HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-04-15
April 15, 2026
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REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING
April 15, 2026
A Regular Meeting of the Lansing Town Board was held at the Town Hall Board Room,
29 Auburn Road, Lansing, NY, and streamed live on YouTube on the above date at
6:30 p.m. The meeting was called to order by Ruth Groff, Supervisor, and opened with
the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. Roll call by Deborah K. Munson, Town Clerk,
showed the following to be
PRESENT:
Judy Drake, Councilperson Laurie Hemmings, Councilperson
Christine Montague, Councilperson Joseph Wetmore, Councilperson
Ruth Groff, Supervisor
ABSENT: No one absent
ALSO PRESENT: Mike Moseley, Highway Superintendent/Director of Public Works,
Mary Ellen Albrecht, Bookkeeper, Guy Krogh, Town Counsel, Patrick Tyrrell, Director
of Parks & Recreation, Mike Sigler, Tompkins County Legislature, Jessie Hall, Deputy
Town Clerk, Tyler Todd, Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation, Melody Lombardo,
Court Clerk, Chris Pettograsso, Lansing Central School District Superintendent, Kathryn
Heath, Lansing Central School District Assistant Superintendent of Business
Administration, Tony Lombardo, John Duthie, Bill Kerry, Daniel Graybeal, Bruce
Barber, Erin Lovejoy, Katrina Binkewicz, Robert Rieger, Mike Culotta, Bailey
Lombardo, Jen Barone, David Winiarski and a few other attendees.
PRESENTATION – LANSING CENTRAL SCHOOL BUDGET – CHRIS
PETTOGRASSO, SUPERINTENDENT AND KATHRYN HEATH, ASSISTANT
SUPERINTENDENT OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Superintendent Chris Pettograsso and Assistant Superintendent of Business
Administration Kathryn Heath presented the school budget for the 2026–2027 school
year, highlighting significant financial challenges and the potential impact on student
programming.
Budget Drivers and Expenses -The primary drivers of the budget include:
• Salaries and Benefits -70% of budget
• Utilities and Services
• Debt Service
Revenue and Funding
• Local Levy
• State Aid
• Mitigation Funding
Initial Deficit and Proposed Reductions - To address an initial $2 million deficit, the
district identified several reductions if they stay within the tax cap:
• Staffing
• Programming and Development
• Equipment
Impact on Students
• If the budget remains at the tax cap, K-6 class sizes will increase
Tax Scenarios and Voting Options - Three potential paths:
• At the Cap
• Over the Cap
• Contingent Budget
April 15, 2026
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PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
After the budget presentation Councilperson Judy Drake stated this will be discussed later
in the meeting during the work session, but she wanted to be sure Chris and Kate heard it
before they left. She stated the Parks and Recreation Department will remain the same-it
will not be under the DPW. She wanted to assure Chris and Kate that the field staff will
remain the same and will still be there to collaborate with the school. The discussion will
be about field staff/motor equipment operator’s/laborer’s “sliding” under the DPW. The
Parks and Recreation Department will not be under the Department of Public Works.
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR – COMMENTS
One resident suggested the trails should be put where people want to go. Also suggested
a “round-about” would be nice by the new office building on Route 34.
Three residents spoke about the change in the Parks and Recreation Department:
• Mike (DPW) and Pat (Parks & Rec) do a fantastic job
• What is the inefficiency
o Where is the data for this
• Lansing is the standard for recreation facilities
• Lansing has beautiful parks
• Lansing has beautiful fields
o Concerned about the fields, if moving staff to DPW
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS REPORT – MICHAEL MOSELEY
Submitted the following report to the Town Board and it was included in the meeting
packet which was available on Town of Lansing website and as a handout.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS REPORT
April 2026
NEW DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS BUILDING
• Maintenance of erosion controls continue per weekly SWPPP inspections.
• Sanitary under slab trenching, piping, backfill & compaction at Administrative
Areas and sanitary piping supporting trench drain at Truck Bays.
• Roofing began late March 2026. To resume early April 2026.
• Remaining interior bollards inside Truck Bay continue.
• Interior concrete masonry units (CMU) at Mechanic’s Area.
Onsite Work anticipated for April & May 2026
• Roof System: 45d duration provided by GC.
• Roofing pre-installation occurred prior to start of roofing
• Resume roofing: Early April 2026
• In place mock-up to be provided by GC.
• Trims & Gutters: 25d duration provided by GC. (Follows Roofing)
• Remaining masonry (CMU) at interior of DPW facility.
• Small section between Admin Area and Mechanic’s Area remains.
• Interior mezzanine structural steel.
• Mechanical Equipment at mezzanines. (Mech. Equipment on site)
• Concrete slab on grade for Admin / Locker Room Areas – April 2026
• Demolition of existing storage wing on Cold Storage Building.
• Storm Drainage Structures / Piping – Continue Stormwater Management System.
• GC began sewer only to points where sewer system passes beneath stormwater.
Sewer system to resume following removal of cold storage wing.
April 15, 2026
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• Water main at exterior to resume pending suitable weather.
• Generator is on site. Coordinate pad location as cut/fills resolve.
MARCH 31 STORM / FLOOD
• The Lansing Department of Public Works would like to extend its sincere thanks
and recognition to all of the DPW crew members for their tireless efforts during the
storm on Tuesday, March 31. As extreme conditions caused flooding, widespread
road washouts, and significant damage, their dedication and hard work played a
critical role in keeping our community safe. The storm impacted several roadways,
some of which include Algerine Road, Bacon Road, Breed Road (to the north), Bill
George Road and Extension, East Lansing Road, Emmons Road, Lockerby Hill
Road, Salmon Creek Road (Red Bridge to Genoa), Storm Road, and Sweazey Road.
• The Lansing Department of Public Works would also like to extend its sincere
thanks to the Town of Dryden, the New York State Department of Transportation,
the Tompkins County Highway Department, Angel Hinickle and John Nagley from
Tompkins County Soil and Water, Brian Reaser from Tioga County Soil and Water,
and Dave Herrick from T.G Miller for their assistance with flood cleanup efforts
following the storm.
BRUSH PICKUP
• The Town of Lansing’s Annual Brush Pickup is to begin at 6:00am on Monday,
April 27th. Information can be found on the Town’s website under the Department
of Public Works as well as The Shopper.
MS4
• The DPW continues to work with Angel Hinickle and Megan Kirby from the
Tompkins County Soil and Water Conservation District, and Patrick from T.G.
Miller, on the MS4 Annual Reporting that the Town is required to complete.
• Mike Moseley continues to work with the Town of Lansing Codes Department,
Tompkins County Soil and Water Conservation District and T.G. Miller on SWPPP
applications.
OFFICE
• The Town of Lansing continues to work hand in hand with the Village of Lansing
and the Village of Cayuga Heights regarding the Intermunicipal Agreement for
Sewer District One.
MEETINGS ATTENDED BY THE HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT/DIRECTOR
OF PUBLIC WORKS
• The Stormwater Coalition of Tompkins County: The Stormwater Coalition of
Tompkins County is an inter-municipal organization formed to assist municipal
separate storm systems (MS4s) in cooperation.
• Commissioner Meeting with Bolton Point: Responsible for passing resolutions
that govern Bolton Point.
• Water, Sewer, and Stormwater Committee (WSSC): Responsible for evaluating
proposals relating to the Town’s water, sewer and stormwater. The goal is financial
and engineering analysis.
• Engineering and Operations Meeting with Bolton Point: Responsible for the
infrastructure of the municipalities that make up Bolton Point.
• Highway Barn Committee: Responsible for working with architects, engineers, and
construction managers on the design and development of the new Department of
Public Works facility.
• Lansing Town Department Heads Meetings.
• Capital Improvement Committee.
• Personnel Management Committee.
PARKS AND RECREATION REPORT – PATRICK TYRRELL
Submitted the following report to the Town Board and it was included in the meeting
packet which was available on Town of Lansing website and as a handout.
April 15, 2026
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April 2026
Town Board Report
Recreation: Current and upcoming spring programs include GirlStrong, Lansing
Watercats Swim Team, LBP/LSP, Co-Ed T-ball, Pitching Clinics, Hitcats Travel
Baseball, Travel Club Volleyball, Spring Horseback Riding, Adult Strength & Stretch,
Adult Volleyball, Cardio-Step and Morning YogaChi.
• Cornell and Ithaca College are requesting field space for their club softball
programs. We are doing our best to accommodate them.
• Some baseball team practices may need to be moved to the Town Barn field due
to the geothermal disturbance behind the Town Hall.
• We also have many groups requesting space for soccer this Spring.
• The application for Day Camp has been submitted to the Tompkins County
Health Department through their new online portal.
• We hosted our annual baseball and softball team selection Thursday night as well
as handed out schedules and equipment. Thank you to all our volunteer coaches.
• Our department is meeting with Lansing Central School officials to discuss
scholarship opportunities for children that would like to attend our summer
programs.
Achievements: Congratulations to the Lansing Watercats Swim Team. The team placed
10th out of forty-two teams at the 2026 Niagara Gold Championship Meet that took place
March 20-22. They are also the 2026 Small Team Champions.
Upcoming Events:
• The Hitcats Travel Baseball team (10U) will have their first games on May 1st and
May 6th against Candor at 6pm on Field “E” at the Lansing Town Ballfields
• T-ball draft will take place on April 30th at 6pm in the court room
Park: Following the recent heavy rainstorm that caused localized flooding and damage
around the town and within the park, our staff has worked diligently to clear debris,
stabilize impacted areas, and remove storm-related hazards throughout the park.
Particular attention was given to the marina, which has just recently opened for the
season on April 1st and has experienced both unusually high-water levels and a
significant accumulation of storm debris. My staff worked diligently to clear floating and
shoreline debris, monitor changing conditions, and maintain safe access to the launch
areas for early season users. These efforts reflect my team’s commitment to stewardship
of the park and waterfront, and to maintaining the park as a welcoming and accessible
resource for residents following severe weather impacts.
• We have completed all our TC Health Department paperwork for Camping and
Beachfront. They have a new online system for applications this year.
• Women Swimming for Hospicare has met with our department about hosting their
event at Myers Park this year.
• Summer seasonal jobs have been posted. Thank you to Mary Ellen for all her help
in this process.
• Camping season begins on May 8th.
• We will begin charging admission into Myers Park for non-residents on May 22nd.
• We have completed much needed restoration of our gravel roadways, including
Salt Point.
• The Osprey Cam is back up and running at Salt Point, luckily the day before they
came back. Here is the link:
April 15, 2026
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https://camstreamer.com/redirect/nCitlbvkqY7CNSwNL8GoTOUSWp5SOL8zkl
1CA5GP
• Our department has attended all the Lansing’s America 250 Celebration meetings.
That event is scheduled for June 13th at Myers Park.
Trails:
• The trails have also sustained heavy damage from the recent rainstorm. We will
be repairing washes as soon as we can.
Town Hall/Community Center:
• Halco has been back to fix some broken drain tiles on the field behind the Town
Hall. There is still major restoration that will need to be done. The weather has
not been cooperating to get this completed.
• The HVAC system replacement is going well; the boiler has been removed, and
the geothermal lines have been tied into our system. They have uncovered many
errors with the current system and are working diligently to correct the system as
a whole.
• The Community Center has had more furnace issues. We were able to resolve
them and get the system back up and running again.
• The building maintenance supervisor has repaired several doors and corrected
plumbing issues in both buildings.
• The schoolhouse and community center roof replacement projects should begin
around April 21st. Thanks to TG Miller for their work on this project.
This is only a very brief overview of what the Parks & Recreation department does. If
you have questions or would like to meet with me one on one, please let me know.
Pat also reported:
Summer Program Booklet – Pat handed out a booklet to each Town Board Member,
stating Meggie did a great job on it and the summer concert schedule is included.
The Schoolhouse and Community Center roof replacement projects should begin around
April 27th, not April 21st.
TOWN CLERK REPORT – DEBBIE MUNSON
No report.
LANSING COMMUNITY LIBRARY REPORT – ANNIE JOHNSON
Submitted the following report to the Town Board and it was included in the meeting
packet which was available on Town of Lansing website and as a handout.
TOWN BOARD UPDATES
FROM THE LANSING COMMUNITY LIBRARY
April 2026
1. Don’t forget that if the Library is closed, you still have access to Libby, Hoopla,
and Kanopy!
2. The Library continues to provide free delivery to Woodsedge. The Library also
has a mobile wireless hotspot available for check out. The Wi-Fi is not
password protected. The community is welcome to park in the lot to access the
Internet.
3. Learn to play American Mah Jongg every Wednesday at 10:00 am.
4. Learn T’ai Chi Fridays from 10:30-11:30 am.
5. The Library has an Empire Pass and passes to the Museum of the Earth
available for check out. Board games, puzzles, story time kits, and STEAM kits
are also available.
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6. The Library now offers free period products using an Aunt Flow dispenser.
There are currently free covid tests available as well.
7. Chair Yoga is offered every Monday at 9:45 am.
8. There is a year-round book sale at the Library. Book donations are currently
paused.
9. Story times for the month, Thursdays at 10:30 am: “Stay and Play” on 4/9,
“Bunnies Story Time” on 4/16, “Earth Day” on 4/23, and “Flowers” on 4/30.
10. “Animal Storytelling Through Art” - a watercolor workshop, will be presented
on 4/25 at 10:30 am. Register today!
11. The Book Club for Adults is reading “The Library Book” by Susan Orlean. The
meeting will be 4/22 in the Library.
12. The Library will present a free screening of the documentary “The Librarians”
at Cinemopolis on 4/25 at 2:30 pm.
13. The Annual Meeting of the Board of Trustees will be 4/20 and the budget vote
and Trustee elections will be on 4/21. Absentee ballots are available now.
14. Prom Closet will be opening soon! Donations can be dropped off during
business hours.
15. Zentangle class will be planned for May. Stay tuned!
LANSING YOUTH SERVICES REPORT – RICK ALVORD
No report.
TOMPKINS COUNTY LEGISLATOR REPORT – MIKE SIGLER
Reported the following:
FLOCK Cameras – Two cameras, in Lansing, capture license plates as cars drive by.
Recently, they were used to find a person that was driving for hours and could not
remember how to get home. Due to privacy concerns, the legislature voted to eliminate
the contract.
New Shelter – Will be on Cherry Street and have 80 beds. Using motels until shelter is
built.
Cayuga Operating Co. – Permit renewed to use one million gallons of lake water per day
instead of 250 million gallons of lake water per day. As reference, Salmon Creek puts 70
million gallons of water per day into Cayuga Lake.
SNAP Funding – Visit Tompkins County website to see changes.
Minimum Wage Study – What can businesses afford? Do fourteen-year-old workers
need living wage? Will be interesting what the outcome of the study is.
CONSENT AGENDA
a. RESOLUTION UPDATING CIVIL SERVICE JOB TITLE FOR EMPLOYEE
PATRICK TYRRELL
RESOLUTION 26-51
RESOLUTION UPDATING CIVIL SERVICE JOB TITLE FOR
EMPLOYEE PATRICK TYRRELL
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
April 15, 2026
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WHEREAS, the Town approved creation of the position of Director of Parks and
Recreation by Resolution 26-45 on March 18, 2026, and;
WHEREAS, Patrick Tyrrell, Parks and Recreation Department, has been a faithful Town
of Lansing employee employed as a Recreation Supervisor & Computer Support Specialist,
and who meets the qualifications and currently holds responsibilities and duties consistent
with the Civil Service title of Director of Parks and Recreation. Upon due consideration
and deliberation by the Town of Lansing Town Board, now therefore be it RESOLVED as
follows:
1. Effective April 16, 2026, Patrick Tyrrell is hereby appointed as the Director of
Parks and Recreation, with the same Town perquisites and benefits as is available
to all employees of the Town and to such position. This position is in the
competitive class and currently being reviewed for acceptance into the New York
Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide (NY HELPS) program, which
would temporarily waive the civil service examination requirement. At such time
as the NY HELPS program concludes, this appointment will convert to a traditional
competitive classification.
2. This appointment will be a full-time appointment, at 40 hours per week.
3. There will be no change in 2026 to the current salary rate for this appointment.
4. The probationary period for this appointment is hereby waived as Patrick Tyrrell
has been performing the duties and responsibilities of this position effectively and
consistently for many years.
5. The appropriate Town officer be and hereby is authorized to make such changes to
the Town’s employment and civil service rosters and file required civil service
forms to place into immediate effect such changes and these resolutions, including
by the filing of form MSD 428, if required.
b. RESOLUTION UPDATING CIVIL SERVICE JOB TITLE FOR EMPLOYEE
TYLER TODD
RESOLUTION 26-52
RESOLUTION UPDATING CIVIL SERVICE JOB TITLE FOR
EMPLOYEE TYLER TODD
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, the Town Board approved creation of the position of Assistant Director of
Parks and Recreation by Resolution 26-45 on March 18, 2026, and;
WHEREAS, Tyler Todd, Parks and Recreation Department, has been a faithful Town of
Lansing employee employed as an MEO & Laborer, and who meets the qualifications and
currently holds responsibilities and duties consistent with the Civil Service title of Assistant
Director of Parks and Recreation. Upon due consideration and deliberation by the Town of
Lansing Town Board, now therefore be it RESOLVED as follows:
1. Effective April 16, 2026, Tyler Todd is hereby appointed as the Assistant Director
of Parks and Recreation, with the same Town perquisites and benefits as is available
to all employees of the Town and to such position. This position is in the
competitive class and currently being reviewed for acceptance into the New York
Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide (NY HELPS) program, which
would temporarily waive the civil service examination requirement. At such time
as the NY HELPS program concludes, this appointment will convert to a traditional
competitive classification.
2. This appointment will be a full-time appointment, at 40 hours per week.
3. There will be no change in 2026 to the current salary rate for this appointment.
4. The probationary period for this appointment is hereby waived as Tyler Todd has
been performing the duties and responsibilities of this position effectively and
consistently since July 8, 2024.
5. The appropriate Town officer be and hereby is authorized to make such changes to
the Town’s employment and civil service rosters and file required civil service
April 15, 2026
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forms to place into immediate effect such changes and these resolutions, including
by the filing of form MSD 428, if required.
c. RESOLUTION HIRING PART TIME SEASONAL EMPLOYEES FOR PARKS &
RECREATION AND CAMPGROUND MANAGER FOR THE TOWN OF
LANSING
RESOLUTION 26-53
RESOLUTION HIRING PART TIME SEASONAL EMPLOYEES FOR
PARKS & RECREATION AND CAMPGROUND MANAGER
FOR THE TOWN OF LANSING
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, there is a need for twelve (12) Part Time Seasonal Laborers; twelve (12) Part
Time Lifeguard positions, and twelve (12) Part Time Recreation Assistant positions at the
Town of Lansing, and
WHEREAS, acceptable and qualified candidates will be identified and selected by the
Parks and Recreation Supervisor, and are therefore proposed to be hired to fulfill such job
requirements; and
WHEREAS, there is a need for a Part Time Seasonal Worker position for Myers Park
Campground Manager at the Town of Lansing; and
WHEREAS, an acceptable and qualified candidate will be identified and selected by the
Parks and Recreation Supervisor to fill the Myers Park Campground Manager position, and
are therefore proposed to be hired to fulfill such job requirements; and
WHEREAS, said positions have been classified and deemed as Civil Service Seasonal
Worker positions by the Tompkins County Department of Personnel; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Lansing Supervisor has recommended that the above positions
be filled at the Town of Lansing; and
WHEREAS, upon a review and discussion of the matter, the Town Board of the Town of
Lansing has hereby:
RESOLVED, that the Parks and Recreation Supervisor is hereby approved to hire seasonal
Laborers, Lifeguards and Recreation Assistants employees, in the Parks and Recreation
Department, at a pay grade not to exceed $32.00/hour; and it is further
RESOLVED, that a Myers Park Campground Manager hereby is approved to be employed
as a Part Time Seasonal Campground Manager Worker at a rate of $300.00 per week
effective May 1, 2026; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the appropriate Town officer be and hereby is authorized to make such
changes to the Town’s employment and civil service rosters and file required civil service
forms to place into immediate effect such changes per this resolution, including by the
filing of form MSD 428, if required.
d. RESOLUTION APPROVING AUDIT AND SUPERVISOR’S REPORT
RESOLUTION 26-54
RESOLUTION APPROVING AUDIT
AND SUPERVISOR’S REPORT
The Supervisor submitted her monthly report for the month of February 2026, to all
Board Members and to the Town Clerk. The Supervisor’s Report was reviewed by
Councilperson Christine Montague. The bills were reviewed by Councilperson Christine
April 15, 2026
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Montague and Councilperson Joseph Wetmore. The Supervisor’s Report be approved as
submitted and the Bookkeeper is hereby authorized to pay the following bills and to make
the following budget modifications.
CONSOLIDATED ABSTRACT # 004
CONSOLIDATED ABSTRACT # 401
e. CONSENT AGENDA AND RESOLUTIONS 26-51 – 26-54
RESOLUTION 26-55
CONSENT AGENDA AND RESOLUTIONS 26-51 – 26-54
WHEREAS, upon due deliberation thereupon, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing
has hereby
RESOLVED, that the Consent Agenda and Resolutions 26-51 – 26-54 are hereby
approved as presented and amended, and
April 15, 2026
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The question of the adoption of such proposed Consent Agenda and Resolutions were
duly motioned by Councilperson Joseph Wetmore duly seconded by Councilperson Judy
Drake, and put to a roll call vote with the following results:
Councilperson Judy Drake – Aye Councilperson Laurie Hemmings – Aye
Councilperson Christine Montague – Aye Councilperson Joseph Wetmore – Aye
Supervisor Ruth Groff – Aye
Accordingly, the foregoing Resolutions were approved, carried, and duly adopted on
April 15, 2026
MOTION AUTHORIZING TOWN SUPERVISOR TO SIGN CONTRACT
WITH BERGMANN/COLLIERS ENGINEERING & DESIGN FOR
EXTENDED CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION SERVICES
THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2026
MOTION M26-08
MOTION AUTHORIZING TOWN SUPERVISOR TO SIGN CONTRACT WITH
BERGMANN/COLLIERS ENGINEERING & DESIGN FOR EXTENDED
CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION SERVICES THROUGH
SEPTEMBER 2026
The original contract with Bergmann/Colliers Engineering & Design expired in April
2026, coinciding with the original expected completion date of the Department of Public
Works facility. The services of Bergmann/Colliers are required throughout the duration
of the construction of the building with an extended contract through September 2026, for
an amount of $60,000, representing $10,000 per month. This Motion is to authorize the
Town Supervisor to sign the contract, which includes an additional $5,500 for services
rendered for a redesign and detailing of the main entrance.
The question of the adoption of such Motion was duly motioned by Councilperson
Joseph Wetmore, duly seconded by Councilperson Christine Montague and put to a roll
call vote with the following results:
Councilperson Judy Drake – Aye Councilperson Laurie Hemmings – Aye
Councilperson Christine Montague – Aye Councilperson Joseph Wetmore – Aye
Supervisor Ruth Groff – Aye
Accordingly, the foregoing Motion was approved, carried, and duly adopted on April 15,
2026.
RESOLUTION TO AWARD THE BID FOR THE CONSOLIDATED WATER
DISTRICT WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT BRICKYARD ROAD AND
BUCK ROAD
RESOLUTION 26-56
RESOLUTION TO AWARD THE BID FOR THE CONSOLIDATED WATER
DISTRICT WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT BRICKYARD ROAD AND
BUCK ROAD
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, due to aging water mains and repeated failures of sections of those mains, the
Town of Lansing Town Board (hereinafter referred to as Town Board) intends to replace
the water mains in the Lansing Consolidated Water District on Brickyard Road and Buck
Road. Four bids for the project were received with Base Bids for Brickyard Road
ranging from $320,000 to $1,425,000; Alternate 1 for Buck Road ranging from $87,000
to $320,000; and Alternate 2 for Milling and Asphalt Restoration ranging from $17,900 to
27,375; and
April 15, 2026
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WHEREAS, the Low Bidder is LRS Companies, LLC of Lansing, NY, with a Base Bid of
$320,000, Alternate 1 of $87,000, and Alternate 2 of $26,900; and
WHEREAS, all bids were reviewed by T.G. Miller, P.C. engineers for compliance with
bidding requirements and they have verified that the low bidder is not listed on the NY
State Agency Debarment List or Federal Exclusions List; and
WHEREAS, it has been determined that the Town of Lansing can procure the asphalt
milling and restoration services through the Tompkins County Annual Materials Bid at a
lower cost than the submitted bid, the Town is rejecting Alternate 2 from LRS Companies;
and
WHEREAS, upon consideration of the foregoing premises and the scope of the project, the
Town Board of the Town of Lansing has hereby
RESOLVED, that the Town Board accepts the Low Bidder, LRS Companies, LLC, in the
amount of $407,000 (Base Bid and Alternate 1); and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Supervisor of the Town of Lansing be authorized to sign the Notice
of Award and execute all Contract Documents associated with this Contract.
The question of the adoption of such Resolution was duly motioned by Councilperson
Laurie Hemmings, duly seconded by Councilperson Joseph Wetmore, and put to a roll
call vote with the following results:
Councilperson Judy Drake – Aye Councilperson Laurie Hemmings – Aye
Councilperson Christine Montague – Aye Councilperson Joseph Wetmore – Aye
Supervisor Ruth Groff – Aye
Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on April
15, 2026.
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF NOT MORE
THAN $9,500 FROM THE TECHNOLOGY RESERVE FUND FOR
WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT AND DATA MIGRATION COSTS
RESOLUTION 26-57
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF NOT MORE
THAN $9,500 FROM THE TECHNOLOGY RESERVE FUND FOR
WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT AND DATA MIGRATION COSTS
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, the Town is engaging specialized municipal programming and website
consultants (CivicPlus) to develop a new website and migrate data from the existing Town
website, including to improve user experience, improve public access to data, and to better
integrate with modern tools and programming for websites generally; and
WHEREAS, the cost thereof is not part of the 2026 budget, but the Town had previously
created and funded a general capital reserve fund for technology services and purchases
known as the Technology Reserve Fund, created under General Municipal Law § 6-c; and
WHEREAS, this is a Type II SEQRA Action that requires no further environmental review
and upon due consideration and deliberation by the Town of Lansing Town Board, now
therefore be it RESOLVED as follows:
1. The Town is authorized to spend not more than $9,500 from the Technology Reserve
Fund to pay for the costs of the new website and data migration thereto.
2. This Resolution is subject to permissive referendum pursuant to General Municipal
Law § 6-c and Town Law Article 7.
April 15, 2026
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The question of the adoption of such Resolution was duly motioned by Councilperson
Joseph Wetmore, duly seconded by Councilperson Laurie Hemmings, and put to a roll
call vote with the following results:
Councilperson Judy Drake – Aye Councilperson Laurie Hemmings – Aye
Councilperson Christine Montague – Aye Councilperson Joseph Wetmore – Aye
Supervisor Ruth Groff – Aye
Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on April
15, 2026.
RESOLUTION TO CALL UPON FEDERAL REPRESENTATIVES TO
REAFFIRM THE UNITED STATES’ COMMITMENT TO INTERNATIONAL
HUMANITARIAN LAW
RESOLUTION 26–58
RESOLUTION TO CALL UPON FEDERAL REPRESENTATIVES TO
REAFFIRM THE UNITED STATES’ COMMITMENT TO INTERNATIONAL
HUMANITARIAN LAW
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, President Donald J. Trump publicly declared that he was prepared to
“obliterate Iran,” a statement that reflects an extreme and disproportionate use of force and
signals a willingness to engage in devastating military escalation; and
WHEREAS, President Trump further suggested targeting critical infrastructure, including
bridges, transportation networks, and power plants—systems that are essential to civilian
life, public safety, and humanitarian stability; and
WHEREAS, international humanitarian law, including the principles established under the
Geneva Conventions, strictly prohibits deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and
requires all parties in a conflict to distinguish between military targets and civilian objects;
and
WHEREAS, the intentional targeting or threatening of civilian infrastructure—such as
energy systems, water supply, and transportation—would foreseeably cause widespread
harm to civilian populations, including loss of life, displacement, and long-term societal
disruption; and
WHEREAS, credible threats of such actions, even if not carried out, undermine global
norms, increase the risk of armed conflict, and erode the United States’ obligations and
standing under international law; and
WHEREAS, threats or acts directed at civilians or civilian infrastructure may constitute
war crimes and violations of fundamental human rights protections; and
WHEREAS, the use of such rhetoric by a sitting or former President of the United States
raises grave concerns about adherence to constitutional responsibilities, the rule of law,
and the nation’s commitment to international peace and security; and
WHEREAS, upon deliberation there upon, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing has
hereby
RESOLVED, that the Town Board of Lansing unequivocally condemns these statements
and any policy positions that endorse or suggest attacks on civilian populations or
infrastructure; and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Town Board of Lansing calls upon its elected federal representatives
to investigate these statements, reaffirm the United States’ commitment to international
humanitarian law, and take all appropriate and lawful measures to ensure accountability,
April 15, 2026
13
including consideration of removal from office where constitutionally justified; and be it
further
RESOLVED, that this Resolution be formally transmitted to Representative Josh Riley,
Senator Charles E. Schumer, and Senator Kirsten E. Gillibrand.
The question of the adoption of such Resolution was duly motioned by Councilperson
Joseph Wetmore, duly seconded by Councilperson Laurie Hemmings, and put to a roll
call vote with the following results:
Councilperson Judy Drake – Noe Councilperson Laurie Hemmings – Aye
Councilperson Christine Montague – Aye Councilperson Joseph Wetmore – Aye
Supervisor Ruth Groff – Aye
Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on April
15, 2026.
RESOLUTION TO ADOPT REVISED TOWN OF LANSING RESERVES
POLICY, SUPERSEDING THE POLICIES OF MAY 18, 2016; JULY 19, 2017;
AND MARCH 20, 2019; AND ADDING RESERVE FUNDS FOR SEWER
DISTRICTS AND CONSOLIDATED WATER DISTRICT
RESOLUTION 26–59
RESOLUTION TO ADOPT REVISED TOWN OF LANSING RESERVES
POLICY, SUPERSEDING THE POLICIES OF MAY 18, 2016; JULY 19, 2017;
AND MARCH 20, 2019; AND ADDING RESERVE FUNDS FOR SEWER
DISTRICTS AND CONSOLIDATED WATER DISTRICT
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, per Resolution 16-92 dated May 18, 2016, the Town of Lansing Reserves
Policy requires review and approval annually, however, the Town has seen no revision
since 2016; and
WHEREAS, the past decade has produced inflation affecting costs across the board,
leaving the Town’s reserves underfunded for replacement and repair costs; and upon
consideration and deliberation upon the foregoing, the Town Board of the Town of
Lansing has hereby
RESOLVED, that the revised Reserves Policy be adopted effective immediately,
replacing the following Reserve Fund Policies:
A. Policy adopted by Resolution 16-92, May 18, 2016:
a. Building Repair Reserve: which remains the same at $150,000
b. Parks & Rec Equipment Reserve: updated from $15,000 to $20,000
c. Technology Reserve: updated from $20,000 to $25,000
d. Highway Equipment Reserve, Fund DA: updated from $150,000 to
$200,000
B. Policy adopted by Resolution 17-99, July 19, 2017
a. Parks and Trailways Reserve: which remains the same at $150,000
C. Policy adopted by Resolution 19-69, March 20, 2019
a. Highway Equipment Reserve, Fund DB: updated from $150,000 to
$200,000
And be it further
RESOLVED, that the following Reserve Funds be added to the Reserves Policy:
A. Warren Road Sewer District Reserve:
a. For the exclusive purpose of funding major repairs to capital
improvements of the Warren Road Sewer District, including but not
limited to repair or replacement of lift stations. This reserve may not be
used to pay district operation and maintenance costs.
April 15, 2026
14
b. Funding level of $25,000
B. Cherry Road Sewer District Reserve:
a. For the exclusive purpose of funding major repairs to capital improvements
to the Cherry Road Sewer District. This reserve may not be used to pay
district operation and maintenance costs.
b. Funding level of $5,000
C. Consolidated Water District Reserve:
a. For the exclusive purpose of funding major repairs to capital improvements
to the Consolidated Water District. This reserve may not be used to pay
district operation and maintenance costs.
b. Funding level of $200,000
The question of the adoption of such Resolution was duly motioned by Councilperson
Joseph Wetmore, duly seconded by Councilperson Laurie Hemmings, and put to a roll
call vote with the following results:
Councilperson Judy Drake – Aye Councilperson Laurie Hemmings – Aye
Councilperson Christine Montague – Aye Councilperson Joseph Wetmore – Aye
Supervisor Ruth Groff – Aye
Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on April
15, 2026.
BOARD MEMBER REPORTS
Judy Drake
No report.
Laurie Hemmings
No report.
Christine Montague
Christine Montague
Town Board Member Report
April 2026
Lansing Youth Services, March 19
- Since I am the board’s representative to the county youth services board, I wanted
to understand how Lansing Youth Services functions and fits in with the county-
wide programs. Cornell Cooperative Extension is tasked by the county Department
of Youth Services to run Rural Youth Services (RYS) in multiple towns in the
county. I met the RYS coordinator from CCE, the Lansing Program Educator, and
the rest of the Lansing Youth Commission, a group of parents and educators
involved in oversight of the Lansing program. The program educator listed the fun
afterschool activities he offered over the last few months, many of which were
outdoors in the winter. He has great representation from enthusiastic boys. The
RYS coordinator went through annual reports for the county and Lansing, and also
the budget for Lansing Youth Services.
Lansing Housing Authority, March 23
- The management company for Woodsedge Housing said that their insurance
doesn’t like pull cords in the units because of liability issues if they malfunction.
The board decided to keep them for now and asked for options so residents can
have a free alternative.
- The board discussed how to get the vegetable beds at Woodsedge fixed so the
residents can start working in them.
Tompkins County Youth Services Advisory Board, March 30
April 15, 2026
15
- The department has a job opening for a youth services specialist and a deputy
director.
- NYS has formed the Empire State Results Leadership program and Tompkins Co.
has set up their group to get more collaboration between the Youth Services Dept,
Dept of Social Services, Probation and Whole Heath.
- Youth Services has made Youth Wellness Surveys to hear from both youth and
adults. These surveys will be active until the end of April.
- We heard from Tompkins Childrens’ Single Point of Access (CSPOA) for mental
health services. The Racker Center administers the program, which connects
families to services, family therapy, and clinics.
Here are the QR codes for the youth wellness surveys, depending on whether you are a
youth or an adult:
Conservation Advisory Council, April 1
- A representative from Friends of the Lansing Center Trails attended to discuss the
strategy for habitat maintenance. CAC will set up a BioBlitz this summer for the
meadow so we will know what plants and animals are currently living there.
Joseph Wetmore
Joseph Wetmore
Town Board Member Report
April 2026
Planning Board
Monday, March 23⋅6:30 – 8:30pm
*Verizon Lane – Site Plan Review (United Storage Expansion)
The Board held a Public Hearing on the proposed 2,800 sq. ft. cold storage building. The
project advanced in the review process with no indication of major issues at this stage.
SEQR review remains underway.
*Verizon Lane – Minor Subdivision
The Board set a Public Hearing for the subdivision of the 13.21-acre parcel into two lots.
This formalizes an existing lease division. SEQR review will proceed alongside the
hearing.
*40 Newman Road – Minor Subdivision
April 15, 2026
16
The Board conducted a sketch review, initiated SEQR (including SEAF Part 2), and set a
Public Hearing. The project remains in an early review stage, with layout and
environmental considerations still under evaluation.
*Dandy Mart 3–15 Ridge Road – Site Plan Extension
The Board approved the site plan extension for one year.
*Town Board Liaison Report
I gave the board an update on what the town board has been doing. This included a
lengthy discussion about how to use the Ethics Board to help answer ethics questions.
Zoning Advisory Committee Meeting
Wednesday, March 25⋅3:30 – 5:00pm
Process Update
NYS DOS Assessment Exercise
Preliminary Code Observations Review
Outcomes & Expectations Discussion
Next Steps
Public Kick-off Meeting on Zoning
Wednesday, March 25⋅6:30 – 8:00pm
Standing room only for this initial meeting to inform the public about the zoning update
and process. ¾ of the room said that they heard about the meeting because we sent a post
card to every single house.
Agenda
Introductions
Project Process & Scope
Previous Plans Review
Zoning & Smart Growth 101
Preliminary Code Observations
Survey Launch & Next Steps Review (2 mins)
Breakout Activities
Cayuga Solar - AES Updated Application Materials
Thursday, April 2⋅1:00 – 2:00pm
A revised application for the Cayuga Solar project is expected by the end of the month. In
anticipation of the next phase of review, and with new team members joining the process,
it was agreed that a brief coordination call should be scheduled.
During this call, we will:
• Review the current status of the project
• Outline near-term next steps within the Office of Renewable Energy Siting
(ORES) process
• Discuss potential outcomes
Monthly Check-In | Lansing Smart Growth Zoning Update
Tuesday, April 7⋅10:00 – 11:00am
Discussed how the Public Kick-off Meeting on Zoning went
Next steps for the consultants administering the grant.
Website updates
Set up a single address for the public to email all members of the Zoning advisory
committee.
Ruth Groff
No report.
April 15, 2026
17
WORK SESSION MEETING ITEMS OF DISCUSSION
Agreements with Lansing Historical Association, Friends of Salt Point, and Friends
of Lansing Center Trails:
The Town has never had agreements with the volunteer groups. This is to protect the
Town and the volunteers.
Representatives from Friends of Salt Point and Lansing Center Trails stated:
• They just received these agreements yesterday
• All volunteers
• Insurance is an issue – a “non-starter”
The volunteer groups and the Town Board need to talk about this. The Board agreed to
research the cost of covering these groups under the Town’s insurance versus the cost for
the groups to insure themselves before moving forward. The Town does want the
volunteer groups to continue to do their great work.
DRAFT – Proposed Local Law #3 of 2026 to Amend Town Code Chapter 80 –
Public Works Department and Organizational Chart
Councilperson Judy Drake spoke about this earlier in the meeting, after the school budget
presentation.
Rationale for change: Create efficiencies by sharing expensive equipment and labor
resources.
Councilperson Laurie Hemmings stated if equipment can be eliminated, save taxpayers
money and eliminate inefficiency that would be good.
Director of Parks and Recreation Pat Tyrrell stated the equipment has already been
purchased and his department is highly efficient and covers most of its own costs.
Clarification of roles: The Board clarified that while physical maintenance (digging
holes, mowing) supervision would move to the DPW, recreational programming, trail
management and park rentals would remain strictly under the Parks and Recreation
Department.
Board members agreed to meet with Parks and Recreation staff (one or two Board
members at a time) to hear their individual concerns before any further action is taken.
Councilperson Judy Drake stated she has no data or numbers showing inefficiencies.
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore stated roads and parks are both very important to the
Town residents and both will be taken care of even when emergencies occur.
Town Hall Meeting
The Town Board will have the first “Talk with the Town” on April 28, 2026, at
6:30 p.m., at the Town Hall Board Room. Supervisor Ruth Groff and Councilperson Judy
Drake will be present to have an informal discussion with the public.
MOTION TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION
Supervisor Ruth Groff moved to ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS
MEDICAL, FINANCIAL, CREDIT OR EMPLOYMENT HISTORY OF A
PARTICULAR PERSON/CORP, OR MATTERS LEADING TO SAID
DISMISSAL, REMOVAL, PROMOTION, APPOINTMENT, EMPLOYMENT,
DISCIPLINE, DEMOTION, OR SUSPENSION AT 9:11 PM.
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore seconded the motion.
All in Favor - 5 Opposed - 0
April 15, 2026
18
MOTION TO EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION
Councilperson Judy Drake moved to EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 9:47 PM.
Councilperson Christine Montague seconded the motion.
All in Favor - 5 Opposed - 0
MOTION TO ADJOURN MEETING
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore moved to ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 9:47 PM.
Councilperson Laurie Hemmings seconded the motion.
All in Favor - 5 Opposed - 0
Minutes taken and executed by the Town Clerk. Executive Session minutes were taken
by Guy Krogh, Town Counsel, and executed by the Town Clerk.
Respectfully submitted,
Deborah K. Munson, RMC
Town Clerk