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Home My WebLink AboutCB Minutes 1993B MEETING NOTICE TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL 7:00 P.M. Thursday, January 14, 1993 TOWN HALL BOARD ROOM 126 East Seneca Street Ithaca, New York 14850 (Entrance ramp on west side of building) (607) 273-1747 AGENDA 7:00 pm 1. Report of Chair 7:05 pm 2. Persons to be heard 7:10 pm 2. Member concerns 7:20 pm 3. Discussion with Scott McConnell, Superintendent of the Town Highway Department, regarding Town and County Highway policies and practices 8:10 pm 5. Discussion of draft resolution to the Town Board to redesignate the Conservation Advisory Council to the Town of Ithaca Conservation Advisory Board (see enclosure) 8:25 pm 6. Discussion of a possible resolution to the Town Board: Creation of an Ordinance to Prevent the Excess Removal and Destruction of Mature Trees and Woodlands (see enclosure) 8:50 pm 7. Determine memberships for ERC commtfee@ 8:55 pm 3. Ccmmittee Repers `9':00 pm ::9.Approve meeting minutes of 12/3%92 9:15 pm 10. Adjournment Members, please notify Candace at 257-6220 if you are unable to attend. CAC Members: Candace E. Cornell, Chair Richard Fischer John G. Whitcomb Celia Bowers Eva Hoffmann Phillip Zarriello DRAFT TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL MINUTES Thursday, January 14, 199( Town Hall Board Room 7:00 p.m. PRESENT: John Whitcomb, Celia Bowers, Candace Cornell, Richard Fischer, Eva Hoffmann, Phillip Zarriello EXCUSED: Rick Couture (Resigned) OTHERS: Scott McConnell Chair Candace Cornell called the meeting of the CAC to order at 7.00 p.m. Report of Chair Chair Cornell began by stating that -she had received a letter of resignation from Rick Couture, who stated that he was unable to serve on the Committee due to other commitments. This letter will be filed with the minutes. Chair Cornell stated that she and G. Frantz had applied for a Small Business Association Tree Planting Grant. The proposal is due on January 21, 1993; if the grant is awarded, the Committee will be notified by May 1, 1993. The application requests ten maple and ash trees to be planted along the Town path near the Hospicare property on West King Road. The program requires a matching contribution, which has been approved. If the ;rant is approved, the trees must be planted by September. Chair Cornell stated that the Open Space Report was accepted by the Town Board on December 7, 1992. A copy of the resolution was provided to all members. Conservation Advisory Council JanLiary 14, 1993 Page 2 During the last week in December, the CAC contributed $300 towards the printing of more copies of the City of Ir_haca's lead paint removal booklet. The Committee will need to decide where the 800 copies will be distributed. The Planning Board should be receiving a copy of the Comprehensive Plan by the end of January. The CAC should review the draft and return comments to the Planning Board (as a single unit) as soon as possible. Chair Cornell offered a number of options for collating members' comments, including a working session. Chair Cornell proposed that a January 28th working session_ be scheduled in order for members to work on the establishment of a wetland policy for the `!'own. She suggested that an outline be provided by the Committee to the Town Board. J. Whitcomb read a r`5olution by the Town Board authorizing and directing the CAC to investigate and possibly develop a wetlands management policy for the Town, to be reviewed by the Town Board. It requests that the CAC submit a report of their findings to the Town Board by no later than May 1, 1993. Members agreed to hold a working session for January 28th. Chair Cornell stated that she will provide a rough draft of an outline to work from. Chair Cornell asked members to notify her of any upcoming environmental conferences so that she could develop a calendar of conference workshops. She also encoura-led members to solicit new members for the Committee. Also, if there are any items to be added to the agenda (including inviting guests to speak at the Committee), please let her now. She also requested that she receive a copy of all ERC correspondence/reports (preferably on disk). Member Concerns Phil Zarriello stated that Governor Cuomo had suggested recently Conservation Advisory Council January 14, 1993 Page 3 that the school tax base come out of income tat versus property tai;.. The Farm Bureau responded positively to this st.zggestion since farmers often cam a disproportionate burden of this tax since they are the major property owners. MOTION: Phil Zarriello suggested that the Committee follow-up on this with an endorsement since it would encourage .Land conservation. The motion was seconded by J. Whitcomb. Chair Cornell asked P. Zarriello to locate a written document concerning this request and forward it for discussion at an upcoming meeting. Members agreed. Celia Bowers distributed a brochure from Pranafit, a store in downtown Ithaca which specializes in such items as unbleached sheets, towels, natural cleansers, etc. Dick Fischer brought to the attention of Committee members a notice concerning a fee for curbside recycling. He expressed concern that this would in effect discourage recycling. J. Whitcomb noted that it is now illegal to throw out recyclable materials. P. Zarriello suggested that a member from the Solid Waste Committee attend an upcoming meeting. D. Fischer will check on the status of this initiative, Town and County Highway Policies and Practices - Kr. Scott McConnell, Superintendent of the Town High Department, attended the meet.irig upon request to speak about the Town and County ti i.ghway policies. Mr. McConnell gave an overview of laws regulations governing the town and county highways. He stated that a survey was performed which determined that there are 90 miles of roadways Ln the Town of 1thac•a ( the state maintains 20 males, the count- mili;italins 25 miles, and the Town mai.ntai_rig 46 mi.!es). in -response to a question from D. Fischer, Mr. McConnell stated that he thoi.ighL the busiest road in the Town was from the lower Forest Home bridge to the Judd Falls Road intersection (approximately 8,000 cars per Conservation Advisory Council January 14, 1993 Page 4 day); Maple lvenue or Stone Quarry Road would be the second busiest. Road improvements are scheduled for the spring. He continued his overview stating that the majority of manpower hours are devoted to the paving program, and to snow and ice removal. The application of salt and abrasives (and guidelines for the amount used) was discussed. Mr. McConnell discussed the salt policy, as presented to the Public Works Committee, which defined the policy on the use of materials for snow/.ice removal. The results presented in a recent conference which Mr. McConnell attended demonstrated that the amount of salt used (whether or not it is mixed_ with sand) remains constant for the same amount of road coverage, thereby possibly reducing or eliminating the necessity of sated application (as long as traction requirements are addressed) , This in turn would eliminate manpower required to remove sand (1600 tons applies each year) from the roads and from drainage ditches. Celia Bowers asked whether the Town would consider using plows and applying only sand for traction and eliminating salt altogether (perhaps on an experimental basis in a particular section of the Toon). Mr. McConnell responded that different options are being looked at. Members expressed their concern regarding saltdamage to trees and its profound impact on the lake and waterways. Mr. McConnell stated that the Town must take into account the expectations of the community as a whole (e. g., traffic expectations, liability, conservation concerns, economic realities, etc.). Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) was discussed as a de-icing agent which has positive effects of not corroding metal or damaging plant life, although it is known to produce irritating vapors and it is 20 times more expensive then salt -- even though supposedl it can be used at half the rate. Other less expensive sources of this agent are being investigated. another alternative is calcium chloride as an additive. J. Whitcomb asked why the state, town, or county was dumping chunks of concrete over the banks in Forest Homes. Mr. McConnell stated that slope stabilization has taken place on Pleasant Hill, but that Conservation Advisory Council January 14, 1993 Page 5 he was unaware of any dumping of this sort. E. Hoffmann asked if the Town does anything about the ragweed growing in ditch lines. Mr. McConnell states that the Town does not do anything special in landscaping practices after ditches are dl.ig. E. Hoffmann stated that this is a particular problem with individuals with allergies. He referred concerns regarding this item to Rich Schock in the Parks Department. Safety concerns regarding the removal of trees/brush which blocked driving; visibility was also discussed. P. Zarriello asked Mr. McConnell whether other municipalities have ever been held liable .for poor roadway conditions and whether reducing salt applications might be beneficial. Mr. McConnell responded that there are no legal precedents which he is aware of; he also stated that not all roads are treated equally with regard to applications (and are often left to the judgement of the dr.iver). He did state, however, that safety and access for emergency vehicles are a main priority. Chair Cornell expressed the Committee's appreciation for Mr. McConnell's presentation and for the work of Highway Department. staff. He stated that he would be happy to come back at any time and answer any other_ questions members might have. Draft Resolution to 'Redesignate the Conservation Advisory Council to the _Townof Ithaca Conservation Advisory_.__Board. Members reviewed a draft of the Town Board's resolution redesignating the Town of Ithaca Conservation Advisory Council as the Town of Ithaca Conservation Board. Eva Hoffman had a concern re,gardirig the third sentence of the last paragraph ori the first page. J. W[Iitcornb Staten that tie will re -ward the sentence to read that such a report will evaluate the proposed use in the contest of the Town's pLarnning objectives and :in the context of the Open Space Inde;. Members agreed. Conservation Advisory Council January 14, 1993 Page o Members discussed the time allotted for the Conservation Board to review applications ( it was noted that state legislation allows ply clays). J. Whitcomb presented an overview of bullets under Article "A," which are the directives the Town Board ;ave to the CAC approximately one year- ago. After discussion, a su7gestion was made to change the third bullet to read: "identified in the Town of Itriaca's Open Space Index." Discussion ensued, y9embers agreed, however, to change it to read: "identified as impacting f'eati,res listed in the Town of Ithaca Open Space Index." It was discussed that the Town Board can adopt this as a. form of a resolution or hold a public hearing and adopt a local law forming t:he Conservation Board ( which wall say the same tiling, but will be more permanent). Chair Cornell stated that it could be formed by resolution at this point and adopted into local law at a later date. Members discussed the involvement of the DEC in the Board's activities. It was noted that the Department of Environmental Conservation should be capitalized in section E. In addition, members agreed that the section should read: "tifay request the assistance of the DEC in the preparation of any report." MOTION: John Whitcomb made a motion that the resolution be forwarded to the Town Board requesting that they appoint the Conservation Advisory Council as a Conservation Board. He also recommended that _the Town Attorney review this resolution and return any major changes to the Conservation Advisory Council before it is forwarded back to the Town Board. The motion carried unanimously. John Whitcomb stated that he would forward this resolution to John Barney, Attorney for the Town of Ithaca, f'or l -).is review. DRAFT RESOLUTION TO THE TOWN BOARD RE : CREATION.__OF___AN ORDINANCE_ TO Conservation Advisory Council January 14, 1993 Page 1 .PREVENT THE EXCESS REMOVAL _._AND DESTRUCTION OF MATURE TREES AND WOODLANDS. Chair Cornell presented a draft resolution and gave some background information regarding a proposal to create an ordinance to prevent excessive removal and destruction of mature trees and woodlands. S,he stated that landowners currently are abte to clear large parcels of land without tri:�:Yerin a SEQP review process. Members discussed severe damage caused by this desI-rt-action, as well as the benefits of maintaining these woodia.riris for the health, safety, and welfare of Town residents. D. Fischer suggested that the order of the first "whereas" section be changed as follows: "Whereas, mature trees and woodlands p'r-oxide "wildlife habitat, aesthetic value, r'ecrea.Liarial opport.lfni.ties, wildlife habitat, and economic benefits from sound timber management." Members agreed. Celia Bowers recommended that the resolution be more specific about what. the CAC is attempting to do. John Whitcomb suggested that another resolution be added stating that the CAC is prepared to assist Codes and Ordinances with the drafting of such an ordinance. Members agreed. In the fourth "whereas" section, Eva Hoffman sun-Igested that it read: "Whereas, mature trees and woodlands are most often found in combination with environmentallti- critical areas si.ic_h a;_; stee,) slopes and wet soils, and. Members agreed. In the fifth "whereas" section, Eva Hoffman suggested that the second line read: "marketing- property thereby causing increased stream :_edilnentat iorl and soil..." In addition, she also SLIP—est.ed -that the term "decreased fertility" be clarified. Chair Cornell responded that she will work on rephrasing it. After further discussion, members ;_agreed to ble tlli; i In tem.l->orari I Y Phi L ZarrielIa will k,rina --I hook w1-1 l.i support., tli:is resolution for reference before this proposal is torwc::rded to- the Bo�-Li-d. D. Fischer stated that Nin_1 Bassuk, a profes:::or :)f ornamental. hortiCul.ture, wol]ld also be. a. !�oo1_l pcirlt of, reference_ S � r Conservat.io.n Advisor,-,, Council Januar, 14 , 1993 Paye S DETERMINEMEMBERSHIPSFOR ERC _COMMITTE_E. Cand tce t:ornel L, Eva Hc;ffman, and Phil Zarriello volunteered to continue fife i membership on the ERC Committee. Phil Zarr.iello was a[Dpointc_•d a, Chair of that Committee. Approve Meeting _Minutes _of_December _ _3,1992. MOTION: John Whitcomb made a motion that the minutes of December 3, 1992 be approved as submitted. Celia Bowers seconded ttie motion. The motion carried unanimously. ADJOURNMENT MOTION: A motion was made seconded and passed the meeting of the Conservation Advisory Council be adjourned at 9:15 p.m. :mcf MEETING NOTICE TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL 7:00 P.M. Thursday, February 11, 1993 TOWN HALL BOARD ROOM 126 East Seneca Street Ithaca, New York 14850 (Entrance ramp on west side of building) (607) 273-1747 AGENDA 7:00 pm 1. Report of Chair 7:15 pm 2. Persons to be heard 7:20 pm 3. Member concerns 7:35 pm 4. Consideration of the resolution "Endorsement of Changing Local Taxes from Property Based to Income Based." 8: 00 pm 5. Formulation of the CAC's critique of the Draft Comprehensive Plan (see enclosures) 9:10 pm 9. Approve meeting minutes of 1114/63-- 9:15 pm 10. Adjournment Members, please notify Phil at 273-9405 if you are unable to attend. Scheduled agenda times may vary with content. CAC Members: Candace E. Cornell, Chair Richard Fischer John G. Whitcomb Celia Bowers Eva Hoffmann Phillip Zarriello Enc. t rot MEETING NOTICE TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL TOWN HALL BOARD ROOM 126 East Seneca Street Ithaca, New York 14850 (Entrance at rear of building -- west side) (607) 273-1747 7:00 P.M. Thursday, March 18, 1993 Agenda 7:00 pm 1. Report of Chair 7:10 pm 2. Member concerns 7:20 pm 3. Persons to be heard 7:25 pm 4. Continued discussion of a Town of Ithaca Wetland Policy with Floyd Forman and Dan Walker 8:45 pm 5. Consideration of designating Forest Home Drive as a NYS Scenic Road with Bruce Brittain 9:15 pm .6. Adjournment Members: Please notify Candace at 257-6220 if you are unable to attend. CAC Members: Candace E. Cornell, Chair Richard Fischer John G. Whitcomb Celia Bowers Eva Hoffmann Phillip Zarriello a MINUTES TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION BOARD CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL, March 18, 1993 Approved 05/02/96 PRESENT: Candace Cornell, Celia Bowers, John Whitcomb, Phil Zarriello GUESTS: Floyd Forman (Town Planner), Daniel Walker (Town Engineer), Bruce Brittain ABSENT: Dick Fischer, Eva Hoffmann Candace opened the meeting at 7:17 p.m. REPORT OF THE CHAIR ERC Review Protocol a. The CB Chair will receive all applications within five days of the Engineering, Building and Planning Department's receipt. b. The Chair of the CB will determine if it should be given to the ERC. The ERC then decides the appropriate action for review. C. If so, there will be 15 days for review. Conference Notices a. The Planning Board set up three public informational meetings: the Northeast Meeting, Tuesday, March 9th; Ellis Hollow Community; NCR on South Hill, March 23rd; Westhill Meeting at the Hospital, April 6th at 7:30 p.m. b. Planning Board EPOD Meeting: The entire meeting was dedicated to public speakers. Jim Hilker proposed to replace additional legislation, such as the EPOD or the Comprehensive Plan with education. He developed a proposal and has sent it via mail to Candace. _ C. Earth Day: CAC was interested in any Earth Day activity (April 22nd). Dick Teller from the Cayuga Nature Center is coordinating media event. Candace will be writing articles to Ithaca Journal. d. Phil agreed to distribute lead paint brochure. MEMBERS CONCERN a. John expressed the need to increase CAC membership. b. Phil reported on the Water Quality Strategy Southern Cayuga Lake Task Committee. In a couple months there should be a good deal of information regarding water issues, including Cayuga Lake basin, spreadsheets, etc. showing what information is available and who has it for future reference. C. Dan reported on NYSEG GIS map project. Town of Ithaca Conservation Board Minutes March 18, 1993 Page 2 WETLAND POLICIES: Candace stated there was another copy of the wetland policy that has more detail. Candace stated that as of 1992 California lost 91% of its remaining wetlands. Phil stated that the document wasn't really a policy, it basically described the mechanisms needed. He suggested stating something regarding no net loss of wetlands. John continued to say that if that was the case, the next step would be to describe what a wetland was. Celia also suggested that the CAC needs to identify where the wetlands are in the Town before writing a policy. John concurred stating that it is important to know what it is that is had before trying to protect it. Candace stated that for now the CAC should work with what is written, considering that the mechanisms for the policy, and come up with the policy later. In order to get information regarding existing wetlands, permission from property owners will need to be obtained. This will take time. Candace stated that the policy should be devised first, and then locating existing wetlands will follow. John questioned what would happen when someone walked into Town Hall with an application. Candace stated that, on page 2, there is a section regarding this. The first thing is to inform prospective land buyers that there may be wetlands that they are getting into. The second thing is to inform people who already own the land, who have subdivision approval going in, they need to be informed. The third thing is the people who have owned the land for a while and decide to develop it further. How is this information going to get to these people? If this information isn't available, the land owners can experience financial disaster. Candace continued that in the document the following mechanisms were described: 1)Some protective wetlands and other sensitive features already exist in the Town subdivision approval process and SEQR regulations. However, Town officials must be responsive to environmental issues to assure that they are adequately addressed during the application process; 2) The staff personnel, members of the lead agency, or members of the CAC knowledgeable in wetland hydrology, hydrophic vegetation, hydric soils, must make early visits to the site under consideration to verify the accuracy and completeness of the application. The CAC has to come up with a way to inform local engineers, surveyors, bank appraisers, and attorneys that the Town Environmental Review process will carefully scrutinize applications through the Planning and Engineering Departments for accuracy. There needs to be a way for them to inform their clients. Floyd continued to state that a wetland needs to be described. If a person has a 5' x 5' wet spot in their field that never dries up it could be considered a "wetland." The word wetland needs to have a specific definition. Candace continued to state that the document has five steps, the first four steps are things that can be implemented instantly. The fifth step calls for a wetland ordinance and in the ordinance the wetlands are classified in the Town. Dan stated that there should be standards that people visiting the site can judge the wetland. If it is a low level wetland then they can say no problem. If it is valuable wetland, then it can go from there. Candace stated that the DEC has over 450 different classifications of wetlands. These do not all apply to the Town of Ithaca. The Town of Ithaca has approximately 4 categories with subsets, for a total of maybe 8 classifications. So, from these 8 categories, a determination could be made as to importance. Floyd brought up the problem of staff time. This will be very time consuming. How much time will be spent on this. Town of Ithaca Conservation Board Minutes March 18, 1993 Page 3 Candace stated that what is needed is someone who is knowledgeable enough to go out and look at the wetland and make a determination. Candace continued: Before site plan or subdivision permit is granted, the applicant should supply the building inspector, Planning Department and Town Engineer with proof of wetlands that are not going to be impacted and if they are going to be impacted, the applicant will have to go for permits. This will be up to the developer. He will have to check to be sure that wetlands are not be impacted. If they feel there is a possibility they will need to contact the Army Corp., talk to them and they will either say it is okay, over the phone, send a letter or they will ask you to apply for a blanket permit. 3) The applicant must demonstrate a reasonable attempt to design site plan or subdivision -provisions to avoid the wetland or integrate it into the wetland. To facilitate these procedures it is necessary for the Town Building Inspector or key planning or engineering personnel to be trained in the basics of wetland identification. Dan stated that a sentence should be added to paragraph two stating that if a Town officials feel the wetland will be impacted due to development the applicant should be informed to contact certain agencies (DEC, Army Corp.). Before any site plan or subdivision or building permit is granted, the applicant will supply the building inspector with proof that the wetland is not being impacted. Candace said that the document will be typed again, under the headline of Guidelines, and the comments and suggestions made will be incorporated. A copy will be sent to George, Floyd and Dan. A vote was taken to accept the document with editorial changes, and to forward to the Ithaca Town Board for Review, seconded by Phil Zarriello. The MOTION was passed unanimously. 5. Forest Home Drive: 1?resentation by Bruce Brittain of the Forest Home Drive Improvement Association, discussed the New York State Scenic Road Program. The NYS Scenic Road program is a voluntary program sponsored by the NYSDEC and the Dept. Transportation. The goal is to preserve and enhance beauty along NY roads. The State provides guidelines for maintenance. It is cooperation of homeowners, Town, and State. Bruce is looking for a recommendation from the Town Board to make Forest Home Drive, in the Town of Ithaca, a scenic road. John asked what the advantages would be to the Town and the residents. Bruce stated residents would try to keep it attractive and help build pride. The CB can made a recommendation but the Town Board makes the ultimate decision. The one lane bridge in Forest Home is going to be reconstructed so designation should be soon as it will effect bridge design. John proposed a resolution: Town of Ithaca Conservation Board Minutes March 18, 1993 Page 4 Whereas the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation pursuant to Article 49 of the Environmental Conservation Law, is empowered to designate scenic highways in the state and Whereas, the public highway known as Forest Home Drive within the Town of Ithaca extending from the City of Ithaca to the Town of Dryden exhibits exceptional scenic qualitv and passes through an area of significant regional importance, and Whereas, a study has been undertaken by the Forest Home Improvement Association which assesses the scenic quality of and documents the cultural, historic andeo�morphic features of said highway corridor, Now Therefore, Be it Resolved that the Town of Ithaca Conservation Advisory Council hereby recommends that the Town of Ithaca Town Board support the nomination of the portion of Forest Home Drive which lies within the Town of Ithaca as a scenic road in the NYDEC Scenic Roads Pro . ram. Seconded by Phil. Pass unanimously. 4. Meeting Adjourned. Phillip Z cell Chair, Town of Ithaca Conservation Board. Filed: 5/3/96.srh MEETING NOTICE TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL 7:00 P.M. Thursday, April 15, 1993 TOWN HALL BOARD ROOM 126 East Seneca Street Ithaca, New York 14850 (Entrance ramp on west side of building) (607) 273-1747 AGENDA 7:00 pm 1. Report of Chair 7:10 pm 2. Persons to be heard 7:12 pm 3. Member concerns 7:30 pm 4. Video on Wetlands 8:10 pm 5. Continued discussion and vote on the proposed wetland guidelines and policy 9:00 pm 6.0iscussion of Committees 9:15 pm 7. Adjournment Members, please notify Candace at 257-6220 if you are unable to CAC Members: Candace E. Cornell, Chair Richard Fischer John G. Whitcomb Celia Bowers Eva Hoffmann Phillip Zarriello MINUTES TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION BOARD April 15, 1993 Approved 04/07/94 PRESENT: Candace Cornell, Richard Fischer, Eva Hoffman, John Whitcomb, Phillip Zarriello ABSENT: Celia Bowers Phillip Zarriello opened the meeting at 7:00 p.m. REPORT OF THE CHAIR a. Candace has information on the governments policy regarding Ancient Forest. b. The Planning Board has had three meetings on the Comprehensive Plan with many positive comments. A Planning Board work session on the Comprehensive Plan will be Tuesday at 7:30. C. Earth Day is the April 22rd with celebrations will on the 24th -25th. A number of groups are doing Town clean-ups: Green Corp., the Cayuga Nature Center, campus groups, etc. They will be cleaning up Stewart and Cass Parks. Dick Taylor (Cayuga Nature Center) and Candace collaborating on writing articles for the Jounral. d. Candace commented on Cornell Green's and National Wildlife Federation. Conference on Endangered Species and will bring letter writing information to next meeting. PERSONS TO BE HEARD: None MEMBERS CONCERNS a. John reported that the Ithaca Town Board endorsed the CAC's recommendation of Forest Home Drive being designated a NYS Scenic Road. b. John brought up his concern of President Clinton's policies on environmental and economic plans. C. Ithaca Town Board convered CAC to a CB on April 15, 1993. d. Dick commented on the Open Space Plan. John stated the Open Space Plan was adopted as an official Open Space Index for the Town. That's what lead to the CAC becoming a CB. There was some opposition to the CAC becoming a CB. Noel Desch letter is attached to the information John handed out. Noel Desch gave reasons why he felt the CAC shouldn't become a CB. In summary, he felt that CAC did not fulfill the intent of Section 239 x and y, in that the CAC did not do a ranking of the parcel in order of their need for preservation, protection, or acquisition. Dick asked if that was required. John stated the law says that 4 is in some form and the Open Space Report fulfills the requirements. e. Phil reported on the research project of the Southern Cayuga Lake Water Quality Strategy Technical Committee. John moved that the CAC go into Executive Session to discuss a personnel matter, seconded by Dick and Candace. Passed unanimously. WETLAND GUIDELINES AND POLICY Guidelines a. CB be mentioned at the top of the document instead of at the end. b. Add source of info. C. Paragraph 3, sentence 2, "Our Town's wetlands are the basis of the local wildlife food chain..." Dick said there is no one local wildlife food chain, there are bunches of them. d. Top of the page which reads "The assessed value of the wetlands should be based, during the duration of cooperation..." that by adding the "during the duration..." clause it sounds like an after thought. Dick suggested revising that sentence to read "During the duration of cooperation with the DEC regulations, the assessed regulation of the wetlands should be based on the uses remaining to the property owner." e. Next, para. 3, under Proposed Guidelines, first sentence ends with "...while satisfying the concerns of the Town Planners and regulatory agencies." Dick felt he was more concerned with town residents and tax payers, not the Town Planners. f. At the bottom of that paragraph it ends "...the environmental limitations and the legalities involved in their disturbance" Clarify to read "the importance of local wetlands and the legalities involved in their disturbance. " Dick said it was fine with him. Typographical errors On page 2, para. 5, a sentence in middle "if the project identified 1 to 10 acres of land.... quantifies for a nationwide permits," the "s" in permits should be excluded or the word "a" removed. Page 3, first paragraph, second sentence, "their intended purposes and goals while avoiding or minimizing impact..." should mention minimizing negative impact. The CAC then discussed whether any type of development would impact the wetland negatively, or perhaps improve it. Phil stated that developers sometime use existing wetlands and add to it so that it can take the runoff from development. They're finding it is good for the development because homes near the wetland sell for premium price (due to the attraction of wildlife to the wetlands and not having neighbors close by). Phil said he thinks he does have documentation on that. Eva continued that in 3B, page 4, the end of the sentence "...a proposal to avoid or minimize impact on the wetlands accompanying..." there are two words missing it should say "...the wetlands and the accompanying..." Dick asked what the underlining meant in the document. Candace stated that it is either new text or text that was moved to a different place. John commented that he agreed with moving the paragraph about the Town of Ithaca Wetland ordinance out of the guidelines because it is not a guideline it is a future recommendation. John went on to say that there should be a section called "Future CB Recommendations" at the end of the document. Candace agreed that that was a good idea. John stated the order should be; background, current ranks, guidelines, future recommendations. John stated they should go over the guidelines. Candace summarized the different steps. Step i - Applicant has a wetland on the project there is a preapplication consultation with town staff. Step 2 - if an application is received upstairs, someone needs to do a site visit to see that the application is accurate and complete. Step 3 - if any town officials that went on the site visit or for any other reason and found a problem then a) they advise the applicant to contact the Army Corp. or the DEC to comply with regulations and get the necessary permits; b) before any site plans or subdivision approvals with improvements are accepted, the applicant demonstrate to the Town that they tried to design the project to either minimize or avoid impact for the wetlands. Step 4 - before any site plan_ is granted approval by the Planning Board and building inspector, the applicant has the present the permits. Phil stated he liked Candace's idea of a flow chart. John stated that Shirley has a concern about the liability issue of Town officials. She commented, on number 2, that it should say "..staff personnel should make prompt visits to the site under question and, to the best of their ability, assess the presence of wetlands." Candace said she would reword it. CAC members agreed that it should read "Members of the lead agency or CB should make prompt visits to the site under consideration to ver, to the best of their ability, the accuracy and completeness of the submitted application." Candace continued that she changed number 3 to read "If Town officials suspect a wetland might be impacted by the proposed project. a) the town official should advise the applicants, contact the Army Corp. or the DEC, to comply with State and federal wetland regulations. Any person planning to work in waters and wetlands in the United States is required to obtain the necessary permits, licenses, with similar authorizations from state and federal agencies. Please refer to the current State and federal regulations; b) before any approvals of site plans or subdivisions with improvements potentially impacting wetlands are granted, the applicant should demonstrate to Town officials that the proposal will avoid or minimize impacts on the wetlands; c) edited version (never read it). Number 4, John suggested starting the sentence with "training" or "planning." Number 5, CAC reworded it to read "Advise local realtors that wetland regulators could affect the buyers future plans for their property. Local realtors should encourage potential buyers to have environmental assessments done on their property for potential environmental concerns. " Number 6, "The town should advise..." John stated that after this should be the future recommendations. John said the part from page 1 reading "The Town of Ithaca wetlands ordinance would be the most comprehensive method protecting the interests of local land owners and developers..." Also add, "The CAC would be happy to provide a sample ordinance..." John suggested adding information as to why the wetlands ordinance is a good idea because it would take some ambiguity out of the process because the local officials would be in control instead of someone out of town. These would be enforced better and everyone would be aware of the rules. Phil suggested that it include mapping of the wetlands, provided funds are available. Dick had one more question, page 3, last paragraph, "The best way to preserve local wetlands for the benefits of public health and welfare..." John stated that should be taken out and put at the end. Candace also said that on page 2, para. 4, she added a little more information regarding the water problem permit and on page 3, top of page, she explained in greater detail the difference between an impact on filling on less than an acre and the fact that it can still have wide ranging impacts. Candace said that she will mail this to CB members after editing and then will contact members regarding any questions they may have. . DISCUSSION OF COMMITTEES: Tabled until next meeting. NEXT MEETING: April 29, 1993 at 7:30 p.m. MEETING ADJOURNED: 9:45 p.m. • MINUTES TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION BOARD May 6, 1993 Approved 05/05/94 PRESENT: Candace Cornell, Richard Fischer, Eva Hoffmann, John Whitcomb, Phillip Zarriello ABSENT: Celia Bowers Candace opened the meeting at 7:06 p.m. Member Concerns: John expressed the need for increased membership and attendance requirement. Therm Situation: John attended a meeting Thursday with the City Attorney, Mr. Gutman, explaining his conversations with the Attorney General. DEC will answer questions in a May 20 meeting. Attorney General's office involved because a civil or criminal activities has taken place. Concerns were also raised regarding worker safety. Someone questioned whether Tompkins County Emergency Coordinator had been involved (Title 3) which is Federal Emergency response for things of this nature. What is Town of Ithaca involvement? Clean up already started. John stated that the Federal Emergency Response had not been notified that he was aware of. Phil explained the current theory of the cause of last month's mud slide in Preble, NY. Wetland Policy: Changes and corrections were made as follows: Page 1. Should between ", 1990." Date at top should read, "May 6, 1993." After the underline part "..they also provide habitat." Page 2. Alternate page 2 is liked better. Omit "it is." Page 3. The U.S. Army Corp. of Engineers can be referred to as the ACOE. Candace wants to conform to regulations an everyone refers to it as the Corp. Page 4. Alignment problem. Page 5. Three lines down Corps. should the "Corps." Inconsistency of numbers. Alignment problem. A general heading, might help make up the inconsistency. "Upon advisement of the Corps...." might read "Upon the recommendation of another agency, the Corp. may require..." Page 6. Second paragraph, second sentence can be simplified by "within those categories do not need further authorization." Page 8. Alignment problems. Page 9. Where "A" and "B" are, the subsequent lines should line up. Change "integrity" to "quantity." Second paragraph changed to ""The applicant Town Staff and Town Officials should strive for a plan that is the least environmentally damaging." Page 10. Number II should say "Post application/Initial Town Action." Paragraph 4 should state "...make a site visit upon request of a prospective applicant and permission from the property owner..." Second paragraph • "maps include the United States Geological Society quadrant survey." Page 11. Candace will write a definition for the word "proximity." Page 12. Shorten title to Conservation Board Recommended Future Actions. Dick moved that this document be submitted to the Ithaca Town Board with changes discussed. Seconded by Eva. Passed unanimously. 3. Storm Water Management: Phil will get copies of storm water management ordinances from Rochester. The goal of the CB was to look at storm water run-off. quality and quantity. Cayuga Lake water levels were discussed. Phil was proposing a system to monitor levels along canal and lakes to be linked to a computer and set alarms to manage problems faster and in an organized manner. 4. Open Space Committee: An Environmental Atlas is needed but will require backing from the Town Board. The CAC will coordinate this. Candace asked for a volunteer to write an appendix to the Open Space Report regarding the archaeological dig in Inlet Valley and Forest Home's State Historic status. Phil said that he would try. Environmental Review Committee: Before becoming a CB, George gave Candace information on the Kellogg's subdivision. It did not require ERC review. Phil is the ERC Chair. Next Meeting: June 10, 1993 5. Meeting Ajourned MINUTES TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION BOARD CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL, June 10, 1993 Approved 04/07/94 PRESENT: Candace Cornell, Eva Hoffmann, Richard Fischer, Phillip Zariello and John Whitcomb GUESTS: Cheryl Smith Candace opened the meeting at 7:06 p.m. REPORT OF THE CHAIR Cornell University GEIS. The Planning Board has accepted the GEIS in terms of completeness. Next comes the public comment phase. The document has to be published to enable the public can read it and then a public held. Cornell hopes to have -a document out at the beginning of July and a public hearing will be held in September. Comprehensive Plan: The Planning Board has been meeting on alternate Tuesdays to work on the Comprehensive Plan. Chapter 3 is edited and Chapter 4 is being worked on. There has been a great deal of discussion as to whether there should be a map. The map will be a conceptual tool but not a rezoning map. Hopefully in three or more sessions the Planning Board will have the Comprehensive Plan ready for public comment. Wetland Guidelines: The Conservation Board forwarded it to the Town Board and the Planning Board for editorial comment. The Planning Board voted to accept it as a useful tool and sent it back to the Town Board for ratification. John stated the Town Board ratified the Wetland Guidelines last Monday night. The Wetland Guidelines outline the laws and the general policy the Town will follow in applications involving wetlands on the property. However, it is not an ordinance. The major change the Planning Board made was that a staff member should be designated to be responsible for wetland issues. Finger Lakes Water Quality Initiative: Hosted by the Fish and Wildlife Service. This group is made up of people from the DEC, Fish and Wildlife Service, EMG, Finger Lakes Park Service, municipal leaders, biologists and Conservation Board Members. We discussed how to coordinate all the efforts in the area to preserve the water quality of Cayuga and Seneca Lakes. Tompkins County Greenway Coalition: Greenways include paths, trails, biological or movement corridors, and parks. They are green connections between urban areas. The Coalition includes people who are interested in wildlife corridors, bike trails, hiking trails, etc. Persons involved: Lew Roscoe, John Schroder, Betsy Darlington, and representatives for Tompkin County Planning Department, Cornell Planning Department, and others. The Tompkins County Planning. Department is developing a Comprehensive Plan called the "Vision Report." The mission of the Greenway Coalition is to make a report on planning a greenway system for the country, create a map and methods for implementing plan. The goal is to incorporate this report in the County's Comprehensive Plan. PERSONS TO BE HEARD Eastern Heights Park: Cheryl Smith presented her neighborhood's concern with the Eastern Heights controversy. Cheryl and Dick discussed blue birds and house wrens populations in the area. MEMBER CONCERNS The New York State Association of Conservation Commissions has about 200 commissions throughout the State of New York. The next conference of the NYS Association of Conservation Commissions will be in Westchester County. This year the keynote speaker will be Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. who is the attorney for the Environmental Defense Fund John noted that the latest issue of the NYSACC News featured the awards given at last autumn's annual conference. The Town CB won awards for the Open Space Report, Agriculture in the Town of Ithaca, and the Six Mile Creek: A Heritage to Preserve. ENERGIZING CONSERVATION BOARD - NEW ROLE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND FUTURE DIRECTION Candace stated that since becoming a Conservation Board there is great opportunity to become very effective in local government and policies. Candace feels that the wetland policy is really going somewhere. John stated the plan the CB put together was very positive. Dick asked what more could be done in the political arena since becoming a CB. Candace said that the Environmental Review Committee has more input in application reviews. The Planning Staff used to refer applications to the CAC sporadically. Now all applications must be reviewed by the Chair of the CB and referred to the ERC if necessary. Candace asked if anyone had any ideas to revitalize the CB. John suggested getting new members. Eva had some suggestions for new members. Candace introduced Cheryl Smith, a member of the Eastern Heights Association. Dick asked Cheryl what concerns she had about the Park. Cheryl stated that there is a large parcel of land which was half designated as general purpose land and half has been designated as Park about 10 years ago. Several years ago the Town built a road past the park down to Rt. 79 and in doing so mistakenly took more land than the landowner gave them permission to take. To correct the problem, the Town is considering a land swap involving the general purpose land. Cheryl explained further complications involving a proposed development adjacent to the park in the Town of Dryden. The Eastern Heights Community strongly disagrees with the proposed use of the general purpose for settling this issue. John feels that the CB members should go and walk the park. Candace suggested a CB meeting to further discuss this and to write a report to the Town Board recommending retention of the entire property. The Town Board is meeting on July 12th, therefore the CB will meet before that (in the field), Candace will arrange a date. Candace asked Cheryl what her interests were for the environment in regard to the Town. Cheryl said she realizes the Town has to progress, but there should be guidelines and awareness raised for developers and Cornell University to follow. John recommended the nomination of Cheryl Smith to the Conservation Board, seconded by Dick Fischer, passes unanimously. John stated that the Town would like the CB to participate in developing the Environmental Atlas. The CB could help supervise the staff in data collection and pin -point different areas, i.e., slopes, wetlands, etc. However, the Comprehensive Plan and the GEIS need to be done first. John said that the CB needs to make an agenda of projects that need to be done. The CB needs to become more visible to the public and more people will take an interest in it. Candace announced the DEC was considering changes to the State Environmental Review Quality Assessment Process. The CAC Chairs have prepared a joint comment. The CB should review and return our comments to the EMC by June 25th. The NYSDEC discussed making these changes at Associations of Town meeting. The majority of Town representatives were from small towns and felt the SEQR laws should be streamlined. The DEC does not have plans yet to hold any public information meetings. These proposed changes will be an agenda item at another meeting. COMMITTEE REPORTS: ERC, LEAD PAINT BROCHURES, TREE AND SHRUB PLANING COMMITTEE Lead Paint Brochures: Phil went to a show in early spring, renovator show, and handed out a lot of lead paint brochures. Phil also handed them out at the YMCA Youth Day and at the hospital. He wants to bring them to pediatrician offices, such as Drs. Uphoff, Rao and Meyers offices. Candace will take brochures to day care center on Warren Road and Uphoff s office; John some; Cheryl will go to the Day Care Council to find out how to go about distribution; John will go to the Montessori School; Eva will go to the Waldorf School; and Dick suggested distributing them at paint stores. Eva will find someone who is a regular vendor at the Farmer's Market and have them display the brochures. Other distribution suggestions are realtors, GIAC, and an advertisement in the Ithaca Journal or Ithaca Times. Brochures are available in Phil's office at Community Corners, 266-0217 (daytime). Past distribution sites will be discussed at next meeting. STORM WATER AND EROSION CONTROLS Candace distributed information regarding crafting a Town steep slope ordinance to prevent erosion. Dan Walker has discussed storm water management with the CB including the EPOD ninth draft. Candace stated that the DEC and the Federal government have come up with new regulations for controlling storm water ordinances and erosion problems. They are working together so that the regulations are the same. When developers plan a project they are required by law to file a storm water management plan that is acceptable to the state. The DEC is asking municipalities to develop their own regulations so everyone is working from the same rules. They have produced a book with a model ordinance. Phil stated that the DEC is required by law to mandate a Natural Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). The way this is written is that by 1991 cities of >100,000 had to file for application to discharge their storm water. Phil doesn't know what the discharge storm water limit it is for cities smaller than 100,000. A city the size of Ithaca will need to file for a storm water permit discharge for storm water drains. What the CAC wants to deal with is the quality issue. Flooding is not a particular problem except when the lake is high. Storm water run-off into the lakes is a major. local concern. NEXT MEETING: July 15, 1993 (tentative) MEETING AJOURNED MINUTES TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION BOARD June 15, 1993 Approved 05/05/94 PRESENT: Candace Cornell, Richard Fischer, Eva Hoffman and John Whitcomb GUESTS: Cheryl Smith Chairperson, Candace Cornell, called the meeting of the Conservation Board to order at 6:50 p.m. REPORT OF THE CHAIR: This meeting was called specifically to consider and vote on a resolution to the Town Board from the CB regarding the future use of the general purpose land adjacent to Eastern Heights Park. All CB members present toured the lands in question during a site visit on Monday, June 14, 1993. This meeting was publicized in public areas and announced in the media according to the NYS Open Meeting Laws. 2. PERSONS TO BE HEARD: Cheryl Smith thanks the Board members for their interest in this land controversy. She stated that many of her neighbors already use the general purpose land as though it was parkland. 3. MEMBER CONCERNS: John wanted to clarify his position on this matter. By voting in favor of this resolution at this date, he does not want to be precluded from changing his vote on the Town Board level if he so desires. If, at a later date, he is privy to additional information, specifically financial consideration, he would like to reserve the right to incorporate these additional facts into his future decision making processes. Dick motioned that this Resolution Recommending the Conservation of the "General Purpose" Land Adjacent to Eastern Heights Park into Town Park Land and the Incorporation of these lands into Eastern Heights Park. A resolution 1993.04 CB be forwarded to the Town Board: Eva seconded the motion. The motion, presented below, was passed unanimously. Resolution to the Town Board: Recommendation to Convert the "General Purpose" Land Adjacent to Eastern Heights Park into Town Park Land and Incorporate This Area into Eastern Heights Park Whereas, both Eastern Heights Park and all of the adjacent "general purpose" land are extremely valuable recreational, cultural, and open space assets to the neighboring community; and Whereas, Eastern Heights Park and all of its adjacent"general purpose" land form the largest and most ecologically valuable open space area owned b the Town; and Whereas, residents in the vicinity of Eastern heights Park widely use all of the "general purpose" land for recreational, cultural, and open space park land; and Whereas, sections of the "general purpose" land are currently maintained as recreational land, including the construction and maintenance of several mulched nature and cross-country skiing trails, and mowed and landscaped sledding hill; and Whereas, there is continuing developmental pressure in the Eastern Heights area from proposed and approved developments; and Whereas, increasing population density makes additional recreational, cultural, and open space land desirable for the benefit of the neighborhood; and Whereas, the official incorporation of all the "general purpose" land into the park land would ensue that this area remains open for the recreational, cultural, and open space benefit of the community; and Therefore, it is resolved that the Conservation Board recommends the conversion of the "general purpose" land adjacent to Eastern Heights Paris into Town park land and its incorporation into Eastern Heights Paris. M MEETING NOTIFICATION ............... TOWN OF 1THACA CONSERVATION BOARD 7:00 P.M. Thursday, July 15, 1993 TOWN HALL BOARD ROOM 126 East Seneca Street Ithaca, New York 14850 (Handicap -accessible entrance ramp on west side of building) (607) 273-1747 AGENDA 7:00 pm 1. Report of Chair: Tompkins County Greenway Coalition. 7:05 pm 2. Member Concerns 7:15 pm 3. Persons to be heard 7:20 pm 4. Committees Reports: Lead Paint Brochures Committee 7:30 pm 5. Resolution to Change Local Taxes from Property to Income Based (enclosure) 7:45 pm 6. Water Quality Video "Luck Isn't Enough" 8:00 pm 7. Discussion on Ithaca's Water Quality Issues: Storm Water and Erosion Controls — What Role Does the CS Want to Assume? (previous enclosures) 8:30 pm 8. Proposed SEAR Changes (enclosure) 9:15 pm 9. Adjournment Members, please notify Candace at 257-6220 if you are unable to attend. CS Members: Candace E. Cornell, Chair Richard Fischer John G. Whitcomb Celia Bowers Eva Hoffmann Phillip Zarriello Cheryl Smith (nominee) MEETING NOTIFICATION TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION ADVISORY BOARD 7:00 P.M. Thursday, September 16, 1993 TOWN HALL BCARD ROOM 126 East Seneca Street Ithaca, New York 14850 (Handicap -accessible entrance ramp on west side of building) (607) 273-1747 AGENDA 7:00 pm 1. Report of Chair 7:05 pm 2. Discussion: "How to implement the environmental objectives of the Comprehensive Plan" Roundtable Guests: David Klein (Chair of the Comprehensive Planning Committee), Floyd Forman (Town Planner), and Dan Walker (Town Engineer) 8:55 pm 3. Persons to be heard 9:00 pm 4. Member Concerns 9:15 pm S. Adjournment - Members, this is a important meeting, please attend. If you are unable to come, please notify Candace at 257-6220. CB Members: Candace E. Cornell, Chair Richard Fischer John G. Whitcomb Celia Bowers Eva Hoffmann Phillip Zarriello Cheryl Smith MINUTES TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION BOARD September, 16, 1993 Approved 05/05/94 PRESENT: Candace Cornell, Cheryl Smith, Richard Fischer, and John Whitcomb GUESTS: David Klein, Town Board Chairperson, Candace Cornell, called the meeiing of the Conservation Board to order at 7:15 p.m. 1. REPORT OF THE CHAIR: The upcoming annual meeting of the New York State Association of Conservation Councils will be held in November. Members of the CB are welcomed to attend. These meetings are usually inspiring and spark enthusiasm. 2. PERSONS TO BE HEARD: None 3. MEMBER CONCERNS: None 4. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: The CB asked David to help set priorities for the Town and CB in implementing of the Comprehensive Plan. The priorities were: a) ENVIRONMENTAL ATLAS It was unanimously agreed that an environmental Atlas would be a superior planning tool for town staff and all of the boards. The CB's role could be as supervisor, overseer, or advisor. The GIS system is projected to be on line by June 1994. There are budget and personnel constraints for undertaking this enormous project. It is not feasible for the CB to take on this project alone without heavily relying on the staff. The CB does not have the resources for sole responsibility for such a large and time consuming project. If the staff assumed responsibility for the atlas, the CB could assist in defining the attributes for the study and perform field verification for the staff. MOTION: John moved that the CB Chair (Candace) discuss the funding aspects of the Environmental Atlas with Floyd the Town Planner, and Supervisor Ra}fensperger. Dick seconded the motion which was carried unanimously. b) PROTECTIVE MECHANISMS FOR SENSITIVE FEATURES Candace and John reviewed a number of ordinances used in other NYS municipalities to protect their sensitive ecological areas. The purpose was,to explore techniques applicable to the Town of Ithaca. Examples cited: Factors Affecting Development (FAD) Town of Mendon; Limited Development Districts (LDD) Town of Perinton; and the Town of Perinton's Open Space Protection Law. Other techniques were discussed including large lot zoning, conservation easement, conservation districts, and transfer of development rights (TDR). MEETING NOTIFICATION TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION ADVISORY BOARD 7:00 P.M. Thursday, September 30, 1993 TOWN HALL BOARD ROOM 126 East Seneca Street Ithaca, New York 14850 (Handicap -accessible entrance ramp on west side of building) (607) 273-1747 AGENDA 7:00 pm 1. Report of Chair 7:05 pm 2. Discussion: "How to implement the environmental objectives of the Comprehensive Plan" Roundtable Guests: Floyd Forman (Town Planner) and Dan Walker (Town Engineer) 8:55 pm 3. Persons to be heard 9:00 pm 4. Member Concerns 9:15 pm 5. Adjournment Members, this is a important meeting, please attend. If you are unable to come, please notify Candace at 257-6220. CS Members: Candace E. Cornell, Chair Richard Fischer Celia Bowers Eva Hoffmann Cheryl Smith John G. Whitcomb Phillip Zarriello FINAL MINUTES COPY TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION BOARD September 30, 1993 Approved 05/02/96 PRESENT: Candace Cornell, Cheryl Smith, Dick Fischer, Phil Zarriello GUESTS: Dan Walker (Town Engineer), Floyd Forman (Town Planner) ABSENT: John Whitcomb, Eva Hoffmann, Celia Bowers Candace opened the meeting at 7:13 p.m. Report of the Chair: None 2. Environmental Aspects of the Comprehensive Plan: Candace stated that last week talked to David Klein and discussed the idea of the Environmental Atlas. If this is the pleasure of the board, no funding is available this year. Possible to squeeze it out of the planning staff budget if necessary but there really isn't a budget for it and Candace doesn't feel she wants to volunteer to do it on her time. She really feels that a consultant is necessary to put it on the GIS system. She feels it should be put off to next year and a budget request be submitted with an Environmental Consultant or "in-house" assistance. This is unless this year it appears to become a priority then the CAC can request funds from the Town Board. Phil stated he thinks there is a lot of overlap in the area with the county is doing to scouting to get GIS put together to provide information that you don't normally get which should give a good data base to work from. Dan said that the Town is participating in the mapping project by NYSEG and the county. As promised for months, there will be a digital base map (planimetric base map) for the town by the end of September 1993. It will include all roads, buildings, physical features that are discernable. Primary mapping scale of the Town of Ithaca, flight was flown to be able to map accurately of 1 to 200. County mapping is at 1:400 level of detail, City mapping that overlaps, somewhat, with the town is at 1:50. There will be a digital map with accurate representation of roads and primary buildings, most of the vegetation (i.e., trees), water courses. Phil asks if attributes are included. Dan confirmed. Mapping system is the intergraph produce, he put into the Town Engineering budget for 1994 a microstation which is integrative project. Town will transfer to AutoCADD, which is currently in-house and he has some expertise. The efficiency for the type of mapping needed is lacking because it isn't as accurate. The files get too large. AutoCADD does have database capabilities. File structure does not do well with large geographical areas. There are also problems translating to AutoCADD. The City has bought an interstation. It will be a common platform with NYSEG, City and the State DOT. Candace asked what the equipment was called. Dan said that microstation is the in'tergrlphic system for most computers. Microstation is the software that will work on PCs. Phil said that intergraph is hardware dependent. Dan said that there will be digital mapping capability and the Town mapped digitally operable probably by July 1994. Operationally means debugged, etc. Dan said he was a little concerned about the counties interaction and capability. They are still using map graphics, which is a MacIntosh system. Nobody else is using it in the state. County Planning Department has a contract with the Assessment Department to do a digital tax map. This has been started. They wish to get the overlay onto the planimetric base map, which will be 90% of developing the map, then linkage from tax parcels for attributes. Tax parcel numbers, it was agreed, should be the lowest common denominator as the geographic connection points. Polygons will be linked to those numbers. Candace asked of the time frame which the system will be up and running. Dan said he will recommended to the Town Board that these project be done in-house. There is the capability, resources and the staff. If it isn't done in-house it won't be developed to is fullest -ability. September 30, 1993 Conservation Board Minutes Page 2 Dan said at the moment they are using a work-study program from Cornell and there is one student who is going through all the maps in the file and developing a Lotus database for the maps. This is going very well. He spoke to a lot of students regarding the GIS system and they have all expressed an interest in it. Dan stated he felt it would be about three years before the system is ready, considering one person is working on it. It is very labor intensive (manual labor). He came to this conclusion because the county started on its Watershed Mapping project about three years ago, and it is still being worked on. Phil stated the GIS system is very time consuming, he has used it for a job in Pittsburgh, and a lot of it is quality control and to be sure the information put in is accurately. Candace asked CAC members if they felt comfortable putting it off until next year. Dan wanted to add that the Environmental Atlas is going to take time but if the CB would like to put together a format, exactly what the CAC wanted to see in there, development of that could be done ASAP so that the staff who look at different hard and software can decide the format. Candace said there is a good list already. Phil moved to put off an Environmental Atlas until such a time that the Town is ready to provide digital information (expected in July 1994) unless there is an emergency, seconded by Dick, passed unanimously. Candace mentioned a form she had passed out regarding objectives. The one objective that received the most priority from the board was to minimize of adverse environmental impact resulting from development and an integrated system of Parks and Recreational Facilities throughout the Town, including undeveloped open spaces, with linkages between various parts of the system between pathways, such as pathways, streams corridors, trails and utilities right of way. These were the top priorities each receiving 4 votes. Candace read the other priorities of the board: Protection of natural resources, selected open space and environmental sensitive areas and unique natural areas (3 votes), fair distribution of cost and benefits of open space (3 votes); protection of water and air quality and to keep impacts from erosion, sedimentation, and drainage to a minimum (2 votes). This is without John, Celia and Eva's input. Candace stated that the last priority was about the actions in questionnaire #2, there were 3 votes for the first action which is support private sector efforts from significant environmental areas and coordinate these activities with the Towns Comprehensive Planning Program where applicable. Second was to investigate mechanisms to protect environmentally sensitive areas as part of an amended zoning ordinance. Prepare an open space plan for the protection and preservation of the most important open spaces, compile and maintain an environmental atlas, and maintain a watershed plan, consider establishing and maintaining conservation usage programs, consider the critical environmental areas (2 votes). Consider the use of incentive zoning, consider applying for authority under Section 46A for the docks, boats, and moors. These are the priorities of the CB. Phil asked for Dan and Floyd how they viewed the Comprehensive Plan and how they were going to take it on in general. Floyd said that in the plan, Chapter 5, a list of priorities are provided. One of the items that is a priority is "investigate mechanisms to protect environmentally sensitive areas as part of an amended-zoning ordinance. " That will be worked on as the Town Planning Department works on a zoning ordinance. Part of the problem is at the end of the year Dan and Floyd develop a work-plan the Supervisor looks at and the Town Board approves it. They make the final decision about what needs to be worked on for the upcoming year. Recently they were given the task of working with Transportation Planning with the Public Works Committee. Other priorities including zoning ordinance. He needs to get ideas because if there isn't money available then it can't be done. This is all part of a work plan. The transportation plan involves all types of transportation, including automobiles, buses, bicycles routes, paths, stream corridors, etc. Floyd stated that he and Dan both sit on the Committee for the Planning Committee on the MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization), and Shirley sits on the Policy Committee (who makes the decisions). They need to come up with a transportation plan for the whole metropolitan area. This includes the City of Ithaca, most of the Town of Ithaca, Village of Cayuga Heights, Village of Lansing, New York State, and Tompkins County. This plan needs to be done by the end of next year. It needs to be presented to the public roughly around June. Dan and Floyd stated that all the priorities are interlinked and it is not a matter of starting one September 30, 1993 Conservation Board Minutes Page 3 and finishing it and starting another. They are all connected in some way. As far as the environmental issues are concerned, when you are looking at environmentally sensitive areas, you should be producing the Environmental Atlas at the same time. Candace asked CAC members if it makes sense to ask the Town Planner what priority the fair distribution of cost and benefits of open space, which is one of the CACs priorities are, would be covered under. Phil stated that this may be something the Town Board might have to address. The Town Planners may have recommendations but it is a Planning Board- issue. Dan said it would be part of the zoning ordinance. Candace mentioned that in Chapter 5 the Town has decided that the six priorities are: rezone, capital improvements program, transportation program, investigate mechanisms to protect environmentally sensitive areas, finish Cornell generic environmental impact statement, and come up with an official highway map. Mike Ocello is working on the highway map, we are currently doing the Cornell GIS, Dan will do the capital improvement program, everyone is working on the transportation program, and everyone will be working on the zoning issue because the Comprehensive Plan is done. What Candace was trying to say is that one of the issues of the CAC was protection of natural resources, open space, sensitive areas, and unique areas. As she understood it was considered a priority in the zoning section. Will it be addressed anywhere else? Phil said the question would be "what do you consider adverse environmental impact and are you going to allocate staff time to minimize that?" Dan stating that he could give examples: Zoning ordinance - if you are going to block out areas of environmental significance to prevent development you put an ordinance on it. Other than through the specific regulations to block out large areas minimizing the impact is all done in the CEGA Review of development projects of the Planning Board and the Town Board may be behind, i.e., infrastructure development. Candace said the reason the CAC needs to do this is to figure out where they wish to concentrated their efforts for the next year, i.e., water quality, storm water runoff, watersheds, etc. Phil stated that he found things such as erosion and sedimentation as an issue and he would like to see the watershed issue address and ironed out so there is some direction. Also, habitat fragmentation to preserve areas are becoming "piece-mealed" and are losing wildlife. He asked Floyd his opinion. Floyd said that this is an area where the CAC could be helpful. When the Town Planners do the zoning the CAC can have their input. Environmental Atlas - Dan stated that there is the technology to map it now but there isn't the field information. Candace asked then when the field work is done will it be done with the electronic GPS (Global Positioning System). Dan said that these things weren't available but the county was talking about obtaining one or two units. He stated the prices are dropping on these now (approx. $700). He stated that they take signals from satellites, coordinates that, processes it, and in a matter of minutes gives a grid point (latitude, longitude, elevation) within a meter. Dick asked how the biological information was put in. Dan explained that, for example, you were doing a whether map inventory and you were in a wetland area, you go to the center of the area and you get the coordinates. It involves field work and possibly consultants. Candace stated that the atlas really has to be done but, as discussed earlier, it isn't possible at this time but at least the CAC can get together a wish list together. Candace asked Cheryl what her top priority was and Cheryl stated that she hasn't seen a copy of the Comprehensive Plan. Cheryl wanted to know what good it would do to ask Floyd or Dan when it isn't their decision to make. Candace stated that if the CACs number one priority was protection environmentally sensitive areas and how the CAC was going to go about doing it and then ask Dan or Floyd how they had planned to do it, maybe it could be interfaced. Dan stated this was basically through the Zoning Board. This basically says how land is to be developed, how much open space is going to be undeveloped land. Dick asked if the Comprehensive Plan was pass. It was passed on September 21st. He asked of the various boards in the Town, which board will get the first injunction to do this. Dan stated the Planning Board. Floyd stated that the GEIS has got to get done. Dan is working on the capital improvement plan (Town Hall facilities, water and sewer utilities, roads, parks). Phil asked when ideas were put together and submitted for the next year. Floyd stated they should be submitted to the November board meeting and a decision usually by December. Budgets are submitted in August. Candace said that as far as environmental issues are concerned, they need to be addressed under zoning and subdivision. What specific ways would these be dealt with? Drainage ordinance, wetland ordinance? Are these considered under the zoning ordinance. Floyd said no. It would be under Local Laws, i.e. September 30, 1993 Conservation Board Minutes Page 4 road specification (state, town and county). The problems with sedimentation are mainly from the streams. Candace said that on page 2 of the questionnaire of priorities for action was "investigate mechanism to protect environmentally sensitive areas as an amended zoning ordinance." How is this going to be done in a zoning ordinance (wetlands, slopes, soil, mature forests). Floyd stated they he doesn't know what is going to be done yet. Candace wanted to know what the Conservation Board can do to get some action. Floyd said the more information that they have the easier it would be to get the Environmental Atlas going. Everything is going to help. Cheryl brought up the problem with flooding at her house on Skyvue Road, and on Pine Tree Road. When development begins on Peregrine Hill the situation will be worse. The water is a problem with a heavy rain or a snow melt as it is. Floyd suggested that when they have a public meeting on Peregrine Hill she ask that question. Dan said that storm water management is a problem they have had. Any subdivision that is requiring a road to be built, there is a storm water retention ordinance. What they don't have is a Comprehensive Watershed Analysis to identify the problem areas. Dan stated that the ordinance they have now have to be rewritten, its too specific. It tries to put all the design details into the ordinance which he feels is inappropriate. It needs to be rewritten, and that is one of his tasks, to put the intent and the design criteria from a standpoint of frequency of floods, etc. Candace said that the CB can help with the storm water management and also the wetlands issue. Candace brought up the stream corridor issue and where that would fit in and Floyd stated it would be under the Zoning ordinance because it cannot be done stream by stream. Cheryl asked about air quality, and people burning trash in their yards. Is this a zoning issue? Dan said it was a State ordinance but the State doesn't have the resources to enforce it. Phil had a list of actions the CAC was interested in and wanted to share: 1) review and redraft the storm water management plan; 2) start gathering information for the GIS system, i.e., existing wetland data; 3) habitat fragmentation, what are critical areas and sizes (Dick may be interested in this in as far as bird life is concerned); 4) regulations Candace closed this.session by asking about the GIS training. Dan stated that it was at the Sheraton on Monday and Tuesday and cost to the public is approximately $55.00. Dan gave a copy of the schedule to Candace. 3. Persons to be heard: Candace stated that Cheryl is participating in the trash -lite program of the county. Cheryl stated that she was at P&C at Judd Falls Plaza on two different mornings, and only one person spoke to her. It is set up in P&C near the salad bar and it informs the public on how to cut down on the amount of trash. She went through a training session and found it quite useful. Education is the key. 4. Member Concerns: Candace asked the CAC members what direction they wanted to head in on the above subject. Phil stated that they shouldn't get too involved until after November. Next CAC Meeting: Candace will call. Meeting Adiourned PhilliparrieVervvation hair Town of Ithaca Co Board. Drafted by Karen Moore. Edited by Starr Hays - 5/3/96, as per CB instructions. MEETING NOTICE TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION BOARD 7:30 P.M. Thursday, November 18, 1993 TOWN HALL BOARD ROOM 126 East Seneca Street Ithaca, New York 14854 (Handicap -accessible entrance ramp on west side of building) (607) 273-1747 REVISED AGENDA 7:30 pm 1. Persons To Be Heard 7:32 pm 2. Report of Chair -- Report from the Hudson Valley Greenway 7:38 pm 3. Member Concerns 7:55 pm 4. How Can We Plan a Greenway? SCOTT WHITHAM, Land -Use Planner, Consultant for the Village of Lansing Greenway 8:15 pm 5. Roll up your sleeves and let's do itl Planning our Town Greenway -- walking and biking paths -and wildlife corridors 9:15 pm 6. Adjournment If you are unable to come, please notify Candace at 257-6220. CIS Members: Candace E. Cornell, Chair Richard Fischer Celia Bowers Eva Hoffmann Cheryl Smith John G. Whitcomb Phillip Zarriello Nfo 1- l tfPrl— MINUTES TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION BOARD November 18, 1993 Approved 00/00/00 PRESENT: Candace Cornell, Cheryl Smith, Richard B. Fischer, Eva B. Hoffmann, John Whitcomb, Phillip Zarriello GUESTS: Janet Hawkes, Scott Whitham Candace Cornell opened the meeting at p.m. 1. 'Introductions: Candace introduced Janet Hawkes to the CB. Janet is interested in becoming a member and decided to sit in on the meeting. 2. Report of the Chair: Candace attended the Hudson Valley Resource Conference on the Hudson Valley Greenway System. There is 150 miles of Greenway built between Albany and New York City. Legislation approved by Mario Cuomo. This is funded by 2110th of 1% of mofel taxes. All motels/hotels in the different counties supply these funds to go toward the greenway. There will be a Greenway Committee Meeting in the Town of Ithaca on December 4th. Candace has invited various developers to attend. Steve Lucente expressed an interest. 3. Members Concerns: Cheryl and Eva discussed the Peregrine Hollow development. Cheryl stated that the maps that they originally saw were different than the ones now. Big change was that there wouldn't be cluster housing. This was moved towards the Dryden line. There will be a public hearing on December 2nd at the Dryden Town Hall. Candace suggested and ERC review and the drafts could be sent to the Town of Ithaca and Town of Dryden planners. Candace also selected the ERC Committee which will consist of Phil (Chair), Dick, Cheryl and Eva as an advisor. Candace is also willing to volunteer her time when needed. 4. Scott Whitham - Land Use Planner - Discussion Scott gave a description of a Greenway to the CB members. He also discussed the Hudson Valley Greenway and how it isn't quite complete. It is said that the end result will be that you can walk from Albany to New York City through this greenway plan. TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION BOARD 7:30 P.M. Thursday, December 16, 1993 TOWN HALL SCARD ROOM 126 East Seneca Street Ithaca, New York 14850 (Handicap -accessible entrance ramp on west side of building) (607) 273-1747 AGENDA 7:30 pm 1 . Persons To Be Heard 7:32 pm 2. Report of Chair 7:35 pm 3. Discussion — Planning a Town Greenway with Rich Schoch (Parks & Open Space Department) and Louise Raimondo (Planning Department) 8:35 pm 4. Discussion of suggested 1994 CB Work Plan a. Town of Ithaca Greenway b. Environmental Atlas -Develop list of attributes for the EA for a GIS system -Assist the Town in data collection and interpretation c. Assist in implementing the Comprehensive Plan d. Ongoing: Environmental Review Committee (A written discussion of these items will be mailed under a separate cover.) 8:55 pm 5. Nomination of members for 1994 (Terms of Dick and Phil expire 1/94) 9:00 pm 6. Interview and possible nomination of Janet Hawkes as a new CB member 9:10 pm 7. Selection of CS Chair and Vice -Chair for 1994 9:20 pm 8. Member Concerns 9:30 pm 9. Adjournment If you are unable to come, please Notify Candace at 257-6220. CB Members: Candace E. Cornell, Chair Richard Fischer Cheryl Smith Eva Hoffmann John G. Whitcomb Phillip Zarriello " L'PNR CORNELL UNIV. TEL:607-253-3455 Jun 10 94 9:27 No,,001 P.03 �A L MINUTES TOWN OF ITHACA CONSERVATION BOARD CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL, December 16, 1993 Approved 00/00/00 PRESENT: Candace Cornell, Cheryl Smith, Richard B. Fischer, Eva B. IIofiinann, Janet Hawkes, Louise Raimondo, Rich Schoch, Karen Moore ABSENT: John Whitcomb and Phillip Zarriello an ace Corriell open • to meeting at Tjzp.m. 1. Persona to be heard; None 2. Report of the Chair; The Tompkins County Greenway Coalition workshop on December 4th was a success. Representatives of municipalities and user groups throughout the county attended. Trace paper over USGA maps allowed people to mark trails, paths, natural corridors, etc. John Whitcomb is retiring from CAC. He presented the CAC with a second award from the NYS Association of Conservation Commissions for Wetland Guidelines, 3. Discussion: Louise helping on Greenway project. The Planning Dept. is recommending a parks and Recreation Plan to the Town which, hopefully, will incorporate the Greenway project. It will be a priority for 1994. Rich discussed how his department works closely with the Highway Dept. He reported that work is almost complete on the South Hill Trail. Candace explainod how a Greenway Plan can evolve. First, a map with "dream lines" is drawn. Then ownership of properties confirmed. Discussion with property owners would follow. once the possibility is confirmed, Tow staff an map the area. Dan would give time for mapping if possible. One way to acquire land is the "set aside" for new subdivisions. Access roads to water tanks, which are mowed by the Town, can be included. The CB identified paths and trails on the Park, Trails, and Open Space Reservations map. Cornoll's plan to reward people who do not drive onto campus might help with plans for walkways and bike trails. 4. Dissuasion of suggcstrd 1994 CB Work Plan: Candace suggested the following actions: 1) Working on a Town of Ithaca Greenway; 2) Environmental Atlas - Louise confirmed this as a priority of the Planning Board. There are three pans: gathering information and verifying accuracy of maps to put in the GIS system; collecting data from the field; on-going maintenance project. Phil will chair a committee for GIS input; 3) John Whitcomb asked the CAC to assist in the implementation of Comprehensive Plan; 4) Environmental Review Committee t(ERC) - aim for better organization. Press for Local Law 4 to be implemented in Town Iiall so that within five days of receipt of any zoning board of appeals building or planning application, the Chair of the CB is notified. The Chair will decide whether it warrants an Environmental Review report and the ERC takes this on. All in favor of accepting this plan as the Conservation Board 1994 Work Plan, passed unanimously, 5. Nomin tion of members for 1994: Candace nominated Dick Fischer for another two years on the CA seconded by Eva, passed unanimously, Candace nominated Phil Zarriello (Inabsentia), seconded by Dick; passed unanimously. 6. interview and Possible Nomination of Janet Hawkes; Janet presented an impressive resume. Eva moved that Janet Hawke be nominated to the Conservation Board seconded by Dick; pasawed unanimously. 7. Selection of Cl3 Chair and Vice -Chair for 1994: Dick nominated Phil &rriello for Vice- Chair, seconded