HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-ENV-1980ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M. March 17, 1980
PRESENT:
C airman William Burbank
Commissioners - Nancy Meltzer, John Perko, Katie Stein
Deborah Hoard
Common Council Liaison - Nancy Schuler
Jeanne Fadula - Planning Department Staff
Tom Reitz - Environmental Management Council
Chairman Burbank formally called the meeting to order at 7 :45 P.M.
MINUTES:
Minutes of the last meeting were not accepted because, on questioning,
no one had received a copy of those Minutes. Chairman Burbank said he
would find out where the Minutes are.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
C airman Bur ank announced that there will be a rally to commemorate
the first anniversary of Three Mile Island. The rally will be held on
Saturday, March 29th, at 12:00 noon, on the Ithaca Commons in front of
the CVS store. There will be speakers from all the different environ-
mental groups.
Chairman Burbank reported that this year marks the first decade for
Earth Day and that there is a mini -grant available for use on projects
that would tie in with Earth Day. Tom Reitz said he thought the amount
available was $150.00 and that applications had to be in by March 21st.
He had the information at home and would let Chairman Burbank know if
the March 21st date was correct.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS:
Chairman Burbank mentioned that the Environmental Commission business
had always been conducted by a Chairman and a Vice Chairman. He asked
if it would be better if additional officers were elected, that perhaps
that would improve the Commission's operation. He suggested that
perhaps a recording secretary might be helpful and he asked for nomina-
tions or volunteers Deborah Hoard said that she is willing to continue
to make notes.of the meetings for Hilda's use in doing the Minutes. No
one else volunteered for the job.
Comm. Perko nominated William Burbank as Chairman of the Environmental
Commission for 1980. He also nominated Deborah Hoard as Vice - Chairman.
Katie Stein seconded the nominations. No further nominations were made.
The vote was unanimous to re -elect William Burbank and Deborah Hoard.
MEETING TIME:
Chairman Burbank discussed the matter of changing the night on which
the Environmental Commission meets. Discussion was had on whether the
first Monday of the month would be a good time. The third Monday is
not a good time for Elva Holman or Nancy Schuler as they have other
City committee meetings on that night. Deborah Hoard said she would
look at the available nights and would try to get back to this subject
toward the end of the meeting. No change made at this time.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COUNCIL:
Deborah Hoard reported on the Environmental Management Council. She
stated that EMC now has an active committee that is working on the
transporting of radioactive materials, recycling, etc. That committee
has not made any decisions as yet. Also, there is going to be some
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kind of committee to advise or to get the Board of Representatives
to make a professional study of radioactive waste and recycling for
Tompkins County. Comm. Hoard stated that this was one of the things
that the Environmental Commission wanted to be very much involved with
and that some official should be decided upon to report for the
Commission on what action the County takes.
Comm. Hoard also reported on the recent shakeup in membership of the
Environmental Management Council. She stated that she was dismayed
that the Board of Representatives had removed members who were the
most active in the Council. She felt that it was a slap in the face.
There was much discussion about what happened and Chairman Burbank
wondered if the Commission could do something to let the Board of
Representatives know how the Commission feels about the action taken.
Comm. Hoard thought that perhaps the best way would be a letter to the
Editor of the Ithaca Journal saying that the Environmental Commission,
as a sister organization to EMC, deplored the action taken by the Board.
Unfortunately, all of the EMC appointments ended at the same time. The
Board wanted to create an entirely new EMC and saw the opportunity to
do it. Although the Board was entirely in its rights it still was not
the proper thing to do.
A motion was made by Comm. Hoard and seconded by Comm. Meltzer that
an open letter, for Chairman Burbank's signature, be prepared and sent
to the Ithaca Journal. That letter would be to the Tompkins County
Board of Representatives and would, contain the basic ideas that the
Environmental Commission was-dismayed by the Board's failure to
reappoint several of the hardest working members of EMC. Also, that
if the thinking and advice put forth by the Council was going to be
used against the members, the Council felt it was at a disadvantage.
Comm. Perko stated that the wording should be very carefully considered.
Tom Reitz, a guest at the meeting and also one of the members who had
not been reappointed, felt that perhaps with new members the Council
would run more smoothly. Comm. Hoard volunteered to write a letter for
Chairman Burbank'*s signature. She said she would have it ready within
a week and Comm. Perko said that he would work with-Comm. Hoard in
getting copies made, getting envelopes, stamps, etc.
WASTE TRANSPORTATION ORDINANCE:
Comm. Hoar reported that t e work.being done about whether the waste
transportation ordinance is legal or not was recently concluded and is
being written up. The people working on this are now-on Spring Break
and when the report is ready it will be submitted to the Commission
in the form of a memo. We will also have a letter from them stating
that they have taken it upon themselves to make comments on the proposed
DOT regulations on highway routing of radioactive materials. These are
the regulations they talked about that would pre -empt our ordinance.
The comments on those proposed regulations will be given to DOT by the
end of May. Comm. Hoard mentioned that the Commission is getting a
lot of good work out of these people.
Jeanne Fadula mentioned that there will be a Public Comment Hearing
in Philadelphia next Wednesday on the DOT's proposed regulations. The
Hearings will take place in five cities, Philadelphia being the closest
to Ithaca. She also mentioned that there is nothing that makes our
ordinance illegal at this point as far as Federal or State regulations
are concerned. Chairman Burbank said there was a person from Ithaca
going to the Philadelphia Hearing and that perhaps some message could
be sent along with that person with reference to the Federal government
pre- empting the ban on.transportation of radioactive waste. Comm.
Hoard felt that the Commission should wait until the end of May when
it would probably have more information on which to base any comments.
Also, Comm. Hoard moved that Jeanne Fadula be authorized to write to the
U. S. Department of Transportation to request a public hearing on pro-
posed regulations to be held in New York State at a centrally located
site, such as Syracuse. The motion was seconded by Comm. Stein and
carried unanimously.
-3- March 17, 1980
Comm. Hoard reported that she will be working with the EMC committee
on solid waste, that she expects to be involved and will keep the
Commission informed on happenings. Efforts are being made to get the
Board of Representatives to have a professional study made with refer-
ence to solid waste, that Broome County has had such a study and that
County is going to give the Commission a copy of it.
After some discussion on discharge of industrial waste into the City's
sewer system, the Commission authorized Nancy Meltzer to call Jack
Dougherty, Assistant to the Supt. of Public Works, and ask him for
the name of an appropriate speaker to attend next month's meeting and
talk about discharge of industrial waste into the City's sewer system.
John Perko mentioned that checks are made by proper authorities several
times a year to see if gas stations, etc., are in violation with
reference to discharging waste.
REPORT ON SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT:
Tom Reitz of the Tompkins County Environmental Management Council spoke
on the problem that the City has had over the years with reference to
its waste sewage treatment plant. Reitz mentioned that in 1905 the
treatment plant had been built, had been upgraded in 1938 using primary
treatment and adding chlorine, and in 1961 upgrading again by using a
trickling filter process. There is now a definite need to again up-
grade the plant and the State of New York says that the plant must be
improved.
Reitz explained the study made by Stearns & Wheler, an engineering
firm from Cazenovia, New York. Reitz mentioned all the alternative
methods of treating sewage and briefly described each method. He
showed, by pictures, where the new plant would be constructed, what
buildings presently used by the City would be salvaged and what build-
ings would have to be demolished to make way for the new construction
Mr. Reitz explained the different classes of water. On questioning,
he stated that the DEC puts the classifications on the water in this
particular area. The class of water is supposed to be rated every
three years but this requirement is not adhered to by the State. Mr.
Reitz reviewed the EMC recommendations and the reaction received from
Stearns & Wheler concerning the recommendations. Comm. Perko volun-
teered to offer his participation in the preparation of DEIS and he will
call Phil Cox, City Engineer, and tell him of his willingness to
participate.
ROAD SALTING:
There was no report or action taken on road salting. Comment was
made that fortunately this Winter salt had been used only a couple of
times and it was suggested that that agenda item he moved to another
meeting time. Comm. Hoard mentioned that the EMC is also interested
in road salting and perhaps the two committees can work together on it.
EPL MEMBERSHIP:
C airman Burbank explained that the Environmental Planning Lobby is a
state -wide group in Albany made up of commissions and non - profit
bodies who monitor environmentally related legislation. It is proposed
that the Environmental Commission become a member of that Lobby which
would enable the Commission to receive updated legislation that it
should know about. Subscription for the newsletter is $25.00; for
commission membership $50.00 and an individual can apply for member-
ship for $20.00. Comm. Hoard felt that as long as the Commission was
working as a body that the membership fee of $50.00 would be appropri-
ate. It was the consensus of the Commission members present that
this matter had been brought up at a previous meeting and it had been
decided that the Commission would apply for membership. However, to
make the record clear it was suggested that another motion be made to
•
-4- March 17, 1980
cover this item. Comm. Stein made a motion that the Environmental
Commission apply for membership in the Environmental Planning Lobby
and pay the appropriate fee of $50.00 to cover that membership. Comm.
Perko seconded the motion and it was carried unanimously.
OLD BUSINESS:
The subject of a new meeting night was again brought up. The second
Monday of each month was suggested, rather than the third. Comm.
Perko said that he could not make it at that time. Chairman Burbank
suggested that each member leave a piece of paper with him stating
the days that they cannot make a meeting. Those dates will be reviewed
and discussed at another meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 P.M.
William Burbank, Chairman
of Environmental Commission
0
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting
PRESENT:
Chairman - Burbank
Commissioners - Hoard, Perko,
Jeanne Fadula - city planning
7:30 P.M.
Pitzer, Meltzer, Stein, Fuller
staff
April 16, 1980
Chairman William Burbank called the meeting to order after spending
two hours at a.Public Hearing on the Ithaca Center project.
Bikeways Questionnaire
Chairman Burbank said that the first order of business would be the
Bikeways Questionnaire.. Chairman Burbank stated that Jeanne Fadula had
put a lot of work into the project developing it and that he had made
some modifications. He now needs 'Commission approval to go forward
to the next step which is getting it printed and circulated. Chairman
Burbank said that hopefully this step would be done within the next month
so that the Commission would start getting some feedback from bicyclist
as to how they feel about what the City can'be doing with its very limited
resources of bike money. Chairman Burbank explained that the City long
ago developed a master plan for bike paths within the City, the first
part of that plan being the signing. He stated that it had become obvious
that. this t } .. r ^d 3 Scale and that :t k=A hgn„n revicad dnan-
llla l 1111 J plan ail vvo:a vii wv g.
wards. The Commission, several months ago, decided that it would be useful
to develop a questionnaire aimed at bicyclists to see what they thought
would be the most important things for using the limited amount of money.
Would they like more tr.ails,'moresigning, bike racks on buses or other
things. Chairman Burbanks asked that someone make a motion that would allow
him to go forward with the questionnaire project.
BIKE PATHS
Chairman Burbank mentioned that it would be nice to have an official
grand opening of the bike sign route, and that May 1, 1980, had been
designated as National Bike Day.(or a similar designation). He asked
that someone present at the meeting take charge of putting something
together for that purpose, There were no volunteers and Chairman Burbank
asked that if anyone changes his or her mind on this project, to please
get in touch with him.
ITHACA CENTER
Chairman Burbank said that he was sorry that the Commission was not able
to learn more about the Ithaca Center project tonight; that the
YMCA's plan for the Ithaca Center took up most of the time and that he
did not get a chance to raise some of the questions that concerned
interested parties had asked him to ask. The point is that Common Council
is going to make a major decision on April 21st as the developer wants to
get started on the project. At some time later the developer will be doing
an environmental impact study but by that time it will be late to raise
questions or make suggestions or modifications. Chairman Burbank mentioned
that now is the time to voice any concerns that the Commission has.
On questioning, Chairman Burbank discussed some of the concerns about
which he has received telephone calls recently with reference to the Ithaca
Center project. The main concern seems to be that the public will be
giving up the open space now enjoyed by Farmers Market, the Ithaca
Festival, etc. There is a strong feeling that any open space that will
be available will not be public open space.
Another concern is the facade of the building. The present plan shows a
lot of shaded area as a result of the type building that will be constru-
cted and the wall as shown on the plan. People feel that there is already
much shaded area and it would be better if the wall could be cut back and
the Commons extended within that space. Chairman Burbank stated that the
Planning Department thinks that suggestion is reasonable.
Another complaint is that the Farmers.Market seems to have been pushed
out of the project. At first, the Market was going to be moved back just
a short ways from the Commons. Present thinking is that the Market
will be moved south towards City Hall and across from Woolworth's.
People who now purchase food from the Farmers Market to eat on.the Commons
will be less inclined to do that, feeling that the Market is too removed
from the Commons to make use of the seating and tables furnished there.
The main point is that he hopes that the Farmers Market will not be com-
pletely shoved out.
Discussion was also had on whether the building will be energy efficient.
There should be window that open so that air - conditioning is not necessary
all summer long. It was decided that Chairman Burbank write a letter to
Common Council voicing the concerns that are being discussed at the meeting
tonight.
A motion was made by Nancy Meltzer and seconded by Katie Stein that
William Burbank write a letter addressed to Common Council wherein he
states the concerns of the Environmental Commission regarding the building
to be constructed in Ithaca Center with reference to design of the building,
use and control of public open space and the location of that open space,
and the energy efficiency of the building. The motion was carried un-
animously.
1un11CTDI AI -'A CTC
1 NUUJ 1 I %1 /'lL VJn 10 1 L
Nancy Meltzer reported that she had been trying to contact Philip Cox, City
Engineer, with reference to obtaining a speaker to attend the next
meeting and talk about discharge of industrial waste into the City's sewer
system. She will keep trying and will try to arrange for that speaker
at the may 21st meeting.
NEW MEETING DAY
Chairman Burbank announced that official meeting will now be held on the
third Wednesday of every month, the next meeting being May 21st. The time
is the same.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COUNCIL REPORT
Comm. Hoard reported that she had a copy of the county's.Environmental
Management Council Report of Special Committee on redioactive materials.
If anyone wants to look at it, feel free to.ask. Comm. Hoard also mentioned
that the Council is looking for representatives to serve on Council who
live within the City and if members know of persons who might be interested,
please let her know. There are several vacancies due to recent resignations.
LEGALITY OF CITY'S BAN ON RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS
Comm. Hoard reported that a memo had been received from a group of Cornell
Law Students with reference to the legality of the City of Ithaca's recent
ordinance on transportation of radioactive materials. The ordinance
is invalid under New-York State Law. The students' opinion is that the
ordinance is invalid under NY State Law - -but that it is up to the shippers
of radioactive materials to challengzit and prove it invalid'.
REZONING
Chairman Burbank reported that the Commission had been invited to parti-
cipate in the writing of the draft EIS on the rezoning effort that has
been proposed for the City. The rezoning is in the area north of Court St.;
to make the area a commercial area. The members of the Commission unanimously
agreed that they would nit be willing to participate in writing the EIS on,,-
rezoning It was the consensus that the Planning Department should write such
an EIS. Anyone who cares to may volunteer to work on this project.
ADJOURNMENT
10:15 P.M.
William Burbank, Chairman, Environmental Commission
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M. May 21, 1980
PRESENT:
Chairman - Burbank
Commissioners (7) - Perko, Stein, Meltzer, Hoard, Schuler, Fuller, Pitzer
OTHERS PRESENT:
Earl Arnold
Jeanne Fadula
Barbara Mink (WHCU)
Pam Holme (WTKO)
Jane Marcham (Ithaca Journal)
Chairman Burbank called the meeting to order at 7:45 p.m.
I. ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Chairman Burbank announced that there would be a meeting with reference to
energy, to be held at the University of Buffalo, on May 23, 1980, if anyone
was interested in attending.
Comm. Schuler announced that she had a study to share which had been addressed
to the Planning and Development Committee and sent by Helen Wekstein of the
Cornell Law Society. The study is about the transport of radioactive
materials, with special regard to Ithaca's terrain and weather conditions, and
ways and means to look into this matter.
Comm. Schuler also presented some material on Resource Recovery Legislation,
with the bill attached. She asked those interested to take a look at it.
Comm. Holman had sent a packet of material from the Secretary of Interior on
conservation preservation and asked that members please feel free to take
copies of the available material.
II. MINUTES OF APRIL 16 MEETING:
Comm. Meltzer made a motion, seconded by Comm. Perko, approving the Minutes
of April 16, 1980, with the following corrections:
Under Legality of City's Ban on Radioactive Material, page 2, the second
-eentence should be struck. Also, in the third sentence, the words "is invalid"
should be changed to "may be invalid" and the last four words struck out.
A further correction with reference to Bikeways Survey: a motion was made by
Comm. Fuller and seconded by Comm. Pitzer that the Commission spend up to $50.00
to print and distribute a questionnaire for bikers.
III. ITHACA CENTER:
Comm. Schuler reported on the Ithaca Center project. She mentioned that the
project had been submitted to UDAG in Washington and to UDAG in New York, and
that a public hearing on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement on the
project would be held on May 29th. The Commission discussed several concerns
which they have about the project, as follow: use and conservation of energy,
public access to open space, and timing of SEQR process.
Questions were asked, and answered to the best of the knowledge of those
members present who had attended meetings, hearings, etc. Chairman Burbank
commented that he was disturbed that the SEQR process had not been followed
as fully and carefully as possible. Comm. Hoard volunteered to write a letter
to the Mayor expressing the Commission's concern over the City's rather poor
record in carrying out the SEQR process. A subcommittee of three members,
Chm. Burbank and Commissioners Pitzer and Perko, will draft a letter to the
Mayor expressing the concerns of the Commission as discussed at length at that
evening's meeting. Commissioners Hoard, Fuller and Stein will review the
letter before it is sent.
IV. SOLID WASTE:
Former Commissioner Arnold reported on an assignment that had been given him
some time ago. He had been in contact with a group of students from a Junior
High School in Brookhaven, New York, who called themselves "The Students for
Environmental Quality," who were pushing the Bottle Bill. That group asked
r..
-2- May 21, 1980
if the Environmental Commission would like to keep in touch with them on
progress of the bill. In March of this year Mr. Arnold received three pages
of information, including an analysis of the impact of the Bottle Bill as to
energy saving, and also as to whether there would be an increase in jobs in
New York State if such a bill were passed. Mr. Arnold wrote to our State
representatives concerning the bill and received replies from Assemblyman
MacNeil and Senator Smith. Those replies were carefully worded, were not
enthusiastic, but did not say that the bill was "a rotten one."
After discussion, the Commission considered whether to write to the State
representatives again to push the Bottle Bill, or whether to concentrate on
raising this matter as a campaign issue for elections this fall and work
toward putting the bill through the next legislative season. Mr. Arnold
volunteered to continue working on the Bottle Bill and the Commission agreed
to take action to provide the public with information on the bill during the
summer.
V. BIKEWAYS:
Jeanne Fadula presented a diagram of the bikeways as originally signed and
the current location of the signs. It appeared that most of the signs were
in the proper places, even though Alderman Holman reported receiving numerous
complaints that the signs have been stolen or knocked down. There is one area
where a change in the signing should be made - -the intersection of Cayuga Street,
Cascadilla Street, Willow Avenue, Farm Street and Cascadilla Avenue.
RPGnl iit-i nn
By Comm. Stein: Seconded by Comm. Hoard
RESOLVED, That the Commission ask the Department of Public Works to work with
Comm. Perko to determine and sign a new route at the intersection of Cayuga
St., Cascadilla St., Willow Ave., Farm St. and Cascadilla Ave. that will be
safer for the bike riders.
Carried Unanimously
Bikeways Questionnaire
Chm. Burbank distributed Bikeways Questionnaires which consist of 22 questions
to be asked bicycle riders and others interested in bike riding. He expressed
appreciation to Jeanne Fadula and Hilda Hutson for preparation of the
questionnaire. Method and location of distribution of the forms was discussed,
as well as how soon they should be returned to the Commission. Some of the
places mentioned for distribution were: schools, bike shops, City Hall, DeWitt
Mall, adjacent to bike racks, on the Commons and at Willard Straight Hall in
order to cover the student population.
Chm. Burbank asked for volunteers to man stands on the Commons and at other
locations where the questionnaires can be handed out, completed and returned
by the interested party, all in one operation. Otherwise, if the questionnaires
are merely handed out, only a small percentage would be returned as requested.
Each Commissioner was given twenty copies of the questionnaire. Copies that
are left at houses or picked up at. some of the places above mentioned can be
returned to City Hall by mail or dropped off at the City Clerk's office. A
poster will be prepared and given to Jeanne Fadula who will obtain the permit
necessary to handle the type of activity that includes the processing of
questionnaires on the Commons.
VI. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COUNCIL:
Comm. Hoard reported that she was not able to attend the last EMC meeting at
which a new chairman, William Shaw, was appointed.
VII. VACANCIES ON COMMISSION:
Chm. Burbank commented that there are still two vacancies on the Environmental
Commission. He discussed the matter with the Mayor the previous week and the
matter is still under consideration.
VIII. TOXIC WASTES IN CITY SEWERS:
Comm. Meltzer reported that she had talked with the City Engineer with
reference to the City monitoring discharge of toxicants into City sewers.
He said that there is at present no such monitoring. He suggested that the
ICommission rephrase its question and present it to the Board in a formal way,
E asking the Board what its plans are for improving the Sewer Use Ordinance to
f
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provide for pretreatment, and also to give more
disposal of toxic wastes into the City's sewer
mentioned that to do this would be very costly
to be hired to perform the necessary work. He
new regulations from EPA soon.
Resolutinn
May 21, 1980
clout to monitoring the
system. The City Engineer
and more personnel would need
said he expects to receive
By Comm. Fuller: Seconded by Comm. Perko
RESOLVED, That this Environmental Commission authorize Comm. Meltzer to write
a letter to the Board of Public Works expressing its support of the action
recently taken by the Board to develop a system to monitor discharge of toxi-
cants into the City sewer system.
Carried Unanimously
IX. ODD -EVEN PARKING:
Chm. Burbank discussed recent action taken by the City Charter and Ordinance
Committee with reference to the present odd -even parking system. That com-
mittee reaffirmed a 1964 Parking Ordinance which governs the need for and
policy of overnight street parking. Chm. Burbank expressed concern about the
need for the 1964 Ordinance and wondered if the Commission should look into
the rationale of the Charter and Ordinance Committee, and perhaps suggest that
a different type system can be worked out accomplishing the same result.
RPRnl llti nn
By Comm. Board: Seconded by Comm. Stein
RESOLVED, That the Common Council not automatically reaffirm the 1964 Parking
Ordinance without further consideration of its impact on our neighborhoods
and without making a study on alternatives which presently exist and are
successful in other upstate New York cities.
Carried Unanimously
X. ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 10:00 p.m.
William Burbank, Chairman
Environmental Commission
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M. July 16, 1980
PRESENT:
Chairman - Burbank
Commissioners (6) - Dietrich, Hoard, Meltzer, Perko, Pitzer, Stein
Council Liaison (2) - Holman, Schuler
Environmental Management
League of Women Voters -
Jeanne Fadula
Council Richard Fischer
Mary Ann Kozak
Press: WTKO, WHCU, Ithaca Journal
ABSENT:
Commissioner (1) - Fuller
Chairman Burbank introduced Deborah Dietrich, newly - appointed Commissioner.
Commissioners Stein and Meltzer announced this as their last meeting as
both were resigning - -Comm. Stein (under 21 member) is going out -of- country
in the Fall; Comm. Meltzer is resigning due to lack of time.
WASTE WATER TREATMENT PLANT:
Richard Fischer of the Environmental Management Council was present to
express the following concerns of the EMC Task Force about the city's
proposed wastewater treatment plant:. the point at which effluent enters
Cayuga Lake is low -water point; the lake requires 9 years to flush;
nutrients in the water (6 feet) at that point could lead to significant
growth of algae.
Mr. Fischer suggested that no one has really looked carefully at the
location of the outfall and its impacts.
Chm. Burbank announced that he had received on Tuesday, June 15, 1980,
the final chapter of assessment.
Mary Ann Kozak, League of Women Voters, agreed with the points made by
Mr. Fischer and listed additional points which the League had asked about
during the EIS process and had not been answered:
1. Deep Shaft process and how it operates
2. Demolition of the old Gas Works and the necessity thereof
After further discussion, Commissioner Hoard presented the following
statement:
"The City Environmental Commission believes that the Common Council
should approve the proposed wastewater treatment plant only after com-
pletion of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process already-
begun
on the proposed plant. The City completed and circulated for
public review a document which the Commission considers to be adequate
as a Draft EIS. Substantive comments on that document were received
from groups such as the Environmental Management Council and the League
of Women Voters. It is now appropriate for the City to prepare a Final
EIS which contains all relevant responses to those comments, as well as
further information which has been developed since the completion of
the first report.
Under the City's ordinance for the implementation of the State Environ-
mental Quality Review Act (SEQR), in order to set aside the EI'S process
without a Final EIS at this point the Common Council would have to
make a finding that the proposed �30 million- treatment plant would have
"no significant impact on the environment." It is clear that the purpose
of the project is to have a significant beneficial impact on the
environment, and further, that there may be significant impacts on
Cayuga Lake which should be more carefully investigated in the Final EIS.
The Commission is working with a special committee of the Tompkins
County EMC to investigate the potential impact of the project on the
lake. The Commission and the EMC special committee would be happy to
assist the City in order to complete the Final EIS as soon as possible."
MOVED by Commissioner Hoard: SECONDED by Commissioner Meltzer
Carried Unanimously
APPROVAL OF MINUTES (May):
By Comm. Perko: Seconded by Comm.
RESOLVED, the Commission approves
as published.
t
-2- July 16, 1980
Pitzer
the Minutes of the May 1980 meeting
Carried Unanimously
TIOGA STREET REZONING:
Alderman Schuler gave an overview of the situation leading to prepara-
tion of two environmental assessments - -a petition of residents requesting
an area on Tioga Street. to be rezoned from R -3a to B -1.
Chm. Burbank read a portion of a history of the rezoning request prepared
by Patricia Carlson, former chairman of the Commission.
Alderman Holman reported hearing from the Fall Creek Civic Association
who are concerned
• that the parking and traffic impact need to be carefully studied,
• regarding the height of buildings abutting the residential
neighborhood,
• that residential properties were bought solely for purposes of .
speculation,
as to how the city is going; to insure that B zones not cross
• the creek, and
• regarding the impact on other proposed developments.
Alderman Holman commented that the Fall Creek Civic Association will
present a statement at the combined meeting of the Charter and Ordinance
and Planning and Development Committees on July 30. Those committees
will also consider the comments of the Environmental Commission, as well
as those of the Planning Board.
Resolution
By Comm. Perko: Seconded by Comm. Dietrich
RESOLVED, That the Commission has reviewed the assessment for Alternative
A and finds that Alternative A would have significant adverse impact on
the city, and for that reason should not be further considered. by Common
Council.
Resolution
By Comm. Meltzer: Seconded by Comm. Hoard
RESOLVED, That the Commission has reviewed the assessment for Alternate
B, and recommends that a DEIS on Alternate B be prepared to further study
these areas of concern:
1. Competition with proposed office developments
2. Impact of traffic and parking on adjacent residential areas
3. Encroachment on historic district
4. Zoning alternatives for this unique area
S. Reduction of housing stock
6. Removal of buffer area and its impact on adjacent residential area
7. Demolition of residentail properties and properties which potentially
could be reconverted to residential use
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (4),- Dietrich, Hoard, Meltzer, Stein
Abstained (2) - Perko, Pitzer
Carried
Comm. Pitzer suggested a special use district in which approvals be
granted before changes in uses are made. Comms. Pitzer and Perko
abstained because alternatives were not seriously considered.
Comm. Pitzer commented that he was born and raised in this town, and
has seen what is happening, and he feels the point is being reached
where a halt should be called to some of the things happening or go
with something else. He believes something could be structured in such
a way as to take care of these concerns - -a special district. He is not
convinced that going out and hiring someone to do an impact statement
is going to answer the questions. Eventually the commission is going to
have to decide whether or not they want those things to happen - -more
parking, more traffic, because there is going to be more business.
Imm
July 16, 1980
AUGUST MEETING:
By Comm. Pitzer: Seconded by Comm. Perko
RESOLVED, That the August meeting be combined with the September meeting
except in the event of an environmental emergency.
Carried Unanimously
1981 -82 WORK PLAN:
Comm. Hoard informed the commission that in order to apply for funding,
they need to have in, by August 1, 1980, a brief work plan. Comm. Hoard
presented a draft plan for 1981 -82 as follows:
CITY OF ITHACA ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
Proposed Work Program 1981 -82
Approved July 1980
Source Separation .Study - Initial study of desirability and feasibility
of source separations solid waste in the City. Information necessary
to complement planning by Tompkins County for solid waste burning facility
somewhere in the county. ,
Air Quality Impacts of Increased Wood Burning - Survey study of potential
adverse environmental impacts off— increased air pollutants from burning
wood to heat homes in the City and immediate region. Study to be
combined with study of impacts of increased wood cutting for fuel to be
carried out by the Tompkins County Environmental Management Council.
Bikeways- - Continuing study of best possible development of potential
bikeways in City. Also continuing public information program on existing
bikeways.
Natural Resources Inventory Update and completion of natural resources
inventory and sensitive areas inventory with recent aerial photographs.
Response to Local Issues - A great deal of Commission time has proven to
be taken up with consideration of local projects and plans as they are
proposed and made the subject of impact statements and public hearings.
The Plan calls for $1,000 matching funds from the Department of
Environmental Conservation; $1,000 from the City.
Resolution
By Comm. Pitzer: Seconded by Comm. Perko
RESOLVED, That the draft work plan prepared by Comm. Hoard is approved.
by the Commission, and the Commission commends Comm. Hoard for her work.
Carried Unanimously
N.Y.S. ASSOCIATION OF CONSERVATION COMMISSIONS:
C m. Burbank announce t at the annual N. .S. Association of Conservation
Commissions will be held at Grossingers on October 12, 1980.
Resolution
By Comm. Pitzer: Seconded by Comm. Hoard
RESOLVED, That one commissioner be sent to the N.Y.S. Association of
Conservation Commissions, others as money is available.
Carried Unanimously
BIKEWAYS:
C m. Burbank reported on a meeting called by Frank Liguori, County Planner,
to discuss new federal funding program for bikeways.. The county will.. apply
for approximately $10,000 to add bike lanes in road construction projects.
The group supports the City Commission's suggestion that we investigate
bus bike racks.
Jeanne Fadula reported on the results of bike surveys. One hundred
thirty -five responses had been received. She presented a short summary
of the answers on the surveys.
Resolution
By Comm. Hoard: Seconded by Comm. Pitzer
RESOLVED, That another printing of survey forms be ordered now, with
additional copies printed in a different color and targeted for students.
Carried Unanimously
Chm. Burbank reported that a mini parking lot for bicycles and mopeds
in the Seneca Street ramp is being investigated.
_4_ July 16, 1980
01
ALTERNATE PARKING:
Alderman Holman reported on a meeting she and Chm. Burbank had had on
alternate parking. They agreed that they questioned three premises of
the 1965 policy on alternate parking:
1. Size of cars: They are now smaller.
2. Volume of Traffic: Cars are used less now.
3. Offstreet parking spaces could now be better used for green space.
A meeting was set for Wednesday, August 13, with interested members of
the commission and representatives of civic associations to discuss
alternatives to alternate side parking. Commissioners Perko, Pitzer
and Burbank, and Aldermen Schuler and Holman expressed interest. Alderman
Holman agreed to draft a letter to the civic associationst
The commissioners agreed with questioning of premises and suggested that
the Council be so informed. '
EXPRESSION OF APPRECIATION:
By Comma Hoard: Seconded by Comm.. Pitzer
RESOLVED, the Commission expresses its appreciation for the 'interest and
participation of members Meltzer and Stein, and for Jeanne Fadula's great
help as a member of the Planning staff.
Carried Unanimously
NEW COMMISSION MEMBERS:
The Commission discussed the reed to fill vacancies on the commission far
purposes of quorum. It was agreed that members would forward names of
possible members to Mayor Bordoni for consideration.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 10:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
William Burbank, Chairman
i
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RESOLUTION
ON PROPOSED TIOGA STREET REZONING
The Environmental Commission has reviewed the Environmental
Assessments prepared for the proposed rezoning of portions of Tioga
Street and makes the following recommendations:
I. That Alternative A is contrary to the best interests of the
City and should be dropped from consideration by the Common
Council.
II. Common Council should cause a Draft Environmental Impact
Statement to be prepared on Alternative B, which particularly
considers the following impacts:
1) competition for office space between the proposed Tioga
Street zone and other existing and proposed office develop-
ments in downtown,
2) impact of traffic and parking on adjacent residential areas,
3) encroachment on historic district,
4) reduction of housing stock in city,
5) removal of buffer area between residential and commercial
zones, and
6) potential for special use zone for this special area of
City.
Regular Meeting
PRESENT:
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
7:30 P.M.
Chairman - Burbank
Commissioners - Dietrich, Hoard, Perko, Swanzey
Council Liaison - Holman, Schuler
Press - WHCU, Ithaca Journal
Called to order: 7:45 P.M.
Additions to Agenda:; Noise Ordinance
December 1, 1980
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
I. An update meeting on Route 96 will be held December 10 at 8:00 p.m. in the
Council Chambers and will be an informational meeting.
2. A meeting on Aurora Street traffic (whether the street should remain one
way) will be held December 9 in Council Chambers. Commissioner Hoard sug-
gested that an assessment form could be made up.
3. There was some discussion of a. City budget item of $100,000 to resurface part
of State Street in concrete, and some concern that the bricks may be paved
over.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COUNCIL REPORT: (Hoard)
A new ad hoc committee on toxic waste has been formed. Marni Johnson is the new
chairman of this committee. The solid waste committee has been meeting frequently.
Former Mayor Conley has been named liaison to the EMC from the County Board of
Representatives.
LAMPRICIDES IN CAYUGA LAKE:
The Board of Representatives gave unanimous approval to the use of lampricides.
No one was positive that this meant the use of lampricides in Cayuga Lake, or
just in Seneca Lake as proposed by the DEC. This program has been strongly backed
by sportsmen clubs. EMC had not been consulted before the Approval. But the EMC
has written a letter to all Representatives regarding lampricides. The
Environmental Commission feels it should have some input on this matter and
Commissioner Hoard offered the following resolution:
Resolution
The City of Ithaca Environmental Commission. is not commenting on the Draft
Environmental Impact Statement on the use of Lampricides in Seneca Lake, drafted
by the DEC, because the proposed experiment does not involve Cayuga Lake at this
time. The Commission is strongly concerned about the introduction of chemical
toxicants into our Cayuga Lake and will review and comment on any Impact Statement
on any use of chemical toxicants proposed for Cayuga Lake.
Moved by Hoard. Seconded by Perko. Carried Unanimously.
NOISE ORDINANCE:
Discussion of the effectiveness of the City's noise ordinance was initiated by a
complaint by a resident of Titus Avenue, who complained about the noise from Morse
Chain. Morse Chain had told them that their noise was within "Federal Standards ".
Jon Meigs, of Planning, has proposed several possible solutions:
1. Reduce permitted night-time decible level to 45 or 50 in residential neighborhoods.
2. The level should not exceed that level that is permitted in residential zones
(250 feet).
y
Regular Meeting Environmental Commission Proceedings
Page 2
Chairman Burbank noted the adverse impact of noise pollution. Commissioners Perko
and Dietrich pointed out the difficulties in administering noise ordinances, and
the possible adverse economic effects of a very stringent noise ordinance.
Alderman Holman offered to go to Morse Chain to talk to them about the complaint
and to see if there might be a simple solution to this complaint.
Commissioner Dietrich moved to table further discussion of noise ordinance and
Commissioner Perko seconded the motion. It was carried.
ODD /EVEN PARKING:
The City has not examined its parking ordinance since 1964. Perhaps at this time,
the odd /even system is not the best one. Commissioner Burbank noted that while
the present system works to free streets during snowstorms and helps to identify
abandoned vehicles, it also has the undesirable side effect of forcing useless
vehicle trips.
The Commission discussed the ordinance at lenghth, and many commissioners see the
odd /even system as only one of several options. The Commission also decided to
ask the Planning Department (via Common Council), to undertake a new study of odd/
even parking. The exact resolution is being worked on by Chairman Burbank and
Alderman Holman. Commissioner Perko moved a resolution in support of the odd /even
discussion and Commissioner Swanzey seconded the resolution. The resolution passed
unanimously.
SOLID WASTE:
Commissioner Hoard reported on the meeting regarding solid waste held on November
17 by the Ithaca Recycling Network. At the meeting, a: represa:,tative of the
Department of Environmental Conservation discussed how recycling was both profitable
and possible. He suggested the creation of a recycling Task Force composed of
people who really want to do some work in this area.
There seems to be a great deal of interest in recycling at the County level, and
EMC is providing support for the possibility of burning of solid waste to heat the
hospital.
Commissioner Dietrich moved the following resolution, Commissioner Hoard seconded
it, and it was unanimously approved.
Recycling Resolution
We recommend that the Mayor and Common Council appoint a committee of community
representatives (see appendix) to develop a comprehensive recycling plan for the
City of Ithaca - -this plan to include the feasibility of source separation of glass,
paper, and aluminum; a market study; formulation of a public education plan;
investigation of methods of funding; connection of the City's recycling program
with the proposed County solid waste burning facility; a cost /benefit of waste at
its source.
Some staff time will be needed from the Department of Planning and Development and
the Department of Public Works.
APPENDIX:
Community Representatives
EMC - Source Separation Commission Community High School
Bank Bar Owner
Representative from new Energy Commission Supermarket Owner
Ida Webber (Ithaca Scrap) DPW Representative
Self- Reliance Center Civic Associations
Merrill Wordner (Kiwanis)
Chuck Breckheimer (Chemistry teacher conducting recycling project)
Earl Arnold (Ecojustice)
Challenge Industries
Cooperative Extension
The meeting of the Environmental Commission was adjourned at 9:35.
v ..,