HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CAC-1979CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M. February 1, 1979
PRESENT: Burbank, Davis, Hoard, Stein
ABSENT: Fuller, Arnold
OTHERS
PRESENT: Council Liaison Holman; Former Chm. Carlson; Peter Shacknow,
WTKO; Carol Hebb, WVBR; George MacLarrn, WHCU.
REORGANIZATION
By Comm. Davis: Seconded by Comm. Hoard
RESOLVED, That Comm. Burbank continue as Acting Chairman of the
Commission and selection of a chairman be deferred until all commission
members are present and the group knows one another better.
Carried Unanimously
MEETING OF COMMISSIONERS
Acting Chm. Burbank announced that an informal meeting of the
Commission will be held on Monday, February 19, at his home.
MINUTES
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Davis
RESOLVED, That the Minutes of the December 19, 1978 meeting be
accepted as published.
Carried Unanimously
EXPRESSION OF APPRECIATION
For the record, Alderman Holman and former Chm. Carlson expressed
appreciation to Hilda Hutson, secretary, for her services to the
Commission.
OVERVIEW OF THE COMMISSION'S WORK
Former Chm. Carlson gave an overview of the Commission's activities.
She commented that she believes Mayor Conley would like the
Commission to become more familiar with a wider variety of things
going on in the City and to react to the environmental concerns of
these issues. She feels his new appointments reflect interest in
more coordination between Planning and Development and the Commission.
She said the Commission should take this responsibility very seriously
and try to work with the different departments.
Open Spaces
Mrs. Carlson reported that a rough draft of about 80% of what will
be sent to Albany and to Common Council for approval is completed.
CETA Application
Mrs. Carlson reported that the application for a CETA employee to
work on the Open Space project has been returned to the Planning and
Development Department with a note requesting the exact responsibili-
ties the person would have.
Barbara Davis suggested that a student might continue to work on the
survey. She will talk with Bickley Townsend about a Land Use Planning
project.
Environmental Management Council
The Tompkins County Environmental Management Council and its duties
were discussed.
Resolution
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Stein
RESOLVED, That the Commission recommends appointment of Barbara Davis
as the representative of the Environmental Commission to the Environ-
mental Management Council.
Carried Unanimously
The Commission designated Katie Stein to serve as observer at the
Council when Barbara Davis cannot be present.
-2- February 1, 1979
Industrial Expansion
Mrs. Carlson reported on her correspondence with Mayor Smidt, Village
of Lansing, on industrial expansion, and his willingness to look at
any efforts of the City and Village together. Lansing's areas rezoned
for light industry will require special permit. Mrs. Carlson feels,
in view of the Cherry Street development and of keeping as much
development as possible in the downtown area, a joint planning venture
to look at Cherry Street, Lansing area and perhaps other areas on a
regional basis could be recommended to Planning and Development.
SEQR
Comm. Hoard presented the Department of Environmental Conservation's
final regulations of 11/1/78 which include check lists to determine
the level of assessment necessary. She said that revision of the
city ordinance would be very desirable. She has recommended to the
Building Department that they use the new assessment forms. She said
that the City should do at least a draft environmental impact statement
on Cherry Street. In the process of doing that they will have to con-
sider regional needs and that might be the time to say that Lansing
had offered to be involved.
Comm. Burbank suggested a SEQR workshop at the March meeting of the
Commission, with invitation extended to a representative of Planning
and Development.
Noise Ordinance
Mrs. Carlson reported that the Noise Ordinance is still in the hands
of the Charter and Ordinance Committee. Mention was made of a young
man appearing at the December meeting who called attention to motor-
cycle noise, especially of unmuffled motorcycles.
Energy Conservation
Comm. Hoard reported a new State Energy Conservation Code came into
effect the first of the year. The regulations will require new city
standards.
Nuclear Waste
Mrs. Carlson reminded the Commission that Neil Orloff has offered to
have a group of law students work on a specific project.
Comm. Hoard suggested investigation of prohibitions on transport of
hazardous substances on city roadways.
Other sugjects
Comm. Burbank suggested investigation of city -wide ordinance prohibi-
ting smoking in public facilities except in designated smoking areas.
An alternative to alternate side parking and how other municipalities
handle street cleaning, the impact on movement of vehicles, etc.
were also suggested as possible projects.
Parking
The discussed the permit parking districts and business
districts parking. Concern was expressed that need for additional
parking be documented before being provided.
MEETING TIME
By Comm. Davis: Seconded by Comm. Stein
RESOLVED, That the third Monday of each month is designated as the
regular meeting date of the Commission.
Carried Unanimously
NEW BUSINESS:
Demolition - 315 N. Tioga Street
By Comm. Davis: Seconded by Comm. Stein
RESOLVED, That the Environmental Commission calls to the attention of
the Planning and Development Board and the Board of Zoning Appeals that
the demolition of the structure at 315 North Tioga Street proposed by
the S & M Corporation is a "Type I Action" under the City of Ithaca
Environmental Quality Review Ordinance Section 36.4(c)(1)(m) and
-3- February 1, 1979
therefore, pursuant to Section 36.5 of that ordinance, the completion
of an Environmental Assessment Form and formal determination of
significant effect are required before final action by the City can
be taken.
Carried Unanimously
ADJOURNMENT
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 9;45 p.m..
William Burbank
Acting Chairman
Environmental Commission
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Regular M�:!`ating 7:30 P.M. March 19, 1979
PRESENT: Burbank, Arnold, Davis, Stein, Hoard, Fuller
ALSO PRESENT: Council Liaison Holman, Andrew Yale (Ecology Action), Glen
Withiam (WTKO)
MEETING TIME: Comm. Hoard volunteered to inform the Journal about the change
in the regular meeting time: from the third Tuesday to the third Monday of
each month.
REORGANIZATION:
Selection of Chairman and Vice Chairman
By Comm. Arnold: Seconded by Comm. Fuller
RESOLVED, That the slate of Will Burbank as chairman and Deborah Hoard as Vice -
chairman be approved by the Commission.
Carried Unanimously
Comm. Davis informed the Commission that she has been appointed to the City
Planning and Development Board and will be unable to serve as the Environmental
Commission representative to the Environmental Management Council. There were
no other volunteers for that job, so Comm. Stein will continue as alternate
representative to the Environmental Management Council until someone else is
willing to be representative.
There was general agreement that the Commission increase the number of voting
members of the Commission from six to nine as provided for in the State law. It
was pointed out that to increase the size of the Commission the local ordinance
would have to be amended. Comm. Burbank will see that all members get a copy
of the ordinance for their review to see if other changes are desirable. The
amendment of the ordinance will be discussed at the next meeting.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
By Comm. Fuller: Seconded by Comm. Hoard
RESOLVED, That the minutes of the last regular meeting, February 1, 1979, be
approved as published.
Carried Unanimously
STUDENT HELP:
Comm. Davis reported that there is a possibility of getting Cornell students,
either work /study or for credit, to assist the Commission this summer or fall.
She has talked to Bickley Townsend and Neil Orloff at Cornell, who are willing
to send students to assist the Commission. Alderman Holman suggested using such
student aid to complete an Open Spaces Inventory and a Natural Resources Inventory.
There was general agreement that this would be a project for a student to work
on, especially since the Planning and Development Department has also expressed
an interest in such an Inventory. Comm. Davis will investigate the means of
getting a student and possible joint funding with the Planning and Development
Department.
BIKEWAYS:
Alderman Holman reported that she is very hopeful that bikeway signs will be up
this summer.
ROUTE 96:
Comm. Burbank presented the background on the Rt. 96 project and the January 29,
1979 State consultant's feasibility study on six design alternatives. Andrew Yale,
of Ecology Action, also gave his views of the project and the study. The last
Commission position on Rt. 96 was taken at its July 1978 meeting, and requested
full consideration of low- impact alternatives before the consideration of a
4 -lane elevated expressway designs. There was extensive discussion of the need
for some improvement of the Octopus intersection, the history of the Rt. 96 project,
the shortcomings of the recent State feasibility report, alternatives to,
dependence on, the private auto, and various types of public transportation possible
(or not possible) in an area like Ithaca where people are spread out over large
areas outside the city area.
-2- March 19, 1979
RPCnI iiti nn
By Comm. Arnold: Seconded by Comm. Hoard
WHEREAS, the Smith & Maxson Study completely fails to consider the effect that
rising gas prices and reduced fuel availability will have on traffic growth
projections; and
WHEREAS, all of the design alternatives found acceptable by the Smith & Maxson
study would involve the construction of four -lane expressways, and four out of
five designs found acceptable involve an elevated expressway through the west
end of the City of Ithaca; and
WHEREAS, the city's environment and neighborhoods will bear the brunt of the
serious adverse effects of a four -lane expressway such as the destruction or
devaluation of homes and businesses, loss of economic development to areas outside
the city, and increased air pollution, noise pollution and water runoff problems;
and
WHEREAS, the Smith & Maxson Study finds the design alternative called the
Comprehensive Low - Impact Plan, unacceptable in meeting the design objectives
of existing Route 96 improvement proposal;
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, That the City Environmental Commission advises the
Mayor and the Common Council to redefine the scope and objectives of the Route 96
improvement project to meet local transportation needs, considering among other
things the need to
(1) modify the Octopus intersection,
(2) improve the safety of Cliff Street,
(3) improve service and use of public transportation, and
(4) develop transportation alternatives that are environmentally sound
and that conserve scarce energy resources, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That alternate sources for funding for all or some of the
components of a low- impact design alternative should be explored immediately; and
in conclusion
BE IT RESOLVED, That the City Environmental Commission advises the Mayor and Common
Council to reject the overall conclusions of the Smith & Maxson Study.
Carried
Ayes (4) - Burbank, Davis, Hoard, Arnold
Opposed (1) - Fuller
Abstained (1) - Stein
Comm. Burbank will present this position to the Common Council. It was requested
that a copy of the resolution be sent to members of the Council.
ZONING REVISION:
Alderman Holman reported on a proposed zoning ordinance revision to eliminate on-
site parking requirements and reduce other parking requirements in certain parts
of downtown and Collegetown business zones. Also proposed is a new Design Review
Board to review proposals for development in the new business zones. There was
discussion of the rationale behind the proposed zoning revision and the concern
expressed by Fall Creek residents about the impact of relaxed business parking
requirements on adjacent residential areas.
RPCnititinn
By Comm. Hoard; Seconded by- Comm. Davis
RESOLVED, That the Environmental Commission requests an opportunity to review the
Determination of Environmental Significance which the Common Council has directed
the Planning and Development Department to prepare regarding the proposed revision
of business parking zoning requirements.
Carried Unanimously
It was requested that this resolution be sent to the Common Council and Director
of Planning and Development Van Cort.
M
-3- March 19, 1979
SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT:
Alderman Holman reported that the City of Ithaca sewage treatment plant has been
inspected by the Department of Environmental Conservation and found to be in
violation of several DEC regulations. DEC has issued an order that all problems
be taken care of by March 31.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN:
Alderman Holman reported that a draft plan for Ithaca's economic development has
been completed in preparation for application for federal funds to carry out the
plan from the Economic Development Administration. Of particular interest to the
Commission is the proposal that the present Southwest Park area be swapped for the
flood plain area contiguous to the proposed Town of Ithaca Park, then allowing
use of the former Southwest Park area for construction of a new Ithaca Gun factory.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 10:45 p.m.
William Burbank
Chairman
Environmental Commission
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMFINTAL COMMISSION
Special Meeting 1 :00 P.M. April 6, 1979
PRESENT: Arnold, Burbank, Davis, Hoard
ABSENT: Fuller, Stein
OTHERS
,PRESENT: Council Liaison - Holman
Coilncilman - ::ichols
Planning & Development staff:
Jonathan '•`.ei gs
Rosalind Williams
Kathy Evans
Amy South
Members of the Press
Chairman Burbank called a Special meeting of the Environmental Commission to order
at 3:15 p.m. Purpose of the meeting was to provide a recommendation to the Council
on the environmental assessment prepared for the proposed B -1 and B -2 Zoning Code
revisions.
On motion of Hoard and Arnold, the Commission requested preparation of an environ-
mental assessment for only those portions of the B -1 and B -2 zones being considered
for designation as B -lb and B -2b zones, the assessment to be available for
consideration at the Coirmission's April 16 meeting. Carried Unanimously
The meeting followed a work session in which full discussion was held on the
environmental assessment of the impact of the proposed zoning revisions on the
entire B -1 and B -2 zones. Jon Meigs was present to explain the assessment.
There was consensus that a positive finding of environmental impact would be in
order if the assessment is on the entire B -1 and B -2 zones. Commission members
indicated the finding might be different if based on an assessment prepared for
only those areas to be rezoned. There was agreement that issuing a finding based
on only a part of the assessment would continue to fragment the SEQR process.
Three points were of concern to Commission members:
1. Any rezoning sho;_ld be considered along with the proposed expansion of the
historic district.
2. Improvement of public transportation is more desirable than increased public
parking (i.e. another parking garage) to alleviate potential impacts on
available parking.
3. Continuing the four -story maximum is preferable to an increase to six because
four stories are more in keeping with existing uses in those areas and with
adjacent residential areas.
These concerns will '.;e for',arded to the Charter and Ordinance Cor,mittee of the
Co?;;aon Council.
Meeting adjourned at 3:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
William Burbank
Chairman
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M. May 21, 1979
PRESENT: Arnold, Burbank, Davis, Fuller, Hoard, Stein
OTHERS
PRESENT: Council Liaison - Holman
WHCU Representative - Paul Harvey
WVBR Representative - Laurie Freeman
Planning Staff - Mick Bottge, Jeanne Fadula
Chairman Burbank called the meeting to order at 7:40 P.M.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Munici ate— Material Recovery Workshop
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Davis
RESOLVED, That Commissioners Holman and Arnold be funded for
attendance at the Municipal Material Recovery Workshop to be con-
ducted in Syracuse on June 14, 1979.
Carried Unanimously
SAMBO'S
CC airman Burbank presented a draft resolution regarding the Commission's
stand concerning the term "Sambo ". The question of setting precedent
which could lead to consideration of all social and economic questions
was raised. Discussion on the question of the Commission urging the
Sambo's Corporation to use an alternative name in their new Ithaca
branch resulted in the Environmental Commission deciding not to take
a position.
OIL SPILL- CASCADILLA CREEK
The Commission iscussed t e recent spill of about 100 gallons of oil
by Cornell University into Cascadilla Creek. The county environmental
engineer in the Health Department believes the spill may not be
significant because polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are already
present in the lake.
Comm. Arnold suggested the City should ask for a report on the Depart-
ment of Environmental Conservation's investigation, and raised the
question of violation of any ordinances which may apply.
The suggestion was made that the Commission could send a statement
to Cornell University pointing out that the City's Environmental Com-
mission ought to be informed when matters of this nature happen, along
with the State, and suggesting procedures that ought to be followed.
It was felt that the Commission should be in touch with the Water and
Sewer Division on procedures when similar situations arise.
SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT
C airman Burbank reported that a memo of March 5, 1979 to the City,
in regard to the annual inspection of the sewage treatment plant,
pointed out several deficiencies which had been found and which were
to be corrected by March 30. Alderman Holman did not have a report
concerning what action had been taken to correct the deficiencies;
it was agreed that the matter should be pursued in meeting with the
Water and Sewer Division on the Cornell discharge.
COMMITTEE REORGANIZATION
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Arnold
RESOLVED, That the Commission recommend to the Charter and Ordinance
Committee of Council that the ordinance be amended to expand the
Commission to 18 members: 9 ex officio members as outlined by the
ordinance, and 9 voting members; and to amend the language in the
ordinance, which Commissioners Davis and Holman will look at.
Carried Unanimously
-2- May 21, 1979
There was discussion concerning the Commission becoming) city
department; also the need for rules of procedure.
AUGUST MEETING
Due to vacations, and the problem
that no meeting will be scheduled
of getting a quorum, it was agreed
for the month of August.
NATURAL RESOURCES INVENTORY
Comm. Hoard reported that Susan Greenberg, Cornell Resource Economics
student, is willing to work part time during the summer on the Natural
Resources Inventory for the sum of $325; and that Jeanne Fadula, CETA
employee in Planning and Development, will also work on the project
under the supervision of Comm. Hoard, Commission member. The project
will include 1) the index of natural resources, and 2) an inventory
of sensitive areas, based on natural environment.
Resolution
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Davis
RESOLVED, That the Environmental Commission requests the Planning and
Development Board to allocate $325 to employ a part -time consultant
to work on the Natural Resources Inventory.
Carried Unanimously
NOISE ORDINANCE
Chairman Burbank reported that the motorcycle noise issue had been
raised at previous meetings of the Commission, but remains unresolved.
The Charter and Ordinance Committee has a heavy workload and has not
yet considered the question.
SOLID WASTE
Comm. Arnold reported that the Multi- county Solid Waste Recovery
Plant proposal is due to be released about the lst of July. The plant,
which will require a draft environmental impact statement, will be
located near the Cornell Heating Plant. Commissioners Hoard and
Arnold will be working on the project Comm. Hoard on noise impact
and Comm. Arnold on urban environment impact. The City Planning
Department will assist in preparation of the report.
CHERRY ST. DEIS
Mick Bottge reported that the comments of citizens at the May 8, 1979
public hearing, items brought up at the Environmental Commission meeting
and comments which may be received will be incorporated as the final
EIS is prepared. The project consists of two phases: Phase I, pre-
paration of site including infrastructure; and Phase II, development
of individual sites by developers.
Questions of air and water effluents have been raised. Comm. Hoard
asked if standards will be set for building development within the
park. Mr. Bottge said that signs, landscaping and facade will be
regulated for future DEIS. Comm. Hoard commented that the Unavoid-
able Adverse Impacts Section has been omitted. She also commented
that a Summary would be useful.
Chm. Burbank expressed concern that DEIS does not deal with specific
firms. Mr. Bottge said the City could impose certain requirements
and may ask questions of specific companies. Comm. Hoard asked that
EIS include performance standards and suggested matter which could
be included. Comm. Arnold suggested a section be included on miti-
gating factors.
Chm. Burbank asked about protective measures in the event of flooding,
especially if toxic materials are stored, or are on premise.
Mr. Bottge commented on specifics of the review process - May 24,
1979 is the final date to comment on the Draft Environmental Impact
Study; after which there will be a 10 -day comment period on the
Final Environmental Impact Study.
Resolution
By Comm. Davis: Seconded by
RESOLVED, the Environmental
the Cherry Street Industrial
Chm. Burbank to the Director
-3-
May 21, 1979
Comm. Arnold
:,ommission's comments and concerns on
Park be transmitted by letter from
of Planning and Development, as follows:
Carried Unanimously
"H. Matthys Van Cort, Director
Planning and Development
Dear Mr. Van Cort:
I am writing in response to your request for comments on the Draft
Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) on the proposed Cherry Street
Industrial Park. The Environmental Commission has reviewed the DEIS
and, at its meeting of May 21, unanimously requested that the
following comments be forwarded to you for your assistance in pre-
paring a complete Final EIS.
First, the Commission would like to compliment your department on
the completion of a very good DEIS. The statement obviously represents
a great deal of work and presents the material in a clear fashion.
The Commission has previously given approval of the concept of a pro-
ject such as the Cherry Street park. A good quality Final EIS will
facilitate the evaluation and implementation of the project and will
also help demonstrate the value of a complete EIS process.
The Environmental Commission believes that the Final EIS should outline
the expectations of the City in regard to three things:
1) the type of industries expected to locate in the park;
2) the mechanism for the administration of the park and the
leasing arrangements expected to be established between the industrial
developers and the City- -for example whether leases will be between
the City and the developers individually or as a group, and whether
the park will be administered by an existing City department or a
special industrial park board; and
3) the desirability of performance standards for the industries
in the park in regard to air, water and noise emissions, traffic
generation, visual impact, use and storage of hazardous or toxic
materials and provisions for safe containment of hazardous or toxic
materials in the event of flooding in the area.
The inclusion of as detailed as possible a description of such
expectations, without pinning the City down, would help to provide a
mechanism for the requirement of further environmental studies if an
industry quite different from those expected would propose to locate
in the park.
Finally, the DEIS should have contained a brief summary and a section
on the unavoidable adverse impacts, as provided in the State and local
EIS guidelines. These sections should be added to the Final EIS.
Thank you very much for this opportunity to comment on this DEIS. If
the Commission can be of any further assistance in the completion of
the EIS process on this project, please contact me.
Very truly yours,
William Burbank
Chairman"
-4- May 21, 1979
Inasmuch as the 10 -day comment period on the Final EIS will occur
between meetings of the Environmental Commission, it was agreed
that the commissioners may comment on an individual basis. The
Commission will be convened to consider the EIS only if the
Commission members see the need.
ADJOURNMENT
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 9:45 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
William Burbank
Chairman
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M.
PRESENT: Arnold, Burbank, Hoard
ABSENT: Davis, Fuller, Stein
OTHERS
PRESENT: Council Liaison - Holman
Jeanne Fadula
Susan Greenberg
June 18, 1979
A quorum was not present; however, an informal discussion was
held by those present.
MINUTES OF MAY 21, 1979 MEETING:
Comm. Hoard called attention to the item - Cherry Street DEIS -
page 2, paragraph 2, line 4: the sentence should end after the word
"regulated ". "For future DEIS" should be deleted.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA:
Chm. Burbank requested the addition of "DEC funding" to the agenda.
Mrs. Holman requested the addition of "Historic Signs" to the agenda.
No member objected.
TRANSPORT OF NUCLEAR MATERIALS:
Chm. Burbank called attention to the Town of Jerusalem which, accord-
ing to a newspaper article, passed an ordinance banning the transport
of nuclear materials, and commented that he plans to investigate
same.
SEQR:
Comm. Hoard reported that changes have been made in the state law
since the passage of the city ordinance more than a year and a half
ago, and commented that the city ordinance should be reconciled with
the state revisions which are clearer and better organized than
previously. The city uses the state assessment forms. Comm. Hoard
suggested that the commission should be involved, that perhaps they
could volunteer to review the proposed changes. Comm. Holman said
that the commission should take the lead in suggesting the proposed
changes.
Comm. Hoard reported that the revised DEC guidelines now deal with
unlisted actions. Now, findings must be provided, and the basis
spelled out on which decisions to approve a project were made.
Comm. Hoard said it is important for the commission to be very much
involved in the DEIS, but it is not a substitute for a good master
plan or good land -use planning.
Comm. Hoard pointed out that in updating the city ordinance it needs
to be consistent with DEC; procedures must be clear on various kinds
of actions; there should be clarification as to who is in charge
and integrate administrative decisions into the procedure.
Comm. Hoard agreed that she will outline suggestions of changes that
need to be made to be forwarded to the Planning Department on behalf
of the Environmental Commission.
Discussion: There should be requirement of findings by all agencies
approving projects that come under SEQR. Also, it would be useful to
have a formal procedure in which the agencies making administrative
decisions were to notify other departments within the city and the
commission, through its chairman, that the administrative decision
had been made, and asking for comments.
-2- June 18, 1979
DEC FUNDING:
CChm. Burbank reported that the deadline for proposals to be sub-
mitted for funding is August 1, 1979. A Work Plan will need to be
developed.
Comm. Hoard reported on county procedures for funding.
CHERRY STREET:
Comm. Ho man reported that she had not seen the final EIS, but took
everybody's word that the commission's suggestions had been incor-
porated. Her most recent information, dated June 6, read as follows:
"The environmental review of the project has been completed. A draft
of environmental impact statement and final EIS have been completed.
A public hearing has been held and public comments received. Most of
the questions raised by Ecology Action, the City Environmental
Commission and the Sierra Club were company- specific in nature.
At this point, the City is unable to respond to these concerns, simply
because we do not know which companies will locate in the industrial
park over the next few years. I have assured all parties that only
"clean" companies will be allowed to construct buildings in the park.
The three organizations that provided formal comment on the DEIS
(none reviewed the FEIS) stated publicly their favorable opinion of
the quality of the EIS. Based upon the environmental review process,
per SEQRA and the local law, I have granted environmental clearance
for the project.
Soil borings have been taken on -site, and analysis thereof is in
process. As stated in the last project update letter to Council
dated May 15th, the site's bearing capacity with respect to extremely
heavy floor loads must be determined. The possibility exists that
companies with extremely heavy floor loads will be excluded from
the project site. However, it should be noted that Wallace and
Triangle Steel Companies are located adjacent to and on soil similar
to the project site. If soil analyses indicate that buildings with
heavy floor loads should be excluded from the site, two alternatives
would be available to the City. The first would exclude a rail
siding from the development plan. A shortcoming of this alternative
would be the exclusion of potential rail user(s) from the Industrial
Park. A positive effect of a "no- rail" alternative would be sub-
stantial cost reductions." (Mrs. Holman said he then goes on to
discuss lease terms, etc. which she would read if they were of
interest to the commission, but there were basically two forms of
management under consideration: one was for the Ithaca Urban Renewal
Agency to handle the project on behalf of the City; the second was
for the Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency to handle it;
or a third alternative, which at least in her hearing was never
seriously discussed, is a new city commission. The City would have
its own development agency. Her last knowledge of the form of
management was that Council would give it over to the Tompkins County
Area Development Corp. to manage on the City's behalf. That decision
has not been formalized.)
Discussion followed.
Chm. Burbank presented the findings required under SEQR, as recorded
by H. M. Van Cort, Director of Planning and Development.
Comm. Hoard commented that it might be more appropriate for the
Common Council to make the findings.
OIL SPILLS:
C m. Bur ank reported on conversation with Mr. Hannan, and that Mr.
Hannan felt there had not been any city ordinance violated directly.
The Board of Public Works is in the process of rewriting its adminis-
trative regulations. Under the present regulations it is illegal
to dump into the sanitary sewer system, but in this case Cornell
-3- June 18, 1979
University had bypassed the sanitary sewers. Had chemicals been
dumped into the sanitary sewer, there were two sections of the
regulations which would have been violated. The City would then have
stepped in. The Department of Environmental Conservation regional
representative has not yet reported back on the DEC report on the
situation.
SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT:
Comm. Holman reported on the annual inspection preliminary to the
state portion of the funding of the sewage treatment plant, and that
it is a formality. It was Mr. Hannan's view that this involves a
plant built 20 or so years ago. All the fittings are no longer
available; therefore, there is a time lag involved in making repairs.
The report which the commission had was fairly routine. The reason
the plant was down at the time of inspection was because the inspec-
tion followed very closely upon a storm.
The commission discussed making arrangements to tour the sewage
treatment facility.
SOLID WASTE:
C m, Arnold reported that the Municipal Materials Recovery Workshop
had been held in Syracuse on June 14, 1979. Among those attending
from Ithaca were Elva Holman, Dan Hoffman, Mick Bottge, Nancy Meyer
and a representative of Challenge Industries. He reviewed briefly
the program covered at the workshop.
NATURAL RESOURCES INVENTORY:
Comm.. Hoard defined the resource inventory as something of value
to humans at a time._ There may be several maps, with a list of
areas and description,
Jeanne Fadula reported that Stuart Stein's class has a project in
which it has identified open spaces in most of the City, except
the west end. It is basically a neighborhood survey. She said she
and Susan Greenberg plan to make an appointment to see the report.
NEW BUSINESS:
Historic Si ns
Comm. Holman reported that a public hearing will be held on July
11, 1979, at 7:30 P.M., at the Regular Meeting of the Common Council,
to consider proposed amendments to the Sign Ordinance, making pro-
visions for providing exemptions to a certain limited number of
signs which are deemed to have historic value.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 10:00 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
William Burbank
Chairman
� •I� f1�Cq , ,
CITY OF ITHACIA
109 EAST GREEN STREET
ITHACA, NEW YORK 1 13850
CITY PLANNING b DEVELOPMENT BOARD
June 6, 1979
TELEPHONE 272 -1713
CODE 6D7
This letter is an update on the status of the proposed Cherry Street Industrial
Park.
Environmental review of the project has been completed. A Draft Environmental
Impact Statement (DEIS) and Final EIS have been completed, a public hearing
has been held, and public comment received. Most of the questions raised
by Ecology Action, the City Environmental Commission, and the Sierra Club
were company- specific in nature. At this point, the City is unable to respond
to these concerns, simply because we do not know which companies ;,ill locate
in the industrial part, over the next few years. I have assured all parties
that only "clean" companies will be allowed to construct buildings in the
park. The three organizations that provided formal comment on the DEIS (none
reviewed the FEIS) stated publicly their favorable opinion of the quality of
the EIS. Based upon the environmental review process, per SEQRA and the local
law, I have granted environmental clearance for the project.
Soil borings have been taken on -site, and analysis thereof is in progress.
As stated in the last project update letter to Council dated May 15th, the
site's bearing capacity with respect to extremely heavy floor loads must be
determined. The possibility exists that companies with extremely heavy floor
loads will be excluded from the project site. However, it should be noted
that !dallace and Triangle Steel Companies are located adjacent to and on soil
similar to the project site. If soil analyses indicate that buildings with
heavy floor loads should be excluded from the site, two alternatives would be
available to the City. The first would exclude a rail siding from the
development plan. A shortcoming of this alternative would be- the exclusion
of potential rail user(s) from the Industrial Park. A positive effect of a
"no- rail" alternative would be substantial cost reductions. Total project
cost, and the City's share with a rail siding, are 5615,000 and 5170,009,
respectively. Total project costs, and the City's share without a rail
a
r '
Common Council Members
Mayor Conley
June 6, 1979
Pa4e 2.
siding, will be approximately $510,000 and $150,000 respectively. It must be
stressed that the City's share will be recouped in lease payments, regardless
of rail service. A second alternative would be to cancel the project.
However, it is my opinion that the lack of rail service would not hinder the
marketability of the project. One effect of a "no rail" alternative would be
immediate; Wilcox Press will not be able to locate in the facility. However,
one large industrial building (i.e. 80,000 SF) on four acresmay be substituted
by several smaller firms on lots of 1.5 -2.5 acres. Again, the results of
detailed soil studies will determine the bearing capacity of the site,
particularly with respect to Wilcox Press. Other economic incentives will
be explored to keep Wilcox Press in the City if the company cannot expand
in the Cherry Street Industrial Park.
City officials have met with representatives of Precision Filters on several
occasions over the last several weeks. Lease terms have been discussed in
detail, and Don Chandler, President of Precision, again has reiterated his
company's plans to construct a new production facility this year, because of
increasing expansion pressures. Aldermen Meyer and Holman visited Precision's
Lincoln Street facility, met with Mr. Chandler, and toured his plant. I believe
they can appreciate the company's need for a new building. Mr. Chandler has
been ready to present a proposed lease agreement to his Board of Directors.
As you may remember, in my last project update letter I discussed at length
the administrative and managerial options available to the City. Briefly,
they are: transfer ownership of the Industrial Park to (1) the Ithaca
Urban Renewal Agency; (2) Tompkins'County Industrial Development Agency /Area
Development Corporation; (3) a New City Commission. I feel the first two
options are the most viable. I have discussed this matter with the IURA,
and Harris Dates of the IDA. Mr. Dates was quite willing to place the IDA
and TCADC in a partnership position with the City in administering the Indus-
trial Park. This issue will have been discussed at length at the June 6th
P &D Committee meeting. I mention it again here with respect to Precision
Filters. The City must be in a position to negotiate a lease agreement with
Precision in the immediate future, if Council should authorize the project
on June 13th. Mr. Chandler is ready to act now, and if a lease agreement
cannot be reached within the near future, Precision will probably leave the
City for the Airport Research Park or Elmira this year. Transfer of the
project to the IURA or IDA /TCADC will enable terms to be agreed upon formally
within a few weeks. I believe the IDA's and TCADC's experiences (i.e. Morse
Chain, Airport Research Park, Rothschild's), and staff (Tom 11ailey) will
form an effective means of soliciting company interest in the facility,
and negotiate lease tE. °ms on a one -to -one basis, rather than through public
bidding. IDA's Industrial Revenue Bonding authority will also place private
financing in the same hands as management. Moreover, Mayor Conley, Ray
Bordoni, and myself are affiliated with TCADC. It is my opinion that by
working with the IDA /TCADC, an important step will be taken by the Council
to ensure cooperative economic development between the City and County.
r
Common Council Members
Mayor Conley
June 6, 1979
Page 3.
It is my opinion that if Common Council does not take action to allow a
negotiated lease agreement to be reached with Precision Filters, Mr. chandler
will have no choice but to withdraw his company's interest in the project.
With respect to the federal government's share of the project cost, I am
enclosing a grant confirmation letter from ARC. I have been informed by
Congressman McHugh and Keith Jennison of FmHA that the award of the Farmers
Home grant will be announced imminently.
The project is slightly behind schedule because of the lack of a 2/3 vote
of full Council in May to authorize bonding. I appreciate all too well the
quick sequence of events and decisions before Council. However, I feel more
strongly than ever that the City must take action to keep the companies we
presently have, as employers and as an important part of our overall tax
base.
I will make every effort to keep Council fully briefed on events that take
place with respect to Cherry Street. Please do not hesitate to contact Mick
Bottge or me if you have any questions about the project as it stands right
n ow .
Sincerely,
H. M. Van Cort
Director
HMVC:jv
encl.
4P
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M. July 16, 1979
PRESENT: Arnold, Burbank, Davis, Hoard
ABSENT: Fuller, Stein
nTNRR
PRESENT: Council Liaison Holman; Susan Greenberg, Jeanne Fadula, Planning Department;
Gordon Behn, Regional Representative Department of Environmental Conservation;
Nancy Schuler
Chairman Burbank called the meeting to order at 7:45 p.m.
Jeanne Fadula distributed copies of the existing Waterways Study.
Chm. Burbank distributed anti -noise buttons from National Information Center for Quiet.
MINUTES OF MAY 21, 1979 MEETING:
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Davis
RESOLVED, That the Minutes of the May 21, 1979 meeting be approved as corrected:
page 2, paragraph 2, line 4: the sentence ends after the word "regulated."
"For future DEIS" is deleted.
Carried Unanimously
CASCADILLA CREEK OIL SPILL:
Department of Environmental Conservation Attorney Finegold has indicated that the
Cornell University oil spill case is
1. approaching litigation,
2. working toward preliminary agreements between Cornell University and DEC
to avoid litigation, including fine, and
3. seeking physical remedies for laboratory facilities and better reporting
measures.
Chm. Burbank reported on conversation with the regional office of DEC re. contamination
of fish: there is no danger in the creek; however, fish in the lake weighing more
than 5 pounds are suspect.
Gordon Behn clarified the method of warning the public about dangers of eating fish
taken from contaminated waters:
1. The Health Department makes finding of degree of contamination.
2. The Department of Environmental Conservation notifies the public.
It was suggested that Gene Dymek at Life Safety, Cornell, be approached to report to
the Environmental Commission on the situation. Comm. Arnold agreed to ask Mr. Dymek
to attend the September meeting to discuss the oil spill in relation to University/
City cooperation.
The suggestion was made that we consider a city ordinance to complement the DEC
ordinance on chemical dumping in storm sewers.
SOLID WASTE:
Preliminary information on multi- county facility has been turned in to the County
Planning Department. A study of source separation can be financed with Council
assistance funds.
The September meeting of the Commission will feature discussion on solid waste, with
the following to be asked to attend:
Representative - Department of Environmental Conservation
Paul Finger - Environmental Management Council
Ida Weber - Ithaca Scrap Processors
Daniel Hoffman - Ecology Action
.-
-2- July 16, 1979
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION FUNDING:
Gordon Behn, regional representative of DEC, advised that the local commission must
develop a work plan and budget. He said reimbursement is available for items such
as planning studies, printing, bringing proposals to the decision - making stage. The
Commission should set its priorities, review for technicalities, and be working
toward defined goals and objectives.
Commissioners reviewed programs of the City of Syracuse, the Town of Manlius, and
the Town of VanBuren Conservation Advisory Councils.
General Revenue Sharing are the only federal or state funds which may be used in
supporting budgets of commissions /councils.
August 1 is the deadline for councils already in the program. A council joining can
apply at any time, even to reimburse a program already in progress. Proposals go to
the regional representatives. Minimum budget request is $1,000.
1980 -81 WORK PT.AN
'1'tie following were suggested for inclusion in the 1980 -81 Work Plan:
1. Solid Waste Source Separation Study
2. Printing and Distribution of Open Spaces and Natural Resources Inventory
3. Comprehensive Salt Study
4. Administrative Assistance, including SEQR where permissable
5. Workshops for community and staff
6. Revision of Bikeway Plans
Commissioners Hoard, Arnold and Burbank will develop a work plan and budget for
submission to the Budget and Administration Committee, Mayor and Regional Office of
the Department of Environmental Conservation.
BIKEWAYS:
By Comm. Arnold: Seconded by Comm. Hoard
RESOLVED, That $3,000 in the 1979 Budget remain encumbered, and that $5,000 be
included in the 1980 Capital Budget for further development of bikeways.
Carried Unanimously
NATURAL RESOURCES INVENTORY:
Susan Greenberg, Jeanne Fadula and Comm. Hoard reported on the progress of the Natural
Resources Inventory.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m.
William Burbank
Chairman
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M. September 7, 1979
PRESENT: Burbank, Fuller, Hoard, Stein
ABSENT: Arnold
OTHERS
PRESENT: Council Liaison Holman, Schuler; Planning Staff, Jeanne Fadula;
Members of the Press
MINUTES OF JULY 16, 1979 MEETING:
By Comm. Hoard: Secon e y Comm. Stein
RESOLVED, the Minutes of July 16, 1979 be approved as corrected:
Page 2, paragraph 3 should read: General Revenue Sharing are
the only federal or state funds coming directly to the general
operating funds of municipalities which may be used in
supporting budgets of commissions /councils.
Carried Unanimously
AGENDA REVIEW:
Alderman Holman reported having materials on the multi- county solid
waste project. Her report was scheduled after Oil Spill on the Agenda.
Chm. Burbank moved Oil Spill to a position following Bikeways on the
Agenda.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
NYS Association for Solid Waste Management
Comm. Hoard announced that the NYS Association for Solid Waste Manage-
ment Conference will be held at Friar Tuck Inn, Catskill on October 29
and 30.
Master Plan for Energy
Jeanne Fadula announced that September 30 is the deadline for comments
on the State Master Plan for Energy. Comments may be submitted to
Sol Schreiber, Hearing Examiner, State Energy Office, 3 Rockefeller
Plaza, Albany, N.Y. 12223. Copies of the draft are available at Self
Reliance Center.
Forums on Nuclear Power
Jeanne Fadula announced several forums on nuclear power:
September 18, 1979 8:00 p.m. Cornell University
September 19, 1979 7:30 p.m. Cornell University,
Anabel Taylor Hall
September 29, 1979 1 to 5 P.M. West Valley (part of
International Day)
10 to 12 Noon Workshops
Transportation of Nuclear Wastes
Jeanne Fadula reported that there is no transportation ban of nuclear
wastes in the city or county, onl'y a waste storage ban... Type I action
under SEQR has little practical impact; a better way to approach the
matter is by ordinance. Chm. Burbank commented that the item would be
placed on the agenda for the October 1979 meeting..
NYS Association of Conservation Commissions Conference (NYSACC)
Chm. Burbank announced that the fall conference of NYSACC will be held
at Grossingers October 19 to October 21. He expressed an interest in
attending.
Resolution
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Arnold
RESOLVED, the Commission authorizes attendance of two Environmental
Conservation Commission members at the fall Conference of NYSACC at
Grossingers,
Carried Unanimously
-2-
September 7, 1979
Solid Waste Panel
Alderman Holman reported on the Draft State of Source Separation,
prepared by Frank Liguori, copies of which were passed around. After
review by the Steering Committee it will be reworked and should be
presented at the next meeting of the Steering Committee. She said they
are seeking approval for the Preliminary Design Phase which will take
8 to 9 months.
Questions which must be resolved before consideratio-a of a multi - county
facility goes much further are: Who owns garbage? and, must the city
guarantee a stated amount of garbage?
Chm. Burbank commented that the anticipated discussion on solid waste
had to be rescheduled for October, with the following persons asked to
attend: a representative of the Department of Environmental Conserva-
tion; Paul Finger of the county Planning Department; Ida Weber of Ithaca
Scrap Processors; and Daniel Hoffman of Ecology Action. Alderman Holman
suggested that a staff member of the Department of Public Works and the
appropriate member of the Board of Public Works be requested to attend
the discussion, in addition to Jack Gilroy, Executive Director of
Challenge Industries.
Sensitive Areas Study
Comm. Hoard reported that she has prepared a preliminary draft of the
study; as the commission reviews the draft they will need to consider
three areas: Location, Ownership, Comments.
Related to the Sensitive Areas Study, Comm. Hoard reported that an
alternate highschool science class (about ten members) expressed interest
in doing a detailed natural resources inventory of the lake shore /inlet
valley area to be integrated into the Sensitive Areas Study.
Resolution
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Fuller
RESOLVED, the Commission endorses the highschool natural resources
inventory.
Carried Unanimously
Bikeways:
Comm. Arnold reported that he had sent a letter to the Budget and
Administration Committee of Council requesting that the $3,000 for
bikeways in the 1979 budget be encumbered if not expended this year,
and that an additional $5,000 be budgeted in 1980 for further develop-
ment of bikeways.
Oil Spill
Comm. Arnold reported that he had set up a tentative meeting with Gene
Dymek of Life Safety at Cornell University, for members to discuss
with him what he knows about oil spills, the oil spill this past spring
particularly, and what the commission needs to know to do their job in
respect to oil spills, what the situation is that the commission might
need to recommend to the Common Council that particular action be taken.
The meeting is tentatively scheduled for September 20, at 3:00 p.m., in
Mr. Dymek's office.
DEC Grant Application
Comm. Hoard reported that she and Comm. Arnold had prepared a rough draft
of an application for state aid, which would be matching funds, for the
Commission. The total budget would be $2,000. All money must be pro-
vided up front by the city, one -half of which would be reimbursed by DEC
upon approval of the work plan and submission of approvals. The proposed
areas by line item are as follows:
Publication of the Inventory of Sensitive Areas $ 400
Source Separation Study 600
Road Salting 500
Bikeways 200
Administrative Costs 300
$2,000
Discussion of the items followed.
-3- September 7, 1979
Resolution
By Comm. Stein: Seconded by Comm. Burbank
RESOLVED, That the Commission approves the proposed work plan for 1980-
81, with a figure of up to $2500, items to be adjusted upon consultation.
Carried Unanimously
New Commission Members:
Chm. Burbank commented on the vacancy created by the resignation of
Comm. Barbara Davis, in addition to the existing vacancies. He asked
the commissioners to channel names of possible appointees to him for
forwarding to the Mayor for consideration. He also reminded them that
a new chairman must be selected.
Resolution
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Fuller
WHEREAS, Barbara Davis served as an effective commissioner on the
Conservation Advisory Council of the City of Ithaca, and
WHEREAS, Barbara provided an important link between the CAC and the
Planning and Development Board, and
WHEREAS, her service was too brief, but her contributions significant;
BE IT RESOLVED, That the CAC and the City of Ithaca commend Barbara Davis
and wish her success in her new endeavors.
Carried Unanimously
Chm. Burbank directed that a copy of the resolution be forwarded to
Barbara Davis.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m.
Will Burbank
Chairman
Conservation Advisory Council
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Special Meeting 7:30 P.M. October 30, 1979
PRESENT: Comms. Arnold, Burbank, Fuller, Hoard, Stein
ALSO PRESENT: Council Liaisons Holman, Schuler; Kimberly Adams,
W.T.K;�O; Paul Fairbanks, graduate student in Ecology
CALL TO ORDER:
C m. Bur an called the meeting to order at 7:45 P.M.
ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES:
By Comm. Stein: Seconded by Comm. Arnold
RESOLVED, the Minutes of the October 15, 1979 meeting be approved
as distributed.
Carried Unanimously
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Comm. Hoare- informed the Commission that there is scheduled'an Energy
Exposition in Albany, at Rockefeller Plaza, on November 16, 17 and
18, 1979.
COMMUNICATIONS:
C m. Burbank reported that he had received a letter back from Bob
Haggerty of the Department of Environmental Conservation enclosing
fact sheets on other communities which have done resource recovery
programs, a booklet published by the EPA, and source separation and
state aid program kit for application for state matching funds for
source separation.
Paul Fairbanks, 711 Mitchell Street, an area adjacent to proposed RDF
site location, addressed the Commission on resource recovery and the
proposed RDF facility. He recommended the following:
1. returnable bottle legislation,
2. organization and enforcement of comprehensive
recycling program,
3. press federal legislators to equalize pricing structure
for shipping of recovered and new materials,
4. purchase by the city of recycled materials.
Mr. Fairbanks said he had read about the Hempstead plant in the New
York Times and cited the following problems with the Hempstead plant:
1. raw odor emitting from storage pits and pungent
chemical odor from stacks,
2. staphylococcus and streptococcus inside the plant
3. electro- static precipators did not work for periods
of up to 72 hours
4. equipment failure
5. disposal of fly ash
6. low temperatures which allowed plastic to escape from
stacks as particulates
7. strikes by workers
Mr. Fairbanks said he sees a choice of two paths to follow: a pre -
ventive low- impact course (resource recovery), or a high impact
course (building of facility). He reviewed the problems that could
arise if the RDF facility is built.
Chm. Burbank reported that he had received pieces of the final version
of preliminary assessment of environmental impact on the RDF from
Paul Finger who asked that the commission attempt to address, on a
broad conceptual level, their feeling toward the proposed solid
waste plan.
Resolution passed by Environmental Commission at a Special Meeting
October 30, 1979, for consideration by the Common Council.
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council and the Environmental
Commission support the general concept of both energy and
material recovery from solid waste; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca will bear the brunt of most potential
adverse environmental impacts of the proposed Multi- county
Resource Recovery Project; and
WHEREAS, significant questions regarding environmental impacts on the
City of'Ithaca remain unanswered;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Common Council and Environmental
Commission recommend that in order for both the county and the
city to decide whether or not to participate in the proposed
Multi - county Resource Recovery Project, that sufficient funds
be allocated by the county to gather additional detailed in-
formation on:
1) the potential impacts of the proposed project on traffic
and air quality in the City of Ithaca, and
2) a net energy balance analysis of the proposed project and
its alternatives;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the proposed project is clearly a Type I
action requiring a DEIS under SEAR and that the DEIS should
be prepared by a consultant other than the consulting engineers
designing the project, and that the NYDEC should be designated
as lead agency;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That if the county decides to allocate funds
for a preliminary engineering design that it also allocate
funds for an in -depth study of resource material recovery
and source separation for Tompkins County and that the City
participate in that study;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the City retains ownership and control of
its own waste stream and that after consAeration of the
additional information gathered will decide whether or not to
participate in the proposed project.
DRAFT
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Special Meeting 7:30 P.M. October 30, 1979
PRESENT: Comms. Arnold, Burbank, Fuller, Hoard, Stein
ALSO PRESENT: Council Liaisons Holman, Schuler; Kimberly Adams, W.T.K.O.;
Paul Fairbanks, graduate student in Ecology
CALL TO ORDER:
Chm. Burbank called the meeting to order at 7:45 p.m.
ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES:
By Comm. Stein: Seconded by Comm. Arnold
RESOLVED, the Minutes of the October 15, 1979 meeting be approved as
reported.
Carried Unanimously
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Comm. Hoard informed the Commission that there is scheduled an Energy
Exposition in Albany, at Rockefeller Plaza, on November 16, 17, and 18,
1979.
COMMUNICATIONS:
Chm. Burbank reported that he had received a letter back from Bob Haggerty
of the Department of Energy Conservation, inclosing fact sheets on other
communities which have done resource recovery programs, a booklet published
by the EPA, and source separation and state aid program kit for application
for state matching funds for source separation.
Paul Fairbanks, 711 Mitchell Street, an area adjacent to proposed RDF site
location, addressed the Commission on resource recovery and the proposed
RDF facility. He recommended the following:
1. returnable bottle legislation,
2. organization and enforcement of comprehensive recycling program,
3. press federal legislators to equalize pricing structure for
shi!pin; of recovered and new materials,
4. purchase by the city of recycled materials.
Mr. Fairbanks said he had read about the Hempstead plant in the New York
Times and cited the following problems with the Hempstead plant:
1. raw odor emitting from storage pits and pungent chemical
odor from stacks,
2. staphylococcus and streptococcus inside the plant
3. electro- static precipators did not work for periods of up to
72 hours
4. equipment failure
S. disposal of fly ash
6. low temperatures which allowed plastic to escape from stacks
as particulates
7. strikes by workers
Mr. Fairbanks said he sees a choice of two Paths to follow: a preventive
low - impact course (resource recovery), or a high- impact course (building
of facility). He reviewed the problems that could arise if the RDF
facility is built.
Chm. Burbanks reported that he had received pieces of the final version
of preliminary assessment of environmental impact from Paul Finger who
asked that the commission attempt to address, on a broad conceptual level,
their feeling toward the proposed solid waste plan.
Chm. Burbanks informed the commission that the county will hold a budget
hearing on November 19, 1979, with action by the county board expected on
November26 or December 3.
The following questions were raised by the commissioners:
Section III. Premises of PEIS
Questioned the need to use terms resource, recovery, materials
covery and energy recovery more precisely,
IW.Z
October 30, 1979
Does 20 years life refer to amortization, operating life, capacity,
changing technology?
What is Cornell's real commitment? Will their consideration of
the impacts affect that commitment?
Comm. Hoard reviewed questions she had raised concerning DEIS:
The Transportation section needs reworking to show what volume
of truck traffic is currently in relation to projections for
RDF facility;
The Commission supports in concept effective resource recovery.
What is the energy balance?
Other items discussed and questioned vere air quality, effect of heavy
metal particulates, truck traffic, and whether the community retains control
of waste stream.
Resolution
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Arnold
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council and the Environmental Commission
support the general concept of both energy and material recovery from
solid waste; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca will bear the brunt of most potential adverse
environmental impacts of the proposed Multi- county Resource Recovery
Project; and
WHEREAS, significant questions regarding environmental impacts on the
City of Ithaca remain unanswered;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Common Council and Environmental
Commission recommend that in order for both the county and the city to
decide whether or not to participate in the proposed Multi- county Resource
Recovery Project, that sufficient funds be allocated by the county to
gather additional detailed information on:
1) the potential impacts of the proposed project on traffic and air
quality in the City of Ithaca, and
2) a net energy balance analysis of the proposed project and its
alternatives;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the proposed project is clearly a Type I
action requiring a DEIS under SEOR and that the DEIS should be prepared
by a consultant other than the consulting engineers designating the
project, and that the NYDEC should be designated as lead agency;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That if the county decides to allocate funds for
a preliminary engineering design that it also allocate funds for an in-
depth study of resource material recovery and source separation for
Tompkins County and that the City participate in that study;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the City retains ownership and control of
its own waste stream and that after consideration of the additional
information gathered will decide whether or not to participate in the
proposed project.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 11 ;00 pm..
Will Burbanks
Chairman
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M. November 19, 1979
PRESENT:
Commissioners - Burbank, Hoard, Arnold, Stein, Schuler
ABSENT:
Commissioners - Fuller, Holman
OTHERS PRESENT: Jeanne Fadula, Members of the Press
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Christmas Party
Chairman Burbank invited everybody to the Christmas Party. Reservations
must be in by November 30th. The cost is $5.00 and there will be a cash
bar.
Resource Recovery Conference
Chairman Burbank announced that a conference would be held on Resource
Recovery on December 14, 1979, in Washington. Comm. Hoard felt that the
Commission could not afford to send someone as the registration fee is
$50.00 and it would cost $100.00 for transportation to get someone there.
She felt that it was possible that someone from the area would be going
and that perhaps the committee could get a report from that person.
Wells College Seminar
Chairman Burbank mentioned that Wells College was offering a four -part
seminar. Some of the subjects mentioned were: energy revisited within
the arts; the biological revolution.
U.S. Department of Labor (HOOKERS)
Chairman Burbank read off several titles of free booklets that were
available from the U.S. Department of Labor. He mentioned that Elva
Holman wondered if members of the Commission would be interested in
sending for certain publications. The members agreed that they should
send for the booklets. Chairman Burbank sent the list around so that
members could look at it and check off the various titles they were
interested in.
Public TV Offerings
Announcement was made of a public TV program on November 24th concerned
with certain fruits. The program looks at the historical evidence in the
chemical links between health hazards and chemicals. This program will be
followed by a program called "Paying the Piper" which will attempt to
discover if Onondaga County is now free of hazardous waste pollution.
Onondaga County apparently has the fifth highest rated chemical waste level
in New York State.
Environmental Assessment Report
Comm. stated that the report of Environmental Assessment on the
Resource Recovery, Energy Recovery Program, is due in a week and a half.
She doubted if it would be out until after the week of Thanksgiving.
The report will include the final preliminary environmental assessment, the
final engineer's report; the engineer has released a draft of their initial
analysis and an economic analysis of the proposed facility. It will be
in three parts and the Environmental Commission should make sure that it
gets one or two copies of the report. Jeanne Fadula mentioned that she
will be privileged to work with this commission for at least another five
months as the CETA program was extended.
MINUTES:
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Stein
RESOLVED, That the Minutes of October 30, 1979 be approved as corrected:
Page 1, under Announcement: Jeanne Fadula (not Comm. Hoard) informed
the Commission that there is scheduled an Energy Exposition in Albany,
at Rockefeller Plaza, on November 16, 17 and 18, 1979.
Carried Unanimously
-2- November 19, 1979
Future Minutes
Chm. Burbank informed the Commission that he had had a conversation with
Mayor Conley about the preparation of Environmental Commission Minutes.
The Mayor did not feel that the city could afford to continue preparing
the minutes from the tapes as has been done in the past. He said the
Commission will no longer get copies of all that happens at the meetings.
They will get copies of any resolutions that are passed. The meetings
will still be taped. Record will be kept of (1) resolutions, (2) business
copies received. 'Agenda and meeting announcements will not be sent (this
is in reference to the October minutes arriving postage due 13�).
Alderman Schuler said she would check into whether this was an economy
measure or that the postage meter didn't register correctly.
Chm. Burbank said that Elva Holman felt that the policy was unclear and
that he would be kept informed on any further developments.
Comm. Hoard felt that if the Commission was not going to have minutes or
get any agenda notices, or anything, that the Commission is not doing
anything worthwhile. If the city does not want to spend 15¢ for a small
board like Environmental Commission, that action is like a slap in the face.
If it turns out that that policy is in effect, the commission should speak
out and ask why they should be there if there is no staff report at all.
To be effective the Commission needs to know what is on the agenda ahead
of time and it needs to know what goes on at the meetings, in writing.
AGENDA REVIEW:
Inventory
Comm. Hoard reported that she had asked Jon Meigs to review the maps
because he found some mistakes and problems with them. It is her under-
standing that because Jeanne and Jon spent time on the matter it would
be desirable to think of the project as something more of a joint project
of the Planning Department and the Environmental Commission. Comm. Hoard
thought that would be a great way of getting a little more done and it
was fine with her. She mentioned that she had talked to Thys Van Cort
about it and he also thinks that the idea was good..
Commissioners' Conference
C�iairmai Burbank reported on the Commissioners' Conference which he
attended about a month ago at Grossinger's. It ti,as attended by 300 -400
people. Technical information workshops were held concerning energy and
related subjects.
Update on Environmental Commission Budget and Finances
Comm. Hoard said she had oun out that the Environmental Commission's
budget would be discussed by the Budget and Administration Committee on
November 20th. She stated that she intended to get the Committee a copy
of the budget; however, she said she could not attend the meeting at
which the budget will be discussed. Recommendations will be made to the
Common Council. Also, it was noted that there can be changes proposed
between now and the time the budget is put in final form.
New Commission Members
Chm. Burbank reported that he had talked to Mayor -elect Bordoni about
the appointment of new members to the Environmental Commission, and he
was receptive to consideration of persons who might be suggested. Chm.
Burbank did not set up a meeting as he wanted to talk to the Commission
first. Comm. Hoard stated that there had been some discussion at an EMC
meeting about the composition of the commission. She suggested that names
should be obtained from the Chamber of Commerce, Cooperative Extension,
Downtown Businessmen's Assoc., etc. in order to achieve a broad -based
commission. She also suggested that persons whose names are placed on
the list should be contacted to determine whether they are interested
in serving on the Commission before being appointed. She outlined the
process by which names are selected and given to the Mayor for appointment.
Planning Lobby and Subscription to Environmental Action
Chm. Burbank reported that Elva Holman had suggested ways that the balance
in the Publications Budget might be used. She suggested allocating $25.00
for subscription to Environmental Action, and $50.00 for membership in the
r
-3-
Environmental Planning Lobby. This
certain privileges. Jeanne Fadula
Action is already being received by
if so perhaps it could be routed to
November 19, 1979
would entitle the commission to
will check to see if the Environmental
the Planning & Development Department;
the Environmental Commission.
Resolution
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Arnold
RESOLVED, That if it becomes apparent that the Environmental Commission
needs to subscribe to the publication put out by the Environmental Planning
Lobby, that the sum of $50.00 be sent to such Lobby to cover the cost of
the publication and also so that the Environmental Commission can become
$50.00 organizational members in the Environmental Planning Lobby, and
that the Commission allocate the money to do so.
Carried Unanimously
Solid Waste Resolution
Chm. Burbank announced that there was to be a public hearing on the Solid
Waste resolution that was introduced at a prior meeting. There was
discussion on who would attend the hearing. The resolution, as amended,
would be acted upon at that time. Comm. Hoard commented that since the
change was not a part of the major point that the commission was trying
to get across, the Resolution, as amended, would be satisfactory.
Bikeways
Chm. Burbank reported that inquiries had been made to Elva Holman
concerning the recent signage of bikeways at the Cascadilla Street and
Farm Street intersections. The person inquiring wondered if the signs
follow the bikeway route straight out. Jeanne Fadula will research the
question.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion, the meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
Will Burbank
Chairman
Following the regular meeting, the commission moved into a working session
on Resource Recovery and Promotion of Source Separation.
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Regular Meting 7:30 P.M. March 19, 1979
PRESENT: Burbank, Arnold, Davis, Stein, Hoard, Fuller
ALSO PRESENT: Council Liaison Holman, Andrew Yale (Ecology Action), Glen
Withiam (WTKO)
MEETING TIME: Comm. Hoard volunteered to inform the Journal about the change
in the regular meeting time: from the third Tuesday to the third Monday of
each month.
REORGANIZATION:
Selection of Chairman and Vice Chairman
By Comm. Arnold: Seconded by Comm. Fuller
RESOLVED, That the slate of Will Burbank as chairman and Deborah Hoard as Vice -
chairman be approved by the Commission.
Carried Unanimously
Comm. Davis informed the Commission that she has been appointed to the City
Planning and Development Board and will be unable to serve as the Environmental
Commission representative to the Environmental Management Council. There were
no other volunteers for that job, so Comm. Stein will continue as alternate
representative to the Environmental Management Council until someone else is
willing to be representative.
There was general agreement that the Commission increase the number of voting
members of the Commission from six to nine as provided for in the State law. It
was pointed out that to increase the size of the Commission the local ordinance
would have to be amended. Comm. Burbank will see that all members get a copy
of the ordinance for their review to see if other changes are desirable. The
amendment of the ordinance will be discussed at the next meeting.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
By Comm. Fuller: Seconded by Comm. Hoard
RESOLVED, That the minutes of the last regular meeting, February 1, 1979, be
approved as published.
Carried Unanimously
STUDENT HELP:
Comm. Davis reported that there is a possibility of getting Cornell students,
either work /study or for credit, to assist the Commission this summer or fall.
She has talked to Bickley Townsend and Neil Orloff at Cornell, who are willing
to send students to assist the Commission. Alderman Holman suggested using such
student aid to complete an Open Spaces Inventory and a Natural Resources Inventory.
There was general agreement that this would be a project for a student to work
on, especially since the Planning and Development Department has also expressed
an interest in such an Inventory. Comm. Davis will investigate the means of
getting a student and possible joint funding with the Planning and Development
Department.
BIKEWAYS:
Alderman Holman reported that she is very hopeful that bikeway signs will be up
this summer.
ROUTE 96:
Comm. Burbank presented the background on the Rt. 96 project and the January 29,
1979 State consultant's feasibility study on six design alternatives. Andrew Yale,
of Ecology Action, also gave his views of the project and the study. The last
Commission position on Rt. 96 was taken at its July 1978 meeting, and requested
full consideration of low- impact alternatives before the consideration of a
4 -lane elevated expressway designs. There was extensive discussion of the need
for some improvement of the Octopus intersection, the history of the Rt. 96 project,
the shortcomings of the recent State feasibility report, alternatives to,
dependence on, the private auto, and various types of public transportation possible
(or not possible) in an area like Ithaca where people are spread out over large
areas outside the city area.
-3- March 19, 1979
SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT:
Alderman Holman reported that the City of Ithaca sewage treatment plant has been
inspected by the Department of Environmental Conservation and found to be in
violation of several DEC regulations. DEC has issued an order that all problems
be taken care of by March 31.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN:
Alderman Holman reported that a draft plan for Ithaca's economic development has
been completed in preparation for application for federal funds to carry out the
plan from the Economic Development Administration. Of particular interest to the
Commission is the proposal that the present Southwest Park area be swapped for the
flood plain area contiguous to the proposed Town of Ithaca Park, then allowing
use of the former Southwest Park area for construction of a new Ithaca Gun factory.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 10:45 p.m.
William Burbank
Chairman
Environmental Commission
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Special Meeting 1 :00 P.M. April 6, 1979
PRESENT: Arnold, Burbank, Davis, Hoard
ABSENT: Fuller, Stein
OTHERS
'PRESENT: Council Liaison - Holman
Councilman - Nichols
Planning & Development staff:
Jonathan Meigs
Rosalind Williams
Kathy Evans
Amy South
Members of the Press
Chairman Burbank called a Special meeting of the Environmental Commission to order
at 3:15 p.m. Purpose of the meeting was to provide a recommendation to the Council
on the environmental assessment prepared for the proposed B -1 and B -2 Zoning Code
revisions.
On motion of Hoard and Arnold, the Commission requested preparation of an environ-
mental assessment for only those portions of the B -1 and B -2 zones being considered
for designation as B -lb and B -2b zones, the assessment to be available for
consideration at the Commission's April 16 meeting. Carried Unanimously
The meeting followed a work session in which full discussion was held on the
environmental assessment of the impact of the proposed zoning revisions on the
entire B -1 and B -2 zones. Jon Meigs was present to explain the assessment.
There was consensus that a positive finding of environmental impact would be in
order if the assessment is on the entire B -1 and B -2 zones. Commission members
indicated the finding might be different if based on an assessment prepared for
only those areas to be rezoned. There was agreement that issuing a finding based
on only a part of the assessment would continue to fragment the SEQR process.
Three points were of concern to Commission members:
1. Any rezoning should be considered along with the proposed expansion of the
historic district.
2. Improvement of public transportation is more desirable than increased public
parking (i.e. another parking garage) to alleviate potential impacts on
available parking.
3. Continuing the four -story maximum is preferable to an increase to six because
four stories are more in keeping with existing uses in those areas and with
adjacent residential areas.
These concerns will be forwarded to the Charter and Ordinance Committee of the
Common Council.
Meeting adjourned at 3:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
William Burbank
Chairman
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M.
PRESENT: Arnold, Burbank, Davis, Fuller, Hoard, Stein
OTHERS
PRESENT: Council Liaison - Holman
WHCU Representative - Pal_�L Harvey
GIVBR Representative - Laurie Freeman
Planning Staff - Mick Bott:ge, Jeanne Fadula
May 21, 1979
Chairman Burbank called the meeting to order at 7:40 P.M.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Municipal Material Recovery Workshop
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Davis
RESOLVED, That Commissioners Holman and Arnold be funded for
attendance at the Municipal Material Recovery Workshop to be con-
ducted in Syracuse on June 14, 1979.
Carried Unanimously
SAMBO'S
Chairman Burbank presented a draft resolution regarding the Commission's
stand concerning the term "Sambo ". The question of setting precedent
which could lead to consideration of all social and economic questions
was raised. Discussion on the question of the Commission urging the
Sambo's Corporation to use an alternative name in their new Ithaca
branch resulted in the Environmental Commission deciding not to take
a position.
OIL SPILL-- CASCADILLA CREEK
The Commission iscussed t e recent spill of about 100 gallons of oil
by Cornell University into Cascadilla Creek. The county environmental
engineer in the Health Department believes the spill may not be
significant because polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are already
present in the lake.
Comm. Arnold suggested the City should ask for a report on the Depart-
ment of Environmental Conservation's investigation, and raised the
question of violation of any ordinances which may apply.
The suggestion was made that the Commission could send a statement
to Cornell University pointing out that the City's Environmental Com-
mission ought to be informed when matters of this nature happen, along
with the State, and suggesting procedures that ought to be followed.
It was felt that the Commission should be in touch with the Water and
Sewer Division on procedures when similar situations arise.
SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT
C airman Burbank reported that a memo of March 5, 1979 to the City,
in regard to the annual inspection of the sewage treatment plant,
pointed out several deficiencies which had been found and which wire
to be corrected by March 30. Alderman Holman did not have a report
concerning what action had been taken to correct the deficiencies;
it was agreed that the matter should be pursued in meeting with the
Water and Sewer Division on the Cornell discharge.
COMMITTEE REORGANIZATION
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Arnold
RESOLVED, That the Commission recommend to the Charter and Ordinance
Committee of Council that the ordinance be amended to expand the
Commission to 18 members: 9 ex officio members as outlined by the
ordinance, and 9 voting members; and to amend the language in the
ordinance, which Commissioners Davis and Holman will look at.
Carried Unanimously
-2- May 21,. 1979
VW, I
There was discussion concerning the Commission becoming,'a� city
department; also the need for rules of procedure.
AUGUST MEETING
ue to vacations, and the problem
that no meeting will be scheduled
of getting a quorum, it was agreed
for the month of August.
NATURAL RESOURCES INVENTORY
Comm. Hoard reported that Susan Greenberg, Cornell Resource Economics
student, is willing to work part time during the summer on the Natural
Resources Inventory for the sum of $325; and that Jeanne Fadula, CETA
employee in Planning and Development, will also work on the project
under the supervision of Comm. Hoard, Commission member. The project
will include 1) the index of natural resources, and 2) an inventory
of sensitive areas, based on natural environment.
Resolution
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Davis
RESOLVED, That the Environmental Commission requests the Planning and
Development Board to allocate $325 to employ a part -time consultant
to work on the Natural Resources Inventory.
Carried Unanimously
NOISE ORDINANCE
Chairman Burbank reported that the motorcycle noise issue had been
raised at previous meetings of the Commission, but remains unresolved.
The Charter and Ordinance Committee has a heavy workload and has not
yet considered the question.
SOLID WASTE
Comm. Arnold reported that the Multi- county Solid Waste Recovery
Plant proposal is due to be released about the lst of July. The plant,
which will require a draft environmental impact statement, will be
located near the Cornell Heating Plant. Commissioners Hoard and
Arnold will be working on the project - -Comm. Hoard on noise impact
and Comm. Arnold on urban environment impact. The City Planning
Department will assist in preparation of the report.
CHERRY ST. DEIS
Mic Bottge reported that the comments of citizens at the May 8, 1979
public hearing, items brought up at the Environmental Commission meeting
and comments which may be received will be incorporated as the final
EIS is prepared. The project consists of two phases: Phase I, pre-
paration of site including infrastructure; and Phase II, development
of individual sites by developers.
Questions of air and water effluents have been raised. Comm. Hoard
asked if standards will be set for building development within the
park. Mr. Bottge said that signs, landscaping and facade will be
regulated for future DEIS. Comm. Hoard commented that the Unavoid-
able Adverse Impacts Section has been omitted. She also commented
that a Summary would be useful.
Chm. Burbank expressed concern that DEIS does not deal with specific
firms. Mr. Bottge said the City could impose certain requirements
and may ask questions of specific companies. Comm. Hoard asked that
EIS include performance standards and suggested matter which could
be included. Comm. Arnold suggested a section be included on miti-
gating factors.
Chm. Burbank asked about protective measures in the event of flooding,
especially if toxic materials are stored, or are on premise.
Mr. Bottge commented on specifics of the review process - May 24,
1979 is the final date to comment on the Draft Environmental Impact
Study; after which there will be a 10 -day comment period on the
Final Environmental Impact Study.
Resolution
By Comm. Davis: Seconded by
RESOLVED, the Environmental
the Cherry Street Industrial
Chm. Burbank to the Director
591!
May 21, 1979
Comm. Arnold
- ommission's comments and concerns on
Park be transmitted by letter from
of Planning and Development, as follows:
Carried Unanimously
"H. Matthys Van Cort, Director
Planning and Development
Dear Mr. Van Cort:
I am writing in response to your request for comments on the Draft
Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) on the proposed Cherry Street
Industrial Park. The Environmental Commission has reviewed the DEIS
and, at its meeting of May 21, unanimously requested that the
following comments be forwarded to you for your assistance in pre-
paring a complete Final EIS.
First, the Commission would like to compliment your department on
the completion of a very good DEIS. The statement obviously represents
a great deal of work and presents the material in a clear fashion.
The Commission has previously given approval of the concept of a pro-
ject such as the Cherry Street park. A good quality Final EIS will
facilitate the evaluation and implementation of the project and will
also help demonstrate the value of a complete EIS process.
The Environmental Commission believes that the Final EIS should outline
the expectations of the City in regard to three things:
1) the type of industries expected to locate in the park;
2) the mechanism for the administration of the park and the
leasing arrangements expected to be established between the industrial
developers and the City - -for example whether leases will be between
the City and the developers individually or as a group, and whether
the park will be administered by an existing City department or a
special industrial park board; and
3) the desirability of performance standards for the industries
in the park in regard to air, water and noise emissions, traffic
generation, visual impact, use and storage of hazardous or toxic
materials and provisions for safe containment of hazardous or toxic
materials in the event of flooding in the area.
The inclusion of as detailed as possible a description of such
expectations, without pinning the City down, would help to provide a
mechanism for the requirement of further environmental studies if an
industry quite different from those expected would propose to locate
in the park.
Finally, the DEIS should have contained a brief summary and a section
on the unavoidable adverse impacts, as provided in the State and local
EIS guidelines. These sections should be added to the Final EIS.
Thank you very much for this opportunity to comment on this DEIS. If
the Commission can be of any further assistance in the completion of
the EIS process on this project, please contact me.
Very truly yours,
William Burbank
Chairman"
-4- May 21, 1979
Inasmuch as the 10 -day comment period on the Final EIS will occur
between meetings of the Environmental Commission, it was agreed
that the commissioners may comment on an individual basis. The
Commission will be convened to consider the EIS only if the
Commission members see the need.
ADJOURNMENT
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 9:45 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
William Burbank
Chairman
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M.
PRESENT: Arnold, Burbank, Hoard
ABSENT: Davis, Fuller, Stein
OTHERS
PRESENT: Council Liaison - Holman
Jeanne Fadula
Susan Greenberg
June 18, 1979
A quorum was not present; however, an informal discussion was
held by those present.
MINUTES OF MAY 21, 1979 MEETING:
Comm. Hoard called attention to the item - Cherry Street DEIS -
page 2, paragraph 2, line 4: the sentence should end after the word
"regulated ". "For future DEIS" should be deleted.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA:
Chm. Burbank requested the addition of "DEC funding" to the agenda.
Mrs. Holman requested the addition of "Historic Signs" to the agenda.
No member objected.
TRANSPORT OF NUCLEAR MATERIALS:
Chm. Bur ank called attention to the Town of Jerusalem which, accord-
ing to a newspaper article, passed an ordinance banning the transport
of nuclear materials, and commented that he plans to investigate
same.
SEQR:
Comm. Hoard reported that changes have been made in the state law
since the passage of the city ordinance more than a year and a half
ago, and commented that the city ordinance should be reconciled with
the state revisions which are clearer and better organized than
previously. The city uses the state assessment forms. Comm. Hoard
suggested that the commission should be involved, that perhaps they
could volunteer to review the proposed changes. Comm. Holman said
that the commission should take the lead in suggesting the proposed
changes.
Comm. Hoard reported that the revised DEC guidelines now deal with
unlisted actions. Now, findings must be provided, and the basis
spelled out on which decisions to approve a project were made.
Comm. Hoard said it is important for the commission to be very much
involved in the DEIS, but it is not a substitute for a good master
plan or good land -use planning.
Comm. Hoard pointed out that in updating the city ordinance it needs
to be consistent with DEC; procedures must be clear on various kinds
of actions; there should be clarification as to who is in charge
and integrate administrative decisions into the procedure.
Comm. Hoard agreed that she will outline suggestions of changes that
need to be made to be forwarded to the Planning Department on behalf
of the Environmental Commission.
Discussion: There should be requirement of findings by all agencies
approving projects that come under SEQR. Also, it would be useful to
have a formal procedure in which the agencies making administrative
decisions were to notify other departments within the city and the
commission, through its chairman, that the administrative decision
had been made, and asking for comments.
-2- June 18, 1979
DEC FUNDING:
m. Bur ank reported that the deadline for proposals to be sub-
mitted for funding is August 1, 1979. A Work Plan will need to be
developed.
Comm. Hoard reported on county procedures for funding.
CHERRY STREET:
Comm. Ho man reported that she had not seen the final EIS, but took
everybody's word that the commission's suggestions had been incor-
porated. Her most recent information, dated June 6, read as follows:
"The environmental review of the project has been completed. A draft
of environmental impact statement and final EIS have been completed.
A public hearing has been held and public comments received. Most of
the questions raised by Ecology Action, the City Environmental
Commission and the Sierra Club were company- specific in nature.
At this point, the City is unable to respond to these concerns, simply
because we do not know which companies will locate in the industrial
park over the next few years. I have assured all parties that only
"clean" companies will be allowed to construct buildings in the park.
The three organizations that provided formal comment on the DEIS
(none reviewed the FEIS) stated publicly their favorable opinion of
the quality of the EIS. Based upon the environmental review process,
per SEQRA and the local law, I have granted environmental clearance
for the project.
Soil borings have been taken on -site, and analysis thereof is in
process. As stated in the last project update letter to Council
dated May 15th, the site's bearing capacity with respect to extremely
heavy floor loads must be determined. The possibility exists that
companies with extremely heavy floor loads will be excluded from
the project site. However, it should be noted that Wallace and
Triangle Steel Companies are located adjacent to and on soil similar
to the project site. If soil analyses indicate that buildings with
heavy floor loads should be excluded from the site, two alternatives
would be available to the City. The first would exclude a rail
siding from the development plan.. A_ shortcoming of this alternative
would be the exclusion of potential rail user(s) from the Industrial
Park. A positive effect of a "no- rail" alternative would be sub-
stantial cost reductions." (Mrs. Holman said he then goes on to
discuss lease terms, etc. which she would read if they were of
interest to the commission, but there were basically two forms of
management under consideration: one was for the Ithaca Urban Renewal
Agency to handle the project on behalf of the City; the second was
for the Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency to handle it;
or a third alternative, which at least in her hearing was never
seriously discussed, is a new city commission. The City would have
its own development agency. Her last knowledge of the form of
management was that Council would give it over to the Tompkins County
Area Development Corp. to manage on the City's behalf. That decision
has not been formalized.)
Discussion followed.
Chm. Burbank presented the findings required under SEQR, as recorded
by H. M. Van Cort, Director of Planning and Development.
Comm. Hoard commented that it might be more appropriate for the
Common Council to make the findings.
OIL SPILLS:
Chm. Bur ank reported on conversation with Mr. Hannan, and that Mr.
Hannan felt there had not been any city ordinance violated directly.
The Board of Public Works is in the process of rewriting its adminis-
trative regulations. Under the present regulations it is illegal
to dump into the sanitary sewer system, but in this case Cornell
r
-3- June 18, 1979
University had bypassed the sanitary sewers. Had chemicals been
dumped into the sanitary sewer, there were two sections of the
regulations which would have been violated. The City would then have
stepped in. The Department of Environmental Conservation regional
representative has not yet reported back on the DEC report on the
situation.
SEWAGE TREATMENT'PLANT:
Comm. Holman reported on the annual inspection preliminary to the
state portion of the funding of the sewage treatment plant, and that
it is a formality. It was Mr. Hannan's view that this involves a
plant built 20 or so years ago. All the fittings are no longer
available; therefore, there is a time lag involved in making repairs.
The report which the commission had was fairly routine. The reason
the plant was down at the time of inspection was because the inspec-
tion followed very closely upon a storm.
The commission discussed making arrangements to tour the sewage
treatment facility.
SOLID WASTE:
C m, Arno reported that the Municipal Materials Recovery Workshop
had -been held in Syracuse on June 14, 1979. Among those attending
from Ithaca were Elva Holman, Dan Hoffman, Mick Bottge, Nancy Meyer
and a representative of Challenge Industries. He reviewed briefly
the program covered at the workshop.
NATURAL RESOURCES INVENTORY:
Comm, Hoard defined the resource inventory as something of value
to humans at a time, There may be several maps, with a list of
areas and description,
Jeanne Fadula reported that Stuart Stein's class has a project in
which-it has identified open spaces in most of the City, except
the west end.. It is basically a neighborhood survey. She said she
and Susan Greenberg plan to make an appointment to see the report.
NEW BUSINESS:
istoric Si ns
omm. Homan reported that a public hearing will be held on July
11, 1979, at 7:30 P,M., at the Regular Meeting of the Common Council,
to consider proposed amendments to the Sign Ordinance, making pro-
visions for providing exemptions to a certain limited number of
signs which are deemed to have historic value.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 10:00 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
William Burbank
Chairman
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M. July 16, 1979
PRESENT: Arnold, Burbank, Davis, Hoard
ABSENT: Fuller, Stein
OTHERS
PRESENT: Council Liaison Holman; Susan Greenberg, Jeanne Fadula, Planning Department;
Gordon Behn, Regional Representative Department of Environmental Conservation;
Nancy Schuler
Chairman Burbank called the meeting to order at 7:45 p.m.
Jeanne Fadula distributed copies of the existing Waterways Study.
Chm. Burbank distributed anti -noise buttons from National Information Center for Quiet.
MINUTES OF MAY 21, 1979 MEETING:
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Davis
RESOLVED, That the Minutes of the May 21, 1979 meeting be approved as corrected:
page 2, paragraph 2, line 4: the sentence ends after the word "regulated."
"For future DEIS" is deleted.
Carried Unanimously
CASCADILLA CREEK OIL SPILL:
Department of Environmental Conservation Attorney Finegold has indicated that the
Cornell University oil spill case is
1. approaching litigation,
2. working toward preliminary agreements between Cornell University and DEC
to avoid litigation, including fine, and
3. seeking physical remedies for laboratory facilities and better reporting
measures.
Chm. Burbank reported on conversation with the regional office of DEC re. contamination
of fish: there is no danger in the creek; however, fish in the lake weighing more
than 5 pounds are suspect.
Gordon Behn clarified the method of warning the public about dangers of eating fish
taken from contaminated waters:
1. The Health Department makes finding of degree of contamination.
2. The Department of Environmental Conservation notifies the public.
It was suggested that Gene Dymek at Life Safety, Cornell, be approached to report to
the Environmental Commission on the situation, Comm. Arnold agreed to ask Mr. Dymek
to attend the September meeting to discuss the oil spill in relation to University/
City cooperation.
The suggestion was made that we consider a city ordinance to complement the DEC
ordinance on chemical dumping in storm sewers.
SOLID WASTE:
Preliminary information on multi - county facility has been turned in to the County
Planning Department. A study of source separation can be financed with Council
assistance funds.
The September meeting of the Commission will feature discussion on solid waste, with
the following to be asked to attend:
Representative - Department of Environmental Conservation
Paul Finger - Environmental Management Council
Ida Weber - Ithaca Scrap Processors
Daniel Hoffman - Ecology Action
-2- July 16, 1979
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION FUNDING:
Gordon Behn, regional representative of DEC, advised that the local commission must
develop a work plan and budget. He said reimbursement is available for items such
as planning studies, printing, bringing proposals to the decision - making stage. The
Commission should set its priorities, review for technicalities, and be working
toward defined goals and objectives.
Commissioners reviewed programs of the City of Syracuse, the Tom of Manlius, and
the Town of VanBuren Conservation Advisory Councils.
General Revenue Sharing are the only federal or state funds which may be used in
supporting budgets of commissions /councils.
August 1 is the deadline for councils already in the program. A council joining can
apply at any time, even to reimburse a program already in progress. Proposals go to
the regional representatives. Minimum budget request is $1,000.
1980 -81 WORK PLAN:
The following were suggested for inclusion in the 1980 -81 Work Plan:
1. Solid Waste Source Separation Study
2. Printing and Distribution of Open Spaces and Natural Resources Inventory
3. Comprehensive Salt Study
4. Administrative Assistance, including SEQR where permissable
5. Workshops for community and staff
6. Revision of Bikeway Plans
Commissioners Hoard, Arnold and Burbank will develop a work plan and budget for
submission to the Budget and Administration Committee, Mayor and Regional Office of
the Department of Environmental Conservation.
BIKEWAYS:
By Comm. Arnold: Seconded by Comm. Hoard
RESOLVED, That $3,000 in the 1979 Budget remain encumbered, and that $5,000 be
included in the 1980 Capital Budget for further development of bikeways.
Carried Unanimously
NATURAL RESOURCES INVENTORY:
Susan Greenberg, Jeanne Fadula and Comm. Hoard reported on the progress of the Natural
Resources Inventory.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m..
William Burbank
Chairman
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMIMISSION
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M. September 7, 1979
PRESENT: Burbank, Fuller, Hoard, Stein
ABSENT: Arnold
OTHERS
PRESENT: Council Liaison Holman, Schuler; Planning Staff, Jeanne Fadula;
Members of the Press
MINUTES OF JULY 16, 1979 MEETING:
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Stein
RESOLVED, the Minutes of July 16, 1979 be approved as corrected:
Page 2, paragraph 3 should read: General Revenue Sharing are
the only federal or state funds coming directly to the general
operating funds of municipalities which may be used in
supporting budgets of commissions /councils.
Carried Unanimously
AGENDA REVIEW:
Alderman Holman reported having materials on the multi- county solid
waste project. Her report was scheduled after Oil Spill on the Agenda.
Chm. Burbank moved Oil Spill to a position following Bikeways on the
Agenda.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
NYS Association for Solid Waste Management
Comm. Hoard announced that the NYS Association for Solid Waste Manage-
ment Conference will be held at Friar Tuck Inn, Catskill on October 29
and 30.
Master Plan for Energy
Jeanne Fadula announced that September 30 is the deadline for comments
on the State Master Plan for Energy. Comments may be submitted to
Sol Schreiber, Hearing Examiner, State Energy Office, 3 Rockefeller
Plaza, Albany, N.Y. 12223. Copies of the draft are available at Self
Reliance Center.
Forums on Nuclear Power
Jeanne Fadula announced several forums on nuclear power:
September 18, 1979 8:00 p.m., Cornell University-
September 19, 1979 7;30 p.m. Cornell University,
Anabel Taylor Hall
September 29, 1979 1 to 5 p.m.. (Vest 'Valley (part of
International Day)
10 to 12 Noon Workshops
Transportation of Nuclear Wastes
Jeanne Fadula reported that there is no transportation ban of nuclear
wastes in the city or county, only a waste storage ban.. Type I action
under SEQR`has little practical impact; a better way to approach the
matter is by ordinance. Chm. Burbank commented that the item would be
placed on the agenda for the October 1979 meeting..
NYS Association of Conservation Commissions Conference (NYSACC)
Chm. Burbank announce that the all conference o NYSACC will be held
at Grossingers October 19 to October 21. He expressed an interest in
attending.
Resolution
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Arnold
RESOLVED, the Commission authorizes attendance of two Environmental
Conservation Commission members at the fall Conference of NYSACC at
Grossingers.
Carried Unanimously
-2- September 7, 1979
Solid Waste Panel
Alderman Holman reported on the Draft State of Source Separation,
prepared by Frank Liguori, copies of which were passed around. After
review by the Steering Committee it will be reworked and should be
presented at the next meeting of the Steering Committee. She said they
are seeking approval for the Preliminary Design Phase which will take
8 to 9 months.
Questions which must be resolved before consideration of a multi- county
facility goes much further are: Who owns garbage? and, must the city
guarantee a stated amount of garbage?
Chm. Burbank commented that the anticipated discussion on solid waste
had to be rescheduled for October, with the following persons asked to
attend: a representative of the Department of Environmental Conserva-
tion; Paul Finger of the county Planning Department; Ida Weber of Ithaca
Scrap Processors; and Daniel Hoffman of Ecology Action. Alderman Holman
suggested that a staff member.of the Department of Public Works and the
appropriate member of the Board of Public Works be requested to attend
the discussion, in addition to Jack Gilroy, Executive Director of
Challenge Industries.
Sensitive Areas Study
Comm. Hoard reported that she has prepared a preliminary draft of the
study; as the commission reviews the draft they will need to consider
three areas: Location, Ownership, Comments.
Related to the Sensitive Areas Study, Comm. Hoard reported that an
alternate highschool science class (about ten members) expressed interest
in doing a detailed natural resources inventory of the lake shore /inlet
valley area to be integrated into the Sensitive Areas Study.
Resolution
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Fuller
RESOLVED, the Commission endorses the highschool natural resources
inventory.
Carried Unanimously
Bikeways :
Comm. Arnold reported that he had sent a letter to the Budget and
Administration Committee of Council requesting that the $3,000 for
bikeways in the 1979 budget be encumbered if not expended this year,
and that an additional $5,000 be budgeted in 1980 for further develop
ment.of bikeways.
Oil Spill
Comm. Arnold reported that he had set up a tentative meeting with Gene
Dymek of Life Safety at Cornell University, for members to discuss
with him what he knows about oil spills, the oil spill this past spring
particularly, and what the commission needs to know to do their job in
respect to oil spills, what the situation is that the commission might
need to recommend to the Common Council that particular action be taken.
The meeting is tentatively scheduled for September 20, at 3:00 p.m,., in
Mr. Dymekrs office.
DEC Grant Application
Comm. Hoard reported that she and Comm. Arnold had prepared a rough draft
of an application for state aid, which would be matching funds, for the
Commission. The total budget would be $2,000. All money must be pro-
vided up front by the city, one -half of which would be reimbursed by DEC
upon approval of the work plan and submission of approvals. The proposed
areas by line item are as follows:
Publication of the Inventory of Sensitive Areas $ 400
Source Separation Study 600
Road Salting 500
Bikeways 200
Administrative Costs 300
$2,000
Discussion of the items followed.
Y
-3- September 7, 1979
Resolution
By Comm. Stein: Seconded by Comm. Burbank
RESOLVED, That the Commission approves the proposed work plan for 1980-
81, with a figure of up to $2500, items to be adjusted upon consultation.
Carried Unanimously
New Commission Members:
Chm. Burbank commented on the vacancy created by the resignation of
Comm. Barbara Davis, in addition to the existing vacancies. He asked
the commissioners to channel names of possible appointees to him for
forwarding to the Mayor for consideration. He also reminded them that
a new chairman must be selected.
Resolution
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Fuller
WHEREAS, Barbara Davis served as an effective commissioner on the
Conservation Advisory Council of the City of Ithaca, and
WHEREAS, Barbara provided an important link between the CAC and the
Planning and Development Board, and
WHEREAS, her service was too brief, but her contributions significant;
BE IT RESOLVED, That the CAC and the City of Ithaca commend Barbara Davis
and wish her success in her new endeavors.
Carried Unanimously
Chm. Burbank directed that a copy of the resolution be forwarded to
Barbara Davis.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m.
Will Burbank
Chairman
Conservation Advisory Council
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M. October 15, 1979
PRESENT: Arnold, Burbank, Fuller, Stein
ABSENT;
UTTHERS Council Liaisons Holman and Schuler, Members of Press;
:PRESENT; Guests Id.a Weber and Wally Adams, Ithaca Scrap Metal; Paneli4t Paul
Finger, Tompkins County Planning Department; Dan Hoffman,
Ecology Action; Bob Haggerty, John Wilson, DEC.
MINUTES:
By Comm. Arnold: Seconded by Comm. Stein
RESOLVED, the Minutes of September 7, 1979 be approved as corrected:
Comm. Arnold was present at the meeting.
Carried Unanimously
Alderman Holman reported that Jeanne Fadula's employment has been
terminated as of Friday because under CETA rules, the fact that she was
on contract had been declared invalid. The Budget and Administration
Committee is being polled to determine whether they would approve a
position of planning technician and if that is successful, Budget and
Administration Committee will recommend to the Common Council that the
position of planning technician be approved through approximately the
17th of November.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
N.Y.S. Water Resources
Alderman Holman informed the Commission that a Regional Wastewater
Seminar would be held on October 16, 1979 in the Public Safety Building,
Syracuse, N.Y. The City of Ithaca Engineering Department is a co- sponsor
of the seminar.
Students for Environmental Quality
Alderman Holman reported that she had received a communication from
Students for Environmental Quality seeking assistance for passage of
a Bottle Bill in New York State.
Resolution
By Comm. Arnold: Seconded by Comm. Fuller
RESOLVED, That the Environmental Commission support the attempts to
lobby for passage of deposit legislation, and Comm. Arnold will draft
a letter of support.
Carried Unanimously
Alderman Holman agreed to seek clarification on the eligibility of
pre - emptive signals for the railroad in Ithaca under the proposed Energy
Conservation through Improved Transportation Bond Act which appears on
November 6 ballot.
Resource Recovery Study Bill
Alderman Holman reported that there is a study bill in the Assembly
which is going to the environmental committees, and which needs support.
Goals are to facilitate intermunicipal action and encourage use of private
enterprise in the design /construction operation.
Adirondack Park Referendum.
Chm. Burbank announced a referendum concerning an exchange of land
between the State and a paper company, which results in a controversy
over the status of state land once consolidated. Use of the traded lands
is unclear.
Chm. Burbank also reported on an article in the New York Times the
previous day concerning manipulation of ''shortages'' by big oil companies.
REPORT ON MEETING WITH CORNELL'S LIFE SAFETY:
Comm. Arnold reported on meeting with Gene Dymek of Life Safety at
Cornell University. They have prepared a confinement.and control report
which follows EPA guidelines for the site of the oil spill last spring,
and are proceeding to prepare reports on any locations in the university
where 660 gallons or.more of oil are stored. Copies of the reports will
be forwarded to the Commission.
-2-
October 15, 1979
BIKEWAYS:
The status of funds was discussed, and a possible spring opening with
appropriate ceremony -- perhaps in conjunction with Circle Greenway
activity.
NEW COMMISSION MEMBERS:
Comm. Fuller presented the following names to be forwarded to the Mayor
for consideration as members of the Commission:
Richard MacNeil, Dept. of Natural Resources, C.U.
Robert Kramer
Neil Rauch, Attorney-at -Law
Carol Peterson
Eddie Smith
Chm. Burbank.will request the Mayor to appoint at least•one new commission
member, as a replacement for Barbara Davis who resi'_gned, in order to
maintain the activity of the commission,
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING LOBBYi
Membership in the Lobby was discussed and action on it deferred,
SOLID WASTE
Chm., Burbank opened the discussion by giving the background of the
problem._ A study of municipal solid waste began a number of years ago-
concern was noted over the landfill sites, therefore the county did a
solid waste study and selected three temporary-sites to use, Based on
the escalating cost of landfill, a consultant was- hired to look at
alternatives,
Originally the multi.- county group started as three counties but became
four (Cayuga, Cortland, Tioga, Tompkins) It is proposed that refuse
from these four counties be hauled to Cornell University, burned in
modular incinerators to create steam for the Cornell facility to heat
the Cornell plant. There would result about 5 percent refuse to be
used as landfill.
Paul Finger of the Tompkins County-Planning Department, described the
plant and the traffic routes from the four counties which would attempt
to avoid Ithaca Urban Area.. There will be three sites at Cornell to
which the refuse i,,s trans -ported. The initial figure for the cost of the
facility-was 15 to 18 million dollars.
Engineering studies are being done, and an environmental impact statement
will be drawn. up,
Dan Hoffman, co- director of Community Self Reliance Center., and member of
the Tompkins County Environmental 'Management Council, who has been working
with the-Tompki'ns'County Planning Department to finalize its environmental
impact study, spoke to the ilssue, and especially to'some of the problems
encountered in other areas using the refuse- burning facility; attitudes,
expanded category of throw--away-items, uneven burning, explosions,
corros.i.on, ar_ quality standards_, overrun of costs,•odor, health,
emission of toxic elements-, traffic impact, water flow from clean out,
control of waste stream.. He commented that the actual energy saving
from such an operation has not been documented. He,pointed out that
there are alternatives to the multi - county proposal, such as- source
separation.
Paul Finger assured the commission that air pollution standards will be
met.. However, he said more data needs to be gathered to determine if
the proposal is feasible.
Alderman Holman asked about the benefits from recycling as opposed to
reconverting to energy-and was told that it cannot be compared.
Source separation was discussed and Ida Weber spoke on the problems of
marketing..
-3- October 15, 1979
Upon suggestion of Bob Haggerty and John Nilson, Department of Environ-
mental Conservation, next steps, such as targeting waste stream, de-
termining what is marketable, and working with the Department of Public
Works to pull out marketables during spring and fall cleanups, were
discussed.
A Special meeting was scheduled to be held on Tuesday, October 30, 1979
at 7:30 p.m. in the Mayor's Conference Room.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 10:10 p.m.
Will Burbank
Chairman
Environmental Commission
CITY OF ITHACA
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Special Meeting 7:30 P.M. October 30, 1979
PRESENT: Comms. Arnold, Burbank, Fuller, Hoard, Stein
ALSO PRESENT:
Council Liaisons Holman, Schuler; Kimberly Adams,
W.T.K =.20; Paul Fairbanks, graduate student in Ecology
CALL TO ORDER:
C m. Burbank called the meeting to order at 7:45 P.M.
ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES:
By Comm. Stein: Seconded by Comm. Arnold
RESOLVED, the Minutes of the October 15, 1979 meeting be approved
as distributed.
Carried Unanimously
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Comm. Hoard informed the Commission that there is scheduled an Energy
Exposition in Albany, at Rockefeller Plaza, on November 16, 17 and
18, 1979.
COMMUNICATIONS:
C m. Burbank reported that he had received a letter back from Bob
Haggerty of the Department of Environmental Conservation enclosing
fact sheets on other communities which have done resource recovery
programs, a booklet published by the EPA, and source separation and
state aid program kit for application for state matching funds for
source separation.
Paul Fairbanks, 711 Mitchell Street, an area adjacent to proposed RDF
site location, addressed the Commission on resource recovery and the
proposed RDF facility. He recommended the following:
1. returnable bottle legislation,
2. organization and enforcement of comprehensive
recycling program,
3. press federal legislators to equalize pricing structure
for shipping of recovered and new materials,
4. purchase by the city of recycled materials.
Mr. Fairbanks said he had read about the Hempstead plant in the New
York Times and cited the following problems with the Hempstead plant:
1. raw odor emitting from storage pits and pungent
chemical odor from stacks,
2. staphylococcus and streptococcus inside the plant
3. electro- static precipators did not work for periods
of up to 72 hours
4. equipment failure
5. disposal of fly ash
6. low temperatures which allowed plastic to escape from
stacks as particulates
7. strikes by workers
Mr. Fairbanks said he sees a choice of two paths to follow: a pre -
ventive low- impact course (resource recovery), or a high impact
course (building of facility). He reviewed the problems that could
arise if the RDF ,facility is built.
Chm. Burbank reported that he had received pieces of the final version
of preliminary assessment of environmental impact on the RDF from
Paul Finger who asked that the commission attempt to address, on a
broad conceptual level, their feeling toward the proposed solid
waste plan.
-2- October 30, 1979
Chm. Burbank informed the commission that the county will hold a
budget hearing on November 19, 1979, with action by the county board
expected on November 26 or December 3.
The.following questions were raised by the commissioners:
Section III. Premises of PEIS
Questioned the need to use terms resource, recovery, materials
recovery and energy recovery more precisely.
Does 20 years life refer to amortization, operating life,
capacity or changing technology?
What is Cornell's real commitment? Will their consideration
of the impacts affect that commitment?
Comm. Hoard reviewed questions she had raised concerning DEIS:
The Transportation section needs reworking to show what
volume of truck traffic is currently in relation to pro-
jections for RDF facility;
The Commission supports in concept effective resource
recovery. What is the energy balance?
Other items discussed and questioned were air quality, effect of heavy
metal particulates, truck traffic, and whether the community retains
control of waste stream.
Resolution
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Arnold
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council and the Environmental Com-
mission support the general concept of both energy and material
recovery from solid waste; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca will bear the brunt of most potential
adverse environmental impacts of the proposed Multi- county Resource
Recovery Project; and
WHEREAS, significant questions regarding environmental impacts on the
City of Ithaca remain unanswered;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Common Council and Environmental
Commission recommend that in order for both the county and the city
to decide whether or not to participate in the proposed Multi- county
Resource Recovery Project, that sufficient funds be allocated by the
county to gather additional detailed information on:
1) the potential impacts of the proposed project on traffic and air
quality in the City of Ithaca, and
2) a net energy balance analysis of the proposed project and its
alternatives;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the proposed project is clearly a Type I
action requiring a DEIS under SEQR and that.the DEIS should be pre-
pared by a consultant other than the consulting engineers designing
the project, and that the NYDE.0 should be designated as lead agency;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That if the county decides to allocate funds
for a preliminary engineering design that it also allocate funds for
an in -depth study of resource material recovery and source separation
for Tompkins County and that the City participate in that study;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the City retains ownership and control of
its own waste stream and that after consideration of the additional
information gathered will decide whether or not to participate in
the proposed project.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 11:00 P.M.
Will Burbank
Chairman