HomeMy WebLinkAboutTB Minutes 1980-06-09 L/
TOWN OF ITHACA
TOWN BOARD MEETING
June 9 , 1980 - 6 : 45 P . M .
At a Regular Meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca , Tompkins
County , New York , held on the 9th day of June 1980 , at 6 : 45 p . m . ,
at the Town of Ithaca Offices at 126 East Seneca Street , Ithaca , New
York , there were
PRESENT : Noel Desch , Supervisor
George Kugler , Councilman
Shirley Raffensperger , Councilwoman
Catherine Valentino , Councilwoman
Henry McPeak , Councilman
Victor Del Rosso , Councilman
Marc Cramer , Councilman
ALSO PRESENT : James Buyoucos , Town Attorney
Robert Parkin , Highway Superintendent
Lawrence Fabbroni , Town Engineer
Henry Aron , Planning Board Chairman
Montgomery May , Planning Board Vice - Chairman
Beverly Livesay , Board of Representatives ,
Gust Freeman , Board of Representatives
Celia Bowers , 1406 Trumansburg Road
M . David Jennings , Youth Bureau Representative
Bruce Wilson , Attorney for WVBR
Nancy Fuller , Deputy Clerk
Representatives of the Media :
Matt Leone , Ithaca Journal
Michile Van Buren , WTKO
Eva Raimon , WHCU
Robert M . Lynch , WTKO
Dan Geller , WVBR
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
VThe , Supervisor led the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance .
Supervisor Desch noted that two Board Members , namely Victor Del Rosso
and Marc Cramer were at the Board of Assessment Review and would join
the meeting after 8 : 00 P . M .
® SIGN APPLICATION
® Indian Creek Antiques
The Town Engineer Lawrence Fabbroni stated that Mrs . Celia Bowers , of
1406 Trumansburg Road had purchased a part of the Indian Creek Fruit
Farm . Not included in the purchase was the big barn or the fruit
stand . Mrs . Bowers would like to sell antiques in the house .
Mr . Fabbroni further stated there were no close neighbors . The sign
proposed by Mrs . Bowers was 7 ' x 4 ' 4 " . The Planning Board recommended
a reduction , . the _ sign not to exceed 24 square feet . Because of the
slope of the land , it will be impratical to place the sign right in
front of the premises , as it cannot be seen from the road .
Mrs . Bowers noted the area has been approved as a business zone by the
Zoning Board of Appeals . She further noted that under the new sign
ordinance , the sign would have to be removed in five years . However , _
she needed the sign now for exposure to the public .
Town Board Minutes - 2 - June 9 , 1980
Councilwoman Valentino asked why the sign was non - conforming now ?
Town Engineer Fabbroni answered , saying it was a non - conforming sign
because of the size .
RESOLUTION NO . 93
Motion by Councilwoman Raffensperger ; seconded by Councilman McPeak ,
RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby grants a
variance contingent upon the removal in five years , for the non -
conforming sign of Celia Bowers of 1406 Trumansburg Road , as rec -
ommended by the Planning Board ,
® AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED , that the sign shall not exceed twenty -
four square feet .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Valentino , and McPeak voting Aye .
Nays - none ) .
SALARY ADJUSTMENT - ACCOUNT CLERK - TYPIST
Supervisor Desch stated that the Personnel Committee had met with
Mrs . Sally Alario regarding the increase work load of her job .
The Committee recommended that Mrs . Alario ' s salary be increased
to $ 10 , 500 retroactive to May 1 , 1980 .
RESOLUTION NO . 94
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilwoman Valentino ,
RESOLVED , WHEREAS , the duties of the Accout / Clerk Typist ( Mrs . Alario )
having changed significantly since the position was created in 1978 ,
including employee transactions mandated by the State and other agencies ,
NOW THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED , on the basis of the Personnel Committee
recommendation , that effective May 1 , 1980 , the salary for the position
shall be increased from $ 9 , 300 to $ 10 , 500 .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Valentino and McPeak voting Aye .
Nats - none ) .
CASH PAYMENT IN LIEU OF PERFORMANCE BOND - GIORDANO CONSTRUCTION
Supervisor Desch noted the Giordano Construction & Supply Company of
Ithaca had offered cash as security in lieu of a performance bond for
the repainting of the Town Hall .
® Town Engineer Fabbroni stated the Town Attorney James Buyoucos would
draw up an instrument to accept cash in lieu of a performance bond .
RESOLUTION N0 , 95
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilman Kugler ,
RESOLVED , WHEREAS , on April 3 , 1980 , bids were received for the paint -
ing of the Town Hall exterior for the Town of Ithaca , New York , and
WHEREAS , V . Giordano Construction & Supply Corporation was awarded the
bid for the constract sum of $ 13 , 500 , and
WHEREAS , the proposal , contract and specifications for the repainting
of the Town of Ithaca , Town Hall requires a Performance Bond and a
Labor and Material Payment Bond , and
WHEREAS , V . Giordano Construction & Supply Corporation has offered
cash as security with appropriate access , liquidity , and term to be
Town Board Minutes - 3 - June 9 , 1980
determined by the Town Attorney in the full amount of $ 13 , 500 in lieu
of the Performance Bond and a Labor and Material Payment Bond ,
NOW THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of
Ithaca authorizes the Town Supervisor to execute a guarantee agree -
ment or change order related to such a substitution ; that such
guarantee agreement or change order shall be prepared or reviewed
by the Town Attorney and such conditions and provisions as the
Town Attorney shall recommend .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Valentino and McPeak voting Aye .
Nays - none ) .
EXTENSION OF SEWER LINE TO 122 VALLEY VIEW ROAD
Supervisor Desch noted that he had received a letter from Mrs . Lucy H .
King of 122 Valley View Road expressing interest in an extension of
the sewer line to her property .
The Supervisor noted that the Town was well within budget on the sewer
project . He further noted , that he did not feel the Town should pay
for the return of equipment already removed from the project .
Town Engineer Fabbroni noted that the Town was talkin about an addi -
tional 330 feet of sewer line at a cost of $ 5 , 000 to 6 , 000 to serve
three more properties , which would add about four benefit units . He
felt the De Groff property could be reached from a better way .
Supervisor Desch said the basic question is , do we wish to do further
work . He noted that the contractor still has clean - up work to
perform .
Councilwoman Raffensperger asked if Mrs . King would be requested to
pay more to have the service installed ?
Town Engineer Fabbroni answered no , only for return of equipment .
RESOLUTION N0 , 96
Motion by Councilwoman Raffensperger ; seconded by Councilwoman
Valentino ,
RESOLVED , WHEREAS , on October 23 , 1979 , bids were received for the
construction of sanitary sewer extensions for the West Haven Road ,
Valley View Road and Slaterville Road for the Town of Ithaca , New
York , and
WHEREAS , on October 30 , 1979 , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca
® awarded the bid for construction to Stan Payne Construction Company ,
Inc . , for the contract sum of $ 67 , 875 , and
® WHEREAS , to date approximately $ 64 , 000 is anticipated as charges for
work completion with $ 57 , 981 . 95 having been paid or retained , and
WHEREAS , to date approximately $ 80 , 000 is anticipated as total charges
for completion , and
WHEREAS , on September 17 , 1979 , the Town Board approved a budget of
$ 100 , 000 , and
WHEREAS , Mrs . King of 122 Valley View Road has now requested extension
of the sewer line to serve her property ,
NOW THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of
Ithaca authorizes the Town Supervisor to execute any required change
order to perform the extension requested under the established unit
prices of the above contract provided , Mrs . King agrees to pay any
additional charges for returning equipment to the site .
Town Board Minutes - 4 - June 9 , 1980
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Valentino and McPeak voting Aye .
Nays - none ) .
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF A
LOCAL LAW REGULATING SIGNS IN THE TOWN OF ITHACA
Proof of posting and publication of notice of public hearing to
consider the adoption of a local law regulating signs in the Town
of Ithaca having been presented by the Town Clerk , the Supervisor
opened the hearing .
The Supervisor stated that the Town was considering the updating of
the Sign Law . Some parts of the new proposed Sign Law are complicated .
He further stated that the Planning Board looked at the basic approach ,
then came back with revisions , not only administrative but for special
problems . Supervisor . Desch then stated that Montgomery May , Vice -
Chairman of the Planning Board would give an overview of the differences
between the old Sign Law and the proposed new Sign Law .
Montgomery May stated that basically the old ordinance was good , except
it was difficult to administer it . Recommendation and approval by the
Planning Board was required , then approval by the Town Board . Now ,
conforming signs can be approved by the Building Inspector . The Planning
Board is the review and approval board for non - conforming signs .
Councilwoman Raffensperger asked what percentage of signs would be non -
conforming under the new ordinance ?
Mr . May noted that the Building Inspector Lewis Cartee was preparing a
list of signs which would become non - conforming under the new ordinance .
Mr . May further felt that there was a definite need for the Town Board
members to think about the schedule for removing non - conforming signs .
Town Attorney James Buyoucos stated that inorder to look at the schedule
for removal of non - conforming signs inregards to considering a workable
schedule , it would be necessary to know what effect it will have on the
people . He further stated , that something like this works well , if you
have a clear picture of what signs are effected .
Supervisor Desch suggested another approach was to consider requiring
removal of non - conforming signs at the time they need to be replaced
and also to set a maximum time limit of five , seven and ten years for
removal .
Town Attorney Buyoucos asked , if a man has a sign which is two years
old , the sign needs to be replace , however , the man has three years
left , time wise . If the man is requested to remove the sign because
of condition , can this man appeal before removing the sign ?
® Henry Aron said it would be a non - conforming sign and could be
appealed . He further noted that a time stipulation can be noted on
a variance to overcome this . Upkeep of signs are noted in section
8 . 01 - 4 .
Town Engineer Fabbroni stated that the biggest problem with the new
sign ordinance is that any variance granted in the past , will now
require the people to reapply for a new variance .
Supervisor Desch noted that people have been very cooperative in
bringing their signs into compliance and he would like this atmosphere
to remain .
Henry Aron felt that in time , the Town would have a uniform conformity
in signs .
Mr . May noted that the process for dealing with hardship or obstacles
had been simplified in the new ordinance .
Town Board Minutes - 5 - June 9 , 1980
Mr . Buyoucos asked , if a sign is in good condition , why take it down ?
Councilwoman Raffensperger said because it is not in conformance .
Mr . Buyoucos then asked why five years was chosen ?
Mr . May stated that five years is usually the life of a sign . Also ,
figure was taken from another ordinance .
Councilwoman Raffensperger asked if a flat five years was discussed ?
® Mr . May noted that a flat five years was discussed , however , the
schedule proposed seemed a fairer way .
Mr . May noted that the Sign Review Board would review any sign in
access of 25 % .
Mr . Buyoucos asked what numerically does 25 % mean ?
Mr . May answered 25 % over the allowable square feet of a sign .
Mr . Buyoucos asked if the Sign Review Board said no to a variance ,
can the person then go to the Zoning Board of Appeals ?
Mr . May answered yes .
Mr . Buyoucos noted the new ordinance stated the Sign Review Board can
make changes as necessary , what changes ?
Mr . May answered by saying , changes in size .
Mr . Buyoucos questioned the possibility of people putting up obscene
signs . He felt the language in the proposed Sign Law needed sharpening
up .
Town Engineer Fabbroni noted that it takes a lot of time to become
familiar with the list of non - conforming signs . He speculated there
would be forty non - conforming signs under the new ordinance .
Supervisor Desch felt there was a need to identify the non - conforming
signs .
Mr . Fabbroni noted that in a residential zone , a sign of two square
feet was allowed . He further noted that ten to fifteen signs were
approved by the Town Board in the last few years .
RESOLUTION N0 , 97
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilwoman Raffensperger ,
® RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby adjourns
the public hearing on the proposed local law to regulate signs in
the Town of Ithaca ,
® AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca
will conduct a public hearing on July 7 , 1980 , at 7 : 00 p . m . , at the
Town Offices at 126 East Seneca Street , Ithaca , New York , with regard
to the proposed local law to regulate signs in the Town of Ithaca and
to consider the adoption of a local law in this regard .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Valentino and McPeak voting Aye .
Nays - none ) .
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF AN
AMENDMENT TO THE ZONING ORDINANCE REGARDING
THE GENERAL RESTRICTIONS OF THE HEIGHTS OF
BUILDING AND STRUCTURES IN THE TOWN OF ITHACA
Town Board Minutes - 6 - June 9 , 1980
Proof of posting and publication of notice of public hearing to
consider the adoption of an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance
regarding the general restrictions of the heights of buildings
and structures in the Town of Ithaca having been presented by the
Town Clerk , the Supervisor opened the hearing .
Supervisor Desch read the proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance
on height restrictions , as follows :
In residential Zones R- 9 , R- 15 , and R- 30 , no building or struct=ure
shallbe erected , altered or extended to exceed feet in height .
In Agricultural Zones , no residence building or structure shall_ be
erected , altered or extended to exceed feet in height . There are
excepted from this provision , silos whicE will not exceed feet
in height , barns which shall not exceed feet in height , and or
other buildings in an Agricultural Zones , which shall not exceed
feet in height .
For purposes of this provision , the height of a structure shall_ be
measured from the floor in contact with the ground surface .
Councilman Cramer wondered if the Town Board could restrict heights to
Agricultural Districts .
Councilman Raffensperger felt the amendment might not be allowed
and suggested non - agricultural be added , to read " building or non -
agricultural structure . "
Montgomery May noted most silos are prepackaged and usually are
40 ' tall .
Supervisor Desch asked about side yard requirements .
David Jennings remarked that a lot of interest is being shown in
windmills for private homes . Windmills are 40 ' high . Are you not
going to permit these ?
Attorney Buyoucos noted this was a valid point . He said perhaps the
board would want special permits written into the amendment . He
questioned if the Board would or would not compound troubles , at a
later date , by putting no requirements on height in the amendment .
He felt side yard requirements were definately needed .
Mr . Fabbroni said he felt side yard requirements and height of
structures were most important . He felt each situation was different ,
the distance might need to be 50 ' or 150 ' .
Supervisor Desch asked what the Board felt was a fair height figure .
Town Engineer Fabbroni stated he felt 30 ' seemed reasonable .
Mr . Aron agreed with Mr . Fabbroni ' s idea of 30 ' , if you measure from
the ground up . You measure from the ground level of a building; and
the basement is half below ground , measure 30 ' on the upper side .
It will be necessary to determine a percentage of below and above
ground . He felt 30 ' allowed enough flexibility to build .
Supervisor Desch felt 32 ' was a more flexible figure . He questioned
the line of measurement .
Town Attorney Buyoucos stated that he , Larry Fabbroni and Henry Aron
would work out the language .
Gust Freeman asked if the Board was ruling out a three story house ?
Supervisor Desch said no . Three floors at 8 ' each still leaves a
sizable plus to work with .
Mr . Jennings noted that he had been in modern houses with four terraces ,
Town Board Minutes - 7 - June 9 , 1980
these houses being built on a cliff . The entrance was 30 ' above the
cliff .
Mr . Fabbroni stated this would be ' a special situation and would be
given a variance .
Town Attorney Buyoucos stated he would be happy if somebody would re -
write the amendment and submit it to him . Include in the rewrite ,
boundaries of measurement .
RESOLUTION NO . 98
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilman Del Rosso ,
RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby adjourns
the public hearing on the proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance
regarding heights of buildings and structures in the Town of Ithaca ,
AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca
will conduct a public hearing on July 7 , 1980 , at 8 : 00 p . m . , at. the
Town Offices at 126 East Seneca Street , Ithaca , New York , with regard
to the adoption of a proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance
regarding the general restrictions of heights of buildings and
structures in the Town of Ithaca .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Valentino and McPeak voting Aye ..
Nays - none ) .
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF A LOCAL
LAW AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF
ITHACA TO PROVIDE FOR THE ERECTION OF RADIO
TRANSMISSION TOWERS IN AN AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT
Proof of posting and publication of notice of public hearing to
consider the adoption of a Local Law amending the Zoning Ordinance
of the Town of Ithaca to provide for the erection of radio
transmission towers in an Agricultural District in the Town of
Ithaca having been presented by the Town Clerk , the Supervisor
opened the hearing .
Supervisor Desch read the following letters from Frank R . Liguori ,
Tompkins County Commissioner of Planning and Robert A . Lynch ,
Operations Manager of WTKO :
June 1) , 1980
Jean Swartwood , Clerk
Town of Ithaca
126 East Seneca Street
Ithaca , New York 14850
® RE : Zoning Review Pursuant to Section 239 - 1 and -m of the New
York State General Municipal Law .
CASE : Amendment to Zoning Ordinance regarding radio trans -
mission towers .
Dear Mrs . Swartwood :
This will acknowledge the receipt of your proposal for review under
Section 239 -m .
The proposal , as submitted , will have no significant deleterious
impact on intercommunity , county , or state interests . Therefore , no
recommendation is indicated by the County Planning Department and you
are free to act without prejudice .
Sincerely ,
Frank R . Liguori
Commissioner of Planning
Town Board Minutes - 8 - June 9 , 1980
317 North Aurora Street
Ithaca , New York 14850
June 4 , 1980
Mr . Noel Desch
Supervisor
Town of Ithaca
126 East Seneca Street
Ithaca , New York 14850
Dear Mr . Desch ,
Attention is hereby directed to Proposed Local Law # 3 ( First Draft ) ,
® submitted the Ithaca Town Board , at Public Hearing , on May 12 , 1980
( an Amendment to the Town Zoning Ordinance which would provide for
the erection of Radio Transmission Towers in an Agricultural District ) .
As we are all aware , this proposal was drafted in response to the
Cornell Radio Guild ' s ( d / b / a / , WVBR) request to construct a trans -
mitting tower and building at , or near , 241 Bundy Road , within a
designated Agricultural District ,
Since February of this year , at the outset of discussions regarding
.this tower request , it has been our position to neither support nor
oppose the Guild ' s proposal . Our only concer has been . . . and continues
to be . . . that the Town of Ithaca , through its Zoning Ordinance , provide
fair and equitable treatment for all parties . . . in this instance , all
broadcasters .
With this in mind , we wish to go on record as being opposed to Local
Law # 3 , particularly as it would restrict tower construction to
Agricultural Districts only . We maintain such a restriction is
abritrary , capricious , illogical , unreasonable , discriminatory and ,
hence , illegal under New York State Law . We further assert such is
, contrary to the best interests of the Town , its residents and the
broadcasting community .
Our agrument is based as follows :
Due to the unique nature of our service , broadcasters lack the locational
flexibility enjoyed by most other businesses . Engineering constraints
and Federal regulation limit our options in site selection . Unlike
other concerns , we cannot move " willy - nilly " searching for a site in an
acceptable zone . Rather , there may be but one or two locations allow -
able from an engineering standpoint . Should an arbitrary zoning law
flatly prohibit consideration of said limited sites , we , as broadcasters ,
would have no choice but to abandon the prospect of construction .
By the same token , should a broadcaster be fortunate enough to " luck
into " an acceptable zone , ( as would WVBR in this case ) , then that
broadcaster would face no obstacle in his construction persuits . We
feel arbitrary locational restrictions would tend to give one broad -
caster an unfair competetive advantage over another .
Secondly , we point to the provisions of Proposed Local Law # 3 which
would permit radio tower construction only under Special Permit . As
was stressed by Town Attorney Buyoucos , the amendment would make
towers permissible under Permit , but would , in no way , guarantee that
any such construction requests would be approved . Review of individual
Permit requests would lie with the Board of Zoning Appeals , which
would reserve the right to reject any or all requests based upon
circumstances unique to the case and sentiment of the neighborhood .
In view of this painstaking review process , envisioned under the
proposed Amendment , we maintain the community ' s welfare and wishes
would be adequately safeguarded , without the need to resort to
arbitrary restrictions limiting towers to certain zones only .
Town Board Minutes - 9 - June 9 , 1980
Finally , it is our view , the Town ' s proposal for signling out
Agricultural Zones , in the placement of towers , defines reason and the
logic of common sense . The Town ' s Zoning Ordinance states that: , in an
Agricultural Zone , " building and land may be used only for any lawful
farm purpose , for a riding academy or for any use permitted in a
Residence District R- 30 . " It would seem highly inappropriate to situate
a broadcast facility , an obvious commercial entity , within an otherwise
residential or agrarian neighborhood . Instead , it would seem more
logical to confine such broadcasting stations to a Business or
Industrial zone , in which the activities would be much more homogeneous .
® From our observations , it would appear the Town of Ithaca Board and its
Attorney are attempting to fashion a solution to fit the instant case ,
without regard for the longer range consequences nor for the concerns
of other broadcasters . We cannot help but contract the present.
cooperative overtures to the cold and unsympathetic stance taken by
the Town when our station ' s tower request was under review a decade
ago . True , times change , as do personalities . We only trust there is
no attempt by the Town and the Guild to inter into a " sweetheart deal . "
As we stated at the May 12 Hearing , WTKO wishes to retain the right ,
should a " radio tower " ordinance be enacted , to , at some furture time ,
request permission to relocate its towers to the initially - perferred
site , off East King Road . Admittedly , such a move is not immediately
contemplated . However , we seek a flexible enough zoning amendment so
as not to preclude that option .
In summary , it is our position that the Town of Ithaca should opt for
either of two alternatives . Either adopt a Zoning Amendment which is
fair and equitable to all parties , or adopt no Amendment at all and
prohibit new tower construction altogether . We can live with either
alternative . What we cannot accept is an Ordinance which , by
intention or accident , gives favored treatment to some . . . while denying
others equal protection .
Sincerely yours ,
Robert A . Lynch
Operations Manager
The short SEQR Assessment Form was completed , so that the public will
know the fifteen questions were answered , all with a no . Barbara
Restaino , Town Planner reviewed the SEQR form .
Supervisor Desch noted that individual applications for the installation
of radio towers will need to prepare the Environmental Assessment Form .
Supervisor Desch then asked for comments from the floor , as there were
� . none , he closed the hearing .
Councilman Del Rosso asked how other municipalities , handled radio
® transmission towers and were regulations regarding radio towers just
omitted or deliberately omitted from their zoning ordinances ?
Supervisor Desch answered by saying that the City issued a permit after
a radio tower was erected . He further noted that the City does not
regulate to the amount we would regulate with this proposed ordinance .
Councilman Cramer asked why number twelve on the short SEQR foam was
answered yes , when , as it was noted before , a certain amount of
interference will be created by the erection of a radio tower ?
Supervisor Desch stated that the adoption of the regulation would not
create interference .
Henry Aron noted that if the short SEQR from was in the negative ,
reviewed by a qualified reviewer , and signed by a qualified person
to sign , the Zoning Board of Appeals would not question the negative
Town Board Minutes - 10 - June 9 , 1980
statement . The Zoning Board of Appeals only question a positive
statement , then the applicant is required to fill out the long
form .
Town Attorney Buyoucos noted that no matter where a tower is put up ,
it could cause an electrical disturbance .
Councilman Kugler stated that this is not always so , it depends on
the location .
Supervisor Desch noted that the short Environmental Assessment form
® was included to comply with the law .
Councilman Del Rosso questioned the safety of people with no protection
around the guy wires .
Supervisor Desch asked if there was another way besides fencing; to
keep people safe and from running into guy wires .
Councilman McPeak noted that AM stations are usually fenced in at the
base . He felt the FCC would take care of this problem .
Supervisor Desch read the following determination :
DETERMINATION ADOPTING ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT STATEMENT .
The Town Board approves the environmental assessment form presented
to the Town Board in the matter of adopting the proposed law regulating
the erection of Radio Towers .
The adoption of this law in itself will not have a significant
environmental impact nor such an impact on the environment as 'to
require further proceedings or environmental impact statements under
State and local laws .
The law itself provides for careful examination of the effect of the
erection of any tower on the environment and the territory . The law
requires compliance with State SEQR and local laws adopted by the
Town to implement State SEQR Laws .
It was moved by Supervisor Desch and seconded by Councilman McPeak
that the foregoing statement be adopted by the Town Board .
RESOLUTION NO , 99
RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby approves
the Determination Adopting Environmental Assessment Statement .
® ( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Valentino and McPeak voting Aye .
Nays - none ) .
LQCAL LAW NO . 4 - 1980
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilwoman Raffensperger ,
Councilman Cramer requested that fencing be added to the local law .
Town Attorney Buyoucos asked if the Town Board wished to make fencing
mandatory or optional because of topography ?
Councilwoman Raffensperger asked if fencing could be included under
Number 5 . , ( 2 ) , e ?
Supervisor Desch suggested fencing be inserted under Number 5 , ( 2 ) , f .
Town Board Minutes - 11 - June 9 , 1980
LOCAL LAW N0 . 4 - 1980
A LOCAL LAW AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF ITHACA TO
PROVIDE FOR THE ERECTION OF RADIO TRANSMISSION TOWERS IN AN
AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT .
PREAMBLE : STATEMENT OF INTENT
This local law amends the Zoning Ordinance by adding a new provision
which will permit the construction , maintenance and operation of Radio
Transmission Towers and appurtenant structures . Such facilities , if
permitted at all , shall be permitted under limited conditions and then
only by a special permit .
Further , such towers shall be permitted only if used in connection with
the transmission of radio signals by a commercially operated Radio
Broadcasting Station . By adding such new provisions , the Town of Ithaca
recognizes that Commercial Radio Broadcasting Stations require Radio
Transmission Towers in order to perform their function . However , the
Town does not encourage the erection of such towers in the Town because
of the relatively high density of population. and residential development
in the Town compared to the density and residential development in other
areas of the County , several of which do not have any zoning regulations .
Thus , the erection of such radio transmission towers may have an adverse
effect on the value , use and enjoyment of a far larger number of prop -
erties in the vicinity of any such tower in the Town of Ithaca than would
be the case in other more remote and less developed areas . There has
been discussed as to whether the erection of a radio transmission tower
would be permitted as a public utility . It has been the consistent
position of the Town that a radio broadcasting station is not a public
utility within the meaning of the Town ' s Zoning Ordinance . In order to
avoid a legal dispute which would be largely concerned with semantics ,
this law specifically refers to radio broadcasting station transmitters
as such , and does not define them as a public utility .
The Town Board , in this preamble , expresses its policy that the adoption
of this local law is not to be construed as an intention on the part of
the Town to permit the construction of such towers with the function of
the reviewing Town agency being limited only to such requirements as set
backs , screening , access roads , and similar administrative considerations .
The adoption of this law is not intended to create a " permitted use " as
such phrase may be ordinarily understood , or as used by the courts ; it is
not a declaration which creates a " vested " right in an otherwise quali -
fied applicant to erect a tower subject to some administrative regula -
tion . It is not an open invitation to the erection of such towers in
the areas permitted under this law . Under this law , the use of land
for such a radio transmission tower , precisely because of such a tower ' s
special characteristics , such as its appearance , height , design , high
visibility and inherent potential for creating a visual eye sore , may
be permitted only after a review and a thorough application of the
standards and criteria establsihed by this law . It could happen that
® after a fair and reasonable application of such standards and criteria ,
based upon proper findings and relevant evidence , no special permit
might even be issued for the erection of a commercially operated radio
tower in the Town of Ithaca . Any such result would not be inconsistent
with the objectives of this law .
This law , nevertheless , provides that the determination as to whether
or not a special permit is issued will be made by a Town agency other
than . the Town Board and the power is vested in such Town agency to make
such determination after a fair hearing and fair and reasonable appli -
cation of standards and criteria .
LOCAL LAW SECTION I
The Zoning Ordinance of the Town of Ithaca is amended by the addition
thereto of a new section which shall be numbered 51A and which shall
provide as follows :
Town Board Minutes - 12 - June 9 , 1980
" Section 51A . Radio Transmission Towers .
In addition to the uses provided in Section 51 , Radio Transmission
Towers may be constructed and maintained in Agricultural Districts sub -
ject to the provisions of this section .
1 . A Radio Transmission Tower , as used in this section , shall be
a radio tower transmitting radio broadcasting signals , operated by a
commercially operated radio broadcasting station , and licensed by the
Federal Communications Commission .
® 2 . No building permit shall be issued for the construction , op -
eration and maintenance of such a tower except by special permission
of the Board of Appeals after receiving an advisory opinion or recom -
mendation from the Town Planning Board , in accordance with the following
procedures .
3 . FILING APPLICATION AND PLANNING BOARD PROCEDURE
a . The applicant will submit a written application for such
a permit with the Building Inspector ( or such other person as may be
designated by the Town Board ) . The applicant will submit such infor -
mation and documents as the Building Inspector ( or any other officer
or Town agency having jurisdiction ) may require . Included in these
documents must be a development plan and copies of all documents sub -
mitted by the applicant to the Federal Communications Commission or
any other governmental agency having jurisdiction . The Building
Inspector will not be required to proceed under this law , until an
application is complete .
b . As soon after the applicant has filed all documents and
supplied all information required by such Officer , but not later than
30 days from the date a completed application is filed , the Officer
shall file such application and all other documents with the Clerk of
the Planning Board , who shall place the application on the agenda for
the next meeting of the Planning Board . The application shall be re -
viewed at such meeting and the Chairman shall set a date for a public
hearing , notice of which shall be ( i ) posted and ( ii ) published at
least two times in the official newspaper , the first publication of
which shall be at least 10 days prior to the date set for the hearing
and ( iii ) mailed to owners of property lying within 1000 feet of the
proposed site and to such other owners of property in the vicinity of
the proposed site as the Chairman of the Board shall determine . It
shall be sufficient if the determination of ownership is based on the
current assessment role and assessment map , but the failure to notify
all such owners shall not render defective any action of the Planning
Board or the Board of Appeals . The date of such public hearing shall
be within 40 days from the date on which the completed application was
filed with the Clerk of the Planning Board .
® 1 . The Planning Board may at any stage of the proceedings
require additional information , documents or testimony , and may adjourn
final consideration of its recommendation for a reasonable period for
the foregoing purpose and for further study and review , but no more
than 60 days after the first date set for the hearing .
C . Upon the completion of the hearing , and any adjournment
thereof , the Planning Board shall adopt , by resolution , a written rec -
ommendation in the nature of an advisory opinion . Such report may
( i ) recommend acceptance , or rejection of the application in full or
in part or ( ii )_ acceptance with conditions or ( iii ) include such other
recommendations or opinion as the Planning Board shall determine .
1 . The report shall also be filed with the Clerk of the
Board of Appeals who shall deliver promptly a copy to each member of
such Board .
4 . BOARD OF APPEALS PROCEDURE .
Town Board Minutes - 13 - June 9 , 1980
a . The Clerk of the Board of Appeals shall ( i ) place the
application on the agenda for the next meeting of the Board , and
( ii ) shall cause a notice to be published in the official newspaper ,
at least once giving notice of a public hearing which shall be held
on such day and at such time as the Chairman of the Board shall_ direct .
Written notice of such hearing shall also be mailed in accordance with
the provisions of Section 3 , above , ( Planning Board Procedures ) . Such
notice shall be published and posted at least 10 days prior to the
hearing and such hearing shall be held not later than 40 days following
the filing of the Planning Board ' s report with the Clerk of the Board
of Appeals .
b . The hearing before the Board shall be conducted in accor -
dance with lawful procedures , as any appeal proceeding before the
® Board . The hearing may be adjourned and the Board may request further
information and recommendation from the Planning Board , or may send the
application back to the Planning Board for further review .
C . After the completion of all testimony given at the public
hearing and the submission of all pertinent matters arising out of the
application , the board shall make its determination by a resolution
adopted by a majority vote . Such determination shall be made and filed
within 60 days of the date on which the first public hearing was held .
The applicant shall be notified of the Board ' s decision and copies shall
be filed with the Town Clerk , the Zoning Officer and the Clerk of the
Planning Board .
5 . The Planning Board , in making any report , and the Board of
Appeals before rendering its decision , shall consider the following
standards and matters :
( 1 ) The need in the community for the proposed use .
( 2 ) The appropriateness of the proposed site including
such matters , among others , as the following :
a . The availability of alternative sites .
b . The physical features and the general character , present
use , and probable future use of the land in the neighborhood .
c . Is the density of the land in the vicinity such as to warrant
the proposed use ?
d . Is the site reasonably adapted for the proposed use ?
e . The distance from existing and proposed public rights of
way and from existing residential development ; nature
of access to and from the site ?
® f . The adaptability of the site for the propsed use topo -
graphy , natural buffers , screening and fencing .
g . The size of the site chosen for the proposed use . The
radio transmission tower must be located on an unoccupied
parcel having an area of sufficient size that no part of
the tower will fall on neighboring property should the
structure collapse and the size shall provide a buffer
to other properties in the neighborhood . The size shall
be at least SIX ACRES .
h . Will project regularly cause objectionable odors , noise ,
glare , vibration , or electrical disturbance as a result
of the project ' s operation ?
( 3 ) The effect of the proposed use on the other properties
in the neighborhood and the enjoyment by the inhabitants of their
properties and whether it will materially affect the value of such
properties and the use and enjoyment of such properties by the occupants
Town Board Minutes - 14 - June 9 , 1980
and any other effect of such use on the health , welfare and safety of
the occupants of such properties .
6 . No building permit shall be issued until final approval has
been granted to the applicant by any County , State and Federal Agency
having jurisdiction in the matter and any and all other permits which
may be required have been issued to the applicant .
7 . The applicable procedures of the State and Local SEQR Laws
shall be complied with .
8 . MISCELLANEOUS .
a . The applicant will furnish a typewritten list of all owners
® of property in the area to whom notice must be mailed including; their
address and tax parcel number .
b . Because of the special nature of the proposed use , the
applicant shall pay the cost of publishing the requested notices in the
newspaper and the cost of mailing notices to the owners of other proper -
ties as required by this law , in addition to the fees prescribed for
issuance of building permits .
c . All provisions of the Town ' s Zoning Ordinance and other
applicable laws not inconsistent with this law shall govern all proceed -
ings . "
LOCAL LAW SECTION 2
If any provisions of this local law or the application thereof to any
person or circumstances shall be adjudged invalid by a court of competent
jurisdiction , such order or judgment shall be confined in its operation
to the controversy in which it was rendered , and shall not affect or
invalidate the remainder of any provision of any section of this local
law or the application of any part thereof to any other person or cir -
cumstance and to this end the provision of each section of this local
law are hereby declared to be severable .
LOCAL LAW SECTION 3
This local law shall take effect immediately .
Supervisor Desch called for a roll call vote .
Councilman Cramer Voting Aye .
Councilman Del Rosso Voting Nay ,
Councilman Kugler Voting Aye .
Councilman McPeak Voting Aye .
® Councilwoman Raffensperger Voting Aye ,
Councilwoman Valentino Voting Aye ,
Supervisor Desch Voting Aye .
® Local Law No . 4 - 1980 , was thereupon declared duly adopted .
Supervisor Desch noted that Local Law No . 4 - 1980 , was on the
desks of the Council , seven days prior to the passing of this
local law .
DOG CONTROL CONTRACT
Supervisor Desch stated tha the bulk of questions regarding the SPCA
Contract revolved around patrolling .
Councilwoman Valentino asked if the SPCA would only respond to
complaints ?
Supervisor Desch said yes . The Town did not want the SPCA to have
police powers . He further noted that the Contract would not give the
Town Board Minutes - 15 - June 9 , 1980
SPCA carte Blanche to pick up dogs . The Town will turn over to the
County the appropriate amount collected for licenses .
RESOLUTION N0 , 100
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilman Kugler ,
RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby authorizes
the Supervisor to execute the 1980 Dog Contract with the County .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Valentino , McPeak , Del Rosso , and
Cramer voting Aye . Nays - none ) .
WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY
Supervisor Desch stated that the Sewer System Planning Committee is
discussing the facility plan procedure requirements . Step II of the
plan is concerned with the phase of municipalities served by the
system . All participating municipalities must agree to the design
of the system .
Supervisor Desch noted that the next step was to have the Town pass a
resolution stating their intent to continue negotiations to reach an
intermunicipal agreement . Supervisor Desch noted that negotiations
are continuing on who will own and operate the facility and the
schedule of charges to be charged for the sewer .
RESOLUTION NO . 101
RESOLVED , WHEREAS , the City of Ithaca is currently completing a
Facilities Plan for an upgraded sewage treatment facility , and
WHEREAS , said plan outlines the elements of the proposed treatment
plant , including a sewer service area , and
WHEREAS , a Sewer System Planning Committee has been established by the
City of Ithaca , the Town of Ithaca , and the Town of Dryden , and such
Committee has already negotiated an agreement on the financing of the
Sewer System Evaluation Survey , and said agreement has been adopted by
the respective municipaaities ,
NOW THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED , that it is agreed among the City of
Ithaca , the Town of Ithaca , and the Town of Dryden that it is their
joint intent that the proposed upgraded sewage treatment facility
will treat the sewage collected within the general limits of the
aforementioned sewer service area , and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED , that these three municipalities will continue
negotiations through the Sewer System Planning Committee with the
intent of reaching an intermunicipal agreement prior to completion
of the design phase with respect to the ownership , operation and
financing of the proposed facilities , and
® BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED , that such an agreement shall include a system
of equitable user charges and a comprehensive sewer use ordinance or
regulations which will provide for , among other things , such industrial
pre - treatment program and such industrial cost recovery as may be
required by U . S . Environmental Protection Agency regulations .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Del Rosso , Valentino , McPeak and
Cramer voting Aye . Nays - none ) .
Councilman , Cramer asked how many industrial users have been identified
as needing pre - treatment ?
Supervisor Desch said none . The Industrial Cost Program part will be
built specifically for industrial users and will be paid back by a
Town Board Minutes - 16 - June 9 , 1980
users cost . Studies under way will show which users will need pre -
treatment . It is possible large industrial users could come under
this . The acceptance of any grant is on the approval of the
Environmental Protection Agency .
Supervisor Desch stated that the Facilities Plan is nearly completed .
He would like , at another meeting , to consider the endorsement of the
Facilities Plan . This should be done word for word , so the Board will
understand what they are buying and , therefore , be able to endorse
the Facilities ' Plan .
® SAFER LOCAL ROADS
® Town Engineer Lawrence Fabbroni stated that the 1979 Safer Local Roads
Bond Resolution was for energy conservation . Under the act , $ 26 , 375
in State funds were allocated , providing the municipality matched the
fund with $ 8 , 792 in local money , the money to be used for roads that
are ten years old . The program will be administered by the County
Superintendent .
No special audits were allocated . Amounts were based on road
mileage for energy conservation . The Town Engineer proposed to use
the money , allowed the Town , to supplement paving projects .
Councilman Del Rosso asked if the primary use of the money was for
repaving .
The Town Engineer stated that oil and stone was not approved .
RESOLUTION N0 , 102
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilwoman Valentino ,
RESOLVED , WHEREAS , on June 9 , 1980 , the Town Board of the Town of
Ithaca , discussed the participation by the municipality in a Safer
Local Road and Streets Program , and authorizing the construction of
the Program by municipal forces or by a competitively let contract ,
with oversight of the Program by the County of Tompkins as provided
for in the Program Guidelines and the State - County Agreement , with
municipal participation in the costs of the Program , and municipal
maintenance of the completed improvements , and
WHEREAS , pursuant to Chapter 369 of the Laws of 1979 , the Energy
Conservation Through Improved Transportation Bond Act , and Chapter 53
of the Laws of 1980 , the New York State Legislature authorized and
appropriated funds for a statewide Safer Local Roads and Streets
Program , and
® WHEREAS , pursuant to these statutes , the New York State Department
of Transportation has apportioned program funds to the municipality
as follows :
26 , 375 State + 8 , 792 Local = 35 , 167 Total
NOW THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED , that the municipality shall participate
in the Safer Local Roads and Streets Program , pursuant to the terms of
the Bond Act , the Program Guidelines and the State - County Agreement ,
and it is further
RESOLVED , that construction of the Program shall be by municipal forces
or by competitive bid letting , with oversight by the County Super -
intendent , and it is further
RESOLVED , that the municipality shall participate in the costs of the
Program , with 75 % reimbursement by State bond funds , and it is further
RESOLVED , that upon completion of the Program , the Town of Ithaca
shall at its own expense properly maintain the completed project ( s ) ,
Town Board Minutes - 17 - June 91 , 1980
IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED , that the Highway Superintendent be and he
hereby is authorized to sign all project applications ( TE 215 ) .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , McPeak , Valentino , Del Rosso , and
Cramer voting Aye . Nays - none ) .
RESOLUTION N0 , 103
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilman Kugler ,
RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby authorizes
the Highway Superintendent to pave roads not allowed in the original
list that contained two miles of roads to be paved .
( Desch , Kugler , McPeak , Raffensperger , Valentino , Del Rosso , and
Cramer voting Aye . Nays - none ) .
FIVE AREA SEWER IMPROVEMENT BOND ANTICIPATION NOTE # 3
RESOLUTION N0 , 104
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilwoman Valentino ,
RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby authorizes
the Supervisor to execute the renewal of Bond Anticipation Note
number 3 for the Five Area Sewer Improvement , for a one year period
beginning June 9 , 1980 , in the amount of $ 470 , 000 , at an interest
rate of 6 . 5 % .
( Desch , Kugler , McPeak , Raffensperger , Valentino , Del Rosso , and
Cramer voting Aye . Nays - none ) .
i
COUNTY REPRESENTATIVES REPORT
Gust Freeman reported that Frank Liguori , Tompkins County Planning
Commissioner , had been appointed chairman of the Couty Wide Transit
Committee .
The County Board of Representatives held a public hearing on the
Warren Road improvements . As there were no comments for or against ,
the resolution was approved .
PLANNING BOARD REPORT
Henry Aron , Chairman of the Planning Board reported that the Planning
® Board met in regular session on Tuesday , June 3 , 1980 , with seven of
its eight members present .
The Planning Board approved as written , minutes of November 1 , 1977 and
® April 15 , 19800
Reports were heard from the Town Engineer and the Town Planner .
A public hearing was held in the matter of the consideration of Site
Plan approval for a car wash in a Business " D " District at East Hill
Plaza . An effective and positive discussion was held resulting in the
Planning Board asking Mr . Stewart Knowlton if he would consider placing
the proposed 4 - bay car wash in an area zoned Business " C " behind the
P & C and adjacent to the Depot restaurant . Mr . Knowlton consented to
this suggestion and agreed to withdraw his proposal to place the car
wash in the Business " D " District . Thereupon , the Planning Board
resolved the following :
Motion by Montgomery May , seconded by Liese Bronfenbrenner ,
RESOLVED , that the Planning Board request and hereby does request that
Town Board Minutes - 18 - June '9 , 1980
the Town Board set a public hearing for proposed exchange of area
presently zoned Business " D " with an adjacent area presently zoned
Business " C " for Groff Associates and a car wash at East Hill Plaza ,
and
FURTHER RESOLVED , that such public hearing be scheduled for the next
Town Board meeting but no later than the July 7th Town Board meeting .
The proceding motion was carried unanimously and is presently before
the Board for its consideration tonight .
® A public hearing was held in the matter of the consideration of Site
Plan approval for a storage warehouse at the intersection of Route 13
and Route 13A , as proposed by Vincent P . Hannan . After assurances
from Mr . Hannan that the two adandoned cranes and the abandoned ship ' s
hull will be removed from the site , the Planning Board , by unanimous
vote , granted site plan approval without condition .
A public hearing was held in the matter of the consideration of Final
Subdivision approval for a 4 - lot subdivision at 362 West King Road as
proposed by Orlando Iacovelli and Ralph Iacovelli . After review and
discussion , the Planning Board unanimously resolved as follows :
Motion by Edward Mazza ; seconded by Bernard Stanton ,
RESOLVED , that the Planning Board of the Town of Ithaca grant and hereby
does grant Final Subdivision Approval for 4 - lot subdivision , 362 West
King Road , Tax Parcels No . 6 - 35 - 2 - 611 and 6 - 35 - 2 - 6 . 3 , as proposed by
Orlando Iacovelli and Ralph Iacovelli , contingent upon the following :
1 . That the roadway shown on the map presented to the Planning
Board this date , entitled Proposed Four Lot Division for L .
Iacovelli and dated May 29 , 1980 , be built in accordance with
Town of Ithaca Highway specifications .
2 . That the lots be drained according to the specifications of
the Town Engineer including the culverts under the road being
24 " in diameter unless otherwise approved by the Town
Engineer ,
Town Councilwoman Shirley Raffensperger reported to the Planning Board
as Chairperson of the County Planning Board . Mrs . Raffensperger
reported on the May 14 , 1980 , meeting of the County Planning Board and
discussed with the Planning Board the transporting of radio - active
material in the County and how that relates - to the transportation of
one hundred million packages annually , ninety - eight million packages
being other than radio active material . The Board also discussed with
Mrs . Raffensperger the routing of trucks via Route 79 in the City of
Ithaca .
The Planning Board has been asked to review again the application for
sign permit for What ' s Your Beef ? at the East Hill Plaza . The applica -
tion was deferred until the next Planning Board Meeting ,
The Planning Board considered the application for Sign Permit for Indian
Creek Antiques at 1406 Trumansburg Road . After discussion the Board
resolved as follows :
Motion by Montgomery May ; seconded by Bernard Stanton ,
RESOLVED , that the Planning Board of the Town of Ithaca recommend and
hereby does recommend to the Town Board approval of a variance to
allow for a freestanding sign , reading , " Indian Creek Antiques , Thurs . -
Sun . , 12 : 00 - 5 : 30 ( arrow ) " , and
FURTHER RESOLVED , that said sign not exceed 24 square feet .
The proceeding motion was carried unanimously and the application for
sign permit is before the Board tonight .
Town Board Minutes - 19 - June 9 , 1980
That concludes the report from the Planning Board and I thank you .
REZONING OF A PORTION OF EAST HILL PLAZA
The Supervisor stated , that as noted in the Planning Board Chairman ' s
report , the Town Board is being asked to schedule a public hearing to
consider the rezoning of a portion of East Hill Plaza from Business
" C " to Business " D " . The purpose of this is to locate a 4 - bay car
wash - in back of the P & C Store , boardering the Eastern Breeders .
Access to and from this area will be from the far end of the parking
lot by the proposed Hardware Store or by the Depot restaurant .
RESOLUTION NO . 105
® Motion by Councilwoman Raffensperger ; seconded by Councilwoman
Valentino ,
RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca will conduct a
public hearing on July 7 , 1980 , at 8 : 30 p . m . , at the Town Offices at
126 East Seneca Street , Ithaca , New York , for the purpose of rezoning
a portion of the East Hill Plaza from Business " C " to Business " D " .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Valentino , McPeak , Del Rosso and.
Cramer voting Aye . Nays - none ) .
SENIOR CITIZENS CONTRACT
Supervisor Desch noted that each year the Town has supported the
Senior Citizens . The contract runs from July to July , and therefore ,
a contract has been prepared for the renewal of same .
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilman Cramer ,
RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby authorizes
the Supervisor to execute the contract with the Office of the Aging
for $ 1 , 000 to cover the period of July 1 , 1980 to June 30 , 1981 .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Valentino , McPeak , Del Rosso and
Cramer voting Aye . Nays - none ) .
TOWN ENGINEER ' S REPORT
Town Engineer Larry Fabbroni noted that the Trumansburg Road water
tank is now being painted . There have been no problems with the
supply of water for that area . The contractor is priming the
inside now , the outside has been painted . Sandblasting on the
Northview Road tank will start any day now . The Cliff Street
Pump Station contract is being reviewed by the County Health
Department .
® The Town Hall repainting has been delayed because of a strike by
the painters . It will be a week and a half to two weeks before the
strike will be settled .
The Valley View - West Haven Roads Sewer extension still has some cleanup
remaining to be completed . He also noted the extension of the sewer
line , approved at this Board meeting .
The Town Engineer stated that he was notified that the grant has been
approved for seven summer CETA workers , also five people for the CETA
Training Program plus a foreman .
HIGHWAY NAMING
Town Engineer Fabbroni noted that a letter had been received from
I�
Town Board Minutes - 20 - June 9 , 1980
Dick Mac Dowell of Cornell University requesting that an old town
road between Warren Road and Hanshaw Road be given a name . Dr . Metz
of Cornell University requested that the road be named Blue Grass
Lane .
RESOLUTION N0 , 106
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilwoman Raffensperger ,
RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca , upon the recom -
mendation of the Town Engineer and the Town Highway Superintendent ,
® do hereby approve the naming of an old town road running from Warren
Road to Hanshaw Road , Blue Grass Lane .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , McPeak , Valentino , Del Rosso and
Cramer voting Aye . Nays - none ) .
CONCORD PLACE
RESOLUTION N0 , 107
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilman Cramer ,
RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca , upon the
recommendation of the Town Engineer and the Town Highway Superintendent ,
do hereby accept Concord Place as a Town of Ithaca Highway .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , McPeak , Valentino , Del Rosso and.
Cramer voting Aye . Nays - none ) .
Superintendent Parkin noted that the Town has 39 . 81 miles of Town
Roads plus Concord Place . The Town will receive $ 75 per mile from the
State , when the application to New York State Department of Transportation
is completed .
Supervisor Desch noted that the Commission has purchased two million
dollars worth of coverage from Boothroyd Insurance Company for
$ 29 , 000 . He has asked Boothroyd to prepare a package for the Town .
SUPERVISOR ' S REPORT
Supervisor Desch gave the following report :
Route 13 - Elmira Road Railroad Overpass
I am pleased to report the removal of the restrictive railroad overpass
straddling the City - Town line on Elmira Road . Although it is unfortunate
we are losing our railroad resource , we need to have our primary truck
route from the south free of obstructions . Last fall Mayor Conley and
® I sent a joint signed letter to the State urging them to move quickly
on the removal now that the section was cut off , from the derailment
two winters ago .
We hope to jointly acquire , with the City , the right - of - way for future
utilities and drainage improvements , as well as additional potential
for recreation trails .
East Ithaca Bikeway
Town Engineer Larry Fabbroni , Town Planner Barbara Restaino and I
toured several alternate routes for the bikeway extension from Maple
Avenue to Game Farm Road with Cornell officials . The main problem is
getting around the Central Heating Plant coal storage area , but: two
alternate routes were considered and will be reveiwed by Cornell with
appropriate internal agencies , with a decision expected by July 11
Hopefully , the CETA programs will be approved so that clearing work
can be accomplished before fall .
Town Board Minutes - 21 - June 9 , 1980
Traffic Control - Northeast
The letter to property owners in the Northeast concerning the possi -
bility of contracting with Cayuga Heights for traffic control services
has been mailed an imput requested by our July meeting , so that we can
evaluate the consituent interest in these services initially on a part
town basis and eventually if successful , on a special district basis .
Polling Place District 1
The County has asked the Town to move the location of our District 1
polling place . We jointly are considering several possibilities
including the lobby of the old hospital . We would prefer space in the
® new hospital , which would permit some persons in the hospital to vote .
Other options being considered are the former Odd Fellows facility
which Cornell is converting to a Hotel School and are very enthusiastic
in having us use .
Town Newsletter
I believe the next Newsletter should go out in August rather than June
or July as we did last year . The timeliness relates to items such as
bus services , schedule of fall Town activities , etc . If something
urgent comes up in the meantime , we can move up the date .
Water Commission Activities
The Commission is considering the construction of a 18 " or 20" bypass
of the Oakcrest pump station to cut down on the amount of pumping of
water to the lower zones of the system . Actual work will probably not
take place until 1981 , since the bypass would cut through the Lansing
Village office septic system - due to be tied to the new sewer system .
The schedule also relates to development of cost estimates and budgeting
of funds . The capital cost is unknown at this time , but will be less
than $ 50 , 000 and have a 2 - 3 year payback .
We will be revising the Rules and Regulations to make it less costly
for multiple housing water applications , such as Ivar Jonson Town House
project , which under present definition will cost 28 x $ 150 or $ 4 , 200 .
I have written to Mr . Jonson following the Commissioners resolution to
indicate that the water application fee will be 28 x 80 or $ 2 , 2: 40 ,
providing the plumbing inspection can be accomplished on the basis of
3 units or more at one time . The Commission will , on this basis ,
recover its cost for meters , taps , and inspection .
Transfer of Hudson Street Extension to Therm Electric
This short stretch of road have been maintained by t e Town of Ithaca
for many years . Therm and the Town are beginning discussions to
transfer title to Therm , since there is no potential for service to
other properties .
Town Benefit Levy Formula
The Town Staff is in the process of reviewing the entire benefit
® formula , per our request of last year . In about one month we will
have recommendations to assure equity in keeping with current land
use criteria .
WARREN ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
Supervisor Desch read the following letter he has sent to Harris B .
Dates , regarding the imporvement to the Warren Road north of Route
13 and the Cornell Research Park circulation :
May 30 , 1980
Honorable Harris B . Dates
Chairman
Tompkins County Board of
Representatives
320 North Tioga Street
Ithaca , New York 14850
Town Board Minutes - 22 - June 9 , 1980
Dear Harris :
The Town of Ithaca Town Board looks forward to the opportunity to fully
endorse the County project to improve Warren Road north of Route 13
and the Cornell Research Park circulation . Applications for State and /
or Federal funds for the design and construction of these improvements
should formally recognize that a two lane highway by pass of Forrest
Home and the Warren Road - Judd Falls Road corridor , is also a fundamental
component of plans to enhance the industrial development potential of
the Research Park ,
The Town Board notes the positive interest in the by pass expressed by
Cornell , Town and County officials at the meeting with the Cornell
Traffic consultant , last Wednesday . We sense a sincere willingness
® on Cornell ' s part to do what is necessary to pin down the by pass
location from Route 13 to Pine Tree Road , within the next three months .
We need a commitment from Tompkins County that you also are prepared to
continue active support of the project , including the priority desig -
nation of construction funding , even if on a staged basis . The Town
has heretofore pledged direct participation in the cost of planning and
engineering of the by pass . We also expect to help with the construction
through the assisgnment of technical and highway staff resources .
Anything short of such a County commitment suggests to the Town of Ithaca
that we are not ready to move ahead with the endorsement of the Warren
Road - Research Park circulation project .
We trust that the necessary decisions can be made within the time con -
straints for the filing of the funding applications . The Town stands
ready to participate in any discussions which will be beneficial to
our common objective .
Very truly yours ,
Noel Desch
Supervisor
ND / js
CC : Robert M . Matyas
Supervisor Desch noted that the University is moving rapidly on the
issue of what is best for their land use at the Research Park . The
Town Board reaffirmed its position that our endorsement of the Research
Park expansion and the improvement of Warren Road is contingent upon
the commitment by Cornell and the County to build the bypass .
STREET OPENING PERMIT REFUND
RESOLUTION NO . 108
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilwoman Valentino ,
RESOLVED , that the $ 100 . 00 deposited by William Steele for a street
opening permit for 171 Kendall Avenue be refunded , based upon the
satisfactory restoration of the road .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Valentino , McPeak , Del Rosso and
Cramer voting Aye . Nays - none ) .
BUILDING INSPECTOR ' S REPORT
The Building Inspector ' s report indicated that in May 1980 , six: permits
were issued at a total construction cost of $ 37 , 000 . Total fees
collected by the Town amounted to $ 30 . 00 . In May of 1979 , 22 permits
Town Board Minutes - 23 - J±!±y 9 , 1980
were issued at a total construction cost of $ 293 , 163 . Total fees
collected by the Town amounted to $ 187 . 50 .
TOWN OF ITHACA WARRANTS
RESOLUTION NO . 109
Motion by Councilman Del Rosso ; seconded by Councilman Cramer ,
RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby approves
the Town of Ithaca Warrants dated June 9 , 1980 , in the following;
amounts :
General Fund _ Town Wide . . . . . . . : : : : : : : : : : : : : : . $ 41 , 406 . 79
General Fund Outside Village . $ 5 , 575 . 64
Water & Sewer Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 93 , 383 . 21
Highway Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 44 , 810 . 64
Capital Projects Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1 , 507 . 71
Lighting Districts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 218 . 62
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Valentino , McPeak , Del Rosso and
Cramer voting Aye . Nays - none ) .
BOLTON POINT WARRANTS
RESOLUTION N0 , 110
Motion by Supervisor Desch ; seconded by Councilman Kugler ,
RESOLVED , that the Bolton Point Warrants dated June 9 , 1980 , in the
Operating Account are hereby approved , in the amount of $ 19 , 420 . 84 ,
after review and upon the recommendation of the Southern Cayuga Lake
Intermunicipal Water Commission they are in order for payment .
( Desch , Kugler , Raffensperger , Valentino , McPeak , Del Rosso and
Cramer voting Aye . Nays - none ) .
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was duly adjourned .
e Swartwood
Town Clerk