HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-16-11 Planning & EDC Meeting Agenda
MEETING NOTICE
City of Ithaca
Planning & Economic Development Committee
Wednesday, February 16, 2011 – 7:00 p.m.
Common Council Chambers, City Hall, 108 East Green Street
A. Agenda Review
B. Special Order of Business
C. Public Comment and Response from Committee Members
D. Announcements, Updates and Reports
1. Workforce Diversity Inclusion Report
2. Means Restriction on Bridges Update
3. Energy Sustainability Project Manager Update
E. Action Items
1. Neighborhood Incentive Application (South Hill Civic Association)
(memo and resolution enclosed, petition available on request)
2. Downtown Ithaca Alliance 2020 Strategic Plan — Endorsement
(plan at www.downtownithaca.com/files/all/2020_stratplan_dia.pdf )
(resolution enclosed)
3. Support of Housing Study (Downtown Ithaca Alliance)
(DIA memo, study proposal, resolution)
4. Collegetown Items
a. Design Review - Draft Ordinance — Approval to Circulate
(memo, draft ordinance, draft FEAF enclosed)
b. Overall Project Progress, Timeline — Update
F. Approval of Minutes
G. Adjournment
Questions about the agenda should be directed to Jennifer Dotson, Chairperson,
(jdotson@cityofithaca.org or 351-5458) or to the appropriate staff person at the Department
of Planning & Development (274-6550). Back-up material is available in the office of the
Department of Planning & Development. Please note that the order of agenda items is
tentative and subject to change.
If you have a disability and require accommodations in order to fully participate, please
contact the City Clerk at 274-6570 by 12:00 noon on Tuesday, February 15, 2011.
# E1
TO: Members of the Planning & Economic Development Committee
FROM: Leslie Chatterton, Historic Preservation & Neighborhood Planner
RE: Neighborhood Improvement Incentive Fund (NIIF)
DATE: February 16th, 2011
Attached is a Neighborhood Improvement Incentive Fund (NIIF) application and
supporting documentation for the South Hill Civic Association. The funding will be used
to cover their meeting space rental fee. NIIF supports events and projects that promote
neighborhood improvement and interaction in many city neighborhoods.
Please do not hesitate to contact me, at 274-6555 or lesliec@cityofithaca.org, if you
would like further information about this program.
# E1
Proposed Resolution
Planning & Economic Development Committee
February 16, 2011
RESOLUTION: South Hill Civic Association Request for Neighborhood Improvement Incentive Funds
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council established the Neighborhood Improvement
Incentive Fund in 1995 to provide financial assistance to city residents seeking to
improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods, and
WHEREAS, the fund is intended to support residents' interest in community improvement and to
encourage, not replace, volunteerism, and
WHEREAS, the funds are intended to be used for projects or events that provide a general
neighborhood benefit, not the limited benefit of individuals or a select few residents, and
WHEREAS, activities specified by the Council as eligible for the funding include, but are not limited
to, items such as neighborhood clean-ups, planting in public places, and organizing
neighborhood events like neighborhood block parties or meetings, and
WHEREAS, neighborhood groups are required to submit a completed application specifying other
project donations, estimated volunteer hours, estimated costs to be covered by the fund,
and signatures of residents in the immediate neighborhood, and
WHEREAS, each neighborhood group is eligible to receive up to $300 per year as a reimbursement
award, payable upon the submission of original receipts or invoices for approved
activities, and
WHEREAS, the City cannot reimburse residents for sales tax expenses, and
WHEREAS, the South Hill Civic Association has submitted a completed application for
reimbursement funds to off-set expenses related to procuring a meeting space, and
WHEREAS, the South Hill Civic Association charges no membership dues or fees; monthly meetings
are organized by residents and attended by a varying mix of long-term residents, student
residents, Ithaca College representatives, elected officials, and city staff, and
WHEREAS, the South Hill Civic Association conducts several annual events, free and open to the
public, including neighborhood clean-ups and an annual “welcome back, students”
breakfast, and
WHEREAS, these events generate a high level of volunteer hours and, in the case of the annual
breakfast, leverage outside donations, and
WHEREAS, the funding will support the program goal of strengthening Ithaca’s neighborhoods, now,
therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Planning & Economic Development Committee approves the request from the
South Hill Civic Association for funding to off-set the cost of neighborhood meeting
space in the amount of up to $300, to be granted upon presentation of original invoices
and/or receipts.
# E2
Proposed Resolution
Planning & Economic Development Committee
February 16, 2011
Endorsement of the Downtown Ithaca 2020 Strategic Plan
Whereas, the Downtown Ithaca Alliance (DIA) had previously prepared and adopted a
Ten Year Downtown Strategy: 2000-2010 that has helped to guide downtown
revitalization over the past decade; and
Whereas, the City of Ithaca Common Council voted to strongly endorse the Downtown
Strategy: 2000-2010; and
Whereas, significant change has occurred both in downtown since the preparation of
the 2000-2010 Plan, including investment in excess of $100,000,000; and
Whereas, significant change has occurred in the broader community since the
preparation of the 2000-2010 Plan, including the growth of big box retail along Route 13
in both Ithaca and Lansing; and
Whereas, there is a need to prepare a new strategic plan to guide downtown
revitalization for the 2010–2020 decade; and
Whereas, the DIA has spent the past several years obtaining community input on
downtown issues, opportunities, and vision, meeting with stakeholder groups,
neighborhood organizations, and the general public; and
Whereas, the DIA has sought out and compiled community input and feedback and
prepared a draft 2020 Strategic Plan that was then made available for public comment
and critique; and
Whereas, the Board of Directors of the DIA has reviewed the draft 2020 Strategic Plan,
made editorial revisions and additions, and officially adopted the Downtown Ithaca
2020 Strategic Plan at its January 17, 2011 meeting; and
Whereas, the City of Ithaca Common Council recognizes the need for a long term
strategic plan to help guide both public policy decisions and public and private
investment decisions pertaining to downtown; and
Whereas, the Downtown Ithaca 2020 Strategic Plan provides a comprehensive vision
for the future of downtown and lays out goals, objectives and action tasks needed to
achieve this vision; therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council does hereby strongly endorse the
Downtown Ithaca 2020 Strategic Plan prepared by the Downtown Ithaca Alliance, dated
December 2010.
j:\projects\economic development\reso p&ed 2020 downtown strategic plan 2-16-11.docx
Proposed Resolution
Planning & Economic Development Committee
February 16, 2011
Support for Downtown Housing Market Study Funding Request
Whereas, the Downtown Ithaca Alliance (DIA) proposes to commission a
comprehensive housing market study for downtown and center city, and
Whereas, the DIA has received a proposal to conduct such a study from the Danter
Company, a nationally renowned housing market research firm specializing in
residential market studies, and
Whereas, the study will provide an analysis of the overall demand for market-rate and
affordable multi-family apartments and condominiums in the downtown area by
rent/sales price, unit mix, unit size and absorption rate, and
Whereas, the study will additionally analyze the impact on housing demand if an
enhanced public transportation system connecting downtown to Cornell University and
Ithaca College were developed, and
Whereas, the cost of the study is $12,250, and
Whereas, the DIA has committed $5,250 toward the study, and seeks match funding
from Tompkins County, City of Ithaca, Cornell University and Ithaca College, and
Whereas, the DIA requests $2,000 in funding from the City of Ithaca for this housing
market study, and
Whereas, the 2011 City of Ithaca budget includes $170,000 in the contingency account,
and
Whereas, the results of the study will assist the public and private sector develop
housing in the downtown area that meets market demand, assess the impact on
housing demand of developing an enhanced public transit system, and provide baseline
housing data for development of the City’s Comprehensive Plan Update; now, therefore,
be it
RESOLVED, That the Planning & Economic Development Committee does hereby
support development of a downtown housing market study, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Planning & Economic Development Committee does hereby
recommend that the City Administration Committee identify an appropriate funding
source to provide $2,000 to pay a portion of a downtown housing market study to be
conducted by the Danter Company.
j:\projects\economic development\downtown\reso p&ed danter dtown housing study 2-16-11.docx
# E4a
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street — 3rd Floor Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
JOANN CORNISH, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
PHYLLISA A. DeSARNO, DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development – 607-274-6550 Community Development/IURA – 607-274-6559
Email: planning@cityofithaca.org Email: iura@cityofithaca.org
Fax: 607-274-6558 Fax: 607-274-6558
To: Planning & Economic Development Committee
From: Megan Gilbert, Planner
Date: February 9, 2011
RE: Proposal to Adopt the City of Ithaca Design Review Ordinance
The purpose of this memo is to provide information regarding the proposal to adopt the City of
Ithaca Design Review Ordinance. One of the key recommendations of the “2009 Collegetown
Urban Plan & Conceptual Design Guidelines” was the adoption of a binding design review
process that would work in conjunction with the proposed hybrid code to improve the visual
character of Collegetown. The proposed ordinance establishes this binding design review
process and also revises the City’s existing non-binding design review procedure to improve the
efficiency of the process.
The proposed ordinance would establish binding design review for all properties within the
Collegetown Area Form Districts (proposed under a separate action) for all proposals for:
• New construction, exterior alteration, or additions to any structure
• Addition or removal of exterior signs
• Changes to the site, including the addition of new or alterations to existing hardscape
elements, including but not limited to paving, retaining walls, or fences
• Demolition of any structure or any portion thereof
The proposed ordinance would maintain non-binding design review in other areas of the city for
proposals for:
• New construction, exterior alterations, or additions to any structure within the zones
designated B-1b; B-2b; B-2c; B-2d; all CBD zones, including CBD-60, CBD-85, CBD-
100, and CBD-120; and C-SU
• New construction, exterior alterations, or additions to any structure 60 feet in height or
greater in any zone
• Demolition of any primary structure within any zone and demolition of any portion of
any structures within the zones designated B-1b; B-2b; B-2c; B-2d; all CBD zones,
including CBD-60, CBD-85, CBD-100, and CBD-120; and C-SU
• New construction of a primary structure on a parcel within any zone within two years
following a demolition of a primary structure on that parcel
1
# E4a
The proposed ordinance repeals the existing §325-41, Design Review, and abolishes the Design
Review Board. It establishes a procedure for a limited review of smaller proposals by the
Director of Planning & Development and a procedure for a full review of larger projects by the
Planning and Development Board. Proposals for full binding design review will require a public
hearing, and notice must be published in the local newspaper and posted on the property in
advance of the hearing. Any person aggrieved by a decision made pursuant to the proposed
ordinance may apply to the Supreme Court in the State of New York for review under Article 78
of the Civil Practice Law and Rules.
Staff will attend the Planning & Economic Development Committee meeting on Wednesday,
February 16, 2011 to present the proposed design review ordinance. If you have any questions
or comments regarding any of this information, please contact me at 274-6560.
2
2/10/11
# E4a
Page 1 of 7
An Ordinance Amending The Municipal Code Of The City Of Ithaca to Add
Chapter 160, Entitled “Design Review”
The ordinance to be considered shall be as follows:
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF ITHACA TO
ADD CHAPTER 160, ENTITLED “DESIGN REVIEW”
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of
Ithaca, as follows:
Section 1. Chapter 325, Section 41 of the Municipal Code of the City
of Ithaca is hereby repealed, and all subsequent articles and sections
hall be hereby renumbered accordingly. s
Section 2. A new chapter (Chapter 160) entitled “Design Review”, is
hereby added to the Municipal Code of the City of Ithaca, to read as
follows:
§ 160-1. Title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as
the “City of Ithaca Design Review Ordinance.”
§ 160-2. Purpose and Intent.
A. This section is intended to promote the
general public welfare by:
1. Promoting desirable urban growth and
development;
2. Promoting excellence of architectural
and urban design;
3. Preserving and enhancing community
resources such as historic architecture
and neighborhood character;
4. Achieving compatibility with adjacent
properties.
B. The intent of this chapter is to provide for
the review of plans for construction,
exterior alterations, additions, or
demolition of structures in certain zones of
the City or under certain conditions, which
zones and conditions are hereby deemed
special in nature in terms of architectural
character, intensity of existing use and
development, sensitivity to the effect of
change in use, or other reason.
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# E4a
Page 2 of 7
§ 160-3. Applicability.
Proposals subject to either binding or non-binding
design review, depending on the type of proposal
and the property’s zoning district, are as
follows:
A. Binding Design Review
1. For any parcel or any portion of any
parcel within the Collegetown Area Form
Districts (as defined in Chapter 325,
Article IV), all design review
recommendations shall be binding.
Binding design review shall apply to
all proposals for:
a. New construction, exterior
alterations, or additions to any
structure.
b. Addition or removal of exterior
signs.
c. Changes to the site, such as the
addition of new or alterations to
existing hardscape elements,
including but not limited to
paving, retaining walls, or
fences.
d. Demolition of any structure or of
any portion thereof.
B. Non-Binding Design Review
1. In all other areas of the city in which
design review is required, design
review recommendations shall not be
binding, unless such recommendation
shall also be incorporated into a
decision by the Board of Zoning Appeals
or as a condition of site plan approval
by the Planning and Development Board.
Non-binding design review shall apply
to all proposals for:
a. New construction, exterior
alterations, or additions to any
structure within the zones
designated B-1b; B-2b; B-2c; B-2d;
all CBD zones, including CBD-60,
CBD-85, CBD-100, and CBD-120; and
C-SU.
b. New construction, exterior
alterations, or additions to any
structure 60 feet in height or
greater in any zone.
c. Demolition of any primary
structure within any zone, and
demolition of any portion of any
2/10/11
# E4a
Page 3 of 7
structures within the zones
designated B-1b; B-2b; B-2c; B-2d;
all CBD zones, including CBD-60,
CBD-85, CBD-100, and CBD-120; and
C-SU.
c. New construction of a primary
structure on a parcel within any
zone within two years following a
demolition of a primary structure
on that parcel.
§ 160-4. Exemptions.
Any action pertaining to any structure locally
designated as a landmark or within a locally
designated historic district shall be reviewed by
the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission, and
is therefore exempt from the requirement for
design review.
§ 160-5. Limited Binding and Non-Binding Design Review
Procedure.
A. The Building Commissioner shall determine
whether binding or non-binding design review
is required when an application for a
building permit or demolition permit is
submitted. If the determination is made
that binding or non-binding design review is
required, the Building Commissioner shall
transmit the application to the Director of
Planning & Development.
B. Upon receipt of the application, the
Director of Planning & Development shall
determine whether the proposal shall be
subject to a limited or full design review.
C. For proposals for exterior alterations that
require binding design review, the Director
of Planning and Development shall determine
whether the proposal can have a limited
review by staff or requires full review by
the Planning and Development Board. The
Director of Planning and Development may
review and approve minor exterior
alterations such as in-kind replacements;
limited landscape work; small changes to
doors, light fixtures, paving, steps, or
fences; or other similar minor
modifications.
D. For all proposals that require non-binding
design review, the Director of Planning and
Development shall have the authority to
conduct a limited review of proposals that
meet the following thresholds:
2/10/11
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Page 4 of 7
1. For modification and expansion of
residential development, an upper
threshold of 4,000 square feet (sf) of
total affected site area.
2. For new construction, modification or
expansion of nonresidential development
in residential zones, an upper
threshold of 3,000 sf of total affected
site area.
3. For modification and expansion of
nonresidential development in
nonresidential zones, an upper
threshold of 10,000 sf of total
affected site area.
4. All proposals for demolition
E. If a proposal may cause public controversy,
the Director of Planning and Development may
refer the proposal to the Planning and
Development Board for full review.
§ 160-6. Full Binding Design Review Procedure.
A. The Building Commissioner shall determine
whether binding or non-binding design review
is required when an application for a
building permit or demolition permit is
submitted. If the determination is made
that binding or non-binding design review is
required, the Building Commissioner shall
transmit the application to the Director of
Planning & Development.
B. Upon receipt of the application, the
Director of Planning & Development shall
determine whether the proposal shall be
subject to a limited or full design review.
C. The individual or group making the proposal
shall submit an application to the
Department of Planning & Development for
full design review with the following
information (as appropriate) or shall
include the following information (as
appropriate) with an application for site
plan review:
1. Name and contact information of the
applicant;
2. Location and photographs of the
property;
3. Architectural plans, site plans and
drawings of building facades;
4. Lists and/or samples of materials to be
used;
5. Where the proposal includes signs or
lettering, a scale drawing showing the
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Page 5 of 7
type of lettering to be used,
dimensions, colors, method of
illumination, and a plan showing the
sign’s location on the property;
6. Any other information necessary to
visualize the proposed work.
D. Upon application for full design review, a
public notice of the proposal shall be
posted for a minimum of 10 days. This
notice must remain in place until the design
review has been completed. The notice shall
specify the proposed work, the time and
place of the public hearing, and to whom and
by when any public comments are to be
communicated. The notice must be placed at
or near the property line in the front yard
so that it will be plainly visible from the
street, and, in cases where a property has
frontage on more than one street, so that
the sign will be plainly visible from the
street on which it has such additional
frontage.
E. The Planning and Development Board shall
hold a public hearing prior to reviewing any
proposal. Notice of the public hearing
shall be published at least once in the
City’s official newspaper at least 5 days
prior to the public hearing. The notice
shall specify the time and place of the
public hearing, a brief description of the
proposal, and the location where the
proposal may be reviewed prior to the
hearing. The public hearing may be combined
with any other public hearing required for
the project.
F. The Planning and Development Board shall
reference the “2009 Collegetown Urban Plan &
Conceptual Design Guidelines” as a resource
during design review. The Board shall
approve, deny, or approve the design with
modifications within 65 days from the
completion of environmental review. The
failure of the Planning and Development
Board to act within 65 days of the filing of
an application, unless an extension is
mutually agreed upon by the applicant and
the Board, shall be deemed to constitute
approval.
G. All design review recommendations shall be
communicated in writing no later than 10
working days after the meeting at which the
recommendations are made. A copy shall be
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Page 6 of 7
sent to the applicant by mail and a copy
filed with the Building Commissioner.
§ 160-7. Full Non-Binding Design Review Procedure
A. The Building Commissioner shall determine
whether binding or non-binding design review
is required when an application for a
building permit or demolition permit is
submitted. If the determination is made
that binding or non-binding design review is
required, the Building Commissioner shall
transmit the application to the Director of
Planning & Development.
B. Upon receipt of the application, the
Director of Planning & Development shall
determine whether the proposal shall be
subject to a limited or full design review.
C. Any individual or group proposing new
construction or development anywhere within
the City of Ithaca may request an informal
design review and advisory recommendation.
D. The individual or group making the proposal
shall submit an application to the
Department of Planning & Development for
full design review with the following
information (as appropriate) or shall
include the following information (as
appropriate) with an application for site
plan review:
1. Name and contact information of the
applicant;
2. Location and photographs of the
property;
3. Architectural plans, site plans and
drawings of building facades;
4. Lists and/or samples of materials to be
used;
5. Where the proposal includes signs or
lettering, a scale drawing showing the
type of lettering to be used,
dimensions, colors, method of
illumination, and a plan showing the
sign’s location on the property;
6. Any other information necessary to
visualize the proposed work.
E. The Planning and Development Board shall
review the proposal and make any
recommendations within 45 days from receipt
of the completed application. The failure
of the Planning and Development Board to act
within 45 days of the filing of an
application, unless an extension is mutually
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Page 7 of 7
agreed upon by the applicant and the Board,
shall be deemed to constitute approval.
F. All design review recommendations shall be
communicated in writing no later than 10
working days after the meeting at which the
recommendations are made. A copy shall be
sent to the applicant by mail and a copy
filed with the Building Commissioner.
§ 160-8. Appeals.
Any person aggrieved by any decision made pursuant
to this chapter may apply to the Supreme Court in
the State of New York for review under Article 78
of the Civil Practice Law and Rules.
Section 3. Effective date. This ordinance shall take affect
immediately and in accordance with law upon publication of notices as
provided in the Ithaca City Charter.
# E4a
CITY OF ITHACA
FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM (FEAF)
Purpose: The Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF) is designed to help applicants and agencies determine, in an orderly
manner, whether a project or action may be significant. The question of whether an action may be significant is not always easy to
answer. Frequently there are aspects of a proposed action that are subjective or immeasurable. It is also understood that those who
determine significance may have little or no formal knowledge of the environment or may not be aware of the broader concerns
affecting the question of significance.
The FEAF is intended to provide a method whereby applicants and agencies can be assured that the determination process has been
orderly, comprehensive in nature, yet flexible enough to allow introduction of information to fit a project or action.
FEAF Components:
Part 1: Provide objective data and information about a given action and its site. By identifying basic project data, it assists in
a review of the analysis that takes place in Parts 2 and 3.
Part 2: Focus on identifying the range of possible impacts that may occur from a project or action. It provides guidance as to
whether an impact is likely to be considered small to moderate or whether it is a potentially large impact. The form
also identifies whether an impact can be mitigated or reduced.
Part 3: If any impact in Part 2 is identified as potentially large, then Part 3 is used to evaluate whether or not the impact is
actually important.
THIS AREA IS FOR LEAD AGENCY USE ONLY
DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE—TYPE I AND UNLISTED ACTIONS
Identify the Portions of FEAF completed for this action: __Part 1 __Part 2 __Part 3
Upon review of the information recorded on this FEAF (Parts, 2, and 3, if appropriate), and any other supporting information, and
considering both the magnitude and importance of each impact, it is reasonably determined by the Lead Agency that:
__A. The Proposed Action will not result in any large and important impact(s) an is one that will not have a significant impact
on the environment; therefore, A NEGATIVE DECLARATION WILL BE PREPARED.
__B. Although the proposed action could have a significant impact on the environment, there will not be a significant effect
for this Unlisted Action because the mitigation measures described in PART 3 have been required; therefore, A
CONDITIONED NEGATIVE DECLARATION WILL BE PREPARED. *
__C. The proposed action may result in one or more large and important impacts that may have a significant impact on the
environment; therefore, A POSITIVE DECLARATION WILL BE PREPARED.
*A Conditioned Negative Declaration is only valid for Unlisted Actions
Name of Action: Adoption of the “City of Ithaca Design Review Ordinance”
Name of Lead Agency: City of Ithaca Common Council
Name and Title of Responsible Officer in Lead Agency: Mayor Carolyn Peterson
Signature of Responsible Officer in Lead Agency:
Signature of Preparer: Megan Gilbert
Date:
FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM
PART 1—PROJECT INFORMATION
Prepared by Project Sponsor
NOTICE: This document is designed to assist in determining whether the action proposed may have a
significant effect on the environment. Please complete the entire form, Parts A through E. Answers to these
questions will be considered as part of the application for approval and may be subject to further verification
and public review. Provide any additional information you believe will be needed to complete Parts 2 and 3.
It is expected that completion of the Full Environmental Assessment Form (FEAF) will be dependent on
information currently available and will not involve new studies, research or investigation. If information
requiring such additional work is unavailable, so indicate and specify each instance.
Name of Action: Adoption of the “City of Ithaca Design Review Ordinance”
Location of Action: City of Ithaca
Name of Applicant/Sponsor: City of Ithaca
Address: 108 East Green Street
City/Town/Village: Ithaca State: NY ZIP: 14850
Business Phone: (607) 274-6550
Name of Owner(If Different):
Address:
City/Town/Village: State: ZIP:
Business Phone:
Description of Action:
(1) Establishment of binding design review for parcels within the Collegetown Area Form Districts
(proposed under separate action)
(2) Establishment of non-binding design review for certain proposals (identified in the proposed
legislation) in other zoning districts throughout the City, as previously included under §325-41, Design
Review
(3) Repeal of §325-41, Design Review
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form.doc
Please Complete Each Question--Indicate N/A if not applicable
A. SITE DESCRIPTION
(Physical setting of overall project, both developed and undeveloped areas.)
1. Present Land Use: X Urban X Industrial X Commercial X Public Forest
Agricultural Other:
2. Total area of project area: city-wide (approx. 6.1 sq. miles) Chosen units apply to following section also)
Approximate Area (Units in question 2 apply to this section) Presently After Completion
2a. Meadow or Brushland (non-agricultural) N/A N/A
2b. Forested N/A N/A
2c. Agricultural N/A N/A
2d. Wetland [as per Articles 24 of Environmental Conservation Law (ECL)] N/A N/A
2e. Water Surface Area N/A N/A
2f. Public N/A N/A
2g. Water Surface Area N/A N/A
2h. Unvegetated (rock, earth or fill) N/A N/A
2i. Roads, buildings and other paved surfaces N/A N/A
2j. Other (indicate type) N/A N/A
3a. What is predominant soil type(s) on project site (e.g. HdB, silty loam, etc.): N/A
3b. Soil Drainage: N/A Well Drained ______% of Site
Moderately Well Drained ______% of Site
Poorly Drained ______% of Site
4a. Are there bedrock outcroppings on project site? Yes No X N/A
4b. What is depth of bedrock? N/A (feet)
4c. What is depth to the water table? N/A (feet)
5. Approximate percentage of proposed project site
with slopes:
0-10% % 10-15% %
15% or greater % N/A
6a. Is project substantially contiguous to, or does it
contain a building, site or district, listed on or
eligible for the National or State Register of
Historic Places?
Yes No X N/A
6b. Or designated a local landmark or in a local
landmark district? Yes No X N/A
7. Do hunting or fishing opportunities presently
exist in the project area? Yes No X N/A If yes, identify each species:
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SITE DESCRIPTION (Concluded)
8. Does project site contain any species of plant or
animal life that is identified as threatened or
endangered?
Yes No X N/A
According to:
Identify each Species:
9. Are there any unique or unusual landforms on the
project site? (i.e., cliffs, other geological
formations)
Yes No X N/A
Describe:
10. Is the project site presently used by the
community or neighborhood as an open space or
recreation area?
Yes No X N/A
If yes, explain:
11. Does the present site offer or include scenic views
known to be important to the community? Yes No X N/A
Describe:
12. Is project within or contiguous to a site
designated a Unique Natural Area (UNA) or
critical environmental area by a local or state
agency?
Yes No X N/A
Describe:
13. Streams within or contiguous to project area: a. Names of stream or name of river to which it is a
tributary:
14. Lakes, ponds, wetland areas within or contiguous
to project area:
a. Name:
b. Size (in acres):
15. Has the site been used for land disposal of solid
or hazardous wastes? Yes No X N/A
Describe:
16. Is the site served by existing public utilities?
a. If Yes, does sufficient capacity exist to allow
connection?
b. If Yes, will improvements be necessary to
allow connection?
Yes No X N/A
Yes No X N/A
Yes No X N/A
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B. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
1. Physical dimensions and scale of project (fill in dimensions as appropriate) city-wide
1a. Total contiguous area owned by project sponsor in acres: N/A or square feet:
1b. Project acreage developed: N/A Acres initially N/A Acres ultimately
1c. Project acreage to remain undeveloped: N/A
1d. Length of project in miles: (if appropriate) _______ N/A ____ or feet: ______N/A_______
1e. If project is an expansion, indicate percent of change proposed: N/A
1f. Number of off-street parking spaces existing: N/A proposed: __N/A__
1g. Maximum vehicular trips generated (upon completion of project) per day: __N/A__ and per hour: N/A_
1h. Height of tallest proposed structure: N/A
1j. Linear feet of frontage along a public street or thoroughfare that the project will occupy?__N/A______
2. Specify what type of natural material (i.e. rock, earth, etc.) and how much will be removed from the site:
________________N/A_____________ or added to the site: ___________________________________
3. Specify what type of vegetation (trees, shrubs, ground cover) and how much will be removed from the site:
acres:____ N/A ____ type of vegetation:_____________________________________________________
4. Will any mature trees or other locally important vegetation be removed by this project? N/A
5. Are there any plans for re-vegetation to replace that removed during construction? N/A
6. If single phase project, anticipated period of construction N/A months, (including demolition)
7. If multi-phased project, anticipated period of construction____ N/A _____ months, (including demolition)
7a. Total number of phases anticipated: _______ N/A _____________________
7b. Anticipated date of commencement for first phase N/A month year, (including demolition)
7c. Approximate completion date of final phase N/A month N/A year.
7d. Is phase one financially dependent on subsequent phases? Yes No X N/A
8. Will blasting occur during construction? Yes No X N/A; if yes, explain:
9. Number of jobs generated: during construction____ 0 ______ after project is completed__ 0____
10. Number of jobs eliminated by this project: 0 Explain:
11. Will project require relocation of any projects or facilities? Yes No X N/A; if yes, explain:
12a. Is surface or subsurface liquid waste disposal involved? Yes No X N/A; if yes, explain:
12b. If #12a is yes, indicate type of waste (sewage, industrial, etc):
12c. If surface disposal, where specifically will effluent be discharged?
13. Will surface area of existing lakes, ponds, streams, or other surface waterways be increased or decreased
by proposal? Yes No X N/A; if yes, explain:
14a. Will project or any portion of project occur wholly or partially within or contiguous to the 100 year flood
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plain? Yes No X N/A
PROJECT DESCRIPTION (Concluded)
14b. Does project or any portion of project occur wholly or partially within or contiguous to: Cayuga Inlet
Fall Creek, Cascadilla Creek, Cayuga Lake, Six Mile Creek, Silver Creek? (Circle all that apply) N/A
14c. Does project or any portion of project occur wholly or partially within or contiguous to wetlands as
described in Article 24 Of the ECL? Yes No X N/A;
14d. If #14a, b or c is yes, explain:
15a. Does project involve disposal or solid waste? Yes No X N/A;
15b. If #15a is yes, will an existing solid waste disposal facility be used? Yes No N/A;
15c. If #15b is yes, give name of disposal facility: and its location:
15d. Will there be any wastes that will not go into a sewage disposal system or into a sanitary landfill?
Yes No X N/A; if yes, explain:
15e. Will any solid waste be disposed of on site? Yes No X N/A; if yes, explain:
16. Will project use herbicides or pesticides? Yes No X N/A; if yes, specify:
17. Will project affect a building or site listed on or eligible for the National or State Register of Historic
Places or a local landmark or in a landmark district? Yes X No N/A; if yes, explain:
18. Will project produce odors? Yes No X N/A; if yes, explain:
19. Will project product operating noise exceed the local ambient noise level during construction?
Yes No X N/A; After construction? Yes No X N/A
20. Will project result in an increase of energy use? Yes No X N/A; if yes, indicate type(s)
21. Total anticipated water usage per day: gals/day. N/A Source of water
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C. ZONING AND PLANNING INFORMATION
1. Does the proposed action involve a planning or zoning decision? X Yes No N/A; if yes,
indicate the decision required:
X Zoning Amendment Zoning Variance New/revision of master plan Subdivision
Site Plan Special Use Permit Resource Management Plan Other:
2. What is the current zoning classification of site? Binding design review: TR-1, TR-2, TR-3, TR-4. VR-
1, VR-2, VR-3, VR-4, VR-5, and MU; non-binding design review: all City zoning districts
3. If the site is developed as permitted by the present zoning, what is the maximum potential development?
N/A
4. Is proposed use consistent with present zoning? Yes No X N/A
5. If #4 is no, indicate desired zoning:
6. If the site is developed by the proposed zoning, what is the maximum potential development of the site?
N/A
7. Is the proposed action consistent with the recommended uses in adopted local land-use plans?
Yes No X N/A; If no, explain:
8. What is the dominant land use and zoning classification within a ¼ mile radius of the project?
(e.g. R-1a or R-1b) all City zoning districts
9. Is the proposed action compatible with adjacent land uses? X Yes No N/A Explain:
10a. If the proposed action is the subdivision of land, how many lots are proposed? N/A
10b. What is the minimum lot size proposed? N/A
11. Will the proposed action create a demand for any community-provided services? (recreation, education,
police, fire protection, etc.) ? Yes No X N/A Explain:
If yes, is existing capacity sufficient to handle projected demand? Yes No N/A
Explain:
12. Will the proposed action result in the generation of traffic significantly above present levels?
Yes No X N/A If yes, is the existing road network adequate to handle the additional traffic?
Yes No N/A Explain:
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D. APPROVALS
1. Approvals: Common Council Adoption
2a. Is any Federal permit required? Yes X No N/A; Specify:
2b. Does project involve State or Federal funding or financing? Yes X No N/A; If Yes, Specify:
2c. Local and Regional approvals:
Agency
Yes or No
Type of
Approval Required
Submittal
Date
Approval
Date
Common Council Yes Adoption
Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) No
Planning & Development Board No
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation
Commission (ILPC)
No
Board of Public Works (BPW) No
Fire Department No
Police Department No
Building Commissioner No
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
(IURA)
No
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E. INFORMATIONAL DETAILS
Attach any additional information as may be needed to clarify your project. If there are or may be any adverse impacts
associated with your proposal, please discuss such impacts and the measures which you propose to mitigate or avoid
them.
F. VERIFICATION
I certify that the information provided above is true to the best of my knowledge.
Applicant/Sponsor Name:
Signature:
Title:
***************** END OF PART 1 *****************
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City of Ithaca Long Environmental Assessment Form
PART 2 – PROJECT IMPACTS AND THEIR MAGNITUDES
Project Name: Adoption of the “City of Ithaca Design Review Ordinance”
IMPACT ON LAND
1. Will there be an effect as a result of a physical change to project site?
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential
Large
Impact
Can Impact be
Reduced by
Project Change?
Any construction on slopes of 15% or greater, (15 foot rise per 100 foot of
length), or where the general slope in the project exceeds 10%. Yes No
Construction on land where the depth to the water table is less than 3 feet. Yes No
Construction of parking facility/area for 50 or more vehicles. Yes No
Construction on land where bedrock is exposed or generally within 3 feet
of existing ground surface. Yes No
Construction that will continue for more than 1 year or involve more than
one phase or stage. Yes No
Evacuation for mining purposes that would remove more than 1,000 tons
of natural material (i.e. rock or soil) per year. Yes No
Construction of any new sanitary landfill. Yes No
Construction in a designated floodway. Yes No
Other impacts: Yes No
2. Will there be an effect on any unique landforms found on the site? (i.e.
cliffs, gorges, geological formations, etc.)
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential
Large
Impact
Can Impact be
Reduced by
Project Change?
Specific land forms: Yes No
IMPACT ON WATER
3. Will project affect any water body designated as protected? (Under
article 15 or 24 of the Environmental Conservation Law, E.C.L.)
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential
Large
Impact
Can Impact be
Reduced by Project
Change?
Developable area of site contains a protected water body Yes No
Dredging more than 100 cubic yards of material from channel of a
protected stream. Yes No
Extension of utility distribution facilities through a protected water body. Yes No
Construction in a designated freshwater wetland. Yes No
Other impacts: Yes No
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4. Will project affect any non-protected existing or new body of
water?
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential
Large
Impact
Can Impact be Reduced
by Project Change?
A 10% increase or decrease in the surface area of any body of
water or more than a 10,000 sq. ft. of surface area. Yes No
Construction, alteration, or conversion of a body of water that
exceeds 10,000 sq. ft. of surface area. Yes No
Fall Creek, Six Mile Creek, Cascadilla Creek, Silver Creek,
Cayuga Lake or the Cayuga Inlet? Yes No
Other impacts: Yes No
5. Will project affect surface or groundwater quality?
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential
Large
Impact
Can Impact be Reduced
by Project Change?
Project will require a discharge permit. Yes No
Project requires use of a source of water that does not have
approval to serve proposed project. Yes No
Construction or operation causing any contamination of a public
water supply system. Yes No
Project will adversely affect groundwater. Yes No
Liquid effluent will be conveyed off the site to facilities which
presently do not exist or have inadequate capacity.
Yes No
Project requiring a facility that would use water in excess of
20,000 gallons per day or 500 gallons per minute.
Yes No
Project will likely cause siltation or other discharge into an
existing body of water to the extent that there will be an obvious
visual contrast to natural conditions.
Yes No
Proposed Action will require the storage of petroleum or chemical
products greater than 1,100 gallons.
Yes No
Other impacts: Yes No
6. Will project alter drainage flow, drainage patterns or surface
water runoff?
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential Large
Impact
Can Impact be
Reduced by Project
Change?
Project would impede floodwater flows. Yes No
Project is likely to cause substantial erosion. Yes No
Project is incompatible with existing drainage patterns. Yes No
Other impacts: Other impacts: Yes No
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IMPACT ON AIR
7. Will project affect air quality?
Yes X No
Small to Moderate
Impact
Potential Large
Impact
Can Impact be Reduced by
Project Change?
Project will induce 500 or more vehicle trips in any
8-hour period per day. Yes No
Project will result in the incineration of more than
2.5 tons of refuse per 24-hour day. Yes No
Project emission rate of all contaminants will exceed
5 lbs per hour or a heat source producing more than
10 million BTUs per hour.
Yes No
Other impacts: Yes No
IMPACTS ON PLANTS AND ANIMALS
8. Will project affect any threatened or endangered
species?
Yes X No
Small to Moderate
Impact
Potential Large
Impact
Can Impact be Reduced by
Project Change?
Reduction of any species listed on the New York or
Federal list, using the site, found over, on, or near
site.
Yes No
Removal of any portion of a critical or significant
wildlife habitat. Yes No
Application of pesticide or herbicide more than
twice a year other than for agricultural purposes. Yes No
Other impacts: Yes No
9. Will proposed action substantially affect non-
threatened or non-endangered species?
Yes X No
Small to Moderate
Impact
Potential Large
Impact
Can Impact be Reduced by
Project Change?
Proposed action would substantially interfere with
any resident or migratory fish or wildlife species. Yes No
Proposed action requires the removal or more than
1/2 acre of mature woods or other locally important
vegetation.
Yes No
Other impacts: Yes No
IMPACT ON AESTHETIC RESOURCE
10. Will the proposed action affect views, vistas or the
visual character of the neighborhood or community?
Small to
Moderate
Potential Large
Impact
Can Impact be Reduced by Project
Change?
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Yes X No Impact
Proposed land uses, or proposed action components
obviously different from or in sharp contrast to current
surrounding land use patterns, whether man-made or
natural.
Yes No
Proposed land use, or proposed action components
visible to users of aesthetic resources which will
eliminate or significantly reduce their enjoyment of
aesthetic qualities of that resource.
Yes No
Proposed action will result in the elimination or major
screening of scenic views known to be important to
the area.
Yes No
Other impacts: The proposed action is the adoption
of a design review process that will have a positive
impact on the urban form of the city.
Yes No
IMPACT ON HISTORIC AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
11. Will proposed action impact any site or structure
of historic, prehistoric or paleontological importance?
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential Large
Impact
Can Impact be Reduced by Project
Change?
Proposed action occurring wholly or partially within
or contiguous to any facility or site listed on or eligible
for the National or State Register of Historic Places.
Yes No
Any impact to an archaeological site or fossil bed
located within the project site. Yes No
Proposed action occurring wholly or partially within
or contiguous to any site designated as a local
landmark or in a landmark district.
Yes No
Other impacts: Yes No
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IMPACT ON OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION
12. Will the proposed action affect the quantity or quality of
existing or future open spaces or recreational opportunities?
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential Large
Impact
Can Impact be
Reduced by Project
Change?
The permanent foreclosure of a future recreational opportunity. Yes No
A major reduction of an open space important to the
community. Yes No
Other impacts: Yes No
IMPACT ON UNIQUE NATURAL AREAS AND CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL AREAS
13. Will the proposed action impact the exceptional or unique
characteristics of a site designated as a unique natural area
(UNA) or a critical environmental area (CEA) by a local or
state agency?
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential Large
Impact
Can Impact be Reduced
by Project Change?
Proposed Action to locate within a UNA or CEA? Yes No
Proposed Action will result in a reduction in the quality of
the resource Yes No
Proposed Action will impact the use, function or enjoyment
of the resource Yes No
Other impacts: Yes No
IMPACT ON TRANSPORTATION
14. Will there be an effect to existing transportation
systems?
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential Large Impact Can Impact be Reduced
by Project Change?
Alteration of present patterns of movement of people
and/or goods. Yes No
Proposed action will result in major traffic problems. Yes No
Other impacts: Yes No
IMPACT ON ENERGY
15. Will proposed action affect the community's sources
of fuel or energy supply?
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential
Large Impact
Can Impact be Reduced by Project
Change?
Proposed action causing greater than 5% increase in any
form of energy used in municipality. Yes No
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Proposed action requiring the creation or extension of an
energy transmission or supply system to serve more than
50 single or two family residences.
Yes No
Other impacts: Yes No
IMPACT ON NOISE AND ODORS
16. Will there be objectionable odors, noise, glare, vibration
or electrical disturbance during construction of or after
completion of this proposed action?
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential
Large
Impact
Can Impact be Reduced by
Project Change?
Blasting within 1,500 feet of a hospital, school, or other
sensitive facility? Yes No
Odors will occur routinely (more than one hour per day) Yes No
Proposed action will produce operating noise exceeding the
local ambient noise levels for noise outside of structure.
Yes No
Proposed action will remove natural barriers that would act
as a noise screen. Yes No
Other impacts: Yes No
IMPACT ON PUBLIC HEALTH
17. Will proposed action affect public health and safety?
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential
Large Impact
Can Impact be Reduced
by Project Change?
Proposed action will cause a risk of explosion or release of
hazardous substances (i.e. oil, pesticides, chemicals,
radiation, etc.) in the event of accident or upset conditions, or
there will be a chronic low-level discharge or emission.
Yes No
Proposed action may result in the burial of “hazardous
wastes” in any form (i.e. Toxic, poisonous, highly reactive,
radioactive, irritating, infectious, etc.)
Yes No
Proposed action may result in the excavation or other
disturbance within 2,000 feet of a site used for the disposal of
solid or hazardous wastes.
Yes No
Proposed action will result in the handling or disposal or
hazardous wastes (i.e. toxic, poisonous, highly reactive,
radioactive, irritating, infectious, etc., including wastes that
are solid, semi-solid, liquid or contain gases.)
Yes No
Storage facilities for 50,000 or more gallons of any liquid
fuel. Yes No
Use of any chemical for de-icing, soil stabilization or the
control of vegetation, insects or animal life on the premises of
any residential, commercial or industrial property in excess of
30,000 square feet.
Yes No
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Other impacts: Yes No
IMPACT GROWTH AND CHARACTER OF COMMUNITY OR NEIGHBORHOOD
18. Will proposed action affect the character of the existing
community?
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential
Large Impact
Can Impact be Reduced by
Project Change?
The population of the City in which the proposed action is
located is likely to grow by more than 5% of resident human
population.
Yes No
The municipal budgets for capital expenditures or operating
services will increase by more than 5% per year as a result of
this proposed action.
Yes No
Proposed action will conflict with officially adopted plans or
goals: Yes No
Proposed action will cause a change in the density of land
use. Yes No
The proposed action will replace or eliminate existing
facilities, structures, or areas of historic importance to the
community.
Yes No
Development will create a demand for additional community
services (e.g. schools, police, and fire, etc. Yes No
Proposed action will set an important precedent for future
actions. Yes No
Proposed action will relocate 15 or more employees in one or
more businesses. Yes No
Other impacts: The proposed action is the adoption of a
design review process that will have a positive impact on
the urban form of the city.
Yes No
19. Is there public controversy concerning the proposed action?
Yes X No
Small to
Moderate
Impact
Potential
Large
Impact
Can Impact be Reduced
by Project Change?
Either government or citizens of adjacent communities have
expressed opposition or rejected the proposed action or have not
been contacted.
Yes No
Objections to the proposed action from within the community.
Yes No
If any action in part 2 is identified as a potential large impact, or if you cannot determine the magnitude of
impact, proceed to part 3.
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PART 3
The proposed action is the adoption of the City of Ithaca Design Review Ordinance that will include:
A. Binding design review for any parcel or any portion of any parcel within the Collegetown Area Form Districts
(proposed under a separate action) for proposals for:
• New construction, exterior alteration, or additions to any structure
• Addition or removal of exterior signs
• Changes to the site, including the addition of new or alterations to existing hardscape elements, including but not
limited to paving, retaining walls, or fences
• Demolition of any structure or any portion thereof
B. Non-binding design review in other areas of the city for proposals for:
• New construction, exterior alterations, or additions to any structure within the zones designated B-1b; B-2b; B-2c;
B-2d; all CBD zones, including CBD-60, CBD-85, CBD-100, and CBD-120; and C-SU
• New construction, exterior alterations, or additions to any structure 60 feet in height or greater in any zone
• Demolition of any primary structure within any zone and demolition of any portion of any structures within the
zones designated B-1b; B-2b; B-2c; B-2d; all CBD zones, including CBD-60, CBD-85, CBD-100, and CBD-120;
and C-SU
• New construction of a primary structure on a parcel within any zone within two years following a demolition of a
primary structure on that parcel
The proposed ordinance repeals the existing §325-41, Design Review, and abolishes the Design Review Board. It
establishes a procedure for a limited review of smaller proposals by the Director of Planning & Development and a
procedure for a full review of larger projects by the Planning and Development Board. Proposals for full binding
design review will require a public hearing, and notice must be published in the local newspaper and posted on the
property in advance of the hearing. Any person aggrieved by a decision made pursuant to the proposed ordinance may
apply to the Supreme Court in the State of New York for review under Article 78 of the Civil Practice Law and Rules.
The proposed action will have no negative impacts and will be more protective of the environment. The adoption of the
proposed ordinance will have the positive impact of improving the urban form and visual character of the city.
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