HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-2020-04-01COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting 6:00 p.m. April 1, 2020
PRESENT: Mayor Myrick
Alderpersons (10) Brock, McGonigal, Murtagh, Nguyen, Gearhart, Fleming,
Smith, Kerslick, Lewis, Mohlenhoff OTHERS PRESENT: City Clerk – Conley Holcomb
City Attorney – Lavine
City Controller – Thayer Planning & Development Director – Cornish Deputy Director for Economic Development - Knipe Community Development Director – Bohn
Director of Engineering – Logue
Director of Transportation and Parking – Hathaway Bridge Systems Engineer - Gebre Chief of Staff – Cogan Tompkins County Administrator – Molino
Executive Director of the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce - Taveres
Executive Director of the Downtown Ithaca Alliance – Ferguson Mayor Myrick welcomed everyone to the first virtual Common Council meeting. He thanked Common Council and members of the public for their patience during the
period of adjustment in response to the COVID-19 crisis. He further provided a brief
update about the public health crisis, noting that the coronavirus is spreading throughout the world, the country, and the state. He explained that the Tompkins County Health Department is the lead agency on the public health response, and they are coordinating with New York State, Cayuga Medical Center, and local municipalities
in an attempt to reduce the spread of the virus to buy time to increase staff, create additional ICU beds, and acquire the medical equipment they need. He noted that social distancing appears to be working as the spread of the virus has slowed over the past few days. The County reported that currently there are 80 confirmed positive patients with one hospitalization.
Mayor Myrick announced that a lot of public comments were received prior to the meeting via e-mail and phone calls. He summarized the correspondence as a public comment period will not occur at this meeting. He stated that most of the comments have been related to a proposed local rent freeze. He noted that a broad majority of
Council feels that a local rent freeze is not feasible because it’s not legal. He stated that Council has heard from hundreds of people who are scared. They’ve lost their jobs and incomes, and they are worried about their friends and family who have lost their jobs and steady income as well. He stated that he has also heard from hundreds of landlords who are similarly scared, as they have expenses too, including mortgages,
taxes, and utilities, and a simple rent freeze that doesn’t reimburse them is going to lead to foreclosures, loss of property, and loss of tax revenue. He further reported that a number of other public comments were received earlier today from people who work downtown, business owners, non-profits, and hotels, urging the City to continue with the
conference center project. He noted that there was also one letter from a downtown
landlord stating that the conference center project should be paused. ADDITIONS TO OR DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA: Mayor’s Appointments
Mayor Myrick requested the addition of an appointment to the Planning Board.
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Individual Member Filed Resolutions: Alderperson Nguyen asked if there was any objection to the Resolution that was member filed by Alderperson Murtagh. Mayor Myrick suggested that this item become
Item 5.1 – City of Ithaca Resolution of Support for Ithaca Tenants and Landlords.
No Common Council members objected to the additions. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
Reports of Municipal Officials: Tompkins County Legislator Anna Kelles addressed Common Council on the following topics:
• The Tompkins County Legislature passed a Resolution of support for the
Conference Center project with a 10-4 vote. There was concern regarding the
pending pandemic; however, most legislators decided that given that the construction would happen in three years, they felt comfortable supporting it in the context of economic recovery.
• The County has shut down its facilities and streamlined committee activity to keep any resolutions focused on COVID related needs. A Command Center has been established at the Health Department and four teams are operating: Operations, Planning, Logistics, Finance.
Alderperson Brock asked if a database was being created to track people who may be vulnerable and in need of mental health professionals or other county officials who can check in on them. Legislator Kelles stated that the Tompkins County Mental Health Department has been working to get themselves back up to full staff and are using a telehealth system. If people are in need, they can be directed to the crisis hot line.
Legislator Kelles stated that residents have been wondering whether the health system is going to provide details on individual COVID cases. The County is urging everyone to follow safety protocols such as distancing, and quarantining/isolation if you have any symptoms. The Health Department is following a very detailed protocol for contact
tracing once a case is identified. This includes extensive interviews and connecting with all of the people who have been in contact with the infected person from that point back to when the original symptoms began. Alderperson Lewis stated that she knows of people who want to get tested but do not
have transportation to the testing site. She asked if provisions are being made for those cases. Legislator Kelles responded that the County is in the process of working out those details. A comprehensive and coordinated system is being developed with protocols and recommendations. Once options become available, they will be posted on the County’s website. PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR – COMMON COUNCIL AND THE MAYOR: Alderperson Lewis thanked the public for their patience, their efforts at social distancing, and for the comments and questions that Council has received. She noted that the Governor’s daily press conferences have been very helpful and have highlighted the
fact that everyone is experiencing a level of anxiety on personal, professional, social, and economic levels, but we are all in this together. She noted that it has been a challenge to reply to everyone, and to listen to the numerous voice messages left; however, she reassured everyone that Council is listening and will be taking the steps to respond appropriately as soon as possible.
Alderperson Brock echoed the statements made by Alderperson Lewis and voiced her appreciation to everyone who has reached out. She recognized the incredible dedication she’s witnessed from her colleagues at the City and County, City staff, and medical personnel who are doing everything they can to serve the community in the
best way possible. She further expressed appreciation for the individuals who continue to work in the grocery stores and other essential service industries. Alderperson McGonigal expressed pride in the community and seconded the sentiments of Alderpersons Lewis and Brock. He further reported that barricades were
installed on Hector Street today, closing the street for approximately three months to
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install underground stormwater drainage, extend the sidewalk, and reconfigure some of the curves on the street.
CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS: 3.1 Human Resources – Amendment to Budget for a Safety Grant – Resolution: By Alderperson Mohlenhoff: Seconded by Alderperson Brock WHEREAS, the City applied for and received an Occupational Safety and Health Training Education Program Grant from the New York State Department of Labor in the
amount of $10,111; and
WHEREAS, the grant will run until July 31, 2020, and provide City staff with various safety training, including, but not limited to confined space, trenching, excavation, lockout/tagout, hazard communications and work zone safety; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the 2020 Authorized Human Resources Budget to account for the $10,111 Safety and Health Training and Education Program Grant from New York State as follows:
Increase Revenue Account:
A1430-3489 NYS Aid Health $ 10,111 Increase Appropriations Account: A1430-5435 Human Resources Contracts $ 10,111
Carried Unanimously
3.2 Ithaca Fire Department - Award of Bid for Vehicle Exhaust Extraction System - Resolution By Alderperson Mohlenhoff: Seconded by Alderperson Brock
WHEREAS, on February 12, 2020, the City of Ithaca posted a Notice to Bidders with
specifications for Vehicle Exhaust Evacuation System; and WHEREAS, on March 5, 2020, the City of Ithaca Controller's Office received sealed bids from two bidders; and
WHEREAS, Fire Chief Parsons, and the Deputy City Controller Andrew have reviewed the bids, specifications, options and proposals made by each bidder; and WHEREAS, after review, Chief Parsons recommends the award of the bid be made to
Air Cleaning Systems, Inc., 8 Sunset Drive, Latham, NY; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca approves the award of a bid and contract in the amount of $186,686 between the City of Ithaca and Air Cleaning Systems, Inc. in accordance to the pricing and bid specifications for Vehicle Exhaust
Evacuation System received on March 5, 2020.
Carried Unanimously 3.3 Human Resources - Revision of Job Application Fees - Resolution By Alderperson Mohlenhoff: Seconded by Alderperson Brock
WHEREAS, Section 50.5(b) of New York State Civil Service Law allows for the
establishment of application fees for civil service examinations; and WHEREAS, the Ithaca Civil Service Commission wishes to revise the established
schedule of application fees for the Police Officer and Firefighter examinations; and
WHEREAS, the revision of application fees is subject to the approval of Common Council, now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Ithaca Civil Service Commission hereby establishes the following
schedule of application fees for the Police Officer and Firefighter examinations: Tompkins County residents: $15.00 All other applicants: $50.00
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; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the above application fees shall be waived for residents of the City of
Ithaca; and, be it further RESOLVED, That the above application fees shall be waived for residents of the Town of Ithaca for the Firefighter exam; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That pursuant to Section 50.5(b) of New York State Civil Service Law, the above application fees shall be waived for candidates who certify that they are unemployed and primarily responsible for the support of a household and for candidates who are receiving public assistance; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That no refunds of application fees shall be provided; and, be it further RESOLVED, That applications submitted without the required application fee or waiver shall be disapproved; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the above schedule of fees shall be implemented immediately. Carried Unanimously 3.4 Approval of Mia Tapas Bar and Restaurant Alcohol Permit Request -
Resolution By Alderperson Mohlenhoff: Seconded by Alderperson Brock WHEREAS, Mia Tapas Bar and Restaurant has requested permission to utilize certain areas along the Primary Commons for outdoor dining; and
WHEREAS, this use of public property has been deemed proper and successful; and WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca wishes to promote diverse uses of the Primary and Secondary Commons, including outdoor dining; and
WHEREAS, it is Common Council's responsibility to determine whether or not to allow the serving and consumption of alcohol on the Primary and Secondary Commons; and WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that the use of this public property for outdoor dining at Mia Tapas Bar and Restaurant, including the responsible sale and
consumption of alcohol, is desirable; and WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that any use of this or similar public property involving the same and consumption of alcohol should be covered by a minimum of $1,000,000 insurance under the Dram Shop Act; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, For the year 2020, Common Council hereby approves a revocable Alcoholic Beverage Permit for the outdoor sale and consumption of alcohol for Mia Tapas Bar and Restaurant that includes the sale of alcohol in accord with the terms and conditions set forth in application therefore, including minimum Dram Shop coverage in
the amount of $1,000,000 and the approval of an outdoor dining permit. Carried Unanimously 3.5 Approval of Mahogany Grill Restaurant Alcohol Permit Request - Resolution
By Alderperson Mohlenhoff: Seconded by Alderperson Brock
WHEREAS, Mahogany Grill restaurant has requested permission to utilize certain areas along Aurora Street for outdoor dining; and WHEREAS, this use of public property has been deemed proper and successful; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca wishes to promote diverse uses of the Primary and Secondary Commons, including outdoor dining; and
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WHEREAS, it is Common Council's responsibility to determine whether or not to allow the serving and consumption of alcohol on the Primary and Secondary Commons; and
WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that the use of this public property for
outdoor dining at the Mahogany Grill Restaurant, including the responsible sale and consumption of alcohol, is desirable; and WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that any use of this or similar public
property involving the same and consumption of alcohol should be covered by a
minimum of $1,000,000 insurance under the Dram Shop Act; now, therefore be it RESOLVED, For the year 2020, Common Council hereby approves a revocable Alcoholic Beverage Permit for the outdoor sale and consumption of alcohol for the
Mahogany Grill Restaurant that includes the sale of alcohol in accord with the terms and
conditions set forth in application therefore, including minimum Dram Shop coverage in the amount of $1,000,000 and the approval of an outdoor dining permit. Carried Unanimously
3.6 Approval of Luna Street Food Downtown Restaurant Alcohol Permit Request - Resolution By Alderperson Mohlenhoff: Seconded by Alderperson Brock WHEREAS, Luna Street Food Downtown Restaurant has requested permission to utilize certain areas along the Commons for outdoor dining; and
WHEREAS, this use of public property has been deemed proper and successful; and WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca wishes to promote diverse uses of the Primary and Secondary Commons, including outdoor dining; and
WHEREAS, it is Common Council's responsibility to determine whether or not to allow the serving and consumption of alcohol on the Primary and Secondary Commons; and WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that the use of this public property for
outdoor dining at the Luna Street Food Downtown Restaurant, including the responsible
sale and consumption of alcohol, is desirable; and WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that any use of this or similar public property involving the same and consumption of alcohol should be covered by a
minimum of $1,000,000 insurance under the Dram Shop Act; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, For the year 2020, Common Council hereby approves a revocable Alcoholic Beverage Permit for the outdoor sale and consumption of alcohol for Luna Street Food Downtown Restaurant that includes the sale of alcohol in accord with the
terms and conditions set forth in application therefore, including minimum Dram Shop
coverage in the amount of $1,000,000 and the approval of an outdoor dining permit. Carried Unanimously 3.7 Le Cafe Cent-Dix Alcohol Permit Request - Resolution
By Alderperson Mohlenhoff: Seconded by Alderperson Brock WHEREAS, the Superintendent of Public Works Office has received a request to allow Le Cafe Cent-Dix to utilize certain areas along North Aurora Street for outdoor dining; and
WHEREAS, this use of public property has been deemed proper and successful; and WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca wishes to promote diverse uses of the Primary and Secondary Commons, including outdoor dining; and
WHEREAS, it is Common Council's responsibility to determine whether or not to allow the serving and consumption of alcohol on the Primary and Secondary Commons; and
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WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that the use of this public property for outdoor dining at Le Cafe Cent-Dix, including the responsible sale and consumption of alcohol, is desirable; and
WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that any use of this or similar public property involving the same and consumption of alcohol should be covered by a minimum of $1,000,000 insurance under the Dram Shop Act; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, For the year 2020, Common Council hereby approves a revocable
Alcoholic Beverage Permit for the outdoor sale and consumption of alcohol for Le Cafe Cent-Dix that includes the sale of alcohol in accord with the terms and conditions set forth in application therefore, including minimum Dram Shop coverage in the amount of $1,000,000 and the approval of an outdoor dining permit.
Carried Unanimously
3.8 Mercato Bar and Kitchen Restaurant Alcohol Permit Request - Resolution By Alderperson Mohlenhoff: Seconded by Alderperson Brock WHEREAS, the Superintendent of Public Works Office has received a request to allow
Mercato Bar and Kitchen Restaurant to utilize certain areas along North Aurora Street
for outdoor dining; and WHEREAS, this use of public property has been deemed proper and successful; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca wishes to promote diverse uses of the Primary and
Secondary Commons, including outdoor dining; and WHEREAS, it is Common Council's responsibility to determine whether or not to allow the serving and consumption of alcohol on the Primary and Secondary Commons; and
WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that the use of this public property for outdoor dining at Mercato Bar and Kitchen Restaurant, including the responsible sale and consumption of alcohol, is desirable; and
WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that any use of this or similar public
property involving the same and consumption of alcohol should be covered by a minimum of $1,000,000 insurance under the Dram Shop Act; now, therefore be it RESOLVED, For the year 2020, Common Council hereby approves a revocable
Alcoholic Beverage Permit for the outdoor sale and consumption of alcohol for Mercato
Bar and Kitchen Restaurant that includes the sale of alcohol in accord with the terms and conditions set forth in application therefore, including minimum Dram Shop coverage in the amount of $1,000,000 and the approval of an outdoor dining permit. Carried Unanimously
CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE: Report of City Controller City Controller Thayer reported on the City’s financial status coming into the COVID-19 crisis:
• The first installment of property taxes was due in January, so that provided extended cash flow.
• The larger debt payments were made in January through March, so less debt
service payments are due now through mid-July. Approximately $1,300,000 is due by July.
• 2020 debt issues were made in February, right before the market went into turmoil, so an interest rate just over 1% was secured. Currently, interest rates
are all over the board, so it is fortunate that the City doesn’t need to go into the market at this time.
• Early sales tax collections, January through March were up about 9.7%.
• Cash reserves from 2019 are estimated to be about 16 ½% of activity/ operations, so the current fund balance of heading into 2020 is approximately $9,800,000.
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• The City is heavily reliant on sales tax. The 2020 sales tax budget is $15, 614,000 as approved which is approximately 25% of the budget. Property taxes
are a higher percentage of the budget. Sales tax is projected to take a drastic
hit; however, the impact will be delayed as there is a lag in collections. The next payments are April 7th and April 10th, and these collections relate to the February/early March time period. Loss of sales tax revenue is projected anywhere from 5-15% ($780,000 to $2,350,000) if this crisis is over by the end
of May.
• Parking revenue for 2020 was budgeted at a little over $3 million. If the pandemic continues, the City could expect to see revenue losses anywhere from $675,000 to $2 million.
• Other fees will also be impacted such as building permits and development related fees, youth services and program fees, recreation fees, interest earnings, fines, mortgage taxes, and other State and Federal aid.
He stated that these are short-term projections looking out into early June. If this crisis
continues at any length, everything is subject to change. The recovery process will likely be very slow and can be expected to continue into 2021. There are areas in the 2020 budget that can be explored to assist with cash flow if needed. Also, there is the ability to get Anticipation Notes based on tax projections and revenues, and short-term
bonding is available as well. The City’s debt limit is roughly 75% exhausted which
would make approximately $27 million available, bringing the City to 90% debt capacity. City Controller Thayer stated that he is projecting a revenue loss between 15-30% depending on the duration of this event, which equates to $9 - $20 million. He reported
that the Federal Stimulus Bill has passed, and other bills are being considered. At this
time, no stimulus assistance from the State or Federal governments has been received. Budget reduction steps taken so far include asking staff to restrict all expenses to essential and emergency expenses during this period. In addition, personnel vacancies
are being reviewed and only essential positions are being approved at this time. The
goal is to maintain current staffing levels; however, based on projections it would be a difficult thing to do in the future. Part of the stimulus bill included increased and extended unemployment benefits (an extra $600 per week for 39 weeks). Negative adjustments to the City’s revenue and general aid received from New York State may
also be possible. Union negotiations are difficult right now because there of uncertainty in the future, and committing to future expenses is very challenging. Increased pension rates for 2021 are expected as lower interest rates and investment turmoil have impacted the retirement
system gains. Alderperson Mohlenhoff noted that the 2021 budget process is likely to be extremely difficult and suggested that Council start checking their availability for additional budget meetings.
Discussion followed on the floor regarding potential amendments to the 2020 City budget, NYS funding adjustments, and committed funding for pending construction projects.
PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE: Alderperson Murtagh echoed comments made by the Mayor earlier in the meeting regarding the number of phone calls received regarding the local rent control proposal. He noted that a lot of the calls were from workers that have lost their jobs and don’t have enough money to pay April’s rent. The increased and extended unemployment
benefits will help a lot of people; however, New York State has been overloaded by the number of jobless claims and the system has been challenging to navigate. The other calls and emails received were from small landlords with 10 or fewer units. These people have worked very hard to build their livelihoods and are facing a situation in which people are not able to pay the rent. They are also very anxious as they must
make mortgage payments, pay taxes, insurance, etc. He stated that he drafted this
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resolution to call on New York State to waive rents and mortgage payments for a 90-day period. He questioned what the city is legally able to do in terms of a local rent freeze.
City Attorney Lavine stated that there are three legal restraints:
• The Governor’s Executive Orders have prohibited municipalities across the State from issuing emergency orders related to the current crisis. The City does not have the authority to force a rent freeze because of the current crisis without
additional permission from the State.
• It is legally questionable to enact a local rent freeze that would permanently wipe those rents off the books. In contrast it would be far more legally tenable if it were a government, not a court, making the landlords whole for the rents that
were not paid under the rent freeze.
• The City’s finances are currently uncertain and the City would need the money to make those landlords whole in order for the local rent freeze proposal to be applicable.
Alderperson Murtagh clarified that this would not be a call for a rent freeze across the board, the idea is that people should still pay their rent if they can. New York State has halted evictions for 90 days, but the concern is for the people who go into debt to their landlord for four-five months of rent and may be faced with a very large financial
obligation once the eviction order is relaxed.
5.1 City of Ithaca Resolution of Support for Ithaca Tenants and Landlords By Alderperson Murtagh: Seconded by Alderperson Fleming WHEREAS, in response to the outbreak of COVID-19, New York State has mandated
certain containment measures, including the closure of schools and non-essential
businesses; and WHEREAS, the containment protocol of COVID-19 in the City of Ithaca continues to have a severe impact on the local economy, leading to widespread job losses and
reduction in wages and income of Ithaca residents; and
WHEREAS, New York State has already declared a statewide moratorium on evictions, and New York State Courts have indefinitely suspended all eviction proceedings and pending eviction orders; and
WHEREAS, residents of the City of Ithaca who have suffered job losses or a reduction in income are in additional need of assistance, particularly low-income families; and WHEREAS, landlords in the City of Ithaca, particularly landlords with smaller property
holdings, have been dealt a financial blow by the present crisis and are also in need of
assistance; and WHEREAS, legislation has been introduced in the New York State Senate and the New York State Assembly that would suspend rent payments for 90 days of residential
tenants and small business commercial tenants who have suffered a loss of income as
a result of government-ordered COVID-19 restrictions; and WHEREAS, this legislation also provides relief for landlords who are suffering financial hardship as a result of a loss of rent payments, allowing them to waive mortgage
payments for a period of 90 days; and
WHEREAS, the recently passed federal stimulus bill provides much-needed support in the form of expanded unemployment benefits and direct cash payments to individuals and families, and expands SBA loans for small businesses; and
WHEREAS, additional relief is needed to support unemployed workers, especially undocumented and under-the-table workers, and to extend mortgage forbearance to landlords and help them meet financial obligations such as tax liabilities, utility payments, and insurance premiums; now, therefore be it,
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RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca hereby urges our state representatives to support Senate bill S8125A and Assembly bill A10224A, which for a 90 day period would suspend the rent payments of residential tenants and small
business commercial tenants who have suffered a loss of income as a result of
government-ordered COVID-19 restrictions, and suspend mortgage payments for the same period for property owners facing financial hardship as a result of non-payment of rent; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca urges our state and federal
representatives to pair any suspension of rent due to COVID-19 hardship with emergency funding to assist landlords who are facing financial hardship due to non- payment of rent.
Mayor Myrick voiced his appreciation to Alderperson Murtagh for drafting this
Resolution. He noted that community groups that assist people with housing insecurity are in danger of eroding right now. He stated that the City has never seen unemployment at this level and it will likely get worse before it gets better with both the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic fallout. He voiced regret that this could
not be done locally, reiterating that this does not fall within the Mayor’s emergency
powers. He stated that he would continue to push for rent freeze/ forgiveness and reimbursement to landlords in all conversations with the City’s congressional delegation and delegations across the country.
Alderperson Brock voiced her agreement with the Mayor, noting that the current
situation has fully revealed the vulnerability of the community which is generally considered economically secure because of the universities, medical center, and other essential services. She stated that a large part of the City’s economy is based on the hospitality industry which tends to include individuals who are not receiving a living
wage, fringe benefits, and who have very little job security. The City also has a large
rental population that pays more than 30% of their income on rent so even if they do receive assistance, it doesn’t come near to meeting their rent, food, and other financial obligations. She further stated that the unemployment insurance system was never intended to be used this way. It speaks to the need to diversify the City’s economy and
the importance of building jobs that provide employment security, benefits, and a living
wage. She commented that it is also important to focus on getting rents back to reasonable levels. Alderperson Fleming detailed the number of phone calls she’s received and the stories
she’s heard. She commented that this crisis has highlighted a lot of weaknesses in the
U.S. economy, including the lack of Internet accessibility which is impacting school aged children, the public health care and medical insurance systems, housing, and public education to the degree that a lot of people cannot discern truth from fiction in the media. She reiterated that a city-wide rent freeze is not in the City’s purview and noted
that it shouldn’t be done without means of testing because there are some people who
can pay rent. She stated that a program shouldn’t be put in place that doesn’t compensate landlords and the city does not have the funds to compensate landlords. She voiced her support for State-wide legislation that would address these issues and thanked Alderperson Murtagh for drafting the Resolution.
Alderperson Murtagh acknowledged that this legislation isn’t a perfect solution, noting that there are a lot of bills pending and a lot of Assembly members and Senators figuring out how to move forward. He noted that these are unprecedented times. There
are a lot of people who have lost their jobs, but there are also people who are drawing a
salary who are able to pay their rent and should pay their rent. Paying rent helps the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, and the school districts, as a big part of rent goes towards taxes. Those taxes pay for schoolteachers, firefighters, public health nurses, etc., and these are the people who are on the front lines dealing with this crisis. He
further noted that everyone is going to get $1,200 from the Federal government and that
money can be redistributed locally if it is not needed by the recipient. He further commented on the incredible outpouring of generosity in the community.
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Alderperson Kerslick expressed his thanks to Alderperson Murtagh and other colleagues who worked on this legislation. He stated that he’s heard comments from lower income homeowners that are struggling with their mortgage payments and asked
if this was something that might also be considered in the future. He commended the
Collegetown Co-op, noting the huge benefit it has been to students who are able to access local food. Alderperson Lewis voiced her support for the comments made by her colleagues, noting
that if people can afford to pay their rent, it may allow their landlords to be flexible with
other tenants who may be at different income levels. She stated that she’s heard from renters whose landlords have been flexible with them and have agreed to use the last month’s deposit to pay half of the April rent and half of the May rent so that the renters don’t have the full burden of their rent. She’s also heard from renters who have said
they are aware of landlords who already are, or are thinking about charging late fees.
She encouraged landlords and renters to work together to find creative solutions for their individual situations. Alderperson Nguyen apologized for not being able to respond to everyone who reached
out to him and commended everyone for their levels of engagement. He voiced his
frustration that the City couldn’t do more, noting that the City would fight at the State and Federal level to get something done for people who need assistance. Mayor Myrick voiced his support for rent assistance but stated that more universal
income is needed to stabilize family income, the local economy, and to prevent crime
from increasing. He urged everyone to continue pushing Federal representatives to do more and to send checks directly to the people who need them. Alderperson Gearhart added his support to the Resolution and apologized for not being
able to respond to everyone who contacted him. He thanked Alderperson Murtagh and
others for crafting this legislation. A vote on the Resolution resulted as follows: Carried Unanimously
5.2 South Cayuga Street Bridge Project – Design Alternative Decision – Alternative #2 Resolution By Alderperson Murtagh: Seconded by Alderperson Kerslick WHEREAS, a project for the rehabilitation of the South Cayuga Street Bridge over Six
Mile Creek, P.I.N. 375616 ("the Project") is eligible for funding under Title 23 U.S. Code as administered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), as amended, that calls for the apportionment of the costs such program to be borne at the ratio of 80% Federal funds and 20% non-Federal funds; and
WHEREAS, the existing South Cayuga Street Bridge ("the Bridge") is a single span, two-lane multiple steel girder bridge carrying South Cayuga Street over the Six Mile Creek; and WHEREAS, As part of the approved 2018 budget, Common Council already authorized
$155,000(80% Federal Share and 20% Local Share) to cover the cost of participation in Scoping and Preliminary Design Phases and additional $25,000 (100% Local Share) to cover project administration cost; and
WHEREAS, additional $210,000 (80% Federal and 20% Local Share) project funding
for the project made available by the New York State Department of Transportation to cover the cost of participation in Detailed Design; and WHEREAS, on June 6, 2018, the City of Ithaca Common Council amended CP#848 to
add $210,000 for a total of $390,000; and
WHEREAS, currently, the City of Ithaca and project consultant (Delta Engineers, Architects, & Land Surveyors, P.C.) are working on the Project; and
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WHEREAS, three possible alternatives for this bridge are being considered: Bridge Alternative #1, which includes bridge rehabilitation (13 ft. lanes/5-5" sidewalks), Bridge Alternative #2, which includes bridge rehabilitation (13 ft. lanes/ 8ft. sidewalks) including
widening the substructure, and Bridge Alternative #3, which includes full bridge
replacement (13 ft. lanes/8ft. sidewalks); and WHEREAS, Department of Public Works has decided to allocate $200,000 in Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) fund to be used
as a local match to cover construction cost of Alternative #2; and
WHEREAS, the proposed project costs for the alternatives are outlined as follows: Design Alternative Estimated Total Project City of Ithaca Share Federal Highway Administration
Share
CHIPS Fund
#1 $2,070,000 $434,000 $1,636,000 $0 #2 $2,564,000 $794,000 $1,570,000 $200,000
#3 $3,840,000 $2,026,000 $1,614,000 $200,000
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council has reviewed the 3 alternatives as
presented on March 11, 2020; now, therefore be it RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council hereby selects Alternative #2 as the preferred alternative with an estimated total project cost of $2,564,000; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council hereby amends CP#848 to add $2,174,000 for a total of $2,564,000; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That funds needed for said project shall be derived from the issuance of
Serial Bonds with the City's estimated share of the project cost not to exceed 30.97% or $794,000; and, be it further RESOLVED, That in the event the full Federal and non-Federal share costs of the
project exceeds the amount appropriated above, Common Council of the City of Ithaca shall convene as soon as possible to appropriate said excess amount immediately upon the notification by New York State Department of Transportation thereof; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Mayor of the City of Ithaca of the County of Tompkins be and is hereby authorized to sign all necessary Agreements with New York State Department of Transportation to secure Federal Aid and Marchiselli Aid on behalf of the City of Ithaca and the Superintendent of Public Works is authorized to sign all necessary construction documents, contracts, certifications and reimbursement requests; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Superintendent of Public Works be and is hereby authorized to administer the above project; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a certified copy of this resolution be filed with the New York State
Commissioner of Transportation by attaching it to any necessary Agreement in connection with the Project; and, it is further RESOLVED, That this Resolution shall take effect immediately.
Alderperson Murtagh noted that this project was discussed at the Planning & Economic Development Committee; however, quite a bit has changed since then. Alderperson Fleming stated that her opinion has changed and that she is comfortable with Alternative #1 because the lifespan of the bridge remains the same, 35-40 years,
with $300,000 fewer dollars spent by the City. She noted that Alternative #3 would be a smart investment, but she’s not sure it is in the City’s best financial interest at this time.
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Alderperson McGonigal voiced his agreement with Alderperson Fleming and asked if this project needed to happen this year.
Director of Engineering Logue explained that the project was still in the design phase
with construction projected for 2021. Typically, the financing runs a couple of years after that. He stated that he would like to see the project stay on schedule, even if it is modified.
Mayor Myrick voiced his support for Alternative #1 because of all the hard choices and
sacrifices the City will be forced to make in the coming months. Alderperson Lewis voiced her support for Alternative #1 for the reasons already mentioned, noting that it provides a service life for the bridge of 35-40 years and does
not rely on CHIPs funding. She further noted that staying on schedule will create and/or
maintain some design and building jobs as the project moves forward. Alderperson Brock stated that bridge alignments were identified as potential flood mitigations in the recent flood hazard analysis study. She noted that Alternative #1
does not include the refurbishment or re-alignment of the bridge abutments. She asked
if this would be a missed opportunity given the potential for extreme weather events in the next 35-40 years and how localized flooding impacts the community. Bridge Systems Engineer Gebre stated that the South Cayuga Street bridge was not
one of the concrete bridges identified as a risk of collapsing in a flooding event. He
stated that he is comfortable with Alternative #1. Joe Mieczkowski, Delta Engineers Consultant, stated that the other alternative designs were to accommodate future development by installing an 8’ sidewalk, similar to the
East Clinton Street bridge, to keep room between bicycles, cars, and pedestrians.
Alternative #1 provides sufficient clearance in terms of flooding events. Bridge Systems Engineer Gebre explained that when he prepared the resolution, he only included Alternatives #2 and #3 in the Resolved clauses and assumed that
Alternative #1 was a default Resolution. Currently, there are funds available for final
design. A request for construction funding will come later in the year. City Attorney Lavine agreed that the Resolution could fail and revert to the Alternative #1 scenario as funding for the design of the project has already been approved.
Mr. Mieczkowski stated that the draft of the Final Design Report for Alternative #1 is already complete. Design approval from New York State is required. The goal would be to advertise the project early in 2021 so that it would be ready to go to construction in the Spring of 2021.
Alderperson Nguyen commented that the data shows that narrower traffic lanes are safer for cyclists and slows down traffic as well. He stated that he would have liked to get 8’ sidewalks but agrees that maintaining the status quo is the way to go right now.
Mayor Myrick asked if this action could be delayed given that there has been talk of a
federal infrastructure package in the next round of stimulus funding. Director of Engineering Logue stated that the Resolution could be tabled for another month or two and still be able to stay on schedule.
Mayor Myrick suggested tabling the Resolution if the actual preferred Alternative is #2 or #3 as money may become available from the federal government “for shovel ready projects”.
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Motion to Table Resolution for One Month: By Alderperson McGonigal: Seconded by Alderperson Smith RESOLVED, That Common Council table the Resolution regarding the South Cayuga
Street Bridge Project - Design Alternatives for one month.
Further discussion followed on the floor regarding the width of driving lanes and shared bicycle lanes.
A vote on the Motion to Table resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously 5.3 Creation of a Capital Project to Survey the Green and Seneca Street Inter-City Bus Locations
By Alderperson Murtagh: Seconded by Alderperson Lewis WHEREAS, Section 346-31 of the City Code states that no bus shall operate, stop on or stand on any City street, nor shall such bus pick up or discharge passengers on any such City street or curb, or any other public property, or within 200 feet of any City bus stop in the corporate limits of the City of Ithaca, unless a permit is obtained from the
Common Council or its designee; and WHEREAS, Common Council passed resolutions to allow the use of 131 East Green Street and 130 E Seneca Street as intercity bus stops; and
WHEREAS, the operations of inter-city buses in downtown has been an asset to local businesses and provides a convenient connection to TCAT, thereby encouraging use of public transportation; and WHEREAS, feedback has been received that the current space does not adequately
accommodate buses, rideshare vehicles and pedestrians; now, therefore be it RESOLVED, That Common Council approves the establishment of a capital project in the amount of $25,000, to be funded by bus permit fees, for the purpose of establishing an engineering survey. The survey will be used in the design of an improved bus stop
for the inter-city buses at 131 E Green Street and 130 E Seneca Street. Alderperson Fleming asked what the bus permit fees would be used for if they weren’t targeted for this purpose. Mayor Myrick responded that the funds could be used in any way the City saw fit; however, Council voiced its intention to use these funds to help
improve the inter-city bus situation in some way. City Attorney Lavine confirmed that these are general funds without legal restrictions. One area these funds have been directed to is lost revenue, such as parking spaces and other revenue that used to come to the city prior to the inter-city bus operations.
Director of Parking and Transportation Hathaway confirmed that $163,000 has been collected to date. Alderperson Brock asked how essential it is to conduct an engineering survey at this time. Director of Parking and Transportation Hathaway acknowledged the City’s
uncertain financial future and reviewed the feedback received from the community regarding the inter-city bus operations. He stated that if the survey was started now, construction could take place in 2021 or 2022 if funds were available. The main purpose for doing this survey would be to improve lighting, shelters, signage, and
potentially some improvements to the road to allow for better movement of the buses.
He noted that $25,000 is the estimated cost of the survey, it could be less than that. Alderperson Lewis asked for confirmation that these projects would help improve what is viewed as a temporary bus pick-up and drop-off as a permanent solution is explored
and considered. Director of Parking and Transportation Hathaway noted that ideas
have been pitched; however, it is unlikely that there would be an off-road option in the next 2-3 years.
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Alderperson Kerslick questioned the timing of this project given the construction that will be starting on Green Street with the conference center and Vecino Project. Director of Parking and Transportation Hathaway stated that those construction projects shouldn’t
be too focused on the street, although there may be some re-striping of the travel lanes.
Alderperson Kerslick further asked about adjustments to bus schedules during the pandemic. Director of Parking and Transportation Hathaway stated that there aren’t any inter-city buses running currently.
City Attorney Lavine commented that not only has the bus activity stopped, so has the
$25,000 per month permit revenue. The bus operators have indicated that they are not running at all for the next few months and after that they will run at a radically reduced level compared to what they were. He noted that there would be a very different revenue stream in the future.
Motion to Table the Resolution: By Alderperson Lewis: Seconded by Alderperson Kerslick RESOLVED, That Common Council table the resolution regarding the bus survey indefinitely.
Carried Unanimously 5.4 An Ordinance to Approve the Green Street Urban Renewal Project Site By Alderperson Murtagh: Seconded by Alderperson Smith WHEREAS, Ithaca Properties, LLC proposes to purchase an approximately 192' x 119'
property at the eastern section of the Green Street parking garage site located at 120
East Green Street, Ithaca, NY (Premises) to undertake an urban renewal project, subject to Common Council approval; and WHEREAS, the Premises consists of air rights above a privately-owned ground floor
commercial use and contains two elevated public parking decks constructed in 1974;
and WHEREAS, Ithaca Properties, LLC is the owner of a commercial building located at 215 East State Street that extends immediately under and is thereby connected to the
Premises; and
WHEREAS, on June 27, 2019, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) designated Ithaca Properties, LLC as a "qualified and eligible sponsor" to potentially acquire the Premises to undertake an urban renewal project; and
WHEREAS, on December 23, 2019, the IURA endorsed a definition for a proposed urban renewal project at the Premises that includes reconstruction of two public parking decks to be leased back to the City for operation; and
WHEREAS, the Premises is encumbered by a 2014 purchase option held by Hotel
Ithaca, LLC, the owners of the downtown Marriott Hotel, to acquire the Premises for $1 in the event the City of Ithaca proposes to decommission or convey the Premises; and WHEREAS, Hotel Ithaca, LLC has 12 months from the date of notice to exercise their
option to acquire the Premises; and
WHEREAS, a 2016 structural study of the Green Street parking garage conducted by Stantec revealed that significant structural deficiencies exist in the east section that will
require a sizable capital investment to address; and
WHEREAS, the Stantec study estimated the cost to the City to demolish the east section at more than $2,030,000 in 2019 dollars; and
WHEREAS, a 2019 appraisal by Midland Appraisal Associates, Inc. concluded the
market value of the Premises is $2,380,000, assuming a structural platform is in place to support construction of a building utilizing the 140 ft. zoning envelop; and
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WHEREAS, the existing structural system supporting the two parking decks does not support high-rise development; and
WHEREAS, the negotiated purchase price of $350,000 represents a reasonable fair
market value of the Premises after the avoided demolition cost is considered; and WHEREAS, on March 26, 2020, the Board of Public Works determined that retention of ownership of the Premises is surplus for municipal purposes; and
WHEREAS, the purchase agreement is contingent on City of Ithaca Common Council approval of an IURA-proposed disposition and development agreement with Ithaca Properties, LLC to implement an urban renewal project; and
WHEREAS, the City Charter requires approval by three-fourths of the Common Council
to authorize sale of real property; and WHEREAS, the City Charter further requires notice of a proposed sale to be published no less than once each week for three weeks, the first such notice being published no
less than 30 days prior to the approval vote, and such notices have been published;
now, therefore ORDINANCE 2020-
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of Ithaca as
follows: Section 1. Authorization for Disposition. a. City ownership of the above-described Premises is surplus for municipal
purposes.
b. The Common Council for the City of Ithaca hereby authorizes the contingent sale of approximately 22,800 square feet of air rights property located at the eastern section of the Green Street parking garage site (part of tax parcel #70.-4-5.2) to Ithaca
Properties, LLC at a purchase price of $350,000. The closing of the sale is contingent
upon Common Council approval of an Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency proposed disposition and development agreement to implement an urban renewal project. c. The Mayor, subject to advice of the City Attorney, is hereby authorized to
execute a contingent purchase agreement substantially similar to the "Purchase
Agreement, Eastern Section of Green Street Garage Urban Renewal Project Site" document, dated 2/21/20, to implement this resolution. Section 2. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect upon publication as provided
in the City Charter, provided that such publication shall not take place prior to declaration by the Board of Public Works to the effect that retention of ownership of the Premises is surplus for municipal public works purposes. Alderperson Murtagh explained that this action was previously tabled due to the lack of
business displacement mitigation plans with Home Green Home and Sunny Days. Since then, the developer has reconfigured his plans so that they will no longer impact those tenants and the threat of displacement no longer exists.
Alderperson Nguyen asked if there were guarantees after the passage of this legislation
that the plan would continue in this way without affecting the Rothschild Building. He further asked if the City could assist the retailers with the legal fees they incurred during this process.
Community Development Director Bohn stated that the best way to address that issue is
through the Disposition and Development Agreement. The IURA has already recommended imposing the standard that if there was any displacement of businesses, there would need to be a mitigation plan. That requirement can be retained in the Disposition and Development Agreement moving forward. If the plans were to change
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again, the IURA could take a look at the question of what out of pocket expenses were incurred as a direct result displacement and discuss that in the Disposition and Development Agreement and bring it to Common Council for reconsideration.
A vote on the Ordinance resulted as follows: Carried Unanimously 5.5 Conference Center Analysis – Discussion
Mayor Myrick explained that he requested that Community Development Director Bohn and Deputy Director of Economic Development Knipe complete a new financial analysis for the Conference Center project as many things have changed during the past month. Deputy Director of Economic Development Knipe acknowledged that the City is
expecting a very large decline in hotel tax revenues in 2020 followed by a recovery period. Room tax revenues were part of a final reserve structure to protect the City as the guarantor on the lease. The projected room tax revenue prior to the beginning of the pandemic was $1.25 million. New scenarios were developed that include:
• Decreasing the projected revenues in 2021-2022 by 7%.
• Decreasing the projected revenues by 7% and assume a decrease in supply, such as the loss of a 100 room hotel.
• Decreasing the projected revenues by 15% and assume the loss of a 100-room hotel.
• A variation of scenario three that assumes an additional amount of funding going into the reserve from another source during the pre-collection
period.
He stated that the ideas for the projections were based on industry intelligence and also by what happened during the last big recession. In 2009-2010 room tax revenues decreased by a level of 7%. While deeper cuts are expected this year, it doesn’t directly
impact the conference center project because the project is based on beginning
revenue collections in January of 2021. Community Development Director Bohn explained the foundation of the original analysis, and the additional stresses that were added to the analysis:
• Pre-opening costs of $250,000 were added to the projections.
• With the 7% reduction of room tax revenues starting in 2021 and continuing into 2022 before picking up a 2% interest rate, the system of reserves
remains solid without any problems. There wouldn’t be a call on the City General Fund or even touch the reserve.
• If you add the loss of a 100-room hotel with the 7% reduction, the final reserve for the City is still not exhausted.
• The 15% reduction in room tax revenues would trigger an impact on exhausting the final reserve, and that would occur in year six. It would require an approximate $200,000 investment from the general fund to cover that deficiency in the process. The flex point is somewhere between a 13-14%
reduction for two years before it starts growing the room tax revenues to where there are sufficient revenues to cover the debt service, and the operating deficit in the facility itself. He explained that the program is structured to provide for a moderate recession
including the closing of a hotel under the existing structure. If a deep recession occurs that lasts too long, it will start to impact and exhaust the reserves. The call on the city funds would decrease over time as tax revenues generally increase year-to-year and the debt service is stable for 30 years.
Deputy Economic Development Director Knipe reviewed additional risk mitigations strategies that could be deployed if the actual financial situation becomes worse than the projected worse case scenarios such as:
• Placing less of the pre-opening collections directly into the construction
budget and borrowing more as the City obtains good interest rates.
• Use something like the Tourism Improvement District (TID) for a very short period to boost revenues in addition to room tax.
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He further explained that a lot of pessimistic assumptions were made with these models: revenues down, costs up, slow growth, no induced growth, no Air B & B
collections, higher costs of borrowing, slow economic rebound, etc. He noted that the
leaders of the project have begun to articulate a mission statement for the conference center as something that could help lead the City’s economic recovery and ensure a vibrant downtown.
Mayor Myrick stated that seeing the results of the stress tests that assume cataclysmic
reductions of room taxes, 100 rooms going off-line, and an assumption no revenue from Air B&Bs and the fact that the project would not open until 2023, has given him a level of confidence. Another thing that provides a level of confidence is knowing that increased stimulus funding is coming from both the State and Federal levels. Having
shovel ready projects is a catalyst to receiving additional available grant funding. He
reiterated his belief that the City’s economy is too heavily reliant on higher education, noting that diversifying the economic pillars to create jobs and bring in outside dollars will make the City stronger and more resilient to future financial shocks.
Tompkins County Administrator Molino stated that the Tompkins County Legislature
adoption the Resolution and agreed to the 4% contribution of the gross receipts received on the room tax. Alderperson Murtagh inquired about the status of the $500 million New York State
grant. Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce Director Tavares stated that there
have not been any indications of concerns related to the grant funding. Alderperson McGonigal inquired about the addition of pre-opening expenses. Community Development Director Bohn explained that when the original modeling was
conducted, they weren’t aware that there was a need for $250,000 pre-opening
expenses so it was not built into the original proforma. The money will come out of the project; however, it would have the effect of reducing the upfront balance available for the final reserve.
Further discussion followed on the floor regarding different approaches or strategies to
reduce the risk to the taxpayers. Community Development Director Bohn shared the following ideas:
• Establish a Tourism Improvement District (TID) and not focus on the
hotel tax. This would increase revenues because it would include a broader base including tax-exempt customers.
• Consider the room tax and a temporary TID together if there is a shortfall and the reserves need to be built back up. For example, if
$1.9 million was projected in hotel taxes revenues and $1.7 million was received for two years in a row, there would be a shortfall of $400,000. That could be made up by establishing a TID to collect the $400,000 shortfall.
• Add a million dollars, or another amount, into the development budget.
It would have the effect of increasing the annual rent because it would be part of the debt service payment, but it would also build a bigger cushion in that reserve.
City Attorney Lavine advised that if a special benefit assessment model was formed it
should be a back-up option, not the main option. It would be the first time in New York State that this was done. He stated that there is nothing in New York State law to authorize it and it comes with additional risk.
Alderperson McGonigal asked if there was a mechanism to reimburse any calls on the
General Fund if the economy improved and revenues increased. Ms. Tavares reminded Council of the other separate reserve funds that are slated to be built up in the project budget and which would have to be exhausted prior to the City
having to use General Fund dollars. She stated that in that case, a priority would be to
recapitalize or rebalance those reserve funds.
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Alderperson Nguyen asked how far Vecino is into their development plans and whether a scenario had been considered for closing the conference center in future years if it is
not profitable and re-purposing it.
Community Development Director Bohn explained that Vecino is very committed to the project as they understood the County Legislature vote was the last vote to commit to the conference center project. They’ve hired a design consultant who specializes in
conference centers and have been working with the stakeholder group. They’ve also
addressed the foundation and structural issues for the project. They must go through the site plan approval process and environmental review to submit their project for financing before December. Their primary concern is to define the project and execute that process. If there is going to be a change in the decision from the prior vote, Vecino
needs to be informed as soon as possible because they are incurring costs. He further
stated that repurposing the building is not a good outcome or solution, explaining that it would require a new investment into the project as conference centers are purpose-built buildings that don’t lend themselves to a lot of other uses.
Downtown Executive Director Ferguson explained that there would be an operating
board composed of City representatives and industry partners. Within that group, there would be a Fiscal Oversight Board where the City would have majority control. Further discussion followed on the floor regarding a potential additional TID style fee
and how that could impact businesses such as hotels that may already be struggling.
COVID-19 Pandemic A question-and-answer period occurred with Tompkins County Administrator Molino. Alderperson Nguyen asked about alternative transportation options for people who live
downtown and need to access the COVID-19 testing site as TCAT has had to eliminate
that service and Uber and Lyft services have been dramatically reduced. County Administrator Molino responded that the County has been working with their partners over the last few days. He explained that public transit is not a good option because of the risk of exposure to multiple people. They are exploring Gadabout and Ithaca Car
Share with modifications to their operations including volunteer drivers, protective
barriers, and vehicle sanitation measures. He further noted that the drive-in testing facilities have accepted walk-ins. County Administrator Molino encouraged people who are symptomatic to contact a
health care provider or Urgent Care and isolate themselves in their dwelling for 14 days.
If anyone is in distress or has immediate health care needs, dial 9-1-1 for immediate medical attention. County Administrator Molino explained the number of priorities the County has and how
they shift on a daily basis as the pandemic develops. He discussed topics of testing,
communicating with quarantined individuals, personal protective equipment supplies, working with food providers to make sure food is available, the possibility of more folks being unemployed with fewer paychecks and a potential increase in demand for food, child care needs for emergency responders and health care providers, and the closing
of non-essential businesses. He noted that the collaboration with the community,
human service agencies, non-profits, higher education, and all the municipalities has been overwhelming. The Federal stimulus and how that is implemented will also shift priorities based on economic recovery.
Further discussion followed on the floor regarding COVID-19 testing, what labs are being used, and the length of time it takes to get test results. Mayor Myrick thanked County Administrator Molino and his staff for their efforts in
managing the pandemic that is on a scale that no one has ever seen before.
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MAYOR’S APPOINTMENTS: Appointment to Planning Board - Resolution By Alderperson Murtagh: Seconded by Alderperson Smith
RESOLVED, That C.J. Randall be appointed to the Planning Board with a term to
expire December 31, 2022. Carried Unanimously REPORTS OF COMMON COUNCIL LIAISONS:
TCAT Board Alderperson Lewis reported that the General Manager of TCAT has shared that no TCAT drivers have tested positive for COVID-19, so they are still operating as normal. IURA Board
Alderperson Lewis reported that a public hearing was conducted on March 22, 2020, on the HUD Entitlement Program and the second public hearing is scheduled for tomorrow morning. Public agency representatives will be discussing their proposals for the grant funding that the City has been awarded. The IURA has been awarded $632,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) money and $335,000 of HOME
investment partnership funds. She explained that this money supports some of the most vulnerable residents in the community with rent deposit assistance, small repairs so people can stay in their homes, and similar programs. 2020 Census
Alderperson McGonigal reported that today is “Census Day” and encouraged everyone to complete their census forms. Cornell/City Working Group Alderperson Gearhart reported on the Cornell Community Relations Office hours and
offered to forward the Zoom meeting links for those who are interested.
United Way Alderperson Nguyen noted that former Alderperson J.R Clairborne has extended his thanks to Mayor Myrick for raising attention for the United Way, so they and the
Community Foundation receive additional funds. He noted that both organizations are collecting money if people have an extra stimulus check or other contribution to donate. He noted that mutual aid groups on Facebook are identifying needs and matching them with people who can assist. For example, the Beech Tree Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing needs laptops and iPads so residents can communicate with loved ones. He
encouraged people to consider donating items they no longer have use for. Alderperson Mohlenhoff shared that the Human Services Coalition and the 2-1-1 line have people who are very good at helping people navigate these very new possibilities for support. Specific non-profits have put funding aside for people who have been hit in
different ways and it is very confusing to try to figure that out on your own. Calling 2-1-1 can connect people with resources available in Tompkins and Cortland Counties. REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY: City Attorney Lavine reported that it has been very challenging trying to navigate all of
the new laws designed to mitigate the impacts of this crisis. Mayor Myrick thanked City
Attorney Lavine for his work in creating a Memorandum of Understanding for all the bargaining units to receive paid COVID leave for employees, providing information and agreements for furloughs, interpreting the Executive Orders coming from the Governor’s
office on nearly a daily basis, and for figuring out how we can legally conduct city
business remotely. MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS: The approval of the January 8, 2020, and February 4, 2020, Common Council minutes
was deferred to the May meeting.
ADJOURNMENT: On a motion the meeting adjourned at 9:05 p.m.
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______________________________ _______________________________
Julie Conley Holcomb, CMC Svante L. Myrick City Clerk Mayor