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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CAC-1982CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK Regular Meeting PRESENT: Commissioners (6) - Banks, Brown, Carpenter, Pratt, Szasz, Woods Council Liaison (2) - Hoffman, Schuler March 29, 1982 AGENDA Chairman Banks suggested the following agenda: 1) Election of Officers 2) Selection of Meeting Date 3) Selection of Member to represent Conservation Advisory Council on County Environmental Management Council 4) New Business a. Things the Council should discuss 1) Hydropower Proposal for Fall Creek 2) Recycling Task Force Report 3) Bottle Bill pending in the State Legislature 4) Salt Hearing b. Schedule /Timetable for next 9 months GYPSY MOTH CONFERENCE Chairman Banks mentioned that in his mail, he received a notice for a Gypsy Moth Symposium on April 3, 1982 at R.I.T. The registration fee for the Symposium would be fifteen dollars. ELECTION OF OFFICERS Richard Banks was nominated and approved of as Chairman. Margaret Woods was nominated and approved of as Vice - Chairman. MEETING DATE The next meeting date was selected as the third Wednesday of the month, April 21st at 7:30 P.M. in the Conference Room. Members will receive an agenda and a copy of the March meeting minutes in the mail. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE The Environmental Management Council (E.M.C.) has a seat vacant for a member of the Council. The E.M.C. has regular monthly meetings and it does similar things with a county perspective as the CAC does. Chairman Banks said he would like to see someone else on the board in order to set a different perspective, and also because he feels he is spreading himself too thinly. Susan Szasz was nominated and approved of as the representative. HYDROPOWER PLANT The Common Council created a Hydropower Commission because there has been alot of discussion in the community concerning a hydropower plant at the base of the Ithaca Falls, and because the city is interested in it. The Hydropower Commission has representatives from various groups, including Richard Banks as the representative for the Conservation Advisory Council. Cornell University and a company called Synergics have both filled an application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (F.E.R.C.) to construct plants on the Fall Creek site. Mr. Banks believed that according to federal regulations, there is a 90 -day period for the people of the city of Ithaca to respond to the F.E.R.C. The F.E.R.C. is looking for comments, and suggestions from local people. The Hydropower Commission has until about May 6th to file comments with the F.E.R.C. and the Commission is trying to provide Common Council with enough information , so that the Council can make a good decision, since the Hydropower Commission cannot itself speak for the City. The Hydropower Commission has broken into 3 groups to look at the following issues: 1) the Federal Energy Regulations involved and the proposals that` have been submitted 2) the environmental impact 3) the economic issues and the city involvement Chairman Banks felt that the key issues were 1) the aesthetics involved 2) the effects that the reduction of waterflow over the falls will i,ave on fish and wildlife in the area 3) local concerns, and recreational disruptions Cornell University's plan, according to Chairman Banks, would be less visually disruptive, but both plans will reduce the amount of water from the falls. -2- Chairman Banks commented that the Tompkins County Library, Carpenter Library at Cornell,and the City Planner's Office have copies on file of both Cornell's and Synergics proposal. Mr. Banks also said that a New England community has been located that has developed hydro -power and that the community was sending Ithaca, information on their plant. RECYCLING TASK FORCE Dan Hoffman gave a report on the Recycling Task Force. Last year, the City Council set up a task force to look into the feasibility of setting up a recycling system in the city. The Task Force put together a preliminary report. The report had in it several options including the costs and implication of various collection methods: city collection, private collection, and drop -off centers. The report included a list of recommendations for the city to consider. The Task Force felt that drop -off centers in neighborhoods (rather than a house by house pick -up), would be better and cut down on labor costs. The county, meanwhile, commissioned a professional consultant to study the solid waste problem from the county's point of view. The consultant was to look into marketing possibilities for various wastes, like glass, etc. One of the recommendations was to revitalize the task force, once the county's study was finished, so that both the city and the county's study could be refined and incorporated. The Common Council has not yet reacted to the Task Force Report, which was presented last fall. The Planning and Development Committee of the Common Council will take the report up on March 31, 1982 when the Recycling Task Force Members will make a major presentation. The Mayor, according to Mr. Hoffman, thinks it may be a dupli- cation to keep the Recycling Task Force and wonders if the CAC can't take over the project from the Task Force and complete the report. Chairman Banks appointed a committee of three to look over the Task Force report, identify main issues, and make a decision by the next meeting as to whether the CAC can take over the work of the Recycling Task Force. The Committee will consist of Susan Szasz, Dan Hoffman, and Bob Brown. BOTTLE BILL Chairman Banks commented that last year, the Conservation Advisory Council recommended to the Common Council that they support and endorse the bottle bill in the N.Y.S. Assembly. The Common Council did approve the bill, but it was not passed in the Assembly. Chairman Banks suggested that the Conservation Advisory Council again recommend its passage this year. The Common Council could respond to a recommendation from the Conservation Advisory Council at their April 5th meeting, which would probably be in time to send a message to the Legislature. Dan Hoffman commented that the bottle bill would put a minimum deposit of five cents on all carbonated soft drinks, mineral water, soda water, beer and malt beverage containers, and would ban the flip top openers and plastic loops - a safety precaution for human beings and wildlife. A committee report given to the Governor, unlike the report given to him last year, is positive in nature towards the bottle bill citing creation of jobs, etc. The Conservation Advisory Council reaffirmed their support of the bottle bill (5.2831, A.9777), for the following reasons: 1) less litter 2) lower sanitation costs 3) energy and resource conservation Dan Hoffman mentioned that the bottle bill could promote recycling. Chairman Banks made a motion to carry a resolution to the Common Council, recommending that the Council support the bottle bill. The motion was passed 5 -1. SALT HEARING Chairman Banks will call Jack Dougherty to set up a time for the Advisory Council to look at the salters. OTHER ITEMS It was mentioned by Dan Hoffman, that the state will be using chemicals to kill Lamprey Eels. The state has been pressured by fishermen, who want the eels controlled. A reporter noted that eels are used by biologists, and that this is one of few locations. Other items discussed included: 1) Route 96 - a perennial issue /we'll 2) Air pollution from Wilcox Press 3) Bicycling carrier racks on busses would be 2 main unloading points; of the hill 4) The new sewage treatment plant be approaching the design phase - Nancy Schuler reiterated that there at the top of the hill, and at the bottom t - 3- NEXT MEETING Chairman Banks said that at the next meeting, he'd like to finish up the issues that the Council is dealing with now, discuss the recycling issue and pick up two or three of these issues to do their first efforts on. Chairman Banks also informed the Council that he would be contacting everyone concerning the tour of the salt spreading equipment. ADJOURNMENT On a motion, the meeting adjourned at 9:45 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Richard Banks, Chairman CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK Regular Meeting April 21, 1982 PRESENT: Commissioners (5) - Banks, Woods, Sheffield; Carpenter, Reeves Council Liaisons (1) - Hoffman, Schuler Guests (2) - George Hudler, Daphne O'Reagan, media ABSENT: Commissioners (3) - Brown, Pratt, Szasz Statements from the Public Daphne O'Reagan lives on Seneca Street. She expressed. concern about the fumes from Wilcox Press. She also expressed her opinion that the fine of $10,000 to Wilcox Press was too small. Nancy Schuler said that she had spoken to Don Johnson, on the county level and Phil Cox, the City Engineer about the problem with. Wilcox. Apparently, Wilcox has until May 26th to file a plan or a design to rectify the problem. Nancy Schuler also said that the State Department of Environmental Conservation. is more aware of the problem now with Wilcox. MIN[JTES The minutes of the April 21, 1982 Meeting were corrected as follows: pg. 1, last line, change "use" to "source" pg. 3, last line, change "52" to "62" With those changes, the minutes were approved unanimously. ANNOUCEMENTS The Common Council passed the CAC'S recommendations on the Bottle Bill. It was also mentioned that the Bottle Bill has finally gotten out of the Assembly Committee for the first time. Also, the Mayor is setting up a Citizen's Advisory Committee on the design of the Sewage plant. OLD BUSINESS TREE PLANTING Chm. Banks introduced Professor George Hudler, an expert on. tree aiseases. Prof. Hudler showed a film on how different communities approach tree planting. Discussion followed on the issue. Professor Hudler said that abuse and ignorance from people was the cause of most of the loss of trees. The Circle Greenway group is interested in this problem, mainly because they wish to plant trees and flower gardens. NYSEG would also problaby want to get involved. RECYCLING TASK FORCE The Task Force has reconvene -4 and Susan Szasz is attending the meetings for the CAC. ROAD SALT COMMITTEE Carol Reeves gave a progress report on the road salt committee. Nancy Schuler and Linda Carpenter are also on the subcommittee. Carol Reeves reported that the main issue was the amount of salt used. Other questions the subcommittee raised tiP-x'e:do state routes have any regulations concerning the amount of salt they use, what kind of mix is used, what is the least amount of salt to be used for effective safety, and do the employees of BPW have to take a refresher course re: the use of the salt trucks. The subcommittee also decided that a monitoring policy is needed. The subcommittee will need to do more research. - 2 - NEW BUSINESS WILCOX PRESS Chm. Banks stated that a statement of concern from CAC regarding Wilcox Press could be helpful. The statement could be sent to the Tompkins County Health Department, the Department of Environmental Conservation, Mayor the Common Council, City Engineer Phil Cox, and City Attorney Paul Tave7_li. Resolution By Comm. Woods: Seconded by Comm. Carpenter WHEREAS,visually offensive smoke and offensive odors have been emitted from the Wilcox Prss facility in Ithaca, and WHEREAS, the City Conservation Advisory Council has received expressions of concern about such emissions from residents, and WHEREAS, the State Department of Envirommnntal Conservation has acknowledged. the problem and levied a fine against Wilcox. Press, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Conservation Advisory Council expressed its interest in and concern about emissions from Wilcox Press and its desire to be kept apprised of progress toward what it hopes will be the swift solution of this problem, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Conservation Advisory Council asks that existing City legislation regarding offensive fumes be enforced in this situation, if appropriate. Carried Unanimously LIAISON TO SEWAGE PLANT DESIGN COMMITTEE Richard Banks was nominated to serve on the wastewater committee. The meeting was adjourned. CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK Regular Meeting June 16, 1982 PRESENT: Commissioners (6) - Szasz, Woods, Banks, Pratt, Reeves, Sheffield Council Liaison (1) - Hoffman Guests - Issac Beer, media, Don Kinsella ABSENT: Commissioners (2)- Brown, Carptenter Council Liaison (1) - Schuler MINUTES The minutes of the May 19, 1982 meeting were approved, after the following correction: the date of the meeting should be May 19, 1982 instead of April 21, 1982. ANNOUCEMENTS Governor Carey signed the Bottle Bill. It is hoped that 5.000 new jobs will be created, and that litter and solid wastes will be reduced because of the new bill. In addition, the T.V. antenna application on the South Hill Tower has either been withdrawn or denied. It was mentioned that several people protested it. EMC UPDATE The EMC voted 10 -8 in favor of lampricide use in Cayuga Lake. The CAC needs more informa- tion on this matter, and Susan Szasz will keep up to date on that issue. CITIZEN'S CONCERNS Issac Beer spoke on the proposed Commonland Community development on the site adjacent to the City watershed. He indicated that the Ithaca Town Planning Board hasn't required an Environmental Impact Statement. All the environmental concerns were deferred until the final approval of the plan was to be made by the Ithaca Town Planning Board. Some of the issues were concerning the sewage and drainage problems. There was also concern about the type of chemicals used to treat the wooden frame of the building foundation. Motion The CAC requests that an Environmental Impact Statement be completed for the Commonland Community development proposal, because of its size and proximity to the city watershed and reservoir. Copies of this request were to be sent to : EMC, BPW, the Mayor, the Ithaca Town Planning Board, the Ithaca Town Board, the Common Council, and the DEC Carried Unanimously ROAD SALTING The salt committee met with Don Kinsella and Jack Dougherty. The 1976 policy is being followed. 200 -300 pounds of salt is used per mile (each application). Approximately 31000 tons per year are used by the City. The Committee is satisfied with the present policy and will present the final report by August. RECYCLING TASK FORCE A su committee was formed to prepare an education program for the city to focus on recycling Chairman Banks also said that the Task Force needs to be re- evaluated in terms of the newly passed Bottle Bill. -2- HYDROPOWER UPDATE Richard Banks presented a summary of developments regarding the hydropower proposals. The City must decide within the next month whether to proceed with development of its own application. WILCOX PRESS UPDATE Dan Hoffman gave an update on the Wilcox Press situation. DEC has levied a $10,000 fine on Wilcox Press for operating six new color presses without a permit. $7,500 of that fine will be forgiven if Wilcox Press installs pollution control devices. It has been requested that they install 60 foot stacks that will get the fumes up higher than they are now. DEC's toxicity tests of the ink and solvents used show that they do not represent a threat to anyone's health. However, residents claim that the smoke should have been tested. The 60 foot stacks shoulc cause greater dispersal of pollutants. STREET TREES Chairman Banks suggested a cooperative effort with Circle Greenway to educate the public about tree care, and policies. A committee was formed with Arthur Pratt and Margaret Woods. SEWAGE PRETREATMENT PLANT There is no new information on the sewage pretreatment plant. RAILROAD RIGHT OF WAY Conrail is intereste in abandoning their right of way in the southwest corner of Ithaca. The Finger Lakes Parks Commission is interested in acquiring it. Dan Hoffman said the City might have an interest in using it for utilities and recreational purposes. 1983 BUDGET RicharcBanks and Dan Hoffman will prepare a proposal, since a request will need to be made by August 1, 1982. NEW MEMBER It was mentioned that next month, a new member will be joining the Board; Ms. Susan Neimeth. She will be going before the Common Council on July 7, 1982 for approval. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned. 4 ,CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL ;CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK Regular Meeting July 21, 1982 PRESENT: Commissioners (7) - Carpenter, Erickson, Neimeth, Pratt, Reeves, Szasz, Woods Council Liaisons (2) - Hoffman, Schuler Guests - Jerold & Claudia Weisburd, Elizabeth Mulholland, and approximately 12 other members of the public and the media ABSENT: Commissioners (2) - Banks, Brown MINUTES e minutes of the June 16, 1982 meeting were approved. COMMONLAND PRESENTATION Jerold $ Clau is Weis urd gave a presentation on the proposed Commonlands housing development. The benefits of the building arrangements were cited, such as the cluster arrangement, the energy conservation, and the low cost. There would be 9 clusters, and each cluster would form a neighborhood, and have a sense of geographic identity. The Commmmonlands would hope to attract small and /or single parent families. Additionally, there would be an ll member Community Council, which would meet every 6 weeks to deal with overall community issues. The Council discussed environmental concerns. Members of the public also challenged the accuracy of the cost projections. The CAC will send a letter to the Ithaca Town Planning Board with specific areas of concern, that the CAC feels shold be addressed in the Environmental Impact Statement. CIRCLE GREENIVAY Elizabeth Mulholland gave the report on Circle Greenway. Circle Greenway, an actual pathway around the City of Ithaca, was started in 1975. The area(8Z miles long) was built to highlight, as a walkway, the great features of the City of Ithaca. Ms. Mulholland discussed further the history and the purpose of Circle Greenway. One area of concern to the Council was the litter in the area. Ms. Mulholland also mentioned the Circumnavigator, a publication, which comes out on an irregular basis. The next issue will be concerning the Downtown Ithaca area. EMC UPDATE Since the E.M.C. has been inactive during the summer, there is no report. The next meeting will be in September. RECYCLING TASK FORCE The Educational Subcommittee has decided to change their efforts. Based on a study of Ithaca's current recycling efforts, the Committee will try to get the city to rethink their recycling program. The Subcommittee may also ask the City to start a leaf baling project. The Task Force may also decide to start a Speaker's Bureau. ROAD SALT CO'14ITTEE Linda Carpenter reported that she had received a report on a new technique used in other places called "High Pressure Brine De- icing ". With this new technique, the study showed that there is a substantial reduction in the amount of salt used. Ms. Carpenter suggested the Committee investigate this procedure further. The Committee is not "satisfied ", as the previous minutes have stated, and will need more time Interview with Frank Gardner, City Forester's office, July 20, 1982, Re: City tree - planting program Present Tree - Planting Program The ma ar portion of recent work has been planting trees in the Cherry Street Industrial Park. This work is expected to be completed this fall. City trees are replaced or planted, at times, at the request of residents. The department has also planted trees at the request of the City Planning Board. In general, decisions about sites and placement of city trees are made by Common Council. The office of city forester is vacant, so the program is carried on without professional guidance. The tree - planting budget for the present year is $4,800. Since the cost of planting one tree, including labor and materials,,is over $100, no extensive tree - planting program is under._way. Besides low financing, one drawback to a comprehensive plan of tree planting is that some residents object to having trees planted in front of their homes. ' The City Planning Board has a separate tree- planting which is handled under contract. Areas of plantin g apparently are the Board. Maintenance of City Trees There is no program of maintenance #of the trees after planting. At present, the budget does not carry an item to pay for such work. Trees planted by the City Planning Board are turned over to the city and also receive no special care. Trees planted in areas surrounded by concrete and macadam need attention, at least initially, if they are to survive. Some city residents water and fertilize trees near their properties, but this is not a general practice. Some proportion of all trees planted die relatively soon after being planted. Kinds of Trees Planted Certain features are desired in trees selected for planting, including: fast - growth, especially where old trees are replaced height; tall- growing trees are avoided as much as possible because of utility wires sturdiness; i.e., resistance to wind damage, especially when planted in residential areas (silver maples are especially vulnerable to this kind of damage) shade; e.g., locusts do not furnish much shade suitability to climage The minimum size of trees planted is 21-3 inch caliber. CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL Minutes of September 15, 1982 Meeting PRESENT: Commissioners - Rick Banks, Carol Reeves, Linda Carpenter, Susan Szasz, Susan Neimeth Common Council Liason - Dan Hoffman ABSENT: Commissioners - Margaret Woods, Arthur Pratt, William Erickson, Robt Brown Council Liason - Nancy Schuler The minutes of the 721/82 meeting were approved unanimously (No meeting in August) EMC UPDATE: Susan Szasz reported that a public hearing on using lampricides in Cayuga Lake will be scheduled. The effects of the bottle bill on solid waste sit- uation will be studied. The EMC voted 11 -2 against the East Ithaca Connector as now proposed. The Commonland development proposal will be studied by the Fish 8 Wildlife Committee. ROAD- SALTING: The Committee (Carol and Linda) is still studying the problem. Linda said the high pressure salt brine method uses less salt than present tech- nique. Committee met with Council member Elva Holman, who suggested that CAC let Common Council deal with the Dept. of Public Works on this issue. Elva wants moni- toring of salt use and a raised public awareness of the problems with salt. Suggestions for committee: Prepare a report for Common Council that clearly defines the problem, analyzes current salt use, and proposes future policy; conduct a pub- lic hearing. RECYCLING: The Recycling Task Force needs assistance but can't get it from City departments. A work study student is available from Cornell, through the CIVITAS program, if the sponsoring agency will contribute 5% of the student's salary - about $70. Susan Szasz proposed that the CAC allocate up to $70 from its 1982 budget to cover the cost of a work study student for the Recycling Task Force. Motion was approved unanimously. COMMONLAND: Letter from CAC to Ithaca Town Planning Board, asking them to require an Environmental Impact Statement for the Commonland development proposal was sent by Dan Hoffman after the July CAC meeting. The developers then wrote to the Town Planning Board objecting to the process used by the CAC to arrive at its recommendation. Members present agreed that debate at the July meeting should have been more strictly controlled, but did not want to alter their position on the EIS. BUDGET FOR 1983: The proposed CAC 1983 budget, as submitted by Dan Hoffman, was approved unanimously by CAC members. It will now be reviewed by the Mayor and Common Council. PROCEDURES FOR PUBLIC COMMENT: Rick Banks suggested the establishment of rules for public participation at CAC meetings: # A 15- minute public comment period will be offered at the beginning of each meeting. If a presentation is made during the meeting, public comment will be at the discretion of the chair; if comment is allowed, there will be a 5- minute limit, and one statement per person. SEAR ORDINANCE: The City has been notified that part of its SEAR ordinance is based on state legislation no longer valid. Dan suggested that the CAC review it and recommend changes. Subcommittee will work on it: Rick, Susan Szasz, Dan. -4-- CONSERVATION ADNZSORY COUNCIL -CITY OF ITHACa, NEW YORK Regular Meeting October 20, 1982 PRESENT: Commissioners (6)- Banks, Szasz Woods, Pratt, Carpenter, Reeves Council*Liaison(1) - Hoffman Others: Paul Tavelli, Carolyn Peterson, media ABSENT: Commissioners (3) - Brown, Neimeth, Erickson Council Liaison (1) - Schuler RECYCLING TASK FORCE Susan Szasz reported that a work -study student had been hired. Additionally, the Common Council has passed a resolution of support, requesting CAC,BPW, and DPW cooperation in the development of a cost - effective city wide recycling system. EMC Update Ms. Szasz reported that the SEQR workshops will be scheduled soon. The Committee also examined the Commonland issue, and said that it's a zoning issue, and that the City should have a clearer position on the Watershed area. Also, the Air & Water Committee says the City hydropower plan is the best environmentally. SILTATION PONDS The Department of Environmental Conservation is requiring the City to build siltation basins in the Wildflower Preserve area, because the filtration plant doesn't remove all the silt. The CAC discussed the fact that this project would be expensive. da ra more Csiltathan stheafiltr filtration plant putsoba klin.asThe,State has its' clams p agreed to reconsider. N.Y.S. CONFERENCE A motion was ma e authorizing up to $100.00 for Dan Hoffman's expenditure at the N.Y.S. Conference on the Environment in Albany, New York on October 22 -24, 1982. The motion was moved by Cormnissioner Pratt, and seconded by Commissioner Carpenter. The motion was passed unanimously. CHAIRPERSON'S MEETING It was -reported that the Industrial Waste Pre - treatment committee is not active at this time. The Mayor suggests combining the Recycling Task Force with the Conservation Advisory Council. However, Susan Szasz and Dan Hoffman believe this merger would be premature. HYDROPOWER PLANT It appears that the Planning Department has new information, that the City has less time than it thought to respond on the Six -Mile Creek issue. ROAD SALTING date ort on the road salting Commissioners' Reeves and Carpenter gave an up re p situation. The report submitted includes the amount of salt used in the past 8 years, weather athe road salting. Also houldesalt usesbeael minated in the DPW should monitor Flats area? CONSERVATION AD`v'ISORY COUNCIL CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK Regular Meeting November 17, 1982 PRESENT: Comssioners (7)- Carpenter, Pratt, Woods, Reeves, Bank, Szasz mi Council Liaison (1) - Hoffman ABSENT: Cor issioners (3) - Erickson, Brown, Neimeth Council Liaison (1) - Schuler MINUTES: The minutes of the October 20, 1982 meeting were approved with the following correction: the last word mentioned under the heading of Wilcox Press, should be equipment instead of laws. Announcements: 1. The first meeting of Advisory Council on Industrial Sewage Pre - treatment of which, Mr. Richard Banks is a member, has been scheduled. 2.- The City Attorney & the City Engineer are both looking into the Comonland issue, and the City Attorney will be talking about the resolution passed at the last meeting. 3. Public Hearings have been set on Sewage Sledge use on farmlands. EMC Update The EMC is looking into the roadsalt issue, and the use of brine. Ms. Carol Reeves will attend the next meeting on behalf of the CAC to discuss the salt and brine issues. hEMBERSHIP Concern over the absenteeism of several CAC members was discussed. Dan Hoffman reported that Wm. Erickson has resigned. Also, Robert Brown has missed 7 of the last 8 meetings, and Susan Neimeth has missed the last two meetings. A motion was passed unanimously requesting Chairman Banks to inform Mayor Shaw of the problem with absenteeism and its effect on CAC usefulness. It was also mentioned that the CAC has a requirement that at least one person under 21, serve on the Council. NYS ENVIRONMENT CONFERENCE REPORT Dan Hoffman gave a report on the 1982 Conference on the Environment, which he attended in Albany, New York. He attended workshops on Water Quality, use of the CAC Manual, Hydropower, Toxic Wastes, the Bottle Bill, and Solid Wastes. Dan found the manual to have some very useful information on CAC responsibilities, and it also explains how the CAC is supposed to function. A copy of the manual will be passed from member to member starting with Rick Banks, so that each member has a chance to study it. Information was also distributed on open space inventories; and Mr. iioffman received a copy of the N.Y.S. Conservation Committee News. CAC Budget An outline of the 1982 Budget was presented showing allocated amounts /spent amounts/ and remaining amounts. Discussion also focused on the fact that any PRELIMINARY PROPOSAL OF THE CITY OF ITHACA RECYCLING TASK FORCE +� FOR PLANNING OF A RECYCLING PROGRAM IN THE CITY OF ITHACA November 1, 1982 OUTLINE I INTRODUCTION Purpose - Recycling in Ithaca Conditions - Cost Effective Model - Batavia, New York Refuse Derived Fuel - Study II SOURCE SEPARATION Separation in Household or Business Placed for.Collection III COLLECTION Materials Placed at Curb Collection Same Day as Garbage Collection Materials From Curb to Processing Center IV MATERIALS PROCESSING Processing at City Owned Site Processing Performed by Challenge or by Contractor Processing Could Include Several Activities 'V MARKETING - Many Possible Materials for Marketing Market Prices List of Prices From Several Firms Transport Costs Need For Contracts With Firms Revenue Versus Costs VI LANDFILL COSTS Present and Anticipated Cost Tipping Fee VII REFUSE DERIVED FUEL City to Study Program to Include Investigation and Study VIII COOPERATION: TASK FORCE AND DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS IX AGENDA 9 z - kECYCLING PROGRAM v I INTRODUCTION The purpose of this document is to begin to set forth proposals which ro will eventually lead to a recycling p ram for the City of Ithaca. Common $ Council has requested that the Recycling Task Force, Department of Public Works, the Board of Public Works, and the Conservation Advisory Commission cooperate in planning such a program. Common Council has further stipulated that such a program should be "cost effective." This document may be considered as a supplement to the Task Force's xeport of September 1981. This document sets forth a general plan for a program of source separation and recycling for the City as a basis for study and planning by the Task Force and the Department of Public Works. This program is largely based on a program in operation in Batavia, New York which has been rather success- ful in recycling materials from household refuse, and has also been largely cost effective. Further, the Task Force proposes that the City should investigate the possibility of recovering energy from municipal- ref use in the form of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF). II SOURCE SEPARATION Source separation is separation of recyclable materials before they enter the municipal waste stream. This means, essentially, that materials to d in the household or business before collection. be recycled would be separate Such separation involves placing recyclable materials in different containers, bags, or bundles. These materials would then be placed for collection in the same manner as for normal trash. The effectiveness of a source separation program is largely dependent upon the rate of participation in the community at large. To help ensure an acceptable participation rate the City should adopt an ordinance making source separation of refuse mandatory. The level of enforcement of such an ordinance is to be judged by the proper authorities. Further, a program of education about source separation and recycling is seen as an essential feature of the overall recycling plan. Public awareness of the benefits of source separation and recycling will help maintain participation rates. 4 RECYCLING PROGRAM ' Operations which might be conducted at a recycling/ processing center. include: - Paper baling - Metals sorting - Glass sorting - Can :crushing - Glass crushing - Containerizing of materials Bottle tab removal - Loading /unloading trucks V MARKETING _ then market many refuse materials. It is possible to recycle and Possible materials for this program in Paper (newsprint, corrugated, ledger) Glass (color mixed or color sorted) Aluminum - Steel (scrap or tinned cans) eries of up- to -date prices for each of It is vitally important that a s the above commodities be assembled. These prices should be solicited cited Department of Public Works. Prices for. these materials should ke from many firms which handle recycled materials. This marfirmsrmight should also e conducted locally, as well as Statewide. Some out -of -state be contacted, especially in regard to tinned cans. Further, the City should determine the price of.transport to non -local in order to determine transportation costs of materials: The City firms term contracts should also investigate the possibility of negotiating long - with firms desiring to purchase recyclable materials. Such contracts should include guaranteed price floors as well as obligations by the firm to purchase the amount of material which the City can deliver. Such a contract is necessary to insure adequate revenues from recycled materials. luded, it will be Once such marketing investigations have been conc necessary to produce figures estimating probable costs and revenues of this program.. This will be necessary in planning for a "cost effective" recycling estimated, more program. Once costs and revenues have been more closely of both the Depart- detailed planning may take place, with the particip ment of Public Works and the Task Force. F] `.RECYCLING PROGRAM i VII. We therefore wish to stress that if an RDF system cannot be fully planned before a materials recycling system, then the latter system should not be delayed on account of the former. This is not meant to deemphasiz so plan, but rather to state that either program-should be implemented as on as is possible and practical. CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCII. Regular Meeting March 16, 1982 PRESENT Commissioners (5) Carpenter, Niemeth, Perko, Pratt, Woods Council Liaison members (2) Hoffman, Schuler ABSENT Commissioners (2) Banks, Szasz The meeting was called to order by Commissioner Perko, Acting Chairman, at 7:30 PM in the Conference Room. Minutes: Minutes of the previous meeting were approved, Commissioner Pratt abstaining. ANNOUNCE14aN TS Comm. Woods reported the Circle Greenway, Ithaca Garden Club, and several other groups would like CAC support in their opposition to the proposed use of the Memorial Crabapple Tree Orchard near Floral Avenue for community gardens this spring. Action was deferred until further information about the issue could be obtained. Council Liaison Hoffman will contact various agencies involved in the matter and, if possible, arrange for a presentation before the CAC.,_. SEQR REVISIONS A motion was made, seconded, and passed to approve in concept and in general the changes in the city's environmental quality review ordinance proposed by the CAC Committee on SEQR Revisions, with the right reserved to make further suggestions, particularly with respect to the protection of local landmarks, after further study. 'It was the sense of the meeting that the SEQR revisions would be discussed again at th e April meeting. CITY SPRAYING POLICY Council Liaison Hoffman reported that the Board of Public Works is in the process of preparing a written policy for chemical spraying in the city. Hoffman has presented a list of suggestions for developing a city policy on chemical use to the Board of Public Works (copy attached). During the discussion of the suggestions, Comm. Pratt recommended that experts on chemicals be called upon to assess and make recomendations on chemicals to be used in spraying. A motion was made, seconded, and passed that the CAC support Hoffman's suggestions and any further steps needed to develop and implement a formal, written policy governing tree spraying in Ithaca. Hoffman will obtain a copy of the Ithaca School District policy on spraying for the Council. SIX MILE CREEK Comm. Perko stated that Mayor Shaw will set up a task force of representatives from local groups with an interest in Six Mile Creek. This task force will study and make recommendations concerning openess of the area, present overuse, pond siltation, watershed protection, and other major concerns related to the area. ADJOURNMENT Kieeting adjourned at 9 PM. the next meeting will be held in the Conference Room at City Hall on Wednesday, April 20, 1983, at 7:30 PM. March 28, 1983 Margaret Woods 1 �6) Acting Secretary CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK Regular Meeting April 21, 1982 PRESENT: Commissioners (6) - Banks, Carpenter, Pratt, Reeves, Szasz, Sheffield (late) Council Liaison (1) - Hoffn:1,.n ABSEPi'I' Commissioners (2) - Brown, Woods Council Liaison (1) - Schuler NEW MEMBER Carol Reeves was introduced as a new member to the Council. The meeting was called to order at 7:30 P.M. MINUTES By Comm. Pratt: Seconded by Comm. Carpenter RESOLVED, That the Minutes of the March 29, 1981 meeting be approved, Carried E.M.C. Update Comm. Szasz reported that the major item that the E.M.C. discussed that related to the Council's business, was the hydropower plant. She commented that the E.M.C. will probably make a statement on the hydropower plant issue very soon. Although, she was not at the meeting, she can circulate the minutes. Hydropower Update Comm. Banks gave a report on the Hydropower Commission meeting. According to Comm. Banks, the Commission has finished the first phase and the following recommendations were approved: 1) recommend that the city file a "protest" objecting to the construction as currently proposed by Synergics and Cornell 2) recommend that the city file a letter of intent with the F.E.R.C. to develop a site under city management 3) recommend that the city locate a design engineer 4) recommend that the city begin to 4egotiate with Cornell . either -land or water rights or some kind of joint venture Comm. Banks then gave a report from the environmental subcommittee of the Hydropower Commission. The subcommittee was not satisfied with the 30 cubic foot per second flow rate over the falls; the subcommittee proposed 50 cubic foot per second flow rate. The subcommittee also expressed concern on the effect on fish and insect life, and that the development of the plant would impede access to the falls. For the most part, the Hydropower Commission agreed with the environmental subcommittee's report. The Hydropower Commission drew up a "preferred design plan ", which will be presented to the Planning and Development Board. The plan incorporated the major areas of concern pointed out in the environmental report - scenic impact, aquatic life, public access, and the safety and noise considerations. Discussion continued on the proposed hydropower plant at Fall Creek. Chairman Banks said that hydropower was considered a cleaner, more cost efficient use -2- -of electricity, and that it was hoped that hydropower would serve to lessen the need for nuclear power. Chairman Banks also commented that a smaller plant would not change most concerns e.g., noise, safety, access to the falls, and visual impact. Mr. Banks also felt that the flow over the falls was probably the most important issue, but that the Commission could not get a consensus on that issue, since no one knew what the effect of the reduced flow would be. If the city does decide to file a letter of intent, Chairman Banks felt that the Council should comment on matters of conservation, rather than economic matters. RECYCLING TASK FORCE Susan Szasz reported that the Task Force will continue as the Common Council has authorized. Chairman Banks reported that the Council also gave the Task Force some new and continuing tasks, and that any help from the CAC would be welcomed. The intent of the Task Force now is to go over the recommendations made last fall and to finalize this report. Susan Szasz also reported that she and Robert Brown would continue as liaisons to the Recycling Task Force. ROWT.R.. RTT.T. Daniel Hoffman gave a report on the status of the Bottle Bill. The Conservation Council, at their last meeting passed a recommendation asking the Common Council to endorse the bottle bill. The Council tabled the bill, mostly because of concerns from the Mayor. Since then, the Mayor has decided that he is in favor of the bill, and Mr. Hoffman does not see any problem with the endorsement going through the Council next month. Mr. Hoffman also reported that he had done research on the bill and the exact wording shows that there are only two bills under consideration: 1) deposit legislation and 2) litter control ROAD SALTING Chairman Banks gave a report on the road salting. He informed the Council that six years ago the CAC drafted guidelines for road salting in Ithaca. The important issue, Chairman Banks said, was how salt is used in the community so that it is both effective and minimal. He suggested that a subcommittee be formed which would have the following tasks: 1) to have the guidelines mailed to the members of the Council 2) to review and draft a proposal as to whether they wish to modify the guidelines, and 3) to draft a statement expressing the Council's renewed desire to make sure these guidelines are adhered to and 4) to develop a monitoring mechanism. The results from this subcommitteew�ll be presented to the Board of Public Works first, and then to the Common Council. Daniel Hoffman made the suggestion that Elva Holman and Nancy Schuler be invited to join the,sub- committee also. NEW BUSINESS SNA,np TRT'.F.q Arthur Pratt brought up the matter of shade trees; that many trees (esp. maples) near Maple Grove Drive, have been eaten by grey squirrels. He suggested that more trees be planted there to replace the dying trees. Daniel Hoffman told the Council that there used to be a city forester, but that position was being eliminated. Mr. Hoffman also added that the Council could get the report on the city's role in the care, maintenance, and planting of trees. Chairman Banks said that he could contact his neighbor who had made a film on city involvement in tree planting. Mr. Banks would try to arrange for the film. 1 The subcommittee was formed, consisting of Carol Reeves and Linda Carpenter. -3- TELEVISION TOWER -SOUTH HILL Chairman Banks told the Council that the FCC has authorized UHF TV channel - 52. The company has filed for a license and they want to put an antenna on the South ` Side Fuel Company. It would emit microwave radiation that is considered dangerous up to 600 feet, but acceptable at 1900 feet. There are 3 factories and apartments near there. Chairman Banks will do more research and present the report to the Council. He will also find out if the CAC is the appropriate vehicle to address the issue. SCAVENGIVG ISSUE Carol Reeves said that the Mayor noted that the law is on the books, and if we don't want the law we should get rid of it, and if we do want the law, it should be enforced. Chairman Banks thought of it as a non - issue, and hopes it will go away. Daniel Hoffman said that once garbage is on the streets, it apparently belongs to the city. NUCLEAR FREEZE QUESTION Linda Carpenter asked if the CAC wanted to address the issue of the nuclear freeze. Daniel Hoffman said that the Common Council did, in November or December, endorse action favoring a nuclear freeze. Chairman Banks said that he didn't think that this is an appropriate place. ADJOURNMENT: By Comm. Reeves: Seconded by Comm. Carpenter On a motion the meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Susan Szasz, Recording Secretary CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK Regular Meeting June 1.6, 1982 PRESENT: Commissioners (6) - Szasz, Woods, Banks, Pratt, Reeves, Sheffield Council Liaison (1) - Hoffman Guests - Issac Beer, media, Don Kinsella ABSENT: Commissioners (2)- Brown, Carptenter Council Liaison (1) - Schuler MINUTES The minutes of the May 19, 1982 meeting were approved, after the following correction: the date of the meeting should be May 19, 1982 instead of April 21, 1982. ANNOUCEMENTS Governor Carey signed the Bottle Bill. It is hoped that 5.000 new jobs will be created, and that litter and solid wastes will be reduced because of the new bill. In addition, the T.V. antenna application on the South Hill Tower has either been withdrawn or denied. It was mentioned that several people protested it. EMC UPDATE The BBC voted 10 -8 in favor of lampricide use in Cayuga Lake. The CAC needs more informa- tion on this matter, and Susan Szasz will keep up to date on that issue. CITIZEN'S CONCERNS Issac Beer spo e on the proposed Commonland Community development on the site adjacent to the City watershed. He indicated that the Ithaca Town Planning Board hasn't required an Environmental Impact Statement. All the environmental concerns were deferred until the final approval of the plan was to be made by the Ithaca Town Planning Board. Some of the issues were concerning the sewage and drainage problems. There was also concern about the type of chemicals used to treat the wooden frame of the building foundation. Motion The CAC requests that an Environmental Impact Statement be completed for the Commonland Community development proposal, because of its size and proximity to the city watershed and reservoir. Copies of this request were to be sent to : EMC, BPW, the Mayor, the Ithaca Town Planning Board, the Ithaca Town Board, the Common Council, and the DEC Carried Unanimously ROAD SALTING The salt committee met with Don Kinsella and Jack Dougherty. The 1976 policy is being followed. 200 -300 pounds of salt is used per mile (each application). Approximately 3,000 tons per year are used by the City. The Committee is satisfied with the present policy and will present the final report by August. RECYCLING TASK FORCE A subcommittee was formed to prepare an education program for the city to focus on recyclin! Chairman Banks also said that the Task Force needs to be re- evaluated in terms of the newly passed Bottle Bill. CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL '.CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK Regular Meeting July 21, 1982 PRESENT: Commissioners (7) - Carpenter, Erickson, Neimeth, Pratt, Reeves, Szasz, Woods Council Liaisons (2) - Hoffman, Schuler Guests - Jerold & Claudia Weisburd, Elizabeth Mulholland, and approximately 12 other T embers of the public and the media ABSENT: Commissioners (2) - Banks, Brown MINUTES The minutes of the June 16, 1982 meeting were approved. COMMONLAND PRESENTATION Jerold & Claudia Weisburd gave a presentation on the proposed Commonlands housing development. The benefits of the building arrangements were cited, such as the cluster arrangement, the energy conservation, and the low cost. There would be 9 clusters, and each cluster would form a neighborhood, and have a sense of geographic identity. The Commonlands would hope to attract small and /or single parent families. Additionally, there would be an 11 member Community Council, which would meet every 6 weeks to deal with overall community issues. The Council discussed environmental concerns. Members of the public also challenged the accuracy of the cost projections. The CAC.will send a letter to the Ithaca Town Planning Board with specific areas of concern, that the CAC feels sh6ld be addressed in the Environmental Impact Statement.- CIRCLE GREENVAY Elizabeth Mulholland gave the report on Circle Greenway. Circle Greenway, an actual pathway around the City of Ithaca, was started in 1975. The area(8Z miles long) was built to highlight, as a walkway, the great features of the City of Ithaca. Ms. Mulholland discussed further the history and the .purpose of Circle Greenway. One area of concern to the Council was the litter in the area. Ms. Mulholland also mentioned the Circumnavigator, a publication, which comes out on an irregular basis. The next issue will be concerning the Downtown Ithaca. area. EMC UPDATE Since the E.M.C. has been inactive during the summer, there is no report. The next meeting will be in September. RECYCLING TASK FORCE The Educational Subcommittee has decided to change their efforts. Based on a study of Ithaca's current recycling efforts, the Committee will try to get the city to rethink their recycling program. The Subcommittee may also ask the City to start a leaf baling project. The Task Force may also decide to start a Speaker's Bureau. ROAD SALT COMMITTEE Linda Carpenter reported that she had received a report on a new technique used in other places called "High Pressure Brine De- icing ". With this new technique, the study showed that there is a substantial reduction in the amount of salt used. Ms. Carpenter suggested the Committee investigate this procedure further. The Committee is not "satisfied ", as the previous minutes have stated, and will need more time .(September) for a final report. Arthur Pratt will distribute literature on salt damage to those who drive salt trucks. SHADE TREES Arthur Pratt and Margaret Woods met with Frank Gardiner of the D.P.W. The major work, currently being done, is the Cherry Street Industrial Park; Fourty -eight hundred dollars will be used from the 1982 Budget, which amounts to at least $100.00 per tree. At the present time, there is no comprehensive plan, or maintencnce program. The CAC could help with public education. 1983 BUDGET Dan Hoffman is authorized to submit a $750.00 request, with an emphasis on education. ADJOURNMENT On a motion, the meeting was adjourned. Interview with Frank Gardner, City Forester's office, July 20, 1982, Re: City tree - planting program Present Tree - Planting Program .The major portion of recent wo=k has been planting trees in the Cherry Street Industrial Park. This work is expected to be completed this fall. City trees are replaced or planted, at times, at the request of residents. The department has also planted trees at the request of the City Planning Board. In general, decisions about sites and placement of city trees are made by Common Council. The office of city forester is vacant, so the program is carried on without professional guidance. The tree - planting budget for the present year is $4,800. Since the cost of planting one tree, including labor and materials, is over $100, no extensive tree - planting program is under way. Besides low financing, one drawback to a comprehensive plan of tree planting is that some residents object to having trees planted in front of their homes. - The City Planning Board has a separate tree - planting program, which is handled under contract. Areas of planting apparently are selected by the Board. Maintenance of City Trees There is no program of maintenance dtof the trees after planting. At present, the budget does not carry an item to pay for such work. Trees planted by the City Planning Board are turned over to the city and also receive no special care. Trees planted in areas surrounded by concrete and macadam need attention, at least initially, if they are to survive. Some city residents water and fertilize trees near their properties, but this is not a general practice. Some proportion of all trees planted die relatively soon after being planted. Kinds of Trees Planted Certain features are desired in trees selected for planting, including: fast - growth, especially where old trees are replaced height; tall - growing trees are avoided as much as possible because of utility wires sturdiness; i.e., resistance to wind damage, especially when planted in residential areas (silver maples are especially vulnerable to this kind of damage) shade; e.g., locusts do not furnish much shade suitability to climage The minimum size of trees planted is 22 -3 inch caliber. 2 The principal types of trees being planted now include: Norway maple Blue ash Little -leaf linden Horse chestnuts --only a few because of litter Flowering Japanese cherry trees, in a few areas -- provide a beautiful display in spring; seem to be suited to the climate; and are sturdy- -have grown when replanted after being vandalized Oaks- -only a few because oaks from nurseries do not thrive (in contrast to the hardy indigenous oaks) Other types might be suitable if they could be kept trimmed until they grow beyong the utility wires. The department does not favor planting evergreens along streets; they rapidly become traffic hazards unless trimmed regularly. Gypsy Moth Caterpillar Control The present control plan is to begin early next spring and spray trees throughout the city. Advance warning will be given before spraying in any area. Sevin will probably be the kind of spray used. This program will be expensive but, if uncontrolled, the infestation is expected to be worse and more damaging next year. This year, city spraying to control gypsy moths concentrated largely on young trees and trees in city parks. New York State, Tompkins County, and Cotton - Hanlon Company of Odessa had agreed upon a county spraying program earlier this year but the plan was not carried out. Residents along East Shore Drive arranged and financed private spraying by airplane over the East Shore area, which is.believed to have been successful. Suggestions for the Committee When asked how this committee could help in the area of tree planting, Mr. Gardner suggested that city residents be made aware of the need for tree planting, especially for.��replacement of some of the older trees that may have become hazards in residential areas. Residents should likewise be advised that their suggestions and ideas will be welcomed by the department. The department would also be interested in a project to replace the old silver maples along Ithaca Road. Arthur J. Pratt rlargaret E. Woods Shade -Tree Committee CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL Minutes of September 150 1982 Meeting PRESENT: Commissioners - Rick Banks, Carol Reeves, Linda Carpenter, Susan Szasz, Susan Neimeth Common Council Liason - Dan Hoffman ABSENT: Commissioners - Margaret Woods, Arthur Pratt, William Erickson, Robt Brown Council Liason - Nancy Schuler The minutes of the 7/21/82 meeting were approved unanimously (No meeting in August) EMC UPDATE: Susan Szasz reported that a public hearing on using lampricides in Cayuga Lake will be scheduled. The effects of the bottle bill on solid waste sit- uation will be studied. The EMC voted 11 -2 against the East Ithaca Connector as now proposed. The Commonland development proposal will be studied by the Fish 8 Wildlife Committee. ROAD- SALTING: The Committee (Carol and Linda) is still studying the problem. Linda said the high pressure salt brine method uses less salt than present tech- nique. Committee met with Council member Elva Holman, who suggested that CAC let Common Council deal with the Dept. of Public Works on this issue. Elva wants moni- toring of salt use and a raised public awareness of the problems with salt. Suggestions for committee: Prepare a report for Common Council that clearly defines the problem, analyzes current salt use, and proposes future policy; conduct a pub- lic hearing. RECYCLING: The Recycling Task Force needs assistance but can't get it from City departments. A work study student is available from Cornell, through the CIVITAS program, if the sponsoring agency will contribute 5% of the student's salary - about $70. Susan Szasz proposed that the CAC allocate up to $70 from its 1982 budget to cover the cost of a work study student for the Recycling Task Force. Motion was approved unanimously. COl4+MONLAND: Letter from CAC to Ithaca Town Planning Board, asking them to require an Environmental Impact Statement for the Commonland development proposal_ was sent by Dan Hoffman after the July CAC meeting. The developers then wrote to the Town Planning Board objecting to the process used by the CAC to arrive at its recommendation. Members present agreed that debate at the July meeting should have been more strictly controlled, but did not want to alter their position on the EIS. BLIDGET FOR 1983: The proposed CAC 1983 budget, as submitted by Dan Hoffman, was approved unanimously by CAC members. It will now be reviewed by the Mayor and Common Council. PROCEDURES FOR PUBLIC COMMENT: Rick Banks suggested the establishment of rules for public participation at CAC meetings: NA A 15- minute public comment period will be offered at the beginning of each meeting. If a presentation is made during the meeting, public comment will be at the discretion of the chair; if comment is allowed, there will be a 5- minute limit, and one statement per person. SECS? ORDINANCE: The City has been notified that part of its SEAR ordinance is based on state legislation no longer valid. Dan suggested that the CAC review it and recommend changes. Subcommittee will work on it: Rick, Susan Szasz, Dan. CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL -CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK Regular Meeting October 20, 1982 PRESENT: Commissioners (6)- Banks, Szasz Woods, Pratt, Carpenter, Reeves Council- Liaison(1) - Hoffman Others: Paul Tavelli, Carolyn Peterson, media ABSENT: Commissioners (3) - Brown, Neimeth, Erickson Council Liaison (1) - Schuler RECYCLING TASK FORCE Susan Szasz reported that a work -study student had been hired. Additionally, the Common Council has passed a resolution of support, requesting CAC,BPW, and DPW cooperation in the development of a cost- effective city wide recycling system. EMC Update Ms. Szasz reported that the SEQR workshops will be scheduled soon. The Committee also examined the Commonland issue, and said that it's a zoning issue, and that the City should have a clearer position on the Watershed area. Also, the Air & Water Committee says the City hydropower plan is the best environmentally. SILTATION PONDS Me- Department of Environmental Conservation is requiring the City to build siltation basins in the Wildflower Preserve area, because the filtration plant doesn't remove all the silt. The CAC discussed the fact that this project would be expensive. The City argues that it shouldn't have to build basins, because its' dams trap more silt than the filtration plant puts back in. The State has agreed to reconsider. N.Y.S.-CONFERENCE A motion was made authorizing up to $100.00 for Dan Hoffman's expenditure at the N.Y.S. Conference on the Environment in Albany, New York on October 22 -24, 1982. The motion was moved by Commissioner Pratt, and seconded by Commissioner Carpenter. The motion was passed unanimously. CHAIRPERSON'S MEETING It was reported at the Industrial Waste Pre - treatment committee is not active at this time. The Mayor suggests combining the Recycling Task Force with the Conservation Advisory Council. However, Susan Szasz and Dan Hoffman believe this merger would be premature. HYDROPOWER PLANT It appears that the Planning Department has new information, that the City has less time than it thought to respond on the Six -Mile Creek issue. ROAD SALTING Commissioners' Reeves and Carpenter gave an update report on the road salting situation. The report submitted includes the amount of salt used in the past 8 years, weather data, and recommendations. The question was raised as to whether DPIV should monitor the road salting. Also should salt use be eliminated in the Flats area? Conservation Advisory Council WILCOX PRESS page 2 Paul Tavelli, the City Attorney gave a report on the status of the Wilcox out Press fumes. According to Mr. Tavelli, DEC does not know what's co to test of the stacks, and it has been estimated that it would cost $300, the fumes. The City Ordinance is considered "archaic ". and needs to be updated, with standards included. Mr. Tavelli would not -recommend that the City go to Court before December, which is the deadline for the installation of air pollution laws. SIX MILE CREEK Carolyn Peterson of the Six Mile Creek Preservation Committee gave a presentation. She said that the Committee wants the City to take steps to protect the watershed area; by declaring it a critical natural area. (Note: ERIC has already declared it • unique natural area.) Any construction near a critical area would be declared • Type I Action. By Comm. Carpenter: Seconded by Comm. Reeves Resolved, that the CAC requests the City Attorney to find out what steps are necessary to declare the watershed a critical area? What are the implications? What is the relationship between the Citv and the Town in making such a declaration? Carried Unanimously CONSERVATION AD`v'ISORY COUNCIL CITY OF ITH.ACN, NEW YORK Regular Meeting November 17, 1982 PRESENT: Commissioners (7)- Carpenter, Pratt, Woods, Reeves, Banks, Szasz Council Liaison (1) - Hoffman ABSENT: Commissioners (3) - Erickson, Brown, Neimeth Council Liaison (1) - Schuler MINUTES: The minutes of the October 20, 1982 meeting were approved with the following correction: the last word mentioned under the heading of Wilcox Press, should be equipment instead of laws. Announcements: 1. The first meeting of Advisory Council on Industrial Sewage Pre- treatment of which, Mr. Richard Banks is a member, has been scheduled. 2. The City Attorney the City Engineer are both looking into the Commonland issue, and the City A orney will be talking about the resolution passed at the last meeting. 41 3. Public Hearings have been set on Sewage SlpIdge use on farmlands. . EMC Update The EMC is looking into the roadsalt issue, and the use of brine. Ms. Carol Reeves will attend the next meeting on behalf of the CAC to discuss the.salt and brine issues. hOMERSHIP Concern over the absenteeism of several CAC members was discussed. Dan Hoffman reported that Wm. Erickson has resigned. Also, Robert Brown has missed 7 of the last 8 meetings, and Susan Neimeth has missed the last two meetings. A motion was passed unanimously requesting Chairman Banks to inform Mayor Shaw of the problem with absenteeism and its effect on CAC usefulness. It was also mentioned that the CAC has a requirement that at least one person under 21„r serve on the Council. NYS ENVIRONMENT CONFERENCE REPORT Dan Hoffman gave a report on the 1982 Conference on the Environment, which he attended in Albany, New York. He attended workshops on Water Quality, use of the CAC Manual, Hydropower, Toxic Wastes, the Bottle Bill, and Solid Wastes. Dan found the manual to have some very useful information on CAC responsibilities, and it also explains how the CAC is supposed to function. A copy of the manual will be passed from member to member starting with Rick Banks, so that each member has a chance to study it. Information was also distributed on open space inventories; and Mr. Iioffman received a copy of the N.Y.S. Conservation Committee News. CAC Budget An outline of the 1982 Budget was presented shoring allocated amounts /spent amounts/ and remaining amounts. Discussion also focused on the fact that any monies not spent by December 31, 1982, would be turned back over to the City; or the CAC could incumber the remaining balances. To incumber the balances would mean informing the City Council that the CAC intends to use the funds for a later date in the next year. It would also mean that only one check could be written for each encumbered line item. e The 1982 Budget showed that $30.00 had been left in professional services,which the CAC could ask to incumber to pay for the services of a work -study student. Fifty (50.00) dollars is left in dues, which could be used possibly for additional magazine subscriptions. One hundred and eighty dollars ($180.00) is left in the travel category, which the CAC will try to incumber for the next year, for conferences, and field trips. The CAC also decided to request an increase in professional services; and if necessary to transfer $50.00 from printing to professional services. This request was passed unanimously: CAC's Relationship to the Energy Commission The CAC is entitled to a liaison; officially it is Richard Banks, however, he does not have the time, and neither does any of the other CAC members. The CAC will wait until new appointments have been made to name a liaison. Road Salting The final draft of the report was distributed, and it.will be submitted to the Planning & Development Committee for action. Recycling The proposal for the Recycling Study -will be distributed with the minutes for consideration at the December meeting. SF.QR Ordinance Revision Richard Banks, Susan Szasz, Dan Hoffman, and Deborah Hoard have revised ordinances to be consistent with new State regulations and have suggested some other modifi- cations. Their revisions will be distributed before the December meeting for discussion. The revisions will then be sent to the Charter and Ordinance Committee. Six Mile Creek The City of Ithaca can designate the area as a critical environmental area if it meets certain broad criteria. The City Attorney says that the City can only designate within its boundaries. The Town of Ithaca could designate the watershed area within its boundaries. The Town Supervisor has indicated an interest in doing that designation. Susan Szasz will contact the INC about the designation outside the City. Richard Banks will contact the Town of Ithaca and Jim Dennis about how the designation is done and scheduling a public hearing. Hector Land Use Area The County Board passed a resolution opposing the sale of the area. A motion was made and passed unanimously that The CAC endorses the County Board resoluti.on(with a change from the County to the CAC) and recommends the endorsement by the Common Council. The next meeting date was set for Wednesday, December 15th, at 7:30 p.m.