HomeMy WebLinkAboutTB Minutes 1997-12-08 TOWN OF ITHACA FINAL ,
TOWN BOARD MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 1997
5 : 30 P . M .
At a regular meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca , Tompkins County, New York,
held at the Town Hall , 126 East Seneca Street, Ithaca , New York, there were present:
PRESENT: Catherine Valentino , Town Supervisor; Carolyn Grigorov, Councilwoman ; David Klein ,
Councilman ; Ellen Harrison , Councilwoman ; Edward Conley , Councilman ; Mary Russell ,
Councilwoman ; John Wolff, Councilman .
ALSO PRESENT: Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk; John Barney , Attorney for the Town ; Daniel
Walker, Director of Engineering ; Fred Noteboom , Highway Superintendent; Jonathan Kanter, Director
of Planning ; Andrew Frost, Director of Building and Zoning ; Alfred Carvill , Budget Officer; Judith Drake ,
Human Resource Specialist; George Frantz , Assistant Town Planner.
OTHERS : Bob Romanowski , City of Ithaca Board of Fire Commissioners ; Elsie McMillan , 812
Elmira Road ; Elsie Sheldrake , 801 Elmira Road ; Jim Ainslie , 245 Hayts Road ; John Yntema , 993
Danby Road ; Doria Higgins , 2 Hillcrest Drive ; Kevin Kaufman , 17 Myers Road , Lansing ; Sue
Poelvorde , State Parks ; Bill Carini , Vanbuskirk Road ; Phil Zarriello , 1011 Taughannock Blvd . ; Tony
Ingraham , 113 Nelson Road ; Christiana Dean , 330 West King Road ; Jim Volckhanson , 330 West King
Road ; Phyllis Baker, 411 Bostwick Road ; Carolyn Bartell , 316 Blackstone Avenue; Roger Sibley,
Special Children ' s Center; LeMoyne Farrell , 120 Eastwood Terrace ; Roger Farrell , 120 Eastwood
Terrace ; Yarrow Nelson , 327 West King Road ; Liz Vastbinder, 24 Lakeview Drive , Lansing ; Lanny
Joyce , Cornell University Utilities Department; Shirley Egan , Cornell University Cousel ; John
Gutenberger, Cornell University Relations ; Sarah Hunley, Cornell University Natural Resources
Department; Karen Schwarz, Cornell University Agriculture and Bio Engineer; Tim Joseph , Tompkins
County Board of Representatives ; Guy Gerard , City of Ithaca .
CALL TO ORDER: Supervisor Valentino called the meeting to order at 5 : 32 p. m . , and led the
assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance .
AGENDA ITEM NO. 3 - REPORT OF TOMPKINS COUNTY BOARD OF REPRESENTATIVES :
Tim Joseph , Tompkins County Board of Representatives - The proposal to manage the fire training
facility throughout the County was discussed at a Public Safety Committee meeting . The Committee
endorsed the concept. There are no particulars at this point. It was just a statement that the County
should look into it.
The County has their budget in place .
AGENDA ITEM NO. 5 - REPORT OF FIRE COMMISSIONER :
Bob Romanowski , City of Ithaca Board of Fire Commissioner - The 911 system is running .
There is a zero percent increase in the budget with the City of Ithaca Fire Company and the Town of
Ithaca Operating —Budget with an additional $4 , 950 cut. It is the same budget as 1997 with
5 approximately $5 , 000 cut from it. Equipment and other line items were cut to accommodate the
increases for the contract. The volunteer companies went from $2 , 000 a year to $ 1 , 500 . There is no
TOWN BOARD MEETING 2 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
increase in personnel , but I will be asking the new Council to hire at least two new firefighters . A
memorandum statement from budget discussions with Chief Brian Wilbur was as follows :
" If we were to hire two firefighters , and we were able to agree on a Monday through Friday day It
time schedule , and make some slight adjustments , I think we could maintain two objectives . By
increasing our minimum day time staffing to 13 , we would be able to keep West Hill Fire Station
open much of the time . In order to do that we would need to have volunteers and/or bunkers to
cover weekend days . Given our difficulties in recruiting adequate numbers of people that
maybe a stretch , but it is a possibility . "
The training center renovations in the building are- proceeding as well as planned to make it a regional
facility . This makes it a possible revenue producer as well as a training center. This is to make this a
facility when other fire companies cannot come up with grounds and/or buildings to have their own
particular training facility . They will be able to utilize this . There will be an user fee , but it will not be a
capital drain on that particular municipality to use it. This will enable the Town of Ithaca and the City of
Ithaca to keep cost control towards fire department and fire protection .
The "A" shift received the Commissioner' s award for their efforts at the EcoVillage Fire as well as the
Michael Padula/Linda Stagg tragedy .
Arson Investigator W. Lyle Nye received the VFW Ladies Auxiliary award for exceptional service to the
community. Mr. Nye has been in the fire service for 47 years , and he is a volunteer fireman. He
attends several different schools and academies . He is an unpaid fire investigator.
Supervisor Valentino - I will be writing a letter to the Mayor with my concerns that the Fire Department
Fund is not a dedicated fund separate from the City's General Fund . Some of the revenues that we
generate end up in the City' s General Fund instead of a dedicated fund . The Chief has the same
concerns also .
Mr. Romanowski - Cornell University has a donation schedule that they make towards fire protection ,
and that disappears in the City' s General Fund also .
Supervisor Valentino - I will keep track of those funds throughout the year.
AGENDA ITEM NO . 6 - REVIEW OF CORRESPONDENCE :
A. James M. Niefer, 102 Brandywine Drive - See attached .
The Town Board reviewed a letter from James M . Niefer in regards to the deer population in the Town
of Ithaca .
Councilwoman Carolyn Grigorov - The deer population also damages the woodlands and the wild
areas .
Councilwoman Ellen Harrison - The Town Board should ask Mr. Niefer to contact Paul Curtis at Cornell
University , Department of Natural Resources , to follow-up with his concerns .
B. Time Warner Cable - Rate Adjustment - See attached .
The Town Board reviewed the letter from Time Warner Cable in regards to the rate adjustment for
1998 .
TOWN BOARD MEETING 3 DECEMBER S, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
C. The DeWitt Historical Society of Tompkins County-Appreciation of Funding - See attached .
The Town Board reviewed the letter from the Board of Trustees of the DeWitt Historical Society in
regards to their appreciation of the Town awarding them $9 , 000 for programs and services for 1998 .
D. Henry A. Walker - 119 Woolf Lane - See attached .
The Town Board reviewed a letter from Henry A . Walker in regards to the concerns at 119 Woolf Lane.
E. Earl C. Levengood, Jr. - See attached .
The Town Board reviewed a letter from Earl C . Levengood , Jr. , in regards to the drainage work
problems being completed .
AGENDA ITEM NO. 11 - CONSIDER POTENTIAL STATE LEGISLATION RELATED TO A BAN ON
OPEN BURNING .
Councilwoman Harrison - I attended a conference where people discussed a couple issues in the New
York State Legislature . One issue was banning of open bums , which is not illegal in Towns under
20 , 000 in population like the Town of Ithaca . The idea of having yard waste banned from landfill
incinerators was discussed . Those proposals have been made and are billed in legislature , but many
towns lobbied against them . Legislators say to lobby against it and want to pass them , but they are
afraid to come out publicly. (CORRECTION PER TBMTG 12/31 /98 - RESOL. NO. 237(A) - Legislators
say to Towns to lobby against it, but they really want them to pass them , however they are
apprehensive to state that publicly. )
The Town looked at a pamphlet from EMC that was trying to discourage people from burning trash .
The Town was concerned about distributing the pamphlets because open burning is not illegal . It is not
legal in a municipality with a population over 20 , 000 . The local health departments can put some
boundaries on it by not burning plastics or batteries . It is still not a good idea to bum other kinds of
materials . Neighbors feel uncomfortable asking other neighbors to stop burning . Is this something the
Town of Ithaca could consider for the banning of open bums ?
Councilman Klein - Could they lower the population to 5 , 000 instead of 20 , 000?
Councilwoman Harrison - That is not what the bills have been , but it is a possibility. The bills were set
up for abolishing the right to bum their own trash .
Councilman Conley - One problem is that the Town of Ithaca is located on the hills surrounding the City.
Open barrels become dangerous with the wind in these areas . Is there a law for open burning ?
Director of Building and Zoning Andrew Frost - The law does not prohibit it. The law requires the
property owner to have provisions to extinguish the fire if necessary. It has been my policy to say that
it is not permitted unless it is a farm type operation which is consistent with the State Law. In some
areas of the Town where it is densely populated , I have serious concerns of allowing it because of
potential house fires . At times someone calls and wants permission to open burn , and then bums down
the neighbors house . I do not want to put the Town in that position . In the most part, except for farms ,
I have said it is not permitted , but the Town is discussing the policy.
Supervisor Valentino - There is a committee set up to discuss those issues .
TOWN BOARD MEETING 4 DECEMBER 8. 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
AGENDA ITEM NO. 12 - CONSIDER POTENTIAL STATE LEGISLATION RELATED TO YARD
WASTES GOING TO LANDFILLS OR BEING INCINERATED :
Councilwoman Harrison - A number of States have banned organic materials from going to landfills and
incinerators . Those States have done that for two purposes . One is organic wastes are a negative ,
and create the potential for various types of pollution and decrease buming . In landfills , they degrade
and create landfill gas . They have been banned to encourage composting facilities or other kinds of
management as opposed to getting rid of it. (CORRECTION PER TBMTG 12/31197 - RESOL. NO. 237
(a) - They have been banned in some states to encourage composting facilities or other kinds of
management as opposed to getting rid of it. ) This has been an effective way. In New York State , we
have created a reasonable infrastructure for dealing with yard trimmings . There are a lot of composting
facilities around the State. _ We can do a lot more to get people to manage their own yard trimmings on
their own premises .
Supervisor Valentino - Has the County been working on that?
Councilwoman Harrison - The County has mastered composers . Those are volunteers who are trained
and work under the supervision of a person to encourage backyard composting . The question is
whether the Town Board thinks it is worth while for the State to pass a law that would ban the disposal
of materials in landfills and incinerators . From a professional standpoint, I think it is a good idea .
Councilwoman Russell - There is a real positive benefit in getting people to compost. There is no real
defensible position as to putting it into an incinerator or a landfill .
Councilwoman Harrison - It does not have the same health and nuisance issues that the backyard
buming does . 1 4
Superintendent Fred Noteboom - I have not seen any bumt leaves or bumed yard waste in the Town of
Ithaca . The collection is expensive for people to have .
Councilman Conley - Is this something that the Town needs to wait for State laws or is this something
that the Town could adopt a local policy on ?
Supervisor Valentino - The buming issue is being worked on by a Committee .
Councilman Conley - The County manages the landfills , and they are very expensive to the taxpayers .
Could this be something that the Town could ask the County to take a leadership role in as far as yard
waste ending up in landfills?
Superintendent Noteboom - They are allowed to take brush to solid waste .
Supervisor Valentino - I will find out if the County has a position on this issue . Then I will write a letter
on the legislation for the Town Board to consider later on .
AGENDA ITEM NO . 5 - PERSONS TO BE HEARD : -
No one wished to be heard at this time .
Supervisor Valentino - Mr. Carvill and I have been putting together the Town' s finances . In January, the
auditors come in to audit the Town ' s books , and Bolton Point has an auditor for their books . We would
like to propose that the Town change auditors this year. We have talked and received a proposal from
TOWN BOARD MEETING 5 DECEMBERS. 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Sciarabba & Walker to do the Town 's audit this year. Looking at the overall cost it is more expensive .
It would be less per hour, but it is more overall with the outline Mr. Carvill and I did for the things we
want the auditors to do in a week. We want them for four weeks to do a thorough examination of the
books . We feel that all the work that has been in the last two years would just be one more thing that
would help us have a good comfort level ' on the Town's finances . This was mentioned at the Bolton
Point meeting on Thursday, and the Commissioners agreed to have their books audited by Sciarabba &
Walker. It would be some additional money , but we have the funds able to do this . I would like to ask
the Town Board that we have Sciarabba & Walker for the Town 's audit this year.
RESOLUTION NO. 210: Motion made by Councilman Conley, seconded by Councilman Klein that
the Town Supervisor is hereby authorized and directed to enter into a contract with Sciarabba Walker &
Co. , LLP, Certified Public Accountants to provide auditing and consulting services to the Town of Ithaca
and the Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipa/ Water Commission. A vote on the motion resulted as
follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously . (NOTE: Formal adopted resolution is hereto attached . )
Councilman Wolff - Who conducted the Town 's audits in the past?
Supervisor Valentino - The Ciaschi organization . They have audited the Town's books for many years.
There are not a lot of choices in the community. After receiving Sciarabba & Walker' s proposal , we
contacted their references , and were encouraged by the satisfaction level of those clients they have.
Councilman Wolff - Do you think Sciarabba & Walker will do a better job?
Supervisor Valentino - I did not think the other auditors didn 't do a good job . There needs to be fresh
eyes looking at the books . It is good to have another reliable company to give a different view of the
books .
The Town Board was supplied with a draft proposal of the treatment expansion project that was
discussed previously. I do not want a decision from this Board tonight because the Board has not
looked at the information yet. Some of the problems this Board discussed last time about outside users
and inside users were addressed in a better way of the new proposal from Shirley Raffensberger and
Jim Schug 's Committees . I would like to urge people to look at this , and try to give some feedback on
it. There will be another Bolton Point meeting before the next Town Board meeting , and I would like to
have some directions for them to proceed with .
Councilwoman Harrison - Are the residents at Forest Home back on Bolton Point's water?
Kevin Kaufmann , 17 Myers Road , Lansing - They are on Bolton Point water, except for the south side
residents of Collegetown are on the City' s water. The Cornell plant should be back in service this week
for normal operation .
Councilwoman Russell - I heard from Ruth Mahr about some residents in the area being informed of the
protocol for water emergencies . The person who was given notices door-to-door did not go until 3 : 00
p . m . , where Comell gotten their notice out by 10 : 00 a . m . . The Forest Home residents had concerns
that the protocol was not clear enough , or were there other problems? (CORRECTIONS PER TBMTG .
12/31 /97 - RESOL. NO. 237 (a ) - I heard from Ruth Mahr regarding some residents in the area
being informed about the water emergency. The person instructed to give notices door-to-door
I
TOWN BOARD MEETING 6 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 . 1997
did not do so until 3 : 00 p. m . . Cornell University had given notice by 10 : 00 a. m . . Forest Home
residents were concerned the protocol for dealing with the water emergency was not clear
enought, or were there other problems?)
Supervisor Valentino - There were long discussion at the Bolton Point Commission meeting . We were
aware that the notices did not go as smoothly as we wanted . As far as the protocol goes we will be
reviewing those policies and make sure that notification is done as quickly as possible .
Mr. Kaufmann - There were some miscommunications that need to be worked out. Generally , the
notice worked well . No legal notice was required at any time , but as far as noticing and letting the
customers know there were problems with the system where everyone was not notified .
Councilwoman Russell - Will there be any follow-ups on the changes being made to the policy?
Supervisor Valentino - I will report back to the Town Board when the policies are being worked on and
what the results were .
Mr. Kaufmann - People were concerned with how could we detect something getting into the water
supply before reaching the water treatment plant. That may be one of the solutions we would need to
look into , and the cost would be significant to do this .
Councilwoman Harrison - How was it actually detected ? Was it the smell?
Mr. Kaufmann - It was smell , and when the operators visited the intake as the light was breaking where
the machine out of the water. The operators shut it down at that point. (CORRECTION PER TBMTG .
12/31 /97 - RESOL. NO. 237 (a) - It was detected by the smell . When the operators visited the site
of the intake, and as the sunlight emerged an oil sheen was seen on the water. The operators
shut down the system at that point. )
Councilwoman Grigorov - When the spill happened , did they not know it had happened?
Councilwoman Harrison - It was not reported .
Councilman Klein - Did Cornell have to replace their filter media?
Mr. Kaufmann - No , not at this point. They are using a powder activated carbon to take all the fluid oil
products out of the water columns . Then drain the water out, and clean out the tanks . They will be
using closit soda on the filter media to loosen any film that might be on the media itself. From
experience on other water plants , it seems to work well .
AGENDA ITEM NO. 13 - CONSIDER RESOLUTION RATIFYING SUBMISSION OF GRANT
APPLICATION TO THE NEW YORK STATE PROGRAM FOR THE CONSERVATION AND
PRESERVATION OF LIBRARY RESEARCH MATERIALS :
RESOLUTION NO. 214: Motion made by Supervisor Valentino, seconded by Councilwoman
Grigorov that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby ratifies the submission of the grant
application to Conservation/Preservation Program Division of Library Development of the New York
State Library . A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
TOWN BOARD MEETING 7 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Supervisor Valentino , aye , Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 18 - CONSIDER RATIFICATION OF CHANGE ORDER FOR THE BUTTERMILK
FALLS WATER PROJECT:
RESOLUTION NO. 219: Motion made by Councilwoman Grigorov, seconded by Councilman Wolff
that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby approves Change Order No. 1 for the Contract for
the Construction of Water Improvements at Buttermilk Falls Road, and authorizes an incase ih-the
contract sum un the amount of $ 1 , 295. 00. A vote on the resolution resulted as follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 7 - PUBLIC HEARING : TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF THE PARKS
RECREATION , AND OPEN SPACE PLAN :
Supervisor Valentino opened the public hearing at 6 : 15 p . m . . The Town Clerk had proof of posting and
publication .
Sue Poelvorde , Natural Resources Planner for the Finger Lakes State Parks Region - The State Parks
would like to compliment the Town of Ithaca for taken on this Plan , and proposing some of the very
progressive steps that the Plan is proposing . While here for the Planning Board public hearing and the
State Parks submitted comments , and a majority of those comments were taken into consideration and
put into the draft Plan the Board is looking at tonight. The State Parks still has one concern about one
area in the Town of Ithaca that is adjacent to the Buttermilk Falls State Park, and we would like that that
Town Board take this area under consideration . The State Parks would like to stress the importance of
considering the development pressures on that area of Buttermilk Falls State Park. The updated draft
Open Space Plan did propose to do more to protect the east side of Buttermilk Falls State Park near
the West King Road and Route 96B area , but the State Parks believes that there needs to be more
done in that area . Current zoning in that area is R-30 , commercial , and multiple residence , and that
type of development in that area such as multiple residence or subdivision could be detrimental to that
area of the park. Any concentration of people for any length of time in that area , it would be their
backyards . The State Parks does not believe it would be a good mix to have a lot of people
concentrated in that area . The State Parks is not proposing that no development to occur there, but
just that we hope the Town would look at this and propose development that would be suitable for the
area in question . The area should not be over developed because there are a lot of dangers and
hazards in the park, and if anyone spending any length of time in the park unsupervised there could be
serious consequences in the future . The State Parks would ask the Town Board to take another look
at, and whether it is through this plan or through an update of the Zoning Ordinance , we would like to
work with the Town to try and accommodate growth in the Town but also protect and preserve
Buttermilk Falls State Park for the residence and the people who come to visit the area .
Councilman Klein - Are you representing John Clancy?
Ms . Poelvorde - "Yes . "
TOWN BOARD MEETING 8 DECEMBER 8. 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Councilman Klein - In his letter he brought up the same issues concerning subdivision in that area . Is
the Park effected by land that is being subdivided , and would it be subject to an Environmental Impact
Statement that was accepted by the Planning Board ?
Assistant Town Planner George Frantz pointed out on an enlarged map where the parcel Ms .
Poelvorde is referring to . The parcel Mr. Clancy is referring to in his letter is further north at the comer
of Route 96B and West King Road .
Ms . Poelvorde - It is actually all the remaining lands there . The corner piece of land at West King Road
and Route 96B is commercial and multiple residence . The other areas are zoned R-30 . People could
apply for subdivision in this area . There are other pieces of property that are not in consideration for
the Purchase of Development Rights Program (PDR) or Conservation easement, so a subdivision could
happen there . Then we would be in the same situation as the Wiggin 's development. The State Parks
would ask the Town Board to consider that. If it is not through this process of the Open Space and
Recreation Space for the PDR or Conservation zoning , that the Board consider deintensifying the
zoning in that area so it is not developed that intensely.
Supervisor Valentino - There have been discussions about changing the zoning in the area to fit better.
Ms . Poelvorde - The State Parks are willing to work with the Town Board on that.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz pointed out on an enlarged map where the Wiggin's development is
located . Since the October Planning Board public hearing on the Open Space Plan , the Planning
Department reviewed properties south of the Wiggin's development. There are two or three larger
properties were recommended for Conservation District Zoning . As the Plan is revised it would be
reducing the development potential from the Wiggin ' s property south to the Town of Danby . North of
the Wiggin 's property is being proposed to be rezoned Conservation District Zoning . This will allow the
possibility of a short cul-de-sac that under the existing zoning , a dozen lots to be developed . A lot of
people have expressed concerns about a large parcel at the corner of Danby Road and West King
Road , which is zoned commercial and multiple residence .
Doha Higgins , Citizens' to Save Our Parks - This group has been active for over ten years , and working
for proper maintenance conservation acquisition of local parks . First, we would like to commend the
Town of Ithaca staff for creating the Town Parks , Recreation , and Open Space Plan, and we wish you
and us (your contingents) success in bringing it to adoption , implementation , and completion . However,
according to our understanding there is one significant flaw to the Plan and would bring this to the
Board ' s attention for rectification . One piece of land of the southwest comer of Route 96B and West
King Road intersection , was left out of the PDR program and is now zoned multiple residence . It seems
to us that multiple residence complex that near upper Buttermilk Falls State Park could be destructive to
the privacy of the park, and hopefully the Town could remedy this problem by rezoning it. Also we have
been told that Stone Quarrey Road has reached it' s "environmental capacity of 3 , 000 cars a day" , (on
Route 96B it is currently zoned commercial , she is talking about the space between the commercial
zoning and the park) , in multiple residence housing at that site would substantially increase traffic at
Stone Quarrey Road , which is already up to capacity. For this reason alone , besides from protecting
the park, multiple housing would be undesirable at that site . I am speaking tonight for Citizen ' s to Save
Our Parks , but the Citizens' Planning Alliance , a newly formed citizen 's group which I am a member of,
several months ago endorsed the suggestion I just presented to the Board and others that Kara
Hagedom spoke to the Planning Board about.
I would like to make two other suggestions . One is from me as a person , and the other is from a
member of Citizens' to Save Our Parks , Dooley Keifer, who could not attend this meeting tonight. Ms .
Keifer asked me to pass onto the Town Board her urging that the Town Board instigate measures to
A
TOWN BOARD MEETING 9 DECEMBER 8. 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
ensure environmental protection of Town water ways and stream corridors from the hazards of modem
existence such as development, and protect them from water contamination and erosion . She also
suggests that whenever Town lake shore property comes on the market that the Town acquire it, so the
Town could control the use to which it will be put.
I would urge the Town Board in the Park Plan to give priority to the purchase of the larger community
parks over the purchase of the smaller neighborhood parks . The smaller parks are and will continue to
be more easily available . The community parks of larger acreage will not only give pleasure and fun to
a much larger contingency, but will be harder to acquire as time goes by. The sooner the Town
acquires that piece of the Town Park Plan the better. It would be less expensive and woutd-be easy to
acquire now.
Christiana Dean , Chair of the Town ' s Agricultural Committee - To help set the contexts from my
recommendation tonight, that just as a reminder, that according to the Town's Planning Department' s
1992 calculations , which are the most recent calculations we have for agricultural land within the Town
of Ithaca , fewer than 15 farm families keep 5 , 970 acres open with the Town : Helping farmers stay in-
business is a good bargain for the Town , and a bss for -orre farm has serious implications for the
Town' s Open Space. Thank you for listening to the- Agricultural Committee's request for right to farm
protect and for a voluntary PDR programs . I am pleased to see both the right to farm provision and the
voluntary PDR program included in the draft Open Space Plan. We appreciate the excellent
educational efforts of Mr. Kanter and Mr. Frantz of the Town Planning Department and also Monika
Ross of Cooperative Extension have all done a wonderful job . I think of educating the farm community
of what a voluntary PDR program would really be like . I urge the Town Board to act quickly in setting
up a PDR program . There are farms in the Town today that could readily go out in any month . A good
PDR program could make a difference in keeping these farms in Open Space in one of two ways.
Either by infusing enough capital into a farm so the farmer could reduce the farm ' s debt rationale to a
profitable level and keep farming or by providing a retiring farmer with a substantial cash payment
while lowering the sale price of the farm enough for agricultural purposes that a young farmer could
afford to buy it. The Town 's Agricultural Committee stands ready to work with the Town of Ithaca , and
to set up the guidelines for a voluntary PDR program .
I would like to speak of three other proposals currently under review within the Town of Ithaca . I have
not taken these issues to the Agricultural Committee , but these are reflecting my own informed view
points . I believe these three other proposals are detrimental both to agriculture and to the Town's Open
Space goals . First, allowing trailer parks in agriculture zones is a guarantee on going problems for
farmers and for the Town . Although one or two farmers who may welcome the chance to sell their land
for a trailer park or any high density housing , that these would be a bad neighbor for an active farm . No
right to farm regulations could prevent or dispel the kinds of complaints that arise from residents in high
density housing near farms . Farms and high density neighbors , especially trailer parks , are simply put
"bad neighbors" . Secondly, I would also like address current proposal to allow multiple resident housing
in commercial development on the corner of West King Road and Route 96B , which is the threshold to
1 , 085 acres of active agricultural land on South Hill . This is nearly one-fifth of agricultural land in the
Town . It is owned by only two farm families , and my family is one of those farm families . If the Town
proceeds in allowing the proposed development on that comer, which is the threshold to these farms ,
you are unwittingly signing the death note for agricultural on South Hill . I am calling the Town Board to
find ways to prevent development on this corner, Route 96B and WesT King Road , and to work with the
State Parks' system to add that acreage to Buttermilk Falls State Park.
This year New York State will provide funds to buy land around Taughannock Falls State Park to
prevent inappropriate development next to that park. If the Town acts with foresight now, you can keep
a similar possibility opened for Buttermilk Falls State Park over the next few years . On the other hand ,
if the Town allows development to proceed on the corner of West King Road and Route 96B , the Town
TOWN BOARD MEETING 10 . DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 . 1997
is not only foreclosing the possibility of keeping that particular space open , but the Town would also be
multiplying the likelihood that the two farmers who keep nearly a fifth of the Town 's agricultural land
open will conpiculate to development pressure .
I would like to address the issue of phone towers . There is at least one member of the Town's
Agricultural Community that would like to use farm land for phone towers. Phone towers quickly
destroy the scenic farm vistas and rural character that the Town is trying to promote . I believe that
phone towers have no place in the Town of Ithaca , and if the Town does bend to pressure to allow
them it would be uncontinable to continue to consider the land that they are on or the vast members of
acres marred by their blinking lights as high quality Open Space. Thank you for your consideration , and
as a member of the Town 's Agricultural Committee I look forward to working with the Town to design
the guidelines for a voluntary PDR program .
Councilwoman Grigorov - The two farms you mentioned , how narrow are they to the comer of Route
96B and West King Road?
Assistant Town Planner Frantz pointed out on an enlarged map the areas that Ms . Dean mentioned .
Councilwoman Grigorov - Do you think development at Route 96B and West King Road would effect
the farm land that is on the other side of Buttermilk Falls State Park?
Ms . Dean - The farmers are already feeling it with the taxes going up , traffic, and pressure of the
housing development encroaching on their land .
Councilwoman Russell - Are there several new houses that have been constructed in that area?
Ms . Dean - "Yes . "
Superintendent Noteboom - There is development starting at Sand Bank and King Road intersection .
Ms . Dean - The development is encroaching on both sides of the land . As the owner of one of those
farms , if commercial and multiple residence housing goes in on that comer, I would seriously consider
leaving the Town of Ithaca because it is getting very hard to continue .
Councilwoman Grigorov - Taxes went up because of this?
Ms . Dean - In 1990 , the taxes went up . I talked to the tax man and contested it. He said he cited me
three other parcels that are comprobable , and one them was on Eastern .
John Schroeder, Citizens' Planning Alliance Chair - The group is very dedicated to the ideas of
encouraging economic development and housing to exist within existing urbanized areas in the Town ,
City , and contiguous urbanized areas . In conjunction to that, to protect Open Space around all of those
existing urbanized areas . I am chair of the SPRAWL Committee of the Citizens' Planning Alliance
dealing with those issues . We studied the Open Space Plan in a lot of detail . The Citizens' Planning
Alliance passed a resolution that was read to the Planning Board . I would like to thank the Town that
the Planning Board adopted many of the most important points in tfiat resolution having to do with
protecting Buttermilk Falls State Park, Six Mile Creek, and environmentally important areas on South
Hill . I want to state that it is the sense of many people I talked to on the Alliance Committee that the
Open Space Plan is an excellent document. It is a progressive document, and they urge the Town
Board to adopt it as soon as it is reasonable to do so . It is far ahead of many Towns in New York State I
are doing . We urge the Town Board to finish the job of Buttermilk Falls State Park, and the chief
concern that was mentioned at the last meeting of the Alliance Committee was the corner of West King
TOWN BOARD MEETING 11 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Road and Route 96B particularly the multiple residence zoning . The Alliance Committee urges the
Town Board before the Open Space Plan is adopted that the conservation zoning district line up to the
commercial district at that corner. The Alliance Committee agrees with the State Parks that all of that
area be looked at, but that comer was the chief topic of people' s concerns .
Guy Gerard , City of Ithaca - I plan to express my gratitude in support of the Open Space Plan . I was
made aware of the importance of being Very positive in this particular matter, and as I reflected upon it
and realized that it was a good time to be positive . For the many of us that choose to contribute to this
community in their own way and they often get involved and participate in the governmental process we
quickly fall into simplistic labels environmentalists , probusines$ , and so forth . I say simplistic because in
the long run they all want the same . They all cannot exist without the other. What it is worth , we
"environmentalists" very often are in the position to try and preclude or to prevent things from
happening with the sense of urgency and finality comes from the deck being stacked to little bit.
Usually when working on the side of the "environment ' it is a battle in which the other concerns can
come at it, present the case , and we win that would be perfect, but then next year they can come again
and do the same . It gives a sense of urgency. Sometimes we can come up a little intense and so forth .
In this case I want to say that this Board addressed this problem very well , and it is going to be a show
case for many communities that care to look in that direction . Very often , the but of our strident efforts
are often staff. The staff are often in the position to do the work without getting any kind of awards, but
would receive criticism . I would like to remind the staff that they will hear from the public when things
Mreetnot to our liking , unfortunately, we fade out when things are done so well . We are very grateful for
John Yntema , 993 Danby Road - I am a member of the Town 's Conservation Board . I want to
commend the Town' s Planning Department, Mr. Kanter, and Mr. Frantz for pulling together a wonderful
plan . My comments are directed towards a memorandum that was sent to the Planning Board and ser
Conservation Board members . One of Mr. Frantz' s recommendations states "the Conservation Board
has also recommended that the land north of Route 96/Danby Road overlooking Ithacare site be
included in the lands to be rezoned to Conservation District, and/or be included in the proposed PDR
program . In order to protect the viewshed of the overlook it is still a lovely view once it is pass Ithacare .
Given the location of the parcel and it' s potentially high market value , we recommend the Town
consider acquisition of a viewshed easement over that portion of the parcel where any future
development could encroach on the view of the overlook. " It might encroach on the view from Ithacare ,
which is one reason it is there . "Viewshed easements have been used else where in New York that
could allow both a wider range of uses by the owner of the land as well as give the Town the power to
enter the property to maintain the view. " I certain hope that is included in the Open Space Plan .
Behind the C5 zone on the comer of West King Road and Danby Road . It is my understanding that this
particular lot will take 200 families , and I assume that means at least 400 to 600 people close to the
park. If Stone Quarrey is up to capacity there is going to a lot of trouble there . It is really tough to get
up Stone Quarrey Road when it has not been clear. I would recommend that the Town Board consider
rezoning this area . Maybe the Codes and Ordinances Committee is the committee that needs to
recommend it. I also wanted to point out that this multiple residence unit in this area has outlets both
on West King Road and onto Danby Road . People who would be exiting onto West King Road would
go up and down Stone Quarrey Road and it would be really be crowded .
Phyllis Baker, Swayolaken Farms - I am against much of this Plan . F do not have any problems with
some of the Town ' s environmental concerns , and I am sure that those can and will be addressed . I feel
like some of the things have been taken on as riders in the Plan to get through . I feel that way about
some of the plans for the parks , and also for some of the Open Space Plans . When it comes to parks I
do not believe we need such elaborate system as it has been outlined in the document. I think that any
community that has as many parks as the Town of Ithaca already has that this turns into more of a wish
than a need , and yet the tax payers will have to pay for it. I feel that could be scaled back a lot. The
TOWN BOARD MEETING 12 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 . 1997
document said that this community was going to be so affluent that they needed better recreation
facilities , and I feel if they are that influent they ought to be able to pay for their own , and I should not
have such a heavy burden as landowner put on us . I think the Board has heard many people speak
and talk about the trails that are unsupervised and how much damaged is done by the people that use
the trails . It would be nice if everyone that used the trails was as concerned for the environment as the
Town is , but unfortunately that is not the case . I have been unable to get anybody to tell me exactly
how this Plan is going to be financed , but in the talk I have heard anything on property tax owners is
going to put a burden on farmers that we cannot stand . Just because our business requires us to own
a lot of land we should not have to be the one that has to basically pay for this program because we
cannot pay for it. Your ideas on open space have already been to restrictive on private property rights ,
and I am sure that you know they border on being unconstitutional . My lawyers in D . C . told me that
everytime the town passes one of these things they take a giant step closer to the taken that the
Supreme Court is anxious to hear about, and when that happens we not only have to pay our lawyers
our taxes pay the Town lawyer. We have already has so much use of our land stolen . I think that
anybody who sells their development rights under the plan you have outlined is very foolish because
perpetuity is a long time . I am sure when the Town sell these development rights you give up a lot in
future remuneration for the taking of the use of the land . I do not plan on selling my land . When I tried
to find out why some of these ideas come about it seems that once upon time there was survey done ,
which I never saw, where they asked the people if they wanted to look up and see the open space , but
nobody told them that the Town was going to steal it. I do not believe that everyone in the Town of
Ithaca would be willing to do that. It just seems to be like if you cannot afford something you should not
have it. If I can not afford it I can not buy it. I do not think the Town should do that either. It just
seems to me that this whole concept puts to the test some of our ideas of American way of doing
things . I know that farmers do not have any votes that count, and I would hate to think that every one
hear is do conscientious of the vote that they forget to do what is right. I do not think just because
everyone wants something makes it right. It certainly makes a difference on how you get it. I just think
the whole concept of zoning away all of our rights or charging it on the basis of real estate taxes , which
you know we will have to pay too much of is wrong . I think when these colleges keep turning out all of
these planners they have to make work for themselves , and everytime the Town falls for it the Town
residences get in deeper and deeper. I wish someone would stop that. I also wanted to say that I have
been public tested for voicing my opinion on this matter, and I do not believe any one should be
intimated in not speaking their views in these public forms . Thank You .
Bill Carini , Member of the Citizens' Planning Alliance - Buttermilk Falls State Park is treasure for those
of us who reside in the County. It is one of the most accessible natural areas for Ithaca residents who
do not own a car. It is also a crucial component of tourism attracting assess . I am concerned about the
presence of land zoned through multiple residence only 800 feet from the Park's boundary . A large
development that would seriously compromise the Park's integrity, the extra noise , the activities of
unsupervised and domestic animals would drive away both wildlife and tourist. I understand and
approve of the concept of having multiple residence development in locations that are close to the City .
However, this location is definitely not a good choice . Overall this plan is a wonderful one , and I hope it
is approved once this crucial buffer is included in PDR program or Conservation zone.
Phil Zarriello , Chair of the Town 's Conservation Board - To echo the majority of the opinions here , I
think the Plan is a great plan and it will go along way in keeping the Town of Ithaca an enjoyable place
to live and work. The Conservation Board does have one concern , and it has also been expressed
which is the multiple residence and commercial zone that is close to the Buttermilk Falls State Park on
the comer of West King Road and Danby Road . The Conservation Board feels that high density
residential is somewhat incompatible with the Conservation District when there is that type of density
that close in that proximity it becomes their backyard playground and it elates some of the goals of `
having that Conservation District. Not to say that it cannot be there , a lot of it would be in the details of 4
how it is being proposed . If it does stay that way I think the Town should be aware as a Town be very
TOWN BOARD MEETING 13 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
concerned about how that development proceeds and keep an eye on it. I think the Plan was a
wonderful job .
Yarrow Nelson , 327 West King Road - I am here to speak in favor of the Plan . I read it cover to cover
and I applaud the Planners for putting it together. There is one place that falls short, and a few people
have spoken about it earlier, and that is close to the Buttermilk Falls State Park particularly the head
waters of Owl Gorge which is Holly Creek. Holly Creek and Owl Gorge is probably the most prestige
piece of land in the Town of Ithaca . I think it is important to protect those waters . There is some
mention of that in the Plan , and there are some modifications that were made since the meeting of the
Planning Board , but one thing noticed looking at it historically, -about eight years agoa bunch of formed
a group called " Friends - of Buttermilk Falls" , and the purpose of that group was that there was a
developer planning a development for the comer of Route 96B and West King Road . The group was
very concerned because there was a lot of commercial development and multiple residences planned
for that corner, and the group spent a lot of time negotiating with the owner of the land , Dave Auble,
and the planners at the time , and then the whole plan was dropped for development, and the attention
was shifted to the Comprehensive Plan . It was interesting that when the Comprehensive Plan was
developed it was close to what was envisioned for that strip along Route 96B and the park. It seems
that the Open Space Plan actually back pedals to the Comprehensive Plan . I would like to see the
Open Space Plan go as far as the Comprehensive Plan , which would be for a smaller commercial
development along the highway and just limit the multiple residence behind that and a good buffer
between there and the park. Now there has been development pressure further south towards the
Wiggin's development, and I would like to see the same standards apply there where we stick to the
Comprehensive Plan and try to give the park as much of a buffer as we can . Thank you .
Jim Volkhausen , 330 West King Road - I think the piece of land next to Buttermilk Falls State Park is a
precious piece of land that I would like to see it protected . I would push for protection right up to the
road to include the commercial zone in keeping that as minimal or eliminating it as possible as well as
keeping multiple residence zone from being developed . In whatever way the Town could do that,
whether it is PDR program or the same thing that has happened around Taughannock Park in regards
to buying the land for the park. I agree with Mr. Nelson' s statement that it is very important to protect
the head waters such as Owl Gorge and Holly Creek.
In the Open Space Plan , it mentions that the Town wants to encourage phone towers , but I feel
opposite of that. Ithaca could take a stand on and discourage phone towers . I happen to live where I
can see one of the phone towers that has been constructed recently. It definitely has a major effect on
how we view the open space we see what used to be considered open space across the way. It is a
very different scene at night as well as it is seen during the day .
Supervisor Valentino - I do not recall anyone here ever saying that the Town was going to encourage
phone towers .
Director of Planning Kanter - These comments arose from the Codes and Ordinances Committee's
revisions of the draft Zoning Ordinance where some original suggested changes in the agricultural zone
still have references to mobile home parks and to cell towers as they do now. That is where those
comments came from , but the Park and Open Space Plan does not have any references to those
elements . That is a totally separate issue , and those comments should not be considered in regards to
the Park and Open Space Plan .
Councilwoman Harrison - Where is Owl Gorge located on the map?
Assistant Town Planner Frantz pointed out on an enlarged map where Owl Gorge and Holly Creek is
located .
TOWN BOARD MEETING 14 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
James Ainslie , 245 Hayts Road - My son runs 500 acres of farm land on West Hill , and his tax bill is
approximately $20 , 000 . He pays $ 10 , 000 on his own land , and the other 250 acres he pays the taxes
for the use of the land . In discussions with other farmers , the development rights for farm land is very
complicated because the first thing you have is capital gains coming in on it. Most farmers have
mortgage debts , and this is going to be a long process . The farmers need to go to the bankers and it
get complicated . If anyone wants to save the farm land in the Town of Ithaca I do not know whether
this would be fast enough to do much good . It has been kicked around in the agricultural committees.
Probably the best way to help the farmers who are left in Tompkins County would be a situation where
they bring in their tax bill . On a yearly basis they can count on that if they have that bill . It is
unbelievable . The PDR program seems like a great idea , but with the capital gains and everything
included I do not know whether it will be quick enough . All of the farmers have tightened their belts .
Councilman Klein - What is the assessed value of the land per acre? Is it uniformed for all farms in the
Town a certain percentage per acreage?
Mr. Ainslie - A person from the Land Trust talked to the Agriculture Committee. It is such a hard deal to
. try and value the farm land with the depressed farm prices , and try to value the potential development
rights . There are a lot of properties in the Town of Ithaca that are not being developed because there is
not the need . They even suggested that they need to come with another plan rather than trying to get
the difference between the two . It has been done in other states , but right here the Town of Ithaca
does not have a good handle on it. My son has a family of 150 cows . He is loosing $7 , 000 a month
over what he did last year. He has tightened things up as much as he can . There is some hope that
the dairyman join the New England market that they may get $ . 30 or $ . 40 a hundred .
Tony Ingraham , 113 Nelson Road - I am the Regional Conservation Educator for the Finger Lakes
State Parks , and I would like to address the Buttermilk Falls State Park area . The Open Space Plan is
a great document and a great effort, and the philosophy behind it is a far reaching and will be a model
for many other communities in the State . Some of the things that have been said about the density of-
development near upper Buttermilk Falls State Park are important. Everyone would love to live next to
a State Park, so the more people that would live around the State Park may run into some of the
conflicts that the values that the State Park exists for. People who live near a park probably want to be
there for the values , but they also would put pressure on the park for recreation resources. Some of
the things that density and development want to have is more playgrounds and ball fields , things that
are high recreational activities are great. Having more Town parks and County parks would be great to
provide some of those open space needs . Part of upper Buttermilk Falls State Park, if you take a look
at some of the activities that happen there and the nature of the place itself does not lend itself to a
high density recreation use that maybe if there are a lot of residents living right around the park would
want. One of the things that people do in the park, usually quiet picnics and recreation . When I arrive
at Buttermilk Falls State Park it amazes the quietness in the park. It is really peaceful , and that is one
of the main reasons people come to the park. It is almost like walking the gorge at Taughannock State
Park for a nice calm walk. One thing that we done there since 1979 is walk along the trail on the west
side of the creek. It is called the Bear Trail because bears have been sighted through there . Every
Mother' s Day the Park holds a spring walk on the Bear Trail to look at the wildflowers on the trail . This
is an example of the kinds of values that are at the Park. People like to walk in the park, have picnics ,
and they appreciate neighbors . If the Town had high density development in the vicinity particularly the
upper park entrance that everyone has been talking about along West King Road and Danby Road that
there might be a lot of pressure for people to come into the Park for other kinds of recreation which
would then conflict-with the values that already exists there . The values for which the park was created
in 1924 . The road that is in the upper Park is a very quiet road , and people could walk the loop . It is
the only place that is opened in the winter time too in the Park. There is general cross country skiing
happens in the park. There is tremendous wildlife viewing in the park such as bird watching .
TOWN BOARD MEETING 15 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
The Holly Creek parallel to Buttermilk Gorge goes through a section of the park that is not developed in
Owl Gorge . The Open Space Plan shows an extension of Conservation Zoning and low density
development of one house every seven acres extending east from the park south of West King Road to
protect the watershed of Holly Creek above Owl Gorge . I have gone through Owl Gorge and found
- things that have been washed down through there such as old tires and things like that. I am
concerned about run off and things that could be sedimentation that could compromise the ecology of
the stream . If there was a great deal of sedimentation a stream could be killed of any life that exists in
it. Holly Creek takes a jog to the east to the outside of the green triangle on the map through the area
that is currently zoned multiple residence housing . That area -could have up to 200 families in that area .
There might be a great deal of run off in that area with parking lots and roads . Which might mitigate
some of the conservation zoning recommendations to the west where Holly Creek turns north . There
could be a great deal of run off coming down to Holly Creek bringing sedimentation oil from parking lots
and lawn chemicals into this prestige area . I would recommend that the Town Board consider reducing
the density that has been asked for by the park agency . It is a wonderful area that is an access to- the
upper gorge , and it is inappropriate to have high density development in the long term around this
beautiful subtle area .
Mr. Nelson - Feeling for the farmers that have been here expressing their concerns about the . plans ,
especially the farmer who is paying $20 , 000 a year in taxes , that surprised me . I am an engineer. For
that farmer to be paying that much taxes they must be assessed $2 , 000 an acre . It is interesting where
people get away from Ithaca where there is not development pressure people could get farm land for
approximately $500 , so that leaves $ 1 , 500 an acre for the development rights . Maybe there is some
negotiating that is left to be done , but it seems to me that the whole plan of PDR program is not only to
preserve open space , but to preserve people' s ability to form the land in the Town of Ithaca by taking
away the $ 1 , 500 of assessed value and dropping the taxes from $20 , 000 to $5 , 000 seems like a
benefit to the farmers . What ever the numbers are could be adjusted to the point by making the same
point that the PDR program should be designed in such a way to help the farmer. I am not sure why
there is such a negative reaction to it from the farming community . Maybe it is not being presented in
the right way , maybe the numbers are not being presented in a favorable way to the farmers .
Elsie McMillan , 812 Elmira Road - What Mr. Ainslie said is true . The PDR program sounds wonderful .
It is complexed . The money is paid in one big lump sum on which you pay capital gains , which is 25
percent of what the farmers get goes to the Federal Government. The big amount of money the
farmers receive for the development rights does not seem as big as it seems in terms what they have to
play with . It also means that the land is devalued because it is not available for development, which is
a higher land value . That means for farmers who do have to the bank every year and borrow money
against that year' s crop . Once the value is down the banks are not willing to give as much money as
needed . If it is not quick it may not be in time to save the farmers who are left in the Town of Ithaca .
People forget that it is the farmer' s home and business , and it is also their inheritance for many of them .
If the farm is devalued , then it is devalued for the children who the farm would be left to . That is one of
the reasons why there is some objections to consider the PDR program . Everyone would like to see
the open space , but there are practical realities that not everyone has to deal with .
Attorney Barney - The PDR program is a voluntary program for the farmer to participate in .
Ms . McMillan - I am concerned that everyone will jump into this program without all the facts in .
Supervisor Valentino - From the Town Board and the staff' s perspective , that what everyone is saying
we are aware of. It is not easy . It is not a quick fix. It has been an ongoing practice on how does the
Town help save the farmers . The Town is trying to make a start. The Town cannot finish if they do not
start. The Town is trying to work together to work through the problems . Through the Conservation
TOWN BOARD MEETING 16 DECEMBER 8. 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 1997
Committee and the Farm Committees they. are working together to overcome some of the problems .
The Town has a lot of work to do yet.
Ms . McMillan - There are other ways in working with a plan as well written as this that there are options .
Everyone speaks from their own experience . Most of this discussion deals with the part of the Town
that I do not know much about, such as the Buttermilk Fafis State Park. There are a -lot of other
concerns in areas in the Town of Ithaca, and the definition of farming makes a difference . What the
Town wants as open space , they may want to consider somebody who is a part-time farmer who does
not make $ 10 , 000 off their land , but keeps it open and crops it might be considered for some of these
farm programs and farm assessments in a way that is not currently possible . The person who has a
full-time job and just farms on weekends might want to keep some open space if they got
encouragement.
Lemoyne Farrell , 120 Eastwood Terrace - There are two things that occur to me about this Open Space
Plan . One thing as a bird watcher, there is solid rock on the surface of the upper Treman Park. One of
my concerns is that the outcropping of rocks is close to the surface on the upper part of the Buttermilk
Falls State Park. If there was high density of population of teenage children that could prove an
attractive nuisance . That is liability .
The second concern is , is this project on City and water and sewer?
Attorney Barney - Which project?
Ms . Farrell - The high density dwelling areas .
Director of Planning Kanter - "Yes . "
Ms . Farrell - I was concerned about the run off and the effect of farms who are on their own private
wells as a sewage tainting . Also the run off of gasoline and salt from roads is a concern of Holly Creek.
Supervisor Valentino closed the public hearing at 7 : 21 p . m .
Councilwoman Grigorov - The public made the Town Board be more aware of the importance of the
land around the Buttermilk Falls State Park, and that should be handled in the Zoning Ordinance
revisions .
Councilwoman Harrison - It sounds that consideration in terms of the Holly Creek corridor that I would
be a little concerned with . The Town Board may want to make special mention that we approve the
Plan by taking a particular look at that area as we enter the zoning . When the Town Board approves
this Plan , we should make mention to the fact that we are struck by additional consideration for this
particular area , and that we recognize that this is not zoning , but this is a guidance that should be used
for the rezoning .
Supervisor Valentino - We have talked about making those modifications in the Plan in the past, but we
should pay more attention to that area perhaps more than we have .
Councilwoman Russell - Does the Town Board need to look at all the proposed revisions of the Open
Space Plan ? Is -the Town Board trying to consider these revisions , and adopt them with the Plan
tonight? Or is the Town Board trying to adopt the draft Plan as written?
Director of Planning Kanter - All the revisions have been discussed and incorporated into the Open 41
Space Plan that the Town Board is considering tonight, including the Planning Board ' s comments .
NINE
TOWN BOARD MEETING 17 DECEMBER 8. 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Councilwoman Harrison - What were the criteria used to determine this Plan for which areas are
proposed for PDR program and the ones for Conservation Zoning ?
Assistant Town Planner Frantz - The head waters of Holly Creek which the watershed does extend to
the area south of Chase Farm . The rationale for having two levels of protection is the area within the
red is an area where there is a number of identified wetland areas . It is an additional level of protection .
The remaining Conservation District is more of a buffer for the inner core .
Councilwoman Harrison - In the Exhibit A map from the November 7 , 1997 memorandum , on the
western portion of the map there are hashers on the upper left and horizontal. Is this being
recommended for agricultural or conservation zoning?
Assistant Town Planner Frantz - We tried to the horizontal hashing was an attempt in black & white to
delineate the park itself.
Councilman Klein - I share Councilwoman Hamson ' s concern that the proposed areas for zoning
changes should be clear since the Town Board is about to embark upon looking at the Zoning Map. I
do not want to adopt this map now and three months later change it.
Director of Planning Kanter - Even with the proposed Conservation Zone areas the staff did not intend
that those lines in that areas be followed exactly. We did not analyze them as such . For example,
concerns of West King Road and Danby Road intersection , how far that conservation goes- in there
were no specific recommendations , but to indicate to the Town Board that this is an that needs to be
looked at to provide a buffer to the State Park. These areas needs to be reviewed and studied more
before boundaries are made .
Councilman Klein - Could the word "proposed" be changed to " potential" for the additional zoning areas
on Exhibit A - Map 8- 1 R?
Supervisor Valentino - "Yes . "
Councilman Klein - On Map & 1R , I was surprised that there is so much additional agricultural land
being proposed . Could this theory be explained?
Assistant Town Planner Frantz - The increase primarily is in the area west of Buttermilk Falls State
Park, that is probably the largest contiguous agricultural land that the staff is proposing an extension .
Inlet Valley is being proposed the same also .
Councilman Klein - Those areas are being taken out of R-30 because they are being farmed ?
Assistant Town Planner Frantz - Yes . There are other areas that are being actively farmed without
public water and sewer.
Director of Planning Kanter - Everything that Mr. Frantz has been pointing to on the West Hill was
recommended for Agriculture Zone in the Comprehensive Plan .
Assistant Town Planner Frantz - On East Hill , the fields between Cascadilla Creek and Ellis Hollow
Road are being farmed by Cornell University .
Councilwoman Harrison - In terms of the PDR boundaries are drawn on the map as big broad dotted
lines?
TOWN BOARD MEETING 18 DECEMBER 8. 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Assistant Town Planner Frantz - "Yes . "
Councilwoman Harrison - How are these boundaries set in law? Meaning when the Town adopts a
PDR program , what criteria would be used to decide what comes first?
Assistant Town - Planner Frantz - These are actually more target areas . The actual boundaries of land
to be protected through the PDR program will be determined on a case by case basis through
negotiations with that particular land owner for application on criteria in terms of the quality of the land .
That would be the next step on setting the criteria on what the Town will negotiate for as far as PDR go .
Councilwoman Harrison - If something happens and we determine based on the criteria that there is a
real need to acquire the development rights and a willing seller that is not within one of these red lines ,
are the Town 's tied by virtue of this plan?
Attorney Barney _- No , it depends on how the legislation is written . Prioritizing would depend on who is
willing to sell .
Assistant Town Planner Frantz '- In some locations they have had to prioritize which parcels to buy in
which year for the PDR program . It is something that the Agriculture Committee needs to address .
Councilwoman Harrison - Page 2 of the November 7 , 1997 memorandum , there is mention of the
viewshed easement concept. I read this memorandum , it is not clear to me whether this is a
recommended addition to the Plan or not.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz - The way the memorandum was written was essentially more for a
report to the Planning Board on the Planning Department' s recommendations . The Conservation- Board
recommended that land be included in the Conservation Zoning or PDR program . The Planning
Department suggested to view this as a viewshed easement as opposed to a full blown PDR .
Councilwoman Harrison - What Councilwoman Russell was originally getting to earlier, it is a little hard
to figure what the plan is going to be that the Town Board is approving . In terms of this statement I am
not sure what is going to be done with the view shed .
Assistant Town Planner Frantz - The Planning Board adopted the items and suggestions in the
memorandum .
Councilwoman Harrison - Is that in the adopted resolution from the Planning Board?
Assistant Town Planner Frantz - "Yes . "
Councilwoman Harrison - Does the resolution make reference to that?
Assistant Town Planner Frantz - "Yes . "
Councilwoman Russell - Page 3 , of the Environmental Assessment Form , number 11 asks " Does this
project site contain any species of plant or animal lift that is identified as threatened or endangered ?"
Mr. Frantz answered the question "yes" , and listed one specie . It seems like there should be more than
one specie in the-area .
Assistant Town Planner Frantz - We thought there was more than one specie . This was a very
productive exercise for the Planning Department. We crossed into Federal and State list of threatened
and endangered wildlife species . While there are a number of threatened or endangered plant species
TOWN BOARD MEETING 19 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
identified in Tompkins County , that when we cross referenced the State list with the County's Unique
Natural Area inventory only one plant specie was found to be threatened or endangered that was
specifically located in the Town of Ithaca .
Councilwoman Harrison - Page 9 , of the Environmental Assessment Form grossly overstates the
potential number of dwelling units . It is calculated on the basis of 0 . 8 lots per acre when in fact 6 , 000
acres of it does not have water and sewer, and there is no way the Health Department is going to
approve that density . I am concerned that by overstating-it appears to be diminishing development
rights well beyond what will be diminished . If 6 , 000 acres has not water and sewer it is probably one
house per two acres . It is important to state that because it looks like a much more significant change
than it really is .
Director of Planning Kanter - While doing environmental analysis we need to look at the most maximum
worst case scenario .
Councilwoman Harrison - In the November 7 , 1997 memorandum , Page 1a refers to the fees in lieu of
concept be expanded to include a brief assessment of the existing mechanism used and how is worked
or not worked . I cannot approve a plan that would suggest how to modify this without seeing the
language . I agree that it all needs to be done .
Councilwoman Grigorov - The Town Board will review this again and need to be approved for the user
fees .
Councilwoman Harrison - I do not want the Planning Staff to add recommendations that the Town
Board has not seen .
Director of Planning Kanter - Since the law was adopted in 1995 , not a single fee has not been
collected . This statement may suggest that it may not be working properly , and there would be a
recommendation to the Town Board to revisit the fee law and see if there could be any adjustments to
reflect the reality. It would not have specific recommendations to change it from the current formula to
something else . It would be a trigger to say it has not been working .
Supervisor Valentino - The Planning Staff cannot change anything without the Town Board's approval .
Councilwoman Harrison - I do not think that the Planning Staff should make a recommendation of it
should be changed in the Plan until the Town Board sees it and approves it. The memorandum is
written for possible ways that it may be modified . The recommendations should be made to the Town
Board to look at.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 8 - CONSIDER SEQR RELATED TO THE ADOPTION OF THE PARKS,
RECREATION , AND OPEN SPACE PLAN :
RESOLUTION NO. 211 : Motion made by Councilwoman Grigorov, seconded by Councilwoman
Harrison that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby makes a negative determination of
environmental significance in accordance with the New York State Quality Review Act for the above
referenced action as proposed and, therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement will not be required.
Councilman Klein Page 6 of the Environmental Assessment Form it states "The physical setting for
the overall project is considered to be the geographic area within the borders of the Town of Ithaca ,
including the Village of Cayuga Heights . " Does the Plan include the Village of Cayuga Heights?
TOWN BOARD MEETING 20 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Assistant Town Planner Frantz - For planning purposes the Village of Cayuga Heights is excluded , but
for inventory purposes parts of the Village has been included in the Plan .
Page 10 , number 2 of the Environmental Assessment Form which states "Will there be an effect to any
unique or unusual land forms found on the site?" The answer should be "no" .
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 9 - CONSIDER RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE PARKS, RECREATION AND
OPEN SPACE PLAN :
Councilwoman Harrison - At the end of letter "b" in the proposed resolution should read "additional
areas , potential zoning for open space and Purchase of Development Rights target areas . " Also the
title of Map 8- 1 should be changed .
Councilman Klein - The other map should be changed also to " 1 R".
Councilwoman Harrison - Any places in the Open Space Plan that refers to "proposed zoning" should
be changed to "consideration of potential zoning . "
An item "d" should be added to state "which is consider further protection to the areas east of Buttermilk
Falls State Park and along Holly Creek in the adoption of revised zoning and the Purchase of
Development Rights in the Town of Ithaca . "
RESOLUTION NO. ? ? ?: Motion made by Councilwoman Harrison, seconded by Councilman Wolff
that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby adopts a Town of Ithaca 1997 Park, Recreation, and
Open Space Plan. A vote on the resolution resulted as follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 10 - CONSIDER REQUEST FOR REZONING ON EAST SHORE DRIVE IN
RELATION TO THE CORNELL LAKE SOURCE COOLING PROJECT:
Director of Planning Kanter - Cornell University is here with a request of the Town Board for rezoning
the site on East Shore Drive for the proposed Lake Source Cooling Facility. The Environmental Impact
Statement ( EIS) is nearing completion on the process . The Planning Department received the Final
Environmental Impact Statement, and the Town has until December 16th for any final comments to
send onto the Department of Environmental Conservation ( DEC) . This is the beginning of the formal
process for bringing this action before the Town Board for a rezoning request, and then later to the
Planning Board for site plan approval recommendation on the rezoning and subdivision approval .
In the letter of comment that the Town sent to DEC . on the EIS , there were several subject areas issues
that the Town asked to be pursued including visual impact of the proposed heat exchange facility , I
vegetative clearing on the site , landscaping , and protection of Renwick Brook in regards to erosion and
sedimentation control . Along with access to the lake on the shore line , and retention of community
TOWN BOARD MEETING 21 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
character in terms of where the pipeline is gong through certain areas especially along School District
properties . These things have been addressed in the Final EIS .
There are representatives of Cornell University to speak on the proposed Lake Source Cooling Project,
and to make a formal request to the Town Board on the rezoning .
Lanny Joyce , Project Manager for the Lake Source Cooling Project - I have been in front of the Town
Board before on this project as well as other representatives from Cornell University along with other
Boards of the Town of Ithaca . It feels good to have made it to this step . Cornell University does have
an EIS that has been deemed final by the DEC , and Cornell University has responded- to all the
comments that were received during the public review period . In consultation with the Town staff and
Town Attorney , it was decided during the development of the EIS to pursue the Special Land Use
District (SLUD) for the heat exchange facility site for the chilled water plant that would be located at the
lake shore . In the process of developing the project Cornell University put a lot of thought into the heat
exchange facility site . Cornell University looked at the early stages of the project at many sites around
the southern of Cayuga Lake , including potential property on the School District for the heat exchange
facility. Cornell University zeroed in on the property that is now referred to 983 East Shore Drive for the
facility .
In the beginning of the scoping process , Cornell University decided to locate the entire heat exchange
facility across the road from the lake shore opposed to building a split facility which is what Cornell
University started out with at the beginning of the SEQR process . There were two pieces to the
building . One was on the lake shore and one was across the street. At a relatively significant expense
Cornell University located the piece that was on the lake shore across the street, and that required a lot
of building of subdrain space in the rock undemeath the building on the west side of the road . The
piping would be installed below low lake water in the winter time . Half of the building would be located
below ground , and quite a bit of it cut into the rock.
Cornell University thinks they have constructed a good compromise between pumping energy, visual
character, and cost for the heat exchange facility . The design was expressed through the EIS . Cornell
University did take a lot of care in designing the building so it would blend into the environment some . It
is not hidden structure , but what does show will compliment the existing surroundings in the area which
have been heavily industrialized in the past and changed over the years .
Councilman Klein - I would like to say that I am in favor of the Lake Source Cooling Project and the
collateral benefits that the community will received from it. I have been concerned however that the
design of the building housing the equipment to be built on East Shore Drive has not received the
attention that it deserves . Since this project is so overwhelmingly engineering driven it is easy to see
how the architect' s role in the design process as it relates to the configurations and massing of the
building envelope as well as material selection and site development has been reduced to the task of
applying window dressing or a Band-Aid to a predetermined volume lacking in character and interest. It
is an erroneous strategy to assume that this building in this setting could blend into the background . It
will be very much evident from the highway , from the lake , and from Stewart Park. A warehouse type
structure that one would expect find along a State Highway is not an appropriate aesthetic in this
location . (CORRECTION PER TBMTG . 12131 /97 - RESOL. NO . 237 (a ) - A warehouse type structure
that one would expect to find along a state hughway is not an appropriate aesthetic in this
location . ) Why no design an architecturally significant building ; one that is a pleasure to be whole and
through the present could enhance the built environment and thus one' s personal experience whether
on the highway, lake , or in the park. (CORRECTION PER TBMTG . 12/31197 - RESOL. NO . 237 (a) -
Why no design an architectually significant building ; one that is a pleasure to behold and through
its presence could enhance the environment and thus one' s personal experience whether on the
TOWN BOARD MEETING 22 DECEMBER 8, 1997
_APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 . 1997
highway, lake, or in the park. ) A world class university should not want nothing less for their
neighbors . The proposal before us describes a building that is 35 feet high from the base at the road
side , but reality this base is 10 feet above the road elevation:- The top of the building is 45 feet above
the road . The height and materials being proposed here are comprobable to the new Wegman's
supermarket, which is approximately 33 1 /2 feet above the side walk at the main entrance . Does
anyone seriously think that such a vertical wall can blend in ? The proposal also indicates a parking and
service area immediately to the south . Because it is cut into the hill side , the retaining wall required to
construct the service area is over 22 feet in height. There is no terracing of the wall indicated , so one is
left with an unrelieved scaleless and highly visible feature . From the building section provided in our
package , in appears that the major equipment it located to the rear of the structure . If this so , then the
lake front elevation could possibly lowered or given a sloped roof or a series of roofs which they could
have as their back drop of the total volume of the pump house . The entrance to the parking service
court yard might be through an extension of this lower roof. A design strategy that would also serve to
conceal much of this awkward space . In addition , consideration should be given to placing this parking
service area at least partially under ground which would be a more sensitive approach to the prevailing
topography and would allow site restoration to be more realistic. What we are presented with is more
in keeping with the architecture of the Ithaca Area Waste Water Treatment on Route 13 or the new
Wegman's . I would reject that design approach . The architectural expression should perhaps take it's
Q's from some of the more successful structures around the lake such as the Farmer' s Market with the
shed roofs , the Chamber of Commerce building , or even some of the more dramatically lake shore
housing . (CORRECTION PER TBMTG . 12/31 /97 - RESOL. NO. 237 (a) - The architectural
expression should perhaps take it' s cues from some of the more successful structures around
the lake such as the Farmer' s Market with the shed roofs, the Chamber of Commerce building, or
even some of the more dramatically lake shore housing . ) This approach might be viewed by some
who are intellectually dishonest or following the Disney Land motto , but ultimately a more pictures and
better scaled designed which utilizes higher quality and more permanent materials would be much more
welcomed and appreciated by the public. (CORRECTION PER TBMTG . 12/31 /97 - RESOL. NO. 237
(a ) - This approach might be viewed by some as intellectually dishonest or following the
Disneyland model, but ultimately more pictures and better scaled design which utilizes higher
quality and more permanent materials would be much more welcomed and appreciated by the
public . )
RESOLUTION NO. 213: Motion made by Councilman Klein, seconded by Councilman Wolff that
the Town Board defers for further consideration the proposed building architectural envelope and site
development plan as presented, and requests that a revised scheme be brought back to this Town
Board for reconsideration prior to the Town Board's referral of the SLUD to the Planning Board.
Councilwoman Grigorov - Are there any specific thing in the revised scheme?
Councilman Klein - In the agenda item , there is a proposed SLUD . In the task of the SLUD is hanging
basically on the documents as provided for the Town Board to refer this to the Planning Board . In his
opinion the design should be reconsidered . I am not opposed to the project. I think it is a worthwhile
project. The Town Board ought to have an opportunity to really look at this . The Town Board has
made comments before , and I have not seen any real changes. This Board agrees with me that we
should be more comfortable with this design before referring it to the Planning Board for detail work.
Supervisor Valentino - If the Town Board approved the consideration , this would be referred to the
Planning Board for their review for the SLUD and rezoning? `
Councilman Klein - "Yes . " i
TOWN BOARD MEETING 23 DECEMBER 8. 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 . 1997
Supervisor Valentino - Then would this request come back to the Town Board?
Director of Planning Kanter - Yes , after the Planning Board does the site plan review.
Councilwoman Harrison - This request would go to the Planning Board to make a recommendation for a
SLUD , then it would come back to the Town Board with a revised SLUD that this Board could approve?
Supervisor Valentino - "Yes . "
Councilwoman Harrison - Then it would go back to the Planning Board for site plan approval?
Attorney Barney - It depends on how intensive the site plan review was in the course of making a
recommendation to the Town Board .
Councilwoman Harrison - I was interesting in seeing public access to the lake in a SLUD . The fact that
this is not of the few spots where there could potentially be public access in some way, shape , and
form . It seems to me that the SLUD should address that.
Attorney Barney - The SLUD is only on the east side of the lake shore.
Councilwoman Harrison - I would like to see the SLUD address that. It seems like an opportunity for
the Town Board to address that issue since the property is owned together and they would be using
part of that property . to transfer some of the intake through . I would like to see public access
addressed here . The marina is a private enterprise that some what provides public access . It provides
access to the lake , and I am not sure how it should be addressed . Would Cornell University continue to
rent that property to the person who owns it?
Mr. Joyce - "Yes . "
Councilwoman Harrison - Presumably that lease could address things like a picnic pavilion that is
accessible to the public. I am just throwing these ideas out to consider. It seems like an opportunity
that the Town Board should not pass up . Cornell University is a wonderful asset to the community in a
lot of ways .
Also in regards to the provisions of the requirements of the draft SLUD , - there is mention of
performance standards as they apply to lighting districts , and it seems since the Town is doing the
zoning , that we should consider more contemporary performance standards in the way of noise and
lighting , and I want to be sure that if the Town Board passes the SLUD tomorrow and redo the zoning
that subsequent provisions be incorporated into the SLUD .
I spent some time this weekend looking through Stewart Park towards where the proposed heating
exchange facility will be located . It will be a large structure , and I think it deserves to be something that
would be better to look at than the neighboring Sewage Treatment Plant. I was also struck by the area
where there is going to be a lot of fill between the Sewage Treatment Plant and the proposed building .
It looked like someone drawn contours in an engineering mode parallel to the lake , and it seems like
someone could do a better job of contouring it in a way that looked more natural .
Councilwoman Grigorov - I would like the building to be inconspicuous as possible .
Councilman Klein - The building could use some natural stone , or if there is a sloped roof it could be
copper. The drawings are a little deceiving because the hill side slopes up and the building looks as if it
is buried in the hill side .
TOWN BOARD MEETING 24 DECEMBER 8. 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31, 1997
Supervisor Valentino - When I looked at it, it seems to be closer to the road than I remember.
Mr. Joyce - The building will be the same distance as it has always been , which is approximately 50 feet
back from the State right-of-way edge .
Attorney Barney - The Town does not have to rezone . The Planning Board would work out the
architectual through their discussions . A suggestion of appointing a Town Board to work with Cornell
University to get something that is satisfactory in regards to the architecture .
Councilman Klein - I would be happy to work with Comell University on a committee along with other
representations on this issue .
Shirley Egan , Comell University Council - It seems that the design is integrated with the site
consideration . The architect was unable to attend tonight's meeting , but Comell University would pass
along the Town Board's concems immediately. The Architect has actually designed a lovely building
very close to this site , and he is capable of hearing and responding to this . I would like to suggest that
Comell University takes the Town Board 's input, but also get referred to the Planning Board . Comell
University is on a tight time table .
Councilwoman Harrison - When is Comell University expecting the Town Board to approve the SLUD?
Mr. Joyce - Cornell University is hoping to have Town approvals by February and March 1998 .
Councilwoman Grigorov - Rather than having the design come back to the Town Board , I would rather
send Councilman Klein to help the Planning Board .
Councilwoman Harrison - Would it be appropriate for the Town Board's concems to be raised with the
Planning Board so they are aware of them while working on the SLUD? Would it be appropriate to
meet with Comell University potentially for the design ?
Attomey Bamey - That seems to be fine to do . This issue should be referred to the Planning Board
level until Councilman Klein could get involved with Comell University on the Committee .
Councilman Klein - This Board should look at what revision are proposed before referring to the
Planning Board and efforts are not duplicated .
Mr. Joyce - On December 16th , Comell University planned to do a full presentation of the building and
why it is the shape it is with the Planning Board . I think that meeting will answer a number of
Councilman Klein' s questions or at least give him some understanding into how we got to where we
are . There are three years of effort involved in this project. Comell University heard very strong
concems tonight, and heard some new stuff tonight. The presentation to the Planning Board on
December 16th is an informational meeting .
Director of Planning Kanter - This project is on the Planning Board ' s agenda tentative depending on
what happens with this Board . If the Town Board does not want to refer this project at this point, then
this project will not be scheduled for the Planning Board on December 16th .
Councilman Klein -- The Town Board did make some comments for the EIS conceming the architectural
merits of the building . '
TOWN BOARD MEETING 25 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Councilwoman Russell - I share Councilman Klein 's concerns about the appearance of the building ,
and I would like to see something that the Board is comfortable with before referring this project to the
Planning Board .
Mr. Joyce - Councilman Klein has made a lot of points and asked a lot of questions tonight that Cornell
University could talk about. There are real issues in how the building height was determined that
relates to equipment and the plant for maintenance and access . There is a 25 foot deep pumping well
that has equipment that needs to be lifted by overhead crane , so the front height of the building is
dictated on what is on the west face of the building .
Councilman Conley - The Town Board does not have problems with the project, but the appearance of
the building needs to be reworked . Is there something that could be set to the Planning Board and to
the Town Board so we could work together on this .
Supervisor Valentino - The Town Board could vote either in favor of Councilman Klein's resolution and
reject it, and then wait a month before sending it to the Planning Board , or the other option is to send it
to the Planning Board and form a committee that can look at the problems that were raised to see if
they can be resolved . If the Town Board did that would that jeopardize our authority to say no if we are
not satisfied with the changes?
Attorney Barney - The Town Board could say no right up to the last minute .
Councilman Klein - There is another Town Board meeting at the end of the month .
Attorney Barney - Would Cornell University is a position to modify the plans at all by December 16th?
Mr. Joyce - Cornell University will be willing to attempt that. It would give the Town an idea for what the
options are for change .
Supervisor Valentino - Cornell University could be clarify some of the problems that they need to
overcome by December 16th . If we work together on problems that they have to over come, and the
things we would like to see . Cornell University could give some modifications and explain to the Town
what their restraints are .
Councilwoman Harrison - What does Cornell University plan to present to the Planning Board on
December 16th?
Mr. Joyce - The Planning Board 's presentation was going to be the same as the Town Board's
presentation and packet information .
Director of Planning Kanter - If there is going to be some significant building design change it could
result in the change in the actual configuration of the building . In which other parts of the site plan will
be effected . It seems to make sense to try to address those things up front before the Planning Board
sees one thing and the Town Board sees another.
Supervisor Valentino - Does it make more sense to follow Councilman Klein 's recommendation and try
to set up an appointment with Cornell University? The Town Board will be meeting at the end of this
month , and maybe-the Planning Board could have it on their agenda for January .
Director of Planning Kanter - If Cornell University could get some revised designs for the year end Town
Board meeting , Cornell University could be added to the January 6th Planning Board meeting .
TOWN BOARD MEETING 26 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Councilwoman Harrison - I would like the public access issue to be addressed at that time .
Supervisor Valentino - This Board will vote in favor of Councilman Klein ' s resolution , try to set a meeting
with Cornell University to be worked out by December 30th , and then let the project go to the Planning
Board on January 6th .
Attorney Barney - Instead of the resolution saying rejection , that the project should be deferred for
further consideration .
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye. Motion
carried unanimously. (NOTE : Formal adopted resolution is hereto attached . )
AGENDA ITEM NO . 14 - CONSIDER 1998 INSURANCE PROPOSAL :
RESOLUTION NO. 215: Motion made by Councilwoman Russell, seconded by Councilwoman
Harrison that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby approves accepting liability insurance
quotes for 1998 from Sprague Insurance Company, and authorizes the Town Supervisor to enter into
an agreement. A vote on the resolution resulted as follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously.
AGENDA ITEM NO . 15- CONSIDER APPROVAL OF 1998 HEALTH INSURANCE CONTRACT WITH .
PREFERRED HEALTH PLAN :
Judy Drake , Human Resource Specialist - The Town will continue with Preferred Health Plan (PHP)
insurance for those Town employees . There was an increase in the plan of $95 . 00 for family coverage
and $36 . 00 for single , which is relatively the same as Blue Cross/Blue Shield for their monthly fee.
Councilman Wolff - What does PHP attribute to this increase?
Ms . Drake - It is based on usage in the area . The Town entered into agreement in July, and they set up
a price that was continued as the same amount since last December.
Supervisor Valentino - The Town will have an increase coverage because chiropractors will be covered
by PHP .
Ms . Drake - Also the mental health coverage has improved . The Town would still pay 100 percent of
the employees premium .
Councilwoman Grigorov - What is an incentive for employees not to go-to another plan?
Ms . Drake - The difference with HMO' s with Blue Cross/Blue Shield would be more beneficial to those
who are outside the Cayuga Medical Center Region . The monthly premiums for the Town to pay for
i I
Blue Cross/ Blue Shield for a family rate is $729 . 00 , and an individual is $299 . 00 . That is why the k
Town is offering PHP and will suggest the Blue Cross/Blue Shield HMO coverage .
i
TOWN BOARD MEETING 27 DECEMBER 811997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Supervisor Valentino - Employees who are PHP will probably not change. The employees who stayed
, with the more expensive Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance go to Cortland or Geneva areas for medical
care . That program is offering the same benefits as PHP .
RESOLUTION NO. 216: Motion made by Councilman Wolff, seconded by Councilwoman Russell
that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca _ hereby authorizes and directs the Town Supervisor to enter
into an agreement with the Prepaid Health Plan for health insurance coverage for- the Town of Ithaca
employees. A vote on the resolution resulted as follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously. (NOTE: Formal adopted resolution is hereto attached . )
AGENDA ITEM NO . 16 - CONSIDER APPROVAL OF 1998 HEALTH AND DENTAL INSURANCE
CONTRACT WITH BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD OF CENTRAL NEW YORK.
RESOLUTION NO. 217: Motion made by Supervisor Valentino, seconded by Councilman Conley
that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby authorizes and directs the Town Supervisor to enter
into an agreement with Blue Cross/Blue Shield for health insurance coverage for the Town of Ithaca
employees. A vote on the resolution resulted as follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously. (NOTE : Formal adopted resolution is hereto attached . )
AGENDA ITEM NO . 17 - CONSIDER APPROVAL OF HMO HEALTH PLAN WITH BLUE CROSSIBLUE
SHIELD OF CENTRAL NEW YORK :
RESOLUTION NO. 218: Motion made by Supervisor Valentino, seconded by Councilwoman
Russell that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby authorizes and directs the Town Supervisor
to enter into an agreement with the Blue Cross/Blue Shield to provide Health Guard Blue Health
coverage to the Town of Ithaca employees. A vote on the resolution resulted as follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously. (NOTE : Formal adopted resolution is hereto attached . )
ADDITIONAL AGENDA ITEM NO 1 - COMMUNITY RESIDENCE PROPOSAL, 132 SALEM DRIVE:
Roger Sibley , Executive Director of the Special Children ' s Center - The Special Children 's Center was
founded in 1948 to advocate for and provide services for people with developmental disabilities . The
Center will be celebrating their half century next year. The Center is known a lot for our children
services . In the late 1980' s , we also started home residential programs for people with special needs ,
and currently have houses in place . These houses are for people who cannot live independently and
they need continuous care to make sure they are doing well . There is -money in this year' s budget that
the State could develop these houses . We are pleased that we were the only ones selected in the
Broome area , which is six counties , to receive a new house . We are happy about that. We are looking
to do a home for four children who are either in the community or living in the Dryden home .
Carolyn Bartell , Director of the Center' s Community Living Services - Some of the children in question
are now residing in a home in Dryden , which accommodates 12 people . Most of the people now living
TOWN BOARD MEETING 28 DECEMBER 811997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
in the home in Dryden are in their late teens or in their twenties , so they are in their adulthood . It makes
it some what difficult for these young children to live with the others who are looking at different things .
The State has allowed us to have this funding to open a home for four children . There will probably be
at least one child or two from the community waiting list. There . are many individuals who are on the
waiting list for this type of residential placement. The children will live in the new home , and there
would be staff 24 hours a days to assist the children . Each child would have an individual program .
These children are attending BOCES for their schooling , and they go to school just like any other child
does . The Center designs a program to assist their needs with all the activities of daily living . Many of
the children will need assistance with bathing , eating , or choosing what clothes to wear. Some of the
children may have some health needs . There is not anyone in this house that has severe health needs
of any kind , and none of the children are in wheelchairs that would be occupying the house . The
Center will be providing health care needs as well . The Center access community health care just as
any family would . The children would have family doctors . The Center will have nurses on staff, but
not living or staying at the house . They would provide services when the children need them . Other
neighborhood homes have blended into the neighborhood . The Center has a , maintenance department
that takes care of the grounds around those homes and any interior needs , so the houses are kept in
excellent shape . We would have staff coming and going , but there would only be one or two people at
one time in the home. There would be one car assigned to this residence , which would be a mini van . I
brought some folders that contains information about the Special Children's Center and the variety of
programs for the Town Board to review.
Supervisor Valentino - What ages would the children be in this home?
Ms . Bartell - The oldest child would be 13 or 14 years , and the youngest child would be 9 years .
Councilwoman Russell - What happens to these children after they are 14 years old ?
Ms . Bartell - The children would probably remain there . The State defines the age of a developmental
disability child that is under the age of 21 years . They receive educational services until the age of 21
years of age , then they would go to adult services . This particular group of children right now
encompasses that age group , and as they grow older would stay at this home .
Councilwoman Grigorov - Are the parents involved ?
Ms . Bartell - Most of the families are involved with the children . They visit the children regularly .
Occasionally the families will take the children home on a holiday. For example , there will be several
families that will take the children home Christmas Eve , and the children will return a few days after
Christmas . Families are involved in planning the children ' s programs and visit their children .
Councilwoman Russell - Why did you pick the house on Salem Drive? Does the property have a
fenced in yard ? What is there that attracted the Center to this property?
Ms . Bartell - We were looking for a house in a neighborhood , not an isolated home . We wanted a
house that was not very far away from BOCES , so the children would not be spending a great deal of
time on the bus . We wanted a house that was in good condition . The- house has four bedrooms all on
the same floor, so all the children could occupy the bedrooms on the same floor so the ovemight staff
could be easily available , and not be worried about someone downstairs and someone upstairs . The
house also has two full baths , and both the baths have two different sinks . The baths are large area
baths . In almost all cases a staff member will need to assist the children in their bathing activities so
they will need to be in the bathroom with these children for assistance . The house has a wonderful
screened in porch that could be an excellent play area for the children . The property has a nice yard ,
but it is not fenced in . However, the Center would intend to fence the yard for the safety of the children .
0
TOWN BOARD MEETING 29 DECEMBER 8. 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Some of the children are not aware of dangers as they should be at that age , so the children are
always supervised .
Town Clerk Noteboom - The staff that would be in the house , are . they medical personnel or would they
be regular staff members? Would they be new staff members or are they New York State employees?
Ms . Bartell - They would be employees of the Special Children 's Center. For the most part, the staff
that gives the direct care to the students are residential counselors . The staff members are provided
with an extensive training program , and the training program covers all types of areas , such as CPR
and health procedures . They are trained to understand the disabilities that the children have . There is
back up staff that covers all the houses , such as physiologists and health care coordinators . There are
administrative staff members that do the schedules and make sure there is coverage at all times . Every
house has an administrator on call at all times .
Town Clerk Noteboom - The children that you are proposing to live at this. house may have some
medical conditions . Would it be required to have special apparatus in the homes such as special
telephones for hearing impaired person or a monitor for heart problems? If that is not necessary to
have in the house now, would it be necessary in the future to have in this house?
Ms . Bartell - Right now there is no need for any special apparatus . I cannot predict in the future should
a child need to live there that would require it. The children that would be living in this house at this
time would not need any special apparatus .
Councilwoman Russell - What action would the Town Board need to take at this point?
Supervisor Valentino - The Town Board could approve the proposed site , suggest one or more
alternative site within the municipality , or object the establishment on the grounds of so many similar
establishment exists , which does not apply here .
Councilwoman Harrison - Where is the nearest home from the proposed home?
Ms . Bartell - The nearest home operated by the Center is in Dryden . The nearest house near the
proposed home may be the house operated by the Groton Intermediate Care Facility that is located on
North Triphammer Road near Kendall . There is a list of every kind of facility, including nursing homes
and other facilities , that are different than the proposed home type .
Director of Planning Kanter - The Planning Department received that list, and it looks like the nearest
similar type of home is at 572 Warren Road next to the Dewitt Middle School , which has a capacity of 8
people from the ages of 12 to 17 years .
Councilman Klein - Is that for developmental disabled children home?
Director of Planning Kanter - The Department of Social Services is the licensing agency , which has it
listed as a juvenile delinquent home .
Ms . Bartell - I was not familiar with that home .
Director of Planning Kanter - The list I have shows every licensed facility in the area .
Attorney Barney - That should be taken into account, it does not have to be this type of facility. It could
be any kind of group that is licensed by the State .
TOWN BOARD MEETING 30 DECEMBER 89 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 319 1997
Director of Planning Kanter - Looking at the list it does not show any other group homes in this part of
the Town .
Supervisor Valentino - Another alternative would be to do. nothing , which would permit the
establishment. The Town Board could hold a public hearing , but we are not obligated to do that.
Those are the options that are in front of the Board . I would like to have the Center do a walk through
with the Zoning Officer, Mr. Frost, to see if there are any hazards or codes that are not up to date .
Councilwoman Russell - Would you need to install handicapped accessible equipment in the bathroom
or anywhere in the house?
Ms . Bartell - We will not have to do that. We may put a couple railings on the stairways in the house .
We will be installing more smoke detectors , especially in each of the bedrooms . The State will also be
inspecting this home . We will be fire proofing the garage ceiling because there are bedrooms above
the garage .
Councilman Klein - Has the Center purchased the house yet?
Ms . Bartell - The Center has placed a purchase offer, but it is contingent upon several things , one of
which is the Town of Ithaca's approval .
Attorney Barney - What are the general nature' s of the disabilities that the children would have?
Ms . Bartell - All the children have mental retardation which are their primary disability. One child has
cerebralpalsy , and needs assistance more than the other children . All the children are all ambulatory ,
and they attend BOCES .
RESOLUTION NO. 226: Motion made by Councilwoman Russell, seconded by Councilwoman
Grigorov that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby approve of the establish of a community
residence for developmentally disable children in an existing single-family house at 132 Salem Drive
with the condition that the Building/Zoning Officer inspects the said facility to insure that the residence
meets the applicable state and local building code requirements for such a facility. A vote on the
resolution resulted as follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously . ( NOTE : Formal adopted resolution is hereto attached . )
AGENDA ITEM NO . 19 - CONSIDER AUTHORIZATION TO RE-ADVERTISE ACCEPTANCE OF BIDS
FOR A NEW 1998 TRAILER MOUNTED VACUUM :
Director of Engineering Walker - In November we bidded for a trailer mounted vacuum for the sewer
system . I misinformed one of the bidders so he did not submit a bid bond . The bidder who did submit
a bid bond did not meet all the specifications . Attorney Barney suggested that we rebid this to make
sure that there are no conflicts . —
Councilman Klein -- Does the Town need a bid bond ?
Director of Engineering Walker - We do not need a bid bond because it is a $40 , 000 piece of
equipment. The bid bond was not listed in the invitation to bidders or in the advertisement, but the bid
TOWN BOARD MEETING 31 DECEMBER 8. 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
bond form was in the bid package . By having the form there was an implication that there was suppose
to be a bid bond .
Supervisor Valentino - To be conservative and careful the Town will be readvertising the bids .
RESOLUTION NO. 220: Motion made by Councilman Conley, seconded by Councilwoman
Harrison that hereby approves the specifications for the Trailer Mounted Vacuum System, and
authorizes the re-advertisement for bids for the purchase of the Vacuum System. A vote on the
resolution resulted as follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously. ( NOTE : Formal adopted resolution is hereto attached . )
AGENDA ITEM NO. 20 - CONSIDER REQUEST FOR RE-EVALUATION OF SEWER BENEFIT
ASSESSMENT UNITS :
This agenda item along with the letter from Don R . Crittenden dated November 26 , 1997 was referred
to the Benefit Assessment Committee .
AGENDA ITEM NO . 21 = CONSIDER REPORT FROM THE ATTORNEY FOR THE TOWN
REGARDING THE POSSIBLE ABANDONMENT OF WILLIAMS GLEN ROAD AS A TOWN ROAD :
Attorney Barney - It appears that when Mr. Berggren conveyed the property he conveyed a road that
ended approximately 150 feet short of Route 96 . This is the Williams Glen Road that runs parallel to
Route 96 on the west side . However, there was some early deeds where there was a reference to
Fallview Drive , and those were deeds to the property north that included the area that is shown on the
tax map as being the Town ' s , even though there is no formal deed . The conclusion that we came to ,
was that the Town should abandon what the Town intended to abandon the last time even though we
never received a deed to it. By usage or by reference there may be some implicit claim that there is a
viable right-of-way. It is not a big deal for the Town to abandon because no one has used it in the past
six years .
Councilman Klein - Does that resolve the property dispute?
Attorney Barney - No , that is a civil matter. The road has not been used for years .
Councilwoman Russell - This would take the Town out of it.
Supervisor Valentino - I would feel more comfortable if Attorney Barney did the paperwork and gets it
out of the way. There will be a resolution at the next meeting for this matter.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 22 - CONSIDER APPOINTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE TOMPKINS
COUNTY BOARD OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR VARIOUS ADVISORY BOARDS :
AND
AGENDA ITEM NO . 23 - DISCUSS TOWN OF ITHACA APPOINTMENTS TO VARIOUS BOARDS AND
COMMITTEES :
TOWN BOARD MEETING 32 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Supervisor Valentino - The information of appointments to various committees and boards is for the
Board to look at. If anyone has any ideas of any committees they would like to be on could call me .
Councilman Wolff - The list does not reflect those people who have indicated interest to be on or not to
be on committees or boards .
Town Clerk Noteboom - At the end of year meeting on December 31 , the Board will have their answers
to look at. There have been several people who have never taken their oath of office who
appointments were up or who have been on boards or committees for a little bit. I have written to these
people three or four times , and they never came in . Those people should be looked at carefully .
Councilman Klein - Who has to take the oath of office?
Attorney Barney - Any one appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals , Planning Board , Conservation
Board , and so forth .
Councilwoman Harrison- - Is there a vacancy on the Planning Board ?
Supervisor Valentino - Yes . Advertisements in the paper did not work, so if anyone has any ideas ,
please pass the information along . I have talked to David Jones for the Ethics Committee who is
interested . That would leave one vacancy for the Ethics Committee if the Board accepts Mr. Jones .
AGENDA ITEM NO. 24 - ANNOUNCEMENT OF RESULTS OF REFERENDUM RELATED TO THE
" RESOLUTION ENACTING LOCAL LAW AUTHORIZING CONDUCT OF BELL JAR GAMES BY
AUTHORIZED ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE TOWN OF ITHACA" •
Attorney Barney - The referendum failed . The Local Law the Town Board adopted in July failed ,
because it did not receive a positive vote from a majority of the voters .
Councilman Conley - The Local Law that was adopted in July will not go into affect now?
Attorney Barney - That is correct.
Councilwoman Harrison - Does one have a choice about the wording in this?
Supervisor Valentino - "Yes . "
Councilman Conley - I have talked to three different organizations stating that they ought to send a
letter out to let people know about it and to vote for it.
Town Clerk Noteboom - I received 17 calls at the Town Hall asking what are Bell Jars .
AGENDA ITEM NO . 25 - CONSIDER RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CONTINUATION IN THE
ALCOHOL & DRUG CONSORTIUM WITH TOMPKINS COUNTY:
RESOLUTION NO, 221 : Motion made by Councilwoman Harrison, seconded by Councilman Wolff
that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca authorizes to continue in Drug and Alcohol Consortium with
Tompkins County. A vote on the resolution resulted as follows :
TOWN BOARD MEETING 33 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye , Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously . (NOTE : Formal adopted resolution is hereto attached . )
AGENDA ITEM NO. 26 - CONSENT ITEMS : CONSIDER RESOLUTIONS APPROVING AND/OR
AUTHORIZING THE FOLLOWING :
RESOLUTION NO. 222 (b), 222 (d) - 222 (r) : Motion made by Councilman Wolff, seconded by
Councilman Klein that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby approves and/or adopts the
resolutions for Consent Agenda Items No. 26 (b), 26 (d) through 26 (r) as presented and/or amended
by the Town Board on December 8, 1997. Consent Agenda Items Nos. 26 (a) and 26 (c) will be
considered separately. A vote on the resolution resulted as follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously. ( NOTE : Formal adopted resolution is hereto attached . )
RESOLUTION NO. ? ? ?: Motion made by Councilwoman Russell, seconded by Councilman Wolff
that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby approve and adopt the said minutes with the
following amendment as the official minutes of the Town Board for the regular meeting held November
67 1997, with the following corrections:
Page 19, First Paragraph: Supervisor Valentino - The Town will see what can be done, and wilLcontact
the Center.
Amendment: Supervisor Valentino - The Town will arrange for a time when members of the Center
can tour the Town Hall building, and they will be contacted.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , abstain ; Councilman Conley, absent from voting ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman
Wolff, aye . Motion carried . ( NOTE : Formal adopted resolution is hereto attached . )
Supervisor Valentino - When I approved the budget for Bolton Point this year, the Commission agreed
that I review all the amendments prior to the meeting . I received one amendment from Bolton Point that
was totally inadequate . Mr. Carvill and I rewrote the amendment to have Larry Parlett fill in the blanks .
It became apparent that the Town probably does not need to do a resolution for a transfer of funds
because the funds balances were adequate . Both of those funds would probably take care of the
budget. This is the thing that I have been talking about, and it has become clear to the Commissioners
that this inflates the budget because money gets transferred from contingency and other funds where
there is already adequate fund balances . There is not a clear picture of the expenses while looking at
the abstracts . When we look at the line item numbers , the State mandates certain codes and numbers
that tells you immediately if it is a maintenance item or an equipment item . When looking at the budget
at the end of the year it is going to look as if the Town has spent an- enormous amount of money on
equipment and very little money on supplies , and it gives the Commissioners and the Town Board a
very distorted picture of what the funds are really like .
Councilman Klein - Why are they doing that?
Supervisor Valentino - Mr. Parlett does not understand the State Municipal Uniform .
TOWN BOARD MEETING 34 DECEMBER 89 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Mr. Carvill - Uniforms are the accounts that are required by State .
Councilman Klein - Can you charge it to any account that is available?
Mr. Carvill - It is not just charging it to the accounts . An examination of prior year' s budget, as well as
the 1998 Budget, is that they are using equipment account codes as they are operating expense codes
when indeed they are not. In the examination of the 1998 Budget that was passed , many times
expenses have been budgeted as equipment. For example , one of our maintenance expenses
indicates we are buying two cases of pump oil that are being charged as equipment. At the end of the
year it is accounted as a capital expense versus an operating expense . When computing a water rate ,
an operating expenditure is extremely important to identify. Budget resolutions also historically require
transfers . The request for the transfer is the capital projects , which generates capital reserve money
has also been requested in excessive of what was needed . I do not know what that elutes to , but this
year' s audit will answer those questions .
Supervisor Valentino - I would like to approve the warrants so these people could be paid , but I would
like either a resolution or authorization from this Board to send a letter to Bolton Point stating that we
have noted these accounting discrepancies , and we would like them to be taken care of immediately .
Mr. Carvill - The Town is seeking a reclassification of the expenses from equipment.
Councilwoman Russell - Would that be for 1997 only?
Supervisor Valentino - We will talk to the auditors about this . This has been an ongoing problem that
we have not been able to identify , but now we have been finding things as we go along . This is
something that upsets the overall numbers in the budget, and it does have an impact on future budgets .
This matter will be discussed more in executive session .
RESOLUTION NO. 224: Motion made by Supervisor Valentino, seconded by Councilman Wolff that
the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby authorize the payment of said vouchers as
numbered and listed on the warrants upon the reclassifications of the expense from equipment account
codes to maintenance account codes for those vouchers indicated by the Town Supervisor Treasurer of
SCLIWC. A vote on the resolution resulted as follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously . ( NOTE : Formal adopted resolution is hereto attached . )
AGENDA ITEM NO. 27 - CONSIDER APPROVAL OF TOWN OF ITHACA ORGANIZATIONAL CHART :
Councilman Wolff - This reflects the existing Organizational Chart?
Supervisor Valentino - It is not a change . It tries to reflect how the Town actually -operates here , but
some of the things get complicated .
Councilwoman Russell - What is the Town Supervisor below the Town Board?
Supervisor Valentino - The way Town Law is set up , the Town Supervisor is a voting member of the
Board and is somewhat different than a Mayor, that I have as much or as little authority in a lot of ways
as the Board wants to delegate to me . I have some responsibilities in Municipal Law. A lot of the
TOWN BOARD MEETING 35 DECEMBER 89 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Municipal Law is how much the Board itself wants to delegate to the Town Supervisor. As a Board
Member I am equal on the Board , but as a Town Supervisor I have to follow the directions of the policy.
RESOLUTION NO. 225: Motion made by Councilman Wolff, seconded by Councilwoman Russell
that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby approve the Organizational Chart as required
by Civil Service and to aid staff to be effective January 1 , 1998. A vote on the resolution resulted as
follows :
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ; Councilwoman
Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion
carried unanimously. (NOTE : Formal adopted resolution is hereto attached . )
AGENDA ITEM NO . 28 - REPORT OF TOWN OFFICIALS :
A. Highway Superintendent - See attached .
Councilwoman Harrison - What is the Town' s policy in regards to snow removal from walkways and bike
ways?
Highway Superintendent Noteboom - There is a policy. They never clear the walkways or bike ways on
overtime , so that means they will not be cleared on the weekends . There are some that are designated
for cross country skiing such as South Hill Trail , and there are some areas that are shoveled regularly
such as the Honness Lane area .
Councilwoman Russell - Is anything done to the South Hill Trail?
Highway Superintendent Noteboom - There is no snow removal for the South Hill Trail because of the
cross country skiers .
Be Town Clerk/Receiver of Taxes - See attached .
C . Director of Engineering - See attached .
D. Director of Planning - See attached .
Director of Planning Kanter - There will be a presentation on December 10th from the Cornell University
Historic Preservation class at Axhiom to show their findings of their study of the Town .
Councilwoman Russell - How was the list formulated for them to investigate these homes?
Director of Planning Kanter - They identified every structure in that part of the Town , and then looked at
deeds and records to determine how old they were . The age was the main criteria for determining the
initial start.
Town Clerk Noteboom - It would be nice to know if they have found any previous Town Hall records or
Supervisor' s or Town Clerk's home during their study.
E. Director of Building and Zoning - See attached .
Director of Building and Zoning Frost - There was a big fire just before Thanksgiving of a new
subdivision on Westview Lane . It involved a two family home with a party wall . The fire is still under
TOWN BOARD MEETING 36 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
investigation . Both sides burned . The fire jumped the party wall , and there was extensive damage to
both units . No body was home when the fire broke out. The tenants did not have any fire insurance
either.
F. Human Resources - See attached .
Ms . Drake - It is open enrollment period for health insurance for anyone that is interested .
Councilman Klein - Will PHP have a dental program?
Ms . Drake - PHP's dental program is not ready to come out at this point. It will be sometime in
February , and the Town will be looking into the Plan to offer it to the employees .
G . Financial Report - See attached
AGENDA ITEM NO . 29 - REPORT OF TOWN COMMITTEES :
Town Clerk Noteboom - At the last Recreation Partnership meeting , there was a petition to try save
small fry football . There were several residents , approximately 46 signatures . During discussions it
was discovered that it was approximately $7 , 000 - $8 , 000 budgeted for this program , which only cost
$2 , 500 . They were able to save a lot of cost this year, and make the program work for a lot less money
than what it was budgeted for. The staff realized if they do not expend the funds out of that line item ,
then that money is put back into the City of Ithaca's General Fund . They chose to order $4 , 500 worth
of equipment so they would not loose the funding .
Supervisor Valentino - There needs to be a separate fund set up because there needs to be degated
funds for our Partnership requirements . The Recreation Partnership and the SJS need to be assured ,
because for the Town ' s money to be going into the General Fund of the City is not acceptable.
AGENDA ITEM NO . 30 - CONSIDER ACCEPTING THE 1998 TOWN BOARD MEETING SCHEDULE:
The Town Board decided to wait until the December 31st Town Board meeting to adopt the 1998
schedule .
AGENDA ITEM NO. 31 - EXECUTIVE SESSION :
Motion made by Councilman Conley , seconded by Councilman Wolff to move into Executive Session to
discuss personnel . Motion carried unanimously. The Board began Executive Session at 10 : 04 p . m .
Motion made by Councilman Klein , seconded by Supervisor Valentino to resume regular session .
Motion carried unanimously . The Board began regular session at 10 : 37 p . m .
AGENDA ITEM NO. 31 - ADJOURNMENT :
As there was no further business to come before the Town Board a motion was made by
Councilwoman Russell , seconded by Councilman Conley to adjourn . Motion carried unanimously .
TOWN BOARD MEETING 37 DECEMBER 8, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 31 , 1997
Supervisor Valentino adjourned the meeting at 10: 38 p . m .
Respectfully submitted ,
Joan Lent Noteboom ,
Town Clerk
** END OF YEAR MEETING - DECEMBER 31 , 1997 at 10 : 00 a . m .
*** Next Regular Monthly Meeting - January 12, 1998 at 5 : 30 p . m .
****Minutes Transcribed by Deborah Kelley .
1
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1
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OFIp
TOWN OF ITHACA
21 O4�' 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
Y
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Authorization to Contract for Professional Auditing and Consulting Services
Sciarabba Walker & Co . , LLP
Certified Public Accountants
Resolution No . 210
BE IT RESOLVED , the Town Supervisor is hereby authorized and directed to enter
into a contract with Sciarabba Walker & Co . , LLP , Certified Public Accountants to
provide auditing and consulting services to the Town of Ithaca and the Southern
Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission ( SCLIWC ) .
The services to be provided are as proposed :
1 ) an audit of the financial statement of the Town of Ithaca for the year ending
December 31 , 1997 , in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards and
Government Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United
States ,
2 ) an audit of the financial statements of the Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal
Water Commission for the year ending December 31 , 1997 , in accordance with
generally accepted auditing standards and Government Auditing Standards, issued
by the Comptroller General of the United States ,
3) prepare management letters for the Town of Ithaca and Southern Cayuga Lake
Intermunicipal Water Commission outlining recommendations to improve operating
efficiencies and controls , and
4) consulting services on an "as needed " basis .
MOVED : Councilwoman Grigorov SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff, aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997
oan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OF I T�
�° TOWN OF ITHACA
n 4-
X04 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
,
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 8
SEAR : Adoption of 1997 Park, Recreation & Open Space Plan
Resolution No . 211
WHEREAS , this action is the consideration of the adoption of the 1997 Park ,
Recreation & Open Space Plan ; and
WHEREAS , this is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Town Board is
legislatively determined to act as Lead Agency in environmental review; and
WHEREAS , the Town Board , on December 8 , 1997 has reviewed and accepted as
adequate a Long Environmental Assessment Form Part I and Part II for the said Plan ,
prepared by the Town Planning Department ; and
WHEREAS , the Town Planning staff has recommended a negative determination of
environmental significance with respect to the proposed Plan ; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Town Board hereby makes a negative determination of
environmental significance in accordance with the New York State Environmental
Quality Review Act for the above referenced action as proposed and , therefore , an
Environmental Impact Statement will not be required .
MOVED: Councilwoman Grigorov
SECONDED : Councilwoman Harrison
Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff, aye. Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
i
14-16-2 (9/95 ) - 7c AL FIN
617.20 S EO R
Appendix A
State Environmental Quality Review
FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM
Purpose: The full EAF is designed to help applicants and agencies determine, in an orderly manner, whether a project
i or action may be significant. The question of whether an action may be significant is not always easy to answer. Frequent-
ly, there are aspects of a project that are subjective or unmeasureable. It is also understood that those who determine
significance may have little or no formal knowledge of the environment or may not be technically expert in environmental
analysis . In addition, many who have knowledge in one particular area may riot be aware of the broader concerns affecting
the question of significance.
The full EAF is intended to provide a method whereby applicants and agencies can be assured that the determination
process has been orderly, comprehensive in nature, yet flexible enough to allow introduction of information to fit a project
or action .
I
Full EAF Components: The full EAF is comprised of three parts :
Part 1 : Provides objective data and information about a given project and its site. B identifying basic project
i 1 g P 1 Y � Y� g P 1
data, it assists a reviewer in the analysis that takes place in Parts 2 and 3 .
! Part 2: Focuses on identifying the range of possible impacts that may occur from a project or action . It provides
guidance as to whether an impact is likely to be considered small to moderate or whether it is a potentially-
I large impact. The form also identifies whether an impact can be mitigated or reduced .
Part 3: If any impact in Part 2 is identified as potentially-large, then Part 3 is used to evaluate whether or not the
impact is actually important.
DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE Type 1 and Unlisted Actions
Identify the Portions of EAF completed for this project: ❑ Part 1 ❑ Part 2 ❑ Part 3
Upon review of the information recorded on this EAF (Parts 1 and 2 and 3 if appropriate), and any other supporting
information, and considering both the magnitude and importance of each impact, it is reasonably -determined by the
lead agency that:
A. The project will not result in any large and important impacts) and, therefore, is one which will not
have a significant impact on the environment, therefore a negative declaration will be prepared.
❑ B. Although the project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant
effect for this Unlisted Action because the mitigation measures described in PART 3 have been required,
therefore a CONDITIONED negative declaration will be prepared.*
❑ C. The project may result in one or more large and important impacts that may have a significant impact
on the environment, therefore a positive declaration will be prepared.
• A Conditioned Negative Declaration is only valid for Unlisted Actions
ADOPTION OF 1997 PARK , RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE PLAN . *
Name of Action
TOWN OF ITHACA TOWN BOARD
Name of Lead Agency
I CATHERINE VALENTINO TOWN Si7P . R TTSOR
Print or Type Name of Responsible Officer in Lead A. gency Title of Responsible Officer
Signature of Responsible Officer in Lead Agency Signature o Preparer ( If differenti rom responsible officer)
December 8 , 1997
Date
1
PART 1 — PROJECT INFORMATION
Prepared by Project Sponsor
NOTICE : This document is designed to assist in determining whether the action proposed may have a significant effect
on the environment. Please complete the entire form, Parts A through E . Answers to these questions will be considered
as part of the application for approval and maybe subject to further verification and public review. Provide any additional
information you believe will be needed to complete Parts 2 and 3 .
It is expected that completion of the full EAF will be dependent on information currently available and will not involve
new studies , research or investigation . If information requiring such additional work is unavailable, so indicate and specify
each instance.
NAME OF ACTION }
ADOPTION OF 1997 PARK , RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE PLAN
LOCATION OF ACTION (Include Street Address, Municipality and County)
TOWN OF ITHACA N . Y . , EXCLUDING VILLAGE OF CAYUGA HEIGHTS
NAME OF APPLICANT/SPONSOR BUSINESS TELEPHONE
TOWN OF ITHACA TOWN BOARD ( 07 ) 273 - 1721
ADDRESS
126 EAST SENECA STREET
CITY/PO STATE ZIP CODE
ITHACA NEW YORK N . Y . 14850
NAME OF OWNER (If different) BUSINESS TELEPHONE
N / A ( ) N / A
ADDRESS
N / A
CITY/PO STATE ZIP CODE
N / A N / A N / A
DESCRIPTION OF ACTION
Adoption of Park , Recreation and Open Space Plan , dated March 10 , 1997 ,
and an attendant Executive Summary of said Plan , dated June 9r 1997 , with
revisions as outlined in the Planning Board resolution of November 18 ,
1997 - and the Town Planning Department memorandum dated November 7 , 19970
Please Complete Each Question — Indicate N .A. if not applicable
A. Site Description
Physical setting of overall project, both developed and undeveloped areas . Wv�-e A
1 . Present land use: OUrban Olndustrial 14Commercial RResidential (suburban) . JRRural (non-farm)
AForest jB .Agriculture ❑ Other
2. Total acreage of project area: ili `l U U acres . See Nc fe H (2- )
APPROXIMATE ACREAGE PRESENTLY AFTER COMPLETION
Meadow or Brushland (Non-agricultural) _ I q00 acres I , ' O acres
Forested z ,q S O acres X 9 5 D acres
Agricultural ( Includes orchards, cropland, pasture, etc. ) 14 40 acres 3 .q_;t t7 _ acres
Wetland (Freshwater or tidal as per Articles 24, 25 of ECL) _ If SO acres _ Y YO acres
Water Surface Area 410 acres V 1 acres
Unvegetated (Rock, earth or fill) n acres 0 acres
Roads, buildings and other paved surfaces 150 acres 2 W acres
Other ( Indicate type) O acres 0 acres
3 . What is predominant soil type(s) on project site ? Vile es
i
a. Soil drainage: OWell drained 30_ % of site OModerately well drained -5"2_ % of site
❑ Poorly drained ;LO — % of site
b . If any agricultural land is involved, how many acres of soil are classified within soil group 1 through 4 of the NYS
Land Classification System ? 4� 200 acres . (See 1 NYCRR 370).
4 . Are there bedrock outcroppings on project site ? XYes ONO
a . What is depth to bedrock ? yc« t e s ( in feet)
2
5 . Approximate percentage of proposed project site with slopes : 00-10 % 50 % 010-15 % ZS
015 % or greater 2? %
6 . Is project substantially contiguous to, or contain a building, site, or district, listed on the State or the National
Registers of Historic Places ? AYe5 ONo Fo . est rlo .� e
7. Is project substantially contiguous to a site listed on the Register of National Natural Landmarks ? OYes XNo
8. What is the depth of the water table ? varies ( in feet)
9. Is site located over a primary, principal , or sole source aquifer? OYes XNo
10. Do hunting, fishing or shell fishing opportunities presently exist in the project area ? ZYes ONo
11 . Does project site contain any species of plant or animal life that is identified as threatened or endangered ?
9Yes ONo According to S , e &1ofc- ACII )
Identify each species 'Pr „� &4la Lsfa55voi-to ( 61ecl !? e �ze° oriml-05e �
12. Are there any unique or unusual land forms on the project site ? ( i . e. , cliffs, dunes , other geological formations)
,Yes ONo Describe 6 . 1Vcte 6 ( 1 Z• )
13 . Is the project site presently used by the community or neighborhood as an open space or recreation area ?
(,'yes ONo If yes, explain See AWe Afu )
14. Does the present site include scenic views known to be important to the community?
ayes ONo
15 . Streams within or contiguous to project area : 5ee Nofc
a. Name of Stream and name of River to which it is tributary Set !Joie A � I i )
16. Lakes, ponds, wetland areas within or contiguous to project area:
a. Name 4e e Al efe f) ( Ito ) b. Size ( In acres)
17. Is the site served by existing public utilities ? $Yes ONo
a) If Yes, does sufficient capacity exist to allow connection ? OYes ONo 01A
b) If Yes, will improvements be necessary to allow connection ? OYes 0 N VIA
18. Is the site located in an agricultural district certified pursuant to Agriculture and Markets Law, Article 25-AA,
Section 303 and 304? fes ONo Sec A/ctc A III)
19. Is the site located in or substantially contiguous to a Critical Environmental Area designated pursuant to Article 8
of the ECL, and 6 NYCRR 617? )4Yes ONo Ce y & IeA c CA
20. Has the site ever been used for the disposal of solid or hazardous wastes ? OYes gNo
B . Project Description
1 . Physical dimensions and scale of project (fill in dimensions as appropriate) S I )
a. Total contiguous acreage owned or controlled by project sponsor W/0 acres.
b. Project acreage to be developed: ANA acres initially; Nli� acres ultimately.
C. Project acreage to remain undeveloped NIA acres.
d . Length of project, in miles : AIJA ( If appropriate)
e. If the project is an expansion, indicate percent of expansion proposed A] /a % ;
f. Number of off-street parking spaces existing 20 ; proposed V10 5 « Bo ) (F )
g. Maximum vehicular trips generated per hour (upon completion of project)? lee Note 110(g )
h. If residential : Number and type of housing units :
One Family Two Family Multiple Family Condominium
Initially 4) j14 4j1w
Ultimately /d /A ,1A _ 44 iy 1A
i . Dimensions (in feet) of largest proposed structure 1 height; 4 f' ! � width; .412.0 length .
j . Linear feet of frontage along a public thoroughfare project will occupy is ? ft.
2 . How much natural material (i. e. , rock , earth , etc. ) will be removed from the site ? tons/cubic yards
3 . Will disturbed areas be reclaimed ? OYes ONo N/A
a . If yes, for what intended purpose is the site being reclaimed ?
b. Will topsoil be stockpiled for reclamation ? OYes ❑ No
c . Will upper subsoil be stockpiled for reclamation ? OYes ONo
4. How many acres of vegetation ( trees, shrubs, ground covers) will be removed from site? NIP — acres .
5 . Will any mature forest (over 100 years old) or other locally- important vegetation be removed by this project ?
OYes OKNo
6. If single phase project: Anticipated period of construction Al months, (including demolition).
7. If multi-phased: S « Nde (j ( I )
a . Total number of phases anticipated (number).
b. Anticipated date of commencement phase 1 month year, ( including demolition).
c. Approximate completion date of final phase month year.
d . Is phase 1 functionally dependent on subsequent phases ? OYes ONo
8. Will blasting occur during construction ? OYes RgNo
9 . Number of jobs generated : during construction W c5 after project is complete 3
10. Number of jobs eliminated by this project
11 . Will project require relocation of any projects or facilities ? OYes Cg�No If yes, explain
12. Is surface liquid waste disposal involved ? OYes RNo
a. If yes, indicate type of waste (sewage, industrial, etc. ) and amount
b. Name of water body into which effluent will be discharged
13 . Is subsurface liquid waste disposal involved ? OYes Q�No Type
14. Will surface area of an existing water body increase or decrease by proposal ? OYes JKNo
Explain
15. Is project or any portion of project located in a 100 year flood plain ? Yes ONo Scr Nc �e 13 ( 15
16. Will the project generate solid waste ? KYes ONo
a. If yes, what is the amount per month 0 • A S tons
b. If yes, will an existing solid waste facility be used ? XYes ONo
c. If yes, give name TO'- PICini CC041. 41Y location _ I tha ( A . N. Y .
d. Will any wastes not go into a sewage disposal system or into a sanitary landfill ? OYes ANo
e. If Yes, explain
17. Will the project involve the disposal of solid waste ? OYes PNo
a. If yes, what is the anticipated rate of disposal ? &9 tons/month.
b. If yes, what is the anticipated site life ? NI years .
18. Will project use herbicides or pesticides ? XYes ONo
19. Will project routinely produce odors (more than one hour per day)? OYes RNo
20. Will project produce operating noise exceeding the local ambient noise levels ? Yes ONo N01c
21 . Will project result in an increase in energy use ? Oyes ONo 13C2 d�
If yes , indicate type(s) rl ec }rI d lot �yaso 114 e (4 Ad 6) i rsc 1Ke
22 . If water supply is from wells, indicate pumping capacity MIA gallons/minute.
23 . Total anticipated water usage per day _ I , 2% 00 gallons/day.
24. Does project involve Local, State or Federal funding ? XYes ONo
If Yes, explain See. lVoIc 0 Cz&4
4
25 . Approvals Required: Submittal
Type Date
City, ow Village Board PYes ONo Ik97
City, Town, Village Planning Board ❑ Yes ONo
City, Town Zoning Board OYes ONo
City, County Health Department OYes ONo
Other Local Agencies Dyes ❑ No
Other Regional Agencies OYes ❑ No
State Agencies Wes ONo Va, ors +T ��s . p � : .� � �s yoiies
j Federal Agencies ® Yes ONo VAO ts es
C . Zoning and Planning Information
1 . Does proposed action involve a planning or zoning . decision ? 9Yes ❑ No
i If Yes, indicate decision required :
Ozoning amendment ❑ zoning variance Ospecial use permit ❑ subdivision Osite plan
J4new/revision of master plan ❑ resource management plan other %c ✓ isic :, of �� . >< �:< < .�a �+cH ey , , spacc
p )4 *1 .
2 . What is the zoning classification(s)of the site? A & - Q4,11 , a �[ . I I i JKSI. uI � l - & • yt+ t 1 .( . � F. � . / ; s L : / 3c R 1 ��
3 . What is the maximum potential development of the site if developed as permitted by the present zoning ? y
sec Alcfc C 0 )
4 . What is the proposed zoning of the site ? < < t No to C � K
5 . What is the maximum potential development of the site if developed as permitted by the proposed zoning?
Sec Note CW
6 . Is the proposed action consistent with the recommended uses in adopted local land use plans ? Mes ❑ No
7 . What are the predominant land use(s) and zoning classifications within a Y, mile radius of proposed action ?
5Cc male c ( 7 )
8 . Is the proposed action compatible with adjoining/surrounding land uses within a ' '/ mile ? OYes ❑ No
9 . If the proposed action is the subdivision of land, how many lots are proposed ? ��
a. What is the minimum lot size proposed ? Al"Id
10 . Will proposed action require any authorization(s) for the formation of sewer or water districts ? OYes VNo
11 . Will the proposed action create a demand for any community provided services (recreation , education, police,
fire protection)? PYes ONo
a. If yes, is existing capacity sufficient to handle projected demand ? AYes ❑ No
12 . Will the proposed action result in the generation of traffic significantly above present levels ? ❑ Yes ZNo
a. If yes, is the existing road network adequate to handle the additional traffic ? OYes ONo N/A
D. Informational '
ttonal Details
Attach any additional information as may be needed to clarify your project. If there are or may be any adverse
impacts associated with your proposal, please discuss such impacts and the measures which you propose .to mitigate or
avoid them .
E. Verification
I certify that the information provided above is true to the best of my knowledge.
r--
Applicant/Spons r Name o rr Date ! 2 S `/
Signature Title /lss + . f�� 1 jo✓, /u �„ e -
If the action is in the Coastal Area, and you are a state agency, complete the Coastal Assessment Form before proceeding
with this assessment.
5
Environmental Assessment
Town of Ithaca 1997 Park, Recreation & Open Space Plan
PART 1-D. Informational Details.
1. General Notes and Project Details.
A . Site Description :
The overall project as defined for this environmental assessment is the draft 1997 Park,
Recreation & Open Space Plan for the Town of Ithaca. The physical setting for the overall
project is considered to be the geographic area within the borders of the Town of Ithaca,
including the Village of Cayuga Heights . The Town of Ithaca including the village covers an area
of about 19,480 acres, or approximately 30 .5 square miles .
A (2) For the purpose of this environmental assessment "project area" is defined as those lands
within the Town of Ithaca proposed for: 1 ) development as future parks and
bicycle/pedestrian paths; 2) inclusion in the proposed Conservation and revised
Agricultural zoning districts , and 3 ) inclusion in the proposed purchase of development
rights programs .
A( 11 ) To determine the presence of threatened or endangered plants within the project area the
New York Rare Plant Status List ( 1996) was cross -referenced with the Unique Natural
Areas ( 1990) report prepared by the Tompkins County Environmental Management
Council. According to the list entitled Federally Listed and Proposed Endangered and
Threatened Species in New York (March 1997) prepared by the NYS Department of
Environmental Conservation there are no threatened or endangered wildlife species
identified in Tompkins County.
A( 12) Within the project area Fall Creek, Cascadilla Creek, Six Mile Creek, Holly Creek,
Buttermilk Creek, Lick Brook, Enfield Creek, Coy Glen Creek, Williams Brook flow
through ravines or gorges which are marked by cliffs , waterfalls , hanging deltas and other
unique or unusual landforms which are attributable to Ice Age glaciation. A number of
unnamed ravines within the project area have or may have similar such features .
Other unique or unusual landforms identified within or adjacent to the project area include
a glacial kettle pond located in the Inlet Valley, and an igneous dike in the streambed of
Williams Brook.
A( 13) There are a number of public and private properties for which specific recommendations
are made in the Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan which are utilized by the
community or individual neighborhoods as open space or recreational areas . Some are
6
formally designated for such uses , while a number are utilized on an informal basis. The
Cornell Plantations Newman Arboretum, Sweedler Preserve, Mulholland Wildflower
Preserve and Eldridge Wilderness are examples of the fonner. Other lands owned by
Cornell University, Ithaca College, the City of Ithaca, NYSEG and individual property
owners are utilized on an informal basis.
A( 15) Renwick Brook, Pleasant Grove Brook, Fall Creek, Cascadilla Creek, Six Mile Creek,
Holly Creek, Buttermilk Creek, Lick Brook, Cayuga Inlet, Enfield Creek, Steep Hollow
Creek, Coy Glen Creek, Cliff Park Brook, Lindennan Creek, Williams Brook and Indian
Creek are named streams which flow through or adjacent to the project area. In addition
there are approximately 25 other mapped but unnamed streams which flow through or
adjacent to the project area.
The water in all streams in the Town of Ithaca ultimately flow into Cayuga Lake, which is
a tributary of the Seneca River.
A( 16) Cayuga Lake, Bull Pasture Pond, Beebe Lake, Lower Reservoir, Upper Reservoir, Silt
Dam and Lake Treman are named lakes and ponds within or adjacent to the project area.
In addition there are approximately 50 other mapped but unnamed ponds within or
adjacent to the project area.
Within or adjacent to the project area there are approximately 40 identified wetlands as
defined by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation or the Federal Manual for
Identifying Jurisdictional Wetlands criteria.
A( 18) Portions of the project area, primarily much of the land addressed in the sections of the
draft Plan dealing with the Town ' s agricultural resources , are located within Agricultural
Districts 1 and 2 administered by Tompkins County.
B . Project Description
For the purpose of this environmental assessment the "project" is defined as the recommended
actions outlined in the draft 1997 Park, Recreation & Open Space Plan for the Town of Ithaca.
They include :
10 development of up to 12 new parks encompassing a total of between 70 and 80 acres of
land;
2* development of up to 21 miles of bicycle/pedestrian paths , within approximately 100 acres
of acquired rights of way;
34 revisions to the existing AG-Agricultural District zoning regulations to better protect the
agricultural land resources of the Town of Ithaca, and to better reflect the needs and
,1
challenges of agriculture today, and increasing the lands within the Town of Ithaca zoned
AG-Agricultural District from approximately 3 ,200 to approximately 4,200 acres ;
49 increasing the lands within the Town of Ithaca zoned CD-Conservation District from
approximately 1 ,050 to approximately 6 ,050 acres ;
5 * establishing and implementing a voluntary purchase of development rights (PDR) program
through which the Town of Ithaca could permanently protect from development up to
approximately 3 ,900 acres of lands identified as being agriculturally or environmentally
significant open space resources .
For the purpose of this environmental assessment, the answers to questions B - 1 ( 1 ) through B -
1 (24) refer only to the proposed parks and bicycle/pedestrian facilities outlined in the draft Plan .
Since the proposed changes in zoning and the proposed PDR program do not entail physical
alterations to the landscape, none of the questions are considered applicable to those particular
aspects of the draft Plan .
B ( 1 ) The dimensions listed are based on the proposed park and bicycle/pedestrian facilities
outlined in Table 9- 1 and Table 9-2 of the draft Plan .
With regard to B ( 1 )(f) , there is limited offstreet parking totaling about 20 spaces at the
Troy, Grandview and Eastern Heights parks , and East Ithaca Recreation Way. The
proposed future offstreet is proposed to be built in the envisioned community parks .
The answer to question B ( 1 ) (g) regarding maximum number of vehicular trips generated
per hour refers to the traffic generating potential of the three proposed community parks
only. The proposed neighborhood parks, because of their program uses and their
locations, are not expected to generate measurable amounts of vehicular traffic.
B (7) The anticipated term within which the proposed park and bicycle/pedestrian facilities
outlined in the draft Plan would be developed is 20 years. No specific timetable for
completion of individual projects has been set.
B ( 15) Depending on its final alignment, portions of the proposed Inlet Valley Path (Table 9-2)
east of NYS Rte. 13A/Five Mile Drive could be located within the 100-year floodplain of
the Cayuga Inlet.
B (20) Because of their anticipated use for sanction sporting events activities such as baseball,
softball and soccer, the three proposed community parks may on occasion generate noise
above local ambient noise levels
B (24) The draft Plan anticipates that the Town of Ithaca will pursue grant funding through a
number of State and Federal agencies or grant programs , in addition to utilizing its own
local revenue sources .
16
C. Zoning and Planning Information
C(3) All but approximately 300 acres of the 9,200 acres which could be affected by the zoning
revisions proposed in the draft Plan are zoned for R-30 Residential District residential
densities. Approximately 6,000 acres of the land subject to zoning revisions currently
lacks public water and/or sewer service.
Given these factors, for the purpose of this environmental assessment a nominal
"maximum potential development" density of 0 . 8 lots per acre has been calculated for the
areas which could be affected by the proposed zoning revisions . It is thus estimated that
under the existing zoning up to 11 ,200 dwellings could in theory be built.
C(4) The draft plan proposes that approximately 3 ,200 acres of land already zoned AG-
Agricultural be subject revised AG-Agricultural zoning regulations ; that another
approximately 1 ,000 additional acres be rezoned to AG-Agricultural District; and that
approximately 5,000 acres be rezoned to CD-Conservation District zoning.
C(5) Assuming that a development density of one dwelling per 7 acres is applied over the areas
proposed to be subject to revised AG-Agricultural zoning or CD- Conservation District
zoning, the maximum potential permitted under the proposed zoning could be as high as
1 ,300 dwellings.
C(7) The predominant land uses within one-quarter mile of the project area as defined for the
purpose of this environmental assessment are residential institutional, recreational and
agricultural uses.
The predominant zoning classifications within one-quarter mile of the project area are AG-
Agricultural, R- 30 Residence District and R- 15 Residence District.
i
Part 2 — PROJECT IMPACTS AND THEIR MAGNITUDE
Responsibility of Lead Agency
General Information (Read Carefully)
• In completing the form the reviewer should be guided by the question : Have my responses and determinations been
reasonable? The reviewer is not expected to be an expert environmental analyst.
• The Examples provided are to assist the reviewer by showing types of impacts and wherever possible the threshold of
magnitude that would trigger a response in column 2 . The examples are generally applicable throughout the State and
for most situations. But, for any specific project or site other examples and/or lower thresholds may be appropriate
j for a Potential Large Impact response, thus requiring evaluation in Part 3 .
• The impacts of each project, on each site, in each locality, will vary. Therefore, the examples are illustrative and
have been offered as guidance. They do not constitute an exhaustive list of impacts and thresholds to answer each question.
• The number of examples per question does not indicate the importance of each question .
• In identifying impacts, consider long term, short term and cumlative effects .
Instructions (Read carefully)
a. Answer each of the 20 questions in PART 2. Answer Yes It there will be any impact.
b. Maybe answers should be considered as Yes answers. i
c. If answering Yes to a question then check the appropriate box (column 1 or 2) to indicate the potential size of the
Impact. If impact threshold equals or exceeds any example provided, check column 2. If impact will occur but
threshold is lower than example, check column 1 .
d. Identifying that an Impact will be potentially large (column 2) does not mean that it is also necessarily significant.
Any large impact must be evaluated in PART 3 to determine significance. Identifying an impact in column 2 simply
asks that it be looked at further.
e. If reviewer has doubt about size of the impact then consider the impact as potentially large and proceed to PART 3.
f. If a potentially large impact checked In column 2 can be mitigated by change(s) In the project to a small to moderate I
Impact, also check the Yes box in column 3. A No response indicates that such a reduction is not possible. This
must be explained In Part 3.
1 2 3
Small to Potential Can Impact Be I
IMPACT ON LAND
Moderate Large Mitigated By 1 . Will the proposed action result in a physical change to the project site? Impact Impact Project Change
ONO >(YES j
Examples that would apply to column 2
• Any construction on slopes of 15 % or greater, (15 foot rise per 100 ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
foot of length), or where the general slopes in the project area exceed
10 % .
• Construction on land where the depth to the water table is less than ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
3 feet.
• Construction of paved parking area for 1 ,000 or more vehicles. ❑ ❑ C3 Yes ❑ No
• Construction on land where bedrock is exposed or generally within ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
3 feet of existing ground surface.
• Construction that will continue for more than 1 year or involve more ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
than one phase or stage.
• Excavation for mining purposes that would remove more than 1 ,000 ❑ ❑ 11 Yes ❑ No
tons of natural material (i. e., rock or soil) per year.
• Construction or expansion of a sanitary landfill . ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Construction in a designated floodway. ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
to Other impacts ❑ ❑ C1 Yes ❑ No
2 . Will there be an effect to any unique or unusual land fo ms found on
the site? ( i . e,, cliffs, dunes, geological formations, etc .)RNO OYES
• Specific land forms :. ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No .
jo
1 2 3
IMPACT ON WATER Small to Potential Can Impact Be
3 . Will proposed action affect any water body designated as protected ? Moderate Large Mitigated By
Impact Impact Project Change
(Under Articles 15 , 24, 25 of the Environmental Conservation Law, ECL)
XNO DYES
Examples that would apply to column 2
• Developable area of site contains a protected water body. ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Dredging more than 100 cubic yards of material from channel of a ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
protected stream .
• Extension of utility distribution facilities through a protected water body. ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Construction in a designated freshwater or tidal wetland. ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Other impacts: ❑ ❑ C3 Yes C3 No
4 . Will proposed action affect any non-protected existing or new body
of water? ONO AYES
Examples that would apply to column 2
• A 10 % increase or decrease in the surface area of any body of water ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
or more than a 10 acre increase or decrease.
• Construction of a body of water that exceeds 10 acres of surface area . ❑ ❑ 11 Yes ❑ No
• Other impacts: -PlCaag C� , �t1-6dirYI.QA `1" N ❑ ❑ Dyes ❑ No
5 . Will Proposed Action affect surface or groundwater
quality or quantity? ONO AYES
Examples that would apply to column 2
• Proposed Action will require a discharge permit. ❑ ❑ [] Yes ❑ No
• Proposed Action requires use of a source of water that does not ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
have approval to serve proposed (project) action.
• Proposed Action requires water. supply from wells with greater than 45 ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
gallons per minute pumping capacity.
• Construction or operation causing any contamination of a water ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
supply system.
• Proposed Action will adversely affect groundwater. ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Liquid effluent will be conveyed off the site to facilities which presently ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
do not exist or have inadequate capacity.
• Proposed Action would use water in excess of 20, 000 gallons per ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
day.
• Proposed Action will likely cause siltation or other discharge into an ❑ ❑ El Yes ❑ No
existing body of water to the extent that there will be an obvious visual
contrast to natural conditions .
• Proposed Action will require the storage of petroleum or chemical ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
products greater than 1 , 100 gallons .
• Proposed Action will allow residential uses in areas without water ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
and/or sewer services .
• Proposed Action locates commercial and/or industrial uses which may ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes C3 No
require new or expansion of existing waste treatment and/or storage
facilities. 1 � ^ l /�
• Other impacts : k-wa see, A ci C�'l.h'12/ct �'1 ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes [) No
6 . Will proposed action alter drainage flow or patterns, or surface
water runoff ? . ONO AYES
Examples that would apply to column 2
• Proposed Action would change flood water flows . ❑ ❑ C) Yes ❑ No
II
i
1 2 3
Small to Potential Can Impact Be
Moderate Large Mitigated By
Impact Impact Project Change
• Proposed Action may cause substantial erosion . ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Proposed Action is incompatible with existing drainage patterns . ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Proposed Action will allow development in a designated floodway. Cl ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Other impacts: Mine( �C)CU ( �ec� ch0.rX7 c , I � --U1 (n«Yc u r � � 6 � (',ur ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
IMPACT ON AIR
7 . Will proposed action affect air quality? ANO DYES
Examples that would apply to column 2
• Proposed Action will induce 1 ,000 or more vehicle trips in any given ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
hour, j
• Proposed Action will result in the incineration of more than 1 ton of ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
refuse per hour.
• Emission rate of total contaminants will exceed 5 lbs. per hour or a ❑ ❑ Dyes ❑ No
heat source producing more than 10 million BTU's per hour.
• Proposed action will allow an increase in the amount of land committed ❑ ❑ Dyes ❑ No
to industrial use.
• Proposed action will allow an increase in the density of industrial ❑ ❑ Dyes ❑ No I
development within existing industrial areas.
• Other impacts: ❑ ❑ El Yes ❑ No
IMPACT ON PLANTS AND ANIMALS
8 . Will Proposed Action affect any threatened or endangered j
species ? XNO DYES
Examples that would apply to column 2
• Reduction of one or more species listed on the ' New York or Federal ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No i
list, using the site, over or near site or found on the site.
• Removal of any portion of a critical or significant wildlife habitat. ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Applicafion of pesticide or herbicide more than twice a year, other ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
than for agricultural purposes.
• Other impacts: ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
9 . Will Proposed Action substantially affect non-threatened or
non-endangered species ? XNO DYES
Examples that would apply to column 2
• Proposed Action would substantially interfere with any resident or ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
migratory fish, shellfish or wildlife species.
• Proposed Action requires the removal of more than 10 acres ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
of mature forest (over 100 years of age) or other locally important
vegetation .
IMPACT ON AGRICULTURAL LAND RESOURCES
10 . Will the Proposed Action affect agricultural land resources ?
ONO YES
Examples that would apply to column 2
• The proposed action would sever, cross or limit access to agricultural ❑ ❑ 11 Yes ❑ No
land ( includes cropland, hayfields, pasture, vineyard, orchard, etc.)
12
1 2 3
Small to Potential Can Impact Be
Moderate Large Mitigated By
Impact Impact Project Change
• Construction activity would excavate or compact the soil profile of ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes C3 No
agricultural land .
• The proposed action would irreversibly convert more than 10 acres ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes C3 No
of agricultural land or, if located in an Agricultutal District, more
than 2.5 acres of agricultural land .
• The proposed action would disrupt or prevent installation of agricultural ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
land management systems (e. g. , subsurface drain lines, outlet ditches,
strip cropping); or create a need for such measures (e. g. cause a farm
field to drain poorly due to increased runoff)
• Other impacts: � f� , r �Ji«� mea ^, , rr � n1e e , e kr1 {� � �c(�lrc III
� n icje:rl-ia ctevy ( (2 l i ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
Su �z: onir��� z .
IMPACT ON AESTHETIC RESOURCES
11 . Will proposed action affect aesthetic resources ? ONO RYES
(If necessary, use the Visual EAF Addendum in Section 617.200
Appendix B.)
Examples that would apply to column 2
• Proposed land uses, or project components obviously different from ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
or in sharp contrast to current surrounding land use patterns, whether
man-made or natural .
• Proposed land uses, or project components visible to users of ❑
aesthetic resources which will eliminate or significantly reduce their El Yes ❑ No
enjoyment of the aesthetic qualities of that resource.
• Project components that will result in the elimination or significant ❑ ❑
screening of scenic views known to be important to the area. Dyes ❑ No
• Other impacts; r ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
IMPACT ON HISTORIC AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
12 . Will Proposed Action impact any site or structure of historic, pre-
historic or paleontological importance? ONO JRYES
Examples that would apply to column 2
• Proposed Action occurring wholly or partially within or substantially 21 ❑
contiguous to any facility or site listed on the State or National Register , ❑ Yes ❑ No
of historic places.
• Any impact to an archaeological site or fossil bed located within the ❑
project site. ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Proposed Action will occur in an area designated as sensitive for ❑
archaeological sites on the NYS Site Inventory. ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Other impacts: ❑ ❑ Dyes ❑ No
IMPACT ON OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION
13 . Will Proposed Action affect the quantity or quality of existing or
future open spaces or recreational opportunities ?
Examples that would apply to column 2 ONO (YES
• The permanent foreclosure of a future recreational opportunity. ❑
• A major reduction of an open space important to the community, ❑ Yes .❑ No
• Other impacts: 'RCUSQ �e } ( n � Mnn� /� ty ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• � Cl C1 Yes ❑ No
13
f
1 2 3
Small to Potential Can Impact Be
Moderate Large Mitigated By
Impact Impact Project Change
i IMPACT ON CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL AREAS
' 14 . Will Proposed Action impact the exceptional or unique character-
istics of a critical environmental area (CEA) established pursuant to
subdivision 6 NYCRR 617 . 14(8) ? NO OYES
List the environmental characteristics that caused the designation of
the CEA.
hCIv�, cox h
Examples that would apply to column 2
• Proposed Action to locate within the CEA ? ❑ ❑
❑ Yes ❑ No
• Proposed Action will result in a reduction in the quantity of the resource ? ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Proposed Action will result in a reduction in the quality of the resource ? ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Proposed Action will impact the use, function or enjoyment of the ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
resource?
' • Other impacts : ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
I
IMPACT ON TRANSPORTATION
15 . Will there be an effect to existing transportation systems ?
Examples that would apply to column 2 ONO XYES
• Alteration of present patterns of movement of people and/or goods . ❑ ❑
• Proposed Action will result in major traffic problems . ❑ Yes ❑ No
(� �1 � 1 ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Other impacts: Yame_ localr'aP� fnris? <o ° i'rt � (z�tt c 'L C � ,(Jc2C TeC�
cvtier `Fh� ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
IMPACT ON ENERGY
16 . Will proposed action affect the community's sources of fuel or
energy supply ? KNO OYES
Examples that would apply to column 2
• Proposed Action will cause a greater than 5 % increase in the use of ❑ CD any form of energy in the municipality. ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Proposed Action will require the creation or extension of an energy ❑
transmission or supply Y I system to serve more than 50 single or two family ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
residences or to serve a major commercial or industrial use .
• Other impacts : ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
iy '
NOISE AND ODOR IMPACTS 1 2 3
Small to Potential Can Impact Be
17 . Will there be objectionable odors , noise, or vibration as a result Moderate Large Mitigated By
of the Proposed Action ? ,�NO AYES Impact Impact Project Change
Examples that would apply to column 2
• Blasting within 1 , 500 feet of a hospital , school or other sensitive ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
facility.
• Odors will occur routinely (more than one hour per day). ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Proposed Action will produce operating noise exceeding the local Cl ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
ambient noise levels for noise outside of structures .
• Proposed Action will remove natural barriers that would act as a ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
noise screen.
• Other impacts : L L�W-,J 1 e noi : 1 ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
J e- `f o nc 1. S
r
IMPACT ON PUBLIC HEALTH
18 . Will Proposed Action affect public health and safety?
Examples that would apply to column 2 AN OYES
• Proposed Action may cause a risk of explosion or release of hazardous ❑
substances (i. e. oil, pesticides, chemicals, radiation , etc.) in the event of ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
accident or upset conditions, or there may be a chronic low level
discharge or emission.
• Proposed Action may result in the burial of "hazardous wastes in any ❑ ❑
form (i.e. toxic, poisonous, highly reactive, radioactive, irritating, ❑Yes ❑ No
infectious, etc.)
• Storage facilities for one million or more gallons of liquified natural ❑
gas or other flammable liquids. ❑ Dyes ❑ No
• Proposed action may result in the excavation or other disturbance ❑
within 2,000 feet of a site used for the disposal of solid or hazardous ❑ ❑ Yes ONO
waste.
• . Other impacts: ❑ ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
IMPACT ON GROWTH AND CHARACTER
OF COMMUNITY OR NEIGHBORHOOD
19 . Will proposed action affect the character of the existing community?
ONO (YES
Examples that would apply to column 2
• The permanent population of the city, town or village in which the ❑
project is located is likely to grow by more than 5 % 0
❑ ❑ Yes , ❑ No
• The municipal budget for capital expenditures or operating services ❑
will increase by more than 5 % per year as a result of this project. 11 ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Proposed action will conflict with officially adopted plans or goals . ❑ ❑
• Proposed action will cause a change in the density of land use. ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Proposed Action will replace or eliminate existing facilities, structures ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
or areas of historic importance to the community. Cl ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Development will create a demand for additional community services ❑ Cl(e.g. schools, police and fire, etc.) ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Proposed Action will set an important precedent for future projects . ❑ ❑
• Proposed Action will create or eliminate employme t. ❑ Yes ❑ No
• Other impacts: Ruse see.- �l44a ❑ ❑ Dyes ❑ No El /A ❑ ❑ Yes ❑ No
20 . Is there, or is there likely to be, public controversy related to potential adverse environmental impacts ?
It any action In Part 2 is Identified as a potential large Impact or If you cannot determine the magnitude of Impact, proceed to to a S
Part 3
Environmental Assessment
Town of Ithaca 1997 Park, Recreation & Open Space Plait
PART 2. PROJECT IMPACTS AND THEIR MAGNITUDE-ATTACHMENT A
Impact on Water
4. Other impacts :
A number of the proposed new parks and bikeways in the Plan will be constructed
adjacent to or across approximately 20 small intermittent or year-round streams .
Several proposed park sites have or are expected to encompass one or more wetland areas.
However, no construction within or filling or dredging of wetlands is envisioned in this
Plan.
5 . Other impacts :
The proposed zoning and PDR actions outlined in the Plan, if enacted, are expected to
reduce the potential for residential development in areas not served by water and/or sewer
services.
Impact on Aesthetic Resources
11 . Other impacts :
Proposed zoning measures for agriculturally or environmentally important areas are
expected to substantially reduce the intensity of development within those areas from the
levels currently allowed.
13. Other impacts :
If all park and open space aspects of the proposed Plan are implemented, some
additional acres of public park would be acquired and developed; and approximately 3,900
acres of agriculturally and environmentally important open space would be preserved.
Impact on Growth and Character of Community or Neighborhood
19. Other impacts :
If fully implemented, the proposed Purchase of Development Rights program would
permanently protect nearly 4,000 acres of open space land, and help channel development
' toward more appropriate areas of the Town.
io
Environmental Assessment
Town of Ithaca 1997 Park, Recreation & Open Space Plan
Staff Recommendation, Determination of Significance
Based on review of the proposed 1997 Park, Recreation & Open Space Plan against the criteria
for determining the environmental significance of proposed actions outlined in 6 NYCRR Part
617 .7 , public comments received regarding the proposed Plan, the proposed scale of the physical
changes proposed in the proposed Plan, the character of the changes in land use regulations proposed
in said Plan, the existing character of the project area as defined for the purpose of the Plan and
surrounding land uses, and the information above, a negative determination of environmental
significance is recommended for the action as proposed.
Lead Agency: Town of Ithaca Town Board
Reviewer: George R. Frantz, AICP, Asst. Town Planner
Review Date: December 4, 1997
i �
OF 14%
TOWN OF ITHACA
lep zi o4� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
� Y
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 9
Adoption of 1997 Park , Recreation & Open Space Plan
Resolution No , 212
WHEREAS, the Town of Ithaca Planning Department has prepared a draft Park,
Recreation and Open Space Plan , dated March 10 , 1997 , and an Executive Summary
of the Plan , dated June 9 , 1997 , and
WHEREAS , said Plan outlines a series of suggested policies and recommendations
for action with regard to the provision of public park and recreation facilities in the Town
of Ithaca over the next two decades , and further , suggested policies and
recommendations for action with regard to protecting agriculturally and environmentally
significant open space resources within the Town of Ithaca , and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has referred said draft Plan to the Planning Board and
Conservation Board for their review and recommendation with regard to adoption of
said plan , and
WHEREAS, said draft Plan has been the subject of extension distribution to and
review and comment by local and state agencies , community organizations and the
general public , and
WHEREAS , the Town Planning Board , after public hearings on October 7 and
November 18 , 1997 , recommended to the Town Board that it adopt said draft Plan , with
revisions as outlined in it resolution recommending adoption and the Town Planning
Department memorandum dated November 7 , 1997 , and
WHEREAS, the Town Board on December 8 , 1997 has held a public hearing to
consider further public input on said draft Plan , and recommended revisions , and
WHEREAS, the Town Board on December 8 , 1997 has made a negative determination
of environmental significance for said draft Plan , now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Town Board hereby adopts the draft Park, Recreation and
Open Space Plan , dated March 10, 1997 , and an attendant Executive Summary of
said Plan , dated June 9 , 1997, with the following modifications to said Plan :
TB Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No , 9
Res , No . 212 = Adoption of 1997 Park, Recreation & Open Space Plan
Page 2 .
a . Incorporation of the revisions to the draft Plan as outlined in the memorandum
from the Planning Department to the Planning Board , dated November 7 , 1997 ;
b . Revision of Map 8= 1 and relevant text within said draft Plan to include in those
areas recommended for Conservation District zoning that portion of Tax Parcel
No . 53- 1 - 13, a . k . a . the Sincebaugh property , not currently zoned Conservation
District, and inclusion of the entire parcel in the areas recommended for
purchase of development rights , and revision of Map 8= 1 and relevant text within
said draft Plan , and Map 8= 1 R that was attached to the memorandum to the
Town Board dated December 5 , 1997 , to change the word "proposed " where it
appears in reference to future Conservation and Agricultural zoning districts to
"potential" ;
C, Minor editorial changes to clarify text in certain areas within the Plan or to
correct typographical errors , prior to publication of the adopted Plans
d . The Town Board should consider further protection to the areas east of
Buttermilk Falls state Park and along Holly Creek in the adoption of revised
zoning and the purchase of development rights in the Town of Ithaca . .
MOVED : Councilwoman Harrison
SECONDED: Councilman Wolff
Supervisor Valentino , aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997 Q..' L4�
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
�zy OF ITl,
TOWN OF ITHACA
,�,� 21 o4^b 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
� Y
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 10
Rezoning Request East Shore Drive
Cornell University Lake Source Cooling Project
Resolution No . 213
WHEREAS , the Town of Ithaca has been requested to consider the proposed
rezoning of a portion of Tax Parcel No . 19- 1 =5 at 983 East Shore Drive from Business
" E" to a Special Land Use District ( SLUD) , and to refer the rezoning proposal to the
Planning Board for a recommendation ; and
WHEREAS , the requested rezoning would be necessary in order that Cornell
University can construct a chilled water plant in conjunction with the Lake Source
Cooling Project ; and
WHEREAS , the Town Board has reviewed the said proposal and are concerned
with the proposed building architectural envelope and site development plan as
presented ; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED , that the Town Board defers for further consideration the proposed
building architectural envelope and site development plan as presented , and requests .
that a revised scheme be brought back to this Town Board for reconsideration prior to
the Town Board 's referral of the SLUD to the Planning Board .
MOVED : Councilman Klein
SECONDED : Councilman Wolff
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997 yv
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OF 1 T�
a TOWN OF ITHACA
�,� zi 04� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
OWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 13
Ratification of Grant Application
Conservation/Preservation Program Division of Library Development
New York State Library
Resolution No . 214
WHEREAS , the Town Supervisor and Town Clerk/Records Management Officer
have submitted an application to receive $25 , 000 . 00 in grant funding from the
Conservation/Preservation Program Division of Library Development of the New York
State Library; and
WHEREAS , the grant funding would be used for the preservation of approximately
56 historical books and folders dating from 1821 , the purchase of computer software for
indexing and management of records according to the requirements of the State
Archives Records Administration , and assist in the hiring of a full -time Records
Management Computer Technician who would develop and implement an Electronic
Media Records Program , and
WHEREAS , the work to be performed as described in the grant narrative correlates
with the long term plan and goals for records management within the Town of Ithaca ;
now therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby ratifies the submission of
the application to receive funding through a grant from the Conservation/Preservation
Program Division of Library Development of the New York State Library made by the
Town Supervisor and Town Clerk/Records Management Officer in the amount of
$25 , 000 ; and it is further
RESOLVED , that the Town Board reiterates their commitment to the conservation
and preservation of the Town of Ithaca historic and archival documents through the
Records Management Program as administrated by the Town Clerk/Records
Management Officer.
TB Mtg . 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 13
Ratification of Grant Application
Conservation/Preservation Program Division of Library Development
New York State Library
Resolution No . 214
Page 2 .
MOVED : Supervisor Valentino SECONDED : Councilwoman Grigorov
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff, aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OF I T�
_ a TOWN OF ITHACA
21044 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
� Y
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 14
Consider 1998 Liability Insurance Proposal
Resolution No . 215
WHEREAS , the Town of Ithaca has had Sprague Insurance Company for their
liability insurance company since January 1 , 1995 ; and
WHEREAS , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca has discussed and has
determined that there is no need to request liability insurance proposals for 1998 , but
will accept one of the quotes brought forth by Spraque Insurance Company; now
therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby approves accepting
liability insurance quotes for 1998 from Sprague Insurance ; and be it further
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby authorizes the Town
Supervisor to enter into an agreement with Sprague Insurance for the 1998 liability
insurance coverage .
MOVED : Councilwoman Russell
SECONDED : Councilwoman Harrison
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
qty OF I T�
TOWN OF ITHACA
21 044- 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
� Y
19TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 15
Consider Approval of 1998 Prepaid Health Plan Contract
Resolution No . 216
WHEREAS , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca wishes to enter into an
agreement with the Prepaid Health Plan to provide health coverage to certain Town of
Ithaca employees and retirees ; and
WHEREAS , the Town Board has reviewed and discussed the proposed
agreement; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby authorize and
direct the Town Supervisor to enter into an agreement with the Prepaid Health Plan to
provide health coverage for certain Town of Ithaca employees and retirees upon the
advice of the Attorney for the Town and the Human Resources Specialist ; and be it
further
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca shall pay 100% of the
Prepaid Health Plan individual and family premiums ($ 175 . 58 and $468 . 29 per month
respectively) for the full time employees . Justices and Town Board Members shall
contribute 50% of the premium , and retirees shall contribute based on the schedule
specified in the Town Personnel Manual ,
MOVED : Councilman Wolff SECONDED : Councilwoman Russell
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OF 1P
TOWN OF ITHACA
21 04� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
� Y
OWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 16
Consider Approval of 1998 Blue Cross/ Blue Shield of Central , NY Contract
Resolution No . 217
WHEREAS , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca wishes to enter into an
agreement with Blue Cross/ Blue Shield to provide health and dental coverage to
certain Town of Ithaca employees and retirees ; and
WHEREAS , the Town Board has reviewed and discussed the proposed
agreement ; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby authorize and
direct the Town Supervisor to enter into an agreement with Blue Cross/ Blue Shield of
Central , NY to provide health and dental coverage for certain Town of Ithaca
employees and retirees upon the advice of the Attorney for the Town and the Human
Resources Specialist ; and be it further
RESOLVED , full time employees shall contribute 15 % of their BC/BS health
insurance premium and the Town shall contribute 85 % , Justices and Town Board
Members shall contribute 50% of the premiums , and retirees shall contribute based on .
the schedule as defined in the Town Personnel Manual . All participants shall pay
100% of the dental insurance premium and the Town shall contribute 0% of the dental
premium .
MOVED : Supervisor Valentino SECONDED : Councilman Conley
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov , aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joa# Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OF 1P
TOWN OF ITHACA
,�,� 2104 - 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 17
Consider Approval of 1998 Health Guard Blue Contract
Resolution No , 218
WHEREAS , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca wishes to enter into an
agreement with Blue Cross/ Blue Shield of Central , NY to provide Health Guard Blue
health coverage to certain Town of Ithaca employees and retirees ; and
WHEREAS , the Town Board has reviewed and discussed the proposed
agreement; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby authorize and
direct the Town Supervisor to enter into an agreement with Blue Cross/ Blue Shield of
Central , NY to provide Health Guard Blue health coverage for certain Town of Ithaca
employees and retirees upon the advice of the Attorney for the Town and the Human
Resources Specialist ; and be it further
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca shall pay 100% of the Health
Guard Blue individual and family premiums ($ 153 . 44 and $407 . 89 . per month
respectively) for the full time employees . Justices and Town Board Members shall
contribute 50% of the premium and retirees shall contribute based on the schedule
specified in the Town Personnel Manual .
MOVED : Supervisor Valentino SECONDED : Councilwoman Russell
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov , aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997 ^-
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
fly OF I r
TOWN OF ITHACA
�,� �04`� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
� Y
OWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 18
Approval of Change Order No . 1 for the Contract for the Construction of
Buttermilk Falls Water Improvements
Resolution No . 219
WHEREAS , the Town Board has awarded a contract to Dean Calice Construction ,
Greene , New York for the construction of the Buttermilk Falls Water Improvement ; and
WHEREAS , during the installation of the water main a changed condition in the
project in the form of an old bridge with two reinforced concrete abutments was
encountered which required additional work not included in the original contract , such
work consisting of removal of portions of the abutments and a portion of a reinforced
concrete bridge deck; and
WHEREAS , the Town Engineer has recommended the Change Order and has
issued a work directive for the change to the contractor to prevent a delay to the
completion of the contract work ;
NOW, THEREFORE , BE IT
RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca , hereby approves Change
Order No . 1 , to the Contract for the Construction of Water Improvements at Buttermilk
Falls Road , and authorizes an increase in the contract sum in the amount of $ 1295 . 00 .
MOVED : Councilwoman Grigorov
SECONDED : Councilman Wolff
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
CHAIIIGE ORDER
No. : 1
PROJECT: Buttermilk Falls Water and Sewer Improvemnets
DATE OF ISSUANCE: 11/12/97
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/7,07
OWNER Tmvn of Ithaca. 126 E Seneca St_ Ithaca New York 14850
OWN, TER's Project No. : B1b
CONTRACTOR: Dean Calice Construction, BOX 524A . CIreene New York 13778
ENGLN,=.- Dan R Walker. P. E , Town of Ithaca
TO (CONTRACTOR) : Dean Calice Construction
You are directed to make the following chances in this Contract.
Description: Dentolidon of old bridge abutments
Reason(s) for Change Order. To place 8 " D. I. Watermain
Attachments: see following page for cost calculations
Not valid until signed by both the OWNER and ENGINEER. Signature of the CONTRACTOR indicates
CO\ I ACTOR's agreement herewith, including any adjustment in the Contract Sum or Contract Times.
The original Contract Sum was: S104,22600
Net change by previously authorized Change Orders: 5 0. 00
The Contract Sum prior to this Change Order was: S104,226 00
The Contract Sum will be increased by this Change Order: S 1295. 00
The new Contract Sum includingthis Change Order will be: $1056521. 00
The Contract Times will be increased by: R I day
The Date of Substantial Completion as of the date of this
Change Order therefore is 12/19/97.
COINUMENDED : APPROVED : ACCEPTED :
y Dan R Walker P.E by Catherine Valentino by Dean Calice
E:NGLrTER OWNER, SUPER'�T.SOR CONTRACTOR
DATE 12101197 DATE 12/01/97 DATE 12101197
COST CALCULATIONS FOR CHANGE ORDER 91
Method of determining change in Method of determining change in
Contract Price: Contract Times:
_ Unit Prices x CONTRACTOR's records
Lump Sum x ENGINEER's records
x Tune and Materials _ Other Ldescriytionl
_ Cost plus fixed fee
Other ldescriytionl
Equipment and Labor: -Hoe mounted chipping hammer w/opperator (a). SI00/hr for 8hr day
-Hoe w/opperator r3901hr
note: payment only for time to remove abutments
Change Order Work began at 7:00 am and ended at 12:30 pm. Total Hrs: S. 5 His
Hoe mounted chipping hammer w/ opperator @
S100/hr for 8hr day 5800. 00
Hoe w/opperator @ S901hr ($90.00/hr x 5 . 5hrs = $495 .00) 5495. 00
TOTAL 51295. 00
fly OF 1 ,%
�° _ 9 TOWN OF ITHACA
,�� 2i 04� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 19
Authorization to Re-Advertise for Bids for a Trailer Mounted Vacuum System
Resolution No . 220
WHEREAS , the Town Engineer has determined that to assist in the maintenance of
certain portions of the town ' s infrastructure , there is a need for and has recommended
the purchase of a Trailer Mounted Vacuum System suitable for cleaning catch basins ,
sewer manholes , and water valve boxes ; and
WHEREAS , the Town Engineer has prepared specifications for a Trailer Mounted
Vacuum System ; and
WHEREAS , the 1997 Water and Sewer Fund budgets included funds for the
purchase of this equipment ; and
WHEREAS , the bids received on November 17 , 1997 were disqualified due to
inconsistencies . in the submissions , resulting in no award recommendation ; now,
therefore , be it
RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby approves the
specifications for the Trailer Mounted Vacuum System , and authorizes the rem
advertisement for bids for the purchase of said vacuum system .
MOVED : Councilman Conley
SECONDED : Councilwoman Harrison
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye. Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8
D 1997,
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
�lyOFITj,
TOWN OF ITHACA
�,� zi o4� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 25
Authorization to Continue in Drug and Alcohol Consortium
Resolution No . 221
WHEREAS , Tompkins County, the City of Ithaca , and the Towns and Villages of
Tompkins County were required under the Omnibus Employee Testing Act of 1991 to
implement drug and alcohol testing for their commercial drivers license (CDL) holders
by January 1996 ; and
WHEREAS , entering into an inter- municipal agreement pursuant to General
Municipal Law Article 5-G with the County, City of Ithaca , and the Towns . and. Villages
of Tompkins County is an efficient and cost-effective method for all parties to comply
with this law; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca agrees to continue an inter municipal
agreement with Tompkins County , the City of Ithaca , and the Towns and Villages of
Tompkins County for the . purpose of implementing the required drug and alcohol testing
and in the furtherance thereof shall participate in the selection of a third party
administrator to manage such drug and alcohol testing program ; and be it further
RESOLVED , that such agreement shall contain such terms and conditions as the
Town Supervisor and Attorney for the Town shall deem appropriate to protect the
town ' s interest and shall provide for the sharing of costs upon an equitable basis
between the parties , shall be binding upon the Town of Ithaca upon the execution
thereof, and shall extend through December 31 , 1998 ,
MOVED : Councilwoman Harrison
SECONDED : Councilman Wolff
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
�1y OF 1 T�
9 TOWN OF ITHACA
21 4- 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26
Consent Agenda Items No . 26 (b) , No . 26 (d) -26 ( r )
Resolution No . 222 (b) , No . 222 (d) = 222 ( r )
BE IT RESOLVED , that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby approves and
or/adopts the resolutions for Consent Agenda Items No . 26(b) , No . 26 (d) - 26 ( r) as
presented and/or amended by the Town Board on December 8 , 1997 . Consent Agenda
Items No . 26 (a) and 26 ( c ) will be considered separately.
MOVED : Councilman Wolff
SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ;. Councilwoman Grigorov , aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ; .
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously .
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OFIp
TOWN OF ITHACA
�,� zi o4� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 ( b)
Town of Ithaca Warrants
Resolution No . 222 ( b)
WHEREAS , the warrant with the following numbered listing of vouchers has been
presented to the Town Board for approval of payment ; and
WHEREAS , said warrant has been audited for payment by the Town Board ; now
therefore be it
RESOLVED , that the Town Board does hereby authorize the payment of said
vouchers as numbered and listed on the warrant .
VOUCHER #' s : No . 2092-2265 Amounts : General Fund - $402195 . 34
General Fund Part Town - $259004. 12
Highway Fund - $ 17 , 118. 41
Water Fund - $309722 . 96
Sewer Fund - $ 142 , 063. 14
Lighting District Funds - $ 1 , 146 . 98
MOVED : Councilman Wolff
SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov , aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997 Ij
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
�1y OF 1P
F _ TOWN OF ITHACA
,p� �o4^� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 (d)
Authorization for the Town of Ithaca to Pay the Employee
Share of the Health Insurance Increase for December 1997
Resolution No , 222 (d )
WHEREAS , employee and retiree health and dental insurance premiums are
paid one month in advance of the coverage period ; and
WHEREAS , the Blue Cross/ Blue Shield health insurance premiums have
increased 15 . 5 % beginning December 1 , 1997 for January 1 , 1998 coverage ; and
WHEREAS , historically the Town has paid any increase in premium for January
coverage since applying an increase to certain employee ' s contributions would result in
less take home pay in December; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca , as it has in previous years ,
hereby authorizes the Town to pay the employees ' portion of the increase in health
premium for the month of December 1997 . The total amount of the payment shall not
exceed $ 153 . 56 .
MOVED : Councilman Wolff
SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997 ,
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OF 1p
TOWN OF ITHACA
,t,� �o4~� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 ( e)
1997 Year End Budget Transfers
Resolution No . 222 ( e)
WHEREAS , compliant with standard year end closing practices established and
required by the NYS Comptroller' s Office and Government Accounting Auditing and
Financial Reporting Standards the Town Budget Officer has reviewed all over
expended appropriations for all operating funds as of November 30 , 1997 in
preparation for the year ending 1997 ; and
WHEREAS , the Town Budget Officer presents the attached detail of those over
expended appropriations requiring a budget transfer of 1997 funds to the town ' s Chief
Fisca ftt6r-and the governing Town Board for further review and considerations ; and
i
WHEREAS , jaihtly, the Chief Fiscal Officer and this Town Board have reviewed
these 1997 Budget Transfers as recommended by the Town Budget Officer; now,
therefore , be it
RESOLVED , that this governing Town Board approves and directs the Town Budget
Officer to record these transfers to the 1997 Town Budget ; and , be it further
RESOLVED , that this Town Board authorizes the Chief Fiscal officer and the Town
Budget Officer to record any other needed transfers which may occur when officially.
closing the accounting and financial records of the Town for the year ending December
31 , 1997 ,
MOVED : Councilman Wolff
SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997 L4
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
Sheet1
1997 BUDGET TRANSFERS
GENERAL FUND
FROM : Al 110. 401 JUSTICES - PROPERTY RENTAL 400. 00
Al 110. 403 JUSTICES - SEMINARS/CONFERENCES 900.00
A1320. 400 AUDITORS 21056. 31
TO: A1110. 200 JUSTICES - EQUIPMENT 11829. 51
Al 110. 400 JUSTICES - CONTRACTUAL EXPENSES 11462. 00
A1110. 405 JUSTICES - SUPPLIES 64. 80
FROM : Al 420. 400 TOWN ATTORNEY 31575. 89
TO: A1340. 100 BUDGET - PERSONNEL SERVICES 39575.89
FROM: Al 440. 400 ENGINEER-CONTRACTUAL 135. 25
TO: Al 220.200 ENGINEER - EQUIPMENT 135. 25
FROM : Al 660. 420 CENTRAL STOREROOM-MINUTE SUPPLIES 673. 15
Al 660, 200 CENTRAL STOREROOM-EQUIPMENT 253. 42
TO: Al 660. 400 CENTRAL STOREROOM-SUPPLIES 926. 57
Y.
FROM: A1680. 401 CENTRAL DATA PROCESSING-REPAIRS 11122. 38
TO: Al 680, 400 CENTRAL DATA PROCESSING-SUPPLIES 11077. 38
Al 680. 403 CENTRAL DATA PROCESSING-TRAINING 45.00
FROM: A1910. 400 UNALLOCATED INSURANCE 1 , 511 . 81
TO: Al 920,400 MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATIONS 99.00
A1920. 401 TAXES/ASSM'T ON PROPERTY 11412. 81
FROM: A5010. 440 HIGHWAY - CONTRACTUAL EXPENSES 291 . 25
A5010. 411 HIGHWAY - CONFERENCES 258. 03
TO: A5010.420 HIGHWAY- PUBLICATION/DUES 549. 28
Pagel
Sheet1
FROM : A5132. 414 HIGHWAY GARAGE - POLE BARN ELECTRIC 11037. 06
TO: A5132. 410 HIGHWAY GARAGE - ELECTRIC 11037. 06
FROM: A8989. 402 LEARNING WEB 12. 50
TO: A8989. 404 HUMAN SERVICES COALITION 12. 50
GENERAL PART-TOWN FUND
FROM : B1650. 400 CTRL COMM SYSTEM - REPAIRS 201 . 25
B1660. 420 CTRL STOREROOM - MINUTE SUPPLIES 632. 36
TO: 81650. 400 CTRL COMM SYSTEM - CONTRACTUAL 833. 61
FROM: B1680. 401 CTRL DATA PROCESSING - REPAIRS 636. 79
TO: 81680. 400 CTRL DATA PROCESSING - SUPPLIES 636, 79
FROM: B7140. 407 PARK MAINT - YCC 61994. 00
B1680, 401 . CTRL DATA PROCESSING - REPAIRS 31395. 21
B1680, 402 CTRL DATA PROCESSING - SOFTWARE 11445. 96
B5680. 400 NORTHEST TRANSIT 10640. 00
B1670. 408 CTRL MAILING - POSTAGE 39000. 00
81670. 409 CTRL MAILING - LEGAL ADS 11061 . 41
B1670. 410 CTRL MAILING - PRINTING 11323. 74
B1670. 400 CTRL MAILING - COPIER SUPPLIES 23173. 50
TO: 87140. 402 PARK MAINT - CONTRACTUAL 219033. 82
FROM: B8010. 101 ZONING - BOARD MEMBERS 82, 44
TO: B8010. 102 ZONING - OVERTIME 82. 44
FROM : B8020. 101 PLANNING - BOARD MEMBERS 677. 65
TO: B8020. 102 PLANNING - OVERTIME 99. 62
B8020. 110 PLANNING - STUDENT INTERNS 578. 03
FROM : B8020. 400 PLANNING - CONTRACTUAL 25. 00
TO: B8020. 405 PLANNING - MISCELLANEOUS 25. 00
Page 2
Sheetl
FROM : B1660. 420 CTRL STOREROOM - MINUTE SUPPLIES 15851 . 16
B1420. 400 TOWN ATTORNEY 31256. 20
TO: B9040. 800 WORKERS COMPENSATION 58094. 16
69055. 800 DISABILITY INSURANCE 13. 20
FROM : B7140. 101 PARK MAINT - PERSONNEL SERVICE 81600.00
TO: B7140. 102 PARK MAINT - CONSTRUCTION SERVICES 83600. 00
HIGHWAY FUND
FROM : DB5110. 451 GEN' L REPAIRS - ROAD REPAIRS 70. 68
TO: DB5110. 450 GEN' L REPAIRS - GAS, OIL & DIESEL 70. 68
FROM : DB5110. 451 GEN' L REPAIRS - ROAD REPAIRS 1169. 29
TO: DB5110. 499 GEN'L REPAIRS - MISCELLANEOUS 1169. 29
FROM : DB5140. 100 BRSH & WEED - OVERTIME 2924. 37
TO: DB5112. 100 PERM'T IMPROVEMENTS - PERSONAL SRVCS 2924. 37
FROM : D135112.454 PERM'T IMPROVEMENTS - CHIPS 35749. 89
TO: DB5112. 453 PERM'T IMPROVEMENTS - 35749.89
FROM : DB5140. 101 BRUSH & WEED - TEMP EMPLOYMENT 91052. 17
D135140. 100 BRUSH & WEED - PERSONAL SRVCS 2, 000. 00
TO: DB5130. 100 MACHINERY - PERSONAL SERVICES 11 , 052. 17
FROM : DB5130. 460 MACHINERY - VEHICLE MAINT 21196. 75
TO: D65130. 461 MACHINERY - MISC TOOLS 21196. 75
FROM: DB5130. 460 MACHINERY - VEHICLE MAINT 33785. 44
TO: DB5140. 401 MACHINERY - SAFETY EQUIPMENT 31785. 44
Page 3
Sheetl
FROM: DB5110. 451 GEN'L REPAIRS - ROAD REPAIRS 11126. 00
TO: DB1420. 400 TOWN ATTORNEY 1 , 126. 00
WATER
FROM : F8340.200 TRANSMISSION/DIST - EQUIPMENT 31179. 92
TO: F1380. 400 BOND/BAN - FISCAL AGENT FEES 312.00
F1420. 400 TOWN ATTORNEY 19479. 67
F8310. 100 WATER ADMIN - PERSONAL SERVICES 495. 92
F8310. 410 WATER ADMIN - UTILITIES 115. 95
F9040. 800 WORKERS COMPENSATION 7 70. 38
FROM: F9901 . 900 TRANSFER TO CAPITAL RESERVE 3572490. 56
TO: F8340. 471 TRANSMISSION/DIST - LINE MAINT 511976. 80
F8350. 471 COMMON WATER SUPPLY
BENEFIT C BENEFIT CHARGE 2411244. 05
F8350. 473 WEST HILL WATER CHARGES 64, 269. 71
SEWER
FROM: G8120. 483 SANITARY SEWERS - CAPITAL IMPROVM'T 250135. 18
TO: G1380. 400 BOND/BAN - FISCAL AGENT FEES 11105. 20
G1420. 400 TOWN ATTORNEY 10058. 34
G8110. 410 ADMINISTRATION - UTILITIES 40. 71
G8120. 410 SANITARY SEWERS - POWER & LIGHTS 99. 85
G8120. 480 SANITARY SEWERS - REPAIRS & MAINT 121939. 79
G9040. 800 WORKERS COMPENSATION 670.61
G9710. 700 SERIAL BOND - INTEREST 9, 220. 68
Page 4
�Zy OF 1P
TOWN OF ITHACA
zi ,� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
OWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 (f)
1998 Processing Vouchers/Invoices Cut Off Date
Resolution No . 222 (f)
WHEREAS , in order to facilitate a more efficient and timely method for processing
vouchers/invoices for the monthly abstracts it is necessary to establish a cut off date for
submission of vouchers/invoices by vendors , staff, and other service people ; and
WHEREAS , the Accounting Department has determined that approximately one
week is needed to properly prepare the vouchers/invoices for approval of the Town
Board at their monthly meeting ; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board does hereby adopt the following schedule for the year
1998 as the last date by all vendors , staff, and other service people to submit
vouchers/invoices to the Accounting Department for presentation to the Town Board on
the Abstract Date :
Processing Voucher/Invoice Cut Off Date " For Abstract Date
Wednesday , December 31 Monday, January 12
Wednesday, January 28 Monday, February 9
Wednesday, February 25 Monday , March 9
Wednesday, April 1 Monday, April 13
Wednesday, April 29 Monday; May 11
Wednesday, May 27 Monday, June 8
Wednesday, July 1 Monday, July 13
Wednesday, July 29 Monday, August 10
Wednesday , August 26 Tuesday, September 8
Wednesday, September 23 Monday , October 5
Wednesday , October 21 Thursday, November 5
Wednesday, November 25 Monday, December 7
"Abstract date is synonymous with Town Board meeting date .
and , BE IT FURTHER ,
RESOLVED , vouchers/invoices must be submitted not later than 12 : 00 p . m . on the
Processing Voucher/Invoice Cut Off Date ; and it is further
TB Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 (f) - 1998 Processing Vouchers/Invoices Cut Off Date
Resolution No . 222 (f)
Page 2 .
RESOLVED , any emergency or extraordinary vouchers/invoices will be considered
as deemed appropriate by the Chief Fiscal Officer and the Budget Officer.
MOVED : Councilman Wolff
SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov , aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED: December 8 , 1997 L-, r�Qxr
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
�1y OF 1p
_ a TOWN OF ITHACA
�,� �0�4- 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
� Y
OWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 (g)
NYS Association of Towns 1998 Training School & Annual Meeting
Resolution No . 222 (g)
WHEREAS , the NYS Association of Towns will be holding their 1998 Training
School and Annual Meeting on February 15- 18 , 1998 in New York City; and
WHEREAS , the attendance at said Training School and Annual Meeting by various
Town Officials , Department Heads and employees will benefit the Town of Ithaca by
providing additional schooling for these said individuals ; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , that the Town Board hereby approves the attendance of the . following
individuals at the NYS Association of Towns 1998 Training School and Annual Meeting
to be held in New York City on February 15- 18 , 1998 ; and be it further
RESOLVED , the Town Board also approves the payment for overnight lodging
($ 135 . 00- $ 160 . 00 nightly estimate) ; the registration fee ($75 . 00) ; meals ($38 . 00 day) ;
and travel on the cooperative municipal bus for each individual attending the said
Training School and Annual Meeting ; and be it further
RESOLVED , the Attorney for the Town , John C . Barney, may attend as a registrant
of the Town of Ithaca and subsequently reimburse the Town for those costs ; and be it
further
RESOLVED , the Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission
( SCLIWC ) employees so designated by the SCLIWC Administrative Manager may
attend as a registrant of the Town of Ithaca , SCLIWC will subsequently reimburse the
Town of Ithaca for those costs .
Attendees : Catherine Valentino , Town Supervisor
Carolyn Grigorov , Town Board Member
David Klein , Town Board Member
Alfred Carvill , Budget Officer
Mark Cass , Bookkeeper to the Supervisor
TB Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 (g)
NYS Association of Towns 1998 Training School & Annual Meeting
Resolution No . 222 (g)
Page 2 .
MOVED : Councilman Wolff SECONDED: Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino, aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OFIp
F _ 9 TOWN OF ITHACA
�� 21044- 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
� Y
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 ( h )
Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission Employee Appointments
Resolution No . 222 (h )
WHEREAS , in the month of September Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal
Water Commission (SCLIWC) experienced two (2) vacancies in their Production
Department ; and
WHEREAS , Blaise Wright , Distribution Operator Trainee received the training
needed to be transferred from the Distribution Department to the Production
Department to fill one of the vacancies . David Sutton possessed the experience and
qualifications desired to fill the second vacancy in the Production Department ; and
WHEREAS , Henry Spencer possessed the experience and qualifications
desired to fill the vacancy in the Distribution Department created by Blaise Wright' s
transfer to the Production Department ; now. therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca , as the administering
municipality for SCLIWC , retroactively ratifies the provisional appointment of Blaise
Wright as a full time , Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee , account SW8330 . 101 ,
at an hourly wage of $9 . 99 effective September 1 , 1997 ; and be it further
RESOLVED , that David Sutton ' s full time provisional appointment as a
Instruments and Controls Mechanic/Operator Trainee , account SW8320 . 101 , at an
hourly wage of $ 10 . 03 be retroactively ratified October 6 , 1997 . Henry Spencer' s full
time , provisional appointment as a Distribution Operator Trainee , account
SW8340 . 101 , at an hourly wage of $9 . 03 be retroactively ratified effective September
24 , 1997 ,
MOVED : Councilman Wolff SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye ; Councilman . Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously .
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OF 17,
a TOWN OF ITHACA
1 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
#, OWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 ( i )
Provisional Appointment of Environmental Planner
Resolution No . 222 ( i )
WHEREAS , the Civil Service competitive position of Environmental Planner is
currently vacant ; and
WHEREAS , the Director of Planning , Assistant Town Planner and Human
Resource Specialist interviewed the top candidate for the position out of the 60
applicants , ( since there was not an eligible listing for the position ) ; and
WHEREAS , the interviewers felt Susan Ritter possesses the necessary skills
and experience to successfully perform the duties of the position ; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , on the recommendation of the interviewers the Town Board of the
Town of Ithaca does hereby approve the provisional appointment of Susan Ritter as a
full time Environmental Planner, Classification " N " , at the hourly wage of $ 16 . 41 , based
on a 37 . 5 hour work week, charged to account B8020 . 100 , effective January 12 , 1998 ;
and be it further
RESOLVED , that this appointment is provisional pending successful completion .
of the next civil service exam for this title and being one of the top three reachable
candidates from the eligible listing . Full time benefits apply.
MOVED : Councilman Wolff SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997 ,
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
fly OF 1p
TOWN OF ITHACA
zi o4� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
Y
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda No . 26 0
Creation of Administrative Assistant Position
Resolution No . 2220 )
WHEREAS , the Town of Ithaca established compliance under the New York
State Civil Service commission to qualify employment positions in the Town in
accordance with Section 22 of NY Civil Service Law; and
WHEREAS , one regulation of Civil Service Law is the creation of a position with
approved job description before appointment ; and
WHEREAS , the Director of Planning , the Director of Engineering , the Human
Resources Specialist recommend creating the Administrative Assistant position ; now
therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby establishes the
position of Administrative Assistant in the competitive class pursuant to Section 42 of
Civil Service Law and shall be classified as an " L" ; and be it further
RESOLVED , that the Town Clerk is directed to forward a certified copy of this
resolution to the Tompkins County Personnel Department for processing by said
department to obtain certification of the position as set forth .
MOVED : Councilman Wolff SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
(: L'+ . A
DATED : December 8 , 1997 "
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
fly OF 1P
_ 9 TOWN OF ITHACA
1 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
Y
OWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 (k)
Provisional Appointment Administrative Assistant
Resolution No , 222 (k)
WHEREAS , there is a vacancy in the Administrative Assistant position for the
Engineering Department ; and
WHEREAS , Mary Bryant has worked for the Town for eleven years and has
been performing the duties of an Administrative Assistant , although classified through
Civil Service as a Senior Typist during the compliance time period ; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby approve the
appointment of Mary Bryant as full time Administrative Assistant for the Engineering
Department at 37 . 5 hours per week , charged to account Al 430 , 100 , effective January
11 1998. Per civil service requirement this is a provisional promotional appointment
pending successful completion of the next non -competitive promotional civil service
examination for said position ; and be it further
RESOLVED , the salary for the said position shall be approximately $30 , 966 at
an hourly rate of $ 15 . 88 , in job classification " L " . Full time benefits apply.
MOVED : Councilman Wolff SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997 Q,.' 1,
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
�Zy OF 1p
9 TOWN OF ITHACA
zi o4� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
� Y
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda No. 26 ( I )
Creation of Parks Maintenance Manager Position
Resolution No . 222 ( 1)
WHEREAS , the Town of Ithaca established compliance under the New York
State Civil Service commission to qualify employment positions in the Town in
accordance with Section 22 of NY Civil Service Law; and
WHEREAS , one regulation of Civil Service Law is the creation of a position with
approved job description before appointment ; and
WHEREAS , the Highway Superintendent and the Human Resources Specialist
recommend creating the Parks Maintenance Manager position ; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby establishes the
position of Park Maintenance Manager in the competitive class pursuant to Section 42
of Civil Service Law and shall be classified as an " M " ; and be it further
RESOLVED , that the Town Clerk is directed to forward a certified copy of this
resolution to the Tompkins County Personnel Department for processing by said
department to obtain certification of the position as set forth .
MOVED : Councilman Wolff SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997 ,.v
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
�Zy OF 1P
TOWN OF ITHACA
,y� zi o4� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
OWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 ( m )
Provisional Appointment Parks Maintenance Manager
Resolution No . 222 ( m )
WHEREAS , there is a vacancy in the Parks Maintenance Manager position for
the Highway Department ; and
WHEREAS , Richard Schoch has worked for the Town for over
fourteen years and has been performing the duties of a Parks Maintenance Manager,
although classified through Civil Service as a Working Supervisor during the Civil
Service compliance time period ; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby approve the
appointment of Richard Schoch as a full time Parks Maintenance Manager for the
Highway Department at 40 hours per week , charged to account B7140 . 101 , effective
January 1 , 1998 . Per civil service requirement this is a provisional promotional
appointment pending successful completion of the next competitive promotional civil .
service examination for said position ; and be it further
RESOLVED , the salary for the said position shall be approximately $36 , 733 at
an hourly rate of $ 17 . 66 , in job classification " M " . Full time benefits apply.
MOVED : Councilman Wolff SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OF 17v
TOWN OF ITHACA
1 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 ( n)
Regular Appointment of Senior Typist
Resolution No . 222 (n )
WHEREAS , Karen McGuire , Senior Typist for the Engineering and Planning
Departments was hired off a competitive Senior Typist eligible listing May 19 , 1997 ;
and
WHEREAS , Ms . McGuire has successfully completed her 26 week probationary
period effective November 17 , 1997 ; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby approve the
regular appointment of Karen McGuire as Senior Typist retroactive effective November
17 , 1997 ,
MOVED : Councilman Wolff SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
i
�1y OF 1P
TOWN OF ITHACA
,p� �o44- 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
� Y
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 (o)
Approval of 1998 Floating Holiday for Employees
Resolution No . 222 ( o)
WHEREAS , the annual poll of Town employees to determine their preference
for the 1998 floating holiday has been completed ; and
WHEREAS , the said poll resulted in a tie between December 24 , 1998 and July
61 1998 , so a second poll was taken and determined 65% of the employees voted for
Monday, July 6 , 1998 as their preference of the floating holiday for the coming year;
now therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby approves the date of
Monday, July 6 , 1998 as the 1998 floating holiday for the Town of Ithaca employees .
MOVED : Councilman Wolff SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
qty OF I r
_ a TOWN OF ITHACA
,�,� �04� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 ( p)
Memorandum of Understanding
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Resolution No . 222 ( p)
WHEREAS , it is necessary that the Town of Ithaca and the New York State
Department of Environmental Conservation ( NYSDEC ) establish an agreement of
cooperation for the protection of the water resources of certain classified water in New
York State as set forth in Title 5 of Article 15 of the Conservation law on a yearly basis ;
and
WHEREAS , the present Memorandum of Understanding with the NYSDEC expires
on December 31 , 1997 ; and
WHEREAS , the Town Board , Attorney for the Town , and Town Engineer have
reviewed and approved the referenced Memorandum of Understanding with the
NYSDEC for the period January 1 , 1998 through December 31 , 1998 ; now therefore be
it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby authorizes and directs
the Town Supervisor to execute the said Memorandum of Understanding with the
NYSDEC for the period January 1 , 1998 through December 31 , 1998 ,
MOVED : Councilman Wolff SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997 Qm�' S"'+
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN
THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION OF THE STATE OF NEW
YORK , hereinafter referred to as the DEPARTMENT and Town of Ithaca ,
hereinafter referred to as the Town of Ithaca .
FOR THE PERIOD OF JANUARY 1 , 19. 98 to DECEMBER 31 , 1998 .
Resolution No . 222 ( p ) - 1997
WHEREAS , the Department of Environmental Conservation of the
State of New York is responsible for the protection of the water
resources of certain classified waters in New York State as set
forth in Title 5 of Article 15 of the Conservation Law ; and
WHEREAS , this Memorandum of Understanding between the
Department of Environmental Conservation of the State of New York
and the Town of Ithaca establishes an agreement of cooperation
between the parties hereinafter mentioned for the administration of
this responsibility insofar as the Town of Ithaca is concerned ;
THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED that the Supervisor is hereby
empowered to sign the attached Memorandum of Understanding in
behalf of the Town of Ithaca ; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED , that this Memorandum of Understanding
shall take effect immediately upon its acceptance by the Department
of Environmental Conservation .
Attest : Town Clerk
Joan Lent Noteboom
Waters Covered By This Memorandum
1 . All waters in the Town of Ithaca classified C with a standard of
( T ) and higher by the Department of Environmental Conservation .
Works Covered By This Memorandum
All Town of Ithaca , public works that will change , modify or
disturb the course of , or necessitate the removal of sand , gravel
or other material from any of the above waters .
PERMITS
1 . No permit shall be required for the following works
undertaken where the State does not own fishing rights or where the
stream is not on other lands owned by the State :
a . Stream crossings , provided the disturbance of the bed or
banks is limited for fifty ( 50 ) feet above and below the
crossing .
- 2 -
b . Channel clearing or realignment of streams that involves
less than one hundred ( 100 ) lineal feet of stream in any
mile of length .
Notification
Notification shall be given to the local permit agent 24 hours
before undertaking work covered by this Memorandum for which
no permit is required .
Standards of Performance
All work shall meet the following standards :
a . The project shall not obstruct the upstream or downstream
movement of fish . ( Culverts and the floors of box culverts
and bridges shall be , as nearly as possible , flush with the
stream bed . )
b . Sufficient flow of water shall be maintained at all times
to sustain aquatic life downstream .
C , Any culvert , box culvert or bridge floor shall be designed
to provide a V or dish - shaped channel , to concentrate flow
during periods of low water and facilitate the movement of
fish .
d . Disturbance of the stream bed shall be kept at an absolute
minimum , and - the stream bed shall be returned as nearly as
possible to its original condition , or better .
( Where possible , in modifying a stream bed , the center line
shall be 8 to 12 inches lower than the toe of the charnel
bank , to concentrate the flow of water . )
e . Where work necessitates disturbing banks , they shall be
returned to original condition or they shall be graded to
a 1 vertical to 3 horizontal slope , and rip - rapped or
planted with suitable grasses , trees and shrubs so as to
prevent erosion . All tree and brush removal shall be kept
to a minimum .
f . Any dike or cofferdam required to facilitate construction
shall be erected in such a manner that stream flow will not
be sufficiently reduced to endanger fish life downstream
and such dike or cofferdam shall be erected of materials
that will not contribute substantially to the turbidity or
siltation of the stream .
g . During the project , care shall be taken to prevent or
reduce to a minimum any damage to any stream from pollution
by debris , sediment , or other material , or from the
- 3 -
manipulation of equipment and / or materials , in or near such
streams . Water that has been used for washing or
processing , or that contains oils or sediments that will
reduce the quality of the water in the stream shall not be
directly returned to a stream . Such waters will be
diverted through a settling basin or filter before going
directly into the stream .
h . If water is taken from a stream for construction purposes
and an impounding structure is necessary , such structure
shall be erected in a manner causing the least possible
disturbance to the stream .
i . In all cases involving work in a stream , every effort
should be made to return the stream to the highest possible
standard for aesthetic value , water quality and fish
habitat .
2 . All other work falling within the jurisdiction of
Conservation Law , Title 5 of Article 15 shall be carried out only
after complying with Part 608 of Codes , Rules and Regulations of
New York State and obtaining the necessary permits for the proposed
work .
NOTE : Emergency Work - See : Part 608 . 8 ( Codes , Rules a_nd
Regulations of the State of New York )
NOTE : Excavation or fill of navigable waters is not covered
under this Memorandum , and a permit is required . See :
part 608 . 4 ( Codes , Rules and Regulations of the State
of New York )
NOTE : Construction , reconstruction or repair of dams and
docks may require a permit . See : Part 608 . 3 ( Codes ,
Rules and Regulations of the State of New York )
Review of Public works Plans
1 . It is understood by both parties that the Town of Ithaca
will keep the Department of Environmental Conservation
informed , through the local permit agent , of all plans and
specifications of proposed works that are covered by this
Memorandum , and shall make such plans available on request
at the Town of Ithaca offices . The local permit agent may
make such recommendations as may be pertinent for the
preservation of water quality that will be consistent with
the best interests of the public . All such recommendations
shall be within the framework of acceptable engineering
practices .
- 4 -
2 . It is further understood by both parties that the local
permit agent , upon such notice from the Town of Ithaca ,
will complete his review and make known his recommendation ,
so as to facilitate the project .
Rescission of Memorandum of Understanding
If the required notification is not furnished or if in the
opinion of the Department of Environmental Conservation , the
Town of Ithaca fails to conform to one or more of the above
standards or the recommendations of the permit agent , the
DEPARTMENT may unilaterally rescind this Memorandum of
Understanding . Such rescission shall be effective upon
receipt of written notice by the Town of Ithaca .
It is the intent of this Memorandum of Understanding , through
the mutual cooperation of both the Department of Environmental
Conservation and the Town of Ithaca , to facilitate Town of Ithaca
public works projects , preserve to the fullest the quality of the
water resources , and remain consistent with the best interests of
the public .
The resolution authorizing the execution of this agreement by
the Town of Ithaca is made a part hereof .
1Super-visor
Catherine Valentino
( For ) Department of Environmental ( For ) Town of Ithaca
Conservation
December 10 , 1997
DATE DATE
Mailing Address
126 East Seneca St .
Ithaca , NY 14850
Permits may be required by the U . S . Army Corps of Engineers .
It may be necessary to obtain a Section 401 Water Quality
Certification from NYS DEC unless you receive a Section 404
Nationwide Permit from the Corps that has already been pre -
Certified by DEC .
OF 1 T�
F _ TOWN OF ITHACA
,p� �04`b 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 (q)
Holiday Tree Pick Up
Resolution No . 222 (q )
WHEREAS , the Town of Ithaca Highway Department will be picking up holiday trees
for the residents of the Town of Ithaca ; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , that on January 20 , 1998 , the Highway Department will pick up holiday
trees for the residents of the Town of Ithaca .
MOVED : Councilman Wolff SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously .
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OFlp
Ff a TOWN OF ITHACA
zi � 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No. 26 ( r )
Encumbrance Records Management 1997 Appropriations
Resolution No . 222 ( r )
WHEREAS , a grant application has been submitted to the NY State Program for the
Conservation and Preservation of Library Research Materials by the Town
Clerk/Records Management Officer to request funding for the preservation of
approximately 56 archival historical documents dating since 1821 , the purchase of
indexing and records management software , high density shelving , and to offset the
expenses of a full-time Records Management Computer Technician ; and
WHEREAS , it will be necessary for the Town of Ithaca to "match " a portion of the
said expenses during the grant cycle ; and
WHEREAS , the 1997 General Fund Budget contains amounts under the Records
Management appropriation line items which have not been expended during 1997; and
WHEREAS , the Town Clerk/Records Management Officer has requested that these
unexpended funds be encumbered into the 1998 General Fund - Records Management
appropriation line items so that they may be applied as part of the "match " funding
during the said grant cycle ; now , therefore be it
RESOLVED , the governing Town Board does hereby authorize and direct the
Budget Officer to encumber any unexpended balances as of 12/31 /97 for the following
General Fund Records Management appropriation line items to be used during the
preparation for, and as part of, the "match " funding related to the grant application to
the NY State for Conservation/Preservation of Library Research Materials .
RECORDS MANAGEMENT: Balance as of 12/4/97
A1460 . 400 Contractual Materials/Supplies $ 290 . 03
A1460 . 404 Consulting Services $ 21952 . 00
A1460 . 405 Preservation/Restoration $ 31000 . 00
A1460 , 410 Conferences/Mileage $ 11000 . 00
TB Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 ( r )
Encumbrance Records Management 1997 Appropriations
Resolution No . 222 ( r )
Page 2 .
MOVED: Councilman Wolff SECONDED : Councilman Klein
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OF 1p
F� TOWN OF ITHACA
�,� 2i o4� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 ( a)
Town Board Minutes - November 6 , 1997
Resolution No . 223
WHEREAS , the Town Clerk has presented the Town Board Meeting Minutes for the
regular meeting held on November 6 , 1997 to the Town Board for their review and
approval ; and
WHEREAS , the town Board has reviewed the said minutes ; now therefore be it
RESOLVED , that the Town Board does hereby approve and adopt the said minutes
with the following amendment as the official minutes of the Town Board for the regular
meeting held November 6 , 1997 ,
Page 19 , First Paragraph : Supervisor Valentino - The Town will see what can be done ,
and will contact the Center.
Amendment : Supervisor Valentino - The Town will arrange for a time when members
of the Center can tour the Town Hall building , and they will be contacted .
MOVED : Councilwoman Russell
SECONDED : Councilman Wolff
Supervisor Valentino , aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , abstain ; Councilman Conley, absent during vote ;
Councilwoman Russell , aye ; Councilman Wolff, aye . Motion carried .
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
ty OF 1P
ti _ 9 TOWN OF ITH
ACA
,p� ~ zi o4� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 26 (c)
Bolton Point Warrants
Resolution No . 224
WHEREAS , the warrant with the following numbered listing of vouchers for Bolton
Point , Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission ( SCLIWC) has been
presented to the Town Board for approval of payment; and
Vouchers = Capital Projects Fund : No. H49= H50 , $6 , 436 . 00
Prepaid : No . 2276=2289 , $63 , 145 . 46
Water Fund : No . 2290=2353 , $ 130 , 819 . 26
WHEREAS , said warrant has been reviewed and audited for payment by the Town
Board ;
WHEREAS , the Town Supervisor/ Treasurer SCLIWC has found some
discrepancies in the use of certain account codes to be charged for some of the
vouchers, i . e . equipment account codes instead of maintenance account codes ; now,
therefore be it
RESOLVED , that the Town Board does hereby authorize the payment of said
vouchers as numbered and listed on the warrants upon the reclassifications of the
expense from equipment account codes to maintenance account codes for those
vouchers indicated by the Town Supervisor/Treasurer SCLIWC ,
MOVED : Supervisor Valentino
SECONDED : Councilman Wolff
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye ; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously .
DATED : December 8 , 1997 Q""
Joan Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OF1r
F 9 TOWN OF ITHACA
21o�~� 126 EAST SENECA STREET, ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
� Y
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 27
Consider Approval of Town of Ithaca Organizational Chart
Resolution No . 225
WHEREAS , pursuant to New York State Civil Service Law the Town Board of
the Town of Ithaca is required to develop and maintain an Organizational Chart ; and
WHEREAS , the Town Board has reviewed the Organizational Chart created by
the Human Resource Specialist which is filed in the personnel office; now therefore be
it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby approve the
Organizational Chart as filed in the personnel office as required for Civil Service and to
aid staff; and be it further
RESOLVED , the Organizational Chart is effective January 1 , 1998 and shall be
modified and amended by the Town Board if any position changes occur.
MOVED : Councilman Wolff
SECONDED : Councilwoman Russell
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov , aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley, aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously.
DATED : December 8 , 1997
( � L '. /n
J00 Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
OFIp
TOWN OF ITHACA
�,� ' 21044- 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y. 14850
� Y
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item Additional No . 1
Approval Community Residence Proposal , 132 Salem Drive
Resolution No , 226
WHEREAS , The Special Children ' s Center wishes to establish a community
residence for developmentally disabled children in an existing single-family house at
132 Salem Drive; and
WHERAS , the Town Board and the Attorney for the Town have reviewed the said
proposal including any legal issues ; now , therefore be it
RESOLVED , the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby approve of the
establish of a community residence for developmentally disable children in an existing
single-family house at 132 Salem Drive with the condition that the Building/Zoning
Officer inspects the said facility to insure that the residence meets the applicable state
and local building code requirements for such a facility.
MOVED : Councilwoman Russell
SECONDED : Councilwoman Grigorov
Supervisor Valentino , aye ; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye ; Councilman Klein , aye ;
Councilwoman Harrison , aye; Councilman Conley , aye ; Councilwoman Russell , aye ;
Councilman Wolff , aye . Carried unanimously .
DATED : December 8 , 1997
Jc#n Lent Noteboom , Town Clerk
�zy OF IT1
TOWN OF ITHACA
FINAL
S SEN � CA STREET, ITHACA , N . Y. 14850
STOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
TOWN BOARD MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 1997
5 : 30 p. m.
AGENDA
1 . Call to Order.
2 . Pledge of Allegiance .
3 . Report of Tompkins County Board of Representatives .
4. Report of Fire Commissioner .
5 . 6 : 00 p.m . - PERSONS TO BE HEARD .
6 . Review of Correspondence :
a. James M . Niefer, 102 Brandywine Drive .
b . Time Warner Cable - Rate Adjustment.
c . The DeWitt Historical Society of Tompkins County - Appreciation of funding .
d . Henry A. Walker - 119 Woolf Lane .
e . Earl C . Levengood , Jr.
7 . 6 : 15 p. m . - PUBLIC HEARING : To consider the adoption of the Parks ,
Recreation , and Open Space Plan .
8 , Consider SEAR related to the adoption of the Parks , Recreation , and Open Space
Plan .
9 . Consider resolution adopting the Parks , Recreation , and Open Space Plan .
10 . 7 : 00 p . m . - Consider request for rezoning on East Shore Drive in relation to the
Cornell Lake Source Cooling project . -
11 . Consider potential state legislation related to a ban on open burning .
TB Mtg , 12/8/97
Agenda
Page 2 .
12 . Consider potential state legislation related to yard wastes going to landfills or being
incinerated .
13 . Consider resolution ratifying submission of grant application to the New York State
Program for the Conservation and Preservation of Library Research Materials .
14 . Consider 1998 insurance proposal .
15 . Consider approval of 1998 health insurance contract with Preferred Health Plan .
16 . Consider approval of 1998 health and dental insurance contract with Blue
Cross/Blue Shield of Central New York.
17 . Consider approval of HMO health plan with Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Central New
York,
18 . Consider ratification of change order for the Buttermilk Falls Water Project.
19 . Consider authorization to re- advertise acceptance of bids for a new 1998 Trailer
Mounted Vacuum ,
20 . Consider request for re- evaluation of Sewer Benefit Assessment units .
21 . Consider report from the Attorney for the Town regarding the possible
abandonment of Williams Glen Road as a town road .
22 . Consider appointment recommendations to the Tompkins County Board of
Representatives for various advisory boards .
23 . Discuss Town of Ithaca appointments to various boards and committees .
24 . Announcement of results of referendum , related to the "RESOLUTION ENACTING
LOCAL LAW AUTHORIZING CONDUCT OF BELL JAR GAMES BY AUTHORIZED
ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE TOWN OF ITHACA" .
25 . Consider resolution authorizing continuation in the Alcohol & Drug Consortium with
Tompkins County.
TB Mtg . 12/8/97
Agenda
Page 3 .
26 . Consent Items : Consider resolutions approving and/or authorizing the following :
a . Town Board Meeting Minutes - 11 /6/97 .
b . TOWN OF ITHACA WARRANTS .
c. BOLTON POINT WARRANTS .
d . Authorization to pay difference in December health insurance premium for
employees .
e . 1997 Year End Budget Transfers .
f. Abstract Date Deadlines 1998 .
g . Attendance Association of Towns Annual Meeting .
h . Bolton Point - Employee Appointments .
i . Appointment Environmental Planner .
j . Creation of Administrative Assistant Position .
k . Provisional Appointment Administrative Assistant .
I . Creation Parks Maintenance Manager Position .
m . Provisional Appointment Parks Maintenance Manager Position .
n . Regular Appointment Senior Typist .
o . Approval of Floating Holiday for 1998 .
p . Approval Memorandum of Understanding with NYSDEC , maintenance of
streams .
q . Holiday Tree Pick- up Dates .
r. Approval to encumber 1997 Records Management Appropriations ,
27 . Consider approval of Town of Ithaca Organizational Chart .
28 . Reports of Town Officials :
a . Highway Superintendent .
b . Town Clerk/Receiver of Taxes .
c . Director of Engineering .
d . Director of Planning .
e . Director of Building/Zoning .
f. Human Resources .
g . Financial Report .
29 . Report of Town Committees .
30 . Set Town Board Meeting dates for 1998 .
31 . Consider ADJOURNMENT.
TB Mtg , 12/8/97
Agenda
Page 4 .
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Additional Agenda Items
1 , Consider Community Residence Proposal on 132 Salem Drive .
Agenda Item 3% a S
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT'S MONTHLY REPORT, NOVEMBER 1997
TOWN OF ITHACA TOWN BOARD MEETING, DECEMBER 8., 1997
Highway Superintendent' s
This month we repaired numerous water mains . Hanshaw Road had a water mains
break which took 12.5 hours of time to fix . This was done on Sunday, October 26, 1997.
Clover Lane and Pine Tree Road had water main breaks the same day. Between the
two, we spent 111 hours, of which 67 hours were over time. We replaced a water
service on Danby Road which took 16 hours; installed sound louvers at the Oakcrest
Water Pump Station, also taking 16 hours; and repaired a water main on Warren Road,
which took 38 hours . Other miscellaneous water and sewer work took 50 hours of time.
Our semi-annual leaf collection was started in November . This was curtailed due to the
heavy snow fall which hit in the middle of collection. We had to take off the leaf boxes
to plow the snow. However, we did get all of West Hill, South Hill, and most of East
Hill done . We are still struggling to finish this project.
We spent 236 . 75 hours on snow removal, of this time 155 . 75 were over time hours . We
used 63 tons of salt.
We finished the Coy Glen underground drainage project, except for lawn repair work
which will have to be done in the spring. To finish up the project, we consumed 171
hours of time, and put in 100 feet of pipe .
To round out our time, we spent 169 hours of time on machinery related work and 956
hours on General Repairs . Some of the projects include, preparing the salt/ IceBAN
conveyor for use, patching pot holes, and putting down shoulders .
Park Maintenance MaI er's
Snow removal for walks and bikeways required 20 . 5 hours . Community Service is
assisting us by doing hand shoveling seven days a week.
Installation of the basketball goal posts, backstops, and related site work at Eastern
Heights Park required 32 hours . Chain link fence was installed by a contractor.
Tree removals at several water tanks, pump stations, and trail sites took 88 hours .
Agenda Item 31a
Parks routine maintenance, totaling 182 hours, completed our work effort for
November.
December Projects
1 . Continue tree removals .
2. Park and trail leaf removal .
3 . Fertilize ball fields .
4. Snow removal as required .
5 . Snow Removal.
6, Cleaning Ditches .
ghk
I
Agenda Item No . 28 (b)
Town Clerk Monthly Report
Presented : Town Board Meeting - December 8 , 1997
Town Clerk : Normal sales and daily activities were performed during the month . Staff
was kept busy in the front office with sales of New York State Environmental
Conservation licenses . Legal Advertisements were prepared and sent for the
Highway/parks Facility Feasibility Study, the Local Law Amending the Sprinkler Law,
the Draft Parks Recreation and Open Space Plan , the Steel Water Tank Repainting ,
and the Material Storage Building for SCLIWC .
Tax Collection : On December 11 , representatives from the Williamson Law Book Co .
installed the new networked computer software for tax collection . A training session
will be held on December 11 , at the Tompkins County offices to familiarize and learn
how to operate the new software . The software has "dummy" parcels on our computers
so that staff can practice before the training session .
Records Management : On November 7 , the Town Clerk/Records Management Officer
met with Lorraine Johnson of the DeWitt Historical to review requirements and obtain
advice on the submission of the grant application to the New York State Program for
the Conservation and Preservation of Library Research Materials . Ms . Johnson was
very helpful with suggestions for the grant narrative . She reviewed two draft versions
of the narrative before it was finalized .
On Tuesday, November 25 , l met with Suzanne Etherington , Regional Advisor of the
State Archives Records Administration (SARA) to review the grant application and
discuss its correlation with the SARA grant to be submitted by February 1998 . Ms .
Etherington discussed a single grant application and a cooperative grant application
related to the construction of the Records Management Center in the new Town Hall .
Additional meetings and counsel will be held with Ms . Etherington prior to the
submission of the SARA grant application . During our meeting Ms . Etherington
disclosed that our library grant application is the first ever to be submitted by a
municipality in New York State . It will be very interesting to see if the application is
looked at favorably and funds are received . We will be notified of any award in May of
1998 .
Barbara Kretzmann , The Cutleaf Bindery, Hand Bookbinding & Restoration inspected
43 archival historical books of the Town on December 1 , to provide a quote for
preservation and restoration of these items for the library grant application . Ms .
Kretzmann examined each article and inventoried the needed restoration for each .
Several of the volumes showed smoke and water damage suggesting they were once
in a fire . I hope to do some investigative research to determine when and where the
fire took place . Even if the library grant is not awarded , the preservation and restoration
of these articles will occur through the normal budget appropriations .
TOWN CLERK ' S MONTHLqy REPORT
TOWN OF ITHACA , NEW YORK NOVEMBER , 1997
TO THE SUPERVISOR : PAGE 1
Pursuant to Section 21 , Subd f of the Town Law , I hereby make the following statement of all fees and moneys received by me
in connection with my office during the month stated above , excepting only such fees and moneys the application and payment
of which are otherwise provided for by law :
1997 SPORTING LICENSES
1998 SPORTING LICENSES 19 . • 50
2 MARRIAGE LICENSES N0 . 97043 TO 97044 . 17 . 50
AGRICULTURE REPORT
COPY AERIAL PHOTOS
3 MISC . COPIES 3 . 40
1 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 12 . 00
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
2 MARRIAGE TRANSCRIPT 20 . 00
NOISE ORDINANCE k
RETURNED CHECK — CLERK
RETURNED CHECK — TAXES
1 RETURNED . CHECK— W& S 11 . 00
OPEN SPACE REPORT
POSTAGE
SIGN ORDINANCE
SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS
1 TAX SEARCH 5 . 00
WATER & SEWER SEARCH
1 ZONING ORDINANCE 8 . 50
A1255 TOTAL TOWN CLERK FEES 96 . 90
A1555 69 DOG ENUMERATION @ $ 1 . 00 69 . 00
A1556 SPCA CONTRACT 316997
A1557 SPCA IMPOUND FEES 50 . 00
A2530 GAMES OF CHANCE LICENSES
BINGO LICENSES
4 BINGO FEES 29 . 97
A2540 TOTAL A2540 29 . 97
A2544 69 DOG LICENSES @ $ 2 . 00 138 . 00
Paid to Supervisor for General Fund 700 . 84
Paid to NYS DEC for 1998 Sporting Licenses 499 . 50
Paid to County Treasurer for Dog Licenses 102 . 03
Paid to Ag & Markets for Dog Licenses 21 . 00
Paid to NYS Health Department for Marriage Licenses 22 . 50
Paid to State Comptroller for Games of Chance Licenses
Paid to State Comptroller for Bingo Licenses
Total Disbursements 1 , 345 . 87
DECEMBER 2 , 1997 CAIR , V�A SUPERVISOR
STATE OF NEW YORK , COUNTY OF TOMPKINS , TOWN OF ITHACA
JOAN LENT NOTEBOOK , being duly sworn , says that she is the Clerk of the TOWN OF ITHACA
that the foregoing is a full. and true statement of all Fees and Moneys received by her during the month above stated ,
excepting only such Fees the application and payment of which are otherwise provided for by law ,
Subscribed and sworn to before me this q(z- !L + a �trn 1
Town Clerk
� nd day of=zublic / councilman 199 ,7 BETTY F. POOLE
NOTARY PUBLIC
STATE OF NEW YORK
unrary — AA1
Agenda # ? �
Town Engineer ' s Report for 12/8/97
Town Board Meeting
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
Sanctuary Drive
Monitoring of drainage and sediment control measures continues . Four additional Cayuga Heights
sewer units have been allocated for two new two-family homes.
Ithaca College
Construction of the HSHP and the Music Center building improvements continue to be monitored for
stormwater management impacts .
Ithacare
Court Street Companies , the General Contractor, has continued with site construction. Phase II
erosion and sediment control improvements are in place as the mass earth work is nearing completion
and the site drainage improvements are being installed. The water main boring under Danby Road
and water service installation has been completed and a recommendation to accept the watermain will
be made to the Town Board after as-built drawings and test results are received by the Town Engineer.
The Contractor has been very cooperative and is working to minimize drainage problems and keep dust
under control .
EARTH FILL PERMITS
Five Mile Drive, Immaculate Conception
The site is being utilized for the disposal of material dredged from the flood control channel under the
Corps of Engineer' s rehabilitation project. The channel excavation is nearing completion and sediment
control measures on the site will be maintained over the winter. Final grading and site restoration will
be completed in the Spring of 1998 .
Ithaca Vol . Vets Elmira Road
The Association received site plan approval from the Planning Board on October 29, 1996 for an
enlarged parking area on the property with additional fill to be placed. The Town Engineer is
monitoring the project. The bulk of fill is in place with more select fill to be placed for final top and
grading . Final grading of the site has not been completed.
FLOOD CONTROL CHANNEL REHABILITATION PROJECT
Phase II of the Cayuga Inlet Flood Control Channel rehabilitation project is nearing completion, and
channel excavation should be complete by mid-December. Final site cleanup and restoration will be
completed in the Spring of 1998 .
TOWN ENGINEERS REPORT 12 / 8 / 97 PAGE 2
WATER PROJECTS
The Town Engineer is continuing to work with the City Engineer and SCLIWC member municipal
engineers on the engineering evaluation to include the entire water infrastructure for the area.
The Buttermilk Falls Road Water Main replacement is substantially complete, with some service
connections and site restoration work remaining .
On the morning of 12/3/97 a fuel oil spill in the fall creek watershed resulted in the contamination
and resultant shutdown of the CU water treatment plant. Prior to the shut down of the CU plant a
quantity of finished water with fuel oil contamination was introduced to the distribution system
which feeds the Cornell campus and approximately 40 Town of Ithaca water customers in the upper
forest home area (Judd Falls Road, McIntyre Place, Forest Home Drive and the Byway) .
Henry Doney of CU notified me of the problem at approximately 10 a. m. and recommended that we
notify Town customers receiving water from the Cornell system not to drink or cook with the water
until further notice . I called Jack Rueckheim and asked him to notify the Forest Home Customers
that would be effected. He indicated that they would proceed with notification under the notification
procedure . Henry Doney faxed me a copy of the CU Drinking Water Alert at 11 : 37 which was then
faxed to Bolton Point for use in the notification of Town customers .
Cornell sampled several points on the distribution system during the day and had indicator tests for
petroleum run . After test results were received indicating that low levels of petroleum were present
in the distribution system the decision was made to flush the system using water from the
S . C . L . I . W. C . and City of Ithaca Systems was made. Valves were opened to supply the north campus
from the T-Main at Pleasant Grove Rd . , Forest Home from the Christopher Circle Grid, and Cornell
Heights in the city from the Sheldon Rd . Tank zone .
The Forest Home service area mains were flushed between 7 : 30 & 9 : 30 p .m . and residents were
notified by a hand delivered flyer on how to flush the household systems . The water alert continues
in effect until tests indicate that the mains are clear of contamination. CU was asked to sample two
points in Forest Home, one house on Judd Falls Rd . and one house on the Byway . Ann
Cristophersen said she would have this done as soon as possible on Thursday a.m . , probably mid
morning when additional sampling bottles are available .
Rehabilitation of the Cornell Plant is being planned and may require that the plant be off line for a
significant period of time . While the plant is down, water is being supplied to Cornell by
S . C . L . I . W. C . and the city of Ithaca. "-
TOWN ENGINEERS REPORT 12 / 8 / 97 PAGE 3
SEWER
The Buttermilk Falls Road Sewer extension is substantially complete, with some service connections
and site restoration work remaining.
STORMWATER
Development of the Townwide watershed evaluation is continuing. Base maps were developed
utilizing the digital planimetric map.
Processing of the field data and development of the watershed model for the Northeast Ithaca area is
underway. The model will result in recommendations for drainage improvements that will be
incorporated into the 1998 work plan .
A preliminary evaluation of the data and watershed analysis indicates that infrastructure improvements
for stormwater management will be primarily capacity improvements for the existing road drainage
system. Some stormwater detention may be recommended prior to additional development of the area.
The Town Engineer is evaluating the large undeveloped parcels in the area for potential stormwater
management facility sites .
Prior to finalization of a stormwater management plan of work for the Northeast area, the draft plans
will be reviewed by the Town Board and the public will have an opportunity to review the plan. The
public will have an opportunity to ask questions and make comments at a public meeting to be
scheduled.
C:I RPTSENGRI ERPT9710.REP
Agenda Item #28d
Planning Director 's Report for December 8 1997 Town Board MeetinLy
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
The following are actions that were considered by the Planning Board ,
Ithaca College Observatory, Danby Road
The Planning Board considered a Sketch Plan at the November 18, 1997 meeting
for the proposed construction of an observatory at the Ithaca College campus near
the top of South Hill, approximately 300 feet south of the existing water tower.
Recommendation to the Town Board Regarding the Draft Park, Recreation and Open
Space Plan
The Planning Board held a second public hearing at the November 18, 1997
meeting to consider a recommendation to the Town Board regarding the draft
Town of Ithaca Park , Recreation and Open Space Plan (March 10, 1997) along
with possible revisions to the March 10th Draft Plan . At the November 18th
meeting, the Planning Board adopted a resolution recommending that the Town
Board adopt the Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan with certain revisions
(refer to December 8th Town Board agenda items 7 through 9 for consideration of
adoption of the Plan) .
Mecklenburg Heights, Mecklenburg Road - Lead Agency Designation
The Planning Board declared its intent at the November 18, 1997 meeting to ,serve
as Lead Agency for the environmental review of the Mecklenburg Heights
development proposal on Mecklenburg Road . The project would consist of 56
apartment units in seven buildings on a 9 . 12 + / - acre portion of Tax Parcel No .
27- 1 - 13 . 12, adjacent to the Town of Ithaca / City of Ithaca boundary.
Consideration of a determination of significance of environmental impact is
tentatively scheduled for the December 16, 1997 Planning Board meeting .
CURRENT PLANNING DEPARTMENT PROJECTS
The following are significant accomplishments or issues that have been dealt with over
the past month .
SEOR Reviews for Zoning Board : One additional SEQR review for the Zoning Board
was completed regarding a request for a variance in order to maintain an existing
single-family home with up to four boarders , 109 Rich Road , Residence District R- 15,
Gail Ellsworth and Theodore Mayo, Appellants .
Codes and Ordinances Committee : The November meeting was cancelled due to lack of
a quorum, and a replacement meeting is scheduled for Thursday, December 11th.
Agenda items will include discussion of draft regulations regarding cellular /
communication towers, report on status of research regarding regulation of adult
entertainment uses, and discussion of new proposed Lakefront Residential Zone. The
regular December meeting will still be held on Wednesday, December 17, 1997.
Agenda items will include additional discussion of comments received on the revised
Zoning sections, a further revised Agricultural Zone, the overall process for Zoning
map revisions , and a further revised section on Site Plan Approval .
Planning Committee : The Planning Committee met on November 12, 1997, and a
concensus was reached on a draft Agricultural zone with further revisions, which will
be forwarded to Codes and Ordinances for consideration . Discussion continued on
possible amendments to the Town of Ithaca Subdivision Regulations to determine how
revisions in that document can be coordinated with the Zoning Ordinance revisions
currently in process . Specific discussion focused on guidelines to determine what land
is buildable in a subdivision, taking into consideration environmentally sensitive areas,
such as wetlands, steep slopes, and stream corridors. A summary of this discussion
will be provided to the Planning Committee at their next meeting, and could also be
made available to Town Board members . The next Planning Committee meeting is
scheduled for Monday, December 15, 1997.
Town of Ithaca - Cornell University Transportation Committee : The Committee met on
November 3, 1997. The agenda included follow-up discussions on possible Caldwell
Road improvements, follow-up discussion on road width of Pine Tree Road (formerly
Judd Falls Road) , a status report on the Northeast Subarea Study, and a discussion
regarding pedestrian crosswalks, signs, locations, etc. Some of the highlights of the
meeting are summarized as follows :
Caldwell Road : It was reported that the Public Works Committee had discussed
the timing of the improvement project, and felt that it would be important to
coordinate plans and funding with Cornell University. It was agreed that
preliminary plans should be prepared by the Town with cost estimates, and then
discussions with Cornell would be initiated regarding funding responsibilities,
since parts of the project would benefit and / or be related to Cornell facilities . It
was agreed that it would be appropriate to target the Caldwell Road project to
coincide with the State' s planned installation of a traffic signal at the Caldwell
Road / Route 366 intersection in the summer of 1998 .
2
Crosswalks : Discussion focused on the possible need for additional crosswalks
on Town roads to improve safety conditions for pedestrians and how they
should be signed . Members should be prepared at the next meeting to suggest
specific locations where crosswalk improvements might be appropriate . These
might be at locations where the elderly and / or children cross regularly,
especially at uncontrolled intersections . Signs could be helpful for their
educational value ( to stress the need for caution at crosswalks) . The existing
state laws regarding crosswalk signs will be reviewed .
The next meeting of- the Transportation Committee is tentatively scheduled for the first
or second week in January 1998 ( to be determined) .
Northeast Subarea Study: The Client Committee met with the consultants on November
14, 1997 to continue discussion on study organization, timeframes, etc. Guidelines for
establishment of the -Working Group, which will play a key role in the public
participation process, were worked out. It is anticipated that the Working Group will
consist of between 12 and 15 representatives of key stakeholder groups, and will meet
at least monthly . It was also agreed that the MPO would set up a web page for regular
updates on the study and providing a means of feedback from the public. Traffic count
locations have been identified . Counts at twelve locations will be completed before
Thanksgiving. Additional counts are available from the State and other sources . A
public information meeting is scheduled for the evening of Thursday, December 4,
1997, at 7:00 p . m . at the DeWitt Middle School . The next Client Committee meeting is
scheduled for January 7, 1998, where selection of Working Group members will be
discussed .
Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) : Four potential consultant teams were
interviewed by the LWRP Planning Committee on November 17, 1997, and a
recommendation is being forwarded to the Steering Committee. It is anticipated that
the Steering Committee will meet in mid-December to select the consultant team, after
which contract details would be finalized .
Filling of Vacant Environmental Planner Position : Numerous applications for the
Environmental Planner position were received and reviewed, and the interviewing
process was completed . The position has been offered to and accepted by Susan Ritter,
who is currently working as a resource management specialist at Everglades National
Park in Florida (refer to Consent Agenda Items for appointment) . Susan has excellent
environmental and natural resource related experience, as well as strong experience
with GIS systems .
New York Planning Federation Conference Saratoga Springs : The Supervisor, Planning
Director, and- two Planning Board members attended the New York Planning
Federation Annual Institute in Saratoga Springs, N . Y . , from October 26th through 29th .
Highlights of the conference included sessions on case law update, "hot button issues"
3
(apparently cellular towers and adult entertainment uses are controversial issues all
around the state) , agriculture and land use, an update on SEQR case law, the essentials
of small town land use and zoning codes, and economic development and main street
revitalization . Also of interest was a walking tour of downtown Saratoga Springs,
which focused on the historic preservation efforts and design review in the downtown
area .
MPO Planning_Committee : Director of Planning attended November 18, 1997 MPO
Planning Committee meeting. The travel demand model that has been in development
by consultants for the past year is almost complete. Final calibrations should be
completed before the end of this year . This model will be used in the Northeast
Subarea Transportation Study to forecast alternative transportation scenarios . The new
director of the MPO has been selected - Fernando DeAragon will start on January 17,
1998. There was a brief discussion regarding the North Triphammer Road project
planned in the Village of Lansing. The project will include four travel lanes from Route
13 to the Pyramid Mall entrance, and three travel lanes north of the Mall entrance .
Improvements will include bike lanes and sidewalks . Arrangements for state / federal
funding are being worked out. A report on the status of the TCAT transit system
consolidation indicated that the final tri-party agreement should be signed by January
1 , 1998, and that a consultant has been hired to conduct a study of how the
consolidation can more efficiently incorporate bus routes, fares, etc. Public meetings
are being held on that study.
Possible Town Park Site on East King Road opposite Ridgecrest Road : As a follow up to
conceptual discussions with the Town Board regarding the possible donation to the
Town of parkland on East King Road opposite Ridgecrest Road, staff has met several
times with the relevant parties . A preliminary plan has been prepared by Planning
staff and discussed with the Public Works Committee, which shows an approximately
two acre + / - park site with a new alignment for the proposed trail that would connect
East King Road and the park with Whitetail Drive . This preliminary plan does not
include any connection of the park or trail to the original proposed trail along the
drainage ditch that runs behind the Saunders Road lots westward and adjacent to ,the
Hospicare site. A meeting is scheduled for December 5th to discuss the proposal with
the Attorney for the Town, Town Engineer, and the landowner to see if an agreement
can be reached on how to proceed . It is possible that an update can be provided at the
December 8th Town Board meeting.
Historic Resources Survey: An Historic Overview of the Town of Ithaca has been
prepared by Historic Ithaca in conjunction with the historic resources survey that is
underway . Several revisions suggested by the Planning Department are being
incorporated into this Overview report. The Cornell Historic Preservation class is
completing -their semester study of the southeast portion of the town, and will be giving
a presentation on their study findings on Wednesday, December 10, 1997 at 7: 00 p .m.
4
at the Axiohm facility cafeteria on Danby Road . Town Board members are welcome
and encouraged to attend .
South Hill Plant Study : The follow-up South Hill Plant Study report has been
completed by Robert Wesley and Nancy Ostman, and submitted to the Planning
Department. The Conservation Board Chair and staff are reviewing the report to
ensure that it is complete, after which final payment under the terms of the contract can
be authorized . This should provide much needed information to the Conservation
Board, Planning Committee, and Town Board in order to proceed with
recommendations for preservation of sensitive areas on South Hill .
Filename: 17plan\ townbd \ tpre1297.mem
5
TOWN OF ITHACA
REPORT OF BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED Agenda if o
FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER 1997
YEAR TO DATE
TYPE OF PERMIT YEAR N OF PERMITS AMOUNT 9 AMOUNT
SINGLE FAMILY ATTACHED 1997 0 0 0 0
RESIDENCES 1996 0 0 0 0
SINGLE FAMILY DETACHED 1997 0 0 13 1 .396,015
RESIDENCES 1996 0 0 4 376,000
1997 0 0 8 1 ,222,000
TWO FAMILY RESIDENCES 1996 0 0 19 2.784,930
1997 1 16, 125 17 152,698
RENOVATIONS 1996 2 80,000 16 329,058
1997 I 20.000 4 26.000
CONVERSIONS OF USE 1996 0 0 4 33 ,785
1997 3 223 ,554 19 981 ,867
ADDITIONS TO FOOTPRINT 1996 1 30.000 17 627,088
1997 0 0 4 87456,000
MULTIPLE RESIDENCES 1996 0 0 0 0
1997 1 Professional Bldg entry pavilions 30,000 12 474,600
BUSINESS 1996 0 0 12 723 ,002
1997 0 0 0 0
AGRICULTURAL. 1996 0 0 0 0
1997 0 0 0 0
INDUSTRIAL 1996 0 0 1 20,000
1997 1 IC 1512 sq It grenhouse replacement 15 ,000 10 15,6531109
EDUCATIONAL 1996 0 0 15 8,553 . 165
I Rebuild portion of foundation 16.850
1 Hayloft building alterations 20,000
MISCELLANEOUS 1997 2 36.850 44 1 ,0971198
CONSTRUCTION 1996 11 118.300 38 686.824
TOTAL NUMBER OF 1997 9 341 ,529 131 29.459,487
PERMITS ISSUED 1996 14 228.300 126 14. 133 ,852
TOTAL FEES 1997 9 775 131 23 ,390
RECEIVED _ 11996 114 650 126 22.420
Date Prepared: December 1 , 1997
Dani L . Holford
Building/Zoning Department Secretary
2 -
TOTAL CERTIFICATES OF OCCUPANCY ISSUED THIS MONTH - 4
1 . 115 Salem Drive - existing single-family dwelling.
2 . 674 Coddington Road - Install new roof section and dormer.
3 . 380 Pine Tree Road (Courtside) - creation of tanning room and massage room.
4. 1020 East Shore Drive - fireplace and chimney.
TOTAL CERTIFICATES OF OCCUPANCY YEAR TO DATE, 1997 - 155
TOTAL CERTIFICATES OF OCCUPANCY YEAR TO DATE, 1996 - 136
INQUIRIES/COMPLAINTS INVESTIGATED THIS MONTH - 4
1 . 273 Bundy Road - building code - abated.
2 . 1000 Coddington Road - fill - no violation found.
3 . 129 Northview Road - building code - no violation found.
4. 201 West King Road - parking - abated.
From October 1997:
1 . 605 Winston Court, 94 - building code - pending.
2. 1447 Trumansburg Road - building code and zoning violation (illegal apartment) - pending.
3 . 30 Renwick Heights Road - building code and zoning violation (illegal apartment) - pending.
From September 1997:
1 . 119 Woolf Lane - building code - pending.
From Auggst 1997 :
1 . 237 Troy Road - building code - abated.
From luiv 1997:
1 . 527 Warren Road - occupancy - pending.
From May 1995 :
1 . 1152 Darby Road - zoning and building code - pending legal action.
From March 1994:
1 . 132 Forest Home Drive - building code - pending state hearing on 9/ 19/96 - variance granted - fire alarm installed - exterior stairway pending.
TOTAL COMPLAINTS INVESTIGATED YEAR TO DATE. 199^ - 54
TOTAL COMPLAINTS INVESTIGATED YEAR TO DATE, 1996 - 73
TOTAL FIELD VISITS THIS MONTH - 65
Uniform Building Code - 29
Local Law and Zoning Inspections - 21
Fire Safety - 3 (2 schools, 1 professional/industrial complex) _ .
Fire Safety Reinspections - 6 ( 1 school. 2 churches. I apartment. 1 business. 1 public assembly)
Fire/Emergency Occurrences - 2 ( 1 house. . fireplace, I two-family multiowner house. . fireplace)
Fire Occurrence Reinspections - 4
TOTAL FIELD VISITS YEAR TO DATE, 1997 - 974
TOTAL FIELD VISITS YEAR TO DATE, 1996 - 998
- 3 -
AL SIGN PERMITS THIS MONTH - 0
TOTAL SIGN PERMITS YEAR TO DATE, 1997 - 2
TOTAL SIGN PERMITS YEAR TO DATE, 1996 - 3
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
I MEETING, 1 CASE, AGENDA ATTACHED
:r
TOWN OF ITHACA ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1997 a L
7 : 00 P. M.
By direction of the Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Public Hearings will be
held by the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Ithaca on Wednesday, September 10, 1997, in Town Hall, 126 East
Seneca Street, (FIRST Floor, REAR Entrance, WEST Side), Ithaca, N. Y., COMMENCING AT 7 :00 P. M . , on the following
matters :
w
A. APPEAL of Jim Brown , dba AAA Cleaning Service, Appellant, requesting a variance from the requirements of Article IV,
K Section 12 of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, to be permitted to operate a janitorial service with outside employees
from a residence located at 1 17B Honness Lane, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 58-2-39 . 11 , Residence District R- 15 . Said
Ordinance provides for limited home occupations, but without outside employees.
AAPPEAL of Gail Ellsworth and Theodore Mayo, Appellants, requesting a variance from the requirements of Article IV,
k Section 11 of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, to be permitted to maintain an existing single- family home with up to
° four boarders, at 109 Rich Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 50- 1 -5 .42, Residence District R- 15 . Said Ordinance limits a
o residential occupancy to a single family plus one boarder.
!=_ APPEAL of Richard and Laura Cunningham , Appellants, requesting variances from the requirements of Article IV, Sections
T 13 and 14 of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, to be permitted to construct a garage with a building height of 20 feet ( 15
H
foot height limit) and having a north and south side yard setback of 5 + feet ( 10 foot setback required) located at 941
CA Taughannock Boulevard, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 25 -2-2, Residence District R- 15 . A Special Approval under Article
ru XII, Section 54 may also be required.
Said Zoning Board of Appeals will at said time, 7 : 00 p . m . , and said place, hear all persons in support of such matters or
objections thereto. Persons may appear by agent or in person . Individuals with visual or hearing impairments or other
special needs, as appropriate, will be provided with assistance, as necessary, upon request. Persons desiring assistance must
make such a request not less than 48 hours prior to the time of the public hearing .
Andrew S . Frost
Director of Building and Zoning
273 - 1783
Dated: November 3 , 1997
Publish : November 7 , 1997
OF 17w
> TOWN OF ITHACA
126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y. 14850
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273-1704
Town Board Meeting 12/8/97
Agenda Item No . 28 (f)
Human Resource Monthly report for November 1997
PERSONNEL ISSUES :
We received 60 cover letters and resumes for the Environmental Planner
position that we advertised in the Ithaca Journal , Syracuse Herald , New York
Times , APA Web site and a few college job opportunity listings. On November
21 , 1997 George Frantz, Jonathan Kanter and I interviewed our top choice from
all the applicants . We offered this position to Susan Ritter and she has verbally
accepted the position . Ms . Ritter presently resides in Homestead , Florida and
works for the Everglades National Park. Ms . Ritter was originally from the
Seneca Falls area , so she is fairly familiar with the Ithaca area . Susan has
asked to start her position with the Town on January 12 , 1998 , since she has to
move here and try to find a home .
SEMINARS/TRAINING FOR THE HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE :
In November, I attended the National Safety Council seminar on safety
committees . The speaker was Dan Mencucci , Director of Safety and Health for
the NYSDOT. He spoke about the importance of safety and what safety actually
was . The phrase that I liked the most was that " safety means protecting
employees from themselves . " Mr. Mencucci stressed that safety actually comes
from bottom up . Employees need to realize that working correctly means
working safely. Employees need to comprehend that working safely benefits
themselves , their family and their friends. He also stressed that management
needs to emphasize that "this safety program is not ours ( management) , but your
( employee's) safety program . " Therefore, having employees working together to
foster their own safety program will give them ownership of their own safety and
life .
Also in November, I attended a seminar put on by the State Insurance
Fund on their Early Return-To-Work program . This program is designed to bring
employees back to work doing modified jobs earlier than in the past. The theory
behind this program is to bring employees back into the work force and reduce
lost days, which everyone knows is costly. Another goal with this program is that
it will give the employee something to do so that they do not become complacent
while receiving workers' compensation benefits . This program is a more
proactive approach which requires communication from management so that
employees know what the policy is .
I attended the Cornell University Human Resources Institute, November
17- 18, 1997 . 1 feel this conference was very good and would highly suggest this
conference for anyone interested in gaining more information about Human
Resources . The sessions that I attended were ; conflict resolution , performance
management, managing the employee psychological contract, HR professionals
as internal consultants and employee relations . I came back from the
conference with a lot of ideas I would like to try in the Town of Ithaca .
The most interesting part of the conference was a 2 hour session on
" Facing the Challenges of the 21 st Century in HR" . The session summarized
that the HR professional has to become more than just a paper pusher, they are
becoming an important part of the entire organization . HR professionals will
need to become more proactive , more of a player and not so much of a coach ,
and find ways for the employees to work smarter not harder. The speaker made
a very interesting point that previously the employees made adjustments to
adapt to the workplace , however, now the " rule of thumb" is that the workplace
has to adapt to the work force. The trends of the future include : a decrease in
employee loyalty and commitment, outsourcing work and using contract labor,
insourcing ( using line managers to do more HR work and more accounting
work) , and organized labor increasing organized efforts . My conclusion of the
two day conference is that the HR office will need to take on more responsibility
than it has in the past century and be more active with the entire organizational
structure .
CIVIL SERVICE :
The county civil service office held a mandatory public hearing to
petition the State Civil Service Commission for the three Director positions and
the Budget Officer position . Supervisor Valentino , Daniel Walker and I attended
the public hearing in support of the 4 positions the Town has requested to be
petitioned . Mr. Estes has sent me a copy of transcript from the public hearing .
At this point Mr. Estes is unsure how long it will be before the commission meets
and sends a determination on our request.
SAFETY:
All Town Hall staff participated in a three hour officio safety training . This
training was provided by our safety management group , Lovell . Most
employees felt the program was helpful and gave some good ideas for future
programs . One of the comments that I will be forwarding to James Cary, Senior
Safety and Health Consultant from Lovell , is to take the participants on a "walk
n
through" pointing out possible hazards . Most of the participants felt the seminar
was helpful and that it increased their safety knowledge .
A program like this will be held each year to bring safety awareness to the
attention of the employees . One of the best ways to prevent accidents and
injuries is to provide the constant support that employee safety is important to
the Town . Without your commitment, as the leaders of this organization , safety
will not become important to the employees .
HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE :
I have spent time dealing with the BC/BS and with PHP in order to get our
health and dental contracts arranged for the 1998 premium year. Heidi Adsit
from BC/BS has made it known that our participation level is below the normal
limit. They will be offering coverage to us for the 1998 plan year due to a
promise made to Supervisor Valentino . Heidi has brought forward a program
called Health Guard Blue to offer to the employees . This program is a HMO
program with all the same benefits as our present PHP plan at a lower cost.
However, the participants will not have the coverage at the Cayuga Medical
Center ( CMC ) . Heidi has explained that CMC will most likely not be a
participating hospital again in 1998 . PHP will be bringing a new dental program
to us in early 1998 . At that time there would be an open enrollment period . Both
health plans are now required by law to carry chiropractic coverage .
have completed the general and daily functions of the Office.
Respectfully Submitted ,
Judith C . Drake
Human Resources Specialist
Open Space Plan Public Hearing
December 8 , 1997 46
Christiana Dean , Chair , Ag . Comm .
I . I ' m Christiana Dean , Chair of the Town ' s Agricultural Committee .
II . To help set the context for my recommendations tonight , let me
remind you that , according to the Town Planning Department ' s 1992
calculations ( the most recent calculations we have for agricultural
land ) fewer than fifteen farm families keep 5 , 970 acres open within
the Town . Helping farmers stay in business is a good bargain for
the Town . And , the loss of even one farm has serious implications
for the Town ' s open space .
III . Thank you for listening the Ag Committee ' s request for right -
to - farm protection , and for a voluntary Purchase of Development
Rights program . I am pleased to see both a right - to - farm provision ,
and a voluntary PDR program , in the Draft Open Space Plan . We
appreciate the excellent educational efforts of Jon Kantor and
George Franz of the Town ' s Planning Department , and of Cooperative
Extension ' s Monika Roth , to educate the farmers on the ins and outs
of a voluntary PDR program .
I urge you to act quickly to set up the PDR program . There are
farms in the Town that could readily go out any month . A good PDR
program could make the difference in keeping these farms in open
space , either by :
- infusing enough capital into a farm so the farmer could
reduce the farm ' s debt ratio to a profitable enough level to
keep farming , or
-providing a retiring farmer with a substantial cash payment
while lowering the sale price of the farm enough that a young
farmer could buy it .
The Town ' s Ag Committee stands ready to work with the Town to set
up the guidelines for a voluntary PDR program .
IV . Now I ' d like to speak to three other
P proposals currently under
review within the Town , which I believe are detrimental to
agriculture and the Town ' s open space goals .
A . Allowing trailer parks _ in ag zones is a guarantee of
ongoing problems for farmers and for the Town . Although one or
two farmers who are on the way out already may welcome the
chance to sell their land for a trailer park ( or for
anything ) , a trailer park ( or any high - density housing ) is a
bad neighbor for an active farm . No right to farm regulation
can prevent or dispel the complaints that inevitably arise
from residents in high - density housing near farms . Farms and
high- density neighbors ( especially trailer parks ) are , simply
put , bad bedfellows .
B . I would also like to address current proposals to allow
multiple residence housing and commercial development on the
corner of 96B and West King Road , the threshold to 1 , 085 acres
of active agricultural land on South Hill . This is nearly one -
.__ ,
teo b he a ricultural land within the Town , owned and
bus two farm f ami 1 ies . ( My husband and f own one
of these farms . ) If you proceed with allowing the proposed
development on the corner which is the threshold to our farms ,
you are unwittingly sounding the death knell for agricultural
on South hill . I am calling for you to find ways to prevent
development on the corner of 96B and West King Road , and to
work with the State Parks system to add that acreage to
Buttermilk Falls State Park . This year New York State will
provide funds to buy land around Taughannock Falls State Park
to prevent inappropriate development next to that park . If you
act with foresight now , you can keep a similar possibility
open for Buttermilk Falls State Park over the next few years .
on the other hand , if you allow development proposals for the
corner of 96B and West King Road to proceed , you are not only
foreclosing the possibility of keeping that particular space
open , but are also multiplying the likelihood that the two
farmers who keep nearly a fifth of the Town ' s agricultural
land open , will capitulate to development pressure .
C . In closing , I will address the issue of phone towers .
Although I know of at least one member of the Town ' s
agricultural community who would like to be able to use
farmland for phone towers , phone towers quickly destroy the
scenic farm vistas and rural character you are try )qg to
promote . I believe that phone towers have no place in the Town
of Ithaca , and that if you do bend to pressure to allow them ,
it would be unconscionable to continue to consider that land
they are on , or the vast numbers of acres marred by their
blinking lights , as high quality open space .
V . Thank you for your consideration , and I and the Town
Agricultural Committee look forward to working collaboratively with
you to design the guidelines for a voluntary Purchase of
Development Rights program .
citizens to Save Our Parks Statement by Doria Higgins , Dec 8 , 1997
Town of Ithaca Public Hearing on Parks , Recreation and Open Space Plan
I am Doria Higgins speaking for. Citizens to Sava Our Parks
a group which has been active for over 10 years in working - far -propsr
maintenance , conservation and acquisition of local parks :
First we would like to commend you and your staff for
creating the Down Parks , Recreatio : and Open Space Plan and we
wish you , we wish us your constituents , success in bringing it
to adoption and implementation and completion .
However , according to our understanding , there is one
s i f i c a n t fault in the plan and we bring this to your at . ention
for rectification ,
One piece of land , near the corner of 96D and 'Test King
' lad ( •/ o understand than Kara agadorn has passed out ma-c3 of } Y. o
area in .fuss Lion to you ) was left out of the Purchase of
Development Program and is zoned Multiple Residence . It seems
to us tlnat a multiple residence complex that near UDper ? uttermilk
S ` ats - = rk could b = destructive uo ` ^ e privacy a= k and
ae hope + that you can remedy tr i s problem .
so ve have oee : Cld ~, Jt :. e uar~ y = gad has : e � o 'ned
3 rs uu I = r_ a m
x a . - _nJ lJoUly JL � J . an
D
a „ r � _� .. . _ _ J ro aJ � .� "1 r1 � a
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1
- - % ^1 J ; : °_ - _ � , mlJ = - _ to .' jlio WCUi po UnQez ? 0l °
ze _ S Ala:^_ ni : .' � l ia :1C
N :� lv � _ � � a rn = Tv = r naJ er
J
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v :. : � _ l vi .. i - enJ C Save C :�, � TarzCJ
' V 7 M '” wn � hard 'moo a = n '1 c Ct ^. ° r mee ti . ` a tcnic0q
o 0
: ooley asked me to pass on to you her urging that you
ins tiger . s measures to ensure envirohrmen ;, al pro t = c t i o n of town
�a ` erways , stream rridors , ` rom the hazards - of -. modern existerice ,
( including development ) such - as water contamination and soil erosio :^ ,
She also suggests that whenever Town lakeshore property
comes on the market that the Town acquire it so that the Town
can control the use to which it will be put .
And I urge you to give priority to the purchase of the
larger community parks in the Town Parks Plan over the purchase
of the smaller neighborhood parks . The smaller parks are and
will continue to be more easily available . The community parks
of larger acreage will not only give pleasure and fun to a much
larger constituency but will be harder to , acquire as time goes
by . The sooner they are acquired the better , and the sooner
they are acquired the less expensively they can be had .
' ' N
fa
/
S � , .• nda
d . Finger Lakes Land Trust
,__202 East Court Street
Ithaca, New York 14850
(607) 275-9487
,'`Orporlrcd `9%q . . . working to protect the natural integrity of the Finger Lakes Region.
December 5 , 1997
Memo to : Ithaca Town Board
From : Betsy Darlington, Director of Land Protection
Date: December 5 , 1997
We are in strong support of the Planning Board ' s Open Space and Park Plan, with one exception :
We urge you to include in the conservation zone or the purchase-of-development-rights program
the R- 3 areas adjoining Buttermilk State Park, south of West King Rd. Buttermilk Park is one of
the County ' s special treasures, and having dense housing so close to the park would drastically
alter the character of the park. Please do not permit this to happen ! Up to 200 families could,
under current ,zoning, live in close proximity to the park, bringing with them noise, pets, and
chemical runoff—to name just a few of the impacts that would result. The park would become
far less appealing for residents of Tompkins County and visitors, and the effect on wildlife could
be devastating . The appalling predation on birds by cats has been well documented .
While we are very supportive of concentrating residences in small areas or in the City of Ithaca,
it is vital that areas with unique natural qualities not be compromised. In fact, the Citizens
Planning Alliance has proposed several areas within the City for "urban villages," and this seems
far more appropriate than having such density far from the City, and especially adjacent to such
an important resource as Buttermilk State Park. As the County grows in population, having such
precious resources available, in an unspoiled state, will become ever-more important, to both
humans and wildlife.
Thank you for your consideration of this important issue.
-DES
mod` Finger Lakes Land Trust
202 East Court Street '
I ~` Ithaca, New York 14850
qty y� / (607) 275 -9487
ncotPoracee `9a9 . . . working to protect the natural integrit v of the Finger Lakes Region.
Memo to : Members of the Ithaca Town Planning Board and Town Board
Date: November 14, 1997
From : Betsy Darlington, Director of Land Protection
We applaud your efforts to plan wisely for the long-term open space needs of Town of Ithaca
residents (and others), with your new draft Parks, Recreation and Open Space proposal . We urge
you, however, to reconsider one key aspect of the draft Plan .
The entire Six-Mile Creek corridor has been a major target area of the Land Trust since "day
one. " The Land Trust holds nine conservation easements in the Six Mile Creek watershed. We
are especially concerned, therefore, about any aspects of landuse regulation or planning that
would not tend to protect the corridor.
Development of the Sincebaugh property, for 25 houses, or even a few, would have a serious
negative effect on the Six Mile Creek Natural Area, and specifically on the South Hill
Recreationway. The Natural Area and the Recreation Way are important amenities, ones that
must not be compromised . If we are to keep people in the more densely populated core area,
they must have amenities that will keep them there . One of the most significant of these is this
greenway, and the trails that cross it . The area will be much less appealing to people if houses
and new roads are allowed to intrude and to spoil the open views from the Trail . The type of
development that is now permissible on this parcel would seriously detract from the natural
experience for users of the trail and, indeed, of the entire Natural Area. Thus, rather than
encouraging people to live in the core area, the effect would be to drive them out, increasing
sprawl .
By not designating the property in the plan as open space, you would essentially be cutting off
this wonderful opportunity. We urge you to include the Sincebaugh parcel in the Town ' s
Purchase of Development Rights program, and to zone all of it for conservation.
From seven years of experience, the Land Trust is familiar with the requirements for public
funding assistance ( for land acquisition) . By not providing municipal designation of this parcel
in the Open Space Plan, the Town could seriously jeopardize its likelihood of qualifying for
public funding (e. g. , from NYS ) to protect this area.
Thank you for your consideration .
ADOPTED RESOLUTION : Draft Park, Recreation & Open Space Plan ,
Recommendation to Town Board
Town of Ithaca Planning Board
November 18 , 1997
MOTION by Candace Cornell , seconded by Gregory Bell .
WHEREAS :
1 . The Town of Ithaca Planning Department has prepared a draft Park, Recreation and
Open Space Plan , dated March 10 , 1997 , and an Executive Summary of the Plan. dated
June 9 , 1997 , and
2 . Said plan outlines a series of suggested policies and recommendations for action with
regard to the provision of public park and recreation facilities in the Town of Ithaca over
the next two decades, and further, suggested policies and recommendations for action
with regard to protecting agriculturally and environmentally significant open space
resources within the Town of Ithaca, and
3 . The Town Board has referred said draft Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan to the
Planning Board for its review and recommendation with regard to adoption of said plan,
and
4 . The Planning Board, on October 7 , 1997 has reviewed the summaries of four public
informational meetings held concerning said plan in June and July of 1997, and written
comments regarding said plan received by the Planning Department, and
5 . The Planning Board, on October 7 , 1997 has held a public hearing on said draft Park,
Recreation and Open Space Plan , and
6 . The Planning Board requested that Planning staff consider certain revisions to the draft
Plan that had been suggested at the October 7 , 1997 hearing , and
7 . Planning staff has prepared a memorandum to the Planning Board, dated November 7,
1997, outlining suggested revisions to the March 10 , 1997 draft Park, Recreation and
Open Space Plan , and
8 . The Planning Board, on November 18 , 1997 , has held a second public hearing to consider
the draft Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan , dated March 10 , 1997, along with the
suggested revisions to the draft Plan as outlined in the Planning Department
memorandum dated November 7 . 1997 .
ADOPTED. RESOLUTION ; Draft Park, Recreation & Open Space, Plan
Recommendation to Town Board
Town of Ithaca Planning Board
November 18 , 1997
NOW, THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED :
That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby recommends to the Town Board that it adopt the
draft Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan , dated March 10 , 1997 , with the following
suggested modifications to said Plan :
a. Incorporation of the revisions to the draft Park, Recreation and Open Space
Plan as outlined in the memorandum from the Planning Department to the
Planning Board, dated November 7 , 1997 , modified
(i) to add the Sincebaugh property (Tax Parcel No . 53 - 1 - 13 ) for inclusion
in the PDR program ;
(ii) to enlarge the Conservation District to include all of the Sincebaugh
property ;
(iii) by changing the language in Section 1 (c) of the memo regarding the
total cost of the Plan, to express the cost in terms of assessed value ,
to delete the reference to " increased" property taxes, and to clarify
the figures : and
(iv) by adding references to " Scenic Views " on pages 59 and 6 '3 of the
Plan as recommended by Ms . Hoffmann.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Planning Board finds that :
1 . The Sincebaugh parcel is in close proximity to the Six Mile Creek
and Reservoir making it important to include it as a buffer for
protection of the Creek and Reservoir,
2 . The parcel is important to the maintenance of the character of the
South Hill Recreation Way , a portion of which traverses the
Sincebaugh parcel ,
3 . The parcel is an important link to ensure the preservation of an
integrated open space network in the Six Mile Creek Natural Area,
and
2
ADOPTED RESOLUTION : Draft Park, Recreation& Open Space Plan
Recommendation to Town Board
Town of Ithaca Planning Board
November 18 , 1997
4 . Preservation of the parcel will help to ensure the protection of
public investments that have already been made on the South Hill
Recreation Wav and in the Six Mile Creek Natural Area.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED :
That the Planning Board recommends that the Town Board in implementing the Plan use, as
much as possible , funding sources other than real property taxes , such as those identified in the
Plan.
AYES - Wilcox, Hoffmann, Cornell , Bell , Ainslie, Kenerson .
NAYS - None .
The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously .
Kar n McGuire, Secretary, Town of Ithaca . Mary rvant, ministrative ecretary
3
r J
December 2 , ' 1997 ITHACp`
.T.�w
Agenda # 6 e
Catherine Valentino
Town Supervisor
Town of Ithaca
126 E . Seneca Street
Ithaca, New York 14850
Dear Ms . Valentino :
I was so delighted to receive your letter dated October 30 ,
1997. I was out of town to visit my mother for the Thanksgiving
holiday when the work was completed to address my drainage
problem . I am not aware as to whether the Town of Ithaca or the
Village of Lansing did the work, however, I am so thankful for your
personal attention given to this matter .
The ditch has been dug out around the culvert area and a stone
retainer wall installed. It was not until I requested your assistance
in helping me with this dilemma that a resolution was attained .
Please extend to your staff my sincere appreciation for their efforts .
It was so gratifying to have had the opportunity to meet with
you and be able to experience personally your dedication to your
position . My wife and I wish to extend to you and . your family a
very joyous holiday season .
Sincerely ,
'! 'e r4...
,
Earl C . Leveng000d , Jr.
146 Burleigh Drive
Ithaca, New York 14850
cc : Martin A . . Luster, Assemblyman
December 2 , , 1997
Mr . Fred Noteboom
Highway Superintendent
Town of Ithaca
106 Seven Mile Drive
Ithaca , New York 14850
Dear Mr. Noteboom :
First of all , thank you for your letter dated. November 6 , 19978
1 was out of town to visit my mother over the Thanksgiving holiday ,
and on my return , I was so delighted to see that the drainage
problem had been addressed .
The ditch had been dug out around the culvert area and a stone
retainer wall installed . I am not aware as to whether the Town of
Ithaca or the Village of Lansing did the work, however, I am
extremely appreciative for the work done .
It was only when I called upon the Town of Ithaca for
assistance that my drainage problem received attention . Please
accept my sincere gratitude for the help that you provided in this
effort. On behalf of my wife and I, it is our hope that you and your
family experience a very joyous holiday season .
Sincerely ,
}
Earl C. Levengood, Jr.
146 Burleigh Drive
Ithaca, New York 14850
CC * Catherine Valentino , Town Supervisor
Martin A . - Luster , Assemblyman
December 2 , 1997
Mr. Martin A . Luster
Assemblyman , 125 District
106 East Court Street
Ithaca, New York 14850
Dear Mr. Luster :
I wish to extend to you and your staff my sincere gratitude for
your attention to my drainage problem . I have enclosed copies of
the letters that I sent to Catherine Valentino , Supervisor, Town of
Ithaca , and Fred Noteboom , Highway Superintendent, Town of Ithaca.
Because of your concern for one of your democratic supporters .. and
the dedicated efforts of the Town of Ithaca , my drainage problem has
been addressed .
My wife and I would like to extend to your staff and also to
you and your family a very joyous holiday season . Once again , thank
you for your support .
Sincerely ,
Earl C . Levengood, Jr.
146 Burleigh Drive
Ithaca, New York 14850
cc : Catherine Valentino , Town Supervisor
Fred Noteboom , Highway Superintendent
December 2 , 1997
Mr . Fred Noteboom
Highway Superintendent
Town of Ithaca
106 Seven Mile Drive
Ithaca , New York 14850
Dear Mr. Noteboom :
First of all , thank you for your letter dated November 6 , 1997 .
I was out of town to visit my mother over the Thanksgiving holiday ,
and on my return , I was so delighted to see that the drainage
problem had been addressed .
The ditch had been dug out around the culvert area and a stone
retainer wall installed . I am not aware as to whether the Town of
Ithaca or the Village of Lansing did the work, however, I am
extremely appreciative for the work done .
It was only when I called upon the Town of Ithaca for
assistance that my drainage problem received attention . Please
accept my sincere gratitude for the help that you provided in this
effort. On behalf of my wife and I , it is our hope that you and your
family experience a very joyous holiday season .
Sincerely ,
Earl C. Levengood, Jr.
146 Burleigh Drive
Ithaca, New York 14850
cc : Catherine Valentino , Town Supervisor
Martin A . Luster, Assemblyman
i
123 Woolf Lane
Ithaca, NY 14850
November 25 , 1977
Mr. Andrew S . Frost
Director of Building and Zoning
Town of Ithaca
126 East Seneca St.
Ithaca, NY 14850
Dear Mr. Frost:
I received late last week a copy of your letter to Mr. McClure concerning 119 Woolf Lane .
All too often we take our governmental officials for granted . We complain when they have not
done their jobs to our satisfaction and we rarely compliment them on jobs well done. I want to
thank you for the prompt handling of the concerns I raised with your office and of the thoroughly
professional manner in which you have carried out your duties. It reminds me that, in most
instances, our tax dollars are well spent . Thanks again .
Sincerely,
Henry . Walker
pc: Cathy Valentino, Supervisor
John Barney, Town Attorney
NOV 2 1 1997 '
The DeWitt. Historical Society of Tompkins Co nl'DWN ® F iTt-iA�"C
q
Tompkins County Museum Eight Square Schoolhouse
401 East State Street , Ithaca , New York
(607) 273-8284 ( 607 ) 273-6107 FAX
November 18 , 1997
Cathy Valentino, Supervisor
Town of Ithaca
126 East Seneca Street
Ithaca, New York 14850
Dear Ms. Valentino,
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of the DeWitt Historical Society thank you for awarding
$9,000 to the Society for programs and services in 1998 . We appreciate the faith you have
entrusted in our ability to continue to serve the Town of Ithaca. The funds you have granted
will do much to help us with our mission to collect, preserve and interpret our local history .
Sincerely ,
Nancy L. I,de/ming
President
A local; Affiliate of the New York Council for the Humanities
TIME WARNER
C A E31 E
November 21 , 1997
Ms . Joan Lent Noteboomi , Clerk
Town of Ithaca
126 E . Seneca Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
Dear Ms . Noteboom :
I wanted you to be aware that we are notifying our customers of a rate adjustment taking effect January 1 ,
1998 for some components of our service. These changes continue to comply with federal cable rate regulation,
overseen bN1 the Federal Communications Commission .
1 have attached a draft copy of our customer notification for your review and information; our customers will
receive their notices by December 1 .
The rates we charge for cable service continue to reflect our costs of doing business, and the complex
government rules under which we operate determine how we may recover the increased costs of the cable
programning we provide, as well as for general inflation. Additionally, the increase on our Standard level of service
allows us to recover our previous and planned technological investments in the cable system, and includes the
increased programming costs for added channels our customers enjoy on this level of service.
You will note that we continue to offer a " Basic" level of service, often referred to as our " life-line" service.
This low-cost service offers clear, reliable reception of broadcast and local programming channels and , in fact, the
rate for this service will decrease as of January 1 , 1998 . We will also be eliminating a charge for additional outlets
to our Premium ( HBO, Cinemax, Showtime, & Disney) customers , saving them an additional $2 . 95 per month .
The rate notification also makes mention of our exciting news for our Ithaca system in 1998 : a major
investment by us in a complete upgrading and rebuilding of your cable system, incorporating new technology and
the benefits of fiber-optic cable. Later next year, we will offer even more reliable, clearer reception for our
customers , plus the ability to add many new channels and planned services in the future. Time Warner Cable is
committed to our commwuty, and is pleased to offer its customers the benefits of our advanced cable system in the
coming year.
We understand that any billing change will generate questions from customers . Federal regulations require
that customers send their complaints to the local franchise authority . Should you or your office receive any calls,
please feel free to forward them to me. Our customer service representatives will be able to answer and resolve their
questions or concerns .
If you have additional questions about these changes, please give me a call . I'd be happy to meet with you
personally to answer them. My number is 272-7875 , ext. 3329 .
S�cc�, ,
_ ,V <:Z
Phil Smith
General Manager
cc: Ms. Catherine Valentino, Supervisor
5 19 II4•.st iittto Nir,•,•i I ; hn -it . 7 >d 3 1 . . 2 72 . 71t4_5
i
rn
a # 6 � EaTOWN I 1 0 1997 Town of Ithaca 126 East Seneca Street OF iTHAC
Ithaca, New York 14850
J
Att ention : Town Board
t.
Ladies and Gentlemen :
A Iovember 4 , 1997 Editorial in the Ithaca Journal dealing with
deer hunting in the McLean Bogs managed by Cornell Plantations
prompts me to speak to the deer population issue in the Town of
Ithaca .
The overpopulation of deer in the Northeast Area in the Town
has reached the point where significant damage is being done
to vegetation . I estimate that at least $ 100 in damage is being done
to plantings around our property on an annual basis .
Deer in the Town highways also pose a safety hazard to vehicular
traffic .
One of the biggest concerns relates to the Lime Disease exposure .
We live in the area of the Northeast School . Deer and children frequent
the wooded areas near the School . I am sure that you are all aware that
Deer are the principal carrier of the Deer Tick, which is the disease
producer.
Effective control of the Deer population is not an issue that can be
solved in a simple way. The Editorial mentions some of the problems .
There are areas on Long Island where the problem has gotten completely
out of control . I hope that we don ' t reach that point and further hope
that none of our residents come down with Lime Disease due to the
ever increasing deer population .
I am aware that the Town Board have many issues on their agenda
for study, however it is not too early to begin a review of this issue .
The problem has escalated significantly during the past decade and there
is nothing on the horizon to indicate that the problem will go away .
At the very least, the Town could consult with Cornell Plantation
personnel, Conservation Department , State of New York personnel and
other Town officials to address the problem the could become a
significant health and safety issue for Town residents if the increasing
deer population continues .
Very truly yours ,
James M. Niefer
102 Brandywine Drive
Ithaca, New York. 14850
November 6 , 1997
EDITORIAL .
On deer huntin
iantations style ' '
Announcement of CU's ` experiment'
could have used a bit more lead time
News item: Deer hunting began Saturday at McLean
Bogs, a 100-acre natural area managed by the Comell
Plantations Natural Areas Committee. Calling it a one-
site, one-time erperiment, Comell based its decision on i
"increasing deer predation " on plants needed for teaching
and research.
Like a lot of places around Upstate New York, the
McLean Bogs have been overrun by white-tailed deer.
Despite different strategies by Cornell Plantations
workers — i:icluding chemical applications — they
continue to gather in large numbers and are destroying
the vegetation. Of particular concern is an endangered .
native yew species that is rare in Tompkins County.
Comell's decision to issue 12 one-time deer-hunting
permits for the Bogs wasn't made easily, but it could
have been made a little earlier. As late as Oct. 22,
details were being e-mailed to affected faculty and staff
members, informing them of the decision and warning
them to proceed with caution. In 1998, when the
results from the hunt are analyzed and discussion
begins on whether to again issue permits, the Cornell
community and the public at large deserve more lead
time, for input and planning.
The other part of this story worth noting is the '
inevitable protest by animal rights activists, who stood
outside McLean Bogs over the weekend, bemoaning
the fate of the deer. Many of these groups lose their
credibility because they combine outrage with irm-
tionality and it ean. turn off open-minded people who
i#tight be sympathetic. to their cause. Animal Defense
League spokesperson Bryan Peace didn't do his orga-
jFation any favors when he claimed the McLean hunt
nothing but " a thinly veiled attempt on the part of
!foie Department of Environmental Conservation to '
;xpand their armed takeover of our forests and wild
rods."
Hunting is not the cure-all for New York's booming
Aeer population and we take Cornell at its word when
says it's developing a long-term plan to control the
Le nimals at McLean that may or may not include guns.
also encourage faculty and staff who will use the
gs the rest of the year to take the advice of Cornell
lantations Natural Areas Program director: "Wear
right colors and make noise. Consider bringing a
It f adio along. Advise hunters you meet of Plantations
I
olicy and ask to see a CU permit."
Finally, the deer is a beautiful animal, but it is also a
elever, nimble pest that creates problems in our back-
�_. rards, on our highways and a number of other places,
yncluding an isolated tract of Cornell property in
.McLean . A lot of people Mite to see " Bambi" killed,
but there are times when common sense has to take
Precedent over sentiment.
OF 1 ,%
TOWN OF ITHACA
21 04� 126 EAST SENECA STREET , ITHACA , N . Y . 14850
� Y
TOWN CLERK 273-1721 HIGHWAY 273-1656 PARKS 273-8035 ENGINEERING 273-1747 PLANNING 273-1747 ZONING 273-1783
FAX (607) 273- 1704
TOWN OF ITHACA
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING AND PUBLICATION
I , Joan Lent Noteboom , being duly sworn , say that I am the Town Clerk of the
Town of Ithaca , Tompkins , New York ; that the following notice has been duly posted on
the sign board of the Town Clerk of the Town of Ithaca and the notice has been duly
published in the official newspaper, ( Ithaca Journal) :
LEGAL NOTICE : PUBLIC HEARING DATE -
To consider adoption of the Town of Ithaca Parks , Recreation and Open Space Plan .
Location of Sign Board Used for Posting : Town Clerk' s Office
126 East Seneca Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT
Date of Posting : Monday, November 24 , 1997
Date of Publication : Wednesday , November 26 , 1997
Town Clerk , Town of Ithaca
STATE OF NEW YORK )
COUNTY OF TOMPKINS ) SS :
TOWN OF ITHACA )
Sworn to and subscribed before me thisc�- day of `n6 Cam m ��2,i;19 Ile
Noor ublic
Mary J. Saxton
Notary Public, State of New York
Registration #01SA5044003
Qualified In Tioga County
My Commission Expires =� =��
PUSUC—HEARING
::'
c ; NOTICE
TOWN. OF ITHACA'i,:;,:,
' PLEASE TAKE' NOTICE; that
,the Town Board , of tfie1Town ,
of,' Ithoca. will . hold :a public::
Hearing at ,the, regular. meet
ing '.of .the Town Board .-on.
y December 8;'1997;•"ot 6i15
e m:,- at ,the :Town Hall, ; }26
East ! Seneca r Street,l;Ithoca,
;:New,:' York in. order that they,'
may consider adoption of the
^Town , of.t ;lthaca '; Parks ,• ; r
Recreationf and : Open. Space.
Plan, and " •>, .,
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER "
JICE; % all citizens , at the
aforementioned time . . and _
place shall be afforded the
•. ; opportunity to voice their ap•'
:,i proval or , oppositions to : the , a:
s' said 'plon;'and
PLEASE TAKE'.FURTHER NO- .
;tTICE;' individuals with'.:visuaf
`impairments; hearing impair=
ments. or, other, special needs, !
will" be, provided 'wIth`r6ssir!
tonce as•:necessary; ';upon' re ,.
quest,! Persons desiring`)assis;
tonce . must'�make ' ,a; request;
{ not'!lgssithgr time i'48 hoursr rior}
to the of the public }earl.
'�ing, " : tt;,, �nr•�, ,; :, ! • ,• : , .. ,��; _...
Joan •'Lent Noteboom!
rr ,.; Town , Cle&
r,'November 26,'41997 '
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