The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink AboutMN-IURA-2016-03-24Approved: 4/14/16 108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850 (607) 274-6559 (607) 274-6558 (fax) MINUTES ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY (IURA) Common Council Chambers, City Hall 8:30 A.M., Thursday, March 24, 2016 Members: Svante Myrick, Chris Proulx, Tracy Farrell, Karl Graham, Eric Rosario Excused: Stephen Smith (Common Council Liaison) Staff: Nels Bohn, JoAnn Cornish, Lynn Truame, Rene Funke, Charles Pyott Guests: (listed below) I. Call to Order Chair Myrick called the meeting to order at 8:37 A.M. II. Agenda Additions/Deletions None. III. 2015 HUD Entitlement Grant — Public Hearing On a motion by Farrell, seconded by Proulx, and unanimously approved, Chair Myrick opened the Public Hearing. A. Project‐by‐Project Presentations 1. HISTORIC ITHACA ―WORK PRESERVE (WP) Speaker Title/Affiliation Comments‐in‐Brief Sara Johnson Work Preserve & Significant Elements Manager, Historic Ithaca  8 of most successful participants went from being unable to getting a job to making $20,000+/year  dramatically reduced numbers of participants receiving public assistance  participants need one‐on‐one hands on training/support they receive from WP  split application to IURA reflects wide range of participants being served Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 2 of 29 Speaker Title/Affiliation Comments‐in‐Brief  no participant is job‐ready from the outset  Public Services component of application reflects need to serve as assessment and intake program  once training is completed, participants can connect to other local services, if job is not immediate goal  participants interested in employment enroll in second component of WP program Karen Coleman Work Preserve Education & Outreach, Historic Ithaca  participants range between 18‐30 years old, come from local community, and have either high school diploma or GED  participants see themselves as independent high school graduates  participants are generally not heading for college, or are deferring considering college  many participants are homeless and ‘free‐floating’  all participants are referred by local organizations/programs (e.g., Learning Web, Women’s Opportunity Center, JobLINK, Challenge Workforce Solutions, BOCES)  WP works with participants’ referral youth advisors Proulx noted the applicants placed four participants in jobs from the 2014 grant. He wondered to what extent WP monitored those participants’ after placement. He also noted the applicants requested $40,000 for the job placement part of the program, which seems higher than many other programs the IURA works with. He asked what the reason is for that elevated level. Coleman replied that probably the principal means of maintaining contact after placement is participants simply stopping in and visiting staff. There has been no other regular, practical means of communicating with participants after they leave the program. Johnson replied that the program provides intensive one‐on‐one, hands‐on attention to its participants, who really need that kind of sustained focus, practice, and trial and error, all of which takes considerable staff time. Farrell noted the application comprises two interconnected components. She asked how the applicants would respond, if only one portion of the program were funded. Johnson replied they would need to reassess the program and identify how many people they could feasibly serve. Coleman added that they would not have the flexibility to serve everyone, in that case; and they would likely institute some kind of candidate screening process. IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 3 of 29 2. GREATER ITHACA ACTIVITIES CENTER (GIAC) ― HOSPITALITY EMPLOYMENT TRAINING PROGRAM (HETP) Speaker Title/Affiliation Comments‐in‐Brief Leslyn McBean‐ Clairborne Executive Director, GIAC  HETP has been an amazing program — people want to know how GIAC operates it and attracts people to it  GIAC would like to continue designing similar employment training models for other industries that want to attract diverse employees Nagiane Lacka Program Coordinator, GIAC  HETP results have been incredible  employers continue to ask for the program’s graduates  this year, GIAC originally considered expanding it to the Public Service sector, as cited in the application; however, it would now like to remove that component of the application and focus exclusively on the hospitality industry (perhaps expanding to another industry next year) Farrell noted that employers appear to be clamoring for the program’s graduates, but she wondered if they have demonstrated any willingness to support the program financially. Lacka replied that every year the program increases its employer contributions (e.g., free training, hosting, stipends). Graham asked if local hotels have been responsive, since the program’s original intent was to leverage them as much as possible. Lacka replied, yes. Farrell asked what other places participants are working in. Lacka replied: Agava Restaurant, Coltivare, Cornell University Dining, Statler Hotel, Cornell College of Human Ecology Business Service Center, GreenStar, Hampton Inn, Ithaca Bakery, Kilpatrick’s Publick House, La Tourelle Resort & Spa, William Henry Miller Inn, Fork and Gavel, and Rasa Spa. Farrell asked how long participants are staying in the jobs they are placed in. Lacka replied that she contacts everyone who was in program. To her knowledge, it has usually been a good outcome: approximately 70% of participants have either remained employed or enrolled in school. Graham asked where participants originate from. Lacka replied, approximately 50% are City residents, with the remainder coming from elsewhere in Tompkins County. IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 4 of 29 3. GREATER ITHACA ACTIVITIES CENTER (GIAC) ― WADING POOL RENOVATION Speaker Title/Affiliation Comments‐in‐Brief Leslyn McBean‐ Clairborne Executive Director, GIAC  request would fund wading pool expansion  when pool was constructed 23 years ago it did not experience the volume of visitors it does now  many more people come to the pool than can be easily accommodated  when wading pool was installed, only a few children visited the facility  adults also need to be near their children using the wading pool, increasing the need for more capacity Michael Thomas GIAC Program Coordinator & Pool Manager, GIAC  he has managed the facility since it opened in 1993  in last 10 years, the pool has seen particularly high volume of people  more families now use the facility than individual children and teenagers, requiring considerable staffing  pool averages about 300 unduplicated bathers, or 70 families, a season (majority are City residents)  there has been an outcry from families for a larger pool; parents sometimes take children to the adult pool, which is not always safe Farrell asked if the applicants are also seeking other grants; and, if so, have those already been applied for. McBean‐Clairborne replied, they expect to get another donation, but they have not applied for any other grants. Graham asked what the $15,000 “Hazmat Abatement” budget line refers to. Thomas replied it is built in as a contingency, in case any coal tar has to be removed. McBean‐Clairborne added they are focusing on accessibility‐related issues as well (e.g., spray pool, ramps). 4. ITHACASH ― MARKET‐BASED APPROACH TO ACHIEVING MINIMUM WAGE The applicant did not appear. IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 5 of 29 5. YOUTH FARM PROJECT (YFP) ― EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Speaker Title/Affiliation Comments‐in‐Brief Ann Piombino Farm Manager/Program Coordinator, YFP  YFP has operated for 6 years  main activity is Summer program, working with 25 teens as an employment site for learning both general job skills and food production/sales skills  principal venues have been local schools  added new programs last year (e.g., mobile farmer’s market stand)  just launched Harvest Box program  potential for adding new jobs has increased, with more programs that reach out to the community  Assistant Farm Manager position would involve everything from operating tractors to seeding and harvesting Rafael Aponte Program Facilitator, YFP  Harvest Box was designed to deliver fresh food to communities/neighborhoods with little or no access to it (e.g., Titus Towers)  seeking to expand Harvest Box from 4 sites to 5  experienced tremendous demand that YFP has not been able to meet  Harvest Box Coordinator would better organize the program  45 food shares were sold last year, but there is considerably more demand  Harvest Manager would be responsible for logistics of delivering produce (looking for someone 16‐24 years old)  goal is for new positions to become permanent YFP positions  people in these positions would also be trained to work in the community, public service, and agricultural sector (one of the few industries experiencing growth) Proulx asked if the three new positions would eventually become financially self‐sustaining, or if YFP would need future funding assistance. Aponte replied that last year the Harvest Box program was able to capture sales income equivalent to just under wholesale prices. With just some funding assistance now, he expects the position could become financially self‐sustaining. Piombino added that the organization’s income has been increasing every year from annual produce sales. IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 6 of 29 Rosario asked how the applicants would prioritize their operations, if only partial IURA funding were available. Piombino replied that the Assistant Farm Manager and Harvest Manager positions would be the most essential. 6. FINGER LAKES REUSE (FLRU) ― RESET JOB TRAINING Speaker Title/Affiliation Comments‐in‐Brief Diane Cohen Executive Director, FLRU  opened new, second location in downtown in mid‐December  first two full months of being open produced $20,000 in sales from both locations, more than double last year’s figure (sales increased by 120%)  waste diversion increased 122% by weight  FLRU delayed some planned hiring, since it missed its 2016 budget projection  FLRU now has 27 staff (24½ FTE), 11 of whom were formerly long‐ term unemployed Anise Hotchkiss Training Director, FLRU  79 people have graduated from program, since 2013  participants acquire not only experience, but provide a community benefit  technology track teaches information technology skills  newer training program teaches customer service and retail management  technology track includes cohorts of 7‐10 people, three times a year, with a defined curriculum and calendar  retail track requires more flexibility — varies from 8‐16 hours/week and accepts participants on a rolling basis  both programs result in 160 hours of training; graduates may then apply for FLRU paid apprenticeship  technology track participants teach the next round of trainees  5 people enrolled in retail program in the past year  retail program continues to develop its structure and procedures  in 2015, 16 people enrolled, 14 completed, and 4 became apprentices (slightly lower than 2014, partly because of the expansion and its demands on staff)  6 apprentices were hired as permanent staff  FLRU benefits from strong program partnerships with local organizations/companies (e.g., Southside Community Center), some of which organize workshops and provide support  received grant from Community Foundation of Tompkins County to use collective impact model to focus on job market re‐entry IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 7 of 29 Speaker Title/Affiliation Comments‐in‐Brief Theresa Jones Retail Assistant, FLRU  graduated from technology track  had been long‐term unemployed  could not return to school since she has advanced degree  wanted a career change and needed marketable skills  received phenomenal support from people running the program Graham noted the number of projected participants is listed as 39 in the application, which seems higher than in the past. Cohen replied that, with the new location, FLRU has more capacity and opportunities. Farrell observed about 50% of participants commute into the City. Hotchkiss replied it is actually closer to 40%; however, she projects the proportion of City residents will increase significantly with the addition of the new downtown location. Rosario asked if the applicants intend to concentrate their recruiting activity on the neighborhoods immediately adjacent to the new location (e.g., South Side), or if they have recently seen more interest from people in those neighborhoods. Hotchkiss replied they have definitely seen more interest in those neighborhoods. 7. CATHOLIC SERVICES (CS) ― IMMIGRANT SERVICES Speaker Title/Affiliation Comments‐in‐Brief Sue Chaffee Executive Director & Program Director, CS  requesting $30,000 (an increase from $16,000)  while CS found other funding sources in the past, like NYS Office for New Americans, the State did not place Tompkins County on the list of eligible counties this year, leaving the Southern Tier without any services  CS needs requested funding to maintain the program  CS is also reaching out to other stakeholders (e.g., Human Services Coalition, United Way) to fill funding gap  core services include legal immigration transition and job skills development for people with limited English proficiency  program assists 100‐200 people a year  program is very significant community service, which would not exist otherwise  program needs full‐time staff person to manage job skills development services, which involves considerable time spent networking, one‐on‐one guidance, and bridging language gaps IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 8 of 29 Rosario asked about the possibility of the State’s revisiting its decision, perhaps if someone reached out to the Governor’s Office. Chaffee replied that a staff member has already spoken with State Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton. She added that State funding has actually been a difficult grant to administer, especially for smaller programs. Graham noted the applicant charges much less for some of its services than would be charged elsewhere. He asked if there were any possibility of increasing some of the fees it charges. Chaffee replied that would be a difficult thing to charge people for, given the lack of financial resources of most of their clients. 8. HUMAN SERVICES COALITION (HSC) ― 2‐1‐1 INFORMATION & REFERRAL Speaker Title/Affiliation Comments‐in‐Brief Kathy Schlather Executive Director, HSC  IURA funding is crucial for the program, which comprises so many different components — it is the bedrock of the community for helping people access services  HSC employees have been shifted more frequently to staff the phone lines, mostly driven by the volume of healthcare‐related questions, which also tend to be very complicated  there are now two full‐time and one part‐time staff on phones Nicole Roulstin Call Center Manager/Urgent Rx Coordinator, HSC  program has fielded 3,208 calls for income tax assistance this year (and 2,304 appointments), an increase of 600 appointments from last year  program began serving Cortland County this year  1,700 households received tax refunds, representing $3.5 million in revenue going to local families  program has become increasingly vital resource for healthcare services, including a Health Navigator and Health Community Advocate, as well as the long‐standing Friends in Service Helping (FISH) medical transportation program  new NYS Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment (DSRIP) program created more demand for inquiries regarding healthcare, health insurance, available doctors, etc. — people have difficulty accessing healthcare services and navigating Medicaid system  housing‐related and financial assistance information is also highly in demand Myrick asked if the applicants have received more phone calls from people struggling with addiction, over the last few years. Schlather replied, it can be difficult to determine that, given the sensitivity of the topic. IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 9 of 29 Roulstin remarked she believes it has probably been a consistent number. 9. DOWNTOWN ITHACA CHILD CARE (DICC) ― TUITION SCHOLARSHIPS Speaker Title/Affiliation Comments‐in‐Brief Meryl Phipps Special Projects Coordinator, DICC  over past few years, clients have fluctuated between 50%‐80% at or below the poverty line  DICC has worked with United Way and the Park Foundation to request tuition assistance to fill the gap between the actual cost of services and what it charges  children must be eligible for Tompkins County public assistance — however, some of the most vulnerable children are not eligible, but would benefit the most from the program  funding request is for 3 children at full cost (but it could be flexible)  DICC still sees families struggling to find consistent employment, a situation exacerbated by childcare needs  DICC has also been working with the Northside United neighborhood association to assist a group of Burmese migrants Denise Gomber Executive Director, DICC  DICC can serve up to 82 children and now serves 72 children, from 6 weeks to 5 years old and from very diverse backgrounds  DICC has spent many years focusing on surviving as an organization, but is transitioning into the next phase of its development Farrell noted the application calls for 3 scholarships for the entire year, with one of those limited to a child living in the City. She asked if that necessarily has to be for the same child, for that entire length of time. Phipps replied, no. DICC would be flexible in terms of how that could be broken down. Proulx observed the organization has a waiting list. He asked how people are removed from the waiting list. Phipps replied it is handled on a first‐come first‐serve basis, although they do prioritize foster children. Gomber added that DICC works regularly with other organizations (e.g., HeadStart) to coordinate their efforts and reduce waiting lists for families as much as possible. IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 10 of 29 10. DOWNTOWN ITHACA CHILD CARE (DICC) ― HEATING SYSTEM & CODE CORRECTIONS Speaker Title/Affiliation Comments‐in‐Brief Meryl Phipps Special Projects Coordinator, DICC Denise Gomber Executive Director, DICC  request is for two areas of particular need: (1) heating/cooling system; and (2) door replacements  both the interior and exterior environments of the center need careful attention and are being prioritized  heating/cooling system is no longer in compliance; it is too large for the space it is in and has been overfiring  funding request has now been reduced since the application was originally submitted  negative impact of deficient heating/cooling system and doors on safety and wellness is considerable  doors have not been maintained and have gaps and rust  original request was for a boiler and nine doors, but the boiler has now been purchased  next phase of project will involve the under‐flooring, water heater, and doors Farrell asked how much the applicants now need for the remaining work. Gomber replied, $22,000. Farrell observed that Cornell University operates programs for connecting student volunteers to local organizations. Gomber replied that DICC has already benefited from Ithaca College student volunteers and others. Proulx asked what the organization’s vision is for where it would like to be in 3 years, financially and operationally. Gomber replied that the organization would definitely like to focus on being more financially self‐sustaining. For example, its strategic plan calls for increasing the board’s role in fundraising activities. She added that she doubled the income from national and local grants since she was hired. She would also like to heighten the organization’s focus on enrollment, recruitment, and retention, as well as community outreach, public relations, and collaboration with other organizations. Phipps added that the organization is also looking to connect with the 210 Hancock Street housing project, since it is so close to the center. IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 11 of 29 Graham noted the doors being replaced are fire doors, so replacing them is not simply an aesthetic concern. Phipps replied, that is correct. It is a safety issue. 11. THE ADVOCACY CENTER (AC) ― GARAGE RENOVATION Speaker Title/Affiliation Comments‐in‐Brief Heather Campbell Director, AC  request is for funding to renovate garage into a usable storage space, thereby allowing the organization to accept household goods for its clients  majority of clients are low‐income and are often forced to abandon their belongings, which they desperately need, especially if they have children  AC explored other options to house the items, but simply does not have the space; the garage is the only viable underused space  garage would house everything from household goods to food, representing approximately $5,000 in donations  garage would be constructed as cost‐effectively as possible  AC has the capacity to execute the project successfully, on time and on budget Bonni Georgia Youth Counselor/Advocate, AC  garage would provide residents with items they need (e.g., lamps, pots and pans) Farrell asked about the current process for providing clients with household items. Campbell replied that clients used to obtain vouchers from the Tompkins County Department of Social Services, but that is no longer possible. There really are no other available resources. Residents’ needs are considerable, once they leave the Advocacy Center. Farrell observed that receiving those kinds of donations often results in disorganization and unwanted/unneeded items. Campbell replied that she is familiar with that phenomenon, so she is accustomed to negotiating the process. Only items that would actually be used would be accepted. Rosario asked if it would be feasible for the Advocacy Center to raise the required funds in some other manner. Campbell replied that the Advocacy Center already fundraises for the operation of the shelter (about $40,000 in the last 2 years). Its board is also in the middle of a campaign to fund the purchase of the administrative offices and the establishment of a maintenance fund for both the shelter and offices. The organization does not yet have development staff, so it has a limited capacity to fundraise. (The Public Hearing will continue at 8:30 A.M., Monday, March 30, 2016.) IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 12 of 29 IV. Public Comment None. V. Review of Draft Meeting Minutes: February 25, 2016 Farrell moved, seconded by Graham, to approve the February 25, 2016 meeting minutes, with no modifications. Carried Unanimously 5‐0 VI. Neighborhood Investment Committee (NIC) A. Designation of INHS, Inc. as CHDO Farrell indicated INHS meets all the requirements for designation. Moved by Farrell, seconded by Graham: HUD Entitlement Grant Program — 2016 Designation of INHS as CHDO WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) has been designated by the City of Ithaca as the Lead Agency to develop, administer and implement the HUD Entitlement grant program, including funds received through the Home Investment Partnerships (HOME) program, and Whereas, grant recipients under the HOME program are termed Participating Jurisdictions (PJs), and WHEREAS, PJs must reserve not less than 15% of their HOME allocation for investment in housing to be developed, sponsored, or owned by Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs), and WHEREAS, each PJ must identify annually CHDOs that are capable of carrying out projects to address priority housing needs identified in the Consolidated Plan, and WHEREAS, a PJ may use HOME funds to provide special assistance to CHDOs, including:  Project pre‐development loans;  Operating assistance;  Use of HOME project proceeds;  Capacity‐building assistance; and WHEREAS, on February 23, 2016, Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc. (INHS) submitted materials documenting their qualifications and requested renewal of their designation as a CHDO by the IURA, and IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 13 of 29 WHEREAS, at their March 11, 2016 meeting, the Neighborhood Investment Committee of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency compared submitted materials against CHDO criteria and recommends the following; now, therefore be it RESOLVED, that the IURA, acting in its capacity as the Lead Agency for the Participating Jurisdiction of the City of Ithaca, hereby renews its designation of Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc. as a CHDO for the 2016 Action Plan. Carried Unanimously 5‐0 B. Designation of Historic Ithaca, Inc. as CBDO Farrell indicated that Historic Ithaca meets all the requirements for designation, although it did not initially have the correct language in its by‐laws, which have now been amended. Moved by Farrell, seconded by Graham: 2016 IURA Designation of Historic Ithaca, Inc. as Community‐Based Development Organization WHEREAS, the Board of Historic Ithaca Inc., (Historic Ithaca) seeks designation by the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) as a Community‐Based Development Organization (CBDO), and WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has designated the IURA to administer the City’s HUD Entitlement Program that oversees Community Development Block Grant funds awarded to the City, and WHEREAS, an eligible category of CDBG activities is a “Special Activity by CBDO”, that offers certain advantages, such as exemption from the 15% expenditure cap otherwise applicable to public service activities, authorization to carry out new housing construction (normally prohibited with CDBG funds), and discretion to allow income generated by a CDBG‐funded activity to not be considered CDBG program income, and WHEREAS, the following four tests established at CFR Title 24 §570.204 must be met to qualify under a category of “Special Activity by CBDOs”:  The entity qualifies as a CBDO, including the 51% board membership test;  The CBDO will undertake an eligible project;  That the CBDO will carry out the funded activity directly or with an entity other than the grantee;  That the CBDO will not carry out a prohibited activity, and WHEREAS, a CBDO must maintain at least 51% of its governing body’s membership to be made up of any combination of the following:  Low‐ and moderate income residents of its area of operation IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 14 of 29  Owners or senior officers of private establishments and other institutions located in its area of operation  Representatives of low‐ and moderate‐income neighborhood organizations located in its area of operation, and WHEREAS, a CBDO must have as its primary purpose the improvement of the physical, economic, or social environment of its geographic area of operation, with a particular emphasis on the needs of low‐ and moderate‐income persons, and WHEREAS, the project undertaken by the CBDO must qualify as one or more of the following project types:  neighborhood revitalization;  community economic development;  energy conservation project; and WHEREAS, at their March 11, 2016, meeting, the Neighborhood Investment Committee evaluated Historic Ithaca, Inc. with regard to CBDO eligibility requirements as documented in the attached materials and staff review of bylaws and organizational documents and recommended the following; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the IURA determines that Historic Ithaca, Inc. meets the requirements for eligibility as a CBDO, and that the Work Preserve Job Training and Placement program qualifies as an eligible CBDO activity, and be it further RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby designates Historic Ithaca, Inc. as a Community‐Based Development Organization (CBDO) and their Work Preserve Job Training and Placement program as eligible for CDBG funding under the category of “Special Activities by CBDOs.” Carried Unanimously 5‐0 C. Designation of GIAC, Inc. as CBDO Truame indicated that GIAC met all requirements for designation. IURA staff did have some questions about the composition of its board, but those have now been resolved. Moved by Farrell, seconded by Rosario: 2016 IURA Designation of GIAC, Inc. as Community‐Based Development Organization WHEREAS, the Greater Ithaca Activities Center, Inc. (GIAC) seeks designation by the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) as a Community‐Based Development Organization (CBDO), and IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 15 of 29 WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has designated the IURA to administer the City’s HUD Entitlement Program that oversees Community Development Block Grant funds awarded to the City, and WHEREAS, an eligible category of CDBG activities are “Special Activities by CBDOs,” that offers certain advantages, such as exemption from the 15% expenditure cap otherwise applicable to public service activities under certain circumstances, authorization to carry out new housing construction (normally prohibited with CDBG funds), and discretion to allow revenue generated by a CDBG‐funded activity to not be considered CDBG program income, and WHEREAS, the following four tests established at CFR Title 24 §570.204 must be met to qualify under a category of “Special Activities by CBDOs:”  The entity qualifies as a CBDO, including the 51% board membership test;  The CBDO will undertake an eligible project;  That the CBDO will carry out the funded activity directly or with an entity other than the grantee;  That the CBDO will not carry out a prohibited activity, and WHEREAS, a CBDO must maintain at least 51% of its governing body’s membership to be made up of any combination of the following: 1. Low‐ and moderate income residents of its area of operation 2. Owners or senior officers of private establishments and other institutions located in its area of operation 3. Representatives of low‐ and moderate‐income neighborhood organizations located in its area of operation, and WHEREAS, a CBDO must have as its primary purpose the improvement of the physical, economic, or social environment of its geographic area of operation, with a particular emphasis on the needs of low‐ and moderate‐income persons, and WHEREAS, the project undertaken by the CBDO must qualify as one or more of the following project types:  neighborhood revitalization;  community economic development;  energy conservation project; and WHEREAS, at their March 11, 2016, meeting, the Neighborhood Investment Committee compared GIAC’s application against CBDO eligibility requirements and recommended the following; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the IURA determines that the Greater Ithaca Activities Center, Inc. meets the requirements for eligibility as a CBDO, and be it further IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 16 of 29 RESOLVED, that the GIAC‐proposed Hospitality Employment Training Program activity qualifies as an eligible CBDO community economic development project and is therefore exempt from the 15% CDBG expenditure cap on Public Services, and be it further RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby renews its designation of Greater Ithaca Area Activities Center, Inc. as a Community‐Based Development Organization (CBDO) and finds their Hospitality Employment Training Program for 2016 CDBG funding under the category of “Special Activities by CBDOs.” Carried Unanimously 5‐0 D. Minor Program Amendment to FY2015 Action Plan (#5 HOME, Housing First) Farrell noted that the IURA funded the Housing First program in 2013‐14. She explained that the program sponsor expended its 2013 funds and some of its 2014 funds. The program will not be continued, however, so the remaining 2014 funds need to be reallocated to a HOME‐ eligible project. Moved by Farrell, seconded by Graham: Minor Amendment to the 2015 Action Plan — Housing First (Project #5) WHEREAS, 2015 Entitlement Grant Project #5 – Housing First, to be undertaken by Tompkins Community Action (TCA), was allocated $30,000 in the City of Ithaca’s 2015 Action Plan, and WHEREAS, this program was a continuation of the same program that was funded with both 2013 and 2014 Entitlement Grant funds, and WHEREAS, TCA made their final draw on 2013 Entitlement funds for the program and submitted an invoice to begin to draw 2014 Entitlement funds for the program in March 2015, and WHEREAS, the invoice submitted for 2014 Entitlement funds for the program cannot be processed at this time due to non‐compliance of the submitted leases with HOME regulations, and WHEREAS, TCA has not submitted an application for funding for the Housing First program in the 2016 Entitlement Grant round and does not intend to continue with the program, and WHEREAS, the full $30,000 in allocated 2014 Entitlement Grant funding remains available to TCA to support the program’s current participants, as long as all applicable HOME requirements are satisfied, and IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 17 of 29 WHEREAS, a contract for 2015 Entitlement Grant funding for the Housing First program was never executed due to the impossibility of meeting timely drawdown requirements for the 2015 funds given the amount of as yet unspent 2014 funds, and WHEREAS, based on the above facts, the Neighborhood Investment Committee of the IURA recommended at their March 11, 2016 meeting, making a Substantial Amendment to the 2015 Action Plan, withdrawing the commitment of 2015 Entitlement Grant funds to project #5 – Housing First and returning those funds to the pool for reallocation to an eligible project in the 2016 Action Plan, and WHEREAS, subsequent to that meeting additional information was received from TCAction, allowing the release of the initial draw on 2014 funds and supporting the need for up to $15,157 in 2015 funds to support individuals who are engaged in program intake at this time, and WHEREAS, the IURA wishes to continue support to all individuals now engaged in, or undergoing intake into, the program, now therefore be it RESOLVED, that IURA staff are directed to make a minor amendment to the 2015 Action Plan reducing the amount of funding allocated to Project #5, Housing First, from $30,000 to $15,157 and moving the balance of $14,843 to the 2016 Action Plan for reallocation to a HOME‐eligible project, and be it further RESOLVED, that the IURA Chairperson, upon advice of the IURA Attorney, is hereby authorized to execute all necessary and appropriate documents to implement this resolution. Carried Unanimously 5‐0 E. Committee Chairperson Report None. VII. Governance Committee (GC) Report A. Review of FY2015 IURA Finances & Assets Review Rosario explained that the IURA expended fewer funds than anticipated in some areas (e.g., legal services, office supplies, printing), but more in others (e.g., equipment and software, largely due to a one‐time expense for a third‐party accounting system). In terms of current revenues, the IURA benefited from an increase of over $50,000, partly due to accelerated payments from the Argos Inn and Mama Goose. Overall, FY2015 IURA finances and assets are in good shape. IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 18 of 29 B. Public Authorities Law (PAL) Accountability Compliance 1. Reaffirmation of IURA Investment Guidelines Rosario noted the IURA is required to reaffirm its investment guidelines every year. Adopted five years ago, they call for the preservation of capital and compliance with all applicable regulations and requirements pertaining to managed funds. The Committee did not identify any needed revisions to the guidelines. Moved by Rosario, seconded by Farrell: Reaffirm IURA Investment Guidelines WHEREAS, on March 25, 2011, the IURA adopted investment guidelines regarding the investing, monitoring and reporting of funds of the IURA, and WHEREAS, the Public Authorities Law requires each public benefit corporation to adopt and annually review and approve such guidelines, and WHEREAS, the IURA periodically reviews the investment guidelines, and WHEREAS, at its March 18, 2016 meeting, the IURA Governance Committee reviewed its investment guidelines and compliance with the guidelines, and recommends the following; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby reaffirms the IURA investment guidelines, dated March 25, 2011. Carried Unanimously 5‐0 Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Investment Guidelines Public Authorities Law (PAL) requires each public benefit corporation to adopt investment guidelines regarding the investing, monitoring and reporting of funds of the corporation and annually review and approve such guidelines (section 2925 of PAL). IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 19 of 29 Investing The primary investment objective for managing funds of the IURA is to preserve capital and comply with all applicable regulations and requirements pertaining to the funds managed. A secondary investment objective is to maximize interest earned on monies managed by the IURA. A tertiary investment objective is to deposit investment funds in qualified financial institutions that meet the financial needs of residents and businesses within the IURA service area. An additional consideration is ease of administration and services offered by depository institutions, such as the availability of internet banking, including on‐line documentation of cancelled checks and account balances, and free wire transfers. Because the IURA acts as a pass‐through of grant funds from federal agencies to end users, the grant funding source agency may establish special requirements for management of such funds. For instance, the US Department of Housing & Urban Development requires that all bank interest earned on HUD funds be remitted to the US Treasury annually. Agency monies may be invested in obligations of the US Treasury or deposited in federally insured commercial banks, trust companies, or credit unions, preferably institutions located within the City of Ithaca and the urban renewal project boundary area. Agency monies may be deposited in the above‐listed institutions in demand accounts and certificates of deposit. Collateral is required for demand deposits and certificates of deposit at a minimum of 100% of all deposits not covered by federal deposit insurance. Obligations that may be pledged as collateral are obligations of the United States and its agencies and obligations of New York State and its municipalities and school districts. Signatories on deposit accounts shall be designated by resolution of the IURA. Only a designated signatory is authorized to establish investment accounts. Two signatures of designated signatories shall be required on all checks issued by the IURA. Monitoring Investment statements shall be reconciled with the general ledger on a monthly basis. The reconciliation shall be reviewed by staff to verify that the investment statements and the IURA balance sheet match on a monthly basis. No less than annually, the Agency shall review its investment guidelines and its investments. Reporting An independent auditor shall review IURA investments on an annual basis as part of the independent audit of financial statements. The IURA shall review the independent audit and address any recommendations, concerns or findings. IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 20 of 29 2. Reaffirmation of IURA Mission Statement Moved by Rosario, seconded by Farrell: Reaffirmation of IURA Mission Statement WHEREAS, on March 25, 2011, the IURA adopted the following IURA mission statement: “The Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency secures and manages resources to improve the social, physical and economic characteristics of the City of Ithaca by expanding access to quality affordable housing, strengthening neighborhoods and the local economy, and supporting other community development activities.” WHEREAS, the Public Authorities Law requires each public benefit corporation to adopt and annually review its mission statement, and WHEREAS, the IURA periodically reviews its mission statement, and WHEREAS, at its March 18, 2016 meeting, the IURA Governance Committee reviewed this matter and recommends the following; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby reaffirms the IURA mission statement, dated March 25, 2011. Carried Unanimously 5‐0 3. Review of Self‐Evaluation of IURA Board Performance Rosario explained that the IURA Board conducts the evaluation annually and this year’s results generally appear positive. The Committee has recommended making a minor modification of the evaluation form in the future to provide IURA Board members the option of including an explanation of their ratings, as well as a separate “Other Comments” section. (continued on next page) IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 21 of 29 IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 22 of 29 C. Procurement of Independent Contractors 1. Legal Services Resolutions Moved by Rosario, seconded by Farrell: 2016 Procurement of Independent Legal Services: Geldenhuys WHEREAS, the contract for independent legal services with Mariette Geldenhuys, Attorney‐at‐Law (Geldenhuys) expires on February 29, 2016, and WHEREAS, in accordance with IURA procurement policy and regulations contained in 24 CFR §85.36, the IURA selected Geldenhuys through a Request for Proposals (RFP) selection process in 2015, and WHEREAS, whereas per applicable procurement regulations, a contractor selected through an initial competitive selection process may be renewed for up to three additional one‐year terms without undertaking a new competitive selection process, and WHEREAS, a proposed 2016 contract would constitute the first one‐year extension of the base independent consultant contract, and WHEREAS, Geldenhuys submitted a proposal on March 2, 2016 to continue providing legal services to the IURA at a maximum billing rate of $205 per hour, a 2.5% increase from the current contract rate, and WHEREAS, the IURA staff is highly satisfied with the quality of legal services provided by Geldenhuys, and WHEREAS, the 2016 IURA budget recommended a total authorized contract amount of $18,000 for legal services; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that IURA Chair is hereby authorized, upon review of IURA legal counsel, to execute a contract extension for independent contractor legal services with Mariette Geldenhuys, Attorney and Mediator, at a maximum hourly rate of $205 per hour with the total amount not to exceed $18,000, and be it further RESOLVED, that the source of such funds for legal services shall be derived from a variety of funding sources, including, but not limited to, CDBG and HOME funds, and expenses shall be billed to the appropriate source of funds for which the services were performed. Carried Unanimously 5‐0 IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 23 of 29 Moved by Rosario, seconded by Farrell: 2016 Procurement of Independent Legal Services: Ruswick WHEREAS, the contract for independent legal services with Richard P. Ruswick, Attorney at Law, (Ruswick) expired on February 29, 2016, and WHEREAS, in accordance with IURA procurement policy and regulations contained in 24 CFR §85.36, the IURA selected Ruswick through a Request for Proposals (RFP) selection process in 2015, and WHEREAS, whereas per applicable procurement regulations, a contractor selected through an initial competitive selection process may be renewed for up to three additional one‐year terms without undertaking a new competitive selection process, and WHEREAS, a proposed 2016 contract would constitute the first one‐year extension of the base independent consultant contract, and WHEREAS, Ruswick submitted a proposal on March 9, 2016 to continue providing legal services to the IURA at a maximum billing rate of $185 per hour, a 2.8% increase from the current contract rate, and WHEREAS, the IURA staff is highly satisfied with the quality of legal services provided by Ruswick, and WHEREAS, the 2016 IURA budget recommended a total authorized contract amount of approximately $2,500 for legal services; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that IURA Chair is hereby authorized, upon review of IURA legal counsel, to execute a contract extension for independent contractor legal services with Richard P. Ruswick at Levene, Gouldin, & Thompson, LLP, at a maximum hourly rate of $185 per hour with the total amount not to exceed $2,500, and be it further RESOLVED, that the source of such funds for legal services shall be derived from a variety of funding sources, including, but not limited to, CDBG and HOME funds, and expenses shall be billed to the appropriate source of funds for which the services were performed. IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 24 of 29 Moved by Rosario, seconded by Farrell: 2016 Procurement of Independent Legal Services: Sulimowicz WHEREAS, the contract for independent legal services with Sharon M. Sulimowicz, Attorney at Law, (Sulimowicz) expired on February 29, 2016, and WHEREAS, in accordance with IURA procurement policy and regulations contained in 24 CFR §85.36, the IURA selected Sulimowicz through a Request for Proposals (RFP) selection process in 2015, and WHEREAS, whereas per applicable procurement regulations, a contractor selected through an initial competitive selection process may be renewed for up to three additional one‐year terms without undertaking a new competitive selection process, and WHEREAS, a proposed 2016 contract would constitute the first one‐year extension of the base independent consultant contract, and WHEREAS, Sulimowicz submitted a proposal on March 9, 2016 to continue providing legal services to the IURA at a maximum billing rate of $140 per hour, a 0.0% increase from the current contract rate, and WHEREAS, the IURA staff is highly satisfied with the quality of legal services provided by Sulimowicz, and WHEREAS, the 2016 IURA budget recommended a total authorized contract amount of approximately $2,500 for legal services; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that IURA Chair is hereby authorized, upon review of IURA legal counsel, to execute a contract extension for independent contractor legal services with Sharon M. Sulimowicz, Attorney‐at‐Law, at a maximum hourly rate of $140 per hour with the total amount not to exceed $2,500, and be it further RESOLVED, that the source of such funds for legal services shall be derived from a variety of funding sources, including, but not limited to, CDBG and HOME funds, and expenses shall be billed to the appropriate source of funds for which the services were performed. Carried Unanimously 5‐0 IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 25 of 29 2. Community Development Consulting Services Resolution Moved by Rosario, seconded by Farrell: 2016 Procurement of Independent Consultant Services: H. Sicherman & Co., Inc. WHEREAS, the contract for independent professional consulting services with H. Sicherman & Co., Inc. (Sicherman) expired on February 28, 2015, and WHEREAS, in accordance with IURA procurement policy and regulations contained in 24 CFR §85.36, the IURA selected Sicherman through a Request for Proposals (RFP) selection process in 2015 to provide technical assistance for development, administration and implementation of the IURA community development program, including loan underwriting, and WHEREAS, whereas per applicable procurement regulations, a contractor selected through an initial competitive selection process may be renewed for up to three additional one‐year terms without undertaking a new competitive selection process, and WHEREAS, a proposed 2016 contract would constitute the first one‐year extension of the base independent consultant contract, and WHEREAS, Sicherman submitted a proposal on February 29, 2016 to continue providing community development consulting services to the IURA at a maximum billing rate of $169 per hour, a 3% increase from the current contract rate, and WHEREAS, loan underwriting services of Mr. Richard Rickli of Sicherman are offered at a rate of $139 per hour, and WHEREAS, the IURA staff is highly satisfied with the quality of services provided by Sicherman, and WHEREAS, the 2016 IURA budget recommended a total authorized contract amount of $12,000 for community development consulting services; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that IURA Chair is hereby authorized, upon review of IURA legal counsel, to execute a contract extension for independent contractor community development services with H. Sicherman & Co., Inc. at a maximum hourly rate of $169 per hour with the total amount not to exceed $12,000, and be it further RESOLVED, that the source of such funds for legal services shall be derived from a variety of funding sources, including, but not limited to, CDBG and HOME funds, and expenses shall be billed to the appropriate source of funds for which the services were performed. Carried Unanimously 5‐0 IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 26 of 29 3. Minute‐Taking Services Resolution Moved by Rosario, seconded by Farrell: 2016 Procurement of Independent Minute‐Taking Services: Charles Pyott WHEREAS, Mr. Charles Pyott has been providing the IURA with minute‐taking services to the IURA as an independent contractor since July 8, 2011, and WHEREAS, the annual contract for his services expired on February 28, 2015, and WHEREAS, Pyott has submitted a proposal to continue to provide minute‐taking services at a rate of $18.76 per hour, a 2.2% increase from 2015 rates, and WHEREAS, the IURA staff is highly satisfied with Pyott’s performance, and WHEREAS, the 2014 IURA budget recommends an authorized amount of $5,000 for minute taking services; now, therefore be it, and WHEREAS, at their March 18, 2016 meeting the Governance Committee considered this matter and recommended the following; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the IURA Chairperson is hereby authorized, upon review of IURA legal counsel, to execute a one‐year contract extension for independent contractor minute‐ taking services with Charles Pyott at a rate of $18.76 per hour with the total amount not to exceed $5,000, and be it further RESOLVED, that the source of such funds shall be derived from non‐CDBG funds. Carried Unanimously 5‐0 D. Partial Tax Exemption of Residential Properties Subject to Affordable Resale Restrictions Resolution Rosario explained that the resolution is the product of a long‐standing IURA concern with affordable housing in the housing trust being assessed more by the Tompkins County Assessment Office than its actual re‐sale value. This resolution urges the State to amend its real property tax law. Tompkins County has also passed similar resolution. IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 27 of 29 Moved by Rosario, seconded by Farrell: Resolution Urging New York State to Amend Real Property Tax Law to Allow Tompkins County the Option to Provide Partial Exemption to Residential Properties Subject to Resale Restrictions WHEREAS, there is a demonstrable and critical shortage of affordable housing within the City of Ithaca and Tompkins County; and WHEREAS, this Common Council has attempted to address that shortage through a number of measures, including financial participation with Tompkins County and Cornell University to create Community Housing Development Fund, which provides subsidies for creation of affordable housing; and WHEREAS, Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code allows for the creation of nonprofit entities that have as one of their purposes the acquisition of land to be held for the primary purpose of providing affordable homeownership through the implementation of deed or ground lease restrictions; and WHEREAS, the nonprofit agency is subject to an initial regulatory agreement restricting purchase of these properties in accordance with an income test; and WHEREAS, such programs are known generically as community land trusts, and WHEREAS, with the support and encouragement of the members of the Community Housing Development Fund, the community land trust model is being utilized in Tompkins County as a means to develop affordable housing that remains affordable throughout its existence by means of limitations on future re‐sale prices; and WHEREAS, while the limitation on resale prices promotes long‐term affordability, New York State’s Real Property Tax Law does not allow consideration of such limitations when determining the assessed valuation of property participating in a community land trust, resulting in assessed values that can far exceed the restricted re‐sale value of the property and a property tax burden well in excess of that borne by properties that have similar re‐sale values in the marketplace; and WHEREAS, this adverse element of the Real Property Tax Law is deterring the development and purchase of homes through the community land trust program and is therefore exacerbating the shortage of affordable housing in Tompkins County; and WHEREAS, it is in the interest of City of Ithaca to address that deterrent to the development of affordable housing; and IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 28 of 29 WHEREAS, at their March 18, 2016 meeting the IURA Governance Committee discussed this matter and recommends the following; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, the IURA urges the New York State Legislature to amend the Real Property Tax Law by creating a new section of law that would allow Tompkins County, by local law, to grant a partial exemption equal to the difference between the full resale value absent any restriction and the maximum resale value of said property established by said ground lease to residential properties located on land owned by a nonprofit entity and subject to a ground lease or deed restrictions which restrict the resale price of the property for at least 30 years, and be it further RESOLVED, that the IURA recommends that the City of Ithaca Common Council adopt a resolution supporting a proposed amendment to Real Property Tax Law so that owner‐ occupied, resale‐restricted affordable residences incur a property tax bill similar to residential properties with similar re‐sale values in the City of Ithaca. Carried Unanimously 5‐0 E. Review of IURA Financials: February 2016 Bohn reported that the Band Wagon Pub & Brewery paid off its remaining balance. He also indicated there has been a delay with the Downtown Ithaca Alliance’s Business Boost program, which was slow in submitting the required documentation. Three businesses have now been approved for funding. In terms of loan repayments, Rosario noted that Diane’s Downton Automotive has been delinquent for the first time in a long time. Bohn added that he contacted them and they anticipate making a double payment shortly. Rosario reported that IURA lease payments are in good shape, except the Southside Community Center, whose lease obligations are being waived while its RIBS program is being re‐evaluated. F. Committee Chairperson Report None. VIII. Economic Development Committee (EDC) Report A. Vice Chairperson Report None. IX. Other/New Business A. IURA Chairperson Report None. IURA Minutes March 24, 2016 Page 29 of 29 B. Common Council Liaison Report None. C. Staff Report Bohn reported that the Canopy Hotel is in the process of acquiring the Joseph Daley property and obtaining a Building Permit, with the expectation of closing soon on the sale of property. X. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 11:35 A.M. — END — Minutes prepared by C. Pyott, edited by N. Bohn.