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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