HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-1981-09-02Regular Meeting
PRESENT:
Mayor - Bordoni
Aldermen (10) -
COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
7:30 P.N1.
September 2, 1.981
Banfield, Boothroyd, Boronkay, Dennis, Gutenberger,
Holman, Nichols, Saccucci, Schuler, Slattery
No Council member objected.
PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
Robin Cisne, 108 Bridge Street, Coordinator of-Tompkins County Chapter
of National Organization For Women, addressed the Council regarding the
proposed exception to the policy which Council made denying the use of
city funds for travel to non-ERA ratified states. She mentioned two
concerns: 1) whether or not the subcommittee of Council (BETA) realized,
the seriousness of the goals of ERA; 2) whether or not policies of
the Common Council are to be taken seriously. She spoke against
the allowance of use of city funds for Jack Dougherty to travel to
Georgia to receive' the award from the American Public Works Association.;;
OTHERS PRESENT:
IV.
Buffalo Street,, addressed
City Controller - Spano
ing against the use
Personnel Director - Collins
Southwest Park for other
than recreation use.
City Attorney - Shapiro
Discussion followed
on
Building Commissioner - Iloard
requested that the
Supt. of Public Works - Kinsella
in
the topics appearing under
Fire Chief - Tuckerman
remain for the entire
Commis. of Public Works - Cleveland,
Schickel
in which the
Planner - Joe Pierce
Council handles the
questions
City Clerk - Rundle
up.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
y.;
Mayor Bordoni led all present in the
Pledge of Allegiance to the
American flag.
i
MINUTES:
-�
By Alderman Boothroyd: Seconded by
Alderman Holman
RESOLVED, That the Minutes of August
5, 1981 be approved with the
following correction on page 8, para.
1, 1.. 19: Dr. Reuben Weiner's
reference to the Jaws of Life being an
$18,500 device should be
changed. to read: an $8,500 device.
Carried Unanimously
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA:
New Business
Mayor Bordoni requested an item be added under New Business—
f
Proposed Canine Force for the City of Ithaca.
No Council member objected.
Old Business
Alderman Holman requested an item be
added under Old Business- -
Progress Report of Walk Cycle Light.
No Council member objected.
PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
Robin Cisne, 108 Bridge Street, Coordinator of-Tompkins County Chapter
of National Organization For Women, addressed the Council regarding the
proposed exception to the policy which Council made denying the use of
city funds for travel to non-ERA ratified states. She mentioned two
concerns: 1) whether or not the subcommittee of Council (BETA) realized,
the seriousness of the goals of ERA; 2) whether or not policies of
the Common Council are to be taken seriously. She spoke against
the allowance of use of city funds for Jack Dougherty to travel to
Georgia to receive' the award from the American Public Works Association.;;
Richard Holmes, 719 W. Clinton Street, addressed the Council, repeating
his request of August 5th for a "no right turn on red" sign to be
placed at the corder of Fu: toll ,.1 -.d S. Meadow Streets. He also re-
cluested file Council to to take into considera-
tion the health, safety anc' of its cii:izens.
N illi am Shaw, Repub t i.call 314 l tkaca Pond, spoke to
the Council, addressing the controversy and concern over the College -
town development and propose(! Larking ramp. He said it is unclear
Alice Ratkoski, S26
IV.
Buffalo Street,, addressed
the Council, speak-
ing against the use
of
Southwest Park for other
than recreation use.
(40001,
Discussion followed
on
the ftooi-. Mayor Bordoni
requested that the
persons interested
in
the topics appearing under
this agenda item
remain for the entire
meeting to observe the manner
in which the
Council handles the
questions
�.�hich are hrought
up.
Richard Holmes, 719 W. Clinton Street, addressed the Council, repeating
his request of August 5th for a "no right turn on red" sign to be
placed at the corder of Fu: toll ,.1 -.d S. Meadow Streets. He also re-
cluested file Council to to take into considera-
tion the health, safety anc' of its cii:izens.
N illi am Shaw, Repub t i.call 314 l tkaca Pond, spoke to
the Council, addressing the controversy and concern over the College -
town development and propose(! Larking ramp. He said it is unclear
318 -2- September 2, 1981
whether the issue is a $15,000 second study or a $3.S million parking
ramp. IIe urged the Common Council to act by specific resolution to
clarify its position and restrict its support to planning, existing
staff support and to note specifically its fiscal inability to
develop a parking ramp in the Collegetown area.
Alderman Holman asked for a public information session or committee
meeting in which Phase I will be reviewed and questions clarified.
Alderman Nichols agreed and a Planning and Development Committee
meeting was scheduled to be held on September 16, 1981, at 8:00 P.M.
in the Common Council. Chambers, with a representative of American
Cities Corp. present, if possible. _J
Recognition of Candidates
In recognition of the candidates
following persons to stand:
present, Mayor Bordoni asked the
William Shaw, Republican Mayoral candidate
Raymond Schlather, Democrat, aldermanic candidate in. First Ward.
William Myers, Democrat, aldermanic candidate in Second Ward
Daniel Hoffman, Democrat, aldermanic candidate in Fifth Ward
John Gutenberger, Democrat, Mayoral candidate
Donald Slattery, Democrat, candidate for Tompkins Co. Board of
Representatives in First District
Ethel Nichols, Democrat, candidate for Tompkins Co. Board of
Representatives in Fourth District
Robert Boothroyd, Democrat, aldermanic candidate in Fifth Ward
Rudolph Saccucci, Republican, aldermanic candidate in First Ward
Richard Boronkay, Republican, aldermanic candidate in Second Ward
PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL (continued)
Clarence Cleveland and Gerald Schickel, Commissioners of the Board
of Public Works, addressed the Council on behalf of Jack Dougherty,
Asst. to the Superintendent. They informed the Council. that the
Board of Public Works had unanimously approved of Mr. Dougherty's
travelling to Georgia to receive an award from the American Public if
Works Association. They commented that they understand the position
of the Council, and the position they have taken with the ERA. They
urged the Council to make an exception to the resolution.
Calvin Walker, 105 Hickory Place, member of the Black Caucus of Ithaca,
Inc., addressed the Council, expressing the hope that the newly
drafted Affirmative Action Plan would be adopted by the Council
and be implemented.
Alderman Gutenberger expressed appreciation to Mr. Walker and those
members of the community who have spent much time and effort in
preparing the legislation to be presented later in the agenda.
Janet Hanna, R.D. 2, Marathon, N.Y., one of the owners and operators
of the Follow Your Nose Foods pushcart which operates on Cayuga
Street near the Commons, presented two petitions with more that 450
signatures, both from merchants and patrons of the pushcart, expres-
sing opposition to the Commons Advisory Board's current proposal to
extend its jurisdiction over public streets surrounding the Commons,
and that her pushcart business be allowed to operate on the peripheral
streets around the Commons.
Douglas Salter, President of a Small Business in Ithaca, addressed
the Council, speaking in opposition to extending the jurisdiction of
the Commons Advisory Board over streets surrounding the Commons.
Donald Kinsella, Supt. of Public Works, addressed the Council re-
garding the request for the Asst. to the Superintendent to travel to
Georgia to receive an award from the American Public Works Association.
Mr. K_i.nsella stated that lie believes it is possible to make an excep-
tion. in this matter without jeopardizing the principle of supporting
ERA- -the city is equally concerned with the individual as well as
with the principle.
-3- September 2, 1981
Alderman Slattery addressed the Council regarding statements made
at the August S, 1981 meeting concerning the Jaws- of -L,ife device
(Hearst Poser Rescue Tool). He explained that the device was included
in the tentative budget; however, prior to the final budget,
prioritization took place, not by theCommon Council, but by the Fire
Department, for equipment they felt they needed, and the device
was not included at that time. He commented that it would be in-
appropriate for the Council to try to prioritize public safety items- -
they rely on paid professionals to do this..
(400'el Mayor Bordoni reminded the Council that at the time prioritization
took place in the Fire Department, public collection efforts for the
purpose of obtaining the device had already begun.
Alderman Nichols commented that the enthusiastic support, referred -
to by Mr. Neigh in a letter to Alderman Slattery, that Council shows
for the emergency medical service has not been because it forces
the firemen to work more productively, but because they are interested
in saving lives in the city. Often these things are not publicized
because of the privacy of the individual.
0
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR:
The Babe Ruth Baseball Team of Rockville Centre, N.Y.
Mayor Bordoni read the following proclamation from Leonard Sandel,
la Mayor of Rockville Centre, N.Y.:
"WHEREAS, The Babe Ruth Baseball Team of Rockville Centre, N.Y.,
having won the District and Metropolitan New York Championships,
is participating in the Eastern Regional Babe Ruth Championships
being held at Ithaca, New York, and
WHEREAS, The Mayor and the people of Ithaca will be hosts to the
members of the team, their coaches and parent chaperones, sharing
i'
their homes with them and providing recreation for them, and
WHEREAS, The team members, their coaches and families, as well as all
the citizens of Rockville Centre, wish to thank the Mayor and the
people of Ithaca for their hospitality, and to extend our apprecia-
tion to the Babe Ruth League officials and to Ithaca College for
making facilities available for this competition,
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Leonard Sandel, Mayor of the Village of Rockville
Centre, do hereby proclaim the gratitude of the people of Rockville
Centre to
THE MAYOR AND THE CITIZENS OF ITHACA
for their warm reception, and extend Heartfelt wishes for our
continued friendship.''
Leonard
Mayor
August
Sande]
6, 1981:
MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS:
Plannin& and Development Board
Mayor Bordoni informed t}re Council that he had mace the following
appointments, and requested their approval:
Susan J. Cummings, appointed as chairperson of the Planning
and Development Board on August 19, 1981
Raymond Schlather, appointed as member of the Planning and
Development Board to replace Prof. Franklin K. Moore, for a
term of office to expire December 31, 1983.
Resolution
By Alderman Holman: Seconded by Alderman Dennis
RI:SOLV_:D, That the Council approves the appointment of Susan J.
Cummings as chairperson to the Planning and Development Board,
effective August 19, 1981.
Carried Unanimously
320
-4- September 2, 1981
Resolution
By Alderman Boothroyd: Seconded by Alderman Nichols
RESOLVED, That the Counc=il approves the appointment of Raymond
Schlather to the Planning and Development Board to replace Prof.
Franklin K. Moore for a term of office to expire December 31, 1983.
Carried Unanimously
SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
Presentation by City of Ithaca Recycling Commission
Dan Hoffman, Chairman, and Deborah Hoard, committee member, presente
the Preliminary Report to Common Council of the Feasibility of an
Improved City -wide Recycling System prepared by the City Recycling
Task Force.
Chin, Hoffman introduced the members of the Task Force who were present
at the meeting -- Deborah Hoard, Ann Mathews, Ernest Bury, Far]. Arnold
and C.U. Work -Study student Betsey Shreve.
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
By Alderman Nichols: Seconded by Al.d.erman. Schuler
WHEREAS, the members of the City of Ithaca Recycling Commission have
worked diligently to prepare factual answers to the questions
raised by the Environmental Commission (Commission on the Conserva-
tion of the Environment) and the Common Council in March of this
year and have prepared a report that represents the best information
that is currently available, and
WHEREAS, many topics for additional research appeared during their
investigation, some of them awaiting action by Tompkins Count), or
other governmental bodies;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Common Council sincerely
thanks the members of the Recycling Task Force for the excellence
of their efforts on behalf of the recycling effort in the City of
Ithaca and requests them to continue to examine such additional
information as becomes available so that the Common Council can
have the benefit of their advice when major decisions involving city
participation in future solid waste disposal or recycling projects
must be made.
Carried Unanimously
Mayor Bordoni expressed appreciation on behalf of the Council, and
himself to the committee for preparing a most comprehensive pre-
liminary report. He commented that he felt the city is very
fortunate in having people who accept these appointments and give
time, diligence interest and concern to the assignments.
Resolution
By Alderman Holman: Seconded by Alderman Schuler
RESOLVED, the Preliminary Report on the Feasibility of an Improved
City -wide Recycling System be referred to the Planning and Develop-
ment Committee of Council, the Environmental Commission and the
Board of Public Works for review.
Carried Unanimously
Common Council recessed at 9:18 P.M. and reconvened at 9:25 P.M.
in regular session.
BUDGET AND ADMINIS'T'RATION COMMITTEE:
Youth Bureau -- Amendment to 1981 Equipment List
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Boothroyd
RESOLVED, That the 1981 Authorized Equipment List for the Youth
Bureau be amended to include the purchase of the following equipment:
1 canoe trailer
$650.00
4 backpacks
240.00
4 sleeping bags
240.00
1 table saw
500.00
1 grinder
150.00
2 tents
330.00
Carried Unanimously
-5-
September 2, 1981
Ithaca School District -- Authorization for Mayor to Sign Agreement
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Saccucci
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Youth Bureau was authorized at the
April 1, 1981, Common Council meeting to enter into a contractual
arrangement with the Ithaca School District for the purpose of a
three -month pilot program providing educational services for
emotionally disturbed young people, and
WHEREAS, the School District has requested that this contractual
arrangement be extended for the period of September 9, 1981 to June
24, 1982;
(41kwel NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Mayor be authorized to
execute said agreement between the City of Ithaca Youth Bureau and
the School District.
Carried Unanimously
Planning and Development Department -- Amendment to 1981 Equipment
List _
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Boothroyd
RESOLVED, That the 1981 Authorized Equipment List for the Planning
Department be amended to include the purchase of a four - drawer file
cabinet, at a cost not to exceed $130.00.
Carried Unanimously
_i
Gadabout -- Service for Balance of Year
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Saccucci
WHEREAS, on August 6, 1980, this Common Council authorized an agree-
ment with Gadabout for providing transportation service to the dis-
abled for an amount of $11,000, and
WHEREAS, these funds will be fully expended as of September 1, 1981;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That this agreement with Gadabout
be extended to December 31, 1981, for an additional amount not to
i exceed $3,077.
Discussion followed on the floor.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
Special State Aid Package
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Holman
WHEREAS, the City Stands to receive $354,344 under a Special Aid
package for New York Municipalities, and
WHEREAS, reduction in State Aid Per Capita for- the last two years
amounted to $306,948, which had to be made up by increasing taxes;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE I1' RESOLVED, That this Common Council approves
the setting aside of the $3S4,344 as restricted surplus to be used
only for reduction of taxes.
Carried Unanimously
Junior Engineer Position
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Dennis
WHEREAS, on August 26, 1981, the Board of Public Works approved the
promotion of William Szabo from Senior Engineering Aide to Junior
(40001, Eng_i_neer;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RI_;SOLVED, 1hat William Szabo be promoted to
Junior Engineer at an annual salary of $14,562, effective August 31,
1981.
Carried Unanimously
3 �1) -6- September 2, 1981
Sale of Property at 1025 -27 East State Street.
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Banfi.eld
141EREAS, a request has been received from a City resident, Mr.
Varney, to acquire a portion of the property owned by the City of.
Ithaca, namely, 1025 -27 East State Street, and
WHEREAS, the Superintendent has determined that said property is
in excess to departmental needs, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Works has approved the sale of said
property under the following stipulations;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, this Common Council approves:
1. That the property be subdivided into two separate parcels to
allow for the two adjacent property owners to acquire area
adjacent to their properties.
2. That any portions of the properties used for off-street parking
be improved by the buyer within one year of sale by the City,
in accordance with plans prepared by the buyer and approved
by the Building Commissioner, City Engineer and the Department
of Planning and Development, which plans shall:
(a) follow as closely as practicable the regulations for private
and neighborhood parking areas in residential districts,
as specified in Sec. 30.37B of the City Code,
(b) provide for as much separation as practicable between
parking spaces and property right -of -way lines,
(c) be based on an accurate survey of the site, including the
topographic data adequate to evaluate the feasibility of
the proposed improvements, and
(d) indicate the location of easements and access necessary fof
maintenance of the major drainage channel on the property.
3. That the City retain the right to repurchase the property, or
to extend the period for making improvements specified above,
if such improvements are not completed within one year of sale;
such repurchase to be at the original price of sale by the City,
adjusted as appropriate to account for any physical damage or
City - approved improvement to the property which takes place in
the interim.
4. Any conditions felt necessary by the Department of Public Works
for access to the drainage structure and channel for maintenance
and repair,
Discussion followed on the floor.
A vote on the resolution resulted as Follows:
Carried Unanimously
Assistant to Superintendent Travel Request
By Alderman Gutenberger Seconded by Alderman Banfield
WHEREAS, an employee of the Department of Public Works of the City
of Ithaca has been notified by the American Public Works Associatioi
as being the recipient of a nationally recognized award to be
presented at its September conference in Atlanta, Georgia, and
WHEREAS,
the
award represents a significant
milestone and a high
point in
the
career of a dedicated employee
of the City of Ithaca,
with over
30
years of service to the City,
and
WHEREAS, this award to a City employee reflects weal on the employee
and the City of Ithaca, New York, and is a unique Honor to the
Department of Public Wor }:s, and
-7- September 2, 1981
s.3
WHEREAS) the Board of Public Works endorses and approves the atten-
dance of Mr. John Dougherty at the conference to receive this once -
in- a- lifetime honor;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That Assistant to the Superintendent,
John Dougherty, be permitted to travel to Atlanta, Georgia, to
receive this award.
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:
Slattery Aye Gutenberger Nay
Nichols Nay Banfield Aye
Boronkay Aye Holman Nay
Saccucci Aye Dennis Nay
Schuler Nay Boothroyd Aye
Ayes (5)
Nays (5)
Mayor Bordoni broke the tie by voting Aye.
Carried
r..� Resolution To Consider Amending ERA Resolution
By Alderman Banfield: Seconded by Alderman Slattery
1; RESOLVED, That the Resolution formerly adopted by the City of Ithaca
with reference to not allowing City employees to travel. to meetings
and conferences taking place in States that have not ratified the
ERA Amendment, be referred to the Charter and Ordinance Committee
and the Budget and Administration Committee for further discussion.
Discussion followed on the floor.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (3) - Slattery, Saccucci, Banfield
Nays (7) - Boothroyd, Nichols, Schuler, Dennis,
Gutenberger, Holman, Boronkay
Motion Defeated.
Municipal Golf Course -- Amendment to 1981 Equipment List
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Banfiel-d
RESOLVED, That the 1981 Authorized Equipment List for the Municipal
Golf Course be amended to include the purchase of a Top Dresser and
a Greens Saver Aeration Unit, for a total cost not to exceed
$3,160.
Carried Unanimously
Ithaca Mousing Authority -- Personnel Roster
By Alderman Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Saccucci
IVIIEREAS, According to Section 3, Article 32(1) of the New York State
Public )lousing Law, it is necessary for the local legislative body
to fix the compensation of personnel in the local Housing Authority,
and
WHEREAS, this Common Council has received a resolution from the
Ithaca housing Authority establishing positions and comparability
for its Personnel Roster;
NOW, THFIZEFO11E, BE IT RESOLVED, that tills Common Council establishes
the following positions, comparability and salary ranges:
324
Executive Director
Tenant Relations
Specialist
Modernization
Coordinator
Principal Account
Clerk
Stenographer
Account Clerk /Typist
Outreach Worker
Working Supervisor
Maintainer
Maintenance Worker
Laborer
September 2, 1.981
Building
Commissioner-
$20,881_ -
$29,718
(est.
1968)
Planner
III
12,986 -
19,221
Planner
II
14,925 -
22,091
City of
Ithaca
CSEA
9,908 -
14,667
City of
Ithaca.
CSEA
7,904
- 11,699
City of
Ithaca
CSEA
7,904
- 11,699
Tompkins
County
EOC
8,731
- 10,905
City of
Ithaca
CSEA
6.51
- 7.63
City of
Ithaca
CSEA
4.84
- 5.66
City of
Ithaca
CSEA
4.49
- 5.25
City of
Ithaca.
CSEA
3.97
- 4.64
Carried Unanimously
Audit
By Alderman. Gutenberger: Seconded by Alderman Slattery
RESOLVED, that the bills audited and approved by the Budget and
Administration Committee, in the total amount of $47,128.64, as
listed on Audit Abstract #16/1981, be approved for payment.
Carried Unanimously
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Southwest Park
By Alderman Nichols: Seconded by Alderman Dennis
WHEREAS, The Board of Public Works has granted temporary use of a
portion of Southwest Park to the Over Thirty Softball League for
use as playing fields, and
WHEREAS, The Common Council hereby endorses the temporary develop-
ment of the requested area by the Over Thirty Softball League, and
WHEREAS, Long -range planning considerations indicate that there may
be a higher and better use for Southwest Park at some future date;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the staff of the Department of
Planning and Development is directed to stud.), Southwest Park's
potential for future development; the legal uses and restrictions;
the adjacent City-owned. acerage that was not purchased with federal
funds; and other planning considerations for the remaining unused
recreation land. in the City of Ithaca..
Discussion followed on the floor.
Alderman Nichols withdrew her original resolution and presented the
following revised resolution:
Revised Resolution
By Alderman Nichols: Seconded by Alderman Banfield
WHEREAS, The Board of Public Works has granted temporary use of a
portion of Southwest Park to the Over Thirty Softball League for
use as playing field;
J
NOW, THEREIORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Common Council hereby
crrdorses the temporary developmcnt of the requested area by the Over
Thirty Softball League.
Carried Unanimously
Ithaca City School District - Playground Area
WHEREAS, The administration of the Ithaca City School District has
recently expressed an interest in developing the playground land
near Central School and the Greater Ithaca Activities Center for
broader recreational use, and
WHEREAS, the area being considered is within the boundaries of the
downtown neighborhood which is being redeveloped with the assistance
of federal funding;
-9- September 2, 1981
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Common Council authorizes
personnel of the Department of Planning and Development to partici-
pate in discussions with the school district administration in
order to coordinate the planning of any future development of the
land and to inform the appropriate Council committees of any pro-
posed changes that might involve matters of concern to the City
of Ithaca.
Carried Unanimously
Expression of Appreciation - Park Projects
By Alderman Nichols: Seconded by Alderman Schuler
(600.11 WHEREAS, Twelve young men spent many hours improving buildings
and maintenance projects at Stewart Park under the supervision of
the City Parks Department, the Economic Opportunity Corporation,
and the Ithaca Youth Bureau, and
WHEREAS, Their supervisors have expressed high praise for the work
that was accomplished and the competent and effective manner in
which these projects were conducted;
Alderman Nichols reported that there would be a meeting of the
Planning and Development Committee on September 16, 1981, with
reference to the Collegetown project.
CHARTER AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE. - Flood Plain Ordinance
By Alderman Slattery: Seconded by Alderman Nichols
Ordinance No. 81 -4
AN ORDINANCE ADDING CHAPTER 38 ENTITLED "FLOOD PLAIN MANAGEMENT" 110
THE CI'T'Y OF ITHACA MUNICIPAI. CODE.
BF; IT 01:DAINED AND ENACTED by the Common C.ounCil of the City
of Ithaca, New York, as follows:
Section 1. That a new Chanter to be known and designated as
Chapter 38 entitled "Flood Plain :Management" is hereby added to the
City of Ithaca IMunicipa Code to read as follows:
(Copy in official Minute Book)
Carried Unanimously
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That on behalf of the citizens of
Ithaca and the many others who will enjoy the park this year and
'j
in the future, the Common Council thanks the young.men who took
part in this program and wished them well in their future endeavors,
J
and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the text of this resolution be spread
upon the minutes and the City Clerk will send an official. copy to
each of the young men who participated.
Carried Unanimously
Pre - emptive Signals and Emergency Communications with Trains
Alderman Nichols reported on the status of the pre - emptive signals
to he installed at the West End. She referred to a letter received
from Planning and Development Director Van Cort in which he stated
that when the pre - emptive signals are in place, the trains will. be
slower than they are at the present time. However, there are some
items stated in Director Van Cort's letter that should be cleared
up and in order to get correct information one of the Planning and
Development meetings in September will be devoted to the matter of
design and operation of the pre - emptive system. September 23, 1981,
will be the date on which the matter will be discussed.
Alderman Nichols reported that there would be a meeting of the
Planning and Development Committee on September 16, 1981, with
reference to the Collegetown project.
CHARTER AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE. - Flood Plain Ordinance
By Alderman Slattery: Seconded by Alderman Nichols
Ordinance No. 81 -4
AN ORDINANCE ADDING CHAPTER 38 ENTITLED "FLOOD PLAIN MANAGEMENT" 110
THE CI'T'Y OF ITHACA MUNICIPAI. CODE.
BF; IT 01:DAINED AND ENACTED by the Common C.ounCil of the City
of Ithaca, New York, as follows:
Section 1. That a new Chanter to be known and designated as
Chapter 38 entitled "Flood Plain :Management" is hereby added to the
City of Ithaca IMunicipa Code to read as follows:
(Copy in official Minute Book)
Carried Unanimously
32G)
-10- September 2, 1981
Affirmative Action Plan
Alderman Slattery read the Foreward portion of the Affirmative Action
Plan and the purpose of that Plan. He stated that the Plan was
produced with recommendations and projections from the Mayor, Common
Council members, department heads and members of the Ithaca Community.
It should be noted that the Black Caucus of Ithaca, Inc. met with
the City of Ithaca on many occasions in the development of this
Affirmative Action Plan. It is hoped that this Plan and the program
to follow will be accepted in the spirit in which it is intended:
to pursue an active affirmative action program to show that the
City of Ithaca is truly an equal opportunity employer. The goal of
the Plan is equal opportunity for any individual, regardless of
race, color, religion, sex, marital status, age, national origin,
political affiliation, sexual orientation, and physical or mental
handicaps, with the terms and conditions and benefits of employment.
The Plan also implements the City's policy to provide motivation to
City employees and to provide employment opportunity to members of
minority groups and women. The City will develop an affirmative
action program to implement this affirmative action. plan. A motion
to waive the reading of the entire document was voted on and
unanimously carried.
Resolution
By Alderman Slattery: Seconded by Alderman Saccucci
WHEREAS, The City of Ithaca believes in equal opportunity for all,
and
WHEREAS, An Affirmatiive Action Plan will aid in achieving equal
opportunity, and
WHEREAS, An Affirmative Action Plan has been presented to the Charter
and Ordinance Committee by the City of Ithaca Personnel Director
after many months of preparation by the mediation team, that is
the Black Caucus, the Justice Department and the City of Ithaca;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That this Affirmative Action Plan
is hereby adopted, as recommended, unanimously, by the Charter and
Ordinance Committee as the official hiring plan for the City of
Ithaca for the years 1981 and 1982, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this Common Council hereby acknowledges
the time and effort put forth by our Personnel Director Joan Collins,
by Steve Wapen, Mike Montgomery, Calvin Walker, Carolyn Whitlow and
the many other people who helped in the preparation of this document.
Discussion followed on the floor.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
Citizens Complaint of Police Action Procedure Revision
Alderman Slattery reported on the status of the Citizens Complaint
of Police Action Procedure Revision. The Charter and Ordinance
Committee had planned on presenting a resolution at this meeting,
but after Alderman Slattery had discussed the resolution with City
Attorney Shapiro he requested that the item be left in Committee
until further discussion at the next. meeting. He apologized for
the length of time already spent on the matter but felt that before
a resolution is finally adopted it should be correctly worded and
he was concerned about one portion of tale resolution and would like
to discuss it with Committee.
Commons Peripheral Extension
Alderman Slattery reported that the draft of the ordinance for the
Commons Peripheral Extension is now in the hands of the City Attorney.
He has reviewed the ordinance with the City Attorney to be sure that
the proper legal terminology has been used in drafting the ordinance
so that it can be adopted by Common Council. Alderman Slattery
said that he believes the document will be ready for the October
meeting; there is no rush on this _item and the Committee wants it to
be in f=inal form before it is adopted.
-11- September 2, 1981:
Alderman Banfield mentioned that he had received several calls
from people who were upset because the Craft Fair was not being held
on the Commons this year because the Craft Fair could not get the
dates which they requested. Apparently the requested dates included
a Saturday and the Commons Advisory Board denied the request.
Alderman Banfield's question was how can the Commons Advisory Board
set policy as to who uses the Commons. After much discussion by the
Aldermen it was noted that if a negative decision is given to someone
wishing to use the Commons, that the person, or organization, can
then come to Common Council since Common Council has the final say
in these matters.
not Television Cable Rates
By Alderman Slattery: Seconded by Alderman Nichols
WHEREAS, The United States Congress is presently considering
legislation to remove the right of local governments to regulate
basic cable charges previously agreed to in television cable
franchises, and
WHEREAS, Federal action has already removed the right of local govern-
ments to review changes in rates charged to additional television
options:such as Home Box Office, and
WHEREAS, Thousands of households in Ithaca depend upon the basic
5.. cable television service for information and entertainment, and the
i. chief assurance of adequate service is the authority to require
} financial disclosure before granting an increase in the basic cable
television rate, and
WHEREAS, The existing system of rate - fixing in cable television
franchises granted by local municipalities has not prevented the
growth of cable television, but instead has maintained some measure
of public control of one of the most lucrative and fast- expanding
quasi - public utilities;
(4000'e- NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Ithaca Common Council does
hereby call upon the members of the New York Congressional delegation
to support continued local control of the basic television rates
as specified in the franchises establishing cable television services
in the various communities, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the City Clerk shall send official
copies of this resolution to Senators Moynihan and D'Amato and Congress -'
man McHugh.
Discussion followed on the floor.
A vote on the floor resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE:
Weighted Voting
Alderman Slattery reported that he had attended one meeting on
weighted voting at the County Planning Office. He was unable to
attend the September 1st meeting and he Understands that the matter
of reapportionment is held up in Court and there will be some delay
in presenting the final_ recommendations to the County Board.
fire Contract
with Town of Ithaca
Alderman Slattery
stated that Fire
Chief `I'uckerman had brought to
his attention
that the City has not
yet received back from the Town
of Ithaca the
signed fire contract
between the City of Ithaca and
the Town, and
he believes it imperative
that the Mown be coIitacted
on this platter.
Alderman Banfleld
Said that he had personally
talked to Noel
Desch and had been
informed by Mr. Desch that the
matter of the
fire contract is on
the Town's agenda for the September
13th meeting.
The matter- has been
in the hands of the 'T'own's
attorney.
-12- September- 2, 1981
3121S
HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE
Alderman Schuler reported that the bullet proof vest- for the
Police Department should be in place by October 1, 1981.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES:
IIuman Services Coalition
Alderman Holman reported that the Human Services Coalition Board.
had made its recommendations on two Revenue Sharing requests:
Gadabout and R.S.V.P.
UNFINISHED AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
Request for Expunging Tax Penalty
Alderman Holman asked. that a matter be referred back to the Budget
and Administration Committee because it had not been considered
at its August meeting. A taxpayer made the request to have a tax
penalty expunged. The Committee said that the penalty was policy
and it was not willing to waive that policy. Alderman Holman said
that is view of the earlier discussions on waiving policy, she
would like to send that taxpayer request back to Committee.
Resolution
By Alderman Holman: Seconded by Alderman Schuler
RESOLVED, That the taxpayer request for expungement of tax penalty
which was not considered at the August meeting of the Budget and
Administration Committee be referred back to that Committee for
further review.
Ayes (8) - Banfield, Nichols, Schuler, Dennis, Gutenberger,
Holman, Boronkay, Saccucci
Nays (2) - Boothroyd, Slattery
Carried
Walk -Cycle Lights
Mayor Bordoni reported that the report from the Department of
Transportation Engineer is back and he is working with City Traffic
Engineer Gombas in an effort to come up with a solution to the
City's walk -cycle needs. He said no further details were available
at this time.
Fulton and Meadow Street Problem
Alderman Slattery inquired whether any progress had been made on
trying to obtain a "No Right on Red" sign at the intersection of
Fulton and Meadow Streets. It is a matter of going through the
porcedure necessary as there are about S00 intersections in the
City which have similar problems. The matter is in the mill and
the Mayor reported that the Board of Public Works is working on it.
NEW BUSINESS
Proposed Canine Unit for City of Ithaca
Mayor Bordoni reported that he had attended a meeting at the Tin Can
where two of the Police Commissioners and five Council people had
been present. He said that lie had also attended a demonstration on
August 2Sth where five Council people attended, as well as all three
of the Police Commissioners, Police Chief-, Deputy Police Chief and
several interested citizens who happened to be in the area and
watched the demonstration. Since that demonstration Mayor Bordoni
rece=ived a communication from Chief IIerson wherein lie states that he
is willing to enter into a trial six -month program. At an August
meeting of the Police Commissioners a vote was taken and two Commis-
sioners were in :favor of the trial period. A letter was received
from Commissioner Schicket stating if the funding for this program
was available, the Commissioners approved the program on the under-
standing that if the program was later considered to be not in the
best interests of the City that it would be immediately cancelled.
D
°r
�n
-13-
September 2, 1981
��,y{)
Mayor Bordoni said that he had received many letters concerning the
proposed Canine Unit and that most of the people who took the time
to write were in favor of it. He would like to see the matter
referred to the proper Committee for further action.
Resolution
By Alderman Dennis: Seconded by Alderman Banfield
RESOLVED, That the proposed six -month trial program for the Canine
Unit for the City of Ithaca be referred to the human Services
Committee for further action.
Carried Unanimously
Enforcement of Garbage Collection
Alderman Banfield stated that he happened to be going through the
second and the third wards and noticed that the old problem of
garbage being put out on the streets in plastic bags, being town
up by dogs and left for two or three days is still a problem.
Alderman Banfield has been working with Supt. of Public Works in an
effort to find a solution to the problem. It appears that the only
way to move the matter along is to issue appearance tickets to
tenants and landlords and this action involves police officers.
The whole matter of enforcement of garbage collection rules and
regulations should be reviewed to see if something can be done.
Resolution
By Alderman Banfield: Seconded by Alderman Slattery
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works forward its recommendations
with reference to solutions for the enforcement of garbage collection
rules and regulations to the Charter and Ordinance Committee for
further action.
Carried Unanimously
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion, the meeting adjourned at 11:OS P.M.
�fv
JosVph A. Rundle, City Clerk
,Raymond Bordoni , Mayor