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Home My WebLink About02-03-10 Common Council Meeting AgendaOFFICIAL NOTICE OF MEETING A Regular meeting of the Common Council will be held on Wednesday, February 3, 2010, at 7:00 p.m. in the Common Council Chambers at City Hall, 108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York. Your attendance is requested. AGENDA 1. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: 2. ADDITIONS TO OR DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA: 3. PROCLAMATIONS /AWARDS: 4. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS: 4.1 Election of Acting Mayor - Resolution 4.2 Election of Alternate Acting Mayor - Resolution 5. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS BEFORE COUNCIL: 5.1 Introduction and Report from Director of Tompkins County Assessment Jay Franklin 5.2 Presentation of the J. Diann Sams Annual African American History Month Recognition Award 6. PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL: 7. PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR — COMMON COUNCIL AND THE MAYOR: 7.1 Announcement of the Availability of the 2010 Annual Disclosure Forms of the Mayor and Common Council 8. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS: City Administration Committee: 8.1 Department of Public Works - Request to Amend Personnel Roster at Streets and Facilities - Resolution 9. CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE: 9.1 Department of Public Works - Request to Amend Budget for Spencer Street Slope Stabilization - Resolution 9.2 Common Council — Adoption of Green Policy for the City of Ithaca Fleet - Resolution 9.3 A Resolution Delegating to the City Controller of the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, The Power to Authorize, From Time to Time and Year to Year, the Issuance and Sale of Revenue Anticipation Notes of said City in Anticipation of the Collection of Revenues Due for any Fiscal Year of said City 9.4 City Controller's Report Common Council Agenda February 3, 2010 Page 2 10. PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE: 10.1 Resolution in Support of a Tompkins County Strategic Tourism Board Grant Application for a Stewart Park Architecture Study 10.2 NYSERDA Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant Application — Resolution 10.3. Common Council Endorsement of the ItalThai Plantation Building Renovation Project at 130 -132 E. MLK/State Street for the Community Investment Incentive Program — Resolution (A copy with tracked changes is available by contacting the City Clerk's office) 11. REPORTS OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES: 12. NEW BUSINESS: 13. INDIVIDUAL MEMBER — FILED RESOLUTIONS: 14. MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS: 14.1 Appointment of City Representative to the Business Improvement District/Downtown Ithaca Alliance Board — Resolution 14.2 Appointments /Reappointments to Various City boards /committees — information to be distributed with agenda packets. 15. REPORTS OF COMMON COUNCIL LIAISONS: 16. REPORT OF CITY CLERK: 17. REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY: 18. MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS: 18.1 Approval of the December 2, 2009 Regular Common Council Meeting Minutes — Resolution 18.2 Approval of the December 3, 2009 Special Common Council Meeting Minutes — Resolution 18.3 Approval of the December 22, 2009 Special Common Council Meeting Minutes — Resolution 18.4 Approval of the January 1, 2010 Special Common Council Meeting Minutes — Resolution 18.5 Approval of the January 6, 2010 Regular Common Council Meeting Minutes — Resolution 19. ADJOURNMENT: If you have a disability that will require special arrangements to be made in order for you to fully participate in the meeting, please contact th/6'City Clerk at 274 -6570 at least 48 hours before the meeting. Date: January 29, 2010 ulie Conley Holcofnb, CMC, City Clerk 4. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS: 4.1 Election of Acting Mayor - Resolution 4.2 Election of Alternate Acting Mayor - Resolution 8. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS: City Administration Committee: 8.1 Department of Public Works - Request to Amend Personnel Roster at Streets and Facilities - Resolution WHEREAS, the Department of Public Works (DPW) management has reevaluated the Streets and Facilities operational needs and determined that a roster change is needed at this time to improve office efficiency; now, therefore be it RESOLVED, That the Personnel Roster of the Streets and Facilities Division of the Department of Public Works be amended as follows: Delete: one (1) Part Time Office Manager (Grade 11) Add: one (1) Full Time Financial Management Assistant (Grade 9) and be it further RESOLVED, That the Financial Clerk position currently authorized on the Streets and Facilities Division Personnel Roster be retained in a vacant, unfunded capacity until such time as the civil service examination process for the Financial Management Assistant vacancy has been successfully completed, and be it further RESOLVED, That funds necessary for said roster change shall be derived from existing authorized DPW budgets. 9. CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE: 9.1 Department of Public Works - Request to Amend Budget for Spencer Street Slope Stabilization - Resolution WHEREAS, as part of the Six Point Traffic Plan the City undertook traffic improvements to Spencer Street which included modification of lands owned by Dominion Transmission, Inc. adjacent to the traffic circle, and WHEREAS, the City agreed to remediate lands adjacent to and impacted by the construction of the traffic circle, and modified by construction of these traffic improvements, and WHEREAS, bids were received on January 19, 2010 for stabilization of lands adjacent to the traffic circle, and WHEREAS, total costs for stabilizing the lands adjacent to the traffic circle will exceed the remaining budget of $276,741 by $59,774.00; now therefore be it RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends Capital Project # 746 Spencer Street Slope Stabilization by an amount not to exceed $59,774 for a total project authorization of $345,774, and be it further RESOLVED, That the funds necessary for said project amendment shall be derived from the issuance of Serial Bonds. To: From: Date: Re: i� Cat CITY OF ITHACA Gj l 108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York 14850 -5690 r f OFFICE OF THE CITY ENGINEER Telephone: 607/274 -6530 Fax: 607/274 -6587 City Administration Committee Tom West, Assistant City Engineer January 21, 2010 Spencer Slope Stabilization — Budget Adjustment This is a request to increase the current budget for the Spencer Slope Stabilization project by $59,774.00. In 2001 the City authorized the construction of several projects which comprised the Six Point Traffic Plan; among these was the reconstruction of West Spencer Street. That project included the construction of the traff ic circle at the intersection of South Albany Street, Old Elmira Road, Park Place and Spencer Street. In order to reconstruct the intersection significant excavation was done on the neighboring slope to the east of the circle. Dominion Transmission, Inc (the main supplier of natural gas to NYSEG and the City) and the City agreed that the excavation could be undertaken on lands owned by - - Dominion providing that the City assure the stability of the slope and provide remediation If required. The City consulted with John P. Stopen Engineers, an engineering firm with significant geo- technical experience to, to conduct analysis of the slope. The analysis indicated some long -term concerns for stability of the slope that requires remediation. On Tuesday, January 19 bids were opened for stabilization of the slope using rock anchors and mesh which will prevent deterioration of the slope. The mesh will allow for re- vegetation of the slope over time. Capital Project 746 was established in 2009 for the purpose of stabilizing the Spencer Street slope. Expenditures to date leave a balance of approximately $276,741.00. 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E m c ca a aa) Q CO C E �Er) U- U _ _ (a ca ca E ��Ir 9.2 Common Council — Adoption of Green Policy for the City of Ithaca Fleet - Resolution WHEREAS, a subcommittee of the Local Action Plan Steering Committee, along with representatives from the Attorney's Office, the Building Dept., the Controller's Office, the Fire Dept., the Human Resources Dept., the Police Dept., and Common Council, has convened on numerous occasions to develop suitable policies and procedures intended to reduce the level of greenhouse gas emissions and fuel costs related to City fleet vehicles and equipment; and WHEREAS, the subcommittee is satisfied that the resultant proposed policy titled "Green Policy for the City of Ithaca Fleet" sets realistic and feasible goals, strategies and evaluation criteria; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby adopts the "Green Policy for the City of Ithaca Fleet" dated January 27, 2010. January 27, 2010 GREEN POLICY FOR THE CITY OF ITHACA FLEET Overview: This Green Policy for the City of Ithaca Fleet (hereafter called "the policy ") was developed to assist City policy- makers and City staff in working toward two City goals: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce fuel costs incurred by the City. Additionally, it is anticipated that this policy will lead to the following benefits as well: improve the health and well being of City employees; and serve as a model of environmentally responsible transportation for City residents and visitors alike. Scope: It is the intent of this policy to include the entire City fleet. Definitions: City fleet — The collection of vehicles and equipment utilized for City operations. This collection includes, but is not limited to, passenger vehicles, work trucks, bulldozers, emergency response vehicles, generators, and lawn mowers. Fleet Managers — Three individuals manage the City's fleet: the IFD Fleet Manager, the IPD Fleet Manager, and the Department of Public Works (DPW) Fleet Manager. Green Fleet Committee — A committee appointed by the Mayor to monitor and support compliance with the policy. The committee includes representation from: DPW Fleet Manager, IFD Fleet Manager, IPD Fleet Manager, City Engineer, City Attorney, Human Resources, Controller, Common Council, and Board of Public Works. Local Action Plan to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions for City of Ithaca Government Operations (the "Local Action Plan ") — A City of Ithaca document that, among other things, contains an inventory of sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and goals and strategies that can be used to reduce those emissions. Key Goals and Objectives: The City of Ithaca will strive to reduce fleet - related GHG emissions by at least 3% annually. This goal is consistent with the Local Action Plan recommendations adopted by Common Council in 2006. City of Ithaca employees will avoid driving (particularly solo driving) and the use of petroleum - fueled equipment when appropriate and feasible. When travel is necessary, employees are encouraged to walk, bicycle, utilize public transportation (free with employee ID), and /or carpool. The City of Ithaca will manage and operate its fleet in a manner that is energy efficient in order to reduce GHG emissions and fuel costs. When appropriate and feasible, the City of Ithaca will use the most energy efficient vehicles and equipment that meet the operational needs of the relevant departments. Older, less efficient fleet items will be phased -out and replaced with more efficient items. List of Strategies: Educate City Employees Minimize Vehicle Miles Traveled Optimize Fleet Size —Total Numbers Maximize Efficiency Through Maintenance Purchase Fuel- efficient/Low- emission Vehicles and Equipment Monitor Progress Annual Vehicle /Equipment Inventory and Analysis Explanation of Strategies: Educate City Employees The City will include education and training related to this policy in standard employee orientation and other ongoing training programs including driving and equipment operation training. City employees should drive City vehicles in a manner that maximizes fuel efficiency, by observing speed limits, by minimizing idling (including complying with the City's Idling Ordinance Section 346 -48), and by minimizing rapid acceleration and braking. Employees should be encouraged to learn more about operation habits that increase fuel efficiency. Supervisors, and other authority figures, should actively and positively reinforce efforts made by subordinates that help to further the objectives of this policy. Minimize Vehicle Miles Traveled Alternate meeting methods, such as conference calls, or other technology, should be used when appropriate and feasible to reduce the number of driving trips. Meetings should be held at centralized locations, when appropriate and feasible, to reduce distances traveled. Where appropriate and feasible, employees should walk, bicycle, use public transportation and /or carpool. Supervisors should adjust travel time expectations accordingly. In general, travel routes should be planned to optimize efficiency. When feasible, trips should be chained together to reduce required travel time and distance. Personal use of City vehicles is prohibited as per the Vehicle Usage Policy. Optimize Fleet Size —Total Numbers Vehicles that are used infrequently should be considered for removal from the fleet. Vehicle share agreements, either among departments or by joining community programs, should be implemented to reduce the number of fleet vehicles needed. Maximize Efficiency Through Maintenance Regularly scheduled preventive and other maintenance shall be performed promptly on all fleet items to maximize fuel efficiency and minimize emissions. All such work shall be noted in easily accessible records for inclusion on the Annual Vehicle Inventory. Purchase Fuel- efficient/Low- emission Vehicles and Equipment The Fleet Managers and the Green Fleets Committee will work with all City Departments to identify the most fuel- efficient vehicles and equipment with maximum emission reduction available that meet the department's operational needs. Vehicles of a smaller class size and vehicles such as NEVs (neighborhood electric vehicles), bicycles, and motorcycles should be considered to achieve increased fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Requests for new vehicle purchases must be supplemented with a written justification of need. The Fleet Managers and Green Fleet Committee will work with City Departments to determine whether a proposed vehicle could be downsized and still fulfill its required function(s). Increase Use of Alternate Fuels For all vehicles and equipment, the City will give first preference to purchasing electric, hybrid or alternative /renewable - fueled vehicles and equipment when (A) they meet the operational needs of the Department, (B) they, their fuels and relevant parts are available or could easily be made available, and (C) they show a reduced or equivalent emissions or life -cycle per -mile costs (including maintenance), when compared with similar gas or diesel equipment. "Clean" fuels (such as electricity, biodiesel, compressed natural gas, ethanol, and others) shall be used when the Fleet Managers, in consultation with the Green Fleets Committee, deems them appropriate and feasible. A feasibility assessment will include considerations of emissions and financial impact of alternative fuels, vehicles or equipment available to utilize the "clean" fuel, vehicle costs, fuel availability, and the ability to utilize existing infrastructure. Vehicles using these fuel types should be duly considered when evaluating vehicle and equipment replacement. All passenger vehicles acquired will be selected by the Fleet Managers, in consultation with City Departments that will use the vehicles and with the Green Fleets Committee, with the following priorities: minimum GHG emissions; maximum fuel efficiency; and, vehicles that achieve a combined 30 mpg or greater (or similar target for mpg or GHG emissions). Proposals for standard passenger vehicle purchases that do not meet these criteria require sufficient justification and must be approved by the Mayor. Work trucks, cargo vans, special purpose and emergency response vehicles and equipment shall be purchased or leased to comply with the requirements of this policy to the extent that the purchase or lease of such vehicles or equipment does not reduce the City's ability to provide safe, quality services. Departments utilizing mostly special purpose vehicles (such as emergency response vehicles) are urged to consider significant changes to their standard passenger vehicles and to their travel behaviors to reach overall departmental emission reductions goals. The Fleet Managers shall incorporate the above criteria into vehicle bid specifications and include these criteria when purchasing vehicles off of state contract. Monitor Progress A Green Fleet Committee will monitor and support compliance with this policy, with members appointed by the Mayor. On an annual basis, after the Annual Vehicle /Equipment Inventory (described in Section 7 below) is completed & distributed, so as to coordinate with budget submissions, each Department Head shall submit a Department- specific Green Fleet Plan (or plan update) to the Green Fleet Committee detailing how vehicle procurement, fleet operations, and employee travel activities are intended to conform to the larger Green Policy for the City of Ithaca Fleet. All vehicle procurement requests should be consistent with the Green Fleet Plan. The Green Fleet Committee will provide a model plan to assist in this process. The plans from IPD and IFD will also include an updated fleet vehicle inventory list in the same format as the fleet vehicle inventory described below. Each Green Fleet Plan shall be reviewed by the Green Fleet Committee for overall conformity with the larger policy. The Green Fleet Committee will work with the submitting Departments to revise plans that the Committee finds not to be in compliance with the policy. The Green Fleet Committee will review each departmental plan and provide a recommendation to the Mayor as to the plan's compliance with this policy. The Mayor will approve or reject vehicle procurement requests included in the plans. Any appeal of the Mayor's decision must be made in writing to Common Council. Annually, the most innovative, resourceful, effective, or otherwise exemplary Green Fleet Plan submitted and implemented will receive a recognition award presented by The Green Fleet Committee. The Green Fleet Committee will periodically review this policy, the Bicycle Use Policy, the Vehicle Usage Policy, and other relevant policies. The Green Fleet Committee will provide recommendations to the Mayor for revisions to those policies if deemed appropriate by the Committee. The City of Ithaca will collaborate with other municipalities, agencies, and other organizations, to identify or develop opportunities for initiatives that support and further the goals of this policy. 1. Annual Vehicle /Equipment Inventory and Analysis In order to establish baseline data so that the Department- specific Green Fleet Plans can be established, implemented, and monitored, the Fleet Managers, with support from City Departments, shall annually develop an inventory and analysis of the fleet vehicles and equipment within all City Departments. For each vehicle and piece of equipment, the inventory information shall include: • A list of vehicles and equipment ordered by classification, drive train (2WD /4WD) or engine type, model year, make, model, engine size, vehicle identification number (VIN), etc.; • Vehicle or equipment function (i.e., the tasks associated with the vehicle's use); • Type of fuel (or power source, e.g., electricity); • EPA estimated miles (or time used) per gallon (or gallon equivalent); • Actual miles (or time used) per gallon (or gallon equivalent); • Average fuel cost per mile (or time used) for the past year and for the life of the equipment; • Annual miles driven (or hours operated); • Total fuel (or power) consumption (including fuel from non -City owned fuel pumps); • Annual cost of repairs and routine maintenance; • Annual and lifetime operational (fuel and maintenance) cost per mile (or time used); • Equivalent Carbon Dioxide (eCO2) calculations based on gallons (or gallon equivalent) of fuel consumed; • Average fuel cost per gallon (or gallon equivalent) for all the fuels used by the fleet; • Other relevant fuel - related information that is not vehicle specific. IPD and IFD Fleet Managers are responsible for providing fleet data in a reliable and verifiable manner and submitting it to the DPW Fleet Manager for incorporation into the overall inventory for measuring City -wide progress toward the goals of the policy. The inventory will be completed annually, by February 15, for the prior calendar year. The annual vehicle inventory will be used by the Green Fleet Committee to identify opportunities to increase policy compliance (and achievement of GHG emissions reduction targets), including but not limited to: • Identification of little -used vehicles that could be removed from the fleet or whose function could be replaced by a sharing agreement. • Identification of fleet items with poor fuel efficiency or increased repair /maintenance costs as prime candidates for replacement with more efficient vehicles or those requiring less maintenance. Related policies: Vehicle Usage Policy, Bicycle Use Policy 9.3 A Resolution Delegating to the City Controller of the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, the Power to Authorize, From Time to Time and Year to Year, the Issuance and Sale of Revenue Anticipation Notes of Aid to Citv in Anticipation of the Collection of Revenues Due for any Fiscal Year of said City. BE IT RESOLVED, by the affirmative vote of not less than two- thirds of the total voting strength of the Common Council of the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, as follows: Section 1. The power to authorize, from time to time and year to year for a period of ten years, the issuance and sale of revenue anticipation notes of the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, including renewals thereof, in anticipation of the collection of revenues becoming due for the fiscal year of said City, during which such notes shall be issued or sold, is hereby delegated to the City Controller, the chief fiscal officer. Such notes shall be of such terms, form and contents as may be determined by said City Controller, pursuant to the Local Finance Law, and said revenues shall include all such revenues permitted pursuant to Section 25.00 of the Local Finance Law. Section 2. It is the intent of this Common Council that this resolution shall be of ten years duration which will self - repeal ten years from the date hereof, until otherwise modified, amended, revoked, rescinded or repealed. Section 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately. 10. PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE: 10.1 Resolution in Support of a Tompkins County Strategic Tourism Board Grant Application for a Stewart Park Architecture Study WHEREAS, in the Spring of 2008, Richard Manning, representing the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce Foundation's Cayuga Waterfront Trail Initiative, received a grant from the Tompkins County Strategic Tourism Board Tourism for a Stewart Park Rehabilitation Action Plan ( SPRAP) and WHEREAS, the plan was the result of a vision of a task force of stakeholders that included representatives from the City of Ithaca (staff, representatives from city boards and commissions, and Common Council), the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce, the Strategic Tourism Board and the County Visitors Bureau, Historic Ithaca, The History Center in Tompkins County, the Ithaca Motion Picture Project, Tompkins County Planning Department, Ithaca Festival, Community Arts Partnership, Cascadilla Boat Club, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Sustainable Tompkins, and the Friends of Newman Golf Course, and WHEREAS, the SPRAP has been completed and is currently being circulated for review and approval, and WHEREAS, the SPRAP identifies and assesses projects currently needed to upgrade existing facilities and recommends ways to coordinate projects proposed by various community groups into one coherent vision for the park and ways to prioritize these projects for effective implementation, and WHEREAS, the SPRAP identifies these key park rehabilitation projects and issues as critical to the success of the Stewart Park rehabilitation effort include: • Constructing Phase 3 of the Cayuga Waterfront Trail linking Stewart Park to the Ithaca Farmers Market, the Youth Bureau and the County Visitor Center. • Completing painting and minor repairs to the historic pavilions (Large Pavilion and DPW Pavilion). • Completing at least the first two phases of the Cascadilla Boathouse Restoration to make building functional for the Cascadilla Boat Club and for special event usage. • Developing an "all children's" playground and spray play area and relocate or bury existing overhead utility lines. • Renovations to the former Wharton studio pavilion for Ithaca Motion Picture Project use. • Constructing a Performance Pier and beginning lake edge enhancement. • Improving the pavilion parking lot by incorporating Cayuga Waterfront Trail Stewart Park Trailhead, including attractive plaza pavement for special events or parking. • Improving and "greening" park landscape maintenance practices • Renovating Memorial Flagpole Garden. • Beginning water quality monitoring of Lake and adjacent streams /drainage ways and developing water quality improvement projects. • Monitoring of dredging plans to help prevent and reduce negative impacts to park and to create opportunities for park improvements with dredge spoil materials. • Developing a "bird- friendly" Stewart Park project to enhance habitat, provide educational information to park users, improve bird watching opportunities and review all projects for their impact on this important bird area, and WHEREAS, the scope of the proposed Stewart Park Architecture Study will address the feasibility, schematic design, and concepts for: • Cascadilla Boathouse renovations • Large Pavilion renovations • IMPP Building renovations /additions • DPW Maintenance Building • Concession building evaluation • Tea Pavilion evaluation • Carousel: storage sheds, structure (include Rotary Report) • Bocce Court relocation, and WHEREAS, the proposed budget for the study is $13,000 for Architectural Consulting and $2,000 for Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce Grant Administration and Project Coordination for a total funding request of $15,000, and WHEREAS, the proposed schedule is for the work to be completed in 2010, within 6 months of the awarding of the grant, and WHEREAS, the grant, if successful, will cover 100% of the proposed study and is therefore cost neutral to the City, and WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Parks Commission, did, on December 8, 2009, discuss and agree to unanimously support the application for a Tompkins County Strategic Tourism Board Grant for a Stewart Park Architecture Study, now, therefore be it RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca supports the application for a Tompkins County Strategic Tourism Board Grant for a Stewart Park Architecture Study, and be it further RESOLVED, That the DPW maintenance building, the tea pavilion, and the large pavilion are not currently registered historic buildings but are most likely eligible for historic designation, and, in light of this, the architecture study should be done in cooperation with the City's Historic Preservation Planner. 10.2 NYSERDA Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant Application — Resolution WHEREAS, on December 29, 2009, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) issued Request for Proposal (RFP) 10 providing funding for the implementation of energy conservation measures by small municipalities including: energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy improvements, efficient transportation system implementation, material conservation, and energy management personnel; and WHEREAS, this RFP is being issued in connection with NYSERDA's administration of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA); and WHEREAS, $3.4 million is available to distribute in the central New York State NYSERDA region under this RFP; and WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca is eligible to submit proposals to this RFP; and WHEREAS, each small municipality may submit multiple proposals, but may not receive more than $500,000 under this RFP; and WHEREAS, no local match funds are required under this RFP; and WHEREAS, the deadline for submissions of proposals in response to this RFP is February 17, 2010; and WHEREAS, the City intends to submit an Energy Management Personnel project and other competitive projects after completion of eligibility and cost/benefit analysis for candidate projects; and WHEREAS, a complete list of projects submitted will not be known until such analysis has been completed by City staff, which is not expected to occur until after the February 3 Common Council meeting; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Common Council hereby authorizes the Mayor, upon advice of the Chairperson of the Planning & Economic Development Committee and the City Attorney, to submit proposals in response to NYSERDA RFP 10 — Implementation Funding for Small Cities, and be it further RESOLVED, That if proposals are approved, then the Mayor, upon advice of the City Attorney, is authorized to sign any and all documents to receive such funds. 10.3 Common Council Endorsement of the ItalThai Plantation Building Renovation Project at 130 -132 E. MILK/State Street for the Communitv Investment Incentive Program - Resolution WHEREAS, on September 20, 2001, the Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) established the "City of Ithaca Density Incentive Program" providing incentives for multi -story development projects with the city density target area with a review after five years, and WHEREAS, on June 7, 2006, the Common Council endorsed the continuation of an IDA abatement program and requested that the IDA establish the Community Incentive Investment Program (CIIP), under which projects would be reviewed by the community and evaluated by the Common Council against a list of community benefits, and if endorsed by the Common Council, then proposed for recommendation by the Mayor to the IDA as eligible for tax abatements, and WHEREAS, on December 7, 2007, the IDA revised its incentive program to incorporate many of the City's recommendations, including requiring endorsement of the project by the host municipality, and determining eligibility and level of incentives based on their determination of the number of community benefits achieved by the project, and furthermore renamed the program the "Downtown Density Incentive Program," and WHEREAS, under the City's CUP, a project is eligible for City endorsement to the IDA for incentives if it achieves at least 14 community benefits, and WHEREAS, under the IDA's Downtown Density Incentive Program, a project is eligible for partial incentives if it is determined it will achieve at least 15 community benefits and is eligible for full incentives if it will achieve 23 or more community benefits, and WHEREAS, on December 30, 2009, Sunit "Lex" Chutintaranond, managing member of ItalThai, LLC (ItalThai) submitted an CIIP application seeking tax abatements for the Plantation Building project located at 130 -132 E. MLK/State Street on The Commons, and WHEREAS, ItalThai proposes to renovate the vacant Plantation Building into a first floor restaurant, second floor banquet facility & commercial office space, and 8 one - bedroom apartments on the 3rd and 4th floors, of which 2 apartments will be leased to low /moderate income households at affordable rents, and WHEREAS, in accordance with the CUP process adopted by Common Council resolution on September 5, 2007, a public meeting has been advertised and property owners with 200 feet of the property have been notified of the public meeting held at 6:30 P.M. on January 20, 2010 in Council Chambers of City Hall, and this public meeting has been documented in an updated project description submitted by the applicant, and WHEREAS, the project is located within the eligible city density district, and WHEREAS, at the time of the January 20, 2010, Planning and Economic Development Committee meeting, ItalThai claimed the project will provide 31 community benefits that have been previously identified by the_ Common Council as important contributions to the community; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council recognizes that the Plantation Building renovation project proposed by ItalThai LLC offers many benefits to the community, and be it further RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council does hereby determine that the proposed Plantation Building project at 130 -132 E. MLK/State Street will provide 29 community benefits, as described in the attached community benefits checklist dated January 20, 2010, which exceeds the minimum qualifications of 14 benefits for eligibility through the Community Investment Incentive Program, and be it further RESOLVED, That the Common Council does hereby endorse the Plantation Building project being undertaken by ItalThai, LLC and requests that the Mayor recommend the project to the I DA for tax abatement incentives under the Downtown Density Incentive Program. TDO�Ci, v clipappi t bbl r4 o - -;s A ECE�WE Italthai CIIP Application In - JAN 2 6 20010 Project Name: Plantation Building Project Address: 130 -132 The Commons ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL. AGENCY On January 20, 2010 The City of Ithaca Common Council Economic Development Sub Committee met to discuss Italthai's Community Incentive Investment Program Application. We made a presentation to the public in attendance about our proposed project to restore the former Plantations building located at 130 -132 the Commons. Mr. Andrew Gil of Holt Architects gave an extensive background on the design of the restoration and construction of the building. Mr. Gil also spoke about following the guidelines and regulations of the New York State Historic Preservation Office. He stated that out project includes all the safety and building regulations as required by the City. In addition, he explained the ADA standards, which are applied to our project. In fact, we are exceeding all of the ADA requirements for the building, the restaurant, and the apartments. We then, went on to explain the benefits of the project to the Community, which we categorized as follows: housing, job creation, additional revenue, synergy, and heritage preservation. The public's response at the meeting was overwhelmingly positive; furthermore, we received many supportive phone calls from the public at large on the following days. The committee voted 4 -1 in our favor, and their resolution will be submitted to the Common Council at their next meeting. However some committee members raised some issues. There were some concerns regarding ADA requirements, construction labor, green restaurant standards, affordable housing screening, and bicycles storage. In the original application, in fact, some of those issues were not fully explained. At the meeting we addressed some of the issues, but some remained. We took every point very seriously and looked into addressing every issue that was pending. The next day we met with Holt Architects, Northeast Construction and Port City Preservation to address the concerns raised. Our findings are included in this packet Ithaca, January 2S, 2010 Project Description and Benefits to the Community This project involves a large -scale rehabilitation of an historical building located at 130- 132 The Commons. This building housed several different businesses in its existence: the last one was a Dollar Store, which closed its doors last spring. "The Plantations ", as this building is known, is presently listed in the downtown national historical district, but in its current conditions is not accessible in its entirety. The upper floors have not been occupied in decades and are deteriorating to an irreparable state if left alone. After we purchased the building last spring, we immediately have employed the services of Holt Architects and Northeast Construction to lead the work needed for the restoration of the building. Furthermore, we have hired Mr. Murray Gould of Port City preservation to assist us in meeting the regulations of the New York State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). The completed building will feature a restaurant on the first floor with its banquet facilities on the rear part of the second floor. The second floor will also house an office space. The third and the fourth floor will be divided into 8 one - bedroom apartments. The project will provide two affordable housing apartments, while the other six will be available for average- income renters. We will make sure that all contaminated materials will be removed from the premises and properly disposed. We will make every effort to ensure that all city, safety and building codes will be enforced. For example, the final drawings of the interior of the building take into account the ADA standards and we exceed all requirements. The restoration of the building will be done following original drawings and photographs of the building as it was meant when it was first built. It is our intention to restore it to its former state, thus preserving its cultural and historical significance. Lastly, the restored appearance will enhance the appeal of downtown business area for public view and use; this along with the following is a great benefit to the local community. We strongly believe that the benefits fall in these five main categories. • Housing We will provide 8 brand new apartments in the heart of the Commons, two will be available as affordable housing and the other six will be rented to low -to- moderate income tenants. • Job Creation During construction there will be jobs available, as well as 20FTE positions for the restaurant. The restaurant will provide jobs at all levels. Additional Revenue The revenue that this project will create is two -fold, direct and indirect. Direct additional revenue for the City is created through property, school and sales taxes, as well as through the increased use of existing infrastructures: water and sewer, public transit, and public parking. The indirect revenue is created through the employment of local workers, like plumbers, electricians and maintenance people. As well as availing ourselves of local food companies which has always been the philosophy behind our businesses. Furthermore, the City will benefit from revenue from out- of- towners and tourists who will come to our community. Our past restaurants have always been a destination for many, and we are going to work toward making our new restaurant a destination as well. • Synergy Synergy is the momentum that creates motion, and we believe that the addition of this new, unique restaurant in the heart of downtown, along with the other fine, existing businesses will add to the appeal of the Commons. As an example of past successes, we can look at two restaurants that we opened. Just a Taste opened in 1991 and Madeleine's opened in 1998, they both helped anchor the East end of the Commons. It is our hope that our new restaurant will be as successful for this part of the Commons. • Preserving our heritage Restoring a historical building in the Commons gives us the chance to preserve a piece of history for the future generations. This old building will fall victim of time and the elements if left alone. We are devoting our time, efforts and a great financial commitment to the restoration of this building following the guidelines of the New York State Historic Preservation Office. Personal Statement Ithaca is a special place for both of us. We have been living and working here for more than 20 years and have made Ithaca our place of choice to work, live and raise our children. We believe that this town offers many special opportunities that other communities do not. We plan on being here for a long time and are happy to see this City thrive, being able to do something tangible in this direction is a plus for both of us. Flaminia has been teaching Italian at Cornell for the past fifteen years. Lex has been a businessman in this town since his arrival in 1989. He opened four different businesses; he employed many Ithacans throughout the years and has contributed to the financial growth of the City. Once the decision was made to open a new restaurant, we looked at the most appropriate location for our vision. Downtown, and more specifically The Commons, has always been a favorite choice (Lex has opened two previous restaurants here.) We looked at various locations, but once the former Plantations became available, we were thrilled at the opportunity. Not only for the chance to open in the Commons, but because we immediately envisioned being able to rescue a building that has been underutilized in decades and that would have certainly fallen victim of the time and neglect, had nobody tried to restore it. After the thrill of the novelty, we quickly realized the financial burden that our project would have meant for us. We realized that the reason no one had been able to restore this building and use it in its entirety was because the return in the investment would be negative. The risk was too high. Fortunately, we were able to connect with Philly De Sarno, Nels Bohn and Gary Ferguson, all working for the City, who informed us of the Restore NY Grant. This grant comes with specific requirements: the recipient has to create housing, create jobs, and of course, restore a historical building, thus improving the city's downtown. In order to apply for the grant, we had to purchase the building we wanted to restore. We took a risk and bought "The Plantations" building before being able to apply for the grant. With great help and support from the aforementioned City officials, we applied and won the grant, in the amount of $9003000.00. As high as this figure might seem, it is not sufficient to cover the cost of the entire project of $2,500,000.00 (this figure does not include the cost of the restaurant, projected at $450,000.00.) After providing the Department of Assessment with a full income projections, they reassessed the value of the restored building in the range of $925,000 - $975,000. In order to make this project happen, we still need to approach banks for loans to cover the amount needed to complete the project. For all of these reasons and with the knowledge that without help our financial burden would be much greater, we come to you hoping to receive as much help with tax abatement as possible. We thank you for your time and attention in this matter. We feel very strong about the outcome of the project and are grateful to have this opportunity. Sincerely, _ t Sunit "Lex" Chutintaranond and Flaminia Cervesi ltdfol capawov �U.3 t3 aJ -Zc� -io City of Ithaca Community Incentive Investment Program Application for Density Tax Incentive Program Date: January 27, 2010 Annlicant Information: Name of Company /Applicant: ItalThai, LLC Owner: Sunit Chutintaranond Address: 20 Rosina Drive City /State /Zip: Ithaca, NY 14850 Phone/Email: 607. 351 .2525 /madthaiboya-hotmail.com Prniect Information! Project Name : Plantation Building Project Address 130 -132 E. State Street Project Description: Please see attached project description (add separate pages if necessary) 1 Post Public Meeting: Community Benefits Checklist: 12/30/2010 1/26/2010 POTENTIAL COMMUNITY BENEFITS Self Score Revised Self Score Common Council Score Architeture 1 Project is architecturally exceptional as judged by the Design Review Board or as evidenced through positive architectural reviews. 1 1 1 2 Project involves the rehabilitation of a historically significant building. 1 1 1 3 Project exceeds Americans with Disabilities Act standards for accommodations for people with disabilities. 1 1 1 Construction Labor 4 Project contractors have a certified apprenticeship r ram to train workers in skilled trades. 1 1 1 5 Project produces skilled trades jobs during construction. 1 1 1 6 Project contractors will pay prevailing wage. 0 1 0 7 Project produces local construction jobs from within Tompkins County. 1 1 1 8 Project is built with at least 25% local labor. 1 1 1 Transportation �.....` 9 Project encourages and generates pedestrian activity. 1 1 1 10 Project promotes use of public transit. 1 1 1 11 Project has accommodations for bicycles. 1 1 1 12 Project has accommodations for 2- wheeled motor vehicles. 0 0 0 Permanent Em to ment 13 Project produces permanent jobs 1 1 1 14 Project produces entry-level jobs. 1 1 1 15 Project produces jobs, 90% of which pay a local living wage or better. 0 0 0 161 Project produces jobs, all of which pay a local living wage or better. 0 0 0 171 Project leads to the retention of existing jobs that might otherwise move outside the city. 0 0 0 Page 1 of 2 POTENTIAL COMMUNITY BENEFITS Self Score Common Revised Council Self Score Score 18 Project provides 50 or more permanent jobs to the target area. 0 0 0 19 Project will include high-tech jobs. — 0 0 0 Housina 2 Project includes housing1 1 1 21 Project includes housing for low- or moderate - income persons /households making no more than 100% of median income 1 1 1 22 Project includes housing for low- or moderate- income persons /households making no more than 80% of median income 1 1 1 23 Project includes housing for low- or moderate - income persons /households making no more than 60% of median income 0 0 0 24 Project includes mixed - income housing within the same project)1 1 1 Environmental3 25 Project achieves basic LEED certification 0 0 0 26 Project achieves Silver LEED certification 0 0 0 27 Project achieves Gold LEED certification 0 0 0 28 Project achieves Platinum LEED certification 0 0 0 29 Project meets standards established under another green building program (only for those not receiving LEED certification). 0 0 0 30 Project will be operated according to environmental standards appropriate for their industry (e.g. green hotel standards for hotels). 1 1 0 31 Project cleans up a brownfield or other environmentally contaminated site. 1 0 0 32 Project produces onsite power 0 0 0 Site 33 Project is constructed on a vacant or underutilized site. 1 1 1 34 Project makes use of excess capacity in existing parking facilities. 1 1 1 35 Project makes efficient use of infrastructure. 1 1 1 36 Project provides non - surface level onsite parking 0 0 0 Financial Benefits 1 1 37 Project will generate additional property taxes Annual revenue after abatement period)1 3 8 Project will generate at least $200,000 annually in property taxes to the city after abatement period is ended. 0 0 0 39 Project will generate additional sales taxes. 1 1 1 40 Project will generate at least $100,000 annual) in additional sales taxes. 1 1 1 41 Project has economic multi tier effects 1 1 1 42 Project attracts out -of -town visitors to spend money local) 1 1 1 Other Benefits 1 1 1 43 Project creates synergy with existing activities in the area 44 Project discourages sprawl 1 1 1 45 Project includes mixed uses 1 1 1 46 Project includes public amenities 0 0 0 47 Project builds new or enhances existing public spaces 1 1 1 48 Project produces other benefits suggested by developer that are not on this list but that are considered by Common Council to be significant community benefits. Note: Developer should describe such benefits for consideration by Common Council. Developer may also wish to suggest that benefits which are already on this list be given additional weight if they are particularly significant fora given prolect 1 1 1 1 Total 31 31 29 Page 2 of 2 �'tomIU3C Architecture 1. Project is architecturally exceptional as judged by the Design Review "d ed th h "ti hit ct I C 11 P wo 13of 9 D c C ENE ,-MAN RENEWAL AGENCY eve enc roug posy VU 01%, a ura reviews Through Holt Architecture's research on the buildings original design elements we plan to incorporate such elements into the restoration of the building. Additionally we hope to maintain its historic design and appeal so that it will remain consistent with other historic buildings in the area. The design has been discussed and reviewed by Holt Architects in compliance with SHIPO, which strongly supports it. The original staircase, tin ceiling tiles, and the upper most floor skylights will be restored, preserved and incorporated in the final design. (See attached photographs of mentioned features in their current state). In addition, Andrew Magre, associate university architect at Cornell University, Ithaca, NY has independently reviewed the project and has provided a letter with his assessment. (Mr. Magr& s letter is attached) 2. Project involves the rehabilitation of a historically significant building. 130 -132 E. State Street is listed as a contributing structure to the downtown national historical district 3. Project exceeds Americans with Disabilities Act standards for accommodations for people with disabilities. According to Holt Architects we are exceeding the requirements of the American with Disabilities Act by virtue of our compliance with the International Code Council ICClANSI Al 17.1 -2003 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities. According to Mr. Andrew Gil, licensed New York State Architect working for Holt Architects, and Mr. Torn Hoard Codes Analyst for Holt Architects and former Building Commissioner of Ithaca, the following applies to the design and concept of the building. The American with Disabilities Act requires that a place of public accommodation, in this case the restaurant and banquet room, be provided with an accessible entry, accessible toilet rooms, and an accessible route. This translates into a requirement for an elevator to the 2nd floor and providing other attributes of accessibility such as floor area for movement, clearances at doors, accessible door hardware, etc. on the first and second floors. The ADA has no requirements that pertain to the apartments. The New York State Building Code (NYSBC), however, requires that 25% of the apartments be handicap adaptable' — which means that they may not have accessible counter heights, accessible fixture heights, accessible door hardware, etc. but are designed with all space and clearance requirements so that they can readily be converted to accessible apartments. This also requires that the elevator travel to the 31d floor to make two adaptable apartments accessible in their access. The proposed project provides elevator access to all floors with all (8) apartments designed as adaptable, and the leasable office space is also fully accessible. Construction Labor 4. Project contractors have a certified apprenticeship program to train workers in skilled trades. 5. Project produces skilled trade jobs during construction. 6. Project contractors will pay prevailing wage. 7. Project produces local construction jobs from within Tompkins County. 8. Project is built with at least 25% local labor. We have hired Northeast Construction for this project Its president, Mr. Dick Schneider, will act as general contractor. Presently, Northeast Construction is involved with the Hangar Theatre and a project with the State Theatre; previously the Company has been extensively involved with projects in our Community, more recently with the completion of the Gateway Plaza. During our meetings with Mr. Schneider we have discussed the construction labor points detailed above. He has assured us that although some of the answers are based on previous experience, he is confident that our results, after the sub - contractors bidding will take place, will mirror those of Mr. Mack Travis for the construction of his Gateway Plaza. Mr. Schneider has said that the same criteria used for Mr. Travis will apply to our project as well. Furthermore, we have hired Holt Architects and Taitem Engineers for our project, the same firms used for the Gateway Plaza project. According to Mr. Schneider every subcontractor on the project who is a union contractor will have an apprenticeship program, and that skilled trades will be used on the project. Their use is based upon them being the successful bidder. The project will not exclusively use union sub contractors, however Mr. Schneider assures us that local people will be involved. At the completion of the Gateway Plaza bidding, Mr. Schneider said that 46% of the sub contractors were union and 50% were local for a total of 96 %. The remaining balance of 4% was from the southem tier or outside of Tompkins County. Regarding the issue of prevailing wages, we can assure that we will pay the workers according to the outcome of the bidding. We are happy to defer the decision to you, based on the information that we provided. Transportation 9. Project encourages and generates pedestrian activity. The building, located in the center of a pedestrian mall in a downtown business district, will be the site for my new restaurant I have opened other restaurants in the same area, and we have seen an average of 700 people per week coming to these locations. We anticipate meeting the same numbers. 10. Project promotes use of public transit. The restaurant and building are located between four major bus stops downtown, which are used by students, locals and professionals. Public transportation from many city locations to the restaurant is already available and will be used. 11. Project has accommodations for bicycles. We are planning to provide storage in the basement for bicycles used by our employees & tenants of building. The storage will be located in the basement because we cannot place bicycle racks in front of the building. Permanent Employment 13. Project produces permanent jobs We anticipate hiring people to fill 20 FTE for the restaurant, as well as 2 -3 people for management and maintenance positions. 14. Project produces entry-level jobs. Many of the jobs in the restaurant will be entry-level jobs. Potential Community Benefits 20. Project includes housing There will be eight apartments located on the third and forth floor of the building. 21. Project includes housing for low- or moderate - income personsihouseholds making no more than 100% of median income Six of the eight apartments will be rented to moderate - income tenants. 22. Project includes housing for low or moderate - income personsihouseholds making no more than 80% of median income We have an agreement with the IURA to provide two affordable housing apartments. 24. Project includes mixed - income housing (within the same project) Two of the apartments will be affordable housing and six will be average income housing. Environmental 30. Project will be operated according to environmental standards appropriate for their industry (e.g. green hotel standards for hotels). The restaurant has not been built yet, but here is what we would like to do: we will try to be as energy efficient and environmentally friendly as possible. We plan to follow local trash and recycling guidelines, as well as the disposal of chemicals. We will recycle our used cooking oil. We also plan to use environmentally friendly cleaning products. We do not plan to use tablecloths, which would require extensive water usage and chemicals to clean. We are looking into the use of short -cycle dishwashing machines, because the traditional machines have the highest water consumption in the restaurant environment We will use light dimmers, as well as energy saving light bulbs, where it applies. We will not use any Styrofoam containers, as we already have banned all Styrofoam use from the restaurant we currently own. Currently, most of our paper products are post - consumer recycled, and we plan on following this tradition. We will buy local products as much as possible, and finally we are planning to send excess food to Loaves and Fishes as allowed. Site 33. Project is constructed on a vacant or underutilized site. For the past few decades the 2nd, 3rd and 4th floor of this building could not be utilized due to it not meeting standards for handicap accessibility and fire codes due to lack of emergency exits. We are renovating those floors and will provide handicap accessibility as well as two emergency exits to meet fire codes. 34. Project makes use of excess capacity in existing parking facilities. The restaurant, offices and apartments in this building will help increase use of the two nearby parking garages downtown. 35. Project makes efficient use of infrastructure. This building will be using the existing water, gas, electric and sewage services, provided by the city. Financial Benefits 37. Project will generate additional property taxes (Annual revenue after abatement period) The assessment office has already assessed the value of the building at its completion to be around $900,000, which is twice the amount it was purchased for. 39. Project will generate additional sales taxes. We are projecting our sales to be 1.1-1.4 million dollars per year, which should generate over $100,000 in sales tax. 40. Project will generate at least $100,000 annually in additional sales taxes. See previous. 41. Project has economic multiplier effects We plan on conducting business with as many local professionals as possible, including local farmers, food suppliers, plumbers, electricians and so on, thereby helping to support and improve the local economy. From my 20years of experience in restaurants in Ithaca, and after opening 4 successful restaurants I have always drawn a diverse clientele, including tourists, students, parents, and locals. People who come to the restaurant downtown will also stay to shop at the various businesses on the commons, which will stimulate the economy. 42. Project attracts out -of -town visitors to spend money locally From my experience with the past restaurants I have opened, (Thai Cuisine, Just a Taste, Madeline's and ZaUs Cucina) my restaurants have always become a destination point for people to dine at from surrounding areas as far as Binghamton and Syracuse. Because of the unique concept I have for this project I expect this to continue to be the case and be even more attractive than my previous projects. Other Benefits 43. Project creates synergy with existing- activities in the area My past restaurants have always been a destination point. Combining the unique concept of the one I am going to open in this building with other local shops, restaurants businesses and meeting places downtown will only add to the appeal of the commons as a destination point (or one -stop- shop) for people to fulfill many different needs. In addition, by creating housing and office spaces in the building 1 will be bringing more people downtown, who will likely be potential customers for downtown businesses, which is consistent with downtown strategic planning. 44. Project discourages sprawl The project is located in the heart of the City it will provide housing, work space, and entertainment all within a pedestrian area. 45. Project includes mixed uses The building will include housing, restaurant, and office space. 47. Project builds new or enhances existing public spaces We will be faithfully restoring the original storefront fagade of the building, using historic photos and building upon the work previously done by the former owner which will enhance the appearance and appeal of the downtown business area for public view and use. Additionally we are planning to provide patio dining, which has been designated by the City of Ithaca. 48. Project produces other benefits suggested by developer that are not on this list but that are considered by Common Council to be significant community benefits. Note: Developer should describe such benefits for consideration by Common Council. Developer may also wish to suggest that benefits which are already on this list be given additional weight if they are particularly significant for a given project. With the current state of the building, with all of the deterioration and vacant space we estimate that if left alone for another 5 -1 oyears the damage to the building would be irreparable and would not be able to be restored. By taking on this project, at significant cost and effort on my part, I am helping to save a historic building which would otherwise be lost due to neglect We consider this to be a great benefit to the local community. O� MERGED DOCUMENT SHOWING CHANGES FROM ORIGINAL SUBMISSION TO REVISED Deleted: 1. ...._... ... _.. ._...._...... -------------- ...- ------ -__. _ . .... .. ... .... ........ ..._... ... _.__... .._._... .. ..... ...._. ................ ......... _._ -_. -_. _. _._... .... .........__.. ..... ._ L__ -_ .. POST PUBLIC HEARING VERSION Architecture Project is architecturally exceptional as judged by the Design Review Board or as evidenced through positive architectural reviews Through Holt Architecture's research on the buildings original design elements we plan to incorporate such elements into the restoration of the building. Additionally we hope to maintain its historic design and appeal so that it will remain consistent with other historic buildings in the area. The design has been discussed and reviewed by Holt Architects in compliance with SHIPO, which strongly supports it. The original staircase, tin ceiling tiles, and the upper most floor skylights will be restored, preserved and incorporated in the final design. (See attached photographs of mentioned features in their current state). In addition,,Andrew Magre, associate university architect at Cornell University, Ithaca, NY has independently reviewed the project and has provided a letter with his assessment (Mr. Magre's letter is attached) ,Project involves the rehabilitation of a historically significant building. 130 -132 E. State Street is listed as a contributing structure to the downtown national historical district. Deleted: an independent review from .\, .......... __.__....J Deleted: of this project ..................... .I Deleted: 2. Deleted: 3. ._... ......... ....... ........... .... . -- - - -- Formatted: ecxecxmsonormal, Space Before: 0.1 pt, After: 0.1 pt ) Deleted: ¶ ,project exceeds Americans with Disabilities Act standards for accommodations for people to cram workers m - - -- - _ _ ..._.._ 4 Project contractors have a certified apprenticeship program with disabilities. skilled trades.¶ According to Holt Architects we are exceeding the requirements of the American with Disabilities Act by virtue of our t I have spoken with Northeast Construction, compliance with the International Code Council ICCIANSI A117.1 -2003 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, who has done work for Mack Travis on the According to Mr. Andrew Gil, licensed New York State Architect working for Holt Architects, and Gateway Plaza projectw�ll be process nt W th --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mr. Tom Hoard Codes Analyst for Holt Architects and former Building Commissioner of Ithaca, the the way Northeast Construction has done so in the past for projects such as the ones with following applies to the design and concept of the building.. Mack Travis. _. ... __.._ _.. . The American with Disabilities Act requires that a place of public accommodation, in this case the restaurant and banquet room, be provided with an accessible entry, accessible toilet rooms and an accessible route. This translates into a requirement for an elevator to the 2nd floor and providing other attributes of accessibility such as floor area for movement, clearances at doors accessible door hardware etc. on the first and second floors. The ADA has no requirements that pertain to the apartments. The New York State Buildina Code (NYSBC), however, requires that 25% of the apartments be "handicap adaptable " — which means that they may not have accessible counter heights, accessible fixture heights, accessible door hardware, etc. but are designed with all space and clearance requirements so that they can readily be converted to accessible apartments. This also requires that the elevator travel to the 3rd floor to make two adaptable apartments accessible in their access. The proposed project provides elevator access to all floors with all (8) apartments designed as adaptable, and the leasable office space is also fully accessible. Formatted: Font: 12 pt Deleted: Dick Schneider, president of Northeast Construction, the union contractor who bid for the project does have apprenticeship programs to train workers in skilled trades. ... ................. ... Formatted: Font: 12 pt i _..._ _ ..................... _ ........ _......_J Deleted: ¶ 5. Project produces skilled trade jobs during construction.q See previous paragraph¶ q 7. Project produces local construction jobs from within Tompkins County.¶ According to Northeast Construction some of the jobs being bid out will go to local companies and workers. ¶ 8. Project is built with at least 25% local labor.¶ According to Northeast Construction we will meet if not greatly exceed the 25% minimum for local labor use.¶ 9. Transportation Project encourages and generates pedestrian activity. Thepuildin log, cated in the center of a pedestrian mad irl a downtown business district will be the _- Deleted: location of the j - a ---- t — --- -- ----tr ct_-- -- -- - ---- _...._....._.._....._.. - - - - -- - -- - — - - - - - -- site for my new restaurant.,] have opened other restaurants jn the same,area, and we have,Mp Deleted: which is an average of 700 people per weekcoming to these locations We anticipate meeting the same Deleted: Based on my past experience numbers. with Deleted: located J - -- -............... ........... ..._. - - ro'ect romotes use of-public transit. Deleted: downtown business The restaurant and building are located between four major bus stops downtown, which Are used i Deleted: where ,Ly students, locals and professional,% Public transportation from many city locations to the Deleted: brought in restaurant is already available and will be used. Deleted: we J JProject has accommodations_for bicycles.- -___ -_ -------------------- We are planning to provide storage in the basement for bicycles used by our employees & tenants of building. The storage will be located in the basement because we cannot place bicycle racks in front of the building. Construction labor Project contractors have a certified apprenticeship program to train workers in skilled trades. Project produces skilled trade jobs during construction. Project contractors will pay prevailing wage. Project produces local construction lobs from within Tompkins County. Project is built with at least 25% local labor. We have hired Northeast Construction for this project. Its president, Mr. Dick Schneider, will act as general contractor. Presently, Northeast Construction is involved with the Hangar Theatre and a project with the State Theatre; previously the Company has been extensively involved with projects in our Community, more recently with the completion of the Gateway Plaza. During our meetings with Mr. Schneider we have discussed the construction labor points detailed above. He has assured us that, although some of the answers are based on previous experience, he is confident that our results, after the sub - contractors bidding will take place, will mirror those of Mr. Mack Travis for the construction of his Gateway Plaza. Mr. Schneider has said that the same criteria used for Mr. Travis will apply to our project as well. Furthermore, we have hired Holt Architects and Taitem Engineers for our project, the same firms used for the Gateway Plaza project. According to Mr. Schneider every subcontractor on the project who is a union contractor will have an apprenticeship program, and that skilled trades will be used on the project. Their use is based upon them being the successful bidder. The project will not exclusively use union sub contractors, however Mr. Schneider assures us that local people will be involved. At the completion of the Gateway Plaza bidding, Mr. Schneider said that 46% of the sub contractors were union and 50% were local for a total of 96 %. The remaining balance of 4% was from the southern tier or outside of Tompkins County. - - -_. - - -- - ....._.._.._.--..--- ..................... ...................____...._.._ _ -. Deleted: 10. Deleted: is Deleted: for Deleted: , and will provide transport to the restaurant from many locations in the area Deleted: 11. i Deleted: 13. i Regarding the issue of prevailing wages, we can assure that we will pay the workers according to the outcome of the bidding. We are happy to defer the decision to you, based on the information that we provided. Employment Project produces permanent jobs We anticipate hiring people to fill 20 FTE for the restaurant, as well as 2 -3 people for management and maintenance positions. ,project produces entry -level jobs. Deleted: U. - - __. _ _ - -- . ...... Many of the jobs in the restaurant will be entry-level jobs_ r._._.- ._... . - _ _ _. _ ... Deleted: 20 oUSln _. . ..... ............................. . J _.. . Project includes housing There will be eight apartments located on the third and forth floor of the building. ,Project includes housing for low- or moderate - income personslhouseholds making no more Deleted: 21 than 100% of median income ,Six of the eight apartments will be rented to moderate - income tenants. Deleted: We have an agreement with the I IURA to provide two low income apartments ,project includes housing for low- or moderate - income persons/households making no more Deleted: 22. _.._ than 80% of median income We have an agreement with the IURA to provide two affordable housing apartments. Deleted: See number 21 E_______________ __s _ _____________________ _ includes mixed - income housing (within the same project) Deleted: 24. ,Project _. Two of the apartments will be ffo,� rdable housing and six will be average Income housing_ `Deleted low income Deleted: 30. nvronmental �i _______________________ ------------------------------------------------------------ Deleted: We know of no standards for green restaurants, therefore we will develop Project will be operated according to environmental standards appropriate for their industry our own. (e.g. green hotel standards for hotels). Deleted: as well as the apartments ,The The restaurant.has not been built yet but here is what we would like to do we will try to be as ........ _..�. .... .... _....... _. - Deleted: 1 � energy efficient and environmentally friendly as possible. We plan to follow local trash and Deleted: product recycling guidelines, as well as the disposal of chemicals. We will recycle our used cooking oil. We _.._-_.-._-_-....._._......_._....___ .................................._._._._...._._ ...._......_....._....._.._._.J Deleted: ¶ also plan to use environmentally friendly cleaning products. We do not plan to use tablecloths, 31. Project cleans up a Brownfield or other which would require extensive water usage and chemicals to clean. We are looking into the use of environmentally contaminated site.% The environmental analysis we have short —cycle dishwashing machines, because the traditional machines have the highest water conducted through Microbac Laboratories consumption in the restaurant environment. We will use light dimmers, as well as energy saving the building has shown led paint and asbestos material throughout the building, which we are light bulbs, where it applies. We will not use any Styrofoam containers, as we already have planning to completely remove in an banned all Styrofoam use from the restaurant we currently own. Currently, most of our paper environmentally appropriate way. A cost estimate for asbestos abatement by products are post- consumer recycled, and we plan on following this tradition. We will buy local Sunstream Corporation was provided in the ,products as much as possible, nd final) we are tannin to send excess food to Loaves and ! p __.. g.... cunt $26,000 r mo of . Furthermore, abatement will be nitoringcostdunngthe __..._p _...... _.._.__y _ _....... Fishes as allowed. an additional $4,000.1 33. Site Project is constructed on a vacant or underutilized site. For the past few decades the 2nd, 3rd and 4th floor of this building could not be utilized due to it not meeting standards for handicap accessibility and fireades due to lack of emergency_ exits. We � De.etea� ........ - - are renovating those floors and will provide handicap accessibility as well as two emergency exits Deleted: code to meet fire codes. - ..... .._ . ,)Project makes use of excess capacity in existing parking facilities. Deleted: 34. __� The restaurant, offices and apartments in this building will help increase use of the two nearby parking garages downtown. ,Project makes efficient use of infrastructure. Deleted• 35 I This building will be using the existing water, gas, electric and sewage services, provided by the city. ,financial Benefits Deleted: 37. Project will generate additional property taxes (Annual revenue after abatement period) The assessment office has already assessed the value of the building at its completion to be around $900,000, which is twice the amount it was purchased for. roject will enerate additional sales taxes. __ _ _ ... ....... _ _ _ _ ; Deleted: 39. We are projecting our sales to be 1.1-1.4 million dollars per year, which should generate over $100,000 in sales tax. ,Project will generate at least $100,000 annually in additional sales taxes. .. _ _ .. ,�gg pr.e.y ous. Deleted: 40. Deleted: See number 39 _ -. ............................... _.. . - - - -..1 r._.._._....._.._...-..__......__ ................-.... ............_................... ........ ............................ __� ,Project has economic multi lier effects Deleted: 41. We plan on conducting business with as many local professionals as possible, including local farmers, food suppliers, plumbers, electricians and so on, thereby helping to support and improve the local economy. From my 20years of experience in restaurants in Ithaca, and after opening 4 successful restaurants I have always drawn a diverse clientele, including tourists, students, parents, and locals. People who come to the restaurant downtown will also stay to shop at the various businesses on the commons, which will stimulate the economy. ,)Project attracts out -of -town visitors to spend money locally Deleted: az. From my experience with the past restaurants I have opened, (Thai Cuisine, Just a Taste, Madeline's and ZaZa's Cucina) my restaurants have always become a destination point for people to dine at from surrounding areas as far as Binghamton and Syracuse. Because of the unique concept I have for this project I expect this to continue to be the case and be even more attractive than my previous projects. Deleted: 43. If... .. ...... ........ ... .............. _. - _ ............... Other Benefits Project creates synergy with existing activities in the area My past restaurants have always been a destination point. Combining the unique concept of the one I am going to open in this building with other local shops, restaurants businesses and meeting places downtown will only add to the appeal of the commons as a destination point (or one -stop- shop) for people to fulfill many different needs. In addition, by creating housing and office spaces in the building I will be bringing more people downtown, who will likely be potential customers for downtown businesses, which is consistent with downtown strategic planning. ,Project discourages sprawl_ Deleted: 44. - ......... .......... .. . - -- - -- The oroiect is located in the heart of the Citv it will provide housing, work space, and entertainment I Deleted: See above Project includes mixed uses The building will include housing, restaurant, and office space. ,Project builds new or enhances existing public spaces Deleted: 47. 1We will be faithfully restoring the original storefront faQade of the building, using historic photos. and `Formatted: Font color: Auto _.. . building upon the work previously done by the former owner which will enhance the appearance and appeal of the downtown business area for public view and use. Additionally we are planning to provide patio dining, which has been designated by the City of Ithaca. ,Project-produces other benefits suggested by developer-that are not on this list but that__a_ are considered by Common Council to be significant community benefits. Note: Developer should describe such benefits for consideration by Common Council. Developer may also wish to suggest that benefits which are already on this list be given additional weight if they are particularly significant for a given project. With the current state of the building, with all of the deterioration and vacant space we estimate that if left alone for another 5- 10years the damage to the building would be irreparable and would not be able to be restored. By taking on this project, at significant cost and effort on my part, I am helping to save a historic building which would otherwise be lost due to neglect. We consider this to be a great benefit to the local community. Deleted: 48. 89C t UP lkill Andrew L. Magre, AIA 413 East Buffalo Street Ithaca, New York 14850 To whom it may concern, 10,3P C I IP agPI loF4 ID E C E � V E JAN 252010 ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY I am writing in support of the project proposed by Lex Chutinaranond to renovate and restore the building located at 130 the Commons and to convey that in my opinion, the design and vision for the proposed project is architecturally exceptional. This historically significant property has been neglected over the years and has suffered from several unsympathetic alterations by previous owners, most notably at the ground level where the storefront was altered and recessed, apparently with the intent to maximize the ability to display merchandise. The project that Lex is proposing restores the street fagade at ground level allowing the building to once again engage the historic fabric of its neighboring buildings and become more true to its historic typology. It is also important to note the architectural and cultural significance of renovating, restoring and re- purposing a historic building in the core of Downtown Ithaca. The addition of an elevator will allow the upper floors of the building to be converted into apartments which from an economic and cultural standpoint will help the historic core of Ithaca to thrive. Sincerely, Andrew L. Magr6, AIA 7-7 tt It z 3 cf) C) cn C) k-j 171 -7D 71 m ID, m w? all 0 to LOU i 44 OC I C25 IO MO M m O:d Z 0 w? all 0 to X G) G m 0 C v r 0 'O D Z 0 Ce 02 F UK lo lih -------- - - - --\ r---- - - - - -- -�\\ 129, zi T {b I II I / t ``_ fi 4 II � t' fl II $ I i it �! Mg IL I - R- La VD g.,n ;� 129, zi T {b A II I / t ``_ fi 4 II � t' fl II $ I� glull It 42 II it �! 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PLANTATION BUILDING 130 -132 EAST STATE STREET ITHACA, NEW YORK Photo # 1 Photo # 2 Exterior - Front Elevation Exterior - Front Elevation PLANTATION BUILDING 130 -132 EAST STATE STREET ITHACA, NEW YORK Photo # 3 Exterior - Storefront Photo # 4 Exterior - Storefront PLANTATION MOLDING 130 -132 EAST STATE STREET rMACA, NEW YORK Photo # 5 Photo # 6 Exterior - hear Elevation Exterior - Rear Elevation PLANTATION BUILDING 130 -132 EAST STATE STREET ITE ACA, NEW YORK _ Photo # 7 Exterior - Rear Elevation Photo # 8 Roof & Skylights e _ .ul _ I . � AT 4 e�'W.• ^d't � l- �a1��4 a� �R� "a tYi - �. .. - � s',ri { 2 �`� s �'�• ",�y',a�e � "[s i '� 'qtr' �gq mg r � g�„�'�^��' � 'W ;a `' '�' i �"3�'� =��, i ya.. t h�.�� b "�vn.t� ' ,• •`�` " 1 1 !111111 ' F^`t3t "a - .. jjPa'" r Y a r S �sa,�k i4 � �"�r�� .� � r"'' =�� :'w .a ' � s�� aKj �� ..YR 4�` 2 `� { �y.;'` y ,�-'•'�' g ` F s.- :.++. ,.-- 's''�2' `t.r i i S ry � r r•.i``S'8+ �'�?`� �'„ "�: �,�� -�'�y _ L" '*+•i�0 �EK!'`��"3_ � w'"�Y� ^Y� ;? g i•J •1,� 1 't' S %y v •sii.��` -�' y' ; S2q�a;37'i'" �,.3',;, { fir• 7 r ? Y , *� '•' �,. r -. 5.�� r,n� sx_"?»#^i.�+. �'' y{"a �H'+�:zt2. i.r �. �•� �.s x#.+ ':, �•.'i` r• �� r;, '� _ . , _ @ . >- � ... �i a ,Y. s':..0 . i_.✓ L_ '`.S.'�r..SY 5..�_2�'^,. "3'i: •� PLANTATION BUILDING 130 -132 EAST STATE STREET ITHACA, NEW YORK Photo # 9 Interior - Ground Floor Photo # 10 Interior - Ground Floor PLANTATION BUILDING 130 -132 EAST STATE STREET ITHACA, NEW YORK Photo # 11 Interior - 2nd Floor Photo # 12 Interior - 2nd Floor PLANTATION BUILDING 130 -132 EAST STATE STREET ITHACA, NEW YORK Photo # 13 Interior - 3rd Floor Photo # 14 Interior - 4th Floor PLAN'T'ATION BUILDING 130 -132 EAST STATE STREET YMACA, NEW YORK Photo # 15 Photo # 16 Stairway - Ground Floor Stairway - Ground Floor PLANTATION BUILDING 130 -132 EAST STATE STREET rMACA, NEW YORK Photo # 17 Tin Ceiling - Ground Floor Photo # 18 Tin Ceiling - 2 d Floor PLANTATION BUILDING 130 -132 EAST STATE STREET Photo # 19 Skylight ITHACA, NEW YORK Photo # 20 Skylight 14. MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS: 14.1 Appointment of City Representative to the Business Improvement District/Downtown Ithaca Alliance Board — Resolution RESOLVED, That Alderperson Eric Rosario be appointed to the Business Improvement District/Downtown Ithaca Alliance Board with a term to expire December 31, 2010. 14.2 Appointments /Reappointments to Various City Boards /Committees: (information to be distributed with agenda packets)