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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-IURA-1996 MINUTES OF THE ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY Tuesday, January 9, 1996 at Noon Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present : Mayor Allen Cohen, Susan Cummings, Pam Mackesey, Bill Myers, Jack Jensen [Items I through IV] , Doug Dylla, Matthys Van Cort, Herman Sieverding, Wies Van Leuken CALL TO ORDER: 12 : 10 by Mayor Cohen II. IURA ORGANIZATION II . 1 The Agency agreed that meetings will be held on the second Thursday of the month at 11 :30 am. II .2 Committee assignments for the IURA will remain as they were in 1995 . 1I . 3 This year' s CDBG application requires an abbreviated consolidated plan be submitted. HUD has not yet issued guidelines for the plan. It was suggested that time be applied to planning strategies for the coming year. This will be done at the next IURA meeting, January 18, 1996. Staff will prepare an outline to be distributed to Agency members. Minutes of the Summer 1995 Planning Meeting will likewise be distributed. III. CDBG 1996 NOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY III . 1 HUD has issued the NOFA for the 1996 CDBG Application. Stevenson noted that the NOFA allows three additional years of funding for a total of $5, 000, 000 with an extra $300, 000 available in the first year. Subsequent two years are uncertain. The NOFA also allows for lessening or increasing funds for projects approved through the 1995 CDBG application Year 2 and Year 3 . Application deadline is March 13 , 1996 . The first Community Advisory Committee meeting will be held January 10 . Neighborhood meetings are being scheduled. Staff will have the application ready for final approval by Common council at their February meeting. III . 2 At Cummings ' request Stevenson reviewed current projects and funding levels . Staff will prepare a summary sheet for Agency members . IURA MINUTES 01/09/96 page 2 III . 3 Cleveland Avenue project is effected by the changes in Route 13 and Route 96B. Some funds might better be redirected. IURA should consult with Department of Public Works to determine what projects are under consideration that might fall under CDBG low/moderate income neighborhood requirements and geographic focus or be tied to other projects to meet with approval . III .4 Stevenson voiced several concerns a With the potential changeover to State government control of CDBG awards all new funds must be considered speculative. b 50% of the 1992 Award is still unexpended: reprogramming is underway but new projects are not fully in place . IURA must demonstrate good faith effort to reprogram funds by the middle of March 1996 . IV. MUTUAL HOUSING ASSOCIATION Common Council has directed the IURA to handle the sale of the MHA site. IURA discussed the Common Council directives to the IURA as well as financial status of the MHA II project, history of property, nature of Ithaca' s Mutual Housing Authority [smallest in nation] , MHA funding sources and customary procedures. Cummings moved and Mackesey seconded a resolution designating the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County as preferred sponsor. WHEREAS: the Common Council of the City of Ithaca has passed a resolution on February 7, 1996, authorizing the transfer of city property adjacent to the existing MHA site to the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County, and WHEREAS: The Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County has previously acquired land from the City for the construction of fourteen housing units, and has successfully implements the development of these units, and WHEREAS : it is the IURA' s intention to transfer to the MHA land for Phase II , being the remaining portion of the parcel 1 .2 , block 3, tax map 25, between the existing MHA site and the right of way of the planed access street, and IURA MINUTES 01/09/96 page 3 WHEREAS : the proposed improvements are consistent with the development goals of the Urban Renewal Plan and with the conclusions of the Northside Land Use Plan, and will result in an increase in the stock of affordable housing, now be it RESOLVED: that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency designates the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County as a qualified and eligible sponsor, and be it further RESOLVED: that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency authorizes staff to negotiate the terms of sale for the following basic principles: a that sale price be $1 . 00 . ; b that performance language be included stipulating the completion of construction by a certain date; c that the agreement contain reversion language for non-performance or the cessation of use for affordable housing, and be it further RESOLVED: that the negotiated terms of sale be brought back to the IURA for ratification before implementing the .401- provision of General Municipal Law Section 507 . CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY V. COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE OPPORTUNITIES PROGRAM CEO program is seeking a change in how funds are managed. V. 1 Mary Ziegler from Alternatives Federal Credit Union has offered an account and management free of charge to administer CEO loans . V.2 It was noted the City of Ithaca is prohibited from investing in credit unions. V. 3 Myers excused himself from discussion due to conflict of interest . Dylla noted careful attention to HUD conflict of interest rules. V.4 Consensus is to set up the account at AFCU. VI. EXECUTIVE SESSION Action taken: VI . l Wies Van Leuken to work full-time for first quarter of 1996 for CDBG application process . 1 _ � I IURA MINUTES 01/09/96 page 4 VI . 2 IURA will review her contract with intent to make position permanently full-time. VI .3 IURA will review job title and description. VI .4 Mackesey moved and Cummings seconded resolution to increase Van Leuken to full-time. WHEREAS: the demands for IURA staff time have increased past expectations, be it RESOLVED: that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency authorizes additional administrative expenditure for Wies Van Leuken to work full-time hours for the first quarter of 1996 during the Community Development Block Grant application process. Approved unanimously. VI . 5 The Mayor thanked Van Leuken for the extra hours she has worked. VII. CDBG UPDATE No reports. VIII. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The Small Cities Grants Summary dated November 1995 was entered into the minutes. IURA MINUTES 01/09/96 page 5 IX. OTHER BUSINESS HOUR-Town Database Proposal by Paul Glover was not adopted for funding by 1992 CDBG reprogrammed funds . There has been discussion and investigation regarding establishment of the Ithaca area economic database in space provide by Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce. Chamber president is in favor, Chamber of Commerce Board and Tompkins County Area Development should be polled.. X. ADJOURNMENT: 11 :40 am END 08/14/97 WVL/mfh 1r �L MINUTES OF THE ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY Special Meeting Thursday, January 18, 1996 at 11 :30 am Second Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present : Alan Cohen [from Item II . l .e to end] , Doug Dylla, Pam Mackesey, Susan Cummings, Herman Sieverding, Matthys Van Cort [Item II . 1 only] , Paul Stevenson, Wies Van Leuken, Cornell Dept of Planning Professor John Foster I. CALL TO ORDER: 11 :45 am by Cummings II. DISCUSSION OF PLANNING STRATEGIES II . 1 GENERAL DISCUSSION a HOUSING Cummings: Is there a way to present self-sustaining projects? There are two directions to take with housing projects : revisit/rehab old projects or concentrate on new areas. How do other neighborhood housing service organizations work nationwide? Dylla: CDBG funds must be used for low/moderate income population, not median income groups. Other NHS organizations may operate according to rules of other sources of funding. IURA cannot use CDBG funding for median income, although INHS could work with median income if funded by additional alternate sources. b CLEVELAND AVENUE Funds from 1995 CDBG award must be reprogrammed. These funds should be reallocated before making a Cleveland Avenue project part of the 1996 application or there will be a conflict of request . c ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HUD guidelines measure economic development through creation of jobs. Sieverding recommended using the potential $300, 000 for the first year of the 1996 cycle for ED. IURA MINUTES 01/18/96 page 2 d DRUG PROBLEMS Discussion focused on drug houses within the CDBG target areas. Community policing and focusing lighting around drug houses was discussed Dylla mentioned landlord training programs . Stevenson noted CDBG awards must fund equipment, not municipal services. e NEIGHBORHOODS Some landowners are wondering why they should stay in the target neighborhoods. Discussion of neighborhood watch groups, focus groups, and use of institutions already in place rather than forming new ones . f ALTERNATE FUNDING Consensus sees problem with lack of private sources which would allow greater flexibility in targeting projects . Mayor will approach Cornell Board of Trustees to set aside funds for private leverage. Alternative funding would open possibility of working with low middle income in addition to low income people. II . 2 1996 CDBG Funding Strategies a Reprogramming of previously awarded funds must occur, but was not discussed in depth at this meeting. b A public meeting was held at EOC Downtown Center last night . Stevenson reported on outcome. c Tentative plans for 1996 CDBG application are foreseen as c. 1 YEAR ONE Additional Economic Development projects. c.2 YEAR TWO Programs in the Northside target area. c. 3 YEAR THREE Programs in the West Side/West End target area. IURA MINUTES 01/18/96 page 3 d YEAR ONE Economic Development d. 1 Community Enterprise Opportunities Proposal will be forthcoming. CEO is working toward becoming self-sufficient . There is a county program of similar effort with its own pool of funds: the two programs might consider merger. d.2 Small Business Loan There is a request for assistance to a small business. The project is not yet ready for grant inclusion. e YEAR TWO Programs for the Northside Neighborhood target area could include: e. 1 Establish Youth Apprenticeship Program. e.2 Housing Rehab. e.3 Neighborhood Policing Center. f YEAR THREE Programs aimed at revitalizing the West Side/West End neighborhoods after the Octopus construction has been completed: f. l Buffalo Street should remain residential . f.2 Need for neighborhood stabilization. III. OTHER BUSINESS III . 1 Mayor Cohen mentioned Town of Ithaca interest in Annex. III .2 Dylla thanked Van Leuken for copies of minutes . Increase in staff hours allowed for this to be accomplished. IV. ADJOURNMENT: 1 : 00 pm END 06/26/97 WVL/mfh r MINUTES OF JOINT MEETING COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY Wednesday February 7, 1996 at Noon Second Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present : IURA Alan Cohen Susan Cummings Pam Mackesey Staff Herman Sieverding Paul Stevenson Wies Van Leuken Common Council John Efroymson CAC Delegates Deirdre Silverman Karl Graham Andy Foster Michael Cannon Steve Ehrhardt Tom West Presenters Amy Simmrel Joyce Walker Pat Menmore Susan Eschbach Carol Mallison I. CALL TO ORDER: 12 : 10 by Stevenson II. PROJECT PROPOSAL PRESENTATIONS II . 1 HOMES: Amy Simmrel described $85, 000 request from Housing Opportunities Management and Essential Services for relocation of a group of developmentally disabled individuals from rental housing to a HOMES-owned building. CDBG funds would pay for fire alarm system, handicapped accessibility equipment and moving expenses . Not approved for funding. III. 1996 CDBG PROJECT PROPOSALS III . 1 BSU, Inc. Proposal withdrawn. III .2 Community Enterprise Opportunities Micro- enterprise incubator project run by Angela Jaromin and Jeff Furman in City complements a similar program run through Tompkins County auspices . Approved for funding. R CAC MINUTES 02/07/96 page 2 III . 3 Food from the Hood Proposal would work with local youth to market a Vermont-made applesauce product creating one formal local job. Support of Vermont jobs is inappropriate for CDBG funding. Not approved for funding. III .4 Women' s Community Building Funding requested for plumbing rehabilitation. Approved for funding. III . 5 Red Cross Lake Street Shelter Funding requested to install sprinkler system an other work in a rented building. Concern over providing capital improvements for landlord. Consensus: provide loan to owner to provide sprinkler system only. III . 6 INHS Northside Housing Rehab Proposal to rehab 11- 14 units in northside neighborhood. CAC concerned by breadth of target area. It was suggested the area be redefined, perhaps Cascadilla, Monroe, Geneva, and Meadow Streets. Consensus : define and target issues as best as possible and fund project . III . 7 INHS Northside Rental Property Rehab Proposal to provide capital improvements for fire detection, roof rehab, painting, boilers, and plumbing fixtures for 17 units owned by INHS . Approved for funding. III . 8 HOST Shared Residence for Seniors Proposal to build a congregate living house for up to seven low/mod income residents, possibly on site of IHA senior project . There is concern that the project would concentrate too much special need housing in the same neighborhood. Consensus: project answers a need but look into availability of other funds, alternative locations, and avoid tree cutting: CAC has many concerns about this project which, if addressed, project may be included. III . 9 Housing for the Disabled Private owner seeks funding to renovate a substandard duplex to accessible housing. CAC would consider a loan, not a grant . CAC MINUTES 02/07/96 page 3 III . 10 EOC West State Street Housing Rehab Seeks funding loan to acquire and rehab four-to-five vacant buildings to SRO units with EOC services attached. EOC hopes to make this a youth-build project, but would seek the youth funds from other sources. Consensus: give acquisition funds for first year of CDBG, rehab funds for second year. III . 11 Task Force for Battered Women Proposal to sell current domestic violence shelter to leverage purchase of another. Look into the current shelter going to AIDS Work. Approved for funding. III . 12 Cooperative Extension Community Leadership Training Proposal for program to offer training in leadership skills for neighborhood watch leaders, civic associations, boards of community centers, etc. , targeted for low/mod income areas. Approved for funding for two years at $15, 000/year. III . 13 Tot Spot Proposal to establish indoor child care center play space for children and parents . Consensus no approval of funding. III . 14 Southside Community Center a Proposal to expand kitchen, gym, and activity rooms. Architectural study approved by City Council . This project approved in a CDBG Application and then not pursued: reapplication will require some explanations. Approved for funding. b Proposal to create model transitional housing to reintegrate residents with substance or public assistance dependence. Approved for funding. III . 15 AIDS Work of Tompkins County a Provide shelter housing for PWAs . Consensus approval . b Provide downtown clinic as satellite of existing hospital program. Consensus approval . CAC MINUTES 02/07/96 page 4 c Establish an employment generating business to be staffed and managed by PWAs . Suggested this be pursued through CD-RLF when AIDS Work has a better business plan. III . 16 West End Housing Replacement Development of County DSS building has eliminated some low income housing: staff proposes to replace units. Not approved for funding. III . 17 West End Neighborhood Improvements Disruption from octopus reconstruction has virtually eliminated neighborhood. Removal of trees has changed character of area. Area priorities include a Housing renovations. b Off-street parking. c Street improvements. d Office building on West State Street . However, neighborhood rehabilitation cannot begin until the major work of the octopus reconstruction is completed. There has been an immense increase in traffic and renovation of existing houses may not be best solution to neighborhood problems : replacement with mixed-use buildings may be wiser. Consensus was that it is too early to include West End improvements in the CDBG grant process. It is better to have CDBG projects targeted to defined areas, which will be better done once octopus is completed. Recommendation to include projects which revitalize the west end area as Octopus construction is being completed. III . 18 Northside Community Policing: Similar in scope to the Southside Policing project . GIAC and Northside Community Center both have interest in siting the neighborhood station. Best location would be IHA to tie in with the leadership program. Consensus approved for funding. III . 19 Sciencenter: Request for funds to continue existing programs . Consensus approved for funding. III . 20 Ithaca Northside Neighborhood Watch Not approved for funding. CAC MINUTES 02/07/96 page 5 IV. RATING AND RANKING OF PROJECTS Discussed under Items II and III . V. RECOMMENDATION TO IURA WHEREAS : the Community Advisory Committee [CAC] recognizes the need to support efforts which promote affordable housing, job creation, and increased public services for Ithaca' s low and moderate income population, and WHEREAS : the CAC has reviewed the proposals and preliminary three-year budget submitted to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA] for the 1996 Community Development Block Grant [CDBG] which include projects for Housing, Economic Development, Public Infrastructure improvements and Public Services, and WHEREAS : the CAC recommends that the following projects : Community Enterprise Opportunities [CEO] ; Women' s Community Building Rehabilitation; INHS Northside Housing Rehab; INHS Northside Rental Property Rehab; HOST Shared Residence for Seniors; EOC West State Street Housing Rehab; Task Force for Battered Women Shelter; Co-operative Extension Community Leadership Training; Southside Community Center Expansion; AIDS Work of Tompkins County PWA Shelter; AIDS Work of Tompkins County Satellite Clinic; Northside Community Policing; and Sciencenter programs be included in the application as listed, how therefore be it RESOLVED: that the CAC recommends that the aforementioned projects and the preliminary three-year budget be included in the 1996 CDBG application, and recommends that the IURA make any further modifications as necessary in order to insure that all projects included meet HUD feasibility and impact guidelines. Approved unanimously. VI. ADJOURNMENT: 1 :40 pm END 07/30/97 WVL/mfh r `F ep itti€..1f �,. �, t .,s Lr [I i t,..,\, i \■ tL(c.t Psi-- Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Thursday, February 8, 1996, 11:30 AM Second Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present: Alan Cohen, Bill Myers, Doug Dylla, Susan Cummings, Pam Mackesey, Brad Nelson, Harry Sicherman (IURA consultant) , Cynthia Yahn for the Public Hearing, Item II, Thys Van Cort, Herman Sieverding, Paul Stevenson, Wies van Leuken I. Call to order The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Alan Cohen, at 11:35 AM. II. First Public Hearing on 1996 CDBG Application The Public Hearing was opened by the Mayor at 11:35 am. Cynthia Yahn of 632 West Buffalo Street addressed the developments in the West End neighborhood. She was especially concerned about the removal of on-street parking on the 600 Block of West Buffalo Street. She proposed that measures be taken to ensure that the neighborhood will change gradually rather than overnight. This would prevent the uprooting of the long term residents. She requested that the 1996 CDBG application include a proposal for parking space to replace the current on-street parking. No further public comments were given. The Public Hearing was closed. III Approval of Minutes The minutes of the meeting of October 24, 1995 were approved as distributed. IV. City Hall Annex Sieverding reported that Bruno and Cathleen Schickel had made an offer to purchase the City Hall Annex. Sieverding gave a summary of the bidding process for the Annex. A letter from the Schickels dated 2/6/96 was distributed that expressed concern over any delay in acting on their purchase offer. The Mayor stated that the Town had again expressed interest in possibly using the building. It was pointed out that the Town had previously looked at the building and determined it was unsuitable for their needs. The Agency members discussed both options. It was agreed to accept the purchase offer made by the Schickels. Minutes IURA February 8, 1996 Cummings moved a resolution, seconded by Dylla, to accept Bruno and Cathleen Schickel's purchase offer of $125,700 for the City Hall Annex. RESOLVED, that the IURA forwards its recommendations to Common Council to accept the purchase offer from Bruno and Cathleen Schickel for the City Hall Annex. Approved unanimously. V. CDBG Reprogramming - Update-Ithaca Millworks Company Sieverding gave a brief background to the request for funding by Ithaca Millworks. The Agency discussed whether it was appropriate to fund a business with ample resources. It was pointed out that these funding requests are based on the cash flow of the particular project and the ability of the project sponsor to finance the deal conventionally. Cummings stated that the beneficiaries will be the people filling the newly created jobs, not the owners of Ithaca Millworks. Sicherman suggested adding the clause "no unjust enrichment" to the contract agreement. Myers moved and Mackesey seconded a resolution recommending to Common Council an Amended Proposal by Ithaca Millworks Company for an Economic Development Loan from Reprogrammed CDBG Funds WHEREAS, the IURA and the City of Ithaca have been working to reprogram CDBG funds from the 1992 and 1993 awards from projects which could not be implemented according to plan, and WHEREAS, in 1995 the IURA was prepared to recommend to the Common Council that a loan be made to Ithaca Millworks in the amount of $75, 000 from reprogrammed funds, to be used for the purchase of production equipment by Ithaca Millworks, and WHEREAS, Ithaca Millworks wishes now to amend their proposal to include instead the construction of an approximately $400, 000 metal building on property the firm owns on Taber Street, and wishes to increase the amount of the CDBG loan from $75, 000 to $100, 000, and WHEREAS, the construction will allow Ithaca Millworks to increase its workforce, while also removing a blighted building currently on the site, now 2 Minutes IURA February 8, 1996 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the IURA recommends the amended project to Common Council, for an amount not to exceed $100, 000, for submission to HUD, pending the required financial analysis by staff, evidence of title to the site, conformance with zoning, site plan review, and other regulations, evidence of commitment of private capital, and other necessary and appropriate conditions, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the IURA give final approval to the terms and conditions of the loan once negotiated by staff. Approved unanimously VI. 1996 CDBG Application Stevenson reported the CAC's recommendations regarding the 1996 CDBG application. A summary of the project proposals, reviewed by the CAC, was distributed. Myers asked how the CAC contributed to the process. Stevenson explained that the public participation process could be made more effective than it is at present. The Mayor proposed discussing the process in more detail after the grant application submission. Stevenson stated that the CAC recommendations call for Year#1 of the application to focus on economic development, Year #2 on the Northside and Year #3 on the Westside Target Area. Sicherman explained that HUD had increased the level of funding for the second and third year of the 1995 application, which are now the first and second year of the 1996 CDBG application. Therefore projects could be added to the existing and already approved projects for those years. Or a new application could be submitted, to replace the projects approved for Year#2 and #3 of the 1995 CDBG application. It is agreed, that given the short timeframe, it is not practical to submit a completely new application. Some of the 1995 projects are meeting with some difficulties and are behind on their implementation schedule. Staff is working with the Evaporated Metal Films management to familiarize them with governmental processes. It is discussed that the project might have to be moved up a year or be abandoned altogether if no agreement can be reached. 3 Minutes IURA February 8, 1996 The Cleveland Avenue Street improvements are moving slowly and will require a renewed neighborhood dialogue and possibly some re- allocation of funding before that project can be carried out. Myers asked about the 1995 Reprogramming projects. Stevenson listed the projects funded by the Reprogrammed funds and explained how far each had moved towards completion. Myers asked for confirmation that these projects are separate from the projects now under review. It was confirmed that the two are completely separate. The Agency members proceeded to review the proposed projects one by one: BSU, Inc. ($100-175, 000) Firm manufactures computer circuit boards in downtown Ithaca. ED loan for the purchase of manufacturing equipment. Stevenson reported that the proposal had been withdrawn. CEO Program. Micro-enterprise project. Jeff Furman and Angela Noble have applied for a three year program, at about $100, 000 per year (some to capitalize a RLF) . The proposal would complement a similar one with Tompkins County. The Agency welcomed the continuation of this program. Food From the Hood. ($68, 000 or less) . Proposal would work with local youth to market an applesauce product. The product is made in Vermont. One formal job created. There is some concern about this project. The job creation will mostly happen in Vermont because there is no bottling plan locally that will take on such small contracts. The Agency expressed hope that the apple sauce will eventually be bottled in Ithaca. Women's Community Building. ($6, 730) . The WCB acts as a transitional shelter for women with housing, domestic abuse or other problems. The plumbing is worn out. The Agency approved this project. Red Cross Shelter (Lake St. ) . ($65, 000) . The Red Cross rents a large boarding house for use as a shelter, including spaces for families . The building needs a sprinkler system and other work. The Agency decided to only approve the sprinkler system for inclusion in the application. Northside Housing Rehab Program. ($200, 000) . For housing rehab in the Northside neighborhood, by INNS. Still working on the target area, but would expect to do 11-14 units . Average rehab 4 Minutes IURA February 8, 1996 costs of the 1994 program (just finished) was $13, 462 . The Agency advised going ahead with this project. INHS Rental Rehab Program. ($199, 000) . Capital improvements (fire detection, roofs, painting, boilers, bathrooms, etc. ) to 17 units, all owned by INHS in the Northside neighborhood. The Agency advised going ahead with this project. Dylla proposed adding $5, 000 to fund a landlord leadership program: a "train the trainer" program. Shared Residence for Seniors. ($280, 000-320, 000) . Would build a congregate living house for up to seven L/M residents, possibly on the grounds of Ithaca Housing Authority's senior project. Sicherman stated that there are no statutory limitations connected with such a location. Members would like to see funding from other sources as well. The concentration of low/mod persons has to be satisfactory addressed before it can be included in the application. Housing for the Disabled. ($20, 000) . Proposal by a property owner, to involve a not-for-profit, in the renovation of a substandard duplex for accessible housing. One unit would be accessible, the second available for a disabled person without mobility problems . The proposal was made specifically for a grant and not for a loan. The Agency only allowed a loan for this project. Clarification was asked about the other sponsoring agencies . Rehab of West State Street Houses. ($188, 000) . Funds for the acquisition and rehab by the Economic Opportunities Corp. of 4-5 units in a deteriorated area. Houses are now vacant. EOC would like to do a Youthbuild project, and is looking for the youth funds from another source. There is concern about this project's high budget. The Agency is asking for a Pro Forma and for assurances that the project can be carried out without the Youthbuild component. Task Force for Battered Women. ($40, 000-50, 000?) . Proposal would relocate the domestic violence shelter, the location of which now is something of an open secret in the wrong circles . The IURA owns the building, which we would resell after the move to finance the new house. An appraisal has been ordered. The Agency endorses the project. Community Leadership Training. ($20, 000) . Program through Cooperative Extension to provide training and leadership skills on a neighborhood level . Designed for neighborhood watch leaders, civic associations, boards of community centers, etc . , in L/M areas. Agency members consider this a very good project. 5 Minutes IURA February 8, 1996 Tot Spot. ($4, 000) . Activity area for families with very young children, probably located at a community center or other place in a L/M area. The CAC did not consider this an appropriate project. The Agency concurred. Southside Community Center. ($100, 000+) . Expansion of the building to increase the size of the gym, kitchen, and activity rooms . An architectural study has been approved by the City Council, but work has not started and it probably won' t be done by March 13 . The Agency approved of expanding the renovation project with new funding. It voted against funding the Process of Development ($200, 000) . which had also been proposed by Southside Center Staff. Staff had proposed an "eco-model" of transitional housing, as a means of re-integrating people into the community, who have substance abuse problems or high levels of dependency on public assistance. This would have involved the purchase of a house and the hiring of a case manager. AIDS Work. The agency has three ideas : shelter housing, an employment generating business to be managed by persons with AIDS, and a downtown clinic to be a satellite of an existing hospital program. The budgets for each are not available. The Agency did not think that these projects could be included with this application. Northside Community Policing. This project is similar to the Southside Community Policing project. The project was approved for inclusion in the application. Additional proposals by HOMES, the Sciencenter ($10, 000) and the Ithaca Northside Neighborhood Watch were also discussed. HOMES needs to purchase a new site, the Sciencenter wanted to expand its 1994 CDBG project. Both projects were endorsed by the Agency. The Norhtside Watch project was not approved for inclusion. Revitalization of Westend/West State Street Neighborhoods: Agency members discuss the West State Street and Westend neighborhoods . There is a strong sense that measures should be taken to stabilize and revitalize the area to counteract the consequences of the "Octopus" construction. Proposals for West State Street/Westend Improvements would include streets, sidewalks, parking, tree plantings, facade improvements, etc . associated with improving the west end area. 6 Minutes IURA February 8, 1996 Sieverding proposed asking Trowbridge to design a physical plan for the West State Street Corridor to tie the West End and the Central Business District together. Cummings added that residential opportunities needed to be preserved. Further discussion centered on the need for a commercial development loan fund for the area. Agency members endorsed the concept of revitalizing the west end area and approved working with the Trowbridge firm. The Mayor stated that funding for this year's CDBG application is not yet fully clarified. The application's deadline dictates a very tight schedule for the application process and requires all involved to be flexible. Stevenson asked the Agency to give staff clear directions . There will be a meeting with Sicherman later today, to review the concerns of each project and to design and effective 3-year application with the approved project proposals. Stevenson will be in close contact with the Mayor and will keep the Agency members informed on any major changes that might occur. Stevenson confirmed that the application and the budget have to be completed by February 28 to meet the application deadline. Cummings moved a resolution, seconded by Dylla to approve the 1996 CDBG Application Program and Recommendations to the Common Council WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency recognizes the need to promote job creation, affordable housing, public infrastructure and public services which benefit Ithaca's low and moderate income population, and WHEREAS, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has issued a Notice of Funding Availability, which will allow the City of Ithaca to apply for a three year CDBG program, and that this application may include those activities described in the second and third years' of the current CDBG award, and WHEREAS, the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) has made its recommendations to the IURA for projects to be included in the 1996 application, and WHEREAS, after consideration, the IURA recommends that the following projects be included in the application: the CEO Program, Food From the Hood, Women's Community Building, Red Cross Shelter (Lake St. ) , Northside Housing Rehab Program, INHS Rental Rehab Program, Shared Residence for Seniors, Housing for 7 Minutes IURA February 8, 1996 the Disabled, Rehab of West State Street Houses, Task Force for Battered Women, Community Leadership Training, Southside Community Center Expansion, Northside Community Policing, HOMES, Sciencenter, Revitalization of Westend/West State Street Neighborhoods, Now, THEREFORE, HE IT RESOLVED, that the IURA recommends to the Common Council that the projects and budgets listed above be included in the application, with the staff authorized to make minor modifications to those projects and budgets that may be necessary to insure that the application is competitive and that each project meets HUD eligibility, feasibility and impact guidelines . Approved unanimously. VII. Budget and Administration - Financial Statements The financial statements, dated December 1995 and January 1996, were entered into the minutes. VIII. Other Business No reports IX. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 1:20 PM. (C\Win\M\Min96FEB.DOC) 7(`Prof ' 1c) cdo vU 8 k-4.k C1.12rLc_ Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Thursday, March 28, 1996, 11 AM Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present: Alan Cohen, Bill Myers, Susan Cummings, Pam Mackesey, Herman Sieverding, Paul Stevenson, Wies van Leuken I. Call to order The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Alan Cohen at 11 AM. II. Approval of Minutes No reports. III. City Hall Annex Sieverding reported that Common Council endorsed the IURA's selection of Cathleen and Bruno Schickel as the purchasers of the City Hall Annex. The Schickels have met the terms of the purchase offer and are ready to close on the property. Myers moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to approve the sale of the City Hall Annex located at 123 South Cayuga Street. WHEREAS, the Ithaca Renewal Agency solicited purchase bid proposals for 123 South Cayuga Street in December, 1995, and WHEREAS, the purchase bid proposal packet stated that the selection of an acceptable bid would be based on purchase price, reuse proposal and qualification and experience of the entity submitting the bid, and WHEREAS, although only one bid was received, that bid included an acceptable price, reasonable reuse proposal and was submitted by an entity, Cathleen and Bruno Schickel, experienced in real estate development and construction, and WHEREAS, the sale of the property to Cathleen and Bruno Schickel is consistent with the purposes of the Urban Renewal Plan, WHEREAS, the Common Council has endorsed the Agency's selection of the Schickels as the purchasers of the property, Minutes IURA March 28, 1996 NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the IURA designates Cathleen and Bruno Schickel as qualified, eligible sponsors to purchase the property at 123 South Cayuga Street, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor is authorized to execute, subject to the advise of the City Attorney and Executive Director of the IURA, all documents necessary to effect the sale of the property to Cathleen and Bruno Schickel. Approved unanimously. IV. CDBG Update Stevenson brought the Agency up to date on the rider which Senator D'Amato attached to the budget legislation presently before the Senate. The rider would seriously impact the funding for this year's CDBG application. The scheduled vote on this item will take place shortly before the application's deadline. Staff has no choice but to proceed as planned with completing the application. Stevenson stated that he has some concern about the economic development component, which is not as strong as in previous years . The deadline is April 3, 1996. Myers reported that he has gotten questions the current reprogramming projects. Stevenson gave an update on the status of the projects. The contract with Glyph Technologies is being prepared. Concerns raised by the firm's owners have been addressed. Final papers will be signed in the next few weeks. INHS's project for the Cleveland Avenue Corridor is on hold pending further information from INHS. INHS discontinued the Seneca Street Project. Myers asked about the status of a proposal for renovating an apartment building on Seneca street. Stevenson said that INHS dropped their interest in the project, in part because the IURA requested INHS to work on Cleveland Avenue. The proposal from Ithaca Millworks was reviewed by the Committee of the Whole of Common Council yesterday, on the 27th of March. A new draft of the Ithaca Hours proposal was submitted and will be reviewed in May. Work on the projects will resume after April 3, after work on the application has been completed. Agency members discussed the need to notify project sponsors of grant application deadlines when it might cause a delay in the processing of their projects. Sieverding explained that the CD office is currently understaffed and that no funds are available for additional staff support. If the current application is approved a new staff person might be hired. 2 Minutes IURA March 28, 1996 V. Domestic Violence Shelter The building housing the domestic violence shelter requires urgent renovation because of structural problems. The State Department of Social Services recently threatened to close the building unless interim repairs were made right away. An engineering inspection has been done. Cummings moved and Mackesey a resolution authorizing funds for necessary repairs to the domestic violence shelter. WHEREAS, the IURA owns the building operated by the Task Force for Battered Women, and is responsible for major renovations to the property, and WHEREAS, an engineering inspection discovered a number of problems with the foundation and supports for the building and these problems require remediation, RESOLVED, the IURA authorizes staff to have necessary repairs made tot he building, in an amount not to exceed $5000 .00, drawn form program income accounts. Approved unanimously. VI. CEO Program Revolving Loan Stevenson gave an update on the CEO Loan fund. The Fund will be managed by the Economic Development Committee. Stevenson proposed that the EDC will also be responsible for loan review and final decisions on the loan applications. Mackesey moved and Myers seconded a resolution to give the discretion of final decisions on applications for the CEO Loan Fund to the Economic Development Committee. WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) has received CDBG and other funds for the implementation of a revolving loan fund for a micro-enterprise program known as the CEO program, and a significant component of that program is a loan fund available to low and middle income participants wishing to start businesses, and WHEREAS, the goal of the CEO loan fund is to provide business startup capital to participants who have completed a business plan and a loan application, with a loan cap of $5, 000, and 3 Minutes IURA March 28, 1996 WHEREAS, the participants are better served by a timely review and approval of their applications, and WHEREAS, the three private-sector sources of funds for the loan fund are represented on the Economic Development Committee of the IURA, THEREFORE HE IT RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes the Economic Development Committee to review loan applications from CEO participants, and gives the committee the discretion to grant final approval of loans and loan conditions, with the provision that all loan decisions be reported back to the IURA at the next monthly meeting. Approved unanimously. VII. Budget and Administration 1. Auditor Stevenson explained his request for a managerial audit. He wants expert advice on the administrative processes of the office so that staff will be able to deal with the increasing workload as efficient and effective as possible. The Agency members concurred with the proposal. VII-2 . Staff Contracts The Agency decided to make the part time position of administrative assistant into a full-time position. Cummings moved and Mackesey seconded a resolution to make the position of administrative assistant which is now part time a full- time position. WHEREAS, the workload for IURA staff had continued to grow over the past several months, making it desirable that the Administrative Assistant position be taken to full time, and WHEREAS, In January 1996, the IURA authorized that the Administrative Assistant position be authorized as a full time position for the duration of the CDBG grant writing period, RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes that Wies van Leuken's contract be amended to change the part time position Of Administrative Assistant to a full time position, with a 35 hour work week. Approved unanimously. 4 Minutes IURA March 28, 1996 The Agency preferred to discuss the contract for the Administrator in Executive Session. See Item VIII-3 . VII-3 . Financial Statements The financial statements, dated February 1996, were entered into the minutes . VII-4 . Staff Training Stevenson reported that he will be attending the second installment of the training provided by the National Development Council. He will be out of the office May 6 thorough May 10, 1996 . VIII. Other Business 1. Dental Clinic Stevenson and Myers reported on the EDC meeting with Thom DeLara of the Family Health Network. This Group has taken over the management of the dental clinic previously operated by the Groton Community Health Care Center. Mr. DeLara asked for a one year postponement of principal payments on the loan with the IURA. The Committee supported the proposal and is asking the IURA to approve the request. Mackesey moved and Myers seconded a resolution to grant the request by the Family Health Network to grant a one year postponement on the payments of principal on the loan with the IURA loan. WHEREAS, the Family Health Network of Cortland is in the process of assuming management of the downtown dental clinic managed by the Groton Family Health Clinic, Inc. , including liability for loans made to the Groton Clinic, and WHEREAS, the clinic is an important source of dental health care to low income people in Ithaca, with approximately 85% of the clinic's clients participating in Medicaid, and WHEREAS, the Family Health Network has requested a one year deferment of principal payments on a loan of $75, 000 in order to better establish the financial viability of the clinic, BE IT RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes a one year extension in the grace period on principal repayments, with the term of the loan to extend for an additional year (i.e. the loan will amortize over seventy-one months, and interest only payments due during the next twelve month period, and 5 Minutes IURA March 28, 1996 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that as a condition of this amendment to the loan agreement that the Family Health Network provide regular financial statements and an annual audit, and that it also provide information on financial concessions made by other involved parties. Approved Unanimously. VIII-3 . Eddygate HODAG Loan Report Sieverding reported on the meeting of the EDC with Mack Travis, General Partner of Eddygate Associates. Eddygate Associates owns Eddygate Apartments on Dryden Road. The partnership is considering refinancing the property. The City holds second and third mortgages on the property. The second mortgage secures the HODAG loan which has an outstanding principal balance of approximately $1 .17 million while the third mortgage secures the land loan which has an outstanding balance of approximately $575, 000 . Mr. Travis stated the partnership, as part of the refinancing, is willing to either payoff the remaining principal on these two loans or payoff the land loan and convert the HODAG to a higher paying loan. However, in consideration of the higher rate, the Partnership will be released from the restricted rent provision on 13 of the apartment units in the building. Sieverding explained that the HODAG calls for 13 of the units to be rented at below market rate levels to low and moderate income households. Staff sets the rent for these units every year according to a formula spelled out in the HODAG grant agreement. The original terms of the loan agreement are 1% interest rate and a thirty three year term (the first three years were interest accrual only) . These term yield an annual payment of $55, 000 per year. This payment forms the basis of the City's annual contribution to INHS. The Agency discussed some of the pros and cons of either accepting the payoff amount of the HODAG or reinvesting the remaining principal in the project at a higher rate of interest. One of the major concerns with the payout option is the loss of a sustainable source of revenue to support the INHS program. It was pointed out that no other CD funded project has paid as consistently as the Eddygate project has . The Agency will discuss this issue further at its next meeting. In the interim, in response to a question from Susan Cummings, staff will research whether any of the closing documents or project documentation refer to the continuation of the participation agreement for the life of the project. 6 Minutes IURA March 28, 1996 VIII-2 . Executive Session An Executive Session was called to discuss personnel matters . Action taken: WHEREAS, the employment contract between the IURA and Paul Stevenson expired March 26, 1996, THEREFORE HE IT RESOLVED, that Paul Stevenson's contract with the IURA as Community Development Administrator is amended to run through March 26, 1997, AND HE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that quarterly reviews be conducted by the Executive Director in consultation with Agency members with a report going to the Budget and Administration Committee. Approved unanimously. IX. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 12 :15 PM. (C\Win\M\Min96MAR.DOC) iCtio PVL' 7 G\52x4.'sO ∎c� MINUTES Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Thursday, June 13, 1996 at 11:30 AM Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present: Susan Cummings, Bill Myers, Pam Mackesey, Doug Dylla, Brad Nelson, Thys Van Cort, Herman Sieverding, Paul Stevenson, Wies van Leuken, Paul Glover for Item IV-1. I. Call to order The meeting was called to order by the Vice-Chair, Susan Cummings at 11:35 AM. II. Approval of Minutes of March 28, 1996 and February 8, 1996 The minutes of March 28, 1996 and February 8, 1996 were approved as distributed. III. Staff Reports 1. City Hall Annex Sieverding reported that the purchase of the City Hall Annex by Cathleen and Bruno Schickel is progressing without problems . The attorneys of both parties are finalizing the legal work. The financing is in place. The closing is expected to take place by the middle of June, 1996 . III - 2 . CDBG Update Stevenson reported on the progress of some of the CDBG projects . Bids for the Mutual Housing Project Phase II came in higher than its budget called for. The matter is being reviewed by INHS, which is seeking bids now for stick construction. Tentative plans call for a ground breaking late summer or early fall. Request for proposals have been issued for the Conway Park playground equipment. After review by the client committee a community build will be organized to build the play structure. Sear Brown is preparing a cost estimate report on the Southside Community Center's expansion. Most of the expansion is subject to Minutes IURA June 13, 1996 approval of the 1996 CDBG application. Announcements on that grant year are not expected to come through for at least another month. The Family Resource Center staff is working out of the Southside Community Center again. The project is going through a difficult period. Other changes may have to be made in the future in order to keep the program together. A very committed effort was made in the last few weeks to mediate the differences that had developed. The FRC staff has worked with Evaporated Metal Films (EMF) regarding job referrals. The referred applicants dropped out before they had an interview. Cummings suggested contacting the Learning Web. They ran a similar and highly successful program. The Agency members concurred that it is rare for a business to be willing to reach out to long term unemployed people. It is important to give the project intensive support and work through the difficulties. The City's First Homebuyer Program for Southside, administered by INHS, is falling behind schedule. Community perceptions about living downtown are in part to blame for this. There is consensus that intensive marketing needs to be done to promote the sale of houses. The Cleveland Avenue Street Improvements project will receive input from a neighborhood group which is being formed. Stevenson plans to contact the Ithaca Community Dental Services to get an update on the operations under the new management. The loan for the project has been restructured with M&T Bank, as instructed per Agency resolution. III - 3 . Other No reports . IV. Reprogramming of CDBG Funds 1 . HourTown/Paul Glover Proposal Stevenson asked direction from the Agency as to how to proceed with this project. The Agency discussed the project at length and asked Glover a number of questions. Glover stated that he plans to maximize the use of local suppliers for the local economy. He is hoping to use office space made 2 Minutes IURA June 13, 1996 available by the Chamber of Commerce. Otherwise he might work from home. He would prefer a centrally located office suitable for walk-ins . Glover stated that regarding staffing the office, he would want to continue his involvement with the currency part of the operation. He is offering a 20 hour per week position at $14, 000 a year and a 10-15 hour per week position at $7, 000 per year. Staff would be hired by the advisory board/GIAC. The program is part of GIAC as a requirement to receive funding from the Ford Foundation. The higher paid position should be filled by a person who has in- debt experience with sales, experience with manufacturing and who is imaginative when it comes to seeing possibilities. Cummings stated that there is lot of complexity involved in this project. There is a need for parameters to measure the success of this project. It is agreed that the first step in realizing this project is to develop a data base. Mackesey moves and Myers seconded a resolution to approve forwarding this project to HUD for their approval for use of reprogramming funds. Whereas, the IURA and the City of Ithaca are in the process of "reprogramming" the remaining portions of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the West Inlet and Landmark Square Projects, and Whereas, economic development projects are an eligible activity under the CDBG regulations, and Whereas, Paul Glover has proposed a community economic development project designed to increase the level of economic linkages and activity within the Ithaca economy by facilitating the purchase of locally produced inputs by local processors and end users trough the development of a data base, and Whereas, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency endorses this activity, as far as it concerns the development of a database Now Be It Resolved, that the IURA recommends to the City Common Council that reprogrammed CDBG funds, in the amount not to exceed $35, 000, for a program period of 12 months, be approved and forwarded to HUD for final approval, pending review by the City Attorney and the Executive Director. Approved by three votes in favor and one opposed. 3 Minutes IURA June 13, 1996 IV - 2 . Other/Wood Street Park Stevenson reported that a request for a handball court in Wood Street has been received. A petition had been presented to the Board of Public Works signed by hundreds of people. Mackesey moved and Dylla seconded a resolution to approve the use of unused Landmark Square program delivery funds for the building of a handball court in Wood Street Park. Whereas, the City of Ithaca and the IURA were not able for reasons beyond their control to implement the Landmark Square Housing Rehabilitation Program, and Whereas, the IURA and the City have reprogrammed the funds from the Landmark Square, except for $4, 707 . 50 in program delivery funds for the housing rehabilitation, and Whereas, the City's HUD representative has agreed that the funds are best used for improvements to the Wood Street Park, which was part of the same comprehensive program, Now Be It Resolved, that the IURA authorizes use of the funds for further improvements to the Wood Street Park, including a handball court and other recreational uses . Approved unanimously. It is agreed to wait with further funding of projects with 1995 reprogramming funds until after a decision regarding the 1996 CDBG application has been received. V. Committee Reports 1. Economic Development a. CEO Program Stevenson reported that the ED committee had approved CEO loan requests by LaBerta McGruder/Bird's Back and Lynne Seegers/White Tiger Pruning. Mackesey reported that McGruder had recce a loan from Fleet Bank. Stevenson will contact Fleet Bank to help fund the CEO Loan Fund. 4 Minutes IURA June 13, 1996 V-1-b. CD RLF Program: One Body, One Planet, Inc. Stevenson reported on the EDC's recommendations regarding the CDRLF loan request by Kimberly Navarro, owner of One Body, One Planet, Inc . He reported that the discrepancy between the credit report and the financial statement received from EastWest Planning and Associates, had been satisfactory explained by Navarro. The recommendations were not changed. Mackesey moved and Dylla seconded a resolution to accept the EDS's recommendations. RESOLVED, that the IURA accepts the recommendations by the Economic Development Committee and approves the loan application by Kimberly Navarro, owner of One Body, One Planet, for funding through the Community Development Revolving Loan Fund, and will grant a loan of $5, 000 at 8% interest, to be paid off over 24 months beginning July 1, 1996 in equal monthly installments of $226, pending review of the loan document by the City Attorney and the Executive Director. Approved unanimously. V-1-c. CDRLF Expense Reimbursement Stevenson stated that the EDC had recommended reimbursing CDRLF related expenses with CDRLF funds. The Agency concurred with the ED Committee. WHEREAS, the IURA administers a Community Development Revolving Loan Fund (CDRLF) as a means of encouraging small businesses development, and WHEREAS, the cost of processing loans will generally be in excess of the $50 application fee, which was set below costs to encourage applications, now be it RESOLVED, that the ED Committee recommends to the IURA to authorize that direct costs related to the processing of loans from the CDRLF may be paid out of this fund. Approved unanimously V-1-d. Carpenter Business Park In response to questions from Dylla, Sieverding stated that Carpenter Business Park is still vacant but that Cherry Street 5 Minutes IURA June 13, 1996 Industrial park is fully leased. All inquiries received by Sieverding regarding CBP have been for leasing space for retail businesses, which is not an allowed use. Sieverding is waiting till the Economic Development Plan has been completed and approved by the City. It is anticipated that the sale of CBP will be one of its recommendations . ARC and HUD will agree to a sale of CBP as long as the funds are reinvested in to another industrial park. Cummings is concerned that Common Council is not adequately informed regarding the industrial parks. The Agency asks staff to discuss the Industrial Parks with the ED committee. V-2 . Neighborhood, Housing, and Infrastructure a. Homebuyer Program Update Discussed as part of Item III-2 . V-2-b. Eddygate Sieverding briefed the Agency on the tentative plans of Mack Travis, General Partner of Eddygate Associates regarding Eddygate Apartments on Dryden Road. The partnership is considering refinancing the property. The City holds second and third mortgages on the property. The second mortgage secures the HODAG loan which has an outstanding principal balance of approximately $1 . 17 million while the third mortgage secures the land loan which has an outstanding balance of approximately $575, 000 . The partnership, as part of the refinancing, is willing to either payoff the remaining principal on these two loans or payoff the land loan and convert the HODAG to a higher paying loan. However, in consideration of the higher rate, the Partnership will be released from the restricted rent provision on 13 of the apartment units in the building. The HODAG grant agreement yields an annual payment of $55, 000 per year. This payment forms the basis of the City' s annual contribution to INNS . One of the major concerns with the payout option is the loss of a sustainable source of revenue to support the INHS program. It was pointed out that no other CD funded project has paid as consistently as the Eddygate project has . The matter was discussed in depth. The Agency asked Sieverding to prepare a summary comparing the "lump sum" with the "annuity" approach for their review. 6 Minutes IURA June 13, 1996 V-3 . Budget and Administration a. Managerial Audit The Agency moved this item to the agenda of the next Budget and Administration Committee meeting. V-3-b IURA's By-Laws The Agency moved this item to the agenda of the next Budget and Administration Committee meeting. V-3-c. Financial Statements The financial statements, dated April 1996, were entered into the • minutes. V-4-d. Community Health and Home Care Stevenson reported that Community Health and Home Care had fulfilled their contractual requirements as requested by the IURA last year. Myers moved and Mackesey seconded a resolution to approve transforming the deferred loan of CHHC to a grant. Whereas, Community Home and Health Care (CHHC) , Inc . , has successfully made full, monthly loan repayments on its primary loan since April, 1995, thus clearing CHHC of an event of default, and Whereas, $10, 000 of the loan to CHHC was lent as a deferred loan to be transformed into a grant, after a period of 36 months and with regular payments of the primary loan; Now Be It Resolved, that the IURA authorizes the transfer of $10, 000 in deferred loan to a grant, per the conditions of the loan agreement with CHHC and the IURA' s requirement for twelve consecutive full monthly payments . VI. Other Business No reports. VII. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 1:30 PM. (C\Win\M\Min96JUN.DOC) 7 C.rout-d 4/4 aC. ctio �uV } C -V..,�°AVM c MINUTES Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Thursday, July 11, 1996 at 11 AM Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present: Mayor Alan Cohen, Bill Myers, Doug Dylla, Thys Van Cort, Herman Sieverding for Item II-1, Paul Stevenson, Wies van Leuken, Ed Sutherland from WHCU/AM, except for Item II-2c. I. Call to order The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Alan Cohen at 11 AM. II. Staff Reports 1. Eddygate/HODAG Sieverding distributed copies of his letter to Mack Travis, General Partner of Eddygate Associates, regarding possible refinancing plans for the Eddygate Apartment Complex. Construction of the Complex was financed in part by a HODAG. Staff review of the contract indicated that each HODAG has what is in effect a regulatory period during which the low income housing units cannot be removed. This minimum project term is 20 years. The minimum project term goes into effect once 50% of the units are occupied, meaning that the Complex' 13 affordable units will remain affordable per this contract until the year 2006 . Eddygate Associates had assumed that the 13 units would revert to market level rents once the HODAG had been paid off. Travis' attorney will review the contract. The Agency will postpone further action until they are contacted again by Travis. I1-2 . CDBG Update a. Southside Housing Revitalization Project The project has been on hold for a month, pending receipt of the formal letter of approval from the HUD Buffalo office. II-2b. Southside Community Center Renovations Sear-Brown Associates submitted its report for the Southside Community Center renovation. The report's cost projections are significantly over the original budget. Minutes IURA July 11, 1996 Stevenson reported that staff has met with the Sear-Brown staff and brought the cost estimates closer to the original budget. The Southside Community Center Design Team will review the report at their next meeting. II-2c. Family Resource Center Myers moved and Doug seconded a resolution requesting an executive session to hear the report from Stevenson regarding the Family Resource Center staffing. RESOLVED, that the IURA will go in to executive session to discuss the Family Resource Center. Approved unanimously. Myers moved and Doug seconded a resolution requesting adjournment of the executive session called to hear the report from Stevenson regarding the Family Resource Center staffing. RESOLVED, that the IURA will adjourn the Executive Session. Approved unanimously. • Action taken: The Agency agreed that circumstances warranted that the FRC move its operations to a new site. II-2d. Wood Street Park Stevenson reported that meetings involving the Wood Street Client Committee and other neighborhood representatives are being held to finalize plans for the handball court. II-2e. Conway Park Playground Stevenson reported that the proposals received in response to the RFP for playground equipment, will be reviewed at the next meeting of the Northside Community. II-2f. Mutual Housing Phase II Jack Jensen from INHS will forward the new bid information for the MHA Phase II Project to their NY State II-2g. Cleveland Avenue Street Improvements A meeting with community members is being scheduled to discuss this project. 2 3 Minutes IURA July 11, 1996 II-2h. RIBS Stevenson reported that representatives from EOC and RIBS had met with the landlord Jim Usek and CD Staff to discuss the projects they each are carrying out in the building at 309 South Corn Street. RIBS runs its operations on the ground floor per a lease agreement with Usek. Per an oral agreement with Usek, they also use a shed and a small piece of land adjacent to the building. EOC per lease with Usek has begun renovations on both the second floor of 309 S Corn street and the house next door, 301 S Corn Street. II-3 . Reprogramming CDBG Funds Paul Glover is working with the Chamber of Commerce to obtain office space. Glover will put a proposal together. Agency members requested to have the final proposal mailed to them rather than be called for a formal meeting. III Committee Reports 1 . Economic Development a. CEO Program Stevenson reported that the ED Loan Committee approved two applications for a CEO Loan Fund loan at their meeting of July 2, 1996 . Loans of $5, 000.00 each were awarded to Martha Miceli, owner of Silver Bear and Leslie Muhlhahn, owner of Just Desserts. III-1b. Capitalization of CEO Loan Stevenson reported on the capitalization of the CEO loan fund. General commitments were made to the loan fund in 1994 by three local financial institutions . There has been confusion since, regarding the nature of these commitments . In the interest of providing a uniform application process, it was thought necessary to maintain all the funds in one loan fund account . However, this has not been possible to achieve, due to concerns on the parts of the financial institutions . In order to insure access to cash for the loan fund, a transfer of up to $25, 000 in funds from the CD-RLF is requested. When the future of the CEO program is clearer (based on the CDBG application currently under review) , an alternative method of capitalizing the loan fund will be proposed. 3 -t Minutes IURA July 11, 1996 Dylla moved and Myers seconded a resolution to authorize a transfer of up to $25, 000 from the CD-Revolving Loan Fund to the CEO Loan Fund. WHEREAS, the CEO Loan Fund was established to provide capital for CEO program participants starting micro-enterprises, and WHEREAS, a significant portion of the CEO Loan Fund was capitalized with funds made available from the Community Development Revolving Loan Fund, and that micro-enterprise development is an eligible use of these funds, and WHEREAS, the CEO Loan Fund has been depleted through a number of loans, now BE IT RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes the transfer of up to $25, 000 in funds from the Community Development Revolving Loan Fund to the CEO Loan Fund. Approved unanimously. III-2 . Neighborhood, Housing, and Infrastructure The mayor will write a letter to all City Employees, informing them of INHS' housing opportunities . Sue Perlgut from INHS will meet with interested City employees. Dylla informed the Agency on a similar program in Milwaukee which is quite successful. III-3 . Budget and Administration a. IURA By-Laws The By-Laws will be reviewed and updated. III-3b. Health Insurance for Administrative Assistant The B&A Committee had approved the administrative assistant's change in benefits . The Agency accepted the recommendations. Dylla moved and Myers seconded a resolution to approve the Administrative assistant's health insurance. WHEREAS the position of Administrative Assistant has become a full time position per IURA resolution of March 28, 1996, and WHEREAS the IURA per its Human Resource Policies manual offers its full-time employees health insurance for themselves and their 4 t Minutes IURA July 11, 1996 families, which can be for either newly negotiated or existing health insurance, and WHEREAS the administrative assistant has existing health insurance through her spouse's employer provided health insurance and has requested reimbursement for the family co-payment required by her spouse's employer, and WHEREAS the City Attorney has reviewed this request and found it without conflict, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED , that the Budget and Administration Committee approves the request and forwards its recommendations to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency for their review. Approved unanimously. III-3c. Report Executive Director Van Cort reported that the B&A Committee had accepted his report on the Administrator's performance review without additional comment. III-3d. Contract with Bookkeeper The B&A Committee had approved the new hourly wage for the Agency's bookkeeper. The Agency accepted the recommendations. RESOLVED, that the IURA will amend its contract with Pam Solomon for bookkeeping services to allow and hourly payment not to exceed $17 .50. Approved unanimously. • III-3e. Financial Statements The financial statements, dated May 1996, were entered into the minutes. IV. Other Business No reports V. Approval of Minutes of June 13 , 1996 The minutes of June 1996 were approved with two amendments . On Page 2, Item 111-2, 8th paragraph, the sentence was added: "A Report will be made regarding INHS' broad based marketing 5 Minutes IURA July 11, 1996 policies . " On Page 4, Item V-la, second paragraph, the word "received" was replaced by "been offered" . VI. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 11:45 PM. (C\W\Win\M\Min9 6Jul.DOC) f p cox)ecL ¢s 6 alotteta • MINUTES OF THE ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY WJI' ' Thursday, August 8, 1996 at 11 :00 am Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present : Doug Dylla, Susan Cummings, Pam Mackesey, Rick Gray, Herman Sieverding, Paul Stevenson, Wies Van Leuken, Angela Noble for Item III only: Mariette Geldenhuys, Matthys Van Cort, Charles Trautman. I. CALL TO ORDER: 11 : 00 am by Vice-Chair Cummings . II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Minutes of July 11, 1996 IURA Meeting approved as distributed. III. SCIENCENTER The Agency discussed the memoranda from Charles Trautman, Executive Director of the Sciencenter, dated July 31, 1996, and from Herman Sieverding, dated August 2, 1996 . Dylla moved and Mackesey seconded the amended draft resolution. WHEREAS: Common Council of the City of Ithaca has passed a resolution authorizing the transfer of the eastern portion of tax map parcel 25-2-1 to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency for the purpose of implementing the Urban Renewal Plan, and WHEREAS: the Sciencenter, Inc. has previously acquired the western portion of tax map parcel 25-2-1 under a long-term lease with the City of Ithaca for the construction of the first phase of the Sciencenter, and WHEREAS : it is the IURA' s intention to transfer to the Sciencenter Inc. the eastern portion of this parcel for the Sciencenter' s proposed 10, 000 sf expansion and related improvements, and WHEREAS : the proposed improvements are consistent with the economic development goals of the Urban Renewal Plan and with the conclusion of the Northside Land Use Plan and will result in the elimination of conditions that have a blighting influence on the neighborhood, now therefore be it RESOLVED: that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency designates the Sciencenter, Inc. as a qualified and eligible sponsor and, be it further IURA MINUTES 08/08/96 page 2 RESOLVED: that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency authorizes staff to negotiate the terms of sale for the following described parcel of property with the Sciencenter, Inc. subject to the following basic principles : a Sale Price: $1 . 00, b Performance language stipulating completion of construction by a certain date, c Reversion language for non-performance and the instance of cessation of use as a Sciencenter, and d Time period during which the Department of Public Works will continue to be able to utilize the property, and be it further RESOLVED: that the negotiated terms of sale be brought back to the IURA for ratification before implementing the provisions of General Municipal Law 507. Approved unanimously. IV. CDBG UPDATE IV. 1 Family Resource Center Center is looking for a new small space as home for its office. There is no budget line for rent, but CD- RLF funds could be designated for rent. GIAC is not appropriate, EOC and IHA are being approached. There is consideration to house the Center within a church building. IV. 2 • s . - .flu • ' - , - There are continuing problems with the expansion/ renovation plans. Engineering Department is pursuing the design work and balancing it against the budget . Per Van Cort, the best way to do the project would be to do all the work at once, but the multi-year funding cycle and uncertainty of continuing funding doesn' t allow this. Van Cort, Sieverding, and Stevenson meet periodically regarding the project . IV. 3 Cleveland Avenue Street Improvements A meeting with neighborhood representatives has led to some solutions, even some less expensive than 4 ' • IURA MINUTES 08/08/96 page 3 previously anticipated. Core neighborhood group is from the 200 block of Cleveland Avenue, not the surrounding neighborhood. Speed bumps, signage, historical amenities, are all under consideration. IV.4 Park Projects Handball court design is almost complete and due to go to bid. This is the only handball court in the City so use is anticipated to be high. Lighting and police presence are planned: anti-graffiti surfaces are included in project . Wood Street park is improved. Dylla repeated his annual request for a volleyball court and Cummings noted a need for a horseshoe pit . V. CDBG FUNDS REPROGRAMMING The Agency is holding off on reprogramming funds from deleted projects from previous years, as the funds may be reassigned to those projects denied in the current CDBG application. VI. OTHER BUSINESS VI . 1 Mutual Housing, Phase II MHA II] : Dylla stated that the NYS funding agency needs to receive a stern letter from the Mayor regarding funding delays for the project . The project has been discussed during the last 2% years. Pressure by Senator Stewart and Assemblyman Luster is needed, otherwise the project is done for. Dylla moved and Mackesey seconded RESOLVED: that the IURA restate its commitment to the MHA II project and requested that staff ask our governmental representatives to use their influence to move the funding agencies to release earmarked funds. Carried unanimously. VI .2 .flu . ' • - • ' - •••• • ' - : Angela [Jaromin] Noble reported briefly on the continuing CEO program. The program is nearing its maximum budget expenditure. HUD has not published the Notice of Funding Availability for 1996 CDBG Year #1 funds . Staff anticipates a period of a few months during which the CEO project will not be funded. The Agency agreed to make a commitment to the program and staff IURA MINUTES 08/08/96 page 4 and continue funding the project until 1996 year #1 funds become available. The CEO staff may continue with new CEO applicants pending review of the budget . Jeff Furman' s salary will be discussed at the next regular IURA meeting. A resolution may be presented in January of 1997 . VI . 3 Mackesey moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to request the mayor to reappoint Doug Dylla to the IURA. RESOLVED: that the IURA authorizes the CD Administrator to request that the Mayor reappoint Doug Dylla to serve another four-year term as a member of the Agency. Carried. Stevenson will draft the letter to the Mayor. VII. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION VII . 1 Financial S _a m n . Small Cities Grants Summaries dated June 1996 and July 1996 were introduced into the minutes. VII .2 By-Laws Proposed revision to IURA By-Laws were distributed for review. VII . 3 Staff Benefits_ Van Cort stated that the IURA Human Resources Policy allows full-time employees to have their family health insurance premiums paid for. The HRP sets a cap subject to the costs of similar health insurance provided by the City. Van Cort stated that van Leuken' s request is eligible by the provision set in the HRP. Mackesey moved and Dylla seconded a resolution regarding payment of Wies van Leuken' s health insurance policy. RESOLVED: that the IURA approves Wies Van Leuken' s request to continue her family' s present health insurance coverage through her husband' s policy and have the premium reimbursed by the IURA. Approved unanimously. VIII. ADJOURNMENT: 12 :35 pm END 08/10/97 WVL/mfh MINUTES OF THE ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY Special Meeting Wednesday, September 18, 1996 at 8 :45 am Planning and Development Office, City Hall Present : Alan Cohen, Doug Dylla, Bill Myers, Susan Cummings, Pam Mackesey, Matthys Van Cort, Paul Stevenson, Wies Van Leuken I. CALL TO ORDER: 8 : 50 am II. SALE OF IURA LAND The Agency discussed the timetable for the MHA II land sale, which was approved by Common Council in February 1996 . Common Council has given IURA responsibility for the sale. Dylla moved and Myers seconded the draft resolution as submitted. WHEREAS: The Common Council of the City of Ithaca has passed resolution on February 7, 1996, authorizing transfer of city property adjacent to the existing Mutual Housing Association [MHAJ site to the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County, and WHEREAS: the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County has previously acquired land from the City for the construction of fourteen housing units, and has successfully implemented the development of these units, and WHEREAS: it is the IURA' s intention to transfer to the MHA land for Phase II, being the remaining portion of the parcel 1 .2, block 3, tax map 25, between existing MHA site and the right of way of the planned access street, and WHEREAS: the proposed improvements are consistent with the development goals of the Urban Renewal Plan and with the conclusion of the Northside Land Use Plan, and will result in an increase in the stock of affordable housing, now be it RESOLVED: that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency designates the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County as a qualified and eligible sponsor, and be it further RESOLVED: that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency authorizes staff to negotiate the terms of sale for the following basic principles : w, IURA Special Meeting Minutes 09/18/97 page 2 a that sale price be $1 . 00; b that performance language be included stipulating the completion of construction by a certain date; c that the agreement contain reversion language for non-performance or the cessation of use for affordable housing, and, be it further RESOLVED: that the negotiated terms of sale be brought back to the IURA for ratification before implementing the provision of General Municipal Law Section 507 . CS:48 Carried unanimously. III. DISCUSSION OF STAFFING LEVELS Stevenson explained that IURA is the top-rated agency for New York State above the Mid-Hudson region. This success means most project applications have been funded. Also, IURA has more and more projects that are administered by the agency staff. Conclusion is that the IURA needs another full-time staff person, preferably a planner, as in-house skills are more efficient than working with external consultants. Agency will request Harry Sicherman, of EastWest Planning, to define the necessary qualifications and to recommend procedure for a search. Cohen moved and Dylla seconded a resolution to begin a search for additional staff. RESOLVED: that the IURA directs and authorizes staff to begin the search for the CD Planner and to bring submitted resumes before the Budget and Administration C4; 110 Committee for review. Approved unanimously. IV. OTHER BUSINESS IV. 1 Eddvgate Partnership: Van Cort reports that Mack Travis has asked to make a presentation before the Agency rather than respond to the IURA' s memo in writing. Agency members requested that Sieverding brief them on the Eddygate loan negotiations at the next meeting instead. IURA Special Meeting Minutes 09/18/97 page 3 IV. 2 Next meeting will be Tuesday, September 24, at 11 : 00 am, with a Budget and Administration Committee meeting preceding it at 10 :45 am. V. ADJOURNMENT: 10 : 00 am. END 08/10/97 WVL/mfh I.\ �! p:J 17171M1,mo' 'I �' CITY OF ITHACA • 108 EAST GREEN STREET ITHACA, NEW YORK 14850 DEPARTMENT OF TELEPHONE:607/274-6550 PLANNING&DEVELOPMENT FAX:607/274-6558 H.MATTHYS VAN CORT,DIRECTOR 607/272-7348 HERMAN SIEVERDING,AICP,DEPUTY DIRECTOR ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY SPECIAL MEETING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 1996 8:45 A.M. PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT OFFICE 1 . Call to Order 2 . Resolution Naming MHATC as Prime Sponsor for the Sale of a Parcel of IURA Land 3 . Discussion of Staffing Levels 4 . Adjournment • Printed on Recycled Paper An Equal Opportunity Employer with an Affirmative Action Program- Iv( ([rmnr�n it m CITY OF ITHACA 1OB EAST GREEN STREET ITHACA, NEW YORK 14850 DEPARTMENT OF TELEPHONE:607/274-6550 PLANNING&DEVELOPMENT FAX:607/274-6558 H.MATTHYS VAN CORT,DIRECTOR 607/272-7348 HERMAN SIEVERDING,AICP,DEPUTY DIRECTOR To : IURA Members Thys VanCort, Exptive Director From: Paul Stevenson, Administrator Date: September 16, 1996 Re: Special Meeting on MHA Resolution Please note that a special meeting of the IURA has been called for Wednesday, September 18, at 8 :45 am. ' The meeting is necessary due to the failure last week to muster a quorum for the regular September meeting. The IURA needs to take action on a resolution naming the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County. Wednesday is the last day possible to act on the resolution and still have time for the appropriate public notices . Failure to act could delay the land sale, and risk pushing the project into the spring. Staff would also like to discuss staffing in the CD office, and your views on advertising for one additional planner position. Thanks . h: \ps\agency96\ag-sept3 .doc C,Printed on Recycled Paper An Equal Opportunity Employer with an Affirmative Action Program" MINUTES OF THE ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY Tuesday, September 24, 1996 at 11 : 00 am Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present : Alan Cohen, Pam Mackesey, Susan Cummings, Bill Myers, Matthys Van Cort, Paul Stevenson, Wies Van Leuken. for Item II : Mariette Geldenhuys . for Item III : Herman Sieverding, Mariette Geldenhuys, Mark Little. I . CALL TO ORDER: 11 : 05 II. DRAFT BY LAWS Draft Revision of the IURA By-Laws were distributed at the August 8 meeting. City Attorney Geldenhuys stated that the IURA was established by the State, and is thus subject to State laws. Appointments to the IURA are made by the Mayor with approval of the Common Council, but the State law does not mention term limits . Because an item written into State law cannot be changed by municipalities, the City of Ithaca' s local law establishing four-year term limits is invalid. If the City wishes to change this the Common Council must pass a home rule request to be forwarded to the State. Myers took issue with Geldenhuys ' finding and will submit documentation for her to review. Question arose as to whether the authority existed to form and later abolish the Community Development Agency. Consensus was to write to the State for clarification. III. EDDYGATE PARTNERSHIP UPDATE Executive Session Action Taken: III . 1 Sieverding will write a letter to Mack Travis notifying him of the following IURA decisions a IURA will extend the due date for the participation payment for a 60 day period beginning September 24, 1996 and ending November 25, 1996 . b Travis ' response to Sieverding ' s letter of August 23 should be submitted to the Agency by October 4 . The Agency will consider the response at a future meeting. c After review of the material the Agency will set a time to meet with Travis to discuss . III .2 A financial consultant should be present at Eddygate meetings to assist Sieverding. IURA MINUTES 09/24/96 page 2 IV. TASK FORCE FOR BATTERED WOMEN SHELTER IV. 1 Sidewalk Resolution Mackesey moved and Cummings seconded resolution to authorize reimbursement of sidewalk repair expenses for the domestic violence shelter. WHEREAS : the IURA is responsible for maintenance of the shelter used by the Task Force for Battered Women, and WHEREAS: the City of Ithaca has tentatively assessed the IURA for $987 . 50 for repairs to sidewalks adjoining the property, now be it RESOLVED: that the IURA authorizes payment of the sidewalk repair assessment from the program income account . 0 Approved unanimously. IV.2 Repair Program for Building No reports. V. JOSEPH SWEET CONFLICT OF INTEREST After discussion of Stevenson' s memo of August 21, 1996, Mackesey moved and Cummings second a resolution regarding the potential conflict of interest of INHS and MHA Board Member Joseph Sweet seeking a CDBG funded homebuyer loan. WHEREAS: the IURA has discussed in an open meeting a request by Mr. Joseph Sweet, a Board Member of Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services, to participate in the CDBG funded Homebuyers program administered by INHS, and WHEREAS : Mr. Sweet is otherwise qualified for the homebuyer program and the INHS Board of Directors is not the INHS committee responsible for evaluating loan decisions of this nature, now be it RESOLVED: that the IURA requests HUD to grant a waiver in the 4, case from conflict of interest regulations . /� Approved unanimously. VI. 1996 CDBG AWARD VI . 1 Stevenson distributed a memo detailing the projects the CD office will be implementing during the next year. He will consult with Sicherman regarding the most efficient manner to manage the CD program. K IURA MINUTES 09/24/96 page 3 VI .2 Southside Community Center/Family Resource Center A community meeting was held regarding the potential move of the FRC from SCC. Jackie Melton- Scott, director of SCC, is to call Stevenson with a report on the discussion. A report of budget figures for FRC will be available for the next IURA meeting. Agency members discussed the August 1997 report from FRC staff. VII. REPROGRAMMING OF 1993 CDBG FUNDS Stevenson listed the three possible projects for reprogrammed funds : Homes, EOC, and West Inlet/Towerview with funds available. HUD has requested a reprogramming plan be submitted by the end of September. Stevenson will inform HUD that IURA is in process of developing recommendation for reprogramming and report at next meeting. Myers recommended seeking new proposals to have on the shelf for future use. VIII. CDBG UPDATE VIII . 1 Conway Park construction has been postponed until Spring 1997 . VIII .2 The board of Public Works has turned down the bids on the Wood Street handball court . VIII . 3 A seven minute video on the Trailblazers project was presented to IURA. IX. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION IX. 1 The Small Cities Grants Summary dated August 1996 was entered into the minutes . X. OTHER BUSINESS EXECUTIVE SESSION The future of the Family Resource Center was discussed. No action was taken. XI. ADJOURNMENT: 12 :45 . END 08/10/97 WVL/mfh f ``tLIQ� A,.JV l } c.AA rLLI S Cs2_ r MINUTES Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Thursday, October 10, 1996 at 11 AM !� Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall ��('��� �S S r� Present: Doug Dylla, Pam Mackesey, Susan Cummings, Bill Myers, Charles Trautmann for Item III, Matthys Van Cort, Herman Sieverding and Mark Little for Item V, Harry Sicherman , Paul Stevenson, Wies van Leuken I. Call to order The meeting was called to order by the Vice-Chair, Susan Cummings at 11:10 AM. II. Recommendation for CD Planner Position Stevenson briefed members on the CD Planner position search. He stated that the composition of the Interview Committee had to be changed. Van Cort had been called out of town and was replaced by Herman Sieverding. Cummings had a conflict of interest concerning one of the people on the short list and was replaced by Pam Mackesey. Interviews for the 6 candidates on the short list took place on October 4 and 7, 1996. The Committee selected 2 candidates for further reference checks. The committee met again before this IURA meeting. By unanimous decision, the Committee recommended Martha Armstrong for the position of Planner. Stevenson distributed Armstrong's resume. Mackesey stated that the committee made its choice based on Armstrong's experience with implementing projects, her interest in community issues and residence in the community. The other candidate was also a very strong candidate, but did not have Armstrong's experience. Mackesey moved and Dylla seconded a resolution to approve Martha Armstrong for the position of Planner. RESOLVED, that the IURA accepts the recommendations by the interview committee and authorizes the Executive Director to offer the position to Martha Armstrong and negotiate an appropriate salary for this position. Approved unanimously. Minutes IURA October 10, 1996 III. Sciencenter Land Disposition Stevenson gave the Agency an update on the draft resolution before them. - Mackesey moved and Myers seconded a resolution to approve the draft resolution as distributed. The draft resolution was approved unanimously and attached to the minutes. The Sciencenter's president Charly Trautmann thanked the Agency for their timely handling of this matter. IV. MHA Phase II Land Disposition Stevenson gave the Agency an update on the project. Mackesey moved and Dylla seconded a resolution to approve the draft resolution before them. The draft resolution was approved unanimously and attached to the minutes. V. Eddygate/HODAG Executive Session Action taken: Dylla moved and Myers seconded a resolution to authorize the hiring of a financial expert. RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes staff to use up to $5, 000 .00 from the miscellaneous income line for necessary technical assistance to negotiate the Eddygate contract. Approved unanimously. The Agency complimented Mark Little on the quality of his research. VI Report on 1996 CDBG Implementation Planning Stevenson introduces Harry Sicherman to the Agency. Sicherman stated that with the latest application approval the City has more funds to spent than some entitlements communities . The projects will have an impact on the communities . It is 2 Minutes IURA October 10, 1996 necessary to review how the projects should be set up. The budget for FY1996 is $1 .2 million. Sicherman stated his concern regarding the City's past ability to meet HUD's threshold requirements . With the additional funding of this year, this might become an impediment to obtain further funding. In addition he noted that there is an increase in projects which require in house services. Cummings proposed that the Agency include the required staff time needed to carry out a project when they review a proposal . Sicherman further stated that a sophisticated process has to be followed when implementing projects, with rather unsophisticated sub grantees . As an example he cited the ability to distinguish between a procurement process and a subgrantee process . the first requires a bidding process, the other a contract agreement. HUD regulations per December 11, 1996 require that interest from program income should be returned to HUD. Sicherman suggested changes in the way admin costs are charged. Time spent on administration for projects should be paid from those project lines. Sicherman gave a briefing on Section 108 loan guarantees . VII Reprogramming of CDBG funds Stevenson' s memo of October 5, 1996 with a description of potential projects was attached to the minutes . The Agency reviewed all projects and made recommendations for each project. 1 . EOC Corn Street: requested funding is $80, 000 Agency members had serious reservations about the high renovation costs . The project was excluded from CDBG funding because it would remain in private hands and lacked long term safeguards to keep the rents affordable. HOMES, Inc . Requested funding $85, 000 Agency wanted staff to pursue this project. 3 . Weisburd Property Inclusion of this projects was approved. 3 Minutes IURA October 10, 1996 4 . State Street Teen center The IURA supports the reuse of the building, but recommends that teens first rent a place and develop the organizational expertise to maintain their own building. 5 . 402 South Cayuga Street IURA recommends pursuing appropriate use of the site as long as the existing structure will be demolished. 6 . Rental Rehab Program The Agency approved including a rental rehab program. 7 . Recreational Trail A recreational trail is not an eligible activity. 8 . Improvements around the Bus Station on Fulton Street The Agency approved a project of improvements around the bus station, such as a telephone booth and improved lighting. 9 . Demolition/new construction corner Cascadilla/Third Street The Agency approved a project of demolition and new construction on the corner site of Cascadilla and Third Street. VII Other Business - Financial Statements The financial statements, dated September 1996 were entered into the minutes . IX. The meeting was adjourned at 1:15 PM. (C\W\Win\M\Min96oct.DOC) 4 ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY (IURA) RESOLUTION Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Resolution-Sale of City Property to the Sciencenter October 7, 1996 Whereas,Common Council has authorized the transfer of the eastern portion of tax map parcel 21- 2-1 to the Urban Renewal Agency for the purpose of implementing the Urban Renewal Plan and the Northside Land Use Plan,and Whereas,the Sciencenter has previously acquired the western portion of this parcel under a long term lease with the City of Ithaca and has constructed the first phase of a multi phase Sciencenter, and Whereas,the Sciencenter has proposed acquiring the eastern portion of this parcel so it can construct an approximately 10,000 sf expansion to the existing Sciencenter building,and Whereas,the proposed improvements are consistent with the economic development goals of the Urban Renewal Plan and with the conclusion of the Northside Land Use Plan and will result in improving the physical environment of the area,and Whereas,the Sciencenter has a demonstrated ability to complete all the steps necessary to develop the site with the proposed expansion and has been designated by the Urban Renewal Agency as a qualified and eligible sponsor,and Whereas,the sale of this parcel will result in a number of economic benefits to the City as detailed in the attached"Sciencenter Proposal for Acquisition of Land for Phase III Expansion"dated July 31, 1996,and Whereas,pursuant to General Municipal Law 507 and the Agency's land disposition procedures, pct notice of a public hearing was advertised and the public hearing on the proposed sale terms . held by Common Council on October 2 1996,and Whereas,the Common Council approved of the sale of this parcel of land to the Sciencenter pursuant to the attached Purchase Agreement,now therefore be it Resolved,that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency approves the sale of the eastern portion of tax map parcel 25-2-1,located at the corner of Franklin Street and Lake Avenue,by the Urban Renewal Agency to the Sciencenter pursuant to the terms of the attached Purchase Agreement dated September 23, 1996. APPROVED I 4 ETING I OCTOBER 10, 1996 He.uan Sieverding Acting Executive Di to IURA PURCHASE AGREEMENT The Sciencenter, hereinafter referred to as "buyer", hereby offers and agrees to purchase, and the City of Ithaca, hereinafter referred to as "seller" hereby agrees to sell the property described below, hereinafter referred to as "the premises" on the following terms and conditions: • 1 . Premises. All that tract or parcel of land situate in the City of Ithaca, County of Tompkins and State of New York known as the easterly one half of the "old sewage treatment plant site" being an approximately one-acre parcel of land encompassing the easterly one-half of tax parcel 25-2-1 . Together with all of seller' s interest, benefits, rights, privileges, easements and common elements pertaining to the premises . Together with all improvements now located on the premises which shall all be free and clear of all liens and encumbrances and all of which shall be sold in their "as is" condition. 2 . Price. The purchase price shall be the sum of $1 .00 . 3 . Survey. Seller' shall provide -a survey at buyer' s cost. 4 . Title. . Seller shall deliver to the attorney for buyer at least ten days before closing a forty-year abstract. of title (which abstract shall be permanently transferred to- the buyer -at -closing) showing good and .marketable title, showing: the premises -free and clear of all charges, taxes, liens and encumbrances, except pole and wire easements of record, zoning ordinances and building and use restrictions running with the land common to the tract or subdivision. Buyer shall pay the cost of preparing and updating an • abstract of title. If buyer raises a valid written objection to seller' s title, which means title to the premises is unmarketable, seller may cancel this contract by giving prompt written notice of cancellation to buyer. If seller fails to cure the title defect, buyer will not be obligated to purchase the premises . OFT 5. Adjustments . All rent, fuel bills, water bills, sewer OFFICE OFT HE EY charges and taxes will be adjusted as of the day of transfer of possession. Ithaca City Hall 108 East Green Street Suite 403 aca,NY14850 • C:\WPWIN60\WPDOCS\SCIENCEP.AGR 1 16071 274-6504 FAX 16071 272-7348 6. Possession. Possession of the premises is to be transferred on the execution of this contract subject to the buyer providing proof to the seller that the buyer is carrying one million dollars of liability insurance naming the City as an additional insured and the buyer executing and delivering to seller an agreement agreeing to indemnify and hold the seller harmless from any liability arising out of buyer's use and occupation of the property. 7 . Closing. At closing seller shall deliver to buyer a bargain and sale deed for the consideration stated herein sufficient to convey good and marketable title in fee simple, free and clear of all liens and encumbrances . The closing shall take place in Ithaca City Hall, 108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York, on or before December 31, 1996. Buyer agrees to pay all closing costs. 8 . Deed Provisions . The deed from seller to buyer shall contain the following provisions: A. If, by December 31, 2006, Phase III of the Sciencenter has not been constructed on the subject premises and opened to the public, seller shall have the option of reacquiring the subject premises from buyer for the price of $1 . 00. B. If, during a period ending December 31, 2043, the buyer intends to sell the property, buyer must first offer the property to the seller for $1.00,. plus the value of any improvements located thereon. The procedure for this would be that the buyer would notify the seller of its intention to sell the property. The seller would then have the right, within a period of 45 days after receiving such notification, to notify the buyer that it wished to have the improvements appraised. The buyer and seller would then agree on an appraiser to appraise the improvements . In the event the parties were unable to agree on such an appraiser, that issue would be resolved by arbitration. The cost of the appraisal would be split equally between the buyer and the seller. Within 45 days after the appraisal was completed the seller would have the option of purchasing the property for the then-appraised value. If the seller notified the buyer that it wished to exercise such option, the parties would immediately enter into an agreement for the seller to purchase the property at that price with the closing to take place within three months after the signing of the contract . OFFICE OF THE If the seller notified the buyer that it wished to have CITY ATTORNEY such an appraisal done but did not exercise its option to purchase Ithaca City Hall the property for the then-appraised value and the buyer thereafter 108 East Green Street received a bona fide offer to purchase the property which the buyer Suite 403 Ithaca.NY 14850 C:\WPWIN60\WPDOCS\SCIENCEP.AGR 2 (607)274-6504 FAX(607)272-7348 • intended to accept, the seller would have the right of first refusal to acquire the property under the terms of that offer. The seller would have 45 days after receipt by the seller of a copy of said bona fide offer and notice that the buyer intended to accept said offer to exercise its right of first refusal. If the buyer advised seller that it intended to sell the property and the seller chose not to have the property appraised (with the seller being responsible for one-half the cost of the appraisal) , then the seller' s right of first refusal would automatically be deemed waived. C. If, during a period ending December 31, 2043, the buyer sold the premises and did not within one year from the date of sale open a new comparable Sciencenter at some other location within the City, the City would have the option of purchasing the premises for one dollar without consideration or compensation for any improvements placed on the premises . In the event the City exercises this option and the property is encumbered with a mortgage (or other lien) the City will be obligated to either assume that mortgage (or other lien) or pay off the outstanding principal balance of the mortgage (or other liens) subject to the provisions of paragraph 8 D below. In determining whether the Sciencenter was a comparable Sciencenter, the following factors would be considered: 1 . the comparative sizes of the Sciencenter on the subject premises and the new Sciencenter; 2 . the comparative scope of activity of the Sciencenter on the subject premises and the new Sciencenter; 3. the activities actually undertaken by the new Sciencenter on the subject premises and the new Sciencenter; 4 . the value of the improvements on the subject premises and the value of the improvements to be used for the new Sciencenter; and 5 . whether the new Sciencenter was the primary location of the Sciencenter as opposed to a satellite Sciencenter. D. The buyer shall not encumber the premises with mortgage or other liens that secure obligations in an aggregate amount in excess of the fair market value of the improvements on the premises, excluding the value of the land. OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY Ithaca City Hall 108 East Green Street Suite 403 taca. NY 14850 C:\WPWIN60\WPDOCS\SCIENCEP.AGR 3 16071 274-6504 FAX 1607)272-7348 • E. Any buildings constructed on the subject premises shall not exceed 40 feet in height as such terms are currently defined in Section 30 .3 (B) (47) of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code. F. If, during the period ending December 31, 2043, at any time after the initial construction of the Sciencenter, there shall be any significant exterior renovations to the buildings on the premises, the plans for such exterior renovations shall be subject to the approval of the seller. 9. The water and Sewer Department of the City of Ithaca shall have the right to continued use of the currently existing structure thereon until January 1, 1999 at no cost to the seller. 10. The deed shall contain a reservation to the seller of an easement fifty feet in width along the parallel with the northerly boundary of the premises, for the purpose of installing and maintaining water and sewer facilities . 11 . This contract shall be binding upon the parties hereto; their respective executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, personal representatives, successors and assigns . SCIENCENTER, INC. COUNTY, INC. BY: LEILANI B. PECK, President of the Board CITY OF ITHACA BY: ALAN J. COHEN, Mayor OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY Ithaca City Hai 108 East Green Street Suite 403 nau,NY 14850 C:\WPWIN60\WPDOCS\SCIENCEP.AGR 4 1607)274-6504 FAX(607)272-7348 RESOLUTION ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY (IURA) AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF LAND TO THE MUTUAL HOUSING ASSOCIATION OF TOMPKINS COUNTY FOR THE MHA PHASE II PROJECT Whereas, the IURA has declared the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County (MHATC) the preferred sponsor, per Article 507 of the General Municipal Law, for the purchase of a parcel of land from the IURA, and Whereas, legal notice of the intended sale was published, and a public hearing on the sale of the property was held before the City Common Council, per the IURA's land disposition process, and the Common Council approved the sale conditions at its October 2, 1996 meeting, and Whereas, the sale of land, a portion of tax map parcel 25-3- 1.2, will allow for the development of fourteen units of affordable rental housing, a development financed in part through the City's Community Development Block Grant program, and Whereas, the NHATC previously acquired adjacent land and demonstrated the ability to develop affordable housing on the site, and Whereas, the sale of the parcel Is ;consistent with the • Northside Land Use Plan and the II' ' 'Renewal Plan, and will result in a range of community benefits and Whereas, the parcel of land will be sold by the IURA to the MHATC for a price of $1, with the condition that the land be used for the development of the MHA Phase II project, now Resolved, the IURA authorizes the sale of the parcel of land designated for the MHA Phase II project to the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County, and authorizes the Mayor and staff to work with the City Attorney to finalize all necessary legal documents and for the Mayor to sign such documents on behalf of the IURA. APPROVED IURA MEETING OF OCTOBER 10, 1996 h:\ps\cdbg96\mha\res-4.doc OPIP He ' an Sieverding Acting Executive Dire , IURA MINUTES OF THE ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY Thursday, November 25, 1996 at 10 : 00 am Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall Present : IURA Susan Cummings, Pam Mackesey, Bill Myers, Doug Dylla STAFF Matthys Van Cort, Paul Stevenson, Martha Armstrong, Wies Van Leuken GUESTS Lee Dillon, Phil Genova, Cynthia Yahn, Joyce Walker, Paul Mazzarella I. CALL TO ORDER: 11 : 10 am by vice-chair Cummings . II . APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Minutes of the October 10, 1996 meeting were approved as distributed. III. MUTUAL HOUSING RESOLUTION Stevenson explained that the resolution passed by IURA on October 10, 1996 on the MHA Phase II Land Disposition included language which would have had the property revert to the City should it no longer be used for affordable housing. This requirement complicated mortgage arrangements. In the resolution before the Agency today this wording has been substituted with language for an option agreement . The new resolution will be voted on by Common Council on November 25, 1996 . Mackesey moved and Myers seconded approval of the amended resolution with the addition of a line "that this resolution supersedes all previous resolutions. " WHEREAS : The City of Ithaca has transferred to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency a parcel of land adjacent to the existing Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County [MHATC] for the purpose of constructing Phase II of the Mutual Housing Association affordable housing project, and WHEREAS : the IURA intends to transfer the land to the MHATC for $1, and WHEREAS : the deed will include restrictive covenants and an option for the City of Ithaca to repurchase the land from the MHATC or its successor should, as some point in the future, the land be no longer intended to be used for affordable housing, with the provision that the option price shall be equal to all outstanding mortgages and grants at the time of sale, and NT. lll s%.• 1771:7111::rircr7911T4 A16_,= CITY OF ITHACA 108 EAST GREEN STREET ITHACA, NEW YORK 14850 DEPARTMENT OF TELEPHONE:607/274-6550 PLANNING&DEVELOPMENT FAX:607/274-6558 H.MATTHYS VAN CORT,DIRECTOR 607/272-7348 HERMAN SIEVERDING,AICP,DEPUTY DIRECTOR AGENDA ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY Nbndn ,,1 TIC, NOVEMBER 21-, 1996 ll:oo . AM 25 THIRD FLOOR CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL 1 . Call to Order 2 . Approval of Minutes of October 10, 1996 Meeting 3 . Mutual Housing Resolution 5 min. 4 . Eddygate Update, Herman Sieverding 15 min. 5 . CDBG Program Updates 15 min. 6 . Reprogramming of CDBG Funds 20 min. 7 . Report of Economic Development Committee a. Report on Loan Review 5 min. b. CEO Loan Fund Administration 10 min. 8 . Resolution on Contract with East/West Planning and Development 5 min. 9 . Dental Clinic Discussion 10 min. 10 . Discussion of Doug Dylla' s memo on 15 min. IURA projects/priorities 11 . Report of Budget and Administration Committee-- Thys Van Cort 10 min. 11 . Other Business 5 min. 12 . Financial Statements • 13 . Adjournment i,Printed on Recycled Paper "An Equal Opportunity Employer with an Affirmative Action Program" ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY (IURA) RESOLUTION Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Resolution-Sale of City Property to the Sciencenter October 7, 1996 Whereas,Common Council has authorized the transfer of the eastern portion of tax map parcel 21- 2-1 to the Urban Renewal Agency for the purpose of implementing the Urban Renewal Plan and the Northside Land Use Plan,and Whereas,the Sciencenter has previously acquired the western portion of this parcel under a long term lease with the City of Ithaca and has constructed the first phase of a multi phase Sciencenter, and Whereas,the Sciencenter has proposed acquiring the eastern portion of this parcel so it can construct an approximately 10,000 sf expansion to the existing Sciencenter building,and Whereas,the proposed improvements are consistent with the economic development goals of the Urban Renewal Plan and with the conclusion of the Northside Land Use Plan and will result in improving the physical environment of the area,and Whereas,the Sciencenter has a demonstrated ability to complete all the steps necessary to develop the site with the proposed expansion and has been designated by the Urban Renewal Agency as a qualified and eligible sponsor,and Whereas,the sale of this parcel will result in a number of economic benefits to the City as detailed in the attached"Sciencenter Proposal for Acquisition of Land for Phase III Expansion"dated July 31, 1996,and Whereas,pursuant to General Municipal Law 507 and the Agency's land disposition procedures, proper notice of a public hearing was advertised and the public hearing on the proposed sale terms held by Common Council on October 2, 1996,and Whereas,the Common Council approved of the sale of this parcel of land to the Sciencenter pursuant to the attached Purchase Agreement,now therefore be it Resolved,that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency approves the sale of the eastern portion of tax map parcel 25-2-1,located at the corner of Franklin Street and Lake Avenue,by the Urban Renewal Agency to the Sciencenter pursuant to the terms of the attached Purchase Agreement dated September 23, 1996. APPROVED I ,iETI OCTOBER 10, 1996 op He•uan Sieverding Acting Executive Di to IURA RESOLUTION ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY (IURA) AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF LAND TO THE MUTUAL HOUSING ASSOCIATION OF TOMPKINS COUNTY FOR THE MBA PHASE II PROJECT Whereas, the IURA has declared the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County (MHATC) the preferred sponsor, per Article 507 of the General Municipal Law, for the purchase of a parcel of land from the IURA, and Whereas, legal notice of the intended sale was published, and a public hearing on the sale of the property was held before the City Common Council, per the IURA's land disposition process, and the Common Council approved the sale conditions at its October 2, 1996 meeting, and Whereas, the sale of land, a portion of tax map parcel 25-3 - 1.2, will allow for the development of fourteen units of affordable rental housing, a development financed in part through the City's Community Development Block Grant program, and Whereas, the MHATC previously acquired adjacent land and demonstrated the ability to develop affordable housing on the site, and Whereas, the sale of the parcel is consistent with the Northside Land Use Plan and the Urban Renewal Plan, and will result in a range of community benefits, and Whereas, the parcel of land will be sold by the IURA to the MHATC for a price of $1, with the condition that the land be used for the development of the MHA Phase II project, now Resolved, the IURA authorizes the sale of the parcel of land designated for the MHA Phase II project to the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County, and authorizes the Mayor and staff to work with the City Attorney to finalize all necessary legal documents and for the Mayor to sign such documents on behalf of the IURA. APPROVED, IURA MEETING OF OCTOBER 10, 1996 h:\ps\cdbg96\mha\res-4.doc OP Herman Sieverding Acting Executive Dire , IURA _ _ _