HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-10-16
October 16, 2024
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REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING
October 16, 2024
A Regular Meeting of the Lansing Town Board was held at the Town Hall Board Room,
29 Auburn Road, Lansing, NY, and streamed live on YouTube on the above date at
6:30 p.m. The meeting was called to order by Ruth Groff, Supervisor, and opened with
the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. Roll call by Deborah K. Munson, Town Clerk,
showed the following to be
PRESENT:
Judy Drake, Councilperson Laurie Hemmings, Councilperson
Christine Montague, Councilperson Joseph Wetmore, Councilperson
Ruth Groff, Supervisor
ABSENT: No one absent
ALSO PRESENT: Mike Moseley, Highway Superintendent, Mary Ellen Albrecht,
Bookkeeper, Jennifer Schenck, Accountant, Patrick Tyrrell, Parks and Recreation
Supervisor, Guy Krogh, Town Counsel and Emma Stull
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR – COMMENTS
No one addressed the Town Board.
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
October 16, 2024
Sign Maintenance:
▪ Crews:
o Worked to replace and repair signs around Town as needed
o Cut limbs and brush around road signs
Tree & Brush Maintenance:
▪ Continued working:
o To improve line of sight issues throughout the Town
o Diligently to mow roadsides throughout the Town
Water/Sewer Maintenance:
▪ Crew worked to repair a 2-inch water service at Village Circle.
▪ By working with Bager, we have identified that the Town of Lansing does not
have any lead pipe services at McKinney Point. I would like to praise my guys
who had to hand dig a water curb box to determine if the service was copper or
lead. The service was located inside of a garage.
Road Maintenance:
▪ Crews worked:
October 16, 2024
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o On Hillcrest Road erosion project. This is a shared cost project with Tompkins
County Soil and Water. Special thanks to Angel and Brian for all their hard
work.
o To improve upon the infrastructure of drainage throughout the Town and
replace as needed
o To repair various patch jobs throughout the Town
Office:
▪ Mike attended the following meetings:
o Bolton Point Commissions
o Highway Barn
o Bolton Point Engineering & Operations
o Water, Sewer and Stormwater Committee
o Project Review Committee
o Solar
o Lansing Highway Association
o Department of Public Works
▪ Working with Dave and T.G. Miller on various projects.
Cross- Departmental Collaborations:
▪ Coordinated with Pat and Tyler on use of highway equipment.
New Highway Barn:
▪ Continue working with LeChase and Bergman:
o To determine project costs
o On schematic design, design and development
Intermunicipal Work:
▪ Working with Tompkins County Soil and Water on Hillcrest Rd.
▪ Thank you to the City of Ithaca Department of Public Works for their help in
creating a sign for the Town of Lansing.
▪ Performed brush and limb pick up for the Village of Lansing residents.
▪ Assisted the Village with milling.
Mike also stated he is working with Town Engineer Dave Herrick and Town Counsel
Guy Krogh regarding a permanent brush and mulching site at 104 Auburn Road. He may
have additional information next month.
PARKS AND RECREATION REPORT – PATRICK TYRRELL
Submitted the following report to the Town Board and it was available as a handout.
Town Board Report
October
RECREATION:
- Current programming includes Horseback Riding, Swimming, YogaChi, Strength
& Stretch, Cardio Step, Adult Co-Ed Volleyball and Cheerleading. Registrations
for Youth basketball and basketball cheerleading are now open.
- Rec Night was September 18th at Sobus Field, Rec players got to play at halftime
of the Varsity Soccer Game and showcase their soccer skills.
October 16, 2024
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- Modified Soccer is practicing on the Town ballfields.
- Ithaca Little Red Lacrosse is playing on the Barn fields Sundays and Wednesdays.
- Small Fry and Flag Football has ended.
- Fall Soccer has ended for the season.
- 34th Annual Boy Scouts Haunted house on Saturday October 26th in the
Community Center and on the ballfields.
- Clearing out Community Center of Drop-In supplies.
PARKS:
- Trunk or Treat will be happening again in Myers Park on October 31st.
Registration is open, and spots are quickly filling up.
- Hydrilla Boat washing station has been set up in Myers Park.
- Hanging Town of Lansing Banners.
- Clearing brush at Salt Point.
- Camping has ended for the season.
- All boats in marina, dry dock, and kayak racks must be out by November 1st.
This is a very brief overview of some of the things my department does or has
done. If any board members would like more information, please feel free to
contact me.
DIRECTOR OF PLANNING REPORT – JOHN ZEPKO
Submitted the following report to the Town Board and it was available as a handout.
Planning & Code Enforcement
John Zepko, Director, CPESC, CFM
Reporting Period Sept 2024
PLANNING BOARD
Sept 2024
Project: Review of Minor Subdivision Plat of land
at 372 Holden Road
Applicant: Arlene Krebs
Location: 372 Holden Rd Tax Parcel # 4.-1-9
Project Description: Minor subdivision of 372
Holden Road into 3 parcels: the parent lot,
“Parcel A” and “Parcel B”.
Project: Preliminary Plat Review of Major
Subdivision of land at 0 Teeter Road
Applicant: Andy Sciarabba on behalf of Scott
Cardamone
Location: Teeter Road Tax Parcel # 37.1-7-18.12
Project Description: Major Subdivision of
approximately 8.9 acres into three lots,
including 580’ of 8” DI water main plus three
(3) services
October 16, 2024
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ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Sept 2024
Project: Use Variance to construct a Solar
Energy Facility off N. Triphammer Road
Applicant: Mollie Messenger, representing
Delawar River Solar
Location: 0 North Triphammer Road, TPN 44.-
1-1.2 and 44.-1-3.3
Project Description: The applicant has
applied for a Use Variance to construct a
Solar Energy Facility off N. Triphammer Road.
This project is located in R2 zoning which
does not permit the construction of a Solar
Energy Facility
Project: Applicant wishes to remove prior
conditions allowing for fill to be added to site to
create positive drainage
Applicant: Jason Demarest, representing Lillian
Babcock
Location: 30 Ladoga Park W, TPN 33.-1-58
Project Description: The applicant has applied
for a rehearing to discuss the removal of prior
conditions (from 7/20/2004) which would allow
for fill to be added to create positive drainage at
30 & 32 Ladoga. This property is located in L1
zoning with lake frontage
MUNICIPAL SEPARATE STORM SEWER SYSTEM (MS4)
PROGRAM
Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s) are located within the boundaries of an
urbanized area defined by US Census. The MS4 is regulated by the US Environmental
Protection Agency’s Phase II Stormwater Rule. The NYS Department of Environmental
Conservation issued an updated General Permit for stormwater discharges from MS4s in
January of 2024. The permit is called GP-0-24-001, and will remain in effect for a 5yr
permit cycle.
The Department of Planning and Code Enforcement has completed the following,
mandated by GP-0-24-001, to remain in compliance with the Town of Lansing’s MS4
permit. An interim progress report, certifying that the Town had reached its 6 month
compliance goals, was submitted to the DEC on 1 Oct 2024.
GP-0-24-001 REQUIREMENTS
Reference Deliverable Compliance
Timeframe
STATUS
IV.E. For MS4 Operators continuing coverage
from previous iterations of this SPDES
general permit, adequate legal authority must
be maintained
At the EDC Complete
VI.E.2.a. For MS4 Operators continuing coverage, the
inventory of post-construction SMPs must 1)
be maintained from previous iterations of
this SPDES general permit and 2) developed
as they are approved/discovered or after the
At the EDC Complete
October 16, 2024
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owner/operator of the construction activity
has filed the NOT
II.A. For MS4 Operators continuing coverage,
submit a complete electronic notice of intent
Forty-five (45)
days from the
EDP
Complete
IV.A.2. Develop a written staffing
plan/organizational chart which includes job
titles and other entities as identified in Part
IV.A.1, and the roles and responsibilities for
each corresponding to the required elements
of the SWMP
Within six (6)
months of the
EDC
Complete
IV.B.2.a. Make the current SWMP Plan, and any
documentation associated with the
implementation of the SWMP Plan, available
during normal business hours to the MS4
Operator’s management and staff responsible
for implementation as well as the
Department and U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (USEPA) staff
Within six (6)
months of the
EDC
Complete
IV.B.2.b. Make a copy of the current SWMP Plan
available for public inspection during normal
business hours at a location that is accessible
to the public, or on a public website managed
by the MS4 Operator
Within six (6)
months of the
EDC
Complete
IV.D.1. Include the required components in the
comprehensive system mapping
Within six (6)
months of the
EDC
Complete
IV.F.1. Develop and implement an enforcement
response plan (ERP) which clearly describes
the action(s) to be taken for violations that
the MS4 Operator has enacted for illicit
discharge, construction, and post-
construction
Within six (6)
months of the
EDC
Complete
VI.A.1.d. Make information related to the prevention
of illicit discharges available
Within six (6)
months of the
EDC
Complete
VI.B.1.c. Identify a local point of contact to receive
and respond to public concerns regarding
stormwater management and compliance
with permit requirements.
Within six (6)
months of the
EDC
Complete
VI.C.1.a.i. Establish an email or phone number for the
public to report illicit discharges
Within six (6)
months of the
EDC
Complete
VI.D.2.a. Establish an email or phone number for the
public to report complaints related to
construction stormwater activity
Within six (6)
months of the
EDC
Complete
VI.D.4.a. Develop inventory of construction sites Within six (6)
months of the
EDC
Complete
VI.F.3.d.i. Develop and implement procedures for
sweeping and/or cleaning municipal streets,
bridges, parking lots, and right of ways
Within six (6)
months of the
EDC
Complete
October 16, 2024
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Building & Code
Sept 2024
Fees Collected $47,768.60
Estimated Project Cost $8,939,508.00
Certificate of Occupancy/Compliance 32
Building Permits 39
One- & Two-Family Residences 2
New Businesses 1
Multi-Family Residences (3 or more units) 2
TOTAL 2024 Misc. Fee Collected to date 23,450.00
Jan 1, 2024 to Sep 30, 2024
Fees Collected $129,341.60
Estimated Project Cost $22,870,157.00
Certificate of Occupancy/Compliance 236
Building Permits 250
One- & Two-Family Residences 9
New Businesses 1
Multi-Family Residences (3 or more units) 2
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
OCTOBER 2024
BOARD/COUNCIL VACANCIES
Our office has posted the upcoming board/council vacancies on the Town’s website and
bulletin boards. The Ithaca Journal, radio and school were notified. There are vacancies
on the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, Conservation Advisory Council and
Board of Ethics. Interested applicants may complete an application at
https://lfweb.tompkins-co.org/Forms/TOLBCApplication or contact our office.
Incumbents wishing to be reappointed must submit an application for reappointment.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and a Town of Lansing resident. Deadline for
Applications is October 21, 2024.
WATER, SEWER, AND STORMWATER COMMITTEE
Deputy Town Clerk Jessie Hall attended this meeting to discuss a pending outside user
application. They also discussed changing the process in which applications are handled
and inquiries about connecting. She has contacted the two residents and requested
additional documents or information.
TRAINING
Laserfiche
October 16, 2024
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Jessie and Ashley attended a Laserfiche user class held by the Tompkins County Clerk
and General Code. Laserfiche is the repository for electronic Town records. It is a shared
service that the County provides. This training covered a lot of tips and tricks on using
the software.
Tax Webinar
Debbie attended another Association of Towns (AOT) tax webinar on September 26th.
New York State Archives
Jessie attended a webinar regarding conducting an inventory of paper records.
HUNTING LICENSES
Deer Management Permits (DMP/doe) tag sales ended on October 1, 2024, and the next
round will open on November 1st. With no other DEC licensing agent in the Ithaca area,
our office did see an increase in customers (Walmart, Dick’s Sporting Goods and the
Town of Ithaca are no longer selling hunting and fishing licenses).
RELEVIES OF UNPAID WATER AND SEWER BILLS
Approximately 103 delinquent water accounts with balances totaling approximately
$30,000 will be relevied on 2025 Town and County Tax Bills.
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
October 2024
1. Diane Booth hosted Zentangle Art for adults and teens on October 5th.
2. Don’t forget that if the Library is closed, you still have access to Libby, Hoopla,
and Kanopy!
3. 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.
4. Learn to play American Mah Jongg every Wednesday (new day!) at 10:00 am.
5. 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.
6. The Library now offers free period products using an Aunt Flow dispenser.
Unfortunately, we are no longer able to supply free COVID tests. We can help
residents contact the USPS to get free tests in the mail.
7. Chair Yoga is offered every Monday at 10:00 am.
8. “Flying Fingers of Fall” is a sign language family friendly program on 10/19/24,
with Kathy MacMillan.
9. Repousee Metalworking with the Johnson Museum explores metal art for 3rd
and 4th graders on 10/22/24. For 5th and 6th graders, they will be offering Self
Portraits on 10/29/24.
10. The art exhibition in September and October will be artwork by Zara Gervais.
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11. The Lansing Artisan Fair is looking for vendors to sign up now for the fair on
12/6 and 12/7.
12. Storytime returns on Thursdays at 10:30 am. This month's topics include fire
trucks, autumn leaves, and apples and pumpkins.
13. Learn T’ai Chi on Fridays at 10:30 am.
14. The Library is hosting a costume exchange program all month. If you have
costumes, leave them with us! If you need one, come pick one out!
15. Between 10/7-10/19, the Library will be participating in the Great Give Back by
collecting personal hygiene products.
16. Candy donations for Trunk or Treat can be dropped off before 10/26.
17. Local author Amanda Jaros Champion will do a presentation and book signing
on 11/2 for her book “100 things to do in Ithaca before you die”.
18. Amy Puryear will be offering Singsong music classes on Tuesdays in October at
10:30 am. Registration is full currently.
LANSING YOUTH SERVICES REPORT – RICK ALVORD
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.
Lansing Youth Services
Town Board Report
October 2024
Digital Photography: Participants in Digital photography are learning the basics of
photography techniques and how to create the image they desire. Topics so far have
included using the rule of thirds, turning on the “grid” option on their cameras, how to
use light in order to pull out their subject, as well as shadows to do the same, how to
create feelings of texture and scale, and how to have fun with it to be creative and
expressive with their photos. The group did a photo scavenger hunt, which sparked a lot
of creative photos. Youth also completed a challenge where they chose a word or phrase
and had to capture photos of all the letters. This allowed the youth to think differently
about how to take the photo to display their letters. One participant who is a very
seasoned photographer has been assisting so many in the group when they have questions
or want his perspective on their photos. 8 youth served.
Outdoor Adventure: Students in this busy program have been venturing to Salmon
Creek where they have explored the local wildlife like deer, crayfish, as well as tracking
mink and raccoon and hunting for fossils. Youth also practice making fires to cook treats
and snacks over the flames or coals. Debris huts were demonstrated which highlight
important aspects of making a shelter that can withstand the elements. Youth then
designed and began building their own shelters which could hold up to 3 people. One of
the eighth-grade students has become a great resource for other students, especially when
it comes to fire building, creating camouflage, and sharing stories about his time in the
woods with his uncle. 12 youth served.
The Art Factory: This program continues all fall as it leads up to the annual Lansing
Artisan Fair. Participants are working with clay, making holiday decorations, leather
project and jewelry made of resin and beads for the event. Budgeting and pricing
discussions have been spearheading each day to keep youth thinking about all that goes
into running a small business. The proceeds fund a celebratory party for all of those who
participated in the program. The group will, closer to the holiday season, shop for
Salvation Army sponsored family, picking out clothing and gifts for the family, and
providing food for the holiday season. 13 youth served.
October 16, 2024
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Delicious Desserts: This program is all about making desserts that students like but
keeping these desserts healthy as the main goal. So far the group has made fruit tarts and
their version of an Oreo McFlurry, substituting many traditional ingredients for healthier
options. Feedback has been positive thus far with a common response of, “this actually
IS good!” Green Smoothies and chocolate chip cookies are right around the bend. 8
youth served.
Youth Employment: The fall has seen the return of additional youth employees to
Lansing Youth Services afterschool programs, with one assistant in each program. There
continues to be tremendous growth in confidence and taking initiative while in the
program. Two teens have started leading games, managing food distribution and
practicing conflict resolution by asking for assistance when there is a disagreement. They
both ask after a situation what I would have done, while supporting their valiant efforts
with positive feedback and ideas for the next time they see a similar conflict. A new
position with the Lansing High School Librarian should be starting within the next week
or so. We still have our Lansing Public Library team working hard, with two new youth
slated to start their training soon. 9 youth served.
TOMPKINS COUNTY LEGISLATOR REPORT – MIKE SIGLER
Submitted the following report to the Town Board and it was available as a handout.
Tompkins County Legislator
Michael Sigler
October 2024
Hello and thank you for this opportunity to give you my report. I’m sorry I’m tied up out
of Town, but here’s what’s going on at the County. Again, I draw heavily from Dominick
Recckio’s reports and I thank him for his efforts.
The Tompkins County Legislature announced today the hiring of Korsah Akumfi as the
Tompkins County Administrator. Akumfi will assume the position on December 9, 2024.
He currently serves as the County Administrator / Budget Officer for Schoharie County
New York and previously served as the assistant to the administrator.
Korsah has a background in budget development and has been serving as the
administrator in a New York State County which were key to the Legislature’s selection.
Akumfi has served in several workforce and employment-related positions at the New
York State Department of Labor, as well as finance-related roles in Ghana and the United
Kingdom. He has a Master of Public Administration from Binghamton University with
an emphasis on economic development, local government management, and public policy
and finance.
We adopted a tentative budget last night by one vote. There was bipartisan opposition to
the budget largely because those opposed feel there is more money in the fund balance
that can be used to offset a tax increase. Assessments are up for many as you know and
many are struggling and it’s felt by almost half of the legislators including me there’s
room to offset that increase. The tax rate will be going down, but because home values
have risen so quickly, the average home price is up and so the average home will see a
tax increase. The next step is a public hearing on the budget. The budget is $252.3
million.
Big news for Lansing!
The Tompkins County Legislature unanimously approved awarding Cayuga Health
System the contract to operate withdrawal and stabilization services through its Cayuga
Addiction Recovery Services (CARS) affiliate. The program will help clients detox and
receive medically supervised substance use withdrawal stabilization services in what’s
referred to as an “Open Access Center.” New York State’s Office of Addiction Services
and Supports will provide approximately $600,000 in annual funding passed through the
Tompkins County Whole Health Department to operate these services for the duration of
the five-year contract.
This was one of the most significant things that the Legislature will do this year, speaking
about how the Alcohol and Drug Council was unable to pursue this as it closed and we’re
October 16, 2024
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happy Cayuga Health has been able to reopen this along with the mental health
stabilization unit. That unit is funded separately though a Tompkins County Community
Recovery Fund grant of $1.5 million. This program will offer mental health stabilization
services and may be located in the same facility as the withdrawal and stabilization
services pending New York State licensure.
We are moving ahead with our plans for a code blue shelter. It looks like we will have to
upfront the cost on this and last night we voted to hire staff as our current shelter operator
cannot take on the new mission. Temperatures continue to drop, and we need to bring
this online as quickly as possible.
The Legislature agreed to suspend or cancel the County’s contract with Customs and
Border Protection and work with the NYS Department of Transportation to potentially
repurpose the customs facility to generate revenue and provide community benefit.
I said in the meeting I hope the community doesn’t see this vote as “a vote of no
confidence in the airport.” I argued that this is more of a refocus than a closure, with
future strategies pointed toward getting more and less expensive flights from the airport.
The customs facility could be recreated or reopened in the future if there was a market for
it and the County were to reapply and meet the criteria set by the federal government.
This may require space reconfiguration and additional costs.
Legislator Lee Shurtleff reported that enplanements are up 23% year-over-year from
2023 which is good news for our airport.
CONSENT AGENDA
a. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PARKS, RECREATION, AND TRAILS
WORKING GROUP TO DRAFT A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) AND
INTERVIEW CONSULTANTS
RESOLUTION 24-141
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PARKS, RECREATION, AND TRAILS
WORKING GROUP TO DRAFT A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) AND
INTERVIEW CONSULTANTS
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, the Parks, Recreation and Trails Working Group has secured a grant from the
Park Foundation for a Comprehensive Trails Plan, and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has accepted this grant, and
WHEREAS, a consultant will need to be hired to create this plan, and
WHEREAS, technical input and assistance will be required from certain Town staff, and
upon due deliberation thereupon, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing has hereby
RESOLVED, to authorize the Parks, Recreation, and Trails Working Group to draft an
RFP seeking professional services to create a Comprehensive Trails Plan to be submitted
to the Town Board for review and approval, and
RESOLVED, to authorize the Parks, Recreation, and Trails Working Group to interview
prospective consultants and recommend to the Town Board the selection of their chosen
firm, and
RESOLVED, to authorize the Town Supervisor to approve committee requests for
technical and other assistance from Town staff or others, when warranted in her discretion,
with such discretion to be guided by the best interests of the Town.
October 16, 2024
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b. RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE 2023 YEAR END INDEPENDENT OUTSIDE
FINANCIAL REPORT AND AUDIT OF TOWN OPERATIONS, PROCEDURES,
FUNDS, CASH HANDLING PROCEDURES AND ACCOUNTS
RESOLUTION 24-142
RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE 2023 YEAR END INDEPENDENT
OUTSIDE FINANCIAL REPORT AND AUDIT OF TOWN OPERATIONS,
PROCEDURES, FUNDS, CASH HANDLING PROCEDURES AND ACCOUNTS
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, the Town has received and reviewed the 2023 Year End Independent Outside
Audit of Town functions, cash management policies, accounts and protocols; and
WHEREAS, Insero & Co prepared the financial report and audit, and it was given to the
Town Board for review; and
WHEREAS, upon deliberation thereupon, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing has
hereby
RESOLVED, that such 2023 Year End Independent Outside Audit Report be and hereby
is approved.
SEQRA: Type II Action.
c. RESOLUTION HIRING PART-TIME INFORMATION AIDE IN THE TOWN
CLERK’S OFFICE
RESOLUTION 24-143
RESOLUTION HIRING PART-TIME INFORMATION AIDE
IN THE TOWN CLERK’S OFFICE
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, to address staffing needs of the Town, the Town has need to hire for a Part-
Time Information Aide position in the Town Clerk’s Office; and
WHEREAS, acceptable and qualified candidates will be identified and selected and are
therefore proposed to be hired to fulfill such job requirements; and
WHEREAS, upon due deliberation thereupon, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing
has hereby
RESOLVED, that the above position is approved to be employed at an hourly rate not to
exceed $23.00 per hour, based on experience, as a Part-Time Information Aide in the Town
Clerk’s Office; also
RESOLVED, the probationary period be and hereby is scheduled for 26 weeks; also
RESOLVED, that the appropriate Town officer be and hereby is authorized to make such
changes to the Towns’ employment and civil service rosters, to file the required Civil
Service forms to effect such changes per this Resolution, and to file Form 428s, if required.
d. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING MAP-PLAN FOR TOWN LAW § 202
CONSOLIDATED WATER DISTRICT IMPROVEMENTS FOR TEETER ROAD
SUBDIVISION
RESOLUTION 24-144
October 16, 2024
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RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING MAP-PLAN FOR TOWN LAW § 202
CONSOLIDATED WATER DISTRICT IMPROVEMENTS FOR TEETER ROAD
SUBDIVISION
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, Developer Scott Cardamone (“Developer”) previously had both a subdivision
approval for the Teeter Road subdivision and a final order approving the plan for constructing
and financing required CWD improvements, both of which approvals have expired or become
so out of date as to no longer be valid, and the Developer has reapplied for subdivision
approval, the CWD improvements and infrastructure is still needed to serve that subdivision,
and such action now requires an updated map-plan under Article 12 of Town Law; and
WHEREAS, it is deemed to be in the public interest to supply such subdivision with public
water, including because public water is a requirement of the Planning Board for subdivision
approval, such that the Town Board wishes to more fully examine the costs and benefits of
such district improvements, consisting mainly of a connecting main along Teeter Road,
together with the curb boxes and meter pits needed to serve the subdivision lots; and
WHEREAS, upon deliberation upon the foregoing, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing
has hereby
RESOLVED AND ORDERED, that the Town Engineer proceed with the preparation of a
Map-Plan under Town Law Article 12 (§§ 202 through 202-b) respecting a design, plan, and
cost and financing plan for such improvements, all at a cost not to exceed $2,000, with such
amount to be paid by the Developer.
e. RESOLUTION APPROVING AUDIT AND BUDGET MODIFICATIONS AND
SUPERVISOR’S REPORT
RESOLUTION 24-145
RESOLUTION APPROVING AUDIT AND BUDGET MODIFICATIONS
AND SUPERVISOR’S REPORT
The Supervisor submitted her monthly report for the month of September 2024, 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 Christine Montague. 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 # 010
October 16, 2024
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BUDGET
MODIFICATIONS
GENERAL FUND
TOWNWIDE A FUND
October 16th, 2024
FROM TO FOR AMOUNT
A599 A1620.403
(Buildings - Electric)
TO COVER INCREASED
ELECTRICTAL COSTS $ 3,000.00
A599
A1630.400
(Community Center
- Contractual)
TO COVER
UNANTICIPATED
COSTS/MINOR REPAIRS
$ 4,500.00
A599
A1630.403
(Community Center-
Electric)
TO COVER INCREASED
ELECTRICTAL COSTS $ 800.00
A599 A1670.400 (Central
Printing/Mailing)
TO COVER ADDITONAL
COSTS FOR LEGAL
NOTICES
$ 2,500.00
A599
A1910.400
(Unallocated
Insurance)
TO COVER COSTS OF
NEW EQUIPMENT
INSURED
$ 1,508.50
A599 A5132.403 (Garage-
Electric)
TO COVER INCREASED
ELECTRICTAL COSTS $ 3,000.00
A599 A7110.403 (Parks-
Electric)
TO COVER INCREASED
ELECTRICTAL COSTS $ 4,600.00
A599
A7180.100 (Beach
& Pool-Personal
Services)
TO COVER INCREASE
PAYROLL COSTS $ 1,852.75
A599
A1380.401 -
(Actuary-
Contractual)
TO COVER ACTUARY
COSTS (2 in 1 year, not
done in 2023)
$ 1,350.00 $23,111.25
Total Fund
Balance to
be used
A2189
(Grants
Received)
A7310.400 (Youth
Program-
Contractual)
TO BOOK GRANT
RECEIVED FOR BALLFIED
PLAYGROUND
$ 3,916.87
A4989.400
(Health-PPE)
A4989.401 (Health-
AEDS) New Code AED'S $ 4,800.00
HIGHWAY
TOWNWIDE - DA
FUND
October 16th, 2024
FROM TO FOR AMOUNT
DA5130.200R DA5130.200 TO CORRECT CODING
ON VOUCHER 834 $ 63,160.00
GENERAL
JOURNAL
ONLY TO
CORRECT
CODING
DA2650 (Sale
of Scrap)
DA5130.400
(Machinery)
ADDING ADDITIONAL
FUNDS TO MACHINERY
ACCOUNT FROM
UNBUDGETED SALE OF
EQUIPMENT
$ 15,500.00
HIGHWAY OUTSIDE
VILLAGE - DB FUND
October 16th, 2024
October 16, 2024
14
FROM TO FOR AMOUNT
DB5110.400 DB5112.400 TO CORRECT CODING
ON VOUCHER 910 $ 850.54
GENERAL
JOURNAL
ONLY TO
CORRECT
CODING
WARREN RD.
LIGHTING DISTRICT
SL2- FUND
October 16th, 2024
FROM TO FOR AMOUNT
SL2-599 SL2-5182.400 TO COVER INCREASED
ELECTRICTAL COSTS $ 2,400.00
LAKEWATCH
LIGHTING DISTRICT
SL3- FUND
October 16th, 2024
FROM TO FOR AMOUNT
SL3-9901.900
(TRANSFER
TO OTHER
FUNDS)
SL3-5182.400 TO COVER INCREASED
ELECTRICTAL COSTS $ 3,600.00
This will
decrease
the amount
of the loan
paid back
to A Fund
this year.
CHERRY ROAD
SEWER DISTRICT
SS3- FUND
October 16th, 2024
FROM TO FOR AMOUNT
SS3-
8110.401
(JOINT
PROJECT-
LEGAL)
SS3-8120.402
(SANITARY
SEWERS- LEGAL)
TO SHIFT COSTS $ 148.50
CONSENT AGENDA RESOLUTIONS 24-141 – 24-145
RESOLUTION 24-146
CONSENT AGENDA RESOLUTIONS 24-141 – 24-145
WHEREAS, upon due deliberation thereupon, the Town Board of the Town of
Lansing has hereby
RESOLVED, that the Consent Agenda Resolutions 24-141 – 24-145, are hereby
approved as presented, and
The question of the adoption of such proposed Consent Agenda Resolutions were duly
motioned by Councilperson Joseph Wetmore, duly seconded by Councilperson Laurie
Hemmings, and put to a roll call vote with the following results:
Councilperson Judy Drake – Aye Councilperson Laurie Hemmings – Aye
Councilperson Christine Montague – Aye Councilperson Joseph Wetmore – Aye
Supervisor Ruth Groff – Aye
October 16, 2024
15
Accordingly, the foregoing Resolutions were approved, carried, and duly adopted on
October 16, 2024.
RESOLUTION MEMORIALIZING CHANGES TO TENTATIVE BUDGET AND
AUTHORZING PREPARATION AND FILING OF PRELIMINARY BUDGET
Supervisor Ruth Groff stated the tax rate will be the same as last year.
Accountant Jennifer Schneck stated the tax levy will be increased 19.25%, over last year,
for the General Townwide “A” Fund.
Town Board Discussion:
• This still does not reach the fund balance
o “A” Fund balance will be back up in 2028, with tax rate increases
• Town infrastructure is aging out
• There will be a bond payment for the new highway barn
• Concern about money
• Town will receive money from solar community host agreements
o Money not in budget
o Can be used for Myers Park bathrooms, etc.
• Next year the tax rate will increase
o New highway barn
o Increase funds which are now low
RESOLUTION 24-147
RESOLUTION MEMORIALIZING CHANGES TO TENTATIVE BUDGET AND
AUTHORZING PREPARATION AND FILING OF PRELIMINARY BUDGET
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
WHEREAS, pursuant to Town Law Article 8, and §§ 106 and 107 therein, the Town and
its various officers and employees coordinate fiscal reviews and activities to help and cause
the Town’s Budget Officer to prepare a Tentative Budget and such Tentative Budget is
presented formally by the Town Clerk and the Town Board thereafter reviews, investigates,
updates and amends the same, whereupon it becomes a Preliminary Budget; and
WHEREAS, a Preliminary Budget must exist by a specific date and public hearings are
held thereupon before the formality of adoption by formal vote and resolution as a Final
Budget; and
WHEREAS, upon deliberation hereupon, the Town Board of the Town of Lansing has
hereby RESOLVED as follows:
1. To date, the agreed-upon changes and updates to the Tentative Budget consist of
the following:
Changes to Tentative Budget for Preliminary
Changes from 9.25.24 Meeting
A Fund Expenditures
1) A1320.400 - Independent Auditing – Heard from Patrick Jordan today that we
should plan $21,000 for a 2024 audit, 5% increase
2) A1620.400 - Buildings-Contractual – Increase from $59,000 to $60,000 to add a
letter board at Town Hall.
3) A1620.403 – Buildings – Electric – Cost of electricity is up this year. Currently in
2024 we are on track to spend $7,700
a. Should we increase this from $6,200 to $8,000
October 16, 2024
16
4) A1630.400 - Community Center – Contractual – Currently in 2024 on track to
spend $14,500 (Cleaning contract increase this year)
a. Increase from $12,000 to $15,000
5) A1630.403 - Community Center – Electric - Cost of electricity is up this year.
Currently in 2024 we are on track to spend $3,400
a. Should we increase this from $2,800 to $4,000
6) A1920.400 - Municipal Association Dues – Remove $6,023 allocated for Cayuga
Lake Watershed Int. Organization and change from $9,025 to $3,002
7) A6772.450 - Programs- Watershed Organizations –This reflects a name change
from Owasco Lake Watershed Council, and moves $6,023 from Municipal
Association Dues here changing this from $200 to $6,223
8) A7320.110 - Youth Services-High School Helpers – Per updated budget from
Community Youth Services, they are requesting $25,374
9) A7320.410 - Youth Services – Contractual- Per updated budget from Community
Youth Services, increase from $57,229 to $60,205
10) A7510.400 - Historian-Contractual – Increase from $500 to $1,000 for a
dehumidifier
11) A9730.700 - Bond Anticipation Notes – Need to budget for at least the interest
payment of $68,145
A Fund Revenues
1) A1001 - Real Property Taxes – Increase from $2,156,481.98 to $2,203,362
2) A1170 - Franchise Fee – Increase from $36k to $80k
3) A2352 - Youth Services- Local Contribution – Removed $5k as we have not
received in past few years
4) A3017 - State Aid- Loss of Public Utility Valuation – Added this code and we
should budget for the $19,332
B Fund
Creation of New codes and funds moved - NO EFFECT ON TOTALS
1) B1420.401-Legal-Zoning (Moved $25,000 from B8010.402)
2) B1420.402-Legal- Planning (Moved $20,000 from B8020.402)
3) B1440.401-Engineering-Zoning (Moved $5,000 from B8010.403)
4) B1440.402-Engineering-Planning (Moved $15,000 from B8020.401)
Cherry Road Sewer District
1) SS3-8110.100 - Sewer Admin - Personal Services – Decrease from $2,904 to
$1,936 per updated numbers received from Town Clerk’s office
Water District
1) SW1910.400 - Unallocated Insurance – Increase from $26,000 to $36,000 per
latest bill from insurance based off rising costs.
Sales Tax Allocations (Bring all to approximately 26%)
1) A1120 - Sales Tax – Increase from $575,000 to $629,000
2) B1120 - Sales Tax – Decrease from $150,000 to $66,000
3) DA1120 - Sales Tax – Increase from $140,000 to $165,000
4) DB1120 - Sales Tax – Increase from $935,000 to $940,000
Payroll Related – All Funds
1) A9030.800-Social Security-Increase from $71,000 to $80,000 (per updated
calculations)
2) B9030.800-Social Security-Increase from $20,000 to $25,000 (per updated
calculations)
3) DA9030.800-Social Security-Increase from $35,000 to $38,000 (per updated
calculations)
4) DB9030.800-Social Security-Increase from $34,000 to $39,000 (per updated
calculations)
October 16, 2024
17
5) SS39030.800-Social Security-Increase from $150 to $175 (per updated
calculations)
6) SW39030.800-Social Security-Increase from $10,000 to $16,000 (per updated
calculations)
7) A9089.800-Medicare-Increase from $17,000 to $18,500 (per updated calculations)
8) B9089.800-Medicare-Increase from $4,500 to $6,000 (per updated calculations)
9) DA9089.800-Medicare-Increase from $8,000 to $9,000 (per updated calculations)
10) DB9089.800-Medicare-Increase from $8,000 to $9,500 (per updated calculations)
11) SS39089.800-Medicare-Increase from $35 to $50 (per updated calculations)
12) SW39089.800-Medicare-Increase from $3,500 to $4,000 (per updated calculations)
Changes for 10.16.24 Meeting
1) A1460.100 - Records Management-Personnel Services – Increase from $0 to
$10,000 to hire a part time worker ($5,000 was moved from the contractual
account)
2) A1460.400 - Records Management - Contractual – Moved $5,000 from this line
to the personnel services line
3) A6772.410 - Programs- Library Reading Program – This is a new code, moving
the library reading program from A7410.400 to here to properly code this program.
No monetary effect on budget
4) A8790.400 - Natural Resources - Contractual – Added $50,000 for the Trails
Comprehensive Plan
5) A1001 - Real Property Taxes – Increase from $2,203,362 to $2,236,178
6) A1081 - Payment in Lieu of Taxes – Increase from $7,118.12 to $8,489.43 per
updated tax rate
7) A1120 - Sales Tax – Decrease from $629,000 to $100,000
8) A2707 - Misc. Local Sources - Parks Foundation Grant – This is a new code to
book the revenue from the Parks Foundation grant for the Trails Comprehensive
plan. $15k was received in 2024 that will be carried over to 2025 and $35,000 will
be received in 2025
9) B1120 - Sales Tax – Increase from $66,000 to $200,000
10) DA5130.400 – Machinery - Contractual – Increase from $245,000 to $300,000, to
reflect actual expenditures
11) DA5142.400 - Snow Removal - Contractual – Increase from $214,297 to
$269,297
12) DA1001 - Real Property Tax - Decrease from $1,676,259.02 to $1,645,782
13) DA1081 - Payment In Lieu of Taxes - Increase from $5,899.38 to $6,248.38 based
on new updated tax rate
14) DA1120 - Sales Tax – Increase from $165,000 to $200,000
15) DB1120 - Sales Tax – Increase from $940,000 to $1,300,000
16) SL2-5182.400 - Warren Road Lighting - Contractual – Increase from $7,140 to
$9,500
17) SL2-1026 - Warren Rd Lighting Tax – Increase from $7,140 to $9,500
18) SL3-5182.400 - Lakewatch Lighting - Contractual – Increase from $12,950 to
$15,600
19) SL3-1026 - Lakewatch Lighting Tax - Increase from $16,500 to $19,150
20) SS1-1031 - Special Assessment Flat Rate – Decrease from $4,513.50 to $4,336.50
per updated unit numbers
21) SS1-2120 - Dept Income-Sewer Rents – Increase from $207,908 to $208,262
22) SS3-1031 - Special Assessment Flat Rate – Decrease from $515 to $476.25 per
updated unit numbers
Changes Made at 10.16.24 Meeting
1) A6497.400 – Economic Development Contractual (Expenditure) – Expenses
Related to $12,000 Tourism Grant Awarded
2) A2089 – Dept Income-Grants Awarded-Culture & Rec (Revenue) – Awarded
Tourism Grant $12,000
2. These changes shall be made to the Tentative Budget, which shall become a
Preliminary Budget and subjected to public hearing as required by law.
October 16, 2024
18
The question of the adoption of such proposed Resolution was duly motioned by
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore, duly seconded by Councilperson Laurie Hemmings, and
put to a roll call vote with the following results:
Councilperson Judy Drake – Aye Councilperson Laurie Hemmings – Aye
Councilperson Christine Montague – Aye Councilperson Joseph Wetmore – Aye
Supervisor Ruth Groff – Aye
Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on
October 16, 2024.
RESOLUTION SCHEDULING PUBLIC HEARING FOR SPECIAL DISTRICTS
PROPOSED 2025 BUDGETS
RESOLUTION 24-148
RESOLUTION SCHEDULING PUBLIC HEARING
FOR SPECIAL DISTRICTS PROPOSED 2025 BUDGETS
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Lansing has prepared the Assessment
Rolls of parcels of land included in the Lansing Consolidated Water District (“CWD”),
CWD Extensions 1, 2, 4 (Lansing Station Road and Drake Road) and 5 (Peruville Road)
and for lands within Lighting Districts Numbers 1, 2, and 3, (Ludlowville, Warren Road,
and Lakewatch), and for the Lansing Drainage Districts Numbers 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11
and 12 (Pheasant Meadows, Whispering Pines, Lake Forest, Farm Pond Circle, Lansing
Commons, Woodland Park, Cayuga Way, Novalane, East Shore Circle and Asbury Road),
and the Lansing Sewer Districts (Cherry Road and Warren Road) (all together, the
“Districts”), and the Town has apportioned and assessed upon such parcels of land in
proportion in the amount of benefits the improvements shall confer upon the same the cost
chargeable to said Districts in connection with the construction and capital costs of the
providing of public water, lighting, stormwater management and drainage, and sewer
transportation and treatment payable in the year 2025 and therefore, pursuant to § 239 of
the Town Law, the Town Board shall hold a Public Hearing at the Lansing Town Hall, 29
Auburn Road, Lansing, New York 14882, at 6:31 p.m., on the 6th day of November, 2024
to hear and consider any objections which may be made to said roll.
The question of the adoption of such proposed Resolution was duly motioned by
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore, duly seconded by Councilperson Laurie Hemmings, and
put to a roll call vote with the following results:
Councilperson Judy Drake – Aye Councilperson Laurie Hemmings – Aye
Councilperson Christine Montague – Aye Councilperson Joseph Wetmore – Aye
Supervisor Ruth Groff – Aye
Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on
October 16, 2024.
RESOLUTION SCHEDULING PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE TOWN OF
LANSING PRELIMINARY BUDGET FOR 2025
RESOLUTION 24-149
RESOLUTION SCHEDULING PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE
TOWN OF LANSING PRELIMINARY BUDGET FOR 2025
The following Resolution was duly presented for consideration by the Town Board:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Preliminary Budget of the Town of Lansing,
Tompkins County, New York for the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2025, will be
completed and filed in the office of the Town Clerk of said Town on October 17, 2024,
October 16, 2024
19
where it will be available for inspection by any interested persons at all reasonable hours;
and
FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Town Board of the Town of Lansing
will meet, and review said Preliminary Budget and hold a Public Hearing thereon at the
Lansing Town Hall, 29 Auburn Road, Lansing, New York 14882, 6:32 p.m. on the 6th day
of November, 2024 and that at such hearing any person may be heard in favor of or against
the Preliminary Budget as compiled or for or against any items therein contained; and
FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Section 108 of the Town Law,
that the following are proposed yearly salaries of elected Town Officials of this Town:
Supervisor $ 30,306.12
Councilperson (4)
Total $ 38,964.00
Each $ 9,741.00
Town Clerk $ 58,493.00
Highway Superintendent $ 92,763.84
Town Justice (2)
Total $ 46,277.34
Each $ 23,138.67
The question of the adoption of such proposed Resolution was duly motioned by
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore, duly seconded by Councilperson Judy Drake, and put to
a roll call vote with the following results:
Councilperson Judy Drake – Aye Councilperson Laurie Hemmings – Aye
Councilperson Christine Montague – Aye Councilperson Joseph Wetmore – Aye
Supervisor Ruth Groff – Aye
Accordingly, the foregoing Resolution was approved, carried, and duly adopted on
October 16, 2024.
BOARD MEMBER REPORTS
Judy Drake
No written report.
Judy stated she has been working on negotiations.
Laurie Hemmings
Submitted the following report to the Town Board and it was available as a handout.
Laurie Hemmings
Town Board Member Report
October 2024
Met with Al Vazquez to discuss alternatives to rent controls, including renters’ co-ops
and renters’ management groups. Also discussed ideas for a county bank.
Laurie also stated she has been working on community concerns with rising rent costs.
Landlords are increasing rents to help with higher school taxes, etc. She noted this is a
complicated problem and does not have a solution.
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 2024
October 16, 2024
20
Lansing Housing Authority meeting 9/23 (Woodsedge housing complex)
• Budget for 2025 is being written. It includes repairing the parking lot which has a
drain that needs to be replaced. Also carpenter bee holes need to be filled in
pavilion.
• They received a letter from Travelers saying they won’t pay for losses due to
hacking.
• The board is expecting a payout from a class action lawsuit (Franconia settlement)
before the end of the year. With the money from this, they plan on repairing the
roof and adding more lighting to the back of the building. The longer term plan is
to replace the HVAC units. The settlement mandates that the board cannot pay
off the mortgage with it.
• The residents asked again for a dog run. The management company has started to
check the liability insurance but had not heard an answer. There may be fencing
already available to build it.
Joseph Wetmore
Submitted the following report to the Town Board and it was available as a handout.
Joseph Wetmore
Town Board Member Report
October 2024
Owasco Lake Watershed Management Council
Tuesday, September 17⋅10:00 – 11:00am
Director’s Summary – Adam Effler
*Board of Directors/Municipality Representatives Feedback
*Treasurer’s Audit and Finance Report
*Lake Level Report
*Watershed Inspection Monthly Report
*Owasco Watershed Lake Association Update
*Cornell Cooperative Extension Update
“In the Shadow of Crypto: Taking on Bitcoin Mining”
Presented by the Milstein Program in Technology & Humanity
Monday, September 23⋅5:00 – 6:00pm
Austin Bunn moderated the panel discussion, which included:
Yvonne Taylor, co-founder and vice president of Seneca Lake Guardian, a citizen
group focused on protecting the Seneca Lake watershed and the Finger Lakes
region. Taylor and the group fought to keep gas drilling out of the Hector
National Forest, worked to help ban fracking in New York State and partnered
with others across the State to pass a statewide moratorium against the use of
fossil fuel burning power plants for bitcoin mining while an environmental impact
study is underway. She is one of the central activists organizing a call to stop
bitcoin mining at the Greenidge power plant near Dresden, N.Y.
Colin Read, professor of economics and finance at SUNY Plattsburgh and the
author of “The Bitcoin Dilemma: Weighing the Economic and Environmental
Costs and Benefits”; and Owen Marshall, visiting assistant professor in the
Department of Science & Technology Studies (A&S). Marshall works at the
intersection of sound studies, media archaeology and the sociology of science and
technology.
Yellow Barn Meeting
Wednesday, October 9⋅11:00am – 12:00pm
Discussed accounting for ORES funds both past and for the future.
Discussed strategy for moving forward.
Parks, Recreation, and Trails Working Group
October 16, 2024
21
Wednesday, October 9⋅9:30 – 10:30am
Rural Beautification Grant - for Route 34B banners. $2,250.
*Hardware & banners have arrived! Project must be completed by October
31st, 2024.
TC Tourism Grant - for Town Center and Myers Road Greenway Feasibility
Studies. $25,000.
*Still waiting.
Meetings with Key Landowners
*Jack has reached out to a landowner who could potentially help us with
the Gulf Creek crossing. Steve will work with Ruth H to talk with
landowners who could help us get from the Town Center to Gulf Creek.
Comprehensive Trails Plan
*Draft Resolution - authorizing the Trails Working Group to draft an RFP
and conduct the selection process was sent to Ruth for the Oct TB
meeting.
*Expanded Working Group – Steve has reached out to Planning Board
member John Licitra to see if he is interested in being their liaison to our
group. Our request for a Planning Department member to liaison with our
group was denied due to workload issues. They are willing to assist us on
an as-needed basis and expressed a willingness to revisit this request in the
future. The addition of a real estate industry member was also discussed.
Steve has someone in mind and will reach out soon.
*Village of Lansing – Carolyn will meet with her Greenway Committee to
discuss possible routes to connect from our trail at the Town line to the
YMCA.
Request for Proposals
*The group had a lengthy and productive discussion of the 1st draft of the
scope of work section. Steve will prepare a revised scope for review at the
next meeting as well as additional sections of the RFP.
Joe discussed Town Solar Projects:
Current committee: Ruth Groff, Joe Wetmore, John Zepko, Guy Krogh, LaBella
Associates, D.P.C., Harter Secrest, & Emery LLP and Town of Groton
Suggestion to leave the committee “as is”, except the Town of Groton will not be
necessary for the future Town Solar Projects.
Need clarity on what the solar company is responsible for and what is the Town’s
responsibility. The Town bills are increasing. John Zepko is overwhelmed with all the
questions and work. One suggestion was to have questions and answers put on the
website.
Town Board agreed to send this to the Code Committee to sort this out.
Ruth Groff
No report.
WORK SESSION MEETING
Board/Committee Applicant Interviews
The following Town Board Members will set up interviews with the applicants and
conduct interviews with other people from the boards/committees/departments.
Planning Board – Laurie Hemmings and Joseph Wetmore
Zoning Board of Appeals – Judy Drake and Christine Montague
Conservation Advisory Council – Ruth Groff and Laurie Hemmings
October 16, 2024
22
Board of Ethics – Christine Montague and Judy Drake
Town Justice – Laurie Hemmings, Ruth Groff and Luke Fenchel (Defense Attorney)
Town Organizational Chart
Judy Drake created and reviewed the chart, stating the following:
• It is a fluid document, not set in stone
• Next steps
o Adopt the chart and review annually
o Update as new positions are created
Department of Public Works (DPW) Local Law Draft
Judy wrote and reviewed Draft Local Law.
Town Counsel Guy Krogh recommends keeping it simple. The Town really is already
functioning as a DPW, just does not have a local law.
November 20, 2024, Town Board Meeting:
• Public hearing on the local law and resolution to adopt it
• Resolution to accept the organizational chart
New Highway Barn
• Parks and Recreation Department will stay at Town Hall
• Planning and Code Department will move to new building
o This will save about $500,000
MOTION TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION
Supervisor Ruth Groff moved to ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS
COLLECTIVE BARGAINING NEGOTIATIONS PER ARTICLE 14 OF CIVIL
SERVICE LAW AT 8:19 PM.
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore seconded the motion.
All in Favor – 5 Opposed – 0
MOTION TO EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore moved to EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 8:46 PM.
Councilperson Judy Drake seconded the motion.
All in Favor – 5 Opposed – 0
MOTION TO ADJOURN MEETING
Councilperson Joseph Wetmore moved to ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 8:46 PM.
Supervisor 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 Guy Krogh, Town Counsel and executed by the Town Clerk.
Respectfully submitted,
Deborah K. Munson, RMC
Town Clerk