HomeMy WebLinkAboutTB Minutes 2014-03-10 Revised 3/7/2014
Meeting of the Ithaca Town Board
Monday, March 10, 2014 at 5:30 p.m.
�F 4� 215 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, NY 14850
Agenda
1. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance
2. Report of Tompkins County Legislature
3. Report of Ithaca Common Council
4. Persons to be Heard and Board comments
5. Discuss and consider referral of Amabel project (Five Mile Drive) to the Planning Board
for recommendations
6. Discuss proposed modifications to the La Tourelle PDZ to allow seasonal tents and
consider referral to the Planning Board and Planning Committee for recommendations
7. Consider resolution of appreciation for Betty Poole
8. Discuss and consider commenting on DEC's proposed 2014 303(d) list of impaired
waterbodies
9. Consider appointment of Alternate to Zoning Board of Appeals—Vignaux
10. Consider approval of changes to the Town's guest wifi policy
11. Continue and finish review of DGEIS —Comprehensive Plan and consider acceptance as
suitable for public comment
12. Consider Consent Agenda Items
a. Approval of Town Board Minutes of February 24, 2014
b. Town of Ithaca Abstract
c. Bolton Point Abstract
d. Approval of final budget modifications for 2013
e. Acknowledge change in Conservation Board member
f. Approval of establishing a sick bank
13. Report of Town Officials and Review of Correspondence
a. Codes
14. Report of Town and Intermunicipal Committees
15. Consider Adjournment
Meeting of the Ithaca Town Board
Monday,March 10, 2014 at 5:30 p.m.
Minutes
Board Members Present: Herb Engman, Supervisor; Bill Goodman, Deputy Town Supervisor;
Pat Leary, Tee-Ann Hunter, Eric Levine, Rich DePaolo, and Rod Howe
Staff Present: Susan Ritter, Director of Planning, Bruce Bates, Director of Code Enforcement;
Mike Solvig, Director of Finance, Judy Drake, Director of Human Resources; Paulette
Terwilliger, Town Clerk; and Jim Weber, Highway Superintendent
** Very limited audio
Agenda Item 1 Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance
Mr. Engman called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m.
Agenda Item 2 Report of Tompkins County Legislature
Will Burbank reported and urged board members to check out the new Legislature Chambers.
He noted that they are looking at getting the last office out of the old library — the Community
Justice operations are still there and there is a proposal to add a modest space to the Human
Services Building on State Street this year. Another modest addition being proposed is at the
County Jail. Mr. Burbank noted that there has been a lot of controversy over this addition
because the public thinks we are just adding beds to put more people in jail but in reality we are
not expanding the physical part of the jail but taking a room that is sometimes used for indoor
recreation and putting 7 bunks in there which will give us greater capacity and cut down on
board outs. He explained that board-outs are very expensive and also keep family and friends
from visiting those incarcerated so it is a benefit to them to be able to stay in place. Mr. Burbank
had a picture of the recreation area which accounts for two-thirds of the cost of the renovation
and will enclose a portion of the existing area so inmates can go out in bad weather too.
Mr. Burbank also stated that the County has put together a task force for ideas on lowering
incarceration rates and felt that the County has a lot of really good programs in place and would
like to add more. The County's goal is to get people out of jails, not in them.
Mr. DePaolo asked what the anticipated payback period would be and Mr. Burbank responded
that they thought it would pay for itself in 5 years.
Mr. Engman wanted to let the County know that the paper Mr. Mareana wrote regarding the tax
cap and associated issues was excellent and he has been using it a lot and other municipalities are
putting together their own versions and hopefully this will gain traction.
Agenda Item 3 Report of Ithaca Common Council—None
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Agenda Item 4 Persons to be Heard and Board comments
Mr. Engman noted that an item was added to the consent—appointment of a laborer and we will
be adding an executive session to discuss potential litigation.
Mr. DePaolo asked if there had been any movement with TCAT meeting or devising a wish list
pursuant to the arrangement talked about during the budget meetings. Mr. Goodman responded
that he had talked with Ms. Dotson recently and will report under Report of Town Officials later
in the meeting.
Agenda Item 5 Discuss and consider referral of Amabel project (Five Mile Drive) to
the Planning Board for recommendations (Attachment#1)
The Board had questions about the project as submitted by the applicant. Ms. Hunter asked
about the Mission Statement and how Ms. Cosentini thought she could execute that. She agreed
with the statement, but didn't see how it would happen. Ms. Cosentini responded that the project
would be very similar to the Aurora Pocket buildings with as close to zero energy as possible and
she was still exploring different building materials and processes to reach that goal so she did not
have specifics on colors, materials etc. at this time. Ms. Cosentini went on to say that she would
be doing a more overt community building since they could not do a shared community. This
would be done with social media and group building events so people of like tastes and minds
would be grouped together.
Ms. Hunter asked if she would be building one or two and then wait for those to sell before
building the next and Ms. Cosentini responded that yes, there would be six model types and then
they would be built as they were sold.
Mr. Engman if the City parcel would only be used for parking, a dog park and Stormwater uses
ans Ms. Cosentini responded that that was correct. He also asked if the smaller lines indicated
footpaths and she responded yes. Ms. Cosentini stated that there is no inlet access but there
would be access to the railroad crossing to the Black Diamond Trail.
Mr. Levine asked what the target price range was and Ms. Cosentini responded that she didn't
know yet. She stated that she is trying to use a preassemble wall system to bring costs down, and
there are going to be 6 different sizes so there will be a range, but there are too many variables
right now.
Ms. Hunter asked about mass transit to this site and Ms. Cosentini responded that there isn't one
but she does intend to create a google calendar so people can share car pool similar to the one
that is active for Fall Creek neighborhood and works fantastically.
Ms. Hunter wondered if in cases like this when we are working on our zoning, and we send this
to the Planning Board for their recommendations, are we in a position to recommend
architectural standards such as vinyl siding etc. She also thought that we should be keeping
close track of these developments and in our negotiations with TCAT we should request service
and finally, what are we doing about affordable housing in this subdivision.
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Mr. Engman responded that in this case, what is before the Board tonight is a straight up
rezoning, so we can't mandate those types of things but the Planning Board does have some
leeway in the site plan process. Ms. Cosentini added that there would be no vinyl siding and this
would be similar aesthetically to the Aurora Pocket Neighborhood.
Discussion then turned to affordability and making the distinction between subsidized housing
and affordable; we are looking for market-rate in line with median income, 90%-110% of
median income is the missing middle in housing for this area. Ms. Cosentini responded that that
is her goal but her project is too small for the usual industry investors and she will continue to
work with any and everybody she can, but the subsidies and financial backers are not out there
for help with median income housing; the incentives are just not there so it is an uphill battle.
She did not know if she could get below $200K but then if you take in the zero utilities it might
be that missing middle as a net effect.
Discussion again turned to whether we can require certain things we are looking for such as
affordability, aesthetics, materials, transportation and open space and the feeling was that in large
part we cannot require these things yet, although we are working toward that with code changes,
but for now it is a lot of good faith based on Ms. Cosentini's work. The feelings of the Board
have been made clear through this meeting and the Planning Committee who also met with Ms.
Cosentini as well as through staff meetings with her and they will be conveyed to the Planning
Board and what can be done, will be done. Ms. Hunter wanted to be fair to Ms. Cosentini and
make sure it was very clear.
TB Resolution No. 2014-037: Refer Rezoning of 617 and 619 Five Mile Drive from Low
Density Residential to Medium Density Residential for the Amabel Clustered Subdivision
Proposal to the Planning Board for a Recommendation
Whereas, New Earth Living is proposing the "Amabel"project, a clustered subdivision("pocket
neighborhood")with approximately thirty-one housing units to be located on 619 Five Mile
Drive (Tax Parcel No. 31.-2-28), a +/- 7.65 acre parcel, and on a portion of 617 Five Mile Drive
(Tax Parcel No. 31.-2-6), a+/- 2.96 parcel,which requires rezoning from Low Density
Residential to Medium Density Residential to permit the intended housing density, and
Whereas, the Town of Ithaca Town Board, at its meeting on January 13, 2014, referred the
proposed Amabel project (revised from the initial cooperative housing concept discussed initially
by the Town Board at its meeting on October 15, 2012 and the Planning Committee on May 23,
2013) and rezoning request to the Planning Committee for a recommendation on the rezoning
request; and
Whereas, the Planning Committee at its meeting on January 23, 2014 reviewed and discussed the
proposed clustered subdivision proposal and recommended that the Town Board consider
referral of the request to the Planning Board for a recommendation and in-depth review, now,
therefore, be it resolved
That the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby refers consideration of the proposed draft
"Local Law Amending Chapter 270 of the Town of Ithaca Code, Titled"Zoning," and the
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Official Map To Rezone Tax Parcels#31.-2-6 And 31.-2-28 Located At 617 And 619 Five Mile
Drive From Low Density Residential To Medium Density Residential" to the Town of Ithaca
Planning Board for a recommendation and in-depth review of the development proposal.
Moved: Rich DePaolo Seconded: Rod Howe
Vote: Ayes—DePaolo, Howe, Goodman, Hunter, Levine, Leary and Engman
Agenda Item 6 Discuss proposed modifications to the La Tourelle PDZ to allow
seasonal tents and consider referral to the Planning Board and Planning Committee for
recommendations (Attachment#2)
The Board reviewed the handout and Scott Wiggins and Robert Frisch were available for
questions. Mr. Frisch stated that this would be a prototype that he would be able to take on to
other locations.
Mr. Engman commented that two showers might not be enough and Mr. Wiggins responded that
they hope to put in 2-4 showers. Mr. Engman also outlined the recreation areas available and
both Mr. Wiggins and Mr. Frisch responded that those attractions are a big part of why they are
trying this prototype here. The closest example is in the Adirondacks. Mr. DePaolo asked about
storage and Mr. Wiggins responded that they would be dismantled at the end of the season and
stored onsite as well as offsite.
Ms. Hunter asked about the tent inspections that will be needed and Mr. Bates explained the
Town Code and the NYS code allows for a tent to be up a maximum of 180 days in a calendar
year and during that time they have to be inspected every month, either by us or a certified
inspector who can send the inspection report to us.
Mr. DePaolo stated that he would abstain from voting because he works with Mr. Wiggins in a
band, so to avoid any appearance of conflict, he would abstain.
TB Resolution No.2014 -038: Referral of modifications of the La Tourelle Planned
Development Zone (PDZ No. 1—Wiggins) to allow seasonal camping facilities (glamping)
to the Town Planning Committee and the Town Planning Board for a recommendation
Whereas, Scott Wiggins has submitted an application to the Town to add seasonal camping
facilities (glamping)on the La Tourelle Resort grounds, and presented the details of the project
to the Ithaca Town Board on March 10, 2014; and
Whereas, the zoning for the La Tourelle Resort property (1150 Danby Road) is Planned
Development Zone No. 1 (Wiggins; Town Code Section 271-3),which allows uses such as a
hotel (up to 80 units), spa facility, restaurant, tennis courts, swimming pool, etc.; and
Whereas, seasonal camping facilities (glamping) are not a permitted use in PDZ No. 1 and would
require a modification/addition to the PDZ No. 1; now, therefore,be it
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Resolved, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby refers consideration of the proposed
draft"Local Law Amending Chapter 271 of the Town of Ithaca Code, Entitled "Zoning: Special
Land Use Districts" to Allow Seasonal Camping Facilities at the La Tourelle Resort" to the
Town of Ithaca Planning Committee for a recommendation; and be it further
Resolved, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby refers consideration of the proposed
draft"Local Law Amending Chapter 271 of the Town of Ithaca Code, Entitled "Zoning: Special
Land Use Districts" to Allow Seasonal Camping Facilities at the La Tourelle Resort" to the
Town of Ithaca Planning Board for a recommendation and site plan review of the development
proposal.
Moved: Tee Ann Hunter Seconded: Bill Goodman
Vote: Ayes—Hunter, Goodman, Engman, Leary, Levine, and Howe
Abstained—DePaolo
Agenda Item 7 Consider resolution of appreciation for Betty Poole
TB Resolution No. 2014-039: Resolution of Appreciation and Recognition of Service for
Betty Poole
Whereas, Betty Poole started her career with the Town on July 24, 1989 as a Deputy Town
Clerk; and
Whereas, Betty was appointed as a Court Clerk effective February 2, 1998, and has provided her
expertise and talents faithfully to the Town continuously since that date; and
Whereas, effective March 22, 2014, Betty has chosen to retire from her employment with the
Town, after almost twenty five (25) years of dedicated service; and
Whereas, Betty's professionalism, courteousness and helpful nature was always appreciated
when speaking with the Town residents, customers of the Town's Court System, and while
working with her fellow employees; and
Whereas, during Betty's time as Court Clerk the Town has experienced changes in location of
the court office, change in Justices and several changes in court procedures, which Betty assisted
with diligence and in the best interest of the Town; and
Whereas, Betty's years of devotion and dedication as an employee representative on the
Employee Relations Committee,will be remembered for years; and
Whereas, the Town of Ithaca has greatly benefited from Betty's thoughtful consideration, time,
energy and desire to serve our community for the benefit of the Town and its citizens; and
Whereas, the Town of Ithaca is appreciative of Betty's invaluable contributions and years of
dedication, devotion and exemplary service to the Town and the local Court System during her
almost twenty five years of service; now, therefore, be it
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Resolved, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca, on behalf of the Town, its citizens and
employees, acknowledges the retirement of Betty Poole as Court Clerk; and expresses its sincere
gratitude to Betty for her dedicated service to the Town and our community.
Moved: Bill Goodman Seconded: Tee Ann Hunter
Vote: Ayes— Hunter, Howe, Leary, Levine, DePaolo, Goodman and Engman
Agenda Item 8 Discuss and consider commenting on DEC's proposed 2014 303(d) list of
impaired waterbodies
Mr. DePaolo, the author of the comments, gave a brief background on the topic and made a few
changes to the comments as submitted. (filed with correspondence)
TB Resolution No. 2014-040: Authorization to send Comments to NYS DEC regarding
New York State 2014 Section 303(d) List of Impaired Waters Requiring a TMDL/Other
Strategy
Whereas the Town Board has reviewed and discussed submitted comments written by
Councilman Rich DePaolo to NYS DEC regarding New York State 2014 Section 303(d) List of
Impaired Waters Requiring a TMDL/Other Strategy
Now therefore be it
Resolved that the Town Board approves and authorizes the submission of the above referenced
comments to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Bureau of
Watershed Assessment and Management
Moved: Rich DePaolo Seconded: Tee Aran Hunter
Vote: Ayes—Engman, DePaolo, Hunter, Levine, Leary, Howe and Goodman
Agenda Item 9 Consider appointment of Alternate to Zoning Board of Appeals
Mr. Engman explained that Mr. Vignaux had applied for and been interviewed for the Ethics
Board position and through that process it became apparent that he would be a great candidate
for the Zoning Board position and he was encouraged to consider that. Since two board
members had interviewed him for the Ethics positions, he was then interviewed by Mr. Bates and
Mr. Sigel and all involved recommended his appointment.
TB Resolution No. 2014-041: Appointment of Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate Member
Whereas, there is a vacancy on the Zoning Board of Appeals for an Alternate member position;
and
Whereas an interview committee interviewed the Mr. Vignaux for the position and recommends
his appointment; now, therefore, be it
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Resolved, that the Town Board hereby appoints George Vignaux, 1470 Trumansburg Road, as an
Alternate member to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a term beginning March 10, 2014 and
ending December 31, 2014.
Moved: Pat Leary Seconded: Rod Howe
Vote: Ayes—Leary, Howe, Levine, Engman, Goodman, DePaolo and Hunter
Agenda Item 10 Consider approval of changes to the Town's guest wifi policy
Mr. Engman noted that some extensive changes were submitted by Ms. Brock and suggested it
might need to go back to committee to review those. Mr. DePaolo had questions on whether it
was needed at all noting that many places do not have this and our guest wifi is for incidental use
while people are here at a meeting and we are threatening them with monitoring their behavior
and he felt it gave too much latitude for looking at what sites are visited etc.
Lengthy discussion followed with most thinking that it was appropriate, stating our limitations
yet covering us 'legally in case something happened. The Board decided to refer it back to
committee and invited Mr. DePaolo to attend and express his concerns with Ms. Carrier-Titti
present.
Agenda item 11 Continue and finish review of DGEIS — Comprehensive Plan and
consider acceptance as suitable for public comment
Ms. Hunter thanked staff for the introduction pages noting that it sets the stage for the Plan and
puts the document into a more comprehensible format. She did notice that not all the places she
thought the Board had indicated a change should be made regarding adding the word
"significant" before "adverse" seemed to have been made and wondered why. Ms. Ritter and
Mr. Tasman responded that they were trying to maintain consistency with other DGEIS' out
there. That being said, they would work with Ms. Hunter to review the instances she was talking
about and either explain or make the change. Ms. Ritter also noted that she had comments from
Ms. Brock regarding the same topic and those would be incorporated into the Plan also.
TB Resolution No. 2014- 042: Acceptance of a Draft Generic Environmental Impact
Statement (GEIS) Regarding Proposed Draft Town of Ithaca Comprehensive Plan As
Complete For Public Review And Comment.
Whereas, the Ithaca Town Board is proposing to adopt a new Town of Ithaca Comprehensive
Plan that will guide the physical development of the Town over the next 10-20 years; and
Whereas, said enactment is a Type I action pursuant to the New York State Environmental
Quality Review Act(Article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law) and 6 NYCRR Part 617
of its implementing regulations, as well as Chapter 148 of the Town of Ithaca Code regarding
Environmental Quality Review; and
Whereas, in a resolution dated February 25, 2013, the Ithaca Town Board declared its intent to
serve as Lead Agency to conduct the environmental review regarding the proposed draft
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Comprehensive Plan, acknowledging that the Town Board is the only agency with discretionary
authority to approve or adopt the proposed Comprehensive Plan, and
Whereas, in the same February 25`h resolution the Town Board also declared its intent to prepare
a Draft Generic Environmental Impact Statement (DGEIS), pursuant to the provisions of 6
NYCRR Part 617.10, in order to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of the proposed
Comprehensive Plan; and
Whereas, the Town Board conducted a formal scoping process for said DGEIS, with a public
hearing held on April 22, 2013 for the purpose of hearing comments from the public and
interested agencies regarding the scope and content of the DGEIS, after distributing the draft
Scoping Document to the public and,
Whereas, the Town Board on May 13, 2013, having received no public comments on the draft
Scoping Document, accepted the March 19, 2013 document as the Final Draft Scoping document
finding it adequate to define the scope and content of the DGEIS for the draft Comprehensive
Plan, and
Whereas, the Town of Ithaca Planning Department has prepared a draft GEIS regarding the
proposed Comprehensive Plan, and submitted said draft GEIS to the Town Board for
consideration of acceptance as complete; and
Whereas, the Town Board reviewed an initial draft version of the GEIS, dated January 21, 2014,
at meetings on January, 27, 2014 and February 24, 2014; and
Whereas, the Town Board reviewed a revised draft GEIS dated March 5, 2014 at its meeting on
March 10, 2014, now therefore be it resolved that
The Town of Ithaca Town Board hereby finds that the revised draft GEIS for the proposed Town
of Ithaca 2014 Comprehensive Plan, satisfactory with respect to its scope, content, and adequacy
for the purpose of commencing public review, and hereby accepts said draft GEIS as complete,
pursuant to 6 NYCRR Part 617.9; and
Be It Further Resolved, that public comments regarding the GEIS will be accepted by the Town
Board until May 5, 2014; and
Be It Further Resolved, that the Town of Ithaca Town Board hereby directs the Town of Ithaca
Planning Staff to take those steps, including filing a Notice of Completion of the draft GEIS as
required under 6 NYCRR Parts 617.9 and 617.12, and distributing the GEIS to interested
agencies and the public, as may be necessary or appropriate to commence the public review of
the GEIS.
Moved: Bill Goodman Seconded: Rod Howe
Vote: Ayes—Goodman, Ilowe, Engman, Leary, Levine, Hunter and DePaolo
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Agenda Item 12 Consider Consent Agenda Items
TB Resolution 2013 - 043: Adopt Consent Agenda
Resolved, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby approves and/or adopts the
following Consent Agenda items:
a. Approval of Town Board Minutes of February 24, 2014—Pulled
b. Town of Ithaca Abstract
c. Bolton Point Abstract—Pulled
d. Approval of final budget modifications for 2013
e. Acknowledge change in Conservation Board member
f. Approval of establishing a sick bank
g. Ratify appointment of Laborer at Public Works
Moved: Tee Ann Hunter Seconded: Rod Howe
Vote: Ayes: Hunter, Howe, Leary, Levine, DePaolo, Goodman and Engman
TB Resolution No.2014 -043b: 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. 5041 -5109
General Fund Town wide 123,146.44
General Fund Part Town 10,991.91
Highway Fund Part Town 28,871.83
Water Fund 502,905.01
Sewer Fund 6,344.10
Forest Home Lighting District 1,137.81
Glenside Lighting District 44.28
Renwick Heights Lighting District 63.11
Eastwood Commons Lighting District 150.61
Clover Lane Lighting District 17.53
Winner's Circle Lighting District 57.91
Burlei h Drive Lighting District 59.59
West Haven Road Lighting District 181.65
Coddin ton Road Lighting District 108.21
TOTAL 674,079.99
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TB Resolution No. 2014- 043d: Approval of Final Budget Transfers,Amendments and
Modifications for the Fiscal Year Ending December 31,2013.
Whereas, in preparation of closing the budgetary and accounting records of the Town of Ithaca,
the Town Finance Officer has reviewed all budgetary revenue and appropriation accounts for the
fiscal year ending December 31, 2013, and
Whereas, this review disclosed certain budgetary revenues and expenditures requiring transfers,
amendments or modifications needed to close the budgetary and accounting records of the Town
of Ithaca for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2013, and
Whereas, these findings are summarized below showing the net impact on the Fund Balance in
each operating fund or fund group:
General Townwide Fund
Beginning Fund Balance at 1/01/13 $ 2,498,468.24
ADD: Total Revenues 4,316,872.91
LESS: Total Expenditures 4,045,766.52
Ending Fund Balance at 12/31/13 $ 2,769,574.63
Net Increase to Fund Balance from 2013 Operations: $ 271,106.39
General Part-Town Fund
Beginning Fund Balance at 1/01/13 $ 665,921.31
ADD: Total Revenues 1,322,730.85
LESS: Total Expenditures 1,200,768.06
Ending Fund Balance at 12/31/13 $ 787,884.10
Net Increase to Fund Balance from 2013 Operations: $ 121,962.79
Highway Part-Town Fund
Beginning Fund Balance at 1/01/13 $ 1,445,687.66
ADD: Total Revenues 2,666,180.43
LESS: Total Expenditures 2,470,788.81
Ending Fund Balance at 12/31/13 $ 1,641,079.28
Net Increase to Fund Balance from 2013 Operations: $ 195,391.62
Water Fund
Beginning Fund Balance at 1/01/13 $ 1,344,525.88
ADD: Total Revenues 3,598,185.44
LESS: Total Expenditures 3,309,366.96
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Ending Fund Balance at 12/31/13 $ 1,633,344.36
Net Increase to Fund Balance from 2013 Operations: $ 288,818.48
Sewer Fund
Beginning Fund Balance at 1/01/13 $ 1,296,128.41
ADD: Total Revenues 2,429,215.49
LESS: Total Expenditures 2,095,955.06
Ending Fund Balance at 12/31/13 $ 1,629,388.84
Net Increase to Fund Balance from 2013 Operations: $ 333,260.43
Capital Project Funds Group
Beginning Fund Balance at 1/01/13 $ (397,525.54)
ADD: Total Revenues 3,526,261.74
LESS: Total Expenditures 2,511,149.04
Ending Fund Balance at 12/31/13 $ 617,587.16
Net Increase to Fund Balance from 2013 Operations: $ 1,015,112.70
Risk Retention Fund
Beginning Fund Balance at 1/01/13 $ 103,716.87
ADD: Total Revenues 37,079.89
LESS: Total Expenditures 18,569.79
Ending Fund Balance at 12/31/13 $ 122,226.97
Net Increase to Fund Balance from 2013 Operations: $ 18,510.10
Fire Protection Fund
Beginning Fund Balance at 1/01/13 $ 502,767.55
ADD: Total Revenues 3,495,645.11
LESS: Total Expenditures 3,223,978.96
Ending Fund Balance at 12/31/13 $ 774,433.70
Net Increase to Fund Balance from 2013 Operations: $ 271,666.15
Lighting District Funds Group
Beginning Fund Balance at 1/01/13 $ 9,806.60
ADD: Total Revenues 11,289.23
LESS: Total Expenditures 12,893.64
Ending Fund Balance at 12/31/13 $ 8,202.19
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Net Decrease to Fund Balance from 2013 Operations: $ (1,604.41)
Inlet Valley Cemetery Expendable Trust Fund
Beginning Fund Balance at 1/01/13 $ 9,060.64
ADD: Total Revenues 8.24
LESS: Total Expenditures -
Ending Fund Balance at 12/31/13 $ 9,068.88
Net Increase to Fund Balance from 2013 Operations: $ 8.24
Debt Service Fund
Beginning Fund Balance at 1/01/13 $ 460,684.40
ADD: Total Revenues 651,549.28
LESS: Total Expenditures 686,435.04
Ending Fund Balance at 12/31/13 $ 425,798.64
Net Decrease to Fund Balance from 2013 Operations: $ (34,885.76)
Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that this Town Board authorizes and directs the Town Finance Officer to record all
year end budget transfers, amendments and modifications, including all other changes deemed
appropriate and necessary, to close the financial records for the Town of Ithaca for the fiscal year
ending December 31, 2013.
TB Resolution No. 2014—043e : Appointment of Associate Conservation Board Member
Whereas, Kristine Shaw has been a active member of the Town of Ithaca Conservation Board
since 2009; and
Whereas, Kristine is moving out of the Town of Ithaca and into the City of Ithaca, but would like
to remain as part of the Conservation Board as an associate member; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby appoints Kristine Shaw as an
associate member of the Conservation Board, for the term of March 10, to December 31, 2014.
TB Resolution No 2014-043f: Approval to Create Sick Bank for Nancy Flood
Whereas, the Personnel and Organization Committee recommends the creation of a Sick Bank
for Nancy Flood under the Family Health Related Emergency, due to a critical care illness of her
husband, which employees can donate a one-time amount up to 40 hours of their sick time to
Nancy Flood; and
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Whereas, the sick time donated shall be used solely for the hours that Nancy is out of work under
a Family Medical Leave providing care for her husband; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca hereby approves the creation of a Sick Bank for
Nancy Flood, in which employees can donate a maximum of 40 hours of their sick time; and be
it further
Resolved, the employees donating time will abide by the Donation of Sick Time Policy and
complete the Leave Donation Authorization Form, and be it further
Resolved, that the Sick Bank for Nancy Flood will be dissolved when the Family Medical Leave
ends without further action by the Town Board.
TB Resolution No. 2014—043g: Ratification of Highway Superintendent's Appointment of
Laborer
Whereas, there has been a vacancy in the full time position of Laborer for the Public Works
Department, since December 27, 2013 due to a resignation; and
Whereas, the Interview Committee interviewed eight candidates; and
Whereas, the Committee has determined that Sam Martinez possesses the necessary knowledge
and skills to satisfactorily perform the duties of Laborer; and
Whereas, Jim Weber, Highway Superintendent/Director of Public Works, appointed Sam
Martinez as Laborer, effective April 7, 2014; now, therefore be it
Resolved, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca does hereby ratify the appointment made by the
Highway Superintendent/Director of Public Works, of Sam Martinez as Laborer, effective April
7, 2014; and be it further
Resolved, this is a 40 hours a week positions, at the hourly wage of$18.10,which is an
estimated annual salary of$37,648 from Public Works account numbers, in Job Classification
"I", with full time benefits; and be it further
Resolved, a mandatory twenty-six (26)week probationary period applies with no further action
by the Town Board if there is successful completion of the probationary period as determined by
the Highway Superintendent/Director of Public Works.
Pulled Item Mr. Goodman stated that he pulled this item because the total was incorrect. Ms.
Terwilliger responded that she would insert the corrected figure from Bolton Point.
TB Resolution No. 2014-044: 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
TB 3-10-2014 Pg13
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: 62-113
Check Numbers: 15126-15177
Burdick Hill Tanks Project $ 2,831.85
Capital Impr/Repl Project $ 0
Operating Fund $ 55,331.46
TOTAL $ 58,163.31
Less Prepaid $ 10,570.74
TOTAL $ 47,592.57
Moved: Bill Goodman Seconded: Tee Ann Hunter
Vote—Ayes--Goodman, Hunter,Engman, Leary, Levine, Howe and DePaolo
Agenda Item 13 Report of Town Officials and Review of Correspondence
TCAT—Mr. Engman reported that he met with Jennifer Dotson and talked about things that he
wanted to see from TCAT although he was not speaking for the whole board. fie was interested
in leveraging our money to try and get more money from Cornell and the County because the
more he thought about it the more he realized Cornell is the biggest user with students and
employees and those employees are spread out throughout the County which makes them a big
user. Ms. Dotson was not hopeful on that happening and seemed to think that the Town should
be pitching the idea to the County and or the other municipalities for additional funds and he
thought since they want the money, they should be making the pitch.
Mr. DePaolo thought that Cornell had already agreed to raise their payment for reduced passes
and Mr. Goodman responded that he thought that was correct, for approximately $250K. He
added that the County has a number of ways not available to the Town to raise money for
transportation and it should be their responsibility.
Mr. DePaolo asked how we planned to move forward; should we form an adhoc committee to
discuss and present a unified front? He felt that we need to do something with a concrete set of
demands or get out because right now it is left up in the air in a nebulous way and we need
closure one way or the other. Mr. Howe agreed, saying that it was his recollection that we would
convey our wishes and we should follow through.
Discussion followed and Mr. Solvig proposed that for every dollar they (TCAT) raises from
another municipality we will match it up to the $25K we budgeted. Mr. DePaolo wanted some
closure to the issue and he will work with Mr. Goodman and Mr. Solvig with Board members
sending them their thoughts to put together a final letter or resolution to finalize the process.
TB 3-10-2014 Pg14
Codes
Mr. Bates reported that his department has been having trouble with some of the big box retailers
and religious contractors doing work without proper permits and leaving the homeowners in a
bind and he wanted the Board to be aware of it in case they got calls from residents. For
instance, they will do a reroofing job without a permit and we have to then have them remove
portions of it so we can verify it was done correctly and many times it is not. Other times they
do not submit proper details and we leave numerous messages with no response and the
homeowner gets mad at us thinking we are too slow. Many times we have to go through
corporate offices states away and they don't care but we bear the brunt. Mr. Bates wanted to
alert the Board to the problem and added that he will be putting something in the newsletter to
alert homeowners that they are ultimately responsible for any work being done and he will list
some suggested ways to protect themselves.
Agenda Item 14 Report of Town and Intermunicipal Committees
Motion to move into executive session to discuss potential litigation made by Rod Howe at 8:08
p.m., seconded by Bill Goodman. Unanimous
Motion to move out of executive session at 8:16p.m. made by Bill Goodman, seconded by Rod
Howe. Unanimous.
Agenda Item 15 Consider Adjournment
Motion to adjourn made by Ms. Hunter, seconded by Mr. Howe at 8:17 p.m. Unanimous.
Submitt y
Paulette Terwilliger
Town Clerk
Adopted 3-24-2014
TB 3-10-2014 Pg15
Ithaca Town Board
March 4 2014
Dear Ithaca Town Board,
Thank you for considering our proposal for The Amabel Pocket Neighborhood.We are
requesting re-zoning of the Amabel parcel from low density residential to medium density
residential. Previously we had submitted a cohousing concept for this property that included
common amenities and features including a common house and would have required a PDZ.
After meeting with our attorney and numerous bankers we have determined that we cannot
legally or financially go down that path for Amabel. Consequently we are asking that you
consider rezoning the parcel for a medium density clustered subdivision.
In addition we are asking that you extend the new zoning to the adjacent eastern 2.96 acre
parcel (tax map no. 31-2-6) currently owned by the city of Ithaca.The city is putting this parcel
out for sale to an abutting landowner by sealed bid later this month;we are the only adjacent
landowner that is interested in this parcel.
The mission of New Earth Living and the vision for Amabel is simple: Integrate and deliver the
following components in a walkable residential real estate development.
1. Meticulously designed homes arranged in a pocket neighborhood pattern, the
construction of which uses environmentally responsive building technologies.
2. A dynamic thoughtfully composed social context co-created by the residents
that delivers and sustains reliable, effortless and supportive relationships among
residents.
We are currently conceiving of 2 pockets of 8 houses arranged around common courtyards off
and a undulating row of 12 houses arranged around a park like area and three houses on Five
Mile Drive, all with parking at the perimeter. In addition,we intend to have a large community
garden space, bike storage and garden shed and a dog park. Please see attached documents
about Amabel,The Aurora Pocket Neighborhood and the book PocketNeighborhoods by Ross
Chapin for further information about the project.
Amabel responds well to the planning and land-use concepts set forth in the Town
Comprehensive plan:
1. Water,sewer and electric are on the property on Five Mile Drive.
2. Medium density zoning requirements appear to have been applied to the southern
adjacent parcel.
3. Just to the north, one parcel over is where medium density currently stops.
4. Amabel is one flat and walkable mile from downtown Ithaca and is located on the
future extension of the Black Diamond pedestrian and biking trail, (BDT).The BDT creates
a convenient, enjoyable walk or ride along the shore of the Cayuga Lake inlet to
downtown, Wegmans, the Farmers Market and beyond, and southward all the way to
Buttermilk Falls State Park.The inlet offers canoe and kayak access to many locations
along it, the adjacent creeks and the shores of Cayuga Lake.The location of Amabel
reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves quality of life by reducing the need for
a car.
5. A culture of sustainability and resource use reduction will be integral to Amabel.The
homes will be built to achieve ultra-air tight energy efficiency with an option for photo
voltaic panels and/or district biomass co-generation plant striving for a goal of carbon
neutrality.Water conservation and edible landscaping at each of the houses will be
encouraged and area for a community garden will be defined and provided.
Thank you,
sue cosewt�w�
(� newearthliving
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HOTEL BISTRO SPA
February 24, 2014
TO: Ithaca Town Board
Mike Smith— Senior Planner— Town of Ithaca
FR: Scott Wiggins —Managing Director
RE: Request for Revision of La Tourelle PDZ to Include Seasonal Camping Facilities
Glamping—(verb) — Glamorous Camping
Stack Stone Camp at La Tourelle—An Elevated Camping Experience
La Tourelle proposes to add up to 25 seasonal luxury tents with infrastructure to
support a luxury camping facility within the hotel grounds. This elevated
camping experience will include:
• Up to 25 seasonal luxury tents for overnight lodging
• A Commons tent for socializing and dining
• An outdoor wood burning elegant community fire circle
• A large hot tub
• Conversion of hotel's tennis cottage to bathrooms, showers and office space
• Outdoor propane grills
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FE'8 24 2014 I
The Location:
La Tourelle's camp will be located on the western end of the hotel property, with the eastern
side of the camp incorporating the hotel's"tennis cottage", stretching to the western property
line of the hotel grounds, with the commons area being constructed on and around the
existing tennis courts.
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The Tents - `Beautiful tented rooms with modern amenities create an elevated camping experience
where guests can experience nature from a comfortable and stylish setting."
These seasonal transient accommodations would consist of a large deck, on which would sit
an elegant tent, containing a queen mattress on a platform bed, a table and chairs, and other
luxury amenities. The tents would range in sizes from 13'x20' to 14'x16' to 16'x22', and be
situated at least 20' apart.
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These factory-manufactured tents will be made of fire-retardant material with tent support
and deck fastening systems that will meet wind load requirements and fire code membrane
requirements. The wooden platforms that support the tents will be large decks that meet
building code requirements. Platforms and tents will be situated at least 20 feet from each
other.
The Common Lobby Tent:
A 30'x 32' open sided tent will act as the lounge, dining and guest services space—an
alfresco lobby for guests to enjoy. Furnishings will include comfortable"outdoor chic" chairs
and sofas, dining tables, and a guest services hospitality desk. The tent will have lighting and
electrical outlets for guest's convenience.
Situated at least 20' from the lobby tent, a natural stone and concrete sitting area with a fire
pit will serve as a gathering place for evening events and open fire cooking.
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Bathroom and Shower Facilities:
The existing stand-alone guest room at the hotel known as the tennis cottage currently has
two bathrooms and is connected to the Town of Ithaca's water and sewer systems. The
cottage is located less than 500 feet from all designated tent sites. This cottage will be
redesigned to provide:
• A minimum of 2 toilets each for males and females, along with hand washing sinks
• A minimum of two elegantly constructed and appointed showers
• Ice machine and refrigeration unit
• Small office area with computer and printer
• A 6 to 8-person hot tub located in front of the bathhouse that will meet all health
department regulations.
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Tennis Cottage Converted to Bathroom and Shower Facility
Safety and Security:
• Lighting will be installed along pathways to tents, bathrooms, and commons area.
• Pathways to tents and commons area will be at least 4' wide, will be free of tree roots
and other obstacles, and will include stairs and hand rails where slopes require.
• Existing gravel drive with a modest extension will provide access for emergency
vehicles to come within 150 feet of all tent structures.
• Tent decks, some of which may be raised over 12" off the ground, will have steps,
handrails, and railings around the perimeter of the decks.
• Sites will be cleared of undergrowth and maintained in a safe condition.
• Nighttime security will be provided throughout the camp.
• No open-flame burning, including campfires will be allowed other than at the
commons area.
Parking:
The camp is accessed via the gravel drive that extends from La Tourelle's upper parking lot
to it's lower parking lot, which contains 38 parking spaces—in addition to the 102 parking
spaces on the upper parking level of hotel and restaurant.
Timing:
The camp will operate between May and October. It is the goal, subject to Town of Ithaca
and Tompkins County Health Department approvals, to be operational with a pilot camp (3 to
5 tents and a reduced common area) by July 2014. An additional 7 to 10 tents and an
expanded common area will be added by May 1, 2015, with further expansions and
improvements added by May 1, 2016.
Environmental Impact:
The ecological ethos of La Tourelle's camp is exemplified through the camps light footprint,
the incorporation of existing building and water/sewer connections, and the ability to
generate revenues while preserving the natural forest landscape. The camp will attract
sophisticated, eco-conscious, and curious eco-friendly guests. The long term goal is to
incorporate eco-friendly components that would educate and inform guests, including
alternative waste treatment privies, solar powered lighting and amenities, and environmental
educational programming in the commons tent.
Economic Impact:
The camp will attract new visitors to Ithaca and Tompkins County, enhance Ithaca's
accommodation offerings, and create buzz in the marketplace. Due to the camps nightly rate
structure, guests will tend to be affluent with disposal income that will benefit restaurants.
museums, wineries, gas stations, grocery stores and other tourism related businesses— which
will also increase sales tax revenues. It is projected that 10 tents will create 4.5 new full time
jobs at La Tourelle.
The Camp Creators:
La Tourelle is a family owned and operated business—providing luxury accommodations
and dining for over 27 years in the Town of Ithaca—and currently containing 55 rooms and
suites, the full service August Moon Spa, The Bistro at La Tourelle featuring farm-to-table
regional cuisine, La Tourelle Catering hosting weddings,meetings and retreats and special
events, and John Thomas Steakhouse.
La Tourelle employs the equivalent of 40 full time employees, and in 2013 contributed
$ 161,700 in property and school taxes, $ 137,000 in NYS sales tax, and$ 75,282 in room
occupancy tax.
La Tourelle is a NYS Certified Green Hotel and is committed to being generous to our
guests, employees and community. The Wiggins Family received the Tompkins County
Howard Cogan Tourism Award in 2012.
Stack Stone Camps is the brainchild of Robert Frisch: a recent graduate(MBA'13) from the
Johnson School at Cornell University where he was a Roy Park Leadership Fellow and ran
Cornel's startup incubator as an ELAB fellow.Robert was the founder and co-owner of a
boutique hostel and restaurant in Nicaragua called"La Buena Onda", and has provided
hospitality-consulting services for the National Parks Service, for Hotel Itza in Belize, and
most recently for a luxury tent rental company called Contentment Camping.
Summary:
A luxury campground on La Tourelle's property will create a positive economic impact on
the community, elevate Ithaca's tourism profile through new and unique lodging options, and
will open the camping experience to a wider market. Guests who do not own camping
equipment or who are uncomfortable with the traditional camping experience can now enjoy
nature with pre-erected luxury tents and resort amenities including plush mattresses, hot
showers, and a relaxing lounge tent.
The ecological ethos of the camp is exemplified through its light footprint and its ability to
generate revenues while preserving rural landscapes. The camp will attract sophisticated,
eco-conscious, and curious customers that frequent outdoor-oriented tourist markets. This
new customer base will benefit other local tourism businesses and will help to raise the
profile of the entire region.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or if we can provide you with more
information.
Robert Frisch
301.442.5635
Robert.frisch @gmail.com
Scott Wiggins
Managing Director
La Tourelle
1150 Danby Road
Ithaca,NY 14850
607-273-2734 (Hotel)
607-339-1675 (Cell)
scott@latourelle.com
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