HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-IURA-2000 IURA Minutes,1-18-00, 1
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Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
4:00 PM,Tuesday,January 18,2000
Common Council Chambers,City Hall
PRESENT: IURA Members Jill Burlington,Alan Cohen,
Susan Cummings, Eric Rosario
Staff Nels Bohn, Wies van Leuken,
Kat Clute, Adam Smith
Others Tom Edwards,Doug Foster,
Bob Lama, Paul Mazzarella,
Doug McDonald, Cynthia Yahn
I. CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 4:14 pm by Cummings.
II. PREVIOUS MINUTES
Tabled, with no action taken.
III. STAFF REPORTS
III-1 RENTAL REHAB SUBSIDY CHANGE -REPORT
After discussing VIII-2, Clute stated that the HNI Committee had changed the
subsidy percentage from 50% to 75% in an attempt to interest a larger number of
landlords in the rehab subsidy program. After discussion, Cohen suggested that
certain types of work, such as interior improvements to increase livability and
exterior aesthetic improvements be encouraged at a 75% subsidy, but other work
be subsidized at the 50% level.
Rosario requested additional information on the subsidy, and lengthy discussion
continued between Cohen and Cummings with no further action taken.
III-2 REVISION OF THE CITY OF ITHACA'S COMMUNITY
PARTICIPATION PLAN
Clute brought forward a resolution eliminating the Community Advisory
Committee (CAC) from the Community Participation Plan(CPP).
WHEREAS, the possible funding levels for New York State's FY2000 "comprehensive"
Small Cities CDBG funding proposals will be set between$750,000 and
$900,000, and
IURA Minutes,1-18-00,2
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca's Community Participation Plan(CPP)was developed in
response to the Federal Housing & Urban Development's (HUD)
requirements for community participation in CDBG proposal development
and approval, and
WHEREAS, the CPP created the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) to review
and recommend Small Cities CDBG funding proposals to the IURA, and
WHEREAS, the IURA staff has reviewed basic HUD community participation
requirements and determined that the current Community Participation
Plan places more requirements on the IURA than is necessary, and
WHEREAS, the IURA staff has determined that the CAC's role and processes exceed
HUD Community Participation requirements and place an undo
scheduling burden on NRA members and LURA staff given a 60 calendar
day response period, and
WHEREAS, the LURA staff will continue to maintain all the necessary legal and
display notifications for the two HUD-required public hearings, and
WHEREAS, the LURA continues to hold the required public hearings, and
WHEREAS, all paragraphs and references pertaining to the role of that CAC be
eliminated from the Citizen Participation Plan, so now be it
RESOLVED,that the following changes be made to the CPP document:
I. Grant Application heading of the CPP document (page 3 of 9), the following
changes be made:
A. Organizational Meetings: strike"CAC" and replace with"IURA".
B. Joint Public Hearing: eliminate"CAC and"from the first sentence.
C. CAC Recommendations: eliminate "CAC" from the title and replace with
« A„
D. Draft Application: eliminate the last two paragraphs.
III. Implementation: (page 5 of 9), the following changes be made:
A. Monitoring: this paragraph is not necessary to accomplish the reporting and
assessment requirements of the Agency projects/staff.
B. Formal Participation: eliminate "Meetings will be held" and replace with
"IURA staff will hold meetings..."
C. Eliminate the whole sub-paragraph.
F. Submissions of Views and Proposals: eliminate "CAC meetings" and replace
with "hearings"; eliminate "CAC for formal and informal" and replace with
"Common Council for formal...".
G. Complaints: eliminate"and/or CAC".
IURA Minutes,1-18-00,3
I. Community Outreach: eliminate"CAC members and/or",replace with"and".
J. Technical Assistance: eliminate "the CAC" in the second sentence of the first
paragraph; eliminate the last paragraph.
The resolution was referred back to the B&A Committee with no action taken.
III-3 NEW CDBG$900,000 COMPREHENSIVE CATEGORY-REPORT
Clute reported that the State will issue a comprehensive NOFA for $900,000,
covering 12-15% admin costs, but not until March or later. Clute also added that
the HUD had not yet formally rescinded their last NOFA, but had promised to do
so.
IV. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
IV-1 CD-RLF LOAN APPLICATION-MTP OF ITHACA,INC-RESOLUTION
Rosario/Cummings moved/seconded the following resolution for discussion.
WHEREAS, MTP of Ithaca, Inc. has requested loan assistance for the Triangle Plaza
proposal to redevelop the vacant former Triangle Steel complex located at
726 Cecil A. Malone Drive, formerly W. Clinton Street, for occupancy by
various construction firms and Ithaca Iron, Inc., a proposed new rebar
fabrication firm, thereby creating job opportunities and expanding the tax
base, and
WHEREAS, MTP of Ithaca, Inc. proposes to undertake renovation of the approximately
50,000 sq. ft. building at an estimated cost of$822,000, and
WHEREAS, the primary objectives of the Community Development Revolving Loan
Program (CD-RLF) is provision of direct financing for economic
development activities to create employment opportunities, facilitate the
expansion of business activity within the City of Ithaca and expansion of
the City's commercial and industrial tax base, and
WHEREAS, based on soil testing conducting by ThermoRetec, an environmental
consulting firm, lead paint abatement of a previous lead painting area
within the building to be occupied by Ithaca Iron, Inc. is estimated to be
$62,500, and
WHEREAS, Ithaca Iron, Inc. will provide design, fabrication, delivery, and installation
of reinforcing steel bars (rebar) in poured concrete structures and is
projected to create approximately 9 new employment opportunities, the
majority of which will be available to low/moderate income persons, plus
project-y-project rebar installation work to be filled by Union workers,
and
IURA Minutes,1-1 8-00,4
WHEREAS, Ithaca Iron, Inc. has indicated an interest in locating in the Triangle Plaza
complex upon remediation of environmental contamination, and
WHEREAS, at their January 11, 2000 meeting, the Economic Development Committee
reviewed MTP of Ithaca, Inc.'s plans for revitalizing the former Triangle
Steel Complex for a variety of construction-related service businesses and
start-up of a rebar fabrication and business known as Ithaca Iron, Inc. and
recommended the following,therefore,be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby approves a loan from the CD-RLF to MTP of Ithaca,
Inc. to finance the cost of completing environmental remediation at the
former Triangle Steel complex located at 726 Cecil A. Malone Drive
(formerly W. Clinton St.)per the following terms:
maximum loan amount: $50,000, not to exceed 75%of future remediation costs
use of funds: future environmental remediation activities
term: 60 months
interest rate: 3%
repayment: interest-only payments until loan funds are substantially
disbursed, then monthly level payments to amortize the
debt over the term
conditions: proof of project commitment by Ithaca Iron, Inc.,
including:
1. willingness to make available significant equity
to the business start-up and proof of financial
capacity to provide
such equity;
2. intent to create multiple job opportunities; and,
3. Ithaca Iron lease at Triangle Plaza,
security: sufficient to adequately secure loan (under negotiation),
and be it further
RESOLVED, that the IURA Chair, upon the advise of the Executive Director and
Assistant City Attorney, is hereby authorized to determine that security
pledged by Borrower is sufficient and to execute all necessary and
appropriate documents to implement this resolution, including, but not
limited to, executing loan agreement documents.
Rosario stated that the ED Committee had discussed the resolution and
recommended its adoption by the TURA. Discussion ensued, in which Cummings
requested more information about the identities of the owners and investors in
MTP and Ithaca Iron.
CARRIED unanimously.
IURA Minutes,1-18-00,5
V. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION
V-1 DECEMBER FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
No report given.
V-2 STAFF CONTRACT EXTENSIONS -RESOLUTION
Cummings/Cohen moved/seconded an Executive Session to discuss staff
contracts. Executive Session began at 5:07 pm and ended at 5:24 pm.
After the Executive Session, Agency members agreed to a two month extension
on staff contracts, extending them through March 31, 2000. Cummings/Cohen
moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, the IURA's Budget and Administration Sub-Committee has reviewed and
approved the extensions of the 1998-1999 contracts of the CD
Administrator, CD Planner, and Contract Monitor through January 31,
2000, with the inclusion of the 2000 Cost of Living Adjustment, and
WHEREAS, the IURA's Budget and Administration Sub-Committee has reviewed and
approved the extensions of the 1998-1999 contracts, with the inclusion of
the 2000 Cost of Living Adjustment, of the CD Administrator, CD
Planner, and Contract Monitor through March 31, 2000,therefore be it
RESOLVED,that the Budget and Administration Committee of the IURA recommends
that the IURA approve the extensions of the 1998-1999 contracts of the
CD Administrator, Katharine Clute; CD Planner, Nels Bohn; and Contract
Monitor, Wies van Leuken through, March 31, 2000.
CARRIED unanimously.
V-3 FIVE (5)YEAR SALARY FUNDING FORECAST-REPORT
Rosario began the discussion of the report by requesting to see the agreement
between INHS and the IURA that details the terms of funding. Cohen stated that
there was a discrepancy between the City Controller's office's records and the
IURA's records as to the amount of funding given to INHS. Cohen suggested that
the contract between INHS and the IURA be reviewed annually. Rosario asked
that the language in the contracts be clarified in terms of funding use directives.
Rosario further stated that he wanted to see written policy for funding use, in
order to help both the Agency and those in need of funding.
Clute stated that while INHS is an important organization, there are other
organizations in the City that presented additional valuable partnership
opportunities for the IURA, and that there was enough work to be done that INHS
LURA Minutes,1-1 8-00, 6
would not be harmed by the IURA's association with other housing organizations.
Clute also stated that there was a significant amount of program income available,
but that the IURA lacked policy and processes with which to disburse funds for
projects and organizations that are of service to the low/moderate income
community in the City. Clute added that the IURA should assist other
organizations with funding and should also generate policy to aid in the
distribution of funds. Clute further maintained that without program income
allocation policy and procedures, the IURA was remiss in its responsibility to
actively assist the low/moderate income community members of the City of
Ithaca.
Rosario asked where the IURA was in the process of generating policy and
programs; Clute informed him that the matter had been in the B&A Committee
since June, 1999 with no action taken since then.
Cohen requested staff recommendations to be given to the B&A Committee,
which will then be forwarded to the full Agency.
V-4 LEGAL SERVICES FOR 1997 CCI -REPORT
Bohn informed the Agency that Mariette Geldenhuys and Ralph Nash had each
been approached about Marina Realty legal work for the CCI and that Geldenhuys
had stated that she was interested. The project was then given to her.
Cohen asked that rejection letters be held until there had been a review of the
lawyers and for what reason some were not asked to be retained as counsel.
VI. HOUSING,NEIGHBORHOODS,AND INFRASTRUCTURE
No reports or action taken. Cummings requested that a review of zoning and other
ordinances be done by the City Planning Department for the
Cherry/Clinton/Malone industrial area. Research will be limited to the guidance
on the construction and maintenance of sidewalks and be brought to the HNI
Committee for discussion once research is complete.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
No reports or action taken.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
VIII-1 NEXT MEETING DATE: (TUESDAY) FEBRUARY 18,2000,4PM
Date accepted.
VIII-2 REQUEST FOR FUNDING-MHA
IURA Minutes,1-18-00,7
Tom Edwards requested funding for pre-development work for MHA's Phase 3 as
well as for the Executive Director's salary. Edwards explained that Phases 1 and
2, consisting of 14 housing units each, had been completed, but that MHA's
occupancy rate was 100% and pressure for more same-type housing was building.
Pre-development work had been done on possible properties earlier, but the
locations were unsuitable. MHA is now looking at other locations, but requires
additional funding to succeed. In addition, Edwards brought a progress report for
1999 to show what had been done under the last year's funding provided by the
NRA.
Cohen requested updated pro formas for MHA from Edwards and also a report on
the percentage of tenants who have not paid their rent. Cohen referred this matter
back to the HNI committee.
VIII-3 60-DAY EXTENSION FOR CARPENTER PARK PURCHASE OFFER
Bohn explained that staff and the Assistant City Attorney believe that the
proposed 60-day extension of the soil test, environmental assessment, and site
plan submission contingencies is appropriate, given that the NRA has been slow
in producing the abstract and other documentation about the property, some
of which is still not delivered.
Rosario/Burlington moved/seconded a resolution to grant the extension.
Discussion ensued in which Cummings asked that proposals such as this be
submitted earlier and Cohen confirmed the Assistant City Attorney's position,
adding that the City had been unable to follow through on its commitment to
Building Links.
WHEREAS, upon Common Council endorsement, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
(NRA) executed a purchase offer with Building Links, Inc. to acquire the
Carpenter Business Park on October 7, 1999, and
WHEREAS, a written request from Building Links, Inc. was received on January 14,
2000 requesting a 60-day extension of the contingencies set forth in
paragraphs 10(A), 10(B), and 11(B) of the purchase agreement dated
October 7, 1999, and
WHEREAS, the contingencies requested to be extended can generally be described as
the "soil test" contingency, the "environmental assessment" contingency,
and the"site plan submission"contingency, and
WHEREAS, such request will provide the buyer, or buyer's assignee, 2450 days from
the date of the purchase agreement to submit a complete and reasonable
site development plan application, and
t
IURA Minutes,1-18-00, 8
WHEREAS, such request also extends the buyer's contingency set forth in 10(C) of the
purchase agreement by a 60-day time period to provide 270 days from the
date of the purchase agreement for the buyer to obtain preliminary site
plan approval, and
WHEREAS, there have been unexpected delays in completing the abstract, which is
due to be completed by January 19, 2000, and
WHEREAS, the Assistant Assistant City Attorney had reviewed the request and raised
no legal objections to granting the request,now, therefore,be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby approves the 60-day extension requested in the
January 14, 2000 letter from Richard P. Ruswick, Attorney for Building
Links, Inc. of certain contingencies contained in the Carpenter Business
Park purchase agreement dated October, 7, 1999, and be it further
RESOLVED,that any future request for a further extension should be received at least
30 days in advance of the requested date for action by the IURA, and be it
further
RESOLVED, that the IURA may discuss the appropriateness of requiring payment in
return for any future request for an extension, and be it further
RESOLVED,that the IURA Chair is hereby authorized to sign any and all instruments
necessary to implement this resolution, including, but not limited to, the
January 14, 2000 letter requesting the extension.
CARRIED unanimously.
X. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 5:48 PM.
end 1/22/2000 ARS/ars/ksh
•
IURA Minutes, 2-15-00, 1
Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency �,n
4:00 PM,Tuesday,February 15,2000 /2 t�
Common Council Chambers,City Hall
47 4c I
PRESENT: IURA Members Jill Burlington, Alan Cohen,
Susan Cummings, Eric Rosario
Staff Nels Bohn, Wies van Leuken,
Kat Hauger, Doug McDonald
Others Ken Aaron, Paul Carubia, Geoff Dunn,
Steve Flash, Fay Gougakis,
Greg Halkiopoulos, Ben Simmoneau,
Collie White
CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 4:10 by Cohen.
II. PREVIOUS MINUTES
Tabled,with no action taken.
III. STAFF REPORTS
III-1 ANTICIPATED 2000 NOFA
After completing discussion of IV-2, Cohen asked that the press do a story on the
request for projects for the CDBG 2000 application and distributed copies of the
display ad to the members of the press. Cohen also expressed his appreciation for
the cooperation of the media in publicizing such things.
Bohn reported that the state had issued a draft action plan that resembled a
NOFA. Bohn stated that he was fairly certain that a NOFA based on the draft
action plan would be issued on February 23, 2000 with a due date of April 18,
2000, leaving only 6 weeks in which to prepare a CDBG application for a
$900,000 comprehensive (rather than a single purpose) grant.
III-2 COMMUNITY/IURA COMMITTEE COORDINATION OF CDBG
2000 PROPOSAL
Bohn suggested that Agency members review the memoranda included in their
meeting packets that refer to the comprehensive grant application and described
the staff plan for completing the application. Bohn detailed the schedule for the
process, particularly the meeting dates that were necessary for the Agency
NRA Minutes,2-15-00, 2
members to attend. Discussion turned to the Community Participation Plan (CPP).
Cohen suggested that the CPP be addressed at the end of the meeting. Discussion
ensued concerning the nature of public input into LURA projects and government
requirements. Cummings asked if there were a geographic focus for the
application; Bohn stated that there were proposals for the Southside, the
downtown, and the near Northside. Cummings voiced a concern for providing
sidewalks where none had existed along Elmira Rd. Cohen stated that the
Planning Board had voted to put in sidewalks there and that there were plans for
sidewalks throughout the City, funded as a capital project and suggested that, in
light of the plans, sidewalks were not a critical need for this application.
IV. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
IV-1 CD-RLF LOAN APPLICATION-HOT FOOT SHOES-RESOLUTION
Rosario reported that the ED Committee had voted to recommend that a $5,000
loan be given to Hot Foot Shoes, LLC based on the business plan reviewed and
Daniel DeBell's interview at the February 8, 2000 ED Committee meeting.
Cohen asked that the discrepancy between the interest rates for MRI and Hot Foot
Shoes be explained; Rosario explained the committee's reasoning. Cohen
questioned why the Hot Foot Shoes loan had a higher interest; Bohn stated that
DeBell needed to fill a funding gap, was not looking for low-interest loans, and
was satisfied with the terms of the agreement.
Rosario/Burlington moved/seconded the resolution.
CARRIED unanimously.
IV-2 CD-RLF LOAN APPLICATION-MRI—RESOLUTION
Cohen began the meeting noting the public interest in the MRI issue. Rosario
discussed the resolution and the terms of the loan, including the ED Committee's
suggestion that the $50,000 cap on funding be waived, allowing the loan of the
full $100,000. Rosario/Burlington moved/seconded the motion.
Cohen asked Steve Flash, a principal investor in MRI to come forward and
answer questions. Cummings asked for clarification about the need for the loan.
Flash stated that the loan was for public parking and environmental remediation.
Cummings asked about marina renovations; Flash stated that renovations were
intended, but were not part of the current project. Flash described additional
projects that were being supported by the development on Inlet Island. Rosario
stated that Flash had attended an ED meeting and answered questions there,
leaving the ED committee satisfied. Rosario addressed the article in the Ithaca
Journal and suggested that the vote be tabled until the next meeting in order to
•
IURA Minutes,2-15-00,3
give the public opportunity to give input. Bohn stated that normal notification had
been given and that the staff had received phone calls already based on the article.
Cummings suggested that the month's wait be used to review architectural plans.
Discussion ensued concerning the Agency's position on giving the loan as well as
allowing further public input.
Flash stated that they were anxious to see the project begin soon.
Rosario/Cummings moved/seconded a motion to table the resolution until 3/7/00.
Bohn asked if notification should be made for a public hearing. Rosario expressed
his support for a hearing and Cohen told Bohn to give notification for 3/7/00.
V. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION
V-1 DECEMBER 1999 AND JANUARY 2000 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Bohn stated loans to Da'Spot and Glyph Technologies were past due, but that the
staff had begun a process to reinstate their payment schedules. Cohen asked about
Perfect Screen Printers; Bohn stated that they were behind on their quarterly lease
payments and their annual maintenance fee (as residents in the Cherry St.
Business Park) and that reminders had been sent for the approximate $1000 debt
(with 2% monthly penalty for non -payment). Cohen stated that his understanding
was that the debt would not be paid until Perfect Screen Printers was included on
the sign for the park; Cohen also stated that the sign did not belong to the IURA
and that it was not an Agency responsibility. Discussion ensued about the sign,
specifically, and sign ordinances, generally, for the City. Cohen recommended
that ordinances be changed to allow non-City signage with a special permit. Bohn
stated that a notice had been sent to Perfect Screen stating that the debt must be
paid; otherwise, the matter would come before the Agency and could result in the
cancellation of the lease.
V-2 MHA FOIL REQUEST- REPORT
Van Cort stated that a letter had been sent to MHA stating that the information
had been gathered, but that duplication would not occur until staff had been
informed that MHA was willing to pay approximately $1,000 for the duplication
costs. Van Cort also stated that MHA had asked for a waiver of the cost. Cohen
asked that in the future it be stated in any letter detailing the costs of duplication
that the documents are available for public viewing should those requesting them
be interested in coming to the Agency offices. Van Cort stated that he would tell
Tom Edwards that the documents are available for public viewing.
Cummings asked about a letter from Bernie Milton; Bohn explained that it was
being used as an example of citizen complaint and the procedure for dealing with
NRA Minutes,2-15-00,4
such complaints. Discussion ensued concerning the situation and the presentation
that had been made by representatives of MHA at the last HNI meeting.
Cummings described the events of the HNI meeting.
VI. HOUSING, NEIGHBORHOODS, AND INFRASTRUCTURE
VI-1 ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS AND ALLOCATION POLICY-IURA
PROGRAM INCOME
Van Cort recommended that policy be created as soon as possible after the CDBG
application was completed, so that the Agency had guidelines for dealing with
funding local agencies. Cummings concurred and recounted a history of MHA
funding. Rosario asked when policy would be produced; Van Cort stated that it
would occur within 2 - 2.5 months.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
No reports or action taken.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
VIII-1 REPROGRAMMING UNEXPENDED FUNDS FROM 1995/1996 CDBG'S
CLOSED OUT ACTIVITIES-DISCUSSION
Bohn stated that Kat Clute was seeking Agency guidance for a plan to reprogram
nearly $75,000 that are left from completed projects from 1995/1996 to
administrative funds in order to close a funding shortfall. Bohn further stated that
reprogramming needed to be discussed with HUD and that the Agency would
need to demonstrate that administrative funding had fallen below the 20%
threshold in order for HUD to approve the reprogramming. Bohn stated that only
10% of recent grants had been budgeted for administrative work and that Peggy
Meinl from HUD had indicated that it was likely that HUD would approve such a
reprogramming. Bohn indicated that this would be a future action, but did want to
know if there were other uses that the Agency would prefer to pursue with the
funds. Van Cort gave strong support for reprogramming the funds for
administrative uses.
Bohn stated that Clute wanted the matter referred to the B&A Committee. Cohen
stated that any member was welcome to attend the B&A meeting to discuss the
matter and posed the question of whether or not the Agency staff should be
maintained at the same size in the future.
VIII-2 NEXT MEETING DATE: (TUESDAY) MARCH 14, 2000,4PM
Date accepted.
NRA Minutes,2-15-00, 5
VIII-3 OTHER
VIII-3-A ARGYLE ASSOCIATES PROPOSAL
Bohn stated that a letter in the packet for the meeting from Argyle
Associates proposed an alternate construction for the promenade walk and
that staff had requested a more fully described plan for their
redevelopment concepts. Cohen requested clarification as to whether or
not the loan and grant could be separated; Bohn stated that if there were
job creation, the grant could be made without a Section 108 loan. Cohen
stated that given the public's heightened sensitivity to IURA projects, it
needed to be noted that Doug Foster, the signator of the letter, was until
recently a City employee and that efforts must be made to prevent
conflicts of interest or the perception of such. Cummings asked if there
were any conflict of interest rules pertaining to this situation. Van Cort
stated that he believed that conflict of interest bans only applied to present
members, but that the regulations should be checked. Further discussion
occurred, clarifying the barge canal promenade as a separate entity from
the Inlet Island promenade and clarifying additional facts about Argyle
Associates.
VIII-3-B CITIZENS' PARTICIPATION PLAN(CPP)REVISIONS
Discussion ensued concerning the reason for revising the CPP; Cohen
stated that the reason was simply a matter of time, as the preparation
period for the applications had been condensed. Members reviewed the
revised version, occasionally asking questions and seeking clarification
about the revisions. Discussion occurred concerning public notification of
hearings and the nature of public input. Members detailed their corrections
to the revisions.
Members asked for Bohn's corrections in writing and postponed further
considerations of the CPP until Bohn's corrections were prepared. Further
discussion ensued concerning how to maximize attendance at the
meetings.
IX. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 5:45 PM.
end 4/3/2000 ARS/ars
APPROYED
Minutes of Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
Special Meeting
8:30 am, Monday, February 21, 2000
Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall
PRESENT: IURA Members Alan Cohen, Eric Rosario,
Susan Cummings, Tracy Farrell
Staff Matthys Van Cort
ABSENT: LURA Members Jill Burlington
I. CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 8:30 am by Mayor Cohen.
II. PERSONNEL MATTER
The meeting moved into executive session at 8:35 to discuss a personnel matter of
the employment history of an individual employee of the Ithaca Urban Renewal
Agency, The Agency reported out of executive session at 9:15 am. Action taken
is asfollows.
Rosario/Cummings moved/seconded the following resolution.
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency(URA) wishes to resolve any and all
matters pertaining to the employment of Katharine Clute (the Employee)
by the IURA; and
WHEREAS, the parties have agreed to settle all such matters by mutual agreement,
including a Notice of Claim from the employee dated February 18, 2000;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED,that the terms of the Stipulation and Agreement(the Agreement) executed
by Katharine Clute and dated February 18, 2000, together with the
attachments thereto, are hereby approved; and be it further
RESOLVED,that the Executive Director of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency is hereby
authorized to execute the Agreement, and any other documents necessary
to implement the Agreement on behalf of the IURA; and be it further
-1
IURA Minutes, 2-21-00
RESOLVED,that expenditure of the sum of$57,000.00 is hereby authorized to
implement the terms of the Agreement to be taken from the program
income from the Urban Development Action Grant(1982 UDAG, #B-82-
AB-36-0405).
CARRIED, unanimously.
Farrell/Cummings moved/seconded the following resolution.
BE IT RESOLVED, The Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency approves Nels Bohn to be the
Acting Community Development Administrator at Step 6 of the FY2000
Community Development Administrator Salary Scale, which as of
February 21, 2000 is $46,535.00, effective March 1, 2000.
CARRIED, unanimously.
IX. ADJOURNMENT
Meeting was adjourned at 9:30 am.
end 2/2000 MVC/ksh
5/2-3/
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IURA Special Meeting, 3-7-00, 1
Minutes of a Special Meeting of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
4:30 PM,Tuesday,March 7,2000 n .�
Common Council Chambers, City Hall 81? D D O
v
1E
PRESENT: LURA Members Jill Burlington, Alan Cohen, Susan
Cummings, Tracy Farrell
Staff Nels Bohn, Kat Hauger, Doug McDonald,
Ellen Morris-Knower, Harry Sicherman,
Thys van Cort, Wies van Leuken
Others Lucy Brown, Yamin Chevallard, Mark
Campagnolo, Audrey Cooper, Steven
Ehrhardt, Gary Ferguson, George Ferrari,
Steven Flash, Marcia J. Fort, Doug Foster,
Paul Glen, Fay Gougakis, William J. Gray,
Greg Halkiopoulos, Sonia Hicks, Datta Kam
Khalsa, Ami K. Kilgore, Paul Mazzarella,
Bill Myers, Nancy Potter, Michael A.
Robinson, Diann Sams, Jack Sams, Cili
Shannon, Charlie Trautmann, Pat Vaughan,
Scott Whitham, Cynthia Yahn, Pete Zaharis
CALL TO-ORDER
Cohen called the meeting to order at 4:30 pm, and informed the Agency and the
public of the following changes to the agenda order:
1) The meeting would begin with a period of public comment, with
speakers limited to three (3) minutes; followed by
2) Discussion of item III-2; followed by
3) Public Hearing, as listed'in item II-l.
II. PUBLIC HEARING
II-1 FY 2000 CDBG SMALL CITIES GRANT APPLICATION - PUBLIC
INPUT ON FORMULATION OF THE APPLICATION
Cynthia Yahn spoke during the public comment period, explaining their request
for $40,000 in the public service category: $30,000 to pay a case worker and
$10,000 for a consultant to create a reporting system. Yahn gave a history of
Building Links' supportive living program, and stated that they needed to add a
case worker as their program was full and had a waiting list, with more referrals
IURA Special Meeting, 3-7-00, 2
coming in from community organizations. Yahn stated that Building Links'
program was an important partner in these organizations' efforts to assist at-risk
people, and that letters of reference and financial reports would be available to the
Agency at their request.
Gary Ferguson spoke during the public comment period, expressing the Ithaca
Downtown Partnership's support for the Hotel project; Ferguson stated that the
project represented the first major private investment in the downtown area in
many years, and was an example of the type of investment the IDP wishes to
encourage. Ferguson added that the IDP was in strong support of the Agency's
using CDBG funds to assist the private investors, and thereby to support the
downtown businesses, particularly the restaurants.
George Ferrari spoke during the public comment period, discussing the Catholic
Charities' sponsored project; Ferrari stated that they were seeking funding to
convert the former convent into a space for Catholic Charities' Samaritan Center
and community use. Ferrari added that the Samaritan Center, in its first full year
of operations, had assisted 7,200 people.
Nancy Potter spoke during the public comment period concerning their project
application, submitted in conjunction with Cayuga Sunset Properties, to build a
small community resource center in the Parkside Gardens Apartments area. Potter
stated that the resource center would be a place for family recreational use and
educational programming, and could also serve as a base for entrepreneurial
efforts serving the nearby skateboard park (concessions, equipment rental).
Scott Whitham spoke during the public comment period, stating that Historic
Ithaca is now in the process of stabilizing the State Theatre for a December 2000
opening. Whitham stated that the facility would need to be expanded in order to
allow the Theatre to reach its economic and cultural potential in the downtown.
Whitham stated his availability, both at the meeting and at other times, to discuss
the project.
Mack Travis spoke during the public comment period, stating that, as the
president of the IDP and a downtown landowner, he felt that the downtown hotel
project was a excellent project with support from Hilton and a management
company, and that he hoped that the Agency would support it.
Marcia Ford spoke during the public comment period, distributing a handout with
pictures of GIAC's exterior and heavily used interior spaces. Ford described the
facility and its uses by the community, and stated that the building needed
improvements to both the exterior and interior. Ford stated her desire to see the
building renovated to improve quality-of-life issues for the community in the
lower North side.
Sonia Hicks spoke during the public comment period, describing the Southside
IURA Special Meeting, 3-7-00, 3
CDBG applicant program and stating that it would be focused on high school
drop-outs, providing training on computers, but also work and life skills. Hicks
described the project as unique within Ithaca, and essential to the survival and
improvement of many of the teens' lives, making them employable in jobs paying
more than minimum wage.
Jamin Chevallard spoke during the public comment period, representing the
Southside Center/COPC joint project. Chevallard stated that the project was
aimed at producing people with technical skills, able to fill open positions in local
businesses. Chevallard further stated that the project already had computer experts
from Cornell and Ithaca College on board as well as other resources, but that they
needed funding to buy high-end computers to make the program useful.
After Bohn finished his remarks in agenda item V-1, the Public Hearing began.
Fay Gougakis recommended that the Agency consider bringing a YWCA into the
old library site within the City, available for all age groups. Gougakis also stated
that more accommodation needed to be made for pedestrians and cyclists within
the City, citing frightening experiences she has had in her travels about the City.
Paul Mazzarella came to speak about both proposals INHS had submitted, one for
a single purpose and one for a comprehensive application. Mazzarella stated that
the more important of the projects was the Southside House Recycling Program,
and gave a brief discussion of the program.
Charles Trautmann described the Sciencenter Computer Club project, and stated
that,the project had not yet been targeted to a neighborhood and that they were
flexible in choosing their target location. Trautmann pointed out that they already
had funding for a portion of the program and would continue seeking funds, but
that additional funding would support staffing. growth. Bohn, in response to a
question from Cummings, stated that the Sciencenter proposal is not linked to the
Southside/COPC proposal; Cummings expressed concern that the programs
would compete against each other for participants. Trautmann stated that it was
not a matter of competition, he stated that having more than one site in the
community would be very beneficial. In response to a request from Cohen,
Trautmann explained that the Computer Club program would be a satellite
program within a network of nationwide Computer Clubs, linked through the
Computer Clubhouse in Boston. The Sciencenter would receive software and
support from the Boston hub, and could be linked to any Club established in the
world. Discussion ensued concerning linking multiple computer labs within the
Ithaca community. Cohen suggested that Hicks and Trautmann discuss the
possibility of collaboration between the Sciencenter and the Southside
Community Center. Lucy Brown stated that she was strongly in favor of computer
training for children of low- and moderated-income families, and that more
programs along these lines should be established. Discussion continued.
IURA Special Meeting, 3-7-00,4
Cohen asked if the Clubhouse model would allow a network with home-based
workstations for community members; Trautmann stated that he was uncertain,
but would look into it. Trautmann stated that the program was starting in a
controlled fashion, but that larger scale planning was something in which the
Sciencenter was interested. Cummings asked that the question of location be
addressed for this project.
Hicks came forward to state that the Sciencenter and the Southside Community
Center programs were completely separate, and that the Community Center's
program was aimed at training single, high school drop-out parents in technical
skills that would allow them to find adequate employment in Ithaca. Hicks asked
if the LURA would be making a comprehensive application; Bohn stated that
Ithaca has historically pursued comprehensive grants whenever they have been
available. Burlington asked about other programs, particularly in the Alternative
School; Hicks stated that school programs did not address the needs of her target
population. Farrell asked what the timeframe was for training in the Community
Center's program; Hicks stated that it would be 9 months to a year, preferably 9
months, and added that she would like to bring in local, high-tech companies to
assist in training. Burlington suggested that Hicks look into the recruitment
programs that already exist within the high-tech companies.
Bill Myers spoke about the planned expansion of the CEO Microenterprise
Program, first giving a history of the program, and discussing the County's
network of microenterprise programs. In response to a question from Cummings,
Bohn stated that the program would be an asset to a West End focussed grant, but
was weaker in other areas. Cohen stated that efforts of the program would need to
be targeted to an area. Sicherman stated that economic development proposals
were less tied into location, but that it made them stronger if they were location-
targeted. Cohen asked about mainstreet development; Sicherman stated that
mainstreet programs would likely be successful without targeting, but would be
more successful with location targeting. Sicherman asked if CDBG funds could
be kept separate and targeted to City residents, freeing other funds for the
proposed expansion; Myers stated that it was possible.
Jack Sams, a local, long-time, masonry contractor, came forward to propose a
"stamp concrete" program for youth training, resulting in a local service; at this
time, no stamp concrete technology is used by local contractors. Cohen asked
about means of recruitment; Sams stated that he had discussed that with
community members. Cohen suggested that he speak to Hicks and Ford, Audrey
Cooper from Co-operative Extension. Sams stated that these kids would be
excluded by the local Unions. Cummings suggested that an existing community
service organization might be a good home for such a program. Cohen suggested
that: Sams speak to Deb Giordano of County Development, and that she could
hell) with recruitment and support. Farrell suggested that this program be
incorporated into an existing organization for insurance programs, and asked
about gaining union support. Sams said that local unions were a closed society,
IURA Special Meeting, 3-7-00, 5
working on a parent/child basis. Cohen suggested that Bohn and Sams discuss this
project further, perhaps to encourage collaboration with other organizations.
Pat Vaughan, director of the Women's Community Building, spoke about their
project to renovate the building's kitchen to make it a commercial kitchen;
Vaughan expressed a desire to see the kitchen used as an incubator for small scale
food processors and caterers to establish themselves in Ithaca. Vaughan stated that
the renovation would make it possible for people just starting businesses, with
limited capital to afford the use of such a kitchen. Farrell asked about the present
use of the kitchen; Vaughan stated that it was minimal, and inappropriate for
increased use at this time. Farrell asked about scheduling; Vaughan stated that
their hope was that two processors could use the kitchen at the same time,
Monday through Thursday, allowing 3 groups of 2 processors to use the kitchen.
Discussion ensued about the location suitability and economic development status
of the program. Vaughan stated that the organization had grant funding for a
refrigerator and a stove, but that there was much more equipment that they needed
to fund.
The meeting continued to agenda item IV-1.
III. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
III-1 PUBLIC COMMENT ON PENDING LOAN APPLICATION(S)
Cohen stated that public comment would be on all matters, not just the pending
loan applications. Yahn spoke first, regarding the FY 2000 CDBG grant (see
agenda item II-1 for her comments).
Michael Robinson stated that the Marina Realty project was corrupt, including
that he had evidence of criminal and civil misbehavior, including fraudulent
investment practices, which he would share with the Agency should they ask.
Robinson accused the principals in MRI of misrepresenting themselves and their
intentions, and stated that the concept of a new restaurant as an anchor for Inlet
Island development was flawed, given the number of restaurants in the area.
Robinson further stated his concerns for environmental and safety issues
regarding marine fuels. Robinson recommended that no further funds be approved
to MRI, and that the Agency take back any funds that it can.
Gary Ferguson spoke to agenda item II-1 (see II-1 for his comments).
George Ferrari spoke to agenda item II-1 (see II-1 for his comments).
Nancy Potter spoke to agenda item II-1 (see II-1 for her comments).
Scott Whitham spoke to agenda item II-1 (see II-1 for his comments).
IURA Special Meeting, 3-7-00, 6
Mack Travis spoke to agenda item II-1 (see II-i for his comments). Concerning
the MRI loan, Travis stated that he believed that the MRI project was important
for the development of the waterfront and would anchor the development of the
West End and Ithaca as a tourist center.
Marcia Ford spoke to agenda item II-1 (see II-1 for her comments).
Sonia Hicks spoke to agenda item II-1 (see II-1 for her comments).
Fay Gougakis stated that she was concerned that the Inlet Island promenade
would be located on the "noisy" side of the island, and not continuing around the
entirety of the island. Gougakis further stated that she felt that MRI had been
given special favors and assistance by the City. Gougakis brought up a
discrepancy that she had noted: Bohn stated that MRI would be ineligible for tax
abatements if given the loan, and Mike Stamms stated that MRI would be eligible,
even if given the loan. Gougakis asked for clarification of the tax abatement
status, and stated that she was not against the restaurant, but was against unfair
practices in funding.
Jamin Chevallard spoke to agenda item II-1 (see II-1 for his comments).
Cohen closed the comment period and asked for Agency member's responses.
Cummings asked about the tax abatement question for MRI. Cohen stated that
any business is at any time permitted to seek tax abatement, but that the TURA
and MRI.have an agreement that if MRI were to be given tax abatement, MRI
would immediately pay back the entire loan to the LURA. Cummings asked Bohn
to read the MRI loan resolution, where the above agreement was detailed. Bohn
read, "RESOLVED that should MRI obtain real property tax abatements and/or
sales tax exemptions through the Tompkins County Industrial Development
Agency during the term of this loan, this loan shall become immediately due and
payable in full."
Cohen stated that the Agency publicizes its programs, and stated that both during
the Octopus re-construction and in more recent meetings, the CD-RLF had been
promoted to business owners in the City. Cohen further stated that CCI funds had
been promoted as well, and that some business owners now raising concerns had
applied for those monies also.
III-2 CD-RLF LOAN APPLICATION,MARINA REALTY,INC.-RESOLUTION
Cummings/Burlington moved the following resolution for discussion.
WHEREAS, Marina Realty of Ithaca, LLC (MRI) proposed to undertake a
redevelopment project on Inlet Island, expected to create 90 full-time
equivalent jobs through the construction of a restaurant and other
commercial activities, and
IURA Special Meeting, 3-7-00, 7
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has secured a commitment for a $800,000 Section 108
loan guarantee for the project from the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD) through the FY 1997 Canal Corridor Initiative
(CCI) program for which the project's principals have pledged personal
guarantees as security for these loans, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has further secured Section 108 grant commitments
through the CCI program totaling $700,000 for various eligible activities
associated with redeveloping the Cayuga Inlet waterfront, including a
waterfront promenade along Inlet Island, and
WHEREAS, MRI has secured a loan commitment for a $650,000 conventional bank
loan to finance a portion of the project, and
WHEREAS, MRI has agreed to commit a minimum of $600,000 of equity into the
project, and
WHEREAS, the initial estimated project cost of$1,750,000 has grown to $2,250,000,
$100,000 more than originally reported to the IURA in December, 1999,
and
WHEREAS, completion of the MRI project will serve as a catalyst for the physical and
economic revitalization of Inlet Island in accordance with the Inlet Island
Urban Design Plan, and
WHEREAS, completion of the MRI project will result in the creation of expansion of
the local tax base and creation of 90 jobs, and
WHEREAS, creation of 90 jobs associated with the MRI project, the majority of which
will be available to low- and moderate-income persons, makes the
construction of the public waterfront promenade an eligible use with
Section 108 grant funds, and
WHEREAS, completion of the MRI project will result in improvement of public land
within the Taughannock Blvd. right-of-way for public parking, thereby
benefiting the community, and
WHEREAS, at their February 8, 2000 meeting, the Economic Development Committee
votes to recommend waiving the $50,000 CD-RLF loan limit for this
application because the project directly implements the City's plans for
revitalizing Inlet Island and will serve as a catalyst for further private
investment along the Cayuga Inlet, and is projected to create 90 FTE job
opportunities, for which the project's principals have pledged personal
guarantees as security for these loans, and
IURA Special Meeting, 3-7-00, 8
WHEREAS, the Economic Development Committee further voter to recommend
approval of the loan at their February 8, 2000 meeting, now, therefore, be
it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby waives the maximum loan limit of$50,000 for this
application and approves a loan from the Community Development
Revolving Loan Fund (CD-RLF) to Marina Realty of Ithaca, LLC to help
close the funding gap for the FY 1997 CCI restaurant/marina project per
the following terms:
maximum loan amount: $100,000
use of funds: eligible non-construction costs
term: 120 months
interest rate: 3%
repayment: level monthly payments to fully amortize the
loan over a 240 month term with a balloon
payment at the end of the 120th month to
repay the full remaining principal balance
security: unlimited personal guarantees of Stephen B.
Flash, Chris B. Purdy, and Mark Campagnolo,
and be it further
RESOLVED,that should MRI obtain real property tax abatements and/or sales tax
exemptions through the Tompkins County Industrial Development
Agency during the term of this loan, this loan shall become immediately
-due and payable in full, and be it further
RESOLVED,that the IURA Chair, upon the advise of the Executive Director and City
Attorney, is hereby authorized to execute all necessary and appropriate
documents to implement this resolution.
Cummings asked what the reason was for proposing such a large restaurant (200
seats); Mark Campagnolo stated that it was necessary to cover their debt service,
but that with a redesigned structure the building was now likely to hold fewer than
200 seats. Cummings asked about winter business; Campagnolo stated that they
had taken that into consideration, designing the building with fireplaces and other
winter amenities to encourage business. Cummings asked if the restaurant would
be available for banquet uses; Campagnolo stated that they were considering it,
but that it was not a primary goal.
Cummings asked why housing was not included within the project; Steven Flash
stated that there was insufficient room to build housing on their site. Farrell asked
for names of other 200 seat restaurants in the area; Campagnolo stated that Joe's,
The Station, and a couple of hotel restaurants were in the 200 seat range, but that
there were few in the area. Cummings stated that she was supportive of the
project and additional, diverse uses of the island property, and asked if MRI had
IURA Special Meeting, 3-7-00,9
considered additional uses; Flash stated that, depending on space, some people
had expressed an interest in bringing marine-focused businesses into the area.
Cummings expressed her concern that the project was advertised as a tourist
attraction, and stated that adding other businesses and amenities for fly fishermen
and others would be beneficial to community members as well.
Cohen asked the representatives from MRI to address statements that he had
heard concerning the employment numbers MRI had provided; Campagnolo
stated that the 90 FTE's were based on past restaurant experience and what had
been generated thus far in the marina aspect of the business. Farrell asked what
the FTE's are at Joe's; Campagnolo guessed 40 FTE's,,and stated that their
business would serve lunch, dinner, and late night customers, whereas Joe's
served only dinner, making an estimate of 90 FTE's (including marina
employees) conservative. Members asked about additional jobs; Flash stated that
the fly fishing project would add 3 to 5 jobs, and that marina expansion could
increase the number from the present 12.
Cummings asked about the Coast Guard station; Bohn stated that the City,
including staff from the Planning Department, and the NYSDEC were under
negotiations to find a amenable solution to the use of the building. Cohen stated
that the Coast Guard was interested in the site, mainly because of the docking;
Bohn stated that the DEC wanted the flood control channel kept clear, and that the
docking might not be available. Cohen further stated that alternate locations were
being considered to accommodate Coast Guard functions, boating safety classes,
and community fly-fisher programs. Cohen stated that he would try to gather
more.information. Flash explained that MRI had tried to find alternate space for
the Coast Guard,but that the Coast Guard had rejected all their options thus far.
Farrell asked that Bohn read and explain the resolution; Bohn read the resolution,
explaining history and reasoning when requested by members. Cohen stated that
the additional loan contains the unlimited personal guarantees of the principal
investors in the project, and Bohn stated that all the government loans to MRI
contain unlimited personal guarantees of the principal investors. Cohen asked that
"for which the projects' principals have pledged personal guarantees as security
for these loans" be added to the resolution in the 2nd and 2nd-to-last WHEREAS
sections.
Cummings stated that she believed there was a belief in the community that the
restaurant was a pet project of Cohen. Cummings further stated that she wanted
to make it clear that at the beginning of the process, there was a full Community
Advisory Committee review of all proposals, including MRI's proposal, and that
all the members of the various boards, agencies, and committees that reviewed
these proposals were appointed by the previous mayor(s).
Cohen thanked Cummings for the clarification. Cohen stated that he had no
personal involvement with the project, but acknowledged his friendship with
IURA Special Meeting, 3-7-00, 10
Campagnolo and long acquaintance with Flash. Cohen also acknowledged his
friendship with Nick Lambrou, a principal in the downtown hotel project. Cohen
stated that he had made his judgements of the projects based on the data, and not
on his acquaintance with any of the principal investors; he acknowledged public
concerns, and reiterated his objectivity. Cohen further stated that the MRI project
was an important project for West End development and had already sparked
other redevelopment interest.
CARRIED unanimously.
Cohen asked Bohn to present an outline of the CDBG program(see V-1).
IV. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
IV-1 CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN,AMENDMENT-RESOLUTION
Cummings introduced the resolution, and Bohn reviewed some of the alterations
to the plan. Cummings/Burlington moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, a Citizen Participation Plan for the City of Ithaca was developed and
adopted on March 22, 1983 in order to give citizens an adequate
opportunity to participate in the preparation of all applications for the
City's Community Development program and in implementation,
monitoring, and evaluation of the approved activities, and
WHEREAS,. "the Plan was subsequently amended on November 12, 1998, and
WHEREAS, recent "Requests for Applications" and "Notices of Funding Availability"
from funding agencies have provided less than 12 weeks to submit
applications, resulting in practical difficulties in complying with the
citizen participation processes contained in the Plan, and
WHEREAS, the Planning & Administration Committee of the LURA has reviewed and
recommended approval of the proposed 3/7/2000 amendments, including
provisions to streamline, the process by replacing the appointed
Community Advisory Committee with multiple community input
meetings, now, therefore be it
RESOLVED,the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency hereby adopts the attached 3/7/2000
amendments to the Citizen Participation Plan for the City of Ithaca/IURA,
and be it further
RESOLVED, the revised Citizen Participation Plan shall become effective immediately.
CARRIED unanimously.
IURA Special Meeting, 3-7-00, 11
IV-2 STAFF CONTRACT, CONTRACT MONITOR- RESOLUTION
Cummings introduced the resolution, and Cohen stated that the resolution would
bring all present employees contracts into the same schedule, and leave them
available to be reviewed sooner for salary increases as well as prevent the review
from occurring at the same time as CDBG grant application.
Cummings/Farrell moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, The Community Development (CD) Contracts Monitor's annual contract
expired on November 16, 1999, and
WHEREAS, The Community Development (CD) Planner's annual contract expired on
September 10, 1999, and
WHEREAS, the last of the three addenda extending the above mentioned contracts will
expire March 31, 2000, and
WHEREAS, there is a desire to bring all permanent employee contracts into one similar
timeframe to end December 31 and to begin January 1 annually,
WHEREAS, the Budget and Administration Committee of the Ithaca Urban Renewal.
Agency (IURA) has recommended to the full IURA board to accept and
approve the CD Contracts Monitor, CD Planner/Acting Administrator
contracts, and
WHEREAS,.-the Budget and Administration Committee of the Ithaca Urban Renewal
Agency (NRA) has recommended to the full TURA board to accept and
approve an extension of the CD Administrative Coordinator Contract
through December 31, 2000, and therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency accepts and approves the Contracts
Monitor contract dated April 1, 2000 through December 31, 2000 for Wies
van Leuken at Step 1 of the FY2000 Community Development Grants
Monitor Salary Scale, and be it further
RESOLVED,that the Ithaca Urban Rene'val Agency accepts and approves the CD
Planner/Acting Administrator contract dated April 1, 2000 through
December 31, 2000 at Step 6 of the CD Administrator Salary Scale to
return to Step 7 of the CD Planner Salary Scale once the permanent
Administrator position is filled, and be it further
RESOLVED,that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency accepts and approves the CD
Administrative Coordinator contract amendment extending the CD
Administrative Coordinator's contract through December 31, 2000, and be
it further
IURA Special Meeting,3-7-00, 12
RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency authorizes the Mayor to sign the
above mentioned contracts and extension, pending review by the City
Attorney and the Executive Director of the IURA.
Cohen asked Van Cort to clarify, in the second "RESOLVED," what is meant by
"...to return to Step 7...." Van Cort explained that it preserved Bohn's ability to
return to the CD Planner position should he no longer be the Acting CD
Administrator. After discussion, Van Cort also stated that the language did not
prevent the appointment from becoming permanent at some point in the future.
Further discussion occurred, concerning staffing, job descriptions, and future
staffing needs, including an additional staff member in the near future to assist
with CCI and other large scale projects.
Lucy Brown asked for clarification about the process; Cohen stated that Bohn had
been appointed Acting CD Administrator, and that no determination had been
made as to whether a public job search would be made when the Agency decided
to hire a permanent CD Administrator, or if there would be an internal promotion.
Cohen stated that he was pleased to be able to vote on this resolution, providing
stable contracts for very capable and loyal staff members who have done an
excellent job; Cohen further stated that he hoped that it was clear that extending
the contracts through the end of the year was interpreted as a commitment by the
Agency to the Bohn, Hauger, and van Leuken. Cohen thanked them for their
loyalty and the quality of their work.
CARRIED unanimously.
Themeeting continued with agenda item V-3.
V. DEVELOPMENT OF FY 2000 CDBG SMALL CITIES GRANT APPLICATION
V-1 PROGRAM OUTLINE -N. BOHN
Bohn gave a history of the CDBG process, discussing this differences between
single-purpose and comprehensive grants and what each entails. Bohn stated that
the IURA wanted to hear from any and all community members regarding needs
that could be addressed by CDBG funds for consideration for inclusion in the
application. Bohn further stated that inclusion in the application was very
competitive, and that the State was looking for a location-coordinated application.
Cummings asked that the Agency address projects that were unable to be funded
within the 2000 CDBG. Bohn stated that projects submitted are kept on the table,
and as appropriate funding arises, they are then considered for funding.
Cummings stated that the point was not to send projects away, but to make as
competitive an application as possible.
Once Bohn completed his remarks, the Public Hearing began (see II-1, page 2,
2nd to last paragraph).
'URA Special Meeting,3-7-00, 13
V-2 COMPETITIVENESS/SCORING CONSIDERATIONS-H. SICHERMAN
Cummings asked if a comprehensive grant required a housing component; Bohn
stated that 4 of 10 requirements needed to be filled and that housing was generally
a high priority when addressing a neighborhood. Brief discussion occurred
concerning housing projects.
Sicherman stated that his understanding is that an additional small cities grant
would be coming through in the fall of 2000. Sicherman explained that he saw the
Southside (as determined by census data) as the primary target neighborhood.
Sicherman stated that the lack of serious public facilities needs weakened the
application, but that the application could be crafted into a strong proposal.
Cohen asked about the hotel project; Sicherman stated that if the hotel project
were `together' (no feasibility issues, funding in place, etc), then the application
would be much stronger. Discussion ensued concerning the hotel project;
Sicherman stated that few good ED projects were included in applications, and
that a solid hotel project would help, but that a weak project would hurt
immensely.
Discussion ensued concerning target areas; Sicherman stated that putting more
effort into a smaller target area would make the application stronger.
Sicherman stated that the INHS housing proposal was the strongest component in
the Southside Neighborhood. Sicherman stated that lighting, safe pedestrian
walkways, and the linear park are good projects as well, and that a mix of small
projects scores better than a few large projects. Sicherman stated that code
enforcement in the Southside would be an inexpensive way to address rental
housing needs, as over 50% of housing in the neighborhood was rental housing.
Discussion ensued.
Cummings mentioned about sidewalk construction on the west side of Meadow
Street.
Sicherman suggested that subsidized Daycare projects should be explored for the
next grant if not for this one, as it was service and job creation oriented. Bohn
stated that he had spoken to Hicks about expanding the Southside Community
Center's daycare program, and that the Daycare Council had mentioned their
three largest needs: infant care, non-traditional hours care, and drop-in care.
Cohen asked that a needs assessment be done; Bohn stated that the Daycare
Council was embarking on an assessment. Discussion ensued concerning
feasibility of daycare.
Discussion occurred about target areas; Agency members agreed that the
Southside be pursued as the main target area, with the downtown as the locus for
additional programming, especially for ED projects.
IURA Special Meeting, 3-7-00, 14
V-3 IURA REVIEW OF PROPOSED ACTIVITIES
After completing IV-2, Bohn stated that the Agency needed to determine a
geographic focus area. Cohen introduced Sicherman and moved to agenda item
V-2.
V-4 IURA RECOMMENDED FY 2000 CDBG APPLICATION-RESOLUTION
Tabled, no action taken.
VI. NEXT MEETING DATE: (TUESDAY) MARCH 14, 2000, 4 PM - 7PM
Date accepted; the Agency agreed to meet for a three hour meeting to work on the
CDBG grant application.
VII. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 6:55 PM.
end 5/3/2000 ARS/ars
/0--X,1,
IURA Minutes,3-14-00, 1
Minutes of a Special Meeting of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
4:00 PM,Tuesday,March 14,2000
Common Council Chambers,City Hall APPOUVED
PRESENT: IURA Members Jill Burlington, Alan Cohen,
Susan Cummings (4:40), Tracy
Farrell, Eric Rosario
Staff Nels Bohn, Warren Currier, Doug
McDonald, Ellen Morris-Knower,
Wies van Leuken, Adam Smith
Others Sonia Hicks, Harry Sicherman, Scott
Witham, Cynthia Yahn
CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 4:18 pm by Cohen, LURA Chair.
II. DEVELOPMENT OF FY 2000 CDBG SMALL CITIES GRANT
APPLICATION
II-1 REVIEW AND SELECTION OF PROPOSED ACTIVITIES
Cohen began by stating that he believed that the strongest non-housing project is
the downtown hotel project, and for that reason the proposed activities should be
considered in two tracks, one with the hotel and one without. Bohn concurred and
gave short updates on the Women's Community Building's proposed Community
Kitchen, the Southside Community Center's Computer Lab proposal, and the
Youth Bureau's Mechanical All-Stars project; Bohn also stated that the Acting
Building Commissioner, Phyllis Radke agrees with the idea of enhanced code
enforcement.
Cohen then asked Sonia Hicks to speak on the Southside Community Center
projects. Hicks discussed funding,options for the High School Drop-Out and the
Computer Lab programs, including collaborations with other organizations and
reducing the costs of the Drop-Out program. At this time, stated Hicks, the Center
is only certified for after-school care, but is likely to be certified for all-day care
without too much difficulty; day care is an important part of creating day long
programs. After listening to Hicks' discussion of the two programs, Cohen
affirmed his support for both programs, but stated that he felt that there were too
many unanswered questions about the Drop-Out program. Hicks stated that the
Computer Lab was the most critical project and that she was willing to postpone
the Drop-Out program in order to insure that the lab was funded. Discussion
between the IURA members and Hicks then occurred, detailing questions and
issues that the members felt were important to answer before the High School
Drop-Out program could be funded.
NRA Minutes,3-14-00,2
Cohen then called for staff recommendations. Bohn stated that the staff
recommendations were also divided into two tracks, one with the downtown hotel
project and one without, as listed on the "CDBG 2000 Grant Preparation Working
Paper." Discussion began with questions from the members about the housing
component of the application, particularly questions about INHS's House
Recycling plans and the Henry St. John Gym Conversion. Sicherman suggested
that the House Recycling program was a stronger program. Concern was
expressed by Rosario and Cohen about INHS's ability to carry out the programs
they have proposed. Cummings expressed dismay that few representatives of
organizations sponsoring proposals had come to the meeting. It was decided that
an additional meeting be held to which proposal sponsors would be invited to
answer the members' questions.
Discussion about demolition occurred, including 314 S. Plain, 509 W. Clinton,
and 519 W. Clinton. Cummings stated that she was unwilling to see demolition
occur, and Farrell felt that more information would be necessary before a decision
was made.
Sicherman strongly suggested that the Agency fit all projects considered into the
Southside target area, unless they are ED projects, which can be located anywhere
in the community and still be strong candidates for funding. Bohn listed the
projects that were non-ED and outside of the target area as listed on "Summary
Table of Funding Proposals Submitted."
Cohen_asked Scott Witham answer questions about the Historic Ithaca State
Theatre Restoration Project. Witham stated that the project would result in 6 Full
Time Equivalent (FTE) employment positions without considering performers or
crew for productions. Witham further stated that the strongest effect of the project
would be in the ancillary benefits,particularly the enhanced aesthetics, greater use
of the building, and the beginning of a theater district in the downtown area.
Sicherman stated that the request was ineligible, as money could be given at a
maximum of$50,000/FTE, totaling $300,000. Sicherman also expressed concern
for the total cost of the project and Witham stated that the project was being done
in phases, this money being earmarked for Phase II. After discussion, Cohen
requested that eight (8) copies of Historic Ithaca's Business Plan for the State
Theatre be given to the TURA by March 15th, and that the IDP (Ithaca Downtown
Partnership) information on the Theater Project be delivered ASAP. In addition, it
was recommended that the money be allocated for Phase I of the project if at all
possible, as funding for the preparation and opening of the theater would be a
stronger project for this cycle. Discussion ensued, concerning focusing the FY
2001 CDBG grant on the downtown area.
Cohen then began discussion of other ED projects. Sicherman stated that the Boat
Rental Project was a fine idea, but not a strong candidate. The Commercial
Kitchen was considered to be a good proposal, but that funding might be better
arranged from other funding sources, such as UDAG funds or the CD-RLF.
IURA Minutes,3-14-00, 3
Cynthia Yahn (Building Links, Inc.) indicated that she had to leave, but stated that
she would be willing to supply information and answer questions at another time.
It was decided that another meeting would need to occur soon. Cummings asked
if Building Links's proposal could be arranged to benefit the target area, and
Yahn stated that it could.
ED discussion resumed with the CEO Business Resource Center. Sicherman
stated that the project did not fit well into this application. Bohn indicated that the
PAH Electronic Assembly program would be better funded through the CD-RLF.
Bohn indicated an interest in the Pedicab idea, but that it would be better as part
of a downtown package and recommended that the Agency wait until the next
funding cycle (expected during the fall of 2000) for this project.
Cohen began the discussion of public facility projects. Sicherman stated that if the
hotel project came through, the application would be strong without a public
facilities component. Without the hotel project, Sicherman stated that public
facilities projects would be important and that it would be atypical for a
community not to request funding for public facility projects. Sicherman
recommended traffic calming and pedestrian public facility projects. Discussion
ensued concerning the 200-500 blocks of S. Plain. Morris-Knower indicated that
engineers from the City were not concerned with sidewalks, drainage, or water for
the area, and that flooding was considered to be a minor problem at this time.
Lighting for the area was discussed, and Cummings and Farrell suggested that
additional input be gathered from area residents before any decision was made.
The discussion turned to Titus Park and the footbridge located there. Morris-
Knower stated that lighting plans connected the Park's lighting to S. Plain's
lighting. Cummings stated that the bridge was a crime location, including
muggings and other assaults, as well as a blighting influence. Morris-Knower
stated that an estimate of cost would be performed.
After arranging the next meeting of the TURA and Burlington's departure, Cohen
summarized the discussion of Track 1 (with hotel):
• Housing Proposals: questions to be answered on March 21.
• Facilities Proposals: need further discussion and additional ideas, research on
the footbridge and lighting for Titus Park as well as the 200-500 blocks of S.
Plain.
• Services Proposals: Bohn to deal with rental housing and code enforcement
issues; need further discussion on how best to deal with condemnation issues;
enhanced code enforcement as a new, temporary position for the term of the
grant unless additional funding is found.
Cohen resumed the Public Service proposal discussion with the Mechanical All-
Stars proposal; after discussion, questions were raised as to whether the program
truly filled a need in the community or not. The proposal was set aside, but
Sicherman suggested that a remediation of the abandoned gas station on W.
NRA Minutes,3-14-00, 4
Clinton (where the program might have been housed) would rate well for
funding. Discussion ensued concerning the best way to deal with the site, with
Sicherman strongly recommending that the property be purchased and cleaned by
the IURA/City with the use of matching local funds. Discussion continued
concerning future use of the building, including possible uses by the CEO
program or as a daycare facility. Discussion then moved to the Sciencenter
proposal. Cohen proposed that the Sciencenter proposal be moved into the target
area, and asked that Hicks and Charlie Trautmann (Executive Director of the
Sciencenter) be approached about a collaboration. Bohn agreed to broach the
subject.
Discussion returned to housing proposals, with Sicherman stating that housing is
the most critical need and the strongest component of the application this year.
Members reiterated concerns that INHS would be taking on more than they could
manage, but postponed any decision until hearing from INHS at the next meeting.
Van Leuken stated that from the INNS Activities funded with CDBG funds, since
1993, only 3 had not been complete. At this time, 402 S. Cayuga was
recommended for demolition. Cummings stated that she would be willing to see
402 S. Cayuga demolished. Farrell agreed that 402 S. Cayuga was a prime
candidate for demolition, and that she might be willing to consider other
properties after some research. Sicherman said that 402 S. Cayuga, although just
outside the target area, was certainly a strong candidate for funding, as it had a
blighting influence on the target area. Cohen requested a cost estimate for
demolition of 402 S. Cayuga.
FarrellingUired about the downtown hotel proposal, and Sicherman stated that it
was. a strong proposal, and that although it was not a concrete project, the
investors were serious in their interest. Sicherman further stated that the Agency
was unlikely to have definite word by April 28 as to whether the project was
going to take place or not, but that it was likely to be helpful for the application
and that monies could be reprogrammed if awarded. Rosario expressed concern
for the architectural design and was reassured by Cohen that the hotel would
undergo site plan review. Sicherman stated that if the hotel project was included
in the application and it fell through before the grant was awarded, it would leave
the application very weak.
Staff was asked to pursue the lighting project on the 200-300 blocks of S. Plain,
and to gather more information from the residents of the 400-500 blocks before
further planning occurred.
II-2 BUDGETING OF SELECTED ACTIVITIES
Tabled, with no action taken.
III-3 IURA RECOMMENDED DRAFT FY 2000 CDBG APPLICATION —
RESOLUTION FORTHCOMING
Tabled, with no action taken.
IURA Minutes,3-14-00, 5
III. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
III-1 AUTHORIZATION TO ADVERTISE PERMANENT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATOR STAFF
POSITION—RESOLUTION FORTHCOMING
Recommended back to the B & A Committee for discussion, pending the
submission of a job description.
III-2 AUTHORIZATION TO ADVERTISE COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT PLANNER STAFF POSITION — RESOLUTION
FORTHCOMING
Recommended back to the B & A Committee for discussion, pending the
submission of a job description.
IV. OTHER BUSINESS
No other business.
V. NEXT MEETING DATE: (TUESDAY) MARCH 21, 2000, 4PM
After the discussion of Titus Park (see II-1) Cohen suggested that another meeting
of the JURA be set for March 21, 2000, to which proposal sponsors would be
explicitly invited and told to be prepared to answer member's questions about
their projects. An additional meeting was tentatively scheduled for March 29,
2000 after 6:00 pm if necessary.
The meeting then resumed at II-1 with Cohen's summary of Track 1 discussion.
VI. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:25 PM.
end 3/17/2000 ARS/ars
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Minutes of a Special Meeting of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
4:00 PM,Tuesday,March 21, 2000
Common Council Chambers, City Hall
Ar , , Z�
` I II!
Ails
PRESENT: IURA Members Jill Burlington,Alan Cohen,Tracy Farrell,
Eric Rosario
Staff Nels Bohn,Doug McDonald,Ellen Morris-
Knower,Adam Smith,Wies van Leuken,
Matthys Van Cort,Harry Sicherman
Others Kevin Harlin, Elizabeth Harness, Sonia
Hicks, Paul Mazzarella, Cili Shannon,
Deirdre Silverman, Charles Trautmann,
Scott Witham, Patrick Woods, Cynthia
Yahn
CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 4:18 pm by Cohen.
IL CHERRY STREET INDUSTRIAL PARK—REQUEST TO ASSIGN LEASE INTEREST,
PRECISION FILTERS,INC.—RESOLUTION
Bohn explained that Precision Filters, Inc. was requesting that their lease be assigned as collateral
as part of a_refinancing of their business, and that Mariette Geldenhuys, legal counsel for the
IURA, saw no problem with their request and had only minor revisions requested to add to the
resolution that Precision Filters,Inc.'s attorney submitted to the IURA.Van Cort indicated that he
saw no problem with assigning the lease and that it was required by Precision Filters, Inc. as soon
as possible. Members stated that they did not want to take action on this matter until they had
more information and time to consider it.
Tabled,with no action taken pending a review of the lease and the request by the Agency.
III. DEVELOPMENT OF FY 2000 CDBG SMALL CITIES GRANT APPLICATION
IH-1 SELECTION OF PROPOSED ACTIVITIES
Cohen asked that Paul Mazzarella of INHS come forward to answer the Agency's questions in
relation to the INHS proposals and began by asking about any outstanding balances for previous
awards. Mazzarella stated that only two projects had been behind schedule in the past twenty
years, and those projects had been slow due to the housing market rather than a deficiency on the
part of INHS. Cohen then asked how long it would take for CDBG funds to be used for House
Recycling on the Southside. Mazzarella stated it would take three years to spend down the funds
because INHS was involved in projects other than the Southside proposal. Cohen posited a
condition on the grant award that properties in the program be turned into owner-occupied single
family/duplex homes and Mazzarella stated that that was the direction INHS wanted to go with the
program. Rosario stated that he had community input stating that the cost of INNS rehabilitated
homes was often too high for community members who would like to own homes, and asked what
could be done to further assist potential buyers. Mazzarella stated that there was a financial
threshold that must be reached by potential buyers, given that the houses are already deeply
subsidized,but that INHS was attempting to help low-income buyers by partnering with AFCU in
IURA Minutes,3-21-00,2
a savings program. Mazzarella pointed out a map that INHS had created, showing the high priority
properties in the Southside for INHS's program, and stated that there was a larger list of potential
properties to be acquired in case the indicated properties were unavailable. Mazzarella was
thanked for providing additional information,as the Agency had no further questions.
Van Cort asked the Agency to create as definite a selection and budget as possible during the
meeting, as he was very concerned that the staff would not have sufficient time to prepare the
application if the process continued for much longer. Van Cort then left the meeting.
Cohen asked that Sonia Hicks,Cili Shannon, and Charles Trautmann come forward to explain and
answer questions about their proposal for cooperation between the Sciencenter's "Computer
Clubhouse" and the Southside Computer Program (co-sponsored by Cornell COPC). A handout
was distributed, detailing the cooperative plan. Trautmann asked about an increase in funding to
provide transportation for the students; Farrell and Cohen suggested that the Bus Pass Program
(funded through other sources than CDBG) may cover the transportation concerns without
requiring additional CDBG funding. Sicherman asked how the programs would be maintained
once the CDBG funding runs out; Shannon stated that they had already begun looking for
additional grants, and that CDBG funding would encourage awards from other organizations.
Rosario asked how evaluation of the program would occur; Trautmann stated that funds had been
budgeted for outside evaluation and Shannon stated that she would be devising an evaluation
protocol, to be administered by graduate students and herself. Members expressed enthusiasm for
the cooperative plan. Hicks, Shannon, and Trautmann were thanked for providing additional
information, as the Agency had no further questions.
Cohen asked that Scott Whitham of Historic Ithaca come forward to answer questions about
Historic Ithaca's request for funding. Whitham referred to the packet sent by Historic Ithaca to the
LURA which contained information on the history of the project, costs, phases, and the present
shortfall. Burlington asked what had been done with the State Theatre since Historic Ithaca's
purchase of the building;Whitham stated that stabilization of the structure had occurred to prevent
water damage from a leaky roof as well as fundraising. Rosario asked Whitham to clarify what
was meant by "donated labor and materials" in the packet. Whitham stated that contract work
would be done by professionals, but that the general clean-up would be done by members and
community volunteers. Sicherman asked what the result would be if the project were funded;
Whitham stated that the theater would be open and functioning, with performances, speakers, and
shows regularly scheduled. Cohen asked for financial modelling of ancillary benefits of the
theater's opening; Whitham stated that Gary Ferguson of the Ithaca Downtown Partnership was
compiling that data and would have it by April 15`h. Discussion of the future refurbishment plans
ensued,ending with Whitham stating that the proposal's inclusion in the CDBG application would
encourage financial support from other sources.Farrell asked whether the theater would be able to
open if the LURA was unable to provide the full requested award; Whitham stated that the shortfall
could be met through fundraising.Discussion of the job creation provided by the proposal ensued,
with Sicherman stating that the IURA could ask for approximately $100,000 for the proposal
based on a$35,000/FTE, with three FTE's created. Sicherman further stated that the combination
of the reopening of the State Theatre and the creation of a downtown hotel would have a
synergistic effect on the revitalization of the downtown area. Whitham was thanked for providing
additional information as the Agency had no further questions.
Deirdre Silverman, Director of Community Programs at AFCU, asked to speak to the Agency in
reference to their proposal for the CEO program. Silverman stated that AFCU was disappointed
not to be in consideration for funding in this application and detailed the history of the CEO
program. Silverman and Patrick Woods, the Director of the CEO program detailed the present
needs of the program. Silverman stated that while AFCU was committed to supporting the CEO
program, the program was not a core activity of AFCU and that organizations monitoring AFCU
discouraged AFCU's continued support of the program. Cohen stated that funding could be
considered in next year's application or found from other sources, and that the computer needs of
the CEO program might be met by a partnership with the Southside Community Center. Silverman
LURA Minutes,3-21-00,3
and Woods were thanked for providing additional information as the Agency had no questions.
Cynthia Yahn of Building Links was asked to come forward to answer questions about Building
Links's proposal for the Supported Living Program. Yahn stated that they were looking for
$40,000 in funding to increase the counseling staff as part of a $150,000 total budget in order to
decrease the burden on volunteers which have been covering the workload for four years. Bohn
asked whether or not the program fits within the target area; Yahn stated that a percentage of
participants originated in the Southside neighborhoods, but that the participants come to the
program directly from rehab or treatment centers. Yahn offered to compile data on participants
originating in the Southside. Farrell asked if the residences were located on the Southside; Yahn
stated that they had no housing units on the Southside, and that they were asking for program
funds, not housing funds. Yahn was thanked for providing additional information as the Agency
had no further questions.
III-2 BUDGETING OF SELECTED ACTIVITIES
Bohn asked that the Agency decide upon the core activities for the application, given that the
application would fund the hotel project at $300,000. Bohn recommended that selected core
activities be aimed at the target area, and reminded the members that only$465,000 could be used
to fund additional activities.
Discussion began with the abandoned gas station at 311 S. Corn St. Members identified it as a top
priority and recommended that the staff pursue acquisition. Bohn stated that the present owner's
insurance policy covers remediation after a deductible, and that removal of the tanks was
estimated to cost$40,000.
Members then discussed the demolition of 402 S. Cayuga; Bohn stated that estimates priced
demolition to the foundation at $60,000 and demolition including removal of the foundation at
$90,000. Rosario asked why the IURA did not sell the property when developers showed interest;
Cohen stated-that it was in the best interests of the City to maintain control over the property, as
residents expressed interest in the creation of a parking lot. Sicherman stated that this project was
a solid addition to the application.
Burlington asked if the Henry St. John gym conversion was still being considered; Cohen stated
that it was his interest keeping it in contention, but that he was willing to support excluding the
project to allow inclusion of other proposals in the application.
Cohen asked why the administrative percentage taken in this application was higher than normal;
Bohn stated that the 15%cut for administrative funds would also include funding for staff efforts
in program delivery.
Cohen proposed that the$900,000 be disttibuted thusly:
• INHS $225,000
• Enhanced Code Enforcement $ 30,000
• Combined Computer Projects $ 75,000
• Hotel $300,000
• Historic Ithaca—State Theatre $ 75,000
• 311 S. Corn St. $ 40,000
• 402 S.Cayuga St. $ 30,000
• Administration $125,000
$900,000
Sicherman stated that the application would be stronger if it included public facilities funding, and
that$100,000 to $150,000 would be a competitive amount of facilities funding to include. Farrell
NRA Minutes,3-21-00,4
suggested that the lighting project be a phased project, with funding in this application for Phase I.
Cohen asked about reprogramming of funds; Bohn stated that those monies had already been
committed to other uses and were waiting for submission to HUD for approval. Sicherman stated
that in most applications, drainage issues are the most common public facilities projects; however,
the percentage of vacant, condemned, or blighted structures in the target area was high enough to
be strengthen the application. Sicherman stated that funding for sidewalks was trivial, but that
lighting could be valuable. Discussion ensued concerning lighting on the bridge at Titus Park;
Bohn stated that the preliminary estimated cost for opening the sides of the bridge was $25,000
and the cost of building a new, wider bridge was$60,000.
Bohn stated that staff would pursue the acquisition of 311 S. Corn St and additional information
on the S.Plain St. lighting project.Farrell left at 6:00 pm.
Samms asked that the importance of funding the hotel project at$300,000 be explained, as she felt
that the funding could be better used to support other projects. Sicherman stated that the hotel
project was a significant and impressive ED project and that it was a very important addition to the
application; funding it at a lower rate would not look any less impressive, Sicherman continued,
but less funding might kill the project. Sicherman stated that the hotel was a far stronger ED
project than the theatre,but that having both projects in the application would be very competitive
under the Main St. Revitalization criterion. Discussion ensued concerning the ideological
background of HUD and what types of projects were seen as more valuable than others. Cohen
stated that the investors needed assistance to make the project viable, and that it was in the best
interests of the City to support the project and the investors.
III-3. LURA RECOMMENDED DRAFT FY 2000 CDBG APPLICATION —
RESOLUTION
Tabled,with no action taken.
IV. OTHER BUSINESS
No other business.
V. NEXT MEETING DATE: (WEDNESDAY)MARCH 29,2000,6:15PM
Date accepted.
VI. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 6:15 PM.
,
end 3/22/2000 ARS/ars _ -/
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AA D D D O IURA minutes, 3/29/00, page 1
v �
Minutes of a Special Meeting of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
6:15 PM,Wednesday,March 29, 2000
Common Council Chambers, City Hall
8.11-1—‘PH..„(�
r , v � �
PRESENT: IURA Members Jill Burlington, Alan Cohen,
Susan Cummings, Tracy Farrell,
Eric Rosario
Staff Nels Bohn, Warren Currier, Doug
McDonald, Ellen Morris-Knower,
Adam Smith, Wies van Leuken
Others John Barney, Don Chandler,
Chris Furst, Scott Whitham
CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 6:19 pm by Cohen.
II. CHERRY STREET INDUSTRIAL PARK—REQUEST TO ASSIGN LEASE
INTEREST, PRECISION FILTERS,INC.—RESOLUTION
After completing discussion of agenda item III, Bohn gave a history of the
Precision Filters lease, and stated that the staff was in strong support of assigning
the lease as requested.
Farrell/Cummings moved/seconded the following resolution:
•
WHEREAS, Precision Filters, Inc. leases property from the Ithaca Urban Renewal
Agency at 240 Cherry Street, Ithaca, New York, pursuant to the terms of a
99 year lease dates October 20, 1980; and
WHEREAS, Precision Filters, Inc. is in the process of arranging financing with BSB
Bank & Trust Company tb enable Precision Filters, Inc. to continue its
business at the Cherry Street Business Park; and
WHEREAS, as a condition of such financing the lender had required Precision Filters,
Inc/to grant to the lender a$600,000 Subordinated Collateral Mortgage on
the leasehold interest of Precision Filters, Inc; and
WHEREAS, the Lease Agreement between the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency and
Precision Filters, Inc. requires the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency to
consent to such mortgage; and
WHEREAS, Precision Filters, Inc. had requested the consent of the Agency and the
Agency is willing so to consent; now, therefore be it
a
IURA minutes, 3/29/00, page 2
RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency hereby consents to Precision
Filters, Inc., granting a $600,000 Subordinated Collateral Mortgage to
BSB Savings Bank and Trust Company on the interest of Precision Filters,
Inc. in the Lease between the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency and Precision
Filters, Inc. dated October 20, 1980, such mortgage to contain such terms
and conditions as Precision Filters, Inc. may approve, its execution of such
mortgage to be due evidence of such approval, and a copy of such
mortgage to be provided to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency within five
business days of the date of closing; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the Chairman and Executive Director, or either of them is hereby
authorized and requested to execute such certificates, estoppel notices,
consents, and any other agreements deemed necessary or desirable by
either of them in order to effectuate the consent to mortgage granted by
this Resolution.
Discussion ensued concerning why Precision Filters, Inc. did not intend to
exercise their buyout rights to the property, rather than continuing the lease.
Further discussion ensued concerning the City's interest in the future ownership
of the property, should Precision Filters. Inc cease to do business or default on
their obligations. Cohen asked that the IURA/City be given first refusal rights to
purchase the property in case of default; Barney stated that he felt that such a
requirement was unreasonable given the lease signed. Cohen left the meeting at
6:50,.and discussion continued. Bohn suggested that in case of a foreclosure, the
bank be required to give notice to the IURA/City. Barney stated that he believed
that would be amenable to the bank. Rosario asked that the revised resolution
(including the request for notification) be reviewed by IURA counsel Mariette
Geldenhuys.
Members voted on the resolution with amendment (notice of foreclosure).
CARRIED unanimously.
III. DEVELOPMENT OF FY 2000 CDBG SMALL CITIES GRANT APPLICATION
III-1 SELECTION OF PROPOSED ACTIVITIES
No discussion.
III-2 BUDGETING OF SELECTED ACTIVITIES
Cohen explained the table entitled, "IURA Recommended Grant Activities and
Budget," directing members to consider the budget line entitled, "3/29/00
Alternate #2 Staff-Proposed CDBG Funding." Discussion ensued concerning
IURA minutes, 3/29/00 , page 3
funding levels, particularly to the hotel project and the State Theatre project.
Cohen stated that funding could potentially be drawn from UDAG funds to assist
the theater refurbishment. Cohen asked members if they were comfortable with
the budget as proposed, and all but Cummings assented. Cummings asked if staff
had any concerns; Bohn stated that it was critical that matching funds be provided
for 311 S. Corn. St and 402 S. Cayuga St in order for the projects to be successful.
Cummings stated that she was uncomfortable with matching funds from UDAG
monies, but that the projects were important and that she was willing to see the
money used in this case.
Discussion ensued concerning the cost lighting on S. Plain St and in the Fair St.
Park; Farrell suggested that park funds be used if eligible, but Cohen stated that
there were too many uncertainties to commit the funding.
III-3 IURA RECOMMENDED DRAFT FY 2000 CDBG APPLICATION —
RESOLUTION
Farrell/Rosario moved/seconded the following resolution:
FY 2000 Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Application
WHEREAS, on February 25, 2000 the Empire State Community Development Corporation
issued a Request for Applications (RFA)for the New York State administered
Small Cities Program under the Community Development Block Grant(CDBG)
program, and
WHEREAS, -the RFA authorizes Ithaca to apply for a grant of up to$900,000 through the
"Comprehensive"competition that involves two or more related activities to
undertake a strategy that deals comprehensively with the community
development problems of a particular area in the funding categories of housing,
public facilities,economic development and public services,and
WHEREAS, each activity within the CDBG grant application must meet one of the national
objectives for(1)benefit to low-and moderate-income persons, (2)elimination
of slums or blighting conditions, or(3)meeting community needs having a
particular urgency, and
WHEREAS, the IURA recognizes the need to support efforts to promote neighborhood
revitalization through provision of quality, affordable housing, creation of
employment opportunities, improvement of public facilities and increased public
services that principally benefit Ithaca's low-and moderate-income population
and the remediation of blighting conditions, and
WHEREAS, the CDBG grant application is due on April 28, 2000, and
WHEREAS, the IURA solicited funding proposals on February 17, 2000 from citizens, for-
profit and not-for-profit organizations, and
IURA minutes, 3/29/00 , page 4
WHEREAS, in compliance with the Citizen Participation Plan,the LURA held two
Community Input meetings on February 23, 2000 at GIAC and February 24,
2000 in the Southside Community Center, and a public hearing on March 7, 2000
to gain public input on the formulation of the application, and
WHEREAS, the LURA evaluated the proposals submitted and considered alternative activities
in the context of community development needs and the grant rating criteria at
meetings held on march 7th, March 14th, March 21st and March 29th to develop a
list of recommended activities to include in the grant application,now,therefore,
be it
RESOLVED, that the IURA recommends that the Common Council direct and authorize the
NRA to submit a$900,000 FY 2000 Small Cities CDBG application to include
the following budgeted activities:
Southside
$215,000 'NHS House Recycling
$45,000 Southside Community Center Computer Lab
$40,000 311 S.Corn St. -Acquisition and Remediation
$35,000 Plain St.Pedestrian/Bicycle Bridge—Lighting&Approaches
$30,000 Targeted Code Enforcement
$30,000 402 S.Cayuga St.Demolition&Clearance
$25,000 Sciencenter Computer Clubhouse
$420,000 Subtotal
Downtown
$275,000 Downtown Hotel Project
.-"$;1 000 State Theatre Restoration,Phase I
$350,000 Subtotal
Administration
$130,000 Administration
$900,000 TOTAL
and be it,further
RESOLVED, that should the IURA determine that any of the above activities encounter feasibility
issues that would hinder timely completion,the LURA recommends that the
Common Council authorize the IURA to adjust activity budgets of the above
activities to resolve feasibility and rating concerns and/or substitute one or more of
the following activities:
Substitute Activities
$140,000 Plain Street Pedestrian Bridge Replacement
$150,000 Street Lighting along S.Plain Street
$130,000 Henry St.John Gym Conversion to 4-6 Apartments
$60,000 S.Titus/South Street Sidewalk&Lighting
$30,000 Fair Street Park Improvements, and be it further,
IURA minutes, 3/29/00, page 5
RESOLVED, that upon exhausting other potential funding sources, including establishment of
capital projects by the City of Ithaca,the NRA hereby authorizes the Chair to
provide a written funding commitment from the IURA of matching funds from
UDAG repayments in an amount adequate to implement the following CDBG
activities:
Match Activity
$60,000 402 S. Cayuga St. Demolition&Clearance(total est.cost$90,000)
$20,000 311 S. Corn St.-Acquisition and Remediation
(total est. cost$60,000),and be it further
RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby authorizes the Chair,upon the advise of the TURA
Attorney and the Executive Director of the IURA, to execute any and all
documents for the submission of a purchase offer and acquisition of 311 S. Corn
Street in an amount not to exceed fair market value, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the LURA recommends that the Common Council authorize the IURA to
administer and implement all CDBG activities in accordance with applicable
regulations, including,but not limited to,Title 24, Section 570 of the Code of
Federal Regulations,and be it further,
RESOLVED, that the Mayor,upon the advise of the City Attorney and the Executive Director
of the IURA, is hereby authorized to execute any and all documents for the
submission of this application and acceptance of funding.
CARRIED unanimously.
IV. OTHER BUSINESS
No other business.
V. NEXT MEETING DATE: (TUESDAY) APRIL 18,2000,4PM
Date accepted.
VI. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:15 PM.
end 4/3/2000 ARS/ars
•
IURA Min s 5-23-00, 1
..7)„7
Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
4:00 PM,Tuesday,May 23,2000
Common Council Chambers,City Hall CA-4._
PRESENT: IURA Members Alan Cohen, Susan Cummings,Eric Rosario
Staff Nels Bohn,Doug McDonald,Wies vanLeuken
Others Bobby Lama,Ed Hooks,Brian Van Allen,
Cynthia Yahn
CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 4:15 by Cohen.
H. APPROVAL OF MINUTES, IURA MEETINGS 2/21/000, 3/7/00, 3/14/00, 3/21/00,
AND 3/29/00
Approved unanimously.
III. STAFF REPORTS
III-1 2000 CDBG GRANT APPLICATION
Bohn reported that the application was created at an administrative cost of$35,000. Bohn
added that the principals in the downtown hotel project were completing their fmancing
package, and that should the State ask for an update on the project, the staff would be
able to report that progress was being made in addressing feasibility issues.
Rosario asked for Historic Ithaca's "spin-off economic development" information. The
Economic Impact Assessment was provided to Rosario by Staff.
III-2 OTHER REPORTS
Bohn reported that an annual amount of$26,000 in bank interest for 1999 was returned to
HUD annually as required by CDBG regulations.
Bohn reported that an open house will be held by INHS at 119 Cleveland Ave as part of
their house recycling project, and that an invitation had been extended to the IURA.
Cummings requested that staff ask INHS to include the IURA members on their
invitation mailing list.
IV. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
IV-1 WEST END COMMERCIAL LOAN PROGRAM - PURITY ICE CREAM
-RESOLUTION
Rosario reported on the ED Committee's meeting, stating that the EDC recommends that
the IURA waive the $50,000 cap on for this particular loan. Discussion ensued concerning
e
IURA Minutes, 5-23-00,2
funding and the ownership of Purity Ice Cream. Cummings expressed a concern that-she
felt the d dasgd euere. �/
-1-LI size cF con NS SPrue k,,, , uitif-4 is.,ck a1vjayS ,uen td Sinq a �� ("IQ
e rese,i-t atJn t9(---s- Li ,re co, t,',1(4,',, the StuNda✓c( so t, `fi/Ace b fise e-E0,1 .,S Ci.,,.10"
/ Rosario/Cohen moved seconded the folk ing resolution: J
WHEREAS, Purity Ice Cream Co., Inc. has requested$100,000 in loan assistance to purchase
various assets and fixtures as part of$204,850 Phase II Capital Improvement plan to retain over
15 FTE employees and create 6 FTE new employment opportunities over the next three years,of
which at least 51%will be available for low-and moderate-income persons, and
WHEREAS, the primary objective of the West End Commercial Loan Program is the economic
revitalization of the West End neighborhood through financial assistance to create at least 15 jobs
and leverage at least$150,000 of new private investment,and
WHEREAS,the current geographic area eligible for assistance through the West End
Commercial Loan Program is bounded by Fulton St. and Meadow Street and Court St.,leaving
the Purity Ice Cream Co., Inc. site outside the target area, and
WHEREAS,Purity Ice Cream Co., Inc.has operated at its present location of 700 Cascadilla St.,
generally considered within the West End neighborhood, since 1936 manufacturing, distributing
and retailing ice cream,and
WHEREAS, Purity Ice Cream Co., Inc. has committed at least$41,850 of equity into the project,
and
WHEREAS,Purity Ice Cream Co., Inc. has secured,or is in the process of securing, $63,000 in
loan assistance for Tompkins County Trust Co. and the Tompkins County Area Development,
and
WHEREAS, at their May 9, 2000 meeting,the Economic Development Committee reviewed
Purity Ice Cream Co.,Inc.'s loan application and recommended the following,therefore be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby approves a loan from the West End Commercial Loan
Program to Purity Ice Cream Co., Inc. in accordance with the loan application and the following
terms:
maximum loan amount: $100,000
use of funds: various equipment, fixtures and fixed assets as detailed
in the loan application
term: 120 months
interest rate: 1st year: interest only at 2%
2°d year: 3%
years 3 — 10: 5%
repayment: level monthly payments to fully amortize the debt over a
term not to-exceed 120 months.
NRA Minutes, 5-23-00, 3
conditions: creation of at least six full-time equivalent employment
opportunities, of which at least four will be available to
low-and moderate-income persons.
collateral:
• 1St lien on specific equipment being purchased
including certain fixtures, obtain Pt mortgage waiver
for$100K collateral
• 2°d mortgage covering property located at 700
Cascadilla St.
• subordinate lien on all corporate assets(accounts,
inventory, furniture, fixtures and equipment
(excluding above equipment and fixtures)
• subordination of certain monies due Bruce Lane
• 2°d lien on new freezer truck
guarantors: Bruce R. Lane,Jr. and Heather G. Lane, each
individually. Corporate guarantee of Eat Dessert Fruit,
Inc. which is owned 50%by Bruce and 50%by Heather,
and be it further
RESOLVED,that if the requested CDBG amendment to redefine the eligible area for use of the
West End Commercial Loan Fund is denied,then the Agency hereby waives the maximum loan
limit of$50,000 for this application and approves the above loan from the CD-RLF, and be it
further
RESOLVED,that the LURA Chair,upon the advise of the Executive Director and City Attorney,
is hereby authorized to execute all necessary and appropriate documents to implement this
resolution,including,but not limited to,executing loan agreement documents.
CARRIED unanimously. Cummings stated that her yes vote was contingent upon her
concern about Purity's marketing strategy being noted. Cohen requested that staff
communicate with Purity about Cummings's concern.
IV-2 CHERRY STREET INDUSTRIAL PARK - ACCEPTANCE OF PARCEL
#100.2-1 -RESOLUTION
Rosario reported on the ED Committee's discussion of this issue.
Cummings/Rosario moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, at their April 5, 2000 meeting, the Common Council of the City of Ithaca authorized
conveyance to the IURA of an 8.2 acre parcel of land adjacent to the existing Cherry Street
Industrial Park, known as Parcel 100.-2-1, for the purpose of extending development of the Cherry
Street Industrial Park, and
WHEREAS, the Common Council further resolved that subsequent development of this parcel be
substantially in accordance with the policies, goals and objectives of the earlier development of
the Cherry Street Industrial Park by the IURA, and
t
IURA Minutes, 5-23-00,4
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca intends to submit a subdivision application for the newly acquired
property to identify boundaries of parcels to be available for job creation activities by private
sector entities and to establish the alignment of an extension of Cherry Street through the parcel,
and
WHEREAS, the Common Council further resolved that any net proceeds from the lease/purchase
or sale of parcels as Cherry Street II is subsequently developed, after reimbursement to the IURA of
expenses incurred by the IURA in the development, administration or management of Parcel 100.-
2-1, shall be returned to the City, and
WHEREAS,the LURA is authorized to acquire and dispose of property in accordance with
Article 15, Sections 506 and 507 of NYS General Municipal Law(GML), and
WHEREAS,the LURA is authorized to dispose of property by outright sale or through various
leasing or lease/purchase arrangements to qualified and eligible sponsors,and has previously
entered agreements for the lease and sale of lots in the Cherry Street Industrial Park, and
WHEREAS, Section 507 of GML requires that any proposed disposition is subject to approval by
the Common Council after a public hearing held not less than ten days after the publication of a
notice providing: (1)the identity of the proposed sponsor, (2)the price to be paid by the sponsor
and all other essential terms and conditions of the disposition,and(3)proposed use of the parcel,
and
WHEREAS, the IURA Economic Development Committee recommended acceptance of the
property at its May 9,2000 meeting,now,therefore be it
RESOLVED,that the LURA hereby accepts conveyance of a portion of the 8.2 acre property
known as Parcel 100.-2-1 to expand the Cherry St.Industrial Park, exclusive of land area required
for a future public street extension of Cherry Street as shown on a Site Plan for Glyph
Technologies,prepared by Tallman&Tallman Architects,dated April 3,2000, or as otherwise
subsequently approved by the City of Ithaca Planning&Development Board, and be it further
RESOLVED,that as a condition of this conveyance,no project will be approved by the IURA
which would involve a change to the two delineated wetlands located toward the south end of
Parcel 100.-2-1 without approval by the Common Council,and be it further
RESOLVED, that such conveyance is subject to reimbursement of any expenses incurred by the
LURA in the disposition, development, administration or management of the parcel from future
proceeds from the lease and/or sale of parcels, and be it further
RESOLVED,that the LURA hereby authorizes the City of Ithaca to act as the IURA's agent for
the purpose of seeking subdivision approval for Parcel 100.-2-1, and be it further
RESOLVED,that the TURA Chair,upon review by the LURA Executive Director and the IURA
Attorney, is hereby authorized to sign any and all instruments necessary to accept conveyance of
a portion of Parcel 100.-2-1 from the City of Ithaca,and be it further
RESOLVED, that the LURA authorizes the Director of Economic Development to conduct
preliminary negotiations with sponsors or potential sponsors for lease/purchase of Cherry Street
Industrial Park lands for review and approval of proposed lease/purchase agreements by the
IURA, and be it further
IURA Minutes, 5-23-00, 5
RESOLVED,that it is the IURA's intention to convey back to the City of Ithaca any further
extension(s)of the Cherry Street roadway, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the IURA considers wetland"A"on Figure#6-"Cherry St. Extension
Wetland Delineation,"prepared for the Southwest Area Land use GEIS also as an important
environmental asset and directs staff to conveys its concerns about wetland"A"to the Planning&
Development Board for consideration during site development plan review.
Cummings asked that comprehensive maps and more information be provided for this type
of issue in the future. McDonald distributed large maps of the parcel. Cohen reported on the
approval cycle for the parcel. Discussion ensued concerning the use of the parcel and
engineering details; Bohn stated that Engineering and the developer would have to work in
close consultation on the street extension and utilities. Cummings stated that she wanted
oversight of the process to ensure that the development would happen as smoothly as
possible. Cohen suggested that the IURA convey a portion of the parcel back to the City,
allowing the City to retain control and liability for it.
Cohen/Rosario moved/seconded an amendment to the resolution, adding a RESOLVED
to read:
"RESOLVED, that it is the Agency's intention to convey back to the City of Ithaca that
portion of land required for any further extension of the roadway, and be it further"
Amendment CARRIED unanimously.
Discussion ensued concerning the wetland areas of the industrial park and their individual
legal status as determined by Common Council; Cummings stated that she wanted all the
wetland areas to have equal standing in the resolutign. After a brief recess called by the
Mayor, Cummings disclosed that her husband ee a parcel next to wetland 'A,' and that
her concern is not because of potential negative impact on her husband's property, but that
it is because of her familiarity with the site.
Cohen/Rosario moved/seconded that another RESOLVED be added to read:
"RESOLVED, that the IURA considers wetland 'A' to also be important and conveys its
concern about wetland 'A' to the Planning Board for its consideration during site plan
review, and be it further"
Amendment CARRIED unanimously.
Vote called by Cohen on the amended resolution.
CARRIED unanimously.
IV-3 DESIGNATE GLYPH TECHNOLOGIES,INC.AS AN ELIGIBLE AND
QUALIFIED SPONSOR-RESOLUTION
Rosario briefly reported on the ED Committee's creation of the resolution.
Rosario/Cohen moved/seconded the following resolution:
IURA Minutes, 5-23-00,6
WHEREAS, the IURA is authorized by Section 508 of Title 15 of General Municipal Law to
dispose of property by outright sale or through various leasing or lease/purchase arrangements to
qualified and eligible sponsors, and has previously entered agreements for the lease and sale of
lots in the Cherry Street Industrial Park, and
WHEREAS, Section 507 of GML requires that any proposed disposition to a qualified and
eligible sponsor is subject to approval by the Common Council after a public hearing held not less
than ten days after the publication of a notice providing: (1)the identity of the proposed sponsor,
(2)the price to be paid by the sponsor and all other essential terms and conditions of the
disposition, and(3)proposed use of the parcel, and
WHEREAS, Glyph has a desire to lease/purchase land in the Cherry Industrial Park to construct a
24,000 sq. ft. facility, with additional land area for future expansions, and
WHEREAS, the IURA seeks private sector firms to locate in the Cherry Street Industrial Park to
create/retain employment opportunities, expand the tax base and diversify the City of Ithaca
economy, and
WHEREAS, Glyph Technologies, Inc. was incorporated in 1993 to design,manufacture and market
solutions for the delivery of digital media data that facilitate recording, editing, and playback of
digital media in audio and video production
WHEREAS, Glyph currently operates out of leased premises located at 735 W. Clinton Street, and
WHEREAS, 1998 financial statements for Glyph show almost a 50% increase in sales from the
previous year to$6.1 million,and
WHEREAS, Glyph has remained substantially current in their 1996 $100,000 loan with the IURA,
and
WHEREAS, Glyph reported employing 20 FTEs in 1998, thereby exceeding their job creation
goals, has reportedly continued to increase employment opportunities and proposes to further
expand employment opportunities over the next three years as part of the Cherry St. Industrial Park
expansion project, and
WHEREAS, Glyph's proposed expansion in the Cherry Street Industrial Park will yield significant
public benefits in terms of, retaining a rapidly expanding business in the City, expanding the City's
tax base, and providing a significant increase in employment opportunities, and diversifying the
local economy, and
WHEREAS,the LURA Economic Development Committee recommended the following action at
its May 9, 2000 meeting,now,therefore be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby designates Glyph Technologies, Inc. as a qualified and
eligible sponsor to lease/purchase an approximately three acre parcel of land in the expanded
Cherry Street Industrial Park, subject to submission of:
1. a projected employment schedule documenting compliance with CDBG regulations,which
require 51%of new employment opportunities to be available to low/mod income persons,
and
FY 1999 financial statements satisfactorily demonstrating continued financial strength and
IURA Minutes, 5-23-00,7
stability of the proposed sponsor.
CARRIED unanimously.
IV-4 CARPENTER BUSINESS PARK DISPOSITION, REQUEST FOR
EXTENSION-RESOLUTION
Bohn briefly reported on the concerns of the ED Committee in reference to the initial
request, and stated that after he communicated those concerns to Building Links, they
returned with an amended request,proposing that the extension run through December, that
the deposit become non-refundable, incrementally, and that the submission to the Site
Plan Committee be moved to October 2000, to prevent early submission and subsequent
modification. Discussion ensued concerning ownership of Carpenter Circle.
Cummings/Cohen moved/seconded a motion to enter Executive Session at 5:50
Executive Session ended at 6:05 pm.
Extensive discussion ensued concerning May 1, 2001 as the date for Final Site Plan
Approval secured by Building Links, Inc. Lama stated that given the extension, the Agency
would see a plan for a secure tenant, rather than a preliminary plan with no specificity.
Yahn stated that the easement to connect 3'(1 Street to Cascadilla Street was placed where
the Agency had requested it, and that two of three additional properties had been purchased
in part,to gain a connection to Cascadilla Street.
Discussion continued concerning the cost of 60 vs. 90 day extensions, and what will occur
with continued payments once site plans have been proffered by Bridgewater. Hooks and
Lama stated that Gary Sloan of Bridgewater feels that a 60-day extension should cost less
than a 90-day extension, and that he wants to stop making non-refundable payments once
he produces a site plan. Hooks added that the extension would allow the Agency to have
"considerable say"in the planning for the parking lot.
Cohen/Rosario moved/seconded a motion to enter Executive Session at 6:20 pm.
Executive Session ended at 6:35 pm.
Cummings/Rosario moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, upon Common Council endorsement,the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency(IURA)
executed a purchase offer with Building Links, Inc. to acquire the Carpenter Business Park on
October 7, 1999, and
WHEREAS, on January 18, 2000 the IURA authorized a 60-day extension of the contingencies
set forth in paragraphs 10(A), 10(B)and 11(B)of the purchase agreement dated October 7, 1999,
and further resolved that any future request for a further extension should be received at least 30
days in advance of the requested date for action by the IURA and indicated a payment to the
IURA may be required for any future extension, and
WHEREAS, Building Links, Inc. informed the IURA that it had assigned the purchase agreement
to Bridgewater Management, LLC (Bridgewater), and
IURA Minutes,5-23-00, 8
WHEREAS,on May 4, 2000,Bridgewater submitted a request for a further extension of certain
contingencies contained in the purchase agreement along with conceptual site plans for
developing the site, and
WHEREAS, Bridgewater requests an extension of approximately 120 days until August 1, 2000
to satisfy buyer's contingencies set forth in Sections 10(A)regarding site suitability and 10(D)
regarding environmental site assessment, and
WHEREAS,Bridgewater requests an extension of approximately 270 days until March 1, 2001 to
comply with the seller's contingency set forth in Section 11(B)regarding submission of a
complete site development plan, and
WHEREAS,Bridgewater requests an extension of approximately 480 days until approximately
October 1,2001 to satisfy contingencies set forth in Section 10(C)and 10(D)regarding gaining
preliminary and final site plan approval by readjusting the start date from which the timelines
must be satisfied to March 1, 2001 from the October 7, 1999 date as presently set forth in the
agreement,and
WHEREAS, in consideration of granting the requested extensions,Bridgewater proposes to
release portions of the $15,000 refundable deposit to the City/TURA according to a schedule
beginning June 1, 2000 and extending until February 1, 2001,where such payments will be
credited against the purchase price in the event of closing the transaction,and
WHEREAS,the Economic Development Committee(EDC)discussed the request for extension at
their May 9,2000 meeting and indicated strong concerns about the duration of the proposed
extensions and a desire to enhance public benefit from the project in the form of gaining a public
easement through the site to allow a future vehicular connection between Third Street and
Cascadilla Street, and,
WHEREAS,the staff shared the EDC's concerns with Bridgewater,and
WHEREAS,on May 17, 2000 Bridgewater modified their extension request by assuring that
Bridgewater plans for development of the parcel will provide for a connection to and from
Cascadilla Street and will take this into account in their site plan submission and modifying the
latest date by which Bridgewater could initiate the approval process for site development plan
review to December 1,2000, along with an readjusted payment schedule,and
WHEREAS,the LURA has consistently been concerned with length of time proposed by the
buyer to close the transaction and develop the site for a use generating significant property tax
and sales tax revenues, and has made this concern clear throughout negotiations for sale of the
property, and
WHEREAS,the TURA concurs with the EDC's concerns regarding the duration of the May 4,
2000 proposed extension and the desire to enhance public benefit for this project,now,therefore
be it
RESOLVED,the TURA hereby rejects Bridgewater's request as stated in the May 4, 2000 letter
and modified per the May 17, 2000 letter received from Edward C. Hooks on behalf of
Bridgewater Management, LLC, but authorizes an extension to certain contingencies and
modification of the purchase offer signed with Building Links,Inc. on October 7, 1999,and
TURA Minutes, 5-23-00, 9
which such contingencies and modifications shall become part of said purchase offer agreement
as follows:
Seller agrees to the following extensions in consideration of certain modifications providing
public benefit agreed to by the buyer:
Seller's Contingencies
Section 11(B) -revise submission date of a complete and reasonable site plan to the Planning
&Development Board to November 1, 2000.
Buyer's Contingencies
Section 10(C) -revise approval date of preliminary site plan to February 1, 2001.
Section 10(D)-revise approval of final site plan to May 1, 2001.
Buyer agrees to the following modifications in consideration of being granted the foregoing
extensions:
1. The$15,000 deposited in escrow for the transaction("the deposit")may be released from
escrow and drawn down by the City/IURA according to the following schedule:
June 1, 2000 $1,500
July 1, 2000 $1,500
August 1, 2000 $2,000
September 1,2000 $2,000
October 1, 2000 $3,000
November 1,2000 $5,000
In the event that the transaction closes,the$15,000 paid in accordance with the foregoing
schedule will be credited against the purchase price. In the event that the transaction, for
any reason, fails to close by June 1, 2001,then any of the payments made pursuant to this
schedule would be forfeited by Bridgewater and deemed non-refundable.
2. Addition of a new Seller's contingency regarding establishment of a closing date:
Section 11(D) -The transfer of the Property shall be completed by June 1, 2001,
and be it further
RESOLVED,that the IURA Chair,upon review by the IURA Executive Director and the IURA
Attorney, is hereby authorized to sign any and all instruments necessary to implement this
resolution.
CARRIED unanimously.
IV-5 MICRO-ENTERPRISE LOAN REVIEW BOARD APPOINTMENT-
RESOLUTION
Cohen/Rosario moved/seconded the following resolution for discussion:
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency(IURA)retains a fiduciary responsibility to
CDBG grant monies in the Micro-Enterprise Program, (1996 Year 3,Activity
4.1)and
WHEREAS, the previous IURA representative to the review board was appointed by name
and is no longer with the Community Development Office Staff, and
NRA Minutes, 5-23-00, 10
WHEREAS, it would be prudent for the IURA to have a continuing presence on the Micro-
Enterprise Loan Review Board, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency(IURA)appoints the Administrator of the
Community Development Office,to be the representative of the Ithaca Urban
Renewal Agency to the Micro-Enterprise Loan Review Board, and be it further
RESOLVED, that in the ence of the ministrator th air of the Eco c and
Deve ment Co ee of the 11 represent t at the Micro-
erprise Loan eview Board.
Rosario backup representative^in case of Bohn's absence.
vv l LA eCt — tc be rt h'2 -Fr"£ke £/) 0-} f l e e
Cohen/Cummings moved/seconded an amendment to read:
"and be it further RESOLVED, that in the absence of the Administrator, the Chair of the
Economic Development Committee will represent the IURA at the Microenterprise Loan
Review Board."
Amendment CARRIED unanimously.
Resolution CARRIED unanimously.
V. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION
V-1 FEBRUARY,MARCH,APRIL 2000 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Entered into the record.
V-2 HODAG,INHS FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Cummings/Cohen moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS,the IURA received a 12/7/99 request from the City Deputy Controller to make
payment to the City's General Fund of$65,000 for funding provided by the City to Ithaca
Neighborhood Housing Services(INHS) for FY 1999, and
WHEREAS,the IURA has jointly participated with the City of Ithaca in providing$85,000 of
annual funding support to INHS since 1989, and
WHEREAS,INHS funding support from sources administered by the IURA total$65,000
annually, of which$55,144.28 was derived from the Eddygate Housing Development Grant
Program(HODAG)repayment stream(#NY009HG401)and the remaining$9,855.27 came from
Comex Urban Development Action Grant(UDAG)repayments (#B-82-AB-36-0405), and
WHEREAS, HODAG loan repayments were renegotiated with Eddygate Park Associates in 1997
resulting in annual payments to the IURA increasing from$55,144.28 to $109,819 until loan
maturity in 2020, and
NRA Minutes, 5-23-00, 11
WHEREAS, HODAG program income may only be used to"support the construction,
rehabilitation or operation of real property to be used primarily for low and moderate income
residential rental purposes,"but UDAG funds may be used for any eligible purpose identified in
Title I of the Community Development Act of 1974, including,but not limited to, low/mod
residential rental purposes, and
WHEREAS, INHS operates and rehabilitates residential rental properties to be used primarily for
low and moderate income families, an eligible use of HODAG funds, and
WHEREAS, the IURA desires to conserve UDAG funds and use HODAG funds first whenever
eligible due to the narrow list of eligible HODAG uses, and
WHEREAS, the IURA wishes to memorialize its twenty-five years of continuous financial
support for INHS,including ten years of funding derived from HODAG repayments, with a
clearly stated policy to provide continuing financial support for INHS,now,therefore,be it
RESOLVED,that the TURA hereby approves a payment of$65,000 to the City of Ithaca from
HODAG funds for the purpose of reimbursing the City of Ithaca for payments made to support
INHS for FY 1999 funding,and be it further
RESOLVED,that it is the policy of the IURA to annually support INHS funding of at least the
current funding level of$65,000 until 2019, and be it further
RESOLVED,that such LURA funding shall be used in compliance with the 1984 Eddygate Park
Apartments HODAG grant agreement requiring program income to be used"to support the
construction,rehabilitation or operation of real property to be used primarily for low and
moderate income residential rental purposes,"and be it further
RESOLVED, that the City and INNS be informed of restrictions on the eligible uses of HODAG
funds, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the LURA Executive Director, is authorized to sign any and all documents
necessary to implement this resolution.
Resolution CARRIED unanimously.
V-3 CONSULTANT CONTRACT,H. SICHERMAN& CO.-RESOLUTION
Cohen/Cummings moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, the LURA had the need for occasional technical assistance in the development
and implementation of its Community Development program and for other
related activities, and
WHEREAS, the IURA has been well served by the technical assistance H. Sicherman &
Company has provided in the past,therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that the B&A Committee recommends to the LURA that the full Agency
authorize and direct the Mayor to sign a contract with H. Sicherman&Company,
Inc. for consulting services to the IURA not to exceed $15,000 pending review
be the City Attorney and the Executive Director of the]URA,and be it further
NRA Minutes,5-23-00, 12
RESOLVED, that the B&A Committee recommends this contract become effective
retroactively per January 1, 2000.
CARRIED unanimously.
V-4 APPOINTMENT OF RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICER -
RESOLUTION
Cohen/Cummings moved/seconded the following resolution:
RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency(IURA)appoints the Executive Director
of the IURA to be the Community Development Record Management Officer,
filling the vacancy left by Katharine Clute, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency authorizes and directs the Chair
to notify the Local Government Records Bureau of the appointment.
CARRIED unanimously.
VI. HOUSING,NEIGHBORHOODS,AND INFRASTRUCTURE
VI-1 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SHELTER - REQUEST FOR
REIMBURSEMENT, TOMPKINS COUNTY TASK FORCE FOR BATTERED
WOMEN(1996 YEAR 2,ACTIVITY 3.5)-RESOLUTION
Cummings/Cohen moved/seconded a motion to enter Executive Session at 6:40 pm.
Executive Session ended at 6:45pm.
Cohen/Cummings moved/seconded the following resolution.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Task Force for Battered Women(Task Force)operates a
domestic violence shelter at an IURA-owned building through a 5-year,renewable license
agreement beginning May 20, 1999,and
WHEREAS,the license agreement requires no rent payments,but calls for the Task Force to
deposit$150 per month into an escrow account to be used for costly repairs at the shelter, and
WHEREAS, the IURA hired Canzler Contracting to install a new furnace at the shelter in March
1999, and
WHEREAS, in January 2000 the Task Force reported high carbon monoxide emissions due to a
blocked chimney which created a serious health hazard and led to the temporary closure of the
shelter and installation of a chimney liner,and
WHEREAS,the Task Force seeks reimbursement for the following expenses:
1. installation of a chimney liner $843.85
2. boiler repairs $116.05
3. temporary housing of Shelter Coordinator in hotel $250.00
4. alleged potential income from reimbursements
IURA Minutes, 5-23-00, 13
due to 5-day shelter closure $7,168.00
$8,377.90 and,
WHEREAS,the Task Force has failed since December 1999 to make regular payments into the
escrow fund for costly maintenance and repairs to the Shelter in violation of the license
agreement, and
WHEREAS, the Housing,Neighborhoods and Infrastructure Committee discussed the repair
issue with Task Force representatives and IURA staff involved in contracting the furnace
replacement work at their April 14, 2000 meeting,and
WHEREAS,the HNI Committee continued their discussion of the issue at their May 12, 2000
meeting, including review of the bid specifications,the manufacturer's manual,Building
Department correspondence and recommended the following action,now,therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the LURA hereby recognizes that recent shelter repairs have imposed a
hardship on the Tompkins County Task Force for Battered Women,but finds that the need for
repairs were not in any way the result of negligence or any other misconduct, action or inaction
on the part of the IURA,and responds to the Task Force's request for reimbursement of expenses
and lost revenues of$8,377.90 as follows:
1. reimburse the Task Force $843.85 for the cost to install the chimney liner and$250.00 for the
shelter coordinator's hotel expenses,upon submission of hotel expense documentation, on the
condition that the Task Force making deposits into the escrow fund to become current in
accordance with the terms of the license agreement prior to disbursement of funds to the Task
Force;
2. Seek reimbursement from Canzler Contracting,the furnace installer,for the above payments;
and
3. Notify the Building Department about the carbon monoxide problem at the shelter and the
possible need to address potential problems relating to the installation of new furnaces in
older houses without thorough chimney inspection or installation of a chimney liner, and
copy INHS on this correspondence,and be it further
RESOLVED, funding for the above reimbursements shall come from the Eddygate Housing
Development Grant Program(HODAG)repayment stream(#NY009HG401), as an eligible rental
housing expense, and be it further
RESOLVED,the Agency directs the IURA Executive Director to initiate discussions with the
Task Force to convey ownership of the shelter property to the Task Force,or another legal entity
to preserve confidentiality,rather than continue to operate the shelter property under a
complicated license agreement.
CARRIED unanimously.
VI-2 DISPOSITION OF FORMER DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SHELTER -
REVISED RESOLUTION
Cohen/Cummings moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, by resolution#887 the IURA authorized the staff to solicit proposals from
prospective sponsors for purchase and rehabilitation of the former domestic violence shelter
NRA Minutes, 5-23-00, 14
located at 614 W. Clinton Street, and further indicated that the "IURA has an interest in looking
at other than single-family residential uses for the property,"and
WHEREAS, the staff reported to the HNI Committee its intention to advertise for prospective
sponsors under the terms of resolution#887, and
WHEREAS,the HNI Committee indicated that rehabilitation and occupancy of the former shelter
for owner-occupied residential use is a priority to stabilize the neighborhood given pressures to
expand commercial uses in the neighborhood, the recent demolition of a residential structure at
225 Cleveland Avenue and the recent issuance of several demolition permits in the immediate
neighborhood, and
WHEREAS, Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services (INNS) desires to acquire the property for
rehabilitation and resale to a low-and moderate-income family to occupy as a single family
dwelling, and
WHEREAS, INHS has successfully completed 77 acquisition/rehabilitation/resale projects and
possesses a strong professional,technical, administrative and financial capacity to undertake such
projects in a timely fashion, and
WHEREAS, INHS estimated in 1998 that the former shelter will require approximately$40,000
in renovations to prepare it for resale for single-family owner-occupied uses,and
WHEREAS,the HNI Committee discussed disposition of the former shelter at its May 12, 2000
meeting and recommended the following action,now,therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the LURA hereby designates INHS as a qualified and eligible sponsor to
acquire the former domestic violence shelter located at 614 W. Clinton Street for the purpose of
rehabilitation and resale of the property to a low-or moderate-income family to occupy the
structure as a single-family dwelling, and be it further
RESOLVED,that the staff is authorized and directed to negotiate a proposed purchase
agreement with INHS for review and recommended approval by the HNI Committee and the
IURA, and subsequent approval by the Common Council in accordance with the disposition
procedures required by Article 15, Section 507 of General Municipal Law, and,be it further
RESOLVED,that this resolution supercedes any previous resolution regarding disposition of the
former shelter property.
CARRIED unanimously.
VI-3 311 CORN STREET BROWNFIELD REMEDIATION (CDBG 2000,
ACTIVITY1.04)-AUTHORIZATION TO CONDUCT ENVIRONMENTAL
INVESTIGATION-RESOLUTION
Cohen/Cummings moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca FY 2000 CDBG application requested$44,000 of CDBG funds to
be matched by$20,000 of IURA funds to implement activity#1.04 to remediate the brownfield
site located at 311 S. Corn Street, and
NRA Minutes, 5-23-00, 15
WHEREAS, the activity includes acquisition, environmental investigation, remediation and reuse
of a vacant gas station blighting a residential area of the Southside neighborhood, and
WHEREAS,the IURA has executed a binding purchase agreement with the property owner that
conveys the property to the IURA as a charitable gift with a condition that the purchase
agreement is null and void if the total cost of gasoline storage tank removal and environmental
remediation exceeds$53,000, and
WHEREAS,the purchase agreement further authorizes the IURA to conduct environmental
investigation at the site prior to closing on the property to determine the estimated cost of tank
removal and remediation, and
WHEREAS, the staff has solicited a price quote of$3,700 from Geologic NY, Inc. to conduct a
Phase UII Environmental Assessment, and
WHEREAS, any contamination discovered during environmental site investigation must be
reported to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation,which may require
the property owner to remediate the site, and
WHEREAS, identification of any environmental hazard on the site empowers the community
with knowledge of the extent of any environmental hazard and advances remediation of the site,
and
WHEREAS,the HNI Committee discussed this issue at their May 12,2000 meeting and
recommends the following action,now,therefore be it
RESOLVED,the IURA hereby authorizes staff to solicit competitive price quotes from qualified
independent contractors to conduct a Phase UII Environmental Assessment at the 311 S. Corn
Street brownfield site and contract with the selected firm to conduct environmental investigation
work in an amount not to exceed$4,500 to implement Activity 1.04 of the FY 2000 CDBG
application,and be it further
RESOLVED,that the source for funding the above environmental site investigation shall be the
Comex Urban Development Action Grant(UDAG)repayments(#B-82-AB-36-0405), and be it
further
RESOLVED, that the Executive Director of the TURA,upon the advise of the IURA Attorney, is
hereby authorized to execute all necessary and appropriate documents to implement this
resolution.
CARRIED unanimously.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
No reports or action taken.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
VIII-1 NEXT MEETING DATE: (TUESDAY)June 20,2000,4PM
a
IURA Minutes, 5-23-00, 16
Date accepted,noting that Cohen will be absent, Cummings will be Acting Chair.
VIII-2 OTHER
No other items.
X. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 6:50 PM.
end 6/2/2000 ARS/ars ' 0/2/
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IURA Minutes,6-20-00, 1
Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency 4Urban R
I
4:00 PM,Tuesday,June 20, 2000 1.68
Common Council Chambers,City Hall G
PRESENT: IURA Members Jill Burlington,Alan Cohen(4:20pm), Susan
Cummings,Tracy Farrell,Eric Rosario
Staff Doug McDonald,Adam Smith,Thys Van
Cort,Wies van Leuken
Others Ryan Berryann
CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 4:06 by Cummings.
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES,IURA MEETING,MAY 23,2000
Cummings requested that pg 5,paragraph 7,be amended to read:
"...Cummings disclosed that her husband leases a parcel next to wetland A..."
Cummings further requested that pg 2,paragraph 1,be amended to read:
"...Cummings expressed a concern that the size of cones served by Purity had always been too
small,and that the present owners were continuing the standard set in place by the previous
owners."
Cummings asked that the choice of the date 2019 in the second resolved of the page be explained.
Van Cort stated that he would look up the INHS/HODAG document and determine the reason for
the date.
Burlington asked to be given the packet of information which Rosario received, concerning
Downtown Revitalization Strategy. van Leuken stated that she would give the materials to the
entire Board.
Rosario requested that on pg 10,the final RESOLVED at the top of the page be struck,and that
the line immediately afterwards be amended to read:
"Rosario volunteered to be the backup representative from the ED Committee in case of
Bohn's absence."
Cohen/Rosario moved seconded a motion to approve the minutes as amended.
CARRIED unanimously.
III. STAFF REPORTS
McDonald stated that a Special meeting of the ED Committee would be scheduled for June 27th,
to discuss agenda items IV-1 and IV-2.
IV. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
LURA Minutes, 6-20-00,2
IV-1 WEST END COMMERCIAL LOAN PROGRAM,AFCU/CUSO(1996 YR#3,
ACTIVITY 2.1)-REPORT
McDonald stated that the staff had received the analysis of the program on 6/20 and that it would
be reviewed at the next agency meeting.
IV-2 CHERRY STREET INDUSTRIAL PARK,LEASE AGREEMENT-REPORT
McDonald stated that there was nothing new to report,and that there had been no reaction to the
proposal.Discussion ensued concerning changes in the financial portion of the lease and buyout
terms.The Agency determined that Common Council,the Planning Committee,and the ED
Committee should discuss the issues and have their determinations ready for the next full Agency
meeting.
Cummings stated that although the land in Cherry St.phase I seems inexpensive,the swampy land
makes it expensive to build there;Cummings suggested that the lease rate should not be raised.
V. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION
V-1 ADMINISTRATOR POSITION-RESOLUTION
Cummings presented the following resolution:
WHEREAS, on March 1, 2000, the position of Administrator of Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency became
vacant,and
WHEREAS,the IURA desires to fill the vacancy,now,therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby promotes the Acting Community Development Administrator, Nels
Bohn,to fill the position of Community Development Administrator at Step 8 of the FY 2000 Community
Development Personnel Salary Scale,which,as of June 20,2000,is$48,396,and be it further
RESOLVED, that the IURA Executive Director, upon advise of the IURA Attorney, is hereby authorized
and directed to prepare and sign a staff contract with Nels Bohn.
Cohen/Cummings moved/seconded a motion to enter Executive Session at 4:25 pm.
Executive Session ended at 4:29 pm,with no action taken.
Farrell/Cummings moved/seconded the resolution.
CARRIED unanimously.
The Agency expressed its enthusiasm for Bohn's promotion.
V-2 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLANNER POSITION,SEARCH-
RESOLUTION
Cummings presented the following resolution:
WHEREAS, the position of Community Development Planner of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency will
become vacant upon execution of a staff contract with Nels Bohn to fill the Administrator position,and
WHEREAS, the NRA desires to fill the vacancy in a prompt manner at a revised salary range, now,
IURA Minutes, 6-20-00, 3
therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that the TURA hereby authorizes and directs the IURA Executive Director to advertise and
conduct interviews of candidates for the position of Community Planner at a salary range to be determined,
and be it further
RESOLVED, that the IURA directs the Executive Director to identify a finalist list of candidates for
consideration by the Budget and Administration Committee, including a preferred candidate.
Cummings stated that the position had not yet been advertised,but that the preferred candidate
would be someone with grantwriting abilities, good neighborhood relations skills,and flexibility;
Cummings suggested that a junior level candidate with strong aptitude would be a good choice.
Burlington asked about education level;Cummings stated that a Master's degree would be
preferred.
Cummings/Rosario moved/seconded the resolution for discussion.
Rosario asked that the ad be given to members upon completion.Rosario also asked that members
other than the B&A Committee be involved in the staffing decision. Cohen stated that there would
be a search committee,and that Rosario would be welcome to join it.
CARRIED unanimously.
VI. HOUSING,NEIGHBORHOODS,AND INFRASTRUCTURE
VI-1 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SHELTER(1996 YEAR 2,ACTIVITY 3.5),CANZLER
OFFER-RESOLUTION
Cummings/Cohen moved/seconded a motion to enter Executive Session at 4:34 pm
Executive Session ended at 4:43 pm,with no action taken.
Farrell/Burlington moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS,the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency has received an offer by Canzler Contracting to cover$250
of expenses incurred due to dislocation of inhabitants of the Shelter, resulting from the elevated CO
emissions experienced from the heating systems replacement,and
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency has resolved (May 23, 2000) to reimburse the Tompkins
County Task Force for Battered Women$843.85 for the cost to install a chimney liner and$250.00 for the
shelter coordinator's hotel expenses, which agreement did not constitute any admission liability on the part
of the IURA, upon submission of hotel expense documentation, subject to the Task Force making deposits
into the escrow fund to become current in accordance with the terms of the license agreement,and
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency also resolved (May 23, 2000) to request Canzler
Contracting,the furnace installer, to reimburse the IURA for the above payments,now,therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency accepts the $250.00 offer by Canzler Contracting to
pay the hotel expenses incurred at the time of the dislocation due to elevated CO emissions, and be it
further
RESOLVED,that the agreement to accept this sum in no way constitutes a release of Canzler Contracting
of any and all liability resulting from this project.
CARRIED. 4-Yea, 1 Abstention(Cummings).
IURA Minutes,6-20-00,4
VU. OLD BUSINESS
Cummings suggested that the CEO program be advised to add a landlord inquiry to their standard
credit check when approving loans.Cohen asked that Rosario take the idea to the program at the
next Advisory Board meeting,and that van Leuken would send it in writing.
Rosario asked about the progress of the hotel project.Cohen stated that additional financing had
been acquired,but that there was still a funding gap;Cohen suggested that the USDA may be able
to help underwrite the project through the Rural Development Act.
McDonald stated that a woman-owned restaurant sought assistance from the NRA,but that ED
Committee restrictions made them ineligible for assistance.McDonald stated that he gave
application forms to the owners and told them that the restrictions were being reconsidered.
Cummings asked about MRI's progress;Van Cort stated that they were in the process of drawing
down funds.
Cummings asked about Carpenter Park process;McDonald stated that nothing official had been
done,but that the developer was working with a company at this time. Cummings suggested that
the IURA assist the process wherever possible.
McDonald stated that the Lost Dog Restaurant was scheduled to close on a loan on 6/21,and that
work was scheduled to begin on the building on 6/22;McDonald explained that the delay was due
to internal bank problems and not due to any problem with the applicants.McDonald further
stated that the managers and at least one owner of the restaurant would be moving to Ithaca.
Discussion occurred concerning the history of the Coast Guard Auxiliary site. Cohen said that
official action would be taken soon by the City against the illegal docks placed by the
organization.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
VIII-1 NEXT MEETING DATE: (TUESDAY)July 18,2000,4PM
Date accepted.
VIII-2 OTHER
van Leuken entered the May fmancial statements into the record.
IX. EXECUTIVE SESSION
During V-1,Cohen/Cummings moved/seconded a motion to enter Executive Session at 4:25 pm.
Executive Session ended at 4:29 pm,with no action taken.
During VI-1,Cummings/Cohen moved/seconded a motion to enter Executive Session at 4:34 pm
Executive Session ended at 4:43 pm,with no action taken.
X. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 4:58 PM.
end 6/26/2000 ARS/ars
IURA Minutes, -18-00, 1
Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency diPPS 0&'/
4:00 PM,Tuesday,July 18,200017 12
Common Council Chambers,City Hall
PRESENT: IURA Members Jill Burlington,Alan Cohen(4:10pm), Susan
Cummings,Tracy Farrell
Staff Kat Hauger,Doug McDonald,Thys Van
Cort,Wies van Leuken
Others Paul Mazzarella, Brian Van Allen, Joey
Cummings Moro
I. CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 4:05 by Cummings.
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES,IURA MEETING,JUNE 20,2000
Farrell/Burlington moved/seconded a motion to approve the minutes.
CARRIED unanimously.
M. STAFF REPORTS
Hauger reported that Bohn had been in contact with the IURA.
IV. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
IV-1 WEST END COMMERCIAL LOAN PROGRAM,AFCU/CUSO(1996 YR#3,
ACTIVITY 2.1)-RESOLUTION
McDonald summarized the loan application from CUSO to support the construction of the new
building and detailed the terms of the loan.Discussion occurred concerning the use of CD-RLF
monies to complete the$250,000 loan;the Agency came to consensus approving$175,000,and
holding the CD-RLF$75,000 for further consideration.
Cohen/Farrell moved/seconded the following resolution as amended:
WHEREAS,Alternative Federal Credit Union(AFCU)/CUSO has requested$250,000 in loan assistance
from the West End Commercial Loan Program and the Community Development Revolving Loan Fund
(CD-RLF)for the purpose of assisting in the fmancing of new equipment to support operations in the new
AFCU/CUSO building to be constructed on North Fulton Street,and
WHEREAS,the primary objective of the West End Commercial Loan Program is the economic
revitalization of the West End neighborhood through financial assistance to create at least 15 jobs and
leverage at least$150,000 of new private investment,and
WHEREAS, the new geographic location of AFCU is eligible for assistance through the West End
Commercial Loan Program,and
IURA Minutes,7-18-00,2
WHEREAS,at their July 11,2000 meeting,the Economic Development Committee reviewed Alternative
Federal Credit Union/CUSO's loan application and the financial analysis of H. Sicherman and Co,Inc on
behalf of the IURA and recommended the following,therefore be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby approves a loan from the West End Commercial Loan Program to
Alternative Federal Credit Union/CUSO in accordance with the loan application and the following terms:
maximum loan amount: $175,000, (Approximately$175,000 will be from the West
End Commercial Loan Program.)
use of funds: purchase of various equipment, fixtures and fixed assets as
detailed in the loan application
term: 10 years,(following 3 months of deferred principal and
interest)because of construction and moving,not to exceed
123 months.
interest rate: 1st 3 months: deferral of principal and interest
4th month through 36th month: 3%
4th year through 10th year:based on low Wall Street Journal
published prime rate minus 5%with a flow of 4%,such rate to
be fixed throughout the remaining term.
repayment: Initial monthly Principle and Interest of$2,414 until the 4th
anniversary,at which time the payment will be reset based on
the new interest rate in order to fully amortize the loan over
the remaining 6 years. The initial 3 months deferral of interest
is to be paid on the ls`anniversary of the loan.
collateral:
• 1S`lien on all equipment(to include all furniture,fixtures
and equipment)now owned or hereinafter acquired(both
obligors)
• rd mortgage covering property located at corner of West
State and North Fulton Streets,City of Ithaca,NY and
assignment of lease(s)(subordinate position)between
AFCU and CUSO,and be it further
RESOLVED,that the NRA Chair,upon the advice of the Executive Director and City Attorney,is hereby
authorized to execute all necessary and appropriate documents to implement this resolution,including,but
not limited to,executing loan agreement documents.
CARRIED unanimously.
IV-2 EXPANDING ELIGIBILITY FOR REVOLVING LOAN FUND-RESOLUTION
Burlington reported on Rosario's concern that restaurants were excluded from CD-RLF loans.
Cohen asked that legal counsel be consulted to determine if the CD-RLF could be opened up to
minority and female restaurant entrepreneurs only for development anywhere in the City.
Further discussion was tabled until the next meeting.
IV-3 CHERRY STREET INDUSTRIAL PARK,LEASE AGREEMENT-REPORT
McDonald reported that the lease was still in a draft state and that once it was more complete that
it would be brought before the agency.Cummings expressed concerns about the changes to the
lease that Glyph Technologies asked be made;Cohen asked that Cummings and Van Cort discuss
the matter after the meeting.
IURA Minutes, 7-18-00,3
IV-4 APPROVAL OF WEST END COMMERCIAL LOAN TARGET AREA
EXPANSION-REPORT
Cohen pointed out a letter from HUD approving the requested change.
IV-5 APPROVAL OF REPROGRAMMING REQUEST(1995& 1998 CDBG)
Cohen pointed out a letter from HUD approving the requested change.
V. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION
V-1 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS-JUNE,2000
Entered into the record.
VI. HOUSING,NEIGHBORHOODS,AND INFRASTRUCTURE
VI-1 INNS UPDATE ON PROGRAMS-REPORT-P.MAZZARELLA
Tabled,no action taken.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
No old business.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
VIII-1 NEXT MEETING DATE:(TUESDAY)August 15,2000,4PM
Date accepted.
VIII-2 OTHER
No other business.
VIII-3 HOTEL PROJECT
Cohen stated that the project was nearly completely financed, but that there remained a gap of
$325,000. McDonald suggested that the agency discuss whether or not it should approve
additional loans to close the gap. Cohen reported that additional funding could be found from
other sources,including reprogrammed funds from the state and the USDA. Farrell and Cummings
suggested that county funding be pursued as well; Cohen suggested that that be pursued for future
economic development projects.
Cohen asked that members consider future budgeting, and use that consideration to assist the
Agency in making a determination as to what, if any, additional loans the Agency is willing to
make. Discussion occurred concerning ways to close the gap, including the possibility of a bridge
loan.Cohen asked that additional information be gathered before any determinations are made.
Staff and members suggested that a letter be crafted stating that the project was very important to
the downtown, and that research was being done into what, if any, additional monies were
available to help close the funding gap for this project.
IX. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 4:46 PM.
end 8/4/2000 ARS/ars
j
IURA Minutes,8-15-00, 1
Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
4:00 PM,Tuesday,August 15,2000
Common Council Chambers,City Hall Os)`j`r ct
"
PRESENT: IURA Members Jill Burlington,Alan Cohen,Tracy Farrell,
Eric Rosario
Staff Kat Hauger,Doug McDonald,Thys Van
Cort,Wies van Leuken
Others Bill Myers
CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 4:31 by Cohen,and began discussions with agenda item IV-1.
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES,IURA MEETINGS,DECEMBER 21,1999,JANUARY 18,
2000,FEBRUARY 15,2000,AND JULY 18,2000
After discussing agenda item VII-1,Cohen/Burlington moved/seconded a motion to approve the
minutes.
Cohen stated for the record that he was concerned that the minutes prior to February 16,2000 did
not accurately represent what happened at Agency meetings,and that tapes of the meetings
including and prior to February 15,2000 should be held for a three year period.
CARRIED unanimously.
III. STAFF REPORTS
III-1 FY 2000 CDBG APPLICATION
No reports given.
III-2 CANAL CORRIDOR INITIATIVE HUD AUDIT
No reports given.
IV. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
IV-1 AFCU/CUSO LOAN REQUEST -RESOLUTION
Discussion ensued concerning AFCU/CUSO's loan request and the CEO program and its funding
to participants.Myers stated that at some time in the future they may seek to restructure the loan,
and that he would like the resolution to reflect the Agency's knowledge of that intention.
Cohen/Burlington moved/seconded the following resolution as amended:
WHEREAS, Alternative Federal Credit Union(AFCU)/CUSO has requested$250,000 in loan
assistance from the West End Commercial Loan Program and the Community
Development Revolving Loan Fund(CD-RLF)for the purpose of assisting in the
financing of new equipment to support operations in the new AFCU/CUSO building to
be constructed on North Fulton Street,and
C A
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m•
IURA Minutes, 8-15-00,2
WHEREAS, the primary objective of the West End Commercial Loan Program is the economic
revitalization of the West End neighborhood through financial assistance to create at least
15 jobs and leverage at least$150,000 of new private investment,and
WHEREAS, the new geographic location of AFCU is eligible for assistance through the West End
Commercial Loan Program,and
WHEREAS, the project is projected to create 17 FTE employment positions over the next three years,
which constitutes exceptional public benefit,and
WHEREAS, the project will also serve as a catalyst of the development of the West End,also
considered to constitute exceptional public benefit,and
WHEREAS, the loan will leverage approximately$2,750,000 in non-governmental financing and over
$1,000,000 in equity investment,and
WHEREAS, at their July 11,2000 meeting,the Economic Development Committee reviewed
Alternative Federal Credit Union/CUSO's loan application and the fmancial analysis of
H. Sicherman and Co,Inc on behalf of the IURA and recommended approval of the loan,
and
WHEREAS, the structure of the project was modified so that the Alternatives Fund will own the
project real estate and CUSO will own only certain equipment,fixtures and fixed assets,
and
WHEREAS, AFCU has agreed to enter a long-term lease agreement with CUSO to pay CUSO a
monthly amount sufficient to meet principal and interest payments due to the IURA to
amortize the IURA loan,now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby approves a loan from the West End Commercial Loan Program and
the CD-RLF to Alternative Federal Credit Union/CUSO in accordance with the loan
application and the following terms:
maximum loan amount: up to$250,000,but not to exceed 90%of Loan to Value
source of funds: close out unencumbered balance of West End Commercial
Loan Program(approximately$175,000), the remaining
amount to derive from the CD-RLF.)
use of funds: purchase of various equipment,fixtures and fixed assets as
detailed in the loan application
term: 10 years,(following 3 months of deferred principal and
interest)because of construction and moving,not to exceed
123 months.
interest rate: 1st 3 months:deferral of principal and interest
4th month through 36th month: 3%
4th year through 10th year:based on low Wall Street Journal
published prime rate minus 5%with a flow of 4%,such rate to
be fixed throughout the remaining term.
repayment: Initial monthly Principle and Interest of$2,414 until the 4th
anniversary,at which time the payment will be reset based on
the new interest rate in order to fully amortize the loan over
the remaining 6 years. The initial 3 months deferral of interest
is to be paid on the 1'Y anniversary of the loan.
IURA Minutes, 8-15-00,3
collateral:
• 1st lien on all purchased equipment(to include all
furniture,fixtures and equipment)now owned or
hereinafter acquired
• 1st lien on additional equipment pledged to have a
minimum value of $78,000
• 3nd mortgage covering property located at corner of West
State and North Fulton Streets,City of Ithaca,NY and
assignment of lease(s)(subordinate position)between
AFCU and CUSO,and be it further
additional security: assignment of lease between CUSO and AFCU of furniture,
fixtures and equipment purchased with IURA loan proceeds
which shall provide minimally for a monthly payment to
CUSO sufficient to service the repayment schedule on the
LURA loan.
RESOLVED, that the IURA Chair,upon the advice of the Executive Director and City Attorney,is
hereby authorized to execute all necessary and appropriate documents to implement this
resolution,including,but not limited to,executing loan agreement documents.
CARRIED unanimously.
Discussion moved to agenda item VII-1.
IV-2 CANAL CORRIDOR INITIATIVE IMPLEMENTATION-REPORT
No report given.
V. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION
V-1 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANT PLANNER POSITION,SEARCH-
REPORT
No report given.
V-2 JULY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Entered into the record.
VI. HOUSING,NEIGHBORHOODS,AND INFRASTRUCTURE
No report given.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
VII-1 EXPANDING ELIGIBILITY FOR CD-REVOLVING LOAN FUND-
RESOLUTION
Cohen informed the Agency that they would have a general concept discussion of expanding the
CD-RLF to include restaurants,and then refer the topic back to the ED Committee for further
discussion.
Bohn stated that although he felt restaurants were, as a category,risky investments,he also felt that
those with less risk and greater public benefit could be funded. He further suggested that policy be
set in place that would discourage or disqualify applicants that the Agency did not wish to fund
! f
IURA Minutes, 8-15-00,4
through the CD-RLF,e.g. franchises or high-risk ventures.Cohen stated that he wanted to include a
stipulation that applicants establish a ratio of 70/30 food service/alcohol service. Discussion ensued
concerning the stipulation and the ratio. Cohen stated that he would speak to area restaurateurs to
fmd their ratios as well.Burlington stated that she was concerned that the ratios would be different
in each area of the City; Cohen stated that he would survey each area. Additional discussion
occurred concerning the inclusion of catering businesses, the public benefit stipulations, and the
exclusion of the Southwest area.
Cohen stated that an additional restriction be placed on businesses that they not be providing adult
entertainment, and further stated that questions ought to be asked concerning the degree of
exclusion to promotion (e.g. drink specials) that the Agency wishes to place upon the funding.
Discussion ensued concerning additional restrictions and exclusions.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
VIII-1 NEXT MEETING DATE: (TUESDAY)SEPTEMBER 19,2000,4PM
Date accepted.
VIII-2 OTHER
No other business.
IX. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 5:15 PM.
end 8/21/2000 ARS/ars
LURA Minutes,9-19-00, 1
Y
DFY
Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
tIp?6
4:00 PM,Tuesday,September 19,2000
Common Council Chambers,City Hall /
PRESENT: IURA Members Jill Burlington,Alan Cohen,Susan
Cummings,Tracy Farrell
Staff Nels Bohn,Doug McDonald,Adam Smith,
Norma Schwab(5:00),Thys Van Cort
I. CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 4:05 by Cohen, and began discussions with agenda item IV-1.
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM AUGUST 15,2000 IURA MEETING
After discussing agenda item VI-1,Cohen/Burlington moved/seconded a motion to approve the
minutes.
CARRIED unanimously.
III. STAFF REPORTS
III-1 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN TA PLAN GRANT
APPLICATION
Bohn reported that an application had been submitted for the TA Plan Grant to assist the Ithaca
Downtown Partnership (IDP) with planning and strategy for downtown revitalization plans,
including analysis and planning for housing, retail business, destination/tourist business, and
telecommunications upgrades for the Commons.Discussion ensued.
III-2 NYS SMALL CITIES CONFERENCE
Bohn reported that the award for item III-1 would be announced at the conference on Oct 2/3,
2000,and that it would be an opportunity for agencies to discuss issues and influence future policy.
The meeting continued with agenda item IX.
IV. HOUSING,NEIGHBORHOODS,AND INFRASTRUCTURE
IV-1 PROPERTY DISPOSITION,614 W.CLINTON STREET PURCHASE OFFER-
RESOLUTION
Cummings introduced the purchase offer from INHS,stating that the HNI Committee
recommended its acceptance.
Cohen/Farrell moved/seconded the following resolution.
WHEREAS,upon relocation of the domestic violence shelter from 614 W.Clinton Street,the LURA-owned
property became available for alternative uses,and
WHEREAS, rehabilitation and occupancy of the former shelter for owner-occupied residential use is a
priority of the IURA to stabilize the neighborhood in the face of pressures to expand commercial uses in the
neighborhood and the recent demolition of several nearby residential structures,and
IURA Minutes,9-19-00,2
WHEREAS, the NRA sought out a qualified and eligible sponsor to acquire the 614 W. Clinton St.
property for the purpose of rehabilitation and resale of the property to a low-or moderate income family to
occupy the structure as a single-family dwelling,and
WHEREAS, Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services (INNS) had previously been designated by the IURA
as a qualified and eligible sponsor to acquire the former domestic violence shelter located at 614 W.Clinton
Street,and
WHEREAS,INHS has submitted a 8/31/00 purchase offer for the property in the amount of$8,000,and
WHEREAS, the HNI Committee discussed the disposition of the former shelter at its September 8, 2000
meeting and recommended accepting the INHS-purchase offer,and
WHEREAS, subsequent review of the purchase offer by staff identified several items in the purchase offer
that should be customized to reflect the particular circumstances of the proposed conveyance, now,
therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby accepts the INHS 8/31/00 purchase offer to acquire 614 W. Clinton
Street subject to Common Council approval in accordance with the disposition procedures required by
Article 15,Section 507 of General Municipal Law and the following conditions:
(1) addition of a condition in the purchase offer requiring the buyer to renovate the property and resell
the property according to a low- and moderate-income family to occupy as a single family
dwelling;
(2) modifications to sections 18 and 21 of the purchase offer regarding"further conditions"and
"possession"acceptable to the IURA Executive Director;and
(3) legal review and approval of the IURA Attorney,and be it further
RESOLVED, that the IURA Chair,upon review by the IURA Executive Director and the LURA Attorney,
is hereby authorized to sign any and all instruments necessary to implement the resolution, including, but
not limited to,executive the revised purchase offer upon Common Council approval,and be it further
RESOLVED, that the IURA directs net proceeds from this disposition to be used to offset cost overruns
associated with implementation to the 1996 CDBG YR #2, Activity 3.5, domestic violence shelter
acquisition.
CARRIED unanimously.
IV-2 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SHELTER,1996 CDBG YR#2,ACTIVITY 3.5-
RESOLUTION (POSSIBLE EXECUTIVE SESSION)
Discussed in Executive Session,no action taken.
V. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION
V-1 POSITION TITLE CHANGE,CD ADMINISTRATOR-RESOLUTION
Cohen/Cummings moved/seconded the resolution as amended.
WHEREAS, the IURA's Budget and Administration Committee has reviewed and approved the
Administrator's request to change the title of the "Community Development Administrator"position to that
of"Director of Community Development"to more accurately reflect the position's responsibilities,and
•
IURA Minutes,9-19-00,3
WHEREAS, the position title change will have no material effect on the job description or salary scale of
the Director of Community Development, which shall remain unchanged from the previous Community
Development Administrator position,now,therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that the LURA hereby approves a change in title of the "Community Development
Administrator"position to the"Director of Community Development."
Discussion ensued concerning the differences between the terms "deputy director," "executive
director,"and"director."
CARRIED unanimously.
Further discussion ensued concerning the order of succession for leadership of the IURA.
Cummings and Van Cort stated that they felt that although policy at this time left McDonald in
charge of the LURA in Van Cort's absence, Bohn should be the person in charge instead.
Cummings suggested that the Director for Community Development's job description should be
referred back to the B&A Committee for discussion concerning this matter.
V-2 PERSONNEL CONTRACTS
Cohen/Burlington moved/seconded the resolutions for items V-2 A,B,and C,as well as V-3 all at
once.
A. DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POSITION
WHEREAS, the annual contract of the Community Development Administrator expires on December 31,
2000,and
WHEREAS, the Community Development Administrator position title has been changed to Director of
Community Development,and
WHEREAS, the Director of Community Development is a necessary and valued position in the IURA
community development office,and
WHEREAS, the Budget and Administration Committee discussed this matter at its September 5, 2000
meeting and recommended the following action,now therefore be it
RESOLVED,that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency accept and approve the Administrator contract dated
January 1, 2001 for the FY 2001 at Step 7 ($48,396) of the FY 2001 Community Development
Administrator(Director of Community Development)Salary Scale,and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency authorizes the Mayor to sign the Director of
Community Development contract,pending review by the City Attorney and the Executive Director of the
TUBA.
CARRIED unanimously.
B. CONTRACTS MONITOR POSITION
WHEREAS, the annual contract of the Community Development Contract Monitor expires on December
31,2000,and
WHEREAS,the Contract Monitor is a necessary and valued position in the IURA community development
office,now therefore be it
IURA Minutes,9-19-00,4
RESOLVED, that the Budget and Administration Committee recommends that the Ithaca Urban Renewal
Agency accept and approve the Contract Monitor contract dated January 1, 2001 for the FY 2001 at Step 1
($33,817)of the FY 2001 Community Development Grants Monitor Salary Scale,and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency authorizes the Mayor to sign the Director of
Community Development contract, pending review by the City Attorney and the Executive Director of the
IURA.
CARRIED unanimously.
C. ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR POSITION
WHEREAS, the annual contract of the Community Development Administrative Coordinator expires on
December 31,2000,and
WHEREAS, the Administrative Coordinator is a necessary and valued position in the IURA community
development office,now therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Budget and Administration Committee recommends that the Ithaca Urban Renewal
Agency accept and approve the Administrative Coordinator contract dated January 1,2001 for the FY 2001
at Step 1 ($26,595)of the FY 2001 Community Development Administrative Coordinator Salary Scale,and
be it further
RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency authorizes the Mayor to sign the Director of
Community Development contract, pending review by the City Attorney and the Executive Director of the
IURA.
CARRIED unanimously.
V-3 INDEPENDENT SERVICES CONTRACT RENEWAL-BOOKKEEPER-
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS,the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency has need of the services of a qualified bookkeeper,and
WHEREAS,the Budget and Administration Committee has reviewed the current bookkeeper's work and is
satisfied with the staff recommendation to renew the bookkeeper's contract through July 31, 2001,
therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that the Budget and Administration Committee recommends that the Ithaca Urban Renewal
Agency renew the Bookkeeper's contract through July 31,2001.
CARRIED unanimously.
V-4 COST OF LIVING INCREASE-RESOLUTION
Cohen/Farrell moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, the LURA has consistently approved a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) of employees'
current base salaries at comparable levels to that of City of Ithaca employees' salary increase as set forth in
the City of Ithaca/CSEA Administrative Unit agreement,and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca/CSEA Administrative Unit agreement provides for a three percent (3%)
increase for City employees in FY 2000,2001,and 2002,and
WHEREAS, the IURA approved a FY2000 COLA of 2.5% to be revisited after the City of Ithaca/CSEA
Administrative Unit agreement had been reached,and
NRA Minutes,9-19-00,5
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca contract for staff employees provides for three percent (3%) increase for
City employees in 2000,2001,and 2002,and
WHEREAS,the IURA's Budget and Administration Sub-Committee approves a Cost of Living Adjustment
of 3%of employees' current base salary to be effective January 1,2000,therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that the LURA hereby approved a Cost of Living Adjustment for FY2001 of 3% of
employees' current base salary to be effective January 1,2001, and be it further
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby approves an additional Cost of Living Adjustment for FY2000 of 0.5%
of employees'base salary retroactive to January 1,2000.
Discussion ensued concerning the history of COLAs for IURA staff.
CARRIED unanimously.
V-5 AMEND RESOLUTION#888 REPROGRAMMING 1995 AND 1996 YEAR#3
FUNDS
Discussion ensued concerning resolution#888, and Cohen explained that the only alteration to the
resolution being presented would allow earlier years to be closed out sooner.
Cohen/Cummings moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, it is necessary to reprogram$122,000 from the third year funds of the fiscal year 1996 Small
Cities Multi-Year Comprehensive Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and $40,000 from the
fiscal year 1995 Small Cities CDBG awarded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development,and
WHEREAS, alternative proposals have been presented, reviewed, and ranked by the IURA,now therefore
be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA recommends to the Common Council that IURA staff be authorized to request
HUD to allow the reprogramming of funds along the following priorities:
1. State Theatre Accessibility Renovation:a$107,740 deferred loan to Historic Ithaca,Inc.
to remove material and architectural barriers that restrict the mobility and accessibility of
elderly or severely disabled person at the State Theatre located at 117 West State Street,
such funding originating from the third year increment of the 1996 CDBG multi-year
award(B-98-DH-36-0009);
2. Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services House Recycling of 108 Cleveland Avenue: a
$40,260 deferred loan to INHS to acquire a fire-damaged two-unit residential structure
for the purpose of rehabilitation and use or resale for affordable residential use,$40,000 of
such funding originating for the 1995 CDBG award (B-95-DH-36-0094) and $260 of
such funding originating from the third year increment of the 1996 CDBG multi-year
award(B-98-DH-36-0009);and
3. INHS Rental Housing Financial Feasibility Analysis:a$4,000 grant to INHS to complete
a financial feasibility analysis of a proposal to construct new rental units at the INHS-
owned Henry St. John Building located at 301 South Geneva Street, such funding
originating from the third year increment of the 1996 CDBG multi-year award(B-98-DH-
36-0009).
CARRIED unanimously.
IURA Minutes,9-19-00,6
V-6 REQUEST FOR FUNDING-NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON PREVENTING
CRIME-RESOLUTION
Discussion ensued concerning whether funding for neighborhood citizen attendees should be
provided by the IURA from funding other than previously encumbered CDBG funds. Cohen asked
that the citizen attendees be asked to come to an NRA meeting and report on the conference; no
official taken was taken.
V-7 JULY AND AUGUST,2000 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The statements were entered into the record,and Bohn answered questions concerning line items.
VI. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
VI-1 CD-RLF,DA'SPOT,INC.REQUEST TO AMEND LOAN AGREEMENT-
RESOLUTION
Bohn gave background information concerning the loan to Da'Spot, Inc. Discussion ensued
concerning Da'Spot's financial status;the Agency suggested that technical assistance be sought for
Cecelia Montaner-Vargas,the owner of the business.
Cohen/Cummings moved/seconded the following resolution as amended:
WHEREAS, on April 5, 1999 the LURA executed an agreement to loan$25,000 to Da'Spot, Inc. from the
Community Development Revolving Loan Fund(CD-RLF)at 6%interest over a 10 year term,with interest-
only payments due for the first year,and
WHEREAS,the borrower is current with loan payments to date,and
WHEREAS,the remaining principal balance on the loan to Da'Spot,Inc.is$25,000,and
WHEREAS, financial results from FY1999 resulted in sales below projected levels and a new loss of
$23,000,and
WHEREAS, effective 9/19/00, Jeffrey Fuhrman, principal owner, resigned as Director, President,
Secretary, and Treasurer,and sold the business to Cecelia Montaner-Vargas for$1.00,who is now the sole
owner of the business,and
WHEREAS, the borrower met with IURA staff to express concerns with their ability to debt service
repayments that increase from$125 per month during the interest-only period to $308.14 per month after
expiration of the interest-only period,and
WHEREAS, the borrower has taken steps to reduce expenses, including reducing the size of the space
rented,and
WHEREAS, the borrower has indicated a willingness to comply with a request to provide year-to-date
fmancial results,but has not provided them to date,and
WHEREAS, the borrower has submitted a request to restructure the loan to a 0% interest rate loan with
$125 monthly payments that will fully amortize the loan over approximately 17 years,and
WHEREAS,the Economic Development Committee reviewed the Da'Spot,Inc.loan at their September 12,
2000 meeting and recommended that the interest-only payments be extended through Dec 31, 2000, now,
therefore be it
LURA Minutes,9-19-00,7
RESOLVED,that the LURA hereby approves amending the loan agreement with Da'Spot,Inc.to extent the
interest-only period through March, 2001, for which $125 monthly payments will be due to allow further
analysis of the borrower's ability to meet debt service payments on the CD-RLF loan,and be it further
RESOLVED, that, subject to review by the IURA Attorney, the Executive Director of the IURA is
authorized to sign any and all documents necessary to implement this resolution,and be it further
RESOLVED, that up to $500.00 for technical assistance be allocated for Montaner-Vargas and Da'Spot,
Inc.,and be it further
RESOLVED,that this action be contingent upon the borrower taking offered technical assistance.
CARRIED unanimously.
The meeting returned to agenda item II.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
VII-1 MHA FUNDING REQUEST-DISCUSSION
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
VIII-1 NEXT MEETING DATE:(TUESDAY)OCTOBER 17,2000,4PM
To be scheduled.
VIII-2 OTHER
No other business.
IX. EXECUTIVE SESSION
Cohen/Farrell moved/seconded a motion to enter Executive Session at 5:00 PM.
Executive Session ended at 5:38 PM,with no action taken.
X. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 5:40 PM.
end 9/26/2000 ARS/ars
IURA Minutes, 10-17-00, 1
Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
4:00 PM,Tuesday,October 17,2000 r c i '� �[ T
Common Council Chambers,City Hall ►�: .'``N 'ur+ U
PRESENT: LURA Members Jill Burlington,Alan Cohen,Susan
Cummings,Tracy Farrell(4:15),Eric
Rosario
Staff Nels Bohn,Doug McDonald,Adam Smith
Others Carol Ann Brust, Paula Burke,Norma Cain,
Roseann Cain,Aileen Cangiano-Heath,Rosa
Dean, Tom Edwards, Arleatha Evans, Gary
Ferguson, Marcus A. Goines, Donne
Houston, Sandra Howe, Antoinette
Martinez, Jose Martinez, Kevin McKenna,
Annmarie Murray, Shakara Perkins, Colby
Pov, Douglas Richards, Diann Sams,
Ainsley Sawyer, Aqeela Shakur, Ben
Sinunoneau,David Sprague
CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 4:14 PM by Cohen.
H. PUBLIC COMMENT(5 MINUTE MAXIMUM PER PERSON)
Cohen stated that comment would be limited to 3 minutes per person.
No public comment.
III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM SEPTEMBER 19,2000 MEETING
Cummings/Burlington moved/seconded a motion to approve the minutes.
CARRIED unanimously.
IV. MUTUAL HOUSING OF TOMPKINS COUNTY REQUEST FOR FUNDING
After agency members and staff introduced themselves, Rosario and other members stated that
they had thought that this agenda item would be discussed in November,and therefore were not as
prepared as they would like to be to make decisions on the issue. Rosario stated that he would
abstain from any vote taken.
Cohen suggested that the resolution be split, and that the agency discuss $20,000 in funding for
MRA's administrative costs while pushing the issue of $10,000 for MRA's predevelopment costs
back to November 21, 2000. Cohen gave a history of the request from the City government side.
Discussion ensued, concerning the potential ongoing nature of the request, the involvement of
Common Council,and the short term/long term viability of MHA with and without the funding.
Tom Edwards, Executive Director of MHA, gave a history of the request from the MHA side and
NRA Minutes, 10-17-00,2
stated that MHA was now eligible for some state funding, but that without IURA funding, MHA
would no longer be able to maintain the position of Executive Director. David Sprague, legal
counsel for MHA, gave a history of MHA's near collapse, stating that without funding and
expansion, MHA would collapse. Discussion ensued concerning MHA's fmancial statements and
budgeting.
Rosario asked for a recap of the mediation process that MHA went through; Edwards detailed the
process for the agency.
Cummings asked about MHA's fee increase history; Sprague gave a history, and stated that MHA
was committed to only raising fees when required to cover costs that could not be reduced.
Cohen/Burlington moved/seconded a resolution to approve $20,000 for MHA's administrative
costs,but to wait on approval of the$10,000 for MRA's pre-development costs.
Further discussion ensued concerning facilitation and mediation efforts for the residents of MHA
homes; Edwards stated that sub-committees of the Residents Council were working on making
improvements in the written policies and other areas of concern to residents.
Bohn stated that Thys Van Cort (Executive Director of the LURA) was supportive of approving
additional funding for MHA in order to assist the organization to reach self-sufficiency. Bohn
stated that he was concerned for shepherding the IURA resources, but recognized that MHA
expansion was critical and therefore supported funding to promote expansion of MHA. Bohn
suggested that future funding be tied to a stipulation that MHA would show significant progress
toward expansion within a time limit to be set by the LURA.
Discussion ensued concerning the timing of the funding and the readiness of the members.
Cohen called the question.
YES -Cohen
NO -Burlington,Cummings,Farrell,Rosario
Burlington left at 5:14 PM.
Cummings/Farrell moved/seconded an amendment,stating that MHA funds would be released only
after IURA review of a completed application for additional funding from a source other than the
LURA.
Rosario/Cohen moved/seconded an amendment to the amendment, adding "Whereas the IURA as
found all submissions satisfactory,and..."
Farrell requested that MHA provide regular progress reports on issues noted by the facilitator to
the IURA;Edwards stated that MHA would provide quarterly reports.
Cohen called a vote on the amendments to the resolution.
YES -Cohen,Farrell,Rosario
NO -Cummings
CARRIED.
Discussion ensued concerning when to vote on each portion of the resolution.
Rosario/Farrell moved/seconded a motion to table further discussion until November 1, 2000 at
4:00 PM.
IURA Minutes, 10-17-00,3
CARRIED unanimously.
Rosario and Farrell stated that they would like to meet with MHA residents prior to the November
1,2000 meeting.Cummings requested information about other collaborative housing projects.
Cohen thanked MHA residents for coming.The meeting continued with agenda item VI-3.
V. STAFF REPORTS
V-1 CARPENTER BUSINESS PARK DISPOSITION-REPORT
Bohn stated that the disposition process was now back at the very beginning,and that the agency
and City would have to reconsider both the desired use and the representation for the property's
sale.Discussion occurred concerning the reasons for failure of disposition thus far.
Bohn stated that formal discussions could be begun with NYS DOT concerning access for the
property from Rt. 13.
V-2 JOB SEARCH-ASSISTANT COMMUNITY PLANNER POSITION-REPORT
Tabled,no action taken.
Cohen/Rosario moved/seconded a motion to recess until Wednesday,November 1,2000 at 4PM.
CARRIED unanimously.
VI. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION
VI-1 SEPTEMBER 2000 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Entered into the record.
VI-2 INNS TARGET AREA EXPANSION REQUEST-RESOLUTION
Cummings explained the need for target area expansion.
Cummings/Farrell moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS,the City was awarded$230K in the second year increment of the 1996 CDBG multi-
year award from the U.S.Department of Housing and Urban Development(HUD)to implement
phase II of a Northside Triangle Housing Renovation Program to rehabilitate 14 substandard,low-
and moderate-income owner-occupied houses in a compact target area containing all or portions of
eight blocks centered along First Street within the Northside Triangle neighborhood,
WHEREAS,the IURA contracted with Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services(INHS)to
implement this project,and
WHEREAS,INHS conducted surveys revealing that 37 owner-occupied homes in the target area
were in substandard condition of which 19 of these homeowners were determined to be income-
eligible,and
NRA Minutes, 10-17-00,4
WHEREAS,INHS has completed 11 rehabilitation loans through the program,but have been
unable to identify other eligible or willing homeowners within the limited target area after three
years of marketing the program to neighborhood residents,and
WHEREAS,outreach efforts have included letters mailed to each homeowner in the target area,
personal contacts by INHS staff,presentations at neighborhood civic association meetings and a
second round of mailings in 2000,and
WHEREAS,INHS requests that the target area be expanded to include the entire Northside
Triangle area bounded by Cascadilla Street,Cascadilla Creek and Route 13,and are comprised of
177 owner-occupied homes of which 58 are substandard,based on field survey work conducted in
2000,and
WHEREAS,NRA staff has determined that the program cannot be fully implemented within the
existing target area on a timely basis,and
WHEREAS,the Budget&Administration Committee reviewed the proposed amendment at its
October 10,2000 meeting and recommended the target area be expanded as requested by INHS,
now,therefore be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby authorizes and directs the NRA Executive Director to seek
HUD approval for a program amendment to expand the target area for phase II of the Northside
Triangle Housing Renovation Program(1996 Year#2 CDBG,Activity 2.2)to include the entire
Northside Triangle area bounded by Cascadilla Street,Cascadilla Creek and Rt. 13,and be it
further,
RESOLVED,that the IURA Executive Director,upon advice from the City Attorney,is
authorized to sign any and all documents necessary to carry out this resolution.
CARRIED. YES -Cohen,Cummings,Farrell
ABST. -Rosario
VI-3 324 E.STATE ST.(PARCEL 69.-1-3)PROPERTY DISPOSITION-
RESOLUTION
Tabled,no action taken.The meeting continued with agenda item VII-IA.
V-4 JOB DESCRIPTION,DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT-
RESOLUTION
Cummings/Rosario moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS,the Executive Director of the NRA is the Director of Planning&Economic
Development,and
WHEREAS,in the absence of the Executive Director,the Director of Economic Development is
the Acting Executive Director of the IURA,and
WHEREAS,the Budget and Administration Committee recommended at their 10/10/00 meeting
that the Director of Community Development,rather than the Acting Executive Director,assume
various CD staff supervision responsibilities in the absence of the Executive Director,now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the NRA hereby adopts the attached amendment, dated 10/17/00, to the job
description of the Director of Community Development position authorizing the assumption of
IURA Minutes, 10-17-00, 5
certain CD staff supervision functions in the absence of the IURA Executive Director.
CARRIED unanimously.
The meeting continued with agenda item VII-1B.
VII. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
VII-1 CD-RLF
A. DOUG RICHARDS,D/B/A URBAN IMPORTS,LOAN APPLICATION-
DISCUSSION
• A MOTION TO ENTER INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS
FINANCIAL/CREDIT MATTERS RELATED TO THE ABOVE
LOAN APPLICATION-RESOLUTION
Rosario/Cummings moved/seconded a motion to enter Executive Session at 5:34 PM.
CARRIED unanimously.
Executive Session ended at 5:36 PM.
Farrell/Rosario moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS,on September 11,2000 Douglas L.Richards applied for$20,000 in loan assistance
for working capital,inventory and other opening costs associated with a$102,500 start-up project
of a retail store to be named Urban Imports to be located at 128 The Commons,creating 3 FTE
employment opportunities available to low-and moderate-income persons,and
WHEREAS,the primary objectives of the Community Development Revolving Loan Program
(CD-RLF)is provision of direct financing for economic development activities to create
employment opportunities,facilitate the expansion of business activity within the City of Ithaca
and expansion of the City's commercial and industrial tax base,and
WHEREAS,Douglas L.Richards has committed at least$16,300 of equity into the project,and
WHEREAS,Douglas L.Richards has secured loan commitments from AFCU totaling$56,200 for
the project,and
WHEREAS,vendors have extended$10,000 in credit for inventory purchases,and
WHEREAS,at their October 11,2000 meeting,the Economic Development Committee reviewed
Douglas L.Richard's loan application and credit analysis prepared by H.Sicherman&Associates
and recommended approving the loan as follows subject to the borrower providing adequate
security for the full loan amount from a combination of a satisfactory personal guarantor yet to be
identified and assignment of the$6,300 cash surrender value of the borrower's life insurance
policy,therefore be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby approves a loan from the CD-RLF to Douglas L.Richards
d\b\a Urban Imports in accordance with the loan application and the following terms:
maximum loan amount: $20,000
IURA Minutes, 10-17-00,6
use of funds: working capital,inventory,and other opening expenses as
detailed in the loan application(leasehold improvements
excluded)
term: 60 months
interest rate: 5%
repayment: interest only payments until full disbursement of loan proceeds
or the 60th day from the date of execution of the loan
agreement,whichever is sooner,thereafter level monthly
payments due to fully amortize the debt over a term not to
exceed 60 months($378/month).
conditions:
1. creation of three full-time equivalent employment
opportunities,all of which will be available to low-and
moderate-income persons;
2. revision of fmancial provisions section of the business
plan to include assumptions used in projecting sales,
include all opening expenses&inclusion of an opening
balance sheet;
3. tax returns for the business and the borrower by prepared
by an outside accountant;and,
4. inclusion of a cross-default provision in the note.
collateral: 3r1 lien on all business assets to include accounts,inventory,
furniture,fixtures and equipment now owned or hereinafter
acquired (behind 1 SL lien held by AFCU for its$10,000 line of
credit loan and a rd lien held by AFCU and the SBA for a
$46,200 loan.
guarantors: Unlimited personal guarantees of Douglas L.Richards and
Iserial A.Richards.
RESOLVED,that the LURA Chair,upon the advise of the Executive Director and City Attorney,
is hereby authorized to execute all necessary and appropriate documents to implement this
resolution,including,but not limited to,executing loan agreement documents.
CARRIED unanimously.
The meeting continued with agenda item VI-l.
B. ALTERNATIVES CUSO LOAN MODIFICATION-RESOLUTION
Rosario/Cohen moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, at the August 15,2000 meeting,the IURA approved a loan of up to$250,000 from the
West End Commercial Loan Program and the CD-RLF to Alternatives Ithaca CUSO,Inc.
for the purpose of assisting in the financing of new equipment to support operations in the
new AFCU/CUSO building to be constructed on North Fulton Street,
WHEREAS, the structure of the project provided for the Alternatives Fund to own the project real
estate and CUSO to own certain equipment,fixtures and fixed assets,and
IURA Minutes, 10-17-00,7
WHEREAS, AFCU has agreed to enter a long-term lease agreement with CUSO to pay CUSO a
monthly amount sufficient to meet principal and interest payments due to the IURA to
amortize the IURA loan,and
WHEREAS, the loan was additionally secured by 3rd mortgage on the project real estate to be owned
by the Alternatives Fund,and
WHEREAS, the IURA has been informed that The Alternatives Fund will not allow a third lien on the
real estate unless the assets purchased with the proceeds from the IURA loan are also
owned by The Alternatives Fund,and
WHEREAS, The Alternatives Fund met and agreed to accept the IURA loan under the same terms as
offered to CUSO,and
WHEREAS, at their October 11,2000 meeting,the Economic Development Committee reviewed the
proposed restructuring of the loan and recommended approving the Alternatives Fund as
the borrower instead of CUSO,now therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby approves substituting The Alternatives Fund,Inc. for the
Alternatives Ithaca CUSO,Inc.as the name of the borrower for a loan of up to$250,000
for the AFCU facility as approved on August 15,2000,subject to the following:
1. Submission of a completed IURA loan application by the Alternatives Fund;
2. Submission of satisfactory financial statements for the borrower for the past two
years;and,
3. Submission of satisfactory year-to date fmancial statements for borrower.
RESOLVED, that the IURA Chair,upon the advice of the Executive Director and City Attorney,is
hereby authorized to execute all necessary and appropriate documents to implement this
resolution,including,but not limited to,executing loan agreement documents.
CARRIED unanimously.
C. LOAN ELIGIBILITY-LESLIE MUHLHAHN LOAN APPLICATION-
RESOLUTION
Rosario gave a brief history of the resolution,and discussion ensued.
Cummings/Rosario moved/seconded a motion to enter Executive Session at 5:42 PM.
Executive Session ended at 5:47 PM,with no formal action taken.
Rosario/Cohen moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS,on October 5,2000 Leslie Muhlhahn d/b/a Just Desserts applied for$25,000 in loan
assistance to relocate and expand an existing bakery business into a downtown café and bakery,
and
WHEREAS,the primary objectives of the Community Development Revolving Loan Program
(CD-RLF)is provision of direct fmancing for economic development activities to create
employment opportunities,facilitate the expansion of business activity within the City of Ithaca
and expansion of the City's commercial and industrial tax base,and
WHEREAS,current Community Development Revolving Loan Fund(CD-RLF)policy prohibits
loans to restaurants and bakeries due to their high risk,and
NRA Minutes, 10-17-00,8
WHEREAS,the LURA is currently developing proposed revisions to the CD-RLF policy that
would expand eligibility of allow certain restaurants and bakeries to apply for loan assistance from
the CD-RLF where such loan would result in exceptional public benefit and/or incorporates factors
that significantly reduce the risk of such loan,and
WHEREAS,at their October 11,2000 meeting,the Economic Development Committee discussed
the loan application and recommended that current eligibility requirements be waived and L.
Muhlhahn's application be considered for funding from the CD-RLF due to a combination of
exceptional public benefits that potentially will be provided by the project and factors that
significantly reduce the risk of such loan,including,but not limited to,the following factors:
• woman-owned business
• downtown business location
• strong capacity and experience of the borrower in operating a similar business
• project is an expansion of existing business versus a start-up
• substantial revenue is projected to be generated from established pastry sales and
wedding cakes,now,therefore be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby approves the eligibility of L.Muhlhahn's 10/5/00 loan
application to the CD-RLF to relocate and expand an existing bakery business to a downtown
bakery and café,hereby waiving the eligibility requirements barring restaurants for this
application,and authorizing the loan review process to proceed.
CARRIED unanimously.
VII-2 ESTY STREET PARICINNG LOT ACQUISITION AND DISPOSITION-
RESOLUTION
Discussion ensued concerning the current status of the lot. Members asked that a stipulation be
added,requiring that possession of the parcel be retained by the IURA if the sponsor fails in their
development commitment.
Cohen/Farrell moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS,the approximately 6,400 square foot unimproved parking lot parcel located at the
southeast corner of Fulton Street and Esty Street in the City's West End neighborhood was
acquired by the State of New York Department of Transportation under the Route 96 project,and
WHEREAS,the City has requested the NYDoT to convey the parcel directly to the City as"excess
property"to enable resale or lease of the property by the City to an interested party to implement
recommendations of the West End Urban Design Plan,and
WHEREAS,the NYDoT has indicated they are nearing fmal action to approve conveyance of the
parcel to the City of Ithaca at fair market value,and
WHEREAS,the Common Council of the City of Ithaca declared its intent,subject to
environmental review,to acquire the Esty Street parking lot parcel from the New York State
Department of Transportation and transfer the parcel to the IURA for the purpose of disposition,at
no less than fair market value,to a qualified and eligible sponsor to implement the
recommendations of the West End Urban Design Plan,and
WHEREAS,the Common Council has determined that such qualified and eligible sponsor must
demonstrate that sufficient permanent fmancing commitments are available to complete a project
that implements the recommendations of the West End Urban Design Plan,and
IURA Minutes, 10-17-00,9
WHEREAS,the LURA is authorized to acquire and dispose of property in accordance with Article
15,Sections 506 and 507 of NYS General Municipal Law(GML),and
WHEREAS,such parcel is located within the project boundaries of the Urban Renewal Plan,and
WHEREAS,the LURA is authorized to dispose of property by outright sale or through various
leasing or lease/purchase arrangements to qualified and eligible sponsors,and
WHEREAS, Section 507 of GML requires that any proposed IURA disposition is subject to
approval by the Common Council after a public hearing held not less than ten days after the
publication of a notice providing:(1)the identity of the proposed sponsor,(2)the price to be paid
by the sponsor and all other essential terms and conditions of the disposition,and(3)proposed use
of the parcel,and
WHEREAS,the LURA Economic Development Committee(EDC)recommended acceptance of
the property at its October 11,2000 meeting,subject to EDC review and approval of the sponsor,
now,therefore be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby agrees to accept a future conveyance of the approximately
6,400 sq.ft.Esty Street parking lot parcel(identified as parcel no. 116 on map no. 89-C prepared
by NYDOT for P.I.N.3047.04)from the City of Ithaca for the purpose of disposition,at no less
than fair market value,to a qualified and eligible sponsor to implement the recommendations of
the West End Urban Design Plan and the Urban Renewal Plan,and be it further
RESOLVED,that such qualified and eligible sponsor must demonstrate that sufficient permanent
fmancing commitments are available to complete a project incorporating the parcel that
implements the recommendations of the West End Urban Design Plan,and be it further
RESOLVED,that the Economic Development Committee shall make a recommendation to the
IURA regarding whether a proposed sponsor has met the criteria for disposition contained in this
resolution prior to the IURA proposing a sale to the Common Council,and be it further
RESOLVED,that such conveyance is subject to reimbursement of any and all expenses incurred
by the IURA in the disposition or interim ownership of the parcel from future proceeds from the
lease and/or sale of parcels or from funds due from the IURA to the City,and be it further
RESOLVED,that the IURA Chair,upon review by the IURA Executive Director and the IURA
Attorney,is hereby authorized to sign any and all instruments necessary to accept conveyance of
the Esty St.Parking Lot parcel from the City of Ithaca,and be it further
RESOLVED,that the IURA authorizes the staff to conduct preliminary negotiations with potential
sponsors to develop a submission package for consideration by the EDC committee.
CARRIED unanimously.
VII-3 CHERRY ST.INDUST.PARK EMF CORP.AUTHORIZATION TO SUBLEASE-
RESOLUTION
Cohen introduced the resolution. Discussion ensued concerning the ownership of land and
building,as well as other sites for Kolar's business.
Rosario/Cohen moved/seconded the following resolution:
•
NRA Minutes, 10-17-00, 10
WHEREAS,the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency(IURA)previously entered into Lease Agreements
dated 5/26/88 and 9/10/85 with Evaporated Metal Films,Corp.(EMF)for property located at 239
and 245-247 Cherry Street in the Cherry Street Industrial Park,and
WHEREAS,EMF desires to sublease underutilized portions of their facility and parking in the
Cherry Street Industrial Park to Kolar,Inc.for a three year term with an option for a one-year
renewal,and
WHEREAS,leases between the NRA and EMF include the following language:"Lessee shall not
assign this lease or any interest therein,to any party without approval of the NRA;such approval
will not be unreasonably withheld",and
WHEREAS,the Economic Development Committee discussed the sublease request at their
10/11/00 meeting and recommended approving such sublease subject to submission of the
sublease,now,therefore be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby approves the sublease between EMF Corp.and Kolar,Inc.
commencing 9/13/99 for a three year term with an option for a one year renewal subject to
submission of a copy of the executed sublease.
CARRIED unanimously.
The meeting continued with agenda item V-1.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS
No old business.
IX. NEW BUSINESS
IX-1 NEXT MEETING DATE:(TUESDAY)NOVEMBER 21,2000,4PM
(THANKSGIVING WEEK)
Tabled,no action taken.
IX-2 OTHER
No other business.
X. ADJOURNMENT
Tabled,no action taken.
The meeting was not adjourned.
end 10/25/2000 ARS/ars
NRA Minutes, 11-1-00, 1
Continuance of 10-17-00 meeting
Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
Continuance of 10-17-2000 Meeting ,
4:00 PM,Wednesday,November 1,2000 �,Z+`
Second Floor Conference Room,City Hall
PRESENT: IURA Members Jill Burlington,Alan Cohen, Susan
Cummings,Tracy Farrell,Eric Rosario
(4:17)
Staff Nels Bohn,Adam Smith,Thys Van Cort
Others Carol Ann Brust, Tom Edwards, Marcus A.
Goines, Antoinette Martinez, Jose Martinez,
Annmarie Murray, Wendy Rightmyer,
Aqeela Shakur,David Sprague
I. CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 4:06 PM by Cohen.
II. MUTUAL HOUSING OF TOMPIQNS COUNTY REQUEST FOR FUNDING
Cohen/Farrell moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS,the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County(MHA)has requested funding for FY 2000 in the
amount of$30,000 from the IURA,and
WHEREAS,MHA is a non profit 501(c)3 provider of 28 housing units for low-and moderate-income families,and
WHEREAS,MHA requests funding to assist in the development of additional housing units(Phase III)and further
indicates that funding is necessary to provide staff compensation,site plan design,and professional fees,and
WHEREAS,MHA and Housing Visions Unlimited, Inc.have executed a development agreement specifying that MHA
shall be responsible for 20%of pre-development expenses for Phase III,and
WHEREAS,approximately$7,000 of out-of-pocket,pre-development expenses have been expended on the expansion
project to date for preparation of feasibility and initial development analysis of target expansion properties,and
WHEREAS,MHA has submitted the following information to support the funding request:
• Request for Funding Packet,undated(received 3/10/00),including pro forma projections,
phase III development information,and qualifications of their development partner
• Resident's Handbook,Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County,8/2/00
• Checking the Environment at Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County,A Report to
the Residents, Staff and Board of Directors,July,2000,prepared by Kirby Edmonds of TFC Associates
• Results and Recommendations Compiled After"New Beginnings"Workshop,Mutual Housing
Association of Tompkins County,August 19,2000
• Notification from NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal of MHA's designation as
a Community Housing Development Organization(CHDO),dated 5/19/00,and
WHEREAS,the IURA has found the above documents satisfactory,now therefore be it
r-
NRA Minutes, 11-1-00,2
Continuance of 10-17-00 meeting
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby approves funding for MHA in the amount of$20,000 to be used for the purpose(s)
of administration,and be it further
RESOLVED,that such funding will be released only after IURA receipt from MHA of a completed application for
additional funding from a source other than the IURA,and be it further
RESOLVED,that such IURA funding shall come from Housing Development Action Grant repayments(HODAG),and
be it further
RESOLVED,that the staff is directed to develop an agreement between the IURA and MHA to implement this
resolution and monitor MHA performance,including quarterly progress reports on issues noted by the facilitator in their
8/19/00"New Beginnings"report,and that the IURA Chair,upon review by the IURA Executive Director and the IURA
Attorney,is authorized to sign such agreement.
Bohn explained that the staff recommended resolution was different that the one that had been
moved by Cohen/Farrell in that it moved all $30,000 of the request, delineating $10,000
specifically for MHA Phase III pre-development costs and requiring MHA to meet certain
benchmarks before future funding can be approved. Bohn gave a history of MHA's previous pre-
development efforts.Bohn stated that the benchmarks were devised and agreed upon by MHA and
the LURA staff. Discussion ensued concerning the MHA partnership with Housing Visions, the
benefits of and need for MHA expansion,sources of Phase III funding.
Farrell suggested that the$30,000 be split into two separate"resolved"statements, delineating the
use of the funds.
Rosario suggested that a contingency be added to the funding, placing a moratorium on evictions
until the eviction policy was in place and requiring an independent third party to survey the
residents of MHA once more to compare it to the first survey. Discussion ensued concerning
eviction policy. Brust stated that a clarified eviction policy would be in place by the end of the
year,and that MHA intended to use the previously developed survey twice in 2001.
Cohen/Farrell moved/seconded a motion to withdraw the previous resolution.
Discussion ensued concerning the survey procedure. MHA and the Agency agreed that the survey
developed by Kirby Edmonds of TFC Associates was acceptable for future surveys, and the
Agency stated that it would work with MHA to fmd an acceptable third party to administer the
survey.
Cohen/Burlington moved/seconded the following staff-recommended resolution, splitting the
second "resolved" into two separate "resolved" statements, delineating the use of the funds, and
adding another"resolved"mandating that another survey be administered in June,2001.
WHEREAS, the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County (MHA) has requested funding for
FY2000 in the amount of$30,000 from the IURA,and
WHEREAS, MHA is a non profit 501(c)3 provider of 28 housing units for low- and moderate-income
families,and
WHEREAS,MHA requests funding to assist in the development of additional housing units(Phase III)and
further indicates that funding is necessary to provide staff compensation, site plan design, and professional
fees,and
WHEREAS, MHA and Housing Visions Unlimited, Inc. have executed a development agreement
specifying that MHA shall be responsible for 20%of pre-development expenses for Phase III,and
IURA Minutes, 11-1-00,3
Continuance of 10-17-00 meeting
WHEREAS,approximately$7,000 of out-of-pocket,pre-development expenses have been expended on the
expansion project to date for preparation of feasibility and initial development analysis of target expansion
properties,and
WHEREAS,MHA has submitted the following information to support the funding request:
• Request for Funding Packet, undated (received 3/10/00), including pro forma projections,
phase III development information,and qualifications of their development partner
• Resident's Handbook,Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County,8/2/00
• Checking the Environment at Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County, A Report to
the Residents, Staff, and Board of Directors, July, 2000,prepared by Kirby Edmonds of TFC
Associates.
• Results and Recommendations Compiled After "New Beginnings" Workshop, Mutual
Housing Association of Tompkins County,August 19,2000
• Notification from NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal of MHA's designation
as a Community Housing Development Organization(CHDO),dated 5/19/00,and
WHEREAS,the AURA has found the above documents satisfactory,now,therefore,be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby supports assisting MHA to become financially self-sufficient through a
Phase III expansion requiring significant staff effort and out-of-pocket pre-development costs, and be it
further
RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby approves funding for MHA in the amount of$20,000 to be used "to
support the construction, rehabilitation, or operation of real property to be used primarily for low and
moderate income residential rental purposes,"and be it further
RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby approved funding for MHA in the amount of$10,000 to be used for
out-of-pocket pre-development costs associated with Phase III expansion,and be it further
RESOLVED, that the source of such IURA funding shall come from Housing Development Action Grant
repayments(HODAG),and be it further
RESOLVED, that any future request for funding from MHA is conditioned upon AURA satisfaction of
progress toward completing the Phase III housing expansion project as evidenced by meeting the following
mutually agreed benchmarks within 12 months of disbursement of any funding to MHA:
1. site identification and site control of the proposed project site, or sites, for which engineering and
regulatory feasibility have been demonstrated;
2. completion of a schematic project design;
3. preparation of a draft project budget and a fmancing plan identifying proposed uses and sources of
funds,and
4. development of a projected cash flow analysis for the project,and be it further
RESOLVED,that the staff is directed to develop an agreement between the IURA and MHA to implement
this resolution and monitor MHA performance, including quarterly progress reports on issues noted by the
facilitator in their 8/19/00 "New Beginnings" report, and that the NRA Chair, upon review by the IURA
Executive Director and the AJRA Attorney,is authorized to sign such agreement.
Rosario/Farrell moved/seconded an amendment acknowledging MHA's work to clarify the
eviction procedure, and mandating a moratorium on evictions until a refined policy has been
ratified according to MHA's By-Laws.
CARRIED YES- Burlington,Cummings,Farrell,Rosario.
NO- Cohen
IURA Minutes, 11-1-00,4
Continuance of 10-17-00 meeting
Discussion ensued concerning site identification of future developments, Cummings and Farrell
suggesting that development should occur downtown. Edwards and Sprague stated that MHA was
particularly interested in downtown sites, and that the current MHA development actively drew
people into the downtown.
Cummings/Farrell moved/seconded an amendment stating that MHA would "make every
reasonable effort to identify a site in the downtown of the City of Ithaca."
CARRIED unanimously.
Discussion ensued concerning future funding for MHA from the IURA,particularly for FY 2001.
Cohen/Burlington moved/seconded an amendment to add another"resolved"that was the same as
the statement concerning the$20,000 for FY2000,but for FY2001.
Discussion ensued concerning giving funding for 2001 without first having second survey results.
Burlington stated her opinion that funding for FY2001 should be given without strings,and that the
survey should be used to determine 2002 funding, rather than pulling 2001 funding mid-year.
Cummings stated her opinion that because MHA was a unique funding request, unlike other
agencies requesting funding, that standard funding procedures do not apply to them, and that the
NRA should not yet commit to 2001 funding.Further discussion ensued.
Cohen called a vote on the amendment.
DEFEATED. YES- Cohen,Burlington
NO- Cummings,Farrell,Rosario
Cohen called a vote on the resolution as amended. The fmal amended version of the resolution
reads as follows.
WHEREAS, the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County (MHA) has requested funding for
FY2000 in the amount of$30,000 from the IURA,and
WHEREAS, MHA is a non profit 501(c)3 provider of 28 housing units for low- and moderate-income
families,and
WHEREAS,MHA requests funding to assist in the development of additional housing units(Phase III)and
further indicates that funding is necessary to provide staff compensation, site plan design, and professional
fees,and
WHEREAS, MHA and Housing Visions Unlimited, Inc. have executed a development agreement
specifying that MHA shall be responsible for 20%of pre-development expenses for Phase III,and
WHEREAS,approximately$7,000 of out-of-pocket,pre-development expenses have been expended on the
expansion project to date for preparation of feasibility and initial development analysis of target expansion
properties,and
WHEREAS,MHA has submitted the following information to support the funding request:
• Request for Funding Packet, undated (received 3/10/00), including pro forma projections,
phase III development information,and qualifications of their development partner
• Resident's Handbook,Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County,8/2/00
• Checking the Environment at Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County, A Report to
the Residents. Staff and Board of Directors, July, 2000,prepared by Kirby Edmonds of TFC
Associates.
NRA Minutes, 11-1-00,5
Continuance of 10-17-00 meeting
• Results and Recommendations Compiled After "New Beginnings" Workshop. Mutual
Housing Association of Tompkins County,August 19,2000
• Notification from NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal of MHA's designation
as a Community Housing Development Organization(CHDO),dated 5/19/00,and
WHEREAS,the IURA has found the above documents satisfactory,now,therefore,be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby supports assisting MHA to become financially self-sufficient through a
Phase III expansion requiring significant staff effort and out-of-pocket pre-development costs, and be it
further
RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby approves funding for MHA in the amount of$20,000 to be used "to
support the construction, rehabilitation, or operation of real property to be used primarily for low and
moderate income residential rental purposes,"and be it further
RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby approved funding for MHA in the amount of$10,000 to be used for
out-of-pocket pre-development costs associated with Phase III expansion,and be it further
RESOLVED, that the source of such IURA funding shall come from Housing Development Action Grant
repayments(HODAG),and be it further
RESOLVED, that any future request for funding from MHA is conditioned upon IURA satisfaction of
progress toward completing the Phase III housing expansion project as evidenced by meeting the following
mutually agreed benchmarks within 12 months of disbursement of any funding to MHA:
1. site identification and site control of the proposed project site, or sites, for which engineering and
regulatory feasibility have been demonstrated;
2. completion of a schematic project design;
3. preparation of a draft project budget and a financing plan identifying proposed uses and sources of
funds,and
4. development of a projected cash flow analysis for the project,and be it further
RESOLVED,that the IURA requires a survey of MHA residents to be conducted by an independent 3rd
party by June 30,2001,and be it further
RESOLVED,that the LURA acknowledges MHA's work to clarify it's eviction procedure, and mandates a
moratorium on evictions until a refined policy has been ratified according to MRA's By-Laws, and be it
further
RESOLVED,that the MHA shall "make every reasonable effort to identify a site in one of the downtown
neighborhoods of the City of Ithaca,"and be it further
RESOLVED,that the staff is directed to develop an agreement between the IURA and MHA to implement
this resolution and monitor MHA performance, including quarterly progress reports on issues noted by the
facilitator in their 8/19/00 "New Beginnings" report, and that the IURA Chair, upon review by the LURA
Executive Director and the LURA Attorney,is authorized to sign such agreement.
CARRIED unanimously.
Sprague stated his confusion as to when MHA was to come back to seek funding for 2001;Agency
members suggested June 2001. Edwards stated that returning in June 2001 would cripple MHA by
preventing it from paying both the salary of the Executive Director and its other bills. Discussion
ensued, and it was made clear that MHA was free to return with a funding request without any
mandated timeframe.
IURA Minutes, 11-1-00,6
Continuance of 10-17-00 meeting
III. OTHER BUSINESS
No other business.
IV. NEXT MEETING DATE:(TUESDAY)NOVEMBER 21,2000,4PM
Tabled,no action taken.
V. ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 5:40 PM
end 11/2/2000 ARS/ars
IURA Minutes (Special Mteetin,), 12-5-00, 1
Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
SPECIAL MEETING :%cs
°`IY��`
�. T9:00 PM, Tuesday, December 5, 2000
Second Floor Conference Room, City Hall
PRESENT: IURa Members Jill Burlington, Susan Cummings,Tracy
Farrell, Eric Rosario
Staff Nels Bohn,Adam Smith,Thys van Cort
CALL TO ORDER •
Meeting was called to order at 9:08 PM by Cohen.
H. MAYOR'S NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSING INITIATIVE-RESOLUTION
Cohen introduced the proposal, and explained the need for re-examining the IURA boundaries.
Cohen stated that the B & A committee would be discussing the boundaries, but that it was an
ongoing discussion; Cohen also stated that any changes would require Common Council approval.
Cummings asked if there were any time constraints that required approval of the initiative
immediately, and whether the IURA boundaries would simply be expanded, or if they would be
removing areas as well. Cummings also asked about including language to further delineate the
responsibilities of the oversight committee. Cohen stated that objectives for the plan would be set
by Common Council, and that the technical aspects and other details would be looked after by the
oversight committee.
Cohen proposed the following changes:
p.2, last bullet: "Mayoral-appointed six member committee subject to Common Council
approval to select candidate properties...."
p. 3, "Common Council liaison to the IURA"to"Common Council Member"
p. 3, "member from the INHS Board of Directors"to"INHS Board Member appointed by
INHS"
Cummings stated that she was uncomfortable including the third paragraph on p. 2,beginning, "In
rare instances...."Cummings asserted that the language encourages acquistion for the purpose of
demolition, and removing the paragraph does not preclude demolition should it be necessary.
Discussion ensued;Cohen agreed to remove the paragraph.
Cummings, in reference to the final bulleted section on p. 2, stated that she believed that INHS
should select the properties to be acquired, as they had considerable experience in doing so
already. Cohen agreed, adding that the oversight committee then approve INHS's choices.
Discussion ensued concerning the possibility of people frustrated by the City's involvement in
`recycling' housing, and removing those properties from the private sector. Cummings suggested
that language be added, addressing the need to protect the public interest. Further discussion
ensued, concerning planning for potential public concern and acquisition expense. Bohn stated that
the fair market value of a property would be determined by an independent appraisal; Cohen stated
that the oversight committee would consider the acquistion and renovation costs and then
determine whether they would pay over fair market for a given property.
Discussion ensued concerning the composition of the oversight committee. Farrell suggested
i
IURA Minutes(Special Meeting). 12-5-00. 2
changing p. 3, "real estate professional specializing in property management" to "real estate
professional familiar with the sales market in the City." Cohen stated that he had designed the
committee's composition to make it as apolitical as possible and to require a greater sense of
consensus in its decisions. Discussion ensued.
Farrell suggested that a legislative intent section be added to give a stronger introduction to the
initiative. Cohen and other members agreed, and Cohen stated that he would write such a section
based on member's comments. Cohen asked whether or not the initiative should provide a means
to encourage certain categories of people to move into renovated homes in the City, along the lines
of HUD's "Cop Next Door" and "Teacher Next Door" programs, to include police, teachers, and
city employees. Discussion ensued concerning the feasibility of such a program. Cummings
suggested that the initiative state that homes would be "agressively marketed to specific groups."
The agency agreed that houses could be previewed by target groups and that an email newsletter
could be sent to the police and city employees easily.
Discussion ensued concerning the selection process for contractors to be employed by this
initiative.
Farrell suggested that a tax exemption be considered for people who purchase homes slated for
renovation before the work is completed.
Discussion ensued concerning removal of specific agency names from the initiative's list of
eligibile buyers, while still allowing cooperatively owned organizations to be listed as eligible
buyers.
Discussion ensued concerning the possible perception that landlords were being rewarded for
allowing rental properties to become a blighting influence on the community; further discussion
ensued concerning ways to prevent such landlords from engaging in such practices.
Discussion ensued concerning areas to add or remove from the IURA boundary map.
Cummings/Burlington moved/seconded an endorsement of the Mayor's Neighborhood Housing
Inititative with the discussed changes.
CARRIED unanimously.
III. NEXT MEETING DATE:(TUESDAY)DECEMBER 19,2000,4PM
Date accepted.
IV. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 10:11 PM.
end 12/7/2000 ARS/ars
IURA Minutes, 12-19-00, 1
Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
4:00 PM, Tuesday, December 19, 2000
Common Council Chambers, Third Floor, City Hall f.M\ Fr
PRESENT: IURa Members Jill Burlington, Susan Cummings(left 4:40
PM), Tracy Farrell
Staff Nels Bohn, Doug McDonald,Adam Smith,
Thys Van Con,Wies van Leuken
Others Lauren Bishop,Hank Cesaria,Patricia Dunn,
Fay Gougakis, George Lyons, Joey Moro,
Gregg Palermo, Paul Sarokwash,John
Schmidt, Scott Whitham,Cynthia Yahn
CALL TO ORDER
Meeting was called to order at 4:10 PM by Cohen.
II. PUBLIC COMMENT(3 MINUTE MAXIMUM PER PERSON)
Fay Gougakis, a resident of the City of Ithaca, stated that she appreciated the public comment
period in the IURA meeting, and that she was disturbed that the Planning Board's bylaws
prevented it from having a Common Council Liaison. Gougakis expressed a concern that members
of Common Council did not have sufficient time to examine the Mayor's Housing Initiative, and
that since it would use$2 million of taxpayer monies,that time should be taken to consider it fully.
Gougakis ran over her allotted three minutes and was dismissed by Cohen.
In answer to Gougakis's concerns, Cohen stated that Common Council members had seen earlier
drafts of the initiative sufficiently prior to the meeting,and that they received the final draft the day
of the meeting. Cummings stated that a major concern was to be certain that the initiative was
integrated with current codes and programs, and that as the major portion of the work would go
through INHS, those concerns were settled. Farrell added that INHS had a long record of success
in the community.
lII. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM NOVEMBER 21,2000 MEETING
Cummings/Burlington moved/seconded a motion to approve the minutes from the November 21,
2000 meeting of the IURA.
CARRIED unanimously.
Cummings/Burlington moved/seconded a motion to approve the minutes from the December 5,
2000 special meeting of the IURA.
CARRIED unanimously.
IV. STATE THEATRE PROJECT,PRESENTATION-HISTORIC ITHACA,LLC
George Lyons passed handouts to each member of the IURA and to the staff. Whitham explained
the budget page and informed the IURA of Historic Ithaca's intent to request funds in the amount
IUR-\ Minutes, 12-19-00, 2
of$300,000 and to return to the IURA on January 16`'' with a formal presentation. Discussion
ensued concerning the management of the State Theatre and the membership of the committees
overseeing it. Whitham gave a line by line explanation of the Project Update handout, showing that
Historic Ithaca had committed $676,985 to the $1.3 million project, leaving a gap of$656,265.
Whitham reaffirmed Historic Ithaca's commitment to opening the State Theatre in 2001.
Cohen left the meeting at 4:27.
Whitham asked if members had any questions or data that they would like to see in the format
presentation on Jan 16, 2001. Farrell asked about the EPA grant that was listen on the Update
handout; Whitham stated that the State Theatre had received an EPA grant before, and that they
felt confident that they would receive the one mentioned.
Van Cort asked that the IURA look carefully at the funding source for the request, suggesting that
other funding avenues besides UDAG monies be considered. Bohn stated that it was important that
the project be completed, given HUD rules concerning funds invested.Discussion ensued.
Cummings/Burlington moved/seconded a motion to enter Executive Session at 4:35 PM.
Executive Session ended at 4:37 PM,with no action taken.
Cummings asked that Whitham stay in contact with IURA staff.Discussion ensued concerning new
lead paint regulations and their possible effect on the State Theatre restoration. Whitham asked
that the NRA inform him of anything that needed to be made more clear.
V. STAFF REPORTS
V-1 MAYOR'S NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSING INITIATIVE
Tabled,no action taken.
V-2 STAFF CLARIFICATIONS TO DRAFT MINUTES
Tabled,no action taken.
V-3 REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION TO BE PLACED UNDER THE CITY'S
HEALTH PLAN
Tabled,no action taken.
V-4 FY 2000 PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT REVIEW(PAR) PUBLIC REVIEW
SCHEDULE
Bohn stated that the PAR would be available for public review as of January 2,2001.
V-5 OTHER
No other reports.
VI. HOUSING,NEIGHBORHOODS,AND INFRASTRUCTURE
No action taken.
IURA Minutes, 12-19-00. 3
VII. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION
VII-1 NOVEMBER.2000 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Entered into the record.
VII-2 PROPOSED FY 2001 BUDGET-RESOLUTION
Bohn presented the proposed budget and stated that the FY 2002 and FY 2003 had been removed
from the resolution. Cohen mentioned the impending Rothschilds Building (Comex) UDAG loan
close-out, and stated his desire to reserve long term operation funds from the agency's assets and
to analyze the RLF's funds and needs.
Discussion ensued concerning specific line items in the budget. Farrell asked if Bohn was
comfortable with the budget estimates; Bohn stated that he was comfortable, but that they would
need to refer to the budget as the year passed to check its accuracy.
Farrell/Burlington moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, the TURA desires to adopt an administrative budget to guide expenditures and manage
financial resources of the IURA,and
WHEREAS, at their 12/5/2000 meeting, the Budget and Administration Committee reviewed a draft
budget,dated 12/01/2000,and recommended its adoption as revised, and
WHEREAS, staff has subsequently identified corrections tot he salary and benefits line items thereby
reducing the budget by approximately$6,000,now,therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby adopts the FY 2001 LURA Administrative Budget, dated 12/19/2000
as herein attached.
CARRIED unanimously.
VII-3 PROJECT BOUNDARY MAP,PROPOSED AMENDMENTS-RESOLUTION
Tabled.
VII-4 ASSISTANT CD PLANNER
A. JOB DESCRIPTION-RESOLUTION
Farrell/Burlington moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, the position of Community Development Planner for the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
(IURA),has been vacant since June 20,2000, and
WHEREAS,the IURA desires to increase staffing to address this vacancy, and
WHEREAS, the Budget and Administration Committee recommends the creation of an "Assistant
Community Development Planner"employment position to meet future staffing needs,now, therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that the NRA hereby creates the employment position of "Assistant Community
Development Planner" with the job description and salary schedule, dated 12/19/2000, for the Assistant
Community Development Planner position as herein described.
LURA Minutes, 12-19-00, 4
Brief discussion ensued.
CARRIED unanimously.
B. FILL.JOB POSITION-RESOLUTION
Cohen asked that the members read the resume put forward by the Executive Director for
the desired candidate.
Farrell/Burlington moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS, the IURA authorized the IURA Executive Director to advertise and conduct interviews of
candidates to fill the vacant Community Planner position upon review by the Budget and Administration
Committee,and
WHEREAS, the Budget and Administration Committee recommended advertising to fill an "Assistant
Community Development Planner"position at a base salary of$28,935, depending on qualifications,and
WHEREAS, the position was duly advertised at the local, regional, and national level resulting in
applications from eight candidates meeting the minimum job qualifications,and
WHEREAS,the Search Committee,composed of H.M. Van Cort,D. McDonald, L. Chatterton,&N.Bohn,
held interviews with top candidates and selected a preferred candidate,now,therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby offers the vacant employment position of Assistant Community
Development Planner for the IURA to Sue Kittel as follows:
• Base Salary: Step 2 -Assistant Development Community Planner($30,995 for FY 2001)
• Paid Vacation: Three weeks
• Start Date: January 10,2001
• Other Working Conditions/Benefits: Governed by the IURA Human Resource Policies
and be it further,
RESOLVED, that the IURA Executive Director is authorized to execute any and all documents necessary
to implement this resolution.
CARRIED unanimously.
VII-5 WEST STATE STREET COMMERCIAL LOAN PROGRAM-EXPAND
TARGET AREA
Bohn gave a brief description of the expansion(a two-block area bounded by W. Green, Cayuga,
W.Seneca,and Geneva Streets)and discussion ensued.
Farrell/Burlington moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS,the City was awarded$300,000 in the third year increment of the 1996 CDBG multi-year
award from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development(HUD) to implement a revolving loan
program to assist businesses in the West State Street corridor expand employment opportunities for •
low/mod area residents, and
WHEREAS,the IURA has conducted marketing of the program through focus group meetings with
employers, employees and residents as well as individual contacts with businesses in the target area,and
IURA Minutes, 12-19-00, 5
WHEREAS, the IURA has rejected one application for loan assistance through the program and another
loan application is pending, and
WHEREAS, the current balance in the program is approximately$283,000, and
WHEREAS, current 8-block target area is bounded by W. Green Street, Geneva Street, W. Seneca Street
and Meadow Street, and
WHEREAS, interest has been expressed by employers located immediately east of the established target
area,and
WHEREAS,consultation with the Downtown Ithaca Partnership suggests several candidate projects are
located immediately east of the established target area, and
WHEREAS,at their 12/5/00 meeting,the Budget and Administration Committee recommended amending
the target area to include an additional two-block area bounded by W. Green Street, Cayuga Street, W.
Seneca Street and Geneva Street,now therefore be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby recommends that the Common Council authorize and direct the IURA
Executive Director to seek HUD approval for a program amendment to expand the target area for the West
State Street Commercial Loan Program,Phase II(1996 YR#3,Activity 1.1),to include a 2-block area
bounded by W.Green Street,Cayuga Street,W. Seneca Street and Geneva Street, and be further
RESOLVED,that the LURA Executive Director,upon advice from the City Attorney,is authorized to sign
any and all documents necessary to carry out this resolution.
CARRIED unanimously.
The meeting progressed to agenda item IX-1.
VIII. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
VIII-1 CARPENTER BUSINESS PARK,2YD ADDENDUM TO PURCHASE OFFER
FROM BUILDING LINKS,INC-RESOLUTION
Bohn gave a brief history leading up to the current Building Links, Inc. proposal to purchase
Carpenter Business Park. Bohn stated that the Economic Development committee was concerned
about the length of time the property had been under contract without a sale, but supported this
proposal if the sale was closed by June 1, 2001 and if a $50,000 additional deposit were paid by
March 1, 2001 of which half would be refundable. Bohn further stated that the City Attorney saw
no problem with this offer. Discussion ensued concerning the process of retractions and offers
from Bridgewater and Building Links, as well as the ED committee's recommendations.
Additional discussion ensued concerning the deposits and payments currently and to be paid, and
in what way refunds should be handled.
Cohen recommended that the resolution be amended to remove the last WHEREAS and the
Resolved,and replace them with the following:
WHEREAS,the IURA is supportive of the concepts from the ED Committee,now, therefore,be it,
RESOLVED that the IURA endorses in concept the second addendum, and directs the staff to negotiate a
resolution to any unresolved issues.
IURA Minutes, 12-19-00, 6
After discussion, Cohen stated that he would call a special meeting of the IURa in early January as
quickly as possible to expedite this matter.
Cohen/Burlington moved/seconded the following resolution as amended:
WHEREAS, upon Common Council endorsement, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency(IURA)executed a
purchase offer with Building Links, Inc. (BLI)to acquire the Carpenter Business Park on October 7, 1999,
and
WHEREAS, on January 18, 2000 the IURA authorized a 60-day extension of the contingencies set forth in
paragraphs 10(A), 10(B)and 11(B)of the purchase agreement dated October 7, 1999, and further resolved
that any future request for a further extension should be received at least 30 days in advance of the
requested date for action by the IURA and indicated a payment to the LURA may be required for any future
extension,and
WHEREAS,on February 24, 2000,BLI informed the IURA that it had assigned the purchase agreement to
Bridgewater Management, LLC(Bridgewater),and
WHEREAS,on June 6,2000 the IURA executed an addendum to the purchase offer with Bridgewater,and
WHEREAS,on September 21, 2000 the Bridgewater provided notice to the NRA that it had been unable
to satisfy the contingencies contained in the purchase offer, deemed the agreement null and void,and
sought return of$8,000 of the deposit,and
WHEREAS,no deposit funds have been returned to Bridgewater to date,and
WHEREAS,on December 12, 2000 BLI requested the LURA to consider a second addendum to the
purchase agreement for Carpenter Business Park and indicated that Bridgewater is willing to submit a letter
retracting their September 21,2000 notice declaring the purchase offer null and void and to reassign the
Purchase Offer back to BLI,and
WHEREAS,the second addendum proposed by BLI provides for a purchase price of$900,000,a future
retail use of the property,a closing date of June 1,2001,an additional nonrefundable deposit of$8,000,and
no seller contingencies regarding site development plan approval, and
WHEREAS,at their 12/12/00 meeting,the Economic Development Committee discussed the matter and
recommended that the IURA approve the Second Addendum subject to the following:
1. review by the City Attorney
2. demonstration,satisfactory to the IURA,of financial capacity of BLI to close on the property at a
purchase price of$900;000,
3. that the property remain taxable,or,if tax exempt,that a payment in lieu of taxes equivalent to property
taxes otherwise owed be made to the City of Ithaca
4. addition of a seller's contingency requiring the buyer to make an additional deposit of$50,000 on or
before March 1,2001,that will be credited against the purchase price. In the event that the transaction
fails to close by June 1,2001, for reasons other than delay occasioned by the Seller, then$25,000 of
the additional$50,000 shall be forfeited by BLI,and
WHEREAS, the NRA is supportive of the concepts from the ED Committee,now, therefore,be it,
RESOLVED, that the IURA hereby accepts the proposed second addendum to the Carpenter Business
Park purchase offer submitted by Building Links, Inc. subject to the following:
1. receipt by December 22, 2000 of a letter from Bridgewater retracting their 9/21/00 letter;
2. receipt by December 22, 2000 of an executed assignment of the purchase offer from Bridgewater to
• BLI;
[URA Minutes, 12-19-00, 7
3. receipt by December 22. 2000 of BLI's private investor's financial statement and intent to purchase
Carpenter Business Park:
4. approval of the Chair, upon advice from the IURA Executive Director, of financial capacity and intent
of BLI's investor to close on the property at a purchase price of$900,000;
5. addition of a seller's contingency requiring the Buyer to make an additional deposit of$50,000 on or
before March I, 2001, that will be credited against the purchase price. In the event that the transaction
fails to close by June 1, 2001, for reasons other than delay occasioned by the Seller, then$25,000 of
the additional$50,000 deposit shall be forfeited by BLI;
6. review and approval of the revised second addendum by the City Attorney,and be it further
RESOLVED, that the IURA Chair,upon review by the IURA Executive Director and IURA Attorney, is
hereby authorized to sign any and all instruments necessary to implement this resolution.
Farrell asked if it would be awkward to place the property back on the market; Van Cort stated that
it would not,but that pursuing the current offer was a reasonable action as well.
CARRIED unanimously.
The meeting progressed to agenda item XI.
VIII-2 CHERRY STREET INDUSTRIAL PARK-MODEL LEASE(PREPAYMENT
POLICY)-RESOLUTION
Tabled until January 16,2001.
The meeting progressed to agenda item X-2.
IX. OLD BUSINESS
IX-1 324 E.STATE ST.(PARCEL 69:1-3)PROPERTY DISPOSITION-
RESOLUTION
Bohn stated that the IURA currently owned the parcel, but was not receiving monies from the
parking meters on the lot,nor did it have insurance on the parcel.Discussion ensued.
Farrell/Burlington moved/seconded the following resolution:
WHEREAS,the IURA acquired 324 E.State Street(parcel#69.-1-3)as part of an urban renewal project,
and
WHEREAS,the parcel is currently incorporated into the City metered public parking lot extending from
Seneca Way to E. State Street located adjacent to the Community Music and Arts building,and
WHEREAS, the parcel is not included under the IURA's liability insurance coverage,and
WHEREAS, the parcel is critical for access to the public parking lot from Seneca Way,and
WHEREAS,the Budget and Administration Committee recommended at their 10/10/00 meeting that the
parcel be offered to the City for$1 and a commitment to landscape the entryway from Seneca Way,
including planting of a tree,now, therefore be it
RESOLVED,that the IURA hereby authorizes the conveyance of 324 E. State Street(tax parcel 69.-1-3)to
the City of Ithaca for$1 and a commitment to landscape the Seneca Way entrance to the public parking
• area, and be it further
IURA Minutes, 12-19-00, S
RESOLVED, that all costs associated with the conveyance shall be borne by the buyer, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the IURA Chair, upon the advice of the IURA Executive Director and IURA Attorney,
is authorized to execute and deliver any necessary or appropriate documents to effect the conveyance
including, but not limited to, the deed.
CARRIED unanimously.
The meeting progressed to agenda item VIII-2.
X. NEW BUSINESS
X-1 NEXT MEETING DATE:(TUESDAY)JANUARY 16,2001,4PM
Date accepted.
X-2 OTHER
Cohen asked Patricia Dunn to come forward and address her concerns about the IURA/MHA
agreement in which a moratorium on evictions was mandated.Dunn stated that such a clause could
expose the NRA and/or the City to future liability and legal action, and that it could give the
appearance of impropriety and undue influence. Dunn recommended that the IURA not put such
clauses into contracts and refrain from attempts to control the internal affairs of other
organizations. Dunn further stated that nothing could be done about the contract that had already
been executed.
The meeting progressed to VIII-1.
XL ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 5:25 PM.
end 12/27/2000 ARS/ars