HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-2010-02-03COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. February 3, 2010
PRESENT:
Mayor Peterson
Alderpersons (10) Coles, Dotson, Rosario, Clairborne, McCollister, Zumoff, Rooker,
Myrick, Cogan, Mohlenhoff
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk – Conley Holcomb
City Attorney – Hoffman
City Controller – Thayer
Planning & Development Director – Cornish
Community Development Director – Bohn
Superintendent of Public Works – Gray
Human Resources Director – Michell-Nunn
Deputy Economic Development Director – DeSarno
Motor Equipment Maintenance Supervisor - Parker
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Peterson led all present in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
PROCLAMATIONS/AWARDS:
Mayor Peterson proclaimed the month of February 2010, “Library Lovers Month” in the
City of Ithaca.
SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
4.1 Election of Acting Mayor
Opening of Nominations:
Alderperson Rosario nominated Alderperson Cogan for the position of Acting Mayor due to
his past outstanding performance in the role.
No further nominations were made.
Motion to Close Nominations:
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Myrick
RESOLVED, That nominations for the election of an Acting Mayor be closed.
Carried Unanimously
Resolution
RESOLVED, That Alderperson Daniel Cogan serve as the Acting Mayor with a term to
expire December 31, 2010.
Carried Unanimously
4.2 Election of Alternate Acting Mayor
Opening of Nominations
Alderperson Coles nominated Alderperson Clairborne for the position of Alternate
Acting Mayor due to his dedication to issues such as social justice, equality, and
community building.
No further nominations were made.
Motion to Close Nominations:
By Alderperson Rosario: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
RESOLVED, That nominations for the election of an Alternate Acting Mayor were closed.
Carried Unanimously
Resolution
RESOLVED, That Alderperson J.R. Clairborne serve as the Alternate Acting Mayor with
a term to expire December 31, 2010.
Carried Unanimously
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5. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
5.1 Introduction and Report from Director of Tompkins County Assessment
Jay Franklin
Newly appointed Tompkins County Assessor, Jay Franklin, introduced himself to
Common Council and explained that he is meeting with the legislators of each
municipality in order to strengthen relationships and improve communications. He noted
his years of experience in the Assessment Department and shared his family history as
his father served many years as the Tompkins County Assessor as well. Mr. Franklin
explained how the manner in which the Assessment Department values properties. He
stated that the consolidation of the assessment function within the County saves
taxpayers approximately $300,000 per year. He encouraged Common Council
members to contact his office if they have questions or need information.
5.2 The J. Diann Sams Annual African American History Month Resolution
Honoring Mr. and Mrs. Abraham A. and Denise C. Dendtler Lee
By Alderperson Clairborne: Seconded by Alderperson Myrick
WHEREAS, since 2004, the City of Ithaca Common Council has recognized an
individual in our community of great esteem and stellar leadership during African-
American History Month and, in so doing, established a tradition of honoring
outstanding leadership, courage against unspeakable odds, and an unwavering vision
that is in keeping with the vision of African American History Month’s founder Dr. Carter
G. Woodson; and
WHEREAS, Common Council first bestowed this honor in 2004 on the late J. Diann
Sams, a civil rights leader, first African-American woman who was also disabled and
served on Common Council, and long-time public servant; the 2005 honoree was Dr.
James Turner, a world-renowned scholar and founder of the Africana Studies and
Research Center at Cornell University; in 2006 we honored Mr. Calemeze (Cal) D.
Walker, a well-respected scholar, associate director of Cornell University’s Learning
Strategies Center, visionary leader with the Village at Ithaca, and deacon at the historic
Calvary Baptist Church; and in 2007 this recognition went to Mrs. Frances Eastman, a
long-time Southside community resident, first woman of color supervisor of medical
records at Cayuga Medical Hospital, former civil service commissioner, and past
recipient of the Tompkins County “Senior citizen of the Year”; in 2008 Ms. Lucy J.
Brown received this distinction as a dedicated citizen with an unwavering commitment
to social justice, speaking out against racism, discrimination, oppression, and injustice,
and forging strong partnerships between our community and institutions such as Cornell
University, Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services, Ithaca City School District, Ithaca
Urban Renewal Agency, and the Daughters of the Elks-Cayuga Temple No. 54; and in
2009, Ms. Marcia J. Fort received this recognition, honoring her steadfast advocacy for
the voiceless and oppressed of our community and elsewhere; and
WHEREAS, this annual recognition was renamed in 2007 in honor of former
Alderperson J. Diann Sams, for her tireless efforts on behalf of African Americans and
other underrepresented populations in and around Ithaca; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Woodson’s lifelong devotion to educating African Americans about their
own culture and history as part of U.S. history led to the modern-day, month-long
observance of Black History or African American History Month that highlights the
positive impact on society of people such as this award’s recipients; and
WHEREAS, two such individuals who have made an indelible stamp upon history and
are so revered that they are worthy of community support and are Mr. Abraham A. Lee
and Mrs. Denise C. Dendtler Lee; longtime Ithacans whose commitment to local youth
and education have set a standard for aspiration; and
WHEREAS, during their 40 years in the Ithaca area, having met as undergraduate
students at Cornell University, the Lees have lent their time, talent, and personal
resources to creating or furthering local achievement for scores of area children, and
WHEREAS, in the words of this honor’s past recipients, who nominate each year’s
recipient, “Abe and Denise’s ability to affirm and inspire young learners has been well
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documented and confirmed, in part, by the countless former students who have gone on
to achieve notable success in a wide variety of career fields”; and
WHEREAS, the Lees have been recognized on local and state levels with awards
including the New York State African Studies Association Educators Award, Africana
Studies Center/Cornell University Recognition Award, Black Biomedical and Technical
Association, and awards from the Tompkins County Human Rights Commission; and
WHEREAS, their work in the community has included co-founding or working with youth
advocacy organizations such as Parents of African and Latino Students (PALS) and the
Science and Mathematics Saturday Academy, where they have organized science and
math- or culturally related trips to over 15 cities for participants and their families; and
WHEREAS, individually the Lees local involvement has included work with Ithaca
Neighborhood Housing Services, the Greater Ithaca Activities Center (GIAC), the Ithaca
Landmarks Preservation Commission, and the Tompkins County Civil War
Sesquicentennial Commemoration Commission; teaching summer school in area youth
detention facilities operated by the New York State Office of Family and Children
Services; and their life memberships and active participation locally with their respective
organizations Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. – where Abe Lee helped organize the
fraternity’s centennial celebration at Cornell in 2005 – and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority,
Inc., of which Denise Lee has helped keep active in many aspects of the Ithaca
community; and
WHEREAS, amidst the myriad of activities, the Lees found time to care for seven foster
children over the course of a decade while raising their own four children; and
WHEREAS, the Lees retired as permanently tenured faculty from the Ithaca City School
District at the conclusion of the 2008-09 school year, concluding an education career
with a collective nearly 60 years of service; and
WHEREAS, the nominations panel conclude, “The Lees have been, and continue to be,
trusted and respected advocates for many area families, and are models of consistence
in working to further the cause of social justice in our community”; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council urges all citizens to recognize the
invaluable contributions of these positive, affirming, and dedicated citizens – Mr. and
Mrs. Abraham A. and Denise C. Dendtler Lee – who, through their commitment to
education and serving this community through our younger generations, serve as local
icons on par with many prominent figures we celebrate throughout history, particularly
African-American history; and be it further
RESOLVED, That in so doing, Mr. and Mrs. Lee are worthy of honor, not only each year
in February, but throughout the entire calendar year.
Carried Unanimously
Mr. and Mrs. Lee came forward to accept the award and individually expressed their
feelings of the honor and privilege of accepting this award in remembrance of Diann
Sams. They both recognized Diann’s contribution to the community throughout the
years and their deep respect and gratitude for her. Mr. & Mrs. Lee explained their
humble beginnings and their strong belief in the important role that education plays in
the lives of children. They encouraged everyone to continue to work to provide
opportunities for children to receive as much education as possible. They expressed
their love of the Ithaca community and the people that live in it, and thanked Common
Council for this special recognition.
5.3 Report of Tompkins County Legislature:
Pam Mackesey, Tompkins County Legislator/1st District, reported on the following
issues:
Tompkins County sent two buses of people to Albany to participate in the recent gas
drilling hearing.
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The County has a public relations campaign underway for the 2010 Census count. The
goal is to count 100,000 residents of the county and 30,000 residents of the city. It is
important to reach out to the non-citizens in the city to have them complete census
forms as they comprise 13% of the city’s population.
PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
Jemma Macera, City of Ithaca, voiced concerns regarding the use of electric cars in
Ithaca and the City’s proposed Green Fleet Policy.
Ellie Hall Minnis, representing Beech Tree Care Center, requested the City’s support by
accepting the Center’s $109,000 grant application for facility lighting as part of the City’s
application for the NYSERDA Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grant.
Gary Ferguson, Executive Director of Downtown Ithaca Alliance, invited Council to the
2020 strategic plan presentation for downtown Ithaca on February 8, 2010 at 7:00 pm,
or February 10, 2010 at 8:30 am, at the Tompkins County Public Library.
Andrejs Ozolins, City of Ithaca, invited Common Council to join him on a moonlit bike
ride on the Cayuga Waterfront Trail during “Earth Hour” on March 27, 2010 at 8:30 p.m.
Earth hour is a time when everyone across the world is encouraged to turn off their
lights for one hour as a symbolic call to action on climate change.
Alex Parillo, Laborers Local Union, addressed Council regarding the Apprenticeship
Program legislation and submitted sample language used in other municipalities.
Joel Harlan, Town of Newfield, voiced concerns regarding obstacles to local
development.
Ute Ritz-Deutch, City of Ithaca, addressed Council in support of immigration reform.
Carlos Gutieruez, Town of Danby, invited Council to an event on February 18, 2010 at
6:30 p.m. at the Women’s Community Building at which people will be gathering to send
a message to Congress in support of immigration reform.
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR – COMMON COUNCIL AND THE MAYOR:
City Clerk Holcomb announced the availability of Common Council’s 2010 Annual
Disclosure forms.
Alderperson Coles reported that she and Alderperson Rosario would be working on a
resolution to send to Federal representatives in support of immigration reform. She
described her personal experience of being an immigrant and why she supports this
movement.
Alderperson Rosario stated that the current immigration system is broken and not reliable,
which is not good for families, businesses, and national security. He further noted that
immigration reform is a very relevant concern for the City of Ithaca because according to the
2000 U.S. Census close to 13% of the City’s population who are 18 years and older are non-
citizens (which includes both undocumented and documented residents); this is a significant
number and puts Ithaca in the top ten of all New York State municipalities in terms of the
proportion of its population that are non-citizens.
Alderperson Clairborne responded to comments made about immigration reform and
noted that many families in Ithaca are affected by threatening deportations, including
his. He further responded to comments made about the apprenticeship policy and
noted that the working group had a second meeting and is working out the legal
concerns referenced by staff. He also responded to comments made by Mr. Harlan
regarding reaching out to all constituents including the disenfranchised. Alderperson
Clairborne thanked his colleagues for their support in electing him Alternate Acting
Mayor and noted that he would do his best to fulfill this responsibility.
Alderperson Dotson responded to comments made regarding the City’s proposed
Green Fleet Policy and noted that she would like to see the City take a lead role in the
Earth Hour initiative.
February 3, 2010
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CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:
City Administration Committee:
8.1 Department of Public Works - Request to Amend Personnel Roster at
Streets and Facilities - Resolution
By Alderperson McCollister: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
WHEREAS, the Department of Public Works (DPW) management has reevaluated the
Streets and Facilities operational needs and determined that a roster change is needed
at this time to improve office efficiency; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Personnel Roster of the Streets and Facilities Division of the
Department of Public Works be amended as follows:
Delete: one (1) Part Time Office Manager (Grade 11)
Add: one (1) Full Time Financial Management Assistant (Grade 9)
and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Financial Clerk position currently authorized on the Streets and
Facilities Division Personnel Roster be retained in a vacant, unfunded capacity until
such time as the civil service examination process for the Financial Management
Assistant vacancy has been successfully completed, and be it further
RESOLVED, That funds necessary for said roster change shall be derived from existing
authorized DPW budgets.
Carried Unanimously (9-0)
(Alderperson Rosario absent from vote)
CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
9.1 Department of Public Works - Request to Amend Budget for Spencer Street
Slope Stabilization - Resolution
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Zumoff
WHEREAS, as part of the Six Point Traffic Plan the City undertook traffic improvements
to Spencer Street which included modification of lands owned by Dominion
Transmission, Inc. adjacent to the traffic circle, and
WHEREAS, the City agreed to remediate lands adjacent to and impacted by the
construction of the traffic circle, and modified by construction of these traffic
improvements, and
WHEREAS, bids were received on January 19, 2010 for stabilization of lands adjacent
to the traffic circle, and
WHEREAS, total costs for stabilizing the lands adjacent to the traffic circle will exceed
the remaining budget of $276,741 by $59,774.00; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends Capital Project # 746 Spencer
Street Slope Stabilization by an amount not to exceed $59,774 for a total project
authorization of $345,774, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the funds necessary for said project amendment shall be derived
from the issuance of Serial Bonds.
Carried Unanimously
(Alderperson Rosario absent from vote)
9.2 Common Council – Adoption of Green Policy for the City of Ithaca Fleet -
Resolution
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Mohlenhoff
WHEREAS, a subcommittee of the Local Action Plan Steering Committee, along with
representatives from the Attorney’s Office, the Building Dept., the Controller’s Office, the
Fire Dept., the Human Resources Dept., the Police Dept., and Common Council, has
convened on numerous occasions to develop suitable policies and procedures intended
to reduce the level of greenhouse gas emissions and fuel costs related to City fleet
vehicles and equipment; and
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WHEREAS, the subcommittee is satisfied that the resultant proposed policy titled
“Green Policy for the City of Ithaca Fleet” sets realistic and feasible goals, strategies
and evaluation criteria; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby adopts the “Green Policy for the City of
Ithaca Fleet” dated January 27, 2010.
Alderperson Coles thanked all who worked on this policy especially, Don Parker, Kent
Johnson, Sean Vormwald, and Jennifer Dotson.
Alderperson Dotson noted that the Local Action Plan Committee could be used as a
resource when the city looks to purchase vehicles and analyzes how it uses equipment.
She stated that the Green Fleet Policy would help the City work towards its goal of
reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 3% annually.
Mayor Peterson stated that Sean Vormwald would be tracking fuel use and
utility/energy usage in city facilities to measure the City’s success in finding energy
efficiencies.
Alderperson McCollister noted that electric vehicle battery disposal is extremely toxic
and not all companies do a good job of disposal.
Alderperson Clairborne stated that he would be interested in analyzing the costs of
facility improvements to accommodate these new technologies, specifically ones that
could be used by the public as well.
A vote on the Resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
GREEN POLICY FOR THE CITY OF ITHACA FLEET
Overview:
This Green Policy for the City of Ithaca Fleet (hereafter called “the policy”) was
developed to assist City policy-makers and City staff in working toward two City goals:
Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce fuel costs incurred by the City.
Additionally, it is anticipated that this policy will lead to the following benefits as well:
improve the health and well being of City employees; and serve as a model of
environmentally responsible transportation for City residents and visitors alike.
Scope:
It is the intent of this policy to include the entire City fleet.
Definitions:
City fleet – The collection of vehicles and equipment utilized for City operations. This
collection includes, but is not limited to, passenger vehicles, work trucks, bulldozers,
emergency response vehicles, generators, and lawn mowers.
Fleet Managers – Three individuals manage the City’s fleet: the IFD Fleet Manager, the
IPD Fleet Manager, and the Department of Public Works (DPW) Fleet Manager.
Green Fleet Committee – A committee appointed by the Mayor to monitor and support
compliance with the policy. The committee includes representation from: DPW Fleet
Manager, IFD Fleet Manager, IPD Fleet Manager, City Engineer, City Attorney, Human
Resources, Controller, Common Council, and Board of Public Works.
Local Action Plan to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions for City of Ithaca Government
Operations (the “Local Action Plan”) – A City of Ithaca document that, among other
things, contains an inventory of sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and goals
and strategies that can be used to reduce those emissions.
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Key Goals and Objectives:
The City of Ithaca will strive to reduce fleet-related GHG emissions by at least 3%
annually. This goal is consistent with the Local Action Plan recommendations adopted
by Common Council in 2006.
City of Ithaca employees will avoid driving (particularly solo driving) and the use of
petroleum-fueled equipment when appropriate and feasible. When travel is necessary,
employees are encouraged to walk, bicycle, utilize public transportation (free with
employee ID), and/or carpool.
The City of Ithaca will manage and operate its fleet in a manner that is energy efficient
in order to reduce GHG emissions and fuel costs.
When appropriate and feasible, the City of Ithaca will use the most energy efficient
vehicles and equipment that meet the operational needs of the relevant departments.
Older, less efficient fleet items will be phased-out and replaced with more efficient
items.
List of Strategies:
Educate City Employees
Minimize Vehicle Miles Traveled
Optimize Fleet Size—Total Numbers
Maximize Efficiency Through Maintenance
Purchase Fuel-efficient/Low-emission Vehicles and Equipment
Monitor Progress
Annual Vehicle/Equipment Inventory and Analysis
Explanation of Strategies:
Educate City Employees
The City will include education and training related to this policy in standard employee
orientation and other ongoing training programs including driving and equipment
operation training.
City employees should drive City vehicles in a manner that maximizes fuel efficiency, by
observing speed limits, by minimizing idling (including complying with the City’s Idling
Ordinance Section 346-48), and by minimizing rapid acceleration and braking.
Employees should be encouraged to learn more about operation habits that increase
fuel efficiency.
Supervisors, and other authority figures, should actively and positively reinforce efforts
made by subordinates that help to further the objectives of this policy.
Minimize Vehicle Miles Traveled
Alternate meeting methods, such as conference calls, or other technology, should be
used when appropriate and feasible to reduce the number of driving trips.
Meetings should be held at centralized locations, when appropriate and feasible, to
reduce distances traveled.
Where appropriate and feasible, employees should walk, bicycle, use public
transportation and/or carpool. Supervisors should adjust travel time expectations
accordingly.
In general, travel routes should be planned to optimize efficiency. When feasible, trips
should be chained together to reduce required travel time and distance.
Personal use of City vehicles is prohibited as per the Vehicle Usage Policy.
Optimize Fleet Size—Total Numbers
Vehicles that are used infrequently should be considered for removal from the fleet.
Vehicle share agreements, either among departments or by joining community
programs, should be implemented to reduce the number of fleet vehicles needed.
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Maximize Efficiency Through Maintenance
Regularly scheduled preventive and other maintenance shall be performed promptly on
all fleet items to maximize fuel efficiency and minimize emissions. All such work shall be
noted in easily accessible records for inclusion on the Annual Vehicle Inventory.
Purchase Fuel-efficient/Low-emission Vehicles and Equipment
The Fleet Managers and the Green Fleets Committee will work with all City
Departments to identify the most fuel-efficient vehicles and equipment with maximum
emission reduction available that meet the department’s operational needs.
Vehicles of a smaller class size and vehicles such as NEVs (neighborhood electric
vehicles), bicycles, and motorcycles should be considered to achieve increased fuel
efficiency and lower emissions. Requests for new vehicle purchases must be
supplemented with a written justification of need. The Fleet Managers and Green Fleet
Committee will work with City Departments to determine whether a proposed vehicle
could be downsized and still fulfill its required function(s).
Increase Use of Alternate Fuels
For all vehicles and equipment, the City will give first preference to purchasing electric,
hybrid or alternative/renewable-fueled vehicles and equipment when (A) they meet the
operational needs of the Department, (B) they, their fuels and relevant parts are
available or could easily be made available, and (C) they show a reduced or equivalent
emissions or life-cycle per-mile costs (including maintenance), when compared with
similar gas or diesel equipment.
“Clean” fuels (such as electricity, biodiesel, compressed natural gas, ethanol, and
others) shall be used when the Fleet Managers, in consultation with the Green Fleets
Committee, deems them appropriate and feasible. A feasibility assessment will include
considerations of emissions and financial impact of alternative fuels, vehicles or
equipment available to utilize the “clean” fuel, vehicle costs, fuel availability, and the
ability to utilize existing infrastructure. Vehicles using these fuel types should be duly
considered when evaluating vehicle and equipment replacement.
All passenger vehicles acquired will be selected by the Fleet Managers, in consultation
with City Departments that will use the vehicles and with the Green Fleets Committee,
with the following priorities: minimum GHG emissions; maximum fuel efficiency; and,
vehicles that achieve a combined 30 mpg or greater (or similar target for mpg or GHG
emissions). Proposals for standard passenger vehicle purchases that do not meet these
criteria require sufficient justification and must be approved by the Mayor.
Work trucks, cargo vans, special purpose and emergency response vehicles and
equipment shall be purchased or leased to comply with the requirements of this policy
to the extent that the purchase or lease of such vehicles or equipment does not reduce
the City’s ability to provide safe, quality services. Departments utilizing mostly special
purpose vehicles (such as emergency response vehicles) are urged to consider
significant changes to their standard passenger vehicles and to their travel behaviors to
reach overall departmental emission reductions goals.
The Fleet Managers shall incorporate the above criteria into vehicle bid specifications
and include these criteria when purchasing vehicles off of state contract.
Monitor Progress
A Green Fleet Committee will monitor and support compliance with this policy, with
members appointed by the Mayor.
On an annual basis, after the Annual Vehicle/Equipment Inventory (described in Section
7 below) is completed & distributed, so as to coordinate with budget submissions, each
Department Head shall submit a Department-specific Green Fleet Plan (or plan update)
to the Green Fleet Committee detailing how vehicle procurement, fleet operations, and
employee travel activities are intended to conform to the larger Green Policy for the City
of Ithaca Fleet. All vehicle procurement requests should be consistent with the Green
Fleet Plan. The Green Fleet Committee will provide a model plan to assist in this
process. The plans from IPD and IFD will also include an updated fleet vehicle inventory
list in the same format as the fleet vehicle inventory described below. Each Green Fleet
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Plan shall be reviewed by the Green Fleet Committee for overall conformity with the
larger policy. The Green Fleet Committee will work with the submitting Departments to
revise plans that the Committee finds not to be in compliance with the policy.
The Green Fleet Committee will review each departmental plan and provide a
recommendation to the Mayor as to the plan’s compliance with this policy. The Mayor
will approve or reject vehicle procurement requests included in the plans. Any appeal of
the Mayor’s decision must be made in writing to Common Council.
Annually, the most innovative, resourceful, effective, or otherwise exemplary Green
Fleet Plan submitted and implemented will receive a recognition award presented by
The Green Fleet Committee.
The Green Fleet Committee will periodically review this policy, the Bicycle Use Policy,
the Vehicle Usage Policy, and other relevant policies. The Green Fleet Committee will
provide recommendations to the Mayor for revisions to those policies if deemed
appropriate by the Committee.
The City of Ithaca will collaborate with other municipalities, agencies, and other
organizations, to identify or develop opportunities for initiatives that support and further
the goals of this policy.
1. Annual Vehicle/Equipment Inventory and Analysis
In order to establish baseline data so that the Department-specific Green Fleet Plans
can be established, implemented, and monitored, the Fleet Managers, with support from
City Departments, shall annually develop an inventory and analysis of the fleet vehicles
and equipment within all City Departments. For each vehicle and piece of equipment,
the inventory information shall include:
• A list of vehicles and equipment ordered by classification, drive train
(2WD/4WD) or engine type, model year, make, model, engine size, vehicle
identification number (VIN), etc.;
• Vehicle or equipment function (i.e., the tasks associated with the vehicle's
use);
• Type of fuel (or power source, e.g., electricity);
• EPA estimated miles (or time used) per gallon (or gallon equivalent);
• Actual miles (or time used) per gallon (or gallon equivalent);
• Average fuel cost per mile (or time used) for the past year and for the life of
the equipment;
• Annual miles driven (or hours operated);
• Total fuel (or power) consumption (including fuel from non-City owned fuel
pumps);
• Annual cost of repairs and routine maintenance;
• Annual and lifetime operational (fuel and maintenance) cost per mile (or time
used);
• Equivalent Carbon Dioxide (eCO2) calculations based on gallons (or gallon
equivalent) of fuel consumed;
• Average fuel cost per gallon (or gallon equivalent) for all the fuels used by the
fleet;
• Other relevant fuel-related information that is not vehicle specific.
IPD and IFD Fleet Managers are responsible for providing fleet data in a reliable and
verifiable manner and submitting it to the DPW Fleet Manager for incorporation into the
overall inventory for measuring City-wide progress toward the goals of the policy. The
inventory will be completed annually, by February 15, for the prior calendar year.
The annual vehicle inventory will be used by the Green Fleet Committee to identify
opportunities to increase policy compliance (and achievement of GHG emissions
reduction targets), including but not limited to:
• Identification of little-used vehicles that could be removed from the fleet or
whose function could be replaced by a sharing agreement.
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• Identification of fleet items with poor fuel efficiency or increased
repair/maintenance costs as prime candidates for replacement with more
efficient vehicles or those requiring less maintenance.
Related policies:
Vehicle Usage Policy, Bicycle Use Policy
9.3 A Resolution Delegating to the City Controller of the City of Ithaca, Tompkins
County, New York, the Power to Authorize, From Time to Time and Year to Year,
the Issuance and Sale of Revenue Anticipation Notes of Aid to City in Anticipation
of the Collection of Revenues Due for any Fiscal Year of said City.
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
BE IT RESOLVED, by the affirmative vote of not less than two-thirds of the total
voting strength of the Common Council of the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New
York, as follows:
Section 1. The power to authorize, from time to time and year to year for a period of
ten years, the issuance and sale of revenue anticipation notes of the City of Ithaca,
Tompkins County, New York, including renewals thereof, in anticipation of the collection
of revenues becoming due for the fiscal year of said City, during which such notes shall
be issued or sold, is hereby delegated to the City Controller, the chief fiscal officer.
Such notes shall be of such terms, form and contents as may be determined by said
City Controller, pursuant to the Local Finance Law, and said revenues shall include all
such revenues permitted pursuant to Section 25.00 of the Local Finance Law.
Section 2. It is the intent of this Common Council that this resolution shall be of ten
years duration which will self-repeal ten years from the date hereof, until otherwise
modified, amended, revoked, rescinded or repealed.
Section 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.
Alderperson Coles Voted Aye
Alderperson Dotson Voted Aye
Alderperson Clairborne Voted Aye
Alderperson Rosario Voted Aye
Alderperson McCollister Voted Aye
Alderperson Zumoff Voted Aye
Alderperson Rooker Voted Aye
Alderperson Myrick Voted Aye
Alderperson Mohlenhoff Voted Aye
Alderperson Cogan Voted Aye
Carried Unanimously
9.4 City Controller’s Report
City Controller Thayer reported to Council on the following:
• The Governor’s budget includes a 5% reduction in AIM payments – which equals
the same funding levels as1991. The 2009 AIM payment was made in full.
• 2009 Year-End activity is almost concluded.
• Sales tax revenue is down 7.8% from 2008 levels
• Overtime budget was $107,000 over budget (but $138,000 under the 2008
overtime budget)
• Parking revenues were over budget by $126,000
• Building permit revenues were slightly under budget.
• Health insurance costs were over budget.
• The 2009 budget deficit is approximately $500,000 to $700,000
• The December 2009 CPI was 3.6% and the 2009 full year CPI was -.13.
• The Health Consortium remains on hold until the union representation
issue is resolved.
February 3, 2010
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PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
10.1 Resolution in Support of a Tompkins County Strategic Tourism Board
Grant Application for a Stewart Park Architecture Study
By Alderperson Dotson: Seconded by Alderperson Rosario
WHEREAS, in the Spring of 2008, Richard Manning, representing the Tompkins County
Chamber of Commerce Foundation's Cayuga Waterfront Trail Initiative, received a grant
from the Tompkins County Strategic Tourism Board Tourism for a Stewart Park
Rehabilitation Action Plan (SPRAP) and
WHEREAS, the plan was the result of a vision of a task force of stakeholders that
included representatives from the City of Ithaca (staff, representatives from city boards
and commissions, and Common Council), the Tompkins County Chamber of
Commerce, the Strategic Tourism Board and the County Visitors Bureau, Historic
Ithaca, The History Center in Tompkins County, the Ithaca Motion Picture Project,
Tompkins County Planning Department, Ithaca Festival, Community Arts Partnership,
Cascadilla Boat Club, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Sustainable Tompkins, and the
Friends of Newman Golf Course, and
WHEREAS, the SPRAP has been completed and is currently being circulated for review
and approval, and
WHEREAS, the SPRAP identifies and assesses projects currently needed to upgrade
existing facilities and recommends ways to coordinate projects proposed by various
community groups into one coherent vision for the park and ways to prioritize these
projects for effective implementation, and
WHEREAS, the SPRAP identifies these key park rehabilitation projects and issues as
critical to the success of the Stewart Park rehabilitation effort include:
• Constructing Phase 3 of the Cayuga Waterfront Trail linking Stewart Park to the
Ithaca Farmers Market, the Youth Bureau and the County Visitor Center.
• Completing painting and minor repairs to the historic pavilions (Large Pavilion
and DPW Pavilion).
• Completing at least the first two phases of the Cascadilla Boathouse Restoration
to make building functional for the Cascadilla Boat Club and for special event
usage.
• Developing an “all children’s” playground and spray play area and relocate or
bury existing overhead utility lines.
• Renovations to the former Wharton studio pavilion for Ithaca Motion Picture
Project use.
• Constructing a Performance Pier and beginning lake edge enhancement.
• Improving the pavilion parking lot by incorporating Cayuga Waterfront Trail
Stewart Park Trailhead, including attractive plaza pavement for special events or
parking.
• Improving and “greening” park landscape maintenance practices
• Renovating Memorial Flagpole Garden.
• Beginning water quality monitoring of Lake and adjacent streams/drainage ways
and developing water quality improvement projects.
• Monitoring of dredging plans to help prevent and reduce negative impacts to park
and to create opportunities for park improvements with dredge spoil materials.
February 3, 2010
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• Developing a “bird-friendly” Stewart Park project to enhance habitat, provide
educational information to park users, improve bird watching opportunities and
review all projects for their impact on this important bird area, and
WHEREAS, the scope of the proposed Stewart Park Architecture Study will address the
feasibility, schematic design, and concepts for:
• Cascadilla Boathouse renovations
• Large Pavilion renovations
• IMPP Building renovations/additions
• DPW Maintenance Building
• Concession building evaluation
• Tea Pavilion evaluation
• Carousel: storage sheds, structure (include Rotary Report)
• Bocce Court relocation, and
WHEREAS, the proposed budget for the study is $13,000 for Architectural Consulting
and $2,000 for Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce Grant Administration and
Project Coordination for a total funding request of $15,000, and
WHEREAS, the proposed schedule is for the work to be completed in 2010, within 6
months of the awarding of the grant, and
WHEREAS, the grant, if successful, will cover 100% of the proposed study and is
therefore cost neutral to the City, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Parks Commission, did, on December 8, 2009, discuss
and agree to unanimously support the application for a Tompkins County Strategic
Tourism Board Grant for a Stewart Park Architecture Study, now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca supports the application for
a Tompkins County Strategic Tourism Board Grant for a Stewart Park Architecture
Study, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the DPW maintenance building, the tea pavilion, and the large
pavilion are not currently registered historic buildings but are most likely eligible for
historic designation, and, in light of this, the architecture study should be done in
cooperation with the City’s Historic Preservation Planner.
Amending Resolution:
By Alderperson Dotson: Seconded by Alderperson Coles
RESOLVED, That the 6th Whereas clause be amended to read as follows:
“WHEREAS, the scope of the proposed Stewart Park Architecture Study will address
the feasibility, schematic design, and concepts for:
• Cascadilla Boathouse renovations
• Large Pavilion renovations
• The Storage Pavilion renovations/additions
• DPW Maintenance Building
• Concession building evaluation
• Tea Pavilion evaluation
• Carousel: storage sheds, structure (include Rotary Report)
• Bocce Court relocation, and”
Carried Unanimously
Main Motion As Amended:
A vote on the Main Motion as Amended resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
10.2 NYSERDA Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant Application –
Resolution
By Alderperson Dotson: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
WHEREAS, on December 29, 2009, the New York State Energy Research and
Development Authority (NYSERDA) issued Request for Proposal (RFP) 10 providing
February 3, 2010
13
funding for the implementation of energy conservation measures by small
municipalities including: energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy
improvements, efficient transportation system implementation, material conservation,
and energy management personnel; and
WHEREAS, this RFP is being issued in connection with NYSERDA’s administration of
the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) funded by the American
Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA); and
WHEREAS, $3.4 million is available to distribute in the central New York State
NYSERDA region under this RFP; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca is eligible to submit proposals to this RFP; and
WHEREAS, each small municipality may submit multiple proposals, but may not receive
more than $500,000 under this RFP; and
WHEREAS, no local match funds are required under this RFP; and
WHEREAS, the deadline for submissions of proposals in response to this RFP is
February 17, 2010; and
WHEREAS, the City intends to submit an Energy Management Personnel project and
other competitive projects after completion of eligibility and cost/benefit analysis for
candidate projects; and
WHEREAS, a complete list of projects submitted will not be known until such analysis
has been completed by City staff, which is not expected to occur until after the February
3 Common Council meeting; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council hereby authorizes the Mayor, upon advice of
the Chairperson of the Planning & Economic Development Committee and the City
Attorney, to submit proposals in response to NYSERDA RFP 10 – Implementation
Funding for Small Cities, and be it further
RESOLVED, That if proposals are approved, then the Mayor, upon advice of the City
Attorney, is authorized to sign any and all documents to receive such funds.
Discussion followed on the floor regarding the grant process and the request from
Beech Tree Care Center. Mayor Peterson noted that the City did not send out a “call for
projects” to not-for-profit organizations in the City. She further explained that the City
can only receive $500,000 and has a number of its own projects under consideration.
Beech Tree Care Center may be able to apply for funding under Tompkins County’s
application.
Alderperson Myrick noted that although he was cognizant of staff and time constraints,
he was unhappy that Common Council did not have access to the list of proposed
projects and have an opportunity to comment on the application.
Community Development Director Bohn explained that the proposed projects focus on:
a temporary energy management staff position, installing LED lighting in the parking
garages, Youth Bureau facility improvements (solar hot water heaters/boilers, and
retrofits).
Mayor Peterson noted the benefits of having an energy management staff person. This
would be a twelve month position.
A vote on the Resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
February 3, 2010
14
10.3 Common Council Endorsement of the ItalThai Plantation Building
Renovation Project at 130-132 E. MLK/State Street for the Community Investment
Incentive Program - Resolution
By Alderperson Dotson: Seconded by Alderperson Rosario
WHEREAS, on September 20, 2001, the Tompkins County Industrial Development
Agency (IDA) established the “City of Ithaca Density Incentive Program” providing
incentives for multi-story development projects with the city density target area with a
review after five years, and
WHEREAS, on June 7, 2006, the Common Council endorsed the continuation of an IDA
abatement program and requested that the IDA establish the Community Incentive
Investment Program (CIIP), under which projects would be reviewed by the community
and evaluated by the Common Council against a list of community benefits, and if
endorsed by the Common Council, then proposed for recommendation by the Mayor to
the IDA as eligible for tax abatements, and
WHEREAS, on December 7, 2007, the IDA revised its incentive program to incorporate
many of the City’s recommendations, including requiring endorsement of the project by
the host municipality, and determining eligibility and level of incentives based on their
determination of the number of community benefits achieved by the project, and
furthermore renamed the program the “Downtown Density Incentive Program,” and
WHEREAS, under the City’s CIIP, a project is eligible for City endorsement to the IDA
for incentives if it achieves at least 14 community benefits, and
WHEREAS, under the IDA’s Downtown Density Incentive Program, a project is eligible
for partial incentives if it is determined it will achieve at least 15 community benefits and
is eligible for full incentives if it will achieve 23 or more community benefits, and
WHEREAS, on December 30, 2009, Sunit “Lex” Chutintaranond, managing member of
ItalThai, LLC (ItalThai) submitted an CIIP application seeking tax abatements for the
Plantation Building project located at 130-132 E. MLK/State Street on The Commons,
and
WHEREAS, ItalThai proposes to renovate the vacant Plantation Building into a first floor
restaurant, second floor banquet facility & commercial office space, and 8 one-bedroom
apartments on the 3rd and 4th floors, of which 2 apartments will be leased to
low/moderate income households at affordable rents, and
WHEREAS, in accordance with the CIIP process adopted by Common Council
resolution on September 5, 2007, a public meeting has been advertised and property
owners with 200 feet of the property have been notified of the public meeting held at
6:30 P.M. on January 20, 2010 in Council Chambers of City Hall, and this public
meeting has been documented in an updated project description submitted by the
applicant, and
WHEREAS, the project is located within the eligible city density district, and
WHEREAS, at the time of the January 20, 2010, Planning and Economic Development
Committee meeting, ItalThai claimed the project will provide 31 community benefits that
have been previously identified by the Common Council as important contributions to
the community; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council recognizes that the Plantation
Building renovation project proposed by ItalThai LLC offers many benefits to the
community, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council does hereby determine that the
proposed Plantation Building project at 130-132 E. MLK/State Street will provide _29__
community benefits, as described in the attached community benefits checklist dated
January 20, 2010, which exceeds the minimum qualifications of 14 benefits for eligibility
through the Community Investment Incentive Program, and be it further
February 3, 2010
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RESOLVED, That the Common Council does hereby endorse the Plantation Building
project being undertaken by ItalThai, LLC and requests that the Mayor recommend the
project to the IDA for tax abatement incentives under the Downtown Density Incentive
Program.
Discussion followed on the floor regarding the CIIP program and the updated
information that was distributed after the Planning and Economic Development
Committee meeting.
A vote on the Resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES:
Mayor Peterson reported that every Ad-hoc Committee has had an organizational
meeting.
MAYOR’S APPOINTMENTS:
14.1 Appointment of City Representative to the Business Improvement
District/Downtown Ithaca Alliance Board – Resolution
By Alderperson Myrick: Seconded by Alderperson Clairborne
RESOLVED, That Alderperson Eric Rosario be appointed to the Business Improvement
District/Downtown Ithaca Alliance Board with a term to expire December 31, 2010.
Carried Unanimously
14.2 Appointments/Reappointments to Various City Boards/Committees:
Cable Access Oversight Committee:
By Alderperson McCollister: Seconded by Alderperson Myrick
RESOLVED, That Wies vanLeuken be reappointed to the Cable Access Oversight
Committee with a term to expire December 31, 2012, and be it further
Conservation Advisory Council:
RESOLVED, That Meghan Thoreau Jacquet be appointed to the Conservation Advisory
Council to replace Paul Salon with a term to expire December 31, 2011, and be it
further
Disability Advisory Council:
RESOLVED, That Allen E. Walters be appointed to the Disability Advisory Council to fill
a vacancy with a term to expire June 30, 2011, and be it further
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission:
RESOLVED, That Susan Stein be reappointed to the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation
Commission with a term to expire December 31, 2012.
Carried Unanimously
REPORTS OF COMMON COUNCIL LIAISONS:
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
Mayor Peterson reported that the IURA has been discussing the R-3AA zoning
designation and have conducted site visits of dilapidated housing locations. The IURA is
interested in increasing home ownership in the City and have been discussing the issue
of demolishing homes to build larger rental housing buildings and how that impacts the
mission of other agencies.
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission
Alderperson McCollister reported that the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission
reviewed a request to replace the stairs on Stone Row of the Arts Quad, as well as
window replacements for a fraternity.
REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY:
City Attorney Hoffman reported that there has been no new litigation. He further
reported that the Article 78 lawsuit against the Building Commissioner regarding a
request to build off-street parking was resolved in the City’s favor.
February 3, 2010
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APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
18.1 Approval of the December 2, 2009, December 3, 2009, December 22, 2009,
January 1, 2010, and January 6, 2010 Common Council Meeting Minutes –
Resolution
By Alderperson Zumoff: Seconded by Alderperson Coles
RESOLVED, That the minutes of the December 2, 2009, December 3, 2009, December
22, 2009, January 1, 2010, January 6, 2010 Common Council meetings be approved
with noted corrections.
Carried Unanimously
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 9:55 p.m.
______________________________ _______________________________
Julie Conley Holcomb, CMC Carolyn K. Peterson,
City Clerk Mayor