HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001 Proceedings2001 PROCEEDINGS
Tompkins County
Board of
Representatives
TOMPKINS COUNTY
NEW YORK
BARBARA MINK, Chair
Ithaca, New York
CATHERINE COVERT, Clerk
Ithaca, New York
State of New York )
County of Tompkins ) ss:
Tompkins County Board of Representatives )
In pursuance of the authority conferred by Section 211 of the County Law, I do hereby certify that the copy of
the Proceedings of the Tompkins County Board of Representatives of the County of. Tompkins, New York, for
the year 2001, contained in this volume is true and correct.
CATHERINE COVERT
Clerk of the Board of Representatives
January 2, 2001
ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING
Called to Order
Catherine Covert, Clerk of the Board, called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Present: 12 Representatives.
(District No. 13).
City of Ithaca:
District No. 1
District No. 2
District No. 3
District No. 4
District No. 5
Towns:
Excused: 2 (Representatives Davis and Totman).
- Barbara Blanchard, 316 Brookfield Road
- Susanne Davis, 523 First Street
- Stuart W. Stein, 11 Cornell Walk
- Nancy B. Schuler, 110 Ferris Place
- Barbara Mink, 614 North Cayuga Street
District No. 6 - Thomas L. Todd, 847 Davis Road, Lansing
District No. 7 - Frank P. Proto, 2585 Slaterville Road, Slaterville Springs
District No. 8 - Daniel M. Winch, 310 Burdge Hill Road, Newfield
District No. 9 - George L. Totman, 31 Church Street, Groton
District No. 10 - Dooley Kiefer, 629 Highland Road, Ithaca
District No. 11 - Michael A. Koplinka-Loehr, 124 Crest Lane, Ithaca
District No. 12 - Tim Joseph, 772 Elm Street Extension, Ithaca
District No. 13 - Vacant
District No. 14 - Michael E. Lane, 42 East Main Street, P.O. Box 835, Dryden
District No. 15 - Peter Penniman, 3391 Halseyville Road, Trumansburg
Vacancy - 1
Election of Temporary Chairman
Mrs. Covert announced that the first order of business was the election of a temporary chairman.
Mr. Penniman nominated Mr. Winch as Temporary Chairman, seconded by Ms. Mink. After hearing no
more nominations, it was MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by
voice vote, to close nominations. A voice vote resulted as follows for Temporary Chairman: Ayes - 12,
Noes - 0, Excused - 2 (Representatives Davis and Totman); Vacant - 1 (District No. 13). MOTION
CARRIED. Mr. Winch took the chair as Temporary Chairman.
Election of Permanent Chairman
The next order of business was the election of a Permanent Chairman and nominations were
opened. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr nominated Ms. Mink as Permanent Chairman. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr stated
that his relationship with Tompkins County began in 1984 when he was employed as a caseworker in the
Department of Social Services. He applauded the work Ms. Mink has done over the years in leading the
Partners for Quality efforts, and bringing a vision and mission statement to Tompkins County for the first
time. He said this is the kind of proactive, visionary leadership he wants to continue in Tompkins
County.
3
January 2, 2001
The motion was seconded by Mr. Stein. Mr. Stein said Ms. Mink has managed this Board and
has kept members on target the majority of the time. She has been patient with Board members and over
the last year she has carried her responsibility with this Board while maintaining a full-time teaching
position and has emerged as a very talented artist in the community.
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mr. Joseph, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to close nominations.
A voice vote resulted as follows to elect Ms. Mink Permanent Chair: Ayes: 12, Noes - 0,
Excused - 2 (Representatives Davis and Totman); Vacant - 1 (District No. 13). MOTION CARRIED.
Ms. Mink was elected Permanent Chair of the Board and took the chair.
Election of a Vice Chairman
Nominations were opened for Vice Chairman. Mr. Joseph nominated Mr. Lane as Vice Chair.
He has provided significant leadership and wisdom to this Board and is always very thoughtful,
honorable, and considerate. He said Mr. Lane has taken leadership on a number of issues, including sales
tax and Charter Review. The motion was seconded by Ms. Blanchard. Ms. Blanchard said Mr. Lane
brings a lot of honor to the legal profession. He is a consummate gentleman and a valued colleague and
she is pleased to second the nomination.
It was MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to close nominations.
A voice vote resulted as follows to elect Michael Lane Vice Chairman: Ayes - 12, Noes - 0,
Excused - 2 (Representatives Davis and Totman); Vacant - 1 (District No. 13). MOTION CARRIED.
Mr. Lane was elected Vice Chairman.
Mr. Lane thanked Representatives Joseph and Blanchard for their supportive comments. He said
he looks at the entire Board as a team and supports Ms. Mink in her role as Chair.
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca resident, said she had read the Mayor's guest column that appeared
in today's Ithaca Journal. She said she feels she has been misrepresented in the community about
development issues. One of the biggest problems she has with the proposed Widewater's development
site on Elmira Road is that it is located across from Buttermilk Falls State Park. She said in the article the
Mayor talks about how development works in the City and he is promoting retail, but not downtown; she
does not agree that retail businesses should be located in places within the City that need to be accessed
by driving there. She spoke of teamwork and said everyone needs to work together in planning for
development in the City.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Mr. Stein, Representative No. 3 and Liaison to the Library Board of Trustees, invited the Board to
the Grand Opening and Dedication Celebration of the new Tompkins County Public Library on January
14th at 12:30 p.m. He urged all members to attend and share in this event.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Erb had no report.
4
January 2, 2001
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wood, Deputy County Attorney, had no report.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires reported that he received notification concerning tobacco settlement payments, and
said he feels the Board should be proud that it securitized some of its revenues. He said the County
received $7.7 million which is equivalent to an annual payment for 20 years of $695,000. This
represents the annual debt service on that $7.7 million and 50 percent of the revenue stream. He said the
County would never have seen $1.3 in annual payments. He said the first annual payment was received
today in the amount of $440,000 of which the County will receive half. The equivalent figure for last
year was $535,000 so there has been a 20 percent increase. He said he feels the tobacco revenue stream
is going to continue to decline. Mr. Squires reported his office is working on year-end figures and he is
confident that sales tax figures will again produce a record-breaking figure near the amount of $21
million.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, the
resolution entitled Authorizing the County Administrator to Enter into a Lease Agreement with Klaff
Realty Providing for the Records Management Department to Remain in Biggs A Upon its Sale was
added to the agenda.
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
Chair Mink gave the appropriate committee chair permission to withdraw the following
resolution(s) from the agenda:
Creation of Four Caseworker Positions in the Mental Health Clinic
Budget Adjustments - Mental Health
Approval of Appointment(s) Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the following appointment(s) under the Consent Agenda:
Assessment Review Board
Nelson Bills - Term expires September 30, 2001
Community Affirmative Action Committee
Cheryl Nelson - Term expires December 31, 2001
Traffic Safety Board
Thomas Ferretti - Village Police Representative - Term expires December 31, 2002
Criminal Justice Advisory/Alternatives to Incarceration Board
George Dentes - District Attorney - Term expires December 31, 2003
Economic Development Loan Oversight Committee
James Hanson - Commissioner of Planning - Term expires December 31, 2003
David Squires - Finance Director - Term expires December 31, 2003
Henry Theisen - County Attorney - Term expires December 31, 2003
5
January 2, 2001
Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board
Rachel Crispell - Farmer Representative - Term expires December 31, 2004
Russell DeMond - Farmer Representative - Term expires December 31, 2004
Regional Forest Practice Board
Thomas Gerow - Landowner Representative - Term expires December 31, 2003
County Planning Advisory Board
Betty Falcao - Human Services Representative - Term expires December 31, 2003
Monika Roth - Agriculture Representative - Term expires December 31, 2003
Soil and Water Conservation District
Edward Lane - Grange Member Representative - Term expires December 31, 2003
Tompkins County Environmental Management Council
Susan Brock - Chair - Term expires December 31, 2001
Susan Kerns Robinson - At -large Seat No. 2 - Term expires December 31, 2001
John Kiefer - At -large Seat No. 3 - Term expires December 31, 2001
Kenny Christianson - At -large Seat No. 7 - Term expires December 31, 2002
Robert Ascher - At -large Seat No. 8 - Term expires December 31, 2002
Karen Edelstein - At -large Seat No. 9 - Term expires December 31, 2002
Herbert Engman - At -large Seat No. 10 - Term expires December 31, 2002
Sarah Fern Striffler - At -large Seat No. 11 - Term expires December 31, 2002
Steven Uzmann- At -large Seat No. 12 - Term expires December 31, 2002
John Dennis - Village of Lansing Representative - Term expires December 31, 2002
Tompkins County Youth Board
Anne Koplinka-Loehr - Youth Representative - Term expires August 31, 2001
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operation(s) Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, had no report.
RESOLUTION NO. 1 - ESTABLISHING 2001 MEETING DATES
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Winch. It was MOVED by Mr. Lane,
seconded by Mr. Joseph, to substitute the original resolution with the following resolution changing the
number of meeting dates in July and August from one to two. Mr. Lane said he feels it is easier to cancel
a meeting if there is a lack of business. The substitute resolution was considered friendly and the
resolution was unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present.
RESOLVED, That the 2001 regular meetings of the Tompkins County Board of Representatives
are as follows:
Tuesday, January 2, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, January 16, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, February 6, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, February 20, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, March 6, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, March 20, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, April 3, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, April 17, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 1, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
6
January 2, 2001
Tuesday, May 15, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, June 5, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, June 19, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, July 3, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, July 17, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, August 7, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, August 21, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, September 4, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday, September 19, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, October 2, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, October 16, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday, November 7, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, November 20, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, December 4, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, December 18, 2001 at 5:30 p.m.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Planning and Intermunicipal Coordination Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on December 20 and was introduced to
Jennifer Miller who was recently hired for the position of Community Development Planner. He said the
Environmental Management Council will soon begin the process of looking at the pesticide notification
law. He noted that only three counties Statewide chose to enact this law in the year 2000. Mr. Lane
stated that most of the meeting was spent talking with Dave Carlson who is the consultant that assists the
Planning Department with many of the housing and urban development grants. He spoke with the
Committee about some of the existing monies and how they might be used. For example, the Planning
Department has loaned out monies for industrial development programs and has received approximately
$330,000 back in payments. There are also unused funds left from various projects.
Mr. Lane reminded Board members that the vital communities workshop will be held on January
20th; additional information is available through the Planning Department. He announced Cooperative
Extension has closed on its purchase of the Triple A building on Lincoln Avenue. The Committee also
heard an update on the NYSEG "Power Partners Education Program".
Mr. Lane reported that the subcommittee that is looking at recreation facilities between the City
and County has been meeting and reviewing a request for qualifications. He said they found it will be
difficult to hold that to only reviewing the recreational facilities. They feel it would make sense to look
at the harder issue as to whether there are any opportunities for further intermunicipal cooperation
between or possible merger of the City and the County youth bureau and will follow up with this through
the request for qualifications.
Report from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, had no report.
Report from the Economic and Workforce Development Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. Mr. Stein
updated the Board on the Metropolitan Planning Organization, and said they are moving ahead with a
request for proposals to follow-up the next stages of the northeast transportation study. He said as
Chairman of that Committee, they will be looking at what is involved in improving transit service to the
Northeast area. A consultant will be hired and the first meeting of the group will take place this month.
7
January 2, 2001
Mr. Stein also reported on the Electric and Gas Alliance and said the agreement that Tompkins
County was the catalyst for with NYSEG Solutions will come to an end at the end of April, 2001. He
said he has been meeting with the consultant, representatives from Tioga County, and NYSEG Solutions,
to discuss to discuss the very rapidly changing conditions in the electric power industry. He said they will
need to do a request for proposals by the end of the month for this contract. The conditions of the
proposals will be different; however, details are not known at this time.
Mr. Proto asked when the Electric and Gas Alliance would start addressing the issue of natural
gas. He said it is becoming very difficult to remain competitive in a commercial market because of high
utility costs. He asked that Mr. Stein have the County's consultant keep a watch on this. Mr. Stein said
up until now the consultant has not seen an opportunity for the County to play a role in the natural gas
area. Mr. Proto said this seriously effects the business climate in Tompkins County, as well as other
counties in New York State, and should be raised before the Tompkins County Area Development Board
of Directors.
Report from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Joseph, Vice Chair, had no report.
Report from the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The
next meeting will be January 9th at 9 a.m.
Report from the Budget and Fiscal Policy Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Committee will meet on January 4th at 9 a.m.
Report from the Communications Capital Proiects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The
next meeting will be January 4th at noon.
Report from the Intermunicipal Resource Sharing Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee met on December 151. The next meeting will be
January 26th at 9:30 a.m.
Report from the Public Safety Building Space Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, had no report.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported one of the main tasks of this Committee was to deal with the old
Library site. The Committee has been in negotiations for the last three months. An offer was made
followed with a counter offer that seemed to be acceptable. However, the deadline to formally accept
passed and the Committee decided to move forward with moving the Alternatives to Incarceration
programs temporarily in the building.
January 2, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 2 - AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR TO ENTER INTO
A LEASE AGREEMENT WITH KLAFF REALTY PROVIDING FOR
THE RECORDS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT TO REMAIN IN
BIGGS A UPON ITS SALE
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Klaff Realty is scheduled to appear before the Ithaca Town Board this month with a
proposed site plan for Biggs A, and
WHEREAS, the County anticipates that the closing on the sale of Biggs A to Klaff will be soon
after it obtains preliminary site plan approval from the Town of Ithaca, and
WHEREAS, the County will benefit greatly from closing the sale of Biggs A including the
receipt of the $250,000 sales price and future tax revenues, and
WHEREAS, obtaining space commitments will better enable Klaff Realty to obtain financing for
the project, and
WHEREAS, the County currently maintains records at Biggs A and is in the process of looking
for a location to maintain such records on a long-term basis, and
WHEREAS, Klaff Realty has offered to lease space to the County for Records Management at a
very competitive rate, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Space Needs and Location Committee, That the County
Administrator is authorized to enter into a lease agreement with Klaff Realty to maintain the County
Records Management Department at Biggs A for a period of five -years provided that the terms of such
agreement allow the County to cancel at any time after a one-year period.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to enter into executive session at 6:21 p.m. to discuss personnel and real estate
matters. The meeting returned to open session at 7:00 p.m.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:00 p.m.
9
January 16, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 15 Representatives.
Presentation of Proclamation(s)
Chair Mink presented a proclamation declaring January 25, 2001 to be Home Health Care Aide
Recognition Day in Tompkins County.
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Marge Dill, Executive Director of the Human Services Coalition, submitted to the Board a copy
of the Agency's Human Resource Directory. She said the publication contains a large amount of
information and is a resource that contributes to the coordination of services in Tompkins County. She
announced there will be a luncheon for home health aides on January 25th at noon and invited all Board
members to attend. She also announced the Human Services Coalition Annual Meeting will be held on
February 8th at the Women's Community Building. Jean McPheeters, President of the Chamber of
Commerce, will be the guest speaker.
Richard Charsky, President of the Community Arts Partnership, spoke in support of the proposal
to increase the Room Occupancy Tax from three to five percent. He said he believes this increase will
contribute to the overall economic development effort in Tompkins County. He compared tourism to a
three-legged stool, which needs all three legs to work. He said one of the most important components of
the tourism industry in Tompkins County is geography which is directed to the natural resources of the
area and the amenities that have been created to enhance that. The second component is education -
related tourism because of Ithaca College and Cornell University. The third component is the cultural
tourism that focuses on the arts, theatre, museum, and historic themes. He believes it is that component
that can be used to leverage the other two because the most commonly used marketing tool has been a
package that consists of a cultural event combined with a hotel combined with it. He believes this
marketing approach can be an opportunity for tourism growth throughout the year. He feels that the
proposal to increase the room tax will result in improvements in the arts, the physical appearance of the
community, and additional infrastructure for presentations. Mr. Charsky said all of this will brand
recognition for Ithaca and Tompkins County.
Paul Steiger, a representative of the Ithaca Beautification Program, spoke in support of the
proposed increase in the room tax rate. He said there is more natural beauty in the Tompkins County
community than almost any other place. He believes there needs to be a greater commitment to
enhancing the natural beauty that exists here, such as improving the appearance of the entrances to
Ithaca. He feels more money needs to be spent up front on improvements that will result in greater
occupancy rates in the hotels and lower income taxes for residents.
Thomas Sheridan, representative of the Bed and Breakfasts Association of Greater Ithaca and co-
owner of Taughannock Farms Inn, spoke in opposition to the proposed room tax increase. He said over
the last several weeks there have been several meetings and the Association has asked for alternative
methods to funding the arts programs and the issues that have been brought forth as the reasons behind
10
January 16, 2001
the proposed increase. He said he is not satisfied with the response that has been received to that
request. Mr. Sheridan said he is disturbed that the burden for coming up with these funds has been
placed on inns, hotels, and bed and breakfasts. He suggested that the Board look into other methods of
producing funds such as a restaurant tax on meals.
Joseph Kelly, President of the Greater Ithaca Innkeepers Association, spoke concerning the
proposed increase in the room occupancy tax. He clarified that he is not in opposition to spending money
on the arts industry in Tompkins County because they believe there is a direct correlation between the
arts and tourism. However, that group's recommendation is to take more money from the current three
percent room tax and use it towards the proposal that is going to be brought before the Board this
evening.
Linette Scofield, member of the Greater Ithaca Innkeepers Association, and co-owner of the
William Henry Miller Inn in Ithaca, reiterated the comments made by other members of the Association
regarding the proposed increase in the room occupancy tax. She said they strongly believe in this
community. She suggested that the additional tax be placed on those individuals staying in Tompkins
County who are visiting because of the arts industry and not on those who are here for other reasons.
Warren Almon, Director of the Palentological Research Institution, spoke as a non -arts -related
institution in the community in favor of the proposed increase in the room occupancy tax. He said
additional funding is needed in cultural resources, which includes the arts. Mr. Almon said culture
affects all residents in the County, make this a better community in which to live, and contribute to
lifelong learning. He said there is not one single feature that draws people to Tompkins County, but a
large array of attractions that need more and continued support.
Barbara Theusen, City of Ithaca resident, said that she feels that any action that this Board takes
in regard to the room occupancy tax needs to benefit all of the residents of Tompkins County. She said
she feels using a restaurant/bar tax would cover a broader range of the people that use the arts and
cultural services. She said New York State's attitude is very positive towards the arts cultural component
at the State level and suggested that other avenues be explored and that a compromise be looked at.
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca, spoke concerning bicycle racks in the community and asked that
they be installed in many more places in downtown Ithaca.
Carol Kammen, Tompkins County Historian, said she has been very busy during her first six
months in this position. She said part of the County Historian's duties is to collect information about the
present as well as the past. She has begun the Community Diary Project and encouraged everyone to
participate. She stated Mr. Stein, Chairman of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
has a copy of her six-month report.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Chair Mink welcomed Joseph Lalley to the Board. Mr. Lalley replaces Representative Evans
who resigned on December 31, 2000.
Ms. Kiefer, District No. 10 Representative, announced she attended the Grand Opening
celebration of the new Tompkins County Public Library. She said she has received several inquiries
about why the new solar panels have not been activated. She said several requirements by NYSEG have
caused the delay in hooking up the installed panels; however, those issues look like they have all been
resolved and the panels should be working soon. She noted that Powerlight, the Califomia-based
company that supplied and installed the photovoltaic panels on the new County Library, has done many
installations nationwide, including others in New York State, and only NSEG asked them to add
additional grid relay protection, which added $10,000 - $15,000 more to the cost. Ms. Kiefer also spoke
11
January 16, 2001
of the census and said there is a strong feeling that the demographics of the County has changed in a
manner that will impact the composition of this Board. She feels it would be wise to handle those
changes sooner rather than later and suggested that, if redistricting can't be done in time for this fall's
election, then the Board should consider making the next Board's term for two years rather than four.
Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Representative, announced a meeting was held with the TC3 Oversight
committee for capital projects to review the new bids for the HVAC system. He said the new bids are
1,285,563 less than they were bid previously. This is still over the initial engineering estimates by
approximately $800,000 but is a much lower amount than was previously received on bids. Mr. Lane
also announced that the contractors for the work will be from Cortland and Ithaca firms.
Mrs. Schuler, District No. 4 Representative, reported on the Grand Opening of the new
Tompkins County Public Library and said that 4,000 people walked through the front door of the Library.
She announced she received a first-hand look at the skimobile rescue squad demonstration and was
impressed. She announced there will be a Families and Communities Building Support of Policies
Satellite video conference on February 1st highlighting current research and outreach efforts that build
support of policies and engage communities around issues related to the well-being of children, youth,
and families. She noted that bicycle racks have been ordered for the Public Library.
Ms. Davis, District No. 2 Representative, thanked GIAC and everyone who contributed to the
Martin Luther King events over the weekend. She expressed her condolences to Diann Sams from the
City of Ithaca, on the loss of her mother.
Mr. Todd, District No. 7 Representative, reported he attended the Grand Opening of the new
Tompkins County Public Library over the weekend and was very impressed.
Chair's Report and Appointments
Ms. Mink, Chair, address the Board:
"This is a year for beginnings and endings; the first year of the new millennium, the last year of
our term together on the Board of Representatives. As we do every year, we must react to new
developments, continue projects that have been under study, and launch new initiatives that keep us
moving forward.
"Last year gave us a lot to be proud of. Our new library opened in downtown Ithaca and has
already surpassed what supporters predicted in terms of usage and popularity. Figures for December
show that compared to last year:
Circulation was up by 12%
The number of people coming through the door was up by 31 %
The number of new library users was up by 214%
"Our ambitious new array of alternative to incarceration programs is situated in the old library
building for this year, and the Space Needs and Location Committee that I chair is moving ahead on
plans for using that site to meet our space shortage in the future. A viable offer to buy the old library
building did not materialize, but it looks like Biggs A will be put on the tax rolls this year as an incubator
for new high tech businesses.
"Many of our new initiatives this year reflect our role in the state and national hierarchy, as well
as how we operate on the local level.
12
January 16, 2001
New Initiatives
"Vice Chair Mike Lane has agreed to head a Charter Review Committee, which we are required
to convene every ten years. I am asking the group to tackle a specific question early in the year: how can
we react to the as -yet unreleased census figures to preserve the principle of one person, one vote. We will
not get new population figures in time to redistrict before the November election; the last time this
happened the County Board used weighted voting to compensate for the changes. One alternative to that
blunt instrument might be to have this board's next term be only two years; then implement new districts,
and possibly staggered terms. I'm sure there are other possibilities as well, and I would like the Charter
Review Committee to recommend a solution by later this year. The committee will also explore our
entire administrative and organizational structure, with an eye to improving the way we do business.
"The difficulties experienced nationwide in the last presidential election have engendered
discussion of problems in voting procedures on the local level as well. I am asking the Government
Operations Committee, chaired again this year by Mike Koplinka-Loehr, to make improving local voting
conditions a top priority.
"Before next November's election I would like to have recommendations for improvements to
some of the barriers, like providing better information for the area's college students, and finding a way
to solve issues of training, pay rates and schedules for poll watchers.
"On other fronts, the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, under the leadership of
Stuart Stein, continues to make bold moves to strengthen our successful tourism program by linking it to
support for local arts and cultural activities. If Stuart's initiative to use increased room tax funds to
strengthen the local arts community is successful, the possibilities for exciting new programs increase;
but so do the complexities of administration.
"I am asking the Economic and Workforce Development Committee to explore the costs and
benefits of establishing a county -wide Arts Commission, building on the strengths of the City's Public
Art and Design Commission, that might help to unify public support for the arts, as well as
accountability.
Continuing Projects
"I have asked Barbara Blanchard to fill the role of the county's economic development liaison, to
spearhead implementation of our award winning economic development strategy county wide. In
addition, she will continue to lead the Communications Capital Projects committee toward closure this
year. Working with several consultants, our analysis of how to best meet the county's public safety
communication needs has been broadened to include many concerns expressed by local residents.
Working on parallel tracks, the Comcap Committee has also been helping the public safety community
move toward a joint dispatching center, and facilitating the move of the State DOT barns off the
waterfront to another more appropriate location, which would mean great opportunities for lakefront
development.
"The county's Planning Department initiative on vital communities, which brings together broad
based segments of the population to draw a map of the future based on economic, demographic, and land
use considerations, will be a focus for the Planning Committee, to be chaired this year by Peter
Penniman. That committee will also be the first stop for new census data and provides an invaluable
forum for the big picture look at our collective future.
"Finally, that future depends on the ability of all segments to work together. I continue to believe
that intermunicipal cooperation is not an elusive goal, but something that can be built on mutual respect
and trust. To more accurately reflect the direction we've taken over the last year, I have changed the
13
January 16, 2001
name of the committee I chair to the Intermunicipal Planning committee. The concept of tax sharing was
a useful topic for discussion, but has proven too big a step to take without more work on larger planning
issues. Tax sharing can be a tool to reach those goals, and will be looked at further in that context.
"This special committee was designed to be a forum for discussion on how we would like to see
Tompkins County move into the future, and how we can work together to make that happen. Many of the
participants have already implemented good intermunicipal agreements; the recreation partnership,
informal agreements on public works. But perhaps a larger forum could help facilitate some thornier
issues, like how municipalities can work together to encourage growth without jeopardizing open spaces
and farmland. These are topics that need frank and open discussion, and I hope that broadening those
talks can be viewed as a helpful enhancement, not a negative reflection on the accomplishments already
achieved.
Work of the County
"Looking at the work of other program committees, important projects that we'll be keeping an
eye on include:
"The Budget and Capital Committee, under the able leadership of Tim Joseph, will be reviewing
projections for next year and recommending a strategy for balancing appropriations and expenditures to
keep tax rates down and increases from spiking.
"The Health and Human Services Committee, chaired by Nancy Schuler, will be overseeing the
start of new dental services for low-income residents, the recreation partnership for youth services, the
shortage of home health aides, and public health issues like West Nile virus and monitoring new anti-
smoking initiatives.
"The Public Safety Committee, under the chairmanship of George Totman, will be responsible
for implementing and overseeing the myriad alternative to incarcerations programs we authorized this
year. This progressive approach to dealing with jail populations will be closely watched not only by local
taxpayers but by other communities around the state.
"The Public Works Committee, to be lead by Mike Lane, will focus on both capital projects and
internal organization. The new Bostwick Road facility will unite the Highway, Buildings and Grounds
and Engineering divisions, with the aim of enhancing communication to improve productivity and
efficiency.
"The Tompkins 2020 Committee, chaired by Mike Koplinka-Loehr, continues to refine
measurement tools for our quality of life, to more accurately assess what makes Tompkins County a good
place to live and how the county can better contribute.
"Last year saw many triumphs, as well as disappointments, like the loss of valued members of
our organization, and some plans unrealized. But 2001 promises to be an exciting end to our term on the
Board, as we continue to work together as friends and colleagues, air our differences with respect, and
keep our eyes fixed on the goal of improving life in Tompkins County for all our residents."
Chair's Appointments
Ms. Mink distributed copies of the following 2001 committee assignments and responsibilities
for 2001:
14
January 16, 2001
2001 STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES
ASSIGNMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
STANDING COMMITTEES
Budget and Capital - Joseph (Chair), Davis (Vice Chair), Proto, Lane, Penniman
Appropriations
Borrowing and Debt Service
Contingent Funds
Fund Balances
Unallocated Revenues
Budget process
Fiscal Policy
TC3 Budget
Capital Programs
Government Operations - Koplinka-Loehr (Chair), Kiefer (Vice Chair), Davis, Penniman, Lalley
Personnel Department/issues
Affirmative action
Performance Reviews
Code/Board of Ethics
Human Rights
Assessment
Board of Elections
Board of Representatives
Charter and Code
Administration
Law
Finance
County Clerk
Information Technology
Purchasing
Risk Management
Weights and Measures
Public Information
Health and Human Services - Schuler (Chair), Proto (Vice Chair), Davis, Stein, Winch
Department of Social Services
Mental Health Department/Agencies
Public Health Department/Agencies
Alcohol Addiction
Health Planning Council
Human Services Coalition
Relevant Human Services Coalition agencies
Environmental Health
Animal Health and Control
Office for the Aging
Youth Bureau
Tompkins Community Action
15
January 16, 2001
Planning - Penniman (Chair), Winch (Vice Chair), Totman, Stein, Kiefer
Intermunicipal relations
Comprehensive Planning
Planning Department
Housing
Community Development
MPO
Soil and Water Conservation District
Flood Control/Water Quality
Water/Sewer
Environmental Management Council
Agricultural District
Forestry
TC3
Cooperative Extension
Public Safety — Totman (Chair), Joseph (Vice Chair), Blanchard, Schuler, Todd
Alternatives to Incarceration
Criminal Justice
District Attorney
Defense of Indigents
Probation
Sheriff/Jail
STOP -DWI
Fire, Disaster, and EMS
E911
Emergency Planning
Relevant Human Services Coalition Agencies
Public Works - Lane (Chair), Todd (Vice Chair), Kiefer, Winch, Lalley
Buildings and Grounds
Bridges and Highways
TCAT
Airport
Engineering
Solid Waste/Recycling
Public Works Administration
Economic and Workforce Development - Stein (Chair), Blanchard (Vice Chair), Koplinka-Loehr,
Proto, Lalley
Workforce Development Board
Job training programs
Economic Development/TCAD
Industrial Development Agency
Chamber of Commerce
Electric Power
Arts
Dewitt Historical Society
County Historian
Tourism Program/CVB
Strategic Tourism Planning
Ithaca Downtown Partnership
Celebrations
16
January 16, 2001
Tompkins County Public Library
Rural libraries
Finger Lakes Library System
NEW SPECIAL COMMITTEES
Charter Review Committee Lane (Chair), Penniman, Davis, Proto, Kiefer
Review county charter with an eye to administrative structure, anachronisms, and recommend changes to
the full board.
Economic Development Liaison Blanchard
Spearhead implementation of Economic Development Strategy countywide.
Intermunicipal Planning (formerly IRS) Mink (Chair), Todd, et al.
This working group of municipal leaders will continue work on issues of planning and preservation of
open space that will let Tompkins County grow and maintain the quality of life we treasure. The group
will work with the County Planning Department and state legislative offices to keep current with new
initiatives in this area, and will continue to explore new approaches to sharing tax revenues as a way to
implement some of the strategies under consideration.
ONGOING SPECIAL COMMITTEES
Space Needs and Location - Mink (Chair), Lane, Penniman, Proto, Stein
Short and long-term space needs
Plan for old library site
Tompkins 2020 - Koplinka-Loehr (Chair), Davis (Vice Chair), Kiefer, Winch, Joseph
The purpose of the committee is to craft a practical strategy to improve our community quality of life
over a period of time. The committee will build on existing community planning documents (economic
development strategy, County Mission, Vision and Goals) and research successful efforts elsewhere, to
produce a series of Quality of Life Indicators. By the end of the year, the committee will recommend to
the County Board particular indicators, how to set benchmarks, and how to evaluate County programs
that relate to those benchmarks. Assessing whether goals have been achieved can then be based on the
board -approved indicators and associated benchmarks.
Communications Capital Proiects - Blanchard (Chair), Joseph (Vice Chair), Penniman, Lane, Lalley
Consolidated 911
Towers
Public Safety Building Space Study - Joseph (Chair), Lane (Vice Chair), Totman, Winch, Blanchard,
Schuler
OTHER APPOINTMENTS
Public Information Advisory Board — Schuler
Water Resources Council — Kiefer
Local Advisory Board of Assessment Review
Towns: Caroline and Danby Proto
Newfield Winch
Groton Totman
Dryden Lalley/Lane
Ithaca Joseph/Kiefer/Koplinka-Loehr
17
January 16, 2001
Lansing Todd
Ulysses and Enfield Penniman
City of Ithaca Stein/Blanchard
Tompkins County Area Development Board of Directors
Blanchard, Hanson (ex -officio) - Tompkins County
Mink - IDA
Cooperative Extension - Penniman
Ethics Board Chair - Kiefer
Information Management - Kiefer
Board of Health - Schuler
Electric Power - Stein, Blanchard, Proto
Report by the County Administrator
Mr. Erb reported this is his last meeting as County Administrator for Tompkins County. He
thanked all Board members for the opportunity he has had working for Tompkins County.
Report by the County Attorney
Jonathan Wood, Deputy County Attorney, had no report. On behalf of the County Attorney's
Office he wished Mr. Erb well is his future endeavors.
Report by the Finance Director
Mr. Squires distributed a copy of a financial comparison report on counties within New York
State by Moody's Investment Company. All reference made to Tompkins County in the report is
favorable.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
There were no resolution(s) added to the Agenda.
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
Chair Mink gave the appropriate committee chairman permission to withdraw the following
resolution(s) from the agenda.
Authorization to Execute Extension of Highway Snow and Ice Agreement with the State of New
York (July 1, 2001 - June 30, 2002)
Authorization to Execute Extension of Highway Snow and Ice Agreement with the State of New
York (July 1, 2001 - June 30, 2003)
The resolution entitled Collection and Use of Additional Revenues Generated from Increase in
Hotel or Motel Room Tax was withdrawn later in the meeting.
Addition to the Consent Agenda
Chair Mink gave the appropriate committee chair permission to add the resolution entitled
Authorization to Issue Design Approval — Trumbulls Corner Replacement to the Consent Agenda.
18
January 16, 2001
Approval of Appointments and Resolutions Under the Consent Agenda
Upon voice vote of the Board, the Rules of the Board were waived to add the appointment of
Darlene Lugenbuhl to the Strategic Tourism Planning Board to the agenda.
It was MOVED Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
to approve the following appointment(s) and resolution(s) under the Consent Agenda:
Strategic Tourism Planning Board
Jim Hisle - Hotels, Bed and Breakfast Representative - Term expires December 31, 2002
Nancy Battistella - Recreation/Agriculture Representative - Term expires December 31, 2002
Gossa Tsegaye - Media, Communication Industry, Travel Industry Representative - Term expires
December 31, 2002
Darleen Lugenbuhl - Culture Representative - Term expires December 31, 2002
Margie Malepe - University/College - Ithaca College Representative - Term expires December
31, 2003
Rachel Lampert - Arts Representative - Term expires December 31, 2003
Julia Bonney - Media, Communication Industry, Travel Industry Representative - Term expires
December 31, 2003
Beverly Baker - Media, Communication Industry, Travel Industry - Term expires December 31,
2003
Joanne Jordan Davenport - Retail Representative - Term expires December 31, 2003
Library Board of Trustees
Martin Shapiro - Term expires December 31, 2003
Gale Halpern - Term expires December 31, 2001
Fire, Disaster and EMS Advisory Board
John Sprandel - Town of Newfield Delegate - Term expires December 31, 2002
Tompkins County Environmental Management Council
William Lesser - Town of Ithaca Representative - Term expires December 31, 2002
Office for the Aging Advisory Board
Edmund Tenorio - Term expires December 31, 2003
RESOLUTION NO. 3 - AUTHORIZATION TO ISSUE DESIGN APPROVAL - TRUMBULL
CORNERS ROAD BRIDGE REPLACEMENTS - PIN375230 (BINS
3314210 AND 3367940)
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 130 of 1996 authorized an agreement with the State of New York to
design replacements for two deteriorated bridges on Trumbull Corners Road over West Enfield Creek
(BINs 3314210 and 3367940) in the Town of Enfield, and
WHEREAS, the preliminary project design has been developed in conformance with the
applicable environmental laws, design standards, and accepted engineering practice, all exceptions to
accepted design standards have been thoroughly analyzed and their retention adequately justified; all
permits have been identified and will be secured prior to letting; public participation has been
encouraged and included in the project development processes; and project costs are reasonable, and
19
January 16, 2001
WHEREAS, completion of all procedural requirements needed prior to design approval of the
project has been certified by the design consultant and the County Senior Civil Engineer, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That the Chair
of the Tompkins County Board of Representatives be and hereby is authorized to execute documents
granting Design Approval whereby completion of project final design shall be authorized.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) Negotiating Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee has been meeting with the White Collar
negotiating group over the last four months. The Committee is comprised of the Personnel
Commissioner, Deputy County Administrator, and himself.
RESOLUTION NO. 4 - RATIFICATION OF BARGAINING AGREEMENT CIVIL SERVICE
EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION, WHITE COLLAR UNIT
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Joseph. A voice vote resulted as follows:
Ayes - 13, Noes - 2 (Representatives Kiefer and Penniman). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Negotiating Committee, That the bargaining agreement
between Tompkins County and the Civil Service Employees Association, White Collar Unit, for the
years 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 is hereby ratified.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation and Withdrawal of Resolution(s) by the Economic and Workforce
Development Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee met today at noon. He deferred reporting on
committee activities other than room tax to later in the meeting. He said he received additional
information after the agenda was distributed for today's meeting where that subject was discussed;
however, all available information was entered into the minutes. Mr. Stein said there was a motion
made at the Strategic Tourism Planning Board meeting to support the increase of the room occupancy tax
from three to five percent that failed. That motion was followed by another to support increasing it from
three to four percent and was unanimously supported by members that were present. Following that
action another motion was made and approved that expressed the Tourism Board's strong support of
building cultural tourism as a component of the tourism industry in Tompkins County. Mr. Stein said he
is the liaison to that Board but does not have voting privileges. Mr. Stein said it was not the Committee's
intent that the second resolution on the agenda would be transmitted to the State. He said at today's
committee meeting several Board members expressed some concern about the content of the proposal
and it was felt that it was not ready to be forwarded to the full Board. It was agreed that while the first
resolution on the agenda is needed to move the subject forward to get on the State legislative calendar,
that a mechanism for further discussion would be established to explore the details of the potential
expenditure of the funds and other important details.
Chair Mink gave Mr. Stein permission to withdraw the resolution entitled Regarding Collection
and Use of Additional Revenues Generated from Increase in Hotel or Motel Room Tax.
20
January 16, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 5 - REQUESTING NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATION AUTHORIZING
AN INCREASE IN THE HOTEL OR MOTEL ROOM TAX IN
TOMPKINS COUNTY FROM THREE PERCENT TO FIVE
PERCENT
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard. Mr. Stein noted this will need further action
by this Board once it is approved at the State level. Mrs. Schuler disclosed that she has personal
involvement with a Bed and Breakfast and asked for permission to abstain from voting on this resolution.
Chair Mink granted Mrs. Schuler permission to abstain. Mr. Totman expressed concern for the Bed and
Breakfasts and said he would support this resolution if they were exempt. It was noted that it is the intent
of the Committee to exclude Bed and Breakfasts from this. Mr. Lane suggested that the Board proceed
with adoption of this resolution and once permission to implement this is granted at the State level the
Board can include specific details in a local law. Mr. Proto said in addition to the comments that have
been made regarding the Bed and Breakfasts, there has also been concern about the formula that has been
used to determine distribution. He also asked that the implementation resolution include allowing a
municipality to apply for these funds when appropriate.
Mr. Penniman said he also supports exempting the Bed and Breakfasts from this but feels
additional information is needed before the Board can make a final decision on implementation
Mr. Stein addressed the issue of exempting the Bed and Breakfasts and said he will come
forward at a future meeting with a resolution of intent to exempt them from this.
Mr. Todd spoke of an instance where the fishing industry asked for these funds and were denied.
He said that industry is widely used and brings a lot of tourists to Tompkins County and he was very
disappointed that those funds were denied.
It was MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Totman, to amend the increase from five percent
to four percent.
Mr. Penniman said he will vote against this amendment because he would like the County to
keep its options open as much as possible. He said one of the items that has not been addressed is how
easy would it be to go to a non -taxed area and in Tompkins County it would not be easy. He said there
are things that can be done over the coming months to mitigate the impact of this increase.
Ms. Mink stated she is pleased with the type of discussion that has taken place over this issue.
She asked the Economic and Workforce Development Committee request the Convention and Visitors
Bureau to make more of an outreach effort to explain where this money goes.
A voice vote on the amendment resulted as follows: Ayes - 5 (Representatives Proto, Stein,
Todd, Totman, and Winch); Noes - 9; Abstentions - 1 (Representative Schuler). MOTION FAILED.
A voice vote on the original resolution resulted as follows: Ayes - 12, Noes - 2 (Representatives
Todd and Totman); Abstentions - 1 (Representative Schuler). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Section 1202-f of New York State Tax Law authorizes the Board of Representatives
to impose a hotel or motel room tax in an amount not to exceed three percent of the per diem rental rate
for each hotel or motel room, and
WHEREAS, funds received from the hotel or motel tax are used to enhance tourism and cultural
activities in the County, and
WHEREAS, increased funding for tourism and cultural activities would benefit Tompkins
County and its residents and support economic development, now therefore be it
21
January 16, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives requests that the New York State Legislature adopt
legislation amending Section 1202-f of the New York State Tax Law to provide that the rate of the hotel
or motel tax in Tompkins County "shall not exceed five percent",
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board is directed to forward a copy of this resolution
to Assemblyman Luster, Senator Seward and Senator Kuhl.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee met January 11t and reviewed its 2000 goals. In
the Health Department area she said there continues to be shortages with home health aides. Committees
were formed and met all year. Also a luncheon honoring home health aides is being held with the
encouragement of those invited to bring someone else that might be interested in becoming a home health
aide. The Health Department also worked on recommendations for the tobacco settlement funding and
will continue to lobby for monies in the future. In the Mental Health Department, one goal was to
strengthen the local governmental functions of the department which was accomplished by establishing a
Deputy Commissioner position, planned training for board members on performance evaluation of
contract agencies, and plan the development of a web site which maps out all services for the public.
Other accomplishments in that Department include the following:
• establishment of county liability parameters for medication grants
• creation of state -funded transition manager position and program
• memorandum of understanding between Department of Social Services and Mental
Health on Medicaid application process,
• creation of county -based indigent medication program that does not use local taxes
• established procedures needed to implement court-ordered treatment beyond state
regulations
In the Youth Bureau Department, the agreement for the Recreation Partnership was developed
and signed. Mrs. Schuler noted that the Recreation Partnership will need to have two County Board
members appointed to serve on it. Other highlights for the year include youth employment council,
contract management, municipal youth services, youth and community planning, and coordination and
community education. The Department of Social Services has not yet submitted their report on goals but
one resolution on the agenda does address one of the Department's accomplishments.
Ms. Blanchard stated that Debbie Giordano gave a report today at the Economic and Workforce
Development Committee concerning the opportunity for nursing homes to get money for upgrading the
skills of their workers. The information had been circulated but was not receiving a positive response.
Mrs. Schuler said she would report this to Alice Cole, Public Health Director.
RESOLUTION NO. 6 - AUTHORIZATION FOR APPROPRIATION OF $23,065 FROM THE
CONTINGENT FUND TO OFFICE FOR THE AGING'S (COFA'S)
2001 BUDGET TO COVER DEFICIT IN FOODNET'S BUDGET
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Ms. Davis. Mr. Lane disclosed that he would be
abstaining as he had formerly represented the landlord in his personal practice. However, he said he has
not done any work in this transaction, but feels he should not vote on the resolution. Ms. Stein, Director
of the Office for the Aging, commented about the concerns raised that no one had been made aware of
this at the County level. She too said she was not aware of the deficit in a timely fashion and was
dismayed. Foodnet now understands that this should have been brought to her attention. They had
22
January 16, 2001
hoped to raise the money to cover the deficit, but now understands the County needs to be prepared with
what is going on. Ms. Stein said she treats Foodnet like any other contract agency including monitoring
annually and periodic program evaluations. She said she will be more involved with the general
operations of the Board of Directors of Foodnet.
It was MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, to change the word "allocate"
to "advance" in the first Resolved. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr feels these funds could be raised within the
community.
Mr. Todd clarified that this deficit is a result of Foodnet paying rent on two facilities at the same
time.
Ms. Stein spoke about Foodnet's campaigning efforts and said that a final payment of $9,000 of
the $110,000 advanced by the County will be paid this week. She said Foodnet plans annual campaigns
and as many needs. Mr. Griffen, Foodnet Director, commented about their fundraising campaigns. He
said there are two components: (1) ongoing need for equipment; and (2) general operating support that
will help meet the needs that are foreseen in the community.
A voice vote resulted as follows on the amendment: Ayes - 4 (Representatives Blanchard,
Kiefer, Koplinka-Loehr, and Totman); Noes - 10; Abstentions - 1 (Representative Lane).
AMENDMENT LOST.
It was MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Penniman, to amend the last Resolved that the
quarterly reports are given for one year. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 14, Noes - 0,
Abstentions - 1 (Representative Lane). AMENDMENT CARRIED.
A voice vote resulted as follows on the resolution: Ayes - 13, Noes - 1 (Representative
Koplinka-Loehr), Abstentions - 1 (Representative Lane). RESOLUTION CARRIED.
WHEREAS, the County wishes to provide meals to appropriate seniors through Federal, State,
and local spending, and
WHEREAS, in 1986 there were no acceptable proposals to provide this service and the County
therefore encouraged the formation of Foodnet, Inc., to provide this service, and
WHEREAS, the County Office for the Aging (COFA) contracts with Foodnet to provide home -
delivered and congregate meals as well as nutrition counseling and education to Tompkins County
seniors, and
WHEREAS, Foodnet has done an excellent job of providing such service, and
WHEREAS, Foodnet has incurred a deficit of $23,065 in connection with its 1999 move to a
new location, and
WHEREAS, Foodnet's intention to cover these expenses through funds raised in its capital
campaign fell short of this expense, and
WHEREAS, Foodnet was not successful in obtaining funding for these expenses from two other
outside sources, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services and Budget and Fiscal
Policy Committees, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives allocate $23,065 from the
Contingency Fund to COFA's 2001 budget to transfer to Foodnet,
RESOLVED, further, That when the rent deposit ($2,100) and the NYSEG deposit ($780) are
returned to Foodnet, they shall in turn return them, total $2,880, to the County's General Fund,
RESOLVED, further, That the Foodnet Director meet quarterly for one year with Tompkins
County Administration and provide a complete financial statement at the quarterly meetings.
Breakdown of request:
23
January 16, 2001
$14,700 Rent and deposit August 1998 - January 1999
3,380 School taxes paid in accordance with our lease
780 NYSEG Deposit
781 Telephone system purchased from previous tenant
3,705 Additional renovation items
• Railing for back steps (required by code)
• Sink splash -guards
• Upgrade existing computer wiring
• Final connection of new equipment
Total $23.065
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Recess
Chair Mink declared recess at 7:27 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 7:37 p.m.
Presentation of Resolutions from the Health and Human Services Committee (continued)
RESOLUTION NO. 7 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS — VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman. Mr. Proto questioned the money
budgeted for the four new Caseworker positions being created in Resolution No. 8 and the program
expenses. He asked that since this resolution provides the funding for the four new positions and
programs that the words "and programs" could be added to the resolution at the appropriate time so if the
positions go away the programs will also.
Mr. Stein pointed out that the County will be adding four new positions which means that when
the entire roster of the County is looked at there will be a net increase. These four new positions are
being paid for 100 percent by State funding and when that money disappears the positions will to.
A voice vote resulted as follows on the resolution: Ayes - 14, Noes - 1 (Representative Proto).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the
Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget adjustments on his books:
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE
Mental Health (#1)
Revenue Acct
4310 43485 Comm. RIV
Explanation: RIV funds - Awaiting contract
Revenue Acct Title
4310 43485 Comm. RIV
Explanation: Commissioner's Performance -
Revenue Acct Title
4335 43485 Comm. RIV
Explanation: New Initiative Funds - 2 SCM
Revenue Acct Title
4316 43485 Comm. RIV
Explanation: New Initiative Funds - 2 ICM
Revenue Acct Title
4335 43485 Comm. RIV
Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
$71,376 4310 54400 Program Expense
agency plans and State approval.
Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
$30,624 4310 51000 Salaries
to be used toward Deputy Commissioner salary and fri
Amt Approp Acct Title(s)_
$98,195 4335 51000 Salaries
Caseworkers.
Amt
$90,030
Caseworkers.
Amt
$20,796
24
Approp Acct Title(s)
4316 51000 Salaries
nges.
Approp Acct Title(s)
4335 54400 Program Expense
January 16, 2001
Explanation: New Initiative Funds - SCM Service Dollars.
Revenue Acct Title Amt Ammon Acct Title(s)
4332 43458 Comm.RIV $80,651 43325 54400 Program Expense
Explanation: 2001 New Initiative Funds - Adult Supportive Housing.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 8 - CREATION OF FOUR CASEWORKER POSITIONS IN THE MENTAL
HEALTH CLINIC
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Winch. Mr. Proto stated he will be voting against
the resolution because a portion of the money to fund the positions supports the same pot that is going to
be used for some of the programs the positions will fill. The resolution does not state the programs that
are being funded with the same money will also cease when the funding disappears.
A voice vote resulted as follows on the resolution: Ayes 14, Noes - 1 (Representative Proto).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the New York State Office of Mental Health has targeted new resources to
Expand case management and housing services;
Develop clinical coordination infrastructure;
Increase availability of community support services; and
Enhance services to children and families; and
WHEREAS, these new positions will be 100% funded by the NYS Office of Mental Health New
Initiative monies and Medicaid revenue generated by the positions, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That four full-
time, 35 hour per week, Caseworker positions, (14-562) be hereby created in the Tompkins County
Mental Health Department effective immediately,
RESOLVED, further, That the continuation of these positions is dependent on 100 percent State
funding.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 9 - APPROVING THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES' THREE-
YEAR CONSOLIDATED CHILDREN'S SERVICES PLAN
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the New York State Office of Children and Family Services issued Local
Commissioner's Memorandum (00 OCFS LCM-27) last fall requiring local social services departments
to develop and submit a Consolidated Service Plan covering children's services for the period January 1,
2001 to December 31, 2`003, and
WHEREAS, County Administrative Policy 01-35 states that "plans whose public participation
requirements mandate advertising in newspapers of general circulation must be approved by the Board of
Representatives upon review by the County Administrator and the appropriate program committee," and
WHEREAS, such advertising was required with regard to this plan's development, and
WHEREAS, the County Administrator and the Health and Human Services Committee have
reviewed the Department's plan, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the
Department's Three -Year Consolidated Plan for Children's Services is approved by this Board.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
25
January 16, 2001
Report from the Economic and Workforce Development Committee (continued)
Mr. Stein, Chairman, briefly reported on a presentation by Martha Armstrong, Tompkins County
Area Development, concerning economic indicators in the year 2000 which was distributed to Board
members. It represents a picture that says the economy was not flat it was growing 1.6 percent job
growth, 8 percent manufacturing growth, 8 percent health services growth, and 5 percent decline in social
services. These indicators will be made available monthly in addition to what Ithaca College puts out.
Report from the Planning and Intermunicipal Coordination Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, said the Committee has not met. The next meeting is January 171 at 9:00
a.m. under the able leadership of the new Chairman, Peter Penniman.
Report from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, said the Committee has not met.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, said the Committee met January 9th and most of the Committee's business
is reflected on the Board agenda. The Committee heard a presentation from Robert Nicholas, Airport
Manager, and Bob Masstropole of C&S Engineers on upcoming airport improvement projects for 2001.
The Federal Aviation Administration has agreed to fund $2.253 million in projects and equipment during
this fiscal year. This reflects the vastly increased funding for airports nationally which we discussed at
the Committee several months ago. It also includes $675,000 in discretionary funding for expansion of
the CFR building. Our entitlement money for the next three years will be about twice what it has been in
the past. The projects that will be included:
• Expansion of the General Aviation ramp
• CFR expansion
• Removal of obstructions that affect Runway 32
• Additional jet boarding bridge
• Design of a parallel taxiway extension
• Safety analysis of Runway 14/32
Each of these will come forward as individual projects.
The Committee also discussed a recommendation from the Air Service Task Force and the
Chamber of Commerce to rename the Airport. The Committee approved a resolution recommending a
change from Tompkins County Airport to Ithaca -Tompkins Regional Airport. That resolution will come
to the full Board for approval at its next regular meeting with some supporting material. The Committee
also heard a report on the gas leak in Building C from Buildings and Grounds. The Committee learned
the gas service originates in the Boardman House. She said Public Works Managers submitted reports on
their major accomplishments/problems/work during 2000. The Buildings and Grounds piece will be
submitted in a day or two. Copies of the reports were made available to Board members.
She spoke about her years as Chair of this Committee and said she appreciates all the work the
employees do to serve the residents of the County.
RESOLUTION NO. 10 - AUTHORIZATION OF NEW YORK STATE DEDICATED
TRANSPORTATION TRUST FUND CAPITAL PROJECT
SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT #4 - TOMPKINS CONSOLIDATED
AREA TRANSIT (TCAT)
26
January 16, 2001
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Proto. Ms. Blanchard said she has a list of the
projects that will be included and will put a copy in Board members boxes. Ms. Kiefer said she opposes
the continued purchasing use of diesel buses and will be voting against the resolution for that reason.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 14, Noes - 1 (Representative Kiefer). RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, pursuant to State Finance Law Section 89-c, the New York State Legislature
authorizes mass transportation grants for capital projects that are funded with ten percent (10%) up to
100 percent (100%) state funding, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County executed a Master Agreement with the New York State
Department of Transportation to simplify the process of State reimbursement of expenses for transit
capital projects (County Resolution No. 196 of 1999), and
WHEREAS, the New York State Department of Transportation has authorized Supplemental
Agreement #4 for $352,213 in state funds to fund current transit capital projects by Tompkins
Consolidated Area Transit, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That the
Tompkins County Board of Representatives authorizes Supplemental Agreement #4 of the Master
Agreement for New York State Dedicated Transportation Trust Funds in an amount not to exceed
$352,213.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 11- CREATION OF POSITION - RECEPTIONIST - SOLID WASTE
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, a temporary position of receptionist in the Solid Waste Division was created on
May 2, 2000, and
WHEREAS, there is a continued need for this position due to additional administrative duties
with respect to new programs, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That one
position of Receptionist, Labor Grade E (5-506), competitive class, be created effective immediately,
RESOLVED, further, That no additional funds are needed since this position was included in the
approved 2001 Budget.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 12 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE A GRANT AGREEMENT WITH
THE NEW YORK STATE HOUSING TRUST FUND CORPORATION,
FOR DISASTER RECOVERY ("DR") FUNDS, FOR THE OLD 76
ROAD BRIDGE (BIN 3314080)
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the New York State Housing and Trust Fund Corporation, with offices at 38-40
State Street, Albany, New York 12207 has received a Department of Housing and Urban Development
("HUD") Disaster Recovery ("DR") grant allocation, for distribution to units of Local Government
located in the State of New York, and
WHEREAS, the Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD") allocated Eighty
Thousand Three Hundred Sixty Six Dollars and zero cents ($80,366.00) for the County of Tompkins, for
Disaster Recovery activities related to Severe Storm and Flooding during the period, June 25 -July 10,
1998, and
27
January 16, 2001
WHEREAS, the County Public Works Department has applied for the full amount of grant
monies available to finance the replacement of the Old 76 Road Bridge (BIN 3314080), in the Town of
Caroline, and
WHEREAS, the New York State Housing Trust Fund Corporation has selected the recipient to
receive an award in the maximum amount of, Eighty Thousand Three Hundred Sixty Six Dollars and
zero cents ($80,366.00), in grant funds, and
WHEREAS, the parties agree that the grant funds shall be administered in accordance with the
terms and conditions specified in the Agreement titled "New York State Disaster Recovery Initiative
Grant Agreement", received under cover letter dated January 2, 2001, from the New York State Housing
Trust Fund Corporation, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, That the
County Administrator or designee be and hereby is authorized and directed to execute a contract between
the County of Tompkins and the New York State Housing Trust Fund Corporation for the referenced
project, for an amount not to exceed $80,366.00.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Budget and Capital Program Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, said the Committee will be meeting January 181 at 9:00 a.m. and will be
discussing the rollover policy. He hopes to bring a resolution to the full Board for approval either
reaffirming or changing the policy.
RESOLUTION NO. 13 - AMENDMENT TO RESOLUTION NO. 252 OF 2000 -
AUTHORIZING PAYMENTS FOR COMMUNITY COLLEGE
OPERATING BUDGET AND APPROPRIATION FROM THE
CONTINGENT FUND
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Totman. A short roll call vote resulted as follows:
Ayes - 15, Noes - 0. RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, this Board has approved by Resolution No. 252 of November 22, 2000 the 2000-
2001 operating budget for the Tompkins Cortland Community College and appropriated the necessary
funds to pay the Tompkins County proportionate share of the operating budget of said College, and
WHEREAS, the local sponsor share of $3,363,969 has remained constant, however, the
Tompkins County sponsor share based on a 3 -year average has increased from 61 percent ($2,051,721) to
62 percent ($2,085,661), now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Fiscal Policy Committee, That the
following appropriation be made:
FROM: A1990.54400 Contingent Fund $33,940
TO: A2495.54400 Tompkins Cortland Community College $33,940
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator is hereby authorized and directed, pursuant
to the provisions of the Education Law of the State of New York and within the authorization provided
by this Board, to pay Tompkins Cortland Community College an amount up to but not to exceed the
Tompkins County budgeted share of the operating costs of said College for the fiscal year 2000-2001 on
the following dates in the following amounts:
January 1, 2001 $521,415.25
March 1, 2001 $521,415.25
May 1, 2001 $521,415.25
July 1, 2001 $521,415.25
Total $2,085,661.00
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
28
January 16, 2001
Report from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, said the Committee has not met.
Report from the Communications Capital Projects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, said the Committee has not met. The next meeting is January 23`d.
Report from the Information Management Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Vice Chairman, said she did not have a report.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, said the Committee will meet January 25th at 11:00 a.m.
Report from the Intermunicipal Planning Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, said the Committee will meet January 26 at 9:30 a.m.
Approval of Minutes of December 19, 2000 and January 2, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote,
to approve the minutes of the December 19, 2000 and January 2, 2001 meetings as submitted.
Other Business
Ms. Mink reminded the Board about the Vital Communities Program that members have been
invited to as municipal leaders on January 201 at the Women's Community Building.
Ms. Smithers, Deputy County Administrator, said the Employee Health Nurse has made available
a demo chair for Board members to try out. If Board members are interested in replacing their chair in
the Board Room, they should let her know.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:06 p.m.
29
February 6, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guest participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 14 Representatives. Excused: 1 (Representative Stein).
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca resident, read from a study published recently by Cornell
environmental psychologists that low-level noise in open style offices seems to result in higher levels of
stress and lower task motivation. She said the reason she is speaking to the Board about this is because
she has been distressed over situations she has experienced in the Library recently because of other
Library patrons who do not lower their voices during their presence there.
Michael Raffe, Varna resident, read and submitted the following statement:
"First, I would like to wish former County Administrator, Rick Erb, good luck. He was a
gentleman and true professional. And I count myself lucky to have had the opportunity to work with him.
Goodbye Rick and enjoy having Tuesday evenings off.
"Next, I would like to commend the whole Board, the Public Safety Committee, and Barbara
Mink for their continuing actions in making Tompkins County a safer place to live. Over the past twelve
months, the Board under Ms. Mink's leadership has created an Emergency Management Council,
provided funding for additional response equipment for the Sheriffs Department, and continued to
examine the need for an improved communication network for emergency response personnel.
"In the area of disaster planning and response, your commitment to sustaining the momentum
initially created during Y2K was critical. Your future support will encourage increased public and private
sector cooperation in preparedness, planning, and response. This in turn will only strengthen our County.
"I know it is difficult to stay excited about disaster planning in Tompkins County. We have not
had a disaster with Countywide implications since January of 1996. However, over the past three years
four large scale disasters have occurred within one hundred miles or less of our county: the January, 1998
North Country Ice Storm, the July, 1998 Tornadoes in Broome County, the Labor Day 1998 Wind Storm
in Syracuse and the March, 2000 Winter Storm in Rochester. And if you examine our history, you will
see that mother nature can at any time and in any season confront us with a natural disaster. With that in
mind, I must urge you to continue to support the concept of disaster preparedness and planning. In
addition, it is critical that you encourage all your department heads to participate in this effort both
conceptually and programmatically.
"Thank you for your time and patience. And please keep up the good work".
Mr. Raffe announced for the third year in a row the Central New York women have won the gold
medal in rugby in the Empire State Games and two women representatives from this area have been
selected to represent the United States in international competition.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
30
February 6, 2001
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, reminded Board members that the archives presentations
and submissions are due from town boards and municipalities. He also spoke of the President's proposal
in regard to income tax and said he is in the process of preparing a resolution that will address the impact
that will have on Tompkins County residents. He also reported on Mr. Theisen, County Attorney, who
has been ill recently, and said he is home and doing well.
Ms. Davis, District No. 2 Representative, said a celebration of the life of Rashad Richardson took
place over the weekend. She said the family and community has suffered a tragic loss and offered
support to Rashad's family and friends. She also spoke of a friend who has come upon difficult times and
asked that she continue to stay strong. Ms. Davis relayed a message of appreciation for all the support
she has received, particularly from the Beverly J. Martin Preschool Headstart preschool family and from
this Board.
Mr. Penniman, District No. 15 Representative, reported on the Vital Communities Workshop that
took place on January 20. He said this workshop was conducted by the Tompkins County Planning
Department and there were several individuals in attendance from this Board and many other
municipalities and institutions. He said the goal was to envision the County fifty years from now. He
said there was a general consensus for where everyone felt the County should be in fifty years, but there
wasn't consensus on how it should get there. He said a report will be out in the near future.
Chair's Report and Appointments
Ms. Mink, Chair, read the following statement into the record that was submitted by Alan Cohen,
City of Ithaca Mayor:
"I wanted to take this opportunity to congratulate you on the opening of the new Tompkins
County Public Library. It is a first rate facility and reflects well on the County Board's commitment to
equal access to information for all members of our community.
"We are very pleased that the Board chose to keep the Library in downtown Ithaca, also the
location of the County seat. The City is proud to host many fine institutions, including the quality
facilities of the County.
"I am also proud of the collaboration that took place during the planning of this new Library.
City officials spent innumerable hours working with County staff and others to make sure that the Library
was well integrated into the downtown environment, to ensure its long term success. To that end, the City
is also proud, as a result of changes to our sales tax, MOU, to be an annual contributor to the County
Library's operating budget. We feel, as you do, that public access to information is critically important.
"Once again, congratulations. And thank you for your commitment to the betterment of our
community".
Appointments
Ms. Mink made the following appointments to the Communications Capital Projects Committee:
George Totman, Chair of the Public Safety Committee
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, Steve
Whicher was appointed to the position of County Administrator.
Report from the County Administrator
31
February 6, 2001
Mr. Whicher thanked the Board for their support and the appointment as County Administrator.
He said he would like to meet with all Board members in the next two weeks. Mr. Whicher presented the
Board with the appointment of Valeria Coggin to replace him as the Director of Assessment.
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to appoint Valeria Coggin to the position of Director of Assessment.
Mr. Whicher reported on the status of the recruitment process for an Information Technology
Services Director, and said he employees should be moving into the Justice Center on February 121 and it
is expected to open in mid-March. He announced the 2001 final budget document has been printed, and
he requested an executive session to discuss contract negotiations.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wood, Deputy County Attorney, reported on the sale of the Biggs A building, and said a
Chicago Realty firm is making a presentation to the Town of Ithaca Board on what their plan for the
building is. He said their basic plan is common office space and to open an eatery.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires said he has distributed an update on the County's tax enforcement process. He said
each October the County is required to send out potential foreclosure notices to taxpayers. There were
154 notices sent out and as of today 30 parcels are moving forward to the next stage in the process which
is site inspection. He said a press release will soon be released on the year-end sales tax figure. He stated
the County exceeded the budgeted figure by $1.7 million, and the total amount received in sales tax for
2001 was $21.5 million. He noted this is the largest amount the County has ever received in sales tax.
At Mr. Squires request, Mr. Wood reported on the negotiations that have taken place in regard to
the purchase of property for Tompkins Community Action. He stated an agreement has been negotiated
that is satisfactory to both parties and was forwarded to the County Administrator this week. Ms. Mink
asked that Mr. Squires and Mr. Wood meet with the County Administrator and the Chairman of the
Budget and Capital Committee and move this along the appropriate path for action.
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
Chair Mink granted permission to the appropriate committee chairmen to withdraw the following
resolutions from the agenda:
Consultant Service for the Preparation of a Wireless Communication Project
Revising 2001 Fringe Benefits Payment Rate
Reaffirming Rollover Policy
Amendment to Administrative Policy 05-02 - Fiscal Policy - Section 5.01 Transfers, Section 5.03
Appropriations from the Contingent Fund or a Fund Balance and Section 5.06 Reappropriation
of Unspent Funds from previous Years
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
There were no resolution(s) added to the agenda.
Approval of Appointment(s) and Resolution(s) Under the Consent Agenda
There were no appointments or resolutions approved under the Consent Agenda.
Report from the Planning Committee
32
February 6, 2001
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee met and received a report from the EMC and
discussed the pesticide notification law. There is a lot of research taking place at this time and they will
plan to meet with the Health and Human Services Committee in approximately two months to discuss this
further. He said the Committee received a report from the Planning Department on their work plan for
2001. The three main areas the Department will be placing emphasis on are the Public Safety
Communications project, vital communities program, and the natural -resources inventory. Mr. Penniman
reported the Committee also discussed and reviewed goals for the year including continued work on the
vital communities program, review of the aquifer study proposal to more specifically create a work plan
with objectives, and review and revise as necessary the commercial center revitalization program.
Report from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The next
meeting will be February 14th at 9 a.m. She announced the Human Services Coalition annual meeting
will be at noon on February 8th.
Report from the Economic and Workforce Development Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Vice Chair, reported the Committee has not me since the last Board meeting. The
next meeting will be February 20 at noon. At that time the committee will discuss the proposed tax
abatement for the incentives for increased density in the downtown area.
Report from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The
next meeting will be at 10 a.m. on February 8th.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Bucket and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Committee met and the main topic discussed was whether
rollover funds should continue to be available to departments. The two areas that were focused on in the
discussion were asking the County Administrator to work with departments to try to fmd ways to reduce
spending, and whether keeping or eliminating the rollover policy would be best to help the Board deal
with budget problems that are expected in the 2002 budget.
RESOLUTION NO. 14 - REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION TO EXTEND THE
ADDITIONAL ONE PERCENT LOCAL SALES TAX RATE IN
TOMPKINS COUNTY
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Todd. Mr. Proto said he thinks this begins to lose the
identity of things such as the Solid Waste Fee, and he feels it is important that people have an opportunity
to be kept informed of what taxes the Board is passing on their behalf. A voice vote on the resolution
resulted as follows: Ayes — 11; Noes - 3 (Representatives Proto, Schuler, and Winch); Excused - 1
(Representative Stein). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, this Board in 1991, 1992, 1994, 1996, and 1998 requested and received
authorization from the State of New York to enact an additional one percent local sales tax in Tompkins
County in addition to the three percent authorization that all New York State counties possess by law, and
WHEREAS, the current authorization received in 1999 expires November 30, 2001, and
WHEREAS, this Board has been requested by the offices of Assemblyman Luster and Senator
Seward to forward any request for an extension of this authority when legislation can be timely prepared
and submitted at the beginning of a session of the legislature, and
WHEREAS, the expiration of the additional one percent local sales tax would necessitate, based
on the most recent returns, 1) $6.8 million in reductions in County expenditures, which would have a
33
February 6, 2001
major effect on the availability of services, or in a 34 percent increase in County property taxes, or some
combination thereof, as well as 2) substantial reductions or tax increases for the City, towns, and villages
of Tompkins County, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That this Board requests
that Assemblyman Luster, Senator Seward, and Senator Kuhl sponsor and support legislation extending
the authority of the Board of Representatives of Tompkins County to extend the additional one percent
local sales tax in Tompkins County beyond November 30, 2001, for a period of four years based on the
same terms and conditions included in previous legislation, to provide local property tax relief.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 15 - DIRECTING THE COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR TO REVIEW
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FUNDED BY THE 2001 TOMPKINS
COUNTY BUDGET
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lane, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the General Fund Balance available to stabilize the 2002 Tax Rate may be
considerably less than that which was available for the 2001 Budget, and
WHEREAS, the Board realizes that in order to maintain a minimal Property Tax increase, surplus
funds must be available for appropriation, spending must be reduced, and/or revenues must be enhanced,
and
WHEREAS, every attempt shall be made to retain services while capturing fiscal stability
through prudent spending and fmancial planning, and
WHEREAS, to achieve this, a comprehensive review process must begin as soon as possible in
order that departments and agencies have as much time as possible to analyze their budgets and determine
how programs or services would be affected by having less surplus funds available this year than last, and
WHEREAS, the rollover policy, as described in Section 5.06 of the County Fiscal Policy, is
explicitly designed to encourage long-range planning, and the wise allocation of resources, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That the County
Administrator be and hereby is directed to work with County departments and agencies on
recommendations to be presented to the Board in early May, 2001,
RESOLVED, further, That such recommendations will demonstrate the fiscal savings that can be
realized through reorganization, program consolidation, or the reallocation, reduction or elimination of
services.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Report from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board
meeting. The next meeting will be February 8 at 1:30 p.m. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr reported the Affirmative
Action Committee met on January 10 and is working on a work plan for the year and a possible name
change for the Committee.
Report from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The next
meeting will be February 13`h at 10 a.m. Mr. Lane reported on awards that have been received in the
Public Works Department. A "Superstar" recognition certificate was presented to Paul Cowles for
helping an elderly man change a flat tire at the Recycling Center earlier in the year. Airport employees
Mickey Carlisle, Louis Loiselle, and David Crawford were the recipients for excelling beyond the
34
February 6, 2001
expected. Mr. Carlisle and Mr. Loiselle were rewarded for their efforts in trying to resuscitate a long-time
Airport tenant and aviation enthusiast who suffered a fatal heart attack at the Airport. David Crawford
was rewarded for taking the Airport operations and maintenance to a high level of efficiency which has
resulted in a significant amount of higher level safety.
Mr. Proto announced the Board will soon be receiving information on the new fare structure for
TCAT.
Report from the Communications Capital Projects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the Committee met at noon today and spent most of the meeting
hearing an extensive review of how the environmental review process will be done. The Committee also
received several updates on equipment testing, the need to be more proactive with the County's
relationship with the FCC, and the status of the acquisition on the option of the DOT site on Hanshaw
Road. She reported there are still problems getting all of the cellular phone companies to cooperate in
transferring their emergency calls to the County's 911 site and the Committee will continue to work on
this. The next meeting will be the 27th of February.
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee held its first meeting and discussed how the census
will impact this year's election. He said there is concern about the possible changes in population in
particular districts and whether there will be a need to redistrict, and if so how quickly that can be done.
Report from the Information Management Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting.
Report from the Intermunicipal Planning Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee will meet again on February 2P. The Committee
continues to look at large -range issues. Members feel the Committee needs to look at small, solvable
issues and will try to define those at the next meeting.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee continues to work and will be discussing whether to
seek a short-term intermediate step or a long-term solution. The next meeting will be February 9t.
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Quality -of -Life 2000 Committee continues to meet.
The next meeting will be February 71. He expects a report to be presented to the Board in March.
Approval of Minutes
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to approve the minutes of January 16, 2001, as submitted. MINUTES
APPROVED.
Executive Session
35
February 6, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to enter into an executive session at 6:34 p.m. to discuss contract negotiations.
The meeting returned to open session at 7:35 p.m.
Mr. Todd was excused at 6:55 p.m.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:35 p.m.
36
February 20, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Vice Chair Lane called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Present: 9 Representatives. Excused: 6 (Representatives Davis, Joseph, Kiefer, Penniman,
Totman, and Mink).
Presentation of Proclamation
Mr. Lane read and presented to Karen Fuller, Chair of the SPCA Board of Directors, a
proclamation declaring February 27th as "Spay Day USA".
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Mac Larsen, Ellis Hollow Road, spoke about the proposal he submitted to the Board for a
Coreorgonel Park. Coreorgonel is the Indian name for the Indian village that was destroyed in 1779 by
units of General Sullivan's Army. In addition, he distributed to the Board the following supplementary
notes:
"There are a number of questions and potential problems related to the proposed site (property of
the Waldorf School) - e.g., it is technically land locked, with a good turn around that belongs to a
governmental agency; it is presently open, but what its real status is isn't entirely clear. This is one
reason why I have advanced the idea of a park to be established by the County - that should ease potential
problems of access and taxation, etc. (Alternatively, it might become a state park, possibly an extension
of Buttermilk State Park, which is very close.) The school building has about 4,000 square feet of space,
and the structure is fundamentally sound, but getting it up to code may present some problems.
"A few other ideas that may arise: The Indian part of the park would probably be about 2 acres
(the dry land part of the site); it might be leased or dedicated in some way for Indian use, with certain
understandings (such as applicability of state sales taxes). The main Indian contribution to the site might
be in the construction of the Long House - "sweat equity". I hope the cost of materials would be met by
the fundraising campaign mentioned in my earlier note. The cost of the property, including the old
school, is about $128,000. A very rough estimate of additional costs for construction materials, site
development, renovation and adaptation of the school building, etc., would be on the order of three to
five hundred thousand dollars. Foundation sources are approachable for parts of such funding, and
governmental sources are also possible, but a wide based public campaign should be able to raise at least
fifty to one hundred thousand dollars, which is important not so much for the amount as it is for the sake
of generating interest in and commitment to the project by large numbers of citizens. Construction
workers could live in the School House building during the construction phase. When (or if) the building
becomes a museum/library/research place, a part of the museum should include a store where some of the
high quality Indian art and other things I saw when I visited an arts fair at the Onondaga school can be
sold. There should be jobs for Indians in management and operation of the museum and the site.
"One person to whom I showed my proposal offered the following comments:
37
February 20, 2001
"Somehow proposing a Longhouse is getting ahead of things - particularly when using a capital
"L" - as that indicates a house of worship which has to be consecrated, and would be inappropriate at a
tourism location. NO cameras or recording devices are allowed inside the one at Onondaga. Altemately,
a demonstration traditional bark longhouse (the kind for habitation) is now difficult to build because
most of the elm trees have died off. (The saga of the one at the State Fair is an example.)
"In my reply to these comments, I wrote the following: "I hope that Coreorgonel will indeed be
a visitor attraction, but I should have said that the museum part would be the main visitor point. The
longhouse or Longhouse would be whatever the Indians want it to be, under their full control. On a
related point, it is also my strong view that the Indians must not be there as "exhibits" or objects of
curiosity (no pictures without their explicit permission, for example). Rather, they would (I hope) be
looked to as curators and teachers about their history and culture, past and present. Among the
permanent exhibits at the museum (I hope) would be the story of the Great Peace, the story of the link to
the U.S. Constitution, teachings about the importance of the land and the tradition of respect for living
creatures and walking softly on the land. Also, descriptions of the role of the Longhouse in worship and
in the resolving of disputes. In all of these, Indians would be the teachers. Also, information about the
land claims and what the Indians want in a good settlement could be made available. Incidentally, one of
the persons I have spoken to at Cornell (Bob Venables) mentioned a very good museum in Corning with
an overflow of Indian materials, which might welcome some space at Coreorgonel to display some of the
overflow, if the Indians approve. At least two people to whom I have spoken have extensive collections
of books related to Native Americans, and they would consider donating those books to a library at
Coreogonel. A replica of the Pipe of Peace would be great to have on display. And I hope that there
might be occasional ceremonies to which visitors might be invited, perhaps having to do with dance, or
with peace between Native Americans and other Americans, or perhaps a fair or other event open to the
public.
"I hope that the ideas which I have presented are sufficiently attractive for the Board of
Representatives to want to refer them to a suitable committee for exploration and an early report back to
the Board. One essential element of the proposal is the need to ascertain the degree of Indian interest in
the kind of joint enterprise which is outlined in the proposal (or in any alternative proposal) that offers a
chance for establishing not only a significant link to the past but also a strong testimony to a future
marked by friendly cooperation. I can tell you that I, and some other people who know much more than I
do, would welcome the chance to work with any committee designated by the Board to investigate what
might be possible."
Jack Rossen, Teacher of Anthropology and Native American Studies at Ithaca College, stated
that he researches the Sullivan campaign and has been working in the Aurora area at another site that was
destroyed by General Sullivan's Army. He said he has read Mr. Larsen's proposal and feels it is worth
serious consideration.
Martha Robertson, Town of Dryden, spoke about the communications system upgrade. The
following is a position statement of Advocates for Sensible Area Planning (ASAP) that is currently being
considered. The total votes have not yet been calculated but should be available in a week or so.
"In the interest of promoting intermunicipal cooperation and developing the best and most cost
effective public safety communications system I strongly support the County including the towns as
involved agencies in the Environmental Impact Statement process for this project. Furthermore, I agree
that the County should pursue every avenue in cooperation with the State communications plan while it
also plans for its own system as recommended by project consultant. The state system is preferred over a
locally designed and funded system unless the state fails to move quickly enough as agreed to by all
involved agencies including the towns. On the one hand the County generally wants to promote
intermunicipal cooperation while in this process it is denying towns formal participation as involved
38
February 20, 2001
agencies. All but four of the towns and villages in this County have passed their own tower ordinances;
but the County has said it is not subject to these laws. Verbal assurances that the county will work with
the towns are insufficient fueling suspicion rather than aspiring trust. Since the County 's Attorney has
said it makes little difference whether the towns are legally involved agencies why not include the towns
as such. ASAP supports the concept of upgrading and enhancing the public safety communications
system, supports the County's effort to explore other communications options in addition to the 800 MH
radio tower system, supports the county's decision to do an EIS for this project, and supports the decision
to do scoping which includes a public comment period and a public hearing. However, the cost of this
project is between $10-$13 million. Doing a statewide system could save the county millions. We are
concerned that the County has sent mixed signals to the towns about who would pay for the radios which
are an essential part of the system. If the towns pay for any portion of the radios needed, either now or in
the future, then by State Law they are involved agencies. So we are very concerned about the current and
projected course of this project and really urge you that the towns are morally if not necessarily legally
involved agencies in this project and truly need to be taken in as partners."
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca, spoke of the same concern she brought to the Board at the last
meeting pertaining to the library. She continues to have concerns with the noise levels in the library and
would like them addressed. She asked if a member of the Board could respond to her concern and if so,
who that would be.
Robyn Seeley, Town of Dryden, also spoke about the communications system. She said she
appreciates the County spending the time and effort to investigate the alternatives that have been studied
in the consultant's report. She commented about the issue of the towns being involved agencies. She
said this issue first came up in April 2000 and since then three municipalities (Dryden, Caroline, and
Danby) have indicated to the County they are involved agencies under SEQR. The second reason the
towns are involved agencies is because they will be paying for part of this project. The response by the
County Attorney was that the towns are not legally involved agencies and the County does not have to
follow local town ordinances. The County's response to that was the radios are not part of the
communications system and will not have an environmental impact. The County has also said the towns
will not have to pay anything for the radios. If that last response is true, she feels the County should
document to the towns exactly what the County will be paying for. She asked the County to promote
intermunicipal cooperation and grant the towns full partnership in the design of the system.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Mr. Stein, District No. 3 Representative, responded to points raised by the members of the
public. First he suggested the Board Chair consider referring the proposal for a Coreorgonel Park to the
Planning Committee of the County Board for review. Mr. Lane said he would forward that suggestion to
Chair Mink. Mr. Stein also said in response to the concern raised about the noise at the library that it is
not appropriate for this Board to promise anything. The Library has a special relationship with the
County as it has its own Board of Trustees and there is an understood separation between management
and operations of the library which falls under the Board of Trustees responsibilities. Financing of the
library, although not completely, is the responsibility of the County. He feels the complaints made fall
under the category of operations and should be directed to the Board of Trustees.
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, reported that members of the Tompkins County Farm
Bureau had the opportunity to participate in a food distribution and collection. He also commented that
February 7th is the day when everyone has earned enough to pay for their food for the whole year in this
Country.
In addition, Mr. Proto also announced that he will be bringing a proposal forward for the Health
and Human Services Committee to consider concerning a youth recognition award for Tompkins County
39
February 20, 2001
youth. The plan is to alternate with the City of Ithaca which supports the proposal. Rural Representatives
will be asked to submit a name of a youth within their district that is deserving of this award. Mr. Proto
said he has also been working with WHCU and Bangs Ambulance who co-sponsor this.
Mr. Todd, District No. 6 Representative, also commented about the Food Distribution Day and
said he worked at one of the markets on Triphammer Road and thought it was well received. He also
commented about the Public Library and said he has only received very positive responses. He feels the
Library has been well received.
Mr. Stein, District No. 3 Representative, updated the Board on the New York State Association
of Counties (NYSAC) conference he attended. He commented on one of the informal discussions held.
He said last year there were concerns with the increase in cost of Medicaid to other counties. It
continues to be a concern and there seems to be a new effort at the State legislature to pick up the local -
share costs and to remove the burden over a period of time from county governments. This was stated by
the minority leader of the assembly who spoke to the entire group. He said if this happens, it will have a
big impact on the budget. He feels this is important and the Board should monitor. He asked Ms. Dolan
to respond as to why it does not appear to be a concern in Tompkins County. Ms. Dolan said one of the
major items that kept the County's Medicaid rate increase to two percent from 1999-2000 was a very
limited number of retroactive rate adjustments. She also commented that the County does a very good job
with long-term care and home health care. Mr. Whicher stated NYSAC adopted a resolution pertaining
to this subject and said the Board could adopt the same.
Mr. Stein also reported on the resolution the Board adopted last year and forwarded to NYSAC
concerning tax-exempt properties for colleges and universities. He said other counties asked if there has
been further discussion or action on this subject. Mr. Stein reported there has not, but feels it will
become a priority of NYSAC soon.
Chair's Report and Appointment(s)
Vice Chair Lane said he did not have a report or appointments.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher said he would like the Board to hold an executive session to discuss management
and confidential employee negotiations. He said he continues to meet with Board members and
Department Heads. He has also started working on budget scenarios with Ms. Smithers to discuss with
Department Heads and review with the Board. He introduced Valeria Coggin, Assessment Director. Ms.
Coggin thanked the Board for their faith and confidence in her. In addition, she reminded the public that
the applications for exemptions are due March 1st.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wilson, Assistant County Attorney, announced the County received a request today for a
third amendment to the purchase agreement on the Biggs building. They are requesting the last date for
closing be changed to April 6th and that the due diligence period will run through March 31, 2001 or the
preliminary plan approval date, whichever comes sooner.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires said he did not have a report. However, he commented that in this month's Empire
State magazine there is an article about Cornell Business and Technology Park and it has a picture of the
Tompkins County Airport sign.
40
February 20, 2001
Appointment of Deputy Clerk of the Board of Representatives
It was MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to confirm the appointment of Karen Fuller as Deputy Clerk of the Board of
Representatives effective March 5, 2001.
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
Vice Chair Lane gave the appropriate committee chairmen permission to withdraw the following
resolutions:
Appropriation from ATI Contingent Pool - Facilitated Victim/Offender Interactions —
Community Dispute Resolution Center; Life Skills Competency - Youth Advocacy Program;
Jail Based Treatment Program - Alcoholism Council of Tompkins County; Defender Based
Advocacy - Offender Aid and Restoration (OAR); Criminal Justice Center Literacy Services -
Literacy Volunteers
Authorization to Execute an Agreement with the City of Ithaca for Purposes of Ithaca
Downtown Partnership
Resolution(s) Approved Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mr. Lalley, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the following resolution(s) under the Consent Agenda:
RESOLUTION NO. 16 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS — VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS
MOVED by Mr. Lalley, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present under the Consent Agenda.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety, Health and Human Services, Planning,
Economic and Workforce Development Committees, That the Director of Finance be directed to make
the following budget adjustments on his books:
PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
Sheriff (#1)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Titlels)_
3113 42705 Gifts and Donations $10,000 3113 52220 Department Equipment
Explanation: Monies needed for purchasing equipment.
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE
Office for the Aging (#3)
Revenue Acct Title Amt
6771 43803 State Revenue $46
6771 43803 State Revenue $53
6771 43803 State Revenue $25
Approp Acct
A6771 54412
A6771 54303
A6771 54332
Explanation: Reappropriation of unused State monies to be used in 2001.
Office for the Aging (#4)
Revenue Acct
Title Amt
Title(s)
Travel and Training
Supplies
Books
Approp Acct Title(s)_
6773 43803
6773 43804
6773 43805
State Revenue
State Revenue
State Revenue
$1,000
$ 77
$ 250
41
A6773 51000 Salary
A6773 54414 Local Mileage
A6773 58800 Fringes
February 20, 2001
Explanation: Reappropriation of unused State monies to be used in 2001.
Office for the Aging (#5)
Revenue Acct Title
Amt Ammon Acct
Title(s)
6775 44772 Federal Revenue
6775 44772 Federal Revenue
6775 44772 Federal Revenue
Explanation: Reappropriation of unused State monies to be used in 2001.
$2,800 6775
$ 150 6775
$1,500 6775
Office for the Aging (#6)
Revenue Acct Title
Amt
Approp Acct
51000 Salary
54330 Printing
58800 Fringes
Title(s)
6777 43803 State Revenue
6777 43803 State Revenue
6777 43803 State Revenue
$219
$130
$200
A6777 54414
A6777 54452
A6777 54472
Explanation: Reappropriation of unused State monies to be used in 2001.
Office for the Aging
Revenue Acct
(#7)
Title
Amt
Approp Acct
Local Travel
Postage
Telephone
Title(s)
6780 43803
6780 43803
6780 43803
6780 43803
6780 43803
State Revenue
State Revenue
State Revenue
State Revenue
State Revenue
$1,206
$ 577
$ 130
$ 100
$1,368
A6780 54491
A6780 51000
A6780 54330
A6780 54472
A6780 54618
6780 43803 State Revenue $ 145 A6780 58800
Explanation:
Reappropriation of unused State monies to be used in 2001.
Office for the Aging
Revenue Acct
(#8)
Title
6782
6782
6782
6782
6782
6782
6782
43803
43803
43803
43803
43803
43803
43803
State Revenue
State Revenue
State Revenue
State Revenue
State Revenue
State Revenue
State Revenue
Amt
$ 94
$130
$175
$ 35
$ 42
$ 30
$100
Approp Acct
Subcontract
Salary
Printing
Telephone
Interdepartmental
Charges
Fringes
Title(s)
A6782 54303
A6782 54330
A6782 54332
A6782 54412
A6782 54414
A6782 54452
A6782 54472
Explanation: Reappropriation of unused State monies to be used in 2001.
Supplies
Printing
Books
Travel and Training
Local Travel
Postage
Telephone
Office for the Aging (#9)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
6796 44772 Federal Revenue $431 A6796 54400 Program Expense
Explanation: Reappropriation of unused State monies to be used in 2001.
Children with Special Care Needs (#11)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
4047 43489 Other State Aid $3,700 4047 54442 Professional
Services Fees
4047 43489 Other State Aid $1,200 4047 54330 Printing
4047 43489 Other State Aid $ 100 4047 54302 Supplies
Explanation: Funding has been provided to support local efforts to improve the efficiency and quality
of the Early Intervention Program. The department intends to provide funds to assist with daycare and
travel expenses for parents to participate in Parent Support Network and Advisory Board meetings. In
42
February 20, 2001
addition, the department is working to establish parent support groups, workshops aimed at improving
knowledge of EI and early childhood concerns. In addition the department is pursuing the development
of a development wheel for distribution.
Social Services (#13)
Revenue Acct
Title Amt
Approp Acct Title(s)
6010 42702
6010 42702
ATI Program $83,781
ATI Program $20,107
6010 51000 Salary
6010 58800 Fringes
Explanation: Funding for a Treatment Court Case Manager and Senior Caseworker were approved as
part of the ATI program cluster. These positions were created in the Department of Social Services in
2000 Board Resolutions 190 and 268. This adjustment merely gives the department the spending
authority to support these programs; the 100 percent offsetting revenue comes from ATI.
PLANNING COMMITTEE
Planning (#12)
Revenue Acct
Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
CD8696 44959
CD8684 44959
CD8695 44959
A8029 43592
IMR Federal Aid $ 5,182.72 CD8696 54400
Jamex Federal Aid $ 2,932.03 CD8684 54400
HO IV Federal Aid $ 478,844.87 CD8695 54400
DOT Grant $ 77,000.00 A8029 54400
Explanation: Bring 2000 Grant Balance into the 2001 Budget.
lMR Program Expense
Jamex Program Expense
HO IV Program Expense
Program Expense (Multi -
Modal funding for Inlet
Island Promenade City of
Ithaca)
ECONOMIC AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Workforce Development (#10)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct
Title(s)_
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $ 1,892 6291 51000 Regular Pay
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $12,100 6291 52202 Network Components
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $43,392 6291 52206 Computer Equipment
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $14,797 6291 52210 Office Equipment
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $ 7,784 6291 52230 Computer Software
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $ 419 6291 54303 Office Supplies
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $ 294 6291 54330 Printing
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $18,000 6291 54333 Education/Promotion
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $ 674 6291 54342 Food
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $ 200 6291 54402 Legal Advertising
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $ 3,205 6291 54412 Travel/Training
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $ 139 6291 54414 Local Mileage
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $ 20 6291 54416 Membership Dues
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $ 2,500 6291 54425 Service Contracts
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $49,383 6291 54442 Professional Services
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $ 1,025 6291 54452 Postage
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $ 450 6291 54472 Telephone
6291 44959 Federal Revenue $11,865 6291 54618 Interdepartmental
Charges
Explanation: The full One Stop Implementation Grant Federal Grant was received on January 10, 2001.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Appointments Approved Under the Consent Agenda
43
February 20, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Lalley, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the following appointments under the Consent Agenda:
Joint Operations Committee
Daniel Walker - Town of Ithaca Representative; term expires December 31, 2003
Hillview Road Landfill Citizens Advisory Committee
Brian Caldwell - Neighborhood Representative; term expires December 31, 2003
Office for the Aging Advisory Committee
Lois Humphrey - term expires December 31, 2003
Tompkins County Youth Board
Ben Curtis - Town of Ulysses Representative; term expires December 31, 2003
Kathy Schlather - Department of Social Services Representative; term expires December 31, 2001
Tompkins County Library Board of Directors
Laurie Conway Brooks - term expires December 31, 2003
Community Affirmative Action Committee
Michael Koplinka-Loehr - term expires December 31, 2001
Recreation Partnership
Peter Penniman
Nancy Schuler
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, said the Committee met February 14th and approved a resolution authorizing
the Department of Social Services to join a consortium to underwrite the development of a computerized
day-care subsidized management system. The Committee also approved several budget adjustments for
the Office for the Aging. Mrs. Schuler responded to question raised at a previous meeting about Foodnet
charging fees. She said that is not possible, but donations can be accepted. The Committee heard a brief
report about the West Nile Virus. Ms. Cole, Public Health Director, said she is waiting to see what the
State's approach will be. Ms. Dolan, Social Services Commissioner, provided updates and reports on the
dental program, staffing in the Department, and goals. Mrs. Schuler reported there was a presentation on
food pantries at the Homeless Task Force meeting and said she would share with the Board the
information that was distributed.
RESOLUTION NO. 17 - AUTHORIZING THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES TO
JOIN CONSORTIUM OF COUNTIES UNDERWRITING
CUSTOMIZATION OF COMPUTERIZED DAY CARE SUBSIDY
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the number of participants in and value of payments made through the day care
subsidy programs administered by the Department of Social Services have increased dramatically since
the institution of welfare reform, and
44
February 20, 2001
WHEREAS, the administrative complexity of said programs has increased significantly during
the same period, and
WHEREAS, New York State's Department of Labor, Office of Temporary and Disability
Assistance, and Office of Children and Family Services have no plans to provide computerized systems
to support the administration of these programs, and
WHEREAS, toward more efficient administration of its day care subsidy programs, the
Department of Social Services wishes to join a consortium of other counties which, in exchange for a
sizable reduction in software licensing costs, are paying an established vendor of day care subsidy
management systems to modify its existing computer programs to meet the requirements specific to New
York State, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That through
the State's Child Care Block Grant, funds are available to underwrite 100 percent of the development,
acquisition, and ongoing operational costs associated with such systems and that the Department of
Social Services be authorized to join the Consortium,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance shall be instructed to make the following
budget adjustments to his books for 2001:
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
REVENUE: A6010.43655 NYS Child Care Block Grant $20,000
APPROPRIATION: A6010.54442 Professional Services $20,000
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Economic and Workforce Development Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, said the Committee met today and had a full agenda. Ms. Skinner, Public
Information Officer, gave a presentation about a community web portal. Further discussions will be held
and a proposal will be forthcoming on whether or not the County should manage a web portal. The
Committee also heard a detailed presentation from Ms. Steiner, Public Library Director, about critical
incidents at the library. A request was approved and referred to the Budget and Capital Committee for
the library to hire security personnel. The economic development monthly report was provided by
Tompkins County Area Development which will also be shared with the Board. He reported that the
Workforce Development program teamed up with TCAD and had a significant impact on keeping H&E
Engineering in the County. The Company continues to grow but because of the efforts of these two
organizations, the Company chose to remain in the County. The Committee in addition reviewed and
approved a proposal by the City of Ithaca requesting a tax abatement for the central part of the City. The
proposal is aimed at increasing the density of the core of the City and County by using tax exemption as
the vehicle to do this. Initially this proposal was submitted to the Industrial Development Agency (IDA)
which said it wanted by each of the taxing organizations (school district, City, and County) before the
IDA can accept it. Mr. Stein noted that the school district and the City have approved the proposal as did
the Committee. It is now being forwarded to the Government Operations Committee for consideration
and then to the full Board. The Committee approved a resolution creating a position in Workforce
Development which will be placed on the March 6th Board agenda. Mr. Stein commented that the solar
panels at the library are now operational. He also provided an update on the electric and gas alliance.
The two-year contract expires in April. Bids were opened and two were received and the consultant is
reviewing them. The Committee approved a resolution for a master agreement to put out to all alliance
members and municipalities. He hopes the final agreement and resolution will be presented to the Board
at its next meeting.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(sl from the Public Safety Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Member, said the Committee met February 8th. The Committee discussed at
length the Alternatives to Incarceration programs and approved a resolution that will be presented to the
45
February 20, 2001
Board on March 61. The Committee heard a report from Mr. Beach, STOP -DWI Coordinator,
concerning the 2000 records for that program. The Assigned Counsel completed their year-end report
and said the program is down by about 100 cases which is approximately a $50,000 savings. Ms. Hughes
reported that Governor Pataki is presenting a proposal to the State Legislature to raise the reimbursement
rate for attorneys because it is at an unacceptably low rate. The Committee heard a report on the
electronic -monitoring program. Ms. Leinthall, Probation Director, briefly reported that a proposal will
be submitted to temporarily renovate some space in the Human Services Building to provide some
personal testing with respect to the felony drug court. Sheriff Meskill gave an update on the child
restraint seats program. Over 250 child seats were inspected in a four-month period. The Sheriffs
Department also reported that it received the speed -monitoring trailer. At the request of the Chair of the
Committee, she and Mrs. Schuler will undertake a review of all the advisory committees that report to the
Committee. The next meeting is March 81.
Mrs. Schuler announced the Drug Court Ceremony is February 271 at 3 p.m. at the Holiday Inn
and encouraged Board members to attend.
Mr. Lane spoke about his concern with the number of people that drive under the influence of
drugs and asked if the Committee was looking at providing more training for Sheriff Deputies. Mr.
Meskill said the training program is very expensive and that he only knows one Officer that is trained in
a seven -county region. Ms. Blanchard said she will bring Mr. Lane's concern to the Chair's attention.
RESOLUTION NO. 18 - TO CHARGE A FEE FOR TOMPKINS COUNTY SHERIFF'S
OFFICE CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Sheriff's Office performs routine Local Criminal Background
checks for employers and others including various branches of Government, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Sheriff's Office has policy and procedure in place to guide
employees with what information can be released and to whom it may be released to, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Sheriff's Office wants to accurately reflect the costs
associated with providing this service, now therefore be it
RESOLVED on recommendation of the Public Safety and Budget and Capital Committees, That
the Sheriff of Tompkins County can charge for the Tompkins County Sheriffs Office Criminal
Background Check a fee of $5.00 to become effective on March 31, 2001.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II 20
Report from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Proto, Member, said the Committee met February 15t. The Committee discussed and
approved proposed ATI programs, and the cash management and investment policy. The next Committee
meeting is March 1st
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported there was a diversity training held throughout the
County today. One session was for Department Heads and the other for employees. The Committee met
February 8th and most of the Committee business is reflected on the agenda this evening. The Committee
revisited the election and voter registration issue. These items will continue to be discussed and a
46
February 20, 2001
proposal submitted by the Election Commissioners. The Committee discussed its goals for this year and
will prioritize them at the next Committee meeting.
RESOLUTION NO. 19 - AUTHORIZING A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED LOCAL LAW
NO. 1 OF 2001- AMENDING CHAPTER 150, ARTICLE VI OF THE
TOMPKINS COUNTY CHARTER AND CODE TO IMPLEMENT
SECTION 459-C OF THE REAL PROPERTY TAX LAW DEALING
WITH DISABILITY TAX EXEMPTIONS
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present. Mr. Stein asked if there was a specific definition of what a disability is
according to this proposed law. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr said a definition does exist in law and can be easily
accessed in the Assessment Department.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That a public
hearing be held before the Board of Representatives in Board Chambers of the Tompkins County
Courthouse, 320 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, on Tuesday, March 6, 2001, at 5:30 o'clock in the
evening thereof concerning proposed Local Law No. 1 of 2001 - Amending Chapter 150, Article VI of
the Tompkins County Charter and Code to Implement Section 459-c of the Real Property Tax Law. At
such time and place all persons interested in the subject matter will be heard concerning the same,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board is hereby authorized and directed to place
proper notice of such public hearing in the official newspaper of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 20 - AUTHORIZING A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED LOCAL LAW
NO. 2 OF 2001- AMENDING CHAPTER 150 OF THE TOMPKINS
COUNTY CHARTER AND CODE BY ADDING NEW ARTICLE VII
AUTHORIZING PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION FOR LIVING
QUARTERS FOR PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS AGE 62 OR
OLDER UNDER REAL PROPERTY TAX LAW SECTION 469
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That a public
hearing be held before the Board of Representatives in Board Chambers of the Tompkins County
Courthouse, 320 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, on Tuesday, March 6, 2001, at 5:30 o'clock in the
evening thereof concerning proposed Local Law No. 2 of 2001 - Amending Chapter 150, Tompkins
County Charter and Code by Adding New Article VII Authorizing Property Tax Exemption for Living
Quarters for Parents and Grandparents Age 62 or Older Under Real Property Tax Law Section 469. At
such time and place all persons interested in the subject matter will be heard concerning the same,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board is hereby authorized and directed to place
proper notice of such public hearing in the official newspaper of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 21 — ADOPTION OF CASH MANAGEMENT AND INVESTMENT
POLICY (Postponed to March 6, 2001 and Adopted)
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Proto. Following a brief discussion, it was
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, to delete the following bullet in Appendix B of the
47
February 20, 2001
Cash Management and Investment Policy: "Obligations of domestic corporations rated in one of the two
highest rating categories by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating organization." A voice
vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 7 (Representatives Blanchard, Koplinka-Loehr, Lane, Schuler, Stein,
Todd, and Winch); Noes - 2 (Representatives Lalley and Proto); Excused - 6 (Representatives Davis,
Joseph, Kiefer, Mink, Penniman, and Totman). AMENDMENT FAILED.
Mr. Lane said he has several questions and because there are a number of Board members
excused; he asked if this could be postponed to the next meeting. Following a brief discussion, it was
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present, to postpone the resolution to March 6t. RESOLUTION POSTPONED.
RESOLUTION NO. 22 - REPLACEMENT OF POLICY 01-18, USE OF COUNTY
TELEPHONE - INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley. It was MOVED by Mrs. Schuler,
seconded by Mr. Winch, to change the word "should" to "shall" and add the words "and excluding
emergency use only by other County employees" in the paragraph 10 of the policy. A voice vote resulted
as follows: Ayes - 2 (Representatives Schuler and Winch); Noes - 7 (Representatives Blanchard,
Koplinka-Loehr, Lalley, Lane, Proto, Stein, and Todd); Excused - 6 (Representatives Davis, Joseph,
Kiefer, Mink, Penniman, and Totman). AMENDMENT FAILED.
A voice vote resulted as follows on the resolution: Ayes - 9 (Representatives Blanchard,
Koplinka-Loehr, Lalley, Lane, Proto, Schuler, Stein, Todd, and Winch); Noes - 0; Excused - 6
(Representatives Davis, Joseph, Kiefer, Mink, Penniman, and Totman). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Information Technology Services Department and the Information Management
Committee have identified the need to provide guidance and define responsibilities to staff, management,
and the Information Technology Services (ITS) Department regarding the use and administration of
County communications systems, and
WHEREAS, the final draft of the proposed policy and related procedures have been reviewed
and found to be acceptable by the Information Management Committee, Department Heads, and the
Government Operations Committee, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the existing
Policy 01-18, Use of County Telephone be replaced with Policy 01-18, Use of County Communications
Systems and is hereby adopted.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 23 - AUTHORIZATION FOR MEMBERSHIP - NEW YORK STATE
ASSOCIATION OF SELF-INSURED COUNTIES - RISK
MANAGEMENT
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Risk Management program is seeking continued membership
in the New York State Association of Self -Insured Counties (NYSASIC) at a cost of $50 per year, and
WHEREAS, the membership in NYSASIC has historically served as a valuable resource for the
Risk Management program at a time of rising insurance premiums, and
WHEREAS, membership has provided helpful information exchanges and creative liability
solutions for New York State County Risk Managers and private industry experts, and
48
February 20, 2001
WHEREAS, such membership was inadvertently left off Resolution No. 264 of 2000, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the Risk
Management program is authorized to once again join NYSASIC,
RESOLVED, further, That no additional funding is required.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 24 - CREATION OF POSITION, TRANSFER OF STRATEGIC
TOURISM PLANNING BOARD PROGRAM, AND BUDGET
ADJUSTMENT — COUNTY ADMINISTRATION
AND CLERK OF THE BOARD
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Proto. Mr. Stein said he has had discussions
with both Departments concerning the movement of funds from room tax allocated in the budget for staff
purposes. The understanding is the program will be administered through Administration this year and at
the time of budget discussions for 2002 this program will be reviewed again and could be transferred
back to the Board office.
A voice vote resulted as follows on the resolution: Ayes - 9; Noes - 0; Excused - 6
(Representatives Davis, Joseph, Kiefer, Mink, Penniman, and Totman). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the 2001 Adopted Budget authorized an additional position in the Clerk of the
Board's budget to address the additional demands created by the Strategic Tourism Planning Board and
as the growing need for support to the County Board of Representatives, and
WHEREAS, since the 2001 Budget was adopted, there have been staffmg changes in both the
Clerk of the Board's office and the County Administrator's office, and
WHEREAS, these changes have prompted a revisit to the original intention behind the 2001
staffing configurations and assignment of duties for these two departments, and
WHEREAS, it is now the intention of the County Administrator and the Clerk of the Board to
reassign tasks to the County Administrator's office related to the Strategic Tourism Planning Board and
to fulfill the need for increased administrative support in the County Administrator's office, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the position
of Secretary to the County Administrator (63/335), Grade 13 (M), standard workweek 40.0 hours be
created in the office of the County Administrator effective immediately,
RESOLVED, further, That the following Budget Adjustment be made between the office of the
County Administrator and the Clerk of the Board related to staff support for the Strategic Tourism
Planning Board,
APPROPRIATIONS
A1040.51000
A1040.58000
A1230.51000
A1230.58000
REVENUES
A1040.42770 Clerk, Board of Representatives Other Revenues ($22,850)
A1230.52770 County Administration Other Revenues $22,850
RESOLVED, further, That this change has no overall fiscal impact on the local share of the
Adopted Budget.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Clerk, Board of Representatives
Clerk, Board of Representatives
County Administration
County Administration
Regular Pay
Fringes
Regular Pay
Fringes
($18,280)
($ 4,570)
$18,280
$ 4,570
49
February 20, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 25 - TO AMEND RESOLUTION NO. 15 OF JANUARY 18, 2000 -
DETERMNATION AND CERTIFICATION OF COUNTY
CLERK'S ALLOWANCE - ANNUAL EXPENSES FOR
ADMINISTERING MORTGAGE TAX (Amended by Res. No. 25 of
2002)
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 262 of the Tax Law, recording officers are entitled to receive all
their necessary expenses for purposes of administering mortgage taxes in their offices on approval and
allowance by the State Tax Commission, and
WHEREAS, the State Tax Commission, by resolution duly adopted July 1, 1946, did determine
that such mortgage tax expenses be approved at the amount certified to the State Tax Commission by the
County Board of Representatives provided it is a reasonable and necessary allowance for such expenses,
and
WHEREAS, the County Clerk has conducted a cost analysis and has recommended that the
allowance for mortgage tax expenses be increased from $53,963 per annum to $56,895 per annum, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the sum of
$56,895 per annum be, and the same hereby is, determined as a reasonable and necessary allowance of
the Tompkins County Clerk, the recording officer of the County of Tompkins, for the hire of clerks and
assistants and other expenses to assist in the administration of the mortgage recording tax law in her
office, and that said sum of $56,895 is hereby certified to the State Tax Commission as the reasonable
and necessary allowance for such expenses,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board of Representatives is hereby directed to send a
certified copy of the resolution, with her original signature thereon, to the State Tax Commission,
RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall take effect immediately.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, said the Committee met February 13th and discussed several issues. The
Committee learned that when Stewart Airbase was leased that resulted in the State receiving $2.5 million
This funding is now available to airports throughout New York State in the form of grants. Tompkins
County is a recipient of one of those grants which the Board will be approving this evening. Mr. Lane
also briefly reviewed the remaining resolutions on the agenda this evening. The Committee authorized
the Airport Manager to look at some land that seems to be available in the area. There was discussion
about the Binghamton Airport and the consultant recommending it go forward with trying to take away
business at the Tompkins County Airport and Elmira Airport. The Highway Manager reported on the
increase in fuel prices, which have more than doubled for diesel and gasoline since last July. In addition,
the Committee also heard a report on Household Hazardous Waste collections. There have been three
collection days to date and several residents have brought materials in to be disposed of totaling over
35,000 pounds. Mr. Lane also reported the sale of recyclables last year was very favorable. The Town
of Newfield Supervisor attended the meeting and discussed the status of repairs to the footbridge in the
Town which is located at the Beach Road Bridge. The Committee approved the issuance of Request for
Proposals for the examination of the Biggs B building with respect to whether or not a capital project will
be needed for that building.
50
February 20, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 26 - AUTHORIZING ACCEPTANCE OF AN AIR '99 GRANT FROM
THE NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
(NYSDOT) - MARKETING INITIATIVE TO ENHANCE AIRLINE
SERVICE AND AIRPORT USE - TOMPKINS COUNTY AIRPORT
(PIN 3902.51)
MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) has offered a grant
under the AIR '99 Grant and Loan program to market the airport with a view to increasing airport usage
and enhancing airline service, and
WHEREAS, the AIR '99 Grant and Loan program is a state initiative designed to improve airport
infrastructure and airline competition, and
WHEREAS, said grant may be used to offset some of the costs associated with designing and
putting in place a new logo and airport name, and
WHEREAS, the grant represents approximately forty-three percent (43%) of the airport's
marketing effort during 2001, it being as follows:
Local Share (57%) $55,000
State Share (43%) $35,000
Total $90,000
now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee That the NYSDOT grant of
$35,000 be and hereby is accepted and that the County Administrator is authorized to execute the
required documents.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 27 - AUTHORIZING A SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH C & S
ENGINEERS, INC. FOR ADDITIONAL SERVICES IN
CONNECTION WITH THE PARALLEL TAXIWAY RELOCATION
- TOMPKINS COUNTY AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, on March 16, 1999, the County approved an agreement with C&S Engineers for
Administration and Inspection Services in connection with the relocation of the 'Parallel Taxiway for
$113,651, and
WHEREAS, the contractor, Suit Kote Corporation, exceeded the total time allowed for
completion, resulting in the need for additional administration and inspection services over and above
those detailed in the original agreement with C&S Engineers, and
WHEREAS, liquidated damages have been assessed and withheld from monies due the
contractor as a result of contractor's failure to complete the project within the specified time, and
WHEREAS, said liquidated damages offset the additional engineering costs so that there is no
additional costs to the County, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the supplemental
agreement which increases the fee by $12,000 to a total cost of $125,651 be and hereby is approved and
that the County Administrator is authorized to execute said supplemental agreement.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
51
February 20, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 28 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE EXTENSION OF HIGHWAY
SNOW AND ICE AGREEMENT WITH THE STATE OF NEW YORK
MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins has heretofore entered into an agreement with the State of
New York pursuant to Section 12 of the Highway Law relating to control of snow and ice on State
highways in towns and incorporated villages, and
WHEREAS, Sections 7 and 10 of said agreement respectively provide a method of modifying the
map of affected State highways and for annually updating the estimated expenditures, and
WHEREAS, it would be in the best interest of the County to extend said agreement currently set
to expire June 30, 2001, as modified and updated, for an additional one-year period, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That an extension of said
snow and ice agreement is hereby authorized for a period of one year from July 1, 2001 through June 30,
2002, and the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized and directed to execute such extension
on behalf of the County,
RESOLVED, further, That the County is interested in continuing its relationship with the State
for one year, the County is concerned about fuel prices and subsequent adjustments and feels that needs
to be addressed on an annual basis.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 29 - AUTHORIZATION TO ISSUE DESIGN APPROVAL - NORTH
TRIPHAMMER ROAD RECONSTRUCTION AND BRIDGE
REPLACEMENT - PIN 3752.28 (BIN 3314360)
MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, Resolution Nos. 165 and 167 of 1997 authorized agreements between Tompkins
County and the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), for the design of
reconstruction of North Triphammer Road and the replacement of the Triphammer Road Bridge over
Gulf Creek (BIN 3314360) in the Town of Lansing, and
WHEREAS, the preliminary project design has. been developed in conformance with the
applicable environmental laws, design standards, and accepted engineering practice; all exceptions to
accepted design standards have been thoroughly analyzed and their retention adequately justified; all
permits have been identified and will be secured prior to letting; public participation has been
encouraged and included in the project development processes; and project costs are reasonable, and
WHEREAS, completion of all procedural requirements needed prior to design approval of the
project has been certified by the design consultant and the County Senior Civil Engineer, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Chair of the
Tompkins County Board of Representatives be and hereby is authorized to execute documents granting
Design Approval whereby completion of project final design shall be authorized.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE I1-20
RESOLUTION NO. 30 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE RIGHT-OF-WAY FUNDING
AGREEMENT WITH NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION - NORTH TRIPHAMMER ROAD BRIDGE
(BIN 3314360) AND HIGHWAY RECONSTRUCTION
52
February 20, 2001
MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, a Project for the North Triphammer Road Bridge over Gulf Creek (BIN 3314360)
and Highway Reconstruction, P.I.N. 375228, (the Project) in the Town of Lansing, is eligible for funding
under Title 23 U.S. Code, as amended, that calls for the apportionment of the costs of such program to be
borne at the ratio of 80 percent non-federal funds, and
WHEREAS, Resolution Nos. 165 and 176 adopted August 1997 approved the Project and
authorized execution of an agreement with the New York State Department of Transportation
(NYSDOT) regarding administration and funding of Scoping, Design (Phases I -VI) and ROW
Incidentals, and
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins desires to advance the above project by making a
commitment of 100 percent of the non-federal share of the costs of Right -of -Way (ROW) Acquisitions,
and
WHEREAS, in order to expedite advancement of the Project and realize potential total project
cost reductions, the New York State Department of Transportation requires the County to appropriate
one hundred percent (100%) of the project costs and then file for reimbursement of eligible costs, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Tompkins County
Board of Representatives hereby approves the above -subject project and authorizes the County of
Tompkins to pay in the first instance one hundred percent (100%) of the federal and non-federal share of
the costs of ROW Acquisition work for the subject Project or portions thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the sum of $270,000 is hereby made available within account
HZ5103.59239.53.01, Triphammer Capital Project Account, to cover the cost of participation in the
ROW Acquisition phase of the Project,
RESOLVED, further, That in the event the full federal and non-federal share costs of the project
exceeds the amount appropriated above, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives shall convene as
soon as possible to appropriate said excess amount immediately upon the notification of the New York
State Department of Transportation thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Highway Manager be and is hereby authorized
to execute all necessary Agreements, certifications and reimbursement requests for Federal Aid and/or
Marchiselli Aid on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the New York State Department of
Transportation in connection with the advancement or approval of the Project and providing for the
administration of the Project and the municipality's first -instance funding of Project costs and permanent
funding "The local share of federal -aid and State -aid eligible Project costs and all Project costs within
appropriations therefor that are not so eligible",
RESOLVED, further, 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,
RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall take effect immediately.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 31- AUDIT OF FINAL PAYMENT - HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS
WASTE FACILITY - TRI -CITIES TEMPERATURE CONTROL
MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Tri -Cities Temperature Control, Inc., has completed their mechanical contract for
the Household Hazardous Waste Facility Project, now therefore be it
53
February 20, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the following claim
against the County of Tompkins, be and hereby is audited by the Board of Representatives:
Vendor Payment Request Account No. Amount
Tri -Cities Temperature 5 (final) HH8101.81.68 $2,345.65
Control, Inc.
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be and hereby is authorized and directed to pay
said claim from Account No. HH8101.59239.81.68.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Planning Committee
Mr. Winch, Member, reported the Committee met February 14th. He explained why the
resolution was withdrawn concerning the Downtown Ithaca Partnership; it was felt that more information
was needed. He reported the Chair of the Planning Federation attended the meeting and briefly discussed
their activities and the problems they have been having with maintaining a quorum. The Committee is in
the process of reviewing the Commercial Center Revitalization Program and one of the goals is trying to
get more municipalities involved with using the program. The Committee also approved the bylaws for
the Water Resources Council.
RESOLUTION NO. 32 - ACCEPTANCE OF SNOWMOBILE TRAIL GRANT -
AUTHORIZATION TO CONTRACT FOR TRAIL MAINTENANCE
- BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
MOVED by Mr. Winch, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the County has been awarded a Snowmobile Trail Grant from the New York State
Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) for the purpose of funding trail
maintenance for the trails managed by the Dryden Caroline Drifters, and
WHEREAS, the funds will be used by the Dryden Caroline Drifters, to maintain 125 miles of
trails in Tompkins County, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the County hereby accepts
the Snowmobile Trail Grant in the amount of $9,875 from the New York State OPRHP,
RESOLVED, further, That the County be authorized to enter into an agreement with Dryden
Caroline Drifters, for the purpose of maintaining trails in accordance with the requirements of the New
York State OPRHP,
RESOLVED, further, That the following adjustment be made to the 2001 Budget:
Revenue: A8029.43959 State Aid $9,875
Appropriation: A8029.54400 Program Expenses $9,875
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-1
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, said the Committee has not met. The Committee will meet February 22nd at
10:15 a.m. Several people have been invited to give reports including the Election Commissioners,
Tompkins County Municipal Officials Association representatives, City of Ithaca representatives, Stuart
54
February 20, 2001
Stein, and John Marcham. There will be discussion as to whether or not the Committee can move
forward with reapportionment before the Election in November.
Report from the Communications Capital Projects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, said the Committee has not met. The next meeting will be February 27th at
noon and will be discussing the location of the 911 dispatch center. She reminded Board members that
this Friday at 5 p.m. there will be a presentation by the New York State Technology Enterprise
Corporation, the communications consultants. In addition, she reported that she sent out a letter to all
Town Supervisors today outlining the procedure the County intends to follow in advancing this project.
Report from the Intermunicipal Planning Committee
It was announced that the next meeting is February 23rd at 1 p.m. and will be discussing the
Communication Radio Towers.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Mr. Lane announced the Committee will also meet February 23`d.
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Tompkins Quality -of -Life 2000 Committee
continues to meet and work on finalizing a report.
Approval of Minutes
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, and unanimously adopted by
voice vote by members present, to approve the minutes of the January 19 and February 6, 2001, meetings
as submitted.
Recess
Mr. Lane declared recess at 7:47 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 7:55 p.m.
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by
voice vote by members present, to hold an executive session to discuss contract negotiations. An
executive session was held from 7:55 p.m. and returned to open session at 8:12 p.m.
Adjournment
On motion, the meeting adjourned at 8:12 p.m.
55
March 6, 2001
Regular Meeting
Public Hearing - Local Law No. 1 of 2001 — Amending Chapter 150, Article VI of the Tompkins
County Charter and Code to Implement Section 459-c of the Real Property Tax Law Dealing with
Disability Tax Exemptions
Chair Mink called the first public hearing to order at 5:30 p.m. concerning Local Law No. 1 of
2001 — Amending Chapter 150, Article VI of the Tompkins County Charter and Code to Implement
Section 459-c of the Real Property Tax Law Dealing with Disability Tax Exemptions. Chair Mink asked
if anyone wished to speak. No one wished to speak and the public hearing was closed at 5:31 p.m.
Public Hearing — Local Law No. 2 of 2001 — Amending Chapter 150 of the Tompkins County
Charter and Code by Adding a New Article VII Authorizing Property Tax Exemption for Living
Quarters for Parents and Grandparents Age 62 or Older Under Real Property Tax Law Section
469
Chair Mink called the second public hearing to order at 5:31 p.m. concerning Local Law No. 2 of
2001 — Amending Chapter 150 of the Tompkins County Charter and Code by Adding a New Article VII
Authorizing Property Tax Exemption for Living Quarters for Parents and Grandparents Age 62 or Older
under Real Property Tax Law Section 469. Chair Mink asked if anyone wished to speak. No one wished
to speak and the public hearing was closed at 5:32 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 14 Representatives. Excused: 1 (Representative Todd).
Presentation of Proclamation
Chair Mink presented a proclamation declaring the month of March, 2001, to be Social Work
Month in Tompkins County.
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca, spoke of the announcement by Representative Stein that he will not
be seeking re-election for the Board. Ms. Gougakis acknowledged Mr. Stein for the many years he has
dedicated to the residents of Tompkins County and the many contributions he has made. Ms. Gougakis
said he has been a very good representative to the public and wished him well. She spoke of the
Tompkins County Public Library and said she has difficulty concentrating there because of many
disturbances and noise. She said she is not aware of any violence that is happening there, but feels the
Library should hire only a person who will also enforce the Library as a quiet place where kids don't run
around screaming.
James Skaley, Advocates for Sensible Area Planning (ASAP) member, spoke regarding the
proposed communication towers project. He said the members voted that the County reconsider its action
and involve the towns. He said ASAP does support upgrading and enhancing the public safety
communication system. He said ASAP also would like to see the towns involved and understands this is
a very expensive project that has potential involvement with the statewide system.
Mac Travis, Member of the Ithaca Downtown Partnership and a real-estate developer, spoke
concerning the tax abatement proposal on the agenda. He spoke of the rent charged for downtown and
56
March 6, 2001
collegetown space and said the tax abatement proposal will help their long-range plan see fruition. He
urged the County to view this as an investment rather than a loss of revenue.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Representative, spoke of the recent snow emergencies, and thanked the
employees of the various public works departments and emergency medical services for their hard work
and diligence over the last few days.
Mrs. Schuler, District No. 4 Representative, reported she had been contacted by Post Office box
holders at the downtown Ithaca Post Office regarding lack of access to their boxes when the Post Office
was closed. She reports that she had spoken with Dan Lamb from Congressman Hinchey's office and that
now Post Office box holders have 24-hour access to their boxes with the purchase of a non -duplicating
key.
Chair's Report and Appointments
Ms. Mink, Chair, wished Jeanne Boodley and Craig Hopkins, former employees of the Public
Works Department, well in their employment with the Welliver McGuire Company.
Chair Mink made the following appointments:
Chamber of Commerce
Stuart Stein, Delegate
Barbara Mink, Alternate
Finger Lakes Library System
Stuart Stein, Delegate
Cooperative Extension Service
Stuart Stein, Alternate
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher reported George McClure has been hired for the position of Director of Information
Technology Services. He thanked Representatives Lalley and Kiefer for their assistance in this position
search. Mr. Whicher also reported Norma Jayne has begun employment in the Department of
Administration.
Report from the County Attorney
Jonathan Wood, Deputy County Attorney, reported on the new Solid Waste Center contract. He
reported there will be an improvement in the paper line that should increase capacity by approximately
100 percent. He said this is expected to be a major improvement for the Facility.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires had no report.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion of the appropriate committee chairmen and duly seconded and unanimously adopted
by voice vote by members present, the following resolutions were added to the agenda:
57
March 6, 2001
Ratification of Bargaining Agreement Civil Service Employees Association, Blue Collar Unit
Authorization for the County of Tompkins to Enter an Occupancy Agreement with Tompkins
Community Action
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
No resolutions were withdrawn from the agenda.
Approval of Resolution(s) and Appointments Under the Consent Agenda
On motion of the appropriate committee chairmen and duly seconded and unanimously adopted
by voice vote by members present, the following resolutions and appointments were approved under the
Consent Agenda:
RESOLUTION NO. 33 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS — ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Ms. Davis, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present, under the Consent Agenda.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the
Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget adjustments on his books:
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE
Environmental Health (#14)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
4090 43489 Other State Aid
4090 43489 Other State Aid
4090 43489 Other State Aid
4090 43489 Other State Aid
4090 43489 Other State Aid
4090 43489 Other State Aid
4090 43489 Other State Aid
4090 43489 Other State Aid
4090 43489 Other State Aid
4090 43489 Other State Aid
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Appointment(s)
$13,249
$ 1,700
$ 986
$ 300
$ 500
$ 1,000
$ 700
$ 100
$ 200
$ 3,312
4090
4090
4090
4090
4090
4090
4090
4090
4090
4090
51000
52206
52214
52230
54330
54333
54440
54412
54414
58800
Salary
Computer Equipment
Office Furnishings
Software
Printing
Educ. And Promotion
Program Expense
Travel/Training
Local Mileage
Fringe Pool
Hillview Road Landfill Citizens Advisory Committee
Dooley Kiefer - County Board Representative; term expires December 31, 2001
Tompkins County Library Board of Trustees
Rajindra Aneja - term expires December 31, 2003
Tompkins County Youth Board
Mary Agnes Hamilton - Village of Cayuga Heights Representative - term expires December 31,
2003
Greater Ithaca Activities Board
Susanne Davis - Board member Representative - term expires December 31, 2001
58
March 6, 2001
Further appointments were made following the report from the Planning Committee.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee met briefly before this meeting and approved the
resolution that was added to the agenda.
RESOLUTION NO. 34 - AUTHORIZATION FOR THE COUNTY OF TOMPKINS TO
ENTER AN OCCUPANCY AGREEMENT WITH TOMPKINS
COMMUNITY ACTION
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Winch. Mr. Proto said he cannot support this
resolution because although he supports Tompkins Community Action and its programs, he does not feel
this is an appropriate use of County funds. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 11, Noes - 3
(Representatives Kiefer, Proto, and Totman); Excused - 1 (Representative Todd). RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Tompkins Community Action performs valuable services for the County, and
WHEREAS, the County wishes to support their purchase of a building, and
WHEREAS, there are precedents for this kind of assistance to non-profit agencies, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Representatives authorized bonding for this project by Resolution No.
253 of 2000, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the
County enter an occupancy agreement with Tompkins Community Action,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or designee be authorized to sign
documents related to this contract.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Economic and Workforce Development
Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting; however,
there has been a lot of activity taking place surrounding the electric power program.
RESOLUTION NO. 35 - REQUESTING NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATION AUTHORIZING
AN INCREASE IN THE HOTEL OR MOTEL ROOM TAX IN
TOMPKINS COUNTY FROM THREE PERCENT TO FIVE
PERCENT AND ENDORSING 2001 LEGISLATIVE BILLS
S2091/A3473
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Joseph. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 12,
Noes - 1 (Representative Totman); Abstentions - 1 (Representative Schuler); Excused - 1 (Representative
Todd). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Section 1202-f of New York State Tax Law authorizes the Board of Representatives
to impose a hotel or motel room tax in an amount not to exceed three percent of the per diem rental rate
for each hotel or motel room, and
WHEREAS, funds received from the hotel or motel tax are used to enhance tourism and cultural
activities in the County, and
WHEREAS, increased funding for tourism and cultural activities would benefit Tompkins
County and its residents and support economic development, now therefore be it
59
March 6, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives requests that the New York State Legislature adopt
legislation amending Section 1202-f of the New York State Tax Law to provide that the rate of the hotel
or motel tax in Tompkins County "shall not exceed five percent",
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives endorses Legislative
Bills S2091/A3473 in the 2001 State Legislature entitled "AN ACT to amend the tax law, in relation to
the rate of hotel or motel tax in Tompkins County",
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board is directed to forward a copy of this resolution
to Assemblyman Luster, Senator Seward and Senator Kuhl.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 36 - APPROPRIATION FROM CONTINGENT FUND - SECURITY
GUARD AT THE TOMPKINS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Proto.
Mr. Winch said he thinks when people are not following rules they should be asked to leave and
that this duty should be incorporated into one of the positions that were added when the new Library was
created.
Ms. Davis responded saying this has been revisited and staff will be trained on how to deal with
aggressive members of the public. She noted the Library has experienced a dramatic increase in the
number of users, and said this request was made last year but was cut during the budget process.
Ms. Blanchard stated staff training in this area is extremely important. She feels comfortable
approving $17,000 as a stop -gap amount until staff receives its training.
Mr. Stein said this request was made in response to immediate problems that are occurring at the
Library, and there may be better ways to handle these problems with more time. The question of hiring
someone who would have more duties than just a security guard has been raised and is one of the areas
that will be explored. He also feels it is necessary to respond to this immediate problem, and it would be
appropriate to approve this as a stop -gap measure for this year.
Mr. Totman disagreed with spending any additional funds at this time. He feels that approval of
these funds could precipitate requests from other departments for security officers.
Mr. Proto understands concerns that have been raised; however, he feels this should be approved,
given the details that are outlined in the resolution.
Mr. Lane agreed to support this as a temporary measure. He feels there are many vulnerable
populations that visit the Library and he does not want to see them avoid using the Library.
A short roll call vote on the resolutions resulted as follows: Ayes — 11; Noes — 3 (Representatives
Joseph, Totman, and Winch); Excused - 1 (Representative Todd). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives is responsible for furnishing funds
for the equipment, maintenance, and operation of the library (City Charter Article XIII), and
WHEREAS, the Library Board of Trustees is responsible for the management and operation of
the library, and
WHEREAS, the Library Board of Trustees has reviewed the level and number of critical
incidents in the new library, and
60
March 6, 2001
WHEREAS, the Library Board of Trustees has concluded that a security guard is necessary in
order to ensure the safety and security of library staff and the library patrons, and
WHEREAS, the Library Board of Trustees has examined its 2001 operating budget and
concluded that it does not have sufficient funds for this expense, and
WHEREAS, the Library Board of Trustees has approved a resolution asking the Board of
Representatives for funding for such security guard for one year from April 2001 — March 2002 with one-
time funding from the county contingency budget, and
WHEREAS, the Library Board of Trustees will continue to monitor and report back to the
County Board on a monthly basis regarding the effectiveness of the security guard, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development and Budget and
Capital Committees, That $17,000 be appropriated from the Contingent Fund to the Tompkins County
Public Library for a security guard for 2001,
RESOLVED, further, That the Library Director and staff undertake additional training to better
understand and address the dynamics of challenging patrons in public spaces and take steps to meet those
challenges.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE I1-20
RESOLUTION NO. 37 - TAX INCENTIVE PROGRAM FOR MULTI -STORY DEVELOPMENT
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard.
Mr. Lane said he opposes this because he would like the IDA to continue to maintain a
conservative posture. He said he also does not agree with the IDA having the ability to make a decision
for all taxing authorities. He said the County represents the entire County, where the City of Ithaca and
the Ithaca City School District support the City. He does not feel that residents in the outlying towns
should financially support new development in the City of Ithaca.
Ms. Kiefer said she appreciates the map clarifying the area included in the abatement and the
different maximum heights; she had hoped to receive an answer for the rationale for having maximum tax
abatement the higher a building is. She also expressed concern for what might happen to the Library
solar panels, and said there is no message from the City as to how they will deal with those panels. Ms.
Kiefer said she does support returning to the IDA's usual abatement of 50 percent.
Ms. Kiefer recalled discussion about the Memorandum of Understanding with the City was
undergoing work and wondered if there could be language added to acknowledge the need for solar
access in that area. Ms. Mink said although it was not included, the County was given verbal assurances
of this. Ms. Kiefer stated that she very supportive of denser development in the core part of the City and
that what happens in the City is very important to everyone. She thinks the argument that this is to
combat horizontal sprawl is fine but feels this would be vertical sprawl and may result in the loss of a
more human -scale look to the downtown area.
Ms. Blanchard stated that she is very supportive of this as Tompkins County has just embarked
on the Vital Communities Program. She mentioned during a recent workshop a speaker talked about the
importance of having a tax incentive that would focus on increasing density and strengthening the urban
core.
Mr. Totman agreed with Ms. Blanchard and said he is in complete support of this proposal. He
said if things aren't done to encourage development, it is going to get worse and people will end up
paying more.
Mr. Penniman said he views this as making a big commitment that will result in a great benefit.
He has concerns over zoning issues but supports the City in handling those issues.
61
March 6, 2001
Mr. Winch said he will support this resolution because TCAD will work closely with the rural
municipalities. He said he sees this as a way that service jobs will be created and would very much like to
be a part of turning around jobs going south. Mr. Winch did express concern about the soil in relation to
the height of the buildings and questioned whether there is soil to support the buildings and questioned
whether soil investigations have been done. He also spoke of parking and asked how the City plans to
address parking issues.
Mr. Joseph challenged the notion that this is providing a benefit to the City at the expense of rural
municipalities. He said this is to combat sprawl and that it is important to see this as a policy that is good
for the County as a whole.
Ms. Davis said her district encompasses the Library and they care very much about the solar
panels.
Mr. Lane questioned whether this would be the impediment that will keep a building from going
up. He feels there is nothing wrong with encouraging higher density in the City of Ithaca but does not
agree with asking residents outside the City to shoulder some of the costs.
Ms. Mink said she agrees with Mr. Joseph, but noted that we are changing the uses of IDA tax
abatement bonds to now include residential and retail.
A voice vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes — 12; Noes - 2 (Representatives Lane
and Kiefer); Excused - 1 (Representative Todd). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, sprawl is a nationally -recognized environmental problem, and
WHEREAS, concentrated development is one means of reducing and combating sprawl, and
WHEREAS, taller buildings, which are necessary for denser development, are more expensive to
construct than single -story suburban structures, and
WHEREAS, property taxes in Tompkins County and the City of Ithaca are a major expense for
the developers of real estate, and
WHEREAS, reducing the tax burden on new construction can help stimulate denser development
in the built up commercial areas of the City, towns and villages of Tompkins County, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency has the authority under New
York State Law to abate property taxes for a variety of uses, and
WHEREAS, a tax incentive program has been reviewed and approved by the City of Ithaca
Common Council at its meeting on July 5, 2000, and
WHEREAS, the Ithaca City School District Board of Education also reviewed, endorsed and
supported the same tax incentive program at its meeting on December 19, 2000, and
WHEREAS, the tax incentive program requests that the Tompkins County Industrial
Development Agency provide a temporary and partial abatement of real property tax for specific types of
development in specific areas of the City, and
WHEREAS, such an abatement program would result in no net loss of current tax revenue and
would contribute to new development and rehabilitation of multi -story buildings, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development and
Government Operations Committees, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives does hereby
endorse and support a program of tax abatements for the County portion of the tax bill that reflects the
current abatement program offered by the Industrial Development Agency for those areas as shown on the
map on file, an area which encompasses the downtown central business district, the West State Street
corridor, the West End and Inlet Island,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives requests that the
Tompkins County Area Development work closely with our rural municipalities in developing a similar
tax incentive program for those areas,
62
March 6, 2001
RESOLVED, further, That this program shall be subject to a five-year sunset provision at which
time it will be reviewed by the Industrial Development Agency to ascertain its impact and its success in
achieving the goals of the program, such review to be reported to the County Board.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 38 - CREATION OF POSITION AND BUDGET TRANSFER -
EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING DIRECTOR - WORKFORCE
DEVELOPMENT
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Governor Pataki announced in August 2000 that local workforce boards must
separate programs from policy and board staff cannot operate Workforce Investment Act or Welfare -to -
Work programs, and
WHEREAS, the Employment and Training Director II position will continue to provide oversight
and monitoring of the One -Stop Operator, partner programs as they pertain to the Workforce
Development System, as well as provide assistance to the Workforce Development Board, and
WHEREAS, the creation of the new Employment and Training Director position will provide
oversight for the Workforce Investment Act and Welfare -to -Work Program as well as provide supervision
for the One -Stop Center, and
WHEREAS, one hundred percent (100%) funding for this position is provided by a Federal grant,
and such position will not continue to be filled should Federal funding no longer be available, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That one position of Employment and Training Director (86/189), labor grade 0 (15), competitive class,
40 hours per week, be created effective immediately,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is authorized to make the following budget
transfer:
From: CD6290.54400 Training $38,120
To: CD6290.51000 Regular Pay $30,742
.58800 Fringes 7,378
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 39 - APPROVAL OF CONTRACT WITH ADVANTAGE ENERGY
FOR THE PURCHASE OF ELECTRICITY BY THE COUNTY,
AND APPROVAL OF A MASTER AGREEMENT TO OFFER
ELECTRICITY TO THE MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC AND GAS
ALLIANCE
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance (MEGA) was formed to include Tompkins,
Tioga, Broome, Otsego, and other counties, as well as municipalities, businesses, and residential
customers, to collectively purchase electric and natural gas to achieve the greatest savings, and
WHEREAS, any member of MEGA has the right to make a choice to continue as a member of
MEGA, or to leave, and other non-residential or residential customers will be offered the opportunity to
join, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Finance Department (Purchasing Division) advertised a Bid
for provision of electricity to members of MEGA, and
63
March 6, 2001
WHEREAS, two (2) companies responded to the Bid and Advantage Energy, Inc., was the lowest
bidder who also offers the most savings to MEGA members, and
WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of County government and its taxpayers to contract with the
supplier (Advantage Energy, Inc.), and further, that it is important to contract with the selected supplier as
soon as possible because of the rapid price fluctuation of electricity, and the expiration of the current
agreement with another electricity supplier, and
WHEREAS, the consultant to the County and the Alliance has recommended the selection of
Advantage Energy, Inc., to be the supplier of electricity under this new contract, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the County Administrator or his designee is authorized to execute a master agreement with
Advantage Energy, Inc., for the period March 15, 2001 through March 31, 2003, with an option to renew
for three additional one-year terms subject to mutual agreement and further savings.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chair, reported the committee met prior to this meeting to amend a resolution that
appears on the agenda. The next meeting will be March 8th at noon.
RESOLUTION NO. 40 - APPROPRIATION FROM ATI CONTINGENT POOL —
FACILITATED VICTIM/OFFENDER INTERACTIONS —
COMMUNITY DISPUTE RESOLUTION CENTER; LIFE SKILLS
COMPETENCY — YOUTH ADVOCACY PROGRAM; JAIL BASED
TREATMENT PROGRAM — ALCOHOLISM COUNCIL OF
TOMPKINS COUNTY; CRIMINAL JUSTICE CENTER LITERACY
SERVICES — LITERACY VOLUNTEERS (Amended by Res. No. 155 of
2001)
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler.
It was MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Totman, to amend the resolution by deleting an
allocation in the amount of $83,475 for OAR.
Mr. Proto asked for an update on the transitional -housing proposal. Mr. Totman reported the
Public Safety Committee voted it down as it was presented. He stated there were a number of programs
that were in the pool but not enough money to pass them all. Mr. Proto asked if there are any other
programs that are going to propose transitional housing as an alternative -to -incarceration initiative. Mr.
Totman responded not at this time. He said the Committee asked the Criminal Justice Director to
prioritize the ATI programs and this resolution reflects her response to that request.
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto to table this resolution indefinitely. MOTION FAILED DUE TO
LACK OF A SECOND.
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto to include the transitional -housing program in the amount of
$84,000. MOTION FAILED DUE TO LACK OF A SECOND.
A voice vote on the amendment resulted as follows: Ayes - 14, Noes - 0, Excused - 1
(Representative Todd). MOTION CARRIED.
A roll call vote on the resolution as amended resulted as follows: Ayes — 13; Noes — 1
(Representative Proto); Excused —1 (Representative Todd). RESOLUTION APPROVED.
64
March 6, 2001
WHEREAS, Tompkins County, in the 2001 County Budget, authorized the creation of a variety
of programs designed to alleviate the need for jail expansion, and
WHEREAS, some of the programs were placed in a contingency pool for further consideration
and development, and
WHEREAS, these five programs are now ready for implementation under the direction of the
Community Justice Director, and
WHEREAS, the funding of these programs will enhance the overall goal of jail population
reduction, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety and Budget and Capital Committees, That
the County appropriate $158,645 from the ATI Pool Contingency Fund to the ATI Budget and the County
Administrator or his designee is directed to execute contracts with the designated agencies to provide
these services.
FROM: 1990.44400 Contingency Fund $158,645
TO: 3160.54400 Program Expense:
CDRC-Facilitated Victim/Offender Interactions $ 40,177
YAP -Life Skills Competency $ 29,543
ACTC/AH In -Jail Treatment $ 28,125
Literacy Volunteers -Education Services $ 60,800
TOTAL $158,645
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, had no report.
RESOLUTION NO. 41- AMENDMENT OF RESOLUTION NO. 14 OF 2000 - REQUEST FOR
AUTHORIZATION TO EXTEND THE ADDITIONAL ONE PERCENT
LOCAL SALES TAX RATE IN TOMPKINS COUNTY
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Penniman. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes —
11; Noes - 3 (Representatives Proto, Schuler, and Winch); Excused - 1 (Representative Todd).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins has had the authority to enact an additional one cent of
sales and use taxation since December 1, 1992, and has enacted such taxation, and
WHEREAS, this authority has been exercised since that date and expires November 30, 2001,
WHEREAS, this Board has been requested by the offices of Assemblyman Luster and Senator
Seward to forward any request for an extension of this authority when legislation can be timely prepared
and submitted at the beginning of a session of the legislature, and
WHEREAS, the expiration of the additional one percent local sales tax would necessitate, based
on the most recent returns, 1) $6.8 million in reductions in County expenditures, which would have a
major effect on the availability of services, or in a 34 percent increase in County property taxes, or some
combination thereof, as well as 2) substantial reductions or tax increases for the City, towns, and villages
of Tompkins County, and
WHEREAS, this Board adopted Resolution No. 14 of 2000 requesting the State to extend the
additional one percent local sales tax in Tompkins County for four years, and
WHEREAS, the request of extension for four years was not approved by the State Legislature,
now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That Resolution No. 14
of 2000 is hereby amended and that this Board requests Assemblyman Luster, Senator Seward, and
Senator Kuhl sponsor and support legislation extending the authority of the Board of Representatives of
and
65
March 6, 2001
Tompkins County to extend the additional one percent local sales tax in Tompkins County beyond
November 30, 2001, for a period of two years based on the same terms and conditions included in
previous legislation, to provide local property tax relief.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee met on March 1 and reviewed the cash
management and foreclosure policies. The Committee had a brief discussion on the budget transfer and
adjustment process and forwarded a request to the County Administrator that he make a recommendation
to the Committee. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr called attention to the advisory board vacancy list and stated at
the present time there are 133 vacancies on the various boards and committees.
RESOLUTION NO. 42- ESTABLISHING SALARIES AND BENEFITS OF MANAGEMENT
AND CONFIDENTIAL EMPLOYEES, 2001
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Joseph. A voice vote resulted as follows:
Ayes - 12, Noes - 2 (Representatives Kiefer and Penniman); Excused - 1 (Representative Todd).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, this Board previously determined that the salary schedules for Management and
Confidentials should be reviewed for equity, and
WHEREAS, this process will take several years, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That Management
and Confidential employees newly hired, reclassed, or who change positions after January 1, 2001 be
salaried based upon the relevant schedule,
RESOLVED, further, That the incumbents in Management positions on January 1, 2001 shall
receive an increase not less than 3.1875 percent nor greater than 4.25 percent annually effective January
1, 2001,
RESOLVED, further, That the incumbents in Confidential positions on January 1, 2001 shall
receive an increase not less than 3.71875, nor greater than 4.25 percent effective January 1, 2001,
RESOLVED, further, That effective January 1, 2001, Management and Confidential employees
shall contribute 20 percent towards the cost of health insurance and be entitled to a VEBA (Voluntary
Employee Benefit Account) equal to the differential between the employee share of health insurance at 15
percent and the employee share at 20 percent,
RESOLVED, further, That Management and Confidential employees shall receive longevity
payments as provided for in a relevant schedule and shall be entitled to all other fringe benefits specified
in the CSEA White Collar agreement except where different fringe benefits are provided for in
Administrative Policy 03-01, fringe benefits for non -unionized employees.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 43 - ADOPTION OF LOCAL LAW NO. 1 OF 2001- AMENDING CHAPTER
150, ARTICLE VI OF THE TOMPIINS COUNTY CHARTER AND
CODE TO IMPLEMENT SECTION 459-C OF THE REAL PROPERTY
TAX LAW DEALING WITH DISABILITY TAX EXEMPTIONS
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Ms. Davis, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, a public hearing has been held before the Board of Representatives on March 6,
2001, to hear all persons interested in proposed Local Law No. 1 of 2001, now therefore be it
66
March 6, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That proposed
Local Law No. 1 of 2001 - Amending Chapter 150, Article VI of the Tompkins County Charter and Code
to Implement Section 459-c of the Real Property Tax Law, be and hereby is adopted,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board shall publish in the official newspaper of the
County a notice of adoption containing a synopsis of said Local Law, and shall within five (5) days file
one certified copy in the Office of the County Clerk, and one copy with the Secretary of State.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 44 - ADOPTION OF LOCAL LAW NO. 2 OF 2001- AMENDING CHAPTER
150 OF THE TOMPKINS COUNTY CHARTER AND CODE BY
ADDING NEW ARTICLE VII AUTHORIZING PROPERTY TAX
EXEMPTION FOR LIVING QUARTERS FOR PARENTS AND
GRANDPARENTS AGE 62 OR OLDER UNDER REAL PROPERTY
TAX LAW SECTION 469
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, a public hearing has been held before the Board of Representatives on March 6,
2001, to hear all persons interested in proposed Local Law No. 2 of 2001, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That proposed
Local Law No. 2 of 2001 - Amending Chapter 150 to the Tompkins County Charter and Code by Adding
New Article VII Authorizing Property Tax Exemption for Living Quarters for Parents and Grandparents
Age 62 or Older Under Real Property Tax Law Section 469, be and hereby is adopted,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board shall publish in the official newspaper of the
County a notice of adoption containing a synopsis of said Local Law, and shall within five (5) days file
one certified copy in the Office of the County Clerk, and one copy with the Secretary of State.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 45 - SETTING THE INCOME LIMITS FOR THE PERSONS WITH
DISABILITIES AND LIMITED INCOMES REAL PROPERTY
TAX EXEMPTION
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, the County Board desires to increase the income limits for the Persons with
Disabilities and Limited Incomes Real Property Tax Exemption, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That M as stated in
Local Law No. 1 of the year 2001 be defined as $20,000,
RESOLVED, further, That the following schedule of income limits and corresponding percentage
exemptions be adopted.
Percentage Assessed Valuation
Annual Income Exempt From Taxation
$20,000 or less 50%
$20,001 to $20,999 45%
$21,000 to $21,999 40%
$22,000 to $22,999 35%
$23,000 to $23,899 30%
$23,900 to $24,799 25%
$24,800 to $25,699 20%
67
$25,700 to $26,599
$26,600 to $27,499
$27,500 to $28,399
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
March 6, 2001
15%
10%
5%
RESOLUTION NO. 46 - RATIFICATION OF BARGAINING AGREEMENT CIVIL
SERVICE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION, BLUE COLLAR UNIT
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Proto. A voice vote resulted as follows:
Ayes — 13; Noes - 1 (Representative Kiefer); Excused - 1 (Representative Todd). RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Negotiating Committee, That the bargaining agreement
between Tompkins County and the Civil Service Employees Association, Blue Collar Unit, for the years
2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 is hereby ratified.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on the February 27th and discussed many issues
including the role of the Public Works Department and the Buildings and Grounds facility. Barbara
Eckstrom, Solid Waste Manager, reported she had received a request from Ontario County to cove
increasing transportation costs; however, Ms. Eckstrom was able to resolve that situation and there will be
no increased cost.
Arel LeMaro, Building and Grounds Manager, reported to the Committee on the gas pipe leak
that recently occurred in Building C and said the pipe has been repaired. Mr. Lane said the Committee
discussed air quality in that building and that the County will continue to monitor carbon dioxide levels.
Mr. Lane reported the Committee also received a presentation on goals for the Solid Waste Division and
the Airport. He announced Ward Hungerford, Highway Manager, will be retiring in the spring.
RESOLUTION NO. 47 - AUDIT OF FINAL PAYMENT - PARALLEL TAXIWAY
RELOCATION - SUIT-KOTE CORPORATION
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Suit-Kote Corporation has completed their construction contract of the Parallel
Taxiway Relocation for the Tompkins County Airport, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the following claim
against the County of Tompkins, be and hereby is audited by the Tompkins County Board of
Representatives:
Vendor Payment Requested Account No. Amount
Suit-Kote Corporation 4 (and final) HT5601.9239 $78,365.29
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be and hereby is authorized and directed to pay
said claim from Account No. HT5601.159239.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
68
March 6, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 48 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE DESIGN FUNDING AGREEMENT
WITH NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
- BRIDGE PAINTING
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, a Project for Tompkins County Bridge Painting. P.I.N. 375323, (the Project), is
eligible for funding under Title 23 U.S. Code, as amended, that calls for the apportionment of the costs of
such program to be borne at the ratio of 80 percent Federal funds and 20 percent non-federal funds, and
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins desires to advance the above project by making a
commitment of 100 percent of the non-federal share of the costs of Design, and
WHEREAS, in order to expedite advancement of the Project and realize potential total project
cost reductions, the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) requires the County to
appropriate one hundred (100%) percent of the project costs and then file for reimbursement of eligible
costs, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Tompkins County
Board of Representatives hereby approves the above -subject project and authorizes the County of
Tompkins to pay in the first instance one hundred (100 %) percent of the federal and non-federal share of
the costs of design work for the subject Project or portions thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the sum of $25,000 is hereby made available within Account No.
D5111.54411, Road/Bridge Contracts, to cover the cost of participation in the Design phase of the
Proj ect,
RESOLVED, further, That in the event the full federal and non-federal share costs of the project
exceeds the amount appropriated above, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives shall convene as
soon as possible to appropriate said excess amount immediately upon the notification of the NYSDOT
thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Highway Manager be and is hereby authorized
to execute all necessary Agreements, certifications and reimbursement requests for Federal Aid and /or
Marchiselli Aid on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the New York State Department of
Transportation in connection with the advancement or approval of the Project and providing for the
administration of the Project and the municipality's first instance funding of Project costs and permanent
funding the local share of federal -aid and state -aid eligible Project costs and all Project costs within
appropriations therefor that are not so eligible,
RESOLVED, further, 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,
RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall take effect immediately.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -21
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) and Appointment(s) from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The
next meeting will be March 12. He spoke of the resolution that was withdrawn at the last meeting in
regard to the Ithaca Downtown Partnership and said Gary Ferguson, Executive Director of the IDP, will
attend the next meeting to answer questions that have been raised.
RESOLUTION NO. 49 - AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 57 OF 2000 — RESTRUCTURING
OF COUNTY WATER RESOURCES COUNCIL
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
69
March 6, 2001
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 57 of 2000, Restructuring of County Water Resources Council, set
the term of office at "two years with half of the initial appointments to have one-year terms", now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the membership term be three
years with the terms of one-third of the membership expiring every year.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 50 - APPROVAL OF WATER RESOURCES COUNCIL BYLAWS
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the restructured Water Resources Council was established by Resolution No. 57 of
2000, and
WHEREAS, the aforementioned resolution called for the Water Resources Council to make a
recommendation of the "bylaws, rules and procedures for its operations for the approval of the County
Board of Representatives," and
WHEREAS, the Water Resources Council has developed and adopted a proposed set of Bylaws
at its January 29, 2001 meeting, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the Water Resources Council
Bylaws be approved by the County Board of Representatives.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Appointments
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, the
following appointments were approved:
Tompkins County Water Resources Council
Linda A. Dorn - At Large Representative - term expires December 31, 2003
Frank Liguori - At Large Representative- term expires December 31, 2003
Frank Proto - At Large Representative - term expires December 31, 2003
Jane A. Schafrik - Business and Industry Representative - term expires December 31, 2003
Molly Adams - Municipal Government Representative - term expires December 31, 2003
Katrina Greenly - Municipal Government Representative - term expires December 31, 2003
Reba L. Taylor - Municipal Government Representative - term expires December 31, 2003
Kate Hackett - Tompkins County Planning Department Representative - term expires December
31, 2002
RESOLUTION NO. 21— ADOPTION OF CASH MANAGEMENT AND INVESTMENT
POLICY
It was MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Proto, to lift Resolution No. 21 from
the Table.
It was MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Davis, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present, to delete the following: Appendix B. (eighth bullet) " SCHEDULE OF ELIGIBLE
SECURITIES - Obligations of domestic corporations rated in one of the two highest rating categories by
at least one nationally recognized statistical rating organization".
70
March 6, 2001
Mr. Lane said there have been problems over the years with allowing repurchase agreements, and
MOVED to amend article 13 and replace with wording that states repurchase agreements are not
authorized, seconded by Mr. Stein.
Mr. Squires stated the County has not been using repurchase agreements but feels they are a
valuable tool for the banks. It is an instrument they don't have to collatorize. If they don't have any
collateral they like to do repurchase agreements. He said if this is deleted it could limit the County's
position in certain agreements.
A voice vote on the amendment resulted as follows: Ayes - 2 (Representatives Kiefer and Lane),
Noes - 12, Excused - 1 (Representative Todd). AMENDMENT FAILED.
A voice vote on the resolution and policy as amended resulted as follows: Ayes - 13, Noes - 1
(Representative Lane), Excused - 1 (Representative Todd). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Article 2 -Section 10 of the General Municipal Law requires each local government
to authorize depositories for public funds, and
WHEREAS, Article 2 -Section 11 of the General Municipal Law requires each local government
to authorize Permitted Investments for public funds not required for immediate expenditure, and
WHEREAS, Article 3 -Section 39 of the General Municipal Law requires each local government
to adopt a comprehensive investment policy which details the local government's operative policy and
instructions to officers and staff regarding the investment of public funds, and that the Investment Policy
shall be annually reviewed by the local government, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the attached
Cash Management and Investment Policy dated January 2001, is hereby adopted.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
SCOPE
This cash management and investment policy applies to all money and other financial resources
available to the County of Tompkins for deposit and/or investment on its own behalf or on behalf
of any other entity or individual.
II. OBJECTNES
The primary objectives of the County's cash management and investment activities are, in order
of priority:
• To conform with all applicable federal, state and other legal requirements (legality),
• To adequately safeguard principal (safety),
• To provide sufficient liquidity to meet all operating requirements (liquidity), and,
• To obtain a reasonable rate of return (yield).
III. DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY
In accordance with the County Charter Article 6.02, responsibility for administration of the cash
management and investment program is delegated to the Director of Finance, who shall establish
written procedures for cash management consistent with the authorized Cash Management and
Investment Policy. Such procedures shall include an internal control structure adequate to provide
a satisfactory level of accountability, maintaining records incorporating descriptions and amounts
of investments, transaction dates, and other relevant information, and regulating the activities of
subordinate employees.
71
March 6, 2001
IV. PRUDENCE
All participants in the cash management and investment process shall act responsibly as
custodians of the public trust and shall avoid any transaction that might impair public confidence
in the County.
Investments shall be made with judgment and care, under circumstances then prevailing, which
persons of prudence, discretion, and intelligence would exercise in the management of their own
affairs, not for speculation, but for investment, considering the safety of the principal as well as
the probable income to be derived.
All participants involved in the cash management and investment process shall refrain from
personal business activity that could conflict or appear to conflict with the proper execution of the
investment program, or which could impair their ability to make impartial investment decisions.
V. DIVERSIFICATION
It is the policy of the County to diversify its deposits and investments by financial institution, by
investment instrument, and by maturity scheduling.
It is the policy of the County to invest with qualified financial institutions domiciled within the
County whenever practicable.
The following diversification limitations shall be imposed on the County's portfolio of deposits
and investments:
Institution:
• No more than 75% of the overall portfolio may be deposited in a single bank,
• No more than 15% of the overall portfolio may be deposited in Money Center Banks or
in state -authorized cooperative investment programs.
Instrument:
• No more than 10% of the overall portfolio may be invested in the securities of a single
issuer, except the U.S. Treasury.
Maturity:
• No more than 10% of the portfolio may have a maturity beyond twelve months,
• The average maturity of the portfolio shall never exceed one year, and,
• At least 10% of the portfolio shall be invested in accounts, instruments or marketable
securities that can be liquidated to raise cash on one business day's notice.
VI. INTERNAL CONTROLS
It is the policy of the County that all money collected by any officer or employee of the County
be transferred to the Finance Department as soon as is practicable, but in any event within one
business day of receipt, or within the time period specified by law, whichever is shorter.
The Finance Director is responsible for establishing and maintaining an internal control structure
to provide reasonable, but not absolute, assurance that deposits and investments are safeguarded
against loss from unauthorized use or disposition, that transactions are executed in accordance
with management's authorization and recorded properly, and that deposits and investments are
managed prudently and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
VII. DESIGNATION OF DEPOSITORIES
72
March 6, 2001
A. The Tompkins County Board of Representatives shall review and approve this list at least
annually.
VIII. COLLATERALIZING OF DEPOSITS
In accordance with the provisions of General Municipal Law § 10, all deposits of the County,
including certificates of deposit and special time deposits, in excess of the amount insured under
the provisions of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act shall be secured by any one or combination
of the following:
1. By a pledge of eligible securities with an aggregate market value equal to the aggregate
amount of deposits, from the categories designated in Appendix B to this policy. Eligible
securities must also meet the rating requirements of at least one nationally recognized
statistical rating organization as described in Appendix C.
2. By an eligible irrevocable letter of credit issued by a qualified bank, other than the bank with
the deposits, in favor of the County for a term not to exceed 90 days, with an aggregate value
equal to 140% of the aggregate amount of deposits and the agreed- upon interest, if any. A
"qualified bank" is one whose commercial paper and other unsecured short-term debt
obligations meets the rating requirements of at least one nationally recognized statistical
rating organization as described in Appendix C or by a bank that is in compliance with
applicable federal minimum risk-based capital requirements.
3. By an eligible surety bond payable to the County for an amount at least equal to 100% of the
aggregate amount of deposits and the agreed- upon interest, if any, executed by an insurance
company authorized to do business in New York State, whose claims - paying ability meets
the rating requirements of at least two nationally recognized statistical rating organizations as
described in Appendix C.
IX. SAFEKEEPING AND COLLATERIALIZATION
Eligible securities used for collateralizing deposits shall be held by the depository and/or a third -
party bank or trust company, subject to security and custodial agreements satisfactory to the
County Attorney.
The security agreement shall provide that eligible securities are being pledged to secure the
County's deposits together with agreed- upon interest, if any, and any costs or expenses arising
out of the collection of such deposits upon default. It shall also provide the conditions under
which the securities may be sold, presented for payment, substituted, or released providing
collateral values are maintained, and the events that will enable the County to exercise its rights
against the pledged securities including failure to meet deposit repayment or collateral terms, or
the deposit institution's insolvency. In the event that the securities are not registered or inscribed
in the name of the County, such securities shall be delivered in a form suitable for transfer or with
an assignment in blank to the County or its custodial bank.
The custodial agreement shall provide that securities held by the bank or trust company, as agent
of and custodian for the County, will be kept separate and apart from the general assets of the
custodial bank or trust company and will not, in any circumstances, be commingled with or
become part of the backing for any other deposit or other liabilities. The agreement shall also
describe how the custodian shall confirm the receipt, substitution, or release of the securities. The
agreement shall provide for daily revaluation of eligible securities and for the substitution of
securities when a change in the rating of a security may cause ineligibility. The agreement shall
provide that the custodian will exercise the County's rights to the security or as instructed by the
County. Such agreement shall include all provisions necessary to provide the County with a
perfected interest in the securities.
73
March 6, 2001
X. PERMITTED INVESTMENTS
As authorized by General Municipal Law *11, the County authorizes the Finance Director to
invest money not required for immediate expenditure for terms not to exceed its projected cash
flow needs in the following types of investments:
• Special time -deposit accounts
• Certificates of deposit
• Obligations of the United States of America
• Obligations guaranteed by agencies of the United States of America where the payment of
principal and interest are guaranteed by the United States of America
• Obligations of the State of New York
• Obligations issued pursuant to Local Finance Law §24 or §25 (with approval of the State
Comptroller) by any municipality, school district, or district corporation other than the City
• Obligations of public authorities, public housing authorities, urban- renewal agencies ,and
industrial -development agencies where the general State statutes governing such entities or
whose specific enabling legislation authorizes such investments
• Certificates of Participation issued pursuant to General Municipal Law § 109-b
• Cooperative Investment Pools (approved by the State Comptroller)
All investment obligations shall be payable, saleable, or redeemable at the option of the County
within such times as the proceeds will be needed to meet expenditures for purposes for which the
monies were provided and, in the case of obligations purchased with the proceeds of bonds or
notes, shall be payable, saleable, or redeemable at the option of the County within two years of
the date of purchase.
XI. AUTHORIZED FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AND DEALERS
Financial institutions and dealers approved for the purchase and sale of investments are listed in
Appendix D. All financial institutions with which the County conducts business must meet the
requirements of Appendix C. Banks shall provide their most recent Consolidated Report of
Condition (Call Report) at the request of the County. Security dealers not affiliated with a bank
shall be required to be classified as reporting dealers affiliated with the New York Federal
Reserve Bank, as primary dealers. The Finance Director is responsible for evaluating the financial
position and maintaining a listing of proposed depositories, trading partners, and custodians. Such
listing shall be evaluated by the Board of Representatives at least annually.
XII. PURCHASE OF INVESTMENTS
The Finance Director is authorized to contract for the purchase of investments:
1. Directly, including through a repurchase agreement, from an authorized trading partner.
Authorization for the purchase of repurchase agreements is subject to the limitations outlined
in XIII below.
2. By participation in a cooperative investment program where such program meets all the
requirements of the General Municipal Law, the diversification characteristics as outlined in
Section V of this policy, and otherwise meets the same standards as the County has for direct
investments.
3. By utilizing an ongoing investment program with an authorized trading partner, pursuant to a
contract authorized by the Board of Representatives.
All purchased investments, obligations, or participations unless registered or inscribed in the
name of the County shall be purchased through, delivered to, and held in the custody of a bank or
74
March 6, 2001
trust company. Such obligations shall be purchased, sold, or presented for redemption or payment
by such bank or trust company only in accordance with prior written authorization from the
officer authorized to make the investment. All such transactions shall be confirmed in writing to
the County by the bank or trust company. Any obligation held in the custody of a bank or trust
company shall be held pursuant to a written custodial agreement as described in General
Municipal Law §10.
XIII. REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS
Repurchase agreements are authorized subject to the following restrictions:
• All repurchase agreements must be entered into subject to a Master Repurchase agreement
providing for the terms outlined below and satisfactory to the County Attorney
• The County may only be the initial purchaser in such agreements
• Trading partners are limited to banks or trust companies meeting the rating requirements of
one of the nationally recognized rating organizations as described in Appendix C or primary
reporting dealers approved by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York
• Obligations shall be limited to obligations of the United States of America and obligations
guaranteed by agencies of the United States of America
• No substitution of securities will be allowed
• The custodian of the purchased securities shall be a party other than the trading partner
satisfactory to the County
• Tenor of the repurchase agreement should be no longer than 3 months
• Tenor of the securities to be purchased should be no longer than 10 years
• The market value of the securities purchased shall exceed the purchase funds by the margins
shown below; and the securities shall be revalued daily, and these margins should be
maintained by the initial seller during the life of the transaction:
• For bills or bonds less than 3 years tenor, 3%;
• For bills or bonds of 3 years to 10 years, 4 1/2%;
• No one repurchase agreement may exceed $2,000,000, and,
• The County retains the right to terminate the agreement and sell the securities outside the
repurchase agreement if any of the above items are not met, after adequate notice to the initial
seller.
XIV. PERIODIC REVIEW
This cash management and investment policy shall be reviewed by the Board of Representatives
at least annually.
Appendix A
DEPOSITORIES
The banks and trust companies authorized for the deposit of County moneys are:
The Tompkins County Trust Company
Fleet Bank
M&T Bank
HSBC Bank
First National Bank of Dryden
First National Bank of Groton
The Chase Manhattan Bank
Tioga State Bank
75
March 6, 2001
Appendix B
SCHEDULE OF ELIGIBLE SECURITIES
The type of securities that are considered "eligible securities" for collateralization are:
• Obligations issued by the United States of America, an agency thereof, or a United States
government-sponsored corporation, or obligations fully insured or guaranteed as to the payment of
principal and interest by the United States of America, an agency thereof, or a United States
government- sponsored corporation.
• Obligations issued or fully guaranteed by the International Bank for Reconstruction and
Development, the Inter -American Development Bank, the Asian Development Bank, and the African
Development Bank.
• Obligations partially insured or guaranteed by any agency of the United States of America, at a
proportion of the market value of the obligation that represents the amount of the insurance or
guaranty.
• Obligations issued or fully insured or guaranteed by New York State, obligations issued by a
municipal corporation, school district, or district corporation of New York State, or obligations of any
public- benefit corporation which under a specific state statute may be accepted as security for deposit
of public moneys.
• Obligations issued by states (other than New York State) of the United States rated in one of the three
highest rating categories by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating organization.
• Obligations of Puerto Rico rated in one of the three highest rating categories by at least one nationally
recognized statistical rating organization.
• Obligations of counties, cities, and other governmental entities of another state having the power to
levy taxes that are backed by the full faith and credit of such governmental entity and rated in one of
the three highest rating categories by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating organization.
• Any mortgage- related securities, as defined in the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended,
which may be purchased by banks under the limitations established by federal bank regulatory
agencies.
• Commercial paper and bankers' acceptances issued by a bank (other than the bank with which the
money is being deposited or invested) rated in the highest short-term category by at least one
nationally recognized statistical rating organization and having maturities of not longer than sixty
days from the date they are pledged.
• Zero-coupon obligations of the United States government marketed as "Treasury STRIPS".
There must be diversification of the collateral- securing deposits, except where the deposits aggregate less
than $2,000,000 or the security is in the form of obligations of the U.S. Government or State of New
York.
Appendix C
Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organizations (NRSRO)
The following are the organizations generally considered to be Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating
Organizations, and their respective investment rating categories which are considered acceptable for
investments by the County or for securities eligible as collateral for Deposits by the County:
NRSRO Long Term Debt* Short Term Debt**
Moody's Investor Services Al or better P-1 or better
Standard & Poors A+ or better A-1 or better
Fitch A+ or better F-1 or better
76
March 6, 2001
Duff & Phelps AA- or better D-1 or better
IBCA AA- or better Al or better
BankWatch (Banks) B or better TBW2 or better
* for securities with an original term of one year or longer. Also, for the claims- paying
ability ratings issued by Moody's, Standard & Poors, and Duff & Phelps.
** for obligations usually defined as less than one year.
Appendix D
AUTHORIZED FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AND DEALERS
The financial institutions and dealers authorized for the purchase and sale of investments are:
The Tompkins County Trust Company
Fleet Bank
M&T Bank.
The Chase Manhattan Bank
HSBC Bank
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on February 22 and it was well attended. There
was discussion about the issues of what it would take to reapportion this year and the impact it would
have on the towns. Mr. Lane stated his Committee is looking at the feasibility of getting the
reapportionment done this year. Jonathan Wood, Deputy County Attorney, has been asked to investigate
how this could be accomplished. Other options being looked at are weighted voting and staggered terms
for Board members. If we change the term of office and had a special election, it could cost
approximately $30,000. All of these options will continue to be discussed at the next meeting.
Report from the Communications Capital Projects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, reported the Committee met and continued to discuss sites. The Committee
charged the County Administrator in his new role as Project manager to do some refinement of the
financial matrix. The next meeting will be March 27 at noon. She reported notifications in regard to
SEQR have gone out.
Report from the Information Management Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, reported today's meeting was canceled due to inclement weather.
Report from the Intermunicipal Planning Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee met on February 23 and discussed concerns related to
the communication towers. A few town supervisors attended and here was a healthy interchange. The
next meeting will be March 23`d at 9:30 a.m.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee is looking at the Biggs B building and at low -impact
solutions for use of the Old Library building. The next meeting will be March 23'd at 11:30 a.m.
77
March 6, 2001
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Quality -of -Life 2000 Committee will meet
tomorrow night and do some final work on selecting indicators and priorities. They will also discuss how
this information will be presented to the Board and community.
Report from the Public Safety Building Space Study Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported last year this Board decided to undertake a study of the feasibility
of a joint jail facility with Cortland County and appropriated $30,000 to pay for a consultant to help with
that study. A joint study committee was set up to look at a cooperative solution. It was agreed that the
study would be done step by step and at any point where it didn't look feasible the study would end. Mr.
Joseph said that time has come and the study is being terminated. He said $16,000 out of the total
$60,000 that was allocated between Tompkins and Cortland counties was expended, and our remainder
will return to the General Fund.
Mr. Joseph stated they found significant differences in the way each current facility operates and
that raised problems. There were serious questions about transportation expenses and the fact that when
the City police make an arrest they provide for the transport to the Jail. However, if the facility was
relocated they would likely call on the County to do the transport. Both counties have experienced a
decline in jail population that is likely due to alternative -to -incarceration initiatives. Another obstacle that
was foreseen was governance of a joint facility. Mr. Joseph stated there is a difference in wage scales
between the counties and that would be another impediment. He said several key players that have been
involved in looking at this option have concluded that a joint facility is not a feasible option. The next
Public Safety Building Space Study Committee meeting will be March 16 at 8:30 a.m. At that time the
Committee will discuss where to go from here.
Approval of Minutes of February 20, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by
voice vote by members present, to approve the minutes of February 20, 2001 as submitted. MINUTES
APPROVED.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:44 p.m.
78
March 20, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Vice Chair Lane called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 14 Representatives. Excused: 1 (Representative Mink).
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca resident, spoke of the Tompkins County Public Library. She feels
there is a structural problem with the building that causes a lot of sound problems. She believes the
Library is too noisy which makes it very difficult for her to get any work done. Ms. Gougakis also spoke
of the Downtown Ithaca Partnership and stated she is very concerned about the way development takes
place in downtown Ithaca since the Mayor said their plan was tabled so there was no change for
community input. Lastly she expressed great concern over citizens loss of privacy, for example with
medical records, and she challenged Ithaca and Tompkins County to take a step back and not
automatically implement every new technology when it comes along.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Stuart Stein, District No. 3 Representative, called attention to a resolution the Board Office
received from Livingston County entitled Seeking Expansion of Empire Zone to All Counties. Mr. Stein
commented that he has been in attendance at two recent meetings where this issue has been discussed.
He said in the State Legislature there is a proposal to expand the size of empire zones from two square
miles to four square miles and to have an empire zone in every county. Mr. Stein said empire zones have
been around New York State since the 1980's and basically provide very substantial tax exemptions and
other benefits to bring job -creating activities to those parts of a community that are decaying. Mr. Stein
said he has very serious concerns about this program and feels it is moving away from its original purpose
substantially and will move development away from central city areas. He said this is a very important
issue that should be discussed further by this Board.
Ms. Blanchard, District No. 1 Representative, also spoke about empire zones and said this was
discussed at the last Tompkins County Area Development meeting. She said a lengthy presentation was
given about this and agreed with comments made by Mr. Stein. She asked that this subject be placed on
the appropriate standing committee agenda.
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, spoke about the recently released Census figures and
stated that he is also disappointed in the results. He said consideration is being given to protesting those
results and he will keep the Board posted.
Mr. Proto said he distributed a copy of a letter to all Board members that he sent to Paul Mintz of
the Ithaca City School District asking for clarification about the discussion that took place at the last
Board meeting regarding the exemption that was proposed by the City. Mr. Proto said he was assured
that the situation was as Mr. Koplinka-Loehr described at the last meeting.
Mr. Proto said he is a member of the Johnson Museum of Art Advisory Board and at yesterday's
meeting there was an opportunity to work with the City of Ithaca on doing certain things. He spoke of the
79
March 20, 2001
unveiling of the new trolley that will take place on April 6 at 1:30 p.m. and encouraged all Board
members to join the ride.
Mrs. Schuler, District No. 4 Representative, reported she attended a play that was held at the
Tompkins County Public Library entitled The Day the Women Met. The play was written by Carol
Kammen, Tompkins County Historian, and performed by Hangar Theatre. Mrs. Schuler called attention
to the Law Guardian's annual report for 2000. She announced the Multiple Sclerosis Walk will take place
on April 1s` and encouraged Board members to participate.
Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Representative, announced today is Election Day for village offices and
encouraged everyone to vote.
Presentation by the Ithaca Downtown Partnership
Vice Chair Lane introduced Gary Ferguson, Executive Director of the Ithaca Downtown
Partnership.
Mr. Ferguson presented the Board with information on areas where the Ithaca Downtown
Partnership has made accomplishments. The following information was presented:
STRATEGIC PLANNING
• Prepared and launched a ten-year "Downtown Development Strategy", a blueprint for the community
on downtown growth for the next decade.
• Raised the status of downtown in both the public and private sectors as a critical community planning
and development issue.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
• Helped to formulate and plan proposed $41.0 million Cayuga Green at Six Mile Creek, a parking,
residential, and commercial project.
• Helped to formulate and plan the proposed $17.0 million 130,000 SF downtown Cornell Office
building.
• Helped to plan and package the proposed $8.7 million 12 -story, 110 -room Hilton Garden Inn
• Completed a housing market analysis for downtown that documents the need for up to 1-5 rental units
and 20 sale units per year in downtown.
RETAIL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
• Recruitment of new business (local and regional canvassing)
• Assistance to start-up business
• Assistance to expanding businesses
• Assistance to at -risk existing businesses
FILLING RETAIL VACANCIES
• Since 1999, downtown has added 29 new and expanded retail businesses occupying approximately
50,000 square feet
• Filled six key vacant locations: Holly's, Harold's, Masonic Temple, Morris' Building, Corner
Bookstore, and McDonalds Building
• Current downtown retail occupancy rate is 95 percent
• Major new 6,000 SF restaurant, Lost Dog, under construction
• Worked to re -open and expand the Angelheart store under new ownership
• Since January 1, 2001 added 16,000 sq. ft. of new expanded retail space
80
March 20, 2001
RETAINING JOBS
• In the past year, helped to retain over 275 at -risk jobs
• Thomas Associates grows to 200 employees and expands into two buildings, signing a ten-year lease
• Salomon Smith Barney, with 30 employees, adds space and signs for long-term lease
• Kept the interim downtown Post Office located in the heart of downtown
• Helped sell and retain several existing businesses, including Logos Bookstore and Sounds Fine
• Conducted retention breakfasts and visitations with over 50 businesses
PARKING
• Negotiated a permanent two-hour free parking program for City -managed garages and lots
• Helping to plan for a new 600 -car downtown parking garage
DOWNTOWN INFRASTRUCTURE
• Worked with the City to obtain $352,000 for Year 2000, and $250,000 for 2001, improvements to the
Ithaca Commons
• Working with the City to fmalize a multi-year capital improvement plan for downtown
• Worked with the City to obtain funding for downtown traffic, lighting, parking and pavement studies
• Launched a downtown signage program - raised $31,000 to design and build 13 new downtown signs
for installation in 2000
• Working to plan and locate Transportation Center bus hub project
DOWNTOWN'S ENVIRONMENT
• Launched the region's first outdoor sculpture exhibition program, with 20 sculptures in the inaugural
show
• Helped to organize and fund a Commons/Downtown landscaping planting and maintenance program,
using youth apprentices
• Launched and maintain an outdoor public dining program, utilizing disabled workers
• Worked to establish a downtown satellite police station
SPECIAL EVENTS
• Sponsored and hosted at least 65 downtown outdoor event dates each year.
• Attract over 75,000 visitors each year to downtown special events.
• In the past three years, sponsored 140 summer concerts
• Among the events and activities undertaken or hosted are: chili cook -off, art walk, gallery nights,
apple harvest festival, Ithaca Festival craft fair, summer sidewalk sales, holiday stroll, 25th Commons
anniversary, college community expo, history channel great race, vintage car show
MARKETING DOWNTOWN
• 1999 image marketing media campaign to increase awareness of downtown
• Tourism attraction program featuring 40,000 copies of a Cornell -designed brochure distributed to
Interstate Centers, state parks, motels, hotels and inns, wineries, and campgrounds
• Information packages for convention visitors
• Student marketing program for Cornell and Ithaca College students
Ithaca Downtown Partnership — Looking forward — A decade of works....
WHERE WE WANT TO GO
• We want to become "the best small city downtown in America".
• We want to be a 24.7 downtown.
• We want to become a "must -see" destination for visitors and tourists.
• We want to be the region's commerce and job center.
• We want to be one of the best places in the Northeast to find quality urban living.
81
March 20, 2001
• We want to be a pleasant sensory experience for all who visit.
HOW WE INTEND ACCOMPLISH THESE GOALS
• Add more specialty retail and restaurant space.
• Add more office space and jobs.
• Add new housing.
• Add new visitor attractions.
• Make downtown safe and friendly.
JOBS: GROWING THE BASE
• Attract 1,000 new jobs to downtown within ten years.
• Build at least 150,000 SF of new office space.
HOUSING: BUILDING A NEIGHBORHOOD
• Build at least 250 new or rehabbed units within ten years
• Attract at least 500 new residents to the downtown
ATTRACTIONS: REASONS TO VISIT
• Reopen an arts incubator, art studio space, and a satellite art museum
• Open new visitor attractions such as a New York State Finger Lakes Wine Center and Ithaca
Museum Store.
RETAIL: ADDING MORE CRITICAL MASS
• Add 50,000 SF of new retail space.
• Attract 15-20 new stores to downtown within ten years.
INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENVIRONMENT: CREATING QUALITY
• Add new parking at two locations to meet projected need.
• Inventory and upgrade downtown information infrastructure.
• Make downtown feel safe and secure 24 hours a day.
• Complete downtown capital improvements and put into place a systematic maintenance program.
• Make it easier to drive in downtown by converting to two-way streets.
The Ithaca Downtown Partnership
How will we do it?
KEYS TO SUCCESS
• Partnerships We cannot do it alone.
• Resources We need funding to lead the charge.
• Community commitment....We can seize the vision.
PARTNERSHIPS
• We will not accomplish these objectives alone.
• Who are our partners:
City of Ithaca, Town of Ithaca, Cornell University, TCAD, Community Arts Partnership, Ithaca Public
Schools, Convention and Visitors Bureau, State of New York, Private Developers, Tompkins County,
Chamber of Commerce, Ithaca College, TCAT, Saltonstall Foundation, Historic Ithaca, Historical
Society, Corporate Sponsors, Friends of Downtown
82
March 20, 2001
COMMUNITY COMMITMENT: SEIZING THE VISION
• The status quo will not suffice.
• We need a willingness to think big.
• We need resources to lead.
Report and Appointment(s) from the Chair
Vice Chair Lane had no report or appointments.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher announced Ward Hungerford, Highway Manager, will be retiring at the end of the
month. He introduced Norma Jayne, formerly of the Assessment Department. Ms. Jayne has joined the
staff in the Department of Administration. Mr. Whicher requested an executive session to discuss
contract negotiations.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wood, Deputy County Attorney, reported the County Attorney's Office will be working on
closing of the Biggs A project. They will also be working on the relocation of the Department of
Transportation facility. That is a complex transaction that involves numerous municipalities, the State of
New York, and Cornell University.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires had no report.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, the
following resolution was added to the agenda:
Authorization to Accept a Grant from the State of New York Governor's Traffic Safety
Committee for "Enhanced Traffic Safety Coordination"
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
No resolution(s) were withdrawn from the agenda.
Approval of Appointment(s) and Resolution(s) Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, and unanimously adopted by
voice vote by members present, to approve the following appointment(s) and resolution(s) under the
Consent Agenda:
Appointment(s)
Tompkins County Library Board of Trustees
Gary Wolosyn — term expires December 31, 2003
Fire, Disaster, and EMS Advisory Board
Dale Oplinger — Town of Lansing Delegate — term expires December 31, 2003
83
March 20, 2001
Thomas A. Dorward — Town of Lansing Alternate — term expires December 31, 2003
Advisory Board on Indigent Representation
George Totman — County Representative
Barbara Blanchard — County Representative
RESOLUTION NO. 51 - AMENDING WATER RESOURCES COUNCIL BYLAWS
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, the restructured Water Resources Council was established by Resolution No. 57 of
2000, and
WHEREAS, the aforementioned resolution called for the Water Resources Council to make a
recommendation of the "bylaws, rules and procedures for its operation for the approval of the County
Board of Representatives, and
WHEREAS, the Water Resources Council developed and adopted a proposed set of Bylaws at its
January 29, 2001 meeting, and
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That Article III, Section 5 be
amended to read: "Term. The term of membership is three years, coinciding with the calendar year,
except that (a) the Board of Representatives seat shall be for one year, (b) initial appointments will be
staggered so that one-third the voting membership's terms expires every year, and (c) an associate
member's term will end at the end of the second December after appointment. Members may apply for
reappointment without limit, but are not guaranteed reappointment."
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Report from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The
next meeting will be March 21 at noon. He commented on the presentation made by Mr. Ferguson on
behalf of the Ithaca Downtown Partnership and said he is very impressed by the energy and commitment
the members of that group have.
Report from the Economic and Workforce Development Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported today's meeting was canceled due to a lack of business. He
reported on the Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance and said there has been a heavy volume of phone
calls received by both the Board Office and himself in the past week.
Mr. Stein clarified the role of the County and stated the County is not in the business of buying or
selling electric power but to organize the market power of citizens, businesses, and municipalities by
following the municipal bidding process to get the best price possible by offering to companies that are
selling electricity a group market. At this time the County has a group market of approximately 1,600
accounts of which 1,300 are residential and the remaining are municipalities, schools, and businesses.
Mr. Stein said the County finds the lowest cost energy provider that can provide the service needed.
This program is operated on a volunteer basis.
Mr. Stein said in the middle of the last period of negotiations the State Public Service
Commission changed one of the rules by going to a fluctuating market price for electricity. If they did
not do this, the County would not have received any bids because the price of electricity is much higher
than what people are now paying. By allowing the utility companies to go to a fluctuating market price if
the market goes up, that goes up. However, at the same time they have placed a cap on the total price.
84
March 20, 2001
The total price includes the price of the electricity and the price of the delivery of that electricity. He
said a letter went out from NYSEG describing this a few days ago and has caused people to have a fear
that prices will be fluctuating and they will not have any control. He reassured the public that this is not
the case because of the cap that has been placed on these prices.
At this time customers have three choices. They may sign up with Advantage Energy who is the
lowest bidder, stay with NYSEG Solutions, or go back to NYSEG. Mr. Stein said NYSEG Solutions was
the second highest bidder and would also offer savings, but not as much savings as Advantage Energy.
Mr. Stein reported NYSEG Solutions, the current provider, recently mailed a letter to all customers
notifying customers that if they don't switch to Advantage Energy they will automatically continue to
receive electricity from them. Mr. Stein stated this letter has caused a great amount of confusion to
customers and assured everyone that Advantage Energy is sending out information to customers and it
should be received within the next couple of days. Mr. Stein said the opportunity for new customers to
sign up is now open and the new contract allows anyone to sign up at any time through the duration of the
contract.
A question was raised in regard to the sentence in NYSEG Solution's letter to customers that
states if they are not contacted customers will automatically revert to NYSEG Solution. Mr. Lane
questioned the legality of the negative "check -off' system and stated he this caused a lot of people a great
amount of needless confusion. Mr. Stein said this issue was raised with the Public Service Commission.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee met on March 8th and received a presentation
from Richard Charsky of NYSEG on the Community Watch Program. The Committee felt this was a
good idea and directed the Department of Administration to follow-up on this. Various departments
presented monthly statistics to the Committee and the Fire, Disaster, and EMS Coordinator reported the
dispatch center received 700 calls during the last snow storm, compared to a normal average of 200 calls
per day. The next meeting will be April 12th at the Public Safety Building.
RESOLUTION NO. 52 - AUTHRORIZATION TO ACCEPT A GRANT FROM THE STATE
OF NEW YORK GOVERNOR'S TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
FOR "ENHANCED TRAFFIC SAFETY COORDINATION"
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County STOP -DWI Office has been awarded a grant from the State of
New York Governor's Traffic Safety Committee in the amount of $8,000 for reimbursement for
development and coordination of traffic safety public information campaigns, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the County accept the
grant of $8,000 to be used for the purpose of the aforementioned initiatives,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is directed to make the following adjustments
to his books for 2001:
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
Revenue: A4250.43809 Other State Aid $8,000
Appropriation: A4250.54330 Printing $5,000
A4250.54412 Travel and Training $3,000
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
85
March 20, 2001
Report from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, had no report. The last meeting was cancelled due to lack of business.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) by the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board
meeting. The next meeting will be April 5th at noon.
RESOLUTION NO. 53 - BOARD CONFIRMATION OF INTENT TO PURSUE A TOMPKINS
COUNTY PUBLIC RECORDS ARCHIVE AND RESEARCH
CENTER
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, public records are subject to statutory retention requirements and are currently
housed in various locations throughout Tompkins County, and
WHEREAS, there is a growing need for more space to house and protect County records, and
WHEREAS, the current system of housing and protecting County records can be done more
efficiently, and
WHEREAS, certain of those records are historic in nature and provide information relative to the
history of one's family or personal property, and
WHEREAS, centralization of this information would provide a setting for research on many
levels and host to a civic center for enhanced learning for all ages, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Space Needs and Location and Government Operations
Committees, That the Board of Representatives hereby confirms its intent to address growing space and
record protection needs, and provide the public with a centralization of information in an effort to
encourage historical and familial research,
RESOLVED, further, That the Space Needs and Locations Committee be directed to pursue the
concept of a Records Archive and Research Center and the appropriate grant funding for such an
endeavor.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met again today and discussed the reorganization of
the Public Works Department. The Committee heard from the Solid Waste Manager who reported the list
of trash haulers in Tompkins County continues to grow. At the present time there are approximately
seven who perform door-to-door pick up. Robert Nicholas, Airport Manager, spoke about the General
Aviation facility and said it continues to be a real problem for the Airport because that is where all of the
civilian air traffic comes through Tompkins County. Mr. Nicholas is exploring funding possibilities to
replace the facility. Donald Barber, Town of Caroline Supervisor, was in attendance and spoke about
possible "road swapping" as a possible means to reduce maintenance expenses on the part of the County
and municipalities.
RESOLUTION NO. 54 - AUTHORIZATION TO CHANGE THE NAME OF TOMPKINS
COUNTY AIRPORT TO ITHACA/TOMPKINS REGIONAL
AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
86
March 20, 2001
WHEREAS, the Air Service Task Force, in conjunction with the Tompkins County Chamber of
Commerce and Tompkins County Area Development, has recommended a change of the airport's name to
Ithaca Regional Airport since air travelers identify Ithaca as a destination point rather than Tompkins
County, and
WHEREAS, in making the recommendation the Task Force has concluded that the present name
of Tompkins County Airport has little recognition value outside of this community, and
WHEREAS, the Facilities and Infrastructure Committee proposed the compromise name of
Ithaca/Tompkins Regional Airport, which would include the destination shown in airline schedules,
portray the type of facility it is and the important role it plays in the community, but still retain the
County's name, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the airport's name be
changed to Ithaca/Tompkins Regional Airport,
RESOLVED, further, That the Airport Manager be and hereby is authorized to make the
appropriate changes to implement the intent and purpose of this resolution.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 55 - AUDIT OF FINAL PAYMENT - TOMPKINS COUNTY
COURTHOUSE HVAC - DJC GENERAL CONTRACTING, INC.
MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, DJC General Contracting, Inc., has completed their general construction contract for
the Tompkins County Courthouse HVAC project, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the following claim
against the County of Tompkins, be and hereby is audited by the Board of Representatives:
Vendor Payment Request
DJC General 8 (Final)
Contracting, Inc.
Account No. Amount
HB1601.16.43 $2,950.00
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be and hereby is authorized and directed to pay
said claim from Account No. HB 1601.59239.16.43.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee will meet tomorrow morning at 9 a.m. She
announced the Women's Opportunity Center will host an Open House on March 23i1 from 4 — 6 p.m.
She also announced the annual report from Foodnet has been received.
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee continues to meet and is awaiting the remainder of
census data. He said the Committee continues to work towards redistricting this year. Software has been
received that will allow them to download block data and begin generating maps and putting together
various redistricting scenarios. Mr. Lane said he mailed a letter to 88 elected officials throughout the
County to alert them of the Committee's activities.
87
March 20, 2001
Report from the Communications Capital Projects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported Mikel Shakarjian of the Planning Department will be reporting to
the Committee on the comments that have been received in the last month in response to the scoping
document for the SEQR review.
Report from the Information Management Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, reported the Committee has not met. They are awaiting the arrival of the new
Director of Information Technology Services before meeting again.
Report from Intermunicipal Planning Committee
Mr. Lane reported the Committee will meet on March 23t at 9:30 a.m. in the Scott Heyman
Conference Room.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Mr. Lane reported the Committee will meet on March 23i1 at 11:30 a.m. in the Scott Heyman
Conference Room.
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Quality -of -Life Committee will meet on April 41.
He said it will take four to six weeks to print the final report.
Approval of Minutes of March 6, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the minutes of March 6, 2001 as submitted. MINUTES APPROVED.
Recess
Vice Chairman Lane declared recess from 7:05 — 7:15 p.m.
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Mr. Lalley, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to enter into executive session at 7:15 p.m. to discuss contract negotiations. The
meeting returned to open session at 7:53 p.m.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:53 p.m.
88
April 3, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:34 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 14 Representatives. Excused: 1 (Representative Stein).
Presentation of Proclamation(s)
Chair Mink presented the following proclamations:
• April 18-24, 2001 as Agriculture Week in Tompkins County and April 20th as Agriculture
Day in Tompkins County to Monika Roth of Cooperative Extension;
• April, 2001 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Tompkins County to Nancy Schuler,
Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee;
• April 16-20, 2001 as Federation of New York Insurance Professionals Week in Tompkins
County.
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca resident, spoke about the Tompkins County Public Library and a
recent experience she had using the internet terminals there. She said there were children in the Library
that were not supervised and were causing a lot of disturbances. She said she spoke to other patrons of
the Library who were also disturbed by the amount of noise in the Library. Ms. Gougakis suggested that
the computer terminals be relocated to a quieter area in the Library.
Sheriff Meskill reported the Sheriffs Department will soon complete its training on automatic
external defibrillators that were purchased last year with $30,000 from the tobacco money. A press
conference will take place at 11:15 a.m. on April 61 at the Crash, Fire, Rescue building along with a
demonstration. Mr. Meskill also said he is supportive of the County moving forward with constructing a
consolidated dispatch center at the proposed South Hill site.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Ms. Blanchard, District No. 1 Representative, reported she received an electronic mail message
from the County's electric -power consultant, Salerni and Boyd. The correspondence states that he heard
from Bolton Point Water District who have indicated they are extremely happy being a member of the
Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance. They stated that during the first phase of their participation in the
Alliance they saved $20,000. They held a meeting with Advantage Energy and found a way to save an
additional $8,000 during the coming year.
Mr. Lalley, District No. 14 Representative, called attention to a new County webpage located on
the Board of Representatives' page called "Committees -at -a -Glance". He said he made a request for
information from the Board Office and within a short time this information was placed on the web and he
has found it to be very helpful. He thanked Michelle Pottorff, Deputy Clerk, for her work on this.
89
April 3, 2001
Mr. Joseph, District No. 12 Representative, spoke about AIDS in Africa. He said AIDS is a
major health crisis in Africa and the cost of providing needed drugs to every AIDS victim in Africa would
be $26 billion dollars. He stated this is approximately equal to one-third of what President Bush's
proposed tax cut gives to the richest one percent of Americans. He stated this gives a new perspective on
what it means to say that a problem is unsolvable and overwhelming.
Mrs. Schuler, District No, 4 Representative, reported on some positive things that had taken place
over the past week. Representative Dooley Kiefer was one of 13 individuals being honored at the
"Women Making History Event" held last Thursday evening. A portion of Carol Kammen's play
"The Day the Women Met" performed by the Hangar Theatre was also part of the event. A few of the
other activities over the past weekend were: Literacy Volunteers Annual Dinner, the MS (Multiple
Sclerosis) Walkathon, 16th Sciencenter Egg Drop, high school theatre production and performances at the
college and in downtown Ithaca. These are some examples of what makes Tompkins County an exciting
place.
Chair's Report
Ms. Mink reported she announced last week that she would not be seeking another term on the
Board. She said it was a very difficult decision and stated she will greatly miss her colleagues on the
Board and the people she has worked with in this organization.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher said one of the reasons he took the position of County Administrator was because of
Ms. Mink and said he will miss her. He reported he received Fund Balance figures from the Finance
Director and has been doing year-end work and projections forward. He said there is a serious substantial
budget issue the Board must deal with in the coming months. In the interim he and Deputy County
Administrator Kathryn Smithers have met with department heads and have asked them to prepare an
analysis and to get ready for up to a three-year freeze of their target budgets. In addition, he has
implemented a "soft hiring freeze" which means a review will be conducted on every new hire for vacant
positions.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wood, Deputy County Attorney, had no report.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires said his Office has completed the financial reports and turned the information over to
the auditors. He will be presenting information on this to the Budget and Capital Committee on April 5t.
He said fmancing has been completed to purchase property on Spencer Road. He said a bond anticipation
note was sold to Fleet Bank for an interest rate of 3.4 percent. He said he is exploring the possibility or
refinancing existing debt because this is the lowest interest rate that has existed in a very long time. The
Government Operations Committee will review a very short list of properties that are scheduled for
foreclosure at its next meeting on April 5t.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, the
following resolution was added to the agenda:
90
April 3, 2001
Stating Intent to Work Cooperatively with Affected Municipalities in the Development of a
Countywide Public Safety Communications System (PSCS)
Appointments Approved Under the Consent Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, the
following appointments were approved under the Consent Agenda:
Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund Oversight Committee
James E. Wells — Previous Recipient — term expires December 31, 2002
Bruce Lane — Small Business Owner Representative — term expires December 31, 2001
Human Rights Commission
Nancy Brown — term expires December 31, 2003
Lora Levy Cover — term expires December 31, 2003
Joyce Muchan — term expires December 31, 2003
Tompkins County Youth Bureau
Jan Gorovitz — Probation Department Representative — term expires December 31, 2001
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Communications Capital Project Committee
The following report was given:
History of Centralized 911 Facility
1990-94 County Board and 911 Operations Committee work to establish a 911 system for
emergency communications.
1997 911 system goes on line August 1 operating out of Central Fire Station in the city of
Ithaca and the CFR Building at the airport
1998 County Board formally endorses intent to pursue development of a Centralized 911
Facility as recommended by the 911 Operation Committee; amends capital program to
reflect this direction.
1999 Communications Capital Project Committee formed in June to implement the 911
consolidation recommendation as well as oversee the improvement of the public safety
communication system and the relocation of the NYS Department of Transportation
Facility from its waterfront location to a more appropriate site.
1999-2000 Evaluation of potential sites for the facility. Sites considered included:
a joint development with the proposed DOT facility site on Hanshaw Road in the Town
of Dryden — site eliminated because of limitations on tower height and difficulty with
serving site with utilities in a timely manner
an addition to the Crash/Fire Rescue Building at the Airport - site eliminated because of
conflict with airport master plan and concerns that FAA would require repayment of
funds used to develop this building originally
a site adjacent to the Public Safety Building and an addition to the Public Safety Building
- concerns over need for future jail expansion and need to acquire additional property
either from airport lands or along Warren Road
a joint development with the Ithaca College Public Safety Building off Coddington Road
- site eliminated because of road access problems for fire equipment
an addition to Fire Station #5 on South Hill adjacent to the Ithaca College ball fields
91
April 3, 2001
3/2001 ComCap selects SHFS#5 as preferred site based on cost analysis, site characteristics and
strong recommendation of 911Operations Committee, supported by the Sheriff's
Department.
Next Steps
By July 1 - A Building Working Group consisting of several Communications Capital Project Committee
(ComCap) members, the 911 Operations Committee's Building sub -committee, and representatives from
the Town of Ithaca and Ithaca College will refine the space program to a stage where ComCap can bring a
final project to the full Board for approval. During this time, the estimated cost will be determined for
purposes of capital budgeting.
July 1 County Board Chair appoints Building Committee to carry the project forward to completion.
PRINCIPLES OF AGREEMENT
The following are intended to be informal and preliminary Principles of Agreement for
the construction of a 911 Center to be located on land owned by the Town of Ithaca and
occupied by a Structure known as South Hill Fire Station # 5 which is leased to the City
of Ithaca. Note that Ithaca College also has an agreement with the Town of Ithaca that
any improvements to the property shall be reviewed by the College and that the City of
Ithaca has the right under their lease to add improvements to the existing structure.
These principles of agreement were reviewed by the City of Ithaca, Town of Ithaca,
County of Tompkins and the Ithaca City Fire Department on March 30, 2001.
1. The Town of Ithaca, City of Ithaca, City of Ithaca Fire Department, County of
Tompkins and Ithaca College desire to enter into an agreement that will enhance the
mutual gains to be derived from constructing a 911 Center at South Hill Fire Station
# 5.
2. The County shall pay all capital costs for improvements necessary to construct the
facility to be used as the Tompkins County 911 Center.
3. The City of Ithaca, Town of Ithaca and Tompkins County shall enter into an
agreement to share the operation and maintenance costs for the combined
improvements.
4. The Town of Ithaca will make the necessary land available for the construction of the
911 center at no cost to the county.
5. The Town of Ithaca and Tompkins County shall enter into an agreement to define
residual ownership in the event that the mutual use agreement terminates prior to the
useful life of the improvements.
6. In the event that the 911 center is used as an emergency command center for an
emergency, the entire complex shall be made available in accordance with the written
agreement.
RESOLUTION NO. 56 - ESTABLISHING THE PREFERRED SITE FOR A TOMPKINS
COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS CENTER AND AUTHORIZING
SCHEMATIC DESIGN FOR THE PURPOSE OF CAPITAL
BUDGETING
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Totman.
92
April 3, 2001
Mr. Lane said he continues to feel this site is geographically challenged both in its non -central
location in Tompkins County on Route 96B and its size, which will require the facility to be "shoehorned"
into a very small area. He said he also does not think this will be convenient for the Sheriff's Department.
Ms. Blanchard said this has been a long, hard process, and thanked the members of the E911 Operations
Committee and the Communications Capital Projects Committee for all of their work. A voice vote
resulted as follows: Ayes — 13, Noes — 1 (Representative Lane), Excused — 1 (Representative Stein).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County has determined as a matter of policy to centralize public safety
communications functions in one location, and
WHEREAS, a temporary location in Central Fire Station in the City of Ithaca is currently being
used for this purpose, and
WHEREAS, the 911 Operations Committee has evaluated potential sites and strongly supports
South Hill Fire Station #5 as the best site for the facility, and
WHEREAS, for many months the Communications Capital Projects Committee has been
studying candidate sites for the centralized facility and has concluded that the site known as South Hill
Fire Station #5 (SHFS5) offers the most advantages for development of the Communications Center, and
WHEREAS, discussions about the SHFS5 site have been coordinated with Ithaca College and the
Town of Ithaca with positive results, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Communications Capital Projects Committee, That the
South Hill Fire Station #5 is designated as the preferred site for the Tompkins County Communications
Center,
RESOLVED, further, That New York State Technology Enterprise Corporation is authorized to
complete Tasks 7 and 8 of the Amended Contract to determine engineering and architectural requirements
of the Communication Center, and to present the County's position on retention of licenses to FCC for a
total amount not to exceed $15,079,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator is authorized to negotiate a contract for
schematic design services in order to finalize the capital program for the construction of this facility in
time for its inclusion in the 2002 budgeting process.
SEQR ACTION: Unlisted
(Short Environmental Assessment Form on file in Clerk's office)
RESOLUTION NO. 57 - STATING INTENT TO WORK COOPERATIVELY WITH
AFFECTED MUNICIPALITIES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A
COUNTYWIDE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM
(PSCS)
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County is seeking to replace and/or enhance the communication system
currently in use by public safety (fire, EMS, and police) officials and other government agencies
countywide, and
WHEREAS, the proposed method of accomplishing this objective is the construction and
operation of a wireless public safety communication system using 800 Mhz frequencies that Tompkins
County has been granted by the FCC and digital, trunked radio and, possibly, the proposed New York
Statewide Communications Network system, and
WHEREAS, project goals are to: (1) Maximize coverage and balance the level of service to meet
the communication needs of the County's public safety community, (2) Minimize the economic cost to the
County though public/private partnerships and the effective use of funding opportunities, and (3)
93
April 3, 2001
Minimize the environmental impact of the project on the County and the infrastructure necessary to the
greatest extent possible, and
WHEREAS, the development of such a system is expected to require the construction of an
unspecified number of communications towers, the locations of which are not currently known, and
WHEREAS, the County has an interest in maximizing the effectiveness of each tower in order to
minimize both the overall cost and the total number of towers that would be required, and
WHEREAS, a number of municipalities have indicated concerns about the County's approach to
the siting of the towers and development of the tower sites, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives recognizes these concerns
and intends to address them in a collaborative way with any and all municipalities that may eventually see
a proposed tower site within their jurisdictions,
RESOLVED, further, That a thorough review of environmental issues will be conducted in
conjunction with this project, with serious consideration being given to any proposal to mitigate negative
impacts, if such proposal is appropriate and feasible from a cost and technical standpoint,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives confirms that the
process to be followed in advancing the PSCS project has been communicated accurately to
municipalities in letters from Barbara Blanchard dated February 20, 2001 (Attachment A) and from
Barbara Mink dated March 2, 2001 (Attachment B).
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
ATTACHMENT A
March 2, 2001
Dear [Individuals present at 2/23/01 IPC meeting]:
Attached are the minutes (on file in the Clerk's office) from last week's meeting about the county's
proposed public safety communication project. I found the perspectives shared important, and have spent
some time seeking the legal documentation requested as well as full board opinion as to how we should
proceed.
First, let me stress how important we all know this project is to Tompkins County. For the last three years
we have responded to the need first articulated by the public safety community to improve
communication before frequencies are taken over or the hardware becomes obsolete, both of which are
likely to occur in the near future. We have worked with two different consulting firms to establish the best
approach to meet our needs, and an 800 megahertz trunked tower system comes out on top.
Last year the Communications Capital Project Committee I established to conduct this initiative made a
point of visiting every town to present plans as they then existed. In response to the questions raised at
those meetings and in the local media, the committee took a step back and asked for another peer review
of the options, to make sure we hadn't overlooked anything. At that time it became known that the State
was also looking at a communications network, and we acted on that knowledge by hiring the firm that
was working with the State to work with us.
What their report showed was that we were indeed on the right track, and that whatever system we came
up with would be compatible with what the State was working on, and the possibility exists to have some
of our costs paid by the State.
94
Ie
April 3, 2001
As the project moves forward, we have committed to keeping the entire community up to speed on these
plans, and we have already published a significant number of editorial pieces, communiques, and
publicity of SEQR schedules and requests for information.
Where we have found ourselves in disagreement has to do with the formal role towns might play in
determining the future of this project, and your request to have the county be subject to town cell tower
ordinances. You cite specifically the City of Rochester vs. Monroe County case, where the court ruled the
county was not subject to the city's ordinances. You point out that even though the City lost the case, the
analysis of nine factors which must be considered if one municipality is exempted from another's zoning
laws has relevance for our case. These nine factors include the nature and scope of the municipality, the
kind of function involved, and the extent of the public interest to be served by the improvements.
We also think this nine -point test is important; but we don't agree with your conclusion that the towns
should apply the factors, rather the county. We believe that the County should apply the test, for the
reasons explained in the attached memo.
What you are basing your claim of town rights on is an article from the Department of State that suggests
the host municipality perform the balancing test. However, that article is an opinion, not a legal rule, and
is not supported by any legal authority.
So, based on our legal advice, case law, and the practicalities involved in making this project succeed, we
feel that the County should make the determination as to the applicability of the nine factors. That test
should not be applied until all available information is collected, including the proposed location of any
towers, and the towns and the public have full opportunity for input.
The ComCap Committee has already asked you to let us know whether the Town Board or Planning
Board is the right point of contact for future discussions, and our Planning Department is collecting
information on existing cell tower ordinances and other criteria to make sure we avoid major conflicts.
Once that is done, the Committee wants to sit down together with town representatives to resolve any
issues that may come up. We are absolutely committed to involving municipalities in as public a way as
desired, and to the fullest extent possible.
I have attached our attorney's memo (on file in Clerk's office) to this letter so you can read in further
detail the basis of their decision. I look forward to continuing to move forward together, to successfully
put together the best possible public safety communications system for our constituents.
Sincerely,
Barbara Mink, Chair
Intermunicipal Planning Committee
February 20, 2001
ATTACHMENT B
[letter to all municipal officials]
I am writing as Chair of the Communications Capital Project Committee (ComCap) to clarify
where the County is in advancing the public safety communications system upgrade and to outline the
procedures we plan to follow in siting communications towers. It is clear that some misunderstandings
exist about the municipalities' role in the project, particularly with respect to regulations spelled out in
local cell tower ordinances. We have previously stated, and I am stating here again, our intention to
95
April 3, 2001
consult with the appropriate body in each town or village regarding tower siting issues. We also are
suggesting several other ways towns and villages can have input into the development of the project.
First, in just a few days you will receive a packet of material from the County Planning
Department initiating the environmental review process for this project and asking for your comments and
suggestions on the draft scope of work for the Environmental Impact Statement. This draft scope will also
be widely available for public comment. We believe this step will provide comprehensive scope of work
that will ensure that all issues of concern are included.
Second, this summer, we expect to receive proposals from communications systems vendors such
as Motorola, Emerson and others describing how their respective systems would meet our needs and our
performance specifications. We anticipate selecting one of these options as the preferred alternative for
purposes of the Environmental Impact Statement. At this point, we should know the probable locations of
a set of microwave towers that will provide the basic infrastructure for the new system and we will be in a
position to enter into substantive discussions with those municipalities where towers are proposed.
In order to prepare for these discussions, we ask that you identify the local body -- Town Board,
Planning Board or other official group -- that will be your designated point of contact. We also ask that
you identify for us all of the elements in your cell tower ordinance, if one exists, that are most critical to
you. If you do not have such an ordinance, please give us some indication of the criteria you would like to
see met in tower siting. We will sit down together in an effort to address your concerns. If operating
requirements of the system or other constraints do not allow all of your concerns to be met, we will
provide you with complete information that may be helpful in answering questions from your
constituents.
Third, we would like to invite you to attend the regular meetings of the ComCap Committee if
you think this would be helpful in developing a more complete understanding of the project. These
meetings are held at noon on the fourth Tuesday of the month in the large conference room in the Old
Jail, 125 East Court Street, Ithaca, NY. They typically run no longer than two hours and cover all of the
issues related to the communications project as well as some ancillary projects such as consolidation of
the 911 dispatching center and relocation of the Department of Transportation Facility from Third Street
in the City of Ithaca to a new site on Hanshaw Road. These meetings are never boring and your
participation is welcomed. The next ComCap meeting is scheduled for Tuesday February 27th.
Fourth, the County's Intermunicipal Planning Coordination Committee meeting this Friday
February 23 at 1:00 p.m. will be devoted to the Town -County relationship with respect to the
communications project. We are also inviting those Supervisors who have not been regular participants in
this committee, so that all will be part of the same discussion at one time, in one place. I encourage you to
attend this meeting. Later in the afternoon (5:00 - 7:00 p.m.) on Friday, February 23, the County's
Communications consultants, New York State Technology Enterprise Corporation (NYSTEC), will be
making a presentation at the Human Services Building, 320 West State Street. We hope that you and any
interested constituents will be able to attend this presentation. It will also be videotaped and replayed later
on Ch. 15 of the Time Warner System. For information on the replay schedule or how to get copies of the
videotape, call 274-5555.
I hope you have had an opportunity to read the extensive OpEd piece that appeared in the Ithaca
Journal Thursday, February 15. We recognize that it is impossible to cover everything in one newspaper
article but we felt it was a vehicle to convey a lot of information about the project at one time. Consider
that as a starting point from which more information will flow as each step in the project is taken, all of
which will be available on the communications project website at www.tompkins-co.org/pubinfo/pscs.
96
April 3, 2001
As a final note, I personally regret any confusion that has arisen over the County's intent to
involve the municipalities in substantive discussions about this project. Our policy in developing facilities
such as the Solid Waste Recycling Center and the Human Services Building has been to collaborate with
local representatives so that the projects work to everyone's benefit. I made this commitment when our
team made a presentation on the project to your Town or Village Board last year. I suppose, at this point,
only our actions will prove our commitment to this process and I hope that the steps outlined above will
be a good starting point.
Sincerely,
Barbara Blanchard, Chair
Communications Capital Projects Committee
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee met on March 21St and received an overview of the
history of services provided by the Mental Health department versus expenditures by the County from
Anthony Deluca, Commissioner. Mary Pat Dolan, Commissioner of Social Services, reported there has
been an increase for the cost of children in non -secure detention facilities. She also reported Tompkins
County has had the biggest increase in Child Support collection in the entire State. At the next meeting
there will be a presentation on staffing at the Department. The Youth Bureau distributed information for
the next meeting on April 18th for the discussion that will be held on tracking the process of City -funded
programs. Mrs. Schuler also reported on the pesticide notification law and said progress is being made
towards a coordinated education effort through the County on this issue.
RESOLUTION NO. 58 - AUTHORIZATION FOR MEMBERSHIP — IMMUNIZATION ACTION
COALITION - HEALTH DEPARTMENT
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Ms. Davis, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Health Department is in receipt of grant funding to promote
and increase rates of immunization, and
WHEREAS, membership in the Immunization Action Coalition provides the Department with a
national resource of immunization materials in camera ready format as well as discounted publications
pertaining to immunizations at an annual membership fee of $50, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the
Tompkins County Health Department is authorized to join the Immunization Action Coalition,,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is authorized to make the following transfer
on his books:
FROM: 4016.54400 Program Expense $50
TO: 4016.5416 Memberships/Dues $50
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 59 — AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT SUPPLEMENTAL GRANT FUNDS
— TOBACCO CONTROL COALITION — HEALTH DEPARTMENT
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
97
April 3, 2001
WHEREAS, the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) is awarding community
tobacco control coalitions across New York State supplemental grant funds for the grant year ending May
31, 2001, to carry out additional program activities, and
WHEREAS, the Cayuga, Tompkins, Cortland, Madison Counties Tobacco Control Coalition is
one of the community coalitions designated to receive these additional funds, and
WHEREAS, the NYSDOH requires that the funds be used to strengthen and enhance community
interventions; each county will receive $45,125, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County will voucher Cortland County for approved expenses (Cortland
County is the lead fiscal and contractual agency with NYSDOH), now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the Health
Department is authorized to accept said supplemental grant funds,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is authorized to make the following budget
adjustment on his books:
REVENUE: A4016.44959 Federal Grants $45,125
APPROPRIATION: A4016.52206 Computer Hardware $ 1,000
.54330 Printing 600
.54332 Books/Publications 2,825
.54333 Education/Promotion 12,000
.54412 Travel/Training 500
.54442 Professional Service Fees 28,000
.54452 Postage 200
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Report from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, had no report.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported he is in receipt of the year-end information on the 2000 Fund
Balance and said it is $4 million less than last year. He distributed various scenarios for the 2002 budget
and explained the spreadsheet information. Scenario A allows only for negotiated salary increases and
no other over -last -year's -target requests and departments have to absorb all salary increases and cut a
combined total of $700,000. He stated this Board will need to make serious decisions in order to bring
the tax rate to an acceptable level. Ms. Kiefer asked for this information in dollar terms rather than
percentage tax -rate increases and was told that, for a $100,000 property, (A) would go up $89 and (B) up
$20. The source of the $700,000 cut was asked about, and it was explained that would be the additional
amount necessary to keep to just under a four percent increase. Mr. Lane asked if rollover is assumed to
remain intact in both scenarios and was told it was.
RESOLUTION NO. 60 - ENDORSING STATE LEGISLATION S3395 -A AND A7034 -A
EXTENDING EXISTING SALES AND USE TAX AUTHORITY OF
THE COUNTY OF TOMPKINS
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Ms. Kiefer. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 12,
Noes — 2 (Representatives Proto and Schuler), Excused — 1 (Representative Stein). RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
98
April 3, 2001
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins has had the authority to enact an additional one cent of
sales and use taxation since December 1, 1992, and has enacted such taxation, and
WHEREAS, this authority has been exercised since that date and expires November 30, 2001,
and
WHEREAS, this Board by Resolution No. 41 of 2001 requested the members of the New York
State Senate and Assembly who represent Tompkins County to sponsor and support legislation extending
this authority beyond November 30, 2001, and they have done so and have introduced S2068/A3556 "AN
ACT to amend the tax law, in relation to extending the expiration of the provisions authorizing the
County of Tompkins to impose an additional one-half or one percent of sales and compensating tax" that
extends this authority to November 30, 2003, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That this Board endorses and requests State approval of legislation known as
S3395 -A and A7034 -A, and urges its elected representatives in the Senate and the Assembly to support
this legislation.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board
meeting. The next meeting will be April 5th at noon. At that meeting the Committee will review the
inventory of County -owned land and the County's policy on approval of budget adjustments.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on March 271 and reviewed the proposed
Bostwick Road Building for the Buildings and Grounds Division. The Committee unanimously agreed to
proceed with that project as planned. At that meeting the Committee also began to review the five-year
bridge and three-year highway plans and will discuss these items further at the next meeting. Mr. Lane
reported the Committee spent most of the meeting discussing the reorganization of the Public Works
Department. The County Administrator has recommended that the County enter a slightly different structure
that has previously existed. It does not include a chief administrative officer or Commissioner but having the
division managers reporting directly to the County Administrator for the time being. Arel LeMaro was also
given permission to move forward on hiring an assistant to him. Mr. Lane said the Committee feels moving
forward in this manner will result in a cost savings to the County. Mr. Lane commented that a number of
people attended a retirement luncheon for Ward Hungerford, Highway Manager, and many wonderful
comments were made about Ward from his colleagues who will greatly miss him.
RESOLUTION NO. 61- AWARD OF BID - GENERAL AVIATION RAMP EXPANSION -
TOMPKINS COUNTY AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members
present.
WHEREAS, the Purchasing Department has duly advertised for bids for the Expansion of the
General Aviation Ramp project, and
WHEREAS, three (3) bids were received and duly opened on March 21, 2001, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That subject to grants being
received from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the New York State Department of
Transportation (NYSDOT), the bid be awarded to Fahs Rolston Paving Corporation of Binghamton, New
York, as the lowest responsible bidder with a bid of $438,525,
RESOLVED, further, That the budget for the General Aviation Ramp project is as follows:
99
April 3, 2001
FAA Share (90%) 5610.54592 $394,672.50
NYSDOT Share ( 5%) 5610.53592 $ 21,926.25
Local Share ( 5%) 5610.55031 $ 21,926.25
Total 5610.59239 $438,525.00
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute a
contract with Fahs Rolston Paving Corporation,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute grant
agreements with the FAA and NYSDOT when said grant offers are received,
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be authorized to borrow monies if necessary until
reimbursement is received from the FAA and NYSDOT.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -2
RESOLUTION NO. 62 - AWARD OF BID - RUNWAY 14-32 EDGE LIGHTING REPLACEMENT
- TOMPKINS COUNTY AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Purchasing Department has duly advertised for bids for the Runway 14-32 Edge
Lighting Replacement project, and
WHEREAS, six (6) bids were received and duly opened on March 21, 2001, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That subject to grants being
received from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the New York State Department of
Transportation (NYSDOT), the bid be awarded to Power Line Constructors, Inc., of Clinton, New York, as
the lowest responsible bidder with a bid of $377,436.26,
RESOLVED, further, That the budget for the Runway 14-32 Edge Lighting Replacement project is
as follows:
FAA Share (90%) 5610.54592 $339,692.64
NYSDOT Share ( 5%) 5610.53592 $ 18,871.81
Local Share ( 5%) 5610.55031 $ 18,871.81
Total 5610.59239 $377,436.26
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute a
contract with Power Line Constructors, Inc.,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute grant
agreements with the FAA and NYSDOT when said grant offers are received,
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be authorized to borrow monies if necessary until
reimbursement is received from the FAA and NYSDOT.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -2
RESOLUTION NO. 63 - AUDIT OF FINAL PAYMENT - HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS
WASTE FACILITY - R. G. BURNS ELECTRIC, INC.
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, R. G. Burns Electric, Inc., has completed their electrical contract for the Household
Hazardous Waste Facility Project, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the following claim
against the County of Tompkins, be and hereby is audited by the Board of Representatives:
100
April 3, 2001
Vendor Payment Request Account No. Amount
R. G. Burns 9 (Final) HH8101.81.68 $6,574.23
Electric, Inc.
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be and hereby is authorized and directed to pay
said claim from Account No. HH8101.59239.81.68.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTIN NO. 64 - AUDIT OF FINAL PAYMENT - HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS
WASTE FACILITY - JAMES L. LEWIS, INC.
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, James L. Lewis, Inc. has completed their plumbing contract for the Household
Hazardous Waste Facility Project, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the following claim
against the County of Tompkins, be and hereby is audited by the Board of Representatives:
Vendor Payment Request Account No. Amount
James L. Lewis, Inc. 7 (Final) HH8101.81.68 $2,690.54
Electric, Inc.
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be and hereby is authorized and directed to pay
said claim from Account No. HH8101.59239.81.68.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee has met twice since the last Board meeting. He said
the Committee heard a proposal from the Forest Home community on studying traffic issues. They have put a
proposal together with State, Town of Ithaca, and community finding to look at calming issues in their
neighborhood. They have asked the County to contribute $5,000 to finish this project. Mr. Penniman said this
appeared to be a new precedent and the Committee discussed the possibility of looking at other communities that
might have similar needs to study a particular issue that affects their quality of life. There was discussion about
the possibility of creating a new program where the County would support a share of the project that is well
organized and where other funding sources are found.
Ms. Blanchard spoke about the environmental review for the communications upgrade and asked
that the Committee review staff time that is available for this.
RESOLUTION NO. 65 - APPROPRIATION OF 2001/2002 BUDGETS FOR THE
ITHACA-TOMPKINS-COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COUNCIL
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County serves as the Host Agency for the Ithaca -Tompkins County
Transportation Council, the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the Ithaca -Tompkins County area,
and
101
��;n :;zgsvrm
April 3, 2001
WHEREAS, the County has a contract with the New York State Department of Transportation to
provide funding for the Ithaca -Tompkins County Transportation Council through grants provided by the
Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration, and
WHEREAS, the Ithaca -Tompkins County Transportation Council has grant authorizations for its
2001/2002 fiscal year, beginning April 1, 2001 and ending March 31, 2002, in the amounts of $193,253 from
the Federal Highway Administration and $33,423 from the Federal Transit Administration, and
WHEREAS, the Policy Committee of the Ithaca -Tompkins County Transportation Council has
adopted Resolution 01-2, APPROVAL OF THE 2001-2002 ITHACA-TOMPKINS COUNTY
TRANSPORTATION COUNCIL OPERATING BUDGET, which requests that the Host Agency (Tompkins
County) take the appropriate actions to fully implement said operating budget, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the budgets for the Ithaca -
Tompkins County Transportation Council, as presented in "ATTACHMENT A" to this resolution, be
amended in the 2001 Tompkins County budget and that the County Finance Director be authorized to expend
such funds for the period from April 1, 2001 through March 31, 2002.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Resolution No. 65
ATTACHMENT A
2001-2002 ITCTC OPERATING BUDGET
CODE'
DESCR :ON
01/02
FHWA
01/02
FTA
01/02
TOTAL
.4959
REVENUES:
FEDERAL AID
$193,253
$33,423
$226,676
EXPENSES:
COMBINED SALARIES
134,916
23,809
158,725
.8800
FRINGE
32,380
5,714
38,094
.2206
COMPUTER EQUIPMENT
699
100
799
.2210
OTHER EQUIPMENT
400
100
500
.2212
FURNITURE & FIXTURES
500
400
900
.2230
COMPUTER SOFTWARE
400
150
550
.4302
OFFICE SUPPLIES
1,500
460
1,960
.4330
PRINTING
1,000
750
1,750
.4332
BOOKS/PUBLICATIONS
200
100
300
.4400
PROGRAM EXPENSE
0
0
0
.4402
LEGAL ADVERTISING
1,500
0
1,500
.4412
TRAVEL/TRAINING
1,750
450
2,200
.4414
LOCAL MILAGE
1,000
300
1,300
.4416
PROFESSIONAL DUES
500
100
600
.4424
EQUIPMENT RENTAL
3,500
0
3,500
.4425
SERVICE CONTRACTS
2,000
0
2,000
.4432
RENT
500
225
725
.4442
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE FEES
2,500
400
2,900
.4452
POSTAGE SERVICES
3,000
0
3,000
102
April 3, 2001
.4472
TELEPHONE
2,500
0
2,500
.4618
INTERDEPARTMENTAL
CHARGE
0
0
0
.4905
CENTRAL COST ALLOCATION
2,508
365
2,873
TOTAL EXPENSES
$193,253
$33,423
$226,676
RESOLUTION NO. 66 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE
CITY OF ITHACA FOR PURPOSES OF ITHACA DOWNTOWN
PARTNERSHIP
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Downtown Partnership, as the Ithaca Downtown Business Improvement
District (BID), will provide programs and services that will benefit all property owners and tenants within
its boundaries, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County is a property owner within the boundaries of the Ithaca
Downtown BID, and
WHEREAS, the BID program of services, including business retention and development, retail
marketing, and promotion, are ones that will potentially benefit the County by expanding the sales and
property tax base, and
WHEREAS, the County is committed to the BID concept as a vehicle that establishes the
partnership between the private and public sectors so essential to a successful economic development
program, and
WHEREAS, on the basis of an opinion issued by the State of New York Office of Real Property
Tax Services stating that the enabling legislation for BIDs did not intend to impose financial liability
regarding the BID assessment on tax exempt properties, these properties have been excluded from the
BID assessment, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the County be authorized to
execute an agreement for a period of one year with the City of Ithaca in an amount not to exceed $10,365
for the services described in the BID Plan dated July 1, 1996,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or his designee be authorized to execute
such an agreement.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 67 - MAKING A NEGATIVE DETERNIINATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL
SIGNIFICANCE IN RELATION TO RESOLUTION NO. 68 OF 2001
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Lane, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, in Resolution No. 68 of 2001 the County grants funds to the Village of Dryden to
purchase property for a Village park, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives has reviewed and accepted as
adequate an Environmental Assessment Form with respect to that action, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That Resolution No. 68 of 2001 is
an unlisted action,
RESOLVED, further, That the Board of Representatives hereby makes a negative determination
103
April 3, 2001
of environmental significance in regard to Resolution No. 68 of 2001.
SEQR ACTION: UNLISTED
(Short Environmental Assessment Form on file in Clerk's office)
RESOLUTION NO. 68 - APPROVAL OF COMMERCIAL CENTER REVITALIZATION
GRANT — VILLAGE OF DRYDEN
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Lane.
Mr. Proto said he does not remember an occasion where the County has approved money to
purchase property through the Commercial Center Revitalization Program. Mr. Penniman said he met
with the advisory committee and was told government needs to be flexible and when a proposal meets the
basic goals of the program but doesn't meet the guidelines, then the guidelines need to be changed. He
said the Planning Committee passed a resolution that permits funding to purchase property when it is an
essential element of a larger project that meets the objectives of the Revitalization Program. He noted
the vote in Committee was three to two.
Mr. Proto said he is uncomfortable supporting the purchase of a piece of property, particularly for
a municipality when will remain or come off the tax roll. Mr. Lane said this is something the Village of
Dryden has been planning for three years. When this building became available there was a real desire by
the community for this to be kept as a greenspace and the Village incorporated this as part of its long-term
plan which is the basis Commercial Revitalization Program. He said he doesn't feel this is different from
many of the other programs that have been awarded grants under this program.
Mr. Winch said he was one of the two no votes in committee. He said he supports the overall,
CCRP program but is concerned about process and does not feel it was fair to all communities. The
process was re -opened for this project.
Ms. Kiefer said she also voted against this in Committee. She stated the Committee had sent the
guidelines back for review and refinement and is uncomfortable changing the guidelines for this particular
project before getting the full report back. Ms. Kiefer said she likes the proposed project and is
supportive of the community getting the park it wants; however, she doesn't feel comfortable having the
County help a municipality purchase land.
It was MOVED by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Mr. Proto, to amend the resolution with the
following amendment to replace the second Whereas: "Whereas, the grant cycle for Spring, 2001 was
canceled pending the review of all guidelines for the Commercial Center Revitalization Program grant
awards, and Whereas, nevertheless, the advisory committee for this program accepted an application for
funding from the Village of Dryden and has made a recommendation for funding even though using
County money to purchase property for a municipality is not listed in the guidelines as an approved
activity".
Mr. Proto said he does not feel an advisory committee has the right to approve changes in the
program that involve how County tax dollars are being spent without having the changes come to the full
Board. Ms. Mink requested the Government Operations Committee to review this.
A voice vote on the amendment resulted as follows: Ayes — 3 (Representatives Kiefer, Proto, and
Winch); Noes — 11; Excused —1 (Representative Stein). MOTION CARRIED.
Following discussion, a voice vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes — 11; Noes — 3
104
April 3, 2001
(Representatives Kiefer, Proto, and Winch); Excused — 1 (Representative Stein). RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Commercial Center Revitalization Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee)
was assigned responsibility for providing advice on the award of grant funds for the revitalization of rural
commercial centers, and
WHEREAS, the Advisory Committee has reviewed the applications for funding and has made
recommendations based on the program guidelines of the Commercial Center Revitalization Program, and
WHEREAS, the recommendations of the Advisory Committee are within the budget for the
Commercial Center Revitalization program, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the following project be
approved:
Village of Dryden — Purchase of Property for Village Park $7,500.00
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts
related to these projects.
SEQR ACTION: Unlisted
(Short Environmental Assessment Form on file in Clerk's office)
RESOLUTION NO. 69 - FOR PARTICIPATING IN THE CITIES FOR CLIMATE
PROTECTION CAMPAIGN
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, representatives from the City of Ithaca have asked Tompkins County to join in the
Cities for Climate Protection (CCP) Campaign, which is a program for municipal governments to identify
sources of greenhouse gas emissions within their jurisdictions and take actions to reduce such emissions,
and
WHEREAS, Environmental Management Council Resolution EMC No. 1-01, Resolution for
participating in the Cities for Climate Protection Campaign, recommends that the Tompkins County
Board of Representatives explore joining the CCP Campaign, and
WHEREAS, the Cities for Climate Protection Campaign is a program of the International Council
for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI), and
WHEREAS, ICLEI will provide an intern for the Summer of 2001 at no cost to Tompkins County
to identify sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the County when Tompkins County enters into a
Memorandum of Understanding to purchase the CCP software and to provide use of office space and a
computer, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Planning Department has the resources to supervise the intern
and has identified available office space and a computer for the interns use, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That Tompkins County enter into
an agreement with the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives for the purchase of CCP
software in an amount not to exceed $475.00, said funds provided from Program 5805, Electric Power
Fund,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Finance Director be authorized to execute a
Memorandum of Understanding and contract with ICLEI.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -18
Report from the Economic and Workforce Development Committee
105
April 3, 2001
Ms. Blanchard, Vice Chair, reported the next meeting will be April 24 at 10 a.m.
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chair, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. He said block
data information is presently being received and is in the process of being converted to a format that the
Committee can use to begin looking at existing districts. He reported he met with representatives of City
Council and there will be an effort made at the City level to address the City's role in redistricting.
Report from the Information Management Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, reported the Committee has not met.
Report from the Intermunicipal Planning Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee met on March 2r1 and had a discussion on the
communication towers project. Those present agreed that the County and municipalities would likely not
agree on this issue; however, it was agreed that intermunicipal cooperation and the process of talking to
each other on other issues is valuable and should continue. The next meeting will be April 271 at 9:30
a.m.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee will meet on April 27th at 11:30 a.m.
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Tompkins 2000 Quality -of -Life will meet tomorrow
evening and is working on the fmal report that should be available at the end of May. He noted there are
24 categories that may have as many as 48 indicators. He reported that to pull all the different writing
styles and formats together, a designer will be hired, to be paid out of the Board of Representatives budget
line for contract services.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:06 p.m.
106
April 11, 2001
Special Board Meeting
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 1:35 p.m.
Attendance Record
Present: 11 Representatives. Excused: 4 (Representatives Davis, Koplinka-Loehr, Proto, and
Stein).
Presentation of Resolution from the Public Safety Committee
RESOLUTION NO. 70 - EXTENDING THE ADDITIONAL SURCHARGE ON TELEPHONE
ACCESS LINES
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Joseph, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the New York State Legislature amended Section 303 of the County Law to allow
Tompkins County to impose a surcharge in an amount not to exceed 55 cents per access line per month
on customers of telephone service suppliers, and
WHEREAS, said legislation is due to expire on November 30, 2001, and
WHEREAS, the deadline for the County to request the introduction of legislation to extend the
surcharge is April 11, 2001, and
WHEREAS, the revenues generated by the additional surcharge are needed to allow continuing
upgrade of the mobile data communication system including the enhancement of the computer-aided
dispatch system which is needed to facilitate the consolidation of emergency 911 services at a single
location and to update the aging mobile data communications equipment, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That this Board endorses and requests State approval with legislation permanently
extending the expiration of the 55 cent surcharge for enhanced emergency telephone systems in the
County of Tompkins.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Chair Mink asked County Administration to work with the appropriate staff and/or relevant
program committee to develop a routing system for these types of resolutions.
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the block data have been coming in for the Census. Mr. Potter
presented a preliminary map showing 2000 Census block errors. In coordination with the City and
Planning Department, he has been pulling together the Census 2000 data in preparation for the
redistricting project. One area of concern in the City and crossing over into the Village of Cayuga
Heights are some extreme discrepancies between some of the Census block population counts which
ultimately further impacts reviewing each legislation district. At this time Mr. Potter reviewed the map.
Mr. Mank of the Planning Department spoke about the process to correct the discrepancies. He said the
discrepancies are with the dormitories which appear to have been erroneously placed in one block. He
commented that locating group quarters in the wrong block is a problem across the United States. The
process for getting this corrected, when the housing data are available in June or July, is the County will
need to write a letter identifying the discrepancies. To redistrict, the County has the option to change
these numbers manually pending approval by the Census Bureau. He is not sure if the Census Bureau
107
April 11, 2001
will provide the actual count for those dormitories or not. Mr. Potter commented that the errors are also
by municipal districts and not just legislative districts.
Mr. Lane said the Charter Review Committee will be looking at these maps at their meeting
tomorrow and encouraged Board members to attend.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 1:53 p.m.
108
April 17, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 13 Representatives. Excused: 2 (Representatives Stein and Winch).
Presentation of Proclamation(s)
Chair Mink presented a proclamation declaring April 28, 2001 to be Youth Empowerment Day in
Tompkins County to Sonya Harper, Eric Merklein, and Thomas Huntington who are members of the
Rock the Arts Committee.
Privilege of the floor by the Public
No member of the public wished to speak.
Presentation by the Department of Social Services on Staffing
Mary Pat Dolan, Commissioner, provided the Board with the following presentation:
Department of Social Services
AN OVERVIEW OF STAFFING CHANGES
1995 - 2001
12/31/95 - 175 DSS Staff
12/31/00 - 183 DSS Staff
ECONOMIC
SECURITY
Staffing Stats:
Special Services -'6 new staff
all reassigned from other
areas.
CAP - 4.5 new positions, and 2
half-time positions reassigned
from other areas.
Fraud & Investigation - One
Financial Investigator position
reclassified to create Building
Manager position and two
clerical positions reassigned
from other areas.
Medicaid/Food Stamps -
Three positions reassigned
there from Food Stamps.
Special Services has grown by six staff, all of whom were
reassigned from other areas.
• Emergency Housing: Everyone, individual or family,
who enters emergency housing is in contact with Special
Services. Though there was a significant drop in shelter stays
for 1996 and 1997, total shelter bed nights (8,822 for calendar
year 2000) has returned to 1995 levels. In addition to shelter
at both the Red Cross and Task Force for Battered Women,
Special Services staff are also responsible for school
attendance for children in shelters, assisting some shelter
residents in locating permanent housing, and eviction
prevention.
• Day Care has seen the largest increase in staff. Over
the most recent twelve months, total day care spending was
$1,759,872 for a total of 4,776 children, or an average of 415
per month. Staff also work with the Day Care Council to
insure that the providers of child day care are in compliance
with two major new sets of regulations NYS OCFS issued in
the last fourteen months. Those are Health and Safety
Requirements for Legally Exempt Providers and the Child Care
109
April 17, 2001
Improvement Act of 2000, which requires fingerprinting and
criminal record checks of all child day care providers. The
unit is working with approximately 150 legally exempt
providers and the parents using them at any point. Previously,
the parent and provider dealt directly with one another and our
involvement consisted of offering incentives for quality
through a contract with the Council. The process of working
with the parents and the Council to insure that we have
complied with the Health and Safety regulations, and have
payment approvals in place are now a major component of the
unit's workload. This is exacerbated by the very high (60%
every three months) turnover of providers in this category.
Additionally, staff process and pay bills from every provider
once per month. This remains a completely manual activity
which consumes between 18 and 20 workdays each month for
three staff, with additional workload during the summer season
when we add approvals and processing for summer camps.
Community initiatives in the child day care field can be
expected to increase the numbers of families seeking assistance
from this unit.
♦ Domestic Violence: Our work in Domestic Violence
includes the process of evaluating the claims of applicants and
recipients of assistance for waivers and good cause, which
allows individuals to be exempt from the requirements to
cooperate with the establishment of Child Support and/or work
requirements associated with Welfare Reform. We work
directly with the TFBW to house, support and re -locate victims
of domestic violence.
♦ The Security Letter and Inspection Program has
replaced cash security deposits for clients. It continues to save
tax dollars - $143,000 over the projected cost of security
deposits last year.
The staff who moved into Special Services include: 1 Senior
SWE from the Services Division, 3.5 SWEs (1 from Services,
2.5 from Temporary Assistance), 1 clerical and .5 Account
Clerk -Typist (from the Accounting Division). Special Services
handles Emergency Housing, Day Care and Domestic Violence
response for all Economic Security programs, as well as the
Security Letter and Inspection Program for our clients.
Child Assistance Program (CAP): The CAP Program
involved 4.5 new positions and 2 half-time positions re-
assigned from other areas. The new positions were: 1 Head
Examiner, 2 Senior SWE Case Managers, 1 clerical and 1 half-
time Child Support Investigator. Two half-time SWE's were
re -assigned from Employment and Temporary Assistance to
create the "Pre -CAP" SWE. In February, 2001 we will upgrade
and re -assign an SWE to join the Pre -CAP worker, so that all
Temporary Assistance cases with earnings are being followed
by a Senior SWE Case Manager.
Orae Sya
lists
Post
ADULT SERVICES/
LONG-TERM CARE
Staffing Stats:
One casework position was
converted to an RN position.
Two Caseworker positions
were added, but one is
supported through EISEP
revenue, and the other is
funded from a four-year NYS
Hoyt Foundation Grant.
April 17, 2001
Fraud and Investigation: One Fraud Investigator position
was reclassified in order to create a needed Building and
Security Manager. One Receptionist was re -assigned from
Administration. This individual has several duties - the
primary one being the required finger imaging of all applicants
and recipients for Temporary Assistance, Medicaid and Food
Stamps. One clerical staff was moved from Services to
Investigation in order to assist in handling the increase in
reception volume since our move to State Street, to provide
assistance to the Administrative Assistant in collecting
overpayments, collecting money pursuant to fraud repayment
agreements and preparing cases for Fraud.
Medicaid: The Principal SWE assumed the entire Chronic
Care (nursing home) caseload. This had the effect of reducing
caseloads for the remaining Social Welfare Examiners to more
manageable levels.
Food Stamps: Three individuals from Food Stamps were re-
assigned to Medicaid/Food Stamps, and as with Temporary
Assistance and Food Stamps, the purpose was to reduce
redundancy for clients, with one examiner responsible for both
Medicaid and Food Stamp cases.
Our need for computer support has increased dramatically. We
converted two positions, an Administrative Assistant and a
Senior Data Entry Operator, to Microcomputer Support
Specialists. These individuals support the user needs for both
county systems and the state's (5) systems. In 1997 we
absorbed the Systems Analyst position from ITS which had
been stationed at DSS for 1.5 years.
In 1998, the Long -Term Care Unit became part of DSS
operations, though it continues to be operated with joint
DSS/COFA oversight. In accomplishing that goal, we
absorbed a casework position (formerly a COFA funded EISEP
Case Manager) for the EISEP component. We continue to
receive EISEP revenue to support that position. We have
added an RN position to meet the demands in Long -Term Care
by converting an existing casework position. In late 2000, a
casework position in Adult Protective Services was added,
supported by four-year funding from a NYS Hoyt Foundation
Grant. With that additional staff, we will enhance community
understanding and reporting of Elder Abuse and augment our
ongoing capacity in Adult Protective Services. We have re-
assigned a .5 Staff Development Specialist to provide program
and clerical support to Adult Protective Services and Long -
Term Care, without an additional position.
FAMILY AND
CHILDREN'S
SERVICES
Aour
A stant position was
ssified to. Sr.
Caseworker -an `one Youth
yotlter position went
5tofuil-
e.
In 1999, a vacant Resource Assistant position was reclassified
to Senior Caseworker to meet the growing demand of Child
Protective Services. We added a case aide position in 2000 to
meet the demands of supervised visitation for children in
Foster Care. Data developed for the budget process
demonstrated that we were arranging, transporting and
111
April 17, 2001
supervising 220+ visits per month. One of two existing Youth
Care Worker positions was increased to full-time from .75
time. This position supports the needs of Treatment Foster
Care. Treatment Foster Care provides a high level of foster
care within the County, and is one of the tools which has
helped us to control the demand for (often) out -of -county
placement in residential child caring facilities.
LEGAL
In order that we comply with the requirements of AFSA, the
Federal Adoption and Safe Families Act, we increased a staff
attorney position from half to full-time. A clerk position was
approved in the 2001 budget process. Tompkins County has
been cited by Margaret Burt, an AFSA expert from Monroe
County and the American Bar Association, as perhaps the only
county in NYS that would, today, pass a Federal audit on
AFSA requirements. This status not only supports dealing with
permanency decision for children in the fastest possible time
frames, it also offers safeguards regarding current federal child
welfare funding. It will also help us prepare for the possibility
of Tompkins County being chosen as a site for the upcoming
(2002) Federal IV -E audit. That audit will determine the status
of millions of dollars in federal reimbursement for foster care
payments and adoption subsidies. These audit requirements
are in addition to an increase in the volume of Family Court
activities which are driven by AFSA and the new Family
Treatment Court.
PLANNING,
STAFF DEVELOPMENT
AND QUALITY
COORDINATOR
Staffing Stats:
Hired .5 Planning and
Program Development
Specialist to help while full-
time Planner was ill. Now
back to Just one full-time
Planner. Two half-time
vacancies were reclassified
to create the Quality
Coordinator position.
The Department's first Planning and Program Development
Specialist was ill for an extended period of time. During that
time, we hired a second half-time person who has since become
our sole Planning and Program Development Specialist. With
her expertise, we have initiated the Welfare Reform
Monitoring Study with the Children's Defense Fund, and have
conducted numerous program evaluations: Family Resolutions,
CAP, YAP and DAP. In addition, we reclassified two half-
time vacancies to create a Quality Coordinator. This position
will provide continuing support for the department's quality
initiatives. Lack of staff support for quality initiatives has
been an impediment to meeting continuos improvement
objectives. However, with the teamwork of the Planner,
Quality Coordinator and Staff Development Specialist, we have
a workplan in place which will insure that all units have
worked on goal -related measurements by the end of 2001,
which will be reported on a quarterly basis. All staff will
receive Customer Service and Diversity training by July 1,
2002. The Quality Coordinator and Staff Development
Coordinator provide training and professional support to staff
at all levels in order to meet our agency goals, and the three
concurrent tracks of job competency, remediation where
needed, and opportunities for professional development.
112
SUMMARY
April 17, 2001
• Met demand in emergency housing and shelter.
• Expanded day care program both internally and through
contracts.
• Expanded work in domestic violence.
• Created savings through Security Letter/Inspection
Program.
• Create CAP and TOPS case management approach to
families on assistance.
• Oversee 15+ new programs for families on, or leaving,
assistance.
• Streamline programs for customers by merging Temporary
Assistance/Food Stamps and Medicaid/Food Stamps
caseloads.
• Met increased demand in Reception.
• Met expanded finger imaging requirements.
• Created computer support function and absorbed ITS
position.
• Created HSB Security Manager position.
• Moved Long -Term Care Program to DSS & expanded
capacity.
• Created Elder Abuse information and outreach capacity.
• Met increased demand in Child Protective Services.
• Fostered community collaboration projects and community-
based services: Neighborhood Mixer; CPS Mentoring;
Agency foster parent teams; Family Resolutions; Family
Group Counseling; Family Treatment Court; YAP.
• Met increased demand for Supervised Visitation.
• Met AFSA requirements; cut length of foster care stay, and
promoted permanence through adoption.
• Lead Welfare Reform Monitoring Study.
• Produce regular program evaluations.
• Provide increased staff recognition and support for quality
process and continuous improvement.
• Initiated a formal consumer feedback process.
Chair's Report and Appointments
Ms. Mink had no report.
Appointment(s)
Chair Mink made the following appointment(s):
Representative Daniel Winch to the Charter Review Committee
Representative Dooley Kiefer to the Library Construction Committee
Addition of Resolutions to the Agenda
It was MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to add the following resolution(s) to the agenda:
Audit of Final Payment - Advance Moving Company, Inc. - Tompkins County Public Library
113
Ali
April 17, 2001
Audit of Final Payment - Library Interiors - Tompkins County Public Library
Audit of Final Payment - Syracuse Office Environments - Tompkins County Public Library
Audit of Final Payment - Artistry in Wood of Syracuse, Inc. - Tompkins County Public Library
Audit of Final Payment - Hurbson Office Furnishings - Tompkins County Public Library
Audit of Final Payment - Henderson -Johnson Company, Inc. - Tompkins County Public Library
It was MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to add the following resolution to the agenda:
Requesting the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to Proceed with the
New Flood Insurance Rating Maps for Portions of the Town of Dryden
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
No resolution(s) were withdrawn from the agenda.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher reminded program committee chairs that May is the month that they will see a
preview of Capital requests for 2002-2006, requests for rollover funds, and program reconfigurations.
Mr. Whicher reported that agencies will be getting notification to alert them the County is experiencing
budget difficulties. He introduced Mr. George McClure, who has recently been hired as the Information
Technology Services Director. Mr. McClure is formerly of Sullivan County. Mr. Whicher requested an
executive session to discuss contract negotiations.
Report from the Deputy County Attorney
Mr. Wood reported the County Attorney's Office finally received an executed option on the
Hanshaw Road location. He said this represents progress on the relocation of the Department of
Transportation Facility.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires reported he has been busy working with external auditors in preparation of the
County's annual financial statement that is required to be filed by May 1st.
Approval of Resolution(s)Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, and unanimously adopted by
voice vote by members present to approve the following resolution(s) under the Consent Agenda:
RESOLUTION NO. 71 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS — VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present under the Consent Agenda.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations and Health and Human Services
Committees, That the Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget adjustments on his
books:
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE
Youth Bureau (#16))
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
7022 42702 ATI Programs $35,426 A7622 54400 Program Expenses
7028 43820 Programs for Youth $2,301 A7026 54400 Program Expenses
114
April 17, 2001
Explanation: The TCA Primary School Family Support Program has been allocated $35,426 in ATI
funding to expand the program funded by the County Youth Bureau. For simplicity of contracting,
payment, and reporting, the ATI funds will be passed through the Youth Bureau budget. As in past years,
municipalities swap their state aid dollars for county dollars for simplicity of paperwork. Municipalities'
state aid was increased for 2001. (Revenue account is in 7028 however the appropriation account is in
7026.
GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS COMMITTEE
County Clerk (#17)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
1410 43089 Other State Aid $50,000 A1410 54442 Professional Services
Explanation: State Archive grant funds to pay for software development for EDMS project in Clerk's
office.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Approval of Appointment(s)Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, and unanimously adopted by
voice vote by members present, to approve the following appointment(s) under the Consent Agenda:
Community Affirmative Action Committee
Aparajita Maitra - Citizen at -large representative; term expires December 31, 2001
Shelia Chace - Employee, Under represented; term expires December 31, 2001
E911 Operations Committee
Douglas Cotterill - Eastside County Fire representative; term expires December 31, 2001
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee met on April 12th at the Public Safety Building.
The Committee toured the building and observed operations in both the Sheriffs Department and the Jail.
The next meeting will be May 101 at the Dispatch Center on Green Street. Following a tour of that space
the Committee will move to South Hill Station No. 5 and convene its meeting there.
RESOLUTION NO. 72 - ENDORSEMENT OF LEGISLATIVE BILLS S4485 AND A8443 -
EXTENDING THE ADDITIONAL SURCHARGE ON TELEPHONE
ACCESS LINES
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 70 of 2001 requested the New York State Legislature to introduce
legislation permanently extending the 55 cent surcharge for enhanced emergency telephone systems in the
County of Tompkins, and
WHEREAS, the New York State Legislature introduced S4485 and A8443 "AN ACT to amend
chapter 607 of the laws of 1999, amending the county law relating to authorizing the county of Tompkins
to impose fifty-five cents per access line per month surcharge for its enhanced emergency telephone
system, in relation to extending the expiration of such provisions", now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That this Board of
Representatives endorses and requests State approval of legislation known as S4485 and A8443
authorizing a one-year extension of a 55 cent surcharge for enhanced emergency telephone systems in the
County of Tompkins.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
115
April 17, 2001
Report from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, spoke about the process the Board will embark upon as it heads into the
next budget process. He said people have expressed concern that there is a lack of clarity in what the
Board wants. He said fifteen Board members do not always agree, they don't want to limit creativity, and
would not want to pick a tax rate without seeing the consequences first. Mr. Joseph also spoke of the role
of the Administration and said they have been asked to lead a team effort of departments and agencies to
identify where cutbacks and efficiencies can be found. Administration will then be presenting the Board
with options. Mr. Joseph said he thinks the Board and everyone should make every effort not to attack
them for what they have presented.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee met on April 5th and reviewed the
County Land Inventory. They also looked at the list of properties scheduled for foreclosure and reviewed
the policy on foreclosure at auction. The Committee decided to continue with the current policy of
accepting payment up until the time of sale for owner -occupied residential properties.
RESOLUTION NO. 73 — AUTHORIZATION FOR NEW MEMBERSHIP — NATIONAL
ASSOCIATION OF COUNTY INFORMATION OFFICERS —
PUBLIC INFORMATION
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Public Information program is seeking new membership in
the National Association of County Information Officers (NACIO) at a cost of $35 per year, and
WHEREAS, this new membership in NACIO will serve as a valuable resource for the Public
Information program, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the Public
Information program is authorized for new membership in the National Association of County
Information Officers,
RESOLVED, further, That no additional funding is required.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 74 — DECREASE IN HOURS OF PURCHASING CLERK — FINANCE
DEPARTMENT
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, the position of Purchasing Clerk in the Finance Department currently exists at 40
hours per week, and
WHEREAS, a reduction in the number of hours allotted to the Purchasing Clerk position is
appropriate, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the normal
work week for the position of Purchasing Clerk (8/630), labor grade H (8), competitive class be decreased
from 40 to 35 hours per week effective April 29, 2001.
SEQR ACTION: Type II -20
116
April 17, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 75 - APPROVAL TO PURSUE ACTION TO DISPOSE OF COUNTY
LANDS IDENTIFIED IN THE 2001 COUNTY -OWNED LAND
INVENTORY
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley. A roll call vote resulted as follows:
Ayes —13, Noes — 0, Excused — 2 (Representatives Stein and Winch). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, on October 6, 1998, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives passed
Resolution No. 243 adopting a policy on County -owned land transactions, and
WHEREAS, the policy states that at least once every three years, beginning in 1998, the Planning
Department, in cooperation with the County Administrator and the Public Works Department, shall
prepare a report on the strategic value of all land holdings and make recommendations for changes to
those holdings, and
WHEREAS, that report has been prepared and presented to the Government Operations
Committee on April 5, 2001, and
WHEREAS, several parcels were identified as not needed for County use and for which it would
be in the best interest of the County to sell or transfer ownership to others, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the County
Administrator be authorized to pursue sale and/or transfer of the following parcels, as specified below:
1) Spring Brook Vacant Land, Town of Ulysses, parcel no. 23-1-19. — Sell at public auction.
2) Spencer Road Vacant Land, City of Ithaca, parcel no. 124-2-1— Sell at public auction.
3) Irish Settlement Road Vacant Land, Town of Dryden, parcel no. 63-1-2 — Sell to New York
State.
4) Portion of the Biggs Complex, Town of Ithaca, 12.272 acres of parcel no. 24-3-2.22 — Sell
Building A and related land necessary for the sale.
5) Water Tank, Trumansburg Rd., Town of Ithaca, parcel no. 24-4-13 — Transfer land to
Town of Ithaca.
6) Route 34/96 and Hillview Road Right -of -Way, Town of Danby, parcel no. 26-1-9.1 —
Transfer land to New York State Department of Transportation.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE lI-21
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on April 10 and continued their review of the
three-year highway plan. They also reviewed a five-year lease agreement for the Alcoholism Council of
Tompkins County to continue occupying space in the Mental Health Building. Mr. Lane reported there
will be a new telephone system in the Solid Waste offices, but noted people calling in will continue to be
greeted by an individual rather than an automated system. The Committee also spent time reviewing the
capital project status report and said any Board member who would like a copy should let him know.
RESOLUTION NO. 76 - REQEUSTING THE NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION TO PROCEED PROMPTLY
WITH NEW FLOOD INSURANCE RATING MAPS FOR
PORTIONS OF THE TOWN OF DRYDEN
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, significant periodic flooding events along Fall Creek and its tributaries have caused,
and have the potential to cause, physical disruption to private property, public -sector infrastructure, the
quality of drinking water drawn by the Cornell University water system and private wells, and sediment
deposition in the southern reaches of the Cayuga Lake Watershed, and
WHEREAS, the existence of an accurate Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Flood Insurance Rating Map (FIRM) is essential to pre -disaster hazard mitigation, flood -plain protection,
117
April 17, 2001
prevention of erosion leading to sediment deposition in Cayuga Lake, and development planning within
the Fall Creek Watershed, and
WHEREAS, several successful completed flood -control and infrastructure protection measures
were undertaken within the last five years, including:
1. the 1998 completion of the Natural Resources Conservation Service -funded Dr. Donald H.
Crispell Flood Control Project, which, according to the Soil Conservation Service, will "provide
97% flood protection" from a hundred year storm, and
2. the 1999 completion of the Penny Lane streambank stabilization and bio -remediation project,
funded through the Tompkins County Flood Hazard Mitigation program, and
3. the 2000 completion of FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant #1095-1122 to remove accumulated sand
and gravel in Virgil Creek, rebuild creek channel embankments, and construct a low -flow channel
to protect public infrastructure as well as residential and commercial properties, and
4. the reconstruction of two bridges along New York State Route 38 as well as reconstruction of the
New York State Route 13 bridge above Virgil Creek within the Village of Dryden have
eliminated (or greatly mitigated) much of the flood threat reflected in the 1985 FIRM, thereby
rendering the maps obsolete, and
WHEREAS, mortgaging (or refinancing) properties within the 1985 -defined Special Flood
Hazard area with federally insured lenders now obliges owners to carry flood insurance, even though
upstream flood protection since 1998 may functionally protect them from flooding, the 1986 designation
still applies, and
WHEREAS, 129 Dryden Village homes in the 1985 -designated Special Flood Hazard Area could
avoid premiums averaging $400, revising the FIRM to reflect actual flood -mitigation activities could save
local residents as much as $1.5 million in premiums over the lives of their mortgages, and
WHEREAS, certain portions of Virgil Creek and its tributaries within and affecting the Village of
Dryden have NEVER been mapped and urgently need FIRM mapping, including, but not limited to:
1. the neighborhood, roughly circumscribed by Pebble, Greystone, and Brookside, consisting of
homes built long after the FIRM map was created. Though not mapped at all, we believe all, or
portions, of the neighborhood to lie within the Egypt Creek flood plan, and
2. along Egypt Creek, both within the Village and in the immediately contiguous area to the north in
the Town of Dryden, and
3. a tributary in the Lee Road and Logan's Run neighborhood mapping, and
WHEREAS, apparent inaccuracies document in Zone A and C classifications in the 1985 FIRM
for outlying portions of Fall Creek outside the Villages of Dryden and Freeville are impeding efforts
to secure housing rehabilitation grants, and
WHEREAS, Department of Environmental Conservation official Lawrence Lapak's summary
report of his January 24, 2001 Community Assisted Visit to the Village of Dryden requests remapping for
the Village and the two other Project IMPACT! Communities (Town of Dryden and Village of Freeville),
and
WHEREAS, both the Town and Village of Dryden have previously made requests for FIRM
revisions in their biannual reports, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives officially endorses the formal
joint request made this March 2, 2001, by Mayor Thomas Lyson of the Village of Freeville, Mayor Reba
Taylor of the Village of Dryden, and Supervisor Mark Varvayanis of the Town of Dryden asking for:
• Year 2001 FIRM remapping of the Village of Dryden and for the stretch of Fall Creek
fronting the Forest Home Drive mobile home community. We concur this is a matter of
great urgency; and
• Year 2002 FIRM remapping of the balance of the Project IMPACT! Communities,
specifically the lower reaches of Egypt Creek, Virgil Creek below the north boundary of
the Village of Dryden, and Fall Creek from the confluence of Virgil Creek downstream to
the Town of Ithaca border.
118
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
April 17, 2001
Report from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, said the Committee has not met since the last meeting. The next
meeting will be tomorrow. The beginning of that meeting will be with the Health and Human Services
Committee to jointly discuss the aquifer and groundwater study.
Report from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee will meet tomorrow at 9 a.m.
Report from the Economic and Workforce Development Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Vice Chair, reported the Committee rescheduled its April 17 meeting to April 24.
She reported two items of good news. The Workforce Development Board received a grant in the amount
of $453,813 to train people already employed in high-tech occupations to upgrade their skills. This grant
award was the result of the consortium of employers surveyed and the grant was prepared by Tompkins
County Area Development and Tompkins Cortland Community College. Ms. Blanchard also reported
another grant in the amount of $385,000 was received that will be used towards the development of a GIS
map that will show where people, jobs, and day care are throughout the County. There will also be an
emphasis on transportation tailored to people who have special needs, such as third -shift employees.
Ms. Blanchard also reported on the Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance and stated they are in the
process of establishing a not-for-profit organization.
Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Library Construction Committee
RESOLUTION NO. 77 - AUDIT OF FINAL PAYMENT— ADVANCE MOVING CO., INC. —
TOMPKINS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present.
WHEREAS, Advance Moving Co., Inc. has completed their moving contract for the Tompkins
County Library project, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Library Construction Committee, That the following
claim against the County of Tompkins be and hereby is audited by the Board of Representatives:
Vendor Payment Request Account No. Amount
Advanced Moving Co., Inc. 3 (Final) HL7480.74.80 $6,603.00
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be and hereby is authorized and directed to pay
said claim from Account No. HL7480.59239.74.80.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 78 - AUDIT OF FINAL PAYMENT — LIBRARY INTERIORS —
TOMPKINS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present.
119
April 17, 2001
WHEREAS, Library Interiors has completed their furniture package contract for the Tompkins
County Library project, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Library Construction Committee, That the following
claim against the County of Tompkins be and hereby is audited by the Board of Representatives:
Vendor Payment Request Account No. Amount
Library Interiors 2 (Final) HL7480.74.80 $4,325.30
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be and hereby is authorized and directed to pay
said claim from Account No. HL7480.59239.74.80.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 79 - AUDIT OF FINAL PAYMENT — SYRACUSE OFFICE
ENVIRONMENTS — TOMPKINS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present.
WHEREAS, Syracuse Office Environments has completed their furniture package contract for
the Tompkins County Library project, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Library Construction Committee, That the following
claim against the County of Tompkins be and hereby is audited by the Board of Representatives:
Vendor Payment Request Account No. Amount
Syracuse Office Environments 5 (Final) HL7480.74.80 $5,349.70
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be and hereby is authorized and directed to pay
said claim from Account No. HL7480.59239.74.80.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 80 - AUDIT OF FINAL PAYMENT — ARTISTRY IN WOOD OF
SYRACUSE, INC. — TOMPKINS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present.
WHEREAS, Artistry in Wood of Syracuse, Inc. has completed their furniture package contract
for the Tompkins County Library project, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Library Construction Committee, That the following
claim against the County of Tompkins be and hereby is audited by the Board of Representatives:
Vendor Payment Request Account No. Amount
Artistry in Wood of 5 (Final) HL7480.74.80 $8,152.40
Syracuse, Inc.
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be and hereby is authorized and directed to pay
said claim from Account No. HL7480.59239.74.80.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 81- AUDIT OF FINAL PAYMENT— HURBSON OFFICE FURNISHINGS
— TOMPKINS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
120
April 17, 2001
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present.
WHEREAS, Hurbson Office Furnishings has completed their furniture package contract for the
Tompkins County Library project, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Library Construction Committee, That the following
claim against the County of Tompkins be and hereby is audited by the Board of Representatives:
Vendor
Hurbson Office Furnishings
Payment Request Account No. Amount
4 (Final) HL7480.74.80 $3,853.58
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be and hereby is authorized and directed to pay
said claim from Account No. HL7480.59239.74.80.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 82 - AUDIT OF FINAL PAYMENT — HENDERSON-JOHNSON
CO., INC. — TOMPKINS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present.
WHEREAS, Henderson -Johnson Co., Inc. has completed their furniture package contract for the
Tompkins County Library project, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Library Construction Committee, That the following
claim against the County of Tompkins be and hereby is audited by the Board of Representatives:
Vendor Payment Request Account No. Amount
Henderson -Johnson Co., Inc. 3 (Final) HL7480.74.80 $3,502.86
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be and hereby is authorized and directed to pay
said claim from Account No. HL7480.59239.74.80.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met last Thursday and now have the block data and
preliminary maps provided by Greg Potter of the Information Technology Services Department. Mr.
Lane said in the northeast corner of the City of Ithaca near Cayuga Heights there is a problem with the
placement of student residents in group residences. It appears that all Cornell residents were grouped on
one block. The geographic department of the Census Bureau in Boston has been contacted and they have
said Tompkins County can apply to have group residences adjusted. This is being done with the help of
the City of Ithaca and Cornell University and he hopes a plan will be ready by the April 19 meeting to
readjust those figures. Mr. Lane announced the Committee will now be holding weekly meetings and a
workshop for elected officials will be held on May 5th at the Women's Community Building for elected
officials.
Report from the Communications Capital Project Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. At the
next meeting on April 14th at noon they will be discussing the transportation relocation project and the
Cingular Wireless company directing their 911 calls to the proper place.
121
April 17, 2001
Report from the Information Management Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, reported the Committee will meet next month with the new Director of
Information Technology Services Department.
Report from the Intermunicipal Planning Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee will meet on April 27th at 9:30 a.m. in the Scott
Heyman Conference Room.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee will meet on April 271 at 11 a.m. in the Sherman Peer
Room in the Old Library building.
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Quality -of -Life 2000 Committee is no longer
meeting; however, work continues on the final report.
Approval of Minutes of March 20 and April 3, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Joseph, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the March 20 and April 3, 2001, minutes as corrected. MINUTES
APPROVED.
Recess
Chair Mink declared recess from 6:43 p.m. to 6:50 p.m.
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to enter into executive session at 6:50 p.m. to discuss contract negotiations. The
meeting returned to open session at 7:05 p.m.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:05 p.m.
122
May 1, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 13 Representatives (Representatives Proto and Totman arrived at 6:25 p.m.). Excused:
2 (Representatives Blanchard and Winch).
Presentation of Proclamation(s)
Chair Mink presented the following proclamation(s):
• Early Care and Education Workforce Month in Tompkins County — May, 2001 to Sharon Simm,
Program Coordinator for the IACC Day Care.
• Suicide Survivor's Day (May 5, 2001) and Suicide Prevention Week in Tompkins County — May
5-12, 2001 to Chris Bertleson, Director of Suicide Prevention and Crisis Service
• Tourism Week in Tompkins County — May 5-12, 2001 to Stuart Stein, Chair of the Economic and
Workforce Development Committee
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca, spoke of an announcement that was on the radio last week which
reported on a meeting to be held on the Cornell radioactive waste disposal and said the incorrect location
was given. Ms. Gougakis said this is a very important issue and would like the Board to hold Cornell
University responsible in making sure this cleanup process is done right.
Naomi Strichartz, Member of the Danby Town Board, asked that the Board support the Aquifer
study. She said municipalities cannot afford to do this study alone and would be grateful to the County
for moving this forward.
Presentation of Service Award
Chair Mink presented Representative Davis with a certificate recognizing five years of service to
Tompkins County.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Mr. Joseph, District No. 12 Representative, called attention to a document on Board members'
desks entitled "Networking for 2020" which is a description of the First Fridays program. This was
prepared by Joseph Smith, intern for Tompkins County.
Mr. Penniman, District No. 15 Representative, responded to the comments made by Ms.
Gougakis under privilege of the floor by the Public. He said although more publicity should have been
done there were public notices that were done. This continues to be an issue of concern and study by the
appropriate parties.
Mr. Todd, District No. 6 Representative, also commented on the Cornell Radioactive Waste
Disposal site and said the chemical site that is to the north of the Airport runway was corrected a number
123
May 1, 2001
of years ago and he believes Cornell did a responsible job on that site. He also said he has resided in
Tompkins County for 44 years and doesn't recall a spring being as dry as this year.
Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Representative, spoke of the Cornell Radioactive Waste Disposal site
and said although the Planning Committee discussed this a number of times last year they were unable to
come to a consensus on a recommendation to the Department of Environmental Conservation. They
reviewed the recommendations of the Environmental Management Council; however, some members felt
a thirty-year plan was not what should be done and that the waste should be permanently reMOVED.
Ms. Kiefer, District No. 10 Representative, also spoke of the Cornell Radioactive Waste Disposal
site and stated the EMC had recommended that Cornell excavate what is there and put it into a new site
on Cornell property in a state-of-the-art facility that would contain it. She said one item brought up at the
meeting that did not make the newspaper was that Duke University has a radioactive waste site similar to
Cornell. Duke also put radioactive waste into open -pit trenches, which was allowed at the time and
stopped using that method a short time prior to Cornell doing the same. Duke University has excavated
the material from its quarter acre site and the waste has been disposed of at permanent sites elsewhere
with a total cost is $1.3 million. Cornell's estimate for doing this for their two -acre site which is eight
times the size of Duke's, is $153,000,000. She said this raises questions about the difference in the
estimate and this is being looked into at the present time.
Mrs. Schuler, District No. 4 Representative, reported on the Rock the Arts youth festival that
recently took place and said it was a worthwhile and entertaining event.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher said his office has been working on the 2002 budget process and the communication
towers project.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Theisen said he is glad to be back at work after his illness.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires was not in attendance.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, the
following resolution(s) were added to the agenda:
Urging that the State Reimbursement Rate for Skilled Nursing Facilities be Increased Rather
than Decreased
Authorization to Execute Agreement with MRB Group for Health Department Space and Facility
Needs Evaluation
Authorizing a Letter of Support to Request a Rural Development Grant for NWS Transmitter
from the U.S. Department of Agriculture
Approval of Appointment(s) and Resolution(s) Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to approve the following appointment(s) and resolution(s) under the Consent
Agenda:
124
May 1, 2001
Mental Health Substance Abuse Subcommittee
Thomas A. Schlee - community representative; term expires December 31, 2002
Community Affirmative Action Committee
Bob Skates - Human Rights Commission representative; term expires December 31, 2001
Human Rights Commission
Diana Ward - term expires December 31, 2002
Mental Retardation Developmental Disabilities Subcommittee
Christine Donovan - community member representative; term expires December 31, 2002
RESOLUTION NO. 83 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS — VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present under the Consent Agenda.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services and Planning Committees,
That the Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget adjustments on his books:
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE
Office for the Aging (#24)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
6795 44772 Federal Revenue
6795 44772 Federal Revenue
$1,448 A6795 51000 Salary
$ 362 A6795 58800 Fringes
Explanation: Increase in Federal Revenue in Title III -D (Disease Prevention and Health Promotion)
Office for the Aging (#19)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
6776 44772 Federal Revenue $668 A6776 54491 Subcontract
Explanation: Federal increase permits increase in Foodnet.
Office for the Aging (#26)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Titles)
6772 44772 Federal Revenue $916 A6772 51000
6772 44772 Federal Revenue $306 A6772 58800
Explanation: Increase in Federal Revenue in Title III -B (Supportive Services)
Office for the Aging (#27)
Revenue Acct Title Amt
Approp Acct
Salary
Fringes
Title(s)
6798 44772 Federal Revenue $108
6798 44772 Federal Revenue $150
6798 44772 Federal Revenue $ 5
6798 44772 Federal Revenue $705
6798 44772 Federal Revenue $980
6798 44772 Federal Revenue $ 50
A6798 52206
A6798 54303
A6798 54330
A6798 54412
A6798 54414
A6798 54472
Computer Equipment
Supplies
Printing
Travel and Training
Local Mileage
Telephone
Explanation: Increase in Federal Ombudsman program permits coverage of contractual expenses.
Social Services (#22)
Revenue Acct Title Amt
Approp Acct Titles)
6070 43670 NYS Services for Clients $18,333
125
A6070 54400 Preventive
Services
May 1, 2001
Explanation: NYS announced the availability of these funds late last year and notified us late last month
that our plan for distributing them among our providers of preventive services to families and children
had been approved.
Social Services (#23)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Apurop Acct Title(s)
6141 44681 Federal: HEAP $54,151 A6141 54400 HEAP Program
Explanation: The state has advanced additional Federal funds for the 2000 — 2001 heating year,
necessitating this budget adjustment.
Environmental Health (#20)
Revenue Acct Title
4090 43489 Other State Grants
4090 43489 Other State Grants
Amt Ammon Acct Title(s)
$2,000 A4090 54442 Program Expense
$1,000 A4090 54442 Professional Service
Fees
4090 43489 Other State Grants $ 164 A4090 54452 Postage
Explanation: Balance of funds from Youth Tobacco Enforcement activities ($25,211) not originally
allocated in adjustment of 2/12/01. Work includes the collection of increased fines, suspension and
revocation of lottery licenses and tobacco vendor registrations for repeat violators, frequent initial and
follow-up inspections and monthly public notification of violators. In addition, funds are only available
for local tobacco enforcement and education activities.
Community Health Services (#18)
Revenue Acct Title
Amt Ammon Acct Title(s)
4016 43489 Other State Grants
4016 43489 Other State Grants
4016 43489 Other State Grants
$3,500 4016 52206 Computer Equipment
$2,000 4016 54442 Professional Service
Fees
$1,500 4016 54333 Education and
Promotion
Explanation: Purchase of color printer for promotional/outreach materials. Design/development of
promotional/outreach materials for persons 50 years of age and older. Paid advertising of print/voice
promotional material for local media including newspapers, television and radio. The department has
provided immunization services to adults over the years. This year we are eligible for supplemental funds
through the IAP grant.
PLANNING COMMITTEE
Planning (#21)
Revenue Acct Title Amt
A8022 43959 State Aid $12,500
Explanation: Close out of grant C980064 (25% retainage).
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Approp Acct Title(s)
A8022 54400 Program Expense
RESOLUTION NO. 84 - AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO A FIVE-YEAR LEASE
AGREEMENT WITH THE ALCOHOLISM COUNCIL OF
TOMPKINS COUNTY, INC.
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, the Alcoholism Council of Tompkins County, Inc., currently has a lease agreement
with Tompkins County for the rental of 7,200 square feet of office space in the Mental Health building,
201 East Green Street, Ithaca, and
126
May 1, 2001
WHEREAS, this lease agreement expired on March 31, 2001, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee and Public
Works Committee, That the County Administrator or his designee is hereby authorized to sign a lease
agreement with the Alcoholism Council of Tompkins County, Inc., for a five-year period running from
April 1, 2001 through March 31, 2006, with an eighteen month notice escape clause,
RESOLVED, further, That the lease includes rent, cleaning, utilities, and maintenance,
RESOLVED, further, That the rates are as follows:
April 1, 2001— March 31, 2002, $79,524
April 1, 2002 — March 31, 2003, $81,961
April 1, 2003 — March 31, 2004, $84,420
April 1, 2004 — March 31, 2005, $86,953
April 1, 2005 — March 31, 2006, $89,562
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 85 - AUTHORIZATION FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL
SERVICES TO AMEND DAY CARE COUNCIL AGREEMENT TO
REFLECT INCREASED PROVIDER REGISTRATION AND
INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, New York State delegates responsibility and authority to local social services
districts to register, inspect, and investigate complaints regarding day care providers, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County's Department of Social Services subcontracts with the County's
Day Care and Child Development Council to perform these activities, passing through the state funding
provided for the purpose, and
WHEREAS, New York State has significantly increased both the health and safety requirements
it requires registered day care providers to meet and the funding for local districts' use in ensuring
compliance, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the
Department of Social Services is authorized to amend its agreement with the Day Care and Child
Development Council to reflect both the increased responsibilities and associated funding,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance shall be directed to make the following budget
adjustments to reflect this authorization:
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
REVENUE: A6010.43610 State Reimbursement $33,936
APPROPRIATION: A6010.54442 Professional Services $33,936
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 86 - AUTHORIZATION FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL
SERVICES TO ACCEPT GRANT AND CONTRACT WITH RED
CROSS TO PROVIDE CASE MANAGEMENT FOR HOMELESS
SAFETY NET ASSISTANCE CLIENTS
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, the Department of Social Services has been awarded a Safety Net Assistance Project
(SNAP) grant from New York State, and
127
May 1, 2001
WHEREAS, the Department's SNAP application described the provision of enhanced case
management services by the Red Cross to Safety Net clients with documented mental or physical
disabilities sufficiently significant to act as barriers to achieving or maintaining self-sufficiency but not so
great as to qualify them for SSI, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the
Department of Social Services is authorized to accept the grant and to enter into a one-year agreement
with the Red Cross for provision of the aforementioned services,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance shall be directed to make the following budget
adjustments to reflect this authorization:
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
REVENUE: A6010.43610 State Reimbursement $40,000
APPROPRIATION: A6010.54442 Professional Services $40,000
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 87 - AUTHORIZATION FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL
SERVICES TO ACCEPT WHEELS FOR WORK GRANT AND
EXECUTE RELATED TWO-YEAR CONTRACTS
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, the Department has been awarded a two-year Wheels for Work grant by New York
State's Department of Labor to assist clients to attain self-sufficiency, and
WHEREAS, the Department's application described the provision of no -interest loans to
qualified county residents for the acquisition and/or repair of reliable private automobiles, with the goals
of helping those individuals keep or improve upon their current employment while developing a positive
credit history, and
WHEREAS, the grant application further described the provision of Personal Development
classes (with an emphasis on Financial Literacy and Employment Skills) and Defensive Driver training to
the program's borrowers, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the
Department of Social Services is authorized to accept the grant and to execute two-year contracts for loan
administration with the Cornell Finger Lakes Credit Union (CFCU) and Alternatives Federal Credit
Union (AFCU), and two-year contracts with Tompkins Community Action (for Personal Development
Classes), and Tompkins-Seneca-Tioga BOCES (for Defensive Driving classes),
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance shall be directed to make the following budget
adjustments to reflect this authorization:
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
REVENUE: A6010.44610 Federal — TANF Services $71,859
APPROPRIATION: A6010.54442 Professional Services $71,859
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee met on April 18t and most of the business
conducted at that meeting is reflected in the resolutions on the agenda. The Committee also had
discussions on the Youth Bureau 2000 program outcomes and participation reports. The Committee will
be looking at three-year County -wide trends and impacts.
RESOLUTION NO. 88 — APPROPRIATION FROM CONTINGENT FUND - CREATION OF
POSITION — MEDICAL EXAMINER PROGRAM
128
May 1, 2001
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Ms. Kiefer. Alice Cole, Public Health Director, noted
that for 40-50 years clerical support for this mandated service has been provided by the hospital. Cayuga
Medial Center has decided it will no longer do this for any price. Therefore, the Health Department must
absorb this cost.
Mr. Joseph stated this is a reasonable request and under normal circumstances he would support
it. However, the Board is facing a budget situation and will not be giving departments any extra money in
the coming year. He said at this time the Board is asking departments to pull together to cut costs and
have been getting a good response. He said if the Board approves this it will be demonstrating that it is
not serious. He said he does not feel this is a good message to be sending to departments at the same time
it will be asking departments to change the way they do things or reduce services in order to meet budget
needs.
Ms. Kiefer said Mr. Joseph presented a good argument against this resolution; however, she feels
it is reasonable for the Health Department to be responsible for this work and can support funding for this
budget year. She said the message being sent to departments pertains to the 2002 budget and said she
would support approving funding for the remainder of 2001 without increasing the target for next year.
It was MOVED by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to separate this into two resolutions.
A roll call vote resulted as follows on Resolution No. 88: Ayes — 7 (Representatives Davis,
Kiefer, Koplinka-Loehr, Mink, Penniman, Schuler, and Stein); Noes — 4 (Representatives Joseph, Lalley,
Lane, and Todd); Excused — 4 (Representatives Blanchard, Proto, Totman, and Winch). RESOLUTION
FAILED. RESOLUTION RECONSIDERED LATER 1N MEETING.
RESOLUTION NO. 89 — INCREASE IN FISCAL TARGET - MEDICAL EXAMINER PROGRAM
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Ms. Kiefer. This resolution failed by a voice vote.
RESOLUTION LOST. Resolution adopted later in meeting.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Health Department has contracted with Cayuga Medical
Center at Ithaca for many years for the provision of various medical examiner services, and
WHEREAS, effective June 1, 2001, Cayuga Medical Center at Ithaca will no longer provide
clerical support services for the medical examiner program, and
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 88 of 2001 created a position of Clerk (04/503), labor grade D (04),
competitive class, 17.5 hours per week to provide the clerical support to the Medical Program, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, further, That the Health Department target be increased for 2002 by $9,060.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee met twice since the last Board meeting. Aside
from the items on the agenda the main topics discussed were the Commercial Center Revitalization
Guidelines. In the near future the Committee will be receiving an update on the Cooperative Extension
building and the pesticide neighborhood notification program. The Committee will also be looking at the
Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act.
129
May 1, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 90 - AUTHORIZING THE FUNDING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF
THE NESTS TRANSIT PLANNING PROJECT TO EVALUATE THE
FEASIBILITY OF EXPANDED PUBLIC TRANSIT SERVICES IN
THE NORTHEAST AREA OF THE COUNTY AND AMENDMENT
TO THE CAPITAL PROGRAM
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, a Project for the Northeast Subarea Transportation Study (NESTS) -TRANSIT
PLANNING PROJECT, P.I.N. 375368 (the "Project") is eligible for funding under Title 23 U.S. Code, as
amended, that calls for the apportionment of the costs for such program to be borne at the ratio of 80
percent Federal funds and 20 percent non-federal funds, and
WHEREAS, the federal share for the project is $160,000.00, and
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins desires to advance the above project, on the
recommendation of the Ithaca -Tompkins County Transportation Council, by making a commitment of
100 percent of the non-federal share of the costs of Scoping and Design, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning and Budget and Capital Committees, That the
Board of Representatives hereby authorizes the County of Tompkins to pay in the first instance 100
percent of the federal and non-federal share of the cost of Scoping and Design work for the Project or
portions thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives hereby approves the
above -subject project,
RESOLVED, further, That a capital project be established in amount of $200,000 and the County
Finance Director be authorized to advance funds to cover the cost of participation in the above phase of
the Project,
RESOLVED, further, That in the event the full federal and non-federal share costs of the project
exceeds the amount appropriated above ($200,000), the Tompkins County Board of Representatives shall
convene as soon as possible to appropriate said excess amount immediately upon the notification by the
New York State Department of Transportation thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Administrator be and is hereby authorized to
execute all necessary Agreements, certifications or reimbursement requests for Federal Aid on behalf of
Tompkins County with the New York State Department of Transportation in connection with the
advancement or approval of the Project and providing for the administration of the Project and the
municipality's first instance funding of Project costs and permanent funding of the local share of federal -
aid -eligible Project costs and all Project costs within appropriations therefore that are not so eligible,
RESOLVED, further, 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,
RESOLVED, further, That this Resolution shall take effect immediately.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -18
RESOLUTION NO. 91— REQUEST FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO REDUCE GREENHOUSE
GAS EMISSIONS FROM COAL-FIRED POWER PLANTS
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the United States is a party to the United Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change and has pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide, and
WHEREAS, greenhouse gas emissions have been associated in reputable scientific studies with
global warming, and
130
May 1, 2001
WHEREAS, in particular, coal-fired power plants are a major point source of carbon dioxide
emissions, and
WHEREAS, failure to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from coal-fired power plants will result
in an increased concentration of greenhouse gases, thereby contributing to global warming, in violation of
the U.N. Convention on Climate Change, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That Tompkins County Board of
Representatives hereby communicates its desire for the President to carry out proposed U.S. reductions in
carbon dioxide emissions and for Congress to approve laws that are consistent with the U.N. Convention
on Climate Change and which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions including carbon dioxide emissions
from coal-fired power generating plants.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Budget and Capital Program Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported at the last meeting there was extensive discussion about the
budget situation and how the Board might handle the budget process. Included in the discussion was the
possibility of having a target cut which would place programs out as over -target requests for the Board's
examination. One thing that has become clear is that the Board got into this situation by using one-time
money to fund ongoing expenses. He said as the Board struggles with the upcoming budget there will
need to be serious consideration given to how one-time money should be dealt with.
Report from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, had no report. The meeting scheduled for this week has been
rescheduled for May 17t.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on April 24 and discussed various issues. He
called attention to the bulletin board which displayed the new Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport logo.
He reported the Airport has entered into a sublease for one of the hangars for ultralight airplanes and has
also said there is a new vendor for Airport cleaning services. The Committee received a presentation from
Representative Lalley on a public works web page. Mr. Lane said there continues to be discussion on the
future of the Public Works Department and the Public Works Cabinet will be giving their input.
RESOLUTION NO. 92 - AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO A SHORT-TERM
LEASE AGREEMENT WITH THE BIRNIE BUS SERVICES
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Birnie Bus Services currently provides transportation for preschool age handicapped
children for the Public Health Department and has an immediate need for space, and wishes to occupy
offices at the Biggs A building, and
WHEREAS, Birnie Bus Services wishes to lease space from the County until the building is sold
and then the new owner shall assume the lease, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the County
Administrator or his designee is hereby authorized to sign a lease agreement with Birnie Bus Services at a
rate of $500 per month.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
131
May 1, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 93 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT WITH POPLI
CONSULTING ENGINEERS AND SURVEYORS FOR DESIGN
SERVICES — BRIDGE PAINTING PROJECT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 48 of 2001 authorized an agreement with the State of New York
whereby State and Federal sources will furnish 95 percent of funding necessary to design maintenance
painting of up to seven Tompkins County bridges, and
WHEREAS, said Agreement requires Tompkins County to complete this project in accordance
with applicable federal regulations and guidelines, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Department of Public Works employed a consultant selection
process facilitated by the New York State Department of Transportation, in compliance with federal and
state requirements called the "Locally Driven Selection Arrangement" (LDSA) to choose a firm to
provide design services, and
WHEREAS, Public Works Department staff interviewed three (3) consultants through said LDSA
process on February 5, 2001 and recommended Popli Consulting Engineers and Surveyors as the best
qualified to design the project, and
WHEREAS, City of Auburn and Town of Genoa planning, engineering, and highway staff also
selected the same consultant for painting projects to be performed in those municipalities concurrently
with Tompkins County's work, the coordination of which has afforded some cost savings, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the County
Administrator or his designee be and hereby is authorized to execute a contract with Popli Consulting
Engineers and Surveyors of 555 Penbrooke Drive, Penfield, New York, for design services in connection
with the referenced project for an amount not to exceed $18,000,
RESOLVED, further, That the Engineering Division be authorized to execute supplemental
agreements on behalf of the County with cumulative value not to exceed 10 percent of the aforementioned
contract amount, funds to be provided from account D5111.54411 (Road/Bridge Contracts).
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -1
RESOLUTION NO. 94 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE AGREEMENT WITH MRB
GROUP FOR HEALTH DEPARTMENT SPACE AND FACILITY
NEEDS EVALUATION
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Space Needs and Location Committee has requested a program and facility
needs evaluation of the Tompkins County Health Department, and
WHEREAS, funds are available for public building restorations from the Tobacco Securitization
Sale, and
WHEREAS, a request for proposals was published to identify a consultant group to evaluate the
programmatic and facility needs of the Tompkins County Health Department, and
WHEREAS, seven firms submitted their proposals, four of which were interviewed, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Space Needs and Location Committee, That the County
Administrator or his designee be and hereby is authorized to execute agreements with MRB Group of
Rochester, New York as the best qualified to meet our need, in an amount not to exceed $60,000, funds to
be provided from capital account HB 1601.59239.16.41.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
132
May 1, 2001
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Economic and Workforce Development
Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee had a lengthy meeting last week. The Committee
discussed tourism grants and received a quarterly report on room tax for 2001. He said room tax receipts
are ten percent above the first quarter of last year, and noted this is the highest amount received for a first
quarter in history. The Committee was informed by Bridgett DeBell of the Convention and Visitors
Bureau that the Visitor's Center will open later this month. Mr. Stein announced the first annual tourism
luncheon will be held next week and said the purpose of this is to bring visibility and show appreciation
to people who have contributed to tourism in Tompkins County. Mr. Stein reported on Workforce
Development activities and said that Department is very busy with reorganization. A grand opening will
take place on May 22nd
Mr. Stein reported he believes things are beginning to calm down in the electric and gas arena
now that the process of transitioning to a new energy provider is close to completion. He said a resolution
will come to the Board at the next meeting to create a not-for-profit organization.
RESOLUTION NO. 95 - ACCEPTANCE OF HIGH-TECH WORKER GRANT — TOMPKINS
COUNTY WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the County applied on behalf of a consortium of 21 different local companies for a
high-tech worker grant for the purpose of training incumbent workers in high-tech occupations, and
WHEREAS, the County has been awarded the grant from the State of New York in the amount of
$453,818, and
WHEREAS, the funds will pay 75 percent of training costs to over 500 individuals in 31 separate
skill areas including web page development, systems analysis, networking, data recovery, and advanced
software applications, and the remaining 25 percent will be paid by the consortium members, and
WHEREAS, these funds will assist local businesses in meeting the ever-changing skill demands
of their technology workers to help them remain viable and vital parts of our state's economy, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the County hereby accepts the grant in the amount of $453,818,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts
related to this project.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Representatives Proto and Totman arrived at 6:25 p.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 96 — FUNDING OF TOURISM DEVELOPMENT GRANTS
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Penniman. At the request of Ms. Mink, it was MOVED
by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to
separate the Arts Trail grants into a separate resolution. A voice vote resulted as follows on the following
resolution: Ayes — 13, Noes — 0, Excused — 2 (Representatives Blanchard and Winch). RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County has a grant program for tourism development using funds drawn
133
May 1, 2001
entirely from Room Occupancy Tax, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County has requested and reviewed grant applications for
recommendation to the Tompkins County Board of Representatives through the Economic and Workforce
Development Committee with the advice of the Strategic Tourism Planning Board, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the following grants are approved:
Community Arts Partnership — Ithaca Artists' Market $2,000
and Holiday Artists' Market
Cornell Cooperative Extension — 4th Annual Farm City Day $1,900
Ithaca Downtown Partnership — Art in the Heart of the City $3,500
Ithaca Downtown Partnership — Winter Fest 2002 $3,500
Ithaca Downtown Partnership — Art Visions, Ithaca Art $2,000
Show and Sale
Trumansburg Area Chamber of Commerce - Trumansburg $4,420
Area Festival of Lights 2001
RESOLVED, further That funds for these grants shall be made from the Room Tax Account, as
approved in the 2001 County budget, and
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or designee shall be authorized to sign any
documents related to the aforementioned projects.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 97 — FUNDING OF TOURISM DEVELOPMENT GRANTS —•
COMMUNITY ARTS PARTNERSHIP
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Penniman. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 12,
Noes - 0, Excused - 2 (Representatives Blanchard and Winch); Abstentions - 1 (Chair Mink).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County has a grant program for tourism development using funds drawn
entirely from Room Occupancy Tax, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County has requested and reviewed grant applications for
recommendation to the Tompkins County Board of Representatives through the Economic and Workforce
Development Committee with the advice of the Strategic Tourism Planning Board, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the following grants are approved:
Community Arts Partnership — Greater Ithaca Art Trail/ $2,500
Advertising and Web Site
Community Arts Partnership — Greater Ithaca Art Trail/ $2,500
Brochure Publication
RESOLVED, further That funds for these grants shall be made from the Room Tax Account, as
approved in the 2001 County budget, and
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or designee shall be authorized to sign any
documents related to the aforementioned projects.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee met on April 12. The next meeting will be May
10 at Noon at the Central Fire Station. Following a brief tour the Committee will move and resume its
meeting at South Hill Station No. 5, the future site of the Centralized Dispatch Center.
134
May 1, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 98 - URGING THE STATE OF NEW YORK TO INCREASE THE
ASSIGNED COUNSEL RATES
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, New York State will be discussing an increase in the assigned counsel rates and how
the increase should be funded, and
WHEREAS, the current rates for assigned counsel are Forty Dollars ($40.00) in court and
Twenty-five Dollars ($25.00) out of court, which rate has not been increased since 1984, causing a grave
hardship to the day-to-day operations of the court system, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of Public Safety Committee, That the Board of Representatives
urges our State Legislature to increase the assigned counsel rates and to fund the entire increase by
monies contributed by the State of New York,
RESOLVED, further, That copies of this resolution be sent to Governor Pataki, Senator James
Seward, Senator Randy Kuhl, Assemblyman Martin Luster and the New York State Association of
Counties.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Communications Capital Projects Committee
RESOLUTION NO. 99 - AUTHORIZING A LETTER OF SUPPORT TO REQUEST A
RURAL DEVELOPMENT GRANT FOR NATIONAL
WEATHER SERVICE TRANSMITTER FROM THE UNITED
STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca proposes to submit a Rural Development Grant application to the
United States Department of Agriculture for the purpose of acquiring a radio transmitter and related
appurtenances to serve the City of Ithaca and the region including Tompkins County with National
Weather Service broadcasts, and
WHEREAS, the grant proposes to locate this transmitter and antenna at a county -owned facility,
utilizing a new tower to be part of Tompkins County's Public Safety Communication System, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Communications Capital Projects Committee, That the
Tompkins County Board of Representatives supports the submission of this grant and directs the County
Administrator to provide the City with a letter of support for the application.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Reconsideration of Resolution
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, to reconsider Resolution No. 88 that
was defeated earlier in the meeting. A vote by show of hands resulted as follows: Ayes - 8
(Representatives Davis, Kiefer, Koplinka-Loehr, Mink, Proto, Schuler, Stem, and Totman); Noes - 5
(Representatives Joseph, Lalley, Lane, Penniman, and Todd); Excused - 2 (Representatives Blanchard and
Winch). MOTION CARRIED.
RESOLUTION NO. 88 — APPROPRIATION FROM CONTINGENT FUND - CREATION OF
POSITION — MEDICAL EXAMINER PROGRAM
135
May 1, 2001
A roll call vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes - 8 (Representatives Davis, Kiefer,
Koplinlca-Loehr, Mink, Penniman, Proto, Schuler, and Stein); Noes - 5 (Representatives Joseph, Lalley,
Lane, Todd, and Totman); Excused - 2 (Representatives Blanchard and Winch). RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Health Department has contracted with Cayuga Medical
Center at Ithaca for many years for the provision of various medical examiner services, and
WHEREAS, effective June 1, 2001, Cayuga Medical Center at Ithaca will no longer provide
clerical support services for the medical examiner program, and
WHEREAS, the department will provide the clerical support to the Medical Examiner Program,
now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services and Budget and Capital
Committees, That one position of Clerk (04/503), labor grade D (04), competitive class, 17.5 hours per
week, be created effective May 21, 2001,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is directed to make the following budget
appropriation and adjustment:
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT:
REVENUE A4014.43401
APPROPRIATION: A4014.51503
BUDGET APPROPRIATION:
FROM A1990.54400
TO: A4014.51503
A4014.58800
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Presentation - Aquifer Study
Public Health Work
Personal Services
Contingent Fund
Personal Services
Fringe
$3,042
$3,042
$4,533
$3,498
$1,035
At this time John Andersson, Director of Environmental Health, and Kate Hackett, Natural
Resources Planner for the Planning Department, provided the Board with a presentation on the Aquifer
Study.
Investigating Aquifers and Groundwater Resources
Tompkins County, New York
- "When the well's dry,
- we know the worth of water."
- Ben Franklin
Importance of Water Resources
Public health
Economic/commercial development
(Inlet/Boatyard Grill, local marinas)
Tourism
Real estate
Aesthetics
Environmental function
Importance of Groundwater Resources
Both urban and rural needs
Drinking water supply for 45,000 County residents
136
��t
May 1, 2001
Groundwater/surface water interaction: affects quality of drinking water for municipal water users
Agricultural use
Industrial uses
Creation of wetlands
Ecological value
Local Examples
Hazardous and solid waste sites
Spills
Nitrogen
Depletion
Threats to Aquifers
and Groundwater
Consequences of Contamination
High costs to remediate contamination
High cost to treat drinking water
Disease and mortality
Permanent loss of supply
due to contamination
Uses for Aquifer Information
Protect public health
State -mandated Source Water Assessment Program (SWAP)
Hazardous spills management
Guide development
Ensure adequate water supplies for future development
Prevent future contamination
Determining appropriate siting and locations (landfills, gas stations, utilities, large consumptive water
users)
Increase efficiency of public monies
Locate adequate water supplies
Prevent costly remediation
Examples of Who Will Use the Information
Gov't agencies: NRCS, USDA, county and municipal governments
Water suppliers
Emergency managers
Individuals
WRC and EMC
Educational institutions
Contractors/developers: septic system installers, well drillers
Agricultural users
Mortgage lenders
Utilities
Other Regional Efforts
Broome County
Groundwater model
Groundwater/surface water interaction (supply, contamination)
Spill management
Pumping schemes of public wells
Chautauqua County
Groundwater model
137
May 1, 2001
Groundwater/surface water interaction (supply, contamination)
Protection of recharge areas
Monroe County
Quality (septic systems)
Quantity (impact of additional users)
Oswego and Cortland Counties
✓ Groundwater modeling
✓ Spill management
✓ Impact of land development issues on water (ag, landfills)
✓ Identifying appropriate development locations
✓ Protection of recharge areas
Current Aquifer Map
Information
Limitations of information
✓ Two-dimensional
✓ Lacks yield, volume, flow velocity and direction
✓ Recharge areas not identified
Additional Study Options
✓ Water table maps, groundwater movement and direction of flow
✓ Groundwater and surface water interaction, groundwater discharge areas
✓ Recharge areas and rates for wells
✓ Groundwater flow modeling
✓ Environmental tracers
✓ Groundwater/wetlands interactions
Costs
✓ Three levels: general assessment, refinement of data, modeling
✓ $175,000/aquifer reach to $300,000/aquifer reach
✓ 30% USGS match
✓ Alternative Funding Sources
✓ Environmental Protection Fund
✓ NYS DEC
✓ Section 319 Incremental Funds
✓ Other possible funding sources?
Study Prioritization
✓ WRC prioritization recommendations
✓ USGS recommendations
✓ Protection criteria
✓ Number dependent on for drinking water
✓ Past problems
✓ Local municipal contributions
138
May 1, 2001
Summary
Current and potential problems
✓ Quality: spills (Dryden, J'ville), septic, bacteria
✓ Quantity: depletion (Caroline, Lansing)
Uses/Products
✓ Groundwater map/model: what -if scenarios, spill prevention and management
✓ Basic assessment: yield, direction of flow, quality, aquifer boundaries, water table maps,
recharge areas, surface water/groundwater interaction
Importance
✓ Protect public health
✓ Ensure adequate water supplies (residential and commercial)
✓ High cost to remediate contamination
✓ Increase efficiency of public monies
Additional Resources and References
v EPA: Groundwater and Drinking Water Information
http://www.epa.gov/safewater/ or (800)426-4791
✓ National Drinking Water Clearinghouse
http://water.usgs.gov/ogw/
✓ National Drinking Water Clearinghouse
http://www.nesc.wvu.edu/netc/netcsc_homepage.html or (800)624-8301
✓ Groundwater Foundation
http:// www.groundwater.org or (800)858-4844
✓ NYS Source Water Assessment Plan
http://www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/water/swap.htm
✓ Cayuga Lake Restoration and Protection Plan
http://www.cayugawatershed.org/
✓ John Andersson, Tompkins County Health Department
jandersson@tompkins-co.org or 274-6688
✓ Kate Hackett, Tompkins County Planning Department
khackett@tompkins-co.org or 274-5560
✓ Todd Miller, US Geological Survey
tsmiller@usgs.gov or 266-0217
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee has been meeting weekly and is planning to provide
the full Board with a presentation or various scenarios. He said a workshop will be held at the Women's
Community Building on Saturday, May 5th from 9 to noon. Mr. Lane also said a special Board meeting
will need to be held so that the Board can adopt a redistricting plan in time for this year's elections.
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, had no report. The report from the Quality of Life Committee is
due in May.
Report from the Information Management Committee
139
May 1, 2001
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, reported there will be no May meeting. Mr. McClure, Director of
Information Technology Services, is taking time to analyze and prioritize a work plan for the Committee
and it will resume meeting in June.
OTHER BUSINESS
RESOLUTION NO. 100 - URGING THAT THE STATE REIMBURSEMENT RATE
FOR SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES BE INCREASED RATHER
THAN DECREASED
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, in Tompkins County there are five skilled nursing facilities (nursing homes) that
provide care in 555 beds, and
WHEREAS, about 850 people are served each year by these facilities, these are mostly residents
of Tompkins County; many have family and friends who are also dramatically affected by whether or not
care is available, and
WHEREAS, in 1996 the County paid about $1 million for this care (our share 10 percent of the
$10,468,703), and
WHEREAS, at the same time this brought more than $19 million into the area, and
WHEREAS, nursing homes provide jobs for more than 600 workers, with most living in the
County, and their combined annual operating budgets are about $19 million with the combined payrolls
totaling about $11 million, and
WHEREAS, just last year both Lakeside Rehabilitation Center and the Reconstruction Home
have had financial and staffing difficulties severe enough for them to close their doors to new patients;
this has also jeopardized their accreditation status, and
WHEREAS, in Tompkins County, the average rate for nursing home care, according to the New
York State Partnership for Long Term Care, is $170 per day, and
WHEREAS, Medicaid reimbursement, however, is quite a bit lower, averaging about $100 per
day, and
WHEREAS, about 70 percent - 85 percent of the patients in the larger local facilities are
reimbursed through Medicaid.
WHEREAS, the New York State budget proposed by Governor Pataki includes cuts in the
reimbursement rates for Medicaid services, just because a few facilities are making a profit, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of Health and Human Services Committee, That Tompkins
County urges the reimbursement rate for Skilled Nursing Facilities be increased rather than decreased,
RESOLVED, further, That this resolution be sent to Assemblyman Luster, Senators Seward and
Kuhl, and Govemor Pataki.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Approval of Minutes of Apri111 and 17, 2001
It was MOVED by Ms. Davis, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the minutes of the April 11 and 17, 2001 meetings as submitted.
MINUTES APPROVED.
Executive Session
140
May 1, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to enter into executive session at 7:20 p.m. to discuss proposed litigation. The
meeting returned to open session at 7:45 p.m.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
141
May 15, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 15 Representatives.
Presentation of Proclamation(s)
Ms. Mink presented a proclamation declaring the month of May, 2001 to be Foster Parent
Recognition Month in Tompkins County to Shelia Chase from the Department of Social Services.
Privilege of Floor by the Public
Tish Perlman, Town of Ithaca resident, said up until April 30, when she was abruptly fired by
Eagle Broadcasting, she had been employed in the field of radio broadcasting for a year and a half in
Tompkins County. Ms. Perlman thanked many individuals who she felt had supported her during that
time.
Sondra Segal, City of Ithaca resident, spoke of the SPCA and requested the Board to look into its
funding of that agency. She stated the SPCA recently instituted a temperament test that she feels is being
used to select dogs for euthanasia rather than to match them for homes. Ms. Mink referred this issue to
the Health and Human Services Committee.
Edward Hershey, City of Ithaca, spoke on behalf of the City's Redistricting Committee regarding
the County's recent reapportionment activities. He expressed appreciation to the Charter Review
Committee for the level of cooperation and communication that has taken place over the last two months.
He said the City believes the County's proposed Scenario 15D is a proposal that meets every criteria the
City would like to see, such as preservation of neighborhoods, it adheres to one person one vote, and
achieves a continued congruity that is important to the Board of Elections and the voters of Tompkins
County. He spoke of areas where City and Town of Ithaca lines cross; the City recognizes that a number
of City representatives will be represented in the coming years by residents of the Town. He said the City
supports those actions and is part of a trend towards intermunicipal cooperation and relations that is being
addressed in so many other ways.
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca, spoke of a meeting about Cornell's Radioactive Waste Disposal site
that was held this evening on Warren Road and felt there was inadequate public notice of that meeting.
She asked that the Board request that Cornell hold one more public information and comment meeting
downtown. Ms. Gougakis also asked that the Board take a position on banning jet skis in Tompkins
County.
Cathy Valentino, Town of Ithaca Supervisor, spoke of the County's reapportionment process and
thanked the Charter Review Committee for its work and the amount of time spent on this. Ms. Valentino
spoke of the various scenarios that were reviewed by the Committee and said she does not feel any of
them provide fair representation to the Town of Ithaca and to several of the other towns in the County.
142
May 15, 2001
She feels unless the Board were to have more than 15 representatives on the County Board, any scenario
that keeps five City representatives diminishes the fair representation of all the towns in the County. She
urged the Board to look closely at respecting municipal boundaries and the number of County
representatives that is going to give everyone the fairest representation. She said the number of County
representatives is not as important as the County's responsibility to represent everyone fairly and equally.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Ms. Davis, District No. 2 Representative, reminded City residents that school board elections are
being held this evening and encouraged all residents to vote.
Mr. Penniman, District No. 15 Representative, also spoke of school board and budget votes. He
said due to construction at the Trumansburg Central School, the location will be at the Historical Society
on South Side.
Mr. Lalley, District No. 13 Representative, commended Matt Whitmire of the Tompkins County
Highway Division who had noticed deconstruction of the Moose Lodge and Garage DeFrance was
occurring and acquired the spoils to use as a riprap, thus saving Tompkins County $17,000. Mr. Lalley
also commended employees Greg Potter, Wendy Skinner, George McClure, and Jim Blizzard for their
work on placing the reapportionment scenarios on the Internet.
Ms. Blanchard, District No. 1 Representative, said in their folders Board members will find two-
day free -ride bus passes on the TCAT bus system. She said these tickets are part of the new automated
ticket system.
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, said last night at the Town of Danby Board meeting a
briefing was given on the Cornell Radioactive Waste Disposal site by the Environmental Management
Council. He said he will be travelling to Albany tomorrow to defend the County's Archives and Records
Administration grants and will keep the Board informed on the status of Tompkins County grants. Mr.
Proto reported he attended a presentation given this past Saturday on behalf of the Music Teacher's
Association of Tompkins County where 22 children performed. He said these children ranged in ages
from 8 to 17 years and two won national recognition for writing their own compositions. He said he was
disappointed there was no media recognition because these kids did a tremendous job and deserve a lot of
credit.
Ms. Kiefer, District No. 11 Representative, announced a celebration would be held recognizing
the solar panels at the Tompkins County Public Library's roof on June 8 and 9. An official celebration
ceremony will be held on June 8 with guests of honor being from state and federal agencies. Tours will
also be given of the Library's solar system at 1 p.m. and a free symposium for building owners and
energy managers will be held in the afternoon. On Saturday a workshop will be held for homeowners.
She asked Board members to distribute copies of the program within their municipal town and village
offices.
Chair's Report and Appointment(s)
Ms. Mink had no report or appointments.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher announced the appointment of Peter Messmer as Tompkins County Highway
Manager. He will be introduced at the next Board meeting.
143
May 15, 2001
Report from the County Attorney
Jonathan Wood, Deputy County Attorney, reported the County Code and Sanitary Code are now
on the Internet.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires reported he has filed the County's annual fmancial report with the Clerk of the
Board. The audit report will be presented to the full Board in June. He announced the County auction of
delinquent tax properties would be held on Saturday, May 1661. A preview of those properties will be
held this evening at the Women's Community Building at 7 p.m.
Presentation from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chair, said a meeting was held on May 5 for municipal officials from across Tompkins
County to review various scenarios for redistricting. The Committee explained the scenarios and
accepted comments from those present. Mr. Lane said they conducted a survey and items that were raised
in those surveys were taken back to the Committee and reviewed. The Committee did a poll of the
respondents and found that most were in favor of a scenario that favored 15 representatives. Another
meeting was held yesterday at which the Committee reviewed additional scenarios. He said at the Charter
Review Committee meeting last Friday they heard from Cathy Valentino who expressed concern over 15 -
member scenarios. He said the Committee looked at scenarios at yesterday's meeting that might not
include as many cross -boundary incursions as had been looked at in the past.
Mr. Lane called attention to 13 scenarios displayed on the wall that range from 13 to 17 -member
boards. The Committee felt this Board should provide them with a preferred scenario in order for them to
have something for the public to react to at the May 21 meeting. Mr. Lane said timing is a very important
concern because they need to have the redistricting process completed in time for the petitioning process
for elections this fall.
Mr. Lane reviewed options that were discussed but not favored in early meetings of the
Committee. The first was to shorten the term of office of the Board. In order to accomplish that they
would have to either have a special referendum before the November election that would cost taxpayers
$50,000, or to have a referendum at the same time members are elected. This would mean members
would not know at the time of election whether they would be serving a two or four-year term. If that
passed it would mean members would be serving in districts they know would be unevenly populated. An
alternative to this would be for the Board to adopt a weighted voting system which would mean each
member's vote would carry a different weight and the Board would need to calculate that based on the
population in each district. He said these alternatives are not very suitable and based on conversations
with board members he does not feel the Board should avoid redistricting this year. Yesterday the
Committee decided to send three 15 -member scenarios and one 17 -member scenario forward to the
Board. He noted one member, Ms. Kiefer, wanted a 16 -member scenarios, but we have no tie -breaking
mechanism.
At this time Greg Potter, Geographic Information System Project Leader, reviewed various
scenarios and answered questions posed by Board members. He said we tried to keep within +5% of the
6433 -person ideal district size, so the spread would be approximately 10 percent. He reviewed 15D,
which has three City districts sharing some Town of Ithaca population, and has an 11.07 spread; 15E & F,
which give the City four districts and one shared equally with the Town, and 17A, which adds two
districts.
144
May 15, 2001
Ms. Kiefer said at the time the Board passes the initial local law that at the same time the
language in the Charter would be changed to state the Board would try to preserve municipal boundaries
as much as possible and also maintain neighborhoods. Mr. Lane said he would support this.
Ms. Kiefer commented on the scenarios that were presented and stated she is not sure the Charter
Committee has taken into consideration any Planning Department information that projects where growth
will continue. She said she believes it is the Board's responsibility to reflect the change in the
demographics that was revealed by Census information and feels more consideration needs to be given to
a 16 -member board scenario. Ms. Kiefer said it is very rare that a tie vote would occur and doesn't feel it
would pose a major problem for the Board. She said she will be working with Mr. Potter on trying to
come up with another scenario.
Ms. Davis said she has served on the Charter Review Committee and stated the Committee
considered many different sizes of boards. With respect to the scenarios that were presented she does not
feel any of them portrayed what would be in the best interest of the majority of the County. Ms. Davis
said she will support scenario 15D.
Ms. Blanchard said her observations of this process are based on her service on Common Council
and this Board. She referred to scenarios 15E and 15F and said she sees them as being the most
disruptive. She stated there will not be total agreement on one particular scenario but feels the Board can
achieve its goal with adopting scenario 15D.
Mr. Winch recalled the last time the Board went through the reapportionment process. He
complimented Mr. Lane on how productive the Charter Review Committee meetings have been and said
due to modern technology the Committee has been able to see scenarios very quickly.
Mr. Penniman said he now supports scenario 15D; however, he said was previously interested in
a larger number board; 17 members are recommended by both the Town of Ulysses and the Town of
Enfield, but that could mean extra cost. He said in looking at the way this has developed and the areas
where the City districts have extended to the Town they do follow neighborhoods. He said the Town of
Ithaca may wish to consider creating election districts especially with the growth patterns.
Mr. Todd expressed support for scenario 15D. He said the Board will not be able to please
everyone with any of the scenarios and feels this process should not be delayed.
Mr. Joseph also spoke in favor of scenario 15D in spite of doing what his Town Supervisor has
asked the Board not to do. Although that is a concern to him, in looking at the implication of other
scenarios has led him to believe scenario 15D is the most practical option. He said he believes it is very
possible that a resident of the Town may end up representing one of the City districts because people are
more interested in what a candidate says rather than where they live. Mr. Joseph also said it is very rare
that anything comes to the County Board based on where they live.
Ms. Mink said one of the advantages of not serving on the Committee is being able to look at the
entire picture with a broader perspective than those who have been directly involved in the work. She
said for the past thirty years this County has operated as a charter county and not a board of supervisors or
collection of municipalities. She said this Board has tried to work very hard in the last five to six years
towards coordinating and cooperating intermunicipally. She said adding more members to the Board
adds not only cost, but more difficulty. She agreed with Mr. Joseph's comments and said fair
representation is representing the needs of the taxpayers of Tompkins County, which is what the Board
already does. In regard to crossing district boundaries, she feels this is less important than providing good
145
May 15, 2001.
representation to the people who elect members to the Board. She said she will support scenario 15D
because it does the least harm to the most people.
Ms. Mink asked the Board to provide direction to the Committee in pursuing various scenarios.
There was interest in pursuing scenario 15D by 14 members, scenario 15E by two members and scenario
16 and 17 by one member.
RESOLUTION NO. 101 — AUTHORIZING A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED LOCAL
LAW NO. C OF 2001— A LOCAL LAW AMENDING THE
CHARTER AND CODE, ARTICLE 2, SECTIONS 2.09 AND 2.10
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Charter and Code, Article 2, Section 2.09 a committee was appointed
to assist in arriving at a plan of reapportionment, and
WHEREAS, it has become clear to the committee that the provisions of the Charter and Code
relating to reapportionment should be updated, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That a public hearing be held before the Board of Representatives in Board
Chambers of the Tompkins County Courthouse, 320 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, on Thursday,
May 31, 2001, at 5:30 o'clock in the evening thereof concerning proposed Local Law No. c of 2001 — A
Local Law Amending the Charter and Code, Article 2, Sections 2.09 and 2.10. At such time and place all
persons interested in the subject matter will be heard concerning the same,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board is hereby authorized and directed to place
proper notice of such public hearing in the official newspaper of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 102 — AUTHORIZING A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED LOCAL
LAW NO. 3 OF 2001— A LOCAL LAW DEFINING ELECTION
DISTRICTS IN TOMPKINS COUNTY
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, Section 2.09 of the Tompkins County Charter and Code requires the Board of
Representatives to prepare a plan for reapportionment upon publication of the results of the Federal
Decennial Census, and
WHEREAS, the results of the Federal Decennial Census have been published recently, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That a public hearing be held before the Board of Representatives in Board
Chambers of the Tompkins County Courthouse, 320 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, on Thursday,
May 31, 2001, at 5:30 o'clock in the evening thereof concerning proposed Local Law No. 3 of 2001 — A
Local Law Defining Election Districts in Tompkins County. At such time and place all persons interested
in the subject matter will be heard concerning the same,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board is hereby authorized and directed to place
proper notice of such public hearing in the official newspaper of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Withdrawal of Presentation from the A2enda
Ms. Mink said a presentation on activities of Tompkins County Area Development that was
scheduled to take place at this meeting is being postponed to the June 5 Board meeting.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the A2enda
146
May 15, 2001
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote, the following resolutions
were added to the agenda:
Authorization to Accept West Nile Virus Surveillance and Education Grant - Health Department
Authorization to Execute Quitclaim Deed — Properties Redeemed before County Auction
Acceptance of Community Assessment Initiafive Grant and Budget Adjustment — Tompkins
County Workforce Development
Acceptance of Invest Grant and Budget Adjustment — Tompkins County Workforce Development
Creation of Implementation Coordinator Position — Workforce Development
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
Chair Mink gave the appropriate committee chairman permission to withdraw the following
resolution(s) from the agenda:
Award of Bid — Bostwick Road Renovations — Buildings and Grounds
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Committee will meet on May 17 and will begin taking actions
that relate to the upcoming 2002 budget process.
RESOLUTION NO. 103 - AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $2,910,625 SERIAL BONDS
OF THE COUNTY OF TOMPKINS, NEW YORK, TO PAY THE
COSTS OF THE RECONSTRUCTION OF THE HVAC SYSTEMS
OF THE VARIOUS CAMPUS BUILDINGS OF THE TOMPKINS
CORTLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Totman. A roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes —
15, Noes — 0. RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, a plan for the establishment, construction, maintenance and operation of the
Tompkins Cortland Community College (the "College"), as amended, was jointly sponsored by
concurrent resolutions of the legislative bodies of the County of Tompkins, New York, and the County of
Cortland, New York (the "Counties") pursuant to the provisions of Article 126 of the Education Law (the
"Plan"), and
WHEREAS, in 1994 the Counties, pursuant to the Plan for the College, commenced certain
improvements at the Tompkins Cortland Community College, being the construction of additions to and
the reconstruction of various campus buildings, and
WHEREAS, the Counties, in furtherance of the Plan for the College, have now authorized the
reconstruction of the HVAC systems at the various campus buildings of the College, and
WHEREAS, it is now necessary to provide for the fmancing of such HVAC systems
reconstruction, and
WHEREAS, the Counties have entered into an Intermunicipal Agreement relating to the College
and the Plan, including the HVAC systems improvements hereby authorized, pursuant to Article 5-G of
the General Municipal Law and Article 126 of the Education Law, and
WHEREAS, all conditions precedent to the financing of the capital improvement hereinbefore
and hereinafter described, including compliance with the provisions of the State Environmental Quality
Review Act, have been performed, and
WHEREAS, it is now desired to authorize the financing of such HVAC systems, now therefore
RESOLVED, by the Board of Representatives of the County of Tompkins, New York, as follows:
Section 1. For the class of objects or purposes of paying the costs of the reconstruction of the
HVAC systems at the various campus buildings of the Tompkins Cortland Community College, including
incidental improvements and expenses in connection therewith, at a maximum estimated cost of
147
be it
May 15, 2001
$2,910,625, there is hereby authorized to be issued $2,910,625 serial bonds of said County of Tompkins,
New York, pursuant to the provisions of Local Finance Law.
Section 2. It is hereby determined that the maximum estimated cost of such class of objects or
purposes is $2,910,625 and that the plan for the financing thereof is by the issuance of the $2,910,625
serial bonds of said County of Tompkins, New York, authorized to be issued pursuant to this bond
resolution.
Section 3. It is hereby determined that the period of probable usefulness of the aforesaid class of
objects or purposes is ten years, pursuant to subdivision 13 of paragraph a of Section 11.00 of the Local
Finance Law.
Section 4. Subject to the provisions of the Local Finance Law, the power to authorize the issuance
of and to sell bond anticipation notes in anticipation of the issuance and sale of the bonds herein
authorized, including renewals of such notes, is hereby delegated to the County Finance Director of the
County of Tompkins, New York, the chief fiscal officer. Such notes shall be of such terms, form, and
contents, and shall be sold in such manner, as may be prescribed by said County Finance Director,
consistent with the provisions of the Local Finance Law.
Section 5. The faith and credit of said County of Tompkins, New York, are hereby irrevocably
pledged for the payment of the principal of and interest on such obligations as the same respectively
become due and payable. An annual appropriation shall be made in each year sufficient to pay the
principal of and interest on such obligations becoming due and payable in such year.
Section 6. Such obligations shall be "several indebtedness" of the County of Tompkins, New
York, as defined in Section 15.00 (b) of the Local Finance Law, as to which the faith and credit of the
County of Tompkins, New York, has been pledged in Section 5 hereof. Such obligations shall be issued
pursuant to Section 15.00 (c) of the Local Finance Law, and pursuant to Section 15.00 (q) of the Local
Finance Law, shall constitute indebtedness of the County of Tompkins, New York.
Section 7. Such bonds shall be in fully registered form and shall be signed in the name of the
County of Tompkins, New York, by the manual or facsimile signature of its County Finance Director and
a facsimile of the corporate seal shall be imprinted or impressed thereon and attested by the manual or
facsimile signature of the County Clerk.
Section 8. The powers and duties of advertising such bonds for sale, conducting the sale, and
awarding the bonds, are hereby delegated to the County Finance Director of the County of Tompkins,
New York, who shall advertise such bonds for sale, conduct the sale, and award the bonds in such manner
as he shall deem best for the interests of the County; provided, however, that in the exercise of these
delegated powers, he shall comply fully with the provisions of the Local Finance Law and any order or
rule of the State Comptroller applicable to the sale of municipal bonds. The receipt of said County
Finance Director shall be a full acquittance to the purchaser of such bonds, who shall not be obliged to see
to the application of the purchase money.
Section 9. All other matters, except as provided herein relating to such bonds, including
determining whether to issue such bonds having substantially level or declining annual debt service and
all matters related thereto, prescribing whether manual or facsimile signatures shall appear on said bonds,
prescribing the method for the recording of ownership of said bonds, appointing the fiscal agent or agents
for said bonds, providing for the printing and delivery of said bonds (and if said bonds are to be executed
in the name of the County of Tompkins, New York, by the facsimile signature of its County Finance
Director, and providing for the manual countersignature of a fiscal agent or of a designated official of the
County), the date, denominations, maturities and interest payment dates, place or places of payment, and
also including the consolidation with other issues, shall be determined by the County Finance Director. It
is hereby determined that it is to the financial advantage of the County not to impose and collect from
registered owners of such serial bonds any charges for mailing, shipping and insuring bonds transferred or
exchanged by the fiscal agent, and, accordingly, pursuant to paragraph c of Section 70.00 of the Local
Finance Law, no such charges shall be so collected by the fiscal agent. Such bonds shall contain
substantially the recital of validity clause provided for in Section 52.00 of the Local Finance Law, and
shall otherwise be in such form and contain such recitals in addition to those required by Section 52.00 of
the Local Finance Law, as the County Finance Director of the County of Tompkins shall determine.
Section 10. The validity of such bonds and bond anticipation notes may be contested only if:
1) Such obligations are authorized for an object or purpose for which said County is not
authorized to expend money, or
148
May 15, 2001
2) The provisions of law which should be compiled with at the date of publication of this
resolution are not substantially complied with,
and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date
of such publication, or
3) Such obligations are authorized in violation of the provisions of the Constitution.
Section 11. This resolution shall constitute a statement of official intent for purposes of Treasury
Regulations Sections 1.150 — 2. Other than as specified in this resolution, no monies are, or are
reasonably expected to be, reserved, allocated on a long-term basis, or otherwise set aside with respect to
the permanent funding of the object or purpose described herein.
Section 12. This resolution, which takes effect immediately shall be published in full in the
Ithaca Journal, the official newspaper of the County, together with a notice of the Clerk of the Board of
Representatives in substantially the form provided in Section 81.00 of the Local Finance Law.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Report from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee will meet tomorrow at 2:15 p.m. He
announced the Community Affirmative Action Committee is changing its name to the Affirmative Action
and Workforce Diversification Committee.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported May 20-26, 2001 is National Public Works Week. He announced a
groundbreaking ceremony for the Bostwick Road project will be held on May 23`' at 7:30 a.m., and a
grand opening ceremony of the Household Hazardous Waste facility will take place on May 251 at 1:45
p.m.
Mr. Lane spoke of the bidding process for the Bostwick Road project and said the cost of the
alternates run approximately $260,000 above the project capital cost estimate that was included in the
capital budget. He said there is unanimous belief by the Committee that these alternates which are for
things such as a generator, better control for the HVAC system to save energy, and a cold -storage facility
to preserve equipment are necessary to the project. Therefore, the Committee will be asking the Budget
Committee and the full Board to amend the capital program to include these costs. Mr. Lane also
reported the Committee had an extensive discussion about the resolutions that are on the agenda that deal
with paying engineering fees for Airport projects. He said in order to obtain federal funding, the County
has to abide by federal requirements. He said the engineering firm of Calocerinos and Spina was asked
to provide the County with an itemized list of what is included in their costs so that the Committee can
understand those fees better.
RESOLUTION NO. 104 - AUDIT OF FINAL PAYMENT - RENWICK DRIVE BRIDGE
PROJECT - SILVERLINE CONSTRUCTION, INC.
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, Silverline Construction, Inc., has completed their construction contract for the
Renwick Drive Building Project, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the following claim
against the County of Tompkins, be and hereby is audited by the Board of Representatives:
Vendor Payment Request Account No. Amount
Silverline Construction, Inc. 6 (Final) HZ5103.53.03 $24,321.06
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be and hereby is authorized and directed to pay
said claim from Account No. HZ5103.59239.53.03
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
149
May 15, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 105 - AUTHORIZING SUPPLEMENTAL CONSULTANT
AGREEMENT NO. 2 WITH C&S ENGINEERS, INC., FOR DESIGN
SERVICES IN CONNECTION WITH THE OLD TERMINAL RAMP
REHABILITATION, OBSTRUCTION REMOVAL (RUNWAY 32
END), ARFF FACILITY EXPANSION, PASSENGER BOARDING
BRIDGE, AND LAND ACQUISITION SERVICES —
ITHACA/TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Totman. Mr. Stein said this resolution precipitated the
concerns raised in Mr. Lane's report in regard to engineering fees. He said these items seem to be above
an amount he feels he can support. He said he feels the County is locked into using one firm and would
like to know whether another firm would charge these outrageously high fees. Other members of the
Board expressed the same concern and frustration over rules set by the FAA (Federal Aviation
Administration) in order to receive their funds.
A voice vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes — 12, Noes — 3 (Representatives Kiefer,
Schuler, and Stein). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Airport Master Plan identifies the Old Terminal Ramp Rehabilitation,
Obstruction Removal (Runway 32 End), ARFF Facility Expansion, Passenger Boarding Bridge, and Land
Acquisition as projects for FY 2001, and
WHEREAS, there is a need for various engineering design, acquisition and administrative
services to be rendered, and
WHEREAS, the fees associated with these projects are as follows:
Old Terminal Ramp Rehabilitation and
Obstruction Removal (Runway 32 End) - $68,600
ARFF Facility (CFR Building) Expansion - $83,000
Passenger Boarding Bridge - $24,000
Land Acquisition Services (Runway 14 End) - $35,986
WHEREAS, the funding for the required services is as follows:
FAA Share (90 percent) - $190,427
NYSDOT Share (5 percent) - $ 10,579
Local Share (Airport Revenues) - $ 10,580
, and
Total - $211,586
, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That Supplementary
Agreement No. 2 with C&S Engineers for $211,586 be and hereby is approved and that the County
Administrator is authorized to execute the required documents,
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director is authorized to advance payment for these
services until reimbursement is received from FAA and NYSDOT.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -2
RESOLUTION NO. 106 - AUTHORIZING ACCEPTANCE OF A FEDERAL AVIATION
ADMINISTRATION (FAA) GRANT FOR THE EXPANSION,
MARKING, AND LIGHTING OF THE GENERAL AVIATION
(GA) RAMP (APPROXIMATELY 6,800 SQUARE YARDS)
INCLUDING ASSOCIATED DRAINAGE AND AIRFIELD
GUIDANCE SIGNS (PHASE 2) — ITHACA/TOMPKINS
REGIONAL AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
150
May 15, 2001
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives awarded a contract on the 3'i day of
April, 2001 to expand the General Aviation Ramp, and
WHEREAS, a Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) grant for Phase I of this project was accepted
by the County Board on the 19th day of September, 2000, it being the remainder of the airport's Airport
Improvement Program (AIP) Entitlement grant for FY 2000, and
WHEREAS, the total cost of the GA Ramp Expansion (Phase II) is $155,868 and that the funding
is as follows:
FAA Share (90 percent)
NYSDOT Share ( 5 percent)
Local Share (Airport Revenues)
Total
$140,281
$ 7,793
$ 7,794
$155,868
, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the grant offer for
$140,281 be and hereby is accepted and that the County Administrator is authorized to execute the
required documents.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -2
RESOLUTION NO. 107 - AUTHORIZING SUPPLEMENTAL CONSULTANT AGREEMENT
NO. 1 WITH C&S ENGINEERS, INC. , FOR INSPECTION
SERVICES IN CONNECTION WITH THE RUNWAY LIGHTING
REHABILITATION AND THE GENERAL AVIATION RAMP
EXPANSION, REBIDDING SERVICES ON BOTH CONTRACTS,
AND TAXIWAY "A" REGULATOR REPLACEMENT — ITHACA/
TOMPIINNS REGIONAL AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Lalley. Ms. Kiefer said she feels obliged to vote in favor
of this because the work has already been done.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 14, Noes — 1 (Representative Stein). RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, on April 3, 2001, the County awarded construction projects for Lighting,
Rehabilitation and for the General Aviation Ramp Expansion, and
WHEREAS, there was a need to rebid both contracts due to unacceptably high bids being
received last year, and
WHEREAS, for emergency reasons there was a need to separate out the Taxiway "A" Regular
Replacement and complete that early, and
WHEREAS, various engineering services, including inspection, grants administration, and
design/build for the regulator installation are required, and
WHEREAS, the fees associated with the four projects are as follows:
and
Runway Rehabilitation Inspection
GA Ramp Expansion Inspection
Rebidding Services
Taxiway Regulator Replacement
WHEREAS, the funding for the required services is
FAA Share (90 percent)
NYSDOT Share ( 5 percent)
Local Share (Airport Revenues)
Total
, now therefore be it
151
- $60,750
- $60,759
- $ 7,500
- $21,500
as follows:
- $135,296
- $ 7,516
- $ 7,517
- $150,329
May 15, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That Supplementary
Agreement No. 1 with C&S Engineers for $150,329 be and hereby is approved and that the County
Administrator is authorized to execute the required documents,
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director is authorized to advance payment for these
services until reimbursement is received from the FAA and NYSDOT.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-2
Resolution Presented by the Government Operations Committee
RESOLUTION NO. 108 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE QUITCLAIM DEED
PROPERTIES REDEEMED BEFORE COUNTY AUCTION
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley. Mr. Lane requested permission to
abstain from voting because he has done legal work for this family. Ms. Mink granted permission for the
abstention. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 14, Noes — 0, Abstentions — 1 (Representative Lane).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
RESOLVED, That the County Administrator is authorized to execute a Quitclaim Deed
conveying property acquired by the County through 2000 tax foreclosure, back to the previous owners
upon payment of all back taxes, penalties, interest and fees as follows:
- Village of Dryden 8-1-11 back to Alan L. Macomber
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Report from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee will meet tomorrow at noon. At that time the
Committee will be discussing the Cornell Radioactive Waste Disposal Site. He announced documents
relating to that project are available at the Tompkins County Public Library, Village of Lansing office, the
DEC central office, Cornell University, and in the Board Office.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee will meet tomorrow at 9:30 a.m. at the Mental Health
Building. She reported she attended the grand opening of the Family Opportunity Center last week. Other
activities that have taken place during the past week were the opening of the Cornerstone Recovery Center
and the annual meeting of the Tompkins Community Action Board. She announced the Office for the Aging
luncheon will take place on May 21st.
RESOLUTION NO. 109 - AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT WEST NILE VIRUS
SURVEILLANCE AND EDUCATION GRANT - HEALTH
DEPARTMENT
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Ms. Davis, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, Health Research, Inc. has been awarded a grant from the Centers for Disease
Control (CDC), Federal CFD # 93.283, to support West Nile Virus surveillance activities as well as
education activities, and
WHEREAS, Health Research, Inc. has awarded Tompkins County Health Department $10,000
for the period of May 1, 2001 through December 31, 2001, now therefore be it
152
i*, inn,, r$,M. °i' `,
May 15, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the Health
Department is authorized to accept said grant funds,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is authorized to make the following budget
adjustment on his books:
REVENUE: A4090.44959 Federal Grants $10,000
APPROPRIATION: A4090.54440 Program Expense $10,000
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Economic and Workforce Development Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee met today at noon and discussed many items. He
announced a grand opening celebration will take place for the Downtown Visitors Center this week and
Workforce Development will be opening the First Step Program next week.
RESOLUTION NO. 110 - ACCEPTANCE OF COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT INITIATIVE
GRANT AND BUDGET ADJUSTMENT - TOMPKINS COUNTY
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Ms. Davis, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County was recently awarded a $25,000 grant from the New York State
Department of Labor to assess local skill shortages, and
WHEREAS, no local match is sought, and
WHEREAS, the goal of the project is to engage local Workforce Investment Board members in
identifying the workforce needs of local industry and jobseekers and use the information to develop a
strategic plan that sets forth policies to address these needs, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the County hereby accepts the grant in the amount of $25,000,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts
related to this project,
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director is authorized to make the following budget
adjustment to his books:
REVENUE: CD6290.44790 Federal Aid Job Training $25,000
APPROPRIATION: CD6290.51000 Salary $16,711
.58800 Fringe 4,177
.54303 Supplies 510
.54432 Space/Utilities 1,652
.54472 Telephone 120
.54452 Postage 1,500
.54430 Printing 300
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 111 - ACCEPTANCE OF INVEST GRANT AND BUDGET ADJUSTMENT-
TOMPKINS COUNTY WORKFQRCE DEVELOPMENT
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County was recently awarded a $25,000 grant from the New York State
Department of Labor to promote the InVEST Job Ladder and Job Start Programs to local businesses, and
153
May 15, 2001
WHEREAS, the InVEST Job Ladder and Job Start Programs provide low-wage workers with
opportunities to upgrade their skills, and
WHEREAS, the funds will be used to promote the development of strategies that assist both the
employed and unemployed, and
WHEREAS, no local match is sought, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the County hereby accepts the grant in the amount of $25,000,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts
related to this project,
RESOLVED, further, That the
adjustment to his books:
REVENUE: CD6290.44790
APPROPRIATION: CD6290.51000
.58800
.54412
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Finance Director is authorized to make the following budget
Federal Aid Job Training
Salary
Fringe
Travel/Training
$25,000
$18,000
$ 6,000
$ 1,000
RESOLUTION NO. 112 — CREATION OF IMPLEMENTATION COORDINATOR
POSITION - WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, a .5 FTE Implementation Coordinator was hired in May 2000 for a twelve-month
period to assist in the implementation activities funded by the $300,000 One -Stop Implementation Grant
Tompkins County received, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County was recently awarded a $25,000 Community Assessment
Initiative Grant, and a $25,000 InVEST Planning Grant, which the Implementation Coordinator will
provide assistance in implementing, and
WHEREAS, this position will require no local share, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That one .5 FTE position of Implementation Coordinator, (12/748), labor grade L (12), 20 hours per
week, competitive class, be created effective May 3, 2001, to be funded by grant money.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The
next meeting will be held on June 14 at the Criminal Justice Center.
Report from the Communications Capital Proiects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, announced the Committee will meet on May 22nd.
Report from the Intermunicipal Planning Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, announced the Committee will meet on May 25th at 9:30 a.m.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, announced the Committee will meet on May 25th at 11:30 a.m.
154
May 15, 2001
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee continues to work on the final report.
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr briefly highlighted some of the indicators that will be included in that report.
Approval of Minutes of May 1, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote,
the minutes of the May 1, 2001 meeting were approved as corrected. MINUTES APPROVED.
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote to
enter into executive session at 7:46 p.m. to discuss real estate matters. The meeting returned to open
session at 7:52 p.m.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:52 p.m.
155
May 31, 2001
Adjourned Meeting
Present: 15 Representatives.
Public Hearing on Proposed Local Law No. c of 2001- A Local Law Amending Sections C-2.09 and
C-2.10 of Article 2 of the Tompkins County Charter and Code
Chair Mink called the public hearing to order at 5:30 p.m. and asked if anyone wished to speak.
No one wished to speak and the public hearing was declared closed at 5:31 p.m.
Public Hearing on Local Law No. 3 of 2001 - A Local Law Amending Chapter 28 of the Tompkins
County Code with Respect to Reapportionment
Chair Mink called the second public hearing to order at 5:31 p.m. and asked if anyone wished to
speak.
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca, asked that the Board postpone action on this item for another year
or until a time when all municipalities and the County are in agreement. She asked that the Board allow
time for consideration of various scenarios.
Edward Hershey, City of Ithaca, said last evening at a joint City/Town Fifth District Democratic
Committee meeting Pat Leary was officially endorsed as the Party's candidate to run for election to the
Board of Representatives in November. Mr. Hershey urged the Board to adopt Scenario 15D which he
believes is in the best interest of all the municipalities and the entire County.
Alan Cohen, City of Ithaca Mayor, said he has concerns about the way the process has unfolded
and the impact it has had on intermunicipal relations. He stated that although there are differences of
opinion, the City and the Town of Ithaca are not at odds with one another. Mr. Cohen recognized that a
tremendous amount of effort has been put into this process; however, he is concerned with the speed of
the process and that there are unresolved issues that remain in the community. He would like to see the
Board delay this process and spend more time addressing these issues.
Catherine Valentino, Town of Ithaca Supervisor, stated there are serious intermunicipal concerns
that have not been addressed. She said if the County wants to works with each community on a fair and
equal basis that more time needs to be put into looking into the concerns. Ms. Valentino spoke of
Scenario 15D and said she feels the major problem with that is that the five City wards and aligning them
with County districts became an overriding issue of how the County was going to be redistricted. She
said this is a violation of the County Charter because the boundaries of the towns and City are not being
honored. She feels another violation of the County's Charter is with respecting State legislation and court
interpretations and feels the County did not stay near the deviation recommended by the State. Also, she
feels the County has been working from census figures that have not been verified from the Census
Bureau. Ms. Valentino said she also feels the County has established a deadline that is not practical to
meet.
Doria Higgins, Town of Ithaca, urged the Board to take more time on this issue and go with one
or two-year terms for County representatives for the time being. She said she does not feel the proposed
redistricting plan is in the best interest of West Hill residents.
Patricia Vaughan, City of Ithaca Common Council Member, said at no time during this
redistricting process was it the City's Intent to hurt the Town of Ithaca. In fact, until May 10th, they felt
there was at least a tacit approval of the Town for the various 15 -member scenarios that had been
proposed by the Charter Review Committee. Ms. Vaughan said the Town is the City's partner in a
156
May 31, 2001
• variety of civic enterprises: fire service, recreation, wastewater treatment, and both have similar interests
in many ways. She said relations between the City and the Town of Ithaca have been cordial in the past
and they would like to keep them that way. Although this has been an unusual redistricting process, the
County has been very accommodating for the requests for consideration of scenarios that preserve City
neighborhoods. She said of the scenarios that have been presented, 15D is the City's clear preference
because it achieves the goals the City set as its guidelines for this process — preserving congruence
between City and County legislative districts, protecting the integrity of neighborhoods, maintaining five
City wards, preserving the connection between the City's northside and southside neighborhoods, and
achieving a reasonable balance in the populations of both County districts and City wards.
Rosalind Grippi, Town of Ithaca, spoke in opposition to the proposed redistricting scenario 15D.
She said she feels it is wrong of the County to circumvent the results of the census by including adjacent
Town areas to build up the city at the expense of the Town's entitled representations on the County
Board. Ms. Grippi, a West Hill resident, does not want to be relocated to an area that falls into a City
district because the problems that exist in the City are much different than those in the Town. She feels
this redistricting process is being rushed and believes her views will not be well -represented by the
proposed plan.
Mary Russell, Deputy Supervisor for the Town of Ithaca, spoke in opposition to the proposed
redistricting scenario 15D because she feels it will severely disadvantage Town of Ithaca residents. She
said the Town has gained population and should have 3.2 representatives on a 15 -member County Board.
In the 15D scenario the Town of Ithaca is assured of only two Town representatives on the Board. The
remainder of the Town is carved into small portions that fall into City districts and the Town of Danby
district. This would allow the City to maintain two totally -City seats and three mainly -City seats while
they have experienced a decrease in population. Ms. Russell said there are great differences in opinions
on issues between the City and Town which range from the delivery of youth services to distribution of
sales tax money. Ms. Russell said this district scenario continues the current situation of over-
representation of the City on the County Board and the under -representation of the Towns. Ms. Russell
said the redistricting process has been rushed and does not feel adequate time has been given to allow the
Town to participate in finding a solution that is fair to everyone.
William Mather, Town of Enfield, feels the proposed redistricting scenario does not provide
equal or adequate representation to him as a result of splitting Enfield in two with half falling into the
Newfield district and the other into the Trumansburg district. He said because each of these
representatives is of different political party, their vote cancel out, leaving him with no representation.
Mr. Mather requested that the Charter Review Committee revisit scenarios that include a 17 -member
County Board.
Mark Varvayanis, Town of Dryden Supervisor, thanked the County Board for its efforts on the
redistricting process. He believes there is a perception that the process is being rushed and encouraged
the Board to postpone action this evening and to reconsider scenarios that include a 17 -member County
Board. He handed out an excerpt from the Town of Dryden Mary 14 minutes at which Representative
Lane spoke of redistricting, including the possibility of various numbers of districts and the importance of
City representation.
Linda Dutwieler, President of the Tompkins County League of Women Voters, spoke of the
principles the League's districting guidelines are based on: population, equality, contiguity, integrity of
political subdivisions, and compactness. She said Scenario 15D attempts to keep County, towns, city,
and villages intact in most districts except the Town of Ithaca. She said the compactness rules prevent
arbitrary pushing of a boundary line to achieve political advantage, and feels scenario 15D does this in
order to maintain five representatives in the City. Ms. Dutwieler asked the Board to take more time to
review other scenarios that will better serve the residents of the Town and County over the next ten years.
157
May 31, 2001
Martha Robertson, Town of Dryden resident, stated she supports Scenario 15D even though 17
might be appealing. She believes you have to trust the group charged with this job, and the Charter
Review Committee and County staff have worked hard and has produced the best choice.
William Lesser, Town of Ithaca, spoke of the proposed redistricting scenario and said because
there have been population changes, there will be a substantial greater deviation among the City wards
than in the past. Mr. Lesser feels it would be inappropriate to move ahead this evening if there is a
possibility of a legal challenge being made because any legal action would impact all the residents of the
County.
Pat Leary, City of Ithaca, spoke of the redistricting process and clarified that she isn't familiar
enough with Scenario 15D to endorse it or oppose it.
Eva Hoffman, Town of Ithaca resident, urged the Board to delay action on the redistricting
process and does not feel cost should be a consideration in whether or not to act sooner rather than later.
No other member of the public wished to speak and the public hearing was declared closed at
6:07 p.m.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
It was MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote, to
add the following resolutions to the agenda:
Adoption of Local Law No. c of 2001 - A Local Law Amending Sections C-2.09 and C-2.10
of Article 2 of the Tompkins County Charter and Code
Adoption of Local Law No. 3 of 2001 - A Local Law Amending Chapter 28 of the Tompkins
County Code
RESOLUTION NO. 113 - ADOPTION OF LOCAL LAW NO. c OF 2001 - A LOCAL LAW
AMENDING SECTIONS C-2.09 AND C-2.10 OF ARTICLE 2 OF
THE TOMPKINS COUNTY CHARTER AND CODE
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Penniman. Mr. Stein asked Mr. Lane to clarify the
changes outlined in this proposal. Mr. Lane said the major changes in Section C-2.10 is that items have
been categorized, not in priority, those things the Committee feels should be looked at in the
reapportionment process for determining districts. Those items are quality of representation consistent
with the policies of the State legislature as interpreted by the courts of appropriate jurisdiction, balance
and reasonableness of representation for citizens residing in all parts of the County, and practical
consistency with existing municipal boundaries and neighborhoods in Tompkins County. All of the
points with the exception of the last one are already included in the Code; however, the wording is being
changed.
Mr. Stein also expressed concern over Section C-2.09 and the proposed language stating "The
Board of Representatives shall approve a plan for reapportionment of such Board at least thirty days prior
to the first day of circulation of designated petitions". He said if the Board approves the reapportionment
plan this evening it would be going against this local law because designating petitions begin in one
week. Mr. Lane said this is in the existing Code and said the existing time -frame would not allow them
to accomplish this with a full thirty day period unless it were to be compressed further. It was clarified
that the changes that are being proposed would apply to the next reapportionment process and not this
process. Mr. Wood, Deputy County Attorney, stated adoption of a reapportionment plan this evening
would not place the Board in conflict with a time period it is already obligated by.
158
May 31, 2001
Ms. Kiefer said she feels the Board would be better served by lowering the number of days to ten
or by just stating "prior". She also spoke of Section 2-10 and said she would like to see the words
"practical consistency" changed to "practicable consistency".
It was MOVED by Mr. Lalley, seconded by Mr. Stein, to refer this resolution back to Committee.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 15, Noes — 0. MOTION CARRIED; RESOLUTION
REFERRED TO COMMITTEE.
WHEREAS, a public hearing has been held before the Board of Representatives on May 31,
2001, to hear all persons interested in proposed Local Law No. c of 2001, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Charter Review Committee, That proposed Local Law
No. c of 2001 - A Local Law Amending Sections C-2.09 and C-2.10 of Article 2 of the Tompkins County
Charter and Code, be and hereby is adopted,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board shall publish in the official newspaper of the
County a notice of adoption containing a synopsis of said Local Law, and shall within five (5) days file
one certified copy in the Office of the County Clerk, and one copy with the Secretary of State.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 114 - ADOPTION OF LOCAL LAW NO. 3 OF 2001 - A LOCAL LAW
AMENDING CHAPTER 28 OF THE TOMPKINS COUNTY CODE
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Ms. Davis.
Mr. Lane said the Local Law as crafted codifies and adopts as the County redistricting plan the
15D Scenario which is 15 members elected from geographic districts within the County. He said the map
has been released to the public for review, a public forum has been held, and prior to this Board meeting
the Charter Review Committee looked at more scenarios presented by Representative Kiefer. Mr. Lane
said at today's Charter Review Committee meeting no action was taken any different from the
information that has been presented to the Board this evening.
Ms. Kiefer spoke of the resolution that was referred back to Committee earlier in the meeting and
said the only reason she had suggested acting on something similar that changed the Code language at the
same time as adopting reapportionment is because the Committee gave significant weight to
neighborhoods in their considerations this year and that is not reflected in the Code. She said if they had
been able to craft language that placed it in there and made it effective at the same time or prior to
adoption of a reapportionment scenario it would have been useful.
With respect to option 15D, Ms. Kiefer said she agrees with some of the speakers this evening
that the County has put a great amount of effort into accommodating congruence of County district lines
with City ward lines and to the best of her knowledge there is no legal requirement to do that. She said
the majority seemed to want 15 members on the County Board and to maintain the congruence with ward
lines in the City with the result being the Committee not doing as well as had been hoped with one
person, one vote. She said she worked with staff on developing a scenario ignoring City ward lines and to
trying to achieve one person, one vote around the County and was able to come down to lower than a five
percent deviation overall. She said also contained in Scenario 15Y was a lot of attention to
neighborhoods and said there are areas where the Board of Elections could make manual adjustments and
preserve neighborhoods that are different from census block lines. She said she was also concerned
about where growth will occur in the County and tried to stay away from any deviation that gave under-
representation to growth areas. Ms. Kiefer said on the basis of one person one vote Scenario 15Y does a
much better job than 15D and hopes the Board will not adopt Scenario 15D.
Mr. Lalley said initially he indicated his support for Scenario 15D. He said he has looked into
weighted voting and has come to the conclusion that it is not a good idea and something the Board should
159
May 31, 2001
not try. Mr. Lalley said the Charter Review Committee has conducted a very thoughtful process and has
been responsive to a lot of the issues that have been brought forward. He said this has been a bi-partisan
effort and the various scenarios presented are representative of the enormous amount of work that has
gone into this process.
Ms. Blanchard responded to comments made by citizens under privilege of the floor and said
some of the remarks suggested that some residents feel District No. 1 which she represents, has a very
convoluted and peculiar configuration and that it had happened with this reapportionment activity. She
said she has worked with this district for the past ten years and although it is convoluted and very hard to
represent, the thing that makes it possible to be represented in a good way is the congruity with City ward
lines because its possible in a district this large to have a collegial relationship with City Council
members that allows a representative to cover a great amount of territory in a very efficient way.
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, spoke of what he considers highly problematic but subtle pressures that
happened last evening of the Fifth Ward endorsing one candidate based on one scenario. He said this
evening the Board is being asked to delay this process in order to get greater congruence of a lot of
different criteria or to move forward with a recommended plan that has received an enormous amount of
thought from all parties on all sides. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr said he supports Scenario 15D because every
single scenario that minimizes a variance still disrupts other municipal lines and does not achieve
agreement.
Mr. Penniman agreed with Ms. Blanchard and part of the reason District No. one is a strange
shape is because there is a strong attempt to follow Town of Ithaca lines and not cross over any more than
it does. He thinks the Board needs to move forward with Scenario 15D and does not believe weighted
voting would be in the best interest of the County. Mr. Penniman expressed concern that there are
municipalities who feel they are not being well -represented but feels given the programs the County
operates, issues relating to those particular lines would be unlikely to occur.
Mr. Winch said he served on the Reapportionment Committee ten years ago. He said with the
assistance of Greg Potter the Committee has been able to review a tremendous amount of variations. He
said Mr. Lane has done a great job of keeping the Committee on task and for looking at the entire County
and all of the districts. He also said the Committee followed through the process of looking at how the
County would be best served without involving politics.
Ms. Davis said she has spent a lot of time looking into the issues surrounding the reapportionment
process and feels there are many misunderstandings that exist in the public about the entire process. She
said there are many people who do not reside in her district who contact her with concerns and she brings
their concerns to this Board as well as the concerns of her constituents. She believes that in a
representative democracy it is her job to represent the people in her ward but she also feels comfortable
bringing concerns of others to the Board as well. Ms. Davis said the Committee spent a lot of time on this
process and is sorry that some people don't feel well represented but does not feel any other scenario can
better represent the County as a whole than the proposed Scenario 15D.
Mr. Proto said the comments that have been made this evening are evidence that each County
Board member and potential member have made a commitment to all County residents regardless of
where they reside. He commended this Board for working together and seeing that decisions represent
what is best for the entire County. He commended Representative Lane for his hard work Chairing the
Charter Review Committee.
Mr. Stein said as the longest serving Board member and the former chairman of two
Reapportionment Committees, he has found that at the end of the process the Board will be at a point
where everyone cannot be accommodated. He said it is important to remember that the reapportionment
process that took place in the past resulted in many people being unhappy; however, the Board moved
160
May 31, 2001
forward in the interest of intermunicipal cooperation and made many important and productive decisions
on behalf of the County.
Mr. Joseph said many of the complaints the Board has heard over the last two weeks center
around whether towns in general or a particular town is being adequately represented. He said that
argument is based on the notion that the County is a federation of towns and that each town must be fairly
and adequately represented on the County Board. He said the County is not a federation of towns and the
basic building block of County government is the individual citizens and it is not the towns or the City
that have representation on the Board, but individuals. He said everyone in Tompkins County has one
representative and the Board's job is to make sure that each individual person in the County has fair and
adequate representation on the County Board. He said a tremendous amount of time has been spent on
the current redistricting process and feels more time has been spent during this process than in any
reapportionment process in the past. He noted there is a remarkable amount of agreement for Scenario
15D by members of this Board. Mr. Joseph spoke of classic gerrymandering and described it as when
lines are drawn to disperse the members of another party into districts where they can never get any of
their people elected and where one's own party has the majority in as many districts as possible. He said
this is the most powerful complaint that is made in other redistricting processes and noted this has not
taken place in any way during this process. Mr. Joseph concluded his comments stating he feels Scenario
15D is an honest and fair attempt to give the best representation to all of the people of Tompkins County.
Mr. Todd said in 1970 after the Supreme Court decision for one person one vote, Tompkins
County reapportioned for the first time. He said he served on that Committee and it was a very interesting
process and the Committee was made up of non -Board members as well as Board members.
Mr. Totman said although Scenario 15D would place him in the position of representing three
towns rather than the two he now represents, he feels it would provide the least disruption to the County
as a whole when compared to other scenarios that have been presented.
Ms. Kiefer said during her recent work in preparing new scenarios she did not continue to work
on scenarios having a 17 -member Board because it was clear to her that a 15 -member Board was the
preferred choice by members of this Board. She recognizes that a 15 -member Board would make it easy
for those members who want to run for re-election and would relieve members of exhaustion because it is
very difficult to focus on a variety of scenarios in-depth. She said with respect to 17 members on the
County Board, she doesn't feel those two scenarios were developed with the same level of intensity as 15 -
member scenarios. With respect to scenarios that were discussed by the Committee today the discussion
focused on City ward lines and there were GIS tools available to scrutinize them m the same level of
detail that was given to 15D. She said under Scenario 15D the lines for District 10 are drawn so that
south and west of the school is no longer with the rest of Cayuga Heights and to her that is not respectful
of either neighborhoods or municipal boundaries.
Mr. Lane responded to Ms. Kiefer and said the problem with the scenarios that were presented
today was the basic premise that they ignored any congruency between County districts and City ward
lines. He said from the beginning of the process they have tried to respect the geographic problems that a
municipality has because it has election by geographic area as the Board does. Mr. Lane said he feels the
process that has been conducted has been bi-partisan and done in a fair and productive manner. Mr. Lane
complimented that tremendous amount of staff work that has gone into the process.
A voice vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes — 14, Noes — 1 (Representative Kiefer).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, a public hearing has been held before the Board of Representatives on May 31,
2001, to hear all persons interested in proposed Local Law No. 3 of 2001, now therefore be it
161
May 31, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Charter Review Committee, That proposed Local Law
No. 3 of 2001 - A Local Law Amending Chapter 28 of the Tompkins County Code, be and hereby is
adopted,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board shall publish in the official newspaper of the
County a notice of adoption containing a synopsis of said Local Law, and shall within five (5) days file
one certified copy in the Office of the County Clerk, and one copy with the Secretary of State.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:01 p.m.
162
June 5, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 15 Representatives.
Ms. Mink recognized Wendy Skinner, Public Information Coordinator, who introduced three
visitors who are from the Ukraine and are part of Tompkins Cortland Community College's Sister City
Program.
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca, said last week she spoke to the Board on the redistricting issue.
She said she is very disappointed that more time was not given to the process. She also spoke about jet
skis on Cayuga Lake and said before they become a serious problem this summer she would like
discussion to take place on instituting a ban on them. Ms. Gougakis also raised a concern that she had no
knowledge of Tompkins Cortland Community College's Sister City Program of which visitors at this
meeting are part of, noting a lack of publicity.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Representative, announced this Saturday is Dryden Dairy Day and
invited everyone to take part in the festivities.
Mr. Penniman, District No. 15 Representative, reported on the Cities for Climate Control Project
that the Board voted on a month ago and said an intern has been hired and is located in the Assessment
Department. This individual is now gathering information on how the County can increase energy
efficiency around the County in housing, transportation, and commercial businesses. Another intern is
working out of the Board Office and is looking at who votes in Tompkins County. He is looking at issues
surrounding voter registration and breaking that down by age, gender, and ethnicity. He will also be
studying ways to make sure everyone has the information they need and the opportunity to vote.
Mrs. Schuler, District No. 4 Representative, reported a Merit Incentive Awards Ceremony took
place at the Human Services Building on May 31s`. This was funded by $25,000 of TANF money and
youngsters in fourth through tenth grades were given awards for academic excellence or improvement, or
community service. This year there were 42 student recipients compared to 17 last year.
Ms. Kiefer, District No. 10 Representative, announced Dick Schuler, Cornell Professor of Civil
and Environmental Engineering and Economics, will be the replacement speaker at the solar celebration
this Friday at the Tompkins County Public Library. Mr. Schuler is the Director of the Cornell Institute of
Public Affairs and is a Senior Fellow at Cornell Center for the Environment; he has also been on the New
York State Public Service Commission. His focus of teaching research and consulting deals with issues
of public infrastructure, especially utilities.
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, said last month he announced he was headed to Albany
for the State Archives and Records Administration grant program. He announced Region 6 is the
recipient of approximately $800,000 in grant awards over the years. Those awards went to programs in
the Groton Central School District ($11,000), Tompkins County ($875,000), Town of Danby ($499),
163
June 5, 2001
Town of Newfield ($2,023), Town of Ulysses ($2,983 and $8,540), and the Village of Dryden ($828).
He announced June 7 -9th the New York History Conference will take place at Wells College.
Chair's Report and Appointment(s)
Chair Mink had no report or appointments but said an executive session will be held after the
meeting to discuss litigation.
Presentation by Tompkins County Area Development (TCAD)
Ms. Blanchard, Chair of TCAD, said she has been on the TCAD Board for several years and is
this year's Chair. She said there is a need to increase the public's knowledge of TCAD as well as the
Board's knowledge. She emphasized the importance of the Board's knowledge of the County's premier
economic development organization. At this time she introduced Michael Stamm, Executive Director of
TCAD.
Mr. Stamm provided the Board with an overview of Tompkins County Area Development which
was founded in 1964 with the purpose of creating quality employment opportunities for local residents as
well as strengthening the tax base.
The following information was provided in the form of overhead slides:
OVERVIEW OF TCAD
• History
• Mission
• Board of Directors and Staff
• Sources of Funding
Overview of TCAD
• Sources of Funding:
• Government — 26 %
• Industrial Development Agency — 31%
• Banks — 4%
• Commercial — 3%
• Education — 10%
• Professional —1%
• Large Industry — 6%
• Real Estate Holdings — 11%
• Miscellaneous — 7%
TCAD Business Services
• Site Selection
• Business Planning
• Financial
• Revolving Loan Funds
• Regional, state and federal programs
• Cayuga Venture Fund
• Industrial Development Agency
164
June 5, 2001
Industrial Development Agency
Board of Directors
Barbara Mink, Chair
Michael Lane, Vice Chair
J. David Ferris, Secretary
James Hanson
Frank Proto
James Schug
Stuart Stein
General Activities and Initiatives
• Activities
• Sewer/water infrastructure
• Conference center study
• Industrial land use study
• Initiatives
• Finger Lakes Entrepreneurs' forum
• Airport Service Task Force
• Workforce Development Board
Economic Trends by Sector
• Durable Goods Manufacturing
Past
• Substantial growth by a few firms
Future
• Cyclical and structural layoffs at. some firms
• Growth in others because of their markets
• Fortunate if we stabilize
• Light Manufacturing and Assembly
Past
• New firm creation and job growth outpaces state and nation
• Very diverse products & markets
Future
• Mixed, but more opportunity or growth
• High Tech
Past
• New firm creation and job growth outpaces state and nation
• Very diverse products & markets
Future
• Strong growth potential but much greater risk,
Other Sectors
• Office space
• Retail
• Educational Services
• Tourism
Issues for the Future
• Sewer/Water Infrastructure
165
June 5, 2001
• Retaining Acquired Companies
• Business Attraction
• Workforce
• Availability of Lane
• Empire Zones
• Assistance to Individual Municipalities
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher introduced Peter Messmer, Tompkins County Highway Manager. Mr. Messmer
said it is a pleasure to serve the Tompkins County Highway Division. He invited Board Members to
contact him with any needs or issues that may arise
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wood, Deputy County Attorney, reported the County has received a lawsuit from the Town
of Ithaca regarding the County's redistricting process. He requested an executive session to discuss this
matter.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires reported the County is receiving a $39,000 residual payment from tobacco financing.
He announced the annual meeting of the Tobacco Corporation will be held on June 9d'. Mr. Squires also
reported the County's auction of foreclosed parcels was held on June 2°d and was very successful; there
were 15 parcels and all received bids. Gross receipts from the sale were $146,000.
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
Chair Mink granted permission to the appropriate committee chairmen to withdraw the following
resolution(s) from the agenda:
Authorization for Program Reconfiguration — Central Services
Adoption of Amended Bylaws — Tompkins County Mental Health Services Board
Program Reconfiguration Change and Fiscal Target Adjustment — Criminal Justice Services,
Probation and ATI Initiatives
Amendment of Capital Project and Award of Bid — Tompkins County DPW Bostwick Road
Expansion Capital Project
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote, the following
resolution(s) were added to the agenda:
Support of State Legislation that would Direct the New York State Department of Health to
Propose a Plan to Improve the System of Medicaid Administration
In Support of State Legislation that would Eliminate the Local Financial Share of Additional
Program Enhancements Under the Medicaid Program
Approval of Appointment(s) Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mr. Lalley, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote,
to approve the following appointment(s) under the Consent Agenda:
166
June 5, 2001
Mental Health Subcommittee
Christine Decker — term expires December 31, 2003
Tompkins County Youth Board
Mary Ellen Bossack — Town of Dryden representative; term expires December 31, 2003
David Delchamps — City of Ithaca representative; term expires December 31, 2003
Jonathan Barnard — Youth representative; term expires August 31, 2001
Wenmouth Williams — Education representative; term expires December 31, 2001
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Committee met on May 30th and business conducted at that
meeting is reflected in the resolutions on the agenda.
RESOLUTION NO. 115 - ESTABLISHING 2002 FRINGE BENEFITS PAYMENT RATE
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the New York State Retirement System is requiring an increase in the percentage of
payroll contributed by local municipalities, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That the fringe benefits
payment rate for 2002, which amount shall be charged to all County departments, shall be 26 percent.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 116 — AMENDMENT TO FISCAL POLICY 05-02, SECTION 03-05
REGARDING MANDATES
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Penniman. Ms. Kiefer said she will vote no on this
resolution because she feels it is useful to have these other classes of mandates defined and characterized.
She said although it does not hold items harmless, it provides Board members with information during
the budget season on how to consider those other mandate class entities.
Mr. Joseph said there are currently three classes of mandates with the A mandate class being the
most strict and where the County has no control. The other two classes are items where the County is
required to provide a service but does have control over the manner those services are carried out. He
said it was the opinion of the Budget and Capital Committee that it had become confusing to have
mandates that didn't bring any different treatment to be considered.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 13, Noes — 2 (Representatives Davis and Kiefer).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Fiscal Policy 05-02, Section 03-05 describes the term "Mandate" and defines the
various types of Mandate classifications established by the Board of Representatives in 1995, and
WHEREAS, the value of mandate classification is to isolate certain expenditures in the event of
across-the-board budget reductions and to define those mandates where the County has minimal control
over, and
WHEREAS, only Class A Mandates are programs that meet the absolute definition provided in
this section of the policy and qualify as a program made up entirely of the costs of direct payments to or
on behalf of service recipients, and permits County government very little control over the manner in
which the service is provided, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That Section 3.05
Mandates be amended to eliminate the term "Class A" and to delete a portion of Section B, all of Section
167
June 5, 2001
C "Class B Mandates", Section D "Class C Mandates", and Section E "Appeal of Mandate
Classification".
Section 3.05 Mandates
A DEFINITION. A mandate is a service provided by County government as a direct consequence
of a state or federal law, administrative regulation or interpretation thereof, or a decision of any
court, that compels County government or a local government body to do something, or to do
something in a specific manner. Local decisions (other than court decisions), rules, and contracts
(including union contracts) are not mandates.
B. CLASS A MANDATES. A Class A mandate is a program that , is made
up entirely of the costs of direct payments to or on behalf of service recipients, and permits County
government very little control over the manner in which the service is provided. Employee salaries
and fringe benefit costs may not be included in a Class A mandate. Class A m Mandates are exempt
from all fiscal targets established by the County Board. Mandated payments appear as a line in the
budget of a budgeting unit or designated program.
Class A m Mandate funding that is left over at year-end is not eligible to be reappropriated; see
Section 5.06 of this Policy. Funds may be appropriated into or out of Glass -A -n Mandate accounts
only upon recommendation of the program and budget committees and authorization of the Board of
Representatives; see Section 5.01 E. of this Policy.
E. APPEAL OF MANDATE CLASSIFICATION. Each year, a budgeting unit may appeal in writing
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
168
June 5, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 117 - DESIGNATION OF COST SAVERS - 2002 BUDGET
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, this Board on June 6, 1995, adopted recommendations of the Budget Review Task
Force of the Budget and Fiscal Policy Committee with respect to the criteria for Cost Savers and with
respect to the consequences of that status, and
WHEREAS, to be designated a Cost Saver a budgeting unit or a program must meet all of the
following criteria:
1. Only an entire program or budgeting unit may be designated;
2. The budgeting unit or program must provide services funded by general revenues or by the Solid
Waste Annual Fee;
3. By providing those services, the budgeting unit or program must clearly reduce County spending
in the County budgeting unit(s), or increase revenue to the general fund or to the Solid Waste
Fund;
4. The amount of savings or increased revenues must equal or exceed the total amount of general
revenues or Solid Waste Annual Fee revenues of the entire designated program or budgeting unit;
5. The savings from providing the proposed services must be achieved within the same fiscal year or
within the following two (2) fiscal years;
6. A reduction in services in the designated budgeting unit or program would result in a net increase
in costs to Tompkins County; and
WHEREAS, budget makers have requested Cost Saver designation for various programs, now
therefore be it.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety and Budget and Capital Committees, That
the following programs of County government are hereby designated to be Cost Savers for the 2002
budget:
• Offender Aid and Restoration (OAR) - Bail Program
• Probation - Alternatives to Incarceration and Electronic Monitoring Programs
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 118 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENT AND APPROPRIATION OF UNSPENT
GENERAL FUNDS FROM 2000 TO VARIOUS ACCOUNTS
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lane. Ms. Kiefer said she does not approve of the way
the rollover funds are being appropriated to the Sheriff's Department because it contradicts the County
policy that prohibits approving rollover funds from one budgeting unit to another. She said the
substitute resolution allows the Board to accomplish the same thing but by following budget rules, and
allows the Department to receive the funds they are requesting.
Ms. Blanchard said the Public Safety Committee discussed this issue at length. She feels rules
are adopted in order to help the Board do its job well but doesn't feel rules should place the Board in the
corner. She said the proposal as it was put forward in the original resolution makes sense.
It was MOVED by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, to substitute with the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. - BUDGET ADJUSTMENT AND APPROPRIATION OF UNSPENT
GENERAL FUNDS FROM 2000 TO VARIOUS ACCOUNTS AND
APPROPRIATION FROM CONTINGENT FUND - SHERIFF
Sheriff Meskill stated he is not asking for Contingent Fund money. He said he thought the Board
had made an agreement to provide him with rollover funds. He said these funds are the result of the
169
June 5, 2001
Sheriff's Department under spending its budget and objected to these funds being reclassified as
Contingent Funds, and said he wouldn't take them if that is what they are. Mr. Joseph said he argued
against the original motion in both the Public Safety Committee and Budget Committee because it
violates our rules, but he lost."
A voice vote on the motion to substitute resulted as follows: Ayes - 1 (Representative Kiefer),
Noes - 14. MOTION TO SUBSTITUTE FAILED.
WHEREAS, various departments have been certified by the Director of Finance to have unspent
appropriations and excess revenues from 2000 resulting in a surplus on the County's books as of
December 31, 2000, and
WHEREAS, pursuant to County Fiscal Policy, surplus funds may be requested for use in the
current or following year budget, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services, Panning, Public Safety,
Government Operations, and Budget and Capital Committees, That the following transactions are
approved:
BUDGET APPROPRIATION:
From: General Fund Balance $368,728
TO: Social Services - Payroll 6010.51000 22,453
Social Services - Fringes 6010.58800 5,653 28,106
Planning - Payroll 8020.51000 28,208
Planning - Fringes 8020.58800 7,052
Planning - Professional Svcs. 8020.54442 22,155
Planning - Payroll 8029.51000 2,960
Planning -. Fringes 8029.58800 740
Planning - Payroll 8030.51000 6,036
Planning - Fringes 8030.58800 1,509
Planning - Computer Equipment 8035.52206 9,350
Planning - Payroll 8035.51000 3,900
Planning - Fringes 8035.58800 975 82,885
Fire Coordinator - Training
[Sherijy_ Payroll
Sheriff.- Fringes
Sheriff.- Vehicles
Sheriff.- Misc. Equipment (Forensic evidence dryer)
Sheriff.- Misc. K-9 Equipment and training supplies
Sheriff - Community policing supplies and equipment
Change
3410.54412 5,000 5,000
Jail - Payroll
3113.51000 52,000
3113.58800 13,000
3113.52231 6,636
3113.52210 10,549
3113.54400 3,500
3113.54400 5,500 91,185
3150.51000 25,600
Jail - Fringes
Human Rights - Professional Services
Information Technology Services - Payroll
Information Technology Services - Fringes
Motor Vehicle - Professional Services
County Clerk - Professional Services
County Clerk - Computer Equipment
Board of Elections - Payroll
Board of Elections - Fringes
Board of Elections - Computer Equipment
Board of Elections - Service Contracts
3150.58800
6,400 32,000
8020.54442
1680.51000
1680.58000
1411.54442
1410.54442
1410.52206
1450.51000
1450.58800
1450.52206
1450.54425
10,800 10,800
19,038
4,760 23,798
35,000
38,912
8,000 81,912
7,834
1,958
2,650
600 13,042
170
June 5, 2001
RESOLVED, further, That the following budget appropriation be made
FROM: A1990.54400 Contingent Fund 43,364
TO: A3110.52231 Sheriff - Vehicles 43,364
RESOLVED, further, That $43,364 in Jail certified surplus funds for 2000 be returned to the
General Fund.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
* * * * * * * * *
Mr. Proto said despite his voting history of opposing rollover funds he will support this
resolution. This is because later in the meeting the Board will ask departments to change the way they
budget and will need these funds to do that.
A voice vote on the original resolution resulted as follows: Ayes -15, Noes - 0. RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, various departments have been certified by the Director of Finance to have unspent
appropriations and excess revenues from 2000 resulting in a surplus on the County's books as of
December 31, 2000, and
WHEREAS, pursuant to County Fiscal Policy, surplus funds may be requested for use in the
current or following year budget, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services, Planning, Public Safety,
Government Operations, and Budget and Capital Committees, That the following transactions are
approved:
BUDGET APPROPRIATION:
From: General Fund Balance $412,092
TO:
Social Services - Payroll 6010.51000 22,453
Social Services - Fringes 6010.58800 5,653 28,106
Planning - Payroll 8020.51000 28,208
Planning - Fringes 8020.58800 7,052
Planning - Professional Svcs. 8020.54442 22,155
Planning - Payroll 8029.51000 2,960
Planning - Fringes 8029.58800 740
Planning - Payroll 8030.51000 6,036
Planning - Fringes 8030.58800 1,509
Planning - Computer Equipment 8035.52206 9,350
Planning - Payroll 8035.51000 3,900
Planning - Fringes 8035.58800 975 82,885
Fire Coordinator - Training 3410.54412 5,000 5,000
Sheriff - Payroll 3113.51000 52,000
Sheriff - Fringes 3113.58800 13,000
Sheriff - Vehicles 3113.52231 50,000
Sheriff - Misc. Equipment (Forensic evidence dryer) 3113.52210 10,549
Sheriff - Misc. K-9 Equipment and training supplies 3113.54400 3,500
Sheriff - Community policing supplies and equipment 3113.54400 5,500 134,549
Jail - Payroll 3150.51000 25,600
Jail - Fringes 3150.58800 6,400 32,000
Human Rights - Professional Services 8020.54442 10,800 10,800
Information Technology Services - Payroll 1680.51000 19,038
Information Technology Services - Fringes 1680.58000 4,760 23,798
Motor Vehicle - Professional Services 1411.54442 35,000
County Clerk - Professional Services 1410.54442 38,912
County Clerk - Computer Equipment 1410.52206 8,000 81,912
171
Board of Elections - Payroll
Board of Elections — Fringes
Board of Elections — Computer Equipment
Board of Elections — Service Contracts
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
June 5, 2001
1450.51000 7,834
1450.58800 1,958
1450.52206 2,650
1450.54425 600 13,042
RESOLUTION NO. 119 - ESTABLISHMENT OF GUIDELINES AND FISCAL TARGETS FOR
ALL COUNTY BUDGETING UNITS FOR THE PREPARATION OF
THE 2002 BUDGET
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Proto. Mr. Joseph said this passed in the Budget and
Capital Committee by a three to two vote. Mr. Winch said he is surprised by this proposal of a minus
two percent target and asked if a higher amount had been considered by the Committee. Mr. Joseph said
the Committee did discuss other scenarios; however, the two votes in opposition were based on
Committee members desire to have the amount by zero percent.
Ms. Davis said she opposed this in the Budget and Capital Committee meeting because in reality
it is much larger than two percent as no increases are being given for the salary increases that have been
negotiated. She said this comes close to an eight percent decrease in a department's fiscal target.
Mr. Penniman said department heads have expressed concern that budgets will be submitted that
excludes certain positions which will cause a lot of employees to become concerned about their positions.
He understands those feelings but feels it is necessary to approve this level of fiscal target in order for the
Board to have information to make the decisions it needs to make.
Mr. Lalley said given the severity of the overall budget picture he feels this is a worthy target for
the Board to adopt.
Mr. Winch said he would like to receive more information from the Budget and Capital
Committee about the deliberations that took place and the information they used to make their
recommendation.
Ms. Kiefer said year after year she has not been able to support guidelines that give departments
zero percent increases because it is the Board who negotiates salary schedules with the unions. She said
she is willing to vote for a zero percent fiscal target given the concerns about available surplus; however,
she cannot support a negative two percent target. She feels this is an unnecessary exercise and would
rather the Board look elsewhere for money, such as rescinding the decision to drop sales tax on clothing
that costs less than $100.
It was MOVED by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Ms. Davis, to amend the fiscal target for 2001 to
zero. A voice vote on the amendment resulted as follows: Ayes — 2 (Representatives Davis and Kiefer);
Noes — 13. MOTION FAILED.
A voice vote on the original resolution resulted as follows: Ayes —13, Noes - 2 (Representatives
Davis and Kiefer). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Fiscal Policy specifies that a fiscal target is the maximum
amount of general revenue spending authority that a department head or program director may request
without initiating an Over -Target Request, and changes in fiscal targets should be communicated to
department heads and program directors as timely as possible in order for them to submit their budget
requests by July 2, 2001, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Representatives wishes to establish targets for departments and
agencies in preparing 2002 budget requests, now therefore be it
172
June 5, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That fiscal targets for all
budgeting units, excluding Tompkins Cortland Community College and Tompkins Consolidated Area
Transit for preparation of the 2002 budget are hereby established as follows:
1. For not-for-profit agency grants, the amount approved in the 2001 adopted budget less any over -target
funding designated as one-time less any funds reappropriated from previous years less 2 percent of
the calculated local share.
2. For Towns and Villages applying for reimbursement for County -wide services, and for Human
Service and Criminal Justice agencies receiving reimbursement pursuant to the Sales Tax Agreement
between the County and City of Ithaca, the fiscal target shall be equal to the current year
appropriation minus any one-time adjustments for prior years.
3. For all County departments, an amount equal to the general revenue portion of the 2001 adopted
County budget, less any over -target funding designated as one-time less any funds reappropriated
from previous years less 2 percent of the calculated local share. Departments are required to submit a
3 -year budget projection as outlined by the County Administrator.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 120 - BUDGETING UNIT RECONFIGURATION CHANGE AND FISCAL
TARGET ADJUSTMENT — COUNTY ADMINISTRATION
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lalley. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 14,
Noes —1 (Representative Davis). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, insurance premiums and the insurance reserve are components of the Risk
Management program within County Administration, and
WHEREAS, increases in insurance premiums are driven by rising costs in the insurance industry
as a whole and with the addition of new and renovated County buildings are not directly affected by
savings or efficiencies within the County's Risk Management program, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That insurance
premiums and the insurance reserve shall be isolated as a separate budgeting unit not subject to a Fiscal
Target,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administration budgeting unit shall have a 2002 fiscal
target reduction of $276,921,
RESOLVED, further, That effective immediately, insurance premiums shall be reported within
the self-insurance reserve fund and no longer a component of the General Fund,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance be and is hereby directed to make the
following budget transfer:
FROM:
A1989.54462 Risk Management — Insurance $115,000
A1989.42770 Risk Management Revenue (8,079)
TO:
A9904.54400 Self Insurance Reserve Program Expense $115,000
A9904.42770 Self Insurance Reserve — Revenue (8,079)
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee met on May 16 and discussed the draft
cellular phone policy. That subject has been postponed at this time. The Committee also discussed the
advisory board membership replacement policy, received a report from the County Administrator on
reorganization that is taking place in his department. The Committee also looked at a privacy policy in
regard to what information the Assessment Department will be placing on the Internet. Mr. Koplinka-
Loehr also highlighted items that the Committee will be discussing at their next meeting on June 71.
173
June 5, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 121 — AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE QUITCLAIM DEEDS — SALE
OF FORECLOSURE PROPERTIES AT PUBLIC AUCTION
vote.
and
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Joseph, and unanimously adopted by voice
WHEREAS, by tax foreclosure proceedings, the County acquired certain parcels in the County,
WHEREAS, said properties were sold, contingent upon Board approval, at public auction on May
19, 2001, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That upon payment
in full of the bid price, plus current taxes and filing fees, that the County Administrator be and hereby is
authorized to execute quitclaim deeds for all parcels sold at the public auction.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 122 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE QUITCLAIM DEED —
PROPERTIES REDEEMED BEFORE COUNTY AUCTION
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote.
RESOLVED, That the County Administrator is authorized to execute a Quitclaim Deed
conveying property acquired by the County through 2000 tax foreclosures, back to the previous owners
upon payment of all back taxes, penalties, interest and fees as follows:
City of Ithaca 45-1-4 James Jr. Best and Ronald W. Best; and
Town of Ithaca 28-1-26.6 Michael Carroll
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, explained why the resolution that would have asked the Board to increase
the Capital Program budget for the Buildings and Grounds renovation at the Bostwick Road Public Works
Facility was withdrawn from the agenda. He said the resolution was unanimously supported by the
Committee; however, there was further information needed and the Committee will be working to gather
that information. Mr. Lane said the Committee met on May 22 and discussed the "road swap" with the
Town of Caroline with the Committee recommending that process continue. The Committee reached
consensus to extend the license to Cornell University for access to Airport grounds for the radioactive
waste disposal site testing. The Committee also heard from Barbara Eckstrom, Solid Waste Manager,
about the plan for architectural historical elements of reuse programs. She is looking into a partnership
with Historic Ithaca at this time. Mr. Lane said the Committee also heard about the Computer Allstars
program that is being promoted by the Solid Waste Division. The Committee decided to extend the
Caswell Road leachate hauling permit in order to allow more time to go to bid. Representative Kiefer
also reported on the frog and salamander crossing at Ringwood Pond that the Highway Department
assisted with.
RESOLUTION NO. 123 - DIVISION NAME CHANGE — BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS TO
FACILITIES
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the Public Works Department has been undergoing a reorganization process, and
174
June 5, 2001
WHEREAS, it has been recommended by the Public Works Cabinet that the division title of
"Buildings and Grounds" is out -dated and obsolete, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the title of Buildings and
Grounds be changed to Facilities,
RESOLVED, further, That as part of the Public Works Department reorganization, the Facilities
division will be responsible for the capital projects for all county owned building facilities,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Charter and Code be amended to reflect the name change
and the additional duties of the division related to capital projects.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 124 - ASSIMILATION OF THE ENGINEERING DIVISION,
SUBSEQUENT BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS, AND HIGHWAY AND
FACILITIES FISCAL TARGET ADJUSTMENTS
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Winch. Ms. Kiefer suggested adding the following
wording to the resolution: "Whereas, reorganization is being done because of the absence of a Public
Works Commissioner." Mr. Lane did not accept this suggestion as a friendly amendment. A voice vote
on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes — 13, Noes — 2 (Representatives Kiefer and Proto).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, since 1999, the Public Works Department has been investigating ways to reorganize
the department's divisions and programs to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and customer service, and
WHEREAS, during the reorganization process, new opportunities for reorganization were
realized by position vacancies, and
WHEREAS, ways of completing the work of the Engineering division through other means were
identified, recommended by the Public Works Cabinet, and approved by the County Administrator; those
being that the Highway Division has need for two of the Engineering division positions (Associate Civil
Engineer, and Civil Engineer), and Facilities will assume the capital program responsibilities formerly
done by Engineering division staff with any additional staffing needs or outside assistance evaluated on a
case by case basis for capital projects and will utilize one Engineering position (Administrative
Assistant), now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works and Budget and Capital Committees, That
the Engineering division be abolished as a stand-alone division and that the funds available remaining in
the 2001 Engineering division budget be distributed as outlined below,
RESOLVED, further, That the three (3) Engineering division employees be transferred to
Highway division and Facilities division as explained above,
RESOLVED, further, That the fiscal targets for the Highway division and Facilities division be
adjusted and that the Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget adjustments on his
books:
FROM: 1625 Balance TO: 1620 5010 5110 5130
51000 Regular pay - 252,213 176,231 (70%) 75,984 (30%)
52206 Computer 8000 5,000 (63%) 3,000 (37%)
Equipment
52214 Office Furnishings
52220 Departmental
Equipment
52230 Computer Software 2000
54303 Office Supplies 1135
54332 Books 441
54401 Employee 100
Recognition
54412 Travel & Training 2050
54424 Equipment Rental 55
1500 1,500 (100%)
702
1,375 (69%) 625 (31%)
567 (50%) 567 (50%)
220 (50%) 220 (50%)
100 (100%)
1425 (70%) 625 (30%)
175
702 (100%)
55 (100%)
June 5, 2001
54425 Service Contracts 500 250 (50%) 250 (50%)
54452 Postage 716 716 (100%)
54472 Telephone 109 109 (100%)
54618 Interdepartmental 344 172 (50%) 172 (50%)
Charges
58800 Fringes - 63,053 44,137 (70%) 18,916 (30%)
58865 Dental - 1,736 1,041 (60%) 694 (40%)
Total $ 334,654 $232,018 (70%) $6,175.00 (2%) $95,594 (27%) $866(1%)
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee met on May 16th and discussed the Cornell
radioactive waste disposal site and the remediation plan. After a lengthy discussion the Committee did
not take any action. The Committee also received a very interesting presentation from a Department of
Environmental Conservation representative on gas drilling. He noted that there is no local control by
municipalities of such drilling.
RESOLUTION NO. 125 - RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF REFINANCING THE STATE
SUPERFUND PROGRAM
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the State's Inactive Hazardous Waste Disposal Site Remedial Program, better
known as Superfund, has located and analyzed thousands of hazardous waste sites in the past 15 years,
and
WHEREAS, the Superfund Program has been successful and effective in remediating some of
these sites to eliminate the threat to human health and the environment, and
WHEREAS, hundreds of waste sites have been identified in communities around New York
State, but are not yet remediated, and
WHEREAS, funding for the Superfund Program has been fully allocated as of the end of the past
fiscal year, March 31S`, 2001, and
WHEREAS, without funding for remediation, the remaining sites are a continued danger to the
environment and to human health, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the County Board of
Representatives supports the refinancing of the Superfund Program to continue efforts to remediate
legacy hazardous waste sites throughout the state, without changes that compromise the level of cleanup.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, said the Committee met briefly prior to the Board meeting to take action on
the resolutions on the agenda. The next meeting will be June 20 at the Youth Bureau conference room on
the third floor of the Human Services Building.
RESOLUTION NO. 126 - IN SUPPORT OF STATE LEGISLATION THAT WOULD LIMIT
THE AGGREGATE LOCAL FINANCIAL SHARE OF THE COSTS
OF THE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Stein., and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
176
June 5, 2001
WHEREAS, Medicaid is a vital component to New York's health care delivery system, providing
health care to New York State's most vulnerable citizens, and
WHEREAS, since the enactment of the Medicaid program, counties in New York State have been
required to share in the costs of services, and Tompkins County is mandated by the State of New York to
contribute a twenty-five percent matching share with the exception of long-term care services; and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County has minimal authority by state law to manage, control or reduce
local Medicaid costs, and therefore serves primarily as a means to transfer a portion of the state's share of
Medicaid costs from the statewide tax base to the Tompkins County property tax base, and
WHEREAS, in most states, the state government assumes all of the responsibility for the non-
federal share of the Medicaid program, so that the burden of paying for the medically needy is distributed
over the widest possible tax base, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County taxpayers currently pay almost $7,600,000 in Medicaid costs
through the Tompkins County budget, which represents thirty-eight percent (38%) of the property taxes
paid by local taxpayers to the county, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County taxpayers are currently funding a Medicaid local share that is
growing at 6.5 percent, which makes Medicaid the largest and most volatile single expense in the
Tompkins County budget, and
WHEREAS, the growth of local Medicaid costs are siphoning away the limited resources
available to fund the entire Tompkins County budget without adding new pressures on the property
taxpayers of Tompkins County, and
WHEREAS, A.8701 is legislation sponsored in the New York State Assembly that would cap the
level of Medicaid growth that would be funded by the property taxpayers of Tompkins County, and
WHEREAS, under this proposal, Tompkins County would pay what they paid in last year for
Medicaid plus an increase up to the Consumer Price Index, and
WHEREAS, this reasonable approach would provide Tompkins County property taxpayers with
meaningful budgetary relief, while maintaining Tompkins County's annual commitment to the Medicaid
program, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That Tompkins
County supports A.8701 and calls upon Senator James Seward, 50th District, and Senator John Kuhl, 52nd
District, to support the introduction of companion legislation in the New York State Senate,
RESOLVED, further, That Tompkins County calls upon the Governor and the State Legislature
to support A.8701 and enact the legislation into law,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of this Board is hereby authorized to transmit a certified
copy of this Resolution to the Governor, George Pataki; Joseph Bruno, Speaker Pro Tem and Majority
Leader of the New York State Senate; Sheldon Silver, Speaker of the New York State Assembly, Senator
James Seward; Senator John Kuhl, Assemblyman Martin Luster, the New York State Association of
Counties, and all others deemed necessary and proper.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 127 - SUPPORT OF STATE LEGISLATION THAT WOULD DIRECT
THE NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TO
PROPOSE A PLAN TO IMPROVE THE SYSTEM OF MEDICAID
ADMINISTRATION
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Lalley. Ms. Kiefer said she will not support this
because she has not seen a copy of the proposed bills. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes —14, Noes
—1 (Representative Kiefer). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Medicaid is a complex federal and state program whose costs and administration
represent a major component of state and local fiscal relationships in New York State, and
WHEREAS, New York's Medicaid program is administered by fifty-eight local social services
districts (the fifty-seven counties and the City of New York), which are overseen by the New York State
Department of Health (NYSDOH), and
177
June 5, 2001
WHEREAS, in state fiscal year 1989-1990, New York State imposed a "temporary freeze" on
open-ended state reimbursement of local administrative costs and has renewed this arbitrary cap annually
since its inception, thereby compounding the Medicaid fiscal burden borne by localities, whose mandated
administrative costs have more than quadrupled over this period, and
WHEREAS, the report, State -county Relations in New York: Key Partnership Issues — The
Impacts of State Revenue Sharing and the Medicaid Mandate, commissioned by the New York State
Senate, documents inefficiencies of the current Medicaid administrative system and recommends a series
of changes in administrative procedure and communications that would strengthen the state -local
partnerships, and
WHEREAS, the recommendations include provisions to replace the existing administrative
system and address the concerns of county governments, including the following:
• that counties be given sufficient notice of changes that will impact their local share of
administrative costs;
• that revisions affecting county medical assistance budgets not be imposed on a county during a
county fiscal year;
• that funding predictability be improved to enhance counties' planning capability;
• that timely adjustments be made to county share amounts and counties be provided with
information in advance;
• that the state improve the exchange of data and information with the counties, particularly in the
area of overburden aid;
• that counties be given flexibility to be more effective managers, specifically in the area of
competitive bidding; and
• that a medical assistance advisory group be established within the Department of Health which
could serve as a liaison to counties on matters of payments, practices, and policies; and
WHEREAS, A.8647/S.4892 is legislation pending in the New York State Senate and Assembly
that would require the New York State Department of Health to submit a legislative proposal to reform the
current administration of the Medicaid program, and
WHEREAS, under this proposal, the New York State Department of Health would collect
information from interested parties and develop a proposal that addresses many of the key concerns that
have been expressed by counties, and
WHEREAS, this mandate relief measure could provide substantial budgetary savings to both the
state and county governments, while strengthening the state -local partnership, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That Tompkins
County supports A.8647/S.4891 and calls upon the Governor and the State Legislature to support this
legislation and enact it into law,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of this Board is hereby authorized to transmit a certified
copy of this Resolution to the Governor, George Pataki; Joseph Bruno, Speaker Pro Tem and Majority
Leader of the New York State Senate; Sheldon Silver, Speaker of the New York State Assembly; Senator
James Seward; Senator John Kuhl; Assemblyman Martin Luster; the New York State Association of
Counties, and all others deemed necessary and proper.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 128 - IN SUPPORT OF STATE LEGISLATION THAT WOULD
ELIMINATE THE LOCAL FINANCIAL SHARE OF
ADDITIONAL PROGRAM ENHANCEMENTS UNDER THE
MEDICAID PROGRAM
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Proto. Ms. Kiefer said she will not support this
because she has not seen a copy of the proposed bills. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes —14, Noes
—1 (Representative Kiefer). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
178
June 5, 2001
WHEREAS, Medicaid is a vital component of New York's health care delivery system, and was
designed to provide health care to New York State's most vulnerable citizens, and
WHEREAS, since the enactment of the Medicaid program, counties in New York State have been
required to share in the costs of services, and Tompkins County is mandated by the State of New York to
contribute a 25 percent matching share with the exception of long-term care services, and
WHEREAS, New York State offers one of the broadest and most generous Medicaid packages in
the nation, requiring the taxpayers of Tompkins County to fund approximately $7,600,000 in costs, while
most economically comparable states fund all or most of the non-federal share of Medicaid, and
WHEREAS, when the State mandates that counties provide additional Medicaid services, but
does not provide sufficient fiscal assistance to support those services, Tompkins County is forced to rely
on its state -constitutionally limited means of raising revenues locally, and
WHEREAS, to the extent that Tompkins County reduces services or increases taxes to fund these
new Medicaid services, Tompkins County becomes less competitive with comparable counties in other
states which may be positioned to lure businesses and citizens from New York, and
WHEREAS, over the past two years, Tompkins County has seen Medicaid costs growing
significantly and anticipates that further expansion of Medicaid programs and services with a local
financial share will only add to local budgetary constraints, and
WHEREAS, A.8702/S.4892, legislation pending in the New York State Senate and Assembly,
would eliminate the local financial share of additional program enhancements under the Medicaid
program, and
WHEREAS, this would include the proposals advanced as part of the SFY 2001-02 Executive
Budget, including the Medicaid Buy -In program for disabled workers and coverage for specific women's
health care treatment, both of which carry a local financial share, and
WHEREAS, the legislation protects Tompkins County taxpayers by ensuring that when the state
enacts new programs and services under the Medicaid program, that the funding will be provided from
sources other than the Tompkins County budget, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That Tompkins
County supports A.8702/S.4892 and calls upon the Governor and the State Legislature to support this
legislation and enact into law,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of this Board is hereby authorized to transmit a certified
copy of this Resolution to the Governor, George Pataki; Joseph Bruno, Speaker Pro Tem and Majority
Leader of the New York State Senate; Sheldon Silver, Speaker of the New York State Assembly; Senator
James Seward; Senator John Kuhl; Assemblyman Martin Luster; the New York State Association of
Counties, and all others deemed necessary and proper.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Economic and Workforce Development
Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last meeting.
RESOLUTION NO. 129 - AUTHORIZATION FOR PROGRAM RECONFIGURATION -
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, Workforce Development activities have been separated into two distinct areas, and
WHEREAS, for budget purposes, Workforce Development is considered one program, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development and Budget and
Capital Committees, That two programs be created to more accurately represent the division of activities,
and
179
June 5, 2001
RESOLVED, further, That Program #2750 be re -titled Workforce Development Board, and
Program #2755 be created and titled Workforce Development Employment and Training.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 130 - AUTHORIZING A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED LOCAL
LAW NO. 4 OF 2001 - AMENDING CHAPTER 150 OF THE
TOMPKINS COUNTY CHARTER AND CODE — ARTICLE 25
EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING - WORKFORCE
DEVELOPMENT
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes —14,
Noes —1 (Representative Kiefer). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development and
Government Operations Committees, That a public hearing be held before the Board of Representatives
in Board Chambers of the Tompkins County Courthouse, 320 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, on
Tuesday, June 19, 2001 at 5:30 o'clock in the evening thereof concerning proposed Local Law No. 4 of
2001 - Amending Chapter 150 of the Tompkins County Charter and Code - Article 25 Employment and
Training - Workforce Development. At such time and place all persons interested in the subject matter
will be heard concerning the same,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board is hereby authorized and directed to place
proper notice of such public hearing in the official newspaper of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 131 — FUNDING OF TOURISM DEVELOPMENT GRANT
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County has a grant program for tourism development using funds drawn
entirely from Room Occupancy Tax, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County has requested and reviewed grant applications for
recommendation to the Tompkins County Board of Representatives through the Economic and Workforce
Development Committee with the advice of the Strategic Tourism Planning Board, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the following grant is approved:
Ithaca Quitter's Guild - $2,500,
RESOLVED, further, That funds for this grant shall be made from the Room Tax Account, as
approved in the 2001 County budget,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or designee shall be authorized to sign any
documents related to the aforementioned projects.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Mr. Penniman was excused at 7:17 p.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 132 - AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE CERTIFICATE
OF INCORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC
AND GAS ALLIANCE
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present. Ms. Kiefer asked why the certificates includes reference to the Job Development and
Authority; Mr. Stein said the lawyers said it was necessary.
180 •
June 5, 2001
WHEREAS, since December of 1998 the Counties of Tompkins and Tioga have carried on a joint
venture for purchase of electricity and gas at a competitive price for the benefit of each of the Counties,
the municipalities within their boundaries, and residents of each of the Counties, and
WHEREAS, it now appears that said joint venture would best be carried out by a separate
corporation under the Not -For -Profit Corporation Law, and
WHEREAS, the appropriate type of corporation for such purpose would be a Local Development
Corporation under Section 1411 of the Not -For -Profit Corporation Law, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That Stuart Stein and Barbara Blanchard are authorized to execute the proposed certificate of
incorporation of the Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance, Inc., as representatives of Tompkins County
and in concert with corresponding representatives from the Tioga County Legislature, to cause said
certificate of incorporation to be filed with the New York State Secretary of State, and to take such further
steps as necessary or advisable to activate said corporation.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee met briefly on May 31 to act on resolutions on
this evening's agenda.
RESOLUTION NO. 133 - ACCEPTANCE OF GRANT FUNDING — UNITED STATES
DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE — COMMUNITY ORIENTED
POLICING SERVICES (COPS) - SHERIFF'S OFFICE
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Sheriff's Office is desirous of promoting the community policing concept to
county policing, and
WHEREAS, the Sheriff's Office applied for a Community Oriented Policing Service (COPS)
grant in May of 2000 upon approval of the Tompkins County Board of Representatives (Resolution No.
119 of 2000), and
WHEREAS, the Sheriffs Office has been awarded a Federal Community Oriented Policing
(COPS) grant, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the grant award of
$75,000 from the United States Department of Justice be accepted.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -25
Report from the Communications Capital Proiects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the 911 building schematic process is on schedule. The next
meeting will be June 26th.
Report from the Information Management Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, had no report.
Report from the Intermunicipal Planning Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, had no report.
181
June 5, 2001
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Ms. Minlc, Chair, reported the Committee will meet on June 8 at 11 a.m.
Report from the Library Construction Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee will meet on June 19 at 4:30 p.m:
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met. Although they have run
into a few obstacles, work continues on the final report.
Approval of Minutes
Recess
Approval of the May 15, 2001 minutes was withdrawn from the agenda.
Chair Mink declared recess from 7:25 p.m. to 7:34 p.m.
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Mr. Lalley, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to enter into executive session at 7:34 p.m. to discuss litigation. The meeting
returned to open session at 8:15 p.m.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m.
182
June 19, 2001
Regular Meeting
Public Hearing — Proposed Local Law No. 4 of 2001- A Local Law Amending Article 25 of the
Tompkins County Charter and Code Regarding Workforce Development
Vice Chair Lanecalled the public hearing to order at 5:30 p.m. concerning proposed Local Law
No. 4 of 2001 - A Local Law Amending Article 25 of the Tompkins County Charter and Code Regarding
Workforce Development and asked if anyone wished to speak.
No one wished to speak and the public hearing was declared closed at 5:31 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 13 Representatives. Representative Mink arrived at 5:40 p.m. Representative Schuler
arrived at 6:30 p.m.
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca, spoke of jet skis on Cayuga Lake and asked the Board to support
imposing a ban on them. She asked the Board for assistance in getting the June 14 meeting of Common
Council's Economic Development meeting televised on the government access channel. She said she
videotaped the meeting herself and it will be shown on Pegasys but her request to have it televised in an
empty time slot in the Government Access channel has been rejected.
Mr. Winch, District No. 6 Representative, reported he attended a ceremony on June 161 for the
induction of Mark Freelove from a Boy Scout to an Eagle Scout. He said since 1946 there have been
eight gentlemen who have attained this status. A requirement of being an Eagle Scout is for the person to
participate in a public project. Mark oversaw the building of a handicapped ramp on the Masonic
Temple. Many people spoke at the ceremony about what a very special individual Mark is and how
much they learned from him. Mr. Winch said Mark is severely handicapped and is in a wheelchair. He
said Mark mastered many obstacles because he sees them as challenges and opportunities.
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, spoke of the upcoming 2002 budget process and said as
the Board becomes more involved it also becomes more aware of the impact on the County budget
process due to the delay of the State budget. He asked Representative Joseph to consider asking
departments to provide the Budget and Capital Committee a report on what the impact the State budget
delay has on the departmental budgets.
Chair Mink arrived at 5:40 p.m.
Mr. Lalley, District No. 13 Representative, acknowledged the work of Wendy Skinner, Public
Information Coordinator, and Robert Nicholas, Airport Manager, in getting the word out about the
implications of the pull-out of U.S. Airways and replacement by U.S. Airways Express from the Ithaca -
Tompkins Regional Airport. He said the news was handled properly with all pertinent parties being well-
informed.
Mr. Todd, District No. 8 Representative, announced the Space Lab will go over Tompkins
County between 3:17 a.m. and 3:26 a.m. on June 20th. He said it will probably be the most visible
tomorrow as it will be at any time.
183
June 19, 2001
Special Topical Presentation — Women's Opportunity Center
Dammi Herath, Executive Director of the Women's Opportunity Center, provided the Board with
a presentation on services that are provided by the Center. She said the Center provides career
counseling, educational counseling, job placement, computer/internet access, skill assessment, interview
practice, and other services to women who have separated or divorced, been widowed, or have
experienced other different circumstances. She said already in 2001 there has been a large increase in the
number of women served as well as job placements. Ms. Herath distributed to the Board a packet of
information on the Center.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher responded to a comment that was made on WHCU radio this morning stating the
County failed to comply with a FOIL (Freedom of Information Law) request. He said he is the Freedom
of Information Officer for the County, and the County tries to comply as quickly as possible with FOIL
requests. Mr. Whicher said the County goes to great lengths to see that all requests are honored and that
there are no barriers to anyone receiving information. In regard to comments made on the radio this
morning, the party had requested an extensive amount of information and they were responded to within
the five business days required by law. He noted that the response took seven days but two of those days
were a Saturday and Sunday.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wood, Deputy County Attorney, reported the County Code has been updated and is available
on the County's website. Mr. Wood provided the County with an update on the Town of Ithaca's
challenge to the County's redistricting local law and said it was dismissed by the Supreme Court. He said
a notice of appeal was received by the Town which will be heard by the Appellate Division on June 28t.
In the meantime, the Town has requested a stay, asking that the County's reapportionment plan be put on
hold. He said a ruling has not been received; however, he has instructed the Board of Elections to
proceed as if the County was going ahead with the redistricting plan as described in the Law.
Mr. Lane spoke of the work Deputy Attorney Wood has done on the redistricting process. He
said Mr. Wood has been advising the Charter Review Committee since January and has given the
Committee thorough, well -researched advice. He said Mr. Wood has worked very hard working for the
Committee and in doing work in the absence of Henry Theisen, County Attorney.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires reported the audited financial statements of the County will be presented to the
Budget and Capital Committee on June 21s`. He said the County will be publishing the required legal
notice of the audit.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to
add the following resolution(s) to the agenda:
Program Reconfiguration Change and Fiscal Target Adjustment — Criminal Justice Services
Social Services, Mental Health, Probation and ATI Initiatives
Award of Bid — Tompkins County DPW Bostwick Road Expansion Capital Project
Award of Contract — Deferred Compensation — Administrative Services
Authorization for Program Reconfiguration — Central Services
184
June 19, 2001
Authorization to Execute Quitclaim Deed — Property Redeemed Before County Auction
Opposition to Proposed New York State Legislative Act to Amend the General Municipal Law in
Relation to Certain Payments to Police Officers and Others Who are Injured or Taken Ill
Arising Out of and In the Course of Employment
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
There were no resolution(s) withdrawn from the agenda.
Withdrawal of Appointment(s) from the Agenda
An appointment to the Fish and Wildlife Board was withdrawn from the agenda.
Chair's Report and Appointment(s)
Chair Mink called attention to a letter she received from Town of Caroline Supervisor, Donald
Barber, regarding intermunicipal relations and the apparent breakdown in communication between
members of the County Board and some municipal leaders around the County. In his letter Mr. Barber
expressed a desire to try to bridge that gap. Ms. Mink said she encourages Mr. Barber's efforts and asked
that he take the lead in this.
Chair Mink made the following appointment(s):
Workforce Development Board
Constance Sowards — term expires December 31, 2001
John N. Rossi — term expires December 31, 2001
Approval of Appointment(s) Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the following appointment(s) under the Consent Agenda:
Tompkins County Public Library
Thomas Colbert - term expires December 31, 2003
Local Emergency Planning Committee
George Totman — Chair, Public Safety Committee
Report from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee met on June 7h. He said the Affirmative
Action and Workforce Diversity Committee's work plan for 2001 was reviewed by the Committee. He
said the Committee discussed looking at what progress has been made in the past year on the County-
wide diversification efforts. Three levels were established that will be used to evaluate that progress: a
review of the statistics, self-assessment by reviewing the role and responsibility of all players, and a
County -wide climate survey to review what has been done to date. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr said the
Committee also continued discussion on what assessment data should be available on the Internet. There
was also discussion on voting machines and the elections that will be held in the fall.
185
June 19, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 134 - AWARD OF CONTRACT — DEFERRED COMPENSATION
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Finance Department has competitively solicited for proposals
for Deferred Compensation Administrative Services, and
WHEREAS, four (4) proposals were received on May 15, 2001, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Deferred Compensation Committee has reviewed the
proposals received, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Deferred Compensation Committee has made the
recommendation that the contract be awarded to Nationwide Retirement Solutions of Dublin, OH, and
WHEREAS, the Finance Director has determined that this is the lowest delivery cost to the
County, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the contract
be awarded to Nationwide Retirement Solutions of Dublin, OH for a five-year term,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to enter into a contract on
behalf of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 135 - AUTHORIZATION FOR PROGRAM RECONFIGURATION —
CENTRAL SERVICES (Amended by Res. No. 193 of 2001)
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, Central Services is a program of County Administration, and
WHEREAS, changes within County Administration prevent appropriate staff oversight of this
program, and
WHEREAS, the Personnel Department has a need for additional staff to help with additional
Workforce Development responsibilities, and
WHEREAS, the staff person in County Administration responsible for Central Services can be
transferred back to Personnel to fill their needs and the Personnel Department can provide the department
with appropriate oversight, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations and Budget and Capital
Committees, That Program 6215 Central Services be moved from County Administration to Personnel,
RESOLVED, further, That the Fiscal Target for County Administration be reduced by $63,130
and the Fiscal Target for Personnel be increased by the same amount.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 136 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE QUITCLAIM DEED —
PROPERTY REDEEMED BEFORE COUNTY AUCTION
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the County
Administrator is authorized to execute a Quitclaim Deed conveying property acquired by the County
186
June 19, 2001
through 2000 tax foreclosure, back to the previous owners upon payment of all back taxes, penalties,
interest and fees, as follows:
Village of Lansing 47.2-6-2 back to Ching Ping Tung
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 137 - OPPOSITION TO PROPOSED NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATIVE
ACT TO AMEND THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL LAW IN RELATION
TO CERTAIN PAYMENTS TO POLICE OFFICERS AND OTHERS
WHO ARE INJURED OR TAKEN ILL ARISING OUT OF AND IN
THE COURSE OF EMPLOYMENT
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, there presently exists Bills in the New York State Assembly (A8587) and New York
State Senate (S4350), which propose amending the General Municipal Law Section 207-c defmition of
"injury or illness," and
WHEREAS, this change would require municipalities to pay covered officers benefits pursuant to
General Municipal Law Section 207-c whenever a workplace injury is found to be compensable by the
Workers' Compensation Board, and
WHEREAS, the current definition affords covered officers ample protection from injuries and
illnesses that directly relate to "heightened risk" faced by such officers, and
WHEREAS, the proposed amendment would provide the same tax free, full pay protection
intended for officers injured in the line of duty, to any covered officers who suffer any ordinary
workplace injury, enhancing Workers' Compensation Benefits, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the Tompkins
County Board of Representatives and Tompkins County Sheriff does hereby oppose Senate Bill S4350
and Assembly Bill A8587 which would not provide any additional coverage to those police officers who
are injured in a "heightened risk" situation, but would enhance the benefits received for any workplace
injury,
RESOLVED, further, That copies of this resolution be forwarded to New York State Governor
George Pataki; Senator John Kuhl; Senator James Seward; Assemblyman, Martin Luster; Special
Assistant for InterCounty Affairs, Roger W. Trifthauser; and InterCounty Association of Western New
York and New York State Association of Counties.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on June 12 and had guests from the Ukraine in
attendance, including the Superintendent of the Water and Sewer operations m that City. Mr. Lane said
the Committee spent most of the meeting discussing the Bostwick Road project. Mr. Lane said the
Committee has discussed the upcoming budget situation and is aware of the implications of increasing the
cost of the project to the County. The Committee has taken a second look at the project and after
modifications, is recommending that the Board proceed with the award of bid at the original cost of $2.3
million that was approved last summer. Mr. Lane said they will not be asking for any additional money.
They will be eliminating one of the alternatives: the construction of a cold storage building. This is
something the Committee would like to see addressed and will be looking into other options that would
fill this need. He said they will also be proceeding with a five percent contingency rather than 10
percent.
Another item discussed by the Committee was the award of bid for the Old 76 Road bridge and
the announcement that the Newfield Covered Bridge is going to receive National Historic Registry status.
187
June 19, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 138 - AUTHORIZING A LICENSE TO ENTER CORNELL AIRPORT
PROPERTY — CORNELL UNIVERSITY CHEMICAL DISPOSAL
AND RADIATION BURIAL SITES — CONTINUED REMEDIATION,
MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE WORK AT
ITHACA/TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Ms. Blanchard. Mr. Lalley requested permission to abstain
from voting on this resolution because the Department he is employed by at Cornell University will be
performing this work. Chair Mink granted Mr. Lalley permission to abstain. A voice vote on the
resolution resulted as follows: Ayes —13, Noes — 0, Abstentions —1 (Representative Lalley), Excused —1
(Representative Schuler). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins signed consecutive Licenses to Enter County Airport
Property for Cornell University to install and maintain groundwater wells and to install and maintain an
underground collection system in connection with contamination emanating from their chemical disposal
and radiation burial sites, and
WHEREAS, the most recent License to Enter expired on June 9, 2001 and there is a need for
Cornell University to continue remediation, monitoring, and maintenance work at the groundwater wells
located on airport property, and
WHEREAS, said remediation, monitoring, and maintenance is likely to be necessary for many
years to come, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the County
Administrator be and hereby is authorized to sign a License to Enter for a period of five (5) years,
commencing on June 9, 2001,
RESOLVED, further, That maps of well locations showing pollution plumes, data, and reports
continue to be timely filed at the locations agreed upon as necessary among the County Airport Manager,
the County Planning Department, and the County Environmental Health staff and that Cornell University
keeps the Public Works Committee informed about their progress by way of an annual presentation to that
committee, and is required to give advance notice to the County of any additional wells being drilled.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 139 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE CONSTRUCTION FUNDING
AGREEMENT WITH NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION — NORTH TRIPHAMMER ROAD BRIDGE
(BIN 3314360) AND HIGHWAY RECONSTRUCTION
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, a Project for the North Triphammer Road Bridge over Gulf Creek (BIN 3314360)
and Highway Reconstruction, P.I.N. 375228, (the Project) in the Town of Lansing, is eligible for funding
under Title 23 U.S. Code, as amended, that calls for the apportionment of the costs of such program to be
borne at the ratio of 80 percent Federal funds and 20 percent non -Federal funds, and
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 165 and 167 adopted in August 1997 approved the Project and
authorized execution of an agreement with the New York State Department of Transportation regarding
administration and funding of Scoping, Design (Phases I -VI) and Right of Way Incidentals, and
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins desires to advance the above project by making a
commitment of 100 percent of the non-federal share of the costs of Construction, Construction Inspection
and Supervision, and
WHEREAS, in order to expedite advancement of the Project and realize potential total project
cost reductions, the New York State Department of Transportation requires the County to appropriate one
188
June 19, 2001
hundred percent (100%) of the project costs and then file the reimbursement of eligible costs, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Tompkins County
Board of Representatives hereby approves the above -subject project and authorizes the County of
Tompkins to pay in the first instance one hundred percent (100%) of the Federal and non -Federal share of
the costs of Construction, Construction Inspection and Supervision work for the subject Project or
portions thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the sum of $2,326,000 is hereby made available within account
HZ5103.59239.53.01, Triphammer Capital Project Account, to cover the cost of participation in the
construction phase of the Project,
RESOLVED, further, That in the event of full Federal and non -Federal share costs of the project
exceeds the amount appropriated above, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives shall convene as
soon as possible to appropriate said excess amount immediately upon notification of the New York State
Department of Transportation thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Highway Manager be, and hereby is, authorized
to execute all necessary agreements, certifications and reimbursement requests for Federal Aid and/or
Marchiselli Aid on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the New York State Department of
Transportation in connection with the advancement or approval of the Project and providing for the
administration of the Project and the municipality's first instance funding of Project costs and permanent
funding of the local share of federal -aid and state -aid eligible Project costs and all Project costs within
appropriations therefore that are not so eligible,
RESOLVED, further, 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,
RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall take effect immediately.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 140 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE FUNDING AGREEMENT
WITH NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION — BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION — TRUMBULL
CORNERS ROAD BRIDGES OVER WEST ENFIELD CREEK (BINS
3314210 AND 3367940)
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, a Project for the Trumbull Corners Road Bridges over West Enfield Creek, BIN
3314210 and BIN 3367940, PIN 375230, (the Project) in the Town of Enfield, is eligible for funding
under Title 23 U.S. Code, as amended, that calls for the apportionment of the costs of such program to be
borne at the ratio of 80 percent Federal funds and 20 percent non -Federal funds, and
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 130 adopted on May 21, 1996 approved the Project and authorized
execution of an agreement with the New York State Department of Transportation regarding
administration and funding of Scoping, Design (Phases I -VI) and Right of Way Incidentals, and
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins desires to advance the above project by making a
commitment of 100 percent of the non-federal share of the costs of Construction, Construction Inspection
and Supervision, and
WHEREAS, in order to expedite advancement of the Project and realize potential total project
cost reductions, the New York State Department of Transportation requires the County to appropriate one
hundred percent (100%) of the project costs and then file the reimbursement of eligible costs, now
therefore be it
189
June 19, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Tompkins County
Board of Representatives hereby approves the above -subject project and authorizes the County of
Tompkins to pay in the first instance one hundred percent (100%) of the Federal and non -Federal share of
the costs of Construction, Construction Inspection and Supervision work for the subject Project or
portions thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the sum of $881,000 is hereby made available within account
HZ5103.59239.53.04, Trumbull Corners Capital Project Account, to cover the cost of participation in the
construction phase of the Project,
RESOLVED, further, That in the event of full Federal and non -Federal share costs of the project
exceeds the amount appropriated above, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives shall convene as
soon as possible to appropriate said excess amount immediately upon notification of the New York State
Department of Transportation thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Highway Manager be, and hereby is, authorized
to execute all necessary agreements, certifications and reimbursement requests for Federal Aid and/or
Marchiselli Aid on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the New York State Department of
Transportation in connection with the advancement or approval of the Project and providing for the
administration of the Project and the municipality's first instance funding of Project costs and permanent
funding of the local share of federal -aid and state -aid eligible Project costs and all Project costs within
appropriations therefore that are not so eligible,
RESOLVED, further, 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
Proj ect,
RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall take effect immediately.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 141- AWARD OF BID - TOMPKINS COUNTY DPW BOSTWICK
ROAD EXPANSION CAPITAL PROJECT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Winch. Mr. Proto said he is disturbed by the process
that has been followed on this project, and the way the bidding process was handled. He thinks the way
t his was handled is a strong argument for having a Public Works Commissioner. He noted that he is not
saying there is no need for the building. He questioned whether the Budget and Capital Committee
should have reviewed this. Mr. Joseph, Chair of the Budget and Capital Committee, stated that since the
capital project is not being amended this would not go to the Budget and Capital Committee.
There was discussion about the low bidders for the project. It was stated by Mr. Penniman that as
the project changed and some alternates changed, the lowest bidders changed also. Mr. Lane said he
would have liked to see the cold storage facility included; however, there are not enough funds. He said
he believes the process that was followed was fair and proper.
Mr. Lalley expressed concern about asbestos and feels a ten percent contingency would be more
appropriate than a five percent on this particular project.
Mr. Winch said this is a project that has been a long time coming and desperately needed.
Reference was made to a letter' that was received by a contractor. Mr. Winch stated that letter was not
part of the decision making process.
A voice vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes — 12, Noes — 2 (Representatives Lalley
and Proto); Excused —1 (Representative Schuler). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
190
June 19, 2001
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Finance Department has duly advertised for bids for the
Tompkins County DPW Bostwick Road Expansion project, and
WHEREAS, seventeen (17) bids were received for four (4) contracts bid and publicly opened and
read on May 14, 2001, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the base bids plus four
(4) alternates for emergency generator (E3), paint booth mechanical upgrade (M2), direct digital control
system (M1), and slab insulation (G2), be accepted and awarded to the apparent low bidders as follows:
General Construction Contract Paul Yaman Construction $1,304,400
Cortland, NY
Electrical Contract Richardson Brothers Electric 218,700
Ithaca, NY
Mechanical Contract James L. Lewis, Inc. 334,000
Chenango Forks, NY
Plumbing Contract American Ambient Mechanicals, Inc. 83,830
Whitney Point, NY
TOTAL $1,940,930
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator is hereby authorized to enter into contracts
with the successful contractors and to execute change orders of up to five (5) percent of the contract total,
RESOLVED, further, That the Facilities Division be authorized to implement this bid on behalf of
the County, funds being available in Capital Account No. HZ 5101.59239.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Report from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, had no report.
Report from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mr. Proto, Vice Chair, reported the Committee met on May 16t. He said the focus of the
meeting centered around employment for youth in the summer months and transportation issues. Mr.
Proto said the Youth Board is reducing the number of members on that Board per State regulations. He
announced a meeting will be held on June 22nd at the Lakeside Nursing Home to discuss the staff shortage
in nursing homes and the impact this is having. He reminded Committee members that tomorrow's
meeting will be held in the Youth Bureau conference room.
Representative Schuler arrived at 6:30 p.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 142 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS — VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS
MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development and Health and
Human Services Committees, That the Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget
adjustments on his books:
Social Services (#28)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
6142 44681 Federal — HEAP $420,000 6142 54400 Home Energy Assistance Program
HEAP)
6010 44610 Fed.— Soc.Svcs. Adm. $367,000 6010 54442 Prof. Services
191
June 19, 2001
Explanation: The HEAP year opens in the Fall and shuts down in the Spring. Allocations of the 100%
Federal program funding have been more generous this season than in the past. This adjustment reflects
this reality in the Department of Social Services budget.
The Department of Social Services has been awarded a Community Solutions for Transportation grant to
improve access to public transportation by TANF Cash Assistance — and TANF Services -eligible
residents of the county. The approved proposal would pool these funds with grants awarded directly to
TCAT for a range of new and expanded transportation programs for the county's working poor.
Workforce Development (#29)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
CD.6290.44959 Federal Revenue $35,875 CD6290.54491 Subcontracts
Explanation: Funds to be used to administer the 2001 TANF Summer Youth Employment Program.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Economic and Workforce Development
Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee met this morning and had a lengthy discussion
about the HUD program. He said funding is being reviewed for the Workforce Investment Act at the
federal level and is being cut by 35 percent. The Committee discussed empire zones and said they will
discuss it again when the State Legislature takes official action. Mr. Stein said the Planning Department
was given approval to submit an application for an economic development grant that could bring
$750,000 to Tompkins County. This grant would provide, as a loan, infrastructure for the Carpenter
industrial park on Route 13. There was also a report given on the budget guidelines for rural libraries,
update on security issues at the Tompkins County Public Library, and a final report from the Downtown
Visitors and Convention Center. In response to a question, Mr. Stein said the rural libraries will submit a
joint request for their core budget that includes a two percent reduction.
RESOLUTION NO. 143 - ADOPTION OF LOCAL LAW NO. 4 OF 2001— A LOCAL LAW
AMENDING ARTICLE 25 OF THE TOMPKINS COUNTY CHARTER
AND CODE REGARDING WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the Workforce Development Department has been established by the Workforce
Development Act, and
WHEREAS, a public hearing has been held before the Board of Representatives on June 19,
2001, to hear all persons interested in proposed Local Law No. 4 of 2001, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development and
Government Operations Committees, That Local Law No. 4 of the year 2001 — A Local Law Amending
Article 25 of the Tompkins County Charter and Code regarding the Workforce Development Program is
adopted, and
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board shall publish in the official newspaper of the
County a notice of adoption containing a synopsis of said Local Law, and shall within five (5) days file
one certified copy in the Office of the County Clerk, and one copy with the Secretary of State.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
192
June 19, 2001
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee met on June 12 at the Community Justice Center.
In addition to receiving departmental reports, it was announced the assigned -counsel rates will remain the
same due to there not being a State budget. Mr. Totman announced a drug court graduation ceremony
will be held on June 26 at 3 p.m. at the City Courthouse. The next meeting will be July 12th at the Scott
Heyman Conference Room.
RESOLUTION NO. 144 - AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT A GRANT FROM THE
STATE OF NEW YORK DIVISION OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
SERVICES FOR THE ENHANCEMENT OF TRAFFIC SAFETY
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Sheriff's Office applied for grant monies from the New York
State Division of Criminal Justice Services in the amount of $20,000 to cover project equipment costs for
the Traffic Safety Enforcement, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Sheriff's Office has been awarded a grant from the New York
State Division of Criminal Justice Services in the amount of $20,000, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Sheriff's Office 2001 budget will provide the funding for a
matching contribution of $2,222, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the grant award of
$20,000 from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services be accepted.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 145 - INCREASE PETTY CASH ACCOUNT — SHERIFF'S OFFICE
ADMINISTRATION
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Joseph, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the Sheriff's Office Administration, because of the increased volume of juvenile
transports and the required distance of travel to the juvenile facilities, needs a total of $700 in Petty Cash,
now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the Sheriff's Office Petty
Cash account be raised by $300 to a total of $700.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 146 - PROGRAM RECONFIGURATION CHANGE AND FISCAL
TARGET ADJUSTMENT — CRIMINAL JUSTICE SERVICES,
SOCIAL SERVICES, MENTAL HEALTH, PROBATION AND ATI
INITIATIVES
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Joseph, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, two-year (2001-2002) funding for ATI Initiatives was approved in the 2001 Budget,
and
WHEREAS, this program is eligible for State and Federal Aid through the Probation and Social
Services Departments and revenue eligible through the Mental Health Department, and
WHEREAS, this eligibility will generate approximately $200,000 in revenue each year through
these three departments, now therefore be it
193
June 19, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services, Public Safety, and Budget
and Capital Committees, That effective immediately and retroactively to January 1, 2001 (for revenue
eligibility purposes) Program 4450 ATI Initiatives be known as Program 3750 Alternatives to
Incarceration Initiatives,
RESOLVED, further, That Program 3750 Alternatives to Incarceration Initiatives be a program
within the Probation Department and maintain its own separate Fiscal Target,
RESOLVED, further, That the following positions be moved from County Administration to
Probation:
2.0 Administrative Services Coordinators (13/754)) 40.0 Hours
1.0 Domestic Violence Prevention Coordinator (85/185) 40.0 Hours
1.0 Security Officer (09-650) 40.0 Hours
1.0 Security Supervisor (12-756) 40.0 Hours
1.0 Administrative Assistant (12-535) 40.0 Hours
1.0 Community Justice Director (88-191) 40.0 Hours
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance be directed to reverse any payment or budget
transactions made in 2001 between ATI Initiatives, Probation, Social Services, and Mental Health that is
contrary to the revised program reconfiguration,
RESOLVED, further, That the following budget adjustment be made for 2001:
REVENUE: A3160.42270 ATI Initiatives $ 98,148
APPROPRIATION: A4311.51000 Mental Health Personnel 49,931
A4311.58800 Mental Health Fringes 12,483
A4311.54405 MH - ATI Program Support 15,989
A6010.54405 DSS - ATI Program Support 19,745
RESOLVED, further, That the 2002 Fiscal Targets be adjusted as follows:
Reduce ATI Initiatives $1,014,047 Program 4450
Reduce Criminal Justice Services 24,491 Program 4550
$1,038,538
Increase Probation ATI Initiatives 787,523 Program 3750
Increase Social Services 116,356 Program 2000
Increase Mental Health 134,659 Program 0736
$1,038,538
RESOLVED, further, That fiscal controls be established as follows:
• within 30 days after receipt of the certification of surplus funds by the Director of
Finance, the Departments of Probation, Social Services, and Mental Health be
required to report back to the Director of Finance the portion of their surplus (or
deficit) that is directly or indirectly attributable to the ATI Initiatives Program
• by May 31 s`, an annual report of the expenditures, revenues, and caseloads
relative to the ATI Initiatives Program will be presented to the County
Administrator, Director of Finance, Public Safety Committee, Budget and
Capital Committee and Board of Representatives
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee has begun an in-depth review of the Charter and
Code. He said five responses were received from division heads and departments regarding what changes
they would like to see made. Mr. Whicher will be bringing this item up at the next department head
meeting and will ask that the Committee be informed of changes they would like to see made as well as
areas department heads would like to see remain intact. Mr. Penniman has suggested that before the
194
June 19, 2001
Charter Review Committee considers changes, that they first be presented to the appropriate program
committee. Mr. Lane said that would happen.
Report from the Communications Capital Projects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, announced the next meeting will be June 26th at noon.
Report from the Information Management Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, reported the Committee met this morning and learned that due to changes that
have occurred in the Purchasing Division, the policy has never been implemented. Ms. Kiefer said the
Committee learned from Mr. McClure, Information Technology Services Director, that the Norton Anti-
virus software program has been chosen as the standard anti-virus software program throughout the
County. The Committee discussed this and the fmancial impact it will have. At the next meeting on July
17 the Committee will discuss the Privacy Policy.
Report from the Space and Location Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee will meet on June 25t.
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board
meeting.
Approval of Minutes of Mav 15, 31, and June 5, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Winch, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote, to approve the minutes of the May 15, 31, and June 5, 2001 meetings as corrected. MINUTES
APPROVED.
Recess
Chair Mink declared recess from 6:57 p.m. to 7:06 p.m.
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Mr. Lalley, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote, to enter into executive session at 7:06 p.m. to discuss real estate matters. The meeting returned to
open session at 7:08 p.m.
Motion Pertaining to Real Estate
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Ms. Davis, and unanimously adopted by voice vote, to
accept an offer for $275,000 for the Biggs A building from TransAmerica Engineering Corporation.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:09 p.m.
195
July 3, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 14 Representatives. Representative Davis arrived at 5:37 p.m. Excused 1
(Representative Lalley).
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
No member of the public wished to speak.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, reported former Board Member Donald Culligan's
grandson passed away. The entire Board joined Mr. Proto in extending its condolences to the Culligan
family. Mr. Proto also stated that Mildred Miller, a long -serving public servant at the municipal level in
the Town of Danby, also passed away.
Chair's Report and Appointments
Chair Mink had no report or appointments. She said a brief executive session will be held at the
end of the meeting to discuss litigation.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher reported James Hanson, Commissioner of Planning, has announced his retirement
effective the end of September. He also announced the Community Justice Center now has a small client
base and the program is beginning to move forward.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Theisen reported the closing on the Tompkins Community Action building will take place on
July 5th. Chair Mink welcomed Mr. Theisen back after being out with an extended illness.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires had no report.
Appointment(s) and Resolution(s) Approved Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the following appointment(s) under the Consent Agenda:
Community Mental Health Services Board Substance Abuse Subcommittee
Shane Jaynes — Community Member - term expires December 31, 2001
Tompkins County Environmental Management Council
Jeff Cox — Village of Cayuga Heights Representative - term expires December 31, 2002
196
July 3, 2001
Darrel R. Clark — Town of Enfield Representative — term expires December 31, 2002
Mental Health Services Board
Philip R. Newby, Sr. — term expires December 31, 2002
Fish and Wildlife Management Board
Roger Bennett — Landowner — term expires December 31, 2002
Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit Board of Directors
Kathy Luz Herrera — Countywide Representative — term expires December 31, 2002
RESOLUTION NO. 147 - AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT FUNDING FOR THE NEW
YORK ELDER CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM UNDER
TITLE III -E OF THE OLDER AMERICAN'S ACT
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Office for the Aging (COFA) has applied for Federal Funding
in order to expand its support of its caregivers resource program, and
WHEREAS, COFA wishes to provide respite and supplemental services to family members
caring for those with two or more limitations on their activities of daily living or those with substantial
cognitive impairments, and
WHEREAS, COFA has been notified by the New York State Office for the Aging that its
application for funding has been approved, and
WHEREAS, the period of funding shall be from July 1, 2001 through December 31, 2001 with
the standard provisions for Federal fund carry-over, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the
approval be given to COFA to accept the $25,000 in Title III -E funding.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 148 - AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT SUPPLEMENTAL GRANT
FUNDS — TOBACCO CONTROL COALITION — HEALTH
DEPARTMENT
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) is awarding community
tobacco control coalitions across New York State supplemental grant funds for the year ending May 31,
2002, to carry out additional program activities, and
WHEREAS, the Cayuga, Tompkins, Cortland, Madison Counties Tobacco Control Coalition is
one of the community coalitions designated to receive these additional funds, and
WHEREAS, the New York State Department of Health requires that the funds be used to
strengthen and enhance community interventions; each county will receive $50,375 of which $21,982 will
be expended in 2001, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County will voucher Cortland County for approved expenses (Cortland
County is the lead fiscal and contractual agency with New York State Department of Health), now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the Health
Department is authorized to accept said supplemental grant funds,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is authorized to make the following budget
adjustment on his books:
197
REVENUE:
APPROPRIATION:
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
July 3, 2001
A4016.44959 Federal Grants $21,982
A4016.51580 Salaries, Comm. Hlth. Nurse 9,916
.52230 Computer Software 200
.54330 Printing 400
.54332 Books/Publications 136
.54333 Education/Promotion 1,000
.54412 Travel/Training 500
.54442 Professional Service Fees 7,250
.54452 Postage 100
.58800 Fringes 2,480
RESOLUTION NO. 149 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS — VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present under the Consent Agenda.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development and Health and
Human Services Committees, That the Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget
adjustments on his books:
Community Health Services (#32)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
4016.43489 Other State Grants $8,900 4016.54442 Professional Service Fees
Explanation: Diabetes Coalition Grant for 2001-02. Funds to be contracted to Cayuga Medical Center
at Ithaca. (Original authorization to accept funds Res. 36 of 2000.)
Social Services (#31)
Revenue Acct Title Amt ?moron Acct Title(s)
6010.44609 Federal TANF $50,000 6010.54404 Pass-through expense
Explanation: These 100 percent Federal funds will pay for Merit Incentive awards to youth who are
either in receipt of Family Assistance or are "TANF Services" eligible and who have either improved
their academic performance or have volunteered time and energy in service to the community.
Office for the Aging (#30)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
6796.42770 Misc. Income $775 6796.54414 Local Mileage
Explanation: Unbudgeted miscellaneous income permits coverage of local mileage for the remainder of
the year.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, the
following resolution(s) were added to the agenda:
Amendment to Architectural Services Contract — Construction Administration and Construction
Management Services for the Bostwick Road Expansion Project
Expansion of Bostwick Road Facility Regarding Land Use
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
198
July 3, 2001
Chair Mink gave the appropriate committee chairman permission to withdraw the resolution
entitled Resolution of Non -Support — Grassroots Festival and Other Community Events — Highway
Division from the agenda.
Report from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board
meeting. The next meeting will be July 5th at noon.
Representative Davis arrived at 5:37 p.m.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on June 261 and approved moving forward
with the design of the Lounsbery Road bridge replacement and the Valley Road rehabilitation. He said
funding for some of these projects has been held up due to there not being a State budget. He said
although the County is committed to replacing the Lounsbery Road bridge, this project is in jeopardy of
happening because there is no State budget. He said they will be looking at other alternatives because
State funding may not be available until fall. Peter Messmer, Highway Manager, asked the Committee to
look into some new material for sealing of highway shoulder and they will be looking into experimenting
with this new type of stone with the Ellis Hollow Road project. Mr. Lane said the Committee toured the
Household Hazardous Waste Facility and now have a better understanding of the way that is working and
are contemplating whether they could eventually do away with the appointment system. He said the
Committee held a meeting prior to this Board meeting to discuss the Bostwick Road Expansion. At that
meeting the Committee reviewed the various balancing criteria which are taken into consideration as to
whether or not a larger municipality, such as Tompkins County, is subject to the zoning regulations of a
smaller municipality. A resolution was added to the agenda that will address this issue.
RESOLUTION NO. 150 - AUTHORIZATION TO ISSUE DESIGN APPROVAL —
BROOKTONDALE BRIDGES PROJECT — PIN 375230 —
LOUNSBERY ROAD BRIDGE (BIN 3314100) REPLACEMENT
AND VALLEY ROAD BRIDGE (BIN 1045990) REHABILITATION
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 248 of 1999 authorized an agreement with the State of New York to
fund designs for replacement of the bridge on Lounsbery Road (BIN 3314100) and rehabilitation of the
bridge on Valley Road (BIN 1045990), both over Six -Mile Creek in the Town of Caroline, and
WHEREAS, the preliminary project design has been developed in conformance with the
applicable environmental laws, design standards, and accepted engineering practice; all exceptions to
accepted design standards have been thoroughly analyzed and their retention adequately justified; all
permits have been identified and will be secured prior to letting; public participation has been encouraged
and included in the project development processes; and project costs are reasonable, and
WHEREAS, the design consultant and the County Highway Manager have certified completion
of all procedural requirements needed prior to design approval of the project, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Chair of the
Tompkins County Board of Representatives be and hereby is authorized to execute documents granting
Design Approval whereby completion of project final design shall be authorized.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-21
199
July 3, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 151 - AUTHORIZATION TO INCREASE DESIGN AND RIGHT OF
WAY INCIDENTALS FUNDING — NORTH TRIPHAMMER
ROAD BRIDGE (BIN 3314360) AND HIGHWAY
RECONSTRUCTION
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, a Project for the North Triphammer Road Bridge over Gulf Creek (BIN 3314360)
and Highway Reconstruction, P.I.N. 375228, (the Project) in the Town of Lansing, is eligible for funding
under Title 23 U.S. Code, as amended, that calls for the apportionment of the costs of such program to be
borne at a ratio of eighty percent (80%) Federal funds and twenty percent (20%) non -Federal funds, and
WHEREAS, Resolution Nos. 165 and 167 adopted on August 5, 1997 approved the Project and
authorized execution of an agreement with the New York State Department of Transportation regarding
administration and funding of Scoping, Design (Phases I -VI) and ROW Incidentals, and
WHEREAS, the full Federal and non -Federal cost shares for these project phases did not include
adequate funds for right of way appraisals and other preliminary design expenses that resulted from
adherence to revised New York State Department of Transportation procedures and are now estimated to
exceed the $325,000 appropriated through the aforesaid resolutions, and
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins desires to advance the above project by making a
commitment of one hundred percent (100%) of the non -Federal share of the costs of Scoping, Design
Phases I -VI and ROW Incidentals, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That an additional $175,000
is hereby made available within account HZ5103.59239.53.01, Triphammer Capital Project Account, to
cover the increased cost of participation in the Scoping, Design Phases I -VI and ROW Incidentals phase
of the Project,
RESOLVED, further, That in the event the full Federal and non -Federal share costs of the project
exceeds the amount appropriated above, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives shall convene as
soon as possible to appropriate said excess amount immediately upon the notification of the New York
State Department of Transportation thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Highway Manager be and is hereby authorized
to execute all necessary Agreements, certifications and reimbursement requests for Federal Aid and/or
Marchiselli Aid on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the New York State Department of
Transportation in connection with the advancement or approval of the Project and providing for the
administration of the Project and the municipality's first instance funding of Project costs and permanent
funding of the local share of Federal -aid and State -aid eligible Project costs and all Project costs within
appropriations therefore that are not so eligible,
RESOLVED, further, 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,
RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall take effect immediately.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 152 - AMENDMENT TO ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES CONTRACT —
CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION AND CONSTRUCTION
MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR THE BOSTWICK ROAD
EXPANSION PROJECT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the original design agreement covered design services through the award of
construction bids and did not include Construction Phase Services, and
200
July 3, 2001
WHEREAS, as the designer of record, Schickel Architecture of Ithaca, New York needs to be
involved to administer the construction contracts and provide architectural and engineering services for
the construction phase; these services will include construction administration and construction
management, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the contract for design
services with Schickel Architecture of Ithaca, New York be increased by an amount not to exceed
$104,280, and that funds are available in the Capital Project Account HZ5101.59239.50.10 for
construction administration services and in Account A1620.54442 for construction management services
for the Bostwick Road Facility Expansion Project.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 153 - EXPANSION OF PUBLIC WORKS BUILDING REGARDING
LAND USE
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Winch. The Board spent a brief period amending the
balancing document with all changes accepted as friendly. Mr. Joseph said this resolution makes a clear
statement that the County is not subject to local land use regulations. He emphasized that while the
County is firm and clear in its belief that most of the projects the County does are exempt from local land
use regulations, it has been common practice for the County to follow those regulations voluntarily. Mr.
Lane said the County Administrator will be sending the Town of Ithaca a copy of the County plans and a
letter stating the County would be glad to hear comments from the Town.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 14, Noes — 0, Excused — 1 (Representative Lalley).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the County intends to improve the Public Works building on Bostwick Road in the
Town of Ithaca to allow for the addition of a Facilities Division and to improve the facilities within the
existing building, and
WHEREAS, the New York State Court of Appeals in The City of Rochester vs. County of
Monroe determined that a County should look at various criteria to determine whether it is subject to local
zoning requirements, and
WHEREAS, the County has thoroughly examined the criteria, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the project is not subject
to local land use regulation for reasons summarized in the attached analysis.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
The Balancing Test -Analysis of Criteria with respect to Improvements to the Public Works Facility
1. The Nature and Scope of the Instrumentality Seeking Immunity
Tompkins County, a charter County in New York State, in which the Town of Ithaca is one of
nine constituent towns, has the responsibility of building roads & bridges throughout the county.
2. The Kind of Function or Land Use Involved
I. Tompkins County owns 25 acres in the Town of Ithaca on which area in 1965 we
constructed our Public Works Facility.
II. The county intends to construct an improvement to renovate the already -existing building
on land already owned by the county. The extent of the addition is small in relationship to
the overall parcel; it is really in the nature of an upgrade to a long-standing facility serving
the county residents.
201
July 3, 2001
III. The land use will be the same. The building is being used as office, garage, and shops and
will continue to be used for this purpose.
3. The Extent of the Public Interest to be Served Thereby
There is a significant public interest to be served by the facility. The facility houses equipment
and personnel who provide for the upkeep of county facilities, the construction and maintenance
of roadways and bridges throughout the county, and the plowing of roads throughout the county.
Functions carried out in and from the facility provide safety benefits for all users of roads and
bridges throughout the county.
4. The Effect Local Land Use Regulations Would Have Upon the Enterprise Concerned
Local land use regulation is allowed for this type of facility in the area under the special permit
provision of the ordinance. It should be noted however, that the facility already exists in this
community. Indeed the facility already exists, this is a mere improvement. Furthermore, the
inability to improve the facility would hamper the county's ability to maintain the safety of
county roads, bridges, facilities and other structures.
5. The Impact Upon Legitimate Local Interest
The impact on legitimate local interest is positive. The improvement will certainly allow for the
more efficient conduct of the important business at this facility and will improve and make safer
working conditions for employees. Furthermore the county can find no town interest in
governing the nature and extent of the improvements at the facility. The county itself is in the
best position to judge the need and utility of the improvements. The facility will be subject to
inspection by the County Code Enforcement Officer. The building will be built and inspected
under applicable NYS fire and building codes. This process has been used for many years.
6. The Applicants Legislative Grant of Authority
The county is authorized, indeed required, to perform the services carried out at this facility. In
particular municipal home rule law, 10(6)§ gives the county power to acquire, manage and use its
highways, roads, streets and property.
7. Alternative Locations for the Facility in Less Restrictive Zoning Areas
The county considered numerous alternative locations for Buildings and Grounds division to that
chosen. The choice of this facility imposes the least impact on zoning and the environment
because it is part of a pre-existing facility that has more than adequate space for the improvement.
8. Alternative Methods of Providing the Needed Improvement
The county has thoroughly examined numerous alternative methods of providing the needed
improvement. It was only after an extremely lengthy consideration of possible alternatives that
the county decided to proceed with the chosen project. Even after submitting the project the
county requested that builders provide it with many options so that it could consider the widest
range of possibilities.
9. The Intergovernmental Participation in Project Development and Opportunity to be Heard
I. This project has been discussed exhaustively in public meetings for over three years before
the decision was made to proceed with the project.
202
July 3, 2001
II. Regular reports were given to the full board of representatives and were televised to the
public.
III. The town had the opportunity to participate in the discussions regarding the improvements.
Report from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee met on June 20 and heard a report from Paul
Bonaparte -Krogh, Executive Director of Cooperative Extension, on the Agency's new building.
Representatives of that Agency explained to the Committee they are working as promised, on preparing a
plan to repay money to the County for that building. Mr. Penniman said the Committee had a brief
discussion about the resignation of James Hanson, Planning Commissioner, and how they will proceed to
fill that vacancy. He said the search process will include input from Board members and municipal
officials. Mr. Penniman said the Committee also discussed the Cornell Radioactive Waste Disposal Site
and stated there are concerns the project is not as safe as it was first felt to be. The Committee will
continue to discuss this issue and monitor the situation closely. The next meeting will be the third
Wednesday in July.
Report from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee met on June 20 and most of the business conducted
at that meeting is reflected on the agenda. She announced the hire of Robert Deluca as Deputy
Commissioner of Mental Health, noting he is no relation to Bart Deluca, Mental Health Commissioner.
Mrs. Schuler also reported on a forum that was recently held to discuss the critical shortage of nurses.
The Human Services Coalition provided the Committee with an outreach report and annual reports were
presented by the Office for the Aging and the Health Department. Mrs. Schuler also announced a
document entitled West Nile Virus Frequently Asked Question is now available. The next meeting will
be July 18th.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Economic and Workforce Development
Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting.
RESOLUTION NO. 154 - APPROPRIATION FROM CONTINGENT FUND —
OPERATIONAL EXPENSES - WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, in the 2001 budget $41,000 was set aside for Workforce Development, and
WHEREAS, those funds are now needed, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development and Budget and
Capital Committees, That the Director of Finance appropriate a total of $41,000 to the Workforce
Development 2001 budget from the Contingent Fund,
RESOLVED, further, That the money be distributed to the following accounts:
From: A1990. 54400 Contingent Fund $41,000.00
To: A6290.51000 Personnel $26,297.00
.58800 Fringe 8,297.00
.54432 Rent 2,792.00
.54472 Telephone 378.00
.54412 Travel and Training 500.00
.54414 Local Mileage 70.00
203
July 3, 2001
.54342 Food 350.00
.54303 Office Supplies 500.00
.54330 Printing 87.00
.54618 Interdepartmental Charge 140.00
.54452 Postage 70.00
.54442 Professional Services 1,050.00
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee will meet on July 12t.
RESOLUTION NO. 155 — AMENDMENT TO RESOLUTION NO. 40 OF 2001 —
APPROPRIATION FROM ATI CONTINGENT POOL —
FACILITATED VICTIM/OFFENDER INTERACTIONS —
COMMUNITY DISPUTE RESOLUTION CENTER; LIFE SKILLS
COMPETENCY — YOUTH ADVOCACY PROGRAM; JAIL BASED
TREATMENT PROGRAM — ALCOHOLISM COUNCIL OF
TOMPKINS COUNTY; CRIMINAL JUSTICE CENTER
LITERACY SERVICES — LITERACY VOLUNTEERS
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler. A short roll call vote resulted as follows:
Ayes —14, Noes — 0, Excused — 1 (Representative Lalley). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Board Resolution No. 40 of 2001 appropriated funds from the ATI Contingent Pool
for Community Dispute Resolution Center (Facilitated Victim/Offender Interactions), Youth Advocacy
Program (Life Skills Competency), Alcoholism Council (Jail Treatment), and Literacy Volunteers
(Education Services), and
WHEREAS, total funds appropriated from the two-year pool of authorized funding for
Alternatives to Incarceration Initiatives were $158,645, and
WHEREAS, there was no stipulation in Resolution No. 40 of 2001 to amend the second year of
funding for these four programs by the $158,645, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety and Budget and Capital Committees, That
the 2002 Fiscal Target for ATI Initiatives be increased by $155,472 ($158,645 minus two percent Target
Reduction) and the 2002 Contingent Fund be reduced by the same amount,
RESOLVED, further, That the 2001 Contingent Fund reflects a balance of $179,528 from the
original $335,000 approved for use in the 2001 and 2002 budgets for Alternatives to Incarceration
Initiatives at the Community Justice Center.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, had no report. The Committee will meet on July 5th at 9 a.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 156 - AUTHORIZATION FOR PUBLIC HEARING — TOMPKINS
CORTLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE OPERATING AND
CAPITAL BUDGETS - 2001-2002
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
204
July 3, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That a public hearing be
held on Tuesday, July 17, 2001, at 5:30 o'clock in the evening thereof in Board Chambers of the
Tompkins County Courthouse, 320 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York concerning the 2001-2002
operating and capital budget requests for Tompkins Cortland Community College. At such time and
place all persons interested in the subject matter will be heard concerning the same,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board be and hereby is directed to place such notice
of public hearing in the official newspaper of Tompkins County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee has been meeting regularly and is taking an in-
depth look at each individual section of the Charter.
Report from the Communications Capital Proiect Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the Committee met on June 26 and discussed a large number of
items. The Committee heard a report from Lou Withiam, Chairman of the 911 Building Committee. He
reported an agreement has been reached for the square footage of the building and Egner Associates is
working on a drawing. Another meeting will be held once those drawings are available and a cost
estimate has been prepared. Steve Whicher, County Administrator, informed the Committee that the draft
Memorandum of Understanding that was to be signed between various parties has been drafted and was
sent to all parties for comment.
Ms. Blanchard reported on the Department of Transportation relocation project and said the
project continues to move forward; however, it depends on money from the State budget. She said the
Committee discussed several items related to the public -safety communications project including the
developing of the request for proposals which will be the instrument used to solicit vendor proposals for a
system. The first of four meetings was held last week. The purpose of these meetings is to get agreement
on the functional specifications in the RFP. The last two will be on process for evaluating vendors and
deciding what the criteria will be.
Mr. Whicher reported to the Committee on the County's relationship with the State-wide network
which they are tracking in parallel with the County's activities. Another meeting on this will be held on
July 12t. Mr. Whicher will be developing a project overview that will be included with the Committee
minutes and will also be distributed to the full Board.
Ms. Blanchard said they will be doing some municipal outreach and will be sponsoring a
workshop that will feature a consultant team from California that specializes in helping municipalities
improve the quality of their ordinances that govern commercial cell towers. This will take place on July
30 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Borg Warner Room at the Tompkins County Public Library. The next
meeting will be at 9 a.m. on July 9th at the Borg Warner Room.
Report from the Information Management Committee
Ms. Kiefer said the Committee will meet on July 17th.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee will meet on July 13 at 8:30 a.m. The sale of the Biggs
complex continues to progress and the Committee continues to explore uses for the old Library building.
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
205
July 3, 2001
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, had no report.
Approval of Minutes of June 19, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the minutes of the June 19, 2001 meeting as submitted. MINUTES
APPROVED.
Recess
Chair Mink declared recess from 6:25 p.m. to 6:35 p.m.
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to enter into executive session at 6:35 p.m. to discuss litigation and a personnel
matter. The meeting returned to open session at 6:55 p.m.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m.
206
July 17, 2001
Regular Meeting
Public Hearing — 2001-2002 Operating and Capital Budget Requests - Tompkins Cortland
Community College
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. concerning 2001-2002 Operating and Capital
Budget Requests - Tompkins Cortland Community College. No one wished to speak and the public
hearing was closed at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 14 Representatives. Excused: 1 (Representative Schuler).
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Jesse Strock, Ithaca resident, spoke concerning the resolution on the agenda entitled
Recommending the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Select Alternative No. 3, No
Surface Occupancy on National Forest Lands, Which Protects the Finger Lakes National Forest While
Permitting Leasing of and Revenue from Mineral Rights. He said while he is glad the Board is taking up
this issue and opposes drilling, he feels the best solution would be alternative number four rather than
three. He said alternative three not allow any surface occupancy on the forest and does not allow drilling
wells to be put on the forest. It does, however, make it easier for surface disturbance to occur so
environmental damages would not be eliminated. He said the Hector and Lodi Town Boards, Senator
Clinton, Congressman Hinchey, and Assemblyman Luster have voted to support alternative four.
Andrew Sleeper, Town of Ithaca, spoke concerning the resolution on the agenda entitled
Recommending the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Select Alternative No. 3, No
Surface Occupancy on National Forest Lands, Which Protects the Finger Lakes National Forest While
Permitting Leasing of and Revenue from Mineral Rights. Mr. Sleeper agreed with the contents of the
resolution but urged the Board to amend the resolution and adopt alternative number four rather than
three. He noted the Schuyler County Legislature adopted alternative four and as well as
Nathan Winograd, the new Executive Director for the SPCA, introduced himself to the Board.
He said he will be working towards improving the relationship the SPCA has with the community and
asked Board members to contact him should any concerns arise.
Steve Uzmann, West Danby resident and member of the Environmental Management Council
(EMC), spoke concerning the resolution on the agenda entitled Recommending the United States
Department of Agriculture Forest Service Select Alternative No. 3, No Surface Occupancy on National
Forest Lands, Which Protects the Finger Lakes National Forest While Permitting Leasing of and Revenue
from Mineral Rights. Mr. Uzman explained the reasons behind the EMCs unanimous support for
alternative number three. He said alternative three permits drilling under the Finger Lakes National
Forest from directionally drilled wells on private lands, but does not permit surface occupancy. He said
alternative four has the same surface -occupancy restrictions. However, surface disturbances either on
lands that were leased with no surface occupancy or on lands not leased can occur anyway through two
processes - special use permits or easements. He said in alternative three directionally -drilled wells from
private lands would allow the federal government to have some oversight; under alternative four the
federal government would have no say and would have no oversight. Then, in addition to the
enhancement of governmental revenues that would come in alternative three from wells that were
directionally -drilled into the potential resources, there would be minimal but some federal oversight, in
addition to the DEC oversight that occurs in both alternatives three and four.
207
July 17, 2001
Wendy Skinner, Public Information Coordinator for Tompkins County, announced the videotapes
of the presentations that were given to the Communications Capital Projects Committee will be replayed
on Channel 15 at 7 a.m., 1 p.m., and 7 p.m. on July 23 and 24. Copies of those videotapes will also be
made available. Ms. Skinner also announced that several emergency services personnel and community
agencies are holding a mass -casualty disaster drill at Titus Towers on July 24th at 9 a.m. A press
conference will be held tomorrow to announce to the public that this will be happening.
John Hamilton, Brooktondale resident, spoke concerning the resolution on the agenda entitled
Recommending the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Select Alternative No. 3, No
Surface Occupancy on National Forest Lands, Which Protects the Finger Lakes National Forest While
Permitting Leasing of and Revenue from Mineral Rights. He asked that the Board adopt alternative
number four rather than three because he feels there will be a lot of surface disruption in alternative
number three. Mr. Hamilton said it is very important to many people that this small piece of forest land
be left intact.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, announced Carol Szcepanski, Town of Danby Clerk, has
been selected by the New York State Town Clerk's Association as the District Director of that
organization.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher reported his office continues to work on the 2002 budget. He called attention to the
document he distributed to all members entitled Public Safety Communications System Project Overview
that was included in all Board members' folders this evening.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Theisen brought the Board up-to-date on the redistricting litigation and said he expects a
hearing will be held by the end of the week with Judge Mulvey.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires distributed the latest sales tax information for the County at the second quarter. He
said the figures show a slight increase over last year and said the income the County is receiving is within
the parameters of the budget. Mr. Squires said he also got the latest information on taxable sales and has
distributed this information to the Board also, noting that the apparel group brings in significant revenues
and warning that next year Tompkins County will get zero for clothing under $110.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to
add the following resolutions to the agenda:
Authorizing the Re -Programming of Unused Small Cities Community Development Block Grant
Funds
Authorizing Public Hearing for Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Program for
Re -Programming of Unused Monies
Authorizing Submittal of Application for Small Cities Community Development Block Grant
Program for 2001 Funding
Authorizing Public Hearings for Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Program for
2001 Funding
208
July 17, 2001
Making a Negative Determination of Environmental Significance in Relation to Resolution No.
170 of 2001
Authorizing Loan of Monies from County Economic Development Revolving Loan Funds
Acceptance of Invest Job Start Grant and Budget Adjustment - Tompkins County Workforce
Development
Recommending the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Select Alternative
No. 3, No Surface Occupancy on National Forest Lands, Which Protects the Finger Lakes
National Forest While Permitting Leasing of Revenue from Mineral Rights
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
Chair Mink gave the appropriate committee chairman permission to withdraw the following
resolution(s) from the agenda:
Setting a Public Hearing on Proposed Local Law No. f of 2001 - Authorizing the Tompkins
County Board of Elections to have the Care, Custody, and Control of All Voting machines
and Appliances and Equipment Relating to or Used in the Conduct of Elections in Tompkins
County, Pursuant to Section 3-506 of New York State Election Law
Chair's Report and Appointment(s)
Chair Mink had no report or appointment(s).
Appointment(s) Approved Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Ms. Davis, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the appointment of Mary E. Harrington to the Fire, Disaster, and EMS
Advisory Board for a term to expire December 31, 2003, as the Town of Caroline Delegate
representative.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Committee met on July 5th and discussed the upcoming
budget process. The Committee looked at several alternatives no longer having program committee
review, expanding program committees, and expanding both program and budget committee. After a
lengthy discussion and many motions being made, the result was that the Board will continue to meet as it
has for the last few years with having program committee review and expanded budget committee
meetings.
RESOLUTION NO. 157- ADOPTION OF 2001-2002 OPERATING BUDGET - TOMPKINS
CORTLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lane, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, a proposed operating budget for Tompkins Cortland Community College for the
fiscal year September 1, 2001 through August 31, 2002 has been presented to the Board of
Representatives of the County of Tompkins pursuant to County Law and Section 6306 of the Education
Law, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Representatives has conducted a public hearing on said proposed
budget on the 17t of July 2001, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That said proposed
2001-2002 operating budget in the amount of $18,424,000 of which the sponsoring counties contribution
is in the amount of $3,431,243 be and the same is hereby approved,
209
July 17, 2001
RESOLVED, further, That the Board of Representatives of Tompkins County includes in the
2001 Tompkins County Budget an amount to be determined pursuant to the approved plan for said
College in effect as of September 1, 2001, and that the amount, when determined, be raised by taxation in
the County of Tompkins in the fiscal year 2002,
RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall become effective upon the adoption of a
concurrent resolution by the Cortland County Legislature.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 158 - ADOPTION OF 2001-2002 CAPITAL BUDGET TOMPKINS
CORTLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
voice vote by members present.
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees of Tompkins Cortland Community College has presented to
this Legislature a Tentative Capital Budget for fiscal year 2001-2002, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That said 2001-2002
Capital Budget in the amount of $150,000 of which the sponsoring counties contribution is in the amount
of $0 be and the same is hereby approved and adopted,
RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall become effective upon adoption of a concurrent
resolution by the Cortland County Legislature.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee has not held a regular meeting since the last
Board meeting. He said the Committee will meet tomorrow at noon and will look at a new round of
Commercial Center Revitalization Grants. He said all Board members should have received information
from Paul Bonaparte -Krogh, Executive Director of Cooperative Extension, regarding the fmancing plan
for Extension's new building. This item will be discussed at the Budget and Capital Committee meeting
on July 19th. Mr. Penniman said a special meeting of the Committee was held today to discuss the
resolution that was added to the agenda.
RESOLUTION NO. 159 - RECOMMENDING THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF
AGRICULTURE FOREST SERVICE SELECT ALTERNATIVE
NO. 3, NO SURFACE OCCUPANCY ON NATIONAL FOREST
LANDS, WHICH PROTECTS THE FINGER LAKES NATIONAL
FOREST WHILE PERMITTING LEASING OF AND REVENUE
FROM MINERAL RIGHTS
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Proto. Mr. Penniman said alternative four does not
allow any leasing of the mineral rights and alternative three would involve the forest service leasing
mineral rights and would also give them permission to put stipulations in the contract that would provide
for additional regulation on how the drilling is done.
Ms. Blanchard said the EMC has done a very good job in providing the Board with a
recommendation on this issue and feels the Board should adopt the resolution as presented.
Mr. Stein said based on the recommendation of the EMC he feels the Board should adopt the
alternative presented.
210
July 17, 2001
Mr. Lane agreed with the comments made by Representatives Blanchard and Stein. He feels the
recommendation by the EMC is well -thought out and commended them for looking at the economic
impact.
Mr. Winch said he has always supported natural resources and quality management of forest land.
He said while he is not questioning the work of the EMC, he has not had adequate time to look into the
matter himself. Mr. Winch said the questions he has are: What is the land use of the private land where
the drilling would have to happen if it is not done on the forest land? Are there designated areas that
would not disrupt managed forest land or wildlife habitat? and Is there scrub land that could be used. He
said his no vote will be a due to the lack of information he has received and should not be taken as non-
support of the EMC or in favor of any other alternative.
Mr. Totman agreed with Mr. Winch's comments.
Mr. Penniman apologized for the short time period for Board members to consider this issue. He
explained the deadline for submission of public input for the DEIS (Draft Environmental Impact
Statement) is August 1s` and this is the last County Board meeting before the deadline. He said part of
his motivation into this late is all the actions of the surrounding towns and to support Schuyler County
and their resolution against the drilling.
It was MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Ms. Davis, to amend the resolution by adopting
Alternative Number Four rather than Three.
Mr. Joseph said he feels Alternative Three is a reasonable compromise and would be inclined to
support it. However, because of the opposition in the surrounding towns and those who have spoken in
favor of Alternative Four, he could also support that option. He said the amount of gas there is trivial and
the benefits are to the people who get to sell it that includes the Forest Service, the federal government,
and the surrounding towns who are saying they don't want it.
Mr. Lalley said with Alternative Four they would still have the option to drill by going straight
down and tapping into the vein. He said this is a small piece of "sacred" land that the Board has the
ability to protect. He feels the Board should support the amendment and protect this land.
Ms. Kiefer said she feels the best chance there is for the USDA to make any change in what they
are currently supporting is to go with Alternative Three. She said she might feel differently if she were
convinced that Alternative Number Four meant there would mean no disturbance in the forest but it does
not. Because through the procedures that were mentioned by Mr. Uzman that were separate from leasing,
there is no guarantee there would be no disturbance. She said what hasn't been mentioned during this
discussion is the EMC's suggestion that the money being garnered from the mineral rights be used
towards perhaps site acquisition within the forest or to refill and maintain the strategic petroleum reserve.
Mr. Todd stated he has been signing gas leases for approximately forty years, and said the
payment on those leases has gone from a dollar an acre to seven dollars an acre with the current lease he
has now. He said he is concerned that if the federal government signs those leases that there will be no
economic advantage to anyone in this County and that the royalty will all go to the federal government.
Mr. Todd said for this reason he supports Alternative Number Four.
Mr. Proto said two of the towns he represents have a great deal of State land in them and he is
very concerned about what impact this will have on his towns. He said he does not want to restrict what a
private landowner can do with their land and wants to make sure the Board relays a message that the
Board is concerned about energy as well as wanting to make sure no one destroys the land.
211
July 17, 2001
A voice vote on the amendment resulted as follows: Ayes - 6 (Representatives Davis, Joseph,
Koplinka-Loehr, Lalley, Mink, and Todd); Noes - 8 (Representatives Blanchard, Kiefer, Lane, Penniman,
Proto, Stein, Totman, and Winch); Excused - 1 (Representative Schuler). AMENDMENT FAILED.
A voice vote on the original resolution resulted as follows: Ayes — 10; Noes - 4 (Representatives
Koplinka-Loehr, Todd, Totman, and Winch); Excused - 1 (Representative Schuler). RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Finger Lakes National Forest, located in Schuyler and Seneca Counties and
operated by the United States Department of Agriculture (U.S.D.A.) Forest Service, is considering
allowing oil and gas exploration and development on forest lands, and
WHEREAS, the Finger Lakes National Forest is the smallest national forest in the nation, and is
already heavily fragmented by roads, pastures, and private lands, and the activities associated with energy
exploration and drilling, as described in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement, will increase this
fragmentation, and
WHEREAS, the noise, destruction and heavy traffic, which are inevitable by-products of any
drilling operation, are incompatible with the peaceful setting and recreational opportunities now enjoyed
by many Tompkins County residents within the Finger Lakes National Forest, and
WHEREAS, the U.S.D.A. Forest Service has prepared a Draft Environmental Impact Statement
(DEIS) identifying Alternative 2 (Leasing under a More Restrictive Surface Occupancy Land Base) as the
preferred option for the oil and gas exploration and development in the Finger Lakes National Forest
(FLNF), and
WHEREAS, oil and gas exploration and development on forest lands will have an effect on the
Finger Lakes National Forest, adjacent properties, nearby municipalities and area watersheds, including
several in Tompkins County, and
WHEREAS, the U.S.D.A. Forest Service's preferred alternative (Alternative 2) would result in
surface disturbances within the forest, fragmentation or natural habitats, potential introduction of
additional invasive species, and loss and/or interruption of public recreational use and enjoyment of the
forest, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Environmental Management Council has determined that
Alternative 3 (No Surface Occupancy on National Forest Lands or Split Estates) appears to better address
these environmental concerns while still allowing the U.S.D.A. Forest Service and Bureau of Land
Management to obtain revenues from the leasing of mineral rights within the Finger Lakes National
Forest, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the Tompkins County Board
of Representatives urges the U.S.D.A. Forest Service to select Alternative 3, which provides the strongest
overall environmental protection to the national forest by preventing any surface drilling, while still
earning significant revenues for the federal, state and local governments,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board of Representatives be directed to send certified
copies of this resolution to Congressman Amory Houghton; the Department of Agriculture; Paul
Brewster, Forest Supervisor; Schuyler County; Seneca County and the Town of Hector.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the committee met on July 5th and reviewed the public's
ability to access committee deliberations on the budget process. There was discussion about where
meetings should be held and whether or not they would be videotaped or televised. The Committee
referred the proposals Tompkins County has received to lease County lands for drilling to the EMC for
review and recommendation. The Committee also reviewed the internal configuration of County
Administration and its relationship to County departments. He said the Assessment Department was given
preliminary approval to begin the software installation of Assessment data onto the County's website so
they can show us what it will look like and how it will work. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr said the Committee
212
July 17, 2001
also discussed changing the County's procurement policy and what level the threshold will be for putting
items out to bid. During a discussion regarding voting machines several questions were raised and the
Committee decided to postpone this item and gather more information.
RESOLUTION NO. 160 - INCREASE IN HOURS FOR SECRETARY/PARALEGAL
AIDE TO THE COUNTY ATTORNEY
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, due to a hiring freeze and the uncertainty of budget funding for 2002 and beyond,
the newly vacant position of Administrative Services Coordinator in the County Administrator's Office
will continue to remain vacant for an undetermined period, and
WHEREAS, staff resource needs can be partially satisfied through an inter -departmental support
arrangement with the County Attorney's Office, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the position of
Secretary/Paralegal Aide to the County Attorney, (61/337), Labor Grade K (11), confidential, be
increased from 35.0 to 40.0 hours per week representing an increase in salary of $4,408 (from $30,856 to
$35,264) effective July 23, 2001,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator's Office will utilize and appropriately
reimburse the County Attorney's budget for one-quarter of this position (.25 FTE) for as long as this
agreement is mutually acceptable to both parties.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 161 - CAPITAL CLOSE-OUT — TELEPHONE UPGRADE
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, the Telephone Upgrade Capital Project was approved in the 1999 Budget, and
WHEREAS, this Project has been completed as originally described, and
WHEREAS, the original funding of $378,000.00 was appropriated from the General Fund and the
actual project costs were $334,746.05 resulting in a residual of $43,253.95, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations and Budget and Capital
Committees, That the $43,253.95 be returned to the General Fund.
SEQR TYPE: TYPE II -20
Explanation:
This project was intended to upgrade all Major County telephone switches (PBX's) to a common
baseline, replacing the outdated and aging equipment currently in place. This would include Voicemail
and new digital telephones for all installations identical to systems deployed at Human Services Building.
The project would include digital trunking to the upgraded locations which would feature a higher quality
of service and integrated dialing throughout the majority of the County telephony plant. Tie lines would
be eliminated and replaced with four -digit dialing as well as direct call transfer, call conferencing, and
voicemail retrieval between buildings. Further, the software capabilities of the new switches will support
more sophisticated call routing into the public telephone networks permitting a 50 percent reduction in
local distance costs, and the future possibility of routing the County phone calls to any long distance or
local access communications supplier(s).
Locations proposed for upgrade include: Courthouse Complex, Mental Health, Biggs B, Public
Safety, and the CFR building. The Human Services building (which already uses the proposed
equipment) would be integrated into the system consistent with all other locations, leveraging the
investments already in place there. To increase overall reliability each switch would have its own
213
July 17, 2001
uninterruptible power supply and the ability to operate independently in the event of any single switch
failure. New software capabilities of the switches would also enhance the County's future ability to fully
support the same capabilities that smaller off-site offices such as Human Rights, Solid Waste, and Public
Works have at a lower incremental cost than stand-alone phone switches.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on July 10 and continued discussion about the
Public Works Cabinet charge. This is the organizational document that was approved for the various
divisions. He said the Committee heard from Arel LeMaro, Facilities Manager, about the solar panels at
the Library on issues that had arisen. Mr. Lane said problems are being addressed and the system seems
to be working well. Robert Nicholas, Airport Manager, informed the Committee about a problem he had
encountered during the taxiway construction. There was a removal of the old concrete pad at the fuel
farm and during that process it was found there had been some leakage and spillage into approximately
900 cubic yards of earth under the concrete pad. He reported that area has been excavated and the
problem is being addressed. Mr. Lane announced the groundbreaking ceremony for the Bostwick Road
Facility will take place on July 24th at 2 p.m. He also reported the Highway Division's webpage has been
updated and will be online soon.
RESOLUTION NO. 162 - AUTHORIZING 2001 FEDERAL SECTION 5307 GRANT —
TOMPKINS CONSOLIDATED AREA TRANSIT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Secretary of the United States Department of Transportation is authorized to
make grants for mass transportation projects pursuant to Section 5307 of Chapter 53, Title 49 of the
United States Code (formerly Section 9, Federal Transit Act of 1964), and
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins is the designated recipient of Section 5307 urban formula
transit funds and will apply on behalf of Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) to receive and use
said funds, and
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins agrees that TCAT shall function as the Grantee under the
Federal Grant Agreement to receive and dispense the Federal assistance funds described in this Grant and
that TCAT, as the Grantee, shall assume all responsibilities for fulfilling all Federal terms and conditions
as set forth in this Grant, and
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins desires to submit a request for a grant of funds to Federal
Transit Administration, in the amount of $616,953 to be used for operating assistance for 2001 and for
small capital projects as approved by the Ithaca -Tompkins County Transportation Council and are
included on the 1999-2004 Transportation Improvement Program, as amended, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Tompkins County
Board of Representatives authorizes the County Contracts Coordinator to execute and file an application
on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the United States Department of Transportation and the New
York State Department of Transportation for the 2001 Section 5307 Grant,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Contracts Coordinator is authorized to execute a
supplemental grant agreement on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the United States Department of
Transportation and Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit to formally designate Tompkins Consolidated
Area Transit as the Grantee for this grant and that the County is not in any manner subject to or
responsible for the terms and conditions of this Grant Agreement and is a party to this Grant Agreement
only to assign the right to receive and dispense Federal funds to Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit as
Grantee.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
214
July 17, 2001
Explanation: Federal Section 5307 transit funding in the amount of $616,953 is for 2001. The total
also includes operating assistance for rural transit (Section 5311) that was transferred to Section 5307
urban transit program by the New York State Department of Transportation. The projects are identified
in the approved Transportation Improvement Program of the Ithaca -Tompkins County Transportation
Council.
The projects are:
Preventive Maintenance: purchase spare parts for TCAT bus fleet - $40,603 total, $32,482 (Federal
share).
Bus Washer: purchase replacement bus washer at TCAT - $110,000 total, $88,000 (Federal share).
Passenger Signs: purchase stop information signs - $9,776 total, $7,821 (Federal share).
Project Administration: support TCAT planning and purchasing staff - $43,750 total, $35,000 (Federal
share).
Shop Equipment: purchase shop equipment for TCAT - $6,000 total, $4,800 (Federal share).
Short Term Transit Planning: complete planning and operations studies for TCAT services - $10,000
total, $8,000 (Federal share).
Operating Assistance: Federal operating assistance - $440,850, (Federal share).
RESOLUTION NO. 163 - REDUCTION OF HOURS FOR ONE ADMINISTRATIVE
ASSISTANT — FACILITIES DIVISION
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 268 of 2000 increased the hours of Administrative Assistant in the
Public Works Department from 35.0 hours to 40.0 hours, and
WHEREAS, restructuring has occurred since that time and duties have been realigned to better
serve the needs of the Public Works Department, and
WHEREAS, the reduction in hours is approved by the Facilities Manager, County Administrator
and Commissioner of Personnel, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That one (1) position of
Administrative Assistant (12/535), labor grade L (12), in the Facilities Division is hereby reduced from
40.0 hours to 35.0 hours effective July 23, 2001.
RESOLVED, further, That no additional funding is needed.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mr. Proto, Vice Chairman, reported the Committee met on June 20th and had a discussion on
Mental Health Bylaws and Charter changes and a brief discussion on the recreation partnership. Mr.
Proto reported the Board of Health had its first look at the Health Department's budget. They reluctantly
passed the budget; however, they have sent a letter expressing concern over the impact the proposed
budget will have. The Committee will meet tomorrow at 9 a.m.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Economic and Workforce Development
Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the annual New York State Association of Counties meets once a
year to take up resolutions which are later brought before the Governor and State Legislature expressing
the position of counties throughout the State. He said he is a member of one of those committees and he
received notification that this year they would like to have resolutions provided to them in advance of
their meeting so they can review them more thoroughly. Mr. Stein asked if any Board member or
215
July 17, 2001
department head wishes to have the County take a resolution to NYSAC to be included in this process
that they be submitted soon. Mr. Whicher said he will alert department heads at their next meeting.
Ms. Kiefer asked if the County Board will have a chance to take a position on the resolution. Mr.
Joseph asked if we could ask NYSAC to oppose the proliferation of Empire Zones.
Mr. Stein said the Committee met today and heard from Janet Steiner, Library Director, on
various grants the Library has received from outside the County. He said this shows the Library is very
active in soliciting funds from sources other than the County. He reported the Library has left positions
vacant and the projected savings in the 2001 budget is approximately $100,000. Mr. Stein also reported
on the Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance and said that program is being moved out of the County. A
resolution relating to this will appear on the next Board agenda.
Mr. Stein announced the August meeting has been canceled. The next meeting will be September
4 at noon.
RESOLUTION NO. 164 - FUNDING OF TOURISM DEVELOPMENT GRANTS-
ITHACAEVENTS.COM AND WINTER GRANTS PROGRAM
AND BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County has a grant program for tourism development using funds drawn
entirely from the Room Occupancy Tax, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County has requested and reviewed grant applications for
recommendation to the Tompkins County Board of Representatives through the Economic and Workforce
Development Committee, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Strategic Tourism Planning Board and the Economic
and Workforce Development Committee, That the following grants are approved using funds budgeted
for Development Grants:
Community Arts Partnership - Ithacaevents.com Website $25,000
Convention and Visitors Center - Winter Marketing Initiative $14,600
RESOLVED, further, That $17,680 shall be paid from the 2001 budget for Room Occupancy
Tax (6475.5444),
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance be authorized and directed to make the
following budget adjustment:
APPROPRIATION: 6475.41113 Room Tax Revenue $21,920
REVENUE: 6475.54444 Development Grants $21,920
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or designee shall be authorized to sign any
documents related to the aforementioned projects.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 165 - AUTHORIZING THE RE -PROGRAMMING OF UNUSED SMALL
CITIES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDS
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, in previous years, Tompkins County applied for and received funding from the
United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Small Cities and
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program on behalf of two local businesses, AXIOHM
and CBORD, and
216
July 17, 2001
WHEREAS, these two loans resulted in unused monies available for re -programming under the
HUD administered Small Cities CDBG program, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County believes that the unused monies can be effectively used to meet
community development needs by funding another local business, Environmental Associates, Ltd., now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic Development Loan Oversight Committee and
the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, That Tompkins County is hereby authorized to
submit an amendment to HUD to re -program the unused monies previously allocated under the Small
Cities CDBG program to the Environmental Associates, Ltd., expansion project,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator, or his designee, be authorized to sign all
documents related to the submission documents required by HUD to complete the proposed re-
programming of unused Small Cities CDBG funds.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 166 - AUTHORIZING PUBLIC HEARING FOR SMALL CITIES
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM
FOR RE -PROGRAMMING OF UNUSED MONIES
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
previously funded economic development applications for AXIOHM and CBORD under the Small Cities
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, and
WHEREAS, these two loans resulted in unused monies which is now available for re-
programming under the Small Cities CDBG program, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County is required to have public hearings pursuant to any Small Cities
CDBG program applications for funding, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That a public hearing date be set for August 7, 2001, to be held at a regularly scheduled meeting of the
Board of Representatives,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board of Representatives is authorized to place proper
notice of this public hearing in the official newspaper of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 167 - AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF APPLICATION FOR SMALL
CITIES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT
PROGRAM FOR 2001 FUNDING
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present. James Hanson, Planning Commissioner, noted that Tompkins County has done so well
we had leftover HUD monies. He noted that Canal Corridor monies should be committed by September
30 so we don't risk losing it. Ms. Mink asked what the project is and Mr. Hanson said it will be
infrastructure for Carpenter Park.
WHEREAS, the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant program is an important
source of funding to address community development objectives in the County, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Waterfront Plan, published in January of 1997, recommended
"Improved linkages to the West End and Downtown Business Districts," and
WHEREAS, the Carpenter Business Park Development Project, located in the West End, is
consistent with the Waterfront Plan and meets certain identified community development needs for the
County, now therefore be it
217
July 17, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That Tompkins County is hereby authorized to apply for 2001 CDBG funding for the Carpenter Business
Park Development Project,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or his designee be authorized to sign all
documents related to the submission of the required Questionnaire for the Small Cities application and
any materials required by the Governor's Office for Small Cities.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 168 - AUTHORIZING PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR SMALL CITIES
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM FOR
2001 FUNDING
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, economic development applications for the New York State Governor's Office for
Small Cities' (GOSC) 2001 funding for the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
program will be accepted until November, 2001, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County would like to apply for these 2001 Small Cities CDBG funds, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County is required to have two public hearings pursuant to any 2001
applications for funding, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That two public hearing dates be set, one for August 1, 2001, to be conducted by the Planning Department
and held in the Scott Heyman Conference Room, and one for August 7, 2001, at a regular scheduled
meeting of the Board of Representatives,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board of Representatives is authorized to place proper
notice of these public hearings in the official newspaper of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 169 - MAKING A NEGATIVE DETERMINATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE IN RELATION TO
RESOLUTION NO. 170 OF 2001
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Penniman. Ms. Kiefer said she cannot support this
because no copy of the Environmental Assessment was provided with the resolution. A voice vote
resulted as follows: Ayes - 13, Noes - 1 (Representative Kiefer), Excused - 1 (Representative Schuler).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, in Resolution No. 170 of 2001, the County is being asked to authorize the loan of
County Economic Development Revolving Loan Funds to the Alternatives Fund, Inc., and
WHEREAS, the Economic and Workforce Development Committee of the Tompkins County
Board of Representatives has reviewed and accepted as adequate an Environmental Assessment Form
with respect to that action, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That Resolution No. 170 of 2001 is an unlisted action,
RESOLVED, further, That the Economic and Workforce Development Committee hereby makes
a negative determination of environmental significance in regard to Resolution No. 170 of 2001.
SEQR ACTION: Unlisted
(Short EAF on File)
218
July 17, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 170 - AUTHORIZING LOAN OF MONIES FROM COUNTY
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REVOLVING LOAN FUNDS
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Penniman. Ms. Kiefer said she cannot support this
because no copy of the Environmental Assessment was provided with the. Mr. Proto asked who would
handle this and was told AFCU. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 13, Noes - 1 (Representative
Kiefer), Excused - 1 (Representative Schuler). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund provides loans
to businesses at below-market interest rates to facilitate project implementation, and
WHEREAS, these loans are made using repaid United States Department of Housing and Urban
Development Small Cities Community Development Block Grant funds which are targeted to benefit low
and moderate income persons or to eliminate a slum or blighting condition, and
WHEREAS, the Economic Development Loan Oversight Committee, has recommended that
Economic Development Revolving Loan Funds be used for small business development and training
programs developed and administered by the Alternatives Fund of Ithaca, Inc., now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That Tompkins County is hereby authorized to sign a Loan and Development Agreement with
Alternatives Fund, Inc.,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to sign all documents related
to this loan, and that the County Finance Director be authorized to appropriate funds from the Fund
Balance Account, comprised of previous years' program income from repayment of economic
development loans in the following manner:
REVENUE
CD599 Fund Balance Program Income Prior Years $200,000
EXPENSES
8693.54400 Program Expense $200,000
SEQR ACTION: Unlisted
(Short EAF on file)
RESOLUTION NO. 171- ACCEPTANCE OF INVEST JOB START GRANT AND BUDGET
ADJUSTMENT - TOMPKINS COUNTY WORKFORCE
DEVELOPMENT
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County was recently awarded a $756,500 grant from the New York State
Department of Labor for the InVEST Job Start Program, and
WHEREAS, the InVEST Job Start Program provides unemployed and low-wage workers with
opportunities to upgrade their skills, and
WHEREAS, the funds are payable only if specific milestones are met, and
WHEREAS, it is anticipated that over 190 individuals in Tompkins County will benefit from
these programs, and
WHEREAS, it is desired to include a portion of the funds in the 2001 budget with the remainder
being budgeted for 2002, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the County hereby accepts the grant in the amount of $756,500,
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director is authorized to make the following budget
adjustment to his books for 2001 with the remainder being included in the 2002 budget:
REVENUE: CD6290.44790 Federal Aid Job Training $278,500
APPROPRIATION: CD6290.54491 Subcontracts $278,500
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
219
July 17, 2001
Ms. Mink introduced George Lattimer, Westchester County Board Chair, who is visiting from
White Plains. Mr. Lattimer thanked Tompkins County for its Human Rights Law, which they have used
as a model. Ms. Mink thanked Mr. Lattimer for sharing his County's "best practices".
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee met on July 12th and reviewed the written reports
from the various departments that report to the Committee. It was reported the STOP grant Request for
Proposals is due to arrive in Albany, however, it isn't expected to do as well as in the past as a result of
the State budget. It was reported the Community Justice Center now has three regular clients and others
are coming into the program. Mr. Totman said through the recommendations of the County
Administrator and Communications Capital Projects Committee, a resolution was approved to create a
position of Communications Director for the 911 Center. A resolution will come to the Board at the
August meeting once a job description has been fmalized. The next meeting will be August 9th at
Offender Aid Restoration.
RESOLUTION NO. 172 - AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT THE BULLET PROOF VEST
PARTNERSHIP GRANT
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Joseph, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Sheriff's Office applied for grant monies from the United
States Department of Justice in the amount of $2,503.63 for participation in the Bullet Proof Vest
Partnership Grant, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Sheriff's Office has been awarded a grant from the United
States Department of Justice in the amount of $2,503.63 for participating in the Bullet Proof Vest
Partnership Grant, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the County accept the
grant of $2,503.63 to be used for the purpose of the aforementioned grant,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is directed to make the following adjustments
to his books for 2001:
Budget Adjustment
Revenue A3113.42770 Other Miscellaneous Revenues $ 766.50
A3150.42770 Other Miscellaneous Revenues $1,737.17
Appropriation A3113.52220 Department Equipment $ 766.50
A3150.52220 Department Equipment $1,737.17
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 173 - AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO CONTRACT AND
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT FOR THE GRANT KNOWN AS THE
1997 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL FORMULA GRANT
PROGRAM WITH THE DIVISION OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
SERVICES — PROBATION DEPARTMENT
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services has made available to
counties a low-cost Probation automation system known as Prober Plus, and
220
July 17, 2001
WHEREAS, the grant requires a local cash match in the amount of $1,667, previously approved
in the 2001 budget, and
WHEREAS, the automation system has been purchased and installed in the Probation
Department, and
WHEREAS, it is anticipated that Prober Plus will allow the Probation Department to avoid
increased clerical costs for data entry, and
WHEREAS, the Probation Department needs to replace three computers that are not compatible
with the system, and
WHEREAS, the Division of Criminal Justice Services has approved $5,000 in Byrne Funding for
the Tompkins County Probation Department, which is a 75 percent reimbursement of approved
expenditure, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the Probation
Department be authorized to enter into a contract for the grant known as the 1997 Edward Byrne
Memorial Formula Grant Program with the Division of Criminal Justice Services,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget
adjustment for 2001:
REVENUE:
3141.44389 Other Public Safety Aid $1,000
3142.44389 Other Public Safety Aid 4,000
APPROPRIATION:
3141.52206
3412.52206
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Computer Equipment
Computer Equipment
$1,000
$4,000
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on July 12 and continues to discuss Article
Two of the Charter and Code. The next meeting will be July 26 at 10:15 a.m.
Report from the Communications Capital Projects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the Committee met on July 9th and heard an update on the
Department of Transportation relocation project. Funding for that project is tied up in the State budget,
but they are working to ensure that the project is ready to move forward as soon as the budget is passed.
Ms. Blanchard reported the Committee spent a lot of time reviewing Public Safety Communications
System Overview and urged all members to read this document that was placed on all desks this evening.
She reported for the past two Mondays, the Committee has been hearing vendor presentations from
people who have something to recommend for the public safety communications upgrade. Ms.
Blanchard clarified some misunderstandings about the vendor presentations as they were
mischaracterized in the Ithaca Journal as being intended for the public. She said these were not meetings
that were intended for public comment but to inform committee members and technical staff who had
indicated they had a desire to learn more about the technical side of the project; they were, however, open
to the public. She said the presentations were videotaped and are available through the Public
Information Coordinator. She reminded members on July 30 a wireless workshop will be held in the
Borg Warner Room at the Tompkins County Public Library from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. This workshop is
intended for municipal officials and will focus on how they can control their end of the communications
system. It was noted the Environmental Management Council and the Municipal Officials Association are
also jointly sponsoring the workshop on July 30t. The next meeting will be August 28t. Until that time,
intensive work will be done on the Request for Proposals.
Report from the Information Management Committee
221
July 17, 2001
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, reported the Committee met this morning and spent time reviewing the privacy
policy and Assessment data being placed on the Internet. The Committee discussed what a monumental
undertaking this may be for the Information Technology Services Department and that it could take
considerable time to implement. She said the Public Information Advisory Board will be given the
information proposed to be placed on the Internet and asked to comment.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee will meet on July 27 at 8:30 a.m.
Chair's Comment
Ms. Mink said she had a request by Representative Proto that someone should check into what is
happening at the State level in terms of asking libraries to re-form districts along school district lines.
This is something that could have a big impact on what the County is doing with the Public Library and
rural libraries. Ms. Mink asked Mr. Proto to look into this matter and consider reconvening the Library
Coordination Committee if necessary.
Approval of Minutes of July 3, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to approve the minutes of July 3, 2001 as submitted. MINUTES APPROVED.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:23 p.m.
222
August 7, 2001
Regular Meeting
Public Hearing - Proposed Economic Development Project in the Northside Waterfront Area of the
City of Ithaca
Chair Mink called the public hearing to order at 5:30 p.m.
James Hanson, Planning Commissioner, said a project is being proposed for the Northside
Waterfront Area of the City of Ithaca. He said the Planning Department is proposing to apply to the State
of New York for a Small Cities Community Development Block Grant in the amount of $750,000 that
will be lent out to the County's Economic Development Loan program for the development of the
infrastructure in Carpenter Park. The repayment agreement will be negotiated between Tompkins County
and the Carpenter Park developers. Cynthia Yahn, developer, provided the Board with a brief description
of this commercial project.
Alan Cohen, City of Ithaca Mayor, said he has concerns that the site drawings for Carpenter
Business Park are also showing the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) site that
the County is working towards acquiring. He was informed by Ms. Yahn that no site plan has been
submitted for Carpenter Business Park and no site plan has been drawn that indicates that the DOT is
part of this project or application. She said Carpenter Business Park is the only site involved in the
application.
No one else wished to speak. Ms. Mink closed the public hearing at 5:36 p.m.
Public Hearing - Small Cities Community Development Block Grant
Ms. Mink called the public hearing to order at 5:36 p.m.
Mr. Hanson explained it is the Planning Department's intention to loan these funds through the
Economic Development Loan Program to Environmental Associates of Dryden, New York with a
negotiated rate for construction, equipment, and working capital. No one wished to speak and the public
hearing was closed at 5:37 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 14 Representatives. Excused: 1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr).
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca, spoke concerning the issue of hiring a consultant to study how
City -owned recreational facilities will operate in the future. She said in past years she has complained
about the Cass Park pool because a basketball hoop and slide have been added. She said she feels the
pool is now a playground and usable by only the people who enjoy these types of activities and has made
it uncomfortable for adults who would like to just swim. Ms. Gougakis asked that comments from the
public be solicited about what they would like to see in the parks.
Alan Cohen, City of Ithaca Mayor, spoke in support of the County hiring a consultant to study
how City -owned recreational facilities will operate in the future. Mr. Cohen said this is an attempt to take
a comprehensive look at all the recreational facilities that are enjoyed by residents of the entire County.
He said these are facilities that are owned and maintained exclusively by the City of Ithaca and are
regional assets. Mr. Cohen said the City is happy that the County Board is recognizing that fact and
223
August 7, 2001
cooperating with them to take a joint look at how these facilities are used and what the long-term
maintenance of them should be.
Mr. Cohen also provided the Board with an update on the Cayuga Green project. He said this is a
multi -use project that is in the concept -development stage on the property that is adjacent to the Tompkins
County Public Library. A public input session will take place on August 9th at 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn.
This will be an opportunity for members of the public to speak with various staff people on particular
subjects and give input. Mr. Cohen said nothing has been decided and that they are open to hearing any
and all comments. Mr. Cohen said he is bringing this issue to the Board at this time because he is not
clear on what the County's position is on this subject. He distributed copies of a handout he just picked
up at the Library that was the subject of a recent article in the Ithaca Journal. Mr. Cohen questioned the
use of a taxpayer -funded facility to distribute these materials.
Michael Raffee, State Sports Chair for Rugby at the Empire State Games, spoke of the 24th
Annual Empire State Games, and said Tompkins County was well represented at those games. He called
the Board's attention to the successes at the Games. He said there has been a large increase in the number
of participants from Tompkins County and commended them on their performances. Mr. Raffee also
spoke as a representative of the Ithaca Chapter of the American Red Cross and said many Tompkins
County residents have participated in emergency management drill and disaster responses throughout the
country. He said a number of residents have traveled to disaster areas throughout the country and have
stood ready to volunteer to assist when they are needed. Mr. Raffee commended emergency services
personnel in Tompkins County who recently participated in the disaster drill at Titus Towers.
Sheriff Peter Meskill alerted the Board that the Jail is at full capacity. He said over the last three
weekends the capacity has exceeded 100. He said the Jail is at the point where it is possible they will
need to board prisoners out to other counties. He stated he has been in contact with the Commission of
Corrections to discuss expanding the current variance that has been granted to Tompkins County. Mr.
Meskill announced this evening is National Night Out in Newfield.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Mr. Winch, District No. 8 Representative, reported this evening is National Night Out in
Newfield. He said the Sheriff's Department will be well -represented this evening and that many agencies
will be on -hand to show the community what they do to assist residents. Mr. Winch referred to Mr.
Raffee's comments regarding the Empire State Games and said his neighbor received five gold medals at
those games. He announced the Mellon Foundation of Lansing will be hosting the Annual Farm City Day
on August 25th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, announced prior to this meeting he attended a session at
the Chamber of Commerce regarding the lake, water and wastewater. An update was given by the City of
Ithaca on the Wastewater Treatment Plant including the upgrade that is planned for Cayuga Heights. Mr.
Proto said there is $11.5 million needed to go forward with the next phase and municipalities will be
approached to support the application. Mr. Proto said it is important that the County be involved in these
discussions if it will be approached to help with funding.
Mrs. Schuler, District No. 4 Representative, announced the 175th anniversary of the Eight Square
School House is approaching. She called the Board's attention to a new publication by the Solid Waste
Division entitled the Reuse Directory. Mrs. Schuler also announced a Felony Drug Court commencement
ceremony will take place on August 15th at the Old Courthouse.
Mr. Stein, District No. 3 Representative, commented on the Eight Square School House in that it
is one of only two in New York State and is the only one on its original site. Mr. Stein referred to the
document that was distributed by Mayor Cohen regarding the Cayuga Green project. He said the Library
224
August 7, 2001
Board of Trustees has used this avenue to express its position on the matter and does not see anything
wrong with this. He feels this is part of the democratic process.
Mr. Penniman, District No. 15 Representative, announced the NYSAC Fall Conference is
approaching. He said there are several interesting subjects on the agenda for the conference.
Ms. Kiefer, District No. 10 Representative, announced on August 25th a follow-up to the local
activity and study of reform of the Rockefeller Drug Laws will take place from 9 a.m. to noon at the
Women's Community Building. At the end of that forum an action period will take place.
Mr. Joseph, District No. 12 Representative, referred to Mr. Stein's comments on the Public
Library and bus terminal. He said he has been lobbied by various people over the last few weeks. He
asked what the County's role in a bus station actually is. Ms. Mink responded the County does not have a
formal position in deciding that issue unless it involves County property. Mr. Stein has been appointed to
participate in discussions on the Cayuga Green project because of the agreement that exists with the City
about the Public Library.
Mrs. Schuler, District No. 4 Representative, called the Board's attention to the proposed budget
calendar that has been placed on members' desks.
Chair's Report
Ms. Mink reported to the Board that Henry Theisen, County Attorney, has been hospitalized at
Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. She said over the past eight years Mr. Theisen has provided the
Board with good advice, good humor, and a very steady temperment in performing his duties for the
County and urged the Board to send their thoughts and well wishes.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher reported on Freedom of Information procedures and the need to track electronic
correspondence. Mr. Wood will be putting on a workshop on this so that departments are more
knowledgeable in handling these types of requests.
Mr. Whicher also reported the County's legal expenses for the redistricting lawsuit are between
$30,000 - $60,000. He said it appears this figure will only increase as time goes on. Mr. Whicher said he
does not have information on what expenses other municipalities are incurring. It was requested that Mr.
Whicher obtain information from municipalities on how much this legal matter is costing residents.
Mr. Whicher said he just completed his review of departmental budgets and complimented them
for submitting responsible budgets.
Mrs. Smithers distributed a list of programs that have budgets that need to be reviewed to all
committee chairs and said program committee's review meetings need to be scheduled through the Clerk
of the Board as soon as possible.
Wendy Skinner, Public Information Coordinator, asked that the Board consider whether or not
they would like program budget review meetings televised in September. She said all Expanded Budget
and Capital Committee meetings will be televised.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires reported he distributed the latest information on the sales tax.
225
August 7, 2001
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wood reported he expects a decision very soon in the redistricting lawsuit. He reported the
motion to dismiss in the Padula legal matter was not granted.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, the
following resolutions were added to the agenda.
Authorization to Execute Construction Funding Agreement with NYSDOT — Bridge Painting
Authorization to Issue Design Approval — Bridge Painting
Reaffirming Improvement — Bostwick Road Facility
To Adopt a Negative Declaration of Environmental Significance
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
Chair Mink gave the appropriate committee chair permission to withdraw the following
resolution(s) from the agenda:
Audit of Final Payment — Frey & Campbell, Inc. — Tompkins County Public Library
Audit of Final Payment — Collins & Walton, Inc. — Tompkins County Public Library
Audit of Final Payment — R. C. Daniel, Inc. — Tompkins County Public Library
Approval of Resolution(s) and Appointment(s) Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to approve the following appointment(s) and resolution(s) under the Consent
Agenda:
Appointment(s)
Tompkins County Youth Board
Patty VandeBogart — Town of Danby; term expires December 31, 2001
Personal Emergency Response Service Advisory Board
Lorinda May — Tompkins County Health Department; term expires December 31, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 174 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS — VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present under the Consent Agenda.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety and Health and Human Services
Committees, That the Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget adjustments on his
books:
Office of the Aging (#33)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approv Acct Title(s)
6781 44772 Federal Revenue $10,988 6781-51000559 Salary
6781 44772 Federal Revenue $ 692 6781-51000529 Salary
6781 44772 Federal Revenue $ 200 6781-54414 Local Mileage
6781 44772 Federal Revenue $ 26 6781-54330 Printing
226
6781
6781
6781
6781
44772
44772
44772
44772
Explanation:
August 7, 2001
Federal Revenue $ 100 6781-54452 Postage
Federal Revenue $ 80 6781-54472 Telephone
Federal Revenue $ 2,914 6781-58800 Fringes
Federal Revenue $10,000 6781-54491 Subcontract
New Federal dollars will fund an expanded, volunteer based program to support
caregivers. Subcontract to provide respite for caregivers.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Department of Social Services (#34)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
6141 44681 Fed HEAP
$172,232 6141 54400 Home Energy
Assistance Program
(HEAP)
Explanation: Additional Federal allocations for the Autopay, Application, and Emergency components
of the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) have just been released by the New York State OTDA.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Youth Bureau (#35)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Appron Acct Title(s)
7021 42770 Other Misc. Revenues $ 640 7021 54420 Program Expenses
7022 43820 Programs for Youth $5,000 7022 54400 Program Expenses
7026 42070 Contrib. For Pvt. Agencies $ 200 7026 54400 Program Expenses
Explanation: The Town of Newfield recently approved being a part of the Recreation Partnership. The
Town's fee for the rest of 2001 will be $640. The Youth Bureau was notified on July 2, that we have
been awarded a CCSI Tier III "Field Initiated Ideas" Grant for support for parent advocates. The monies
are to be used between July — December 2001. The United Way payment to the Town of Ulysses is
passed through the Youth Bureau budget. Reimbursement for 2001 services has increased by $200 to
$6,700 from $6,500.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
District Attorney (#36)
Revenue Acct
Title Amt
Approp Acct Title(s)
1165 42626
1165 42626
1165 42625
Fed. Forfeit.- restricted
Fed. Forfeit.- restricted
Fed. Forfeit.- restricted
$9,407.73
$ 715.40
$ 258.66
1165 52206 Computer Hardware
1165 52230 Computer Software
1165 52206 Computer Hardware
Explanation: These transfers will purchase new printer, new network file server, and upgraded network
software — all is recommended by ITS.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -25
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee met jointly with the Budget and Capital Committee
yesterday to discuss the resolution that follows:
RESOLUTION: 175 - AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT FOR
CONSULTING SERVICES RELATED TO RECREATION FACILITIES
STUDY AND CONTINGENT FUND APPROPRIATION — YOUTH
BUREAU
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Penniman.
227
August 7, 2001
Mr. Stein said he has had a lot of misgivings about this resolution that will cause him to vote in
opposition of this. He said the unspoken intention of this is that the County would likely fmd a way to
move the cost of management, upkeep, and repair of these facilities to the County. At this point he does
not feel the County should be doing this. After listening to Ms. Gougakis' comments, he questions
whether the County should be discussing items such as whether there should be another pool and whether
or not things such as a basketball hoop should be installed in a pool. Mr. Stein said this is a municipal
facility and not a County responsibility.
Mr. Totman agreed with the comments made by Mr. Stein and said he does not believe this is
something the County should be involved with.
Mr. Penniman expressed a desire to support the Recreation Partnership. He said although this is a
City facility, it is used by everyone in the community. He said he would like to analyze the best way to
use these facilities and recognize the opportunities for new revenue and more efficient operations.
Mr. Winch agreed with Mr. Stein's comments and said he feels the items that will be looked at
are ones that should have been addressed since the facilities were built.
Mr. Lane said he believes that municipal cooperation is the direction that should be taken and that
the County should take a leadership role. He said during the time he chaired the Planning Committee,
considerable time was spent looking at issues of the County and City Youth Bureaus and their operations,
as well as the Recreation Partnership. He said it is important to have intermunicipal cooperation because
of the configuration of the Ithaca City School District extending into many surrounding towns. He said
this is intended to look into reducing costs for everyone.
Ms. Blanchard said she has been on the Recreation Partnership's renegotiation committee. One
of the main thrusts that Partnership was to look at was the expenses because the venues that programs
operate in are very costly. She said the purpose of this is to look at ways to save money and to examine
the cost effectiveness of combining the City and County Youth Bureaus in a way that would achieve a
cost savings.
Mrs. Schuler pointed out that last September we placed $10,000 into contingency for this;
awaiting development of a clear scope of study and now it is ready to move forward.
Mr. Proto expressed concern that some of the information that the consultant will be charged with
gathering should have already existed. He expressed concern over the timing of this and said these are
aging facilities and the costs to maintain and repair them will be very high.
Ms. Mink said one of the items that has made her proud to serve on this Board is that the Board
has been data -driven. It has always looked at issues and analyzed them before decisions have been made.
She believes this is the appropriate time to look at this issue.
Mr. Todd said Lansing made a decision a long ago not to participate in the Recreation Partnership
because of the large array of youth services it already has; therefore, he will not support the resolution.
A roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 9 (Representatives Blanchard, Davis, Joseph, Kiefer,
Lalley, Lane, Mink, Penniman, and Schuler); Noes — 5 (Representatives Proto, Stein, Todd, Totman, and
Winch); Excused —1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
Ms. Mink appointed Representatives Winch and Penniman to serve as County Liaisons to these
discussions.
228
August 7, 2001
WHEREAS, Tompkins County, in the 2001 County Budget, authorized the County to participate
in joint study of recreational facilities currently owned by the City of Ithaca, partially financed by the
Town of Ithaca, and used by residents of the County, and
WHEREAS, $20,000 in appropriations was already approved in Youth Bureau's 2001 budget
along with revenues of $15,000 anticipated from the City of Ithaca and $5,000 from the Town of Ithaca,
with the understanding that the County would be the contractor and fiscal agent for the joint study, and
WHEREAS, the County's share of the $30,000 study ($10,000) was authorized for placement in
the County's Contingent Fund until the scope of work and consultant had been identified, and
WHEREAS, an inter -municipal Recreation Facilities Committee comprised of the County, City
of Ithaca and Town of Ithaca has developed a scope of work to include two components; the first
component will include the following tasks:
1. Evaluation of the operation of Cass Park; Stewart Park facilities; and the Newman
Municipal Golf Course including an assessment of the capital improvements needed and
the current plans for equipment replacement and improvements in light of regional
market trends.
2. Recommend strategies to either reduce costs or maximize revenues to lower the publicly -
subsidized costs of the facilities. Describe how such strategies will affect the quality of
programs or accessibility by low-income families.
3. Recommend alternative approaches for owning, fmancing, and managing the facilities
and delivering programs including public/private partnerships and privatization options.
4. Review the current facility -exchange relationship with the Ithaca City School District
with respect to the equity of the arrangement for all parties.
WHEREAS, a request for proposals was widely distributed and the consulting firm Economics
Research Associates of Washington, DC responded with a favorable proposal to complete a large portion
of Tasks 1— 4 listed above, and
WHEREAS, the Recreation Facilities Committee has recommended that the remaining portion of
the study which includes outlining the pros and cons and fiscal impact on New York State aid of
consolidating the City and County Youth Bureaus be completed locally, and
WHEREAS, the second component may require the help of a different consultant, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of Health and Human Services and Budget and Capital
Committees, That the County appropriate $10,000 m one-time funding from the Contingent Fund to
increase the appropriation in the Youth Bureau's budget from $20,000 to $30,000,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator or his designee be authorized to execute
contracts for both portions of the project not to exceed $30,000 (up to $27,000 for Economics Research
Associates and the balance for related contracts),
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance be directed to make the following Budget
Appropriation:
FROM: 1990.44400 Contingency Fund $ 10,000
TO: 7020.54400 Program Expense $ 10,000
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee met on July 18 and had a report from the
Planning Commissioner on the Southern Tier East Regional Planning Development Board and some of
the services the County is receiving from them since it elected to drop out as a member. The Committee
also had a visitor from the Council for Local Environmental Initiatives to provide an update on the
County's project for energy efficiency. A report was given by the Environmental Management Council
on gas drilling. He said the County has been approached by various gas and oil companies about the
potential for gas drilling on County land. This matter has been referred to the Environmental
Management Council. Mr. Penniman said due to the extensive discussions that have taken place in regard
229
August 7, 2001
to gas drilling and energy conservation he has appointed an Energy Subcommittee that will meet on
August 15t at 11 a.m. The full Committee will meet at noon on that day.
RESOLUTION NO. — MAKING A NEGATIVE DETERMINATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL
SIGNIFICANCE IN RELATION TO RESOLUTION NO. H of 2001
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present. RESOLUTION NULLIFIED BY MOTION BELOW.*
RESOLUTION NO. H - APPROVAL OF COMMERCIAL CENTER REVITALIZATION
GRANT — ADVANCE DESIGN CONSULTING, INC. - TOWN OF
LANSING
*MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Totman. Mr. Stein said this does not fall into the
concept of the Commercial Center Revitalization Program. Other members did not feel that providing
funding to a private business to improve their property unless there is a special reason that the business
can be clearly distinguished from others. Following discussion it was agreed that this would be referred
back to the advisory committee and brought back to the Board at a later date. Chair Mink gave Mr.
Penniman permission to withdraw this resolution from the agenda.
It was MOVED by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to nullify the previous resolution because what it was in support of has been
withdrawn. MOTION CARRIED.
RESOLUTION NO. 176 - APPROVAL OF COMMERCIAL CENTER REVITALIZATION
GRANT — ROGUES HARBOR INN OF TOWN OF LANSING
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Todd. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 13,
Noes — 1 (Representative Lalley), Excused — 1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Commercial Center Revitalization Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee)
was assigned responsibility for providing advice on the award of grant funds for the revitalization of rural
commercial centers, and
WHEREAS, the Advisory Committee has reviewed the applications for funding and has made
recommendations based on the program guidelines of the Commercial Center Revitalization Program, and
WHEREAS, the recommendations of the Advisory Committee are within the budget for the
Commercial Center Revitalization program, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the following project be
approved:
Rogues Harbor Inn of Town of Lansing $3,250.00
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts
related to these projects.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II — 1 and 6
RESOLUTION NO. 177 - APPROVAL OF COMMERCIAL CENTER REVITALIZATION
GRANT — TOWN OF LANSING
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
230
August 7, 2001
WHEREAS, the Commercial Center Revitalization Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee)
was assigned responsibility for providing advice on the award of grant funds for the revitalization of rural
commercial centers, and
WHEREAS, the Advisory Committee has reviewed the applications for funding and has made
recommendations based on the program guidelines of the Commercial Center Revitalization Program, and
WHEREAS, the recommendations of the Advisory Committee are within the budget for the
Commercial Center Revitalization program, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the following project be
approved:
Town of Lansing — Construct and install sign for municipal
buildings in the Town's Commercial Center $ 3,750.00
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts
related to these projects.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II — 32
RESOLUTION NO. 178 - APPROVAL OF COMMERCIAL CENTER REVITALIZATION
GRANT — TOWN OF DANBY
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Commercial Center Revitalization Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee)
was assigned responsibility for providing advice on the award of grant funds for the revitalization of rural
commercial centers, and
WHEREAS, the Advisory Committee has reviewed the applications for funding and has made
recommendations based on the program guidelines of the Commercial Center Revitalization Program, and
WHEREAS, the recommendations of the Advisory Committee are within the budget for the
Commercial Center Revitalization program, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the following project be
approved:
Town of Danby — Improvements to Exterior of Town Hall Meeting Room $7,500.00
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts
related to these projects.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II — 1
RESOLUTION NO. 179 - APPROVAL OF COMMERCIAL CENTER REVITALIZATION
GRANT — TOWN OF ENFIELD
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Commercial Center Revitalization Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee)
was assigned responsibility for providing advice on the award of grant funds for the revitalization of rural
commercial centers, and
WHEREAS, the Advisory Committee has reviewed the applications for funding and has made
recommendations based on the program guidelines of the Commercial Center Revitalization Program, and
WHEREAS, the recommendations of the Advisory Committee are within the budget for the
Commercial Center Revitalization program, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the following project be
approved:
Town of Enfield — Enhance Enfield Center with planters,
231
August 7, 2001
new signage, street lighting, and a park bench with small flower garden $4,278.00
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts
related to these projects.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II — 11
RESOLUTION NO. 180 - APPROVAL OF COMMERCIAL CENTER REVITALIZATION
GRANT — HAMLET OF JACKSONVILLE / THE JACKSONVILLE
COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Lalley. Mr. Proto said he would like the review
guidelines circulated to all Board members because of the questions that have been arisen relating to
public and private businesses. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 14, Noes — 0, Excused — 1
(Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Commercial Center Revitalization Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee)
was assigned responsibility for providing advice on the award of grant funds for the revitalization of rural
commercial centers, and
WHEREAS, the Advisory Committee has reviewed the applications for funding and has made
recommendations based on the program guidelines of the Commercial Center Revitalization Program, and
WHEREAS, the recommendations of the Advisory Committee are within the budget for the
Commercial Center Revitalization program, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning Committee, That the following project be
approved:
Hamlet of Jacksonville / The Jacksonville Community Assn. $6,635.00
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute any contracts
related to these projects.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II — 7
RESOLUTION NO. 181 - ACCEPTANCE OF PROPERTY ACQUISITION REPAYMENT
PLAN - CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION OF TOMPKINS
COUNTY
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 212 of 2000 authorized $180,000 for the purchase of 303 West
Lincoln Street to provide additional space to accommodate programs of Cornell Cooperative Extension of
Tompkins County (CCETC), and
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 212 further resolved that CCETC shall prepare a plan outlining the
method by which the County would recover its investment in the acquisition of 303 West Lincoln Street,
and
WHEREAS, CCETC in consultation with the County Director of Finance and the County
Administrator has proposed a 20 -year repayment schedule consistent with current tax exempt fmancing
conditions, and
WHEREAS, a repayment amortized over 20 years at a rate of 4.5 percent will provide the
essential flexibility for CCETC to develop external funding sources to facilitate the retrofitting and
consolidation of facilities, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Planning and Budget and Capital Committees, That the
County Attorney is authorized to develop a multi-year repayment agreement with CCETC that provides
for semi-annual lease payments of $6,896.99 commencing September 1, 2001.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
232
August 7, 2001
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on July 24th and most of the business conducted
at that meeting is reflected in the resolutions on the agenda. Mr. Lane said there was discussion about
expansion of the Crash, Fire, Rescue building at the Airport. That project will be bid in the Spring of
2002. Ms. Eckstrom, Solid Waste Manager, reported the recycling budget that ended on June 30, 2001
showed a surplus of approximately $28,000. He reported that Broome County's facility has collapsed and
they have been allowed to bring things to the Tompkins County Recycling Center temporarily. Mr. Lane
said the Ellis Hollow Road project is at the point where an engineer will soon be selected. Once this
happens public meetings will be held. He also reported on the FEMA grant the Town of Dryden will be
receiving from the Virgil Creek Flood Control Project.
RESOLUTION NO. 182 - APPROPRIATION FROM HIGHWAY MACHINERY FUND
BALANCE - 2000 SURPLUS FUNDS
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Todd. Mr. Joseph said he will support this because it is
in line with the County's fiscal policy. However, in looking at the justification for uses of the money he
said in a year when there is a difficult budget situation is on the horizon it appears that a lot of new
equipment is being purchased. A short roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes —14, Noes — 0, Excused —
1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Highway Machinery Division has been certified by the Director of Finance to
have unspent appropriations and excess revenue from 2000 resulting in a surplus on the County 's books
as of December 31, 2000, and
WHEREAS, pursuant to County Fiscal Policy, surplus funds may be requested for use in the
current or following year budget, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works and Budget and Capital Committees, That
the following transactions are approved:
Budget Appropriation:
FROM: DM0599.0000
Highway Machinery Fund Balance $ 69,480
TO: DM5130. 54470 Building Repairs $ 9,480
DM5130.54306 Automotive Supplies $ 22,500
DM5130.52233 Highway Equipment $ 37,500
Total $ 69,480
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 183 - AUTHORIZING THE FILING OF AN APPLICATION FOR
STATE GRANT-IN-AID FOR A MUNICIPAL WASTE
REDUCTION AND/OR RECYCLING PROJECT AND SIGNING
OF THE ASSOCIATED STATE CONTRACT, UNDER THE
APPROPRIATE LAWS OF NEW YORK STATE
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the State of New York provides financial aid for municipal waste reduction and
municipal recycling projects, and
233
7iitAtL fp,
August 7, 2001
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Solid Waste Management Division herein called the
MUNICIPALITY, has examined and duly considered the applicable laws of the State of New York and
the MUNICIPALITY deems it to be in the public interest and benefit to file an application under these
laws, and
WHEREAS, it is necessary that a Contract by and between THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF
NEW YORK, herein called the STATE, and the MUNICIPALITY be executed for such STATE Aid, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, and the Tompkins County
Board of Representatives:
1. That the filing of an application in the form required by the State of New York and
conformity with the applicable laws of the State of New York including all understanding
and assurances contained in said application is hereby authorized.
2. That the County Administrator or designee is directed and authorized as the official
representative of the MUNICIPALITY to act in connection with the application and to
provide such additional information as may be required an to sign the resulting contract if
said application is approved by the STATE.
3. That the MUNICIPALITY agrees that it will fund its portion (50 percent) of the cost of
said Municipal Waste Reduction and/or Recycling Project which pays for public
education and personnel costs related to waste, reuse, and reduction.
4. That five (5) Certified Copies of this Resolution be prepared and sent to the NEW YORK
STATE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION, ALBANY, NEW
YORK 12233-7253, together with ONE complete application.
5. That this resolution shall take effect immediately.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 184 - CHANGE ORDER ASI SIGN SYSTEMS — RECYCLING AND
SOLID WASTE CENTER EXPANSION
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the construction of the DEPOT and expansion of the Public Drop-off Area required
new signage and modifications of existing signs, and
WHEREAS, ASI Sign Systems was awarded the signage contract, and
WHEREAS, subsequently the Solid Waste Division determined that there was a need to modify
the existing signs Public Drop-off area, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the contract amount be
increased by $2,852.00, therefore the new contract price shall be $11,852.00, funds being available in
Capital Account HH.8164.59239.81.69,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute change orders of
up to ten percent (10%) of the contract total,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute this change order
on behalf of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 185 - AWARD OF BID — LEACHATE TRANSPORTATION FROM
THE HILLVIEW LANDFILL AND THE CASWELL LANDFILL
TO THE ITHACA AREA WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
IN ITHACA, NEW YORK
234
v.T7M7 7 '7.77717' 7.r*V,',',,. 7W:,''r X1,77?:,,,7viq
August 7, 2001
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Department of Finance — Division of Purchasing has duly advertised for bids for
the transportation of Leachate for the Tompkins County Public Works Department, and
WHEREAS, one (1) bid for Leachate Transportation from the Hillview landfill and the Caswell
landfill to the Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Plant in Ithaca, New York was received and publicly
opened on Monday, July 2, 2001, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the bid for Leachate
Transportation from the Hillview landfill and the Caswell landfill to the Ithaca Area Wastewater
Treatment Plant in Ithaca, New York be awarded to WeCare Transportation, LLC of Jordan, New York,
for a price of $23.30 per 1,000 gallons,
RESOLVED, further, That the funds are available in the Solid Waste Management Division
budget, account 8166.54442,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be authorized to execute this bid on behalf
of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 186 - AWARD OF BID — BRIDGE REPLACEMENT — OLD 76 ROAD
OVER OWEGO CREEK WEST BRANCH (BIN 3314080)
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present. Mr. Lane noted the amount of $387,950.78 is the full price of which half will be
Tompkins County's share.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Finance Department has duly advertised for bids for the
replacement of the bridge on Old 76 Road (BIN 3314080) over the West Branch of Owego Creek, and
WHEREAS, two bids were received on July 23, 2001 and publicly read, and
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 12 of 2001 authorized an agreement with the New York State
Housing Trust Fund Corporation whereby Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development funds
will supplement the cost to construct said replacement bridge, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the bid be awarded to
Economy Paving, lowest responsible bidder, in the amount of $387,950.78, which is a fifty-fifty split with
Tioga County,
RESOLVED, further, That the Highway Division be authorized to implement this bid and
execute change orders with total values not to exceed ten percent (10%) of the aforementioned bid
amount on behalf of the County, funds to be provided from account D54411.5111.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -2
RESOLUTION NO. 187 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE CONSTRUCTION FUNDING
AGREEMENT WITH NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION — BRIDGE PAINTING
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, a Project for Tompkins County Bridge Painting, P.I.N. 375323, (the Project), is
eligible for funding under Title 23 U.S. Code, as amended, that calls for the apportionment of the costs of
such program to be borne at the ratio of 80 percent Federal funds and 20 percent non-federal funds, and
235
August 7, 2001
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 48 adopted on March 6, 2001 approved the Project and authorized
execution of an agreement with the New York State Department of Transportation regarding
administration and funding of Scoping, Design (Phases I -VI) and ROW Incidentals, and
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins desires to advance the above project by making a
commitment of 100 percent of the non-federal share of the costs of Construction, Construction
Inspection and Supervision, and
WHEREAS, in order to expedite advancement of the Project and realize potential total project
cost reductions, the New York State Department of Transportation requires the County to appropriate
one hundred (100%) percent of the project costs and then file for reimbursement of eligible costs, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Tompkins County
Board of Representatives hereby approves the above -subject project and authorizes the County of
Tompkins to pay in the first instance one hundred percent (100%) of the federal and non-federal share of
the costs of Construction, Construction Inspection and Supervision work for the subject Project or
portions thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the sum of $308,000 is hereby made available within account
D5111.54411, Road/Bridge Contracts, to cover the cost of participation in the Design phase of the
Proj ect,
RESOLVED, further, That in the event the full federal and non-federal share costs of the project
exceeds the amount appropriated above, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives shall convene as
soon as possible to appropriate said excess amount immediately upon the notification of the New York
State Department of Transportation thereof,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Highway Manager or designee be and is
hereby authorized to execute all necessary Agreements, certifications and reimbursement requests for
Federal Aid and/or Marchiselli Aid on behalf of the County of Tompkins with the New York State
Department of Transportation in connection with the advancement or approval of the Project and
providing for the administration of the Project and the municipality's first instance funding of Project
costs and permanent funding of the local share of federal -aid and state -aid eligible Project costs and all
Project costs within appropriations therefore that are not so eligible,
RESOLVED, further, 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,
RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall take effect immediately,
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II - 1
RESOLUTION NO. 188 - AUTHORIZATION TO ISSUE DESIGN APPROVAL - BRIDGE
PAINTING
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 48 of 2001 authorized an agreement with the State of New York to
design the repainting of various bridges in Tompkins County, and
WHEREAS, preliminary project design has been developed in conformance with the applicable
environmental laws, design standards, and accepted engineering practice; no exceptions to accepted
design standards were included; all permits have been identified and will be secured prior to letting; and
project costs are reasonable, and
WHEREAS, the design consultant, Popli Consulting Engineers & Surveyors of Penfield, NY,
and the County Highway Manager have certified completion of all procedural requirements needed prior
to design approval of the project, now therefore be it
236
August 7, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Chair of the
Tompkins County Board of Representatives or designee be and hereby is authorized to execute
documents granting Design Approval whereby completion of project final design shall be authorized.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II —1
RESOLUTION NO. 189 - TO ADOPT A NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act a short form
environmental assessment form was completed to review the potential environmental impacts of
Resolution No. 190 (proposed improvements to the Bostwick Road Campus), and
WHEREAS, the adoption of this resolution is not a TYPE I action for SEQRA purposes, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of Public Works Committee, That the adoption of Resolution
No. 190 is an unlisted action pursuant to SEQRA,
RESOLVED, further, That the adoption of Resolution No. 190 will result in no significant
environmental impacts.
SEQR ACTION: Unlisted
(EAF on file)
RESOLUTION NO. 190 - REAFFIRMING IMPROVEMENT- BOSTWICK ROAD
FACILITY
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Lalley. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 13,
Noes — 1 (Representative Proto), Excused — 1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Facilities Division needs to move out of its location at Biggs A and Bostwick
Road has been identified as the most suitable location for their operations, and
WHEREAS, the Bostwick Road campus is in need of physical improvements, and
WHEREAS, the co -locating of the Facilities Division, Public Works Administration, Highway
and Engineering will enhance services delivery to the public, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the County shall
proceed with the Capital Improvements at the Bostwick Road Campus.
SEQR ACTION: Unlisted
(EAF on file)
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Economic and Workforce Development
Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee met prior to this meeting to discuss the resolution
on the agenda. He reminded members the August meeting has been cancelled. The next meeting will be
September 4t. Mr. Stein spoke of the State budget and said the State Legislature approved the extension
of the County's three percent sales tax and approved the authorization to increase the hotel and motel tax
from three to five percent.
237
August 7, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 191- FUNDING HISTORIC PUBLICATION THROUGH
APPROPRIATION OF UNSPENT FUNDS AND BUDGET
ADJUSTMENT — COUNTY HISTORIAN
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mrs. Schuler. A short roll call vote resulted as follows:
Ayes — 14, Noes — 0, Excused — 1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the County Historian has asked to facilitate the publication of a book regarding
historic landmarks in Tompkins County, and
WHEREAS, photographs have been collected through a collaborative effort by Historic Ithaca
and numerous volunteers, and
WHEREAS, the County wishes to enter into an agreement with Dewitt Historical Society through
the County Historian's budget for the design, editing, printing, and marketing of this book, and
WHEREAS, the County Historian has $9,799 available in surplus funds from the 1999 and 2000
budgets, and wishes to use $4,500 from the 2001 budget to fund this project with the agreement that
proceeds from the sale of this book will be returned to the County Historian so that other publications
and/or initiatives may be funded, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development and Budget and
Capital Committees, That the Director of Finance be authorized and directed to make the following
budget appropriation and adjustment:
APPROPRIATION
FROM: General Fund Balance (Rollover) $ 9,799
TO: County Historian Program Expense $ 9,799
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
APPROPRIATION: County Historian Program Expense $ 3,701
REVENUE: County Historian — Other Misc. Rev. $ 3,701
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee will meet on August 9th at noon.
RESOLUTION NO. 192 - CREATION OF POSITION - DIRECTOR OF EMERGENCY
COMMUNICATIONS (Amended by Res. No. 5 of 2002)
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Ms. Blanchard. Mr. Proto asked what outreach has taken
place with volunteer fire departments on this. Mr. Whicher clarified the intent of this is to relieve him of
direct management for seeing the 911 Center and Communications project to completion. He said he has
involved the 911 Committee and would be happy to meet with anyone to address any concerns that may
arise.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 14, Noes — 0, Excused — 1 (Representative Koplinka-
Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County is in the process of building a Communications Center to serve
the County's Public Safety needs, and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County is in the process of designing and deploying a County -wide
Public Safety Communications System, and
WHEREAS, there is a need to hire a project manager for the construction of the center and the
communications system, and
WHEREAS, the recent consolidations of Fire/EMS and Police dispatch in a single temporary
center has proven the need for a Center Director, and
238
August 7, 2001
WHEREAS, funding for the position is available through the Department of County
Administration, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the position of Director
of Emergency Communications Center (88/188), labor grade R, standard workweek 40.0 hours be created
in the office of the County Administrator effective immediately.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Budget and Capital Program Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Committee cancelled the last meeting and is awaiting the
County Administrator's recommendations on 2002 budget requests.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operations Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Vice Chair, reported the Committee met on August 2°d at noon. At that meeting the
Public Information Coordinator shared a survey she has drafted for advisory board members. This is part
of a follow-up to see how well things are going and whether training is needed or uniformity in, for
example, recruitment of members is possible and desirable. Ms. Kiefer said the Committee also approved
funds to pay for the legal costs relating to the redistricting lawsuit, and discussed charter changes for the
Information Technology Services Department.
RESOLUTION NO. 193 - CORRECTION TO BOARD RESOLUTION NO. 135 OF
JUNE 19, 2001- AUTHORIZATION FOR PROGRAM
RECONFIGURATION — CENTRAL SERVICES
MOVED by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 135 of June 19, 2001 transferred Program 6215 Central Services
from County Administration to Personnel, and
WHEREAS, staff support for oversight of this program was also transferred but mentioned in a
"Whereas" and not specifically addressed in any "Resolved" in Resolution No. 135, and
WHEREAS, Civil Service Law requires that the Board grant approval for the transferal of
positions between departments, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the position of
Administrative Services Coordinator, (63-341), 40.0 hours, be transferred from County Administration to
Personnel effective May 28, 2001,
RESOLVED, further, That no funding adjustments are required.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Report from the Communications Capital Protects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, began her report by noting that the Director of Communications is a major
step in advancing the public safety communications project because it will provide a "top -hand" for the
County Administrator to advance all aspects of this very complicated project. Ms. Blanchard updated the
Board on activities and said the month of July was taken up with special presentations. She spoke of the
communications system upgrade and said they have completed the development of the functional
specification for the microwave network and will now be moving on to the development of the Request
for Proposals. They will be following the model of the solid waste management facility request for
proposals that included a comment period by candidate responders at the beginning of the process.
239
August 7, 2001
Ms. Blanchard said the Committee discussed the dire state of the County's paging system which
is the lifeblood of the volunteer firemen and emergency medical personnel. She said it is vital that they
have an effective paging system. Although this is separate from the radios, it has to be integrated into the
system. They have decided to fast track that aspect of the project and develop a specification for
achieving an improved paging system. The next meeting will be on August 28th at noon.
Mr. Lalley reported on July 30th a three-hour Wireless Workshop was held with more than 50
people from Tompkins County in attendance as well as persons from other neighboring counties. He said
the workshop covered important planning issues for the County and towns and a video of the presentation
is available through the Public Information Coordinator.
Approval of Minutes of July 17, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to approve the minutes of July 17, 2001 as corrected. MINUTES
APPROVED.
Recess
Chair Mink declared recess from 7:30 p.m. to 7:35 p.m.
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to enter into executive session at 7:35 p.m. to discuss litigation. The meeting
returned to open session at 8:18 p.m.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 8:18 p.m.
240
August 21, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 13 Representatives. (Representative Lalley arrived at 5:52 p.m.) Excused: 2
(Representatives Davis and Stein).
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca, spoke to the Board and informed them that she had taped the
meeting of the city lawmakers response on public comment to the Cayuga Green Project which will be
aired on cable Channel 13 in August. This meeting runs two hours and will be shown on Friday, August
24th 3:30 p.m. — 5:30 p.m., Saturday, August 25th from 9:00 p.m. — 11:00 p.m. and Wednesday, August
29th from 10:00 p.m. — 12:00 a.m. She indicated that these were the times given to her by public access
and that she is taping these meetings as a public service. Ms. Gougakis also indicated that she plans to
comment further on the Recreation Partnership's hiring of a consultant at the next Board meeting as she
feels that public input is an important part of the process in order to determine the most important areas of
concern.
Daniel Winch, Representative, District No. 8, spoke saying that he was speaking from the
viewpoint of a citizen. Mr. Winch said he was glad to see a Resolution of Respect for Henry W. Theisen,
come before the Board. He shared with the Board his personal relationship with Mr. Theisen and his
family and expressed his sorrow to Mr. Theisen's family and said he will be greatly missed.
Mark Varvayanis, Supervisor of the Town of Dryden, expressed his gratitude for the resolution
on the agenda in support of the acquisition of the former New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG)
Water Treatment Plant along Fall Creek by the Town of Dryden.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Ms. Blanchard, Representative, District No. 1, asked the Board and guests for a moment of
silence to honor the memory of Mr. Charles Schanbacher, the TCAT bus driver who lost his life in an
accident occurring on Friday, August 17, 2001. She noted that he was extremely well liked by all and that
he will be missed by many. A moment of silence was observed.
Mr. Lane, Representative, District No. 14 Representative, asked permission to bring forth the
Resolution of Respect for Henry W. Theisen, Tompkins County Attorney and add it to the agenda. Chair
Mink approved.
It was MOVED by Mr. Lane, and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present to add the following resolution to the agenda for approval.
RESOLUTION NO. 194 - RESOLUTION OF RESPECT - HENRY W. THEISEN, TOMPKINS
COUNTY ATTORNEY
present.
MOVED by Mr. Lane, and unanimously seconded and adopted by voice vote by members
241
August 21, 2001
WHEREAS, Tompkins County Attorney Henry W. Theisen was known for his humor, living life
to the fullest, and his generous contributions to our community, and
WHEREAS, his many skills as an attorney and public official were visible throughout a multitude
of organizations and agencies in Tompkins County, having served as a member of the Ithaca Rotary Club,
past president of the Special Children's Center (now Francisca Racker Center), past president of the
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, past chairman of the Tompkins County Chamber of
Commerce, to name but a few, and
WHEREAS, Henry W. Theisen was elected to and served on the Tompkins County Board of
Representatives from 1976 to 1981, and was appointed Tompkins County Attorney in 1994, holding that
position until his death on August 8, 2001 after a valiant battle with leukemia, and
WHEREAS, among Henry's numerous activities were marathon running and painting, and many
County officials will fondly remember Henry's artistic abilities through the sketches of themselves he
would present to them after Board meetings, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, unanimously by this Board, That the members hereof express their deep
appreciation and respect for the many contributions Henry made to the Tompkins County community, and
extend their sympathy and sincere condolences to the family of Henry W. Theisen, Esq.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Chair's Report and Appointment(s)
Ms. Mink reported to the Board that the Government Operations Committee has been asked to
look at restructuring of the County Attorney's office and explore the issue of whether there should be a
full-time or part-time County Attorney and make appropriate recommendations. Mr. Proto was asked to
reconvene the Library Coordination Committee begin this year after the budget vote is completed in order
to look at alternatives to library funding, including a public library district.
Chair Mink said there will be further appointments later in the meeting.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher provided to the Board The Tompkins County Administration Budget Report. He
noted that he is receiving communication from the State that there are a lot of problems with the State
budget. The seriousness of this situation is that programs that received temporary funding through
September 15, 2001 may not be extended. The area of Medicaid is also a continuing concern. Mr.
Whicher feels that unless the State Legislature resolves their budget issues it could cause problems on the
County level.
Mr. Whicher reviewed his 2002 budget recommendations with the Board and noted that an
inconsistency in data had been input and carried over to several areas. This error was corrected and the
result was a proposed property tax increase of 4.6 percent rather than 7.1 percent. He noted that while
this is good news it does not mean that all requests will be honored and he is continuing to deny requests
for funding.
Mr. Whicher commended departments for following the guidelines set for preparation of the
budgets, and doing the hard work that reduced local share spending by $1.7 million to $50.9 million.
Mr. Whicher reviewed the other areas of the Budget Report that included the Summary of 2002
Budget Funds, 1993 — 2002 Revenues, 1993 — 2002 Change in Local Share, Comparison of Property Tax
in Contiguous Counties, Comparison of Property Tax in Similar Counties, and Property and Sales Tax per
capita. He noted that the Comparison of Property Tax will be revised as there were not complete data at
the time of print.
242
August 21, 2001
Mr. Whicher expects to release his full budget proposal to the Board on August 29, 2001.
Ms. Blanchard asked if the Property Tax figures indicated in the Budget Report were based on
equalized value. Mr. Whicher indicated he believed that was the case.
Mr. Joseph noted an interesting point is that when reviewing the property tax and sales tax
comparisons we compare favorably on the property tax and that we generate more sales tax than other
counties.
Report from the County Attorney's Office
Chair Mink introduced Mr. Bruce Wilson, Assistant County Attorney. Mr. Wilson said there was
no report for this meeting.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires reported he receiving notification from the Town of Groton which stated their request
to change their sales tax distribution methodology. Previously all sales tax was taken as a credit against
the County amount; they now are requesting that 90 percent be credit and 10 percent cash. This will
result in a significant tax rate change while the tax levy itself will remain the same.
Mr. Squires responded to Mr. Joseph's comment regarding sale's tax rating that Tompkins
County taxes energy and many surrounding counties do not.
Mr. Lalley arrived at this time.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the program committees are beginning budget reviews in
September and expanded budget reviews will be held in October. Mr. Joseph provided Board members
with a proposed calendar of the October meetings and requested that people notify him of conflicts.
Mr. Proto asked if Mr. Joseph could clarify what the criteria would be to change a meeting date.
Mr. Joseph indicated he will try his best to accommodate the wishes of others.
RESOLUTION NO. 195 - EXTENSION OF ONE -PERCENT SALES TAX FOR TWO YEARS
- INCREASING TAXES ON SALES AND USES OF TANGIBLE
PERSONAL PROPERTY AND OF CERTAIN SERVICES, AND
ON OCCUPANCY OF HOTEL ROOMS AND AMUSEMENT
CHARGES PURSUANT TO ARTICLE 29 OF THE TAX LAW OF
THE STATE OF NEW YORK IN ORDER TO EXTEND THE
EFFECTIVE DATE THROUGH NOVEMBER 30, 2003
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Penniman. A roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes —
10, (Representatives Blanchard, Joseph, Kiefer, Koplinka-Loehr, Lane, Mink, Penniman, Todd, Totman,
and Winch,) Noes — 3, (Representatives Lalley, Proto, and Schuler). Excused — 2 (Representatives Davis
and Stein). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
Be it enacted by the Board of Representatives of the County of Tompkins, on recommendation of
the Budget and Capital Committee, as follows:
SECTION I. The first sentence of section two of Resolution No. 256A as enacted in nineteen
hundred sixty-six, as amended, is amended to read as follows:
SECTION 2. Imposition of sales tax.
243
August 21, 2001
On and after March first, nineteen hundred and sixty-seven, there is
hereby imposed and there shall be paid a tax of three percent upon,
and for the period commencing December 1, 1992, and ending November
30, 2003, there is hereby imposed and there shall be paid an
additional tax of one percent upon:
SECTION 2. Subdivision (f) of section three of Resolution No. 256A as enacted in nineteen
hundred sixty-six, as amended, is amended to read as follows:
(f) With respect to the additional tax of one percent imposed for the period commencing
December 1, 1992, and ending November 30, 2003, the provisions of subdivisions (a), (b), (c), (d) and (e)
of this section apply, except that for the purposes of this subdivision, all references in said subdivisions
(a), (b), (c) and (d) to an effective date shall be read as referring to December 1, 1992, all references in
said subdivision (a) to the date four months prior to the effective date shall be read as referring to August
1, 1992, and the reference m subdivision (b) to the date immediately preceding the effective date shall be
read as referring to November 30, 1992. Nothing herein shall be deemed to exempt from tax at the rate in
effect prior to December 1, 1992, any transaction which may not be subject to the additional tax imposed
effective on that date.
SECTION 3. Section four of Resolution No. 256A as enacted in nineteen hundred sixty-six, as
amended, is amended to read as follows:
SECTION 4. Imposition of compensating use tax.
(a) Except to the extent that property or services have already been or will be subject to the sales
tax under this enactment, there is hereby imposed on every person a use tax for the use within this taxing
jurisdiction on and after December 1, 1992, except as otherwise exempted under this enactment, (A) of
any tangible personal property purchased at retail, (B) of any tangible personal property (other than
computer software used by the author or other creator) manufactured, processed or assembled by the user,
(i) if items of the same kind of tangible personal property are offered for sale by him in the regular course
of business or (ii), if items are used as such or incorporated into a structure, building or real property, by a
contractor, subcontractor or repairman in erecting structures or buildings, or building on, or otherwise
adding to, altering, improving, maintaining, servicing or repairing real property, property or land, as the
terms real property, property or land are defined in the real property tax law, if items of the same kind are
not offered for sale as such by such contractor, subcontractor or repairman or other user in the regular
course of business, (C) of any of the services described in paragraphs (1), (7) and (8) of subdivision (c) of
section two, (D) of any tangible personal property, however acquired, where not acquired for purposes of
resale, upon which any of the services described under paragraphs (2), (3) and (7) of subdivision (c) of
section two have been performed, (E) of any telephone answering service described in subdivision (b)
section two and (F) of any computer software written or otherwise created by the user if the user offers
software of a similar kind for sale as such or as a component part of other property in the regular course
of business.
(b) For purposes of clause (A) of subdivision (a) of this section, for the period commencing
December 1, 1992, and ending November 30, 2003, the tax shall be at the rate of four percent, and on and
after December 1, 2003, the tax shall be at the rate of three percent, of the consideration given or
contracted to be given for such property, or for the use of such property, including any charges for
shipping or delivery as described in paragraph three of subdivision (b) of section one, but excluding any
credit for tangible personal property accepted in part payment and intended for resale.
(c) For purposes of subclause (i) of clause (B) of subdivision (a) of this section, for the period
commencing December 1, 1992, and ending November 30, 2003, the tax shall be at a rate of four percent,
and on and after December 1, 2003, the tax shall be at the rate of three percent, of the price at which items
of the same kind of tangible personal property are offered for sale by the user, and the mere storage,
keeping, retention or withdrawal from storage of tangible personal property by the person who
manufactured, processed or assembled such property shall not be deemed a taxable use by him.
(d) For purposes of subclause (ii) of clause (B) of subdivision (a) of this section, for the period
commencing December 1, 1992, and ending November 30, 2003, the tax shall be at the rate of four
percent, and on and after December 1, 2003, the tax shall be at the rate of three percent, of the
consideration given or contracted to be given for the tangible personal property manufactured, processed
244
August 21, 2001
or assembled into the tangible personal property the use of which is subject to tax, including any charges
for shipping or delivery as described in paragraph three of subdivision (b) of section one.
(e) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this section, for purposes of clause (B) of
subdivision (a) of this section, there shall be no tax on any portion of such price which represents the
value added by the user to tangible personal property which he fabricates and installs to the specifications
of an addition or capital improvement to real property, property or land, as the terms real property,
property or land are defined in the real property tax law, over and above the prevailing normal purchase
price prior to such fabrication of such tangible personal property which a manufacturer, producer or
assembler would charge an unrelated contractor who similarly fabricated and installed such tangible
personal property to the specifications of an addition or capital improvement to such real property,
property or land.
(f) For purposes of clauses (C), (D) and (E) of subdivision (a) of this section, for the period
commencing December 1, 1992, and ending November 30, 2003, the tax shall be at the rate of four
percent, and on and after December 1, 2003, the tax shall be at the rate of three percent, of the
consideration given or contracted to be given for the service, including the consideration for any tangible
personal property transferred in conjunction with the performance of the service and also including any
charges for shipping and delivery of the property so transferred and of the tangible personal property upon
which the service was performed as such charges are described in paragraph three of subdivision (b) of
section one.
(g) For purposes of clause (F) of subdivision (a) of this section, for the period commencing
December 1, 1992, and ending November 30, 2003, the tax shall be at the rate of four percent, and on and
after December 1, 2003, the tax shall be at the rate of three percent, of the consideration given or
contracted to be given for the tangible personal property which constitutes the blank medium, such as
disks or tapes, used in conjunction with the software, or for the use of such property, and the mere
storage, keeping, retention or withdrawal from storage of computer software described in such clause (F)
by its author or other creator shall not be deemed a taxable use by such person.
SECTION 4. Subdivision (1) of section 11 of Resolution No. 256A as enacted in nineteen
hundred sixty-six, as amended, is amended to read as follows:
(1)(A) In respect to the use of property used by the purchaser in this County prior to March 1,
1967.
(B) With respect to the additional tax of one percent imposed for the period commencing
December 1, 1992, and ending November 30, 2003, in respect to the use of property used by the
purchaser in this County prior to December 1, 1992.
SECTION 5. This enactment shall take effect on December 1, 2001.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee will met on August 9. He notified the Board that
staffing at the jail and its relation to security problems was discussed. It was reported to the Committee
that the jail was at full capacity and if this trend continues it will require the County to possibly board out
inmates.
RESOLUTION NO. 196 - APPROPRIATION FROM CONTINGENT FUND FOR
TERMINAL PAY AT THE SHERIFF'S OFFICE
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Lane. A short roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes
—13, Noes — 0, Excused — 2 (Representatives Davis and Stein). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Sheriff's Office had an employee terminate, and
WHEREAS, the Fiscal Policy of Tompkins County allows for terminal pay, now therefore be it
245
August 21, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety and the Budget and Capital Committees,
That the Director of Finance appropriate a total of $1,077 to the Sheriff's budget for terminal pay,
RESOLVED, further, That the money be distributed to the following accounts:
FROM: A1990.54440 Contingent Fund $1,077
TO: A3150.51000 Corrections — Regular Pay $1,077
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 197 - APPROPRIATION FROM CONTINGENT FUND FOR
TERMINAL PAY AT THE SHERIFF'S OFFICE
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Ms. Blanchard. A short roll call vote resulted as follows:
Ayes — 13, Noes — 0, Excused — 2 (Representatives Davis and Stein). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Sheriff's Office had an employee terminate, and
WHEREAS, the Fiscal Policy of Tompkins County allows for terminal pay, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety and Budget and Capital Committees, That
the Director of Finance appropriate a total of $5,434 to the Sheriff's budget for terminal pay,
RESOLVED, further, That the money be distributed to the following account:
FROM: A1990.54440 Contingent Fund $5,434
TO: UNIFORM A3113.51000 Regular Pay $5,434
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 198 - APPROPRIATION FROM CONTINGENT FUND FOR
REPLACEMENT PAY AT THE SHERIFF'S OFFICE
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Penniman. A short roll call vote resulted as follows:
Ayes — 13, Noes — 0, Excused — 2 (Representatives Davis and Stein). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Sheriff's Office has employees who were disabled or injured and unable to
perform their duty, and
WHEREAS, the Fiscal Policy of Tompkins County allows for such replacement pay for
employees who have been out longer than two months, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety and Budget and Capital Committees, That
the Director of Finance appropriate a total of $92,384 to the Sheriffs budget for replacement pay
encompassing the period of January 1, 2001 through June 30, 2001,
RESOLVED, further, That the money be distributed to the following accounts:
FROM: A1990.54440 Contingent Fund $92,384
TO: Uniform Division A3113.51000 Regular Pay $33,337
A3113.58800 Fringe 8,334
Corrections A3150.51000 Regular Pay $40,570
A3150.51800 Fringe 10,143
TOTAL $92,384
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
246
August 21, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 199 - ACQUISITION OF NYSEG WATER TREATMENT PLANT
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Lane.
Mr. Totman informed the Board that this was to show support to the Town of Dryden to acquire
the former water treatment and pumping station owned by New York State Electric and Gas Corporation.
This otherwise unusable plant will provide water for fire company pump trucks, a facility for hose
training, as well as water rescue training facilities for Dryden and surrounding municipalities.
Mr. Lane spoke to the Board in support of this resolution and appreciation of Mr. Varvayanis
coming to the Board to request support. He said that Mr. Shulman of Project Impact was also present and
that a lot of time has been put into developing plans that will assist the community in the event of an
emergency.
Ms. Kiefer inquired about particulars concerning the piece of property such as size, location and
the like. Mr. Shulman provided a verbal description of the property, the facility and how it is on a flood
plain. Mr. Proto asked what the size of the property is. Mr. Shulman thought approximately one to three
acres. Mr. Proto suggested the possibility of leasing the property from NYSEG in order to maintain it on
the tax roll. Mr. Totman said that as a former zoning officer this piece of land could not be used for
anything else.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 13, Noes - 0, Excused — 2 (Representatives Davis and
Stein). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) owns a facility on Lower Creek Road in
the Town of Dryden, formerly used for treatment and pumping of water from Fall Creek to the Route 13
Headquarters, and
WHEREAS, NYSEG discontinued the facility's usage in 1989 and has since attempted to
unsuccessfully market the site, and
WHEREAS, the plant's creek intake piping and double tank storage system hold potential for use
by local fire departments for tanker shuttle operations, and an inexhaustible water supply could be
established at the site for use by all area departments, and
WHEREAS, the water storage tanks could be utilized for pump testing and engine operations
training, and
WHEREAS, the site could prove beneficial for other training opportunities, such as water rescue
training and highway road maintenance water needs, now therefore be it
RESOLVED on recommendationof the Public Safety Committee, That the Tompkins County
Board of Representatives hereby endorses the acquisition of the site by the Town of Dryden for use by the
fire departments of that township and Tompkins County,
RESOLVED, further, That the Board of Representatives requests consideration by NYSEG of a
mutual beneficial concessionary lease or purchase arrangement to enhance fire protection capabilities
through the use of the Lower Creek Road site.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported that the Committee met on the fourteenth of August and approved
the revised version of the Public Works cabinet charge and will reexamine it again in December to see
how it is working. The Charter and Code revisions for the Public Works Department will also be
reviewed in December when it is better known how the cabinet changes are working.
247
August 21, 2001
The Committee discussed the Ellis Hollow Road project and in particular the public meeting
schedules and reviewed the draft RFP for an engineering firm to begin work on the project. This was
approved with minor modifications. He noted that the Committee is committed to having an open process
similar to or better than the McLean Road project where individuals can voice their views prior to the
final concepts of the project. It is hoped to have the first meeting in late September or early October.
Residents will receive e-mails, have letters mailed, or flyers put on doors.
The Beach Road bridge in Newfield was also discussed. Although ownership of this bridge is in
question and the County and town attorney are reviewing this matter, the Committee authorized that the
necessary study of this bridge to see if it is safe for use as a pedestrian bridge by school-age children.
The Committee received upsetting information with regard to the North Triphammer Road Phase
I project. As a result of right-of-way procedural changes required by the New York State Department of
Transportation it has been delayed. As it now stands it will all be done next year in one phase rather than
the two phases initially planned. The Committee asked that staff approach the New York State
Department of Transportation and that a means of better communication be developed in order to avoid
this situation in the future.
Mr. Lalley informed Mr. Lane and the Board that he talked to Mr. Lampman and it appears that
the first public hearing will be mid to late October, which is different than what was discussed at the
Committee. Mr. Lane thanked Mr. Lalley for the update in this information.
RESOLUTION NO. 200 - APPROVAL OF RIGHT-OF-WAY PLAN — NORTH
TRIPHAMMER ROAD AND BRIDGE (BIN 3314360)
PROJECT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 30 of 2001 authorized an agreement with the State of New York
whereby State and Federal sources will furnish 95 percent of the funding to acquire additional right of
way necessary for the reconstruction of North Triphammer Road and the bridge thereon over Gulf Creek
(BIN 3314360), and
WHEREAS, plans indicate that acquisition of approximately ninety (90) parcels (easements and
deeded `strip takings') is necessary, but that the individual and cumulative impacts of right of way
acquisition are considered total de minimus in nature, and
WHEREAS, in accordance with applicable federal regulations and guidelines a Right -of -Way
Plan has been prepared, certified by the design consultant, and approved by the County Highway
Manager, which describes project right of way needs, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Chair of the
Tompkins County Board of Representatives or designee be and hereby is authorized to execute
documents granting Approval of the Right -of -Way Plan for the referenced project whereby acquisition of
additional right of way shall be authorized.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II- 1
RESOLUTION NO. 201 - AUTHORIZATION TO ACQUIRE RIGHT OF WAY — TRUMBULL
CORNERS ROAD BRIDGE REPLACEMENTS - PIN 375230 (BINS
3314210 AND 3367940)
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
248
August 21, 2001
WHEREAS, Resolution 140 of 2001 authorized an agreement with the State of New York to
construct replacements for two deteriorated bridges on Trumbull Corners Road over West Enfield Creek
(BINs 3314210 and 3367940) in the Town of Enfield, and
WHEREAS, a project Right -of -Way Plan identified two (2) permanent easements needed from
adjoining property owners to complete the work, and
WHEREAS, appraisals of these properties were completed and reviewed and the property owners
have agreed to the permanent easements and compensation at their fair market value, and
WHEREAS, the County Highway Manager has certified completion of all State and Federal
procedural requirements needed for the acquisition of right of way for this project, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the County
Administrator or designee be and hereby is authorized to execute documents finalizing acquisition of
permanent easements in accordance with the approved project Right -of -Way Plan.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II - 2
RESOLUTION NO. 202 - AWARD OF BID - TRUMBULL CORNERS ROAD RETAINING
WALL REPLACEMENT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Finance Department has duly advertised for bids for the
replacement of a retaining wall along West Enfield Creek on Trumbull Corners Road (CR133), and
WHEREAS, five (5) bids were received on August 14, 2001 and publicly read, now therefore be
it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the bid be awarded to
Silverline Construction, Inc., of Burdett, NY, lowest, responsible bidder, in the amount of $86,175.00,
RESOLVED, further, That the Highway Division be authorized to implement this bid and
execute change orders with total values not to exceed 10 percent of the aforementioned bid amount on
behalf of the County, funds to be provided from operating expense account D5111.54411.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II- 2
RESOLUTION NO. 203 - AWARD OF BID — TRUMBULL CORNERS ROAD BRIDGES
REPLACEMENT (BINS 3314210 and 3367940)
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 140 of 2001 authorized an agreement with the State of New York
whereby State and Federal sources will furnish 95 percent of the funding necessary to construct two
replacement bridges on Trumbull Corners Road (County Road 133) over West Enfield Creek (BIN
3314210 and BIN 3367940), and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Finance Department has duly advertised for bids for the
replacement of the bridges, and
WHEREAS, five (5) bids were received on August 14, 2001 and publicly read, now therefore be
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the bid be awarded to
Silverline Construction, Inc., of Burdett, NY, lowest, responsible bidder, in the amount of $787,653.00,
pending approval by the New York State Department of Transportation,
RESOLVED, further, That the Highway Division be authorized to implement this bid and
execute change orders with total values not to exceed 10 percent of the aforementioned bid amount on
behalf of the County, funds to be provided from capital account HZ5053.59239.
it
249
August 21, 2001
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-2
Report from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, said the Committee met on August 15. Mr. Fernando De Aragon,
Transportation Planning Director, gave a report regarding the North Campus Gateway Project. This
project, a reconfiguration of roads leading to North Campus, will include public input. Ms. Martha
Armstrong of Tompkins County Area Development reported to the Committee on the Intermunicipal
Sewer Project, a program which is being negotiated among the original partners, the City of Ithaca, Town
of Ithaca, and Town of Dryden, as well as Village of Cayuga Heights, Town of Lansing, and Village of
Lansing. A draft agreement is being discussed and this is important for some to move ahead with the
coordination of sewer systems. The Chamber of Commerce has played an important role in these
discussions.
Mr. Penniman said they had received a report from Ms. Kate Hackett on the Vital Community
Programs. A copy of this twenty -minute presentation will be going out to the towns. It will explain the
process completed to date and will assist in the planning process, giving guidelines in order to benefit the
communities environmentally, functionally, and financially.
The Committee will meet again on September 19, 2001.
He reported that the search for a Planning Commissioner has been successful to date. There have
been approximately 30 candidates with good credentials. Of these candidates, a group of one dozen has
been chosen to receive questionnaires to further narrow down the field. It is hoped that mid-September
interviews will be made with the hopes of a placement at the end of the month. Mr. Whicher noted that
the Mr. Austic, Supervisor of Town of Ulysses, has been invited to participate in the selection process.
Mr. Proto indicated a concern with regard to the Vital Communities Program going out to
municipalities prior to the Board reviewing the information. He felt it was important to have knowledge
of the presentation in the event questions arise. Mr. Penniman was asked to schedule a presentation as
part of a regular Board meeting.
Report from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported that the Committee met on August 15. Some highlights from the
Department of Social Services, Staff Development Coordinator Wendy Lutz will be leaving the
Department and the positions of Staff Development Coordinator and Staff Development Specialist are
combined and will be filled by Kit Kephart. Efforts are continuing to provide the best customer service
possible, to that end, staff recently completed six hours of training in this area, entitled Together We Can.
Lisa Holmes, of the Office of the Aging, provided the results of a survey of the North Side/South
Side Program and the Legal Services division.
The Health Department came to the Committee with the contract renewal for the Birnie Bus
Services. In an effort to better inform those utilizing this transportation for children with special needs,
Ellen Brazauskas developed an informational booklet to be given to all families. Mrs. Schuler noted that
many of these children have a ride of almost an hour one way due to the consolidated schedule.
The Health Department with support from New York State has a campaign entitled "Fight the
Bite" and are providing swatters, bookmarks, and table tents for restaurants to call attention to ways to
prevent mosquito breeding. In addition, they are providing flyers on safe food handling for not-for-profit
organizations serving food at community events.
250
August 21, 2001
The Youth Bureau discussed concerns with regard to funding recommendations for 2002. Ms.
Zahler of the Youth Bureau will be mentioning programs such as Bridges Program, Anger Management
Programs, etc., which are valuable but not included in the preliminary budget.
The Committee also reviewed and approved proposed Charter Changes for the Health
Department and Youth Bureau.
Mr. Proto noted the passing of Dr. Hope Perry, a long -serving member of the Board of Health,
and expressed sympathy.
Report from the Economic and Workforce Development Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Vice Chair, reported that the Committee will be meeting on Tuesday, September
4, 2001.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chair, reported that the Committee has not met since the last Board
meeting. He did state that the Committee will be meeting on September 6, 2001 for both the regular
meeting and the start of budgetary meetings.
RESOLUTION NO. 204 - AUTHORIZATION FOR CONTINGENT FUND APPROPRIATION
TO COVER OUTSIDE LEGAL FEES RELATED TO
REDISTRICTING LAWSUIT — COUNTY ATTORNEY
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Todd. Mr. Proto inquired as to the status of the
request from the last meeting, directed to County Administration, as to the Towns estimated costs of this
litigation. Mr. Whicher said that although this information has been requested they have not yet received
the information. Ms. Kiefer noted that information she has received is that the Town of Ithaca is
responsible for approximately 80 percent of the billing and this amounts to just under $25,000. Mr.
Lalley indicated that it should be clarified that individuals named in this litigation are doing so as
individuals.
A short roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 13, Noes — 0, Excused — 2 (Representatives
Davis and Stein). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, outside counsel was obtained to facilitate the County's defense in the recent
redistricting lawsuit imposed by the Town of Ithaca, and several other parties, and
WHEREAS, the County has been billed by Harris Beach, LLP, for legal services through July 10,
2001 in the amount of $30,849.40, representing the first phase of counsel and defense, and
WHEREAS, payment is now due, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Representatives hereby acknowledges that future billings are
anticipated making the total County cost related to this case approximately $65,000, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations and Budget and Capital
Committees, That the Director of Finance be authorized and directed to make the following budget
appropriation:
FROM: A1990.54400 Contingent Fund $ 30,849.40
TO: A1420.54442 Professional Services $ 30,849.40
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Charter Review Committee
251
August 21, 2001
Mr. Lane, Chair, reported that a review of Charter Articles is continuing. The next meeting will
be on August 23, 2001 at which time the Committee will be discussing Information Technology Services
and Assessment Departments.
Report from the Communications Capital Proiects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported that the Committee will meet again on August 28, 2001. She
reported on the progress of the Public Safety Communications Center and that Communications Capital
Project had formed two sub committees to work on this project during the organizational stage. One was
comprised of the end-users and communications systems personnel. They have completed their work and
presented schematic designs to the second committee known as the "Board Building Committee." At this
time she requested that the second committee membership be formally appointed and known as the Public
Safety Communications Center Building Committee. This newly appointed committee would be
responsible for advancing the project. Chair Mink stated that Ms. Blanchard will Chair this committee
that includes Representative Totman and Representative Winch as the voting members on financial items.
Other members of this committee are Steve Whicher, Lee Shurtleff, Joe Vitale, Brian Wilbur, Dan
Walker, and Bob Holt. Ms. Blanchard indicated that committee discussions determined the best way to
involve the various groups represented was to act on a consensus basis with the three Board members
being responsible for voting on financial matters.
The next meeting on August 28, 2001 will be discussing the next phases of the 911 project.
Report from the Information Management Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, reported that the Committee met on August 21, 2001. She said that surplus
computer equipment is now available in a more expeditious manner and is put up for a bid on the County
internet system. A system of determining bid disposition has been developed for this. A question that
still needs to be answered is how to dispose of equipment which is not bid upon.
Ms. Kiefer also reported that the Committee had a presentation by Wendy Skinner on results of
discussion by the Public Information Advisory Board with regard to the Assessment Department's project
of having assessment data available via the internet. They have raised questions regarding individual's
privacy and recommended that insofar as legally possible any sensitive or personal data be deleted from
the database prior to posting.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Chair Mink noted that this Committee is meeting on an as needed basis. At the present time there
has been no change in the disposition of the old public library.
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chair, reported that one last quality -of -life indicator is being written and
edited. Once completed, the Committee will meet to review the material. It is hoped to have the
document ready for publication by late December. This report will include recommendations on a variety
of indicators such as partnerships, birth/death rates, etc.
Approval of Minutes of August 7, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the minutes of August 7, 2001 as submitted. MINUTES APPROVED.
252
August 21, 2001
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 6:35 p.m.
253
September 4, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 14 Representatives. Vacancies — 1 (District No. 2).
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Faye Gougakis, City of Ithaca, spoke of an incident that happened downtown today where she
witnessed a driver who was talking on her cellular phone and entered a one-way street in the wrong
direction. Ms. Gougakis spoke of the danger and potential accident that could have resulted due to
drivers using cellular phones while driving. She praised Governor Pataki for the legislative bill that goes
into effect this year placing a ban on talking on cellular phones while driving. Ms. Gougakis also spoke of
recreational facilities and said she was recently told by a member of Common Council that the funds that
were recently allocated to study these facilities are not going to be used for what the County Board wants.
Ms. Mink said she would have Mrs. Schuler, Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee,
respond to this concern.
Susanne Davis, City of Ithaca resident and former Representative for District No. 2 on the County
Board of Representatives, expressed her gratitude to her colleagues during her five and one-half years of
service on the Board. She said a vacancy committee comprised of many very diverse and qualified
individuals have met and have recommended Leslyn McBean to fulfill the remainder of her term on the
Board. Ms. Davis said she will miss the community and apologized for leaving the Board abruptly. She
said she feels confident that Ms. McBean will fulfill her term on the Board responsibly and will continue
to represent the residents of District No. 2 very well.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Ms. Mink wished Ms. Davis well in her new endeavors and thanked her for her service to the
Board.
Mr. Stein, District No. 3 Representative, clarified a statement made earlier by Ms. Gougakis and
said the Cellular Phone Bill is not authored by Governor Pataki, but by a gentlemen from Brooklyn. Mr.
Stein also wished Ms. Davis well and said he, too, will miss her.
Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Representative, said he first met Ms. Davis when she ran for the
Dryden Town Board. He said Ms. Davis has been an advocate for the people not only in her district but
all people in need in Tompkins County. He said she has been straight -forward and a good representative
to her constituents. Mr. Lane reminded voters that primary elections will be held on September 1 lth and
urged voters to exercise their right to vote.
Mr. Winch, District No. 8 Representative, reported on the Farm City Day that was held on August
25th at the Laurie Todd Farm Mellon Foundation. He said it was a very successful day and thanked the
Todd's for hosting this event.
254
September 4, 2001
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, reminded Board members that the Fall catalog is
available for archives grants and urged them to share this information with their municipalities and fire
districts. He, too, wished Ms. Davis well in her new endeavors.
Ms. Blanchard, District No. 1 Representative, spoke of the recent loss of a former Board member,
Dick Webster. The Board expressed its condolences to Mr. Webster's family and asked that the
following resolution be forwarded to his family.
Mr. Joseph, District No. 12 Representative, said Ms. Davis has been a thoughtful and valuable
ally at many times to him on this Board and wished her well.
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, District No. 11 Representative, also wished Ms. Davis well in her new
endeavors.
Addition of Resolution to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote, the following resolution
was added to the agenda.
RESOLUTION NO. 205 — RESOLUTION OF RESPECT — HONORABLE RICHARD
WEBSTER
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard and unanimously seconded and adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the Honorable Richard Webster was known throughout Tompkins County for both
his civic and legislative achievements, and
WHEREAS, his many skills as an elected official were brought to bear as a member of the
Tompkins County Board of Representatives during the period of January 1, 1970 to November 1, 1980,
and
WHEREAS, he brought his drive, humor, and organization to many community organizations
and activities, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, unanimously by this Board, That the members thereof express their appreciation for
these many contributions to the Tompkins County community, and extend their sympathy and sincere
condolences to the family of Richard Webster.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Presentation of Proclamation(s)
Chair Mink presented a proclamation declaring the month of September, 2001 to be Leukemia
and Lymphoma Awareness Month in Tompkins County.
Presentation — Vital Communities Public Outreach Effort
Ms. Jurkowich of the Planning Department said the Vital Communities initiative is a program
that is meant to involve the community in discussion about how, where, and what development we want
in the future in this County. The purpose is to provide the forum for residents to talk about these issues
and articulate a vision about where they would like the County to be in the next several years.
The program was started with two stakeholder workshops. The first was held in October of last
year and the second in January of this year. There were about 75 people who attended these workshops
and they were organized around stakeholder interest groups. At those workshops each of the stakeholder
groups were asked to draw a map of what they would like the future development in the County to look
255
September 4, 2001
like and also to articulate some of the principles they used in developing those maps. All of that
information was compiled into a report. Since that time a steering committee has been established of nine
persons, many of whom were involved in the stakeholder workshops. That committee worked with staff
to develop a draft set of development and preservation principles. In June of this year a public hearing
was held to discuss what happened at the workshops and to talk about the principles.
Ms. Jurkowich said the latest activity that has taken place includes the development of a web site
that will contain a copy of the report as well as other ongoing activities on the vital communities effort.
In addition, they have been very proactive with media coverage. During the next six months they will be
conducting public outreach efforts on the draft development and preservation principles with the hope to
get this information to the public and asking for feedback. A display will be available in the Board Office
and will be set up at local events and festivals and at other public places. The first display will take place
at the Freeville Harvest Festival and the Ellis Hollow Fair. This will also be given to municipal officials
and other civic groups around the County. She said she hopes to come back to the Board next spring to
present the Board with recommendations on principles it can then adopt as. the Board's principles for
development and preservation in terms of future growth for Tompkins County.
Ms. Jurkowich outlined the following principles that have been identified:
1. Build strong, cohesive neighborhoods and communities.
2. Encourage modal development patterns that build on existing infrastructure and population
centers.
3. Promote choice and availability in housing options.
4. Protect the natural resources, green spaces, and recreational resources of the County.
5. Promote agriculture and farmland protection.
6. Enhance development of a local economy that supports strong communities.
7. Protect transportation choices that also support compact development patterns.
Ms. Jurkowich said it is unclear at this time how these principles might be used but is working on
how it might affect the County, municipalities, businesses, and non-profit organizations. She said even
though the County does not have land -use authority, it does make decisions that impact development in
the County through investment in infrastructures, roads, and services, or determining who benefits from
economic development loans through the County.
At this time a Powerpoint presentation on the Vital Communities Program was provided to the
Board.
Mr. Penniman thanked Ms. Jurkowich and Ms. Hackett for providing the Board with the
presentation. He referred to one of the workshops he attended and said there was a remarkable consensus
about the concept of having concentrated development in communities where the infrastructure could be
concentrated in "walkable" communities. He said he feels worthwhile comments have been received
from municipal officials, who support this endeavor.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher thanked Ms. Davis for her service to the. Board and her contributions during the
County's revaluation process. Mr. Whicher said his office continues to work on the proposed 2002
budget. He requested an executive session to discuss real-estate matters.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wood, Deputy County Attorney, updated the Board on the ongoing litigation involving
municipalities and said the County responded to their complaint today. That case will be heard on
256
September 4, 2001
September 7th. In the redistricting litigation the County has until September 6th to respond to the
Appellate brief that will be held in Albany on September 13t. Mr. Wood announced two Notices of
Claim have been received on the recent TCAT accident.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires had no report.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote, the following
resolution(s) was added to the agenda:
- Intent to make a Best Faith Effort to Vote on the 2002 Tompkins County Budget prior to
Election Day, November 6, 2001
Approval of Appointment(s) and Resolution(s) Under the Consent Agenda:
It was MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote,
to approve under the Consent Agenda the appointment of Carl Haynes to the Planning Advisory Board
representing Education with a term expiring December 31, 2003.
It was MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote,
to approve the following resolution(s) under the Consent Agenda:
RESOLUTION NO. 206 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENT — OFFICE FOR THE AGING
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote under
the Consent Agenda.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the
Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget adjustments on his books:
Office of the Aging (#37)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
6796 42770 Miscellaneous Income $881 6796.54414 Local Mileage
Explanation: Unbudgeted Miscellaneous Income permits coverage of Local Mileage for the remainder
of the year.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Economic and Workforce Development
Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee met today at noon. He said the Committee received
a monthly report on economic activities from Tompkins County Area Development and will distribute
copies to all Board members. The Committee discussed at length the tourism budget with most of the
discussion surrounding the Convention and Visitor's Bureau portion of the budget. The Committee had a
brief interesting discussion about a new tourism program that is being funded in part by room tax money
to bring more tourists to Tompkins County in the winter. Mr. Stein said a request was received by local
labor organizations to consider some types of actions that have no budgetary impacts. He has sent
material to all Committee members for discussion and will schedule a committee meeting to discuss this
after the budget review sessions have been held.
257
September 4, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 207 - DESIGNATION OF TOURISM PROMOTION AGENCY FOR
STATE FISCAL YEAR 2001-2002
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the Strategic Tourism Planning Board (STP) has traditionally recommended the
appropriate agency of the New York State Tourism Promotion Agency (TPA) designation as part of its
review function for tourism matters, and
WHEREAS, the STP has reviewed the matter with appropriate agency representatives, and
WHEREAS, the STP feels qualified to make a recommendation of the best agency to have the
TPA designation, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the designation of the TPA for State Fiscal Year 2001-2002 be awarded to the Ithaca/Tompkins
County Convention and Visitor's Bureau (CVB), with the understanding that the Director of the CVB be
empowered to change the designation to any appropriate regional tourism promotion agency with County
Board approval should it be advantageous for Tompkins County to do so,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of the CVB report back to the Economic and Workforce
Development Committee if such change occurs.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 1I-20
RESOLUTION NO. 208 - APPROVING THE ISSUANCE BY THE TOMPKINS COUNTY
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF UP TO $1,600,000
CIVIC FACILITY REVENUE BONDS (COMMUNITY
RECREATIONAL CENTER, INC. PROJECT), SERIES 2001
IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 147(F) OF THE INTERNAL
REVENUE CODE OF 1986, AS AMENDED (THE "CODE")
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard.
Mr. Joseph said he feels uncomfortable voting in favor of this without this being accompanied by
a Negative Declaration statement. Mr. Stein said this concern was raised at the Committee meeting
today. The Board was advised by Mr. Wood, Deputy County Attorney, that the Board does not have to
adopt its own Negative Declaration. Mr. Wood said he consulted with Bond Counsel and was told that
compliance with the law has already been achieved by the resolution stating this is an Unlisted Action.
Ms. Kiefer said it has not been the Board's usual practice to adopt resolutions simply stating "unlisted"
but to determine whether it is a Type I or Type II action. She does not feel the Board has the information
to determine that this evening.
Mr. Proto asked what process was used during a similar project such as the Lake Source Cooling
Project. Ms. Mink recalled the project to be different because the County was only involved in the
financing. Mr. Wood pointed out other projects that have recently been done and gave examples of
George Junior Republic, Kendal at Ithaca, and Lake Source Cooling. He pointed out Lakes Source
Cooling project was a Type I project for which an Environmental Impact Statement was done. The others
were unlisted.
Mr. Joseph said his understanding of SEQR is when a governmental body takes an action it has to
do an environmental assessment unless that action is of a certain type. It is his understanding that with
an unlisted action a review needs to be done. He said he would like an explanation why Counsel says the
County does not have to do an environmental review.
Ms. Blanchard said the reason the County does not have do an environmental review is in part
617 in the Environmental Conservation Law. She said when the SEQR legislation was adopted it was
258
September 4, 2001
intended to help people do projects the right way. It was not intended to be an activity that creates extra
work for municipalities. She feels the Board should move forward and accept the advice given by
Counsel.
There was discussion about the implications of postponing action on this resolution until the next
Board meeting. Mr. Stamm, President of TCAD, said it would be possible to postpone action on this
resolution.
There was a consensus by the Board that this should be moved forward without any
postponement. Mr. Totman called the question, seconded by Mr. Winch. A voice vote on calling the
question resulted as follows: Ayes — 9 (Representatives Blanchard, Koplinka-Loehr, Lane, Penniman,
Proto, Todd, Totman, Winch, and Mink); Noes — 5 (Representatives Joseph, Kiefer, Lalley, Schuler, and
Stein); Vacancy - 1 (District No. 2). MOTION CARRIED.
Mrs. Kiefer reminded the Board of our recent Bostwick Road SEQR oversight and how we
wanted to be more careful and do it right.
A roll call vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes — 9 (Representatives Blanchard,
Koplinka-Loehr, Lane, Mink, Penniman, Stein, Todd, Totman, and Winch); Noes — 5 (Representatives
Joseph, Kiefer, Lalley, Proto, and Schuler) Vacancy - 1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives (the "Board of Representatives"),
as the elected legislative body of Tompkins County, New York (the "County") has been advised by the
Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency (the "Issuer") that, in order to assist in the financing of
a certain Project (as defined below) for the benefit of Community Recreational Center, Inc. (the
"Company") the Issuer proposes to issue, contingent upon the adoption of this Resolution, its Civic
Facility Revenue Bonds (Community Recreational Center, Inc. Project), Series 2001, in an aggregate
principal amount not to exceed $1,600,000 (the "Bonds"), and
WHEREAS, the project (the "Project") shall consist of (A) the refmancing of certain
indebtedness incurred in 1995 by the Company for the purposes of acquiring an approximately 13 -acre
parcel of land located at 1767 East Shore Drive, Ithaca, New York (the "Land") and the construction and
equipping on the Land of an approximately 33,000 square -foot building containing a one -sheet
recreational ice rink with related locker rooms, concession and pro shop areas (the "Existing Facility")
and the existing machinery, equipment, furnishings and other tangible personal property located therein
(the "Existing Equipment"); (B) the construction, reconstruction and equipping of an approximately
60,000 square -foot addition to the Existing Facility, which addition will include (i) a new main entrance,
(ii) two indoor artificial turf fields enclosed by dasher boards, glass and netting and containing in the
aggregate approximately 38,000 square feet of space, and (iii) related locker rooms, bathrooms, showers,
and administrative area and an approximately 4,000 square -foot mezzanine (the "Improvements"); (C) the
acquisition and installation in and around the Existing Facility and Improvements of certain machinery,
equipment and other items of tangible personal property (the "Equipment" and, collectively with the
Land, the Existing Facility, the Existing Equipment and the Improvements, the "Facility"); (D) paying
certain costs and expenses incidental to the issuance of the Bonds (the costs associated with items (A)
through (D) above being hereinafter collectively referred to as the "Project Costs"); (E) the financing of a
portion of the costs of the foregoing by the issuance of the Bonds; and (F) the lease (with an obligation to
purchase) or sale of the facilities financed with the Bonds to the Company or such other person as may be
designated by the Company and agreed upon by the Issuer, and
WHEREAS, on August 2, 2001, the Town of Lansing, New York issued a negative declaration
under the State Environmental Quality Review Act ("SEQRA") stating that the Project will not have a
significant effect on the environment within the meaning of SEQRA, and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 147(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the
"Code"), interest on the Bonds will not be excluded from gross income for Federal income tax purposes
unless the issuance of the Bonds is approved by the Board of Representatives after a public hearing to
259
September 4, 2001
consider both the issuance of the Bonds and the nature and location of the facilities financed therewith has
been conducted following reasonable public notice, and
WHEREAS, on August 29, 2001, the Issuer held such a public hearing upon proper notice in
compliance with the Code, and
WHEREAS, to aid the Board of Representatives in its deliberations, the Issuer has made available
to the members of the Board of Representatives prior to this meeting (a) the Company's application to the
Issuer for financial assistance; (b) the notice of public hearing published by the Issuer on July 30, 2001 in
The Ithaca Journal, along with the affidavits of publication of such newspaper and (c) the minutes of such
public hearing held on August 29, 2001, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Representatives, after due consideration of the foregoing, as the
"applicable elected representative" of Tompkins County, New York, within the meaning of Section
147(f)(2)(E) of the Code, desires to approve the issuance of the Bonds and the location of the Facility,
provided the principal, premium, if any, and interest on the Bonds shall be special obligations of the
Issuer and shall never be a debt of the State of New York (the "State") or any political subdivision
thereof, including without limitation the County, and neither the State nor any political subdivision
thereof, including without limitation the County, shall be liable thereon, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the Board of Representatives of Tompkins County:
Section 1. For the purpose of satisfying the approval requirement of Section 147(0 of the
Code, on the recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, the Board of
Representatives hereby gives its approval of the Project and the issuance by the Issuer of its Bonds and
related acts to be taken by the Issuer as part of the Project, provided that the Bonds, and the premium (if
any) and interest thereon, shall be special obligations of the Issuer and shall never be a debt of the State or
any political subdivision thereof, including without limitation Tompkins County, and neither the State nor
any political subdivision thereof, including without limitation Tompkins County, shall be liable thereon.
This approval is given pursuant to Section 147(0 of the Code for the sole purpose of qualifying the
interest payable on the Bonds for exclusion from gross income for Federal income tax purposes pursuant
to the provisions of Sections 103 and 141-150 of the Code.
Section 2. This Resolution shall be deemed to be made for the benefit of the holders of the
Bonds.
Section 3. This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
SEQR ACTION: Unlisted
Report from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The
Committee will meet tomorrow to review departmental budget requests at 1:30 p.m. The next regular
meeting will be September 19 at noon. He said the State has been working on Quality Communities
which is similar to the Vital Communities program and is offering some programs to help communities
with these initiatives. He said he has a copy of the State report and recommendations.
Report from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The next
meeting will be September 18. She announced a Plant for Life sale will be held on September 8th at the
Women's Community Building to benefit the Ithaca Breast Cancer Alliance and the Ithaca Cancer
Network.
Report from the Public Safety Committee
260
September 4, 2001
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The
next meeting will be held on September 13 from 12 to 1 p.m. The remainder of the afternoon will be
spent reviewing departmental budget requests.
Report from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, said he has distributed a proposed calendar for Expanded Budget
Committee meetings in October.
Report from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee will meet on September 6 to conduct
regular business and to perform departmental budget reviews.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee has met twice since the last Board meeting. The
Committee discussed the tragic crash that happened at the Airport and credited Airport staff and
emergency personnel for the manner in which they handled the emergency. He said the Ithaca Journal
raised a question about the Airport Tower not being open 24 -hours a day. He said the Committee does
not feel this is impairing safety in anyway at the Airport but will be discussing this again to help the
public understand why the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) runs the Tower the way it does. Mr.
Lane said the Committee heard an update on projects at the Airport and was informed the General
Aviation ramp expansion is 97 percent complete and the work on the runway lighting rehabilitation
project is about 99 percent complete.
Mr. Lane spoke of the Adopt -a -Highway program in Tompkins County and said the Committee
discussed ways to modestly acknowledge the good work of these volunteers. The Committee also heard
from the County Administrator on efforts the Public Works Department is making towards intermunicipal
cooperation to keep these highways clean. The Highway Manager and Public Works Administrator have
been visiting towns to discuss the potential of holding monthly meetings with Highway Superintendents
as an effort to keep communications open.
Mr. Lane said the Committee began reviewing departmental budgets and has been reviewing the
fmdings and conditions of the County's road situation. He stated a presentation will come to the Board at
its second meeting in September.
RESOLUTION 209 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE EXTENSION OF HIGHWAY
SNOW AND ICE AGREEMENT WITH THE STATE OF NEW YORK
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the County of Tompkins has heretofore entered into an agreement with the State of
New York pursuant to Section 12 of Highway Law relating to control of snow and ice on State highways
and incorporated villages, and
WHEREAS, Section 7 and 10 of said agreement respectively provide a method of modifying the
map of affected State highways and for annually updating the estimated expenditures, and
WHEREAS, it would be in the best interest of the County to extend said agreement currently set
to expire June 30, 2002 as modified and updated, for an additional one-year period, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That an extension of the snow
and ice agreement is hereby authorized for a period of one year from July 1, 2002 through June 30, 2003
and the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized and directed to execute such extension on
behalf of the County,
261
September 4, 2001
RESOLVED, further, That the County is interested in continuing its relationship with the State
for one year, the County is concerned about fuel prices and subsequent adjustments and feels that needs to
be addressed on an annual basis.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 210 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE
COUNTY OF TIOGA — OLD 76 ROAD BRIDGE REPLACEMENT
AND FUTURE MAINTENANCE (BIN 3314080)
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, Tompkins and Tioga Counties cooperatively maintain a bridge on Old 76 Road
(BIN 3314080) over the West Branch of Owego Creek, and
WHEREAS, in response to deterioration of the Bridge, the Counties have prepared plans,
specifications and estimates and Tompkins County has awarded a contract for its replacement, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the County
Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute an Agreement with the County of Tioga to prescribe
continued cooperative maintenance of the bridge and whereby the County of Tioga agrees to pay fifty
percent of design and construction costs associated with the project.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Individual Member -Filed Resolution
RESOLUTION NO. 211 - INTENT TO MAKE A BEST FAITH EFFORT TO VOTE
ON THE 2002 TOMPKINS COUNTY BUDGET PRIOR TO
ELECTION DAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2001
MOVED by Mr. Lalley, seconded by Mr. Totman.
Mr. Lalley said he recognizes the amount of budget work that needs to be done but said he feels it
is possible for the Board to adopt a budget prior to Election Day. Mr. Joseph said this always comes up
in an election year; he feels this type of action should be considered at the time the budget schedule is
developed. There was a feeling by some members that by election day the public has been presented with
as much information as possible and that anyone interested in the budget should know what positions
Board members have. Mr. Penniman expressed concern for constraining the time schedule for the budget
process further. There was a lengthy discussion with some members feeling this was being offered as a
political action. Mr. Stein said in previous years this was brought forward by Democrats who were in the
minority and is now being brought forward by Republicans. He said he will support this because he has
supported it in the past. Ms. Kiefer pointed out that to have a final vote that early is unwise because we
know the fmal status better closer to the end of the year.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 6 (Representatives Lalley, Proto, Stein, Todd, Totman,
and Winch); Noes — 8 (Representatives Blanchard, Joseph, Kiefer, Koplinka-Loehr, Lane, Mink,
Penniman, and Schuler); Vacancy - 1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION FAILED.
WHEREAS, the proposed budget calendar for committees and the Board of Representatives can
be changed in a way that will not compromise time for public input and participation, and
WHEREAS, a revised schedule will allow the outcome of the budget process to be known on
Election Day, November 6, 2001, now therefore be it
262
September 4, 2001
RESOLVED, That the County Administrator is hereby requested to implement a revised budget
calendar that will result in a schedule that will allow for the possibility that the budget to be approved no
later than November 2, 2001,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives will make best faith
effort to vote on the budget no later than November 2, 2001.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met and worked on Article 4. The Committee is
looking at recommending that the Divisions of Information Technology Services and Assessment become
individual departments. The next meeting will be October 13th.
Report from the Communications Capital Projects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the Committee met on August 28. The Public Safety
Communications Center now has a schematic design and project scope. A drawing is available in the
Board Office. She said the Town of Ithaca has volunteered to do the Environmental Assessment Form.
She said they are developing a memorandum of understanding between the partners at this time. She
spoke of the New York State Department of Transportation facility relocation project and said funding for
that has been held up in the State budget. Ms. Blanchard said work on the functional specifications for
the emergency communications system is close to completion and should be available at the next meeting
along with the draft of the request for proposals. She said she expects a formal request for proposals in
December with a sixty-day response period.
Report from the Information Management Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting.
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, said the report should be completed by the end of the month.
Approval of Minutes of August 21, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote, to approve the minutes of the August 21, 2001 meeting as submitted. MINUTES APPROVED.
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote,
to enter into executive session at 6:59 p.m. to discuss real estate matters. The meeting returned to open
session at 7:20 p.m.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m.
263
September 19, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Ms. Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Chair Mink stated that as the Board recites the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag this evening the
words take on a special meaning. She spoke of the September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States and
asked that everyone take this moment to mourn the loss of innocent lives, grieve for the thousands of
families they left behind, honor the unimaginable courage of the firefighters, police, and rescue workers,
and reaffirm our belief that what's best in the human spirit will prevail.
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 14 Representatives. Vacancy —1 (District No. 2).
Presentation of Proclamation(s)
Ms. Mink presented the following proclamations:
September 17 — 21, 2001 as Sheriff's Week in Tompkins County to Sheriff Meskill and
Undersheriff Haus;
September, 2001, as Latino Heritage Month in Tompkins County.
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca, said at the last Board meeting she brought forward concerns she
had relating to the recreation partnership and has not received a response to those concerns. She also said
she feels there is a serious problem with vehicles speeding within City limits. Ms. Gougakis spoke of the
September 11, 2001 attack on the World Trade Center and said it was a terrible tragedy for America.
Lastly, Ms. Gougakis expressed anger towards the Casey Stevens radio show and said she feels she has
been personally attacked by comments made on the show. She believes he must be held accountable and
noted that many Board members go on his show.
Peter Meskill, Sheriff, stated on September 20 all law enforcement officials will gather for a press
conference in a united effort to collect money for the families and survivors of the fire, police, and
emergency medical services personnel who lost their lives on September 11 in New York City.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, announced that the Tompkins County Water Resources
Council has been awarded a Stewardship Recognition Conservation Award from the New York State
Department of Environmental Conservation. Mr. Proto complimented Mr. Lane on his work on
reconstituting this group.
Ms. Blanchard, District No. 1 Representative, announced the United Way is ready to kick off its
annual campaign. In addition to the regular campaign, the United Way has established a September 11
fund to receive fmancial donations from people who are concerned about the tragedy in New York and
Washington. Funds will be administered by both the United Way and the New York Community Trust.
Information on this will be posted on the World Wide Web.
264
September 19, 2001
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, District No. 11 Representative, shared a story with the Board about peace
and revenge. He encouraged people to express themselves and share their feelings about the recent
tragedy. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr announced the primary election has been rescheduled to September 25t.
There will be public meetings about traffic calming in the Forest Home on September 25 and 26.
Mr. Penniman, District No. 15 Representative, responded to Ms. Gougakis's comments under
privilege of the floor and her concerns regarding the Recreation Partnership. He said there is a fairly
wide scope of services looking at the range of program participation, regional market overview,
opportunities to enhance operating performance, alternative approaches to owning and operating facilities
and to, some extent, review of exchange relationship with the Ithaca City School system. He offered a
copy of this document to Ms. Gougakis and said more current information would be available from
Nancy Zahler, Director of the Tompkins County Youth Bureau.
Mr. Winch, District No. 6 Representative, commended David Jayne, an employee of the Facilities
Division. Mr. Jayne spoke with the Assistant Fire Chief of the City of Ithaca, and made arrangements to
have a flag restrung at the Mental Health Building. Mr. Winch said the City of Ithaca Department of
Public Works repaired the Flag at the Tompkins County Public Library also.
Mr. Winch _said frequently before Board meetings he goes into the back of the courtroom and sits
for a while. Today when he visited the courtroom he looked up where the Judge would be sitting and
read a sign stating "In God We Trust". Mr. Winch displayed a dollar bill which also states on the back
"In God We Trust". He stated "God Bless America".
Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Representative, read the following letter that he sent to the Fire
Department of the City of New York:
"Dear Friends,
The Valley of the Shadow of Death is often not obvious. Sometimes it comes guised as a plain of
asphalt between vertical slopes of shining glass, steel, and concrete. So it was on a Tuesday, when
mountainous buildings, targeted by terror, erupted in fire and smoke. But heroes were not deterred. Men
and women of the Fire Department of the City of New York, and their compatriots of police and
emergency services, rushed in to face death, eye to eye. With all human speed, they saved thousands; but
time stood against them. For as they fought on to save even more, they were themselves so terribly
engulfed in that bellowing black avalanche that snuffed so many, many lives.
In grief for their families, for our nation, and for ourselves, there is strength in the knowledge of
the indomitable spirit these men and women possessed. Thanks to them for their courage. Our prayer is
that they shall live eternally in the sun of green pastures, and beside the stillness of blue waters."
Mr. Lane also spoke of the recent lighting of candles that many residents have taken part in, along
with the giving of blood, financial donations and support that has taken place. He said thankfully there
have only been a few moments in American history such as this. He said these events have brought
America together and proves that although we are a rainbow of cultures, when something happens that
defines us we are all that great melting pot of Americans.
Chair's Report
Ms. Mink displayed the magazine "Solar Today" in which the Tompkins County Public Library
and Representative Kiefer are featured. She said she went to a concert last Sunday evening and ran into a
member of the Dryden Town Board and there was agreement between them that there has been good
intentions, misunderstandings in the past few months. She said in light of the recent national events she
265
September 19, 2001
urged Board members to continue discussions with municipal representatives on improving
communication.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher reported the budget process is moving along well. He said one problem occurred
because the State budget was not defined sufficiently for the County and it was very unclear what monies
some agencies and departments had available to them. He said he had intended to bring a resolution
forward to cut off support to these programs until the State budget was resolved and although some
problems still exist he will not be doing so at this time.
Report from the County Attorney
Bruce Wilson, Assistant County Attorney, reported the Municipal lawsuit will be heard before
Supreme Court Judge Relihan tomorrow morning. He announced the Appellate Court has heard
arguments in the redistricting issue and the County Attorney's Office is awaiting a decision.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires reported the bids for the Tompkins Cortland Community College Master Plan will be
received tomorrow. He stated the County's official financial statement is on file with the Clerk of the
Board and on the World Wide Web at fiscaladvisors.com. Mr. Squires said that interest rates are at an
all-time low.
Presentation — Status of Roads in Tompkins County
Peter Messmer, Highway Manager, presented the Board with an overhead presentation on the
status of roads in Tompkins County. The purpose of the presentation is to give the Board information to
use as background during 2002 budget deliberations. Tompkins County has 307 miles of roads, which
are rated on a scale of 0 to 100, where zero means the road is fine and needs no work. On average a road
needs rebuilding after 40 years. Today 40 miles need reconstruction and 80 miles need rehabilitation
(overlay). Over the last five years e have spent an average of $3,687/month; compared to the
$5,140/month necessary to keep up with the 40 -year life.
The goals outlined in the presentation are:
•Reduce backlog of roads needing major rehabilitation by 50 percent in ten years;
*Integrate, over the next two years, innovative maintenance techniques to maximize "road life";
• Continuously promote teamwork among Highway department management and staff.
The following information was presented:
How did we get here:
• Traffic has increased. At four percent growth, DT of 1665 in 1965 becomes 4395 in 2001
• Trucks have increased in numbers and size
• State Overweight Permits have been increased
• Highway materials funding not keeping up with inflation
• Road facilities are being added without increasing highway materials funding (paved
shoulders, storm sewers, etc.)
How did we get here:
• Labor — Six positions lost through early retirement; six positions lost through attrition
266
September 19, 2001
• Equipment — Net reduction of eight major pieces
• Peruville Location closed
• Snow and Ice Consolidation with Town Contracts
Where do we go from here:
• Equipment - Maintain current fleet; Improve high productivity, road patching capability,
snow and ice
• Snow and Ice Removal — Continue Town and State DOT contracts
• Bridge Program — Continue County Five-year program, continue federal aid program
• Materials — Increase maintenance and rehabilitation investment, improve overall road
conditions
• Labor — Staff size is "bare bones", sized for winter maintenance
Conclusions:
• Attrition of Highway Department equipment and labor cannot continue to "shore up" the
road program
• Maintaining status -quo funding will likely result in continued decline and increased costs
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
It was MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote, to add the resolution to the agenda entitled Authorization to Accept an Award of a Grant from the
New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services.
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
There were no resolution(s) withdrawn from the agenda.
Approval of Resolution(s) and Appointment(s) Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote,
to approve the following resolution and appointment(s) under the Consent Agenda:
RESOLUTION NO. 212 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS — VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote, under
the Consent Agenda.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works and Health and Human Services
Committees, That the Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget adjustments on his
books:
Highway Department (#38)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
5142 42302 Snow Removal $137,948 5142 54446 Interfund Revenues
Explanation: Extra money from the state snow and ice 2000/2001 budget is needed to cover town snow
and ice expenditures.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Mental Health Department (#39)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)_
4329 43486 OMH Flex
$ 5,650 4329 54400 Program Expense
Explanation: 2001 OMH Increased Expense Challenge Industries.
267
September 19, 2001
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Mental Health Department (#40)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
4329 43486 MH Clinic Medicaid $ 15,028 4329 54400 Program Expenses
Explanation: 2001 Fair Wage Increase Challenge Industries, 2001 Increased Medicaid.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Office for the Aging (#41)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Ammon Acct Title(s)
6784 44772 Federal Revenue $ 6,077A3 6784 54491 Subcontract
Explanation: Revenue Increase in Cash -In -Lieu.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Appointment(s)
Youth Bureau
Jonathan Barnard – Youth Representative – term to expire August 31, 2003
Kyri Murdough – Youth Representative – term to expire August 31, 2003
Office of the Aging
Lucy J. Brown — term to expire December 31, 2002
MR/DD Subcommittee
Amy Dunham – term to expire December 31, 2003
Family Court Advisory Council
Chris Ion – Probation – term to expire December 31, 2002
Tompkins County Fire, Disaster, and Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board
Larry K. Stilwell – Delegate – Town of Enfield – term to expire December 31, 2003
Phineas K. Reeves – Delegate – City of Ithaca – term to expire December 31, 2001
David H. Cornelius – Delegate – City of Ithaca – term to expire December 31, 2002
Lyle Neigh – Delegate – City of Ithaca – term to expire December 31, 2002
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported she attended a meeting this morning with the Health Planning
Council and the Department of Social Services Advisory Council. Assemblyman Luster was present and
provided the group with an update on the State budget. Mr. Luster described the budget situation at the
State level very challenging and said there is no cohesive plan at this time for providing support services
and rebuilding. There was also discussion about aging services and nursing-home shortages. Mrs.
Schuler reported the Committee had a brief meeting this morning and awarded money for a contract for
software and approved a request for contingency funds for the Medical Examiner program.
RESOLUTION NO. 213 - DECREASE IN HOURS OF STAFF DEVELOPMENT
AND QUALITY COORDINATOR – DEPARTMENT OF
SOCIAL SERVICES
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Stein, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
268
September 19, 2001
WHEREAS, the position of Staff Development and Quality Coordinator in the Department of
Social Services currently exists at 40.0 hours per week, and
WHEREAS, a reduction in the number of hours allotted to the Staff Development and Quality
Coordinator position is appropriate, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee, That the normal
work week for the position of Staff Development and Quality Coordinator (14/760), labor grade N (14),
competitive class be decreased from 40.0 to 37.5 hours per week effective August 5, 2001.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 214 - AUTHORIZATION TO CONTRACT WITH CATHOLIC
CHARITIES FOR PARENT SUPPORT SERVICES
MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Youth Bureau received an unsolicited grant of $5,000 from
the Office of Mental Hygiene through the Coordinated Children's Services Initiative to recruit, train, and
supervise parents to provide support to similar families that have children who may need special services
and/or residential care, and
WHEREAS, the funds have already been received and the Youth Bureau's budget was adjusted
in Resolution No. 174 on August 8, 2001 to reflect the revenue for and appropriation of this one time, 100
percent grant which requires no local match, and
WHEREAS, the Youth Bureau has collaborated with the departments of Mental Health and
Social Services to identify Catholic Charities as the most appropriate and qualified provider, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of Health and Human Services Committee, That the County
Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute a contract with Tompkins and Tioga Counties
Catholic Charities for $5,000 to provide parent support for Tompkins County parents for the period
September 24, 2001 through December 31, 2001.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Economic and Workforce Development Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee has met once since the last Board meeting to review
departmental budget requests. Mr. Stein said he will be attending the upcoming NYSAC Fall
Conference. He said he is a member of the Intergovernmental Committee and shared with the Board
some of the resolutions that will be debated at the Conference. He said NYSAC will be asking the State
to increase the reimbursement rate for public defenders across the State to seeking funds for code
enforcement in counties, to activate a system to allow counties to file laws with the State electronically,
and to oppose a continual effort to take ministerial functions away from counties and administer them at
the State level. These types of things include renewing motor vehicle registrations, hunting and fishing
licenses, universal code filings, and business name filings.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee met on September 13. At that meeting the
Committee approved a budget adjustment for the District Attorney, and heard from the Probation
Department that grant money has not been approved for the Violence Against Women Act. He said the
Community Justice Center seems to be doing well. An open house for the Center will be held on October
3. Olin Mack, Director of OAR, said that Agency is on target with their goals for the year. The Fire,
Disaster, and EMS Department reported on activities of the Emergency Committee and informed the
Committee that the Cingular wireless calls and Verizon are now being directed to the County's
269
September 19, 2001
emergency 911 center. Sheriff Meskill reported on the Jail population and activities at the Sheriff's
Office. Mr. Whicher provided the Committee with an update on the status of the search for a
Communications Director. Ms. Blanchard and Mr. Totman will be serving on that Committee.
RESOLUTION NO. 215 - AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT AN AWARD OF A GRANT FROM
THE NEW YORK STATE DIVISION OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
SERVICES - DISTRICT ATTORNEY
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the District Attorney has been notified of a grant award from the New York State
Division of Criminal Justice Services in the amount of $50,000, referred to as the Aid To Prosecution
grant, and
WHEREAS, the Aid To Prosecution grant will fund enhanced prosecution of felony crimes,
without requiring any matching funds from the County, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the County accept this
grant and that the County Administrator or his designee execute all contracts related to it,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance shall make the following adjustments to his
books for 2001:
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT:
Revenue A1165.43389 State Aid $50,000
Appropriation A1165.51000 Payroll $15,890
.58800 Fringes $ 3,973
.52206 Computer equipment $25,495
.52210 Office equipment $ 2,053
.54303 Office supplies $ 99
.54330 Printing $ 200
.54452 Postage $ 120
.54472 Telephone $ 2,170
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Committee has been working on developing a
recommendation on the Capital Project budget. Mr. Joseph said Tompkins Cortland Community College
will be attending a Committee meeting in November to provide a presentation on the College's Master
Plan.
RESOLUTION NO. 216 - SCHEDULING A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE 2002 TOMPKINS
COUNTY BUDGET AND ON THE 2002-2006 TOMPKINS
COUNTY CAPITAL PROGRAM
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That a public hearing be
held before the Board of Representatives at Boynton Middle School located at 1601 North Cayuga Street,
Ithaca, New York on November 13, 2001, at 7:00 o'clock in the evening thereof concerning the review of
the 2002 Tompkins County Budget and on the 2002-2006 Tompkins County Capital Program. At such
time and place all persons interested in the subject matter will be heard concerning the same,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board is hereby authorized and directed to place
proper notice of such public hearing in the official newspaper of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
270
September 19, 2001
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee has met two times since the last Board
meeting. He said Bob Groff, an intern in the Board Office, has completed work on a report on voter
registration. A subcommittee has been created and will meet this Friday and will discuss how to move
forward with this. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr reported on the advisory board survey and said it will be
distributed soon. He said the Public Information Advisory Board reported on the posting of Assessment
information on the Internet and have recommended that the County develop a privacy policy. The County
Administrator reported on the policy regarding saving electronic mail. At the present time a policy is
being worked on that will include training for department heads. The Committee also discussed how the
position of County Attorney should be appointed. At the present time the majority party of the Board
appoints the position. Committee members have been charged with discussing this issue with their
respective parties and the Committee will continue discussing this at the next meeting. Mr. Koplinka-
Loehr said there was discussion about Assessment solar and wind exemptions and said if someone now
makes an improvement to his/her their home for solar or wind power energy and it increases the
assessment, the difference in assessment will be exempt from an increase. He commented on the budget
review process and complimented departments on how well disciplined and creative they have been in
preparing their budgets.
RESOLUTION NO. 217 - MAKING A NEGATIVE DETERMINATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE IN RELATION TO
SALE OF A LANDLOCKED PARCEL IN TOWN OF DRYDEN TO
NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSERVATION
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote.
WHEREAS, in Resolution No. 218 of 2001, the County Administrator is authorized to execute a
deed with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) for the sale of a
landlocked parcel located in the Town of Dryden, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives has reviewed and accepted as
adequate an Environmental Assessment Form with respect to that action, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That Resolution
No. 218 of 2001 is an unlisted action,
RESOLVED, further, That the Board of Representatives hereby makes a negative determination
of environmental significance in regard to said action.
SEQR ACTION: UNLISTED
(Short EAF on File in Clerk's Office)
RESOLUTION NO. 218- AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR TO EXECUTE A
DEED WITH THE NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION FOR THE SALE OF A
LANDLOCKED PARCEL LOCATED IN DRYDEN
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lane, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote.
WHEREAS, the County has acquired tax parcel no. 63-1-2 in the Town of Dryden through
foreclosure, and
271
September 19, 2001
WHEREAS, said parcel was not put up for auction as it was determined it may have value to the
State because it abuts Yellow Barn State Forest, and
WHEREAS, the County asked the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
(DEC) if it would like to purchase this 13.5 acre landlocked parcel, and
WHEREAS, the DEC agreed to purchase the parcel and offered to pay the County $7,100, as
outlined in the Land Purchase Agreement dated May 9, 2001, and
WHEREAS, the DEC requires a resolution confirming the Land Purchase Agreement and
authorizing the County Administrator to execute the deed, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the Land
Purchase Agreement is confirmed and that the County Administrator is authorized to execute the deed
and closing paperwork.
SEQR ACTION: UNLISTED
(Short EAF on file in Clerk's Office)
RESOLUTION NO. 219 - AUTHORIZATION FOR CONTINGENT FUND
APPROPRIATION TO COVER OUTSIDE LEGAL FEES
RELATED TO REDISTRICTING LAWSUIT -COUNTY
ATTORNEY
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Penniman. A short roll call vote resulted as
follows: Ayes —14, Noes — 0, Vacancy —1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, outside counsel was obtained to facilitate the County's defense in the recent
redistricting lawsuit imposed by the Town of Ithaca, and several other parties, and
WHEREAS, the County has been billed by Harris Beach, LLP, for legal services through August
9, 2001 in the amount of $14,031.54, representing the second phase of counsel and defense, and
WHEREAS, payment is now due, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Representatives hereby acknowledges that future billings are
anticipated making the total County cost related to this case approximately, $65,000, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations and Budget and Capital
Committees, That the Director of Finance be authorized and directed to make the following budget
appropriation:
FROM: A1990.54400 Contingent Fund $14,031.54
TO: A1420.54442 Professional Services $14,031.54
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee has met three times since the last Board meeting.
Two of those meetings were spent reviewing department and division budget requests. At the regular
meeting on September 11 guests were in attendance to discuss the Ellis Hollow Road project. The
Committee spent time discussing the expansion of the Crash, Fire, Rescue building at the Airport and its
SEQR action. He said the airline industry is the backbone to the economy and firmly believes that in
spite of the recent events there will continue to be an airline industry and an Ithaca Tompkins Regional
Airport.
RESOLUTION NO. 220 - MAKING A NEGATIVE DETERMINATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE IN RELATION TO A
PLANNED EXPANSION OF THE AIRCRAFT RESCUE AND
FIRE FIGHTING (ARFF) BUILDING - ITHACA/TOMPKINS
REGIONAL AIRPORT
272
September 19, 2001
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the County plans to expand the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) Building
also known as the Crash/Fire/Rescue (CFR) Building at the Ithaca/Tompkins Regional Airport, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives has reviewed and accepted as
adequate the Environmental Assessment Form with respect to that action, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the expansion of the
CFR Building is an unlisted action,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives hereby makes a
negative determination of environmental significance in regard to said action.
SEQR ACTION: Unlisted
(Short Environmental Assessment Form on file in the Clerk's Office)
RESOLUTION NO. 221 - AWARD OF BID — AIRCRAFT RESCUE AND FIRE FIGHTING
FACILITY (ARFF) (CFR BUILDING) EXPANSION (2002) — ITHACA
/TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the Finance Department has duly advertised for bids to complete an expansion of the
ARFF Facility at the Ithaca/Tompkins Regional Airport with work to commence in 2002, and
WHEREAS, three (3) bids were received for each of the General Construction, HVAC and
Plumbing portions of the project, five (5) bids were received for the Electrical portion of the project, and
all were opened and publicly read on August 22, 2001, and
WHEREAS, bids were reviewed by the Airport's engineering firm, C & S Engineers, Inc., now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That subject to grants being
received from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the New York State Department of
Transportation (NYSDOT), the bid be awarded to the following as the lowest responsible bidders with
bids as detailed:
General:
HVAC:
Electrical:
Plumbing:
Bouley of Auburn, NY
Airtech Heating of Liverpool, NY
Richardson & Bros. of Ithaca, NY
Kimble of Elmira, NY
$ 577,700.00
$ 86,700.00
$ 153,300.00
$ 79,300.00
TOTAL $ 897,000.00
RESOLVED, further, That the funding sources for the ARFF Facility Expansion (2002) are as
follows:
FAA Share
NYSDOT Share
Local Share*
(90.0%)
( 5.0%)
( 5.0%)
$ 807,300.00
$ 44,850.00
$ 44,850.00
TOTAL $ 897,000.00
*Airport Operating Budget
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute
contracts with the four successful bidders and with the FAA and NYSDOT when said grant offers are
received,
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be authorized to borrow monies if necessary,
until reimbursement is received from the Federal Aviation Administration and New York State
Department of Transportation.
SEQR ACTION: Unlisted
273
September 19, 2001
(Determination of no significant environmental impact)
(Short EAF on file in Clerk's Office)
RESOLUTION NO. 222 - AWARD OF BID — OLD TERMINAL RAMP REHABILITATION —
ITHACA/TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Ms. Kiefer. Mr. Penniman reported on the issue of the trees
proximity to the Sapsucker Woods unique natural area. At today's Planning Committee meeting
members of the Planning Department staff and Environmental Management Council said they will be
pursuing this as quickly as possible to determine the significance of that portion of the woods. Mrs.
Schuler recalled past problems with Suit-Kote and hoped this would go well.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 14, Noes — 0, Vacancy — 1 (District No. 2).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Finance Department has duly advertised for bids to complete a rehabilitation of
the Old Terminal Ramp at the Ithaca/Tompkins Regional Airport, and
WHEREAS, two (2) bids were received and publicly read on August 23, 2001 and that the low
bid is within ten percent (10%) of the engineer's estimate and considered to be in order, and
WHEREAS, the Obstruction Clearance portion of this contract, involving tree clearance in the
Runway Protection Zone, has been removed from this project pending satisfying some environmental
concerns related to the trees' proximity to a Unique Natural Area (Sapsucker Woods) and that said
Obstruction Clearance will be brought back to the Board as a separate project, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That subject to grants being
received from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the New York State Department of
Transportation (NYSDOT), the bid be awarded to Suit-Kote of Cortland, New York as the lowest
responsible bidder with a bid of $566,795.00,
RESOLVED, further, That the funding sources for the project are as follows:
FAA Share (90.0%) $ 510,115.00
NYSDOT Share ( 5.0%) $ 28,340.00
Local Share* ( 5.0%) $ 28,340.00
TOTAL $ 566,795.00
*Airport Operating Budget
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute
contracts with Suit-Kote and with the Federal Aviation Administration and New York State Department
of Transportation when said grant offers are received,
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director be authorized to borrow monies if necessary,
until reimbursement is received from the Federal Aviation Administration and New York State
Department of Transportation.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -4
RESOLUTION NO. 223 - AUTHORIZING ACCEPTANCE OF A FEDERAL AVIATION
ADMINISTRATION (FAA) GRANT FOR DESIGN,
CONSTRUCTION AND INSPECTION OF A REGIONAL JET
PASSENGER BOARDING BRIDGE, ACQUISITION OF A
PARCEL OF LAND OF APPROXIMATELY THIRTY (30)
ACRES AND PURCHASE OF A RUNWAY FRICTION
METER — ITHACA/TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
274
September 19, 2001
WHEREAS, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has made an offer to participate in the
funding of the purchase of a Regional Jet passenger boarding bridge, land acquisition and runway friction
meter, and
WHEREAS, these projects are part of the ongoing airport Master Plan improvements, and
WHEREAS, the County has received a grant offer of $449,670 to accomplish these projects, with
the estimated costs being:
FAA Share (90.0%) Account No. HT 5601.44592 $ 449,670.00
NYSDOT Share ( 5.0%) Account No. HT 5601.43592 $ 24,981.00
Local Share ( 5.0%) Account No. HT 5601.45031 $ 24,982.00
TOTAL $499,633.00
, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the grant offer from the
Federal Aviation Administration of $449,670 be and hereby is accepted and that the County
Administrator is authorized to execute the required documents.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 224 - AUTHORIZING ACCEPTANCE OF A FEDERAL AVIATION
ADMINISTRATION (FAA) GRANT FOR DESIGN,
CONSTRUCTION AND INSPECTION OF THE
REHABILITATION OF THE GENERAL AVIATION (OLD
TERMINAL) RAMP (APPROXIMATELY 25,000 SQUARE
YARDS) AND OBSTRUCTION REMOVAL (RUNWAY 32
APPROACH END) — ITHACA/TOMPKINS REGIONAL
AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has made an offer to participate in the
funding of the Old Terminal Ramp Rehabilitation project and Obstruction Removal of trees in the
Runway Protection Zone at the approach end of Runway 32, and
WHEREAS, both projects are part of the ongoing airport Master Plan improvements, and
WHEREAS, the Obstruction Clearance portion covered by this grant offer is subject to a
satisfactory resolution of environmental concerns due to its proximity to a Unique Natural Area, and
WHEREAS, the County has received a grant offer of $646,539 to accomplish the design,
construction and inspection of ramp rehabilitation and obstruction removal projects, with the estimated
costs being:
FAA Share (90.0%) Account No. HT 5601.44592 $ 646,539.00
NYSDOT Share ( 5.0%) Account No. HT 5601.43592 $ 35,919.00
Local Share ( 5.0%) Account No. HT 5601.45031 $ 35,919.00
TOTAL $ 718,377.00
, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the grant offer from the
Federal Aviation Administration of $646,539.00 be and hereby is accepted and that the County
Administrator is authorized to execute the required documents.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
RESOLUTION NO. 225 - AUTHORIZATION FOR CONTINGENT FUND APPROPRIATION
PURSUANT TO A 1995 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
WITH THE CITY OF ITHACA FOR SUPPLEMENTAL PARKING
PROVIDED BY THE CITY FOR HUMAN SERVICES BUILDING
EMPLOYEES AT THE FIRE CENTRAL LOT ON STATE STREET
275
September 19, 2001
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Lalley. A short roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes —
14, Noes — 0, Vacancy — 1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED. Mr. Proto requested a copy of
the Airport's Five Year Master Plan.
WHEREAS, an agreement was made with the City of Ithaca whereby up to 20 additional parking
spaces would be made available at their Fire Central site on State Street, and
WHEREAS, 18 spaces have been available and are used exclusively by Human Services Building
and Fire Coordinator staff, and
WHEREAS, expenses from January of 1999 through December of 2001 are due and payable to
the City of Ithaca for these spaces, and
WHEREAS, no funds have been budgeted for this purpose, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works and Budget and Capital Program
Committees, That the Director of Finance be authorized and directed to make the following budget
appropriation:
FROM: A1990.54400 Contingent Fund $ 19,440
TO: A1621.54432 Rent 19,440
[Calculation = 18 spaces @ $30 per month for 36 months]
RESOLVED, further, That future payments will be made through the Facilities Utilities, Taxes,
Insurance and Rent budget,
RESOLVED, further, That the fiscal target be increased by $6,480.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee received a presentation from a professor and
interns at Cornell on the Commercial Center Revitalization Program on some projects they have been
working on around the County. The Committee also discussed the Flood Hazard Mitigation Program
and a proposal to reorganize that program. He said they would like to see the highest -priority projects
done first and to accomplish this they need to go over the County's streams and develop a County -wide
management plan. At this time the proposal is to suspend funding of new projects and divert those
monies to a planning process that will likely take two years. At that time they will come back with an
overall plan with the intention of addressing the most urgent flooding areas first. Mr. Penniman said the
Committee also discussed the aquifer and groundwater study that is in the County's capital project book.
He said there is general support for the concept throughout the County but there continues to be
discussion on what the fmancial contribution of the County and municipalities would be.
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee reviewed Articles five and six at it last meeting. At
the next meeting they will review a draft report on the County's recently redistricting process.
Report from the Communications Capital Proiects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The next
meeting will be September 25 at noon. At that meeting they will be reviewing the draft request for
proposals for the communications system project upgrade. They will also be discussing the architectural -
design service contract to proceed with the public safety communications building. Ms. Blanchard
reported she attended the 911 Operations Committee meeting today and said there will be additional
security measures taken at Central Fire Station where the County's centralized dispatch functions are
located.
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
276
September 19, 2001
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, had no report.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
Ms. Mink, Chair, said the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. She asked
members to consider meeting on September 28th.
Report from the Information Management Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, reported the Committee met and discussed disposal of County computers. She
said the auction of interdepartmental pc's is not resulting in many bids from County employees or the
non-profit sector so that process is being revisited. She said it costs the County approximately $10 to
dispose of computers at the Solid Waste and Recycling Center in addition to the cost of removing
information from them. This is a cost that was not included in the original program for computerization.
Ms. Kiefer said it has become apparent that many departments in the County have individual employees
who by virtue of their technical computing skills have become the point of contact for the ITS
Department. She said these employees take time to assist departmental colleagues; they should be
recognized for the important service they provide. Ms. Mink suggested this issue be forwarded to Diane
Bradac, Training and Development Coordinator, to explore ways to recognize these individuals.
Approval of Minutes of September 4, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote,
to approve the minutes of the September 4, 2001 meeting as submitted. MINUTES APPROVED.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:13 p.m.
277
October 2, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Ms. Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 12 Representatives. Excused: 2 (Representatives Kiefer and Todd). Vacancy: 1
(District No. 2).
Presentation of Proclamation(s)
Chair Mink presented a proclamation declaring October 6-13. 2001 to be Cornell Cooperative
Extension and 4-H Week in Tompkins County, to Helen Howard, Extension Educator and Regional
Coordinator for the Southern Tier Regional Nutrition Network, and Carolyn Miller, Nutrition Participant
and Program Volunteer.
Chair Mink presented a proclamation declaring October, 7-13, 2001, to be Breast Cancer
Awareness Week in Tompkins County, to Andi Gladstone, Executive Director of the Ithaca Breast Cancer
Alliance.
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca resident, spoke about speeding by vehicles in the City and said she
feels there has been a dramatic increase in the number of speeders since she began riding her bicycle in
1982. Ms. Gougakis said she sees people tailgating other cars and feels motorists are not courteous to
bicyclists.
Paul Bonaparte -Krogh, Executive Director of Cooperative Extension, recognized Jim Blizzard
who is responsible for televising the Board meetings through the County's Public Information Program.
He said this year they have instituted a new service recognition program and thanked Mr. Blizzard for
five years of service to Tompkins County.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Mr. Penniman, District No. 15 Representative, congratulated the Ithaca Breast Cancer Alliance
for their success over the years. He said this has been a very successful effort whose services are utilized
by people both inside Tompkins County and beyond.
Mr. Penniman also reported on the NYSAC (New York State Association of Counties)
Conference and said he attended a workshop on Pesticide Neighborhood Notification Program. He said
this is an evolving program that should continue to be looked at. He also attended a workshop on the
State's Quality Communities Program and workbooks on specific design ideas that municipalities might
be able to use will be passed on to the community. He said NYSAC adopted several resolutions on a
range of issues and concerns in regard to the State budget.
Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Representative, invited the public to attend the OD Vonengland nature
preserve on Malloryville Road that is sponsored by the Nature Conservancy. He said there are
wonderful trails that were upgraded this summer as part of the ongoing efforts to protect that area.
278
October 2, 2001
Mr. Stein, District No. 3 Representative, also commented on the recent NYSAC Fall Conference.
He said this was his last conference since this is his last term on the Board. Mr. Stein said several
members of this Board have expressed an interest in joining some of the NYSAC committees and he will
be following-up on providing information to members to enable them to do that. He said NYSAC does a
good job representing the interests of the County and hopes representation will continue. Mr. Stein said
he was on the panel for the electric power session. He explained and presented the Municipal Electric
and Gas Alliance which is now has six -member counties.
Ms. Blanchard, District No. 1 Representative, reported she attended the McGraw House open
house which celebrated its thirty-year anniversary. She also attended the open house at Linderman Creek
in the Town of Ithaca. Since housing was her first course of study and the basis for her career in
planning, she began thinking how rich this community is in housing options.
Mrs. Schuler, District No. 4 Representative, said she, too, attended the open houses mentioned
previously by Ms. Blanchard. She said the Community Justice Center will host an open house on October
10`h. She announced tomorrow morning at 10 a.m. there will be a Homeless Housing Task Force
meeting.
Chair's Report and Appointment(s)
Ms. Mink had no report.
Appointment(s)
Chair Mink appointed the Archives Committee and its charge and membership as follows:
Purpose: The Space Needs and Location Committee has been directed to pursue the concept of a Records
Archive and Research Center. The Archives Committee will act as a sub -committee for the purposes of
formulating a recommendation pursuant to the objectives listed below. This includes the grant
application process through the New York State Archives and Records Administration (SARA) for a
feasibility study in the Spring of 2002.
Objectives:
• Who are the participants/benefactors of the Center?
• What entities would be housed in the Center?
• What revenues are available on an annual basis?
• What revenues are available for start-up?
• Who would operate the Center?
• What technology would be required?
• What items would be housed at the Center?
Committee Members:
Stuart Stein, Member, Board of Representatives, Chair
Frank Proto, Member, Board of Representatives
Dan Winch, Member, Board of Representatives
Matt Braun, Executive Director, Dewitt Historical Society
Herb Finch, Member Dewitt Board of Directors
Carol Kammen, County Historian
Aurora Valenti, County Clerk and Records Officer
Bob Hillick, Records Manager
Kathy Smithers, Deputy County Administrator
279
October 2, 2001
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher reported a copy of an Expanded Budget Committee report has been distributed to all
Board members. He noted that the property tax rate is at 5.8 percent. In addition to the information
contained in the packet, they will be bringing additional information on best and worst-case scenarios.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wood, Deputy County Attorney, reported he is still awaiting decisions in both the
redistricting litigation and the case involving municipalities.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires reported on the recent bond anticipation note sale to finance the improvements at
Tompkins Cortland Community College. The County issued $2,910,000 and received a record low
interest rate of 2.09 percent. He noted that interest earnings are down so the money saved in borrowing
will balance with the reduced interest earnings. He stated there were five bidders and the notes were sold
to Fleet Bank.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, the
following resolution(s) were added to the agenda:
In Support of Windows of Hope Family Relief Fund
Appropriation from Contingent Fund — Snow Removal
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
Chair Mink gave the appropriate committee chairman permission to withdraw the following
resolution from the agenda:
Appropriation from Contingent Fund — Medical Examiner Program
Approval of Appointment(s) Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Mrs. Schuler, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to approve the following appointment under the Consent Agenda:
E911 Operations Committee
George Totman — term expires December 31, 2002
Report from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, had no report.
Report from the Economic and Workforce Development Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, had no report.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, had no report.
280
-7.`"" g., , .
October 2, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 226 — APPROPRIATION FROM ATI CONTINGENCY POOL —
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PREVENTION PROGRAM
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler. A short roll call vote resulted as follows:
Ayes — 12, Noes — 0, Excused — 2 (Representatives Kiefer and Todd), Vacancy — 1 (District No. 2).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Domestic Violence Prevention program was transferred to the Probation
Department by Resolution No. 146 of June 19, 2001 with the understanding that the program would be
funded through various federal and/or state grants, and
WHEREAS, funding for the Domestic Violence Prevention Program through the Violence
Against Women Act (VAWA) ended on June 30, 2001, and a subsequent grant application was made for
2002, and
WHEREAS, word was received on September 7, 2001, that continued future funding through a
new VAWA grant has been denied, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety and Budget and Capital Committees, That
the Director of Finance be authorized to appropriate $36,863 from the ATI Contingency Pool as follows:
FROM: A1990.54400 Contingent Fund $36,863
TO: A3991.51000 Salary $ 4,697
A3994.51000 Salary 25,053
A3994.54303 Supplies 100
A3994.54330 Printing 100
A3994.54442 Local Mileage 200
A3994.54452 Postage 150
A3994.54472 Telephone 300
A3994.58000 Fringes 6,263
TOTAL $36,863
RESOLVED, further, That Program Number 4550 Domestic Violence Prevention be
distinguished from other Probation programs with a separate Fiscal Target,
RESOLVED, further, That this appropriation shall not impact any potential certified surplus
funds for the Probation Department as of December 31, 2001.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Board will begin budget deliberations with the Expanded
Budget Committee on October 5t.
Report from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board
meeting. At the next meeting on October 4 the Committee will look at a request to approve funds for
legal fees associated with the redistricting lawsuit. They will also continue discussion on restructuring the
County Attorney's position, wind and solar energy exemptions in Assessment Department, and creating
intern positions in the Human Rights Department. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr called attention to the survey that
has been circulated to all advisory board members and asked that anyone with questions contact him or
the Board Office.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on September 25th and most of the business
conducted at that meeting is reflected in the resolutions that follow. He said there was discussion about
the Ellis Hollow Road project and the process to move forward in selecting an engineer. Mr. Lane
281
October 2, 2001
announced the first public meeting has been scheduled for October 18 at the Ellis Hollow Community
Center. At the request of some Board members the Committee has been exploring other alternatives for
that project. However, at a special meeting held this afternoon, the Public Works Committee reaffirmed
that it would like to have the full capital project of $1.6 million for the project whether it begins this year
or is delayed for one year. Mr. Lane said in light of the September 11 attacks County Highway
employees have requested and have been granted permission to display the American flag on County
Highway trucks. Mr. Lane spoke of the Highway Division's budget and said at this time it is short
approximately $276,000 in CHIPS funding. This is the operations portions of the budget and there is a
potential this money will not be received. He said if it is not in next year's budget the County will have to
make up for that spending in this year's budget as well as a reduction in the 2002 budget. Mr. Lane said
there is also a concern about the money that was spent because of the hard winter last year.
RESOLUTION NO. 227 - APPROPRIATION FROM CONTINGENT FUND — SNOW
REMOVAL
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Lalley. A short roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes
— 12, Noes — 0, Excused — 2 (Representatives Kiefer and Todd), Vacancy — 1 (District No. 2).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED. Mrs. Schuler asked that the County request the State to use the same salt
mix the County does. Mr. Lane said this could be done.
WHEREAS, the Snow Removal account is currently in a deficit situation, and
WHEREAS, Snow Removal is a separate Budgeting Unit and maintains its own Fiscal Target,
and
WHEREAS, the early months of 2001 consumed a greater than normal use of materials and
payments to towns for municipal snow and ice removal, and
WHEREAS, an opportunity to purchase salt at a reduced price currently exists, now therefore be
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works and Budget and Capital Committees, That
the Director of Finance be authorized to make the following budget appropriation:
FROM: A1990.54400 Contingent Fund $100,000.00
TO: D5142.54312 Snow — Materials $100,000.00
RESOLVED, further, That these funds shall be used to pay overdue accounts for approximately
$34,000 with the remainder available for the purchase of salt.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
it
RESOLUTION NO. 228 - REMOVAL OF PART OF EAST KING ROAD FROM THE COUNTY
ROAD SYSTEM
MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, in 1966, the New York State Department of Transportation rebuilt and realigned a
section of CR170, East King Road, for the purposes of creating a truck pull -off loop, and
WHEREAS, the old alignment of East King Road was no longer necessary as part of the County
highway system, and
WHEREAS, the Town of Ithaca has generally provided maintenance on the old alignment of East
King Road over the years hence, and
WHEREAS, no documentation can be found in accordance with Section 115-b of New York
State Highway Law showing that the old alignment was removed from the County road system and
reverted to the Town of Ithaca, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the section of East King
Road, herein referred to as the old alignment, be officially removed from the County road system, and
upon agreement with the governing body of the Town of Ithaca, said old alignment of East King Road
282
October 2, 2001
shall revert to the Town of Ithaca and be maintained by said Town in the same manner as other Town
highways,
RESOLVED, further, That the removal of the referenced old alignment of East King Road be
effective immediately upon approval of this resolution by the County Board of Representatives and Town
of Ithaca Board.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-2
RESOLUTION NO. 229 - AUTHORIZING A SUPPLEMENTAL CONSULTANT AGREEMENT
NO. 3 WITH C&S ENGINEERS, INC., FOR CONSTRUCTION
OBSERVATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES IN
CONNECTION WITH THE AIRPORT RESCUE AND FIRE
FIGHTING (ARFF) (CFR) BUILDING EXPANSION, THE
PASSENGER BOARDING BRIDGE, AND THE (OLD TERMINAL)
APRON REHABILITATION AND OBSTRUCTION REMOVAL —
ITHACA/TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT (Resolution reconsidered
and adopted October 16, 2001)
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Winch. Mr. Stein spoke of the engineering fees and said
the fee for managing the construction appears to be approximately 15 percent of the project and does not
make sense to him. Mr. Lane said he understands Mr. Stein's concern, however, said this is not unusual
with the processes that the federal government requires in its grant programs for consultants. Mr. Lalley
said according to the engineer this project requires a lot of vertical as well as horizontal work and that is
why it will require extra effort in managing the project.
Mr. Joseph expressed concern over Airport revenues and the loss of flights and the potential for
downsizing of airplanes. He said the local revenue comes from ticket fees and he is concerned that the
Airport will not have the income it has had in the past. Mr. Lane said the Public Works Committee
discussed this concern and acknowledged that if revenues go down there may be a problem. However,
the federal government is infusing money into the airline industry and there is a commitment at that level
to rehabilitate the airline industry. Mr. Lane said he feels leveraging $3 million for $140,000 is a good
return to maintain a County Airport. Mr. Proto said even though commercial airlines have seen a decline
in passengers because of the recent terrorist attacks, the private aircraft side still pays fees to the Airport
and those flights have increased. A roll call vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 7 (Representatives
Koplinka-Loehr, Lalley, Lane, Penniman, Proto, Mink, and Winch); Noes — 5 (Representatives
Blanchard, Joseph, Schuler, Stein, and Totman); Vacancy —1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION FAILED.
RESOLUTION RECONSIDERED AND ADOPTED OCTOBER 16, 2001.
WHEREAS, the County has awarded construction contracts for the Airport Rescue and Fire
Fighting (ARFF) (CFR) Building Expansion and the (Old Terminal) Apron Rehabilitation and
Obstruction Removal projects, and
WHEREAS, subject to an acceptable bid being received, the County will shortly be awarding a
construction contract for the Passenger Boarding Bridge, and
WHEREAS, there is a need for Construction Observation and Administration services in relation
to these projects, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee. That subject to the required
Independent Fee Estimate being performed which confirms that the fees are fair, the following
Construction Observation and Administration contracts with C&S Engineers, Inc., be approved:
ARFF (CFR) Building Expansion $ 138,537.00
Passenger Boarding Bridge $ 20,784.00
Apron Rehabilitation and Obstruction Clearance $ 76,982.00
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director is authorized to advance payments for these
projects until reimbursement is received from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and New York
State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT).
283
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-2
October 2, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 230 - AUTHORIZING ACCEPTANCE OF A FEDERAL AVIATION
ADMINISTRATION (FAA) GRANT FOR DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION,
INSPECTION AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE AIRPORT RESCUE
AND FIRE FIGHTING (ARFF) (CFR) BUILDING EXPANSION
PROJECT — ITHACA/TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives awarded a contract on the 19th day
of September, 2001 to expand the Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) (CFR) Building, and
WHEREAS, the County has received a grant offer from the Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) in the amount of $1,012,128.00 for design, construction, inspection and administration costs for
said Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Building expansion, and
WHEREAS, the budget for this project is as follows:
FAA Share (90%) Account No. HT 5601.44592 $ 1,012,128.00
NYSDOT Share (5.0%) Account No. HT 5601.43592 $ 56,229.00
Local Share (5.0%) Account No. HT 5601.45031 $ 56,230.00
TOTAL $ 1,124,587.00
, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the grant offer from the
Federal Aviation Administration of $ 1,012,128.00 be and hereby is accepted and that the County
Administrator is authorized to execute the required documents.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-2
Report from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, updated the Board on the search for a Planning Commissioner. He
said they are interviewing a well-qualified group of candidates and he expects an appointment will be
made in November.
Individual Member -Filed Resolution
RESOLUTION NO. 231 — IN SUPPORT OF WINDOWS OF HOPE FAMILY RELIEF FUND
MOVED by Mr. Stein and unanimously seconded and adopted by voice vote by members
present.
WHEREAS, the tragic events of September 11, 2001 destroyed the World Trade Center
Buildings in New York City, and
WHEREAS, the food service employees of "Windows on the World" and other restaurants lost
their lives in the destruction of these buildings, and
WHEREAS, the Statler Hotel at Cornell University will be hosting a special dinner on October
14, 2001 to support the Windows of Hope Family Relief Fund, to assist the families of the victims, and
WHEREAS, many of those who were lost were blue-collar workers living from paycheck to
paycheck, and
WHEREAS the entire event will be staffed with Statler Hotel employees and students
volunteering their time, and
WHEREAS, all the food, wines, flowers, table linens, etc., will be donated, and
284
October 2, 2001
WHEREAS, many chefs from Ithaca and Tompkins County have agreed to participate and donate
their time, and
WHEREAS, the organizers of this event have asked for the support of the County Board and
others in the community, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives wholeheartedly supports this
effort and urges the community to attend this dinner which will assist these families who are in great need
of financial help at this critical time.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met on September 271 and reviewed the draft
report on the Committee's redistricting efforts this year. Time was also spent reviewing the Personnel
functions contained in the Charter.
Report from the Communications Capital Project Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, provided the Board with an update on the status of the Request for
Proposals for the Public Safety System Upgrade. She said the draft document was reviewed and will be
refined over the next month and approved at a meeting later this month. The first 30 -day period after
issuance will be a time for vendors to comment as well as others who may be interested. The purpose of
this period is to make sure that all potential vendors/providers of systems understand completely the
functional specifications for the project and their responsibility should they be chosen as the preferred
vendor. The goal is to have proposals back by January so that the Committee can make a decision about
the system. Ms. Blanchard said the Committee also discussed the preparation of the Environmental
Impact Statement will be managed, and will be entering into a contract with Ann Clavel, lawyer/planner,
to oversee the project.
Ms. Blanchard said the Committee discussed the Paging project and stated the Request for
Proposals for that portion of emergency services is out and responses are expected by October 151. The
Committee heard from Ithaca Fire Chief, Brian Wilbur, that Common Council would be accepting a grant
for the Weather Service Transmitter, which will compliment the Consolidated 911 Center on South Hill.
That project is also moving forward. The Committee also heard that the advertisement for the Director
of Communications and Emergency Management position was producing an attractive field of candidates.
The search committee has been named and will begin its work later this week.
An update was given on what was learned at the meeting of the Statewide Wireless Network
(SWN) Advisory Council m Albany on September 26t. They heard some of the first accounts of the
havoc that took place in New York City on September 11t. A message was sent that a major
improvement in public safety communications systems at every level is a requirement for the future.
With respect to available funding, $25 million is in the Governor's budget for the first phases of this
project. Like everything else, a State budget needs to be in place in order to access those funds, however,
word has been sent from the Governor's office that SWN is a top priority. This message was coupled
with the caveat to build the system with the fewest number of new towers which means faster
implementation and less fighting over locational decisions. Ms. Blanchard said she is convinced that
SWN is real and that Tompkins County's opportunity to be a part of the system is real. However,
continued local planning and project development is needed so that Tompkins County is poised to take
advantage of this opportunity. She reported the Communications Capital Project Committee
unanimously adopted a resolution in support of moving ahead with the process of upgrading the public
safety communications system will all due speed.
Report from the Space Needs and Location Committee
285
October 2, 2001
Ms. Mink, Chair, reported the Committee met on September 28th and will meet tomorrow with
representatives from the State to discuss how pressing the State's space needs are for the court system and
what impact that will have on the Board of Representatives space. She said discussions on use of the old
Library will be focused on County office space because no private sector or other paying use has
materialized.
Report from the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee continues to edit its final report.
Approval of Minutes of September 19, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Winch, seconded by Mr. Joseph, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the minutes of the September 19, 2001 meeting as submitted. MINUTES
APPROVED.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m.
286
October 16, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Ms. Mink asked that a moment of silence be observed in remembrance of James Schug, former
Town of Dryden Supervisor, who recently passed away.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 14 Representatives. Vacancy: 1 (District No. 2).
Presentation of Proclamation(s)
Chair Mink presented a proclamation to Barbara Wilcox Theusen declaring October 19, 2001, to
be Wilcox Press Day in Tompkins County in celebration of 100 years of business.
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Ed Hooks, Town of Newfield Attorney, spoke to the Board regarding the Beach Road Bridge. He
said this bridge was taken over by the County in 1946 but never officially abandoned by the County. Mr.
Hooks said the bridge is in a state of disrepair and needs immediate attention. There has been
correspondence between the Town Supervisor and various representatives of the County's Engineering
Division to see who is responsible for maintenance of the bridge. Mr. Hooks said there is a great concern
for the safety of individuals who are using the bridge, with the majority being school children. He asked
that the Board work with the Town to solve these problems as expeditiously as possible.
Charles Berggren, Town of Newfield Supervisor, spoke regarding the Beach Road Bridge. He
said the bridge is in very poor shape but the Town was told if it begins working on the bridge it would be
interpreted that the Town is taking ownership. Mr. Berggren said the Bridge is used by children to get to
school and there is a serious potential for one of those children to get injured.
Lois Beach, Town of Newfield resident, spoke regarding the Beach Road Bridge. Ms. Beach
said many children and adults use this bridge, and is the only safe route to cross from Bank Street to Main
Street. Ms. Beach spoke of ownership of the bridge and said the Town of Newfield Clerk has found no
record that ownership of this bridge was transferred from the County to the Town. The County claims it
gave back all pedestrian bridges to the towns. She said because there is disagreement as to the
ownership, the bridge does not receive any maintenance and continues to deteriorate. She noted that the
bridge could get on the historic register, but to do so, ownership must be shown.
Alan Cohen, City of Ithaca Mayor, extended condolences to the Town of Dryden for the loss of
James Schug. He said he worked with Jim on several issues and will miss him. Mr. Cohen also spoke
about the City of Ithaca budget and the events of September 11`y'. He said the loss in revenue at the State
level will directly impact many programs and agencies in the City. Mr. Cohen said there is concern over
the drop in consumer confidence; therefore, the budget he has submitted shows no growth in sales tax
revenues. He said there are several concerns that the City has in regard to the budget, and asked that the
County consider delaying the start of the tax exemption on clothing that is scheduled to begin in March,
2002; for the sake of the City's fiscal integrity.
287
October 16, 2001
Olin Mack, Executive Director of OAR (Offender Aid and Restoration), said he is speaking to the
Board as a follow-up to a letter distributed to all Board members last week. The letter described changes
that have made the agency unable to operate in as cost-effective manner as they have over the past
twenty-seven years due to changes at the Sheriff's Department.
Tony Sutherland, OAR volunteer, said prior to the changes implemented by the Sheriff's
Department she visited the Jail three times a week. The service delivery model was one that allowed
them to see up to 90 inmates in a three-hour time period. She said they regularly work in close contact
with many agencies and were able to assist inmates in processing many applications for various agencies.
Ms. Sutherland said the changes that have been instituted at the Jail allow them to only serve few because
they must now meet inmates individually in a different location.
Cindy Overstreet, Member of the OAR Board of Directors, spoke concerning recent changes that
have been implemented at the Tompkins County Jail. She said OAR runs several alternative to
incarceration programs at the Tompkins County Jail. She said that previously OAR staff remained in the
hallway, speaking to inmates through metal grates. Ms. Overstreet said the current practice is no safer
and actually makes more work for Jail staff. She said OAR would like to find some solutions that will be
effective for all the County agencies and that will continue to provide cost-effective solutions that all
service providers are facing.
Joel Ray, Member of the OAR Board of Directors, also spoke concerning recent changes that
have been implemented at the Tompkins County Jail. He said OAR has been running its program for 25
years and have been serving inmates in the Jail through the hallway during that entire time. He said the
basic justifications for the recent changes that have been implemented were staff shortages and security
issues. Mr. Ray said it is his understanding from speaking to staff that neither of those justifications are
correct and in fact, staff at the Sheriff's Department are now working harder. He asked that the Board
urge Sheriff Meskill to restore the original service model for OAR.
Sheriff Peter Meskill said he and Debra Neimi, Jail Administrator, just returned from a meeting in
Albany today with the New York State Commission of Corrections where they reviewed the 1999
variance and reduced it slightly. He said the maximum number of beds at the Tompkins County Jail will
now be 103. Mr. Meskill said the Commission of Corrections will be sending a letter to the County
asking for representatives to attend a meeting in February to discuss the variance and to ask what the
County's plan of action will be.
Sheriff Meskill also spoke of the recent bioterrorism attacks on the United States. He spoke of an
opinion piece that appeared in the Philadelphia Enquirer on October 14t. He read a paragraph from that
article: "Even as this new threat continues to unfold, it is important for Americans to keep one thought
uppermost — the greatest threat from Anthrax or any other bioweapons, remains the psychological one.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Mr. Stein, District No. 3 Representative, said he received a telephone call from a constituent this
evening who had received a package that had white powder on it. He asked for clarification as to what
members of the public should do if they find themselves in a similar situation.
Ms. Mink said a forum on that subject will be held this week, the content of which will be
disseminated in the community. She said it is important that very informative messages be delivered by
the appropriate agencies frequently.
Mr. Totman, District No. 9 Representative, spoke concerning the comments made earlier in this
meeting by OAR staff and volunteers in regard to the changes implemented by the Sheriff at the Jail. Mr.
Totman said this has been discussed by the Public Safety Committee and has asked what takes place in
288
October 16, 2001
other counties. He said he is not aware of any other jail that allows outside individuals to have free
access to their facilities.
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, reminded the Board that a former Board member,
Reverend Jimmy Mike used to have such access but a couple of years ago the Sheriff instituted an
identification policy that he required all individuals to abide by. Although that was an inconvenience, it
was eventually accepted and is now common practice.
Mr. Joseph, District No. 12 Representative, spoke regarding access to the Jail by OAR staff. He
feels there is a significant difference in the service that agency provides in comparison to other agencies.
He said the program they are attempting to run requires them to have the opportunity to speak with
everyone in the jail. He said to bring each inmate to a separate room makes it impossible to accomplish
their work.
Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Representative, spoke of the loss of James Schug, former Town of
Dryden Supervisor. He said Jim was the kind of person who cared about people and who accomplished
what he set out to do. Jim Schug worked very hard to keep Wilcox Press in business even though he ran
his own printing company. He said Mr. Schug was active in economic development efforts and was
instrumental in keeping the Dryden Armory in Tompkins County. Mr. Lane said Jim Schug made many
contributions to Tompkins County as well as Dryden and will be greatly missed.
Mr. Lalley, District No. 13 Representative, also spoke of the passing of James Schug. Mr. Lalley
said Jim Schug introduced him to local politics in the Town of Dryden. He said Mr. Schug was
appreciative of everyone's efforts and always worked on making the right things happen.
Mr. Penniman, District No. 15 Representative, announced the new Ulysses Philomathic Library is
open. He said it is a beautiful building that is approximately three times the size of the old building. Mr.
Penniman said it was built with many donated materials and labor and encouraged everyone to visit. Mr.
Penniman reported an Inter -County meeting will be held on October 19th with the Western Counties
Association. He said he has additional information if any Board member is interested.
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, said this Board has been very supportive of the
community revitalization effort and invited everyone to attend the Brooktondale Apple Festival on
October 20th at 10 a.m. He announced there will also be a harvest dinner at 5 p.m. in Speedsville.
Mrs. Schuler, District No. 4 Representative, reported she and Representative Stein attended an
open house for the Fly Fisher on West Seneca Street. She also reported the Ithaca Breast Cancer
Walkathon was a big success with over 1,000 participants, raising over $39,000.
Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Representative, responded to the remarks made by Mayor Cohen this
evening in regard to sales tax on clothing. He said the City of Ithaca still has the opportunity to not lift its
portion of the tax if it chooses to. He said there are new shopping opportunities coming to Tompkins
County and many residents are looking forward to the elimination of this tax.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote, the resolution entitled In
Appreciation of Retiring Planning Department Commissioner, James Hanson, was added to the agenda.
RESOLUTION NO. 232 - IN APPRECIATION OF RETIRING PLANNING DEPARTMENT
COMMISSIONER, JAMES HANSON
MOVED by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously seconded and adopted by voice vote.
289
October 16, 2001
WHEREAS, since April of 1990, James Hanson has devoted eleven years of service to the
citizens of Tompkins County as Commissioner of the Tompkins County Planning Department, and
WHEREAS, through his leadership qualities, Jim has demonstrated enthusiastic dedication
towards public service, and
WHEREAS, Jim, in his capacity as Planning Commissioner, has placed an emphasis on
professionalism and technical expertise in the planning process, and
WHEREAS, Jim created and fostered strong support for a wide range of planning, community
development and environmental programs that would benefit the communities of Tompkins County,
including the First Time Homeowner's Program, the development of the County's Geographic
Information System (GIS), the completion of the Unique Natural Areas Inventory 2000, the creation of
the Tompkins County Water Resources Council, the development and project management of the Donald
H. Crispell dry dam in the Town of Dryden, and numerous other projects, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Tompkins County Board of Representatives recognizes, on the occasion of
his retirement, the many significant contributions Jim has made to preserve and improve the quality of life
for the citizens of our County,
RESOLVED, further, That the Board of Representatives extends its sincere appreciation and best
wishes to Jim and his wife, Janet, on this well-deserved occasion.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Presentation by Tompkins Cortland Community Colle2e (TC3)
Mr. Carl Haynes, TC3 President, reported enrollment at the College is up by 11-12 percent this
year. He said this is one of the three largest increases in community college enrollment across the State of
New York. He spoke of the State budget and said they are the only sector of education that received no
increase. In fact, he said the College has received less in this year's State budget. Mr. Haynes said the
College is not asking for any additional money from Tompkins County; however, they will be asking for
approval to spend more tuition money. During the remainder of his presentation, Mr. Haynes highlighted
activities that are taking place at the College. He stated copies of his report are available to any Board
member who is interested.
Chair's Report and Appointments
Ms. Mink had no report or appointments.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher reported on the status of the New York State budget. He said there was hope that
the State Legislature would pass a supplemental budget; however, it does not appear that is going to
happen. He provided information on the Anthrax scare and said detailed information can be found on
the County's website. Mr. Whicher announced a public forum will be held on October 20th at the
Women's Community Building. At that forum, health, safety, and law enforcement officials will be
present to answer questions. Mr. Proto suggested placing important information on the government
access channel.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wood, Deputy County Attorney, reported there is no information available on the
redistricting or municipal litigation. He announced effective November 1 the change in the age of PINS
(Persons In Need of Supervision) cases will increase from 16 years of age to 18. He said this is a major
unfunded mandate and may have a significant impact on Tompkins County. Mr. Wood also announced
that the County Charter and Code is available on the Tompkins County website, and is searchable by key
words.
290
October 16, 2001
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires distributed the latest information on sales tax receipts. He said the figures provide
the framework for the 2002 budget process and said he believes they are well-positioned to maintain the
current budget amount.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote the following resolution(s)
were added to the agenda:
Providing Continuous Individual and Family Health Insurance Benefits for Those County
Officers and Employees During their Active Military Duty Resulting from the September 11,
2001 Attacks on the United States
Authorizing Tompkins County to Pay the Difference in Pay Between Military Pay and Base
County Salary to County Officers and Employees While Performing Ordered Military Duty
Resulting from the September 11, 2001 Attacks on the United States
Authorizing the Division (Department) of Assessment to Charge a Nominal Fee for Tax Map
Alterations Due to the Filing of Approved Subdivisions
Authorizing a Public Hearing on Proposed Local Law No. G of 2001 — Amending Section C-2.04
(c) of the Tompkins County Charter and Code — Vacancies on the Board of Representatives
Urging the Legislature to Reject Bill Amending Section 205-A and 205-E of the General
Municipal Law
Reconsideration of Resolution No. 229
It was MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Proto to reconsider Resolution No. 229. A voice
vote on the motion resulted as follows: Ayes — 12, Noes — 2 (Representatives Kiefer and Stein); Vacancy
— 1 (District No. 2). MOTION CARRIED. (Resolution adopted later in the meeting.)
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
Chair Mink gave the appropriate committee chairman permission to withdraw the following
resolution from the agenda:
Authorizing a Public Hearing on Proposed Local Law No. F of 2001— Amending Chapter 150 of
the Tompkins County Charter and Code by Adding a New Article VII Authorizing Real Property Tax
Exemption for Solar or Wind Energy Systems.
Approval of Resolution(s) Under the Consent Agenda
On motion and duly seconded, and unanimously adopted by voice vote the following
resolution(s) and appointment(s) were approved under the Consent Agenda:
RESOLUTION NO. 233 - ADOPTION OF REGULAR AND SUPPLEMENTAL REPORTS
OF TOTALS (FOOTINGS) OF ASSESSMENT ROLLS (See pages 305 -
306)
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote, under the Consent Agenda.
291
October 16, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the regular
and supplemental report of the totals (footings) of assessment rolls be accepted and the figures therein be
used as a basis for the taxation in the several tax districts of the County for the year 2002.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 234 - RETURNED SCHOOL TAXES
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote, under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS Article 13 of the Real Property Tax Law authorizes school district tax collectors to
submit by November 15th a listing of unpaid taxes to the County Treasurer for enforcement, and
WHEREAS the County guarantees the school districts payment of the unpaid taxes by April 1 of
the year following the return, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the Director
of Assessment of the County be and hereby is authorized and directed to add to the respective 2002 tax
rolls the amount of the uncollected school taxes returned by the collectors of the various districts,
exclusive of the Ithaca City School District, to the County Finance Director that remain unpaid and that
have not been heretofore relevied on town tax rolls and that said returned school taxes be reassessed and
relevied on town tax rolls as they are returned, and that said school taxes returned in 2001 be reassessed
and relevied upon the lots and parcels so returned with 12.0 percent annual interest in addition thereto.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 235 - RETURNED VILLAGE TAXES
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote, under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS Article 14 of the Real Property Tax Law authorizes village tax collectors to return to
the County Treasurer a listing of unpaid taxes for enforcement, and
WHEREAS the Villages of Cayuga Heights, Dryden, Freeville, Groton, Lansing, and
Trumansburg are authorized to submit their unpaid taxes to the County for enforcement, now therefore be
it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the Director
of Assessment of the County be and hereby is authorized and directed to add to the respective 2002 tax
rolls the amount of the uncollected village taxes returned by the various village tax collectors of the
various villages to the County Finance Director that remain unpaid and that have not been heretofore
relevied on town tax rolls, and that said returned village taxes be reassessed and relevied on town tax rolls
as they are returned and that said returned village taxes be reassessed and relevied upon the lots and
parcels so returned with 12.0 percent annual interest in addition thereto.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 236 - ESTABLISHING COUNTY EQUALIZATION RATES
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote, under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, pursuant to Article III, Section 4.05, Subdivision (d) of the Tompkins County
Charter and Code, the Director of Assessment has submitted and recommended the adoption of
292
October 16, 2001
equalization rates for all towns in Tompkins County and the City of Ithaca for the assessment rolls, filed
in 2001, and for the apportionment of County taxes levied in 2002, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the following
equalization rates be and hereby are adopted:
TOWN
Town of Caroline
Town of Danby
Town of Dryden
Town of Enfield
Town of Groton
Town of Ithaca
Town of Lansing
Town of Newfield
Town of Ulysses
City of Ithaca
TOTALS
SEQR ACTION:
AGGREGATE
ASSESSED
VALUATION OF
TAXABLE REAL
PROPERTY FOR
COUNTY PURPOSES
$ 103,955,191
$ 133,608,922
$ 515,574,244
$ 97,569,182
$ 151,122,243
$ 748,030,999
$ 770,239,717
$ 151,882,510
$ 233,200,663
$ 842,093,082
$3,747,276,753
TYPE II -20
COUNTY
EQUALIZATION
RATE
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
AGGREGATE FULL
VALUATION OF
TAXABLE REAL
PROPERTY FOR
COUNTY PURPOSES
$ 103,955,191
$ 133,608,922
$ 515,574,244
$ 97,569,182
$ 151,122,243
$ 748,030,999
$ 770,239,717
$ 151,882,510
$ 233,200,663
$ 842,093,082
$3,747,276,753
Report and Presentation of Resolutions by the Economic and Workforce Development Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, had no report. He announced the next regular meeting will be held October
23rd at 10 a.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 237 - TRANSFER OF ALL ENERGY AND GAS ALLIANCE
RESPONSIBILITIES TO MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC AND GAS
ALLIANCE "MEGA"
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, since 1998 the Counties of Tompkins and Tioga have been involved in a joint
venture, called the Tompkins and Tioga Energy and Gas Alliance, and
WHEREAS, said Alliance has been successful in obtaining favorable prices for electric and gas
available for the two counties and all municipalities, including schools, towns, and villages within each
county, as well as for individual households and business entities, and
WHEREAS, the joint venture has reached a point where a separate corporation is justified to
continue it and to facilitate other counties to obtain the benefits of the venture, and
WHEREAS, a non-profit corporation has been formed under Section 1411 of the Not -For -Profit
Corporation Law, to be called "Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance (MEGA)", now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the functions of the existing Energy and Gas Alliance insofar as Tompkins County is concerned are
hereby transferred and assigned to the Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance, Inc., upon a resolution of the
board of directors of said corporation (MEGA) assuming all the obligations of the Alliance and accepting
the functions of and all contracts of the Alliance,
293
October 16, 2001
RESOLVED, further, That three members of the Board of Representatives are and shall be
appointed by the Chair of the Board to the board of directors of MEGA to represent the Tompkins County
Government,
RESOLVED, further, That in particular the consulting agreement between Tompkins and Tioga
Counties and Salerni and Boyd, consultants dated January 19, 1998, and all payments due to Tompkins
County under said agreement, are hereby assigned to the corporation (MEGA), provided a similar
assignment is made by Tioga County and further provided that MEGA accepts said assignment and
assumes all obligations of the counties as provided in said consulting agreement,
RESOLVED, further, That the revenue received minus expenses incurred by Tompkins County
shall be allocated to MEGA from Alliance bid royalty revenues received in 2001 for the purpose of
funding fifty percent of the transition costs of MEGA, with the other fifty percent being funded by Tioga
County for the period of July 1, 2001 to December 31, 2001,
RESOLVED, further, That effective immediately Tompkins County will no longer budget for
Alliance expenditures or receive payments and all payments shall be received directly by the newly
incorporated Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance,
RESOLVED, further, That all contracts to which Tompkins County is a party, relating to the said
Tompkins and Tioga County Energy and Gas Alliance, are hereby assigned to MEGA, on condition that
MEGA shall assume all obligations under said contract,
RESOLVED, further, That the three director -members of MEGA appointed to represent
Tompkins County government are authorized to execute any agreement with MEGA on behalf of
Tompkins County to carry out the terms of this resolution.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Assessment Review Board
Nelson Bills — term expires September 30, 2006
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chairman, reported the Committee met on October 11 and heard reports from many
departments and agencies who report to the Committee.
RESOLUTION NO. 238 - AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT AN ANONYMOUS GRANT
TO PURCHASE A SPEED TRAILER
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Sheriff's Office applied for grant monies from an anonymous
agency in the amount of $8,000 to purchase a speed trailer,
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Sheriffs Office has been awarded a grant from an anonymous
agency in the amount of $8,000 to purchase the speed trailer, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the County accept the
grant of $8,000 to be used for the purpose of the aforementioned grant,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is directed to make the following adjustment
to his books for 2001:
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
Revenue A3113.42770 Other Miscellaneous Revenue $8,000
Appropriation A3113.52220 Department Equipment $8,000
RESOLVED, further, That the bid be awarded by the Purchasing Division.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
294
October 16, 2001
Report from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported several meetings of the Expanded Budget Committee have been
held. At this time the property tax rate increase stands at 4.5 percent; however, the process continues.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee has met twice since the last Board
meeting. He reported there are 1,275 individuals who did not pay their taxes in 2001 and that
approximately 200 notices of delinquent tax parcels will be printed in the newspaper. Mr. Koplinka-
Loehr reported there are several vacancies on the Planning Advisory Board and Board members should
forward names to be considered for membership to Wendy Skinner, Public Information Coordinator. Mr.
Koplinka-Loehr also requested an executive session to discuss a personnel matter.
Mr. Stein was recognized by the Chair to comment on Resolution No. 236 (Equalization Rate).
Mr. Stein called attention to the full assessment value of property in the City ($842 million), Town of
Lansing ($770 million), Town of Ithaca ($748 million), and Town of Dryden ($515 million), noting that
years ago there was a great disparity in wealth between the City and the towns, and the County,
recognizing this, took over paying for town bridges. With the growth in town wealth, this topic should be
revisited, because now there is a different inequity, and in the City 63 percent of the property is tax
exempt.
RESOLUTION NO. 239 - AUTHORIZATION FOR TRANSFER OF POSITION AND FISCAL
TARGET ADJUSTMENT — PLANNING AND ADMINISTRATION
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote.
WHEREAS, Board Resolution No. 121 of 2000 directed the Deputy County Administrator to act
on behalf of Tompkins County in collaboration with other appropriate staff and consultants in all matters
related to the Communications Capital Project, and
WHEREAS, much of this work was delegated to the Environmental Planner in the Planning
Department, and
WHEREAS, the expanded responsibilities have resulted in a reclassification of the position from
Environmental Planner to Capital Program Coordinator with immediate emphasis on the Communications
Capital Project and considerable review of all other impending capital projects, and
WHEREAS, the Capital Program Coordinator position will be under the direct administrative
oversight of the County Administrator, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operation, Planning, and Budget and
Capital Committees, That the position of Capital Program Coordinator be transferred from the Planning
Department to the County Administrator's office effective immediately,
RESOLVED, further, That the following budget adjustment be made for the remainder of 2001:
FROM: Planning A8010.51000 Environmental Planner $ 9,026
Planning A8020.58800 Fringes $ 2,257
TO: Administration A1230.51000 Capital Program Coordinator $ 9,026
Administration A1230.58800 Fringes $ 2,257
RESOLVED, further, That a one-year Fiscal Target adjustment be made for 2002 only to
decrease the Planning Department Fiscal Target (Base Budget) by $47,427 with a commensurate increase
in the County Administrator's Fiscal Target (Base Budget) of $47,427.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
295
October 16, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 240 - AUTHORIZATION FOR CONTINGENT FUND APPROPRIATION
TO COVER OUTSIDE LEGAL FEES RELATED TO
REDISTRICTING LAWSUIT — COUNTY ATTORNEY
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Winch. A short call vote resulted as follows:
Ayes — 14, Noes — 0. RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, outside counsel was obtained to facilitate the County's defense in the recent
redistricting lawsuit imposed by the Town of Ithaca, and several other parties, and
WHEREAS, the County has been billed by Harris Beach, LLP, for legal services through August
31, 2001 in the amount of $2,670.36, representing the third phase of counsel and defense, and
WHEREAS, payment is now due, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Representatives hereby acknowledges that future billings are
anticipated making the total County cost of this case approximately, $65,000, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations and Budget and Capital
Committees, That the Director of Finance be authorized and directed to make the following budget
appropriations:
FROM: A1990.54400 Contingent Fund $2,618.16
TO: A1420.54442 Professional Services $2,618.16
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 241 - CREATION OF INTERNSHIP POSITIONS — HUMAN RIGHTS
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote.
WHEREAS, the Board of Representatives has approved $10,000 related to the Human Rights'
Department's 2001 budget for professional services (allocated towards the internship program), and
WHEREAS, the broad intent of this program is to provide a funding source for the Human Rights
Department who identified program needs and can utilize eligible internship candidates under this
program to perform research, writing, and special projects, and
WHEREAS, the County is committed to providing meaningful, challenging hands-on, in-depth
work experience for eligible internship candidates, and
WHEREAS, this program will also enhance and broaden the opportunities for the Human Rights
Department to utilize the skills and abilities of eligible candidates to provide a valuable service to the
taxpayers of the County, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That four positions
(non-competitive class) of Project Assistant, 76/049, are hereby created in the Human Rights Department
effective immediately with an hourly range of pay between $7.00 and $15.00 per hour, no benefits and a
work week not to exceed thirty-five (35) hours.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 242 - AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT A GRANT FROM THE STATE
ARCHIVES
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote.
WHEREAS, the Records Office has been notified of a grant award from the State Archives in the
amount of $74,788, and
296
October 16, 2001
WHEREAS, the State Archives grant represents a collaborative effort between the County
Clerk's Office and Records Management to microfilm permanent and archival civil records, now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the County
Administrator or his designee be authorized to execute all contracts related to this award,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is authorized and directed to make the
following budget adjustment:
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
Appropriation: A1410.54442 Professional Services $68,008
A1410.51000 Regular Pay $ 6,780
Revenue: A1410.43089 Other State Aid $74,788
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 243 - PROVIDING CONTINUOUS INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY HEALTH
INSURANCE BENEFITS FOR THOSE COUNTY OFFICERS AND
EMPLOYEES DURING THEIR ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY
RESULTING FROM THE SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 ATTACKS ON THE
UNITED STATES
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley. Mr. Proto questioned whether these
benefits would be duplicative of those already being provided by the military. Ms. Kiefer said she also
asked if the County Administrator could look into whether the military is considered to be the payer of
first resort. A voice vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes — 14, Noes — 0, Vacancy — 1
(District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the New York State Military Law provides certain rights to public officers and
employees absent on military duty as members of Reserve Forces or Reserve components of the Armed
Forces of the United States, and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Tompkins County Personnel Rules, County officers and employees
on authorized military leave are entitled to all the rights and privileges set forth in said Military Law, and
WHEREAS, despite the rights and benefits afforded by said Military Law and said Personnel
Rules, calls to active duty often impose financial hardship on those summoned and their dependents, and
WHEREAS, there is no express provision in said Military Law or said Personnel Rules for the
continuation of health insurance benefits for County officers, employees and their dependents when the
period of ordered military duty exceeds thirty calendar days or twenty-two working days, and
WHEREAS, while the military provides medical coverage to its activated Reservists and some
coverage to their dependents, that coverage is not as comprehensive as Tompkins County's medical plan
for its officers, employees and dependents, and
WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 60 of 1991, this Tompkins County Board of Representatives
provided for such coverage to those County officers and employees called to active military duty during
the Persian Gulf Crisis, and
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Tompkins County Board of Representatives to ease the
financial strain on the families of those Reservists called to serve their country resulting from the
September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States by allowing continuation of their health insurance
benefits through December 31, 2002, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That upon
satisfactory negotiations with CSEA White Collar, CSEA Blue Collar, Sheriffs and Corrections Unions,
Tompkins County will hereby continue individual and family health insurance coverage through
December 31, 2002 by requiring payment of employee premium share only, for those officers and
employees called to active military duty resulting from the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United
States, effective September 11, 2001.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
297
October 16, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 244 - AUTHORIZING TOMPKINS COUNTY TO PAY TILE DIFFERENCE
IN PAY BETWEEN MILITARY PAY AND BASE COUNTY SALARY
TO COUNTY OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES WHILE
PERFORMING ORDERED MILITARY DUTY RESULTING FROM
THE SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 ATTACKS ON TILE UNITED STATES
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Penniman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote.
WHEREAS, the New York State Military Law provides certain rights to public officers and
employees absent on military duty as members of Reserve Forces or Reserve components of the Armed
Forces of the United States, and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Tompkins County Personnel Rules, County officers and employees
on authorized military leave are entitled to all the rights and privileges set forth in said Military Law, and
WHEREAS, despite the rights and benefits afforded by said Military Law and said Personnel
Rules, calls to active duty often impose financial hardship on those summoned and their dependents, and
WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 60 of 1991, this Tompkins County Board of Representatives
authorized the County to pay extended benefits to county officers and employees performing ordered
military duty during the Persian Gulf Crisis, and
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Tompkins County Board of Representatives to ease the
financial strain on the families of those Reservists called to serve their country resulting from the
September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States by paying through December 31, 2002, but not to exceed
a maximum of ninety work days, the difference between their military pay received from the United
States Government and/or the State of New York and the base County salary such employee would have
received for his/her regularly scheduled work week if such employee had not been called to active duty,
and
WHEREAS, in the event military pay exceeds or equals County salary determined in accordance
herewith, no supplemental pay shall be authorized, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That upon
satisfactory contract negotiations with CSEA White Collar, CSEA Blue Collar, Sheriff's, and Corrections
Unions, the Tompkins County General Fund will pay the difference in pay between military and base
County salary to such County officers and employees in the Reserves or National Guard who are called to
serve their country resulting from the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States except in the event
that military pay exceeds or equals County salary, effective September 11, 2001 through December 31,
2002, but not to exceed a maximum of ninety work days.
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance will establish and notify Department Heads
and affected employees of the procedures by which the differential shall be paid,
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 245 - AUTHORIZING THE DIVISION (DEPARTMENT) OF
ASSESSMENT TO CHARGE A NOMINAL FEE FOR TAX MAP
ALTERATIONS DUE TO THE FILING OF APPROVED
SUBDIVISIONS (Rescinded by Resolution No. 256 of 2004)
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley. Mr. Proto expressed concern that
adopting this right now would place this outside of the usual time the Board adopts fees. He also said
making this effective immediately would not allow developers any advance notice of this happening.
Mr. Lane also expressed concern over the tax map process which is intended to be a benefit for the taxing
authority. He questioned why the County should be charging developers to make alterations to the
County's tax maps.
298
October 16, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mr. Lalley, to postpone this resolution until the first
Board meeting in January, 2002. A voice vote on the motion resulted as follows: Ayes — 6
(Representatives Lane, Penniman, Proto, Todd, Totman, and Winch); Noes - 8 (Representatives
Blanchard, Joseph, Kiefer, Koplinka-Loehr, Lalley, Mink, Schuler, and Stein); Vacancy — 1 (District No.
2). MOTION FAILED.
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mr. Lalley, that this resolution shall take effect at the
same time departmental fees are implemented in January, 2002. A voice vote on the motion resulted as
follows: Ayes — 10, Noes — 4 (Representatives Joseph, Koplinka-Loehr, Mink, and Stein); Vacancy — 1
(District No. 2). MOTION CARRIED.
It was requested that the Assessment Department be asked to communicate this action with the
Builder's Association. Mr. Koplinka-Loehr said he would handle this request.
A voice vote on the resolution as amended resulted as follows: Ayes - 14, Noes - 0, Vacancy - 1
(District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Division (Department) of Assessment is mandated by New
York State Real Property Tax Law to maintain in current condition, tax maps for Tompkins County, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Division of Assessment maintains said maps using the latest
geographic information systems technology, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of Government Operations Committee, That Section 503-(7) of
the New York State Real Property Tax Law be enacted to allow for a minimal charge when placing
approved subdivisions on the tax maps,
RESOLVED, further, That the fee shall be in the amount not to exceed twenty-five dollars for a
one through three lot subdivision map, whether intended as an original subdivision or as an alteration,
including correction of a prior subdivision, or an instrument abandoning such subdivision map, or a
condominium map; fifty dollars for a four through nine lot subdivision map, whether intended as an
original subdivision or as an alteration, including correction of a prior subdivision, or an instrument
abandoning such subdivision map, or a condominium map; and one hundred dollars for a ten or more lot
subdivision map, whether intended as an original subdivision or as an alteration, including correction of a
prior subdivision, or an instrument abandoning such subdivision map, or a condominium map,
RESOLVED, further, That prior to filing a subdivision map with the County Clerk's Office such
map shall be stamped with the approval of the Tompkins County Geographic Information Systems Tax
Map personnel and the appropriate fee shall be paid to the Division (Department) of Assessment, by any
person or corporation filing a map in accordance with the provisions of any general, special or local law
or ordinance, or of any county, city, or village charter, if such map necessitates any change upon a tax
map in order to maintain the map in current condition,
RESOLVED, further, That this resolution shall take effect at the same time departmental fees are
implemented in January, 2002.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 246 - AUTHORIZING A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED LOCAL
LAW NO. 5 OF 2001- AMENDING SECTION C-2.04 (c) OF THE
TOMPKINS COUNTY CHARTER AND CODE - VACANCIES ON
THE BOARD OF REPRESENTATIVES
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lane. Ms. Kiefer said she does not agree
with the proposed language of the local law. She said she would like to see the wording changed to state
if Common Council does not act within the thirty days provided, that Common Council shall fill the seat
with the winner of the November 6 election.
299
October 16, 2001
Ms. Mink clarified the purpose of this local law is to allow another municipality to rectify
something it should have done. It is not to necessarily to appoint the winner of the election because the
Charter Review Committee is now looking at that section of the Charter. She said it is important that this
move forward at this time so that the Board can have a full membership. Ms. Kiefer said her suggested
wording was specific to this circumstance and would allow the Charter Review Committee to continue
with their work.
There was a lengthy discussion about the content of the proposed law with some members feeling
the law should be worded as simply as possible so that the City can fill the vacancy seat on the Board.
Mr. Proto raised the point that a local law is not effective until the filing with the Secretary of State. There
was a discussion about process with the County Attorney advising that the local law in its final form must
be placed on Board members' desks seven days prior to adoption. Mr. Lane said he feels the City of
Ithaca should have another chance to fill its vacancy on the Board so that representation can be provided
to all citizens in the City of Ithaca.
Mr. Todd said he feels this should be left alone and that the City should wait until the November
election and have that individual begin serving in January. He said he doesn't believe it would be in the
City's best interest to appoint someone who has not participated in the budget process up until this point
represent the interests of the City on the Board.
Mr. Joseph suggested instead of extending the time the City can appoint, the wording of the local
law should just state that whoever gets elected to the seat should be allowed to take membership to the
seat immediately.
Mr. Penniman said he feels it is important that this vacancy be filled as soon as possible because
it is difficult for Board Committees to function without their full compliment of members.
A voice vote on the resolution with Ms. Kiefer's changes accepted as friendly resulted as follows:
Ayes — 12; Noes — 2 (Representatives Proto and Todd); Vacancy — 1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION
ADOPTED.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That a public
hearing be held before the Board of Representatives in Board Chambers of the Tompkins County
Courthouse, 320 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, on Wednesday, November 7, 2001, at 5:30
o'clock in the evening thereof concerning proposed Local Law No. 5 of 2001 - Amending Section C-2.04
(c) of the Tompkins County Charter and Code — Vacancies on the Board of Representatives. At such time
and place all persons interested in the subject matter will be heard concerning the same,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board is hereby authorized and directed to place
proper notice of such public hearing in the official newspaper of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 247 - URGING THE LEGISLATURE TO REJECT BILL AMENDING
SECTIONS 205-A AND 205-E OF THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL
LAW
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote.
WHEREAS, the New York State Legislature is considering legislation which would allow police
(including Deputy Sheriffs) to sue their employers if injured as a result of a fellow officers failure to
follow internal manuals or memorandum, and
WHEREAS, the proposed legislation could pose significant additional liability on counties and
other municipalities, and
300
October 16, 2001
WHEREAS, workers' compensation and Section 207-c of the General Municipal Law provide
adequate remedies for on the job injuries to police officers, and
WHEREAS, thirty-five individual counties, the New York State Association of Counties and
numerous municipalities in the State have already notified their representatives of their opposition to the
proposed law, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on the recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the
Tompkins County Board of Representatives declares its opposition to said legislation,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board is directed to supply a copy of this resolution to
Honorable Sheldon Silver, Honorable James L. Seward, Honorable Martin Luster, Honorable Randy Kuhl
and the Honorable Joseph Bruno.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee discussed the resolution that was defeated at the last
Board meeting in regard to engineering services for improvements at the Tompkins County Airport. He
said they have met with representatives from C&S Engineers to discuss a problem in communication
where Board members do not understand how costs for engineering services contained in these projects is
driven. Mr. Lane said C&S will provide the full Board with a presentation on that work prior to the end
of the year. After that discussion, the Committee felt it was important that the resolution come back to
the Board for reconsideration.
Mr. Lane said a meeting will be held regarding the Ellis Hollow Capital Project and improvement
on October 18 at 7 p.m. at the Ellis Hollow Road Community Center and invited all Board members to
attend. He also reported construction at the Bostwick Road facility is underway, and expressed gratitude
to the employees for the patience during construction. At the last meeting the Committee discussed the
Beach Road bridge in Newfield. Mr. Wood said the Highway Division has retained engineers to make a
determination on what work actually needs to be done. He said he and the Town Attorney disagree as to
the ownership of the bridge; however, he feels the work is likely to be minor and hopes these repairs can
be done in a cooperative relationship with the Town.
It was stated that although there is a question about ownership of the bridge, the primary concern
at this point is the safety of children crossing an unsafe bridge. The Board directed the County
Administrator to work with the Newfield Town Board to work out an arrangement for the Town to
perform maintenance on the bridge without that being used as a demonstration of ownership.
RESOLUTION NO. 248 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE A THREE-YEAR CONTRACT
EXTENSION WITH SUPERIOR DISPOSAL, INC., FOR THE
CURBSIDE COLLECTION OF RECYCLABLES COUNTY -WIDE
INCLUDING THE CITY OF ITHACA
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Todd. Mr. Proto expressed his dissatisfaction with the
service provided by Superior Disposal. He said there are instances of this Company not picking up
recycling when they are supposed to and problems with items that have blown off of the trucks because
doors were not closed. He suggested that this resolution be postponed so that those concerns could be
relayed to the Company. Board members felt concerns over service should be related directly to the Solid
Waste Division.
It was MOVED by Mr. Proto to postpone this resolution to the November 8 Board meeting.
MOTION FAILED DUE TO LACK OF A SECOND.
301
October 16, 2001
A voice vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes — 11, Noes — 3 (Representatives Kiefer,
Proto, and Schuler), Vacancy — 1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 200 of 1995 authorized the execution of a contract with Superior
Disposal, Inc. for the collection of recyclable materials throughout the County, except in the City of
Ithaca, and
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 226 of 1996 authorized the execution of a contract with Superior
Disposal, Inc., for the collection of recyclable materials in the City of Ithaca, and
WHEREAS, the contractor has committed to purchasing new modern and efficient collection
vehicles that will be equipped with a tracking system utilizing a global position system (GPS) to monitor
all vehicle movement during collection times for daily verification of collections, and
WHEREAS, the curbside collection contracts have not had a price increase in three years and the
first year of the contract extension provides for a five percent ($38,101.00) increase, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the County exercise its
second and final option to extend both Curbside Collection Contracts for three years at a cost not to
exceed $487,834 for the first year with a three percent (3%) increase in each of the next two subsequent
contract years.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 249 - AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE CONTRACT WITH FISHER
ASSOCIATES FOR DESIGN OF ELLIS HOLLOW ROAD
RECONSTRUCTION
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Lalley. Mr. Joseph questioned whether this is premature
since the Board has not decided what type of project should be approved. Mr. Lane said he feels this
should still move forward in hopes of finding additional funding and getting it on the Transportation
Improvement Plan. Mr. Lalley said the purpose of this is to arrive at a design scope for this, and this will
come back to the Board for full capital project approval.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 14, Noes — 0, Vacancy — 1 (District No. 2).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Tompkins County maintains County Road 110, Ellis Hollow Road, in the Town of
Dryden, and
WHEREAS, the County Highway Manager has recommended its reconstruction and funding for
the reconstruction is included in the adopted 2001— 2005 Capital Program budget, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Finance Department has duly advertised a request for
proposals to identify interested, qualified consultant groups to design the work, and
WHEREAS, eight, (8) firms submitted proposals, four of which also presented qualifications
orally, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the proposal be awarded
to Fisher Associates, PE, LS, PC, of 135 Calkins Road, Rochester, NY, for preliminary design services
for the referenced project,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator be and hereby is authorized to execute a
contract with Fisher Associates for an amount not to exceed $128,700 upon completion of Capital
Program budget revisions, and contingent upon approval of the capital projects budget by the Board of
Representatives,
RESOLVED, further, That the Highway Division be authorized to execute supplemental
agreements for final design, construction engineering or other additional engineering services on behalf of
the County with cumulative value not to exceed the funds provided from the appropriate capital account.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -21
302
October 16, 2001
Reconsideration of Resolution
RESOLUTION NO. 229 - AUTHORIZING A SUPPLEMENTAL CONSULTANT AGREEMENT
NO. 3 WITH C&S ENGINEERS, INC., FOR CONSTRUCTION
OBSERVATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES IN
CONNECTION WITH THE AIRPORT RESCUE AND FIRE
FIGHTING (ARFF) (CFR) BUILDING EXPANSION, THE
PASSENGER BOARDING BRIDGE, AND THE (OLD TERMINAL)
APRON REHABILITATION AND OBSTRUCTION REMOVAL —
ITHACA/TOMPKINS REGIONAL AIRPORT
MOVED by Mr. Todd, seconded by Mr. Proto. Mr. Winch spoke of the long partnership the
County has had with C&S. Ms. Kiefer noted she was absent from the meeting where this resolution lost,
but she did not ask to have it reconsidered now since the projects contained in t his resolution will not go
forward until spring so there is time for us all to received and consider the results of the C&S engineering
fees test case first. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 8 (Representatives Blanchard, Koplinka-
Loehr, Lalley, Lane, Penniman, Proto, Todd, and Winch); Noes — 6 (Representatives Joseph, Kiefer,
Mink, Schuler, Stein, and Totman); Vacancy —1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the County has awarded construction contracts for the Airport Rescue and Fire
Fighting (ARFF) (CFR) Building Expansion and the (Old Terminal) Apron Rehabilitation and
Obstruction Removal projects, and
WHEREAS, subject to an acceptable bid being received, the County will shortly be awarding a
construction contract for the Passenger Boarding Bridge, and
WHEREAS, there is a need for Construction Observation and Administration services in relation
to these projects, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee. That subject to the required
Independent Fee Estimate being performed which confirms that the fees are fair, the following
Construction Observation and Administration contracts with C&S Engineers, Inc., be approved:
ARFF (CFR) Building Expansion $ 138,537.00
Passenger Boarding Bridge $ 20,784.00
Apron Rehabilitation and Obstruction Clearance $ 76,982.00
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director is authorized to advance payments for these
projects until reimbursement is received from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and New York
State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT).
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -2
Report from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The
Committee will meet tomorrow at noon.
Report from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee will meet tomorrow at 11 a.m.
Report from the Communications Capital Proiects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, deferred the Committee report to Mr. Lalley. Mr. Lalley reported the
Request for Qualifications for the Paging project were due yesterday.
Approval of Minutes of October 2, 2001
303
October 16, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote,
to approve the minutes of October 2, 2001, as submitted. MINUTES APPROVED.
Recess
Chair Mink declared recess at 8:21 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 8:30 p.m.
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by
voice vote, to enter into executive session at 8:30 p.m. to discuss a personnel matter. The meeting
returned to open session at 9:05 p.m.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 9:05 p.m.
304
Report of Committee on footings (Totals) of Assessment Roils
Prepared In 2001
To the Board of Representatives of Tompkins County Your committee reports that it has accepted the footings (Totals) of the Assessment
Rolls referred to it, as made by the Assessor of Tompkins
County and that the following Is a correct statement of such footings (Totals).
+5+8 CW7-
Dr. eau 3+6
Footings2001 footings.XIs417/2006
TOOZ `91 iagoloo
1
2
3
4
9
6
T
_.._. _ -_ .
–"' '"
10
11
—, • –
12
TAX DISTRICT
ACRES
ACRES
FULL VALUE OF
FULL VALUE OF
PENSION AND
PARTIAL
SPECIAL
FRANCHISE
(Rs -5)
PROPERTY OF
PUBUC
SERVICE
CORP.
(RS 6+RS7)
TOTAL REAL AND
FRANCHISE
SUBJECT TO
SPECIAL DISTRICT
REAL PROPERTY
AND FRANCHISE
SUBJECT TO
GENERA!. AND
HIGHWAY TAXES
PROPERTY
WITHIN *CORP.
VILLAGES FOR
OE NERAL LAND
HIGHWAY TAXES
PROPERTY OUTSIDE
INCORP. VILLAGES
FOR GENERAL AND
HIGHWAY TAXES
WHOLLY EXEMPT
GRAND TOTAL OF
ROU.
Leta
Fxrd 1LseYE OF
REAL PROPERTY
pifi 1IDINR
BUtLDINGiS mn9
Sec.1 Gerd
BUILOWGS SLR
1 hard ToW
(RS1L&r *rte
Caul
lama
79941
CHARGES
Town of Caroline
34,747
26,090,901
104,872,400'
6,146,219
2,210.210
3,018,800
110101,410
103,955,191
103,955,191
16,067,845
128,169,255
Town of Danby
33,286
30,019,810
121,522,100
4,213,858
1,298,106
15,055,574
137,876,780
133,802,922
133,602,922
14,192,300
152,069,080
Town of Dryden
58,286
111,260,157
478.716.000
15,223,896
7,790,140
44,561,800
531,095,940
515,873,314
78,943,388
437,519,856
98,120,340
627,217,260
Town of Enfield
22,207
26,022,720
101,118,100
7,258,821
984,106
2,745,600
104,827,606
97,569,182
97,569,182
5,544,600
110,372,406
Town of Groton
30,725
37,010,211
158,007,400
12,926,877
2,695.020
5,386,700
164,049,120
151,122,243
52,427,008
96,695,235
23,218,900
187,288,020
Town of Mace
16,293
145,480,117
738,792,200
18,648,271
11,266,528
16,531,542
786,579,270
748,030,990
249484,459
504,568,540
772,742.175
1.539,321,445
Town 04 Lansing
37,789
158,428,402
614,840,300
107,067.172
6.639+406
203.447,576
884,927,279
777,840,107
287,466,985
510,373,112
99,076,620
984,003,690
Town of Newfield
38,987
34,823,454
136,403,300
6,599,389
3,006,581
19,071,998
158,481,879
151,862,510
151,882,510
25,013,600
183,495,479
Town of Ulysses
19,616
66,385,317
236,383,000
9,728722
2,733,885
3,812,100
242,928,985
233,200,663
59,179,739
174,020,924
41,596,500
284,325,465
City of Ithaca
2,940
202,736,447
827,280,400
17,616,085
22,457,270
9,971,497
850,709,167
842,093,082
842,093,082
2,161,460,500
3,021,169,667
TOTALS
293,088
838,239,336
3,515,935,200
269,469,493
61,020,249
383,623,187
3,980,578,836
3,755,170,143
700,891,569
_ 3,054,278,554
3,255,031,380
7,215,610,016
Footings2001 footings.XIs417/2006
TOOZ `91 iagoloo
inoutvillage
SUPPLEMENTAL REPORT
OF THE COMMITTEE ON FOOTINGS (Totals)
OF ASSESSMENT ROLLS
2001
TOTAL REAL ONLY
REAL PROPERTY
EXCLUSIVE OF ALL
TOTAL
AND FRANCHISE
PENSION
VILLAGES AND
EXEMPTIONS -INC.
FRANCHISE
SUBJECT TO GEN
EXEMPTIONS
TOWNS
PUBLIC SERVICE
& H -WAY TAX
(Roll Sec 1 & 6
(RS 1 + 6 +7)
(RS 5)
(Col B + Col C)
TotAss-CoTax)
(B - (Footings
Col 9 or 10 - C))
DRYDEN-Dryden Village
62,309,525
1,503,223
63,812,748
1,664,875
Freeville Village
14,053,450
487,190
14,540,640
534,750
TOTAL -Inside Villages
76,362,975
1,990,413
78,353,388
2,199,625
Outside Villages
431,412,129
5,808,727
437,220,856
13,024,071
TOTAL-TOWNWIDE
507,775,104
7,799,140
515,574,244
15,223,696
GROTON-Groton village
51,772,109
654,899
52,427,008
2,657,391
Outside Village
96,695,114
2,000,121
98,695,235
10,269,486
TOTAL- TOWNWIDE
148,467,223
2,655,020
151,122,243
12,926,877
ITHACA-Cayuga Heights
239,915,185
3,549,274
243,464,459
2,061,015
Outside Village
496,860,286
7,706,254
504,566,540
16,487,256
TOTAL-TOWNWIDE
736,775,471
11,255,528
748,030,999
18,548,271
LANSING -Lansing Village
265,296,303
2,170,692
267,466,995
7,112,643
Outside Village
590,904,401
4,468,711
595,373,112
99,974,529
TOTAL-TOWNWIDE
856,200,704
6,639,403
862,840,107
107,087,172
ULYSSES-Truniansburg
58,061,929
1,117,810
59,179,739
1,526,971
Outside Village
172,404,849
1,616,075
174,020,924
8,201,351
TOTAL- TOWNWIDE
230,466,778
2,733,885
233,200,663
9,728,322
T OOZ `91 iago3oO
November 7, 2001
Regular Meeting
Public Hearing - Local Law No. 5 of 2001 — A Local Law Amending Section C-204 (c) of the
Tompkins County Charter and Code — Vacancies on the Board of Representatives
Chair Mink called the public hearing to order at 5:30 p.m. concerning proposed Local Law No. 5
of 2001 — A Local Law Amending Section C-204 (c) of the Tompkins County Charter and Code —
Vacancies on the Board of Representatives. Chair Mink asked if anyone wished to speak. No one wished
to speak and the public hearing was closed at 5:31 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 13 Representatives. Excused: 1 (Representative Winch). Vacancy —1 (District No. 2).
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
No member of the public wished to speak.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, expressed congratulations to all individuals who won
their recent elections and those who are retiring.
Ms. Blanchard, District No. 1 Representative, said that she had two items to mention. The first
item is that the New York State Department of Labor has publicly announced at its state-wide conference
that the Tompkins County Workforce Development System and Center is the first in the State to receive
certification as a High -Quality . Work -Step System. This will allow use of the state-wide logo as well as
making them eligible to apply for approximately $100,000 of incentive awards. The second item she
wished to bring to individual's attention is that TCAT has several new low -floor buses which are
designed specifically for assisting disabled riders. These buses, although diesel, are extremely efficient
through the use of modern technology.
Presentation of Master Plan by Tompldns Cortland Community College (TC3)
Mr. Carl Haynes, TC3 President, presented to the Board the proposed Master Plan for renovation
and expansion of the college facilities.
Mr. Haynes said TC3 views learning as occurring in many ways and they try to take advantage of
many opportunities. The TC3 Master Plan has been scaled back from the original plan and currently
stands at $21 million. The current plan includes five major components:
1. Digital Media space with new instructional space. This will provide instructional space for
broadcasting, photography, computer graphics, computer forensics, and possibly animation.
2. Cyber Cafe with a student media area. This area will provide dedicated space for Internet
access and cultural enrichment programs.
3. Conference Center. This facility provides additional space for the college's corporate
training activities and allows the college to accommodate demand for one -day conferences.
4. Sports Complex. This complex includes a basketball court, soccer fields, and other facilities
to meet the college's recreational and intercollegiate athletic needs and meet community
demand for recreational facilities.
307
November 7, 2001
5. Infrastructure needs. Major infrastructure components of the plan include a new access
road, a rebuilt electrical system, and new exterior panels.
Mr. Haynes said the College has grown by 32 percent in the last five years. Out -of -County
students have grown at nearly the same rate, largely because of new academic programs, housing, and the
college's commitment to athletics. He said strong growth combined with becoming a residential campus is
creating intense demand for classroom space, athletic and recreation facilities, and space for student
activities such as Internet access and small group meeting space. He said the Master Plan will have an
economic impact from construction alone of approximately $34.5 million with an additional annual
benefit generated by visitors to the sports complex and conference center of about $2 million on the
community and that there will be several construction -related jobs created. He noted the College is not
asking for any fmancial commitment from Tompkins County at this time. They are asking only for
support for the Master Plan concept. By receiving support for the Plan they will be able to seek 50
percent of the funds from the State of New York and the remainder from other funding sources. Any
private monies they can raise will offset the local share and not the State share.
Mr. Haynes reviewed each phase of the project. He noted that Tompkins Cortland Community
College is the only facility of its kind without a sports center.
He said the construction of the lounge/cyber cafe is an attempt to create more places around
campus for access to various computer programs and software. They are proposing to take the
fireplace/lounge area and enclose that area so that they can hold lectures and control activities.
Mr. Joseph inquired what the local share of the cost of the project might be. Mr. Haynes
indicated that it is difficult to give a projected figure as there are many factors involved. He noted that
they are raising funds for the project from many areas, including private funding and that the totals
received by this means would reduce the amount of the local share funding of the project. Mr. Squires
stated that at present on one million dollars is $63,000.
Mr. Stein inquired as to the length of time before the County would be responsible for the funding
of the project. Mr. Haynes replied that given normal circumstances it would be several years before this
occurs; however, in light of the current circumstances within the State budget, it may take longer before
approval of the Capital project is received by the State and may be the year 2005.
Mr. Stein asked Mr. Haynes to clarify what the Resolution means to the County. Mr. Haynes
replied that this is a plan of improvements and that at the time construction begins there may be
modifications as a result of needs occurring during the approval process. In essence, what the approval of
the Resolution is, is acknowledging the plan to allow the Community College to apply for funds from the
State.
Chair's Report and Appointments
Ms. Mink had no report or appointments, but wished to paraphrase Mr. Proto's good wishes
expressed before.
Addition of Resolution(s) to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, the
following resolution(s) were added to the agenda:
Authorization to Transfer Capital Program Funds Approved in the 2001— 2005 Capital Program
Endorsing Tompkins Cortland Community College Campus Master Plan and Approving
Expansion and Renovation of Tompkins Cortland Community College Facilities Subject to
308
November 7, 2001
State Approval and Funding
Amendment to Administrative Manual Policy 01-29 — Standards of Conduct
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
Chair Mink gave the appropriate committee chairman permission to withdraw the following
resolutions from the agenda:
Funding of Tourism Development Grants
Approval of Contract Between the County and the Chamber of Commerce/Convention and
Visitors Bureau for Tourism Services
Adoption of Amended Bylaws — Tompkins County Workforce Development Board
Establishing Policy Regarding Appropriate Treatment Under SEQRA for Industrial Development
Agency Resolutions
Presentation of Resolution from the Budget and Capital Committee
RESOLUTION NO. 250 - ENDORSING TOMPKINS CORTLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE
CAMPUS MASTER PLAN AND APPROVING EXPANSION AND
RENOVATION OF TOMPKINS CORTLAND COMMUNITY
COLLEGE FACILITIES SUBJECT TO STATE APPROVAL AND
FUNDING
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lane, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the Cortland County Legislature and the Tompkins County Board of Representatives
as sponsors of Tompkins Cortland Community College, recognize the need for building space
modifications within the Tompkins Cortland Community College campus to address the enrollment
increases experienced during recent years to include the need for additional classroom space, specialized
facilities, digital media center, a conference center, a sports complex, modifications to student activities
space, and infrastructure preservation to the College, and
WHEREAS, the College entered into an agreement with Thomas Associates to revise the Campus
Master Plan previously completed to examine programmatic and space needs, to examine the condition of
existing campus facilities, and to focus on and clearly define those campus renovations or improvement
which are most essential to the College's mission, and
WHEREAS, the comprehensive Campus Master Plan has been completed under guidance and
direction of County and college officials producing an updated Campus Master Plan that will guide the
college and its sponsors in ensuring the integrity of the physical plant and in providing for the
programmatic needs of the college, and
WHEREAS, Thomas Associates has estimated that all costs related to the Campus Master Plan
are not likely to exceed $21,000,000, one-half of which would be funded by New York State and one-half
by the local sponsors, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That the Board of
Representatives does hereby approve the Tompkins Cortland Community College Campus Master Plan,
RESOLVED, further, That subject to the approval of said Master Plan by the State and the
appropriation of fifty percent (50%) State funding, this Board of Representatives does hereby approve the
undertaking of the Campus Master Plan,
RESOLVED, further, That the Tompkins Cortland Community College submits to the State
appropriate applications and information necessary for approval and funding of the Campus Master Plan,
RESOLVED, further, That certified copies of this Resolution be sent to the Cortland County
Legislature, the Board of Trustees of Tompkins Cortland Community College, the Board of Trustees of
the State University of New York, and the State University Construction Fund,
309
November 7, 2001
RESOLVED, further, That this Resolution shall become effective upon the adoption of a
concurrent resolution by the Cortland County Legislature.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 251- APPROVING THE ISSUANCE BY THE TOMPKINS COUNTY
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF UP TO $5,000,000
CIVIC FACILITY REVENUE BONDS (TOMPKINS CORTLAND
COMMUNITY COLLEGE FOUNDATION, INC., PROJECT),
SERIES 2001 - IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 147(1) OF THE
INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1986, AS AMENDED (THE
"CODE"),
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Lalley.
Mr. Stein noted that the Resolution was amended to a SEQRA Action Type II -20 from a Type 11-
28. Mr. Lalley explained that the revision reflects that its an administrative review versus a technical
review. Also to be noted was that Tompkins County had participated in the review process.
Mr. Stein felt it was appropriate to discuss the issue of Industrial Development Agency (IDA)
SEQRA reviews and what is the appropriate action for the County to take. Mr. Lalley explained that
there has been recent research in the appropriate designation of these Resolutions. He has spoken to
several agencies regarding this matter. He noted that the Department of Environmental Conservation
suggested that perhaps a Type II -28 would be appropriate. At the Economic and Workforce Development
Committee meeting it was suggested that the IDA be contacted and recommend that they also review this
matter.
Shawn Griffin of the IDA spoke with regard to this issue and expressed appreciation that the
County is reviewing this matter. He noted that the Resolutions presented by the IDA are representative of
the Internal Revenue Service Code of 1986 basic requirements. He noted that this was developed as a
means of involving elected officials in the process. In many areas this would involve the mayors of towns
and cities. In Tompkins County it means the involvement of the entire Board.
Mr. Griffin too has been in contact with the Department of Environmental Conservation who has
offered to sit in on a conference call between County Board Representatives and the IDA to assist in
determining the proper SEQRA action to use.
Mr. Griffin then provided the Board with a brief explanation of the differences between Type I,
Type II and Unlisted Actions and the IDA involvement in them. He explained that there is need to
determine lead agencies on certain projects. He has stated that if towns have made a coordinated review
they recognize it. If there is none they take appropriate steps necessary for review.
Chair Mink thanked Mr. Lalley and Mr. Griffin for the information presented.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 13; Noes — 0; Excused — 1 (Representative Winch);
Vacancy —1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives (the "Board of Representatives"), as
the elected legislative body of Tompkins County, New York (the "County") has been advised by the
Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency (the "Issuer") that, in order to assist in the financing of
a certain Project (as defined below) for the benefit of Tompkins Cortland Community College
Foundation, Inc., (the "Company") the Issuer proposes to issue, contingent upon the adoption of this
310
November 7, 2001
Resolution, its Civic Facility Revenue Bonds (Tompkins Cortland Community College Foundation, Inc.,
Project), Series 2001, in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $5,000,000 (the "Bonds"), and
WHEREAS, the project (the "Project") shall consist of (A) the acquisition of an approximately 7 -
acre parcel of land located on Far View Drive, in the Town of Dryden, Tompkins County, New York (the
"Land"), and the existing improvements thereon, consisting principally of two dormitory buildings
containing approximately 46,000 square feet of space used by the Company to house approximately 184
students (the "Existing Facility"); (B) the refinancing of certain existing indebtedness, the proceeds of
which were used to acquire and renovate the Existing Facility, said renovation consisting of general repair
work, a new roof and the purchase of replacement furniture and carpeting (the "Existing Indebtedness");
(C) the construction on the Land of an approximately 29,344 -square foot building to be used by the
Company to house approximately 96 students, consisting of approximately twenty-four four-bedroom
apartments including bathrooms, kitchens, living and common areas and related space (the `Building");
(D) the acquisition and installation in and around the Building of certain items of machinery, equipment,
furniture and other tangible personal property (the "Equipment" and collectively with the Land, the
Existing Facility, the Building and the Equipment, the "Facility"); (E) paying certain costs and expenses
incidental to the issuance of the Bonds (the costs associated with items (A) through (E) above being
hereinafter collectively referred to as the "Project Costs"); and (F) the lease (with an obligation to
purchase) or sale of the facilities financed with the Bonds to the Company or such other person as may be
designated by the Company and agreed upon by the Issuer, and
WHEREAS, the Town of Dryden Town Board, pursuant to the New York State Environmental
Quality Review Act ("SEQRA"), determined on April 13, 2001 that the Project will not have a significant
effect on the environment within the meaning of SEQRA, which determination was confirmed and
ratified by the Issuer, pursuant to resolution of the Issuer dated April 17, 2001, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Planning Department participated in this coordinated SEQRA
review and does not dispute the determination made by the Town of Dryden Town Board, and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 147(0 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the
"Code"), interest on the Bonds will not be excluded from gross income for Federal income tax purposes
unless the issuance of the Bonds is approved by the Board of Representatives after a public hearing to
consider both the issuance of the Bonds and the nature and location of the facilities financed therewith has
been conducted following reasonable public notice, and
WHEREAS, on July 23, 2001, the Issuer held such a public hearing upon proper notice in
compliance with the Code, and
WHEREAS, to aid the Board of Representatives in its deliberations, the Issuer has made available
to the members of the Board of Representatives prior to this meeting (a) the Company's application to the
Issuer for financial assistance; (b) the notice of public hearing published by the Issuer on July 7, 2001 in
The Ithaca Journal, along with the affidavits of publication of such newspaper and (c) the minutes of such
public hearing held on July 23, 2001, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Representatives, after due consideration of the foregoing, as the
"applicable elected representative" of Tompkins County, New York, within the meaning of Section
147(0(2)(E) of the Code, desires to approve the issuance of the Bonds and the location of the Facility,
provided the principal, premium, if any, and interest on the Bonds shall be special obligations of the
Issuer and shall never be a debt of the State of New York (the "State") or any political subdivision
thereof, including without limitation the County, and neither the State nor any political subdivision
thereof, including without limitation the County, shall be liable thereon, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That:
Section 1. For the purpose of satisfying the approval requirement of Section 147(0 of the
Code, on the recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, the Board of
Representatives hereby gives its approval of the issuance by the Issuer of its Bonds and related acts to be
taken by the Issuer as part of the Project, provided that the Bonds, and the premium (if any) and interest
thereon, shall be special obligations of the Issuer and shall never be a debt of the State or any political
subdivision thereof, including without limitation Tompkins County, and neither the State nor any political
subdivision thereof, including without limitation Tompkins County, shall be liable thereon. This approval
311
November 7, 2001
is given pursuant to Section 147(0 of the Code for the sole purpose of qualifying the interest payable on
the Bonds for exclusion from gross income for Federal income tax purposes pursuant to the provisions of
Sections 103 and 141-150 of the Code.
Section 2.
Bonds.
Section 3.
This Resolution shall be deemed to be made for the benefit of the holders of the
This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher reported that 2002 Proposed Budgets are available at the Offices of the Board of
Representatives and Administration. He reminded individuals that the Public Hearing on the Proposed
Budget is scheduled to take place on November 13, 2001 at 7:00 p.m. at Boynton Junior High School. He
also reported that the process of selecting a Planning Commissioner is proceeding well. The final
interviews took place today and he feels that either candidate will meet with approval from the Board.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wood, Deputy County Attorney, reported there is still no word regarding the redistricting
lawsuit. He said that he was not certain what, if any, significance the fact that the election has occurred
will have. Mr. Wood also reported that the County received a positive decision with regard to the
communications lawsuit. He said that there is thirty days to file an appeal on the matter.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires had no report.
Approval of Resolution(s) Under the Consent Agenda
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to approve the following resolution(s) under the Consent Agenda:
RESOLUTION NO. 252 - BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS — VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, under the Consent Agenda.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services, Government Operations,
and Public Safety Committees, That the Director of Finance be directed to make the following budget
adjustments on his books:
Office for the Aging (43)
Revenue Acct Title Amt
6772 44772 Federal Revenue ($179.76)
Explanation: Federal Revenue reductions.
Approp Acct Title(s)
6772 51000559 Salary
Office for the Aging (44)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Aoproo Acct Title(s)
6781 44772 Federal Revenue $262 6772 51000529 Salary
Explanation: Increase in Revenue in Title III -E (Support for Caregivers Program) permits increase in
support staff's salary.
312
Office for the Aging (45)
Revenue Acct Title
6772 44772 Federal Revenue
November 7, 2001
Amt
$546
Explanation: Increase in Revenue in Title III-B(Supportive
salary to free up County dollars.
Office for the Aging (46)
Revenue Acct Title Amt
6796 44772 Federal Revenue $ 20
6796 44772 Federal Revenue $2,180
6796 44772 Federal Revenue $3,040
6796 44772 Federal Revenue $ 760
Approp Acct Title(s)
6772 51000215 Salary
Services) permits increase in Director's
Approp Acct Title(s)
6796 54330 Printing
6796 54400 Program Expense
6796 51000517 Salary
6796 58800 Fringes
Explanation: Revenue Increase in Weatherization Referral and Packaging Program (WRAP).
Office for the Aging (47)
Revenue Acct Title
6793 44772 Federal Revenue
Amt
($102)
Approp Acct Title(s)
6793 54491 Subcontract
Explanation: Decrease in Federal Revenue in HIICAP (Health Insurance Counseling)
Sheriff (48)
Revenue Acct Title Amt
3113 43389 Other Public Safety $20,000
Explanation: NYSCJS grant for traffic enforcement.
Approp Acct Title(s)
3113 5222 Departmental Equip.
Office for the Aging (49)
Revenue Acct Title Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
6784 44772 Federal Revenue $1,642.35 6784 54491 Subcontract
Explanation: Federal Revenue increase in Cash -in -Lieu for amount per meal in food program.
Division of Assessment (50)
Revenue Acct Title
1355 41250 Assessor's Fees
1355 41250 Assessor's Fees
1355 41250 Assessor's Fees
Explanation: Sale of 1997 Oldsmobile
Amt Approp Acct Title(s)
$4,500 1335 52231 Vehicles
$ 240 1335 54412 Travel/Training
$ 522 1335 54412 Travel/Training
. Proceeds are to be used toward purchase of new vehicle.
Reimbursement from NYS Office of Real Property Services for Cornell Seminar attended by V. Coggin.
Reimbursement from NYS Office of Real Property Services for New York State Real Property Tax
Directors Association 2001 Summer Conference attended by V. Coggin.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 253 - APPROVING COMPLETED TAX ROLLS AND DIRECTING THE
EXECUTING AND DELIVERY OF WARRANTS
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, upon the tax rolls of the several towns and City, the several taxes will be extended,
now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That the tax rolls be
approved as completed and that there shall be extended and carried out upon the roll the amount to be
levied against each parcel of real property shown thereon,
313
November 7, 2001
RESOLVED, further, That there be annexed to each of said rolls a tax warrant prepared by the
Director of Assessment as provided for in Section 4.02(b) of the Tompkins County Charter and Code, that
such warrants shall be the respective amounts theretofore authorized to be levied upon each of said rolls,
that the several warrants be signed by the Chairman and the Clerk of the Board under seal of the Board
and by the Director of Assessment, that said rolls with said warrants annexed are to be forthwith delivered
to the respective collectors of the several districts of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 254 - PRINTING OF TAX RATES
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, under the Consent Agenda.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That after the tax rates
are ascertained for the various towns and the City of Ithaca, the Clerk shall print such rates in the 2001
Proceedings of the Board following budgets of the several towns and City.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 255 - TOWN BUDGETS
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, under the Consent Agenda.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That in accordance with
the laws of the State of New York and with budgets adopted by the several town boards of the County of
Tompkins now on file with the Clerk of the Board there be levied upon and collected from the taxable
property of the several towns of the County and the City of Ithaca the sums contained in those budgets,
RESOLVED, further, That said summaries of the budgets of the several towns of the County and
the City of Ithaca be printed in the 2001 Proceedings of the Board of Representatives.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 256 - AUTHORIZATION FOR DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO MAKE
YEAR-END TRANSFERS, APPROPRIATIONS AND BUDGET
ADJUSTMENTS AS REQUIRED
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, under the Consent Agenda.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That the County
Finance Director be and he hereby is authorized and directed to make year-end transfers, appropriations,
and budget adjustments required to clear credit balances from the books at year-end,
RESOLVED, further, That any such additional entries made by the County Finance Director shall
be reported back to the Board of Representatives.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 257 - AUTHORIZATION TO SIGN DRAFTS - COUNTY
ADMINISTRATOR
314
November 7, 2001
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, under the Consent Agenda.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That the County
Administrator be and he hereby is authorized to sign all drafts of the County of Tompkins and to delegate
this authority to the Deputy County Administrator.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 258 - AUTHORIZING PAYMENTS FOR COMMUNITY COLLEGE
OPERATING BUDGET
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, this Board has heretofore and by resolution approved the 2002-2003 operating
budget for the Tompkins Cortland Community College and appropriated the necessary funds to pay the
Tompkins County proportionate share of the operating budget of said college, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That the County
Administrator be and he hereby is authorized and directed, pursuant to the provisions of the Education
Law of the State of New York and within the authorization provided by this Board, to pay Tompkins
Cortland Community College an amount up to but not to exceed the Tompkins County budgeted share of
the operating costs of said college for the fiscal year 2001-2002 on the following dates in the following
amounts:
January 1, 2001
March 1, 2001
May 1, 2001
July 1, 2001
Total
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
$531,798.00
$531,798.00
$531,798.00
$531,798.00
$2,127,192.00
RESOLUTION NO. 259 - WORKER'S COMPENSATION BUDGET AND APPORTIONMENT -
MUTUAL SELF-INSURANCE PLAN
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, the Budget and Capital Committee estimates that the sum of $2,000 will be required
during the year 2002 for the payment of compensation in old and pending cases on behalf of the County
and participating municipalities under the Mutual Self -Insurance Plan and for the expenses of
administering same, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That there be raised
from the County and participating municipalities in 2002 the total sum of $2,000 the same to be
apportioned to the County and the several participating municipalities in the proportion that their
equalized valuation bears to the aggregate valuation of the County and all participating municipal
corporations as follows:
Municipality Assessed Full Value Apportionment
Caroline 103,955,191 $ 27.74
Danby 133,608,922 $ 35.65
315
November 7, 2001
Dryden 438,190,956
Enfield 97,569,182
Groton 98,695,235
Ithaca (Town) 504,566,540
Lansing 770,239,717
Newfield 151,882,510
Ulysses 233,200,663
Ithaca (City) 842,093,082
Dryden (Village) 63,812,748
Freeville (Village) 13,570,540
Groton (Village) 52,427,008
Cayuga Heights (Village) 243,464,459
County of Tompkins 3,747,276,753
Total 7,494,553,506
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
$ 116.94
$ 26.04
$ 26.34
$ 134.65
$ 205.55
$ 40.53
$ 62.23
$ 224.72
$ 17.03
$ 3.62
$ 13.99
$ 64.97
$ 1,000.00
$ 2,000.00
RESOLUTION NO. 260 - ADOPTION OF APPORTIONMENT OF TAXES FOR 2002
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, under the Consent Agenda.
WHEREAS, the report of equalization rates and totals (footings) of assessment rolls has been
prepared and approved by the Assessment Director, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the report of
the Director of Assessment be accepted and adopted and the valuation of real property and franchise be
based on the 2001 final assessed values for the purposes of general and highway tax levied against the
several tax districts of the County and that the values determined therein set forth as the basis for such
general and highway tax levies for the year 2002,
RESOLVED, further, That several amounts therein listed for State tax, County tax for general
County purposes, and County highway tax for 2002 against the several towns of the County and City of
Ithaca be assessed against, levied upon and collected from taxable property of the several towns and City
liable therefor.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
Appointments Approved Under Consent Agenda
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to approve the following appointments under the Consent Agenda:
Environmental Management Council
Heather McDaniel — Town of Ulysses — term to expire December 31, 2001
Robert Roe — Town of Danby Representative — term to expire December 31, 2003
Water Resources Council
Scott Cook — Ex -Officio — Department of Environmental Conservation
Steve Uzmann — EMC Liaison — term to expire December 31, 2002
Monika Roth- Cooperative Extension — term to expire December 31, 2002
Youth Board
Lauren Pecoraro — Town of Caroline — term to expire December 31, 2002
316
November 7, 2001
Presentation of Resolution from the Government Operations Committee
RESOLUTION NO. 261 - ADOPTION OF LOCAL LAW NO. 5 OF 2001 - AMENDING
SECTION C -204(c) OF THE TOMPKINS COUNTY CHARTER
AND CODE - VACANCIES ON THE BOARD OF
REPRESENTATIVES
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Penniman.
Chair Mink, at the request of Mr. Proto, explained that this Resolution changes the Charter for
this year only to allow the City of Ithaca to appoint the winner of the November election to serve on the
Board. This means that Leslyn McBean, of District No. 2 will be allowed to join the Board and play an
active roll.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 13; Noes — 0; Excused — 1 (Representative Winch);
Vacancy — 1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, a public hearing has been held before the Board of Representatives on November 7,
2001, to hear all persons interested in proposed Local Law No. 5 of 2001, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That proposed
Local Law No. 5 of 2001 — Amending Section C -204(c) of the Tompkins County Charter and Code —
Vacancies on the Board of Representatives, be and hereby is adopted,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board shall publish in the official newspaper of the
County a notice of adoption containing a synopsis of said Local Law, and shall within five (5) days file
one certified copy in the Office of the County Clerk, and one copy with the Secretary of State.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) by the Government Operations Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chairman, reported the Committee met on November 1st. He noted that the
majority of business discussed is highlighted in resolutions brought before the Board at this meeting. He
said the Committee has selected a three-person subcommittee to begin evaluation of the County
Administrator. He hopes that this evaluation will be completed by the end of the year. He said that the
Finance Director informed him that a Governor's Executive Board provision that tax bills will be due
approximately thirty days later than usual for persons impacted by September 11 and who file appropriate
affidavits.
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr also reported that the Public Information Advisory Board has been working
on a survey to obtain feedback on the County Advisory Boards. He noted that of the approximately fifty
advisory boards and six hundred surveys sent out about one hundred ten replies have been received.
Some highlights of the replies is that most have served on advisory boards for two years or more, they
attend most meetings, understand existing bylaws and believe a new member may not. Vacancies on the
Advisory Boards tend to run three to six months which can interfere with some of the groups.
Recruitment is through nominating committees as well as recommendations of the advisory board. Most
individuals are pleased that although not always followed they appreciate the fact that their suggestions
are listened to. They do feel the need for additional publicity for their groups to provide information to
the public, goal setting, and as a tool for member recruitment.
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr noted that two employees on payroll are already on military leave at the
present time. With regard to disaster leave, the policy has been reviewed and sent to administration for
their review as well.
317
November 7, 2001
Mr. Todd inquired how the reported item of property tax is designated. Mr. Squires clarified it by
saying that as a result of the September 11, 2001 event, individuals directly impacted by it who can show
cause that they are unable to pay their property tax on the regular due date are being given an extension.
Mr. Proto inquired about the County Health Insurance and why the County receives rebates of
premiums even though increases are being made for next year. It was explained by Mr. Whicher that it is
a result of premiums not used as anticipated; each year the premiums are based upon anticipated
expenses.
RESOLUTION NO. 262 - AMENDMENT TO ADMINISTRATIVE MANUAL POLICY
01-29 — STANDARDS OF CONDUCT
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
WHEREAS, in 1997, the County Code of Ethics was amended by local law and at the same time
the corresponding chapter in the County Administrative Manual (Policy 01-29) was amended to
incorporate these changes, and
WHEREAS, the above action omitted the section on Personal Conduct, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the following
paragraphs be added to Administrative Manual Policy 01-29, Section III — Standards of Conduct as
follows:
Alcoholic beverages. The use of alcoholic beverages in County office
buildings and at other County worksites is prohibited.
(j.) Social gatherings. It is department head's responsibility to ensure that
social gatherings (e.g., office parties for birthdays, retirements, holidays, etc.) in the
department are held at an appropriate time of the day that balances encouraging
employee participation and the significance of the event with the amount of impact on
the workload of the department.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 263 - APPOINTMENT OF ELECTION COMMISSIONER FOR 2002-2003
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Tompkins County Republican Committee and
Government Operations Committee, That Elizabeth Cree be and hereby is appointed Republican Party
Elections Commissioner for the two-year term commencing January 1, 2002 and ending December 31,
2003.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 264 - APPROPRIATION FROM CONTINGENT FUND FOR
TERMINAL PAY — COUNTY ADMINISTRATION
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Penniman. A short call vote resulted as
follows: Ayes — 13, Noes — 0, Excused — 1 (Representative Winch), Vacancy- 1 (District No. 2).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
318
November 7, 2001
WHEREAS, during 2001, the following employees terminated their employment with Tompkins
County:
Rick Erb, County Administrator (1/19/01)
Bill Benjamin, Deputy County Administrator (7/21/01)
George Hammer, Systems Administrator (6/15/01)
Tim Kessler, Systems Analyst (6/8/01)
, and
WHEREAS, the Fiscal Policy of Tompkins County allows for reimbursement of terminal pay
through the Contingent Fund, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations and Budget and Capital
Committees, That the Director of Finance is hereby authorized and directed to make the following budget
appropriation:
FROM: A1990.54440 Contingent Fund
TO: A1230.51000253 Salary — County Administrator
A1230.51000282
A1230.58800
A3989.51000725
A3989.51000719
A3989.58800
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Salary — Deputy County Administrator
Fringes — County Administration
Salary — Systems Administrator
Salary — Systems Analyst
Fringes — Criminal Justice
$ 32,386
$ 11,647
6,725
4,593
3,175
4,362
1,884
RESOLUTION NO. 265 - AUTHORIZATION FOR CONTINGENT FUND APPROPRIATION
TO COVER OUTSIDE LEGAL FEES RELATED TO
REDISTRICTING LAWSUIT - COUNTY ATTORNEY
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Totman.
Mr. Wood noted that the total expended to date for the Communications System lawsuit is
$8,384.30. The amount currently expended for the redistricting lawsuit is $55,169. He is unaware at the
present time if additional legal work is required. Mr. Todd inquired if additional fees are being incurred
on the lawsuits. Mr. Wood noted that at the present time no work is done as a result of awaiting a
decision from the appellate court.
A short call vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 13, Noes — 0, Excused — 1 (Representative Winch),
Vacancy- 1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, outside counsel was obtained to facilitate the County's defense in the recent
redistricting lawsuit imposed by the Town of Ithaca, and several other parties, and
WHEREAS, the County has been billed by Harris Beach, LLP, for legal services through
September 13, 2001 in the amount of $7,670.01, representing the fourth phase of counsel and defense,
and
WHEREAS, payment is now due, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Representatives hereby acknowledges that future billings are
anticipated, making the total County cost related to this case to date is, $55,169, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations and Budget and Capital
Committees, That the Director of Finance be authorized and directed to make the following budget
appropriation:
FROM: A1990.54400 Contingent Fund $7,670.01
TO: A1420.54442 Professional Services $7,670.01
SEQR ACTION: TYPE 11-20
319
November 7, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 266 - AUTHORIZATION FOR CONTINGENT FUND APPROPRIATION
TO COVER OUTSIDE LEGAL FEES RELATED TO
COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM - COUNTY ATTORNEY
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley.
Mr. Proto inquired whether Mr. Wood knew what the monetary expense for the towns has been
with regard to the lawsuit. Mr. Wood said that a Freedom of Information request was submitted to the
Town of Ithaca. He noted the response, which reflected only a portion of the costs, was approximately
$30,000 - $35,000. He will submit another request upon completion of the lawsuit. Mr. Proto asked if
any figure was known for the various Towns involved. Mr. Wood said his office has not submitted a
Freedom of Information request to these parties to date, however he believes the total the Town of Ithaca
paid was assumed to be eighty percent of the total bill with the other parties paying the remainder.
Mr. Proto expressed his desire to inform the public of the overall expenses of the lawsuits.
Chair Mink said that she notes the desire of the Board to obtain more information on expenditures
by the Towns and other parties with regard to the lawsuits. She requested that the various Clerk's be
contacted to request this information rather than filing a formal Freedom of Information request.
Mr. Penniman felt that it was appropriate to inquire at the present time as he had been informed
that some municipalities were not going to pursue the issue further.
A short call vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 13; Noes — 0; Excused — 1 (Representative Winch);
Vacancy —1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, outside counsel was obtained to facilitate the County's defense in the recent
communications system lawsuit imposed by the local towns, and
WHEREAS, the County has been billed by Harris Beach, LLP, for legal services through
September 28, 2001 in the amount of $8,384.37, and
WHEREAS, payment is now due, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations and Budget and Capital
Committees, That the Director of Finance be authorized and directed to make the following budget
appropriation:
FROM: A1990.54400 Contingent Fund $8,384.37
TO: A1420.54442 Professional Services $8,384.37
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 267 - APPROVAL OF DESIGNATIONS OF SUCCESSORS
MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Joseph, and unanimously adopted by
voice vote by members present.
WHEREAS, the County Charter and Code at Section 31.08 specifies that the County
Administrator and specified department heads shall designate in writing, and in order of succession, the
deputies (or in the absence of officially designated deputies, the employees of the department) who shall
possess the powers and perform the duties of the principal in the event of the latter's absence from the
County or inability to perform or exercise the powers of the office, and
WHEREAS, the Charter and Code further requires those designations, except department heads
elected on a county -wide basis, to be approved by the Board of Representatives, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the following
designations of successors are hereby approved,
320
RESOLVED, further,
Airport Manager
County Administrator:
County Attorney:
Commissioner of Social
Services:
Fire, Disaster, and EMS
Coordinator:
Public Health Director:
Medical Examiner:
Mental Health Commissioner:
November 7, 2001
That this list is complete and supercedes all previous designations:
Assistant Airport Manager
Airport Terminal Services Coordinator
Operations Supervisor
Deputy County Administrator
Deputy County Attorney
Assistant County Attorney
Director of Eligibility
Director of Services
Director of Administrative Services
Legal Unit Administrator
Assistant County Fire Coordinator, Lee Shurtleff
Public Health Administrator
Deputy Medical Examiner, William Klepack, M.D.
Deputy Medical Examiner, Jerome Nosanchuk, M.D.
Deputy Medical Examiner, William Field, M.D.
Deputy Commissioner Mental Health
Medical Director
Director of Mental Health Clinic
Director of Day Program
Director of Finance: Budget and Finance Manager
Commissioner of Personnel: Benefits Manager
Commissioner of Public Works: County Administrator
RESOLVED, further, That pursuant to Tompkins County Charter and Code, Article 11, Section
11.02, designations specified for the Commissioner of Public Works be as follows:
County Superintendent of Highways —
County Engineer —
Code Enforcement Officer —
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Highway Manager
Associate Civil Engineer
General Building Supervisor
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Safety Committee
Mr. Totman, Chair, reported that the Committee will be meeting on November 8h.
RESOLUTION NO. 268 - AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY TO INDEMNIFY AND
DEFEND POLICE AGENCIES FOR PROVIDING DOMESTIC
INCIDENCE REPORTS TO THE COUNTY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
PREVENTION PROGRAM
321
November 7, 2001
MOVED by Mr. Totman, seconded by Mrs. Schuler, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
WHEREAS, the County Domestic Violence Prevention Program desires Domestic Incident
Reports from local police agencies in order to compile information relating to domestic violence in the
County, and
WHEREAS, various police agencies in the County including the Tompkins County Sheriff are
concerned about the possible liability in providing these reports to the Program, and
WHEREAS, the Domestic Violence Prevention Program does not intend to distribute these
Domestic Incident Reports, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Safety Committee, That the County will
indemnify and defend local police agencies including the Sheriff for any claim arising out of the
distribution of such reports by the County Domestic Violence Prevention Program.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Committee met and the majority of the meeting was taken up
with the Tompkins Cortland Community College presentation of the Master Plan. He noted that the
presentation provided to his Committee was in-depth.
RESOLUTION NO. 269- DELEGATING TO THE FINANCE DIRECTOR OF THE
COUNTY OF TOMPKINS, NEW YORK, THE POWER TO
AUTHORIZE THE ISSUANCE OF AND TO SELL $6,000,000
REVENUE ANTICIPATION NOTES OF SAID COUNTY IN
ANTICIPATION OF RECEIPT OF STATE AID DURING
THE FISCAL YEAR OF SAID COUNTY COMMENCING
JANUARY 1, 2002
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, by the Board of
Representatives of the County of Tompkins, New York as follows:
Section 1. The power to authorize the issuance and to sell $6,000,000 revenue anticipation notes
of the County of Tompkins, New York, including renewals thereof, in anticipation of the receipt of State
Aid due said County during the fiscal year of said County commencing January 1, 2002, is hereby
delegated to the Finance Director, the chief fiscal officer of such County. Such notes shall be of such
terms, for and contents, and shall be sold in such manner as may be determined by the Finance Director,
consistent with the provisions of the Local Finance Law.
Section 2. This resolution shall take effect immediately.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 270 - AUTHORIZATION TO TRANSFER CAPITAL PROGRAM FUNDS
APPROVED IN THE 2001-2005 CAPITAL PROGRAM
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lalley.
Ms. Blanchard inquired as to the purpose of the Resolution. Mr. Joseph explained that it was one
of three ways to proceed with the transfer. He noted that each proposal provided the same effect and that
this particular Resolution was the one chosen.
322
November 7, 2001
Ms. Kiefer inquired whether any funds were remaining from the five-year Capital Program for
this project. Mr. Joseph said that he anticipates that there will be approximately $400,000 to utilize this
next year.
Mr. Todd inquired whether this is a bonding project. Mr. Joseph said this is appropriated funds
for this project. The funds are still remaining and this is a carryover of these funds.
Ms. Blanchard noted that the funds are not estimated beyond 2002 because we do not know the
amount the State will fund at this time. She noted that it should not be construed as backing away from
the project.
Mr. Joseph reported that the funds there are already appropriated and that there has not been a
need to request further appropriation of funds this year as the project is still in the beginning stages. It
may progress and utilize these funds the upcoming year and require further appropriation.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 13; Noes — 0; Excused — 1 (Representative Winch);
Vacancy — 1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Public Safety Communications Capital Project was approved in the 2001-2005
Capital Program with an appropriation of $700,000, and
WHEREAS, the fiscal needs of this project anticipated through December 31, 2002 is estimated
at $390,000, and
WHEREAS, the County Infrastructure Capital Project is estimated at $310,000, and would have
been scheduled for bonding in 2002, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That the Director of
Finance be authorized and directed to transfer $310,000 from the Public Safety Communications Capital
Project to the County Infrastructure Capital Project,
RESOLVED, further, That bonding in 2002 will no longer be necessary for the County
Infrastructure Capital Project.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Planning Committee
Mr. Penniman, Chairman, reported the Committee met October 17th. He reported that they
received a report from Joan Jurkowich about the purchase of development rights study. There have been
two public meetings; one in Enfield and one in Dryden. These were mainly with farmers which provided
information about this profitable program. There is a meeting on November 8th at the Cooperative
Extension Office on this subject. His Committee also discussed vacancies existing on the Planning
Advisory Board. Presently there are two At -Large, one Economic Development and one Environment
seats open.
Mr. Penniman reported on discussions concerning the Aquifer Study and said that several Towns
desire to move the study along.
The next meeting of the Planning Committee will be November 28th, when they will meet jointly
with the Health and Human Services Committee at 11:30 a.m. to discuss the Pesticide Neighbor
Notification law. He anticipates that there will be a study of how other counties are proceeding with the
subject and does not anticipate any legislation taking place this year.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Public Works Committee
Mr. Lane, Chairman, reported the Committee met October 23'a. He reported that the process is
continuing for the purchase of the land rights along North Triphammer Road. There are eighty-eight
323
November 7, 2001
parcels that require purchase of rights-of-way. On October 18th the first public meeting regarding the
Ellis Hollow Road Project occurred. It was facilitated by Highway Department staff Peter Messmer and
John Lampman as well as consulting engineers. He said there was standing room only and that the
meeting was productive, providing worthwhile information and participation.
Mr. Lane said the Committee provided approval to Mr. Nicholas of the Ithaca Tompkins Regional
Airport to expend $7,500 to begin looking into other carriers at the airport. He noted that it is prudent to
put together a package of information which will provide information regarding the needs of our area.
He said that the use of the County Solid Waste Facility by Broome County has produced a net of
approximately $8,000 revenue for August and September. He said that the recycling being received is of
quality and we are is still fifteen percent below the operating threshold set for the facility.
Mr. Lane reported that the County does not anticipate receiving the Operation Grant for the
Household Hazardous Waste Program. This grant was approximately $72,000 and provided a means of
disposal of household chemicals which cannot easily be disposed of.
Ms. Blanchard inquired whether the Public Works Committee would like an individual from the
Air Service Task Force to participate in the study mentioned regarding air service to Tompkins County.
Mr. Lane indicated he believed that the group would be working with the Task Force. Mr. Todd agreed to
serve as a representative.
RESOLUTION NO. 271- APPROVAL OF RIGHT-OF-WAY PLAN — BROOKTONDALE
BRIDGES — LOUNSBERY ROAD BRIDGE (BIN 3314100)
REPLACEMENT AND VALLEY ROAD BRIDGE (BIN 1045990)
REHABILITATION
MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr. Proto.
Mr. Proto asked if all individuals involved in rights-of-way have been contacted. Mr. Lane noted
that this is a plan; however, he believed that correspondence had been sent to involved parties.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 13; Noes — 0; Excused — 1 (Representative Winch);
Vacancy —1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 248 of 1999 authorized an agreement with the State of New York
whereby State and Federal sources will furnish ninety-five percent of the funding to perform incidental
work needed to acquire additional right of way for reconstruction of the Lounsbery Road and Valley Road
Bridges ("Brooktondale Bridges") over Six Mile Creek in the Town of Caroline (BIN 3314100 and
1045990, respectively), and
WHEREAS, plans indicate that acquisition of five (5) parcels (deeded "strip takings") is
necessary, but that the individual and cumulative impacts of right of way acquisition are considered total
de minimus in nature (0.01 to 0.05 acres, totaling 0.198 acres), and
WHEREAS, in accordance with applicable federal regulations and guidelines a Right -of -Way
Plan has been prepared, certified by the design consultant, and approved by the County Highway
Manager, which describes project right-of-way needs, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works Committee, That the Chair of the
Tompkins County Board of Representatives or designee be and hereby is authorized to execute
documents granting Approval of Right -of -Way Plan for the referenced project whereby acquisition of
additional right of way may be authorized.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -21
324
November 7, 2001
Report from the Health and Human Services Committee
Mrs. Schuler, Chair, reported the Committee will be meeting on November 281 and will follow
her regular meeting with a joint meeting with Planning Committee to discuss Neighborhood Pesticide
Notification Laws.
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Economic and Workforce Development
Committee
Mr. Stein, Chairman, reported the Committee met on October 23'a and reviewed a number of
resolutions that appeared on the agenda. He noted that an item that does not appear on this agenda was
the approval of the Tourism Grant Guidelines, which required Committee action only. He reminded
Committee members and any interested Board member that a meeting is scheduled on November 20,
2001, with a group of labor union representatives at 11:00 a.m. at the Scott Heyman Conference Room
with the regular meeting to follow. He said that the group desired to present some ideas for the
Committee's consideration.
RESOLUTION 272 — EXPANSION OF THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE STRATEGIC TOURISM
PLANNING BOARD
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard.
Mr. Proto inquired to the eligibility of individuals to the Committee and if restrictions would
apply. Chair Mink answered that there are no restrictions.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 13; Noes — 0; Excused — 1 (Representative Winch);
Vacancy —1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, tourism has become a growing and important sector of the County's economy, and
WHEREAS, tourism can increase jobs, and increase sales and property tax income if planned
appropriately, and
WHEREAS, tourism can improve the quality of life for County residents at the same time it
attracts visitors from outside the County, and
WHEREAS, the current membership of the Strategic Tourism Planning Board is limited to
specific categories, but there are individuals in the County who wish to contribute to the tourism
development program but do not fit into the current specified categories for membership, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That the membership of the Strategic Tourism Planning Board be expanded to include two members At -
Large,
RESOLVED, further, That the terms of these two new members be three years except that one
shall be appointed for three years starting January 1, 2002, and the other appointed for two years starting
January 1, 2002, but subsequent appointment to these two positions shall be for three years.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 273 - AUTHORIZING A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED LOCAL
LAW NO. 7 OF 2001- A LOCAL LAW AMENDING SECTION 150-10
OF THE TOMPKINS COUNTY CHARTER AND CODE —
IMPOSITION OF TOMPKINS COUNTY HOTEL ROOM
OCCUPANCY TAX
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Ms. Blanchard.
325
November 7, 2001
Mr. Proto requested that a news article be done with regard to this resolution. Mr. Stein replied
that he would contact the news agencies present to assure that it received note. A voice vote resulted as
follows: Ayes — 13; Noes — 0; Excused — 1 (Representative Winch); Vacancy — 1 (District No. 2).
RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That a public hearing be held before the Board of Representatives in Board Chambers of the Tompkins
County Courthouse, 320 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, on, Tuesday, December 4, 2001, at 5:30
o'clock in the evening thereof concerning proposed Local Law No. 7 of 2001 — A Local Law Amending
Section 150-10 of the Tompkins County Charter and Code — Imposition of Tompkins County Hotel Room
Occupancy Tax. At such time and place all persons interested in the subject matter will be heard
concerning the same,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board is hereby authorized and directed to place
proper notice of such public hearing in the official newspaper of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 274 — AUTHORIZING A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED LOCAL
LAW NO. 6 OF 2001- A LOCAL LAW AMENDING SECTION 150-12
OF THE TOMPKINS COUNTY CHARTER AND CODE —
EXEMPTIONS — TOMPIINNS COUNTY HOTEL ROOM
OCCUPANCY TAX
MOVED by Mr. Stein, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee,
That a public hearing be held before the Board of Representatives in Board Chambers of the Tompkins
County Courthouse, 320 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, on, Tuesday, December 4, 2001, at 5:30
o'clock in the evening thereof concerning proposed Local Law No. 6 of 2001 — A Local Law Amending
Section 150-12 of the Tompkins County Charter and Code — Exemptions — Tompkins County Hotel
Room Occupancy Tax. At such time and place all persons interested in the subject matter will be heard
concerning the same,
RESOLVED, further, That the Clerk of the Board is hereby authorized and directed to place
proper notice of such public hearing in the official newspaper of the County.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report from the Communications Capital Proiects Committee
Ms. Blanchard, Chair, reported that the Committee met on October 23rd and discussed the status
of the 911 Center and Building Project. She noted that the user group working on the regional plan and
developing the communications program was sent back to the drawing board to modify the building plans
in order to bring the project in at budget. Also discussed is the draft Request for Proposal (RFP) for the
Communication Systems Upgrade, referred to as the Towers Project and anticipates it to be circulating by
the end of the month. She noted that there will be information to the press about the project and the
comment period. She hopes to hear back from potential vendors with regard to possible revisions to the
RFP. Also discussed was the paging project and a resolution is being presented. Ms. Blanchard said that
a brief report was given regarding the search for a Director of Emergency Communications. She noted
that at that time there were four candidates which they were seriously interested in and that additional
applications have been received needing to be reviewed. The next meeting of the Committee will be at
4:00 p. m. on November 20, 2001.
326
November 7, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 275 - AWARD OF CONTRACT - PUBLIC SAFETY
COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM, PROPOSED PAGING CAPITAL
PROJECT
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Lalley.
Ms. Blanchard explained that the purpose of this resolution is the result of Mr. Lalley working
with appropriate personnel to provide information necessary to make a determination of the most
appropriate action to provide an up-to-date communication system for County employees.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 13; Noes — 0; Excused — 1 (Representative Winch);
Vacancy —1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the County has established the Public Safety Communication System as a capital
project and the Board of Representatives has formed the Communications Capital Projects (COMCAP)
Committee to develop and advance the project, and
WHEREAS, outside consultants and contractors are required to complete all phases of the project
which include design, research, assessments, and other elements, as well as procurement of products, and
WHEREAS, serious concerns regarding the current paging system have been raised by members
of the public safety community and documented in a study conducted by NYSTEC (New York State
Technical Enterprise Corporation), illustrate the severe problems associated with the current paging
system and the need for its replacement, and
WHEREAS, the county wishes to pursue design and other services for the purpose of defining the
scope and cost of replacing the current paging system, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Finance Department released a Requestrfor Qualifications for
the Replacement of the Emergency Paging System in use by public safety agencies in Tompkins County,
and responses have been received and reviewed by COMCAP, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Communications Capital Projects Committee, That a
contract be issued to obtain design consulting services from United Radio Services, Inc., of Syracuse,
New York, related to the replacement of the current emergency paging system, not -to -exceed the total
amount of $15,000.00,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator is hereby authorized to enter this contract and
to execute change orders of up to five (5) percent of the contract total,
RESOLVED, further, That the Administration Department be authorized to implement this contract
on behalf of the County, funds being available in Capital Account No. HI3412.59239.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 276 - AWARD OF CONTRACT - PUBLIC SAFETY
COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM CAPITAL PROJECT
MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Totman.
Ms. Blanchard explained the purpose of this resolution is to allow an amendment which will
allow NYSTEC to continue to provide information desired on the electronic core of the 911 system.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 13; Noes — 0; Excused — 1 (Representative Winch);
Vacancy —1 (District No. 2). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the County has established the Public Safety Communication System as a capital
project and the Board has formed the COMCAP Committee to provide oversight of the project, and
WHEREAS, outside consultants and contractors are required to complete all phases of the project
which include design, research, assessments, and other elements, as well as procurement of products, and
327
November 7, 2001
WHEREAS, the County established contracts to provide wireless communication expertise to on
this project, with NYSTEC (New York State Technical Enterprise Corporation) on November 7, 2000,
and Amendment No. 1 on February 13, 2001, and
WHEREAS, the County wishes to obtain additional consulting services from NYSTEC related to
items under the purview of the COMCAP Committee, but not within the scope of services currently
outlined in existing contracts, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the COMCAP Committee, That a contract be issued with
NYSTEC as Amendment No. 2, not -to -exceed the total amount of $20,000,
RESOLVED, further, That the County Administrator is hereby authorized to enter into this contract
and to execute change orders of up to five (5) percent of the contract total,
RESOLVED, further, That the Administration Department be authorized to implement this contract
on behalf of the County, funds being available in Capital Account No. HI3412.59239.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report of the Charter Review Committee
Mr. Lane, Chair, said his Committee met briefly to discuss Section 2.04 of the Charter which deals
with Vacancy on the Board. He noted that they are considering draft proposals that would include special
election procedures. His Committee will continue to review this matter when it meets November 8th at
10:15 a.m.
Report of the Information Management Committee
Ms. Kiefer, Chair, did not have a report as there was no meeting.
Report of the Space Needs and Location Committee
Chair Mink, Chair, indicated that they have not met but anticipated meeting shortly.
Report of the Tompkins 2020 Committee
Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, Chair, reported that by the end of the year the report should be completed and
ready for the public. He noted that the Tompkins 2020 web site has been receiving many hits on the web.
Approval of Minutes of October 16, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Lalley, seconded by Mr. Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the minutes of October 16, 2001 as submitted. MINUTES APPROVED.
Recess
Chair Mink declared recess at 7:06 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 7:12 p.m.
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by
voice vote of members present, to enter into executive session at 7:12 p.m. to discuss a personnel matter.
The meeting returned to open session at 7:21 p.m.
County Attorney Appointment
328
November 7, 2001
It was MOVED by Mr. Koplinka-Loehr, seconded by Mr. Lalley, to appoint Jonathan Wood as
the County Attorney effective August 8, 2001. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes — 11; Noes — 2
(Representatives Kiefer and Proto); Excused — 1 (Representative Winch); Vacancy — 1 (District No. 2).
APPOINTMENT CARRIED.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:22 p.m.
329
November 13, 2001
Adjourned Board Meeting
Public Hearing
Boynton Middle School
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the public hearing to order at 7:00 p.m. concerning proposed 2002 Tompkins
County Budget and the 2002-2006 Capital Program.
Present: 14 Representatives. (Representatives Proto and Stein arrived at 7:19 p.m.) Vacancy —1
(District No. 2).
Chair Mink asked if anyone wished to speak.
Rose Bethe, Cayuga Heights resident, said she has lived in Ithaca for 62 years. She asked the
Board not to cut the Tompkins County Library's budget. She said the Library is beautiful and has drawn
many more people since the new building was constructed. She said staffing is an important issue at a
library, and that if there is not adequate staffing books will not get returned to the shelf in a timely
manner.
Gale Smith, Chair of the Tompkins County Youth Board, said the Youth Bureau is facing
$134,737 in combined State and County funding cuts in 2002. In addition, municipalities that match state
and county funds may cut their local matching dollars, resulting in possible triple cuts for them. Mr.
Smith said he represents the volunteers who serve on the Youth Board, as well as the twelve agencies and
16 municipalities that receive funding through the Tompkins County Youth Bureau. On their behalf, he
asked the Board to restore the $20,000 cut made to the Youth Bureau's budget on October 26. He said
the Youth Board understands the County's difficult fiscal situation and if this were the only cut the Youth
Bureau were facing they would probably not be here this evening. He said it is important that the Board
and the public understands the severe cuts the Youth Bureau is facing by both the state and County.
Jerry Sirine, a representative of the Tompkins County Corrections Association and Corrections
Sergeant at the Tompkins County Public Safety Building, spoke concerning the $58,000 over -target
reduction the Sheriffs Office is facing in the 2002 budget. He said this reduction creates serious staffing
issues from a manpower and overtime standpoint. On behalf of the Association, Mr. Sirine asked the
Board to take another look at the cut that results in the loss of two officer positions at a time when there
are already too many overtime hours and a high likelihood that prisoners will be boarded out. This will
not only result in increased costs for boarding, but increased costs for officers to transport those prisoners
also.
Emily Metz, Ithaca resident, urged the Board to restore funding to the Tompkins County Public
Library. She said it is very important for children to be introduced to the public library system at a very
early age.
Barbara Berry, Lansing resident and member of the Tompkins County Youth Board, spoke of the
budget cuts the Youth Bureau is facing. Ms. Berry said the Tompkins County Youth Bureau has
eliminated two positions and has reduced its administrative spending by ten percent. She stated they
have done this at the same time the Department has had to incorporate pay raises which are mandated by
the County. Ms. Berry stated that Youth Bureau funding to eight programs serving 2,562 youth in
Tompkins County has been eliminated and 14 programs will receive reductions in funding of three to
thirteen percent as a result of the 2002 budget. Ms. Berry stated the final cut of $20,000 has resulted in
$8,700 being cut from rural programs. She said the Youth Bureau has set up a very good system of
evaluation and monitoring of programs. This system assesses all of the programs based on the number of
children who are served, area served, diversity of the population, ages of the children, and whether the
330
November 13, 2001
programs are meeting the identified goals. She urged the Board to reinstate as much of the Youth
Bureau's budget as possible.
Roy Dexheimer, Tompkins County resident and Acting Superintendent of South Seneca Central
School, said public libraries are the soul of a community. He said the County Board has said there are
many agencies who may have to become more actively involved in raising private dollars. He argued that
the Tompkins County Public Library has done that in large measure over the years through both the
Friends of the Library and now the Library Foundation. He said there is no more democratic institution
than the Public Library; it is open to everyone in both good and bad times to serve the people of this
community. He said putting together a budget is a very difficult job and asked the Board to keep
statements made this evening in mind when adopting the budget.
Bill Lesser, Town of Ithaca resident, urged the Board to consider restoring some of the additional
funding that was requested by the Tompkins County Sheriffs Office for the protection of public health
and safety. Mr. Lesser said the Sheriff has requested $60,000 in extra funding that has not been granted.
He said the Sheriff has stated the current funding level is insufficient to provide the level of protection
that he feels it is appropriate and necessary for Tompkins County and that there is evidence that supports
the Sheriff judgment. Mr. Lesser referred to incidents around the County that show there is a need for
greater traffic enforcement. He said when there are insufficient funds to patrol County roads
appropriately and stop violators, this pattern will only get worse.
Chair Mink thanked everyone for attending and speaking to the Board on the 2002 Tompkins
County budget.
Adjournment
On motion the meeting adjourned at 7:35 p.m.
331
November 20, 2001
Regular Meeting
Called to Order
Chair Mink called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Roll Call of Members
Members and guests participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present: 14 Representatives. Excused: 1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr).
Ms. Mink asked that members of the Board take a minute to reflect on a former Board member,
Jack Clynes, who recently passed away. She said he was a good Board member who was very active in
the community and this loss will be mourned by many.
Privilege of the Floor by the Public
Ron Flynn, Deputy Chief of the Dryden Fire and Ambulance Company and also the elected
President of the newly formed Fire and EMS Chiefs Association of Tompkins County, explained the
Association was formed to create cohesiveness between fire and ambulance departments throughout
Tompkins County. It also provides a forum for chiefs to speak openly in a non-political arena. The
Association was formed in August and meets once per month and is in the process of being recognized by
the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs. In addition to discussing the County's paging and
communication system, they exchange ideas in an open forum to help each department deal with every-
day problems. Mr. Flynn emphasized that the Association was not organized to undermine or replace the
existing long-standing Tompkins County Fire, Disaster, and EMS Advisory Board, but to assist wherever
possible. He said the goals of the Association are to establish and maintain a working relationship with
the Fire, Disaster, and EMS Coordinator and assist that office whenever possible, and increase and
maintain communication among all departments in the County.
Privilege of the Floor by Board Members
Mr. Proto, District No. 7 Representative, thanked Board members who participated in the recent
Veteran's Day parade. Mr. Proto said in the most recent issue of the Ithaca Times there was an article
that deals with the Cayuga Green project. He referred to the portion of the article that addressed the
Library's solar panels being moved, and asked if any Board member had the opportunity to listen to the
presentation. Mr. Stein said he attended the presentation at the request of Chair Mink. He said he didn't
recall any mention of the solar panels being moved; however, another presentation will be made to the
Library Board of Trustees and he will follow-up on Mr. Proto's question at that time.
Mr. Lane, District No. 14 Representative, welcomed Representative Leslyn McBean to the Board,
and stated he is glad all the residents of Tompkins County are once again represented on the Board.
Presentation on the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan
Lee Shurtleff, Deputy Fire, Disaster, and EMS Coordinator, said the Emergency Planning
Committee was formed a little over a year ago. At that time they had no idea that the events of September
11t would move to the forefront; however, those tragic events underscore the need for a comprehensive
plan for Tompkins County.
Mr. Shurtleff explained the history behind Tompkins County's creation of an emergency plan,
stating that the original plan was first developed in the mid 1980s and focused on events such as airplane
332
November 20, 2001
crashes. The interest in developing a more comprehensive plan was spurred two years ago with the Y2K
events. At that time there was a large group of public safety, public health providers, and municipalities
who participated in a week-long emergency management program that was sponsored by FEMA (Federal
Emergency Management Association). At that time needs were identified to develop a comprehensive
plan and expand the County's resource database and improve communications among agencies. Soon
thereafter a plan was developed that addressed resource databases, mutual -aid agreements, hazardous -
materials plans, and identified the need to update and to eventually develop additional plans and
agreements as appropriate.
Mr. Shurtleff said the membership is comprised of representatives from several organizations
involved in local government and include public works, public safety, law enforcement, health, and
various other groups. He said the group meets on a monthly basis since 2000 and is probably one of the
most effective and involved groups he has been involved with in Tompkins County.
Mr. Shurtleff said there are four strategies contained in the plan:
Mitigation - being able to make communities disaster resistant; (for example, flood control)
Preparedness — preparing both responders and the public, and proper training
Response — developing strategies for dealing with various situations
Recovery — developing a plan for returning the community to normal after an event has taken
place
Mr. Shurtleff said the group has identified its mission and has outlined and identified the
organizations that need to be part of the process of developing the plan. He explained they are currently
defming the roles and responsibilities of specific groups involved in an emergency process and for each
type of emergency and for each function. For each function they are determining what the roles of
authority are and how they will coordinate the resources for those organizations.
He explained the various functions: managing emergency operations, situation reporting, damage
assessments, terrorism response, alert warning notification, and resource management. He said there are
many organizations and agencies who are involved, and a number of task groups are working with them
on a number of components. One of those groups is the public information and emergency alerting
group. A comprehensive group that includes local governments and the universities is putting together a
public information program that can be implemented in case of an emergency. There are also police,
public works, and health groups who are also formalizing plans and developing strategies to deal with
emergencies.
Mr. Shurtleff spoke of terrorism and the events of September 11. He assured everyone that when
the events of that day transpired, the emergency response community in Tompkins County was together
in a matter of minutes reacting to the circumstances and devising a course of action to protect vulnerable
facilities. Since that time there have been numerous meetings between agencies and many plans have
been reviewed. Mr. Shurtleff said the State of New York recently sent in representatives from the
Weapons of Mass Destruction Task Force. He also attended a meeting in Syracuse last week that was
coordinated by the State Health Department that was for the sole purpose of informing counties of what
resources and equipment are existing at the state and federal level to assist counties should there be some
type of bioterrorism event. Mr. Shurtleff spoke of how well Tompkins County is prepared for an event,
and said there is an Emergency Planning Committee and a number of dedicated agencies who converse
frequently and have good communicational abilities and are well coordinated in the event of an
emergency or disaster.
works.
Mr. Proto asked about the creation of a hazardous -materials team. Mr. Shurtleff said that is in the
333
November 20, 2001
Chair's Report and Appointment(s)
Ms. Mink welcomed Representative McBean, and stated for the remainder of the year Ms.
McBean will be serving on those standing committees that Representative Davis served on.
Ms. Mink made appointment(s) following the adoption of Resolution No. 294.
Report from the County Administrator
Mr. Whicher reported departments have been reporting on communications they have received
from the State on the budget and it appears that the $1 billion shortfall that the State is experiencing will
be passed down to the counties. Mr. Whicher said the Assessment Department has already received
notification of the loss of approximately $60,000 in State Aid. He announced the selection of Edward
Marks of Oswego County, for the position of Tompkins County Planning Commissioner. Mr. Marks will
begin employment the first of January.
It was MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice
vote by members present, to approve the County Administrator's recommendation to appoint Edward
Marx to the position of Planning Commissioner. APPOINTMENT CARRIED.
Mr. Whicher announced that he regretfully had to accept the resignation of George McClure as
Director of Information Technology Services. Greg Potter has been appointed Interim Director.
Report from the County Attorney
Mr. Wood reported on the decision in the Redistricting litigation and said the Town and the
plaintiffs had the three following claims:
1. The County improperly drew the boundaries, which was harmful to the Town; this was
rejected by the Appellate Division, which ruled that the County had acted in good faith.
2. The County improperly conspired with the City of Ithaca; this was rejected by the Appellate
Division as they found no evidence of this.
3. The County corrected an obvious error by the Census and Judge Mulvey dismissed that claim
by the Town. The Appellate Court ruled he was premature in doing that and that the County
should wait for the Census Bureau to act.
Mrs. Schuler asked when the Census Bureau was likely to act, and was told by the end of the
year, or March.
Mr. Wood said he and the County Administrator were asked at the last Board meeting to contact
municipalities with regard to how much they have spent on this legal action. He said all of the towns
have been cooperative but do not have complete information at this time. Mr. Whicher noted that they
attempted to do this informally; however, the Town of Ithaca has asked the County to file a Freedom of
Information request.
Mr. Lane said he understood the Town of Ithaca had filed an appeal on the Bostwick Road
portion of the other lawsuit; Mr. Wood said he has received nothing on that yet.
Report from the Finance Director
Mr. Squires had no report.
334
November 20, 2001
Resolution(s) Added to the Agenda
On motion and duly seconded and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, the
following resolution(s) were added to the agenda:
Making a Negative Determination of Environmental Significance in Relation to Resolution No.
295 of 2001
Finalizing the Re -Programming of Unused Small Cities Community Development Block Grant
Funds — Environmental Associates, Ltd.
Authorizing the County Administrator to Enter into an Agreement Granting New York State
Electric and Gas (NYSEG) an Easement Along the South Side of Cherry Road
Award of Bid — Passenger Boarding Bridge — Ithaca -Tompkins Regional Airport
Audit of Final Payment — Runway 14/32 Edge Lighting Rehabilitation — Ithaca Tompkins
Regional Airport
Authorizing the County Administrator and Commissioner of Personnel to Continue the
Enforcement of a Soft -Hiring Freeze
Withdrawal of Resolution(s) from the Agenda
No resolution(s) were withdrawn from the agenda.
Approval of Appointment(s) and Resolution(s) Under the Consent Agenda
It was MOVED by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to approve the following appointments under the Consent Agenda:
Appointment(s)
Library Board of Trustees
Tonya Engst Miller — term to expire December 31, 2002
STOP -DWI Advisory Board
David Barnes — Ithaca City Police Department — term to expire December 31, 2003
James Steinmetz — Village Police Department — term to expire December 31, 2002
RESOLUTION NO. 277 - AUTHORIZING A MULTIPLE -YEAR AGREEMENT WITH
TOMPKINS TRUST COMPANY FOR PAYROLL BANKING
SERVICES
MOVED by Ms. Kiefer, seconded by Mr. Totman, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present, to approve the following resolution under the Consent Agenda. Mr. Proto disclosed
that his wife is an employee of the Tompkins County Trust Company.
WHEREAS, the Finance Department issued an RFP for banking services related to payroll and
direct deposit origination, and
WHEREAS, all qualified financial institutions domiciled within the County were solicited for
such service, and
WHEREAS, four proposals were received and evaluated by staff representing Payroll, Treasury,
and Information Technology Services operation, and
WHEREAS, the evaluation group unanimously recommended that the proposal submitted by
Tompkins Trust Company as the most complete, responsive, and financially advantageous be accepted,
now therefore be it
335
November 20, 2001
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Government Operations Committee, That the Director
of Finance is authorized to enter into a multi-year agreement with the Tompkins Trust Company to
provide payroll -banking services, and that such services will be provided without application of fees or
service charges.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Report and Presentation of Resolution(s) from the Budget and Capital Committee
Mr. Joseph, Chairman, reported the Committee spent time at the last Committee meeting
discussing proposed amendments to the Tompkins County Budget.
RESOLUTION NO. 278 - ADOPTION OF 2002 TOMPKINS COUNTY BUDGET
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lalley. Mr. Joseph said that he had intended to bring
another amendment forward; however, he has decided against bringing it forward.
It was MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously adopted by voice vote
by members present, to amend the 2002 Tompkins County Budget as follows:
Budget Amendment No. 1— Increase Unallocated Revenues and Contingent Fund
WHEREAS, based on current 2001 Tobacco Settlement proceeds, an estimate of $615,000 is
included in the 2002 Proposed Budget, and
WHEREAS, anticipated proceeds for 2001 are approximately $695,000, and
WHEREAS, an $80,000 increase in the Contingent Fund will provide additional resources for
essential services threatened by revenue shortfalls or inadequate funding, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That Page 5 of the 2002
Proposed Budget, Line 12 "Other General Revenues" is increased by $80,000 as a result of the refined
estimate for Tobacco proceeds,
RESOLVED, further, That Page 5 of the 2002 Proposed Budget, Line 7 "Contingent Fund" is
increased by $80,000.
Mr. Penniman said that with the increase in proposed revenue, it is tempting to look for other
places to spend the funds especially with all the cuts that have been made. However, given the outlook of
the State budget he does not feel it would be wise to find alternative uses for this money at this time.
Ms. Mink read the following statement submitted by Representative Koplinka-Loehr:
"Thank you Barbara for allowing me the opportunity to make a statement for you and my other
Board colleagues. Regrettably, a prior family commitment that was finalized three months before the
budget calendar was established, will prevent me from voting with you this evening. Were I at the table
tonight I would join those who stay the course in the face of compelling and heartbreaking pleas to either
increase allocations to either very worthy programs or decrease the tax rate required to balance our budget
for 2002.
This has not been an easy budget season for anyone and I know we all share an uneasy sense that
deeper fiscal challenges are ahead. A laudable unanimous vote was achieved out of Budget Committee
due to the fact that every member of the Board gave up support for some very important personal
priorities at the exact same time that others agreed to do the same. This alliance is our best thinking at the
present time given the uncertainty. Challenging times require uncommon solutions. I stand with those
who continue to stand by the agreement that we achieved in Budget Committee. I thank each of my
336
November 20, 2001
colleagues and every resident of Tompkins County for the very real impacts we must all endure for the
foreseeable future due to this delicate budget balancing action we must take. Finally, an annual budget is
a tangible summary of thousands of policy decisions weighed throughout the year. I have complete
confidence in the public discussion and deliberative process now in your hands no matter what the
outcome since I trust your best judgments".
A voice vote on the resolution as amended resulted as follows: Ayes - 14, Noes - 0, Excused - 1
(Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, a proposed budget for the year 2002 was recommended by the Budget and Capital
Committee and a public hearing has been duly called and held on November 13, 2001, pursuant to the
provision of Section 5.06 of the County Charter and Code, and all persons desiring to be heard concerning
same have been heard, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That pursuant to Section
5.07 of the County Charter and Code, the said proposed budget as amended is adopted, subject to the
correction of manifest errors by the Clerk of the Board and Budget Officer, as the budget of Tompkins
County for the year 2002,
RESOLVED, further, That pursuant to Section 5.03, 5.04 and 5.05 of the County Charter and
Code, the several amounts specified in such budget opposite each item of expenditure set forth in the
column adopted are appropriated for the objects and purposes specified, effective January 1, 2002,
RESOLVED, further, That the sum of $21,319,784 required to meet expenses and costs of county
government in Tompkins County for the fiscal year 2002 as set forth in the budget be assessed against,
levied upon, and collected from the taxable property of the nine towns and the city liable therefore.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -21
RESOLUTION NO. 279 - ADOPTION OF 2002-2006 TOMPKINS COUNTY CAPITAL
PROGRAM
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Winch. It was MOVED by Mr. Lane, seconded by Mr.
Todd, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to amend the 2002-2006 Tompkins
County Capital Program as follows:
Budget Amendment No. 2 - Add Capital Project — Sander Truck - Airport
WHEREAS, as part of required equipment to ensure safe winter operations, the Airport is
requesting replacement of their existing 1986 Sander Truck / Plow, and
WHEREAS, the cost the of the equipment is $100,000 with 90% supported by the FAA, 5%
supported by the NYSDOT and 5% ($5,000) reflected in the Airport's 2002 proposed operating budget,
now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Public Works and Budget and Capital Committees, That
Schedule A of the 2002-2006 Proposed Capital Program is revised to include the Airport Truck with
Sander, Plow and Underbelly Scraper.
A voice vote on the resolution as amended resulted as follows: Ayes - 14, Noes - 0, Excused - 1
(Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the proposed Budget for the year 2002 and the proposed 2002-2006 Capital Program
have been presented to the Board by the Budget Officer and a public hearing has been duly called and
held on November 13, 2001, pursuant to the provision of Section 5.06 of the County Charter and Code
and all persons desiring to be heard concerning same have been heard, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That pursuant to Section
5.07 of the County Charter and Code, the said proposed capital program as amended is adopted, subject to
337
November 20, 2001
the correction of manifest errors by the Clerk of the Board and Budget Officer, as the capital program of
Tompkins County for the years 2002-2006.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 280 - IMPLEMENTATION OF 2002 TOMPKINS COUNTY BUDGET —
MEMBERSHIPS
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Lalley. It was MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by
Mr. Lalley, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to add $120 for American
Public Works Association dues to the list. At the request of Mr. Proto, the list of memberships will be
amended to include departmental titles rather than names. A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes - 14,
Noes - 0, Excused - 1 (Representative Koplinka-Loehr). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the appropriate program committees, That memberships in
all municipal organizations specifically listed in 2002 budget requests, approved by the appropriate
program committee, and included in the 2002 budget adopted by the Board of Representatives, are hereby
authorized and approved.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
RESOLUTION NO. 281 - IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 2002 BUDGET - DEPARTMENTAL
FEES
MOVED by Mr. Joseph, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by
members present.
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Budget and Capital Committee, That all increases in
fees and changes in methods of charging fees specifically identified in the departmental budget requests,
recommended by the Budget and Capital Committee for 2002, and included in the 2002 budget adopted
by the Board of Representatives, are hereby authorized and approved.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II -20
Mr. Lane commended Representative Joseph, County Administration, and County department
heads for all of the time and hard work that was put into this budget process. Chair Mink commended
the tremendous spirit in which the 2002 budget was put together. She thinks all Board members and
everyone throughout the organization is to be commended.
338
TO vIPKINS COUNTY TAX DISTRIBUTION TABLE
sled Value for 2002 Budget
• Ful! Value and Assessed Value are the same in Tompkins County
**Caroline, Danby, Newfield, and the towns of Groton and Ulysses (outside the village) use their share of sales tax proceeds collected by the
County towards the County's tax rate. Because sales tax varies from year to year, and lep,c ants a major adjustment in the Net Tax, the
percent change in the County tax rate can be erratic. Municipalities that prefer direct payment of sales fax proceeds show these revenues in
their town's budget. This produces a County tax rate change which more clearly illustrates the publicized percent change in tax rale as
announced by the Board of Representatives.
2001 TAX
RATE
(based on
"Net Tax")
$1.0878
$2.1642
$0.6987
$0.5838
$5.4596
55.4526
55.4512
55.4520
$5.4617
$5.4596
$5.4577
55.4793
55.4552
$5.4551
Per $1.000 in
As Value
ADOPTED
2002 TAX
RATE
(based on
"Net Tax")
51.5806
52.2695
51.0200
50.6010
53.6483
$5.6973
55.6966
55.6925
$5.6884
55.6925
55.6973
55.7009
$5.6880
55.6939
$5.6982
Per S1,000 in
Assessed Value
Change
2001 to
2002
45.3%
4.9%
46.0%
2.9%
3.4%
4.4%
4.5%
4.4%
4.3%
4.2%
4.4%
4.5%
3.8%
4.4%
4.5%
I00Z 'oz sages oN
LOCALE
Assessed
Value •
Real
Property
Tax
GROSS
LEVY
Town Sales
Tax
Credits"
Real Property
Tax NET
LEVY
Workers'
Comp.
Election
Expenses
Net Tax
MIf$Ii1'ALITtE5THAi:US*.P0:0.* S AiE S?01.*000 TH6.COUNTY?TAX RATE•
Caroline
103,955,191
590,618
428,500
162,117.96
27.74
2,161.95
164,307.65
Danby
133,585,547
758,962
458,000
300,961.84
35.65
2,161.95
303,159.44
Groton (outside village)
98,700,235
560,762
462,000
98,762.10
26.34
1,882.61
100,671.05
Newfield
151,905,832
863,048
774,000
89,047.93
40.53
2,192.19
91,280.65
MUNICIPALITY USING A POli7IO0 OF 0.0.0,C E SA1 F `. CA XES 0 REDIJCETHEGS?> 11+1 �'Tl1
RATE:
Ulysses (outside village)
174,002,049
988,587
356,000
632,586.85
62.23
2,151.45
634,800.52
MUNIcIPALiTIE$THA:1 E THEiR SA ESIAXES T.O RID
TRE* L04L
Dryden (outside village)
436,765,399
2,481,468
-
2,481,468.07
116.94
6,792.75
2,488,377.75
Enfield
97,558,832
554,277
-
554,277.25
26.04
1,441.30
555,744.59
Ithaca (outside village)
504,458,190
2,866,062
-
2,866,062.40
134.65
5,413.57
2,871,610.62
Lansing (outside village)
509,726,126
2,895,992
-
2,895,992.01
205.55
3,308.49
2,899,506.05
Village of Cayuga Heights
243,443,609
1,383,117
-
1,383,116.75
64.97
2,612.50
1,385,794.23
Villages of F'ville & Dryden
77,383,288
439,651
-
439,650.57
20.65
1,203.49
440,874.72
Village of Groton
52,427,008
297,862
-
297,862.30
13.99
999.99
298,876.28
Village of Lansing
267,466,995
1,519,605
-
1,519,604.82
-
1,736.06
1,521,340.88
Village of Trumansburg
59,133,239
335,964
-
335,963.53
-
731.15
336,694.68
City of Ithaca
842,002,582
4,783,810
-
4,783,809.63
224.72
13,787.52
4,797,821.87
TOTAL ALL
3,752,514,122
21,319,784
2,478,500
18,841,284.00
1,000.00
48,576.97
18,890,860.97
• Ful! Value and Assessed Value are the same in Tompkins County
**Caroline, Danby, Newfield, and the towns of Groton and Ulysses (outside the village) use their share of sales tax proceeds collected by the
County towards the County's tax rate. Because sales tax varies from year to year, and lep,c ants a major adjustment in the Net Tax, the
percent change in the County tax rate can be erratic. Municipalities that prefer direct payment of sales fax proceeds show these revenues in
their town's budget. This produces a County tax rate change which more clearly illustrates the publicized percent change in tax rale as
announced by the Board of Representatives.
2001 TAX
RATE
(based on
"Net Tax")
$1.0878
$2.1642
$0.6987
$0.5838
$5.4596
55.4526
55.4512
55.4520
$5.4617
$5.4596
$5.4577
55.4793
55.4552
$5.4551
Per $1.000 in
As Value
ADOPTED
2002 TAX
RATE
(based on
"Net Tax")
51.5806
52.2695
51.0200
50.6010
53.6483
$5.6973
55.6966
55.6925
$5.6884
55.6925
55.6973
55.7009
$5.6880
55.6939
$5.6982
Per S1,000 in
Assessed Value
Change
2001 to
2002
45.3%
4.9%
46.0%
2.9%
3.4%
4.4%
4.5%
4.4%
4.3%
4.2%
4.4%
4.5%
3.8%
4.4%
4.5%
I00Z 'oz sages oN
100Z 'OZ JOgUI AO
GENERAL REVENUE SUMMARY
1994 Adopted
1995 Adopted
1996 Adopted
1997 Adopted
1998 Adopled
1999 Adopted
2000 Adopted
2001 Adopted
2002 AI/OPTED
I Mandated Services
12.180,392
12,800,070
12,315.142
11,294,100
11,238.147
10,605,473
10.970.644
10,489.414
11,032,474 •
2 Non Mandated Sorvkes
22.116.703
22.174,094
22.894.681
24,637.892
26,122.041
27,357.624
28,895.468
30,903.370
34.247.256 .
3 Over -Target Requests
284,307
749.969
2,328,612
3.066.975
2.845.954
2.251.871
3.335.345
5,738,640
890.698:
4 Capital OTRs
-
-
88,616
228,418
(86.766)
1.209,213
1,073.179
2.287.155
627.667
5 Surplus Funds (Rollover) -
-
447,414
730.992
1,091,349
317,820
473,204
166.193
738.567
6 Mandate Contingency Fund
200.000
250.000
250.000
250.000
100.000
100.000
•
.
7 Contingency Fund
335.842
200,000
315.343
295.343
350.000
550.000
350.000
450.000
908.515
a Self -Insurance Reserve and Insurance Premiums
351.167
360.063
330,681
3t3,42(
313,421
313,421
308,301
285.000300.000
9 Capital & Debt Service
1.369.835
1.410,930
1,501,940
1,964,456
2.195,824
2,295.302
2.648,679
2.320.513
1,990.981
10 Total Expenses
36,638.246
36.342.540
40,025,215
42,779,597
44.319.970
45,000.724
48.154,820
52.642.285
50,736.398
Revenues 1
11 Sales Tax Revenue
18.000000
18,537,000
18,579,323
18,675,000
18,900.000
19.350.000
19.700.000
20.500.000
20.054000 ,
12 Other General Revenues
1.915.849
2,382,734
2.631.421
3.274.707
3.269.827
2.985.608
4,176.900
4,014.505
3471,274 .
13 Property Tax
96,722.397
17.422.806
17.482.118
17,919.915
17,649,481
18,388,879
18,914,064
20.033,105
21.319.784
14 General Fund (from Line 28)
•
-
1,332,353
2.909.975
4.266.003
4.276.237
4.770,906
7.710.962
5.176.123
IS Solid Waste Fund Appropriation
•-
87.569
•
379,219
383,713
217.217 '
16 Road Fund Appropriation
-
-
-
•
147,090
•
213.731
-
-
17 Total Revenues
36,638.246
38,342.540
40,025.215
42.779.597
44.319.970
45,000,724
48.154.820
52.642.285
50.736.398
8
°K
4
PROPERTY TAX RATE GROWTH
18 Assessed Value
19 Tax Rare per Thousand
20 Change In Tax Rate
21 Tax Increase on 5100,000 home
3417.637,•6300
S 4,80
6.43%
S 29.00
3.408460.302 00
5 4.99
3.96%
S 19.01
3303.501.212 00
5 4.99
0.00%
S •
3.530.312,37000
S 5.060
1.80%
S 9.00
2320220.800
5 500
•1.6%
$ (7.90)
S
5
3.530373.273
5.20
3.9%
19.53 _
3.556307 723
5 5.32
2.30%
5 1 i 97
2.6,9.415.322
5 5.4446
2.42%
5 12.87
3,4,.216'53
5 56894
4.5%
5 24 48 1
I
i
<
i
•
W
AVAILABLE FUND BALANCE (net of Tsrzet)
1,332,353
2,745,802
4.266.007
4,550.000
4.841.023
7.747.781 J
5.305.680
22 NON•1'ARGET INCREASES (Line 32)
23 Non -Target Incr•as., appv'd In Prior Years
24 Less: One-time Items funded by other fund balances
25 Reduce Tax Levy (for Debt)
26 Reduce Tax Levy (for all other)
27 Deferred Tax Increase
223.543 323,373
- -
0,0% 0.0%
1.332.353
•
0.0%
2,322,100
255.862
332.013
1.6%
2.299.477
267,939
(147,090)
670,677
1.175,000
6.4%
1.434.687
428.128
634.422
1.779.000
9.6%
2.333,201
90.749
(592.950)
598,547
2.341.359
12.7%
5.261.680
267.265
(383.7131
2.565.730
13.9%
1.244.553
'.324.610
(217.2171.
2.826.177
13.9%1
2s GENERAL FUND APPROP. (t0 Line 14)
223,543 323.373
1.332,353
2,909.975
4,266.003
4.276.237
4,770,906
7,710,962
5,178.123
Surplus / dt IR Available Funds
L .
164,173
_ ( _ )
• _
273,763
70.117
36.819
127,5571
,
S�
=p
H
g34
.__
39 966-tseanI.snsaee(eadodl.9 Capital) • Part of Use 3
30 995.90.981.9100re- CAPIT6L• Psn of Use 4
o5.rROLLOVER'ase• ROLLOVER Nee 5 above'
31 N -t
223,543 323,373
1,243,737
88.616
1.518,251
72.857
730,992
1,294,894
(86.766)
1,091.349
738.867 1.204.527
378.000 655.470
317.820 473.204
2,876.507
2.216,980
168,193
2263.076 )
242.910
738.567
33 TOTAL NON•TARGET INCREASES INCLUDED ON LINE 10
223.543 323.373
1.332,353
2.322.900
2.299.477
1,434,687 2.333.201
5.261,680
1,244.553'
33 TARGET I.mreasesIndndl.9 CAPITAL'- ran of U. 3 _-..-
TARGET I.e.tun•Cepind• Pan or Use4-_----____--- ----
.............60764 426,596
1084875
1470,274
153.561
1.551.060..,,.,,..
1513.004 2.130.818
831,213 457,709
2.862.133
70.175
1.086.337
383.757
35 TOTAL TARGET INCREASES INCLUDED ON LINE 10
60.764 426,596
1.084.875
1.623.835
1,551,060
2.344.2174 2.548,527
2.932.308
1471,094
36 TOTAL ALL OTR. 63 Rollover 1U500 3. 4.51
284.307 749.969
2.417.228
3.945.935
3,850.537
3,778,904 4.881.728
8.193,988
2.715.647
100Z 'OZ JOgUI AO
SUMMARY OF 2002 BUDGET FUNDS
2002 Budget
1 Budget Requests
These are the funding requests of all Budgeting Units at the beginning of the 1002 Budget process.
2 Recommended Changes
Recommendations were node by the County Administrator, Program Committees. and Budget Committee . The amount shoran represents dee changes
made by the Budget Committee as amended by the Board of Representatives
Appropriation Dedicated General
Revenues Revenues
105,744,096 53,272,272 52,471,824
(2,002,570) (267,144) (1,735,426)
3 Adopted 103,741,526 53,005,128 50,736,398
This is the sum of Line I and 1. B represents the final recommendation of the Board of Representatives
4 Unallocated Revenues 24,021,274 (24,021,274)
Revenues which do not belong to a specific Budgeting Unit or Program. The amount shown includes primarily Sales Tax, along with Interest Income,
Rent on County owned properties. Payments in Lieu of Tar, and Interest & Penalties on delinquent saxes.
5 Total Budget
This is the sum of Line 3 and 4. Total Spending (Appropriations), Dedicated Revenues (belonging to a specific County department), and General
Revenues (covered by Unallocated Revenues, Fund Balance Appropriations. and Property Tares)
6 Appropriation from General Fund — Departmental Funds (2000/2001 rollover)
Funds certified at 12/31/00 and anticipated at the end of 2001 approved for spending in the 2002 Budget.
7 Appropriation from General Fund — Non -Target Over -Target Requests
Authorized spending in excess of the Fiscal Target for 2002
8 Appropriation from General Fund — To reduce the Tax Rate
Spending that is not otherwise supported by Property Tares. General, or Dedicated Revenues
9 Appropriation from Solid Waste Fund Balance
Spending that is not otherwise supported by Property Taxes, General, or Dedicated Revenues
103,741,526 77,026,402 26,715,124
General Fund = $5.178,123
Solid Waste = $217,217
Total = $5,395,340
(738,567)
(1,677,379)
(2.762,177)
(217,217)
10 Gross Real Property Tax Levy
This is the amount remaining which must be raised through property taxes.
21,319,784
IOU `OZ aaquzanoN
STATEMENT OF FUND BALANCES
January 1, 2000 Fund
Balance After Deducting
Estimated Encumbrances
January 1, 2001
Target Fund Balance
Fund Balance Fund Balance
Appropriated by the Board Appropriated by the Board
during 2001 to Reduce the 2002
Property Tax Levy
FUND Percent of
Fund
Revenues
General 9,840,388 4,018,397 5% 416,995 5,178,123
Solid Waste 1,120,472 489,203 10% 217,217
Airport 465,465 93,491 5
Road 130,298 76,406 5%
Highway Machinery 163,516 51,832 5% 69,480
Debt Service 585,904 418,816 10 %
I OOZ 'OZ JagUI AO
APPROPRIATIONS
28.4%
al Other Contractural
II Tax & Utility
❑ Payroll
O Fringes
■ Equipment
1:1 Capital & Debt Service
■ Other Supplies
O Mandates
I00 `OZ iagW AO
REVENUES
4.8%
11.5%
l7 Property Tax
■ Federal Aid
❑ State Aid
O Health Fees
IN Airport Fees
D Tobacco Settlement
■ Fund Balance
❑ Interest & Penalties
■ Interest & Earnings
■ Other General Fund Revenue
O Sales Tax
O Ali other fees
■ Sold Waste Fees
TOOZ `OZ ioquianoK
Percentage Change in Gross Tax Levy
(1985 through 2002 Adopted)
2002
Adopted
i OOZ `OZ 1aqumoN
MANDATED PROGRAMS, County Taxpayer Cost 1995 Actual -2002 Proposed
1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002
Adopted Adopted Adopted Adopted Adopted Adopted Adopted Adopted
A1171
Legal Defense
(Assigned Counsel) 683,580 697,000 749,778 754,000 740,324 695,809 650,000 650,000
A2490
Outside Community
Colleges 208,000 215,000 215,000 200,000 200,000 170,000 157,500 172,000
A2960 & A4054
Education of
Handicapped Children 1,383,991 1,129,113 1,459,100 1,335,250 1,288,250 1,254,250 1,343,750 1,278,000
A3150
Jail Board Outs
50,000 25,000 25,000
A3151.34N2
Jail Medical
114,045 70,000 65,675 87,235 96,000 107,000 107,000 130,000
Medical Examiner
A4390
Psychiatric Expense
78,699 78,699 78,699 78,699 85,000 85,000 85,000 85,000
A6101 -A614$
Social Services 10,445,800 10,195,330 8,791,523 8,870,198 8,291,899 8,715,585 8,228,164 8,692,474
TOTAL MANDATES
12,914,115 12,385,142 11,359,775 11,325,382 10,701,473 11,077,644 10,596,414 11,032,474
Percent change in
Adopted
6.0% -4.1
-8.3%
-0.3%
-5.5%
3.5%
-4.3% 43%
TOOZ `OZ aagW AO
$70
$60
$50
$40
SOLID WASTE
Annual Fee per Household
$62
$57 $57
•
$53
$51
•
1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Adopted
I OOZ `OZ 1aquianoN
STATEMENT OF DEBT
as of December 31, 2001
Purpose
BONDS:
Date of
Issue
Rate of
Interest
Outstanding
Balance
12/31/01
Mental Health Building
1992 Public Improvements
1995 Series A (TC3 and Other Impr.)
1995 Series B (Solid Waste & Other Improv
1996 EFC Bonds (Solid Waste)
1998 Series A
1998 Series B
1998 Series C
Library & Court House
12/07/89
05/01/92
08/18/95
08/15/95
02/11/96
04/01/98
04/01/98
04/01/98
11/15/99
TOTALS BONDS
6.40%
5.60% - 6.00%
5.00% - 5.30%
5.25% - 5.62%
2.79%
5.00%
4.99%
4.80%
5.30%
BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES (BAN's):
TC3 MasterPlan II -HVAC 09/20/01
TCA Building& Improvements 03/15/01
TOTALS OUTSTANDING BANS
2.09%
3.40%
$2,125,000
$2,125,000
$2,830,000
$7,460,000
$1,430,000
$3,595,000
$11,480,000
$1,215,000
$5,985,000
$38,245,000
$2,910,000
$1,400,000
4,310,000
OUTSTANDING DEBT • $42,555,000
TOOZ 'OZ iagW AO
STATEMENT OF RESERVES
as of January 1, 2002
Insurance Reserve
January 1, 2001 Balance $ 858,250
2001 Appropriation $ 185,000
Known and Estimate Expenses through 12/31/01 $ (260,000)
Interest Earned and Recoveries through 12/31/01 $ 52,727
Estimated Balance at 12/31/01 $ 835,977
Reserve for Indemnification & Expenses, 1/1/02 and beyond
Personnel - Arbitrations $ (13,000)
Assessment Litigation $ (55,000)
All Other Judgments $ (275,000)
Excess General Liability and Other Policies $ (158,900)
2002 Appropriation $ 300,000
Estimated Balance 12/31/02 - Insurance Reserve $ 634,077
Retirement Reserve
January 1, 2001 Balance $ 669,376
Early Retirement $ (26,047)
Past Service $ (2,500)
Regular Contributions $ (397,500)
Estimated Departmental Billings $ 415,000
Beginning Balance 2002 Retirement Reserve $ 658,329
I OOZ `OZ JaquzanoN
CONSTITUTIONAL TAX MARGIN and DEBT LIMIT
Constitutional Tax Margin
Total Taxing Power
Net Tax Levy
Tax Margin Available
5,872,688
18,890,861
36,981,827
Constitutional Debt Limit
Debt Limit
Total Indebtedness
Debt Capacity Available
251,447,966
42,555,000
208,892,966
c % of Taxing Power - 2002 33.8% % of Debt Limit - 2002 16.9%
% of Taxing Power - 2001 31.5% % of Debt Limit - 2001 16.3%
% of Taxing Power - 2000 29.6% % of Debt Limit - 2000 17.9%
Constitution Tax Margin = 1.5 % of 5 year average full valuation
I OOZ 'OZ 10gUIOAO
2002 BUDGET MASTER LIST
by PROGRAM COMMITTEE
Program
Number
Program Name
See Notes on lam
page
ECONOMIC & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
(-hankie in
1 ,gal Shag
Irnm 20o:
0200
0205
0210
2001 ADOPTED
6
6
G
108,811
78.748
5.06.3
25.000
2002 ADOPTED
105,311
78,748
/.563
25.000
2001
Appropriation
2001 Dedicated
Revenues
2001 General
Revenues
2002
Appropriation
2002 Dedicated
Revenues
2002 General
Revenues
(-hankie in
1 ,gal Shag
Irnm 20o:
0200
0205
0210
Cultural Enrichment
Delwin Historical Society
Celebrations
Community Arts Partnership
6
6
G
108,811
78.748
5.06.3
25.000
3,500
-
3.500
-
105,311
78,748
/.563
25.000
107,205
7717.1
5.032
25.000
28,500
3.300
25.000
78,705
77,173
1,532
-
-25.3•;
0202
County Historian
G
5,000
-
5,000
4,900
-
4,900
.2.o--
0300
Library Services
G
154,925
-
154,925
146,020
-
146,020
-5.-•.
0716
1 Ulysses Library
G
33.500
-
33.500
32.830
-
32,830
0726
2 Neufleld Library
G
38.500
-
38.500
32.830
-
32,830
0736
3 Dryden Library
a
33.500
-
33.500
32.830
-
32.830
0746
4 Groton Library
G
34.425
-
34.423
32.830
-
32,830
0756
5 Finger Lakes Library System
G
15.000
-
15.000
/4,700
-
/4,700
0400
Tomp. Co. Public Library
G
2,027,982
-
2,027,982
1,946.594
-
1,946,594
-4 n-.
2499
Individual Development
c
10,000
10,000
-
x,0,,,
2750
Workforce Devel. Ctr.
F
751,273
751,273
-
3,234,786
3,234,786
-
n;,
3000
T. C. Area Development
G
77,372
-
77,372
75,825
-
75,825
-2.11,.
3100
Tourism Promotion (Room Tax)
617,850
610,000
7,850
650,000
650,000
-
• it M, 1r ,
TOTAL ECONOMIC & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
3,753,213
1,364,773
2,388,440
6,165,330
3,913,286
2.252.044
ION `oz aaquianom
Mental Health Department
7,855,049
7,027,755
827,294
8,671,904
7,820,621
851,283
2.9-.,,
0700
Planning &Coordination
G
283.676
110.017
/73.659
306.426
219.366
87,060
0706
Mental /health Agencies
G
805,580
781.944
2.3.636
930.790
907.154
2.3.636
0716
Menta/ Retardation/Development Disabilities Agencies
G
1.072.189
8/8.440
253.749
1.089.347
820.570
268,777
0726
Alcohol & Substance Abuse Service Agencies
G
1.658.215
1.631,435
26.780
1.684.043
1.657.265
26.780
0736
Clinic Services
2,525.143
2,143.97/
381.172
2.788,659
2.428,629
360.030
0746
Continuing Day Treatment
542.177
582.302
(40.125)
607.582
607.582
-
0756
Case Management
806,869
883,446
(76,577)
1,180,055
1.180.055
-
ION `oz aaquianom
w,Js LV Vva.a
by PROGRAM COMMITTEE
2001 ADOPTED
2002 ADOPTED
":• Chance in
Program
See Notes on last
2001
2001 Dedicated
2001 General
2002
2002 Dedicated
Revenues
2002 General
Revenues
Local Share
from 2001
Number Program Name
page
Appropriation
Revenues
Revenues
Appropriation
0766 Mutual Support & Social Rehabilitation
76,200
76.200
-
•
-
-
0815 Psychiatric Expense
Mandated
85,000
-
85,000
85.000
-
85.000
Public Health Department
9,151,666
6,155,402
2,996,264
8,775,650
6,050,191
2,725,459
•9.0
1000 Education Handicapped Children
Mandated /F
2,800,000
1,686,250
1,113,750
2,650,000
1.597,000
1.053.000
1006 Planning & Coordination. Chil. w/ Spec. Care Needs
F
591,787
/73.053
4/8.734
605.537
210,434
395,103
1008 Physically Handicapped Children Treatment
F
12,000
6,500
5.500
12.000
6.500
5,500
1012 Early Intervention (0-2)
Mandated / F
700,000
470,000
230,000
700.000
475,000
225.000
1100 Environmental Health
F
989.467
363,153
626,3/4
1.018,596
372,6/4
645,982
1200 Occupational Health & Safety
F
121.667
91,514
30,153
72.534
72.534
-
1300 Medical Examiner
F
97,294
27.206
70,088
42.800
12.840
29.960
1302 Vital Records
F
39155
50,000
(10,845)
112.723
68.623
44,100
1305 Womens, Infants & Children Program (WIC)
F
292.787
292,787
-
306,452
306.452
-
1400 Community Health Services
F
2.942.2/8
1.885,226
1.056.992
2.716,772
1.928,694
788.078
1405 Planning & Coordination - Public Health
F
565,29/
648
564.643
538.236
648
537.588
1406 Public Health - State Aid
-
/,109,065
(1.109.065)
-
998,852
(998,852)
Animal Control
51,590
10,600
40,990
50,670
10,500
40,170
-2.0i
1600 Dog Damage Claims
10.600
10.600
-
10,500
/0.500
-
1610 Animal Control
G
40,990
-
40,990
40,170
-
40,170
Social Services
29,156,746
18,695,247
10,461,499
30,713,770
19,867,162
10,846,608
3.7%
1800 Economic Security
Mandated
7,225,784
5,835,21/
1.390.573
7,776,000
6,239,680
1.536.320
2000 Services to Chil., Fant., Adults
Mandated
3,500,865
2,719,436
781,429
3,667,000
1,890.846
776.154
2100 Medicaid Programs
Mandated
7,652,162
1.596,000
6.056,162
8,220,000
/.840,000
6.380,000
2105 Planning & Coordination
10.777.935
8.544,600
2,233,335
11.050.770
8.896.636
2.154.134
Office for the Aging
1,362,839
679,127
683,712
1,427,793
728,583
699,210
2.3
2200 Supportive Services
F
482,146
249,2/4
232,932
480.637
251.647
228.990
2205 Food Programs
F
541,27/
195.742
245.529
578,030
3/7,765
260.265
2210 Frrusnded In -Home Services
F
306,822
101,571
205.25/
341.365
/26.571
2/4.794
T00 `OZ iaquxanoN
200/ BUDGET MASTER LIST
by PROGRAM COMMITTEE
Program
Number Program Name
2215 Personal Emerg. Response System (PERS)
See Not on lass
page
F
2001 ADOPTED
2002 ADOPTED
1,,„al sh.,„.
hon, 2011
2001
Appropriation
2001 Dedicated
Revenues
2001 General
Revenues
2002
Appropriation
2002 Dedicated
Revenues
2002 General
Revenues
32,600
32.600-
27.761
32.600
(4,839)
Youth Bureau
1,841,053
535,203
1,305,850
1,820,120
551,155
1,268,965
-2.8^„
2400 Coordination & Planning
2/7.628
75,792
/41.836
19/.601
55.792
/35.809
2401 Recreation Partnership
/96.148
138.750
57.398
202.409
/42.914
59.495
2405 Youth Program Grains
502.197
/63.607
338.590
487.924
/94.794
293.130
2410 Municipal Youth Services Grants
F
441,879
6.500
436.379
444.947-
444.947
2415 City Youth Bureau
482,20/
/50,554
331,647
493,239
/57,655
335.584
2500 Basic Subsistence
604,877
-
604,877
587,070
-
587,070
-2.o%%
1 American Red Cross
G
45,800-
45,800
45,800
-
45.800
2 Catholic Charities
20,000
-
20,000
20,000
20,000
3 Better Housing jor Tomp.Co.
G
35, 900•
35.900
35.900
-
35.900
4 Women's Opportunity Center
G
53,146
-
53.146
53,146-
53.146
5 Drop In Childrens Center
G
75.309-
75,309
69.309
-
69,309
6 Unity House
G
21,734-
21,734
/5.734
-
15,734
7 Ithaca Neighborhood Housing
G
9.204-
9.204
9.020
-
9.010
8 Ithaca Rape Crisis
G
23,430-
23.430
23,430
23.430
9 Literacy Volunteers
G
74,771-
74,77!
74,771
-
74.771
10 Local Food Pantries
G
38,275-
38.275
38.275
-
38,275
11 Multicultural Resource Center
G
21,107•
21,107
20.000
-
20,000
12 Senior Citizens Council
G
79,504-
79.504
79,504
-
79.504
13 Task Force for BatteredWonhen
G
47,9/2-
47,9/2
45.050
45,050
14 Neighborhood Legal Services
G
37,793-
37.793
37.793
-
37.793
15Ithaca Breast Cancer Alliance
G
20.992-
20,992
20.572
-
20.572
16 Finger Lakes Independence Center
G
-
-
-
-
-
17 Unspecified Reduction
G
-
-
-
(1,234)
-
(1.234)
Human Services Coalition (HSC)
311,271-
311,271
299,595
-
299,595
a.8%
2600 Health Planning Council
69,46869.468
68.079
-
68.079
2605 HSCoalition Coordination & Planning
164.534
-
/64.534
/63.338163.338
IOOZ `OZ iaquianof
2002 BUDGET MASTER LIST
by PROGRAM COMMITTEE
Program
Number
Program Name
2606 HSConlilion Fair Wage
2610 HSCoalition Information & Referral
See Notes on last
page
2001 ADOPTED
2002 ADOPTED
2001 2001 Dedicated 2001 General
Appropriation Revenues Revenues
2002 2002 Dedicated 2002 General
Appropriation Revenues Revenues
5.700 - 5.700
71.569
7/,569
68,/78
68,178
%Change in
Local Share
Rom 2001
2700 Tompkins Community Action (formerly EOC)
TOTAL HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
PUBLIC SAI L1 Y
198,401
198,401
194,433
194,433
50,533,492 33,103,334 17,430,158 52,541,005 35,028,212 17,512,793 o.s�.
Assigned Counsel
3200 Planning & Coordination
3205 Assigned Counsel Attorneys
Mondo.1
775,204
125.204
650,000
-
-
-
775,204
125,204
650,000
772,700
122.700
650,000
-
-
-
772,700
122.700
650.000
-0.3
3300 Criminal Prosecution
807,159
129,208
677,951
835,612
181,220
654,392
.3
Fire Coordinator
1,480,340
310,113
1,170,227
1,382,542
210,520
1.172,022
0.2
3500 Emergency Communications
/.339,9/0
274.520
1,065.390
1,232.569
172,659
1,059.9/0
3504 Firefighting & Emerg. Med. Svcs.
/40,430
35,593
/04,837
/49973
37.86/
112.1/2
Probation Department
3,463,351
1,024,067
2,439,284
3,251,550
1,229,334
2,022,216
-17.1•.
3700 Alternatives to Incarceration
CS.F
504.230
198.534
305,696
586,263
176.650
409.6/3
3800 Core Probation Services
F
1.295,596
378,6/0
9/6.986
1,156.8/4
347,626
809/88
3850 Planning & Coordination
F
/58,085
59,272
98.8/3
164,7!!
61.436
/03.275
3855 Electronic Monitoring
CS -F
78.508
21,200
57.308
76,4/8
20.256
56.162
4550 Domestic Violence
391.272
366.451
24.821
545,7/5
467.926
77.789
4450 ATI Initiatives (Community Justice Center)
F
1.035.660
-
1,035.660
72!.629
/55.440
566.189
3900 Stop DWI
211,230
211,230
-
225,202
225,202
-
Sheriffs Department
3,054,660
388,172
2,666,488
3,146,962
409,805
2,737,157
2.r:
4000 Civil & Administration
522,943
/23,380
399.563
55/,629
/13.380
428.149
4100 Criminal Investigation
321.251
-
321,25/
364,062
-
364.062
4200 Uniform Division
2,023.870
78./96
1.945.674
2.032.346
87,500
1.944,846
4300 Court Security
/86,596
/86,596
-
198.915
/98.925
-
SherifTs Dept. - Jail Division
2,392,585
157,548
2,235,037
2,348,136
63,500
2,284,636
2.2%
0
co
Cr
Co
t
N
2002 BUDGET MASTER LIST
by PROGRAM COMMITTEE
Program
Number Program Name
See Notes on last
page
600,592
2001 ADOPTED
17,500
2,209,221
2002 ADOPTED
18,000
•;. f'lun4c in
Local Share
from 1001
2001
Appropriation
2001 Dedicated
Revenues
2001 General
Revenues
2002
Appropriation
2002 Dedicated
Revenues
2002 General
Revenues
4400 Corrections
m. -,s. ,,.0 .m,r
2,200,700
157,548
2,043,152
2,193.136
63.500
2,129,636
2,051,721
4405 Medical & Boarding
2,051,721
191,885-
2805 Grant Management
191.885
155.000
40.500
155,000
76,063
Criminal Justice & Legal Services
38.183
257,661
-
257,661
247,020
-
247,020
-4.1
4502 Alcoholism Council (Altern. to Incar.)
6
31.086
-
31.086
31.086
1,000
31.086
/25,272
4504 Community Dispute Resolution Center (CDRC)
c
52,789-
1705 Soil & Water Conservation
52,789
45.8/5
-
45.8/5
74,323
4506 Domestic Offense Offender Rehab. Svcs. (DOORS)
0
32.052-
3155 Ithaca -Tompkins Transportation Council
32,052
31.411
228,322
31.411
238,899
4508 Offender Aid & Restoration (OAR)
c
79,50279,502
76.476
76,476
4509 OAR Bail Program
csic
62.232-
62.232
62.232
62,232
4550 Criminal Justice Services (CISNET)
141,300
-
141,300
-
-
-
-POO.f 1.
TOTAL PUBLIC SAFETY
BUDGET & CAPITAL PROGRAM COMMITTEE
12,583,490
2,220,338 10,363,152 12,209,724
2,319,581
9,890,143 -IA%
TOTAL BUDGET & CAPITAL PROGRAM COMMITTEE
PLANNING COMMITTEE
2,226,721
17,500 2,209,221
2,317,192
18,000
2,299,192 4.l
0100 Cooperative Extension
Colleges
600,592
2,226,721
17,500
2,209,221
2,317,192
18,000
2,299,192
41t:
0500
Other Community Colleges
Mandate,/
175,000
17,500
157,500
190,000
/8,000
172,000
0505
Tompkins -Cortland Community College
404.944
2,051,721
-
2,051,721
2,127,192
2805 Grant Management
2.127.192
76.248
TOTAL BUDGET & CAPITAL PROGRAM COMMITTEE
PLANNING COMMITTEE
2,226,721
17,500 2,209,221
2,317,192
18,000
2,299,192 4.l
0100 Cooperative Extension
c
600,592
-
600,592
588,580
-
588,580
-21r.
Planning Department
751,458
62,000
• 689,458
648,932
62,380
586,552
-14 9%
2800 Community Planning Services
422.944
18.000
404.944
364.227
21.000
343.227
2805 Grant Management
76.248
40.500
35,748
76,063
37.880
38.183
2810 Advisoty Board Support
114.8/5
2,500
112.3/5
83.370
3.500
79.870
2815 Coordination of Services
/37,451
1,000
/36.451
/25,272
-
125,272
1705 Soil & Water Conservation
c
106,350
-
106,350
74,323
-
74,323
-30.1
3155 Ithaca -Tompkins Transportation Council
228,322
228,322
-
238,899
238,899
-
nla
TOTAL PLANNING COMMITTEE
PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE
1,686,722
290,322
1,396,400
1,550,734
301,279
1,249,455 -10.5%
I OOZ `OZ JaquzanoN
2002 BUDGET MASTER LIST
by PROGRAM COMMITTEE
Program
N
See Notes on last
2001 ADOPTED
2002 ADOPTED
2001
2001 Dedicated 2001 General
Revenues
2002
Appropriation
2002 Dedicated
Revenues
s. Change in
2002 General Local snare
Revenues from 2001
NUMMI' . ,,.6..... ...... ..
4600 Airport
-vs-- _ .-_ ___-_--
1,764,505
-
1,764,505
-
.. .
1,869,829
1,869,829
-
nla
Facilities
2,509,449
10,000
2,499,449
2,757,776
-
2,757,776
10.3%
4700 Cleaning. Maintenance & Repair
1.453,851
10,000
/,443,85/
1,664,350-
-
1,664.350
1.3•:.
4705 Utilities, Taxes. Insurance & Rent
1.055.598
-
1,055.598
1,093.426•
-
1.093,426
4800 Public Transportation
3,915,975
3,000,000
915,975
3,917,466
3,000,000
917,466
0.2%
4900 Engineering
419,293
3,700
415,593
Program absorbed by Roads & Bridges and Facilities
-100.0%
County Roads & Bridges
5,337,351
1,767,214
3,570,137
5,719,484
1,528,114
4,191,370
17.4%
5000 Maintenance, Traffic Control. & Snow Removal
3.825,856
/,418,6/4
2.407,242
4.035.607
1,325,614
2.709.993
1.934
5002 Snow Re