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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-1986-10-011 COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK Regular Meeting 7:30 P.M. October 1, 1986 PRESENT: Mayor Gutenberger Alderpersons (10)- Booth, Cummings, Dennis, Haine, Hoffman, Killeen, Lytel, Peterson, Romanowski, Schlather OTHERS PRESENT: City Attorney - Nash City Controller - Spano City Clerk - Paolangeli Deputy City Controller - Cafferillo Fire Chief - Olmstead Building Commissioner - Hoard Planning & Development Director - Van Cort Police Chief - Herson Supt. of Public Works - Dougherty PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Gutenberger led all present in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American flag. MINUTES: By Alderperson Schlather: Seconded by Alderperson Booth °I. RESOLVED, That the Minutes of the September 3, 1986 meeting be approved as published. Carried Unanimously SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS: Public Hearing--Proposed Amendment to Zoning Map and Section 30.25 and 30.59 of Chapter 30 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code Resolution to Open Public Hearing By Alderperson Schlather: Seconded by Alderperson Booth RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider a Proposed Amendment to Zoning Map and Section 30.25 and 30.59 of Chapter 30 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code be opened. Carried Unanimously No one appeared to speak to the hearing. Resolution to Close Public Hearing By Alderperson Schlather: Seconded by Alderperson Booth RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider a Proposed Amendment to Zoning Map and Section 30.25 and 30.59 of Chapter 30 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code be closed. Carried Unanimously ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA: Executive Session Alderperson Cummings requested an additional item be added to the Executive Session to discuss sale or lease of City property. No Council member objected. Budget and Administration Committee Alderperson Dennis requested that Item G - Asst. Supt. of Public Works -- Possible Resolution be changed to Resolution. No Council member objected. Charter and Ordinance Committee Alderperson Schlather explained that Item C - Local Law Amending Charter (Sale of City Real Estate) - Resolution, -that was mailed out in timely fashion, is the new recommended Local Law for -2- October 1, 1986 the sale of City Real Estate. 'The previous Local Law relative to the sale of City Real Estate had been removed from the desks of Council. DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA: Budget and Administration Committee Alderperson Dennis requested that Item H - Administrative Asst. to Mayor be removed from the agenda under the BFA Committee. No Council member objected. PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL: Stewart Par The following persons spoke to Council regarding the Stewart Park Master Plan and asked Council not to change the park: David A. Rash, S Cornell Walk Karen Eberts, 230 Renwick Drive Fay Gougakis, 100 W. Seneca Street Kathy L:illey, 108 Cascadilla Park Road Barbara Ebert, Executive Director, Historic Ithaca, 120 N. Cayuga Street Robert Love, 773 Elm Street Extension. Vincent Mulcahy, 3 Fountain Place David Ruether, 1189 East Shore Drive Kristen Schaffer, 411 Turner Place Christian F. Otto, 411 Turner Place Edward C. Deverux, 142 Hawthorne Place Walter Slatoff, 23 Renwick Heights Road Doria Higgins, 2 Hillcrest Drive read the following statement from "Citizens to Save Stewart Park ": "We can all agree, I am sure, That Stewart Park is a beautiful place much loved by the people of our community. We do not think new design or restructuring should be imposed upon it - -by anyone! The history and issues of the master plan to alter Stewart. Park-have been studied most carefully by us. We cannot fiiid any valid reason for imposing changes upon the park. We ask you, "Why does the City want to Change Stewart Park ?" Who will be served by changing the park? What evidence can you present to support the need for such change? Do you realize how easily the beauty and character of the park can be destroyed by any redesigning of it ?" We have been told safety was a factor in your decision. Yet when we checked with the Ithaca Police, and its accident report section, we were told that no one there could remember a car accident in the park due to driving - -ever. They did remember accidents in city parking lots and even one recent fatality. We think large hidden parking lots can breed mugging and other crimes. Instead of making our safe park safer, such parking lots could make it less so. We have been told that the public was informed of progress on the plan and that input from various groups was requested and assimilated into the plan. Yet knowledgeable people have said that their input was ignored and requests to be informed not carried out. Announcement of time and place of the public meeting in April 1984 only appeared in the Ithaca Journal in the third paragraph of a story on the master plan in general. A Planning and Development Department memo says of that meeting, "Attendance at the presentation was limited ... it was apparent that those present were primarily representatives of agencies or groups directly or indirectly associated with the planning effort." Only 19 of the questionnaires distributed at the meeting were filled out. F a ; -3- October 1, 1986 And now a survey of opinion on Stewart Park, being conducted by --he staff of Trowbridge � Trowbridge will be presented in the near future. One of the cardinal rules of proper questionnaire methodology is that the actual pollsters be unbiased and disinterested;*that is, with nothing to gain or lose from the results. We raise the question whether Mr. Trowbridge, who has signed a contract with the City to redesign Stewart Park, qualifies as a person who is disinterested. If he is not disinterested, the data collected by his own paid staff would be most definitely open to question. Whatever the results of his survey, it will not answer the all- important question, "Do the citizens of Ithaca want Stewart Park redesigned ?" It won't answer that question because that simple, obvious, crucial question was not asked in the survey. It is conspicuous by its absence. We think the answer is evident in the citizens response to our petition. We submit herewith our_ petition with well over 6,000, approaching 7,000 signatures; 6,651. These people urge you to discard the master plan to alter Stewart Park and to halt any further implementation of that plan. We ask you not to try to salvage the plan with help from Mr. Trowbridge or anyone else, but to adopt instead a resolution calling for maintenance, preserva- tion, and restoration of existing buildings, roads, landscaping and other facilities in Stewart Park. We ask you as elected representatives who care as we do about Stewart Park, to reverse the unfortunate decision to impose change upon a place the community has loved and enjoyed for many years and which it hopes to enjoy, just as it is, for many years to come." Ms. Higgins preserteO the Mayor with a petition with 6,651 signatures on it to leave Stewart Park as it now is. Cargill Salt, Inc. Sara Hess, 208 Utica Street, read the following letter from Philip Snyder: "The strike at Cargill raises serious questions about the integrity and good will of this corporation. Perhaps the managers of Cargill believe that the anti -union sentiment that prevails in some sectors of our society will enable them to act with impunity in this situation. Common Council is in a position to exert some influence in this respect. The Board and the staff of the Center for Religion, Ethics an Social Policy has strongly urged Common Council to override short run economic concerns and give greater weight to the moral and social factors in the upcoming bidding for salt purchases for the city. As one of the worlds largest private corporations Cargill appears to be involved in a rather blatant attempt to bust the union. It showed lack of consideration for the workers by ignoring their seniority, transferring their job classifications at will, and moving actively toward the creation of a seasonal work force, whose members would not enjoy union benefits. These and other concerns raised in local hearings held by State Assemblyman Frank Barbaro, will have a bearing on State bids for salt. The City of Ithaca should not patronize this company at the present time since it disregards the rights of its employees. If Common Council does decide not to purchase from Cargill for these reasons, we hope you will communicate this decision to neighboring municipalities who may also be deliberating this issue. Sincerely, Philip Snyder Director of CRESP" -4- October 1, 1986 Sale /Lease of City Lands Paul Sayvetz, 201 Elm Street, spoke to the Council in support of the Local Law regarding sale /lease of City lands to be considered at tonight's meeting. National Fire Prevention Week Edward Olmstead, Fire Clie , spoke to the Council reminding members that the week of October 5 thru 11 is National Fire Preventation Week. It commemorates the anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire which occurred in 1871. The Fire Department has a lot of activities planned thru the week. They will be working with the public schools, with several public education programs, and on Saturday, October 11, they will be conducting their community wide fire drill, and then will be on the Commons for several hours with demonstrations of equipment and apparatus. The Council is invited to join the Fire Department in any of the activities. REPORT OF BOARD OF REPRESENTATIVES: Expansion Plan of Airport Rep. Nichols reported t at the Board -of Representatives is having a Public Hearing tonight at the airport on the expansion plan for the airport. They are getting ready to do a major expansion and realignment of the airport and construction of a terminal building. Most of this will be paid for with Federal money that has already been received. Public Safety Building Rep. Nichols reporte that the new Public Safety Building is approaching completion. There will be an open house for the building within the next few months. City /County Affirmative Action Rep. Nichols reported that on October 23rd the City and the County Affirmative Action Committees will be sponsoring a community forum at G.I.A.C. on opportunities for employment in the public sector. This will be jointly sponsored by these two committees and the Human Rights Commission. County Transportation Commission Rep. Nichols reported she has been attending meetings of the County Transportation Commission. At the last meeting the NYS Department of Transportation representative gave the schedule for their proposed drawings of Route 96. They should be ready to offer the City a plan early in the summer of 1987. Southern Tier East Regional Planning Board Rep. Nichols stated that she has been attending the Southern "Tier East Regional Planning Board meetings on behalf of the County Planning Committee. They recently gave this community $50,000 for day care; most of it allocated to two day care centers on West Hill. Rep. Nichols answered questions from Council members. Alderperson Schlather noted that his information received on August 25 regarding timetable for Route 96 was that the draft environmental impact statement would be available in the late Spring. A Public Hearing would be held in late spring or early summer of 1987 and that it would take them a full six months to prepare the final environmental impact statement with its recommendations to the City and the request for a vote by the City would take place in the latter part of 1987 or early 1988. Rep. Nichols replied that perhaps NYS Department of Transportation did not want to discourage the City by admitting the process would take that long. 7 -S- October 1, 1986 COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR: City Hall Site Mayor Gutenberger read a headline from the Post Standard of September 2, 1964 which states "New York State Electric and Gas Site Eyed for Temporary City Hall Use." He noted that twenty —two years later we are still talking about what to do with a temporary City Hall. He also noted that a headline of that same day read, "See Need for Swim Pool Island at Stewart Park." Ithaca Gun (600,11 Mayor Gutenberger reported on his trip on September 26 to Albany Bankruptcy Court regarding Ithaca Gun. He explained the different proposals on the table before the Judge and how they differed. It appeared there was only one firm (Mossburg) that would make a commitment to keep Ithaca Gun in Ithaca. Their offer was $870,000. However, Economic Development Agency and Citizens Savings Bank offered 1.1 million dollars. The 1.1 million dollar bid C 1was perfected by selling to Remington (the other firm bidding) - the patent to the Mag 10 gun for 1 million dollars. s j The Judge did not make a decision on that day but promised a decision would be forthcoming on Friday, October 3rd. MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS: - Ithaca Housing Authority Mayor Gutenberger announced that he had reappointed Margaret Clynes to the Ithaca Housing Authority for a term to expire October 17, 1991. Administrative Assistant to Mayor Mayor Guten erger announce t at he had appointed Betty Watkins to the position of Administrative Assistant to the Mayor at a salary of $16,715. Alderperson Romanowski stated that the City has a policy relating to hiring relatives. There was a resolution passed on July 11, 1983. Ile asked if this appointment had been cleared with the Budget and Administration Committee. The Mayor responded that he had requested a waiver from the Budget and Administration Committee and it was granted. Alder- person Dennis concurred. Recent Violent Crimes in the City Alderperson Cummings asked i the Mayor and Chief of Police have had any discussions that could be useful or helpful to the public regarding our recent rash of violent crimes that have occurred. Mayor Gutenberger repsonded that the Ithaca Police Department is working hand -in -hand with the Cornell Safety Division. There are increased patrols and the escort service at Cornell University has been very active. He applauds that volunteer group for their services. Mayor Gutenberger stated that he has also been on the radio a number of times urging all people to make sure that they protect their properties and their persons. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT: Arbitration Bill Alderperson Sc lather asked City Attorney Nash about a bill from Bond, Schoenick & King for $9,170.96 for services rendered in connection with a labor arbitration. He asked City Attorney Nash if he was consulted at all about doing that work. City Attorney Nash responded that he knew nothing about it. Alderperson Schlather asked City Attorney Nash to look into this bill and find out what Bond, Schoenick & King's justification is for such a fee. -6- October 1, 1986 Mayor Gutenberger stated that this matter will be discussed in Executive Session. NEW-BUSINESS: Stewart Park Master Pla By Alderperson Hoffman: WHEREAS, Common Council Park Master Plan as the and n- Resolution to Set Aside Seconded by Alderperson Romanowski on January 2, 1985 adopted the Stewart "official concept plan" for that area, WHEREAS, Common Council on April 2, 1986 approved the expenditure of $21,500 for preparation of "design development drawings for Stewart Park," and the City subsquently hired Trowbridge & Trowbridge for this task; and WHEREAS, public involvement with and concern about this master plan has increased dramatically as well as opposition to many of its various design ideas and the overall scope of change; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Stewart Park Master Plan, as the definitive guide to changes intended for the park, be set aside, pending continued public discussion and the formulation of alternative design development plans by Trowbridge & Trowbridge; and be it further RESOLVED, That the role of Trowbridge & Trowbridge be clarified as foll6ws: - The Master Plan may serve as a resource but is not necessarily a guide to or a constraint upon future park planning; - Any proposed design development plans should reflect as accurately as possible the expressed concerns, desires and needs of the community; and be it further RESOLVED, That no changes shall be made to Stewart Park by the City, other than normal and necessary maintenance, pending the outcome of the design development process, unless specifically authorized by Common Council. Discussion followed on the floor. Alderperson Hoffman remarked that it is his belief that there exists in the community a 16t of anger and mistrust that has been generated by discussion of changes to Stewart Park and because of this the focus is on whats wrong with the "Master Plan. This resolution tries to remove the perception of threat and allow the community to move on to what we do want in Stewart Park. The resolution is not advocating that the ideas that are part of the Master Plan be erased from history. If they are good they will stand up to public scrutiny. It is also not advocating that we stop studying the park and planning improvements to it. The Master Plan can serve as a resource document for the rest of the process. He suggested the Council allow Trowbridge $ Trowbridge to work with a clean slate and develop proposals which the entire community can support. Alderperson Dennis remarked that he felt the City should stop any work on the plan and refer this to committee so that the people who are concerned about this can "take the winter off" and Council will come back next Spring with something. He suggested everything be deleted except the last Resolved. 0 f i -7- October 1, 1986 Alderperson Cummings concurred that things should not go forward other than routine maintenance. She asked that the matter of setting aside the plan or picking out pieces of it be referred to the Planning & Development Committee. Amending Resolution By Alderperson Dennis: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings RESOLVED, That the resolution on Stewart Park read as follows: "RESOLVED, That no changes shall be made to Stewart Park by the City, other than normal and necessary maintenance unless specifically authorized by Common Council, and be it further RESOLVED, That the rest of the resolution be referred to the Planning & Development Committee and the Stewart Park Advisory Group for their consideration and report back to Common Council at its November meeting." Discussion followed on the floor. Alderperson Killeen asked that the Mayor expand the Stewart Park Advisory Group to include one of the members of the Stewart Park group that was in attendance at tonight's meeting. Mayor Gutenberger responded that he would be "more than happy to do so if there is a process still going on." A vote on the amending resolution resulted as follows: Ayes (7) - Peterson, Lytel, Hoffman, Haine, Dennis, Killeen Cummings Nays (3) - Booth, Romanowski, Schlather Carried Recess Council recessed at 9:SS p.m. and reconvened at 10:07 p.m. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE: Finance Department Computer System By Alderperson Dennis: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings RESOLVED, That a contract for providing a computer system for the Finance Department be awarded to Adirondack Systems Associates, for a cost not to exceed $130,000, and be it further RESOLVED, That funding for this system be provided as follows: From: A1990 Contingency $ 6,500 Bond Anticipation Note 123,500 and be it further RESOLVED, That Mayor John C. Gutenberger be authorized to sign said contract, subject to approval of the City Attorney as to form and content. Discussion followed on the floor. Mr. harry Strock, of NYCOM MAP Computer Consultant Services gave background information on the computer search. Alderperson Lytel spoke to Council regarding technology systems" and expressed the desire would consider, at a future date, buying a t to communicate with citizens what the public and that the Council would look at these new have a role in developing them. "information that Council bird computer business is, systems favorably and e October 1, 1986 A vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes (8) - Dennis, Schlather, Peterson, Cummings, Haine, Romanowski, Killeen, Booth Nays (2) - Lytel, Hoffman Carried West State Street Bridge Repair By Alderperson Dennis: Seconded by Alderperson Killeen RESOLVED, That this Common Council approves the release of $5,500 from Capital Reserve 94 - Bridges, for repairs to the West State Street Bridge, as requested by the Board of Public Works. Carried Unanimously D.P.W. Personnel Roster By Alderperson Dennis: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has agreed to provide additional bus service to West Hill in order to serve more adequately the clients of the County Department of Social Services, and WHEREAS, the County has agreed to absorb the costs of such additional service; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the 1986 Personnel Roster of the Department of Public Works be amended, as requested by the Board of Public Works, as follows: Add - 1 Full Time Bus Driver Position - 40 Hours Add - 1 Part Time Bus Driver Position - 27 Hours Discussion followed on the floor. A vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Ayes (9) - Dennis, Hoffman, Peterson, Cummings, Haine, Schlather, Lytel, Romanowski, Booth Nay (1) - Killeen Carried Budget Appropriations Transfers BY Alderperson Dennis: Seconded by Alderperson Schlather RESOLVED, That the City Controller be empowered to make transfers within the 1986 Budget Appropriations as may be needed, in accordance with Section 2.24 of the City Charter. Carried Unanimously Police Department Equipment Standardization BY Alderperson Dennis: Seconded by Alderperson Romanowski WHEREAS, this Common Council has been requested to standardize on Navco Video Equipment, as the type to be used by the City of Ithaca Police Department, and WHEREAS, it is deemed to be in the best interest of the City for reasons of efficiency, compatability and economics, to approve such standardization for the following reasons: 1. The Police Department now has Navco Video Equipment installed in its facility. 2. This action will minimize the inventory of repair parts which would have to be maintained for the service of said equipment. 3. Labor costs for the maintenance and service of a standard video system will be less than is required to service several different types of equipment. 4. Present Navco Video Systems equipment has been satis- factory to the uses of the Police Department. J O 'r ,' 4 October 1, 1986 S. Standardization provides the need for only one service contract for its entire video system, whereas additional agreements would be required if other types of equip- ment were to be purchased; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That pursuant to Subdivision S, Section 103, of the General Municipal Law of the State of New York, this Common Council hereby authorizes the standardization of Navco Video Equipment as the type to be used by the City of Ithaca during the year 1986. Carried Unanimously Audit By Alderperson Dennis: Seconded by Alderperson Schlather RESOLVED, That bills presented, as listed on Audit Abstract #18/1986, in the total amount of $9,S1S.23, be approved for payment Carried Unanimously ( Assistant Superintendent of public Works } By Alderperson Dennis: Seconded by Alderperson Schlather RESOLVED, That the 1986 salary for the Assistant Superintendent of Public Works be established at $39,336, as requested by the Superintendent of Public Works. Carried Unanimously CHARTER AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE: Parking Requirement - Determination of Non - Significance By Alderperson Schlather: Seconded by Alderperson Booth WHEREAS, the matter of maintaining the previous status quo as to parking requirements in the downtown zone now designated B -2b is before this Common Council, and WHEREAS, appropriate environmental review has been conducted, including the preparation of the Short Environmental Assessment Form (SEAF) and the Lo.:g En vironmental Assessment Form (LEAF) filed in the Clerk's -Office, and WHEREAS, it appears that the proposed action is an "unlisted" action under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEAR), including the Part 617 regulations thereunder, and may be a'Type 1 action under the City Environmental Quality Review Act (E.Q.R. § 36.5(B)(S), and WHEREAS, it appears that the proposed action will not have a significant effect on the environment and will further the orderly, planned urbanization of the areas affected, maintain the status quo as to parking requirements and other- wise promote public safety; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Common Council, as lead agency in this matter, be and it hereby does adopt as its own the findings and conclusions more fully set forth in the Short and Long Environmental Assessment Forms, and makes further findings that this proposed action is beneficial to the environment; and it is further RESOLVED, That this Common Council, as lead agency, be and it hereby does determine that the proposed action at issue will not have a significant effect on the environment and that further environmental review is unnecessary under the circumstances; and it is further RESOLVED, That this resolution shall constitute notice of this negative declaration and the City Clerk be and she is hereby directed to file a copy of the same, together with the attachments, in the City Clerk's Office, and forward the same to the office of the City Planning Department and anv other parties as required by law. Carried Unanimously -10- October 1, 1986 Ordinance Amending Zoning Map and Section 30.25 and 30.59 of Chapter 30 of the City of Ithaca Municipal C-o-cTe By Al erperson Schlat er: Seconded by Al erperson Dennis ORDINANCE NO. 86- AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING MAP AND SECTIONS 30.25 AND 30.59 OF CHAPTER 30 OF THE CITY OF ITHACA MUNICIPAL CODE BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City Ithaca, New York, as follows: SECTION 1. AMENDING THE ZONING MAP 1. That the Official Zoning Map of the City of Ithaca, New York, as last amended is hereby amended and changed so that the following described area presently located in the B -2b zoning district is reclassified and changed to the B -2c zoning district: ALL THAT TRACT OF LAND bounded on the north by the centerline of East Buffalo Street, on the east by the centerline of Tioga Street, on the south by the centerline of East Seneca Street and on the west by the centerline of North Cayuga Street, and ALL THAT TRACT OF LAND bounded on the north by the center- line of East Buffalo Street, on the east by the centerline of North Aurora Street, on the south by the south property line of tax parcel number 61 -4 -1, and on the west by the centerline of North Tioga Street, and ALL THAT TRACT OF LAND bounded on the north by the center- line of East Buffalo Street, on the east by a line that is approximately 1S3 feet east of the western boundary of the right -of -way of North Aurora Street, on the south by the centerline of East Seneca Street and on the west by the center- line of North Aurora Street, and more specifically including all of the following tax parcels: 62 -5 -1 through 62 -5 -3, inclusive and 62 -5 -12 through 62 -5 -18, inclusive. SECTION 2. AMENDING SECTION 30.25 ENTITLED "DISTRICT REGULATIONS CHART" 1. Row B -2 of the District Regulations Chart is hereby amended by adding a new General Business District entitled "B -2c" with the following regulations added: Column 4 "None" Column 6 "l. Motel: 20,000 2. All others: 2,500" Column 7 "1. Motel: 100 2. All others: 2S" Column 8 "None" Column 9 1175" Column 10 "100% except as required for rear yard" Column 11 "None" Column 12 "None" Column 13 "None" Column 14 "See Column 15" Column 15 "10 minimum" SECTION 3. AMENDING § 30.59 ENTITLED "DESIGN REVIEW BOARD" 11- October 1, 1986 1. § 30.59, Paragraph B, "Purpose ", is hereby amended by adding "B -2c ", after B -2b on line 9. 2. § 30.59, Paragraph C, "Powers and Duties" is hereby amended by adding 11B -2c" after B -2b on lines 2 and 3. 3. § 30.39, Paragraph D, "Applicability ", is hereby amended by adding "B -2c" after B -2b on line 2. SECTION 4, EFFECTIVE DATE 1. This ordinance shall take effect immediately and in accordance with law upon publication of a notice as provided in § 3.11(B) of the Ithaca City Charter. Carried Unanimously !Local Law Amending Charter (Sale of City Real Estate) My Alderperson Schlat er: Secon e 'by Alderperson Romanowski LOCAL LAW NO. OF THE YEAR 1986 d A LOCAL LAW AMENDING ARTICLE III OF THE CHARTER OF THE O CITY OF ITHACA BY ADDING A NEW SUBDIVISION 1140" TO SECTION 0 3.9 THEREOF ENTITLED "SPECIFIC POWERS OF COMMON COUNCIL." 0 BE IT ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of Ithaca, New York, as follows: SECTION 1. AMENDING ARTICLE III OF THE CHARTER OF THE XITY OF ITHACA BY ADDING A NEW SUBDIVISION "40" TO SECTION :3.9 THEREOF ENTITLED "SPECIFIC POWERS OF COMMON COUNCIL." A new subdivision to be known and designated as subdivision •40 is hereby added to Section 3.9 of Article III of the Charter -of the City of Ithaca to read as follows: "40. To lease or sell City -owned real estate on such tterms and conditions as it deems advisable, with the approval cof at least three - fourths of the full Common Council, after snotice of the proposed sale or lease has r)een published in the ;official paper at least once each week for three weeks, the -first such notice being published no less than thirty (30) .days prior to the approval vote, which sale or lease shall lbe subject further to the following limitations: that any -sale or lease be for full value; and that any sale or lease be subject to permissive referendum as set forth hereinafter. The question whether any proposed sale or lease of city -owned real estate shall be approved shall, upon a demand being filed as hereinafter provided, be submitted to the voters of the city at a general or special election, after public itlotice to be published at least once each week for three wveeks in the official paper. Such demand shall be signed b)y registered voters of the city equal in number to at least ten per centum of the total number of votes cast in the city �at the last preceding general election and shall be filed iin the office of the City Clerk before the adoption of an cordinance or resolution authorizing such sale or lease. If such demand is filed as aforesaid, such sale or lease of ireal estate shall not take effect unless in addition to the ,foregoing requirements a majority of the electors voting thereon at such election shall vote in the affirmative." ;SECTION 2. EFFECTIVE DATE This local law shall take effect upon its being duly filed in the office of the Secretary of State subject to the provisions of section twenty -four of the Municipal Home Rule Law. Alderperson Schlather explained the changes in the local law. Discussion followed on the floor. -12- October 1, 1986 Amending Resolution By Alderperson Lytel: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings RESOLVED, That the resolution be changed to read "with the approval of two- thirds of the full Common Council," rather than three- fourths. A vote on the amending resolution resulted as follows: Ayes (4) - Hoffman, Dennis, Cummings, Lytel Nays (6) - Romanowski, Schlather, Haine, Killeen, Peterson, Booth Amendment Defeated Main Motion A vote on the Main Motion resulted as follows: Ayes (8) - Peterson, Schlather, Dennis, Killeen, Romanowski, Haine, Booth, Hoffman Nays (2) - Cummings, Lytel Carried It was noted by Alderperson Schlather that this local law was mailed out to all Alderpersons two weeks ago. PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE: Strategic Housing Plan Alderperson Cummings stated that there is a draft report out on the Strategic Housing Plan. The report should be distributed to the Council within a week. In addition, the Planning Board and Technical Advisory Committee have been meeting and narrowing down the lists of concerns which are going to be addressed in the neighborhoods and housing plan. There are basically six catagories which include many specific - problems. Materials on this matter will be distributed to Council for action in early Spring. Housing and Public Works Code Inspectors Alderperson Cummings reported that the Planning and Development Committee is holding discussions on whether staff people should be hired in 1987 for Housing and Public Works Code Inspectors. Perhaps these people could be hired on a seasonal, part -time basis to work through the Building Department doing inspections of property for things like lawn mowing, etc. This matter is still under discussion. There will be a memo forthcoming from Tom Hoard, Building Commissioner, which will have a list of those performance standard laws which need greater clarification to more effectively implement this. Stewart Avenue Brick Reimplacement Alderperson Cummings reported that the Stewart Avenue brick reimplacement has been discussed in committee. The estimated cost had originally been $19.37 per sq. foot; it came in at $12.31 per sq. foot. Supt. of Public Works indicated that at least three men of a core crew received training in brick laying and will be continued on in their position dealing with brick laying. The project will continue next year. Brick Reuse Policy By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson Killeen RESOLVED, That the following be adopted as the City's policy on reuse of stockpiled brick and masonry paving materials: 1. The highest priority for distribution of stockpiled brick and masonry paving materials is for reuse in the manner consistent with its historic function; the retention, restoration and reconstruction of the City's brick streets. p r� -13- October 1, 1986 2. That brick and masonry paving materials be subject to reuse by City agencies, or sold for full value for use in both public and private sector improvements that meet the following criteria: a. The improvement is 16cated in an area accessible to the public or visible from a public right -of -way. b. The scale and design of the improvement contributes to the identity and character of the City 3. The Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission will (W000v evaluate proposals for the reuse of brick and masonry paving materials to determine whether criteria are met. 4. The following uses reflect the intention of the criteria and are recommended options: a. Park paving: Proposed improvements at the GIAC Park, Stewart Park, Ithaca Falls Hydro Site, Cass Park walkways. Extend use to other City parks L ) where desirable. CO b. Special public and commercial areas: West End, Inlet Island, all historic districts, and sites �? of private commercial development to mark entrances, ("[ exits, borders, pathways, promenades and plazas. Discussion followed on the floor. A vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Carried Unanimously Bidder Responsibility Hearings By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson Dennis WHEREAS, a number of citizens have brought to Common Council (Mvel their concerns about possible life safety problems at the mines of Cargill Salt, Inc. from whom the City currently purchases salt, and WHEREAS, according to State law it is the duty of Common Council to do business with those companies that are "responsible bidders ", and WHEREAS, our current contract for salt is due to expire in October; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That prior to awarding of any future bids for the purchase of salt the Budget and Administration Committee, or its designee, make a determination whether or not the prospective vendor is a "responsible bidder" within the meaning of the law, conducting appropriate inquiry by hearing or otherwise, as necessary, and be it further RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works and the Purchasing Department are directed not to award any bids until this determination has been made. Discussion followed on the floor. A vote on the resolution resulted as follows: Carried Unanimously Stewart Park Landmarks Designation /Environmental Quality Bond Act Alderperson Cummings reported that the Landmarks Commission has begun consideration of designating Stewart Park structures and their environs as historic landmarks. Historic Ithaca is going to be gathering information for them. If the Environ- mental Quality Bond Act passes there may be money available for restoration of municipally owned, designated, non - profit structures. t -14- October 1, 1986 HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE: Human Relations Training- Police Department By Al erperson Peterson: Seconded by Al erperson Killeen WHEREAS, it is desirable to continue human relations training for the police department, and WHEREAS, human relations training should become a regular, ongoing training program of the police department; now, there- fore, be it RESOLVED, That human relations training for members of the Ithaca Police Department shall resume in 1987, and be it further RESOLVED, That the following are the guidelines for development of such training: 1. The Police Chief is responsible for human relations training in the department. Such training is to be an ongoing process, as is other training in the depart- ment, and shall not stop after a year, but shall occur regularly. While it is not necessary that every member participate every year, a minimum level of training should be established and maintained for each person in the Police Department. Training is particularly essential for new officers and for dealing with any special human relations problems or current community concerns. 2. The objectives of such training should be formulated annually by the Chief of Police and the Community Police Board, and should be submitted to the Human Services Committee for review no later than July 1. 3. Funds for such training should be requested as part of the police training budget, and reviewed in the usual manner by the Mayor and the budget committee. 4. Proposals for the provision of such training; should be solicited locally and throughout the region, once the funding level has been established. S. The selection of trainer(s) should be made by the Chief of Police, in consultation with the Community Police Board and be it further RESOLVED, That future human relations training need not be based upon the model designed by the Human Relations Training Program. Discussion followed on the floor. Amending Resolution By Al erperson Dennis: Seconded by Alderperson Booth RESOLVED, That "and subject to approval of the Human Services Committee of Common Council" be added after Police Board in Item 5 of the resolution. Carried Unanimously Main Motion A vote on the Main Motion as Amended resulted as follows: Carried Unanimously Peace Corps 25th Anniversary By AlTlerperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Schlather WHEREAS, the Peace Corps is presently celebrating its 25th birthday, and WHEREAS, many members of the Ithaca Eommunity have served with the Peace Corps; now, therefore, be it 7 1_0 (il 0') (�1) l:'n <. -is- October 1, 1986 RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca salutes the Peace Corps on 2S years of service to the world and to the Ithaca community, and be it further RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca calls upon the federal government to renew and strengthen its support of the Peace Corps, and be it further RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be conveyed by the Mayor to President Reagan, Senators Moynihan and DiAmato, Representative McHugh, and Peace Corps Director Rupe. Carried Unanimously Department Head Evaluations Alderperson reported that a draft copy of the Department Head Evaluations form was passed out to Council members. At the next meeting of the Human Services Committee there will be a vote on a resolution to send a complete project to the Council. All Corm cil mPmhers are invited to attend this meeting. Adult Day Care Homes Alderperson Peterson gave a brief report on Adult Day Care Homes that is being looked into by the Human Services Committee and other committees of Council. There is not any language in our ordinances addressing this issue at this time. Alderperson Schlather stated that it is on the agenda for the next Charter and Ordinance Committee meeting. Alderperson Killeen stated that he is on the Tompkins County Office of Aging Advisory Board and he will be receiving information to help with the definition which he will circulate to all the Council. REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES AND COUNCIL LIAISONS: Alternate Side Parking Al erperson Killeen reported that there will be a meeting of the Alternate Side Parking Committee on October 9th in the Common Council Chambers. UNFINISHED AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: Civil Service Al erperson Dennis asked the Charter and Ordinance Committee to take a look at Civil Service to see how the City can incorporate Civil Service into the Personnel Office and make it more a part of the Personnel function. Motion to Refer By Alderperson Dennis: Seconded RESOLVED, That the matter of the incorporated into the Personnel Charter and Ordinance Committee to the Council. by Alderperson Cummings Civil Service Office being Office be referred to the for review and report back Carried Unanimously No Smoking Sections in Restaurants Alderperson ennis asked the Charter and Ordinance Committee to investigate the possibility of "No-Smoking" sections in restaurant (4mo", Motion to Refer By Alderperson Dennis: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings RESOLVED, That the matter of mandatory smoking sections in restaurants be referred to the Charter and Ordinance Committee for review and report back to the Council. Carried Unanimously -16- - October 1, 1986 Sheriff's Office Al erperson Schlather referred to a resolution on the November ballot regarding moving the Sheriff's Office outside the City limits. He urged Council to vote 'No' and to ask constituents in their wards to vote 'No'. Executive Session By Alderperson Killeen: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman RESOLVED, That the Council adjourn into Executive Session to discuss sale or lease of City property and a personnel matter. Carried Unanimously ADJOURNMENT: Council adjourned into Executive Session at 12:10 -A.M. Callista F. Paolangel City Clerk 0 D COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK Special Meeting 5:00 P.M. October 29, 1986 PRESENT: Mayor - Gutenberger Alderpersons (9) - Booth, Haine, Lytel, Schlather, Cummings, Hoffman, Dennis, Killeen, Romanowski ABSENT: Alderperson (1) - Peterson OTHERS PRESENT: City Controller - Spano Dep. Controller - Cafferillo Dep. City Clerk - Brown Supt. of Public Works - Dougherty Building Commissioner - Hoard Fire Chief - Olmstead Commons Coordinator - Deming Police Chief - Herson BPW Commissioners - Gerkin, Slattery PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: LO Mayor Guten erger led all present ir. the Pledge of Allegiance to the American flag. m SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS: Q Presentation of Mayor's 1987 Executive Bud et Mayor Guten erger submitted the Executive Budget Proposal as foll0 s: SUBMISSION OF EXECUTIVE BUDGET PROPOSAL MAYOR JOHN C. GUTENBERGER OCTOBER 29, 1986 "I herewith submit my Executive Budget Proposal for the City of Ithaca which calls for an expenditure of $16,486,413 for the General Fund. *This reflects an increase of $1,448,660 over the 1986 amended budget of $15,037,753 or a 9.6o increase in the overall cost in operating our City government. Revenues, other than Real Property Taxes, is being proposed at $11,042,007, an increase of $986,332 over the 1986 Amended Budget of $10,055,675 or 9.8% increase. To balance the 1987 budget, I am proposing that $551,700 of unappropi- ated cash surplus be used and that $4,892,706 be raised from Real Property Taxes. The amount to be raised from taxes will require a 6.75% increase or a tax rate of $15.80 /m, a $1.00 /m increase from our present rate of $14.80/m. The increase in the cost of government for 1987 can be directly related to the following: 1986 1987 Increase Salaries $7,923,387 i$8,594,389 $ 671,'002 8.4 Insurance 613,000 637,500 24,500 4.0 Hospitalization 650,000 860,000 210,000 32.3 Social Security 530,000 558,000 28,000 5.3 P & F Retirement 950,422 734,545 (215,877)(22.7) Equipment 331,509 478,486 146,977 44.3 All Other (1) 4,718,172 5,120,777 402,605 8.5 SUB -TOTAL $15,716,490 $16,983,697 $1,267,207 8.1 TO REVENUE SHARING: Equipment 247,170 348,875 *(101,705 P � F Retirement 431,567 148,409 *(283,158) `DOTAL $15,037,753 $16,486,413 *$1,448,660 *9.6 (1) Includes: Utilities, parts and supplies, equipment maintenance, gasoline, construction materials, rentals, debt service, contingency, etc. *Revised figures per Mayor Gutenberger's instructions 50 -2- October 29, 1986 The increase in revenues for 1987 can be directly related to the following: Sales Tax State Aid Per Capita Departmental Fire Protection All Other (1) 1986 $3,580,000 2,420,000 1,456,300 351,000 2,248,378 1987 $3,990,000 2,425,000 1,626,344 432,000 2,568,663 Increase $410,000 5,000 170,044 81,000 320,285 11.4 11. .7 23.1 14.3 TOTAL $10,055,675 $11,042,007 $986,332 9.8 (1) Includes: Interest earnings, licenses and permits, fines, gifts and donations, other State Aid, etc. In conclusion, the tax increase of 6.75% equates to $50.00 more per year on a house having an assessed value of $50,000. This is less than a $1.00 per week increase." Alderperson Killeen arrived at 5:10 p.m. Mayor Gutenberger thanked Joe Spano, Dominick Cafferillo and Jean ffankinson for getting the budget together. fie emphasized that the tax increase would be 6.750, and requested the Budget and Admini- stration Committee and Common Council to not decrease the tax rate if they make cuts in the budget, giving his rationale for this request. The Mayor also provided copies of the 1987 Budget Requests, the 1987 Capital Project Requests and the Federal Revenue Sharing Fund Requests. Resolution By Alderperson Dennis: Seconded by Alderperson Killeen RESOLVED, That the proposed budget be referred to the Budget and Administration Committee for review. Carried Unanimously ADJOURNMENT: On a motion the meeting adjourned at 5:15 p.m. Ruthann Brown, Deputy City Clerk 0 9