HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-09-20
September 20, 2023
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REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING
September 20, 2023
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
6:32 p.m. The meeting was called to order by Edward LaVigne, 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:
Andra Benson, Councilperson Ruth Groff, Councilperson
Bronwyn Losey, Councilperson Joseph Wetmore, Councilperson
Edward LaVigne, Supervisor
ABSENT: No one absent
ALSO PRESENT: Mike Moseley, Highway Superintendent, Patrick Tyrrell, Parks and
Recreation Supervisor, Mary Ellen Albrecht, Bookkeeper, Jennifer Schenck, Information
Aide, John Zepko, Director of Planning, Connie Wilcox, Lansing Agriculture and
Farmland Protection Committee Chairperson, Serenna McCloud and John Dennis,
Cayuga Lake Environmental Action Now, Lawrence Fabroni, Dennis Griffin, Larry
Beck, James Dill and a few other attendees.
MOTION TO OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR PROPOSED LEAD
AGENCY AND SUBDIVISION FOR 39 VILLAGE CIRCLE (TAX MAP # 39.-1-
38.2) – LUCENTE HOMES LLC
Councilperson Andra Benson, moved to OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR
PROPOSED LEAD AGENCY AND SUBDIVISION FOR 39 VILLAGE CIRCLE
(TAX MAP # 39.-1-38.2) – LUCENTE HOMES LLC at 6:33 pm.
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore seconded the motion.
All in Favor – 5 Opposed – 0
Lawrence Fabroni, Engineer and Surveyor, for Mrs. Lucente, described the three (3) lot
subdivision.
MOTION TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING
All persons desiring to be heard, having been heard, Councilperson Joseph Wetmore,
moved to CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR PROPOSED LEAD AGENCY
AND SUBDIVISION FOR 39 VILLAGE CIRCLE (TAX MAP # 39.-1-38.2) –
LUCENTE HOMES LLC at 6:36 pm.
Councilperson Ruth Groff seconded the motion.
All in Favor – 5 Opposed – 0
RESOLUTION GRANTING SUBDIVISION APPROVAL FOR VILLAGE
CIRCLE VILLAGE SOLAR PDA (LUCENTE HOMES LLC) PER PRIOR
APPROVALS AND AUTHORIZING SEALING OF SUCH PLAT OR MAP PER
LANSING TOWN CODE § 270-67V
RESOLUTION 23-113
RESOLUTION GRANTING SUBDIVISION APPROVAL FOR VILLAGE
CIRCLE VILLAGE SOLAR PDA (LUCENTE HOMES LLC) PER PRIOR
APPROVALS AND AUTHORIZING SEALING OF SUCH PLAT OR MAP PER
LANSING TOWN CODE § 270-67V
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, the Town received an Application for Review and Approval of Subdivision
from Mark Lesselroth, agent for Lucente Homes, to subdivide a 1.52-acre lot from parcel
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39.-1-38.2, within the Village Circle Village Solar PDA #1, under the provisions of Town
Code § 270-67V:
The developer may subdivide (and rejoin or consolidate) the PDA parcel into
separate or differing tax parcels to assist in the delineation of project phasing, tax
management issues, and financing for project development. In each such case,
suitable cross easements shall be implied, required, and provided for access and
common use of project facilities, and such proposed subdivision and line locations
shall be subject to review and approval by the Town Board. Once approved by the
Town Board, the Town Code Enforcement Officer may seal such map for filing
with or delivery to the County Clerk or Assessor's office; and
WHEREAS, an environmental review was already conducted upon this proposal on 12
September 2022, and as the existing approvals and negative declarations already
considered any potential adverse environmental effects of this approval, and as the
passage of time and lack of changes in the proposal and final development plan do not
create any risk of new environmental impacts not previously considered, the Town Board
reaffirms the findings and negative declaration issued in Planning Board Resolution #22-
13 and has determined that no supplemental environmental review is required; and
WHEREAS, upon a review and in consideration of the phased subdivision mapping
submitted in furtherance of the existing approved PDA plan and approval; and
Now Therefore Be it RESOLVED, that the proposed phasing and subdivision plat or
map as submitted be and hereby is approved, and the Town's Code Enforcement Officer
be and hereby is authorized to seal and certify such proposed subdivision and lot line
maps for filing with or delivery to the County Clerk and County Assessor's Office for
approval and filing.
The question of the adoption of such proposed Resolution was duly motioned by
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore, duly seconded by Councilperson Ruth Groff, and put to
a roll call vote with the following results:
Councilperson Andra Benson – Aye Councilperson Ruth Groff – Aye
Councilperson Bronwyn Losey – Aye Councilperson Joseph Wetmore – Aye
Supervisor Edward LaVigne – Aye
Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on
September 20, 2023.
CAYUGA LAKE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION NOW (CLEAN)
PRESENTATION – JOHN DENNIS AND SERENNA MCCLOUD
John and Serenna reviewed parts of the following, which were handed to the Town Board
and later put on the Town website. They would like the mine closed.
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Suggestions from John and Serenna, after the presentation, regarding what the Town can
do.
• Public can raise awareness to pressure the Governor to stop the sale of the mine.
• Make it unattractive to potential buyers.
• Town put pressure on DEC.
• If another company buys the mine have the new buyer post $10 billion bond.
• Town pass resolution barring use of part of mine.
Cargill employees about 200 people.
AGRICULTURE AND FARMLANDS PROTECTION COMMITTEE (AG
COMMITTEE) PRESENTATION – CONNIE WILCOX, CHAIRPERSON
Connie Wilcox stated the following:
• Town Board lacks communication with the Ag Committee
• Ag Committee was not informed of proposed changes for appointments to
committees and sub-committees
• New proposed procedure has Ag Committee a sub-committee of Conservation
Advisory Council (CAC) – this is ludicrous
o Councilperson Joseph Wetmore told Ag Committee at September 6, 2023
meeting, this has been removed from the proposed changes
• New proposed procedure makes it hard to get volunteers
• Connie handed the Board the farmer’s document: " Comments with Proposed
Amendments to Town Code for Additions to Chapter 7 Committees and
Subcommittees”
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• Appears to be the Town Board wants total control with no input from public
• Need better communication with constituents and committees
• Many people in Town do not use the computer – frustrating cannot reach people
• Walk in Town Hall and people are not available
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR – GUIDELINES
Available on Town of Lansing website and as a handout.
The public shall be allowed to speak only during the Public Comment / Privilege of the
Floor period of the meeting, or during public hearings, or when they have reserved and
been granted time upon the agenda.
Speakers must be recognized by the presiding officer (or his or her designee) and step to
the front of the room.
Speakers must give their name and state whether they are speaking as a resident, a
member of the public, or for any other person or organization.
Speakers must limit their remarks to 3 minutes, and comments unrelated to the subject
matter of the public hearing are not allowed.
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Speakers may not yield any remaining time they may have to another speaker.
With the permission of the presiding officer a Board or committee member may interrupt
a speaker for the purpose of clarification or information (and not for any other reason or
to debate or disagree). Such time shall not be counted against the speaker’s 3-minute
limit.
All remarks shall be addressed to the Board or committee as a body and not to any
member thereof, nor to any member of the public whether present at such public hearing
or not.
Speakers shall observe the commonly accepted rules of courtesy, decorum, dignity and
good taste.
Interested parties or their representatives may address the Board by written
communications. Written documents and evidence may be submitted as part of the
record of the public hearing.
Persons who exceed 3 minutes, violate rules of courtesy, decorum, dignity or good taste,
or deliberately or by their behavior interfere with other person’s right to comment or
participate in the public hearing, or who deliberately or by their behavior interfere with
governmental administration will be cut off, removed, or have non-recognized comments
removed from the record, or any combination of the above. Before a comments or
statements will be excised from the record, the speaker will be verbally warned that they
are in violation of the rules for this public hearing.
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR – COMMENTS
Three residents spoke about Ludlowville Road/Snake Hill Road/Crooked Hill Road
• Heard there was estimate for 2 million dollars to repair road
• Believes road was previously repaired for $400,000 – thinks road could be
repaired again for same money
• Engineers are very conservative to be sure they do not get sued
• Cannot even walk on road now
• Alternatives should be looked at to repair the road
• Road was previously repaired with the help of a grant
• Road was closed in mid 80’s, then repaired and worked fine until recently
• All people in Salmon Creek Valley use road
• Brickyard Road not available in winter
o Snake Hill Road is emergency exit
• Residents not getting answers to their questions
• Need better communication to Town residents
• Report from Engineering company
• How much will the repairs cost
• Resources for funding
LANSING COMMUNITY LIBRARY REPORT – CHRISTINE EISENHUT
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 2023
1. The library is participating in the Target Circle Program. Shoppers can vote for the
LCL and help direct Target’s giving program to benefit our library by visiting
target.com/circle. Please vote by September 30th.
2. There will be a Watercolor Workshop for adults with artist Lee O’Connell on
Saturday, September 30th 10:00-noon. Space is limited so registration is required.
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3. The library will host a bilingual story time on Thursday, September 21st at 10:30 to
celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
4. On display during the months of September and October will be the textiles of
Patricia Brown.
5. The Friends of the Library will be hosting a fundraiser – Costumes and Cocktails on
October 20th from 8:00-11:00pm at the Lake Watch Inn.
6. The library has a mobile wireless hotspot available for check out. Also, the Wi-Fi is
not password protected. The community is welcome to park in the lot to access the
Internet.
7. Instructor John Burger hosts T’ai Chi classes at the Community Center on Fridays
from 10:30-11:30am.
8. Learn to play American Mah Jongg every Tuesday at 10:15am and play American
Mah Jongg every Wednesday from 1:00-3:00pm.
9. The library continues to provide free delivery to Woodsedge.
10. The library has an Empire Pass and passes to the Museum of the Earth and the
Cayuga Nature Center available for check out. Board games, puzzles, story time kits,
and STEAM kits are also available.
11. The library continues to distribute free self-test COVID-19 kits, antibacterial wipes
and N95 masks to Lansing households.
LANSING YOUTH SERVICES REPORT – RICK ALVORD
No Report.
TOMPKINS COUNTY LEGISLATOR REPORT – MIKE SIGLER
Submitted the following report.
Tompkins County Legislator
Michael Sigler
September 2023
Hello,
Sorry I can’t be with you tonight, but we have an expanded budget meeting at the
County. It’s that time of the year and we’re working on the 2024 budget. Money is tight,
but we’ll see where our priorities are. We’re looking at non-Mandated expenditures of
over 200 million dollars and mandated expenses of almost 45 million. I’ll keep you
updated.
I want to thank Dominick Recckio in advance as I pull liberally from his reports.
Some areas I’ve been working on. One of Tompkins only group homes is slated to close.
It’s Abbott House over near the airport. I’m talking to the Governor’s office to see if
there’s anything that can be done to keep it open. I didn’t think there were too many
beds/apartments for those with neurodiverse people, so I’ll keep working on it. The
Lansing Carnival was great. I raised $45 in the dunk tank. I went to the Watchfire on
Friday at Myer’s Park. It’s to symbolize a marker, calling our lost and missing service
member’s home. I also was in the Ithaca Airport 5K on Sunday which raised money this
year for aviation scholarships.
The County is moving ahead to look at plans for a Center of Government. I don’t know
how this will turn out. We need the space as we have to move the District Attorney and
Clerk out of the courthouse and we can save money moving some departments out of
space we now lease into a new space we own. This is just a request for quote, so we can
get some engineering and design work done, so we know what kind of costs we’re talking
about. Lee Shurtleff brought up an interesting question. He didn’t support moving
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forward because “there have been too many instances of individuals being harmed or
crimes being committed in the City of Ithaca, including an incident at Aldi, which is one
block away from the Department of Motor Vehicles, and a shot fired incident on Buffalo
Street near the proposed Center of Government. Shurtleff also referenced 2022 incidents
near the Tompkins County Human Services Building on West Martin Luther King/State
St.”
We also agreed to sell the Red House that’s been a source of some controversy.
Whole Health Commissioner Frank Kruppa updated us on the recent cluster of
Legionellosis cases in the County. Kruppa stated that “the incubation period is 2-14 days,
and we are at day 15 from the onset of symptoms of our last case.” He added that while
it’s important to see two incubation periods pass, the time since the last case is a positive
indicator.
HIGHWAY 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.
HIGHWAY REPORT
September 20, 2023
Road Maintenance/ Improvement
• Finished Newman Road erosion project with Tompkins County Soil & Water. Big
thanks to Angel Hinickle for all her help.
Tree & Brush Maintenance
• Tree & brush maintenance along roadside to aid line of sight.
Water/Sewer Maintenance
• Crews worked on 6 water main breaks.
• Storm water district maintenance.
Community
• Helped prep for the Lansing parade/carnival.
• The Highway Department had a great time driving truck, loader, gradall, and
dump truck in parade.
Mike also stated:
• Thanked his crew, and Pat’s, for their hard work
• There were over twelve (12) water main breaks in the last two (2) weeks
2 Auburn Road
• Working with Dave Herrick, Town Engineer, and hope to have information to
Town Board in October
• Town Attorney also needs to look over information
Ludlowville Road/Snake Hill Road/Crooked Hill Road
• Town Board has been given information
• Contacted contractor Orchard, Earth and Pipe
o Have estimate in October
• Dondi Harner, T.G. Miller, P.C. stated:
o Packet from Stopen Engineering – evaluation, surveyed existing slopes
o Meeting with contractor Orchard, Earth and Pipe tomorrow
▪ Contractor did work on road in 90’s
▪ Get cost for three options
❖ Full road open, one lane walking trail, only stabilize road
o Potential funding opportunities to apply for
Dondi answered questions:
• Walking/trail road map – removed western drive lane
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• Need fire truck turn around
• Stopen Engineering did not think the micro pile system plan that was written by
James Mason, Engineer, requested by Ludlowville residents, would be cost
effective on unstable grounds below
Councilperson Ruth Groff will look at Transportation Alternative Program (TAP)
funding through ITCTC.
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.
Parks & Recreation
September 2023
Town Board Meeting
RECREATION:
▪ Fall soccer has started, our participation is higher than last year.
▪ Our programming has slowed slightly with school starting, the current list
includes football, soccer, horseback riding and swimming.
▪ Several lacrosse teams are renting field space from us at the Town Barn field.
▪ Cornell and Ithaca College club softball teams will be renting field space from us
this Fall.
▪ Our trails group has been meeting regularly and I think we are making good
progress.
▪ We have hosted several Modified soccer games for the school.
▪ Small Fry Football is doing well with several wins thus far, looking like another
great season.
▪ Wildflower seeds have been planted along the ball field ditches and in front of the
Baker BBQ pavilion. We hope that it will look beautiful this Spring.
▪ Budget 2024 packets have been distributed in board members mailboxes.
▪ I have also sent emails concerning 2023 budgetary items for board members to
review.
▪ We are working on updating our website and phone system.
PARKS:
▪ On September 15th, Myers Park hosted the annual POW/MIA Watch Fire.
Another great tradition that we hope will continue for many years to come.
▪ We are still working on distributing the last bit of playground mulch that was
delivered to us. Getting around the playground structures is a little tricky with our
equipment.
▪ The front flower bed has been planted with mums for the upcoming Fall season.
▪ I have been added to the Cayuga Lake Hydrilla task force, they meet monthly. We
have discovered some in our marina area.
▪ We have received donated logs from Cascadilla Tree service to replace the
concrete barriers at Salt Point and make it look more natural. This project will be
put on the schedule.
▪ Lansing Lighthouse 5k was held August 26th, again a very successful fundraiser.
▪ Myers Park guarded swimming is closed. We continue to check for harmful algae
blooms daily. Several have been spotted around us but nothing along Myers Park
lakeshore or Salt Point.
▪ The last day for camping is October 9th.
▪ Boats in the marina and dry dock must be out by November 1st.
Pat also stated:
• Budget issues
o Everything costs more
o Day Camp is all inclusive – additional staffing required
• Music in the Park went well
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DIRECTOR OF PLANNING REPORT – JOHN ZEPKO
No report.
John stated he submitted the building permits and certificate of occupancy report.
TOWN CLERK REPORT – DEBBIE MUNSON
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 CLERK
SEPTEMBER 2023
Hunting Licenses
September has been very busy selling hunting licenses. Lifetime license holders who
have not received theirs in the mail can come to our office to have a replacement printed
until October 1st at no cost. After October 1st, lifetime license holders will have to pay for
a replacement license. Deer Management Permits (DMPs) are available until October 1st.
Board Vacancies
Jessie created a new procedure for taking care of board/council vacancies to make sure
new appointments are filled before January 1st each year.
Listed below will be the vacancies as of December 31, 2023. Chairs of each
board/council will be notified which members terms are expiring. Incumbents wishing to
be reappointed must submit an application for reappointment. Applications will be
available on the Town’s website beginning on October 2nd through 16th. Paper
applications will be available at the Town Clerk’s office and can be e-mailed, if
requested. Notice of vacancies will be posted on bulletin boards located in the Town Hall.
• Planning Board – 3 vacancies: (1) 7-year term and (2) 1-year terms
• Zoning Board of Appeals – 2 vacancies: (1) 5-year term and (1) 1-year
term
• Board of Ethics – 1 vacancy: (1) 5-year term
• Conservation Advisory Council – 5 vacancies: (5) 2-year terms
Relevies of Unpaid Water and Sewer Bills
Our office will be mailing about 258 reminder letters to all water and sewer accounts
with an outstanding balance in advance of the relevy. The letters state balances must be
paid in full by October 10th. If they remain unpaid after this date, the balance plus a
relevy penalty of 10% will be added to their 2024 Town and County Tax Bills.
2024 Budget
Our budget worksheets have been completed and submitted to the Bookkeeper. We met
with the Bookkeeper and Highway Superintendent to discuss sewer revenue and
expenses. We reviewed the revenue versus the expenses and together we projected
numbers for next year.
Tompkins County Health Department Fall Rabies Clinics
The Health Department has scheduled one clinic – Caroline Town Highway Garage on
September 28th. Preregistration is recommended. Visit this link to sign up for a time slot
- https://tompkinscountyny.gov/health/eh/rabies#clinics
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TOWN CLERK PRESENTS THE TENATIVE 2024 TOWN OF LANSING
BUDGET
Town Clerk Deborah Munson presented the Tentative 2024 Town of Lansing Budget to
the Town Board. Hard copies of budget were handed to Town Board Members before
Executive Session and the Supervisors Office will e-mail Budget to Town Board.
Town Clerk Deborah Munson reviewed the Budget schedule:
• Town Board Budget Meeting September 27, 2023
o Town Board reviews, modifies and puts changes in writing
• Town Board Meeting October 18, 2023
o Resolution to approve changes
o Tentative Budget moves to Preliminary Budget
• Town Board Meeting November 8, 2023
o Budget public hearing
o Final budget approval
Supervisor Ed LaVigne stated:
• Contact Bookkeeper Mary Ellen Albrecht, Information Aide Jennifer Schenck or
Supervisor Ed LaVigne with any questions, prior to September 27, 2023 meeting.
CONSENT AGENDA
a. RESOLUTION SCHEDULING A PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE DRAFT 2024
TOMPKINS COUNTYWIDE SHARED SERVICES INITIATIVE (CWSSI) PLAN
RESOLUTION 23-114
RESOLUTION SCHEDULING A PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE DRAFT 2024
TOMPKINS COUNTYWIDE SHARED SERVICES INITIATIVE (CWSSI) PLAN
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, the New York State Countywide Shared Services Initiative (CWSSI)
generates property tax savings by enabling collaboration between local governments
across the state, and
WHEREAS, the New York State Department of State offers grant programs to
incentivize and aid local government efficiencies through shared services, and
WHEREAS, in order to qualify for financial incentives, Tompkins County is required to
convene a Shared Services Panel comprised of municipal chief elected officials and
develop a draft plan outlining new initiatives that demonstrate significant property tax
savings, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Shared Services Panel has convened multiple times in
recent months and identified the pilot Countywide Rapid Medical Response program for
inclusion in the 2024 CWSSI Plan, and
WHEREAS, the CWSSI requires that a public hearing be held ahead of the approval of
the draft 2024 Plan, and
WHEREAS, the public hearing would provide an opportunity for public comment and
input on the impact of the Countywide Rapid Medical Response program, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Tompkins County Government Operations
Committee, that the public hearing on the draft 2024 CWSSI Plan, be held at the Lansing
Town Board meeting scheduled for October 18, 2023, at 6:31 p.m., and it is further
RESOLVED, that the Lansing Town Clerk is authorized to place proper notice of this
public hearing in the official newspaper of the Town.
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SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-26
b. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ACCEPTANCE OF BID, ISSUANCE OF
NOTICE OF AWARD AND CONTRACT TO CAYUGA COMMERCIAL
CLEANING, LLC FOR TOWN BUILDINGS CUSTODIAL SERIVCES
RESOLUTION 23-115
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ACCEPTANCE OF BID, ISSUANCE OF
NOTICE OF AWARD AND CONTRACT TO CAYUGA COMMERCIAL
CLEANING, LLC FOR TOWN BUILDINGS CUSTODIAL SERVICES
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, detailed bid documents and specifications had been developed, including a
contract to be executed by the selected bidder, and the Town thereafter duly advertised for
public bidding and conducted a public bid opening, and all bids were examined for
compliance with bid requirements, including overall pricing and best value bidding
standards and criteria, and the best value-lowest overall cost bidder duly identified; and
WHEREAS, as a result of such examinations and meeting, and upon input from the Town
Supervisor, such bid was deemed and determined to be in compliance with bid
requirements, and such bidder is not listed upon any State Debarment List, such that the
Town Board desires to now award such bid; and
WHEREAS, after a review of the foregoing, and upon due deliberation and consideration
thereof, and in compliance with the specifications and the requirements for public bidding
upon procurements and public works, including but not limited to the Town’s Procurement
Policy and General Municipal Law §§ 101 and 103, the Town Board of the Town of
Lansing has hereby
RESOLVED, that the Project bid be and hereby is awarded to Cayuga Commercial
Cleaning, LLC, pursuant to its bid dated September 10, 2023; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the Town deems this Resolution to be legally sufficient as a Notice of
Award, which Notice of Award shall be submitted to the successful bidder together with
prepared contract documents, and which such delivery shall constitute acceptance of the bid
by the Town; and it is further
RESOLVED, that upon receipt of the required insurance coverages, the contract that was
part of the bid documents be completed and the Town Supervisor be and is hereby
authorized to negotiate and execute such contract by, for, on behalf of, and in the name of
the Town of Lansing, and the Supervisor be further authorized to make, negotiate, and
execute such changes and such further or other documents and agreements as are or may be
necessary or convenient to cause such contract or bid award to be fully authorized and
services to commence in 2024 in as timely a fashion as practicable and continue through
2026; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk register the award with the Department of Labor under
the PRC number assigned for this bid and project.
c. RESOLUTION APPROVING OFFICE RENOVATIONS TO IMPROVE
SECURITY IN TOWN CLERK’S OFFICE
RESOLUTION 23-116
RESOLUTION APPROVING OFFICE RENOVATIONS TO IMPROVE
SECURITY IN TOWN CLERK’S OFFICE
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
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WHEREAS, by recommendation of the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office, the Town
Clerk’s Office proposes to improve security in the office by installing one-way mirror
glass in the door and adjacent counter window, replacing the existing glass; and
WHEREAS, the Town Clerk included $1,500 in the 2023 budget for this project under
the building repairs expense account; and
WHEREAS, the current quote from McPherson Builders is $2,043, the building repairs
expense account has sufficient funds to cover this security improvement; and
WHEREAS, per existing Town Procurement Policy Section IV, all building repairs and
maintenance projects exceeding $1,000 require specific Town Board approval; it is
therefore
RESOLVED, that the Town Board affirms that funds from A1620.405 are intended to be
used for building repairs and maintenance; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk or her designee be and hereby are authorized to affect
the following repair per the Town of Lansing Procurement Policy: McPherson Builders
install one-way mirror glass in the door and adjacent counter window, replacing the
existing glass in Town Clerk's Office for a total not to exceed $2,043.
CONSENT AGENDA RESOLUTIONS 23-114 – 23-116
RESOLUTION 23-117
WHEREAS, upon due deliberation thereupon, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing
has hereby
RESOLVED, that the Consent Agenda Resolutions 23-114 – 23-116, are hereby
approved as presented and amended, and
The question of the adoption of such proposed Consent Agenda Resolutions were duly
motioned by Councilperson Joseph Wetmore, duly seconded by Councilperson Ruth
Groff, and put to a roll call vote with the following results:
Councilperson Andra Benson – Aye Councilperson Ruth Groff– Aye
Councilperson Bronwyn Losey – Aye Councilperson Joseph Wetmore – Aye
Supervisor Edward LaVigne – Aye
Accordingly, the foregoing Resolutions were approved, carried, and duly adopted on
September 20, 2023.
RESOLUTION APPROVING AUDIT AND BUDGET MODIFICATIONS AND
SUPERVISOR’S REPORT
RESOLUTION 23-118
RESOLUTION APPROVING AUDIT AND BUDGET MODIFICATIONS
AND SUPERVISOR’S REPORT
The Supervisor submitted his monthly report for the month of August 2023, to all Board
Members and to the Town Clerk. The Supervisor’s Report was reviewed by
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore. The bills were reviewed by Councilperson Joseph
Wetmore and Councilperson Bronwyn Losey. 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 # 009
DATED 09/20/2023
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AUDITED VOUCHER #’s 886 – 894
896 – 1013
PREPAY VOUCHER #’s 886 – 892
AUDITED T & A VOUCHER #’s 54 – 60
PREPAY T & A VOUCHER #’s 54 – 56
FUND TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS
GENERAL FUND (A&B) $ 138,187.83
HIGHWAY FUND (DA&DB) $ 137,346.88
DRAINAGE DISTRICTS (SDD1-) $ 3,037.52
LANSING LIGHTING (SL1, 2 &3) $ 1,491.90
WARREN & CHERRY SEWER DISTRICT (SS1,3) $ 27,473.07
LANSING WATER DISTRICTS (SW) $ 15,669.80
TRUST & AGENCY (TA) $ 96,315.34
BUDGET MODIFICATIONS
SEPTEMBER 20, 2023 MEETING
GENERAL FUND A
September 20, 2023
FROM TO FOR AMOUNT
A1440.401 A1440.403 From Eng-Sewer P&M to Eng Transportation $ 1,000.00
Addtl required to cover expenditures
A1440.406 A1440.403
From Eng-Misc Water Ext P&M to Eng
Transportation $ 4,000.00
Addtl required to cover expenditures
A1440.407 A1440.403 From Eng-Surveying to Eng Transportation $ 3,300.00
Addtl required to cover expenditures
A1440.408 A1440.403 From Town Center to Eng Transportation $ 2,000.00
Addtl required to cover expenditures
A599 A1610.400 From Fund Balance to Technology $ 23,666.93
Addtl required to cover expenditures
A599 A1630.400
From Fund Balance to Community Center-
Contractual $ 2,415.86
Addtl required to cover fire suppression
A599 A1950.400
From Fund Balance to Taxes & Assess Munic
Property $ 1,612.74
Addtl required to cover expenditures
A1550 A3510.402
From Dog Control Fees (Revenue) to Control of
Dogs-Other $ 80.00
Use unanticipated revenue to cover expenditures
A599 A7310.100
From Fund Balance to Youth Program-Personal
Srvcs $ 1,334.00
Addtl required to cover expenditures
September 20, 2023
22
A599 A7310.110
From Fund Balance to Youth Program-Personal
Srvcs $ 15,197.44
Addtl required to cover expenditures
A2003 A7310.400
From Youth Rec Fees (Revenue) to Youth Program-
Contractual $ 22,569.69
Use unanticipated revenue to cover expenditures
A599 A7310.400 From Fund Balance to Youth Program-Contractual $ 23,944.95
Addtl required to cover expenditures
A2750 A3001
From "Prev Used A3001" to State Revenue Sharing
(per Capita" $ 27,085.00
Per OSC - correction for AIM payment received
LAKEWATCH LIGHTING SL3
September 20, 2023
FROM TO FOR AMOUNT
A599
SL3-
5182.400 From A Fund Bal to Lakewatch Lighting-Contractual $ 4,500.00
Addtl required to cover expenditures
SEWER FUND SS1
September 20, 2023
FROM TO FOR AMOUNT
SS1-
8120.401
SS1-
8120.402 From Sewer Engineer to Sewer Legal $ 3,500.00
Addtl required to cover expenditures
WATER FUND SW
September 20, 2023
FROM TO AMOUNT
SW599 SW8320.403
From Fund Balance to Source of Supply-Drake Rd
CWD#4 $ 1,050.00
Addtl required to cover expenditures
SW599 SW8320.404
From Fund Balance to Source of Supply-Peruville Rd
CWD#5 $ 200.00
Addtl required to cover expenditures
The question of the adoption of such proposed Resolution was duly motioned by
Councilperson Andra Benson, duly seconded by Councilperson Joseph Wetmore, and put to
a roll call vote with the following results:
Councilperson Andra Benson – Aye Councilperson Ruth Groff– Aye
Councilperson Bronwyn Losey – Aye Councilperson Joseph Wetmore – Aye
Supervisor Edward LaVigne – Aye
Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on
September 20, 2023.
BOARD MEMBER REPORTS
Andra Benson – reported the following:
Lansing Library – written report above
Ruth Groff – reviewed the following report:
September 20, 2023
23
Ruth Groff
Town Board Member Report
September 2023
• Ithaca Tompkins County Transportation Council (“ITCTC”) Joint
Policy/Planning Committees: September 12, 1:00pm
o Planning Committee items:
▪ Transportation Improvement Program (“TIP”) modifications
approved: A) Obligation date changes for multiple project phases –
Tompkins County and Town of Dryden; B) Stewart Ave. bridge
obligation date and funding changes
o Both Planning and Policy Committee items – each had the same items on
their agendas:
▪ TIP amendments approved: A) NYSDOT project funding
adjustments; B) Bridge New York projects – new funding and
funding adjustments
o Joint Committee items:
▪ Resolution 2023-07 – Commending Mr. Dwight Mengel for
contributions to and services performed on behalf of the ITCTC.
Mr. Mengel is retiring from his position as Chief Transportation
Planner at the Tompkins County Dept. of Social Services,
therefore the ITCTC formally thanked Mr. Mengel for his many
years of service, leadership, and contributions to the operation of
the ITCTC.
o Director’s Report:
▪ Ithaca Carshare Insurance legislation update: the Bill was
modified and sent back to Governor Hochul on September 9, and
as of the September 12 meeting, she had not yet signed it.
▪ Ithaca Bikeshare is averaging 4 rides per day, per bike, which is
better than any other bikeshare program. They will be ordering
100 more bikes.
o Member Reports:
▪ Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (“TCAT”) buses are from
Proterra, which is in bankruptcy, so getting repairs and parts is
now a problem for TCAT. They are looking for other e-bus
manufacturers to fill the gap.
▪ TCAT is still looking for drivers
▪ The City of Ithaca is expanding sidewalks
▪ There are plans to extend the Black Diamond Trail to Trumansburg
▪ Cayuga Heights Road is scheduled to be finished in October
• Conservation Advisory Council (“CAC”): September 7, 6:30pm
o The primary discussion was with Katie from Bergmann, regarding the
Open Space Index and Conservation Plan
• Capital Improvement Committee: September 6, 9:00am
o As the list of projects has been essentially completed, the next step is for
descriptions of each project to be written for inclusion in a formal report.
Several committee members agreed to write those descriptions as they
pertained to their areas of expertise – Mike Moseley, Patrick Tyrrell, and
Dave Herrick. I will be preparing financial snapshots for each project.
• Parks, Recreation, and Trails Committee: August 22, 29, September 5, 12,
19, 11:30am
o Patrick Tyrrell, Ruth Hopkins, and Ruth Groff have weekly update
meetings with Ellie Peterson, Intern from Cornell, regarding her work on
potential plans for the Jonas Falls area. Since she has completed the
majority of the work on that project, but still has many hours left on her
contract with the Town, she has begun converting the study that was done
by the Cornell Design Connect team, into a format consistent with that of
a trails master plan.
September 20, 2023
24
o The Trails Committee has been meeting weekly to share lessons learned as
several groups are working on different segments of the trail. The focus
has been on learning about easements, and identifying multiple options for
each segment, but the primary discussions have been around landowner
outreach, and possible funding sources.
Bronwyn Losey – reported the following:
Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) – meeting cancelled
Broadband Committee – waiting to hear back from Spectrum
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 2023
Yellow Barn Committee
Thursday, August 17⋅1:00 – 2:30pm
We discussed the next steps regarding the Host Community Agreement.
Planning Board
Monday, August 28⋅6:30 – 8:30pm
Duthie/United Storage 431 Auburn Rd, Tax Parcel Number 30.-1-16.32
Project Description: The applicant proposes to construct an approximately 9,600 square
foot building on the existing ~9 acre lot. The property is in the IR – Industrial/Research
Zone.
Declared Lead Agency, Set Public Hearing.
Cayuga Lake boat tour and water health presentations hosted by AM Kelles, Sen.
Webb and Sen. May
Tuesday, September 5⋅2:00 – 5:00pm
Assemblymember Anna Kelles, Senator Lea Webb and Senator Rachel May, hosted an
informative afternoon exploring Cayuga Lake and its ecosystem aboard the Discover
Cayuga Lake boat. Guests included Tompkins County municipal leaders (including Ruth
Groff and myself) and local water health experts. We experienced the “floating
classroom” with hands-on activities led by Bill Foster and crew. Cayuga Lake and its
watershed is vitally important as a source of freshwater in the region (and is where
Bolton Point gets its water). Following the boat tour, we gathered at Ithaca Farmers
Market for a presentation by Dr. Roxanne Razavi, Assistant Professor of Environmental
Biology at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF), on per- and
polyfluoroakyl chemicals (PFAS or “forever chemicals'').
September 20, 2023
25
Yellow Barn Committee
Thursday, August 31⋅1:00 – 2:30pm
We discussed the next steps regarding the Host Community Agreement.
Bolton Point Board meeting
Thursday, September 7⋅4:00 – 5:00pm
1. Management Staff Report
2. Committee Reports
A. Budget and Finance Committee
1. July 31, 2023 Financial Report
2. Approval of the September 7, 2023 Warrants
B. Engineering and Operations Committee
1. July 26, 2023 Meeting Notes
2. August 23, 2023 Meeting Agenda
C. Personnel and Organization Committee
1. July 26, 2023 Meeting Notes
2. August 23, 2023 Meeting Agenda
3. Resolution for Approval of Revised Personnel Policies
4. Resolution for Appointment of Mark Fessenden Janik to EMT Position
Edward LaVigne – reported the following:
Budget
• Need to keep services and value to taxpayers without going over budget
• Need to hold to budget and try to increase fund balances
• Budget modifications are crippling
WORK SESSION MEETING ITEMS OF DISCUSSION
Shipping Containers
Councilperson Joe Wetmore stated shipping containers should not be used as buildings.
He would like the code committee to review this.
Director of Planning John Zepko stated the Town needs to be cautious not to regulate
activities of specific businesses.
Supervisor Ed LaVigne stated the Town needs to be careful not to be reactionary and not
to zone something out.
September 20, 2023
26
Planner
Director of Planning John Zepko stated the Town has not received any applications for
the open Planner position.
Bookkeeper Mary Ellen Albrecht stated a recruiter typically costs about 15-20% of the
annual salary the Town offers for the position.
Supervisor Ed LaVigne and Director of Planning John Zepko agreed to possibly look for
a zoning consultant. John stated he is not in favor of large-scale zoning amendments by
committee.
Town Board agreed to charge code committee to look at both items:
• Shipping containers
• Planning/Zoning consultant
MOTION TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION
Councilperson 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; AND THE PROPOSED
ACQUISITION/SALE/LEASE OF REAL PROPERTY WHEN PUBLICITY
MIGHT AFFECT VALUE AT 8:15 PM.
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore seconded the motion.
All in Favor – 5 Opposed – 0
MOTION TO EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION
Councilperson Bronwyn Losey moved to EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 9:13 PM.
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore seconded the motion.
All in Favor – 5 Opposed – 0
MOTION TO ADJOURN MEETING
Councilperson Andra Benson moved to ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 9:15 PM.
Councilperson Ruth Groff seconded the motion.
All in Favor – 5 Opposed – 0
Minutes taken and executed by the Town Clerk. Minutes beginning with Executive
Session were taken by Ed LaVigne, Supervisor, and executed by the Town Clerk.
Respectfully submitted,
Deborah K. Munson, RMC
Town Clerk