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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-11-20 REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING November 20, 2013 A Regular Meeting of the Lansing Town Board was held at the Town Hall Board Room, 29 Auburn Road, Lansing,NY on the above date at 6:00 p.m. The meeting was called to order by the Supervisor, Kathy Miller and opened with the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. Roll call by Debbie Crandall, Town Clerk, showed the following to be PRESENT: Kathy Miller, Supervisor Katrina Binkewicz, Councilperson Robert Cree, Councilperson Ruth Hopkins, Councilperson Edward LaVigne, Councilperson ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Sharon Butler Bowman, Deputy Supervisor, Guy Krogh, Town Attorney, Jack French, Highway Superintendent, Pat Pryor, Tompkins County Representative, Charlie "Cricket"Purcell, Mike Sigler, Doug Dake, Dan Veaner, Lansing Star, Andrew Zepp, Dan Konowalow, Marcy Rosenkrantz, Hurf Sheldon, Linda VanAppledorn, Craig Christopher, Scott and Karen Bishop, Roger Hopkins, Charlie and Sheila Nedrow, Lisa Schleelein, Irene Tyrrell, June Hall, Eileen Stout, Susan Brock, Donna Scott, Nick Vaczek, Robyn Bailey, Stephen &Natalia Emlen, Connie Wilcox, Steven Smith, John Dennis, Maureen Cowen, Deborah Trumbull, Harriet & Howard London, Jennifer Miller, Larry Cathles, Linda Westlake, Ted & Martha Laux, Dick Taylor, Donna Faivre-Roberts, Tom Roberts, Deborah Myers, Pennee Barresi, Suzanne Hinderliter, Peter Larson,Nancy & Ronald Ostman, Keith & Sarah Thomson, Bob & Joan Horn, Ed Wagner, Gary Tyrrell, Stephanie Behler, Dale Baker, Richard Prybyl, Mary Helen Cathles, Philip Snyder, Pat Paine, Sandra Rapp, Sue Henne, Stefan Minott, Deb Harper, Melissa Stephenson, Julie Manners, Heidi & Fran Kallfelz, Maureen Carroll Dean, Victor Mancini, Diane Rutherford, Alice King, Dan Broadway, Peg Conolly Alano, Jeff and Reenie Sandsted, Frank Barry, Gay Nicholson, Arno Finkelday, Tom Butler, Patrica Brown, Marlaine Darfler, Laura Staley, along with several other attendees. TOMPKINS COUNTY REPRESENTATIVE —PAT PRYOR To: Lansing Town Board From: Pat Pryor, Tompkins County Legislature, District 6 Representative Re: November 2013 Report Date: November 20, 2013 1. The TC Legislature, by unanimous consent, adopted the 2014 budget. The two stated goals of maintaining current programs and stabilizing various county anchor institutions was met. In previous years, since the nation-wide financial crash and recession, programs have been seriously cut back and/or eliminated. The economy continues to recover slowly, but the demand for county "safety net" services such as food stamps continues to increase. Nevertheless, the county was able this year to maintain stability at its reduced level of programming. Discussions in previous budget meetings indicate that the county will continue to use strategies such as the "Smart Work" program to assure that departments operate at a high level of efficiency and accountability. The $170.2 million budget includes $81.4 million in local dollar spending. The county tax levy will increase by 2.95% and the average tax rate by about 1.34% per thousand, an increase of$14.89 for the median county home assessed at $163,000. Over 42% of county property is tax exempt, yet there are only 6 counties in upstate NY whose per capita spending is lower than Tompkins County's. After the vote, County Administrator, Joe Mareane, thanked Legislators and Department Heads for their work on the budget. He indicated that in his many years of working in counties in NY State that Tompkins County has the best budget process he has seen. November 20, 2013 1 2. The Legislature authorized the transfer of title for Ithaca's Beechtree Care Center (formerly known as the Reconstruction Home) to the TC Development Corporation, a procedural step to facilitate sale of the facility to the private company that has been operating the home under receivership. 3. The Legislature authorized the release of a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) for the County's Old Library Property. The RFEI will invite expressions of interest from prospective developers who would purchase or lease the property for redevelopment. An RFEI precedes an RFP and is used to solicit a broad range of suggested uses. 4. Legislators again heard from community residents deeply concerned about a proposed project that would renovate the Public Safety Building to add seven beds and an outdoor recreation area. The public is invited to attend a meeting of the Public Safety Committee on December 9th at 3:30pm in Legislature Chambers for a detailed presentation and discussion of the project. Respectfully Submitted, Pat Pryor Councilperson Ed LaVigne suggested that instead of taking the old County Library off the tax rolls, have it designated as 1/2 profit and 1/2 not for profit. This would still be a service to the community and a solution for both sides. PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR—PLEASE SIGN IN TO SPEAK—3 MINUTES PER SPEAKER Supervisor Kathy Miller opened the privilege of the floor. She stated that it is an opportunity for people to address the Board with their thoughts and concerns. She urged them to please be respectful of one another so everyone can be heard. Each speaker will be limited to 3 minutes. A total of 25 speakers addressed the Town Board in regards to the formation of a state forest. The Bell Station parcel is owned by NYSEG (Iberdrola USA) and encompasses approximately 490 acres and includes 3,400 feet of pristine shoreline. Twenty speakers passionately supported and urged the Town Board to pass the proposed resolution from Andy Zepp, Director of the Finger Lakes Land Trust. Among the speakers four were business owners who told the Board that the state forest would increase tourism in the town. This would be vital to their businesses as well as other businesses within the Town of Lansing. Many stated it would be a once in a lifetime opportunity for the town to have this unique property for conservationists to enjoy hiking wildlife watching, fishing and hunting. Five speakers who opposed the resolution encouraged the Town Board to wait and not act on the proposed resolution until more public input could be heard. They stated that the amount of tax dollars paid was not certain. It was stated that nearby developments have generated millions in assessed value to the town. FINGER LAKES LAND TRUST—ANDY ZEPP RESOLUTION REQUEST FOR NYSEG PROPERTY Andy Zepp, Executive Director of the Finger Lakes Land Trust clarified the process and gave a background of the proposed project. Four years ago there was a statewide public process on open space conservation land which can be viewed on the NYSDEC website. The NYSEG property has been identified as a possible open space protection property. The property is the single biggest piece of private property that is undeveloped on any Finger Lakes, not just Cayuga Lake. The property consists of half forested and half agriculture property and has 3400 feet of prestige shoreline. The Finger Lakes Land Trust, as a nonprofit organization acts as a broker to facilitate these acquisitions. They have contacted NYSEG (Iberdrola) and they have confirmed November 20, 2013 2 that the property is a surplus asset. They have shown some interest in selling the land to New York State for conservation use. Finger Lakes Land Trust then contacted NYS to affirm their interest. As part of the NYS policy on open space acquisitions for new projects they consult with the community first. They don't want to invest in something the community doesn't want. Mr. Zepp approached the Town Board a year ago with a presentation and proposed resolution to support the use of the land for a state forest. In March of this year, the DEC Regional Director Kenneth Lynch joined him for a public information meeting that was advertised and held at the Lansing Community Center and covered by the press. Field trips were held, for the majority of the Town Board members, by Mr. Zepp to the site with permission from NYSEG. Mr. Zepp stated that any proposal and the resolution before the Town Board tonight is contingent on payment in lieu of taxes that would be comparable to what is paid by a private entity. Mr. Zepp discussed the potential possibilities of the land. Mr. Zepp stated if the Town Board endorses the resolution, the Finger Lakes Land Trust would affirm New York State's interest in the property. NYS would then ask the Finger Lakes Land Trust to facilitate the purchase through NYSEG with an extensive appraisal to indicate the selling price of the property. The process would then look at when NYS would have the funding and then bridge this to make it all work. If the property were to be secured, the Finger Lakes Land Trust would then have the facilitator role to ensure the best outcome of management of the property. Mr. Zepp stated that NYS has two categories of land that would apply to this property. One is a State Forest and one is a State Wildlife Management Area. A State Forest has to be at least 500 acres. The possibility of connecting by water could be considered contiguous but remains an open question. In this case acreage would have to be added. The other scenario is a Wildlife Management Area that typically does not pay in lieu of taxes. In some parts of the state they do, based on special legislation that would have to be sponsored by Senator Nozzolio and Assemblywoman Lifton. Mr. Zepp stated that passing the resolution he presented to the Board is a starting point to the process but with the clear indication one way or another that the payment In Lieu of Taxes by NYS is there. HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT REPORT 1. Salmon Creek Bridge closed until Friday 11/22/13 2. Algerine Road Extension—County has just started to look into it. Counsel Guy Krogh will contact the lawyer. 3. Plowed and salted roads 3 times Pumping Station for the Lucente Project. —Councilperson Edward LaVigne indicated that Mr. Steve Lucente will be contacting Mr. French tomorrow. He stated that the pumping station is critical to complete the first phase of this project. The project will be in jeopardy if the MPR is not received by the Town Board's next Working Session to schedule a public hearing by the end of the year so they can build. Mr. LaVigne asked if he could be the liaison for this project. Supervisor Kathy Miller stated that the project is on track. They have met with Town Engineer Dave Herrick and Mr. Lucente and she will contact him in regards to the project. RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE NYSDEC TO ACQUIRE, ESTABLISH AND MANAGE A PUBLICLY-ACCESSIBLE CONSERVATION AREA DISCUSSION Councilperson Ruth Hopkins reviewed and made a motion to accept the proposed resolution from Andy Zepp, Executive Director of the Finger Lakes Land Trust. The November 20, 2013 3 motion was seconded by Supervisor Kathy Miller. Supervisor Kathy Miller than asked for Town Board discussion as follows: Councilperson Robert Cree stated that there is still a question of the 500 acres and if the PILOT comes into play. If it is less than 500 acres it then requires state legislation in order for the Town to receive PILOT revenue. He also indicated that is does not provide any relief to the County and somehow that is going to come back to all the residents. Councilperson Ruth Hopkins stated that a letter was received in regards to the County's strategic plan for tourism. She indicated that the acquisition of this particular piece of land fits the County's number one and number two priorities. The County also sees the economic benefit to the entire region. Councilperson Edward LaVigne stated that this is a unique opportunity to address the residents of Lansing. He stated that he is concerned about where Lansing is going and taking care of each other like brothers and sisters as Lansing has done in the past. He urged everyone to create an environment where there is a mutual benefit for everyone. He stated that things can be worked out if we all keep an open mind. He stated he has seen tonight that there has been some passion. He has walked the land with Mr. Zepp and it is beautiful there. There are some parts that you are not going to put houses on and what he has heard tonight is true to a certain extent,but there are also some assumptions. He indicated that there are commercial properties that do not put any burden onto the taxpayer because there aren't any roads. Those being the Barden and Heritage Homes on Ridge Road along with Mr. Morgan's homes on Peruville Road and rentals along Armstrong Road and East Shore Drive past Colonial Cleaners. He stated that he would like to wait until more questions are asked and more information is received. He stated he has to look out for other residents who don't share the same passions that were expressed tonight, but still pay taxes. He stated taxes to him are the last resort. He stated that it is about intangibles and getting along in the same community. Councilperson Katrina Binkewicz stated that the Town Board talked about it last November when the Finger Lakes Land Trust brought this proposal to the Board. She stated that we need to foster preservation of open spaces and good agricultural land for the future of our children. She stated that this has been talked about for a year and the resolution was previously not supported because we didn't want a cost to the taxpayers. She stated that there is a need to plan for our future, and that means diversifying our tax base. She stated that tourism dollars go mostly to other towns in the County. Lansing is beautiful and people in our town need jobs, our children need jobs and small businesses will provide those jobs. She stated she was impressed by the passion of the business owners who came as well as many letters from other business owners who were not at tonight's meeting. She stated that speaks to a need and is in support of this resolution. Supervisor Kathy Miller stated that when this started last year her concerns were the Town's liability,taxes and who would take care of this forest. Since then the DEC came out, a public meeting was advertised and held at the Community Center where all questions were answered. She stated that if this land were developed it would have at least one road dedicated to the town. The road would be built by town specs and then dedicated to the town. The town would then maintain it, plow it and take care of the ditches. This procedure is costly. She stated that developers will always state that this will bring money into the town,but they really take up a lot of services. November 20, 2013 4 She stated that she thinks the potential for tourism is great. Tourism will support our local restaurants along with all the other things that are local. She stated that the Finger Lakes have not done a good job of preserving the shoreline and if we don't do something this opportunity could be lost. She stated that even if the resolution is passed all things would have to come together. She has talked with other towns that have forests and they are very happy to have them. She feels this would also be a plus for the Town of Lansing. Supervisor Kathy Miller stated that there were 180 letters received by the Town Board in favor of the project along with the opposed letters that she will put in the back of the board room for viewing. RESOLUTION 13-133 RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION TO ACQUIRE, ESTABLISH AND MANAGE A PUBLICLY-ACCESSIBLE CONSERVATION AREA The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board: WHEREAS, the so-called"Bell Station"property owned by New York State Electric & Gas in North Lansing represents the single largest undeveloped parcel of land remaining on Cayuga Lake, including 3,400 feet of undeveloped shoreline and almost 500 acres of fields and forest; and the land has been recognized as a priority project within New York State's Open Space Plan; and WHEREAS, representatives of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation have indicated the state's interest in acquiring the land in order to establish a publicly-accessible conservation area; and WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing has considered the major areas of concern surrounding the Town's support for the NYS purchase of the NYSEG land to be used as a NYS Forest and/or Wildlife Management Area. These include management and responsibilities of the Forest, economic costs and benefits of the Forest, and the potential additions to the quality of life for those who live in Lansing; and WHEREAS, the Town has heard from individual citizens and multiple citizen groups such as the Agriculture Committee, the Drilling Committee, the Pathways Committee, the Comprehensive Planning Committee in support of the DEC proposal; and WHEREAS, the Town recognizes that the proposed location of the Forest is on the Northern border of the Town, an area consistent with conservation of open space and preservation of prime soil agricultural lands as described in the Town's Comprehensive Plan; and WHEREAS, the Town's rich natural environment is a valuable asset that creates a sense of identity and well-being for residents of the area. Preserving and protecting the agricultural, scenic,recreational, and other natural resources of the Town is important for both a healthy environment and a vibrant economy; and WHEREAS,upon due deliberation thereupon, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing has hereby RESOLVED, that the Lansing Town Board endorses the acquisition of the Bell Station property by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation with the understanding that the State will provide ongoing payment of property taxes in the form of a PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) to both the Town of Lansing and the Lansing November 20, 2013 5 School District that is comparable to the current levels or what would be paid if it were private property, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Board of Lansing makes this endorsement provided that the Town, Board and Lansing citizens participate in the creation of the Unit Management Plan for the State Forest or Wildlife Management Area and that at least one public meeting to be held in a place convenient to Lansing citizens. It is presumed that the Unit Management Plan will apply to the forest, the farmlands, and the lakeshore. The question of the adoption of such proposed Resolution was duly motioned by Councilperson Ruth Hopkins, duly seconded by Supervisor Kathy Miller, and put to a roll call vote with the following results: Councilperson Katrina Binkewicz- Aye Councilperson Robert Cree -Nay Councilperson Ruth Hopkins -Aye Councilperson Edward LaVigne -Nay Supervisor Kathy Miller-Aye Accordingly the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on November 20, 2013. The Town Board then took a small recess. PARK and RECREATION DEPARTMENT REPORT Steve Colt was unable to attend the meeting. He submitted his report to the Town Board and handouts were made available to the public. Parks & Recreation Department Town Board Meeting 11/20/13 RECREATION • All of our fall programming has been completed and our early winter programs have started and are running well. These include Gymnastics, Bowling, Basketball, Karate and Indoor Soccer. • Being able to utilize the Community Center kitchen has been very good. The Fall Cooking Program completed and was very successful and there is now a Holiday Cookie Exchange scheduled for students in grades 5—8. This class will bake, decorate and exchange 5 different types of holiday cookies. All students will leave with a complete tray of cookies. This is a one day class set for Saturday December 14th. Our cooking and baking programs are under the direction of Stacie Kropp and Carolyn Shaw. • Little Voices Music and Motion class is offering a 3 week holiday session starting Tuesday December 3rd. This class is for pre-school children, toddlers, and infants with parents or caregivers. It teaches basic rhythm and tonal skills and also develops motor and social skills. • The "High School Helpers" program is assisting us again this year with 2 student chaperones that are working with our Bowling Program. These students are identified and paid via the Youth Service Program and has been a great benefit to several of our programs that take place directly after school. PARKS November 20, 2013 6 • Park clean up and winterization has been completed for the season. The Park grounds look great now, so in the spring, the area will look great and should be easier to open. • Last Friday the park crew planted over 25 different trees and bushes between Myers Park, Salt Point and the Town Hall campus. This is a great time of the year to plant and best prices of the year as the nursery is clearing out they stock. We are continuing to mix in more flowering trees and shrubs to add early and late season color. • The crew is currently working on assembling several new picnic table frames to add to our inventory for next summer. • Bird nesting boxes have been installed at Salt Point and the Lansing Center Trail. A group of 14 volunteers put up 7 bluebird, 2 screech-owl, 1 chickadee, 2 kestrel and 2 wren nesting boxes at Salt Point. They also installed 10 more bluebird boxes and a screech-owl box at the Town Center Trail. CONSIDER RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING 2014 WATER RATES DISCUSSION Supervisor Kathy Miller discussed the increase in the 2014 water rates. She stated that the Town's O&M (Operational and Maintenance) rates have not been increased in two years. Bolton Point's rate increase was .08 cents per thousand gallons. The Town's increase is .02 cents per thousand gallons. RESOLUTION 13-134 RESOLUTION ESTABLISING 2014 WATER RATES FOR THE TOWN OF LANSING The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board: WHEREAS, the Town of Lansing is a signatory to the amended, supplemental, restated and consolidated agreement of municipal cooperation for construction, financing and operation of an Intermunicipal, water supply and transmission system dated as of June 5, 1979, as the same has been amended from time to time, (the "Agreement"); and WHEREAS,pursuant to the Agreement each municipality agreed to pay to the Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission (hereinafter referred to as the "Commission"), water revenues based upon, in part, a water rate schedule annexed as Exhibit I of Schedule A to the Agreement; and WHEREAS, the Town must set its water rates for 2014 so as to allow the Commission to begin first quarter billing; and WHEREAS, upon due deliberation thereupon, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing has hereby RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Lansing does hereby establish the following water rates for the Town of Lansing residents within the Town of Lansing Consolidated Water District for the year 2014. Water Rate (SCLIWC) $ 4.08 per thousand gallons Operation and Maintenance Fee (TOL) $ .57 per thousand gallons TOTAL RATE $ 4.65 per thousand gallons BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that#1 and#2 accounts are not included in the current Town of Lansing Consolidated Water District. Therefore, the Town Board of the Town November 20, 2013 7 of Lansing does hereby establish the following water rates for the Town of Lansing residents in the#1 accounts being Algerine and Lansing Station Roads and#2 accounts being Drake Road. This will also include future water district extensions for the year 2014. Water Rate (SCLIWC) $ 4.08 per thousand gallons Operation and Maintenance Fee (TOL) $ 1.02 per thousand gallons TOTAL RATE $ 5.10 per thousand gallons BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that#9 account residents with a Consolidated Water District Outside User Agreement will pay 1.5 times the water rate of the users that are not included in the current Town of Lansing Consolidated Water District. Said rate to be paid to the Town of Lansing as an outside user to equalize the taxed O&M fees of the CWD that inside users must pay. This rate will be charged until such time as the applicant's lands are brought within the Consolidated Water District: Water Rate (SCLIWC) $ 4.08 per thousand gallons Operation and Maintenance Fee (TOL) $ 3.57 per thousand gallons TOTAL RATE $ 7.65 per thousand gallons The question of the adoption of such proposed Resolution was duly motioned by Supervisor Kathy Miller, duly seconded by Councilperson Katrina Binkewicz, and put to a roll call vote with the following results: Councilperson Katrina Binkewicz- Aye Councilperson Robert Cree - Aye Councilperson Ruth Hopkins - Aye Councilperson Edward LaVigne - Aye Supervisor Kathy Miller-Aye Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on November 20, 2013. CONSIDER RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF ESTABLISHING A FRIENDS OF SALT POINT CITIZEN GROUP DISCUSSION Councilperson Katrina Binkewicz discussed the following Town of Lansing &NYS DEC Meeting that was held at Salt Point on October 23, 2013. (A handout was provided for attendees) Summary notes: Town of Lansing & NYS DEC-Meeting at Salt Point 10-25-2013 Purpose:To review 2013 management and habitat improvements and address questions and concerns going forward. Present • Town of Lansing- 1. Pat Tyrrell-Parks and Rec.Dept. 2. Jack French-Highway Dept. 3. Kathy Miller-Supervisor 4. Larry Sharpsteen-Planning Board and hunting representative 5. Katrina Binkewicz-Town board member • DEC- 1. Dan Bishop-Natural Resources Supervisor 2. Steve Joule-Wildlife Manager 3. Scott Prindle-Aquatic Biologist and our Access Program Coordinator 4. Dick Wojcik-Operations Unit Supervisor (handicapped accessibility) 5. Dave Lemon-Fisheries • Public- 1. Matthew Binkewicz-Salt Point planting volunteer November 20, 2013 8 Current advisors: Steve Kress- CU Lab of 0., Candace Cornell- Cayuga Bird Club, Paul Paradine- NYSEG forester, Larry Sharpstein- Hunter, Jeremy Dietrich- Senior Scientist at Ichthyological Assoc. Problems in 2012 • No signage about hunting- -hunter shooting deer with shotgun near walkers • Cars parked all over beach habitat/launching of jet skis near waders • Speeding around loop road and on access roads- -people almost being hit -cars flipping over -rutting of roads, meadow, and forest trails • Drug and alcohol abuse- -hospitalizations from severe beating and drug overdoses. • Trash dumping- -bags of trash thrown in woods - car sex debris -party debris: food and drink refuse • Risk to town property from ice flow back-up Solutions in 2013 • Restricting vehicle access to the loop road-concrete barriers • One road entry to Salt Point improved security and law-enforcement effectiveness • Signage for speed limits,trash policy,and passive boat launch area • Mowing overlook area to encourage car focused recreation in that area • Clearing of brush on the West end of point by Highway and Parks Depts. • Citizen patrolling and friendly reminders • 3,000$budget line for tree and shrub planting,2.5 acre seeding of NE wildflower seed.Additional plantings of donated DEC nursery stock • Osprey nest pole construction(successful nest-3 fledged) • Interior trail development • Installation of bird nesting boxes:merganser,kestrel,chickadee,tree swallow/bluebird,screech owl(will move purple martin condo also) Town Questions and Answers 1. Hunting- o Policy clarification? Answer- 1. Hunting will continue and is a priority. 2. Proper signage is necessary 3. Beach brush is conducive to blind set-up 4. No concern over water activities impacting duck and goose hunting 5. Request referral in any 'dangerous'hunting activity (*ie- drinking alcohol while hunting) o Effective signage and management of activities? Answer- 1. The outer gate will remain open during hunting season, but there will be a large sign posted on the inner gate closing Salt Point for shotgun deer hunting during the season. The signs are installed and very visible 2. Additionally- there was a general discussion about the advisability of keeping the loop road closed during the hunting season. Larry pitched for opening, KB was November 20, 2013 9 neutral on the subject, Pat and Jack were adamant against having it open at all-with Kathy supporting their position. The final DEC statement was that "if it were kept closed that would ensure that only serious hunters would access the point." There is plenty of handicapped-hunter access in the bluff area and on the beach by the boat launch area. It is not that far to walk to the NW beaches and equipment such as blinds and decoys can be brought out to the restricted area by water-launching from the accessible boat launch area. 3. There is to be no clearing of brush on the edge of overlook per DEC restriction. Needed for duck blind cover. o Habitat restoration activities/nest boxes? Answer- The DEC reps were happy with the planting, clearing, and improvement to the property from restricting traffic on the loop road. As we walked the loop road, Dan Bishop and Dave Lemon remarked that the improvements were what they had hoped for when leasing the land to the Town. Nest boxes are okay and in-line with management goals as long as they are maintained. Larry Sharpsteen discussed hunter interest in setting up waterfowl nest tubes in the habitat along the stream. Water fowl nest tubes in the habitat along the stream. DEC indicated that nesting tubes and wood duck/merganser boxes would be appropriate. Steve Joule specifically stated, "The point of managing Salt Point was to keep the majority of it as wild as possible". Management could include brush hogging in the fall along the loop road and meadow. The DEC members were not in support of`Park' amenities but ultimately said a few benches are okay and picnic tables can be set up outside of the vehicle restricted area. Steve Joule asked to meet further to review details of the management plan. 2. Fishing- o Improve handicapped fishing access by rebuilding pier off of North overlook/beach area* (*grant&fund-raising dependency)? Answer-The DEC was fine with a pier rebuild. They pointed out that a pier would: • increase access to the lake for handicapped fishing- • allow boat tie-up for visitors • be utilized as a blind in waterfowl hunting season • would need some seasonal maintenance Steve, Pat, and Jack seemed positive about this project. The highway department could construct the pier from a design provided the pilings are installed. However- it would increase visitors to this site — necessitate a bathroom facility (which is probably needed anyway).The Town Board will have to decide if this is something that they want for this site. A large fundraising/grant activity would be necessary. o Recreate reed beds at West/NW end of point? November 20, 2013 10 Answer- It would be fine to leave some topsoil at the West end of the point to establish reed beds. *low priority 3. Salmon Creek o Dredging-narrowing channel for improved flow specs- use of dredged material for back fill? Answer- DEC present wondered why the cattail bed would be removed since the stream is narrowing itself The sand bar is a popular waterfowl dabbling area. Jack was to get a further opinion form Jean Foley. Jack was concerned that the stream might impact the park negatively in flood stage if the channel is not straightened. o potential for channel extension out into lake-No answer currently Army Corps of engineers issue. 4. Habitat restoration-2014 and beyond? • Further diversification of tree and shrub planting supported • Berms along drive supported with larger coniferous plantings if donated • No official campfire sites • Mowing of 8-10ft. verge on loop road to keep black locust from taking over. • Mowing the Japanese Knotweed clumps along stream close-and frequently-followed by herbicide use in the fall. • Selective removal of Russian olive and Japanese honeysuckle as volunteers are available. *Low priority. 5. Trail development- 2014 and beyond Small boardwalk through the damp stream bank area is okay if Parks and Rec. supports the concept. Some DEC were more negative but were willing to try it. 6. ADA accessibility rating for site-2014 and beyond ADA bathroom hut by the picnic/fishing area. Permission, siting, and specs • DEC were fairly adamant about not wanting a restroom. When pressed on the issue re: lease—schedule C document, they said if there was a bathroom, it should be sited near the boat launch and away from the natural area. o Picnic tables by overlook- **Not on the beach o Some benches on view areas and trails okay. 7. Informational kiosk placement*- shared project (Cayuga Bird Club & tourism grant potential)-Design and information selection in conjunction with Louise Bement-Town Historian. Placement-by picnic area Councilperson Robert Cree stated that if this appears in resolution format, there are names that are listed, and when names change will it be necessary to introduce a new resolution. After further discussion on the names it was a consensus that names be omitted within the resolution. November 20, 2013 11 Both Supervisor Kathy Miller and Councilperson Katrina Binkewitz stated that they had a conversation with Steve Colt today and he is in support of the resolution. Councilperson Ed LaVigne questioned the need for a volunteer resolution. He also stated that out of respect for Steve Colt, he asked the Board to wait until he is present before the resolution is considered. Councilperson Ruth Hopkins stated that a resolution was done in support of the Pathways Committee. It forms a partnership and recognizes individuals. Supervisor Kathy Miller stated that the motion will be TABLED until the next meeting when Steve Colt is present. RESOLUTION 13-TABLED RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF ESTABLISHING A FRIENDS OF SALT POINT CITIZEN GROUP The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board: WHEREAS, the Town of Lansing wishes to manage Salt Point in a clean and safe manner without allocating further budget support for said activities; and WHEREAS, Salt Point must be managed in concert with the DEC guidelines that require maintaining it as a natural area, it is deemed prudent to enlist volunteer help with specific guidance from the Town of Lansing while accommodating DEC guidelines for proper management; and WHEREAS, upon due consideration thereupon, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing has hereby RESOLVED, that a Friends of Salt Point Volunteer Committee will be established and recognized; and it is further RESOLVED, that the Lansing Parks and Recreation Department will provide project guidance and oversight. Reports on proposed and current activities would be presented to the Town Board; and it is further RESOLVED, that the Friends of Salt Point will have a Advisory Committee that represents the following areas of management: Hunting—Fishing - Plants - Trails—Parks and Recreation& Lansing Pathways Committee -Birds - Education- Community- Grant Writing/Fund Raising - General Members—Any Lansing Residents and other individuals who have an interest in keeping Salt Point safe,picking up trash, helping maintain trails, construction, installing and cleaning bird nest boxes, controlling invasive plants like Japanese Knotweed that can take over the whole point, planting more diverse trees and shrubs and fundraising. Advisors: Lab or Ornithology- Fisheries - Handicapped Accessibility The question of the adoption of such proposed Resolution was duly motioned by Councilperson Katrina Binkewicz, duly seconded by Councilperson Ruth Hopkins, and put to a roll call vote with the following results: Councilperson Katrina Binkewicz Councilperson Robert Cree Councilperson Ruth Hopkins Councilperson Edward LaVigne Supervisor Kathy Miller Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on TABLED FOR FURTHER REVISIONS November 20, 2013 12 CONSIDER RESOLUTION SCHEDULING PUBLIC HEARING UPON PROPOSED LOCAL LAW#5 OF 2013 TABLED FOR FURTHER REVISIONS CONSIDER RESOLUTION CLASSIFYING ACTION,DECLARING LEAD AGENCY, IDENTIFYING INVOLVED AND INTERESTED AGENCIES, AND SCHEDULING PUBLIC HEARING FOR ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW OF TOWN OF LANSING PROPOSED LOCAL LAW#5 OF 2013 (SIGN LAW) CONSIDER RESOLUTION REAPPOINTING AMANDA VERBA AS THE TOWN OF LANSING REPRESENTATIVE TO THE TOMPKINS COUNTY YOUTH SERVICES BOARD DISCUSSION Supervisor Kathy Miller stated that Amanda Verba has been contacted and wishes to continue to serve on this Board. RESOLUTION 13-135 REAPPOINT AMANDA VERBA AS THE TOWN OF LANSING REPRESENTATIVE TO THE TOMPKINS COUNTY YOUTH SERVICES BOARD The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board: WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing needs to appoint a representative to serve on the Tompkins County Youth Services Board; and WHEREAS,Amanda Verba, a Town of Lansing Resident, is the current Town of Lansing Representative to the Tompkins County Youth Services Board and has agreed to the reappointment; and WHEREAS, upon due deliberation thereupon, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing has hereby RESOLVED, that Amanda Verba is hereby reappointed as the Town of Lansing Representative to the Tompkins County Youth Services Board, effective January 1, 2014 for a term of one year, expiring December 31, 2014. The question of the adoption of such proposed Resolution was duly motioned by Supervisor Kathy Miller, duly seconded by Councilperson Robert Cree, and put to a roll call vote with the following results: Councilperson Katrina Binkewicz-Aye Councilperson Robert Cree - Aye Councilperson Ruth Hopkins - Aye Councilperson Edward LaVigne - Aye Supervisor Kathy Miller-Aye Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on November 20, 2013. APPROVE AUDIT and BUDGET MODIFICATIONS RESOLUTION 13-136 Councilperson Robert Cree moved that the Bookkeeper is hereby authorized to pay the following bills and to make the following budget modifications. CONSOLIDATED ABSTRACT # 011 DATED 11/20/13 AUDITED VOUCHER #'s 1137 - 1235 November 20, 2013 13 PREPAY VOUCHER #'s 1137 - 1140 AUDITED T & A VOUCHER #'s 90 - 103 PREPAY T & A VOUCHER #'s 90 - 95 FUND TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS GENERAL FUND (A&B) $ 82,990.36 HIGHWAY FUND (DA&DB) $ 104,624.93 LANSING LIGHTING (SL1, 2 &3) $ 1,396.53 LANSING WATER DISTRICTS (SW) $ 173,488.78 TRUST & AGENCY (TA) $ 38,901.11 LANSING SEWER DISTRICTS (SS1, SS3) $ 5,540.35 DEBT SERVICE (V) $ 0.00 BUDGET MODIFICATIONS GENERAL FUND A 11/20/2013 Board Meeting FROM TO FOR AMOUNT A2650 A7110.200 TO INCR AUCTION PROCEEDS AND INCR PARKS - EQUIP 19,850.00 FOR SALE OF 2008 FORD F25 A1320.400 A1420.400 FROM INDEPENDENT AUDITING TO ATTY CONTRACTUAL 10,500.00 UNANTICIPATED LEGAL EXPENSES A1440.406 A1440.402 FROM ENGINEER MISC WTR EXT TO STORMWTR P&M 270.00 UNANTICIPATED ENGINEERING EXPENSE A1990.400 A1610.400 FROM CONTINGENCY TO TECHNOLOGY 712.30 UNANTICIPATED TECHNOLOGY EXPENSES A1990.400 A1630.400 FROM CONTINGENCY TO COMM CTR CONTRACTUAL 579.85 UNANTICIPATED EXPENSES A7110.410 A7110.400 FROM MARINA REPAIRS TO PARKS CONTRACTUAL 1,915.79 UNANTICIPATED EXPENSES A1990.400 A8750.401 FROM CONTINGENCY TO AG PROTECTION GRANT 1,381.82 BALANCE OF TOWNS MATCHING FUNDS GENERAL JOURNAL FROM TO FOR AMOUNT A1990.400 A7110.200 FROM CONTINGENCY TO PARKS - EQUIPMENT 8,398.50 FOR PURCHASE DIFFERENCEOF 2500HD 4X4 CREW CAB TRUCK JOURNAL AND BUDGET MODIFICATIONS GENERAL FUND B 11/20/2013 Board Meeting BUDGET JOURNAL FROM TO FOR AMOUNT B9060.800 B8010.400 FROM HOSPITAL & MED INS TO ZONING CONTRACTUAL 286.83 UNANTICIPATED EXPENSES B9060.800 B8010.402 FROM HOSPITAL & MED INS TO ZONING LEGAL SVCS 560.00 UNANTICIPATED LEGAL EXPENSES November 20, 2013 14 B9060.800 B8020.401 FROM HOSPITAL & MED INS TO PLANNING BOARD ENGINEER 2,803.92 UNANTICIPATED ENGINEERING EXPENSES B9060.800 B8020.402 FROM HOSPITAL & MED INS TO PLANNING BOARD LEGAL 442.50 UNANTICPATED LEGAL EXPENSES BUDGET MODIFICATIONS LANSING WATER DISTRICTS 11/20/2013 Board Meeting FROM TO FOR AMOUNT SW1990.400 SW8310.401 FROM CONTINGENCY TO WATER ADMIN - ENGINEER 3,040.41 UNANTICIPATED ENGINEERING EXPENSES SW1990.400 SW8340.400 FROM CONTINGENCY TO TRANSMISSION & DISTRIPBUTION 4,060.17 UNANTICIPATED EXPENSES Supervisor Kathy Miller seconded the motion and it was carried by the following roll call vote: Councilperson Katrina Binkewicz -Aye Councilperson Robert Cree -Aye Councilperson Ruth Hopkins - Aye Councilperson Edward LaVigne - Aye Supervisor Kathy Miller-Aye Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried and duly adopted on November 20, 2013. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS Kathy Miller She asked to schedule a joint meeting with the Planning Board/Town Board for a presentation/discussion regarding the Comprehensive Plan Survey results. She asked that this joint meeting be at 6:00 p.m. and therefore asked for consideration of the following resolution: RESOLUTION 13-137 RESOLUTION TO CHANGE THE MEETING TIME OF THE REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING SCHEDULED FOR DECEMBER 18, 2013 FROM 6:00 P.M. TO 7:00 P.M. The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board: WHEREAS, the Town of Lansing Regular Town Board Meeting is the third Wednesday of the month, scheduled for December 18, 2013 at 6:00 P.M.; and WHEREAS, the Town Board wishes to have a joint meeting with the Planning Board for a presentation/discussion regarding the Comprehensive Plan Survey results on December 18, 2013 at 6:00 P.M.; and WHEREAS, upon due deliberation thereupon, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing has RESOLVED, that the Town of Lansing Regular Town Board Meeting be scheduled for Wednesday, December 18, 2013 at 7:00 P.M. The question of the adoption of such proposed Resolution was duly motioned by Supervisor Kathy Miller, duly seconded by Councilperson Katrina Binkewicz, and put to a roll call vote with the following results: November 20, 2013 15 Councilperson Katrina Binkewicz-Aye Councilperson Robert Cree - Aye Councilperson Ruth Hopkins - Aye Councilperson Edward LaVigne -Aye Supervisor Kathy Miller-Aye Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on November 20, 2013. Robert Cree He attended the first RFP Committee meeting. He would like to discuss this further at a work session meeting to give the committee a formal charge. Ruth Hopkins She asked when the Organizational meeting was going to be held in January. Kathy Miller stated that she looked into it and it will be combined with the Regular meeting in January on the 15th of 2014. ZBA Board— She informed the Board that she likes the idea of an annual report to be presented by Gregg Travis, Chair to the Town Board. Ed LaVigne He stated that the LHA Board will not be meeting for the next two months. Katrina Binkewicz Nothing to Report at this time. Kathy Miller Monthly Report The Supervisor submitted her monthly report for the month of October, 2013 to all Board Members and to the Town Clerk. Planning Board She reported that the Planning Board is extremely busy. She would like to invite Jonathan Kanter to a work session meeting to discuss and give an overview on all the developments within the town. TOWN COUNSEL REPORT He informed the Town Board that there was an affirmed declaration in the Morris case that determined that it is not a public highway and the case was ended. They have lost 7 cases and 2 motions. They could appeal within 30 days and ask for permission to submit a brief through the court of appeals. Meeting adjourned at the call of the Supervisor at 8:45 p.m. Minutes taken and executed by the Town Clerk. Respectfully submitted, Debbie S. Crandall November 20, 2013 16