HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CAC-1996CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL
City of Ithaca
Memo to: Planning Board & Dept.
Applicant, as noted below
Copy to: Common Council and Mayor
BZA and Building Dept.
City Attorney
CAC
From: Conservation Advisory Council's Environmental Review Subcommittee (Coles,
Darlington, Violette. Also present: Kenneth O'Neil, Dir. of Engineering and Site
Development, Wegman's Food Markets)
Date: February 19, 1996
Wegman's Site Development EAF, Part 1. Preliminary Report.
Comments: This report is based on the LEAF, Part 1 for the proposed development of Wegman's Food
and Pharmacy on South Meadow Street. As the EAF committee has not yet received Parts 2 and 3, this
is only a preliminary report, and will be updated when the final parts are received.
During the meeting with Mr. O'Neill, several issues concerning the proposed Wegman's development
were discussed. O'Neill reviewed the plans in general, the previous DEIS filed by Cornell University in
1978 for the site (UFAIR), and the report of February 1996 by F -E -S Associates to Wegman's relative to
the SEQR Act and its applicability to the project.
During this discussion the Committee expressed a number of concerns about the site development plan.
The questions included:
a) increase in run -off pollution caused by relocating parking closer to the Flood Relief Channel;
b) lack of sufficient planting in the proposed parking lot area to ameliorate vehicle- caused air
pollution and localized seasonal heating effects (as well as attendant aesthetic negatives), and to
improve ground water filtration of the runoff noted in a) above;
c)the creation of a large amount of solid waste caused by demolition of the existing building;
d)and the waste of resources connected with the questionable need for the demolition of a
building less than ten years old.
In the light of these substantive questions, and while we recognize the value of the earlier DEIS and
traffic study, and agree that it is likely unecessary to require that all this be done anew, we can't agree
that review under the SEQR Act is not needed. In fact, on Page 3 of the F -E -S Associates report of
February, 1996, it is stated that "The adoption of the Negative Declaration by the Planning Board seems
to indicate that they feel a separate SEAR review should be conducted as each parcel of the UFAIR
project is brought in for site plan review for development or re- development. ". Although the report goes
on to argue against this step, we feel it necessary for the City to examine closely any project of this scope
in light of its potential environmental impact (and this plan in particular in the light of the issues raised
above), and therefore, were this a final and not a preliminary report, we would recommend a Positive
Declaration based on our review of the plan to date.
Conservation Advisory Council
Minutes Meeting of 3/11/96
Minutes by Daryl
Attending : Martin, Judy, Maria, Jill, Daryl, Dan, Guy... Rick
Guests : Doria Higgins, Bob Bland & Liz Moran (CU)
NEXT MEETING April 8,7:30
Frank Sciarametta (sp ?) from Wegmans introduced himself. He had
come to address the EAF committee re the Wegmans proposal. Martin
expressed regrets that the EAF committee met at 7:00. Noted that
CAC will support reviewers recommendation for a positive finding
on the Wegmans proposal.
Agenda:
0. Approval of minutes.
1. Doria on issues surrounding Treman Marine park & road
2. CU folks on CU lake- source cooling
0. Minutes of last meeting approved.
1. Doria Higgins on Finger Lakes State Parks plan for changes at
Alan Treman St. Park, acquisition of 14 ac. "festival lands" &
building of new road.
DH notes that Betsy Darlington is OK on putting in the new road
but DH strongly urges CAC to oppose it. Speaks for "Citizens to
Save Our Parks ".
Why ? (a) goals /stated intent of new road directly violate terms
of 1967 agreement, (b) need for road not established (c) state's
current budget constraints suggest $$$ better spent elsewhere. DH
addressed arguments for road in state ( ?) document - feels each
of their arguments in favor can be refuted or shown to be
specious.
DH concern is that deeding festival lands to state and building
new road would allow eventual state road into Hogs Hole wetland.
DH argues that once lands are turned over to state parks we have
CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL
City of Ithaca
AGENDA
Meeting: Monday, April 8, 1996
7:30 PM, 3d Floor Conference Room, City Hall
7:00 PM EAF Committee: Maria, Betsy, Martin
7:30 PM CAC Meeting
7:30 PM March Minutes
7:35 PM Cornell Lake Source Cooling Project Review and discussion of draft response, with
objective of finalizing response for submisson to DEC on April 9.
8:30 PM Discussion of Park Service Cass Park Plans Report by Guy Gerard
8:50 PM SEQRA Training- report by Chair
9:25 PM New Business
9:30 PM Adjournment
Next Meeting: May 13, City Offices, 3d Floor Conference Room
7:00 PM EAF Committee
7:30 PM CAC
expressed concerns about tight time schedule viz scoping.
Suggests that CAC formally request extension.
BB noted that they will be meeting with Town Conservation Board
and with the EMC's "ad hoc SEQRA cmte ".
Daryl expressed concerns with (1) facility expansion and degree
to which draft scoping encompasses this issue, concern is that
capacity expansion will be via DEC permit that does not go
through formal or public review process (2) the draft scope has a
focus on "lakewide model" for, e.g., thermal effects instead of
more specifically stated "local" models and could thus understate
localized effects and (3) the draft scope relies on static
climatic model - why not add "alternative" to scope that
incorporates global warming climate model ?
Dan expressed concerns that scope buries info about use of
molluscicides in a non - obvious category. Dan proposed that Martin
(a) draft list of concerns to become CAC position and (b) contact
DEC re extension of deadlines so we can meet once more on 4/8.
BB replies to Daryl concerns : Physical and regulatory limits to
expansion. Regulatory - SPEDYS (sp ?) permit is first 5 years and
every 5 thereafter, at renewal DEC would do SEQRA determinance,
could be negative. Physical - different facility components have
diff. limits. Intake pipe could be primary limiting element.
Daryl asked if "conceptual" section of scope be beefed up to
include subsection on these design limits ?
Liz Moran on "lakewide" versus "local" modelling. Noted that
model will include numerous gridlines East/West as well as
horizontal (lake depth) and will thus allow very localized data
at, e.g., intake and outflow points.
Daryl Q. is "is this local data collection explicitly in the
stated draft scope" ?
Guy expressed concerns about cumulative effects of biocides. BB
sez SPEDYS permit will note and limit biocides.
Judy asked about possible use of "treat and trap" to contain
chlorine residues from Zebra mussel treatments.
BB notes for Daryl Q. that system flow is 50 -70 million gals /day
peak. Typical is 15 mgal /day. Milikan Station is 100 -150
mgal /day.
Martin passed out info re SEQRA training.
Group endorsed and passed Darlington resolution re DEC budget
cuts.
CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL
City of Ithaca
AGENDA
Meeting: Monday, April 8, 1996
7:30 PM, 3d Floor Conference Room, City Hall
7:00 PM EAF Committee: Maria, Betsy, Martin
7:30 PM CAC Meeting
7:30 PM March Minutes
7:35 PM Cornell Lake Source Cooling Project Review and discussion of draft response, with
objective of finalizing response for submisson to DEC on April 9.
8:30 PM Discussion of Park Service Cass Park Plans Report by Guy Gerard
8:50 PM SEORA Training- report by Chair
9:25 PM New Business
9:30 PM Adjournment
Next Meeting: May 13, City Offices, 3d Floor Conference Room
7:00 PM EAF Committee
7:30 PM CAC
little control, notwithstanding "reverter clauses ". New road will
cut -off festival lands.
DH asks CAC to insist (to state ?) that Betsy D's original
request for water sampling be followed through. State parks have
"disappeared" this issue.
Guy asks if "Festival Lands" are park "by dint of usage ". DH sez
yes, clearly. Dan notes that this is not official, would have to
take it to court. Noted that tripartite agreement (1967 ?) sez
anything not used by state is city park.
Martin expressed belief that new road is clearly first step
toward enlarging the marina. Dan notes that legal status as park
is not CAC turf. We must focus on environmental effects. Guy will
consult with Doria and draft a document with issues and
approaches focussed on CAC -turf issues. (e.g. wetlands risk).
Jill supports Doria's points about state fiscal constraints.
Doria closed by reminding that this is more than a state parks
issue... it is the City of Ithaca giving land to the state that
is currently a park and will be turned into asphalt.
2. CU lake- source cooling
Bob Bland noted that input from first meeting on scoping had
raised issue of "view" (Meigs from (city /town ?) planning) and /or
visible elements of facility design, that these appeared to have
substance and will probably go into scope.
BB noted that Town Planning Board had declined lead agency
status, DEC expected to be La. Next scoping hearing at Boynton
m. s. 3/12.
Guy asked about timetable and apparent CU push on this. BB sez
this spring will hopefully be their last year of data gathering.
Process of future reviews, etc will be that Town PB will handle
hearings, findings, etc and Site Plan Review. Town Board will be
in on zoning change needed. Q. what is city role, CAC role. A.
city will be involved via "wild & scenic rivers program" which it
administers for the state and vie the BPW for the street opening
permit.
Q. raised of who /what has authority on lake itself ? DEC ?
Thruway authority...
Dan sez CAC can, nonetheless, comment on impacts on lake. Jill
CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL
City of Ithaca
AGENDA
Meeting: Monday, April 8, 1996
7:30 PM, 3d Floor Conference Room, City Hall
7:00 PM EAF Committee: Maria, Betsy, Martin
7:30 PM CAC Meeting
7:30 PM March Minutes
7:35 PM Cornell Lake Source Cooling Project Review and discussion of draft response, with
objective of finalizing response for submisson to DEC on April 9.
8:30 PM Discussion of Park Service Cass Park Plans Report by Guy Gerard
8:50 PM SEQRA Training- report by Chair
9:25 PM New Business
9:30 PM Adjournment
Next Meeting: May 13, City Offices, 3d Floor Conference Room
7:00 PM EAF Committee
7:30 PM CAC
Conservation Advisory Council
City of Ithaca
Memo to: Planning Board & Dept.
Applicant(s), as noted below
Copy to: Common Council and Mayor
BZA and Building Dept.
City Attorney
CAC
From: Conservation Advisory Council's Environmental
Review Subcommittee (Coles, Darlington, Violette)
Subject: EAF Review(s)
Date: March 11, 1996
1. Novarr SPDR
Comments: The plan reviewed for the development at 120 -140
Brindley Street raises no significant environmental issues. We
would like to comment on one aspect of the plan which is posi-
tive, that is, the use of gravel surfacing for parking. This
approach could do much to mitigate runoff - related water pollu-
tion in this area by providing a modicum of soil filtration. We
would also like to call attention to the intended plantings, and
recommend that the Shade Tree Advisory Committee be consulted
about species suitable for this area.
Recommendation: Negative declaration
2. Wegmans LEAF
Comments: First, we would like to underline our comments in our
preliminary EAF report of February 19. We noted in that report
potential major negative environmental impacts caused by this
project in several areas:
1. increased runoff pollution caused by relocation of
parking (which could be mitigated by placement of planting
islands throughout the lot);
2. creation of a large amount of solid waste;
3. waste of resources caused by replacement of a relatively
new building.
To these comments we would like to add the following:
4. deleterious effects of increased traffic in the vicin-
ity, especially on smaller streets, which would be exacerbated
by the addition of other commercial operations on the site, as
envisaged by the construction of three additional buildings;
5. elimination of a large amount of green space on the
north side of the property, and its replacement by an unattrac-
tive loading area which will be more visible than the one
currently in use.
These issues combine to indicate that this development will have
a major impact on this part of the city, as well as on the
regional environment. Mitigation measures can and should be
considered wherever possible to reduce these impacts, especially
in the areas of runoff pollution control and traffic handling.
Modification of the parking lot plan in particular could go a
long way in reducing the negative effects, both to reduce pol-
lution and improve the aesthetic characteristics of the site.
Additionally, ways must be found to ameliorate the problems
associated with increased traffic, including the problems noted
in the LEAF connected with tractor-trailer use of the Clinton -
Meadow Street intersection.
We thus agree with the Reviewer on the substance of environmen-
tal impacts as noted in the LEAF, and concur with the conclusion
that a Positive Declaration of Significant Environmental Impact
is warranted.
Recommendation: Positive declaration
Conservation Advisory Council
City of Ithaca
Memo to: BZA and Building Department
Applicants as noted below
Copy to: Common Council and Mayor
Planning Board & Dept.
City Attorney
CAC
From: Conservation Advisory Council's Environmental
Review Subcommittee (Coles, Darlington, Violette)
Subject: EAF Review(s)
Date: March 11, 1996
1. Appeal #2292, Cornell Federal Credit Union
Comments: We have reviewed the EAF for this project on December
19 and have no further comments.
Recommendation: Negative Declaration
2. Appeal ##2294, 215 Esty Street
Comments: No comments.
Recommendation: Negative Declaration
Conservation Advisory Council
City of Ithaca
Memo to: Planning Board & Dept.
Applicant(s), as noted below
Copy to: Common Council and Mayor
BZA and Building Dept.
City Attorney
CAC
From: Conservation Advisory Council's Environmental
Review Subcommittee (Coles, Darlington, Violette)
Subject: EAF Review(s)
Date: May 13, 1996
1. Goldwin Smith Hall Renovations
Comments: No environmental impacts other than those involving
esthetic /historical issues.
Recommendation: Negative declaration.
2. 201 1/2 Wyckoff Avenue
Comments: No environmental impacts other than those involving
esthetic /historical issues.
Recommendation: Negative declaration.
Conservation Advisory Council
City of Ithaca
Memo to: Planning Board & Dept.
Applicant(s), as noted below
Copy to: Common Council and Mayor
BZA and Building Dept.
City Attorney
CAC
From: Conservation Advisory Council's Environmental
Review Subcommittee (Coles, Darlington, Violette)
Subject: Wegmans DEIS
Date: August 5, 1996
After a review of the DEIS for the Wegmans South Meadow Street
Shopping Plaza expansion the EAF comittee of the CAC has the
following observations to make:
1. There is no discussion of solid waste disposal issues in the
DEIS as required under SEQR.
2. In A.1.a, ponding data is given for 2 -year storms, but 10,
25, and 100 -year storm data should also be cited.
3. In A.1.b, the TR -55 method used to calculate runoff is noted
as inaccurate for the high water table and dense soil conditions
at the site. Another calculation method should then be used.
Even using TR -55 the 11 -24o increase given in the table seems
high, not "relatively small ".
4. The vegetated strip planned as a filter for the run -off is
possibly not adequate. Further, there is no mention that the
floodway boundary is adjacent to this vegetated strip.
5. On p. 28, the conclusion that "stormwater flow rates will
increase slightly will pollutant loads will not..." is not sup-
ported by the arguments or evidence given.
6. Sediment traps are discussed as ineffective without sup-
porting evidence.
7. In A.3, p. 30, the conclusions are not supported by the
evidence given.
8. In B.1.a, it must be noted that the two out - parcels must be
considered separately as no specific plans are given.
10. All tree and shrub species should be shown to be tolerant
of local conditions.
11. The increase in traffic will be significant, and may have
impacts on the quality of life in neighborhoods affected beyond
any point (intersection) effects noted. This should be
addressed in the FEIS.
12. In IV.A, pp.46 & ff., no clear arguments are given to sup-
port the positions taken that it is infeasible to expand the
existing structure without suspension of operations, or that it
is infeasible to not pursue the out - parcel development. More
information including a more detailed consideration of theses
alternatives is desirable.
MINUTES
CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL
Meeting of Monday, Sept. 9, 1996
Present: Judy Jones, Martin Violette (Chair), Jill Brantley, Betsy Darlington, Dan Hoffman; CC liaison Rick Gray,
EMC liaison Barbara Ebert; Guest, Doria Higgins
Absent: Daryl Anderson, Guy Gerard, Paul Salon
1. Aug. Minutes were approved with one change: Judy Jones was not present.
2. Doria Higgins presented her concerns about transfer of the City's Festival Lands to State Parks. After some
discussion -- including that fact that construction of the Black Diamond Trail was never a part of the original agreement
with the City although it has subsequently been linked by some - -we passed unanimously the following resolution:
Whereas, Finger Lakes State Parks has completed the environmental impact statement for the Treman
Marina Master Plan and is expected to ask the City to transfer ownership of the Festival Lands and Parcel
B to the State, in order to accommodate the State's plans; and
Whereas, the proposed new entrance road and marina expansion would be an unnecessary expenditure and of
questionable value, and would have a negative impact on the Hog Hole and the natural area to its south -for
example, by increasing the amount of impermeable surface and proximity of traffic to wildlife; and
Whereas, if the City surrenders control of the Festival Lands and Parcel B to the State, the City will lose its say
over future marina expansions, such as those previously proposed by Finger Lakes State Parks, and these would
have a serious negative impact on the Hog Hole;
Now therefore, since "the natural flood plain remnant at the end of Cayuga Lake is so small ... [and] needs all the
protection fiom future development that is possible to provide" (Environmental Management Council letter of
8/30/96); be it
Resolved that the City, of Ithaca Conservation Advisory Council urges Common Council to retain ownership of
the Festival Lands and Parcel B.
3. OId City Dump: Betsy raised concerns about the old City dump, much of which lies under Nate's Floral
Estates, based on the deep concern expressed to her by a City resident who spent much of his childhood playing at the
dump. He had reported to her that the only rule about what could go into the dump was that two men be able to lift it.
Stuff of all sorts, including from local industries, was routinely dumped there. He felt that this was a ticking time
bomb, and that all sorts of toxic substances would eventually leach out into the lake. Possible impacts on residents of
Nate's are another concern. Judy said that if it had been capped with clay, and given that a fair amount of blacktop is
now over it, there may be little water flowing through it to leach out toxic materials. Judy also asked if there was an
aquifer under the site, and Betsy said she thought there was. We discussed what to do next, and how to go about get-
ting information. Also, was any assessment done when Nate's was built, and where are those records, if so?
Barbara agreed to go to CLEARS at Cornell and get Jeannie Barnaba's help in looking for aerial photos of the
site from the days when the dump was in use. Betsy agreed to ask .ion Meigs for help in directing us to sources of
information. Betsy and Barbara said that they didn't have time to do much searching in the immediate future, but
would do the best they could.
4. Martin reminded us that we need to find a replacement for Maria Coles.
S. Martin asked us to give some thought to having a rotating Chair- -maybe one year stints. Betsy suggested that
maybe he could be the chair but that we could have a rotating vice -chair to take on some of the responsibilities. No
one expressed enthusiasm for either idea (except Martin!).
6. Next meeting will be on Oct. 21, since City Hall will be closed on Oct. 14 for Columbus Day.
Adjourned about 9:15 PM
- -Betsy Darlington
CITY OF ITHACA
10B EAST GREEN STREET
ITHACA, NEW YORK 14850
OFFICE OF TELEPHONE: 272 -1713
CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL CODE 607
Resolution from the Conservation Advisory Council
regarding the Festival Lands and Treman Marina
Whereas, Finger Lakes State Parks has completed the environmental impact statement for the Treman
Marina Master Plan and is expected to ask the City to transfer ownership of the Festival Lands and
Parcel B to the State, in order to accommodate the State's plans; and
Whereas, the proposed new entrance road and marina expansion would be an unnecessary expenditure and
of questionable value, and would have a negative impact on the Hog Hole and the natural area to its south,
for example, by increasing the amount of impenneable surface and the proximity of traffic to wildlife; and
Whereas, if the City surrenders control of the Festival Lands and Parcel B to the State, the City will lose its
say over future marina expansions, such as those previously proposed by Finger Lakes State Parks, and
these could have a serious negative impact on the Hog Hole;
Now therefore, since "the natural flood plain remnant at the end of Cayuga Lake is so small... [and] needs
all the protection from future development that is possible to provide" (Environmental Management Council
letter of 8/30/96); be it
Resolved that the City of Ithaca Conservation Advisory Council urges Common Council to retain ownership
of the Festival Lands and Parcel B.
Passed unanimously on Sept, 9, 1996
"An Equal Opportunity Employer with an Affirmative Action Program
Conservation Advisory Council
City of Ithaca
Memo to: Planning Board & Dept.
Applicant(s), as noted below
Copy to: Common Council and Mayor
BZA and Building Dept.
City Attorney
CAC
From: Conservation Advisory Council's Environmental
Review Subcommittee (Coles, Darlington, Violette)
Subject: EAF Review(s)
Date: September 9, 1996
1. Site Development Plan Review - Aldi Food Store
Comments: It appears on review of the LEAF Part 2 for this
project that items 6, ground water quality, and 14, transporta-
tion systems, should have been marked "Yes ". Ground water
quality will be marginally affected by an expected increase in
vehicle traffic on the site, and the attendant increase in run-
off. This appears to be a minor effect. However, the effect on
transportation is more important. There is a large amount of
pedestrian and bicycle traffic crossing Route 13 on Farmer's
Market days, and the location of what will be essentially a
neighborhood food store will increase this traffic. The Route
13 - Third Street intersection should be improved to accommodate
this traffic, as well as the vehicular traffic (which is
addressed by the proposed lane designations in the plan).
Well- marked crosswalks with appropriate signage and on- demand
pedestrian traffic light cycles could do much to alleviate a
potentially dangerous condition.
' One other aspect of the plan deserving comment is landscaping.
Species' choice given on the drawings is not suitable for the
site: Bradford pear for example is somewhat fragile, and smaller
than would be desirable. Larger trees and more suitable species
should be chosen (and as usual, we recommend consulting the
Shade Tree Advisory Committee on this). Also, within the
restraints of the site, effort should be made to integrate the
landscaping with the Farmers' Market entrance as much as pos-
sible - this small area has the potential to be very attractive,
rather than an eyesore.
Recommendation: Negative Declaration.
2. Site Development Plan Review - Evaporated Metal Films.
Comments: In contrast to the preceding SDPR comments, we would
like to note the excellent species' choices - both in type and
diversity - in this plan.
We would also like to repeat our comments about the increase of
impermeable surfaces in this area. A comprehensive look at this
problem is warranted.
Recommendation: Negative Declaration.
Conservation Advisory Council
City of Ithaca
Memo to: BZA and Building Department
Applicants as noted below
Copy to: Common Council and Mayor
Planning Board & Dept.
City Attorney
CAC
From: Conservation Advisory Council's Environmental
Review Subcommittee (Coles, Darlington, Violette)
Subject: EAF Review(s)
Date: September 9, 1996
1. Appeal #2309, 417 North Cayuga Street
Comments: None.
Recommendation: Negative declaration.
2. Appeal #2311, 610 -612 Mitchell Street
Comments: None
Recommendation: Negative declaration (pending SEAF).
Conservation Advisory Council
City of Ithaca
Minutes
October 21, 1996
1. Meeting commenced at 8:05 p.m.. September minutes approved
as submitted. Moved by Judy Jones. Second by Paul Salon.
2. Postponed discussion of old city dump. Barbara had not
checked with CLEARS. Betsy spoke to Larry Fabroni; he doubts
that there are records on what is disposed at the sight.
3. Wegmans DEIS comments: Martin noted that CAC comments
failed to mention pedestrian access to the store ; CAC comments
on Aldi market did include such comments.
Martin reported on a meeting he had with Herman Seiverding and
John Meigs - we will be tied in more closely to the Planning
Board schedule so we don't get " behind" in information and to
allow our information to reach them in a timely fashion.
4. New business.
a. Southwest Park -Betsy reported on the discussions of the
Planning and Development Committee. They voted 4 to 1 to recom-
mend that Common Council approach the county concerning possible
purchase of the "flag" and "flagpole" parcels.
b. County Household Hazardous Waste program -the committee
will go on a field trip to Broome County to see their facilities
in operation.
c. Citizens Planning Alliance -a new group being formed to
work on planning and environmental issues will meet Thursday,
November 21 at 1:30 p.m. at the Women's Community Building.
5. Nominations. Martin has tried to contact Patrick
Walkinshaw- no luck. Martin will talk to Lee Adler, who visited
tonight regarding "The Woods" development.
Adjourned at 8:42 p.m.
recorded by Barbara Ebert
CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL
City of Ithaca
Minutes
Meeting of November 1 8,1996
Present: Brantley, Darlington, Cray, Hoffman, ,tones, Scion, Violette
1. Minutes for October accepted without changes.
2. Barbara Ebert went to CLEARS„ and examined photos and maps of the old city dump. She reported that the
active use of the dump ended in 1978. In 1980 trailers could be seen in the northern part.
3. Violet reminded everyone of the sea. C.P.A. meeting.
4. Darlington noted that the county board meeting on the budget would be important. The board planned to cut the
position of Natural Resource Planner, and replace with a lower level position -Water Resource Planner.
5. Southwest Park. Brantley asked. Darlington to comment. The feeling was that five thousand versus twenty-five
thousand would not win- although it's in the public interest. However, if the land is sold, it should be with restrictions.
Brantley pointed out that the county has no park land. This would be a way of getting " something for nothing".
Hoffman noted that the city was asked by the county to pay a private developers price for the land -which is "un-
neighborly". Scion made comments about the wetland reserve program and that it could work if all parties cooperate.
Violette noted this would be on the December agenda.
A discussion followed about ways to restrict the development of this land if sold. Hoffman moved that deed restric-
tions be connected to prohibit building or paving if land passes out of guilty ownership. Passed unanimously.
6. Brantley asked about status of city budget cuts in planning. Gray noted that Common Council has shelved this
for now.
Darlington recommended that the chair disseminate info for example by phone tree, including agendas with items
important to CAC. Violette agreed to e -mail such items and others would contact those with no e -mail. It was ques-
tioned whether a legal notice about the development near Buttermilk Falls was published. Darlington said the Town
Clerk should be able to say if one was. A discussion followed about the efficacy of normal channels of promulgation
of such notices in getting such information to the public. During this discussion a general feeling emerged that this
could be a suitable area for action by the CAC, and Violette agreed to place it on the December agenda.
,tones reported on a visit by the Hazardous Waste Committee to the Broome County disposal site, which she
described as very impressive, and commented that it was beneficial to have such a model close at hand.
Brantley asked about Cornell incinerator project status. Darlington noted that the project is currently on hold.
Conservation Advisory Council
City of Ithaca
Memo to: BZA and Building Department
Applicants as noted below
Copy to: Common Council and Mayor
Planning Board & Dept.
City Attorney
CAC
From: Conservation Advisory Council's Environmental Review Subcommittee (Darlington, Gerard,
Violette)
Subject: EAF Review(s)
Date: No\, ember 20, 1996
1. Appeal 2317, 211 Hancock Street
Comments: No environmental effects.
Recommendation: Negative declaration.
2. Appeal 2318, 403 College Avenue (Stella's)
Comments: No environmental effects.
Recommendation: Negative declaration.
3. Appeal 2319, Womens Community Building
Comments: Although this change in bulding use will have little if any negative impact, it is unfortunate that
will ultimately result in the lack of such residence facilities in the downtown area. Hopefully this change will
be gradual, as indicated in the appeal, in order to accommodate any unforeseen changes in usage.
Recommendation: Negative declaration.
4. Appeal 2320, 504 South Aurora Street.
Comments: In the list of property owners required to be notified of this appeal, the ratio of absentee to
owner - occupied is 4 to 3. It is important in neighborhoods such as this to preserve as much of the residen-
tial character as possible, which is in part what zoning is for. In this light, and since we see no compelling
economic argument, we regard this appeal to be unsubstantiated.
Recommendation: Positive declaration.
Conservation Advisory Council
City of Ithaca
Memo to: Planning Board & Dept.
Applicant(s), as noted below
Copy to: Common Council and Mayor
BZA and Building Dept.
City Attorney
CAC
From: Conservation Advisory Council's Environmental Review Subcommittee (Darlington, Gerard,
Violette)
Subject: EAF Review(s)
Date: November 18, 1996
1.927 North Tioga - Fenner Subdivision.
Comments: None
Recommendation: Negative declaration.
2. 312 College Avenue, SPDR Application
Comments: The SPDR Application enumerates a number of areas of concern which require a DEIS, with
which we concur. We would like to note two areas in particular based on this preliminary document with
which we are concerned: architectural appropriateness and changes in traff ic Patterns. it is hoped that the
design of this development will insofar as possible be not merely consistent with its surroundings, but an
attempt to improve the visual character of the neighborhood. Our concern with traff ic pattern changes is
occasioned by the inclusion of two retail spaces in the site plan. It is hoped these are directed towards
walk -in business, so that this activity will not exacerbate the already somewhat congested vehicular traffic
conditions in the area.
Recommendation: Positive declaration.
Conservation Advisory Council
City of Ithaca
Memo to: Planning Board & Dept.
Applicant(s), as noted below
Copy to: Common Council and Mayor
BZA and Building Dept.
City Attorney
CAC
From: Conservation Advisory Council's Environmental Review Subcommittee (Darlington, Gerard,
Violette)
Subject: "The Woods" DEIS
Date: November 18, 1996
After a review of the DEIS for "The Woods" project, the EAF comittee of the CAC has the following obser-
vations to make:
1. Under Section 3, the changes in neighborhood character would most desirably be depicted in terms of
trends in the neighborhood. Is this project counter to processes already at work, or compatible with them?
Especially in 3.b., the "evolution of the Cornell Heights neighborhood" should be given in as full a detail as
possible in order to better evaluate the suitability of such a develpment as "The Woods" to this environment.
2. Under Section 3.d., impact on wildlife and plant species should include species not only rare and
endangered, but of local importance and special concern.
3. Under Section 3.g., community services should include electric services.
CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL
Minutes
Meeting of December 9, 1996
Present: G.Gerard, D. Hoffman, J. Jones, P. Salon, M. Violette, R. Gray, B. Ebert. Guests, M. Fabrizio,
K. Hagedorn.
Recorded by J. Jones
1. Dan Hoffman gave a background review of the 1994 Southwest Area Land Use Study, currently being
recommended for adoption by Planning Department. It was decided that CAC should re- review issue, and
argue for environmental review of plan under SEQR, noting that public needs to be involved. A sub-
committee was formed to pursue this approach: B. Darlington, D. Hoffman, G. Gerard, P. Salon.
2. Paul Salon reviewed Federal Wetland Reserve Program, and how it could be possibly tied in to the
Southwest Park issue.
3. K. Hagedorn discussed efforts to protect park environs and promote the "viewshed" concept as an inte-
gral part of such protection.
4. Instead of the generalized discussion of public access to environmental information which had been
scheduled, the Council heard a presentation by Margaret Fabrizio on the Lavender Garden issue. She
questioned existing procedures and their adequacy in dealing with this matter, and discussed alternate plans
presented to the School Board to ameliorate the environmental impacts of the planned construction project.
She stated that she believed the City may not be in compliance with the requirements of the Recreational
River Corridor regulations, and that the CAC should be actively engaged in effecting such compliance. A
discussion followed on tactics to help preserve the garden. A resolution was passed by the CAC stating
that a proper environmental review of the project should be undertaken, and that the City should determine
the applicability of the Recreational River System regulations.
Adjourned 9:50 pm.
CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL
City of Ithaca
AGENDA
Meeting: Monday , January 13, 1997
7:00 PM EAF Committee
7:30 PM, CAC, 3d Floor Conference Room, City Hall
7:00 PM EAF Committee: Darlington, Gerard
7:30 PM CAC Meeting
7:30 PM December minutes.
7:35 PM Discussion of community access to environmentally - related information.
9:15 PM New Business
9:30 PM Adjournment
Next meeting: February 10, 1997, City Offices, 3d Floor Conference Room
7:00 PM EAF Committee
7:30 PM CAC