HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-06-28-TB-FINAL-minutesTOWN BOARD MEETING
Town of Ulysses
June 28, 2022
Video recordings of meetings are available on Youtube at
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWVIs--g9CpHIxdk9YxZyPw.
The meeting was held in person at the Ulysses Town Hall, 10 Elm St., Trumansburg NY 14886.
Notice of Town Board meetings are posted on the Town’s website and Clerk’s board.
CALL TO ORDER:
Ms. Olson called the meeting to order at 7pm.
ATTENDANCE:
TOWN OFFICIALS
In person:
Supervisor- Katelin Olson
Board members- Michael Boggs, Roxanne Marino, Rich Goldman, Mary Bouchard, Rich Goldman
Town Clerk- Carissa Parlato
Second Deputy Supervisor/Budget Officer- Michelle E. Wright
Via Zoom:
Attorney for the Town- Nathan VanWhy
Youth Program Manager- Ethan Cramton
Bookkeeper- Blixy Taetzsch (at 8:46pm)
OTHERS:
In person:
Marlaine Darfler, Anne Koreman, Cynthia Mannino
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Motion:
Mr. Goldman moved that the agenda for June 28, 2022 be approved with the deletion of the probation
resolution. Ms. Bouchard requested discussion of chair for CSAC. This was seconded by Mr. Boggs and passed
unanimously.
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR: (3 minute limit)
Ms. Darfler spoke in support of the flag policy, correlating it to the town’s DEI policy, and noting that with
recent Supreme Court rulings, it is more important.
Ms. Mannino said that she supports the flag and DEI policies.
Ms. Koreman said that she appreciates the board spending time on the flag policy and hopes the board will
consider flying the pride flag longer since we are nearing the end of pride month (June).
PRESENTATION- ETHAN CRAMTON, RURAL YOUTH SERVICES:
Mr. Cramton introduced himself and shared some program philosophies as well as activities. He runs the
Cornell Cooperative Extension/Tompkins County Rural Youth Services program for Trumansburg-Ulysses for
5th-8th graders, as well as a few high school programs and a youth employment program.
OLD BUSINESS:
2
FLAG POLICY
RESOLUTION #101 OF 2022: FLAG POLICY
WHEREAS, the Town of Ulysses is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusivity, and implementing
policies and actions that conform to our 2021 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Ulysses recognizes our collective imperfect local, state, and national history in
treating everyone with civility and respect; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has received many requests from the public to fly or display flags for
designated days or months of celebration and recognition, and significant public feedback in favor of
adopting a flag policy as our many county and regional municipal neighbors have already done; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board is committed to adopting fair, respectful policies that contribute to a more
fair and just civil society;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, the Town of Ulysses adopts the proposed Flag Policy, to be implemented by the Town
Supervisor.
Moved: Ms. Olson Seconded: Ms. Marino
DISCUSSION:
The board discussed how to solve when a month may have two flags.
Ms. Marino suggested some clarifications and additions to the policy.
Olson aye
Boggs nay
Bouchard aye
Goldman aye
Marino aye
Vote: 4-1
Date Adopted: 6/28/22
RESOLUTION #102 OF 2022:
Resolved that the board purchase and fly the Pride flag for no more than 30 days.
Moved: Mr. Goldman Seconded: Ms. Olson
Olson aye
Boggs nay
Bouchard aye
Goldman aye
Marino aye
Vote: 4-1
Date Adopted: 6/28/22
CULVERT REPLACEMENT PLANNING GRANT FUNDS THROUGH THE DEC
RESOLUTION #103 OF 2022: AUTHORIZATION TO APPLY FOR DEC PLANNING GRANT FOR CULVERT
REPLACEMENT
3
WHEREAS, Town of Ulysses, Tompkins County, supports the submission of a 2022 Consolidated
Funding Application (CFA) on behalf of the Town, for the Non-Agricultural Nonpoint Source Planning
Grant program under the Culvert Repair and Replacement category to conduct an overall study of
several culverts in the Town to assess erosion caused by failing culverts; and
WHEREAS, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) provides a
competitive statewide grant program to assist in the initial planning of non-agricultural nonpoint
source water quality improvement projects; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Ulysses considers this project a priority, as several culverts in the Town are
failing and becoming unstable through erosion, negatively affecting water quality in the area; and
WHEREAS, if funding is received it will allow the Town of Ulysses to prepare a planning report that will
explore cost effective solutions to replace failing culverts causing erosion and water quality issues, as
well as enable the Town to seek further funding for construction through the Water Quality
Improvement Program to continue the advancement of the water quality improvements;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, the Town Board, on behalf of the Town, identifies the Town Supervisor as the authorized
representative for the project, able to execute necessary documents relative to and as required for this
application; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby accept that they shall provide at least a 10%
match of the total of any grant funding awarded as a local match in the form of in-kind services or cash
contributions hereby appropriated and obligated from the Town of Ulysses Town-wide Highway Fund;
and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town of Ulysses recognizes and fully supports the submission of
the CFA for a Non-Agricultural Nonpoint Source Planning Grant for overall improvements to failing
culverts in the Town.
Moved: Mr. Boggs Seconded: Ms. Bouchard
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Bouchard aye
Goldman aye
Marino aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 6/28/22
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN GRANT
Ms. Marino noted that she and Ms. Wright discussed the pros and cons of each grant but do not yet have a
recommendation.
Ms. Wright noted that both grants have sustainability & climate change goals but the board should decide
which is more feasible for the time put into applying for it.
DRAFT RESOLUTION FOR DISCUSSION:
CONSOLIDATED FUNDING APPLICATION FOR COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CREATION
WHEREAS, the Town desires to update its 2009 Comprehensive Plan; and
4
WHEREAS, a planning grant would enable the Town of pay for 50% (Department of Conservation) OR 90%
(Department of State) of the cost associated with developing the plan; and
WHEREAS, the Consolidated Funding Application process, has made funding available for the development of
comprehensive plans for up to $100,000 with a 10% (Department of State) OR 50% Department of
Conservation) local match;
WHEREAS, Town staff have the ability to complete a grant application in-house with limited engineering hours
for specific components and funds are already allocated in the 2022 budget for such services;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED that the Town Board authorizes the Town Supervisor to submit a grant application for up to
$100,000 to the New York Department of ________ (either State or Conservation) through the Consolidated
Funding Application process.
MOTION
Ms. Olson moved that the board authorize the Supervisor’s office to do more investigating to determine which
grant is the best option. This was seconded by Mr. Goldman and passed unanimously.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Mr. Goldman moved to go into Executive Session at 8:03pm for the purpose of discussing personnel matters
as well as advice of counsel. This was seconded by Mr. Boggs and passed unanimously.
Ms. Bouchard moved to end Executive Session at 8:43pm. This was seconded by Mr. Boggs and passed
unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS:
2023 BUDGET DEVELOPMENT DISCUSSION
Ms. Wright and Olson shared a new approach to this year’s budgeting process that includes earlier
departmental meetings with board member participation.
The board agreed on a Budget Retreat for 8-10am on Tuesday, August 2.
INTRODUCING A PROPOSED LOCAL LAW AUTHORIZING THE TOWN OF ULYSSES AND ITS COMMITTEES AND
SUBCOMMITTEES TO USE VIDEOCONFERENCING TECHNOLOGY TO PARTICIPATE IN PUBLIC MEETINGS AND
SCHEDULING A PUBLIC HEARING
RESOLUTION # 104 OF 2022: INTRODUCING A PROPOSED LOCAL LAW AUTHORIZING THE TOWN OF
ULYSSES AND ITS COMMITTEES AND SUBCOMMITTEES TO USE VIDEOCONFERENCING TECHNOLOGY
TO PARTICIPATE IN PUBLIC MEETINGS AND SCHEDULING A PUBLIC HEARING
WHEREAS, a local law entitled “A LOCAL LAW AUTHORIZING THE TOWN OF ULYSSES AND ITS
COMMITTEES AND SUBCOMMITTEES TO USE VIDEOCONFERENCING TECHNOLOGY TO PARTICIPATE IN
PUBLIC MEETINGS” was introduced at this meeting, and
WHEREAS, the Town Board desires to hold a public hearing with respect to the adoption of said Local
Law;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED that a public hearing shall be held by the Town Board of the Town of Ulysses with respect to
the adoption of the aforesaid Local Law on July 12, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall, 10 Elm Street,
Trumansburg, New York; and
5
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to cause public notice of
said hearing to be given as provided by law.
Moved: Ms. Olson Seconded: Mr. Goldman
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Bouchard aye
Goldman aye
Marino aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 6/28/22
VOLUNTEER CONTRACT FOR IT SERVICES
RESOLUTION #105 OF 2022: VOLUNTEER CONTRACT FOR IT SERVICES
WHEREAS, Mr. Levine has volunteered his time and effort over the years serving as the administrator
for the Town website with a domain name commonly known as ulysses.ny.us;
WHEREAS, the Town desires to transition to a new website with a domain name commonly known as
townofulysses.gov;
WHEREAS, the New York State Comptroller requires an agreement for all information technology
services provided for a municipality;
WHEREAS, the Town desires Mr. Levine to forward all traffic from the ulysses.ny.us website to the new
townofulysses.gov website and Mr. Levine desires to perform such service for the Town; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Levine is offering to continue graciously volunteering his time and effort to the benefit
of the of the Town and the Town and Mr. Levine (collectively the “Parties”) agree to such an
understanding.
NOW, THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged,
and in consideration of the mutual covenants and Memorandums set forth in this Memorandum, the
Parties agree as follows:
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES.
Mr. Levine shall be responsible for the forwarding of all traffic from the domain name
commonly known as Ulysses.ny.us to the new website with a domain name commonly known
as townofulysses.gov. Additionally, Mr. Levine shall also redirect the mail domain records to the
new domain and/or server.
PAYMENT.
Mr. Levine shall not receive any compensation for the performance of services as contemplated
in this Memorandum as Mr. Levine has volunteered his services to the Town.
TERM.
Mr. Levine shall perform the services contemplated in this Memorandum for a period of two (2)
years, beginning on _____________ ___, 2022 (the “Commencement Date”).
TERMINATION.
6
Either party may terminate this Memorandum by providing the other party with thirty (30) days
written notice.
VOLUNTEER NOT EMPLOYEE.
Mr. Levine’s relationship to the Town is that of a volunteer, and shall not constitute
employment, partnership, joint venture, or agency.
ASSIGNMENT.
Mr. Levine shall not assign this Memorandum without the prior written consent of the Town,
which may be withheld for any or no reason at all.
GOVERNING LAW; VENUE.
This Memorandum shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York.
The Parties to this Memorandum agree and covenant that this Memorandum will be
enforceable in the Town of Ulysses, New York. If legal action is necessary to enforce this
Memorandum, exclusive venue will lie in Tompkins County, New York.
ENTIRE MEMORANDUM.
This Memorandum contains the entire Memorandum of the Parties and there are no other
promises, conditions, understandings or other Memorandums, whether oral or written, relating
to the subject matter of this Memorandum.
COUNTERPARTS.
This Memorandum may be executed in two (2) or more counterparts, each of which shall be
deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
SEVERABILITY.
If any portion of this Memorandum shall be held to be invalid or unenforceable for any reason,
the remaining provisions shall continue to be valid and enforceable. If a court finds that any
provision of this Memorandum is invalid or unenforceable, but that by limiting such provision, it
would become valid and enforceable, then such provision shall be deemed to be written
construed and enforced as so limited.
AMENDMENT.
This Memorandum may only be amended or modified in a writing signed by the Parties.
AND BE IT FURTHER
RESOLVED that the Town Board authorizes the Town Supervisor to sign the Volunteer Contract for IT
Services with Mr. John Levine.
Moved: Ms. Olson Seconded: Ms. Bouchard
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Bouchard aye
Goldman aye
Marino aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 6/28/22
7
APPRECIATION OF JOHN LEVINE FOR SERVICE TO THE TOWN
RESOLUTION # 106 OF 2022: APPRECIATION OF JOHN LEVINE FOR SERVICE TO THE TOWN
WHEREAS, Mr. John Levine has provided invaluable, volunteer technology services to the Town of
Ulysses for more than two decades; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Levine’s knowledge, skill and generosity has been deeply appreciated by the current
and past Town Boards; and
WHEREAS, we are grateful to local experts for sharing their knowledge with the Town, to the benefit of
the entire community;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, the Town of Ulysses recognizes Mr. John Levine for his incredible public service and thanks
him for his generosity, civic purpose, and technological expertise.
Moved: Ms. Olson Seconded: Mr. Boggs
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Bouchard aye
Goldman aye
Marino aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 6/28/22
CHAIR OF CSAC
Ms. Bouchard announced that Mr. Devokaitis has resigned as chair of the Conservation & Sustainability
Advisory Committee. Ms. Marino (former chair) offered to take over the role through the end of 2022 unless
another chair is found sooner.
RESOLUTION #107 of 2022: APPOINTMENT OF ROXANNE MARINO AS CSAC CHAIR
Ms. Bouchard moved to appoint Ms. Marino as chair of CSAC through the end of 2022 unless another
chair is found sooner.
Moved: Ms. Olson Seconded: Mr. Boggs
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Bouchard aye
Goldman aye
Marino aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 6/28/22
NOTIFICATIONS:
NOTIFICATION OF EMERGENCY EXPENDITURE FOR WATER DISTRICT 3
Ms. Olson notified the board that she authorized an emergency expense for the water district. (See appendix)
UPCOMING EVENTS:
• July 4- offices closed for holiday
8
• July 12- regular town board meeting
• July 26- regular town board meeting
• AUG. 2- BUDGET RETREAT
BOARD MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS & UPDATES
Ms. Bouchard-
• Attended the County Home historic marker unveiling
• Rec Partnership may have increased budget numbers for next year due to minimum wage increase
Ms. Marino-
• NYRWA will start on rural water study ( in a few months
• Attended Community Choice Aggregation webinar
• Assisted Ben Carver & Rick Darfler on DC fast charger station
• Shared info on low income household water bill assistance
Mr. Boggs-
• Gave an update on the special events permit, noting that he and Ms. Marino have met and will meet
with the sheriff
• CWIO is hiring a watershed manager
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
RESOLUTION #108 of 2022: APPROVAL OF MINUTES
RESOLVED, that the Ulysses Town Board approve the meeting minutes from June 14, 2022 (regular
meeting) with Ms. Marino’s suggestions.
Moved: Mr. Goldman Seconded: Ms. Bouchard
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Bouchard aye
Goldman aye
Marino aye
Vote: 5-0
Date Adopted: 6/28/22
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR (3 min limit per person):
(none)
ADJOURN
Mr. Goldman made a motion to adjourn at 9:45pm. This was seconded by Ms. Bouchard and passed
unanimously.
Respectfully submitted by Carissa Parlato, Town Clerk
7/7/22
APPENDIX:
9
NOTIFICATION OF EMERGENCY EXPENDITURE FOR WATER DISTRICT 3:
From e-mail sent 6/17/22
Good afternoon, Town Board,
This is notification that I made an emergency authorization today for the purchase of the equipment
listed below for Water District 3.
Redlion G10C0000 10" Graphite Series touch screen - $4074
Redlion G3AD1010 Adapter plate to adapt new screen to existing opening in panel - $182
Engineering Service to convert Crimson 2.0 program to later version compatible with new screens -
$476
Field Service with travel to install the new screen - $595
Total - $5327
BACKGROUND:
• The water system itself is functioning correctly at this point.
• The piece of equipment that is failing is the screen/hardware for the system that reads what's
going on in the water system and tank--it sends alerts and is available to check remotely
o Without this piece of equipment functioning as it should, the water system is flying blind and
we do not have the information we need.
o There is a secondary interface down at the Woolf Lane pump house, but it is not remote
• We learned in May that the equipment would eventually need to be replaced, but that it was
not yet imminent. Our previous plan was to budget for it's replacement in the 2023 budget. This
timeline is no longer possible..
• Chris has noted that the interface to read the information being put out has been decreasing in
it's readability and seems to be getting worse.
• Aqualogics has a screen we can borrow if complete failure occurs prior to installation of the
new interface--this would be an added expense. The timeline for arrival is in mid-late August.
PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS:
• Due to the fact that this screen could fail at any moment and it is essential for the safe
maintenance and operation of Water District 3, this is an emergency procurement situation
o 6b. Emergency purchases pursuant to Section 103 (4) of the General Municipal Law.
Due to the nature of this exception these goods or services must be purchased
immediately and a delay in order to seek alternate proposals may threaten life,
health, safety or welfare of the residents. This section does not preclude alternate
proposals if time permits.
This purchase effectively eliminates our contingency line for WD3, and my office will be working with
Highway/Water to ensure that we manage remaining expenditures for the year as carefully as possible,
while still fulfilling our important responsibilities to WD3.
Thanks and I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday weekend,
Katelin