HomeMy WebLinkAboutPWC Minutes 2017-04-18
TOWN OF ITHACA
PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE
April 18, 2017 9:00 a.m.
Public Works Facility
Board and Staff Present: Rod Howe, Rich DePaolo, Jim Weber, Paulette Rosa, Mike Smith,
Dan Thaete, Bill Goodman, Mike Solvig
Guests: Jon Meigs and Elizabeth Salon representing Culver Road
1. Approval of Minutes:
Minutes from March 21, 2017 were approved. Motion to approve by Mr. DePaolo, seconded
by Mr. Howe. Approved.
2. Member Comments / Concerns: None
a. Modifications to Agenda – Mr. Weber added the GHD Proposal for West and
South Hills Water Study, 2018-19 Salt Order, CHIPS funding.
3. Discuss Final CIP and Fleet Adjustments/Modifications for Budget Considerations:
Mr. Weber reviewed the CIP and fleet listing timelines and justifications prior to going to
Budget Committee for 2018. Discussion was held regarding the listing of parks projects in
2018 and delays of Hungerford Park and Grandview Park playgrounds, and the Gateway
Trail. Discussion was also held regarding Forest Home Drive from Judd Falls Road to the
City line. Mr. Goodman wants to discuss the project with the full Town Board, specifically the
cost, and consider other options. Mr. Goodman also wants to talk to the full Town Board
regarding money spent on roadwork each year. Mr. Weber added that $132,000 will be
reimbursed this year from CHIPS/EWR/PAVE-NY and that PWD is ordering 3000 tons of salt
for the upcoming season.
4. 940 East Shore Drive Update:
Mr. Weber gave background on the issue and explained the current situation regarding a
retention wall installation. Mr. Weber presented a letter to the Contractor identifying
specifically what is required. Plans need to be submitted by the contractor and approved
before the request for a permit can be fulfilled and any more work can be performed at the
site. Mr. Goodman stated that he requested an email with a list of the Contractor’s
complaints, but has not heard back yet.
5. Culver Road Paving Discussion:
Mr. Weber explained that the project on Culver Road is an overlay project that includes
guiderails, drainage ditch work, reseeding, and replacements of cross culverts, as needed.
Elizabeth Salon added that she feels there has been an overabundance of trees cut in the
conservation zone, removing the tree canopy along the wildlife corridor. She is also
concerned about road runoff to the natural stream due to road widening. She stated that
residents are inconvenienced due to no notification of road closures during road work. She
requested Safety Data Sheets for products used during the project. In addition, speed is a
concern as drivers will go faster on a wider road and wants the project downsized. She
presented a letter from her neighbor who asked if an EPA study was done. She has been
speaking with a Forester, who is willing to work with the town. Mr. Weber responded that the
project is an overlay, not a widening of the road. He said that once the asphalt provider is
determined, Safety Data Sheets will be provided. Board/Committee members asked if there
is a certain level of practice for a conservation zone and road projects. Mr. Goodman
suggested that Rich Schoch meet with the Conservation Board to explain the town’s
philosophy during road work projects.
6. Project Status:
Sapsucker and Christopher Circle Water Main Replacements – The Sapsucker water
th
main replacement is projected to begin on May 15 and the Christopher water main
th
replacement is projected to begin on July 15.
7. Other:
Mr. Weber reported that he received a proposal for $69,800 from GHD for the South and
West Hill Water Studies. The study will take six months to complete. He stated that this will
complete the water study model. A resolution will be presented at the 4/24/17 Town Board
Meeting authorizing Mr. Goodman to award the contract.
Mr. Goodman gave an update on meetings being held to fill a vacant General Manager
position at Bolton Point and Chief Operator at IAWWTP.
Mr. Weber reported that sewer meter discussions are taking place with the City. Discussion
was held regarding flows, infiltration, and capacity. Mr. Goodman reported that the Special
Joint Commission is looking at agreements with other municipalities to see if there is any way
there can be increased inter-municipal cooperation.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:20 a.m.
Our next meeting will be on 5/16/17 at 9:00 a.m.
lvp