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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-09-16 September 16, 2026 1 REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING September 16, 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 Jessica L. Hall, Deputy 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: Mary Ellen Albrecht, Bookkeeper, Nathaniel Rogers, Director of Planning, Mike Moseley, Director of Public Works/Highway Superintendent, Peter Meskill, John Duthie, Sabrina Johnston, Aimee Caffrey, Harold Mills, Joe Lovejoy, Lawrence McCann, Lisa McCann, Mark Zuss, Lisa Lincoln, Ken Wolken, Cheryl Chalmers and a few other attendees. PRESENTATION - INSERO 2025 DRAFT AUDIT – PATRICK JORDAN Patrick Jordan presented the 2025 Draft Audit for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025, to the Town Board. He provided Board members with the main audit reports, accompanying letters, and an executive summary. The presentation covered several key areas: 1. Audit Opinions & Results • Clean/Unmodified Financial Opinion: The main auditor’s report on the financial statements and supplementary information received an unmodified (clean) opinion, indicating compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) with no modifications. • Internal Control & Compliance: The report on internal control over financial reporting and compliance in accordance with Government Auditing Standards also received an unmodified opinion. • Management Comment Letter: Insero noted no concerns or issues. 2. Process & Required Communications • No Difficulties or Disagreements: The required communication letter confirmed there were no difficulties in performing the audit, no uncorrected misstatements, and no disagreements with management. • Smooth Audit Process: Town staff provided required information in advance, allowing fieldwork and sampling to run smoothly. • Actuarial Timing: The audit completion waited briefly on the actuarial report for OPEB (other post-employment health insurance benefits) obligations, which arrived about 10–14 days prior to the meeting and was incorporated into the final statements. • Accounting Standards: A minor GASB accounting standard was adopted, requiring a slight footnote disclosure but having no negative impact on the Town's financials. 3. Financial Snapshot & Fund Balances • Healthy Balances: The Town's fund balances as of December 31, 2025, met or exceeded the Town’s fund balance policies. • Fund Expenses: Insero made no major modifications to the figures provided by the Town. While one of the highway funds absorbed new expenses that caused its balance to drop during the year, overall financial health remained strong with no overarching concerns. September 16, 2026 2 4. Justice Court Audit • Insero conducted a separate audit of the Town Justice Court, presented in a short two-page letter. • There were no major findings or concerns, with only a routine administrative timing note regarding a monthly report not filed by the 10th of the month. 5. Next Steps to Finalize • A Board member pointed out a missing report date on page 3 of the draft document. Mr. Jordan clarified that once the Town Board formally accepts the audit by resolution, Insero will send a management representation letter for Town Supervisor Ruth Groff to sign and date, which will establish the final report date across all documents. Supervisor Ruth Groff stated a resolution will be included in the September 23, 2026 meeting to accept the 2025 Audit. 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 September 2026 NEW DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS BUILDING: • Construction of the new Department of Public Works building continues to move forward and is currently on budget. ROAD WORK AND MAINTENANCE: • Crews worked at multiple locations throughout the Town to assess and replace culvert pipes as needed. This work includes identifying failing or undersized pipes, removing existing culverts, installing new piping to improve drainage, and restoring the surrounding areas to ensure proper water flow and roadway stability. • Crews worked on replacing 2 pipes and reinforcing them around the outlet of the Lakewatch Drainage District. The pipes will be lined later this month. • The DPW paved Algerine Road to restore the roadway following flood damage. FLEET: • Town equipment is routinely serviced and maintained to ensure continued reliable operation. MS4: • 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. WATERMAIN PROJECT: • The Brickyard Road and Buck Road water main replacement is set to start on September 3rd. INTERMUNICIPAL: • The Town assisted the Village of Cayuga Heights with a water valve issue by utilizing the DPW's vac-truck to support investigation and repair efforts. • The DPW provided trucks and personnel to support the Tompkins County Highway Department with paving and milling operations. Additionally, Tompkins County Highway Department assisted the Town of Lansing by hauling gravel and assisting with roadway maintenance and improvement projects. September 16, 2026 3 SEWER • The DPW worked with T.G. Miller and NYSEG on new stand-alone generator for Farrell Road pump station. • Mike Moseley, Highway Superintendent/Director of Public Works, attended training for the new updated Xylem Sewer Monitor System. MONOPOLE • The DPW has been working with NYSEG on the monopole located at 10 Town Barn Road, coordinating the installation of roadway access, electrical service, fencing, and structural building reinforcements associated with the project. 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: • Bolton Point Commissioners Meeting: Oversees water quality, regulatory compliance, budgeting, infrastructure planning, operational issues, and coordination among member municipalities. • 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. • Town of Lansing Budget Meetings. PARKS AND RECREATION REPORT – PATRICK TYRRELL Submitted the following report to the Town Board and was provided as a handout. September 2026 Parks and Recreation Department Update Recreation Current & Upcoming Programs: • Youth Sports & Leagues: Lansing Watercats Swim Team, Hitcats Fall Travel Baseball, Girls Flag Football, Youth Football, Youth Cheerleading, Flag Football, Fall Soccer and GirlStrong. • Adult & Community Programs: Adult Strength & Stretch, Cardio-Step, and Morning YogaChi, Adult Co-Ed Volleyball. Program Highlights & Updates: • Fall Soccer: Has over 130 participants and 28 volunteer coaches. • Fall Athletics: Youth Football Boys and Girls are going very well. Please come out and support the teams and our cheerleaders on September 20th at Sobus Field. Games start at 10:30am, 12:30pm and 2:30pm. • Christopher Field Outfield fence: This will be replaced later this month due to wind damage sustained in July. • Cornell Club Softball: Will be using our field again this Fall. • FLX Soccer: Will be using the Town Barn Fields for practice this Fall. September 16, 2026 4 Parks It has been a busy month for Myers Park. • Samuel Ripley: We welcomed Samuel Ripley to the Lansing Parks and Recreation Department • Lighthouse 5K: Took place August 29th at Myers Park. Thank you to all who participated! • Veteran’s Watch Fire: This Friday September 18th at 7pm at Myers Park • Ageless Jazz Band (Aug. 13th) was our last concert of our Music in The Park series. • On September 12th, we hosted the Suicide Prevention walk at Myers Park, the turnout was great and for the first year we can remember it did not rain. • Connectivity Challenges are Ongoing: Spotty Wi-Fi service continues to impact park revenue, and weak cellular coverage within the park remains a primary concern for campers and staff. • Water Quality Monitoring: Our staff continue daily monitoring for Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs). • Tompkins County Soil & Water: Has a bus tour for TC legislators scheduled for September 18th, they will stop at Myers Park to learn more about the boat washing station. • Salt Point: Fall mowing has been completed as well as other landscaping projects. Trails • Hazard Mitigation: Crews cleared more standing dead ash trees to improve trail safety and fixed several washouts from rainstorms. • Easement Development: Preparations to begin work on the easements granted by Jack Young. • Routine Upkeep: Mowing, brush clearing, and general trail maintenance continue as scheduled. • Planning & Governance: The Trails Working Group review the second draft of the Master Plan last week. This will hopefully become final in October. • CAC meeting: I meet with the CAC on September 2 to discuss planning/maintenance of the Lansing Center Trail property. I also gave the committee some history of which they were unaware. Town Hall & Community Center Facilities • Town Hall HVAC & Site Restoration: One of the ERV controls has failed and Halco will be coming back to fix it. Some pipes in the basement are putting off heavy condensation, and it is dripping on our equipment. Field restoration still needs to be addressed; this has become an issue for our athletics. • Community Center HVAC: The AC units continue to experience weekly operational failures. • Groundskeeping: Katrina Binkewicz has been working hard on the landscaping around the Town Hall; she will be planting some mums this week. • Technology: Cybersecurity training requirement - Beginning January 1, 2027, as part of a new state law, all local government employees who use technology as part of their official job duties must complete annual cybersecurity awareness training. • Website: The new website is close to launch. I have sent it to Department Heads and Board Members for review. Recent Meetings & Interdepartmental Coordination • Department Head Meeting • Personnel Management Committee • Interdepartmental Coordination • Trails Working Group September 16, 2026 5 • Tompkins County Recreation Directors • Women Swimmin’ luncheon • Lansing Central School District (LCSD) – Administration & Transportation • Paddle-N-More collaboration • Friends of the Lansing Community Trail (FOLCT) • Friends of Salt Point (FOSP) • Halco Contracting – Facilities Troubleshooting • CAC meeting • Lansing Hitcats meeting • STYFC (football conference) meetings • CivicPlus – website • Meeting with multiple security camera vendors This summary highlights key operational activities and facility updates across the department. Please reach out directly if you have questions or would like to schedule an individual briefing. DIRECTOR OF PLANNING REPORT – NATHANIEL ROGERS 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. Planning & Code Enforcement September 2026 Report Zoning Code Update The Zoning Advisory Committee continues to work with consultants from Colliers Engineering to update the Town of Lansing’s Zoning Code. Members of the committee reviewed public comments and began discussing potential changes to the zoning map at meeting #5. More draft materials are anticipated to be ready in the near future, and two Zoning Advisory Committee meetings have been scheduled to discuss zoning districts, future potential map updates, and consultants draft documents. Planning Board Projects The following were heard at the August 24th Planning Board Meeting a. Project: Site Plan Amendment - 8-18 Verizon Lane Applicant: Bill Duthie, Owner Location: 8-18 Verizon Lane TPN 30.-1-16.32 Project Description: Requesting an amendment to the Site Plan Resolution passed for the proposed expansion of existing United Storage Complex. This project is located in the IR zoning district. SEQR: Type II Action - No further review is required. Anticipated Action: Consideration of requested amendment, Approved b. Project: Site Plan Review - 2037-A/B East Shore Drive Applicant: Christopher Perry Location: 2037-A/B East Shore Drive TPN 37.1-2-50 Project Description: Site Plan Review of proposed auto shop. This project is located in the B1 zoning district. SEQR: Type II Action - No further review is required. Anticipated Action: Public Hearing, SEQR, Approved c. Project: Minor Subdivision - 126 Scofield Road Applicant: James Robertson Location: 126 Scofield Road TPN 38.-1-6.5 Project Description: Minor Subdivision of 126 Scofield Road (5 ac) to create Parcel A (2.24 ac) and Parcel B (2.76 ac). This project is located in the R3 zoning district. SEQR: Unlisted/Uncoordinated Action September 16, 2026 6 Anticipated Action: Sketch Review, Set Public Hearing, SEQR d. Project: Site Plan Review - 18 Eastlake Road Applicant: David Johnson, Owner Location: 18 Eastlake Road TPN 42.-1-54.1 Project Description: Site Plan Review of proposed expansion of a recreational facility. This project is located in the R1 Residential Low-Density District. SEQR: Unlisted/Uncoordinated Action Anticipated Action: Consideration of proposed site plan, SEQR e. Project: Site Plan Review - 339 Jerry Smith Road Applicant: Melissa Aucompaugh, Environmental Design Partnership Representative Location: 339 Jerry Smith Road TPN 16.-1-10.2 Project Description: Site Plan Review of proposed large scale battery energy storage facility. This project is located in the AG zoning district. SEQR: Unlisted Action Anticipated Action: Consideration of proposed site plan, SEQR f. Project: Major Subdivision - 0 North Triphammer Road Applicant: Wayne Britton Location: 0 North Triphammer Road TPN 37.1-4-2.12 Project Description: Major Subdivision of 0 North Triphammer Road (9.7 ac) to create 12 lots; “Lot 1” (27,115.4 - square feet), “Lot 2” (29,688.7 - square feet), “Lot 3” (36,739.9 - square feet), “Lot 4” (35,759.3 - square feet), “Lot 5” (33,455.7 - square feet), “Lot 6” (33,529.6 - square feet), “Lot 7” (40,268.0 - square feet), “Lot 8” (29,818.1 - square feet), “Lot 9” (35,353.8 - square feet), “Lot 10” (25015.0 - square feet), “Stormwater Lot (Dedicated)” (13,310.4 - square feet), “Stormwater Lot (Dedicated)” (17,715.1 - square feet). This project is located in the R1 zoning district. SEQR: Unlisted/Uncoordinated Action Anticipated Action: Consideration of proposed subdivision g. Project: Site Plan Review - 430 Peruville Road Applicant: Scott Gibson Location: 430 Peruville Road TPN 30.-1-28.212 Project Description: Site Plan Review of existing contractors’ yard. This project is located in the AG zoning district. SEQR: Undetermined - More information is required Anticipated Action: Sketch Plan Conference h. Project: Request for Immunity - 10 Town Barn Road Applicant: Town of Lansing Location: 10 Town Barn Road TPN 30.-1-16.12 Project Description: Request for Immunity from review for proposed subdivision of Town lands. The Town intends to subdivide the Town Barn parcel so that additional water meters can be installed. SEQR: Type II Action - No further review is required. Anticipated Action: Consideration of proposed request for immunity. Zoning Board of Appeals Projects The following were heard at the August 12th Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting a. Project: 9 ½ Ladoga Park Rd - Area Variance Applicant: Kristin Bartholomew Location: 9 ½ Ladoga Park Rd, TPN 34.-1-25 Project Description: The applicant has applied for an Area Variance to construct a 20’ by 24’ garage and needs relief from Town of Lansing Zoning Law § 270-11, Schedule II: Area, Frontage, Yard, Height, and Coverage Requirements for a side yard setback of 2’ where 10’ is required from the property line on the western side of the parcel and a side yard setback of 0’ where 10' is required from the railroad right of way on the eastern side September 16, 2026 7 of the parcel. This project is located in the L1 Lakeshore zoning district. SEQR: This project is a Type II action Anticipated Action: Complete Public Hearing, issue conditions & approval Code Enforcement Data August 2026 August Year To Date Fees Collected $7,496.80 $56,703.10 Estimated Project Cost $1,160,503.64 $7,352,457.64 Building Permits 27 165 Certificates of Occupancy 11 130 New One- & Two-Family Residences 2 11 New Multi-Family Residences 0 1 New Businesses 0 0 Nathaniel also shared the dates of the upcoming ZAC meetings to be September 30th and October 7th from 3 to 6 pm. 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 SEPTEMBER 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 5. The Library has an Empire Pass and pass to the Museum of the Earth available for check out. Board games, puzzles, story time kits, and STEAM kits are also available. 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, donations are now being accepted. 9. Story time returns! Thursdays at 10:30, 9/10, 9/17, 9/24 10. The Friends hosted a successful Cookie Contest on Sunday August 30th. 11. The Lansing Community Co-Working Club will be meeting Mondays (11:30-3:30) at the Library and Wednesdays at the Community Center. This is an opportunity for remote workers to connect. 12. There will be an art workshop “The Art of Light: Chinese Lantern Painting and Asian Lantern Festivals” on 9/19, 10:30-12:30 registration required. September 16, 2026 8 13. Book Club will meet 9/15, 7-8 pm to discuss “The Measure” by Nikki Erlick. LANSING YOUTH SERVICES REPORT – RICK ALVORD No report. TOMPKINS COUNTY LEGISLATOR REPORT – MIKE SIGLER Submitted the following report to the Town Board and was provided as a handout. Tompkins County Legislator Michael Sigler September 2026 I’m sorry I won’t be able to be with you tonight. I’m paying an overdue visit to my father out of state. I’ll be zooming into my various meetings but couldn’t do that here. Early this month, County Administrator Korsah Akumfi presented the 2027 Recommended Budget to the Tompkins County Legislature. The proposal represents the starting point for the Legislature’s review and deliberation which we’ve been meeting for over the past few weeks and will continue with. The Recommended Budget totals approximately $307.8 million across all County funds. Of that, approximately $270.9 million is in the General Fund, the County’s primary operating fund. The Recommended Budget proposes a $63.7 million property tax levy, an increase of approximately 11.96% from the 2026 adopted levy of $56.9 million. The Administrator initially recommended a $65.3 million levy, using $1.6 million from the County’s Tax Stabilization Reserve to reduce the amount to be raised through property taxes to $63.7 million. The proposed County property tax rate is $5.44 per $1,000 of taxable assessed value, compared with $4.90 in 2026. For a home assessed at the county’s median single-family home value of $290,000, the Recommended Budget would result in an estimated $168 increase in the annual County property tax bill. For commercial property assessed at the median value of $460,000, the increase is estimated at $250. We’re seeing rising employee benefit costs. The cost of maintaining the County’s existing workforce is also increasing substantially. Health insurance costs are projected to increase by 16% to 18% in 2027, following an 18% increase in 2026. The recommended budget includes 844 full-time equivalent positions, 13 fewer than this year. The state has introduced some new mandates that it feels should be put on the property tax. There is approximately $546,000 in increased childcare costs. The County also estimates an increase of nearly $500,000 for court-ordered psychiatric evaluations and related services. We’ve started the Expanded Budget Committee meetings. We hear directly from County departments and funded community agencies, ask questions about services and funding requests, review recommendations made by the County Administrator, and consider potential changes to the budget. The County Legislature was presented the minimum wage study it commissioned earlier this year. The study found the cost of meeting basic needs for a single adult living in Tompkins County has reached $25.08 an hour, according to the 2026 Tompkins County Living Wage Study produced by researchers at Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations. The figure represents a modest 1% increase from last year’s $24.82, a sharp contrast to the 34.5% increase recorded between 2023 and 2025. September 16, 2026 9 The study calculates that a full-time worker earning the living wage would need to make about $52,170 annually, assuming 2,080 hours of work. Housing remains the largest expense in the calculation, although the estimated monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment fell slightly, from $1,489 in 2025 to $1,466 in 2026. Food, transportation, health insurance and other household expenses make up the remainder of the budget. Despite the relatively small increase this year, the report highlights how quickly the cost of living has risen. From 2020 to 2025, the calculated living wage jumped 58%, from $15.74 to $24.82 an hour. During the same period, the state minimum wage increased 31%, while average weekly wages rose about 19%. The current upstate New York minimum wage is $16 an hour. The study estimates that 49.7% of Tompkins County wage earners — about 23,725 people — make less than $25.08 an hour. Among workers considered likely to be full- time, the figure is 45.2%. The report also finds significant differences by race and age, with younger workers substantially more likely to earn below the living-wage threshold. Childcare is not included in the $25.08 calculation. The researchers separately estimated annual childcare costs at approximately $29,400 for an infant, $25,800 for a toddler and $23,500 for a preschooler, underscoring the additional financial challenge facing working parents. The County will now decide how to use this information. The study can be found here: https://www.tcworkerscenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Tompkins-County-Living- Wage-2026-final-1.pdf Coming up this weekend, The Tompkins County Departments of Emergency Response and Whole Health are again partnering with the Ithaca Tompkins International Airport for the 2026 Airport Day & Preparedness Expo – A Community Celebration on Saturday, September 19th from 7am to 1pm. The day will start with the annual Runway 5k and East Hill Flying Club Pancake Breakfast, followed by a variety of activities, informational displays, health screenings, and a County employee-sponsored Red Cross community blood drive. More than 30 agencies and organizations will be participating, including local law enforcement and fire companies, Emergency Medical Services, the Ithaca Salvation Army, Cayuga Health Systems, Guthrie, and the National Weather Service Binghamton Office. There will be a pancake breakfast from 7 am to 1 pm. I wanted to thank everyone who was involved in the Lansing Parade and Carnival this past weekend. It was a lot of fun and great to see so many folks come out. In closing, I’d be remiss to not note the closing of a Lansing staple and a business that has attracted many into Lansing, Scoops. Scoops is the home to two of my daughters’ first jobs with one working there for six years. They served their last cone last week and they will be missed. CONSENT AGENDA a) MOTION TO ACCEPT DONATIONS IN MEMORY OF JACK MORSE FOR THE LANSING BASEBALL PROGRAM (LBP) MOTION M26-17 MOTION TO ACCEPT DONATIONS IN MEMORY OF JACK MORSE FOR THE LANSING BASEBALL PROGRAM (LBP) Motion to accept all donations received in memory of Jack Morse to be put toward the Lansing Baseball Program (LBP). b) MOTION AUTHORIZING TOWN OF LANSING SUPERVISOR TO SIGN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT FOR THE PROVISION OF ENDPOINT PROTECTION AND RESPONSE SERVICES (PHASE II) September 16, 2026 10 MOTION M26-18 MOTION AUTHORIZING TOWN OF LANSING SUPERVISOR TO SIGN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT FOR THE PROVISION OF ENDPOINT PROTECTION AND RESPONSE SERVICES (PHASE II) Motion to authorize Town of Lansing Supervisor to sign an Intergovernmental Agreement for The Provision of Endpoint Protection and Response Services (Phase II) between the Town of Lansing and New York State Office of Information Technology Services and the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. c) RESOLUTION APPROVING ESTABLISHMENT OF THE OFFICE STAFF CLASSIFICATION WAGE SCALE FOR 2027 RESOLUTION 26-109 RESOLUTION APPROVING ESTABLISHMENT OF THE OFFICE STAFF CLASSIFICATION WAGE SCALE FOR 2027 The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board: WHEREAS, in 2025 the Personnel and Management Committee created a classification system for all positions not in the Field Staff Classification System and created the Office Staff Classification System and Wage Scale; and WHEREAS, the wage scale is designed to be adjusted annually with a cost -of-living adjustment which should be established annually in August in conjunction with the next year budget creation; and WHEREAS, the proposed cost of living adjustment for 2027 is at 3.0%, to match that established in the Lansing Highway Association Collective Bargaining agreement for 2027; now therefore be it RESOLVED that the Town of Lansing Town Board hereby approves the establishment of the Town of Lansing Office Staff Classification Wage Scale for 2027 at a 3.0% cost of living adjustment. d) RESOLUTION TO AMEND RESOLUTION #25-148 TO CORRECT CLERICAL ERROR RESOLUTION 26-110 RESOLUTION TO AMEND RESOLUTION #25-148 TO CORRECT CLERICAL ERROR The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board: WHEREAS, the Highway Superintendent/Director of Public Works is requesting an amendment to Resolution #25-148 due to a clerical error; and WHEREAS, as a result of the clerical error in Resolution #25-148, the amount of $12,740.05 was not transferred to account DB5110.200R, because no such account exists; and WHEREAS, because account DB5110.200R does not exist, the $12,740.05 was moved to fund balance account DB909 at the close of fiscal year 2025; and WHEREAS, the $12,740.05 is needed to pay for equipment previously approved for purchase under Resolution #25-148; and September 16, 2026 11 WHEREAS, the Highway Superintendent/Director of Public Works requests to transfer $12,740.05 from fund balance account DB909 to account DB5110.200; now, therefore, the Town Board has hereby RESOLVED, that the proposed amendment to Resolution #25-148 is hereby approved, authorizing the transfer of $12,740.05 from account DB909 to account DB5110.200. e) RESOLUTION APPROVING CIVICPLUS NEXTREQUEST STATEMENT OF WORK FOR PUBLIC RECORDS REQUEST SOFTWARE RESOLUTION 26-111 RESOLUTION APPROVING CIVICPLUS NEXTREQUEST STATEMENT OF WORK FOR PUBLIC RECORDS REQUEST SOFTWARE The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board: WHEREAS, the Deputy Town Clerk has examined purchasing software to assist with public record requests (FOIL) and a platform that allows for a resident facing public portal, workflows and automation, review and bulk redaction, tracking and reporting, IT and compliance, and support; and WHEREAS, this matter is excepted from procurement and public bidding rules and requirements by virtue of being a goods and services acquisition with a gross value under $20,000 and meeting the exceptions of General Municipal Law § 103 and Town Procurement Policy sections V(i) (specialized or professional services) and V(iv) (specialized computer services); and WHEREAS, CivicPlus NextRequest, is the selected provider and has submitted to the Town its Statement of Work Quote #Q-150370-1, which includes one-time standard implementation fee and recurring services, and the Public Records Request Software (NextRequest) Terms have been reviewed by the Town Attorney; and WHEREAS, the cost for the initial term (9/21/26-12/31/27) which includes implementation (8-12 weeks) will be invoiced as follows: $3,391.59 at time of signing, and $8,091 on January 1, 2027; and WHEREAS, the Town Clerk has sufficient funds to pay the $3,391.59 for 2026 and the Town Clerk has budgeted funds in 2027 to cover the $8,091 and, upon deliberation thereupon the Statement of Work is approved, and therefore be it RESOLVED, that the Town Board approves such purchase of CivicPlus NextRequest software, and the Town Supervisor be and hereby is authorized to execute such Statement of Work and related documents by, for, and in the name of the Town of Lansing. f) RESOLUTION APPROVING AUDIT RESOLUTION 26-112 RESOLUTION APPROVING AUDIT The bills were reviewed by Councilperson Joseph Wetmore and Councilperson Judy Drake. The Bookkeeper or the Accountant is hereby authorized to pay the following bills. CONSOLIDATED ABSTRACT # 009 September 16, 2026 12 CONSENT AGENDA MOTIONS M26-17 – M26-18 AND RESOLUTIONS 26-109 – 26-112 RESOLUTION 26-113 CONSENT AGENDA MOTIONS M26-17 – M26-18 AND RESOLUTIONS 26-109 – 26-112 WHEREAS, upon due deliberation thereupon, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing has hereby RESOLVED, that the Consent Agenda Motions M26-17 – M26-18 and Resolutions 26-109 – 26-112, are hereby approved as presented. The question of the adoption of such proposed Consent Agenda Motions and Resolutions were duly motioned by Councilperson Joe 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 Motions and Resolutions were approved, carried, and duly adopted on September 16, 2026. RESOLUTION ACCEPTING DEDICATION OF EXTENSION OF VERIZON LANE AT THE TERMINUS THEREOF FOR HIGHWAY PURPOSES Town Board tabled the Resolution below without taking a vote. Councilperson Joseph Wetmore raised strong concerns regarding a long-term lease held by Verizon over the property area. He is worried the Town might not be receiving clean title which could create future liability or legal disputes down the road. He insisted before taking title, the Town should receive a formal letter from Verizon Legal confirming no objections or get a sign-off from Town Counsel Guy Krogh. Director of Planning Nathaniel Rogers explained the parcels at 6 and 8-18 Verizon Lane were historically treated as separate parcels at the County level but were never legally subdivided at the Town level. He also noted that the road segment at the terminus was September 16, 2026 13 previously built by the Town, and to Town highway standard on private land. Timeline for a letter from Verizon Lane could be several months. Applicant representative John Duthie clarified the lease is not long-term and is renegotiated every five years. He noted as property owner, he retains ownership of the right-of-way, which grants that right to any successor(s). It remains a right-of-way regardless of ownership. Councilperson Judy Drake inquired if tabling this matter would delay anything for the applicant. Director of Planning Nathaniel Rogers noted that tabling does not hold up building permits or site approval for the parcels. The Town Board agreed to put the resolution on hold for one month to allow Town Counsel to thoroughly review and provide a sign-off. RESOLUTION 26- RESOLUTION ACCEPTING DEDICATION OF EXTENSION OF VERIZON LANE AT THE TERMINUS THEREOF FOR HIGHWAY PURPOSES The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board: WHEREAS, as part of a recent subdivision along Verizon Lane separating the Verizon lot and building from the United Storage business park parcels, which subdivision and related reviews (including by the Planning Board), identified a need for fire lane and highway improvements, including along Verizon Lane; and WHEREAS, the owner of the land, United Storage TBR, LLC, has offered to dedicate the gore of land needed to expand and slightly extend Verizon Lane in accordance with the approved subdivision plat and approval conditions set forth by the Planning Board, being a gore of land approximately 5,190 square feet in total, as shown upon the final approved subdivision plat as approved and on file at the Tompkins County Clerks’ Office (Instr. No. 2026-07784); and WHEREAS, the Town Director of Public Works/Highway Superintendent has approved the proposed addition and extension of Verizon Lane, and this matter is a Type II SEQRA Action pursuant to 6 NYCRR 617.5 such that no further environmental review is required so, upon deliberation thereupon, the Town Board has duly RESOLVED, that the Town hereby accepts the proffer of dedication of highway lands as set forth in the offer letter and proposed deed, and the Town Supervisor be and hereby is authorized to execute such instruments as are necessary or convenient to the filing of such deed to effect such dedication. The question of the adoption of such Resolution was duly motioned by Councilperson Judy Drake, duly seconded by Councilperson Christine Montague. Town Board discussed the Resolution above and tabled it without taking a vote. 2027 TENTATIVE BUDGET PRESENTATION BY DEPUTY TOWN CLERK Deputy Town Clerk Jessica Hall presented the Tentative 2027 Town of Lansing Budget to the Town Board. Hard copies of the Budget were handed to Town Board Members, and the Supervisors Office will e-mail Budget to Town Board. Deputy Town Clerk Jessica Hall reviewed the Budget schedule: • Town Board Budget Meeting September 23, 2026 o Town Board reviews, modifies and puts changes in writing • Town Board Meeting October 21, 2026 o Resolution to approve changes o Tentative Budget moves to Preliminary Budget September 16, 2026 14 • Town Board Meeting November 4, 2026 o Budget public hearing o Final budget approval PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR – COMMENTS The public comments focused entirely on opposition to the proposed AI data center and the limitations of Governor Hochul’s Executive Order 62 (EO62). • Expressed appreciation for the pause provided by EO62 but argued its proposed community investment framework lacks binding requirements to make developers deliver. • Highlighted broken promises from the developer’s project in Somerset, NY. • Stated the facility’s excessive electricity consumption is unacceptable. • Raised concerns about how the facility would impact the lakes ecosystem, air quality, wildlife and the local electrical grid, calling on Board to fully evaluate all risks. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS Judy Drake Reported the following: Lansing Fire Department The department has filed their proposed budget with the Town, and a copy is on file with the Town Clerk. A public hearing is scheduled for mid-October. Deputy Town Clerk Jessica Hall stated the Fire Department budget will be posted on the Town’s website once the required legal timeframe for posting opens. Laurie Hemmings No report. Christine Montague 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. Christine Montague Town Board Member Report September 2026 Lansing Housing Authority, August 24 - The new community manager for Woodsedge started with an ice cream social and coffee hour. - The maintenance supervisor will help the residents test their medical alert devices. He has also ordered two sets of cabinets to begin replacing them as people move out. Walk-in showers will only be installed when reasonable accommodations are submitted. He is also working on upgrading the WIFI. Conservation Advisory Council, Sept 2 - After the CAC held its BioBlitz at the Lansing Center Trail, the group discussed a plan for protecting the native species and biodiversity that was found there, and whether habitat management or maintenance are the goals. Another question would be whether they should work toward habitat for many different animals. The amount of time and money to invest in it would depend on the plans for building in the Town Center. They will look at the plan developed for the Salt Point natural area and model one on that, focusing on short term maintenance until Town Center ideas evolve. Actually setting aside the land to preserve it from development might necessitate a conservation easement. They will work with Parks and Recreation, September 16, 2026 15 the Friends of the Lansing Center Trails, and NYSEG, which donates their time with large equipment to clear invasive bushes, to develop the plan. Parks and Recreation mows some sections every year, and others will be mowed every three years to allow some animal habitat. Joseph Wetmore 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. Joseph Wetmore Town Board Member Report September 2026 Planning Board Monday, August 24⋅6:30 – 8:30pm * The Planning Board reviewed a Site Plan Amendment for 8-18 Verizon Lane (TPN 30.- 1-16.32), submitted by property owner Bill Duthie, for the proposed expansion of the existing United Storage Complex in the IR zoning district. John Duthie was present to discuss the amendment. The project was classified as a Type II action under SEQR, requiring no further environmental review. Following discussion, the Board approved the requested amendment. * The Planning Board reviewed a Site Plan Review application for 2037-A/B East Shore Drive (TPN 37.1-2-50), submitted by Christopher Perry, for a proposed auto shop in the B1 zoning district. Mr. Perry was present to discuss the project. The proposed use is consistent with the former auto shop use at the property, with no changes proposed; the business will provide automotive repair services, including transmission repair and replacement. The project was classified as a Type II action under SEQR, requiring no further environmental review. Following discussion, the Board approved the project. * The Planning Board reviewed a Minor Subdivision application for 126 Scofield Road (TPN 38.-1-6.5), submitted by James Robertson. The proposal would subdivide the existing 5-acre parcel into Parcel A (2.24 acres) and Parcel B (2.76 acres), creating a flag lot, in the R3 zoning district. Mr. Robertson was present to discuss the project. The Board reviewed the sketch plan and scheduled a public hearing for the next meeting. The project was classified as an Unlisted/Uncoordinated Action under SEQR. * The Planning Board reviewed a Site Plan Review application for 18 Eastlake Road (TPN 42.-1-54.1), submitted by property owner David Johnson, for the proposed expansion of a recreational facility in the R1 Residential Low-Density District. Mr. Johnson was present to discuss the project, including the proposed two-story addition, lounges for the tennis/pickleball and axe-throwing areas, storage shed, enclosed lattice, vending, and the proposed phases of work. The Board also discussed the existing recreational facility and the size of the proposed addition. The project was classified as an Unlisted/Uncoordinated Action under SEQR. The Board scheduled a public hearing for the next meeting. * The Planning Board reviewed a Site Plan Review application for 339 Jerry Smith Road (TPN 16.-1-10.2), submitted by Melissa Aucompaugh of Environmental Design Partnership, for a proposed large-scale battery energy storage facility in the AG zoning district. Ryan McCune was present to discuss the project. The Board discussed coordination with the Fire Department, the IDA, a potential Host Community Agreement, noise, transformers, construction and installation timing, emergency response and fire truck access, GML 239 review, and SEQR lead agency requirements and conditions. * The Planning Board considered the Town of Lansing’s request for immunity from review for the proposed subdivision of Town-owned lands at 10 Town Barn Road (TPN 30.-1-16.12). The subdivision is intended to allow for the installation of additional water meters. The project was classified as a Type II action under SEQR, requiring no further environmental review. Following discussion, the Board approved the request for immunity. September 16, 2026 16 Zoning Advisory Committee Meeting #5 Wednesday, August 26⋅3:00 – 5:00pm • Colliers prepared a draft survey summary, which the Committee reviewed and provided comments on. • The Committee discussed a timeline for the next steps. • The Committee scheduled a meeting for September 30 to review the draft zoning maps and categories before meeting with Colliers. Parks, Recreation, and Trails Working Group Thursday, September 10⋅9:00 – 10:00am Comprehensive Master Plan – reviewed draft The Health of Our Lakes: Science, Threats, and Solutions Friday, September 11⋅9:30am – 4:30pm See attached report – (Report is available in the Town Clerk’s Office) Ruth Groff No report. WORK SESSION MEETING ITEMS OF DISCUSSION Statement about Governor Hochul’s Executive Order Statement to Introduce Public Input Session for Town’s Options in Light of EO 62 – Read by Supervisor Ruth Groff at Town Board Meeting on 9/16/26 On July 14, 2026, Governor Kathy Hochul signed Executive Order 62 Establishing a Temporary Moratorium on Data Centers in New York while the State Develops Higher Standards for Data Center Development and Benefits Blueprint to Support Localities (“EO 62”). Since the issuance of EO 62, the Town Board has been working to understand what it means for the Town of Lansing. EO 62 creates significant uncertainty and confusion for local governments because its directives are aimed at State agencies and not local governments. As a result, the Town Board intends to begin consideration of several options for Town Board action in light of EO 62. To assist in the Town Board’s consideration, the Town will be holding a public input session on September 29, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at the Lansing Middle School auditorium. Overview of EO 62’s Requirements EO 62 defines a data center as “a facility or group of facilities located on the same or contiguous sites used to house computer servers, associated components, or computing or telecommunications equipment for the storage, processing, distribution, and/or management of data.” EO 62 does not directly impact local reviews and approvals, specifically stating “[t]his provision does not apply to permits, approvals, licenses, or similar forms of permission from local governments.” That means the Town does not get a reprieve from reviewing any data center applications during the EO 62-imposed moratorium. Rather, EO 62 indirectly impacts the Town through the requirements it imposes on multiple State agencies, and the resulting uncertainty of how the State agencies will resolve those directives. The Town anticipates that specific directives within EO 62 will affect the Town’s potential review of any proposed data centers. EO 62 directs the Department of Public Service (“DPS”) to examine the impacts associated with the interconnection of data centers to the electric distribution network. It directs DPS to create a General Environmental Impact Statement (“GEIS”) in accordance with the State Environmental Quality Review Act (“SEQRA”) to assess the potential environmental impacts of the construction and operation of data centers in New York, including energy demand, water use and quality, air quality, disproportionate impacts on September 16, 2026 17 disadvantaged communities, and noise levels. DPS is required to submit a report of a Final GEIS (“Final GEIS”) and findings statement. Until DPS submits its Final GEIS, EO 62 prohibits DEC from issuing discretionary permits, approvals, licenses, and similar authorizations related to the construction or expansion of data centers 50 megawatts or more in size. This prohibition does not apply to “a facility that is primarily used for manufacturing, research (including but not limited to quantum computing research or biomedical research), education (including but not limited to such facilities used by accredited colleges and universities in New York State, to the extent such colleges and universities are engaging in academic research, and the Empire AI consortium, or the institute, as defined in section three hundred sixty-one of the Economic Development Law), or the provision of medical care, is not covered by this definition and thus not subject to this Executive Order.” Notably, EO 62’s moratorium on discretionary permits only applies to DEC, which raises questions for the Town on whether permitting or review processes with other State agencies will be business as usual or not, meaning that the potential ripple effect of the moratorium on discretionary DEC permits could cause additional complications for the Town. EO 62 also directs DEC to create a report analyzing whether any new or amended policies should be implemented regarding water withdrawal program requirements for large use customers, including data centers. EO 62 directs Empire State Development to create a Community Investment Framework to “assist localities across New York in analyzing and attaining local economic benefits and mitigating potential negative effects of serving as a host community for a data center.” The framework is to include guidance regarding negotiations with data centers related to (1) creation and maintenance of a community investment fund; (2) investments in local infrastructure; (3) frameworks for providing organized labor a seat at the table; and (4) transparency through reporting requirements. Uncertainty for the Town The outstanding GEIS, the moratorium on DEC permitting, and the outstanding Community Investment Framework create significant uncertainty for the Town. This is because even if a project receives local approvals, it cannot receive discretionary DEC permits until the moratorium ends. The list of discretionary permits a facility may require will vary with the location and design of the project, among other factors. Under applicable State and local laws, a data center developer likely cannot commence construction without required discretionary permits regardless of the specific permits. This raises concerns for the Town that it could incur the expense of reviewing a proposed application, and then the project will sit idle until DEC may or may not issue discretionary permits. The outstanding GEIS creates additional uncertainty for the Town’s review of any project subject to EO 62. The GEIS may include recommendations for the construction and operation of data centers, which raises several questions for the Town including: • How will DEC’s involvement in a project-specific environmental review be affected by the outstanding EO 62 GEIS? • Will any recommendations in the GEIS and associated findings be implemented solely at the State level or will the recommendations extend to municipal reviews? • If the Town has completed its review of a potential project, will the Town be able to implement any recommendations? • If the Town has completed its review of a potential project and the GEIS and associated findings require changes to the project, how will it impact the Town’s review and authority? Until the Town’s questions are answered, there is a risk that the Town will expend significant resources to complete work that may ultimately be displaced by the State’s review and findings. The Town is not the only one facing this uncertainty with data centers. Since the start of 2026, nearly forty New York State municipalities have adopted local laws September 16, 2026 18 implementing moratoria on data centers. Others have implemented bans on data centers. And others have done nothing. In light of the considerable uncertainty before the Town, the Board must consider what action, if any, is in the best interests of the Town moving forward. The public input session will help inform the Town Board’s decision. Determine Interview Committees for Board/Committee Vacancies Application Timeline & Process • Applications for vacancies are open through October 15th. • Once application window closes, they will be distributed to the interview committees with the goal of bringing final recommendations to the Town Board by the December meeting. Interview Committee Assignments The following Town Board assignments were determined. • Planning Board – Laurie Hemmings and Joseph Wetmore • Zoning Board of Appeals – Judy Drake and Christine Montague • Conservation Advisory Council – Ruth Groff and Christine Montague • Board of Ethics – Laurie Hemmings and Judy Drake Board of Ethics (BoE) Recommendations Discussion surrounding the Board of Ethics recommendations presented by Jamie Ferris, Chair of the BoE, which outlines three specific recommendations for the Town Board to address. 1. Mandatory Ethics Training a. Need to define what problem the training is trying to solve before determining who should attend. b. Bookkeeper Mary Ellen Albrecht was asked to check what webinars or modules are available through PERMA for ethics. 2. Public Guidelines and Forms for Ethics Complaints a. BoE has received public complaints regarding issues outside its legal jurisdiction. They recommend establishing clear public guidelines, so residents understand what qualifies as an ethics issue before filing. b. Suggested creating online form(s) requiring users to acknowledge and answer questions. c. Propose creating a separate form for advisory opinions, making it easy for Town officials, Board members and staff to request guidance. 3. Policy on Outstanding Disclosure Forms a. A few have failed to return their required annual disclosure forms on time. b. BoE requests a formal policy be established with explicit timelines and clear standardized consequences for non-compliance. The Town Board agreed to refer these items back to the Board of Ethics, requesting they draft specific proposals, complaint guidelines and enforcement policies for the Town Board review. Supervisor Ruth Groff will communicate with Jamie Ferris, Board of Ethics Chairperson. MOTION TO ADJOURN MEETING Supervisor Ruth Groff moved to ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:55 PM. Councilperson Joe Wetmore seconded the motion. All in Favor – 5 Opposed – 0 Minutes taken and executed by the Deputy Town Clerk. September 16, 2026 19 Respectfully submitted, Jessica L. Hall Deputy Town Clerk