HomeMy WebLinkAboutTB Minutes 2024-04-11April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ITHACA TOWN BOARD
MONDAY, APRIL 11, 2005
215 NORTH TIOGA STREET, ITHACA, NEW YORK
THOSE PRESENT: Supervisor Valentino, Councilwoman Grigorov, Councilman Burbank,
Councilwoman Gittelman, Councilman Engman, Councilman Stein (until 9:07 p.m.)
EXCUSED: Councilman Lesser
STAFF PRESENT: Tee -Ann Hunter, Town Clerk; Fred Noteboom, Highway Superintendent;
Dan Walker, Town Engineer; Jonathan Kanter, Director of Planning; Al Carvill, Budget
Officer; Judy Drake; Human Resources Manager; Andy Frost, Director of Building and Zoning
OTHERS PRESENT: John Barney, Attorney for the Town; Dick Booth, Tompkins County
Legislature; Robin Korherr, City of Ithaca Common Council; Dan Kerrigan, Six Mile Creek
Volunteer; Dani Novak, Forest Home Community; Bruce and Doug Brittain, Forest Home
residents; Robert Romanowski, Fire Commission; Robert Earl, Slaterville Road; Andy
Sciarabba, South Hill Business Campus Project; Linda Luciano, South Hill Business Campus;
David Redoshia, 20 Lincolnshire Drive
CALL TO ORDER
Supervisor Valentino called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. and led the assemblage in the
Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 3 — REPORT FROM THE TOMPKINS COUNTY LEGISLATURE
Dick Booth appeared on behalf of the County Legislature.
Mr. Booth reported being present at the recent City Council Meeting when Supervisor
Valentino put discussion of Town and City consolidation on the table. He thought that was an
interesting moment and would lead to important conversations dealing with large,
complicated issues.
Mr. Booth continued reporting the following:
The County recently voted to retain the sales tax on clothing sales less than $110. It was a
close and difficult issue. Those who voted to maintain the tax were of the opinion that there
is currently so much pressure on the property tax that this move would have been unwise.
The County is working on a number of highway project; some of the biggest are in the Town.
Mr. Booth urged the Town government to make their voice heard.
The County has made a significant effort in the last couple of months in dealing with diversity
in the County workforce.
Work continues on the County Ethics Law. The County Ethics Commission provides advisory
opinions to other municipal governments.
April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
The County has hired an environmental firm and a law firm to help the County prepare the
Environmental Impact Statement for the emergency communications systems. The
communications system is a very large one that will cost the County a great deal of money
and they want to be sure that all the "i"s are dotted and 'T's are crossed so that when the
project is ready it will be able to go forward without too much threat of being stopped by law
suits.
The State budget has passed. However, there are a number of very large items that have
not been decided upon. Many of those items will impact the County's budget very heavily.
The County Legislators will have a retreat in the near future to try to establish some
parameters for the 2006 County budget.
Councilman Engman asked what form Mr. Booth would recommend the Town use in sending
their comments about Coddington and Hanshaw Road reconstruction. Mr. Booth responded
stating he was no longer head of that committee but knew there were a lot of voices speaking
and while the neighborhood voices are very important the Town's interests may be somewhat
different than the neighborhoods. He urged the Town to use the forums to which they have
access to voice the Town government's position.
Agenda Item No. 4 — Report from the City of Ithaca Common Council
Robin Korherr appeared on behalf of Common Council.
Ms. Korherr reported as follows:
One of the City Committees, the Ithaca Community Drug Task Force, recently ended a 5-year
grant cycle. Primary goals of the task force were to reduce substance abuse in youth
populations through work with the Ithaca City Schools and to increase community
collaboration to prevent or reduce substance abuse. Copies of the 5-year report are
available from Ms. Korherr or the Tompkins County Youth Bureau. The findings were that
substance abuse increased in some age groups and decreased in others.
Last week Fire Chief Wilbur came to the City Administration Committee with a strong request
to fund a municipal training officer to continue the bunker and volunteer fire programs. The
request came in at about $100,000 and City Administration fiscally could not approve the
request. Efforts are being made to balance the efficiencies and decreased costs of
supporting volunteer services with that of funding paid services.
Chief Wilbur is also delving into strategic planning for fire services incorporating the volunteer
companies throughout the County and the paid services through the City of Ithaca Fire
Department. This is a large, 2-year project. The first stage asks for overtime pay for staff.
Currently there are not funds to support that request. Ms. Korherr and another member of
Common Council have thought about approaching the Cornell City Working Group and
looking to the Johnson School of Management for assistance with the strategic planning
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process. Ms. Korherr asked the Board to think about the concept and get back to her if it is
something the Town would be interested in.
Supervisor Valentino has shared with Ms. Korherr the information regarding the recreation
facilities that the Board received in their packet. She thought it was a great job showing the
concepts and expenses that were presented to both sides during their meetings.
At last week's Common Council meeting, Council endorsed the City's Department of
Planning and Economic Development priority work plan for 2005. One of the plan's items
was to adopt and implement the 2005 HUD entitlement program. 3.4 million dollars of
requests came to the City. The IURA funded 1.4 million dollars. Some of the agency's
projects included Food Net, the Advocacy Center, rehabilitation of the Domestic Violence
Center, Challenge Industries, traffic calming at two different areas, Catholic Charities, and
Ithaca Downtown Partnership loan fund.
The were no questions from the Board for Ms. Korherr.
Agenda Item No. 5 — Report of the Fire Commission (Attachment #1 — written report)
Bob Romanowski appeared before the Board on behalf of the Fire Commission.
Mr. Romanowski read his monthly report to the Board.
Agenda Item No. 6 - Persons to be Heard and Board Comments
Dan Kerrigan, Six Mile Creek Monitoring Program (Attachment #2 — Letter from S.
Pennoingroth)
Mr. Kerrigan appeared before the Board to answer questions regarding the request for
funding to continue the Six Mile Creek Monitoring program. Mr. Kerrigan, a retired Cornell
professor, stated he was highly impressed at the level of the involved citizens and their
positive attitude. He told the Board the monitoring is going quite well.
Councilman Engman stated that the provided materials indicated that there are going to be
some changes in the testing procedures. He asked if those changes would cause a problem
in comparing last year's results with the coming year's results. Mr. Kerrigan stated he did not
think so but felt Mr. Penningroth would be the best person to answer that. Some of the
changes are just deletions because some of the things they have been measuring are just
not necessary. It is Mr. Kerrigan's understanding that when they switch from Mr.
Penningroth's lab measurements to field measurements they should have the same
standards.
Supervisor Valentino asked if they were anticipating asking for future funding. Speaking as a
scientist, Mr. Kerrigan told the Board that these sort of data are more valuable the longer the
period of time they are collected. He hoped that the measurements are collected for a very
significant period of time. Supervisor Valentino told Mr. Kerrigan if the group is going to be
looking for continued funding they should make their request in sync with the Town's budget
cycle.
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Councilman Burbank asked if the quality of the data they were collecting was credible and
useful over time and, secondly, is this a more cost effective way than having professionals do
the work. Mr. Kerrigan stated that Mr. Penningroth runs a certified lab and makes sure that
all the chemical analysis qualifies as the kind of data the DEC and USGS will accept; and it is
incredibly cheaper than having professionals do the work.
Dani Novak, representing the Forest Home Community
Mr. Novak appeared before the Board to report that Cornell University was planning to build a
fence around the Cornell Plantations. A group from the community has met with Cornell and
learned that the University has been planning this for two years. Future meetings between
the two have been scheduled, the next April 27 th in the Forest Home Chapel at 7 p.m. Mr.
Novak's purpose in coming before the Board was to tell them the deer population was a
larger problem than just the Plantation and perhaps all parties should work together. The
neighbors are concerned about the deer that will come to their backyards.
Mr. Frost stated both he and Mr. Kanter were aware of these plans. Cornell will have to
appear before the Town Planning Board. Cornell's indication is that they want to be good
neighbors and are having dialogues with the Forest Home Community.
Robert Earl
Mr. Earl appeared before the Board regarding deer control in the Town of Ithaca.
He told the Board he had been a resident of the Town since 1953. He recommended that the
Board release a statement to the residents indicating what the Town's stance is and what it
thinks might be done about the deer population. He stated the expense and the danger
inherent in the deer problem need not be gone over at the evening's meeting as he was sure
the Board had heard people talk about it before. He recommend the Board make a
statement indication it was bigger than a Town problem and may be a County problem.
Mr. Earl felt such a statement would communicate to residents that the Board cares about the
issue and "is on the job".
David Redoshia, 20 Lincolnshire Drive
Mr. Redoshia reported dangerous road conditions on Elm Street. Mr. Noteboom told him the
portion of the road he was concerned about was in the City of Ithaca and the Town could not
address the issue. Councilman Burbank concurred with Mr. Redoshia that the problem was
very bad. Another piece of road Mr. Redoshia commented on by Sapsucker Woods is in the
Town of Dryden.
Mr. Redoshia felt the cause of the problem on Elm Street was drainage. He felt if the City
could fix the drainage in the area it would help the road condition. Supervisor Valentino told
him that drainage and storm water management is something the Town and City are working
on more and more.
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Board Comments
Councilwoman Grigorov asked Supervisor Valentino what was meant by Mr. Booth's
comments regarding consolidation.
Supervisor Valentino told the Board she had spoken with Mayor Peterson about discussing
Town and City consolidation. The issue comes up on a fairly regular basis whenever they
have a meeting about Intermunicipal cooperation. The question why the Town and City don't
consolidate is always asked and throws a monkey wrench into trying to work on some other
things. Supervisor Valentino thought they should put it out on the table, look at the things
that would work in consolidation. There are huge problems that would have to be overcome
in order to consolidate. It is not an easy thing, but if the City and Town started the discussion
we can begin to look at how we might be able to do a better job on shared services. There
are a lot of variations of things that municipalities can do that are not straight consolidation
but help communities work on shared services. Mayor Peterson and Supervisor Valentino
have a lunch meeting in a couple of weeks during which they can layout what things they
need to know to understand the issue.
Councilwoman Grigorov commented that shared services are very different from
consolidation. Ms. Grigorov felt shared services were a completely acceptable thing whereas
consolidation is going to be pretty controversial. She felt it probably should have been
brought to the Board first.
Councilman Stein asked if Supervisor Valentino was talking about consolidation or shared
services. She told him she was talking about both. She felt they had to look at consolidation
to understand what was possible, what wasn't possible and get some answers, because the
issue keeps coming up. She felt it was more of a feasibility study at this point.
Councilwoman Gittelman thought it would be very useful.
Councilman Burbank stated he was thrilled to see the Town looking into this. He thought it
was an idea that should be seriously considered.
Councilman Engman felt the issue was a good discussion item. While he had no idea how it
would come out he thought it was a good idea to raise the issues.
Agenda Item No. 8 - Discussion of Workspace Reconfiguration and the Purchase of
Necessary Components (Attachment #3 — Drawings and description)
The Board received background information in their packets. Mr. Walker reviewed the
proposed reconfiguration with the Board.
Agenda Item No. 13 - Public Hearing for a Local Law creating a Public Works
Department
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
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Supervisor Valentino opened the public hearing at 6:30 p.m. There was no one present to
address the board and Supervisor Valentino closed the public hearing at 6:40 p.m.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-048: Resolution Adopting a Local Law Amending the Code
of the Town of Ithaca to Add a New Chapter 59 Creating a Public Works Department for
the Town of Ithaca (Attachment #4 — Local Law No. 2 of 2005)
WHEREAS, a resolution was duly adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca
for public hearing to be • by • Town .•. • on • 11 • 1 p.m. to hear all
interested parties on a proposed local law entitled "A LOCAL LAW AMENDING THE CODE
OF THE TOWN OF ITHACA TO ADD A NEW CHAPTER 59 CREATING A PUBLIC WORKS
DEPARTMENT FOR THE TOWN OF ITHACA51 ; and
WHEREAS, notice of said public hearing was duly advertised in the Ithaca Journal;
WHEREAS, said public hearing was duly held on said date and time at the Town Hall
of the Town of Ithaca and all parties in attendance were permitted an opportunity to speak on
behalf of or in opposition to said proposed local law, or any part thereof; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board finds it is in the best interests of the Town and its citizens
to adopt the local law;
NOW, THEREFORE, be it
RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby determines that the
adoption of said local law entitled "A LOCAL LAW AMENDING THE CODE OF THE TOWN
OF ITHACA TO ADD A NEW CHAPTER 59 CREATING A PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
FOR THE TOWN OF ITHACA" is a Type II action as defined in Part 617 of the Implementing
Regulations pertaining to Article 8 of the New York State Conservation Law (which law and
regulations thereunder, including the Town's local regulations, are collectively referred to as
"SEQRA"), constituting "routine or continuing agency administration and management, not
including new programs or major reordering of priorities that may affect the environment" and
thus may be processed without further regard to SEQRA, and it is further
RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby adopts said local law
entitled "A LOCAL LAW AMENDING THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF ITHACA TO ADD A
NEW CHAPTER 59 CREATING A PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT FOR THE TOWN OF
ITHACA" a copy of which was duly submitted to this Board and is annexed hereto; and it is
further
RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk be and she hereby is directed to enter said local law
in the minutes of this meeting and in the Local Law book of the Town of Ithaca, and by filing a
copy of said local law with the Secretary of State of the State of New York.
MOVED: Councilwoman Gittelman
Lei
April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
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• N D E D: Councilwoman Grig-M
ROLL CALL VOTE: Supervisor Valentino,
aye
Councilwoman Grigorov,
aye
Councilman Burbank,
aye
Councilwoman Gittelman,
aye
Councilman Engman,
aye
Councilman Stein,
aye
Agenda Item No. 9 - Consider Funding Request for Six Mile Creek Volunteer Monitoring
Councilman Engman voiced his support of the funding request. He thought the information
was good and would help when it comes time to figure out how the huge investment in the
wastewater treatment plant is improving the phosphorus loading in the lake. Along with the
information from the Lake Source Cooling Project, when you put it all together you start to get
a baseline for good decision -making.
Agenda Item No. 10 - Consider Authorization for a Historic Resources Survey Project
Intern (Attachment #5 — Memo from Barbara Ebert)
Supervisor Valentino told the Board that the money for this is already in the 2005 budget. It
is a project that has been ongoing for a number of years.
Councilwoman Gittelman asked if the Town Historian would be involved in the project. Mr.
Kanter stated he had contacted her to let her know about the project. He had not heard back
from her, but felt the Town Historian would be very much involved in the project. The project
started in 1997. It was a cooperative effort between the Town of Ithaca and Cornell's Historic
Preservation Planning. Barbara Ebert headed up the project and had her students do the
surveys. This should finalize the project.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-049: Authorization to Participate in Cornell University
Cooperative Internship Program to Complete Historic Resources Survey through
Cornell's Historic Preservation Planning Program
WHEREAS, the Town of Ithaca and Cornell University's Historic Preservation Planning
Program have been working together to conduct an historic resources survey of potentially
significant buildings, structures and sites within the Town; and
WHEREAS, approximately 64 of the 350 inventory forms drafted by Cornell students during
the initial years of this project still need final compilation, and an additional 115 forms from
2000 still need final editing and compilation; and
WHEREAS, Barbara Ebert, Adjunct Professor at Cornell's Historic Preservation Planning
Program has prepared a "Plan for Completion of the Town of Ithaca Historic Resources
Survey" (the "Plan" - dated March 30, 2005) that would include the finalizing of the 179 +/-
inventory forms and the preparation of a final report summarizing the work of the historic
resources survey, including the identification of structures and districts of potential
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
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importance to the Town and future preservation strategies that could be considered by the
Town; and
WHEREAS, said Plan proposes the use of a student intern under Cornell University's
Cooperative Internship Program to complete this project; and
WHEREAS, Jessica Evans, a Masters of Arts candidate in Cornell's Historic Preservation
Program has been identified by Barbara Ebert as qualified and interested in participating as
an intern in this project; and
WHEREAS, Jessica Evans would work under the supervision of Barbara Ebert, in partnership
with the Town of Ithaca Planning Department to complete this project; and
WHEREAS, the Cooperative Internship Program is a 50/50 matching program with the
sponsoring agency (i.e., Town of Ithaca) paying one-half of the salary of the student intern,
and Cornell University hires the intern and administers the internship program; and
WHEREAS, the cost to the Town of Ithaca to participate in this program would be $1,550 for
the Town's share of the intern's salary, and an additional $150 requested by Ms. Ebert to
cover miscellaneous expenses, such as photographs, map reproduction, mileage, and other
supplies; and
WHEREAS, the Director of Planning recommends that the Town Board authorize the
participation and funding by the Town as outlined above;
RESOLVED, that the Town of Ithaca Town Board hereby authorizes the Historic Preservation
Planning Program at Cornell University to complete the historic resources survey as outlined
in the above -referenced Plan; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Board finds that Jessica Evans appears to be
qualified to participate in this project as a student intern under the primary supervision of
Barbara Ebert in Cornell University's Cooperative Internship Program; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca authorizes an
expenditure not to exceed $1,700 to complete the historic resources survey, consisting of
$1,550 as the Town's share of the salary for the student intern, and an additional $150 for
miscellaneous expenses as outlined above, to be paid to Cornell University, said funds to be
charged to Account No. B8020.406 Planning Study, which has sufficient funds to cover these
expenses.
MOVED: Councilman Engman
SECONDED: Councilwoman Grigorov
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
Agenda Item No. 15 - Public Hearing to Consider a Local Law Amending Town.
Environmental Quality Review Law
Supervisor Valentino opened the public hearing at 6:45 p.m. The hearing was posted and
published as required. There was no one present to address the Board and the hearing was
closed at 6:46 p.m.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-050: SEAR: Proposed Local Law Amending Chapter 148 of
the Town of Ithaca Code Titled "Environmental Quality Review" (Attachment #6 —
SEQ
WHEREAS, this action is the enactment of a local law amending Chapter 148 of the
Town of Ithaca Code titled "Environmental Quality Review; and
WHEREAS, said proposed local law would bring the Town's Code provisions into
consistency with the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEAR) and simplify the Town ) s
law by eliminating duplication and redundancy with SEAR; 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 with respect to the
enactment of local laws; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board, at a public hearing held on April 11, 2005, has reviewed
and accepted as adequate the Short Environmental Assessment Form, Parts I and 11 for this
action, prepared by Town Planning staff;
RESOLVED, that the Town of Ithaca 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, neither a Full Environmental Assessment Form, nor an Environmental Impact
Statement will be required.
MOVED: Councilwoman Grigorov
SECONDED: Councilman Engman
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-051: Resolution Adopting a Local Law Amending the Code
of the Town of Ithaca Code, Titled "Environmental Quality Review" (Attachment #7 —
Local Law No. 3 of 2005)
WHEREAS, a resolution was duly adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca
for a public hearing to be held by said Town Board on April 11, 2005, at 6:45 p.m. to hear all
interested parties on a proposed local law entitled "A LOCAL LAW AMENDING THE CODE
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
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OF THE TOWN OF ITHACA AMENDING CHAPTER 148 OF THE TOWN OF ITHACA
CODE, TITLED "ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW"; and
WHEREAS, notice of said public hearing was duly advertised in the Ithaca Journal;
WHEREAS, said public hearing was duly held on said date and time at the Town Hall
of the Town of Ithaca and all parties in attendance were permitted an opportunity to speak on
behalf of or in opposition to said proposed local law, or any part thereof; and
WHEREAS, the adoption of this local law is, pursuant to Part 617 of the Implementing
Regulations pertaining to Article 8 of the New York State Conservation Law (which law and
regulations thereunder, including the Town's local regulations, are collectively referred to as
"SEQR") an Unlisted Action, and it has been determined by the Town Board that adoption of
said proposed local law would not have a significant effect upon the environment and could
be processed without further regard to SEQR; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board finds it is in the best interests of the Town and its citizens
to adopt the local law;
RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby adopts said local law
entitled "A LOCAL LAW AMENDING THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF ITHACA AMENDING
CHAPTER 148 OF THE TOWN OF ITHACA CODE, TITLED "ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
REVIEW" a copy of which was duly submitted to this board; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk be and she hereby is directed to enter said local law
in the minutes of this meeting and in the Local Law book of the Town of Ithaca, and by filing a
copy of said local law with the Secretary of State of the State of New York.
MOVED: Councilwoman Grigorov
SECONDED: Councilman Engman
ROLL CALL VOTE: Supervisor Valentino,
aye
Councilwoman Grigorov,
aye
Councilman Burbank,
aye
Councilwoman Gittelman,
aye
Councilman Engman,
aye
Councilman Stein,
aye
Agenda Item No. 11 - Discussion of 2005 Budget Amendments (Attachments #8 —
Financial Reports)
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Supervisor Valentino distributed and reviewed with the Board the following financial
information: A Review and Estimate of Anticipated Sales Tax for 2005; Estimating Fund
Balance Position; 2005 Proposed Budget Amendments; Summary of Options in Determining
Annual Town Support Payments for City Recreation Facilities; Waterfront Parks and
Recreation Facilities from City of Ithaca
Agenda Item No. 18 - Public Hearing to amend Chapter 153: Fee Schedule of the Code
of the Town of Ithaca to establish amounts to be paid in lieu of open space
reservations in all residential districts
Supervisor Valentino opened the public hearing at 7:00 p.m. The hearing had been posted
and published as required. There was no one present to address the Board and the hearing
was closed at 7:01 p.m.
Mr. Barney asked that the Board modify the resolution of adoption sent in the Board Packet
to reflect that this was a type II action.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-052: Resolution Adopting a Local Law Amending Chapter
153 of the Code of the Town of Ithaca Relating to Fees to Provide the Method of
Calculating Fees to be Payable by a Developer in Lieu of Making a Recreational Land
Reservation (Attachment #9 — Local Law No. 4 of 2005)
WHEREAS, a resolution was duly adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca
for a public hearing to be held by said Town Board on April 11, 2005, at 7:00 p.m. to hear all
interested parties on a proposed local law entitled "A LOCAL LAW AMENDING CHAPTER
153 OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF ITHACA RELATING TO FEES TO PROVIDE THE
METHOD OF CALCULATING FEES TO BE PAYABLE BY A DEVELOPER IN LIEU OF
MAKING A RECREATIONAL LAND RESERVATION"; and
WHEREAS, notice of said public hearing was duly advertised in the Ithaca Journal;
and
WHEREAS, said public hearing was duly held on said date and time at the Town Hall
of the Town of Ithaca and all parties in attendance were permitted an opportunity to speak on
behalf of or in opposition to said proposed local law, or any part thereof; and
WHEREAS, the adoption of this local law is, pursuant to Part 617 of the Implementing
Regulations pertaining to Article 8 of the New York State Conservation Law (which law and
regulations thereunder, including the Town's local regulations, are collectively referred to as
"SEQR") a Type II Action, and it has been determined by the Town Board that adoption of
said proposed local law could be processed without further regard to SEQR; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board finds it is in the best interest of the Town and its citizens
to adopt the local law;
NOW, THEREFORE, be it
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
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RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby adopts said local law
entitled "A LOCAL LAW AMENDING CHAPTER 153 OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF
ITHACA RELATING TO FEES TO PROVIDE THE METHOD OF CALCULATING FEES TO
BE PAYABLE BY A DEVELOPER IN LIEU OF MAKING A RECREATIONAL LAND
RESERVATION", a copy of which was duly submitted to this Board and is annexed hereto;
and it is further
RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk be and she hereby is directed to enter said local law
in the minutes of this meeting and in the Local Law book of the Town of Ithaca, and to give
due notice of the adoption of said local law by publication of such local law or an abstract or
summary thereof in the Ithaca Journal and by filing a copy of said local law with the Secretary
of State of the State of New York.
MOVED: Councilman Stein
SECONDED: Councilwoman Grigorov
ROLL CALL VOTE: Supervisor Valentino,
aye
Councilwoman Grigorov,
aye
Councilman Burbank,
aye
Councilwoman Gittelman,
aye
Councilman Engman,
aye
Councilman Stein,
aye
Agenda Item No. 11 -Discussion of 2005 Budget Amendments (continued)
In reviewing the "Summary of Options in Determining Annual Town Support Payments for
City Recreation Facilities", "Payment Options", Supervisor Valentino told the Board the Town
had never funded the Youth Bureau Building or the Carousel. The City has not asked for
funding for the Carousel; they seem to feel it will pay for itself. The only thing that is different
from the numbers Supervisor Valentino got from the City is in the Cass Park Facility.
Supervisor Valentino told the Board that revenue goes into that from the Recreation
Partnership, $49,000. The City put money in that figure that covered that revenue, except
they had backed out the City's amount, which is fair. But they also backed out the Town's
share, which Supervisor Valentino put back in. Supervisor Valentino stated the other thing
the Town had never paid before is the City's debt service.
The 22% option was Councilman Steinnis proposal of what would seem to be a reasonable
amount. In reviewing that option, Supervisor Valentino stated that the City's budget numbers
pretty clearly justify their request for $100,000.
Supervisor Valentino suggested the Board consider a memorandum of understanding for
2005 for what the City has requested and really go back and look closely at the numbers,
look at how the Town could get plugged into some of the decision making process and
oversight. She felt they had made good progress.
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
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Councilwoman Gittelman asked if Supervisor Valentino had spoken about shared input with
the City. Supervisor Valentino told her, yes, they had spoken about an oversight committee.
Councilman Stein stated he had sat in on the meetings with the City and it took a while to get
clear what exactly the goal of the committee was. In the end there was agreement that it was
the goal to establish what the fair share of the Town is. There was a lot of discussion about
the fact that the fair share was not the same as how much money we were going to pay
because we had to factor into that our ability to pay. The number $100,000 that was
requested by the City was requested in the face of the Town's having lowered it's contribution
to $50,000. It wasn't that they considered $100,000 to be the fair share. In the memo that
asked the Town for $100,000 they suggested that the fair share was $160,000, but they just
put the $100,000 number out because politically they saw there was absolutely no possibility
of getting us to pay them $160,000. Indeed, we had indicated as a Town we were not going
to pay them $100,000. It was clear that, when we were talking about the fair share, that the
fair share was thought to be no longer $160,000 but now $140,000 because when they went
through the numbers and looked again that turned out to be what the numbers added up to.
Regarding the 22%, Councilman Stein explained where the number came from stating there
are good numbers they all agree upon as the Town residents' usage of Cass Park, and that's
25%. Then the question is what is the Town's share of usage of Stewart Park. We don't
have such good numbers on that, but we have some numbers. The number we have are
from a survey that was taken in 1993 where the result was the Town usage was 15%. 1993
is a long time ago and the number wasn't very good anyway but Mr. Stein felt when you have
only one number that's the number you have to use. Mr. Stein explained he took the 15% to
be the Town usage of Stewart, 25% of Cass Park, averaged those two together weighted by
the amount of money involved and that came out to 22%.
Mr. Stein told the Board when he came away from the last meeting he publicly stated that he
guessed they were agreed that $140,000 is the Town's fair share defined by what fraction of
the total cost of "it" would correspond to 22% usage of the Town. As far as Mr. Stein is
concerned, the number the Board should be considering is $140,000 not $100,000. The
question is, can the Town afford $140,000.
Supervisor Valentino felt there was a bigger question.
Mr. Stein continued stating there certainly was a lot of talk about the question of shared
responsibility, shared control, and how the Town and City would do this in the future but it
was clear that those were big questions, and big questions that couldn't be answered in the
time period the group had. Mr. Stein stated the notion in his mind was that the group would
look and see what the fair share is, pay that this year, and then go on and see if we could
figure out in the future if the Town could get a proportional amount of ownership or decision -
making authority. Mr. Stein felt the Town had underpaid the City badly in the previous year,
when we paid 50% because the numbers were the same. He thought that the right thing for
the Town to do is to try to scrounge through the numbers and find $140,000 to pay the
Town's fair share this year.
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
Supervisor Valentino thought there were some big questions. For example, the Town has
never paid debt service before. Would it be appropriate for the Town to pay debt service
because we do not own any of the asset? The asset is something that belongs totally and
completely to the City. Her other concern is that when the Town goes about making major
policy changes like paying another municipalities debt service and paying for the Youth
Bureau Building, it is appropriate for those kinds of policy changes to be part of the budget
process where there are public hearings and residents get to weight in on such a policy
change. She told the Board she was apprehensive about jumping higher than what the City
requested and adding in debt service until the Town has gone through the budget and public
hearing process.
Mr. Stein stated he wasn't sure that the Town had never paid debt service or never funded
Stewart Park. Supervisor Valentino told him the Town had never paid those items. He then
asked where the $100,000 number came from? Was that number justified without any debt
service and the use of Stewart Park in it? He stated the Town paid $100,000 ten years ago
and doubted the number did not contain debt service. Supervisor Valentino told him the
Town had never made a commitment to pay debt service. The Town made a commitment to
support the Cass Park Facilities so that the children and adults in the community could use
the facility at the same cost as the residents of the City. That is the only commitment the
Town has made.
Councilwoman Grigorov stated that "fair share" was a new term that she had heard mostly
from Mr. Stein (her comment was interrupted). Mr. Stein stated the fair share was well
defined; it's taking the actual cost of the facility, the total cost of the facility, debt service is
certainly a cost, and then take the percentage of that facility that is used by our residents.
Supervisor Valentino stated she was not saying they should not pay debt service. She was
saying they were not at a point yet in negotiations with the City, there are still some things
that the committee has to talk about. She stated the City has never really asked for debt
service before. Mr. Stein stated they had.
Councilwoman Gittelman stated she would like to see the Town pay for more than just the
use of the park and she would be happy paying the $100,000 this year rather than the
$50,000, even though $140,000 may or may not be a better number, to hold something in
reserve for when the Town and City discuss the Town's having a vote as to how the services
are given. There have been requests from people in the Town to, for example, have Cass
Park pool used differently or different things with the fields. Ms. Gittelman thought we
needed a bargaining point.
Supervisor Valentino stated in the recreation survey they saw that the residents like to use
Stewart Park and adding Stewart Park to the mix certainly seems legitimate. They also saw
a fair amount of comments about how the Cass Park facilities are used and changes they
would like to see there.
Supervisor Valentino told the Board it might be important to make a decision on some of the
discretionary items before them, others could wait. A decision on the City recreation facilities
does not have to be made at the evening's meeting.
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
The Board interrupted the discussion to consider other agenda items.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-066: Approval of Funds and Budget Modification for
Purchase of Partitions and Office Furnishings for Town Hall Office Improvement..
WHEREAS, The Town Board has reviewed a proposal prepared by the staff to
improve the Town Hall Office space by providing additional File Storage space, improved
working surface and new and additional acoustical partitions, and
WHEREAS, Stevens Office Interiors has provided a quote from the office furniture
system that is on the NYS procurement contract for the new partitions, 2 new lateral files,
work surface, work stool and labor for an estimated budget of $6,700, and
WHEREAS, there is sufficient surplus fund balance to cover this expenditure, Now
Therefore be it
RESOLVED that the Town Board approves the expenditure for the purchase and
installation of the recommended office furniture system to make the workspace improvement
recommended by the Staff, and be it further
RESOLVED that the funds for this project be taken from surplus funds if the Town
wide A fund and that the Town of Ithaca 2005 budget be modified to add $6,700.00 to line
A1620.241, Town Hall Furniture and Furnishings.
MOVED: Supervisor Valentino
SECONDED: Councilman Burbank
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
Agenda Item No. 20. — Consider Setting a Public Hearing to Consider a Local Law
Amending the Zoning Chapter of the Town of Ithaca Code regarding
Telecommunications Facilities (Attachment #10 — Memo from J. Kanter and Draft Local
Law
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-053: Resolution Setting a Public Hearing to Consider a
Local Law Amending Sections 270-5 and 270-219 of the Code of the Town of Ithaca
Regarding Telecommunications Facilities
RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hold a public hearing at the
Town Hall, 215 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, on the 9th day of May 2005, at 6:30
p.m. for the purpose of considering a proposed local law amending Sections 270-5 and 270-
219 of the Code of the Town of Ithaca regarding telecommunications facilities; and it is further
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
RESOLVED, that at such time and place all persons interested in the proposed
amendment may be heard concerning the same; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk of the Town of Ithaca is hereby authorized and
directed to publish a notice of such public hearing in the Ithaca Journal published in the City
of Ithaca, Ithaca, New York, and to post a copy of same on the signboard of the Town of
Ithaca, said publication and posting to occur not less than ten days before the day designated
above for the public hearing.
MOVED: Supervisor Valentino
SECONDED: Councilwoman Grigorov
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
Agenda Item No. 21 - Presentation of Forest Home Traffic Calming Study (Attachment #
11 -Traffic Calming Presentation materials)
Bruce and Doug Brittain appeared before the Board to update them on the Forest Home
Traffic Calming Plan.
Councilman Burbank stated he was hopeful that the Town would find ways to integrate some
of the proposed plan's ideas into their planning process and actualize some of the
recommendations. He acknowledged the missing piece is funding.
The Town will be receiving a final report hopefully sometime this summer.
Agenda Item No. 12 - Consider Setting Date for Local Assessment Advisory Board
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-054: Setting Date Local Advisory Board of Assessment
Review
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca, at their March 7, 2005 meeting,
appointed Councilman Stein and Supervisor Valentino to serve on the Local Advisory Board
of Assessment Review and appointed Councilman Engman to serve as alternate
representative; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board must set a date for the local assessment review; now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Town of Ithaca Local Advisory Board of Assessment Review will
hold their review proceedings on Thursday, May 19, 2005 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., at the
Ithaca Town Hall, 215 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, the Town Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to forward a certified
copy of this resolution to the Tompkins County Assessment Department.
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
MOVED: Supervisor Valentino
SECONDED: Councilman Stein
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
Agenda Item No. 7 - Discussion of Network Specialist's Budget Requests,
Lisa Carrier-Titti appeared before the Board to answer any questions regarding her budget
modification requests.
Those requests are as follows: 1) laptop computer is for the Justice Department; 2) Eagle
Point Software is an extra license for Highway Department Employee Joe Slater; 3) new
switch for network expansion is to allow for the addition of more computers to the network; 4)
Town Justice software will allow Court Clerks to access each others files. Ms. Carrier-Titti
told the Board she had decided to withdraw an earlier request for wireless Internet access.
Agenda Item No. 27 - Consider Referring Proposal to Create Planned Development
Zone for the Axiohm — South Hill Business Campus Promect to Planning Board
(Attachment #12 — Memo from J. Kanter)
Mr. Kanter explained that this application is going to the Planning Board for a sketch plan
review the following evening. Andy Sciarabba is a partner in the South Hill Business Campus
LLC, which recently acquired the former Axiohm building. The zoning is industrial, which
allows primarily manufacturing and a number of other uses. One of the issues with the
zoning is the list of permitted uses in the industrial zone, which puts some limits on what can
be done in the building. In order for them to lease out space these days, you are not going to
find many manufacturing or industrial types of users. The other issue that zoning could
address has to do with the site plan approval process and what items have to go to the
Planning Board for review. Right now that's almost everything. Almost any change of use or
occupancy in that building would require going for a site plan approval. Another of the
questions that could possibly be addressed by the Town Board would be to modify that site
plan review process. Mr. Kanter invited Mr. Sciarabba to address the Board.
Mr. Sciarabba told the Board they had heard from 15 or 20 interested parties since they
purchased the building in December. They have heard from one local manufacturer
interested in about 10,000 square feet of space. But frankly all the others spaces are going
to be in the nature of lawyers, financial planners, day care, art gallery and studio space,
catering. A good portion of the building is old style manufacturing space. Fortunately the
second floor with its wood floor and windows will allow for very nice office space. The
entrepreneur's forum was there on Saint Patrick's Day; about 72 people showed up. They all
wanted to take a tour of the building and from that meeting about 5 or 6 individuals expressed
an interest in looking at future space in the building. Mr. Sciarabba stated they would not be
able to fill the building with pure manufacturing or the limited uses in an industrial zone.
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
Mr. Kanter told the Board that at this point the action, if they so choose, would be to refer the
request to the Planning Board for a recommendation on the zoning questions. Mr. Barney
has done an initial, preliminary draft and if it was okay with the Town Board they would talk
about it at tomorrow's Planning Board Meeting. Mr. Kanter saw it as the beginning of the
process, hopefully not a very long one, of drafting a local law that would meet the Town's
needs and the applicant's needs better than the current zoning.
Councilman Engman stated he thought it was a great opportunity for putting the Axiohn
building to good use again. He had one concern. He asked that precautions be taken
regarding some of the proposed uses. Some of those possibilities are technology based
companies, manufactures, light assembly, lab space, and printing. Some of these can use
chemicals that are just as destructive and dangerous as the very ones that have to be
cleaned up there now. He thought it was incumbent on the Town to try to protect future
generations from having to do the types of clean ups we're seeing all over the Ithaca area.
He wanted to make sure that whatever change there is to allow these things to happen that
there is enough control so that stuff isn't just thrown down the sewer and end up in our newly
renovated sewer treatment plant. Mr. Engman stated he was not a big fan of Empire Zone
things and knew this project was applying for those types of tax abatement programs. He
thought the one saving grace of this project was the environmental clean up and if it takes the
tax incentives to get that done he would fully support the project.
Councilwoman Grigorov stated she felt the project was a perfect candidate for a planned
development zone. Both because the property has different zones and you can't utilize them
efficiently they way it is and also it gives the Town much greater control over what can be
done.
In response to questions from Mr. Stein, Mr. Barney stated industrial zones presently permit
any lawful manufacturing activity and any lawful activity permitted as of right in a light
industrial zone except for some uses that are expressly prohibited and include dwelling units,
sales of products at retail, restaurants, motels, hotel, adult entertainment business. It also
prohibited really heavy industrial types of things. Mr. Stein asked what it is that we're
considering adding. Mr. Barney responded bank or other financial institution, optician,
research and development facilities, conference and event center, off -premises catering, arts
or crafts gallery, educational uses, restaurant.
Mr. Kanter told the Board that although Mr. Barney had prepared the draft law he has told the
Town that he has a potential conflict of interest (a partner represented Mr. Sciarabba in
conjunction with purchasing the building) and he is suggesting that Susan Brock oversee this
for the Town. Mr. Kanter has spoken to Ms. Brock who is happy to do the work.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-055: Referral of Rezoning Request for the South Hill
Business Campus, 950 Danby Road, to the Planning Board
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby refers the
request by the South Hill Business Campus, LLC for a rezoning of the property at 950 Danby
Road from Industrial to Planned Development Zone to the Planning Board for a
recommendation.
ffelo]
April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
• Councilwoman Grigorov
SECONDED: Supervisor Valentino
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
Agenda Item No. 23 - Discussion of Names for Town Parks (Attachment #13 — List of
suggested park names)
Maggie Degraff, 122 Westhaven Road
Ms. Degraff appeared before the Board to request they consider using the Degraff name
(mother Helen, father Homer) when naming the "Westhaven" park. The park parcel is part of
the Titus Farm, which her parents bought in 1947.
Supervisor Valentino stated the other park the Board will be naming is in the Glenside area.
They have heard from two parties recommending Glenside Park and one recommending
Connie Cook Park. Ms. Valentino reported having contacted the Cook family who did not
have a strong feeling one way or the other about the park being named in honor of Connie.
Supervisor Valentino suggested to the family that there might be a nice spot within the park
where they could put a bench with Connie Cook's name. Cathy Cook thought that was a
delightful suggestion and would prefer that to having the park named after Connie.
Supervisor Valentino recommended they move forward with naming the park Glenside and
look into placing a dedicated bench in the park.
Councilman Burbank suggested the Board involve the Town Historian in naming parks.
Councilwoman Gittelman recommended historic markers in Town parks. Councilman Stein
expressed his preference for a name that honors an individual or an event in the past. He felt
Glenside Park was throwing away a naming opportunity. He liked the idea of involving the
Town Historian who could find an appropriate name of an individual who has some
connection with Ithaca's past rather than the mundane name of the place.
Councilwoman Grigorov thought it was nice to have the name that gave an idea of where the
parks were. Mr. Burbank was inclined to name the park after the neighborhood. It is one of
the Town's oldest neighborhoods.
Regarding the Westhaven Park, Mr. Burbank stated the park was given to the Town not as
part of a subdivision requirement, but by money raised by neighborhood residents. He wasn't
sure if the people who were suggesting names were reflecting the sentiments of the people
who worked so hard to generate the funds to buy the park and would be very interested to
hear what those folks had to say. Mr. Noteboom told Mr. Burbank that Jeff Cowey was on
the list of recommendations expressing the sentiment of that group.
Agenda Item No. 22 - Consider Designation of Polling Places and Approval of Election
District Map for 2005 (Attachment #14 — Memo from T. Hunter, Election District Map
and number of registered voters per district)
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
Ms. Hunter told the Board the Town needed to create a new Voting District number 14
because the existing district number 2 has exceeded the allowable number of registered
voters.
Councilman Burbank requested that Ms. Hunter investigate using Lindermann Creek or Eco
Village as a polling place and that the Board consider amending the Election District Map at
their May meeting should either of these spaces prove available.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-056: Designation of Election District Polling Places &
Approval of Corresponding Election District Map
WHEREAS, in conformity with Election Law it is necessary that the governing Town
Board designate the names and addresses of Election District Polling Places for voting within
the Town of Ithaca; and
WHEREAS, in conformity with Election Law it is necessary that the governing Town
Board approve a corresponding "official map" which outlines and describes the said Election
District Polling Places within the Town of Ithaca; and
WHEREAS, the governing Town Board wishes to be in compliance with the Election
Law with regards to the same; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, the governing Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby designates the
following listing of election district polling places, as the official "Town of Ithaca Election
District Polling Places for the Year 2005"; and be it further
RESOLVED, the said "Election District Polling Places for the Year 2005" are all in
compliance with the Election Law and are accessible to the handicapped; and be it further
RESOLVED, the governing Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby adopts the
attached corresponding "Election District Map" as the official map, which outlines and
indicates the location of the said polling places for voting within the Town of Ithaca; and be it
further
RESOLVED, the Town Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to forward a certified
copy of this resolution, and a certified copy of the corresponding "Election District Map" to the
Tompkins County Board of Elections.
ELECTION DISTRICT POLLING PLACES FOR THE YEAR 2005
District #1 - West Hill Fire Station, 1242 Trumansburg Road
District #2 - Town of Ithaca Public Works Facility, 106 Seven Mile Drive
District #3 - South Hill Fire Station, 965 Danby Road
District #4 - Ellis Hollow Road Apartments, 1028 Ellis Hollow Road
District #5 - Hasbrouck Apartments Community Center, 121 Pleasant Grove Road
District #6 - B.O.C.E.S., 555 Warren Road
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
District #7 - Cayuga Heights Fire Department, 194 Pleasant Grove Road
District #8 - Cayuga Heights Fire Department, 194 Pleasant Grove Road
District #9 - Boynton Middle School, 1601 North Cayuga Street
District #10 - South Hill Fire Station, 965 Danby Road
District #11 - Ellis Hollow Road Apartments, 1028 Ellis Hollow Road
District #12 - Ellis Hollow Road Apartments, 1028 Ellis Hollow Road
District #13 - Hospice Care, 172 East King Road
District #14 - Town of Ithaca Public Works Facility, 106 Seven Mile Drive
MOVED: Councilman Stein
SECONDED: Councilwoman Gittelman
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
Agenda Item No. 24 - Consider Appointments to Conservation Board (Attachment # 15
— Letters of interest)
Mr. Engman as liason to the Conservation Board reported there were four candidates. Ray
Terepca, at the time of his interview, was planning on retiring. He has been asked to
continue in his job and asked not to be appointed to the Conservation Board at this time.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-057: Appointments to the Conservation Board
WHEREAS, an Interview Committee was assembled to interview several applicants to
fill three vacancies on the Town of Ithaca Conservation Board, with one vacancy having a
term that ends on December 31, 2005, and two vacancies having terms that ends on
December 31, 2006; and
WHEREAS, the Interview Committee has found applicants, Melissa Anthony, Susan
McCutcheon, and James Hamilton, to be well -qualified, enthusiastic, and very appropriate
additions to the Board, and
WHEREAS, the Conservation Board at a meeting on April 7, 2005, voted unanimously
to support the recommendation of the Interview Committee, and forward the names of the
three applicants to the Town Board for consideration of appointment.
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby appoints the
following individuals to the Conservation Board for terms as shown below.
Melissa Anthony April 12, 2005 — December 31, 2005
102 Drew Road
Ithaca, NY 14850
James Hamilton April 12, 2005 — December 31, 2006
21
April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
1603 Slaterville Road
Ithaca, NY 14850
Susan McCutcheon April 12, 2005 — December 31, 2006
157 Enfield Falls Road
Ithaca, NY 14850
MOVED: Councilman Engman
SECONDED: Councilman Stein
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
Agenda Item No. 25 - Consider Resolution Establishing the Process for Appointment of
Zoning Board of Appeals Alternates
Mr. Frost asked that the alternate be required to attend either some training or a number of
meetings that makes them somewhat qualified to make intelligent decisions when they sit at
the Board. He asked for a higher requirement than just attendance at two meetings. The
Board concurred.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-058: Procedures and Requirements Related to the
Appointment and Service of Alternate Zoning Board of Appeals Members
WHEREAS, pursuant to Code of the Town of Ithaca, Chapter 270 section 235 (A) (1)
and New York State Town Law Section 267 (11) (a), the Town Board may appoint up to two
alternate members to the Board of Zoning Appeals to serve for a term established by the
Town Board; and
WHEREAS, the chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals has requested the Town
Board consider approving appointing alternate members to the Zoning Board of Appeals and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has discussed the request and believes such an
appointment would be in the best interests of the Board of Appeals and the citizens of the
Town if appointed under the terms set forth below;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that, until otherwise determined by this
Board, the Town Board make appointments of alternate Zoning Board Appeals members in
accordance with the following procedures and requirements:
1. Only one alternate member will be appointed at a time.
2. The alternate member would be required to attend a minimum of two meetings
following or preceding appointment to understand the process and thereafter to
attend at least four meetings per year.
22
April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
3. The alternate member would be required to attend the same training as may be
required of regular members.
4. The alternate member would be paid for all meetings attended whether or not his
presence is necessary for voting purposes.
5. The alternate member could attend meetings even if not needed, but would not be
able to vote.
6. Alternate members would serve for a term of up to one year ending December 31
each year.
Ar
•lipil elvapfflm
SECONDED: Councilman Engman
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
Agenda Item No. 26 - Consider Appointment of Interview Committee for Zoning Board
of Appeals Alternate
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-059: Appointment Interview Committee for Alternate Zoning
Board of Appeals Member
WHEREAS, a vacancy exists in the position of Alternate Zoning Board of Appeals
Member; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board wishes to appoint an Interviewing Committee to conduct
interviews and make a recommendation for appointment for the position;
NOW, THEREFORE, be it
RESOLVED, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby appoints the following
persons to the Interviewing Committee for the vacant Alternate Zoning Board of Appeals
Member position:
Catherine Valentino, Town Board Member
Kirk Sigel, Chairman, Zoning Board of Appeals
Andrew Frost, Director of Building and Zoning
Judith C. Drake, Human Resources Manager
MOVED: Councilman Stein
SECONDED: Councilman Burbank
23
April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
Agenda Item No. 28 - Consider Authorizing Stormwater Management Joint Application
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-060: Resolution Supporting Grant Application by the
Tompkins County Stormwater Group
WHEREAS, the Town of Ithaca is part of the urbanized area of Tompkins County and is a
Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) as defined by the Phase 11 Stormwater
Regulations; and
WHEREAS, the Phase 11 Stormwater Regulations requires that all MS4s implement a Storm
Water Management Plan (SWMP); and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Stormwater Group is applying for grant funding on behalf
of all MS4s in Tompkins County for the purposes adopting and implementing required Local
Laws in support of stormwater management programs within the MS4s in Tompkins County,
which are required elements in the Storm Water Management Plan, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Stormwater Group seeks the support of the Town of Ithaca
for this grant funding application and its efforts to facilitate intermunicipal collaboration in the
implementation of the Phase 11 Stormwater Regulations.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town of Ithaca supports the efforts by the
Tompkins County Stormwater Group to apply for grant funding and implement portions of the
Storm Water Management Plan on behalf of and in cooperation with the MS4s of Tompkins
County.
MOVED: Councilwoman Gittelman
SECONDED: Councilman Stein
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
Agenda Item No. 29 - Consider Name Change Harris B. Dates Drive West to West Hill
Drive,
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-061: Resolution Renaming Harris B. Dates Drive West to
West Hill Drive
WHEREAS, the Town Board by TB Resolution No. 2004-065 accepted the concept
and location of the proposed roads and utilities to be constructed in connection with the
Overlook at West Hill project at 1290 Trumansburg Road; and
24
April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
WHEREAS, it was suggested that the new road to be accepted be named Harris B.
Dates Drive West; and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County office that deals with responses to fire, emergency
medical service and other emergency calls believes there is substantial likelihood of
confusion created by the use of Harris B. Dates Drive West, in view of the long-standing use
of the name Harris B. Dates Drive on the east side of Trumansburg Road; and
WHEREAS, the Town Highway Superintendent and the Town Director of
Building/Zoning concur with such concern; and
WHEREAS, the original subdivision and site plan maps use the name West Hill Drive
instead of Harris B. Dates Drive West;
NOW, THEREFORE, it is hereby
RESOLVED, that on the recommendation of the Highway Superintendent and Director
of Building/Zoning, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby approve the
naming/renaming of the road shown as West Hill Drive on the site plan and subdivision maps
referred to in Town Board Resolution No. 2004-065 from Harris B. Dates Drive West to West
Hill Drive; and it is
RESOLVED, that the Town Supervisor and all other officers of the Town be and each
hereby is authorized and directed to take such additional steps as may be necessary to
effectuate the establishment of the name set forth above.
MOVED: Councilman Stein
SECONDED: Supervisor Valentino
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
Agenda Item No. 30 — Discussion of Recreation Partnership (Attachment #16 —
Recreation Partnership Presentation)
Councilwoman Gittelman told the Board she had intended to circulate information but due to
printing difficulties would, instead, be putting it in their mailboxes. She reported that things
have been going much better recently. There has been a lot of conflict on the Board. She
thought it was because money is low and some of the original mandates for the Partnership
were not being filled. Also some Town Supervisors and the Municipal Officers Association
were asking for changes. Ms. Gittelman told the Board that for those of us who have children
the Recreation Partnership has really provided very well for the youth of the community. The
programs in general have received high marks from the community. The group feels that the
variety of their programming is broad. It includes competitive and non-competitive sports,
drama, crafts, and several different kinds of camps. They have had to let some programs go
due to a decrease in County funding. They tried to take out the programs that were the least
25
April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
peopled. The things they have been asked to do are look at the financial accountability, to try
to decentralize more of the programs, and to invite some program proposals. Financially,
they have met with Peg Hendricks of the Community Foundation and are moving towards
setting up a fund from which the Partnership can accept money from private donors and
possibly establish trusts for grants and scholarships. In terms of decentralization, with the
cooperation of the municipal recreation coordinators, they are creating a website where all
the coordinators of the different municipalities can list their programs and also let people
know which programs are open to any resident of the partnership community. They are also
looking at the possibility of movable programs, programs that can be moved from park to
park. The following day the evaluation committee is going to be looking at how to let people
know what they are looking for in terms of programming.
Agenda Item No. 31 — Consent Agenda
Councilwoman Grigorov asked that the minutes be pulled from the consent agenda.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-062: Consent Agenda Items..
BE IT RESOLVED, that the governing Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby
approves and/or adopts the resolutions for Consent Agenda Items as presented.
MOVED: Supervisor Valentino
SECONDED: Councilwoman Grigorov
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-062a : Town of Ithaca Abstract
WHEREAS, the following numbered vouchers have been presented to the Ithaca
Town Board for approval of payment; and
WHEREAS, the said vouchers have been audited for payment by the said Town
Board; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the governing Town Board hereby authorizes the payment of the
said vouchers in total for the amounts indicated.
VOUCHER NOS. 202-359
General Fund Townwide
General Fund Part Town
V • • •:
$ 81458-63
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
Highway Fund Part Town
$
51,357.51
Water Fund
$256,879.67
Sewer Fund
$
8,453.39
Risk Retention Fund
$
741.80
Fire Protection Fund
$396,880.00
Forest Home Lighting District
$
174.54
Glenside Lighting District
$
63.59
Renwick Heights Lighting District
$
88.78
Eastwood Commons Lighting District
$
181.46
Clover Lane Lighting District
$
20.92
Winner's Circle Lighting District
$
61.02
Burleigh Drive Lighting District
$
73.26
West Haven Road Lighting District
$
241.89
Coddington Road Lighting District
$
142.79
Debt Service
$
742.68
TOTAL: $832,946.51
MOVED: Supervisor Valentino
i,',ECONDED: Councilwoman Gri•-=
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-062b: Bolton Point Abstract.
WHEREAS, the following numbered vouchers for the Southern Cayuga Lake
Intermunicipal Water Commission have been presented to the governing Town Board for
approval of payment; and
WHEREAS, the said vouchers have been audited for payment by the said Town
Board; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the governing Town Board hereby authorizes the payment of the
said vouchers.
Voucher Numbers: 131-140, 142-211
Check Numbers: 8094-81037 8105-8174
Operating Fund $266,290.16
1998 SCADA Capital Project $ 12,358-65
2000 Bolton Road Project $ 41648-00
2002 Office Space Addition $ 81)150.90
2001 Backup Electrical Power $ 3,862.00
2003 East Hill Tank Project $ 51.00
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
TOTAL $368360.71
MOVED: Supervisor Valentino
• Councilwoman Grigorov
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-062c: Ratification of Highway Superintendent's
Appointment of Laborer -
WHEREAS, there has been a vacancy in the full time position of Laborer for the
Highway Department, since January 1, 2005; and
WHEREAS, the Interview Committee comprised of the Highway Superintendent,
Deputy Highway Superintendent, Parks Maintenance Manager, Water and Sewer
Maintenance Supervisor and Human Resources Manager, interviewed eleven candidates-,
and
WHEREAS, the Committee has determined that Lee Baker possess the necessary
knowledge and skills to satisfactorily perform the duties of Laborer; and
WHEREAS, Fred Noteboom, Highway Superintendent, appointed Ms. Baker as
Laborer, effective March 21, 2005;
Now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby ratify the appointment
made by the Highway Superintendent, of Lee Baker as Laborer, retroactive to March 21,
2005; and be it further
RESOLVED, this is a 40 hours a week position, at the hourly wage of $13.94, which is
an estimated annual salary of $28,995.20, from Public Works account numbers, in Job
Classification 199, with full time benefits; and be it further
RESOLVED, a mandatory twenty-six (26) week probationary period applies, which
ends September 16, 2005, with no further action by the Town Board if there is successful
completion of the probationary period as determined by the Town Highway Superintendent.
MOVED: Supervisor Valentino
SECONDED: Councilwoman Grigorov
K 'Poo
April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-062d: Approval of Revised Job Descriptions
WHEREAS, the Human Resources Manager recommends revisions to the following
job descriptions, so that they are a better reflection of the organizational structure of the
Public Works Department;
♦ Town Highway Superintendent
♦ Director of Engineering
♦ Deputy Town Highway Superintendent
♦ Parks Maintenance Manager
♦ Water and Sewer Maintenance Supervisor
Now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby approve the revised
job descriptions for;
♦ Town Highway Superintendent
♦ Director of Engineering
♦ Deputy Town Highway Superintendent
♦ Parks Maintenance Manager
♦ Water and Sewer Maintenance Supervisor
and be it further
RESOLVED, the Human Resources Manager is hereby directed to file the approved
revised job descriptions with Tompkins County Personnel.
MOVED: Supervisor Valentino
SECONDED: Councilwoman Grigorov
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
RESOLUTION NO. 2005-062e: Appointment of Project Assistant-Enginee m
WHEREAS, there is presently a vacancy in the temporary position of Project Assistant
in the Engineering Department, which is a position not to exceed six months as an internship
opportunity working on a specific project; and
WHEREAS, the Town (among other Tompkins County Municipalities) has been
designated a regulated Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) by NYS DEC, in
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
which the Town has until March 2008 to develop a map of the MS4 that shows the location of
all outfalls and the names and locations of all waters; and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County has received a grant that was divided out among the
effected municipalities to pay for staff time to do the mapping project, with which $13,865.84
was committed to the Town of Ithaca; and
WHEREAS, Ben Hebdon, a Junior at Binghamton University majoring in Geography
with a concentration in GPS and GIS, has been a season laborer with the Town for two
previous summers; and
WHEREAS, the Director of Engineering has determined that Ben Hebdon possess the
necessary knowledge and skills to satisfactorily perform the duties of the Project Assistant for
this project and makes the recommendation for appointment; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby approve the
appointment of Ben Hebdon as Project Assistant for the Engineering Department, effective
May 16, 2005; and be it further
RESOLVED, this position is a temporary summer position not to exceed 40 hours per
week for 15 weeks, at the hourly wage of $10.50, from account number Al 440.100, no
benefits apply; and be it further
RESOLVED, the Town will voucher the Tompkins County Soil and Water for
reimbursement of the employment costs.
MOVED: Supervisor Valentino
SECONDED: Councilwoman Grigorov
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-063: Town Board Minutes of March 7, 2005
WHEREAS, the Town Clerk has presented the minutes for Town Board Meeting held
on March 7, 2005 to the governing Town Board for their review and approval of filing; now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, the governing Town Board does hereby approve for filing the minutes for
the meeting held March 7, 2005 as corrected, at the April 11, 2005 board meeting.
MOVED: Councilwoman Gittelman
SECONDED: Councilman Burbank
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye; Councilman Stein, aye.
Councilman Stein excused himself at 9:0 7 p.m.
Agenda Item No. 32 — Reports from Town Committees
Transportation Committee (Attachment #17 — Request for Qualifications)
Mr. Kanter reported that at the last Transportation Committee Meeting they went over a
request for qualifications for technical consulting services that they are getting ready to send
out to a list of about 20 consultants to do some technical work to help with the Transportation
Plan. The Committee was wondering if Town Board members wanted to take a look through
the request for qualifications and Mr. Kanter had copies for interested Board members. Mr.
Engman requested a copy. Mr. Kanter asked for comments within the next week or so.
Mr. Kanter further reported that the committee has been working on the Transportation Plan
Draft and they have gotten pretty far on the inventory and analysis section. They will
probably be looking to set up a second public meeting in May. Mr. Kanter stated that
Committee Chair Lesser was wondering what type of input the Board would like to have on
the draft plan before it goes out for public comment. Mr. Kanter recommended that as soon
as the Committee has a draft that they think is in good shape they will distribute it to Board
members and then it would become a public draft document for the public meeting.
Councilwoman Grigorov thought they would be having a Board meeting before the Public
Hearing and suggested they could see the draft at that time.
Pegasus Oversight Committee
Mr. Burbank reported the committee was continuing to meet. The big issue they are
continuing to deal with is pressure from Time Warner to set up a mechanism to charge
people using the facilities who are not members of the participating municipalities. There are
three members: the City of Ithaca, the Town of Ithaca, and the Village of Cayuga Heights.
The question is whether you let others use the facilities without contributing. They have been
struggling to come up with something that might possibly meet the spirit of the contract but
would not be an onerous burden to the volunteers that produce the shows by asking them to
pay. Time Warner personnel assisting in the public access portion of things is down to one
person, Lauren Stefanelli. Ms. Gittelman stated that person is now doing the job of three
other people that are no longer there. One of the problems is that when Lauren takes
vacation there is essentially no way to cover for her. Mr. Burbank felt it wouldn't take a lot of
money to develop a fund to provide coverage when she is away, but they do not have a
mechanism to do that.
Dog Park
Mr. Burbank reported that he has been meeting with the City to discuss the possibilities for a
dog park.
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
Intermunicipal Trail Committee
Councilman Engman is exploring the possibility of creating a trail parallel to Hanshaw Road.
Board Policy and Protocol Committee
Ms. Drake reported that she would be distributing chapters 1 through 3 for the Board to
review.
Agenda Item No. 33 — Reports of Town Officials (Attachment #18 — Monthly Reports
Director of Engineering
Mr. Walker told the Board the Town extended a water and sewer line on Taughannock
Boulevard about 50 feet into the Town of Ulysses. There is a resident in Ulysses who would
like to connect to the water and sewer. Mr. Walker reported having told the resident that if
the Town of Ulysses creates a water and sewer district, the Town would be able to provide
them with water and sewer. Previously Ulysses was not interested. Mr. Walker thought they
would now consider it if the residents would pay the cost of setting up the district. They are
existing residents, the pipes are right in front of their house, and they're right on the lake so
it's not a bad thing to get the sewer out of the lake. There might be two or three other
properties below the road on the lakeside that have access to the same driveway and then
there's a house on the other side of the road. The owner did not want to move ahead unless
he had the blessing of the Town.
In answer to questions from Mr. Engman, Mr. Walker stated there is one homeowner that
requested it, but there may be two or three properties on both sides of the road that would be
adjacent to it. Mr. Engman asked about the potential for future growth and other people
wanting to hook on? Mr. Walker stated he talked to Doug Austic who told him there have
been a lot of requests for water and sewer. In fact, Mr. Austic asked if we could get it out to
the Yacht Club. Mr. Walker told him it could be done if the Town of Ulysses wanted to build
it. Mr. Austic told him they couldn't afford 3 million, so it isn't going to happen. Mr. Engman's
major concern is that one of the unintended consequences of water and sewer is that it
creates sprawl. He was worried that there would be a demand, once the above -mentioned
properties hook on, for a broader and broader area. Mr. Walker told him the section under
discussion is right along Taughannock Boulevard and he thought the area was totally
developed. Mr. Burbank stated the downside is, the upside isn't. Mr. Walker stated the
upside is limited because of the steep slope and the Black Diamond Trail. Ms. Valentino felt
the chance for sprawl was nil. Mr. Burbank stated that if Ulysses created this water district
they would have the option of extending the service. Mr. Walker stated they would have to
get approval from this Board to do that. Ms. Valentino added there was no way they could
extend service without Town Board approval.
Mr. Walker told the Board the water being supplied would be City water since that line is not
hooked up to Bolton Point. The Town would need to talk to the City regarding the water.
Mr. Barney told the Board that the property owner under discussion happens to be a client of
his firm.
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
Mr. Engman asked if allowing this would set any kind of a precedent that should anybody
else come in and want to do something similar then they would have a better standing to
force it? Mr. Walker stated the Town had already set a precedent because we have provided
water, no sewer, service outside the Town. Mr. Engman stated having noticed mention of
extending to Newfield. Mr. Walker stated the Town has had conversations with Newfield
about providing a supply of water. There are significant engineering limitations as far as
storage and capacity that they would have to deal with. Mr. Walker thought they had already
created a new plan to drill some wells and build a couple new tanks to provide service.
Supervisor Valentino stated they wanted to make the Board aware of the request and would
take all the precautions that they can as they move forward and talk to the right people.
Regarding the East Hill Transmission Main, Mr. Engman asked if the easement was still
presenting a problem for this project. Mr. Walker told him it was up to the lawyers now.
Bolton Point has provided an appraisal, the Cornell people have agreed that the appraisal
wasn't too far off and they've come to terms regarding the dollar amount. The issue is now in
Cornell's lawyer 7 s office. There are no anticipated glitches. Along with this they are
straightening out getting the deed signed for the existing tank that is out there. He expects
the survey maps will be completed by the end of the week.
Ms. Valentino reported that they were also in serious discussions with the City of Ithaca about
Bolton Point supplying them with water instead of building a new plant. The discussions so
far have been friendly and cooperative.
Building and Zoning
Mr. Frost reported the Town has issued 9 building permits for the Overlook at West Hill
project.
Manager of Human Resources
Councilman Engman stated it was amazing the Workman's Comp had gone down 7%. That
is really an accomplishment by the Town when everybody else is going through the roof. Ms.
Drake reported a reduction in the experience module (went from .91 to .87 which saved us
about $6,000) and an increase in the discount the company gives us (12% to 19%).
Additional Agenda Item No. 1 — Consider Authorization for Attending Stormwater
Management Training
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-064: Authorization for Attending Stormwater Management
Training
WHEREAS, the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry Stormwater
Management Program has scheduled several training courses which provide instruction on
compliance with the new US -EPA Phase 11 Stormwater management regulations to be held in
Syracuse, NY on various dates during the Winter/Spring of 2005; and
WHEREAS, attendance at several of these programs will benefit the Town of Ithaca by
providing additional training to Engineering and Planning Staff; and
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
WHEREAS, The Director of Engineering recommends that:
Dan Walker attends the Erosion and Sediment Control Site Planning course on April 26 th and
April 27 th at a cost of $350.00;
Now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the governing Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby
authorize Dan Walker to attend the Erosion and Sediment Control Site Planning course on
April 26 th and April 27 th at a cost of $350.00 to be expended from A1440.400.
SECONDED: Councilwoman Gittelman
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye.
Agenda Item No. 11 - Discussion of 2005 Budget Amendments (continued)
Supervisor Valentino did not feel the Board should make a decision on the discretionary
budget items in light of Mr. Stein's having excused himself from the meeting. She did feel
there were some items that were time sensitive and the Board agreed they should proceed in
considering them.
Agenda Item No. 9 - Consider Funding Request for Six Mile Creek Volunteer Monitoring
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-065: Funding for 2005 Volunteer Monitoring in Six Mile
Creek Watershed Program
WHEREAS, water quality monitoring is a fundamental tool in the management and
protection of our water resources, and
WHEREAS, in 2004 the program known as the "Volunteer Monitoring in Six Mile Creek
Watershed" was initiated through an inter -municipal effort involving the Towns of Ithaca,
Dryden, Caroline, and the City Ithaca, with technical assistance and coordination provided by
the Community Science Institute (CSI), Inc., the Tompkins County Soil and Water
Conservation District, and Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County, and
WHEREAS, this program's successful first year resulted in the recruitment and training
of 15 volunteers with the accomplishment of three monitoring events in the Six Mile Creek
Watershed; two for chemical, physical, and bacteriological indicators at 13 sampling sites and
one for biological indicators at six sampling sites, with analysis services provided by the CSI
lab, a NYS certified laboratory, and
34
April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
WHEREAS, the continuation of this successful program in 2005 will result in 1) a
better understanding of the baseline water quality conditions of Six Mile Creek, 2) a better
understanding of the estimated loadings of nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen), sediment
and bacteria that the Six Mile Creek watershed contributes into Cayuga Lake, 3) assessment
of point and non -point sources of nutrient, sediment, and bacteria that enter into Six Mile
Creek, and 4) continued citizen involvement and education in watershed science and
management, and
WHEREAS, continuation of the "Volunteer Monitoring in Six Mile Creek Watershed"
program for the year 2005 requires funding, and that each of the four involved municipalities
are being asked to contribute $3,225, for a total municipal contribution of $12,898.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Town of Ithaca Town Board supports the
continuation of the volunteer water quality monitoring program in the Six Mile Creek
Watershed, and authorizes the expenditure of up to $3,225 for services to be provided by this
proposal, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the $3,225 authorized for this program shall be
transferred from the General Townwide Fund, fund balance account A599 and transfer the
$3,225 to the General Part Town Fund, account B8020.462 Six Mile Creek Volunteer
Program.
• Councilwoman Grigorov
SECONDED: Councilman Engman
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye.
Agenda Item No. 8 Discussion of Workspace Reconfiguration and the Purchase of
Necessary Components
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-066: Approval of Funds and Budget Modification for
Purchase of Partitions and Office Furnishings for Town Hall Office Improvement..
WHEREAS, The Town Board has reviewed a proposal prepared by the staff to
improve the Town Hall Office space by providing additional File Storage space, improved
working surface and new and additional acoustical partitions, and
WHEREAS, Stevens Office Interiors has provided a quote from the office furniture
system that is on the NYS procurement contract for the new partitions, 2 new lateral files,
work surface, work stool and labor for an estimated budget of $6,700, and
WHEREAS, there is sufficient surplus fund balance to cover this expenditure, Now
Therefore be it
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
RESOLVED that the Town Board approves the expenditure for the purchase and
installation of the recommended office furniture system to make the workspace improvement
recommended by the Staff, and be it further
RESOLVED that the funds for this project be taken from surplus funds if the Town
wide A fund and that the Town of Ithaca 2005 budget be modified to add $6,700.00 to line
A1620.241, Town Hall Furniture and Furnishings.
MOVED: Supervisor Valentino
I
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye.
Other Business
Coddington Road Community Center Request For Funding
Supervisor Valentino reported this had been discussed in the Public Works Committee during
which Mr. Burbank asked that the Community Center try to raise some money of their own.
Supervisor Valentino proposed authorizing the $20,000 with the understanding that she
would negotiate for them to get more donations to cover part of that.
Councilman Burbank did not feel the Board should feel compelled to act quickly on this.
Supervisor Valentino told him that it was important that they act on this and if they did not 90
children would be turned away from the program. It is a one time project unlike Cass Park
where we are talking about an ongoing commitment. Supervisor Valentino stated the
Community Center has a $450,000 budget. The Town of Ithaca provides them with only
11,000 of that budget that provides daycare, camps, recreation. Most of their budget is
private money.
Mr. Barney asked what it is we are buying with this money. Mr. Noteboorn told him we would
be extending the easement and the pavilion will be provided for Town residents to use along
with the ball field.
Mr. Burbank asked that the community be made aware that the facilities are open to use by
Town residents. Ms. Gittelman concurred.
Mr. Engman asked for clarification of an $18,000 voucher for Coddington Road Community
Center. Mr. Carvill told him $6,000 is for the baseball field agreement, the other one is the
support for the center as a part of the Town's youth programming. Mr. Engman questioned
what new services would be provided. Ms. Grigorov told him they were presented in great
detail in the Capital Projects Committee. Supervisor Valentino told him the new pavilion will
provide room for 80 to 90 more campers, more than doubling their capacity. It will be a
pavilion that is available for all members of the Town. Mr. Carvill read from the information
presented to the Capital Projects Committee: "We have used our existing 20 x 40 foot
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
pavilion for the past 8 years as the base of summer programming which has grown in that
time from 30 to 40 school to 80 to 100. To accommodate the growth we have experienced,
we have used large canopy for extra sites to separate the different age groups and for
programs. This has proved unsatisfactory for a number of reasons including inadequate
protection for inclement weather and the instability of the canopies themselves. After last
summer which was especially uncomfortable due to heavy rains, we decided we had to either
reduce the size of our programs or build another pavilion to accommodate this expanding
growth."
Mr. Burbank told the Board he would vote for this but stated he was deeply uncomfortable
with the process and the timing. He felt they should have come to the Board months ago. lfg
a similar thing comes down next time Mr. Burbank stated he would on principal vote against
It.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-067: Construction of New Pavilion at Codding-ton Road
Community Center
RESOLVED, that the Town expend up to $20,000. for the purpose of constructing a
new pavilion to be able to provide additional capacity and programs for the Town's youth and
other residents pursuant to a contract for the acquisition of services and other benefits for the
youth programs.
MOVED: Supervisor Valentino
SECONDED: Councilwoman Grigorov
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
On motion by Councilwoman Grigorov, seconded by Councilman Burbank, the Board
entered executive session at 9:55 p.m. to discussion a personnel matter and possible
litigation.
On motion by Councilman Burbank, seconded by Supervisor Valentino, the Board returned to
regular session at 10:22 p.m.
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-068: Authorization to Commence Article 78 Proceeding
RESOLVED, that the Town of Ithaca commence the Article 78 proceeding discussed
in executive session provided the City of Ithaca joins the prosecution of the action as a co -
plaintiff or co -petitioner.
MOVED: Councilwoman Grigorov
SECONDED: Supervisor Valentino
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April 11, 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye..
TB RESOLUTION NO. 2005-069: Authorization to Retain the Services of Thomas
D'Antonio to Represent the Town
RESOLVED, that the Town retain the services of Thomas D'Antonio of Rochester,
New York to represent the Town and other defendants in the lower court proceedings in the
action brought against the Town seeking construction of a road over the former Bolton
property in the Village of Lansing, with Mr. D'Antonio I s fees to be paid 2/3 by the Southern
Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission and the remaining 1/3 to be divided among
the other defendants represented by Mr. D'Antonio.
• • BurbanlI
SECONDED: Supervisor Valentino
VOTE: Supervisor Valentino, aye; Councilwoman Grigorov, aye; Councilman Burbank, aye;
Councilwoman Gittelman, aye; Councilman Engman, aye.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilman Burbank the meeting was adjourned at 10:25 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Tee -Ann Hunter
Town Clerk
Next regular meeting May 9, 2005.
W016
April 111 2005 Town Board Meeting
Approved May 9, 2005
39