HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-02-09-TB-FINAL-minutes1
TOWN BOARD MEETING
Town of Ulysses
February 9, 2021
Audio of the minutes are available on the website at ulysses.ny.us.
The meeting was held via videoconference on the Zoom platform.
Notice of Town Board meetings are posted on the Town’s website and Clerk’s board.
CALL TO ORDER:
Ms. Zahler called the meeting to order at 7:01pm and moved into a Public Hearing (see separate
minutes).
The Public Hearing was closed and the regular town board meeting convened at 7:13pm.
ATTENDANCE:
The Town Clerk called the roll:
TOWN OFFICIALS PRESENT:
Supervisor- Nancy Zahler
Board members- Michael Boggs, Katelin Olson, Mary Bouchard, Rich Goldman
Town Clerk- Carissa Parlato
Conservation & Sustainability Committee (CSAC) Chair- Roxanne Marino
Attorney for the Town- Peter Walsh
Town Planner- John Zepko
Planning Board Chair- Linda Liddle
OTHERS PRESENT:
Anne Koreman (Tompkins County Legislator), Courtney Kempski, George Myers, Marvin Pritts,
Robert Oswald, Rob Cochran, Todd Parlato, Russ Friedell (Grassroots), Jordan Bonafede,
Sanchez
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
RESOLUTION #54 of 2021: APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
BE IT RESOLVED that the Ulysses Town Board approve the agenda for February 9, 2021 with the
addition of a resolution to approve the adjusted EMS/Fire payments.
Moved: Ms. Zahler Seconded: Mr. Goldman
Ms. Olson moved to add a resolution to approve an ad hoc committee to study potential
annexation. This was seconded by Mr. Boggs.
Ms. Zahler also moved to remove the budget modification approval from the agenda and to add
a meeting to hold an Executive Session.
Ms. Olson moved to approve the agenda as amended. This was seconded by Ms. Bouchard.
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Vote:
Ms. Zahler aye
Ms. Olson aye
Mr. Boggs aye
Mr. Goldman aye
Ms. Bouchard aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 2/9/21
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR:
(none)
TOWN REPORTS:
(see Appendix)
Ms. Zahler added the following to her submitted report:
• The Cayuga Nature Center has been added to the National Historic Registry
• Town Historian Mr. Wertis would like to submit a grant to the Pomeroy Foundation for a
historic marker for the old church in Jacksonville
• The Justice grant has been partially approved by NYS
REPORTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES & COMMITTEE CHAIRS:
Ms. Koreman gave the following updates from the Tompkins County Legislature:
• As new chair of Planning, Energy & Environmental Committee, she supports the town’s
proposed tree law
• Sales tax up a bit from projections
• Room tax- voted to raise it for small B&Bs to 5% to match what hotels contribute
• The county received some funds from casinos
• AIM funds from NYS will be about $300K to municipalities and $300K for hospitals
• The county will provide rental assistance for those impacted by COVID
• Broadband study- a contract is being created to study this, bring in other counties, and get
some state funds
• NYS may start charging for using state ROW for utilities
• COVID:
o Vaccinations:
almost 4000 fully vaccinated through CMC (mainly essential workers)
Ages 65+ have to go to pharmacies or state facilities
211 will start helping people navigate on-line appts
o Active cases going down but 8 more have died
o Variant is here- much more contagious
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• Legislative meetings are 1st & 3rd Tues at 5:30pm if town officials would like to attend & give
report
Ms. Liddle reported a slow January with one subdivision.
Ms. Zahler met with Roxanne & Terry Carrol re: clean energy initiatives grant funding.
Ms. Olson created position descriptions to help recruit for town committees.
OLD BUSINESS:
REVIEW OF SEQR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM RE: LOCAL LAW #1 OF 2021
Mr. Zepko explained that every local law must go through a State Environmental Quality Review
(SEQR). No negative consequences were determined for this tree law since it is just the creation of a
committee.
RESOLUTION # 55 OF 2021: SEQRA NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF SIGNIFICANCE FOR THE
ADOPTION OF LOCAL LAW # 1 OF 2021: A LOCAL LAW PROVIDING FOR THE CREATION OF A
TREE ADVISORY COUNCIL
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Ulysses, upon recommendation of the
Conservation and Sustainability Advisory Committee (CSAC), considered the adoption of a
local law to create a Town Tree Advisory Council and provide for its duties and procedures;
and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has before it a draft local law entitled “A Local Law Providing for a
Tree Advisory Council”; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board on February 9, 2021 has conducted a public hearing on said draft
local law; and
WHEREAS, The Town Board has determined that the action is an Unlisted Action under 6
NYCRR Part 617 of the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), and has declared
itself Lead Agency for the purpose of conducting an uncoordinated environmental review in
connection with approval by the Town; and
WHEREAS, The Town Board of the Town of Ulysses, acting as the Lead agency in an
uncoordinated environmental review in accordance with Article 8 of SEQRA, thoroughly
reviewed the Short Environmental Assessment Form (“SEAF”), Parts I and 2, and any and all
other documents prepared and submitted with respect to this proposed action and its
environmental review, and thoroughly analyzed the potential relevant areas of environmental
concern to determine if the proposed action may have a significant adverse impact on the
environment, and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has compared the proposed action with the criteria for
determining significance in SEQRA 6 NYCRR 617.7;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED,
1. The Town Board of the Town of Ulysses, based upon its thorough review of the SEAF, Parts
1 and 2, and any and all other documents prepared and submitted with respect to this
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proposed Action, and in comparison with the Criteria for Determining Significance found at 6
NYCRR Part 617.7, hereby makes a negative declaration of environmental significance
(“Negative Declaration”) in accordance with SEQR for the above referenced proposed Local
Law to Provide for a Tree Advisory Council, and that the preparation of a Draft Environmental
Impact Statement is not required; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED,
That this determination is based on the following facts and conclusions:
Adoption of the Local Law will not result in any direct action or physical change to the
environment.
Any changes to the environment that may occur from adoption of the Local Law would be
indirect and result from future undertakings that would be permitted by the Local Law.
Adoption of the Local Law is in conformance with the goals and objectives of the Town of
Ulysses Comprehensive Master Plan.
Moved: Ms. Zahler Seconded: Mr. Boggs
Ms. Zahler aye
Ms. Olson aye
Mr. Boggs aye
Mr. Goldman aye
Ms. Bouchard aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 2/9/21
CONSIDERATION OF LOCAL LAW #1 OF 2021: PROVIDING FOR A TREE ADVISORY COUNCIL
Ms. Zahler commented on the negative comment and noted that the law is not intended to tell
people what they can do on private land. The c lerk received 7 comments in support of adoption.
RESOLUTION # 56 OF 2021: ADOPTING LOCAL LAW NO. 1 OF 2021 ENTITLED “A LOCAL LAW
PROVIDING FOR A TREE ADVISORY COUNCIL”
WHEREAS, the Town has authority to adopt the local law referred to above (hereafter, “the
Local Law”) pursuant to Article 9 section 1 of the New York State Constitution and section 10
of the New York State Municipal Home Rule Law; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board, after due deliberation, finds it in the best interest of the Town of
Ulysses to adopt said Local Law; and
WHEREAS, the Local Law was introduced at the meeting of the Town Board on January 26,
2021, and the Town Board reviewed and discussed the Local Law and set a public hearing to
be held by said Town Board on February 9, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. to hear all interested parties on
the Local Law; and
WHEREAS notice of said public hearing was duly advertised in The Ithaca Journal; and
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WHEREAS said public hearing was duly held on said date and time and all parties in
attendance were permitted an opportunity to speak and comment the Local Law; and
WHEREAS, the adoption of the Local Law is an unlisted action pursuant to the New York State
Environmental Quality Review Act and its implementing regulations, for which the Town
Board of the Town of Ulysses acting as lead agency in an environmental review with respect to
the adoption of the Local Law made a negative determination of environmental significance
on February 9, 2021, after having reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short Environmental
Assessment Form Parts 1, 2, and 3 prepared by the Town’s Planning staff;
NOW, THEREFORE, be it hereby
RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Ulysses hereby adopts said Local Law as Local
Law No. 1 of 2021, entitled “A Local Law Providing for a Tree Advisory Council”, a copy of
which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, and the Town Clerk is hereby directed to
enter said Local Law in the minutes of this meeting and in the Local Law Book of the Town of
Ulysses, and to give timely notice of the adoption of said Local Law to the Secretary of State as
required by law.
A Local Law Providing for a Tree Advisory Council
BE IT NOW ENACTED by the Town Board of the Town of Ulysses, in the County of Tompkins
and State of New York, as follows:
Section 1. Legislative Intent
The Town Board recognizes the role that trees play in the town ecosystem and that they
contribute to the quality of air, reduce noise and visual pollution, help to moderate climatic
extremes, and conserve energy. The Town Board further recognizes the role trees play in
enhancing property values and the general quality of life in the Town. In order to foster
responsible planting, maintenance, or removal of trees or shrubs in the Town of Ulysses so as
to promote and protect the welfare of citizens of the Town, the Town Board finds it useful and
appropriate to establish a Tree Advisory Council to assist and advise the Town Board, the
Superintendent of Highways, and other agencies of the Town government.
Section 2. Creation and Establishment
1. There is hereby created and established a Town of Ulysses Tree Advisory Council.
2. The Advisory Council shall consist of not fewer than five nor more than seven
members, a majority of whom are citizens and residents of the Town of Ulysses, to be
appointed by the Town Board.
3. Members of the Advisory Council shall serve terms of three years, except that the
terms of the initial members of the Advisory Council shall be for one, two, or three
years so as to stagger the periods of their service.
4. In the event that a vacancy shall occur during the term of any member, his or her
successor shall be appointed by the Town Board for the unexpired portion of the term.
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5. Members of the Advisory Council shall serve without compensation.
6. Members of the Advisory Council may be removed by majority vote of the Town Board
for cause, including failure to attend to the affairs of the Council.
7. The Town Board shall appoint the chair of the Advisory Council.
Section 3. Rules and Procedures
1. The Council shall meet not less than twice in a calendar year, upon call of the chair.
2. Three members of a five person council or five members of a seven person Council
shall constitute a quorum.
3. The Council shall keep a journal of its proceedings, which journal shall be filed with the
Town Clerk among the official records of the Town.
4. Meetings of the Council shall be open to the public, and shall be conducted in person
except to the extent permitted by state law by reason of a declared emergency. The
Council may provide for the attendance and participation of members of the public by
any appropriate means including electronic.
Section 4. Duties
1. The Advisory Council may, within the limits of resources that may be made available to
it, conduct an inventory of trees located upon any lands owned or controlled by the
Town (“Public Trees”), including but not limited to those located upon or within the
limits of the public right-of-way of Town highways.
2. The Advisory Council may study the condition of Public Trees and formulate
recommendations for the improvement of the stock of Public Trees, including good
arboricultural practices, and the establishment of appropriate diversity in species and
age classes in order to provide a stable and sustainable community forest.
3. The Advisory Council may, upon its own motion, from time-to-time prepare and
furnish to the Town Board a report of its observations of the state of Public Trees.
4. The Advisory Council, upon request of the Town Board or Highway Superintendent,
report, advise and recommend as to Public Trees in any particular location, or
generally.
5. The Advisory Council shall upon request of the Town Board coordinate an annual
Arbor Day observance, the Town having declared the last Friday in April as Arbor Day,
and shall support and assist the Town Board in the application for and obtaining of any
grants or other resources that may be available to the Town from public or private
funds to further the Town’s interest in promoting the community forest.
6. The Advisory Council shall not do or undertake any act in derogation of the
responsibilities of the Highway Superintendent pursuant to Highway Law Section 153
or other general state law.
Section 5. Definitions
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1. Public Trees – Any trees, shrubs, bushes, and all woody vegetation on land lying within
a public road, Town property, or right-of-way within the Town. Public Trees include all
park trees, all road trees, and all other trees owned by the Town, located upon Town-
owned property, or within the public trust of the Town.
Section 6. Interpretation. This local law, and no clause hereof, creates any theory or claim of
liability where none exists at law or in equity, and nothing herein alters any notices of claims
as may be required by law.
Section 7. Severability. Should any section or provisions of this local law be declared by any
court of competent jurisdiction to be unconstitutional or invalid, such declaration shall not
affect the validity of this local law as a whole, or any part thereof, other than the part so-
declared to be unconstitutional or invalid.
Section 8. Effective Date. This local law shall take effect immediately upon its filing with the
Secretary of State.
Moved: Ms. Zahler Seconded: Mr. Boggs
The clerk called a roll-call vote:
Ms. Zahler aye
Ms. Olson aye
Mr. Boggs aye
Mr. Goldman aye
Ms. Bouchard aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 2/9/21
NEW BUSINESS:
DISCUSSION OF GRASSROOTS FESTIVAL INTENTION TO SEEK ANNEXATION TO THE VILLAGE OF
TRUMANSBURG
RESOLUTION #57 OF 2021: AUTHORIZATION TO CONTRACT WITH TOMPKINS COUNTY
PLANNING TO UPDATE DATA ON THE PHYSICAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC CONDITIONS IN
THE TOWN OF ULYSSES
WHEREAS, the Town has been informed that there is preparation of a petition pursuant to
General Municipal Law section 700 for the annexation to the Village of Trumansburg of
certain lands within the Town of Ulysses and outside the boundaries of the Village; and
WHEREAS, such an annexation might have far-reaching consequences for the Town and its
citizens; and
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WHEREAS, once initiated, an annexation petition proceeds according to a tight timetable set
by statute potentially involving considerable legal fees for both town and village residents;
and
WHEREAS, at this moment the Town has received no formal requests for development of the
Grassroots parcel and has taken no action in support of or opposed to the development
described in the publicly distributed master plan in 2019 and
WHEREAS, the Town has not had any substantive discussions with the putative petitioners or
the Village of Trumansburg about a potential annexation petition and
WHEREAS, if an annexation petition is lodged and the Town and Village are in disagreement
about its appropriate disposition, the outcome may be settled by a proceeding before the
New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division; and
WHEREAS, there may be grounds for cooperative action between the Town and the Village
that would further the long-term interests of citizens of both the Town and Village; and
WHEREAS, the Town wishes not to have an unnecessary quarrel with its municipal neighbor;
NOW, it is hereby resolved as follows:
1. The Town Board creates a temporary, ad hoc working committee to:
a. immediately contact the potential petitioners to request a delay in filing the
petition to enable the Town and other parties to fully investigate the potential
impacts of annexation on all parties and
b. investigate and report to the Town Board on issues that will or may arise out of
the putative annexation petition;
2. The Supervisor shall name three or more persons to constitute the ad hoc committee,
at least two of whom shall be members of the Town Board;
3. The committee shall immediately enter into contact with key stakeholders including:
petitioners, appropriate officials of the Village of Trumansburg and neighbors
potentially affected by the proposed annexation;
4. The committee shall promptly seek consultation from qualified law firms with
experience related to annexation and cooperative efforts that might be undertaken
between the Town and Village in respect of its subject matter;
5. The ad hoc committee shall have no authority to enter into negotiations with any
person or entity or to otherwise bind or commit the Town to any expenditure or
course of action.
Moved: Ms. Zahler Seconded: Mr. Boggs
DISCUSSION: Ms. Olson inquired as to whether the town has received any applications for that
property. Mr. Zepko responded in the negative. She further inquired whether the Town Board
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has ever taken any action or a public position for annexation of these parcels. Ms. Parlato &
Mr. Goldman reported that they do not recall this ever happening.
Mr. Friedell noted that he is the Grassroots point person for this and is happy to work with the
town. He said that the organization is planning on creating campgrounds. He also added that
they are working on submitting a dual annexation petition with PRI (for Smith Woods) to be
able to tap into the Village’s water & sewer.
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR:
The board agreed to move this item up to hear from others on the topic of annexation.
Mr. Pritts, representing PRI/Smith Woods, agrees with the concerns/process noted in the resolution.
He noted that they do not have an opinion one way or another but want to be good neighbors.
Ms. Kempski noted that the site is now is a campground. According to previous site plans, it may have
as many as 600 sites. She further expressed concerns about increased tax costs for maintenance &
services as well as issues with drainage, noise and traffic.
Mr. Zepko noted the current zoning is business/residential and campgrounds are not permitted.
Mr. Bonafede inquired as to whether town residents will have any say in uses on the parcel if it is
annexed by the village.
Ms. Zahler responded that the Village will control development on these parcels and that the Town
would have no authority if the land is annexed into the Village.
Ms. Zahler aye
Ms. Olson aye
Mr. Boggs aye
Mr. Goldman aye
Ms. Bouchard aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 2/9/21
OLD BUSINESS cont’d:
AUTHORIZATION TO CONTRACT WITH TC PLANNING & SUSTAINABILITY FOR DATA COLLECTION
RESOLUTION #58 OF 2021: AUTHORIZATION TO CONTRACT WITH TOMPKINS COUNTY
PLANNING TO UPDATE DATA ON THE PHYSICAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC CONDITIONS IN
THE TOWN OF ULYSSES
WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan for the Town of Ulysses adopted in 2009 was an excellent
document intended to guide planning for ten years and was based on data gathered in 2007-
2008 and
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WHEREAS, the Ulysses Town Board is committed to developing an inclusive community
process to review the current plan, progress toward the 2009 objectives, and will be seeking
input from all sectors of our community in updating the Comprehensive Plan and charting a
course for the next ten years and
WHEREAS, while the Town develops its community process for updating the Comprehensive
Plan, it has an opportunity to update some of the data in Appendix 3 of the 2009 Plan which
describes the Current Physical, Social, and Economic Conditions by contracting with the
Tompkins County Department of Planning and Sustainability and
WHEREAS, the Town of Ulysses, anticipated starting the process with a data update and
budgeted up to $6,000 to begin this phase of the process; and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Department of Planning and Sustainability offered
municipalities an opportunity to purchase planning services at a reduced rate to assist with
local projects; and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Department of Planning and Sustainability has notified the
Town of Ulysses that we are eligible to receive planning services for 2021 to help with
updating selected data in Appendix 3 of the 2009 Comprehensive Plan at a cost not to exceed
$1,100; now therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Ulysses Town Board authorize the Supervisor to enter into a contract with
Tompkins County for planning services during 2021 for up to $1,100 using funds from Account
B1440.4 Consulting Services.
Moved: Ms. Zahler Seconded: Mr. Boggs
Ms. Zahler aye
Ms. Olson aye
Mr. Boggs aye
Mr. Goldman aye
Ms. Bouchard aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 2/9/21
NEW BUSINESS (Cont’d):
JOINING THE TRUMANSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
RESOLUTION #59 OF 2021: AUTHORIZATION TO JOIN THE TRUMANSBURG CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE
WHEREAS, the Town of Ulysses supports our local businesses and wishes to support the
Trumansburg Chamber of Commerce in their efforts to promote and assist area businesses;
now therefore be it
RESOLVED, the Town of Ulysses join the Trumansburg Chamber of Commerce at a
membership fee of $40.00 for 2021 payable from the Supervisor’s CE line 1220.4
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Moved: Ms. Zahler Seconded: Mr. Boggs
Ms. Zahler aye
Ms. Olson aye
Mr. Boggs aye
Mr. Goldman aye
Ms. Bouchard aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 2/9/21
SCHEDULE PRESENTATION ON COMMUNITY CHOICE AGGREGATION
Ms. Zahler noted that Mr. Carroll has offered to this presentation on a clean energy initiative.
Mr. Boggs not in favor of aggregation because he believes it eliminates competition, costs more and
that residents should be able to opt in, rather than having to opt out.
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR (3 min limit per person):
Ms. Kempski asked whether residents will be considered on the ad hoc committee. Ms. Zahler
responded that she is unsure but the committee will reach out to neighbors. Ms. Kempski further
inquired about the motor home on the Grassroots property. Mr. Zepko will follow up.
Ms. Bouchard added that there will be a public hearing on annexation before the board takes action
on it.
Ms. Sanchez, a Falls Road resident, feels that they will be highly affected if the annexation is
accomplished. She is concerned about having a say and devaluation of her property.
The board discussed the annexation process and keeping the public updated.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
RESOLUTION #60 OF 2021: APPROVAL OF MINUTES
RESOLVED that the Ulysses Town Board approves the minutes from Town Board meetings
held January 26, 2021.
Moved: Ms. Bouchard Seconded: Mr. Boggs
Ms. Zahler aye
Ms. Olson aye
Mr. Boggs aye
Mr. Goldman aye
Ms. Bouchard aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 2/9/21
AUTHORIZE PAYMENT OF CLAIMS:
RESOLUTION #61 OF 2021: APPROVAL OF CLAIMS
RESOLVED that the Ulysses Town Board has reviewed and approves of payment of claims for:
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• HA (WD3 Aerator Capital Fund) fund vouchers numbered 30 and 31 in the amount of
$253.20;
• HB (Cemetery Bridge Replacement Capital Fund) fund voucher number 17 in the
amount of $230.00;
• and for all other funds vouchers numbered 22 through 72 in the amount of
$495,580.27
Moved: Ms. Zahler Seconded: Mr. Goldman
RESOLUTION #62: PAY FIRE/EMS IN TWO PAYMENTS
WHEREAS, Tompkins County has secured a Bridge NY Grant, administered by the Town of
Ulysses (“Town”) as the fiscal agent, for the renovation and reconstruction of the bridge on
Cemetery Rd. near the intersection with Lake St. (“Bridge Project”); and,
WHEREAS, the Town and the Village of Trumansburg (“Village”) routinely share ongoing
maintenance of Cemetery Rd. and the aforementioned bridge; and,
WHEREAS, the opportunity exists for the Village to improve water main connections in and
around the bridge as a result of the Bridge Project; and,
WHEREAS, the Bridge NY Grant is a reimbursable grant which requires the Town to maintain
excess cash on hand for cash flow purposes related to the Bridge Project; and,
WHEREAS, the Town has requested that it be allowed to pay the Village monies due for
contracted Fire protection and EMS coverage for calendar year 2021 in two payments instead
of the single payment required by the Fire and EMS contracts; and,
WHEREAS, the Town requested that the Village accept a first payment for the 2021 Fire and
EMS contracts in the amount of $388,610.00, payable the week of February 8, 2021, and a
second payment for the 2021 Fire and EMS contracts in the amount of $259,073.00, payable
no later than upon substantial completion of the Bridge Project; and,
WHEREAS, the Village believes that it is in the overall public interest and in the best interests
of the Village to facilitate the reconstruction of the Cemetery Rd. bridge and improve Village
water main connections in the process; and
WHEREAS, the Village of Trumansburg Board of Trustees voted on February 8, 2021 to grant
to the Town of Ulysses the ability to pay for contracted Fire protection and EMS coverage in
two payments, as previously described, as a one-time exception to the 2021 Fire and EMS
contracts;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Town of Ulysses acknowledges its appreciation to the Village of
Trumansburg Board of Trustees and commits to pay for contracted Fire protection and EMS
coverage in two payments, as previously described, as a one-time exception to the 2021 Fire
and EMS contracts; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED, that all other terms and conditions of the 2021 Fire and EMS contracts
between the Town of Ulysses and the Village of Trumansburg remain unaltered and in-force.
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Moved: Ms. Zahler Seconded: Ms. Bouchard
Ms. Zahler aye
Ms. Olson aye
Mr. Boggs aye
Mr. Goldman aye
Ms. Bouchard aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 2/9/21
VOTE ON RESOLUTION #61: PAYMENT OF CLAIMS:
Ms. Zahler aye
Ms. Olson aye
Mr. Boggs aye
Mr. Goldman aye
Ms. Bouchard aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 2/9/21
REQUEST FOR EXEC SESSION/SPECIAL TOWN BOARD MEETING:
The board agreed to hold a Special Town Board meeting for an Executive Session on Thursday, Feb.
11 at 9am.
ADJOURN:
Mr. Goldman moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:54pm. This was seconded by Ms. Bouchard and
passed unanimously.
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APPENDIX:
TOWN REPORTS:
TOWN CLERK: Submitted by Ms. Parlato
LICENSES/PERMITS issued: #
Sporting licenses 1
Disabled parking permits 9
Dog licenses and renewals 62
Marriage licenses 2
Plumbing permits 0
Address assignments 1
Notarizations 4
FOIL requests-received 1
FOIL requests-completed 1
CLERK’s OFFICE TASKS:
• Routine tasks:
o retrieved, sorted, vouchered mail, answered inquiries on various topics, attended
town board meetings and took minutes, kept website current, provide notary
services, issued marriage & dog licenses and disabled parking permits
o participate in weekly Supervisor/Clerks office meetings
• Administer oaths of office for newly elected/appointed
• Emergency tasks during COVID-19:
o Participate in periodic meetings with county health dept., community leaders,
town staff
o Send weekly listserv messages to residents including COVID resources
• Work on EV Charging fee structure- gather data and meet with Supervisor
• Meet with Supervisor & Highway Super to create process for maintenance requests
SAFETY COMMITTEE:
Held mtg. on 1/22 to prepare for annual emergency preparedness training and other safety
items.
TAX COLLECTION TASKS:
• Collect taxes via mail, in-person payments, town drop box and on-line payments.
• Pay Supervisor weekly until levy amount reached (
• Have collected $4,710,759 of $5,418,223 (town + county levies) to-date.
FINANCIAL REPORT:
$1349.01 TOTAL Collected for fees & licenses
$854.18 stays in the town
$494.82 goes to the state
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WATER DISTRICT TASKS:
• Tracked water usage/testing/consumption/billing for annual spreadsheet
• Collect and post water payments
COMMITTEES/ASSOCIATIONS:
• Health consortium- Jan. mtg for Joint Committee on Plan Structure & Design was
cancelled.
• Tompkins County Town Clerks Association- correspond via e-mail on a variety of topics
including assisting new clerks
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT- Submitted by Mr. Stewart:
Highway Report For Jan 13th thru February 5th
SNOW EVENTS
• We have had 18 days of snow removal from roads. Taking 356 hours of time
• Using 520 Tons of Salt
• Using 830 Gallons of Diesel Fuel Using 205 Gallons of Gas
• Fleet Miles Covering 4750 Miles REPAIR
• T5... Lost Lug Nuts While Plowing Snow. Needed to be towed back to the shop. Fixed and
back out clearing roads in a few hours
• T1.. Spinner motor needed brushes cleaned, Flat Tire T20.. Tarp Motor Replaced
• T21... Lights T10... Lights
REPORT IS SHORT DUE TO WEATHER KEEPING US BUSY
PLANNER/ZONING OFFICER- Submitted by Mr. Zepko
Planning Board
• 2 Jan – No meeting
Board of Zoning Appeals
• 20 Jan
• Area variance request for relief from side setback requirement in AR zone - Approved.
Planner Activity
• Cleaner Greener Grant (39053) – Project has officially been completed, awaiting disbursement
of ~$4,000 of funding
• Attended Tompkins County Stormwater Coalition meeting. Discussed EPA permit
requirements
• Discussed upgrading or creating a new, more functional website
• Do opportunities exist to partner w/ other water quality groups?
• Annual contracts due
• Permitting Software – contacted two companies to schedule demonstrations and prepare
revised quotes for software installation. Demonstrations scheduled for Feb.
SBL Violation Code Action Status
28.-1-4.1 Building w/ out permit Article II § 212-5
B & C and Article
VIII § 212-54 F
Maintaining
contact w/
owner
Secured architect &
contractor – work planned
for spring
23.-2-4 Violation of conditions
of variance approval
Owner is working to
create plan to remediate
18.-4-26.2 Violation of CZ zone
requirements for
logging plan
§ 212-55 Met with owner Resolved
18.-1-3 Violation of conditions
site plan approval &
Stormwater
Management
l
§ 149-4 Communicated
with owner
Resolved
** NOAV – Notice of Apparent Violation
CODE ENFORCEMENT/ FIRE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER-Submitted by Mr. Washburn
Building Permits issued 5
Plan Reviews 2
Certificate of Occupancy issued 0
Certificate of Compliance issued 0
Complaints Received 2
Complaints Resolved 2
Inspections (Footers, Foundations, Plumbing, Insulation, roofing, Pools, Etc.) 18
New Site Inspections 1
Building Review Consultations (pre-plan meetings, Future Building/Remodeling) 2
Fire Safety Inspections Lucas Report
Code Training Seminars
County Assessment, Town, DOS Reports 2
Open property in violation cases 0
Property violations resolved 3
Building Permits issued 5
Plan Reviews 2
Value of Permits issued: $327,300.00
Building Permit fees collected for month: $1245.00
Plan Reviews
• 1 New Home Meeting with architect
Site Visits
• Ongoing monitoring of Erosion Plan/ Issue noted and meet with contractor on site to discuss
issue and plan to fix issue and maintain site plan submitted to town.
• Pre-site visits x1 New Project
• Monitored removal of 3 run down properties. Meet with land owner about future
construction on site.
CEO Activity
• 5 Foundation/Footer inspections/ 1 reinspection’s needed
• 4 Building envelope inspections/ 1 reinspection’s needed
• 2 Plumbing inspections/ 0 reinspection’s
• Total inspection time of 60 hrs. for January
• 3 Properties Demolished and cleaned up. Monitored removal and air quality values. Sites
clean and all debris removed per code
• Have pulled all old files accumulated during COVID for final inspections, 30 in all. Working
through files to finish out C of O’s and C of C’s.
• Started Annual Report for NY state. On going
Zoning Enforcement
RECREATION DIRECTOR-Submitted by Mr. Glennon:
TOWN BOARD REPORTS:
Ms. Olson- Youth Commission working on creating a youth representative position
SECOND DEPUTY SUPERVISOR:
Emergency Related
• Bi-weekly TC/DOH phone call.
• In collaboration with Clerk, development of state required Communicable Disease Emergency
Plan, which will end up being an annex to our overall emergency plan.
• Safety committee work: development of agenda for all-staff emergency meeting.
• Internal communications related to continued development of Emergency Prep Plan.
Active Grant Updates
• NYSERDA Heat Pump Grant
o Internal Activities:
Coordination with Taitem on outstanding deliverables.
• Cemetery Road Bridge over Trumansburg Creek (NYSDOT 95% funded with FHWA money,
Barton & Loguidice Engineers)
o Internal activities:
SBL Violation Code Action Status
18.-1-3 Erosion control Not following site plan on file Reviewed plan Fixed/monitoring
Continued submission for reimbursement through NYSDOT.
Communication with County regarding construction phase financing.
2/4 meeting with Village to discuss inclusion of waterline in project and
construction phase financing.
Communications with NYSDOT, ITCTC colleagues, and Insero on threshold for a
program specific audit versus an organizational audit of all funds.
• Definitive information regarding this topic is forthcoming.
o Engineer Update:
Right of Way work being conducted by NYSDOT is what we are currently
waiting on to move forward with bidding.
o Next steps:
B&L will be the lead on the bidding process in the Spring.
Cemetery Bridge Project Timeline
When What Status
September 2018 Project Awarded Bridge NY
Funding
Complete
October 2018 Project Added to STIP/TIP Complete
January 2019 State-Local Agreement Executed Complete
January 2019 Design Consultant Contract
Executed
Complete
January 2020 Design sent to NYSDOT for review Complete
March 2, 2020 Public Meeting Meeting held 3/2
January 2021 ROW Acquisition Completed NYS will conduct, this is in process
11/10/2020 ADP Complete Complete
12/28/2020 PS&E Submitted Completed
January 2021 PS&E Approved by County & State Completed
TBA Construction Phase Authorized
TBA Advertisement
1 mo. After ad Letting
4/26/2020 Contract Awarded Likely to be pushed out a bit as of 2/5
Post 4/26/2020 PreCon Meeting
June 2021 Begin Construction
October 2021 Complete Construction
11/15/2021 Construction Complete Sandra’s date for completion
• WD #3 WIIA Grant (EFC funded, MRB Engineers)
o Internal Activities: no significant work activities related to this project during this
period.
o Engineer update:
Guardrail update: still waiting to hear back from G&M to confirm final pricing
Performance testing planned for early Spring
Successful performance testing will result in project closeout
o Next steps:
A reminder to Town Board members that we might need to conduct a short
term borrow while we wait for the 25% retainage from EFC to be released upon
project closeout.
o Revised Project Timeline:
Advertise to Town 5/21/20
Plans and Specs Available for Bidders 5/26/20
Pre-bid Meeting 6/2/20
Bid Opening 6/19/20
Provide Bid Tabulation & Summary of Bids to Town Completed
Board Meeting to Award Contracts Completed
Start of Construction Completed
Substantial Completion of Construction (91 days) Completed
Final Completion of Construction Prior to 7/1/21
Other Work
Miscellaneous
• Standing weekly meetings: Clerks office, Supervisor, Bookkeeper
Financially Related
• Week of 1/25 set aside primarily to conduct asset database data management in preparation
for 2020 financial year reporting
o This is a model I would like to consider in the future, isolating weeks for project work
where minimal meetings are scheduled.
• AUD quote solicitation and subsequent follow up
• Williamson Law Book role access and training to Highway Superintendent
• Finishing up 2019 Audit related communications
• 2019 AUD communications and finalization with NYSOSC
• Resolution drafting support
• EOY projections vs. actual by fund
• Systems creation for reoccurring Rec program related expense
• 2021 cash flow work: to be finalized once 2020 is closed out
• CD investment roll over
HR/Payroll Related
• Payroll and human resource related work activities
o Trouble shooting on a technical glitch in the Paychex system
• Work activities and communications regarding sew hires related to the Rec Program
• Payroll certification to the County
Bookkeeper Supervision
• Oversight of financial year close and 2021 start up
• On-going review of expenditures, vouchering process
• Tax deposit
Water District 3
• 1/21 aerator project phone call
• Upcoming: it would be amazing to prioritize development of a WD3 capital plan prior to
budget season. At this point I am tentatively setting aside the week of March 22nd to
concentrate on the first phases of development.
Curry Road Structure Replacement
o BRIDGE-NY funding announced
o May 5th deadline for pre-review submission to DOT
o Details at: https://www.dot.ny.gov/BRIDGENY
Maplewood Hairpin Turn Structure
o Will work with Highway Superintendent on whether or not to apply for culvert funding via
BRIDGE-NY
Upcoming
• AUD submission related work
• Cemetery Bridge project work related to financing, MOU w/Village,
• BRIDGE-NY funding application work
Meetings
1/19/2021 ITCTC Planning Committee Meeting 10am-10:45am
• ITCTC operating budget at a 0% change from last year
• Transportation funding: have your projects ready, likely that due to the pandemic, funding
might not be seen in 2021.
• Carlos from FHWA: funding through 9/21, but at this time there has been no further
information about additional funding.
• Recording
o https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/FSnmuUNm6BkIwR2a45mA0mHzrkGDLwKhm4Yc
PtIFuDbqeuwCJThHuDDQ6_GuZ4Or.wJ0VE16aAy4zDY_Z
Passcode: %1cyx@H7
SUPERVISOR’S REPORT- shared by Ms. Zahler
Town Board
• Followed up on action items from 1/12 Town Board meeting.
• Prepared materials for and followed up from 1/26 Town Board meetings.
• Attended two webinars on Town Board duties and laws by Association of NYS Towns.
• Met with other Town Supervisors to share approaches to COVID and budgeting and shared
projects.
• Prepared Background Information on EV Charging Station and Fee Policy Issues
• Met with Attorney and Andy Hillman to revise Tree Law draft and prepared resolutions for the
Town Board’s review of a draft local law.
• Requested Planner John Zepko’s help in preparing environmental reviews required for
adoption of a local law.
• Researched elected official benefits and time card practices with Association of Towns
• Generated a draft list of possible work plan items for Town Board from previous discussions.
• Holding regular meeting with Deputy for input and consultation.
• Prepared background information on annexation.
Public Awareness/Engagement
• Worked with Katelin Olson on recruitment outreach to fill advisory board vacancies
• Met with videoconferencing consultant re: timing and assistance needed to install equipment
to enable the Town Board, its committees and the court to hold hybrid, in-person and zoom
meetings when pandemic eases.
• Convened monthly Community COVID call.
• Advocated for Trumansburg Nursery School staff to be included in vaccine program.
• Responded to a request to meet with a prospective candidate for Town Board for background
information.
• Received a request for information about possible town funding from Farmers Market.
Explained the process.
Town Hall Projects
• Worked with Town Clerk and Highway Superintendent to develop and implement a work
order process for Highway staff to assist when available with Town Hall projects.
• Need to clarify Town Hall parking lot shared ownership and plowing responsibilities.
Budget
• Reviewed 2019 Audit draft and recommended minor changes.
• Assisted Budget Officer in seeking bids for 2020 AUD and preparing rationale for contracting
out due to significant changes in accounting to comply with new accounting standards.
• Routine review of vouchers, signing checks, receiving taxes from Clerk.
• Clarified reporting requirements and timetable for United Way funding for Recreation
program, Community-School project, and year round Youth Services contract with
Cooperative Extension.
• Approved budgeted payments to contractors.
• Worked with 2nd Deputy/Budget Officer on securing sufficient cash flow for Cemetery Road
Bridge Project.
• Regular meetings with Budget Officer to review budget & finances and resolve payroll issues.
• Worked with Budget Officer and Recreation Director on staffing, payroll and contracting
issues for recreation programs.
• Met with Jason Molino re: reporting on Shared Services Plan recreation component.
• Reviewed and signed off on plans to re-invest town funds in CDs
• Reviewed sales tax revenues with Budget Officer and discussed timing for year end budget
reviews and possible transfers into reserve accounts.
• Discussed possible approaches to budgeting with Budget Officer and Deputy Supervisor.
Water
• Worked with Attorney to completed Out of District User Agreements for Water District #1-
CARS. They were sent with cover letters to users.
• Following
• Met with key players on water test results from WD3 to discuss exceedance at Health
Department test hydrant and options for operating new mixer/aerator system to further
reduce TTHMS
• Received new water sampling standards from Health Department,
• Need to prepare WD3 letter re: water test results.
• Discussed with Health Department Grassroots Festival water needs for campground.
• Need to arrange water reconciliation with Town of Ithaca
DOT Culvert Project
• Received notification of contractor award to replace culver on Rt 96 Summer 2021.
• Contacted field engineer to assure local concerns were addressed.
• Facilitated meeting of local water stakeholders with DOT engineers and contractor to
coordinate their planning with our needs. More follow up needed.
Staffing and Administration
• Routine review of timecards, resolution of issues as needed.
• Weekly meetings with 2nd Deputy and Clerk to coordinate administrative planning and follow
up.
• Held monthly staff meeting via zoom.
• Provided input on Emergency planning and notice required to Unions re: safety protocols.
• Consulted with Highway Superintendent on employee with COVID exposure.
• Visited Community-Education program at American Legion and coordinated with Health
Department staff about possible use of that facility as a local vaccination site, when supply
increases.
• Requested and reviewed staff monthly reports. Periodic check ins with staff.
• Received an annual report from Town Historian. And was updated on plans for historical
markers at the old church and possibly Cayuga Nature Center, recently added to the Historic
Register for it history as Cayuga Preventorium.
• Followed up on complaints about the old church by asking Code/Zoning Officer to check on
progress and compliance with Town Board historic covenants attached to deed.
Planning
• Notified County Planning that a decision on whether to contract with them for a project to
update data would be delayed until Feb. 9th
• Researched data in 2009 Comprehensive Plan that may be appropriate for updating.
• Discussed with Deputy Supervisor possible approaches to “plan to plan” for updating
Comprehensive Plan. Will follow up with Planner John Zepko and plan for future discussion
with Town Board.
• Revised Contracting resolution for discsuion/action on 2/9/21
• Notified by Grassroots Festival representative of intention to petition to have their land
annexed to the Village. Conducted research and provided background information for Town
Board members.
Recreation
• Worked with Recreation Director and 2nd Deputy on staffing procedures & program planning.
• Visited program site.
• Consulted with Katelin on outreach for new youth commission members.
Energy/ Sustainability
• Arranged follow up meeting on new energy grants for 2/8 @ 11:00 AM
TOWN BOARD REPORTS:
Respectfully submitted by Carissa Parlato, Town Clerk
2/--/2021