provide useful information to responders and support their efforts, as directed, at the disaster site. CERT members can also assist with non - emergency projects that improve the safety of the community. CERTs have been used to distribute and /or install smoke alarms, replace smoke alarm batteries in the home of elderly, distribute disaster education material, provide services at special events, such as parades, sporting events, concerts and more. Back To Top Q: Is there a CERT near me? A: Over 1100 communities and growing have listed their program on the CERT web site under the Directory of CERT Programs by State. You can check the State Directory to see if one is in your community. There also is a web site maintained by Los Angeles City CERT volunteers that has a listing of "Other Team Links ". Back To Too Q: How do we start a CERT program? A: CERT requires a partnership between community members and local government, emergency management and response agencies. The program does take a commitment of time and resources from all parties. Interested community members should discuss with local government and emergency management officials ways to improve their community's preparedness capability and how they can be involved. The outcome of these discussions can range from education programs to an active training )ram like CERT that prepares participants to be part of the community's response capability following major disasters. It is .,�o important to develop a plan that covers training, maintenance and activation standards as well as administrative requirements like databases and funding. This plan will act as a guide so that one can evaluate the program and make http://Www.citizencorps.gov/cert/faq.shtm Page 1 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Tuesday, December 11, 2007 5:43:01 PM America /New York adjustments. Back To Top .x: How is the CERT funded? A: Congress has provided funds through the Citizen Corps program to the States and Territories. Grants from these funds may be available to local communities to start CERT programs. Contact your State Citizen Corps point of contact to learn more about grant possibilities. Also, there are a variety of local approaches to funding. Some communities build costs into their local budget while others charge participants to attend training to cover costs for instructors and course materials. In a few communities, CERT organizations have formed 501 (C) 3 for non - profit status to allow them to do fundraising and seek corporate donations. Back To Top Q: Why take the CERT training? A: Local government prepares for everyday emergencies. However, there can be an emergency or disaster that can overwhelm the community's immediate response capability. While adjacent jurisdictions, State and Federal resources can activate to help, there may be a delay for them getting to those who need them. The primary reason for CERT training is to give people the decision - making, organizational, and practical skills to offer immediate assistance to family members, neighbors, and associates while waiting for help. While people will respond to others in need without the training, the goal of the CERT program is to help people do so effectively and efficiently without placing themselves in unnecessary danger. A success story about CERTs comes from events during the wildfires in Florida. The Edgewater CERT helped emergency management and the fire department personnel by assisting with evacuation; handling donations; preparing food for firefighters; and answering the phone while the professionals were fighting the fire. This is a great example of CERT members and response personnel working together for the benefit of the community. Back To Top ^ Who can take the training? E,: Naturals for the training are neighborhood watch, community organizations, communities of faith, school staff, workplace employees, scouting organization and other groups that come together regularly for a common purpose. CERT skills are useful in disaster and everyday life events. Back To Top Q: How do I take CERT training? A: To become a CERT member, you will have to take the CERT training from a sponsoring agency like an emergency management agency, fire department or police department in the area where you live or work. Contact the local emergency manager where you live or work and ask about the education and training opportunities available to you. Let this person know about your interest in CERT. Back To Top Q: What if I want to do more than just the basic training? A: CERT members can increase their knowledge and capability by attending classes provided by other community agencies on animal care, special needs concerns, donation management, community relations, shelter management, debris removal, utilities control, advanced first aid, Automatic External Defibrillator use, CPR skills, and others. The sponsoring agency should maintain records of this training and call upon CERT members when these additional skills are needed in the community. CERT member also can use their skills to help the program flourish by volunteering to schedule events, produce a newsletter, perform administrative work, and take leadership positions. Back To Tog Q: How do CERT members maintain their skills? .;ERT members and the local sponsoring agency work together to maintain team skills and the working partnership. It is suggested that the sponsor conduct refresher classes and an annual exercise where all CERT members are invited to participate. Some response agencies have conducted joint exercises with CERT teams and operate as they would during an http://www.citizencorps.gov/cert/faq.shtm Page 2 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Tuesday, December 11, 2007 5:43:02 PM America /New_York actual disaster. The last point does bring up a lesson learned. Besides training CERT members, it is also important to educate members of response agencies in the community about CERTs, the skills that team members have learned during training and 'he role that they will have during a major disaster. One way to develop trust between CERT and responders is by encouraging 3ncy personnel to participate in classes as instructors and coaches and in activities with CERT members. Understanding that CERTs may operate independently following a disaster. CERTs can practice this independence by taking some responsibility for their own training. Teams can design activities and exercises for themselves and with other teams. Some members can be rescuers, some victims, and some evaluators. After the event, there can be a social so that community teams can discuss the exercise and get to know each other. Back To Top Q: Can someone under age 18 participate? A: This is a local decision. Someone under 18 should be with a parent or have permission to attend. Some communities have reached out specifically to young people. Winter Springs High School in Florida offers the training to high school students. You can read an article about this. CERT is a great way to address the community service requirements for high school students and provides students with useful skills. CERT also fits nicely with training given to Boy and Girl Scouts and the Civil Air patrol. Back To Top Q: What if I have concerns about my age or physical ability? A: There are many jobs within a CERT for someone who wants to be involved and help. Following a disaster, CERT members are needed for documentation, comforting others, logistics, etc. Non - disaster related team activities may include keeping databases, developing a website, writing a newsletter, planning activities, helping with special events and organizing exercises and activities. During CERT classroom training, if one has a concern about doing a skill like lifting, just let the instructor know. You can learn from watching. We would like everyone who wants to go through the training to have an opportunity to participate and learn the skills. CERT educates participants about local hazards and trains them in skills that are useful during disaster and life's everyday emergencies. ;k To Top Q: What about liability? A: The text of the Volunteer Protection Act of 1997 is available for viewing. Also there is information about State Liability Laws located on the Citizen Corps website. During training, each sponsoring agency should brief its CERT members about their responsibilities as a CERT member and volunteer. Finally, there is a job aid on liability for you to review in our Start a CERT Program section. The CERT material was developed by the Los Angeles City Fire Department and adopted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in 1993. The CERT manual contains basic and straightforward material that has been accepted by those using it as the standard for training. It is important to remember that the best sources of help in emergencies are professional responders. However, in situations when they are not immediately available, people will want to act and help. We have seen this time and again in our history. CERT training teaches skills that people can use to safely help while waiting for responders. The alternate is to do nothing and that is not in our nature. Back To Top http://www.citizencorps.gov/cert/faq.shtm Page 3 Resolution Regarding Foreign Fire Insurance Distribution Whereas, the Town of Ithaca receives from the State of New York certain tax proceeds as the result of New York State Insurance Laws, § 9104 and 9105; and, Whereas, these proceeds have been pro rated and distributed annually to the two fire departments providing fire protection to the Town of Ithaca, namely the Cayuga Heights Fire Department and the Ithaca Fire Department; and, Whereas, the method of pro rating these proceeds has used the same formula as that used by the City of Ithaca — Town of Ithaca Fire Contract, which is a percentage of the whole of the respective non - exempt tax bases of the City and Town (approximately 62% and 32% respectively); and, Whereas, the Cayuga Heights Fire Department has challenged this distribution, citing per capita populations of fire companies as the appropriate method; and, Whereas, the City of Ithaca — Town of Ithaca Fire Contract stipulates the method of distribution, as follows: 18. Payment of moneys from Foreign Insurance Companies. The Town agrees to pay over to the City the percentage collected by or received by the Town from foreign insurance companies writing property insurance in the area protected for the benefit of the Ithaca Volunteer Firemen's Relief Fund, or its successor, as required by law. and, Whereas, the fire contract between the City and Town calls for the Town to pay to the City money collected from foreign fire insurance companies writing property insurance in the area protected (emphasis supplied); and, Whereas, there exists sufficient difference of opinion regarding any other method of distribution that has been proposed that agreement on a new method will likely take some time to achieve; now, therefore be it Resolved, the Board of Fire Commissioners hereby requests the Town of Ithaca distribute the 2007 foreign fire insurance collections according to the long- standing practice; and, be it further Resolved, the Board of Fire Commissioners seeks to enter discussions between the parties to resolve this difference of opinion through a review of the distribution method, the guidelines set forth by New York State, and the practicality of adopting an alternative and more accurate method of distribution. - t CITY OF ITHACA 108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850 -5690 OFFICE OF THE CITY ENGINEER Telephone: 607/274 -6530 Fax: 607/274 -6587 RECEIVED DEC 1 7007 ply To: Board of Public Works From: Tim Logue, Transportation Engineer Kent Johnson, Transportation Engineering Technician ��T Date: January 29, 2007 Re: Mini traffic circle at South Plain and Center streets Existing conditions: A mini traffic circle was installed in the intersection of South Plain Street and Center Street in 2002 in response to the decision to rebuild the Plain Street bridge over Six Mile Creek to accommodate automobiles. Though originally controlled by yield signs, the intersection is currently controlled by stop signs on Center Street. Pavement markings are, limited to faded crosswalks (horizontal bar design). Motor vehicle accident reports indicate that no crashes occurred at this intersection in years 2002 -2004 or in 2006. One crash occurred in 2005 in which a motorist struck one of the raised splitter islands that have since been removed. Though the intersection seems to be functioning fairly well, engineering staff have identified a few modifications that could be made to clarify and improve operations, to respond to resident complaints, and to enhance pedestrian safety. Recommendations: Standard necessary maintenance and a few low -cost measures will likely improve the function of this intersection. Additionally, as this mini traffic circle is a unique experiment in the City, it should be installed and maintained properly to maximize its traffic calming utility and acceptance by the community. Maintenance: • Replace missing "KEEP RIGHT" signage (question mark like signs) in center of circle. • Re -stripe faded crosswalks (use ladder bar design instead of horizontal bar design). New measures: • Replace Center Street stop signs with yield signs and install yield signs for South Plain Street (making all approaches yield upon entering the intersection). 1 y n s~ i Add yield line pavement markings adjacent to all yield signs to reinforce the fact that drivers shall yield to pedestrians in the crosswalks. • Paint yellow, hatched splitter islands to show that vehicles should stay right of the center island. • On- street parking should be relocated closer to the intersection ( -20ft back from crosswalks). • Temporary, advance warning signage may be warranted to warn motorists of the changed conditions. Many of these recommendations are based on standards and guidance from the federal Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and the federal Pedestrian Safety Guide and Countermeasure Selection System (FHWA- SA -04- 003). There is precious little guidance from the New York State manual. However, it is my understanding that New York State will be adopting the federal manual in September of this year. I have spoken with Bob Sarachan, the Assistant City Attorney for prosecution, about the proposal, but we do not see any legal problems with these recommendations. A sketch of the proposed pavement markings are attached. In large part, we are treating the intersection like a roundabout, albeit a much smaller version. Based on our conversation at the February 7th meeting, I will prepare a resolution for your voting meeting the following week. �w a. s 7- c W T � oaa 0 9' w C> v �y, �O K 3 m C> cu `, p v / 00 O rl> z0 Ln I I # 1 -- a CL m � > n n4l C. T 1 P ,. To: From: Date: Re: CITY OF ITHACA 108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850 -5690 OFFICE OF THE CITY ENGINEER Telephone: 607/274 -6530 Fax: 607/274 -6587 William Gray, P.E., Superintendent of Public Works Tim Logue, Transportation Engineer October 26, 2007 Wood Street Traffic Diverter In your September 25�h letter to Brenda Westfall, Executive Director of the Ithaca Housing Authority, you asked me to review the traffic diverters and speed humps on Wood Street and South Street and to make a recommendation as to their future. I visited the area and collected the most recent data shown below. Wood Street between Plain Street and Fair Street (300 block) Count taken week of September 21 -23, 2005 (Wed - Fri) Average Daily Traffic = 857 vehicles Ave AM Peak Hour = 42 vehicles Ave PM Peak Hour = 86 vehicles Average Speed = 20mph 85 %ile speed = 26mph 1.8% of the vehicles were traveling faster than the 30 mph speed limit South Titus Ave between Albany Street and Plain Street (300 block) Count taken week of April 10, 2006 (Mon - Fri) Average Daily Traffic = 849 Ave AM Peak Hour = 30 vehicles Ave PM Peak Hour = 77 vehicles Average Speed = 21mph 85 %ile speed = 27mph 2.2% of vehicles traveling faster than the 30 mph speed limit Based on this information and my visit, I would recommend removing the old diverters at the intersections of Fair Street with Wood Street and South Street mostly on the basis that they are unnecessary and unsightly. The semi - diverter at Fair and Wood Street also likely restricts turning movements into the relocated Titus Towers II driveway. I would recommend keeping the mid -block speed humps in place. 'An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification." CJ a I do not know if the Board of Public Works continues to support the goal of discouraging vehicular traffic on Wood Street and South streets. There are still signs posted on the semi - diverters stating "No Thru Traffic: Except Emergency Vehicles." However, it is clear that motorists at the intersections have no qualms about crossing over the diagonal bumps. Due to the capacity improvements at the edge of the neighborhood (along Route 13 and West Spencer Street), and based on observations and the above traffic counts, it does not seem that there is a significant volume of cut - through traffic. It seems to me that most through motorists have found alternate routes and that these streets see fairly average volumes of traffic for residential streets in the city. If the Board desires to retain the semi - diverters on Fair Street for some reason, I would recommend removing the existing signage and replacing it with object marker signage. The existing signs are not obeyed and are not enforceable. The boxes of rocks are not well delineated with reflective markings for nighttime visibility. However, I would not recommend retaining the box of rocks. If the Board desires to replace the semi - diverters with some sort of traffic calming, I would note that a few years ago there was a good deal of outreach from the Planning Department and a few traffic calming concepts were considered acceptable by attending residents. Since that time, the southwest area has largely built out and the abovementioned road projects were completed. My sense is that the fears of overwhelming traffic in the neighborhood have' not played out and so there has been less interest in traffic calming. My suggestion would be to remove the semi - diverters, to monitor traffic volumes and speeds in the spring, and then to decide whether replacement traffic calming is warranted. I don't see any reason to remove the mid -block speed humps on the two streets. They help to moderate speeds along a three block stretch and seem to be in fairly good condition. We could probably touch up the signage a bit by adding location arrows and make it more visible by pruning a few trees. CITY OF ITHACA 108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850 -5690 DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC NVORKS William J.Gray, EE. Superintendent / City Engineer Telephone: 607%274 -6527 Fax: 607/274 -6587 September 25, 2007 Brenda C. Westfall Executive Director Ithaca Housing Authority 800 South Plain Street Ithaca, NY 14850 RE: Wood Street Traffic Diverter Dear Ms. WestfaJl, This letter is in response to your request dated August 31, 2007 to remove the diagonal traffic diverter on Wood Street diagonal to your western most driveway for the Titus Towers facility. By copy of this letter I will forward the request to Tim Logue the City's Traffics Systems Engineer and ask him to provide the background and a summary recommendation to the Board of Public Works. The traffic diverters and speed bumps in this neighborhood (both Wood Street and South Street) were installed as part of the immediate mitigation measures for traffic calming while the City was contemplating major developments in the Southwest. A traffic plan was developed which was designed to facilitate traffic movements in an organized pattern and once it was fully implemented then temporary devices on Wood and South Streets were to be removed. That traffic plan has never been completed. A change in the City's administration changed the City's approach to traffic management and Southwest development. While it may take a modest amount of time to review files and collect any data that is necessary for analysis of your request you should feel free to contact Mr. Logue or myself to check on progress. I expect to take Mr. Logue's recommendation and your request it to the Board of Public Works in the next two months for their review. CC: Carolyn Peterson, Mayor Tim Logue, Transportation Engineer WJG /jm Very Truly Yours, William J. Gray, P.E. Superintendent of Public Works City of Ithaca, New York 'An Equal Opportunity Emplocer with a commitment to workforce diversification -" �DUSINC9G� ITHACA HOUSING AUTHORITY 800 SOUTH PLAIN STREET ITHACA, NY 1480 F 1946 (607) 273 -8629 _ August 31, 2007 Mr. Bill Gray, Superintendent Board of Public Works City of Ithaca 108 Green St. Ithaca, NY 14850 Dear Mr. Gray: Our property at Titus Towers is currently undergoing construction and as part of that construction, our Wood Street entrance. was relocated several feet to the east in an effort to remove it from City property. There is a speed bump and island located on the street at that entrance as well. We are formally requesting that the island and speed bump be removed for the following reasons: • Since the driveway was moved several feet to the east, the speed bump is now located immediately in front of the driveway entrance, which makes it difficult for IHA to maintain our driveway during the snow plowing season; • Each car entering the parking lot has to drive over the bump, whereas before the bump was to the east of the driveway and did not pose a problem. • Our residents in wheelchairs will have an easier time navigating through the entranceway without the island and speed bump. • It is my understanding that Wood Street is now a through street and the island creates an eyesore to the neighborhood and serves no purpose at this point. Thank you for your consideration. If you would like to discuss this or visit the site for clarification of my request, please feel free to contact me at 273 -8629, ext. 243. Sincerely, 6 cb"t�- o, Brenda C. Westfall Executive Director BCW /do Hearin; Impaired (607) 373 -9472 FAX (607) 2 73-115 1 Confined Space Rescue Resolution Whereas, under certain circumstances 29 CFR 1910.146 et al of Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards requires on -site standby service for an emergency rescue team; and, Whereas, the rescue team must be named as the on -site rescue service in the permit controlled confined space program rescue plan for any organization who is or may be engaged in confined space operations; and, Whereas, and because of the logistical difficulties inherent in maintaining the training for and cadre of interested personnel sufficient to insure the ability to provide this service, the Ithaca Fire Department has not authorized any organization to name the department as its rescue agency; and, Whereas, the Ithaca Fire Department's position has been to provide confined space rescue service only in response to a 911 call for help; and, Whereas, these limitations are not likely to change any time soon; now, therefore be it Resolved, the Board of Fire Commissioners hereby adopts as policy that the Ithaca Fire Department will not authorize any organization required to have and maintain a confined space operations plan, in satisfaction of 29 CFR 1910.146 et al, to name the department as its rescue agency; and, be it further Resolved, this policy is not intended to prevent the Ithaca Fire Department from responding to an emergency request for assistance to any situation involving a confined space. 1�- Adopted this %I day of Q c rim k 2007 obert Roma wski, Chair Christine M. Wilbur, Clerk Ithaca Board of Fire Commissioners 27 November 2007 Brian A. Quadrozzi 100 Graham Road Apartment I A Ithaca, NY 14850 City of Ithaca Board of Fire Commissioners 310 West Green Street Ithaca, NY 14850 To Whom It May Concern: I would like to thank all of the members of the City of Ithaca Board of Fire Commissioners for considering my request for aid from the 2% Relief Fund. The necessary emergency care that I received left me with a six -year long impairing debt. I'm thankful to have access to a reprieve and thankful for the generosity of the Board in granting my request. I am excited about a new and brighter future involving credit repair and the possibility of home - ownership. On a practical note: All of the creditors and originators have confirmed payment. As of this date two of the credits have sent me hard -copy paperwork showing my accounts as paid in full. I will be contacting all three credit reporting bureaus by telephone and by mailing copies of the paid -in -full notices. Thank you; /. 14pr Brian A. Quadrozzi /,ccrv.Q-6;6r 1 14 5 ��A C P ti 5, 44, C.v 4 T JAZ cL�X+2 ff��D ff JAG, 07 %s5 l'�v� • .fir J7 � Fi, sr Jrt/ov.� >cr���� � D Dc>v SrAr !' ;r,�p�n�c. f f �� .�s� �, ��e5c,�d r ?�r�,�v >T�J�o.��� � �8i,c .JP vice 2-1 c-D c o o v m CoS7" 1:02 4001 A✓UVAk e4,04460/- 60/- 5" ,Urea. - roie rnD Pjtez ©Fc.c" 14191a01�4 iO4s .w -,c> 8t' ma- `ls/o"s alt- T -4F- 6, ,ed--Vt cc M*5 �O&s- act> oVeo- B � Fig leek 6c)4wq -cc i -rHC F sj Bite, Ty CA -f SrAOX15#416 4- Zd� gy yfri Tv , q- �i10E ' A ffO. -W4 CS .�k rQ� CoNIMJ�+3j �G'N3 ,y 17D TGS AS& �iscvsS�� /°,e©G,o q,(45 /?90tf i i>1 A1G eU-65 ®A) Alm � vCi:S . 71-ve o 3A .4 K, � V �+ , s /�,ecc s . Aff-0 Fl,LFld 4rtA5 , o�ti � � -mss 4.,Ae so y � ��,�f,��� a,�� � s Cv 7l y 901 A16 -;& in> ,Z A.) 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While I acknowledge the on going discussions taking place, it appears that a conclusiort to these- discussions is not going to be reached in a timely manner. Therefore we,; the Veteran Volunteer Firemen's Association, are asking the - Board of Fire Commissioners to. encourage the Town of Ithaca to distribute all 2% money along with interest earned according to the current rules /agreements /guidelines.. Thank you for your assistance: in this matter. William E. Baker President www.ithacavvfa.org i