HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-1981-05-06COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M. May 6, 1981
PRESENT:
Mayor - Bordoni
Aldermen (9) - Banfield, Boothroyd, Boronkay, Dennis, Gutenberger,
Holman, Nichols, Schuler, Slattery
ABSENT:
AAl erman (1) - Saccucci
MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS:
Commons Advisory Board
Mayor Bordoni requested approval of the Council for the appointment
of David Reppert, 410 Warren Road, to the Commons Advisory Board,
for a term of office which ends December 31, 1981, to fill the
vacancy caused by the resignation of Richard Goldman.
Resolution
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Schuler
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of David Reppert,
410 Warren Road, to the Commons Advisory Board, for a term of office
which ends December 31, 1981., to fill the vacancy created by the
resignation of Richard Goldman.
Carried Unanimously
Ithaca Housing Authority
Mayor Bordoni requested approval of the Council for the appointment
of Edward J. Conley, 1309 E. State Street, to the Ithaca housing
Authority, for a term of office which ends October 17, 1983, to
fill the vacancy created by the resignation of James Yarnell.
Resolution
By Alderman Boronkay: Seconded by Alderman Slattery
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Edward J.
Conley, 1309 E. State Street, to the Ithaca llotis i ng Atitliori ty, for
a term of office which ends October 17, 1983, to fill the vacancy
createcl by the resignation of James Yarnell.
Carried Unanimously
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Controller - Spano
Civil Service Secretary - Pezdek
Personnel Administrator - Collins
Youth Bureau Director - Cutia
Community Development Coordinator
- Jasmine Lim
Community Development Specialist
- Kathe Evans
City Attorney - Shapiro
Purchasing Agent - Clynes
Dep. City Controller - Cafferillo
�)
Director, Planning & Development
- Van Cort
Superintendent of Public Works -
Kinsella
Chief of Police - Herson
Fire Chief - Tuckerman
`I-
Building Commissioner - Hoard
City Clerk - Rundle
Dep. City Clerk - Paolangeli
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Bordoni led all present in
the Pledge of Allegiance to the
American flag.
MINUTES:
By Alderman Boronkay: Seconded by
Alderman Slattery
RESOLVED, That the Minutes of the
March 18, 1981 and April 1, 1981
Meetings be approved as recorded
by the Clerk.
Carried Unanimously
MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS:
Commons Advisory Board
Mayor Bordoni requested approval of the Council for the appointment
of David Reppert, 410 Warren Road, to the Commons Advisory Board,
for a term of office which ends December 31, 1981, to fill the
vacancy caused by the resignation of Richard Goldman.
Resolution
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Schuler
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of David Reppert,
410 Warren Road, to the Commons Advisory Board, for a term of office
which ends December 31, 1981., to fill the vacancy created by the
resignation of Richard Goldman.
Carried Unanimously
Ithaca Housing Authority
Mayor Bordoni requested approval of the Council for the appointment
of Edward J. Conley, 1309 E. State Street, to the Ithaca housing
Authority, for a term of office which ends October 17, 1983, to
fill the vacancy created by the resignation of James Yarnell.
Resolution
By Alderman Boronkay: Seconded by Alderman Slattery
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Edward J.
Conley, 1309 E. State Street, to the Ithaca llotis i ng Atitliori ty, for
a term of office which ends October 17, 1983, to fill the vacancy
createcl by the resignation of James Yarnell.
Carried Unanimously
248
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May 6, 1981
SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
Public Hearing--Federal Revenue Sharing Funds Relation to Total_
1981 City Budget
Resolution to Open Public bearing
By Alderman Slattery: Seconded by Alderman Boronkay
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider Federal Revenue
Sharing Funds Relation to Total 1981 City Budget be opened.
Carried Unanimously
No one appeared to speak to the }-fearing.
Resolution to Close Public Hearing
By Alderman Guten erger: Second by Alderman Boronkay
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider Federal Revenue
Sharing Funds Relation to Total 1981 City Budget be closed.
Carried Unanimously
Public Hearing - -City of Ithaca Housing and Community Development
un s -- eview and Approval of Community Advisory Committee an
Urban Renewal Recommendations Regarding Cutbacks of Funds Desig-
nated for Certain Projects in the 1981 - 1984 Small Cities Pre-
application; the 1981 -1984 Housing Assistance Plan; and Recommenda-
tions to Fund Projects from Reprogramme Community Developmment
Entitlement Funds
Resolution to Open Public Hearing
By Alderman Slattery: Seconded by Alderman Boronkay
RESOLVED, That the Public I- Iearing to consider the City of Ithaca
Housing and Community Development Funds is opened.
Carried Unanimously
Michael Montgomery, 410 Winthrop Drive, Vice President of Operations
Committee, Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Service, addressed the Council,
urging the acceptance of the recommendation from the Planning and
Development Committee which allocates funds to projects that rein-
force the physical revitalization of our neighborhoods, restores a
small amount to INHS' recycling fund, and eliminates the Community
Arts Program.
Sorrell Fisher, President, Tompkins County Arts Council, expressed
concern over the results of a Planning and Development Committee
meeting in which the Urban Renewal Agency's recommendations were
completely reversed, eliminating the Community Arts Program.
Inez Wolins, Asst. Coordinator for Education, Johnson Art Museum,
spoke in favor of the Community Arts Program, and expressed the hope
that it would be reconsidered.
Edith Cristeller, representing the Economic Opportunity Corporation,
spoke in appreciation of the Community Gardens project. Also speak
ing in favor of the Community Gardens were Diane Rutherford, Director
of the Program; Van Ngeyen, 306 Third Street; Richard Lathan, 442
N. Aurora Street, Jarlath Hanrock, Willet, N. Y. 13863; and Susan
Austern, 509 S. Cayuga Street, Meadow house worker..
Shirley Cooper, 532 West Green Street, addressed the Hearing regard-
ing the cuts, pointing out the original points which won the program
for Ithaca, and asking for careful. consideration so there will. not
be danger of further cuts in the second -year application.
Pat Valls, Director, Task Force on Battered Women, and Zillah
Eisenstein, member of the Board of Battered Women's Task Force, spoke
in favor of the shelter for battered women.
Sue Cummings, 242 Fayette Street, President of Neighborhood Housing
Services, spoke on the need for a land use planner in the Planning
and Development Department.
Shawn Watson, 307 Center Street, commented that she would rather �
have continuous support: for ]NITS than serv�icc.
O
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May 6, 1981`���
Bill Gaffney, 220 Cleveland Avenue, commended the Ithaca Neighbor-
hood Housing Services for the services they have performed and
expressed the hope that its funding will continue.
Beth Prentice, Exec. Director, Ithaca Heighborhood Housing Services,
addressed the Council, urging that the application be one that
supports the bricks and mortar that Community Development was set
up to do in the first place, to assure receiving second and third -
year funding.
Resolution to Close Public Hearing
By Alderman Boot royd: Secon e by Alderman Slattery
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider the City of Ithaca
Housing and Community Development Funds, is closed.
Carried Unanimously
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Final ADDlication for Community Development
Funding for 1981 -1984
By Alderman Nichols: Seconded by Alderman
WHEREAS, HUD has invited the City to submit
1981 -1984 Community Development Block Grant
Block Grant Small Cities
Slattery
a final application for
Small Cities funds, and
WHEREAS, the level of funding available is $2.4 million, or $800,000
per year, which involves a three -year cut of $584,000 from that
amount requested in the pre - application, and
WHEREAS, the Common Council desires that the Ithaca's 1981 -1.984
Community Development program be as strong as possible;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the final 1981 -1984 Community
Development Block Grant Small Cities budget be approved as indicated
in the documents herewith and that the Mayor is authorized to sign
the completed application.
The following members of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency commented
on the Agency's recommendations, pointing out where the differences
lay between its recommendations and those of the Planning and
Development Committee: James Dennis, Council Liaison; Clarence Reed,
Stuart Stein and Mayor Bordoni, Chairman of the Ithaca Urban Renewal
Agency.
Discussion followed on the floor.
The question of the adoption of the foregoing Resolution was duly
put to a vote on roll call, which resulted as follows:
Schuler
Nay
Saccucci
Absent
Boronkay
Nay
Nichols
Aye
Dennis
Nay
Boothroyd
Aye
Banfield
Aye
Slattery
Nay
Holman
Nay
Gutenberger
Nay
Ayes (.3)
Nays (6_)
Absent (1) - Saccucci
Motion Defeated
Substitute Resolution_
By Alderman Holman'- by Alderman Slattery
WHEREAS, HUD has invited the City to submit a final application for
1981_ -1934 Community Development Block Grant Small Cities funds, and
WHEREAS, the level of funding available is $2.4 million, or $800,000
per year, which involves a three -year cut of $584,000 from that
amount requested in the pre- application, and
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May 6, 1981
WHEREAS, the Common Council desires that the Ithaca's 1981 -1.984
Community Development program be as strong as possible, and reflect
community interests and needs;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the final 1981 -84 Community
Development Block Grant Small Cities budget be approved as indicated
in the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency recommendations, and that the
Mayor is authorized to sign the completed application as outlined
in the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency recommendations.
Discussion followed on the floor.
The question of the adoption of the foregoing amended Resolution was
duly put to a vote on roll call, which resulted as follows:
Schuler
Aye
Saccucci
Absent
Boronkay
Aye
Nichols
Nay
Dennis
Aye
Boothroyd
Nay
Banfield
Nay
Slattery
Aye
Holman
Aye
Gutenberger
Aye
Ayes (6)
Nays (3)
Absent (.1)
- Saccucci
Carried
Common Council recessed at 9 :OS P.M.
Common Council reconvened in Regular Session at 9:15 P.M.
Application to United States Department of Housing and Development
for a Total of Ninety -five Units under the Housing Assistance Plan
By Alderman Nichols: Seconded by Alderman Schuler
WHEREAS, the Common Council concurs with the IURA /CDA, Planning
Development Board and Planning and Development Committee recommenda-
tion that the Housing Assistance Plan be accepted as prepared by CD
staff, and
WHEREAS, the Housing Assistance Plan identifies a need by 416 lower
income households for housing assistance and sets a three -year goal
providing 180 such households with housing assistance through the
Small Cities Grant and HUD assisted Housing Programs, and
WHEREAS, the HAP sets an annual goal of providing housing assistance
to 62 households between June 1981 and June 1982;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Common Council accepts the
Housing Assistance Plan for 1981 -1984 and authorizes and directs
the Mayor to include the HAP in the Small Cities application.
Carried ilnanimously
ReprqgLajiiLnijn g of 1981_ Community_Development Entitlement funds- Budget
approved.by CAC IURA and this committee as well as by the Board of
Planning and Development
By Alderman Nichols: Seconded by Alderman Dennis
WHEREAS, the IURA /CDA has determined that certain CD Entitlement
programs will not be implemented as originally intended and has made
$67,778 available for reprogramming, and
WHEREAS, proposals have been received and reviewed by the CAC and
the IURA /CDA, the Board of Planning and Development and the Planning
and Development Committee of the Common Council;
NOIV, THEREFORE, BF: IT RESOLVED, That $67,778 in CD Entitlement funds
($34,060 from 412 - Peripheral. Streets; $10,000 from 502b- Citywide
Materials and $20,000 from 515b- Contingency intended for Parallel
Use; and $3,71.8 from 310- Contingency) be reprogrammed as follows:
_S_ May 6, 1981 :� 1
501- Cherry Street $ 5,354
509 - Citywide House Recycling 25,394
517- Facade Improvements /Restorations
a. AME Zion Church 4,500
b. Historic Preservation Services 3,000
518 -Park Facilities 7,330
519- Neighborhood Facilities - GIAC 20,000
520- Support Services - Martin Luther
King, Jr., Celebration 700
521- Neighborhood Improvements (East
Hill benches - near Ithacare) 1,500
The Mayor is hereby authorized and directed to request approval by
the Dept. of Housing and Urban Development.
Carried Unanimously
Funding for the Appalachia Regional Commission
By Alderman Nichols: Seconded by Alderman Schuler
WHEREAS, The Appalachian Regional Commission has functioned as a
local development district for eight counties, including Tompkins
County, and
WHEREAS, participation in the Appalachian Regional Commission has
brought about 8.7 million dollars of investment in Tompkins County
1..� between 1966 and 1980 in support of the economy of the region and
-I the duality of life of its residents, an investment which brought
'f about additional public and private investments by providing a
model for coordinating federal, state, and local efforts and encour-
aging cooperation and phasing of major projects, and
WHEREAS, funding for the Appalachian Regional Commission is threatened
by budget proposals now under consideration for future implementation;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the
City of Ithaca, New York, expresses its appreciation for grant
assistance from the Appalachian Regional Commission that has made
(Woo, important contributions to economic development and delivery of
human services to residents of the City of Ithaca and urges that
funding of the Appalachian Regional Commission be maintained at a
level consistent with the social and economic benefits that the
Commission has been providing, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be sent to
the President, Senators Moynihan and D'Amato, Congressmen McHugh
and Lee, Governor Carey, and to Chairman Harris Dates of the Tompkins
County Board of Representatives.
Carried Unanimously
Recycling Task Force
Alderman Schuler reported that the Task Force has endorsed the
Bottle Bill legisiation, and has been meeting every other week on
alternate Tuesdays and has met jointly with the County and has
divided itself into task committees, has endorsed the request for
Common Council to investigate baling of leaves as done in Batavia,
New York, and has been receiving proposals for various projects.
Energy Commission
Alderman Nichols reported that this commission has been meeting,
and the day before received recommendations from the Board of
Realtors who have a number of suggestions.
Request from Tompkins County Planning Director for rezoning of
Boarchn�ui house Property in the City's DeWitt Park IIistorlc District
By Al Herman— Vi cIioI s Seconded by Alderman Boothroyd
WHEREAS, The Tompkins County Department of Planning is examining
the possibility of selling the Boardman Ifousc and has asked that
the property be rezoned from 11-1 to B -1 -1) to facilitate its use
for office purposes by a prospcct.ive future purchaser, and
25 1
I Me
May 6, 1981
WHEREAS, the Boardman House is within the City of Ithaca's
Dewitt Park Historic District and its future use would have
important impacts upon the surrounding area;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the matter of the request
to change the zoning designation of the Boardman House be
referred to the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation. Commission and
to the Charter and Ordinance Committee of the Common Council
for recommendations and possible action before July 1, 1981.
Carried Unanimously
PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
Youth Bureau Relocation
E. Wood Kelley, 115 Orchard Place, member of the Youth Bureau
Advisory Board, and Bruce Silvey, 730 Five Mile Drive, Chairman
of the Youth Bureau Advisory Board, addressed the Council regard-
ing a recommendation before the Council from the Youth Bureau
Advisory Board, choosing among four sites offered to them by
Planning for the relocation of the Youth Bureau, considering cost
and benefits. Other considerations considered were code compli-
ance, energy conservation, cosmetics and space.
COMMUNICATIONS. FROM THE MAYOR:
Mayor Bor oni informed the Council that Alderman Saccucci is at
home, recuperating from a recent heart attack; and sent his
regrets that he was unable to attend the meeting.
CITY CLERK'S REPORT:
Clerk Rundle reported that he had expected to receive the City
Rosters from Challenge Industries that day; however, a breakdown
in the presses occurred so they will not be received for a few
days.
CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT:
Code Enforcement
City Attorney Shapiro gave a status report on the past month's
activities in regard to code enforcement on which his assistant,
Ralph Nash, has been working with Tom Hoard and. City Prosecutor
Sherman.
Zoning Cases
City Attorney Shapiro reported that there are still pending a
couple of cases. The Cornell Heights case is ready to be submitted
to the Judge.
Purchase of GIAC Building
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Slattery
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca School District has agreed to convey
the old Central School Building, now known as GIAC, to the City
of Ithaca, together with such additional property surrounding
said building and right -of -way as are necessary, for the sum of
$20,000 to be paid by the C.D.C.;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the City Attorney and the
City staff hereby are directed and authorized to effectuate said
conveyance pursuant to agreement, and
BE I1' FURTHER RESOLVED, That the City hereby accepts said convey-
ance.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (8) - Slattery, Gutenberger, 13oronkay, Holman,
Banf:ield, Schuler, Nichols, Dennis
Nay (1) - Boothroyd
Absent (1) - Saccucc:i
Carried
-7- May 6, 1981
CHARTER AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE:
Bottle Legislation
By Alderman Slattery: Seconded by Alderman Nichols
WHEREAS, The litter and visual pollution created by disposable
beverage containers are an increasing environmental problem, and
WHEREAS, the volume of beverage containers discarded for trash -
collection is a strain on dwindling landfill facilities, and
Town of Ithaca Rezoning of Tin Can
Alderman Slattery reported that he did not get his notice of
the public hearing held by the Town Board in time for his committee
to review the proposed rezoning by the Town. fie commented that
he would contact Noel Desch and ask that the Town Board delay action
until the Charter and Ordinance Committee has an opportunity to
review the proposal.
Sign Ordinance
Al erman Slattery reported that the committee has reviewed the
sign ordinance and presently Ralph Nash is investigating the
enforcement of the ordinance.
Mayor's Salary
By Alderman Slattery: Seconded by Alderman Nichols
RESOLVED, That the question of the Mayor's salary and duties be
referred to the Charter and Ordinance Committee for recommendation
back to the Council at the July 1st meeting.
Ayes (8) - Banfield, Boothroyd, Boronkay, Dennis,
Holman, Nichols, Schuler, Slattery
Abstention (1) - Gutenberger
Absent (1) - Saccucci
Carried
Beer alld W.l ne Ll ceilses
Alderman Slattery reported that his committee plans to reviciv
the criteria for the arinroval of beer arrcl !Nine licenses.
WHEREAS, the damage caused by carelessly discarded beverage con-
tainers is a menace to motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians,
and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Commission on the Conservation of
the Environment and the Board of Planning and Development have
both passed Resolutions urging our representatives in the New
York State Assembly and Senate to support statewide legislation
requiring mandatory deposits on beverage containers;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common
-
Council does hereby request Assemblyman Hugh (Sam) McNeil and
State Senator William Smith to support legislation now pending
E�
before the New York State Legislature that would require manda-
tory deposits on all carbonated beverage containers sold in the
'
State of New York.
[
Discussion followed on the floor.
Table and Referral Resolution
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Slattery
RESOLVED, That the resolution be tabled and referred back to the
appropriate committee for review.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
f
-
Ayes (8) - Banfield, Boronkay, Dennis, Holman,
Gutenberger, Nichols, Schuler, Slattery
Nay (1) - Boothroyd
Absent (1) - Saccucci
Carried
Town of Ithaca Rezoning of Tin Can
Alderman Slattery reported that he did not get his notice of
the public hearing held by the Town Board in time for his committee
to review the proposed rezoning by the Town. fie commented that
he would contact Noel Desch and ask that the Town Board delay action
until the Charter and Ordinance Committee has an opportunity to
review the proposal.
Sign Ordinance
Al erman Slattery reported that the committee has reviewed the
sign ordinance and presently Ralph Nash is investigating the
enforcement of the ordinance.
Mayor's Salary
By Alderman Slattery: Seconded by Alderman Nichols
RESOLVED, That the question of the Mayor's salary and duties be
referred to the Charter and Ordinance Committee for recommendation
back to the Council at the July 1st meeting.
Ayes (8) - Banfield, Boothroyd, Boronkay, Dennis,
Holman, Nichols, Schuler, Slattery
Abstention (1) - Gutenberger
Absent (1) - Saccucci
Carried
Beer alld W.l ne Ll ceilses
Alderman Slattery reported that his committee plans to reviciv
the criteria for the arinroval of beer arrcl !Nine licenses.
254
am
May 6, 1981
.Zoning--Towers & Solar Power
Alderman Slattery reported that his committee had expected to
discuss this item, but no interested persons were present so they
did not discuss it.
BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
Mayor's Comments -- Relative to Adoption of 1981 City Budget
"A few comments relative to the adoption of the 1981 City Budget
and tax rate.
"The Common Council, the Budget and Administration Committee, the
Finance Department and myself have been working on this Budget
since September of 1980. We adopted a Tentative Budget in December
of 1980 so the City of Ithaca could operate for the first five
months of the year. As is the usual practice, the first meeting in
May the Common Council adopts the Final Budget and establishes the
tax rate under which the City will operate for the remaining seven
months of the fiscal year.
"Let me repeat, we have been working on this Budget since September
of 1980. That is, ladies and gentlemen, a total of eight (8) months.
Eight months of open public meetings, clearly posted well in advance
so that any and all persons so wishing to make suggestions and /or
constructive comments have had every possible opportunity to do so.
"Our Budget and Administration Committee has met, conservatively
speaking, around twenty (20) times during these past eight months.
The Committee has, with great patience and understanding, listened
to each person and group that has requested permission to be heard.
We have, in fact, listened to numerous persons and groups and in one
instance, to a particular 'citizens organization'.
"In the process of preparing responses to this particular 'citizens
organization',,I would say the City Controller, the Deputy Controller
and at least two of his staff persons, plus the Chairman of the
Budget and Administration Committee, Alderman John Gutenberger, and
myself have spent, conservatively speaking, 40 hours of City time
amounting to more than $600 additional expense to the taxpayers of
the City of Ithaca. Added to this were numerous hours of unpaid
weekend and evening work done by the City Controller.
"The response the City received from this organization was completely
inadequate, inconsistant, void of any careful analysis and inter-
spersed with unconstructive remarks. Other remarks made by repre-
sentatives of this organization through the media were tantamount
to a person or persons hollering fire in a crowded theater. In total,
it was not worth the paper it was put on and it was an unnecessary
expense to the City of Ithaca.
"As I stated in my January message to the City, because of escalating
costs of salaries, fringe benefits, materials, supplies, equipment,
utilities and the ever increasing interest rates on borrowing money,
the City operation is experiencing the same financial cost effects
that the rest of us experience as home owners and businessmen.
"The cost of operating the City government is further compounded
by the fact the State Aid per capita has been reduced -by approxi-
mately $160,000. Revenue Sharing Funds the City receives and uses
for the Police and Firemen Retirement costs has also been reduced,
meaning approximately $200,000 additional will be needed to make up
the difference. The handicap access to City Hall will cost approxi-
mately $62,000. The total additional cost to the taxes for these
3 items alone are $1.38 added to every $1,000 on the tax rate.
"Added to all of these before mentioned costs, if one considers
the inflation rate of nearly IS%, it is not difficult to realize
that our revenLes do not :increase as fast as our expenses.
May 6, 1981
"I will repeat again and again, the City of Ithaca has the highest
percentage, (62a), of tax exempt land of any City in all of New
York State, which means that 38% of the property owners are paying
1000 of the cost of government services. Yet the City is the 46th
lowest in taxes out of 60 cities in New York State.
"I will say that we do have a clean, orderly, well maintained City.
The City's 12 million dollar Budget represents an increase less than
the inflation rate over the last several years. Common Council has
tightened its belt to adjust to the increased costs of operating the
r' City. You should realize that the average homeowner in Ithaca will
pay approximately $138 more in City property taxes in 1982 than in 1979;
if the inflation rate were applied, with all services remaining equal,
that additional tax payment would be $192. In considering all of
this, the economic pressures the Common Council is dealing with and
the degree of success it has had in effectively reducing the real
increase in taxes when compared with the inflation rate must be
appreciated.
as Mayor of this City, would like to take an additional moment
to commend the Finance Department, the Budget and Administration
J� Committee, and for those Council people not on the Committee but
in attendance at many of the Committee meetings, for the countless
hours they have spent in giving constructive comments on departmental
L.� finances and helping us to effectively maintain and improve our
City's good living conditions we have experienced and expect to
continue. It is my belief the Budget was given the utmost attention
and examination possible and does reflect what we believe is best
for the welfare of the City of Ithaca."
Alderman Gutenberger commended the Committee, Council and City
Controller Spano for their work on the budget.
Adoption of 1981 City Budget
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Slattery
WHEREAS, this Common Council adopted the 1981 City Budget on
December 22, 1980, and
WHEREAS, the Budget and Administration Committee has reviewed
departmental requests for budget revisions, and
WHEREAS, it is the consensus of this Common Council that the total
appropriations, as set forth in the City of Ithaca Budget adopted
on December 22, 1980, is not adequate for the operation of the
j City for 1981, and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to make the following adjustments:
Increase General Fund Appropriations $ 23,376
Increase Revenue Sharing Fund
Appropriations 1,621
Decrease Water Fund Appropriations 6,556
Increase Sewer Fund Appropriations 29,205
Increase General Fund Revenues 317,145
Increase Revenue Sharing Fund Revenues 387,308
Increase Water Fund Revenues 85,500
Increase Sewer Fund Revenues 131,800
Amend Capital Budget
Amend Personnel Roster
L�
Amend Authorized Equipment List
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Budget
for 1981, in the total amount of $13,475,780, be approved, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the follot�ing sections of the 1981
City Budget be alrl;r��vcc1 ;
gr
-10-
May 6., 1981
(A) General Fund Appropriations
(B) Revenue Sharing Fund Appropriations.
(C) Water Fund Appropriations
(D) Sewer Fund Appropriations
(E) Commons Assessment Fund Appropriations
(F) General Fund Revenues
(G) Revenue Sharing Fund Revenues
(H.) Water Fund Revenues
(I) Sewer Fund Revenues
(J) Commons Assessment Fund Revenues
(K) Debt Retirement Schedule
(L) Capital Projects
(M) Schedule of Salaries & Positions - General Fund
(N) Schedule of Salaries & Positions Water and Sewer Funds
(0) Authorized Equipment Purchases. General Fund
(P) Authorized Equipment Purchases - Water and Sewer Funds
Discussion followed on the floor.
The question of adoption of the foregoing res.oluti.on was duly-put
to a vote on roll call, which resulted as follows;
Schuler
Aye
Saccucci
Absent
Boronkay
Aye
Nichols
Aye
Dennis
Aye
Boothroyd
Aye
Banfield
Nay
Slattery
Aye
Holman
Aye
Gutenberger
Aye
Ayes (.8)
Nay (1) - Banfield
Absent (1) - Saccucci.
Carried
Adoption of 1981 City Tax Rate
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Slattery
WHEREAS, the 1981 City of Ithaca Budget, estimates and reduisi.-
tions, including Capital Budget, was. approved, adopted and confirmed
in the total amount of $13,475,780, on May 6, 1981, in accordance
with a detailed Budget Statement on file in the office of the City
Controller, and
WHEREAS, available and estimated revenues total $9.,774,746, leaving
$3,701,034 as the amount to be raised by taxation, and
WHEREAS, the Assessment Roll for
Assessment Department of Tompkins
approved and shows the total net
and
1981, certified and filed by the
County, has been footed and
taxable valuation of $29.6,082,72.6,
WIIEREAS, under Charter provisions. the tax limit for City purposes .
amounts to $5,580,038 for 1981;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Tax Rate for general City
purposes for the fiscal year 1981 be, and the same hereby is,
established and fixed at $12.50 per $1,0.00 of taxable valuation as
shown, certified and extended against the respective properties
on the 1981 Tax Roll, thereby making a total tax levy as near as
may be of $3,701,034, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the amount of said tax levy be spread
and the same hereby is levied upon and against the respective
properties shown on said City Tax Roll in accordance with their
respective net taxable valuation at the rate of $12.50. per $1,000 .
of such taxable valuations, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the City Chamberlain be, and hereby
is, directed to extend and apportion the City Tax as above, and
that upon the coniplet: ion of the extension of said Roll the City
Clerk shah prepare a warra111C oil the City Chamberla-in for the
14
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May 6, 1981., i
collection of said levy; and the Mayor and City Clerk hereby are
authorized and directed to sign and affix the corporate seal to
such warrant and forthwith to file the same with said Roll with
the City Chamberlain, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That upon the execution and filing of said
warrant and Tax Roll with the City Chamberlain, the amounts. of the
City Tax set opposite each and every property shall thereby become
tax liens, due, payable and collectible in accordance with provi-
sions of the City Charter and other laws applicable thereto, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the total sum of
appropriated in accordance with the Budget as
respective Boards, Offices and Departments of
purposes respectively set forth therein. The
has been completed and approved by the Assess:
Tompkins County and resulted in the following
Valuation of Land
Valuation of Buildings
Total Value of Real Property
Less: Value of Exempt Property
Plus: Value of Special Franchises.
Net Value of Taxable Property
Discussion followed on the floor.
$13,475,780 be
adopted, to the
the City for the
1981 Assessment Roll
nent Department of
valuation:
$ 873,791,500
48311372,806
$571,164,306
290,455 950 (_50..85 %)
$28OP708.1356
15,374370.
$296,082,726
The question of adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly put
to a vote on roll call, which resulted as follows:
Gutenberger
Aye
Holman
Aye
Slattery
Aye
Banfield
Nay
Boothroyd
Aye
Dennis
Aye
Nichols
Aye
Boronkay
Aye
Saccucci
Absent
Schuler
Aye
Ayes (8)
Nay (1)
- Banfield
Absent (1)
- Saccucci
Carried
1982 Revenue Sharing Requests
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Holman
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has set a deadline for receiving Revenue
Sharing Applications for July 1, 1981, and
WHEREAS, due to the anticipated budget constraints for the year 1982,
it is questionable that the City will be able to appropriate any
Revenue Sharing Funds to IIuman Service providers, and
WHEREAS, this Common Council does not want to exclude the possibility
of a Human Service provider having a unique idea that, if funded
through Revenue Sharing, would directly result in a savings of
dollars;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca will receive
applications for Revenue Shar:i.ng Funds for 1982 provided the appli-
cations conform to the following criteria:
1. The proposal must be :for something that is unique
(not the traditional capital investment or staff
positions).
2. The proposal must clearly indicate hoty a savings
would result from its implementation.
2 a8 -12- May G, 1981.
3. The proposal must meet all criteria for
Revenue Sharing.
Carried
Bingo Inspector Salary
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Boothroyd
RESOLVED, That this Common Council establishes a $3.50 per hour
salary for the part -time position of Bingo Inspector, effective
May 11, 1981.
Carried
Youth Bureau Location
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Schuler
RESOLVED, That for the time being, the City of Ithaca Youth Bureau
remain at the present Community Service Building site (Tin Can),
and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the City continue to explore the possi-
bility of relocating said Youth Bureau to some other location.
Discussion followed on the floor.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (7) - Boothroyd, Boronkay, Dennis, Holman,
Nichols, Schuler, Slattery
Nays (2) - Banfield, Gutenberger
Absent (1) - Saccucci
Carried
South Aurora and Prospect Streets Capital Project
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Slattery
WHEREAS, a capital improvement project for the modification of the
intersection of South Aurora and Prospect Streets has been authorize
and established, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Works has granted authorization to the
Superintendent, contingent upon Common Council approval, for addi-
tional funds to commence condemnation proceedings under the Eminent
Domain Procedure Law to allow for timely acquisition of lands and
completion of this needed safety improvement project;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, m hat this Common Council does approve
additional funding for this project, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the City Controller be authorized to
make the necessary transfer from the Contingency Account, when the
amount of additional funds are known, and after approval by the
Budget and Administration Committee.
Carried
Circle Greenway Funding
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Nichols
RESOLVED, that $400 be provided to Circle Greenway for funding of
the Circumnavigator Newsletter, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, chat the $400 be transferred from the Legis-
lative Board Travel and Mileage Account A1010 -433.
Ayes (7) - Boothroyd, Boronkay, Dennis, Holman,
Nichols, Schuler, Slattery
Nays (2) - Banfield, Gutenberger
Absent (1) - Saccucci
Carried
Salary Incremental Adjustment Board
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Nichols
WHEREAS, the Personnel Board for the City of Ithaca convened as
the Salary Incrcriental. Adjustment Board on April 16 and April 29,
1931, and
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May 6, 1981' 1)
WHEREAS, said Board received and considered the records and recom-
mendations of personnel recommended by their Department Heads and /or
Supervisors for a salary incremental adjustment, and
WHEREAS, after due deliberations, the Salary Incremental Adjustment
Board (SIAB) recommended to the Budget and Administration Committee
of the Common Council four (4) employees who they believed to be the
most qualified and deserving of those recommended for a salary
incremental adjustment, and
WHEREAS, after reviewing the recommendations, the Budget and Admin-
istration Committee recommends that the City of Ithaca Personnel
SIAB results be approved;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That salary incremental increases
be approved to adjust the annual salary of each of the following
employees as follows:
Ruthann Brown to $15,099
Olga Potorti to 1531099
k.) Barbara Ruane to 13,526
Herman Sieverding to 14,810
1_J BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the City Controller be directed to
make these increases effective May 11, 1981, and that the Personnel
Administrator be directed to notify the Department Heads of these
decisions.
Carried Unanimously
Audit
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Boothroyd
RESOLVED, T hat the bills audited and approved by the Budget and
Administration Committee, in the total amount of $14,811.20, as
listed on Audit Abstract #8/1981, be approved for payment.
Carried Unanimously
Administrative Assistant
Alderman Gutenberger distributed the following report to the Council
as a result of his committee's review of the request of the adminis-
trative secretaries that the position "Administrative Assistant"
encompass all offices employing administrative secretaries:
On request of Administrative Secretaries that the position "Admin-
istrative Assistant - Mayor's Office" be changed to encompass all
offices employing Administrative Secretaries, thereby awarding all
Administrative Secretaries the equal opportunity to be granted the
permanent title of Administrative Assistant to their immediate
supervisor.
Reviewed:
1. Exempt positions in several other chief executive
offices as well as pertinent classified positions.
2. The proper procedures utilized for which positions
can be established, added or changed and the
appointing authority's responsibility and authority
in this matter.
(400" 3. The necessity and requirements to have positions
approved ti,rough the Council, Civil Service
Commission and the Municipal Service Division
in Albany, when appropriate.
4. Reasoning behind all but 3 departments having
Administrative Secretaries and why having an Admin-
istrative Secretary would not have any bearing on
justification to have an Administrative Assistant
and /or moth; and /or noiie. It was determined there
was no jusCihicati.on because an Adm_i_nistrative
Assistant in a department, i.e. Planning, would
probably have to have a planning backgrotuld and
degree; Buildini WOU ld probably have to have zoning
experience, etc., etc.
260 -14- May 6, 1981
Based on all of the above, it was determined that to unilaterally
extend the Administrative Assistant title to all departments would
be improper procedure, usurping the appointing authori.ty'-s responsi-
bility and authority and certainly not in the best interest of
the total work force and the City of Ithaca.
INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE;
Fire Contract - -Town of Ithaca
Alderman Slattery reported that the committee is close to completing
a fire contract with the Town of Ithaca. They have entered into
agreement to study the possibility of building a new fire station
in the City of Ithaca, or cooperating with the Town and locating
somewhere in the Town of Ithaca and staffing it with City staff.
They agreed to study those possibilities as part of the final fire
contract.
No. 5 Fire Station
Alderman Slattery reported having discus.s.ions with Chief Tuckerman
in regard to No. 5 Fire Station. Apparently they are going to have
to repair the floor. The equipment can be relocated temporarily,
possibly in No. 6.
Resolution
By Alderman Slattery: Seconded by
RESOLVED, the matter of relocation
possibility of building another fi
Planning and Development Committee
Alderman Boothroyd
of No. 5 fire equipment and the
re station be referred to the
for study and report back.
Carried Unanimously
Village of Lansing Youth Services
Alderman Slattery reporte d that the committee has been negotiating
a contract with the Village of Lansing for youth services.. The
Village has budgeted a fixed amount of money and it is a question
of take it or leave it. Mr. Slattery recommended. accepting it for
this year and will inform them of this, with the permission of this
Council.
Reapportionment
Alderman Slattery commented that the City should be concerned at its
number of wards as a result of reapportionment, and he felt the City
should have representation on the reapportionment committee.
HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE:
Procedure for Citizen's Grievances to Police
By Alderman Schuler: Seconded by A!_,icrman Holman
RESOLVED, That the procedure whereby citizens submit grievances to
the Police Department be referred to the Charter and Ordinances
Committee for review.
Carried Unan:imousl y
Human Services Committee Meeting
Alderman Sc hBzler announced twat the Human Services Committee meeting
on May 19 will be combined with the Youth Bureau Advisory Board,
and at that time there will be a 45- minute s;iowing of "Immigrant
Heritage", a film produced by GIAC.
CIRCLE GREENWAY COMMITTEE:
Alderman Nio gave brief report on the activities of the Circle
Greenway, their nature walk and their publication.
REPORT OF SPECIAL CODIMITTI:ES:
Human Services Coalition
Alderman Holman reported that the human Services Coalition has
appointed an ad hoc committee to consider the role of the Human
Services Coalition. Input from tic Council will be welcome.
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UNFINISHED AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
Fall Creek Area Survey.
Alderman Banfield informed the Council that the results of the survey
of the Fall Creek Area will be presented at a meeting in the Common
Council Chambers on May 21, from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. The Council were
invited.
Improvement of Access to Hospital
Alderman Gutenberger reminded the Council that a few months previous
the Planning Department were directed to review immediate steps to
be taken to improve access to the hospital. He asked Mr. Van Cort
if the Council could expect a report on.the matter at the next meet-
ing of the Council.
Access for the Handicapped
At Alderman Nicholls request, Planning Director Van Cort gave a
brief report on the progress of the plans for the access for the
Handicapped at City Hall. He commented that it should be ready to
start by August 1981, after completion of Ithaca Center.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 11:15 P.M.
Jo ph A. Rundle, City Clerk
7
RaV' nd Bordoni, Mayor