HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-1991-01-0221;)
COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting 7:00 P.M. January 2, 1991
PRESENT:
Mayor Nichols
Alderpersons (10) - Romanowski, Johnson, Booth, Hoffman, Golder,
Blanchard, Peterson, Cummings, Daley,
Schroeder
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk - Paolangeli
City Attorney - Guttman
City Controller - Cafferillo
Deputy City Controller - Thayer
Police Chief - McEwen
Personnel Administrator - Saul
Planning and Development Director - Van Cort
Fire Chief - Olmstead
co Assistant Personnel Administrator - Patz
Acting Superintendent of Public Works - Gray
Board of Public Works Commissioners - Reeves, Berg
(� PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Q Mayor Nichols led all present in the Pledge of Allegiance to the
American flag.
OATH OF OFFICE:
Alderperson 4th Ward
Neil Golder took the Oath of Office and was sworn in as
Alderperson from the 4th Ward by-City Clerk Paolangeli.
MINUTES:
Approval of Minutes of the December 5,
1990 Common Council
Meeting
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That the Minutes of the December 5, 1990 Common Council
meeting be approved with the following correction:
On page 35 under the Main Motion as Amended, the 3rd Whereas
should be corrected to read four lane.
Carried Unanimously
ADDITIONS TO AND DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA:
Executive Session
Mayor Nichols requested that there be an Executive Session at the
end of the meeting regarding land acquisition and sale.
No Council member objected.
Unfinished and Miscellaneous Business
Alderperson Hoffman stated that concerns were raised at the
Planning and Development Committee meeting regarding the Route 13
resolution that was passed by Council in December. He said that
he was requested to write a letter of clarification to Mr.
Simberg at N.Y.S. D.o.T. and he has done so. He would like to
pass the letter around to Council members for their input before
it is mailed.
No Council member objected.
Budqet and Administration Committee
Alderperson Booth stated that Item 18.18, Audit Report, be
deleted from the agenda.
No Council member objected.
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SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
Public Hearing on Amending Chapter 81 Entitled "Partial Tax
Exemption"
Resolution to Open Public Hearing
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider amending Chapter 81
entitled "Partial Tax Exemption" be declared open.
Carried Unanimously
No one appeared to address the Public Hearing.
Resolution to Close Public Hearing
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider amending Chapter 81
entitled "Partial Tax Exemption" be declared closed.
Carried Unanimously
Public Hearing on Amending Subdivision A -2 of Section 30.37 of
Chapter 30 Entitled 'Zoning'
Resolution to Open Public Hearing
By Alderperson Hoffman: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider amending
Subdivision A -2 of Section 30.37 of Chapter 30 entitled 'Zoning'
be declared open.
Carried Unanimously
Alderperson Hoffman explained that the amendment that is being
considered is regarding parking space size.
No one appeared to address the Public Hearing.
Resolution to Close Public Hearing
By Alderperson Hoffman: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider amending
Subdivision A -2 of Section 30.37 of Chapter 30 entitled 'Zoning'
be declared closed.
Carried Unanimously
MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS:
Board of Public Works
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of Carol C. Reeves, 303 Linn Street to the Board of Public Works
for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of Carol
C. Reeves to the Board of Public Works for a 3 -year term to
expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Ms. Carol C. Reeves took the oath of office and was sworn in by
City Clerk Paolangeli.
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Denise Rusoff, 209 Hudson Street for a 3 -year term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Discussion followed on the floor regarding this appointment.
Resolution
By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson Blanchard
RESOLVED, That the appointment of Denise Rusoff to the Board of
Public Works be discussed in Executive Session at the end of the
meeting.
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Carried Unanimously
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January 2, 1991
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Jill Tripp, 216 Dey Street to the Board of Public Works for a 2-
year term to expire December 31, 1992, to replace Patricia
Connor.
Resolution
By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson Blanchard
RESOLVED, That the appointment of Jill Tripp to the Board of
(400" Public Works be discussed in Executive Session at the end of the
meeting.
Carried Unanimously
Community Police Board
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of Carol Seligmann, 115 Eastwood Terrace and Michael J. Ellis,
406 Stewart Avenue to the Community Police Board for 3 -year
terms, to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
CD By Alderperson Johnson: Seconded by Alderperson Romanowski
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of Carol
Seligmann and Michael J. Ellis to the Community Police Board with
m terms to expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Q
Planning and Development Board
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Carl H. Feuer, 310 First Street, to the Planning and Development
Board for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Golder: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Carl H.
Feuer to the Planning and Development Board with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Board of Zoning Appeals
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
David Holmberg, 408 East Seneca Street, to the Board of Zoning
Appeals for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of David
Holmberg to the Board of Zoning Appeals for a 3 -year term to
expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of John Peck, 516 Chestnut Street, to the Board of Zoning Appeals
for a 3 -year term, to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of John
Peck to the Board of Zoning Appeals with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Kenneth Vineberg, 141 The Commons, to the Board of Zoning Appeals
for a 2 -year term to expire December 31, 1992, to replace Herman
Sieverding, who has resigned.
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January 2, 1991
Resolution
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Kenneth
Vineberg to the Board of Zoning Appeals with a term to expire
December 31, 1992.
Carried Unanimously
Bicycle Advisory Council
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Lois Chaplin, 7 Penny Lane, to the Bicycle Advisory Council for a
3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Johnson: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Lois
Chaplin to the Bicycle Advisory Council with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of Dave Streater, 102 Homestead Road, to the Bicycle Advisory
Council for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Johnson: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of Dave
Streater to the Bicycle Advisory Council with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Rental Housing
Commission
Mayor Nichols
requested Council
approval
for the re- appointment
of Mark Finkelstein, 210 Lake Street, to the Rental Housing
Commission for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of Mark
Finkelstein to the Rental Housing Commission with a term to
expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Terry Pasco, 121 Prospect Street to the Rental Housing Commission
with a 3 -year term, expiring December 31, 1993 and for the
appointment of Edward J. Dormady, 638 Stewart Avenue with a 3-
year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Terry
Pasco and Edward J. Dormady to the Rental Housing Commission with
terms to expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Conservation Advisory Council
Mayor Nichols requested the re- appointment of the following
persons to the Conservation Advisory Council with 2 -year terms to
expire December 31, 1992:
Betsy Darlington, 204 Fairmount Avenue
Roger Farrell, 120 Eastwood Terrace
John Wertis, 111 West York Street
Judith W. Jones, 112 East York Street
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January 2, 1991
Resolution
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of Betsy
Darlington, Roger Farrell, John Wertis and Judith W. Jones to the
Conservation Advisory Council with terms to expire December 31,
1992.
Carried Unanimously
co" Ms. Betsy Darlington took the oath of office and was sworn in by
City Clerk Paolangeli.
Mayor Nichols requested the appointment to the Conservation
Advisory Council of Rob Shapiro of 313 Columbia Street for a 1
year term to replace Jill Tripp and Guy Gerard, of 151 Chestnut
Street for a 1 year term to replace Eric Bromberg.
It was the consensus of the Council that these appointments
should be discussed in Executive Session at the end of the
co meeting.
Examining Board of Electricians
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Joseph A. Kohm, 313 Warren Place to the Examining Board of
Q Electricians with a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993
Resolution
By Alderperson Romanowski: Seconded by Alderperson Blanchard
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Joseph A.
Kohm to the Examining Board of Electricians with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
(400", Board of Appeals on Building Code
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of Philip Cox, 221 Cornell Street, to the Board of Appeals on
Building Code for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Johnson: Seconded by Alderperson Daley
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of Philip
Cox to the Board of Appeals on Building Code with a term to
expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Shade Tree Advisory Committee
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of Nina Bassuk, 1345 Mecklenburg Road, to the Shade Tree Advisory
Committee for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of Nina
Bassuk to the Shade Tree Advisory Committee with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Design Review Board
Mayor Nichols requested
of William S. Downing,
Review Board for a 3 -year
Council approval for the re- appointment
215 North Cayuga Street to the Design
term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of
William S. Downing to the Design Review Board with a term to
expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
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January 2, 1991
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of Barclay C. Jones, 502 Turner Place and Nancy Meltzer, 407 East
Seneca Street to the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission for
3 -year terms to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of
Barclay C. Jones and Nancy Meltzer to the Ithaca Landmarks
_Preservation Commission with terms to expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Mayor's Appointments Not Requiring Council Approval
Affirmative Action Advisory Committee
Mayor Nichols reported that he has re- appointed Brenda Kuhn to
the Affirmative Action Advisory Committee for a 3 -year term to
expire December 31, 1993.
Cable Television Commission
Mayor Nichols reported that he has appointed James F. Ferwerda,
312 First Street, to the Cable Television Commission for a 3 -year
term to expire December 31, 1993 to replace Richard Herskowitz,
who has resigned.
Youth Bureau Advisory Board
Mayor Nichols reported that he has appointed M. John Sherman, 205
Hillview Place to the Youth Bureau Advisory Board for a 3 -year
term expiring December 31, 1993.-
ELECTION OF ACTING MAYOR:
Mayor Nichols entertained nominations from the floor for the
position of Acting Mayor.
Alderperson Booth nominated Alderperson Carolyn Peterson for the
position and the nomination was seconded by Alderperson Daley.
The motion carried unanimously. Alderperson Peterson will serve
as Acting Mayor until December 31, 1991.
ALTERNATE ACTING MAYOR:
Mayor Nichols entertained nominations from the floor for the
position of Alternate Acting Mayor.
Alderperson Johnson nominated Alderperson Robert Romanowski for
the position and the nomination was seconded by Alderperson
Booth. The motion carried unanimously. Alderperson Romanowski
will serve as Alternate Acting Mayor until December 31, 1991.
PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
Traffic Patterns
Guy Van Benschoten, 602 North Cayuga Street, spoke to Council in
support of and the need for the proposed road widening project
on Route 13. He also spoke of the need for a ramp on Green
Street just past the new Mental Health Building for cars wishing
to proceed up South Hill and spoke in favor of Alderperson
Romanowski's resolution regarding the Persian Gulf crisis.
Persian Gulf Crisis
The following persons spoke regarding the situation in the
Persian Gulf:
Alicia Cox
Richard Dunham
David Kay
Gil Ott
Ruth Yarrow
Fred Wilcox
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January 2, 1991
The following persons spoke in favor of Alderperson Romanowski's
resolution that is being presented to Council this evening:
Holly Hollingsworth
Dan Wheeler
RESPONSE TO THE PUBLIC:
Persian Gulf Crisis
(awrl Alderperson Romanowski explained that the resolution he was
presenting to Council was in response to requests he had received
from numerous veteran groups and individuals who asked for the
City to express support of persons serving in the Middle East.
He said his resolution was not meant to be a political statement
and he will not become part of a political statement; therefore,
he asked to withdraw his resolution from tonight's agenda.
Discussion followed on the floor.
Mayor Nichols stated that this was not the time to debate whether
or not Alderperson Romanowski should withdraw his resolution.
The matter will be discussed when it comes to the Council floor.
Alderperson Golder stated that he has some amendments to make to
Alderperson Romanowski's resolution. He said that he feels it is
Q very important and totally appropriate that Common Council take a
stand at this time on this matter.
On -Ramp to Aurora Street
Alderperson Cummings, in response to Mr. VanBenschoten's
comments, stated that the on -ramp to Aurora Street is something
that the City has talked about doing and that is why the Mental
Health Building was moved back several feet to accommodate such
a ramp should it be possible. She asked that the Planning
Department and Board of Public Works begin discussions on this
matter.
REPORT FROM BOARD OF REPRESENTATIVES:
There was no report from the Board of Representatives.
Alderperson Romanowski stated that he has a petition of over 900
signatures regarding the garbage baling station that was to be
presented to the representative from the Board tonight. He asked
that the Clerk's office transmit the petition to the Board of
Representatives.
City Clerk Paolangeli accepted the petition and will transmit it
to the Board of Representatives.
REPORT OF CITY BOARDS COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES:
Bicycle Advisory Council
Mr. David Nutter, representing the Bicycle Advisory Council,
urged Common Council to continue support of the Cayuga Inlet
Trail which would cross the portion of Route 13 where the
proposed construction would take place.
Mr. Nutter also spoke to Council in support of the resolution on
tonight's agenda to permit walking of bicycles across the
Commons.
Board of Public Works
Commissioner Reeves reported on the following matters for the
Board:
Gas tanks on Linden Avenue - The contracts have been signed and
the work should start in mid - January.
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January 2, 1991
Sewage problem in the 300 block of South Cayuga Street - Crews
are in the process of establishing a barrier to prevent any
further discharge from entering basements. The investigation
continues as to probable causes of the problem.
Procedures for Emergencies - In regard to the emergency on East
State Street, according to the chronology of that situation, even
with two key people out of town on that day, there was a timely
and reasonable response. Current responses to any other
emergencies are satisfactory, reasonable and economically
feasible. Comm. Reeves stated we cannot impose changes in
working conditions without negotiations. To have someone on duty
at all times is a negotiable item and can be looked at if the
Council desires, although there is no money in the budget to
institute such a change at this time.
Parking Fee Increase - The Board was given power to act at its
December 19 meeting and a resolution was passed that the
Department of Public Works provide customer service training for
parking lot attendants. The resolution was carried unanimously.
City Bricks - In response to Alderperson Cummings's inquiry
regarding City bricks, there was a resolution passed in October
1984 calling for documentation of brick and masonry paved
streets and that documentation is on record in the City
Engineer's Office. Comm. Reeves said that in regard to
establishing a priority for retention of brick streets, she is
not aware of any. In regard to methods for training DPW
personnel to repair and maintain streets designated for
retention, she stated it is a very costly procedure. It is much
less costly to buy new bricks than to clean and stock pile the
old ones.
Alderperson Cummings stated that she will talk to the Board of
Public Works in regards to this matter.
Alderperson Cummings left the meeting at 8:45 p.m.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR:
State of the City 1991
Mayor Nichols read the following statement into the record:
"At the beginning of this new year it is appropriate to assess
the state of the City, to review where we have come in the past
year and to set goals for the year ahead.
It has been a busy and productive year. The Common Council and
the many lay boards have worked hard to meet immediate problems
and to plan for the future. Our employees are devoted to public
service. None of us were surprised when, early this year, Ithaca
was named the best small city in the northeast.
But our situation cannot be isolated from the world around us.
With the threat of a war in the Persian Gulf, an economic
recession, the huge deficit and the cost of the bailout of the
Savings and Loan banks, it is difficult to be optimistic about
the prospect of a national policy that will address the real
needs of our people.
As the "New York Times" reported on its front page last Sunday,
"All across America state and city governments have been stricken
by financial crises that were not even imagined a year ago... The
immediate cause of the crisis is the nation's economic downturn,
which has drastically cut into tax revenues. But the seeds were
sown over the last decade or so. The federal government has
shifted a heavy financial burden to the states and cities,
cutting and eliminating federal grants for housing, education,
mass transportation and public works projects. In the late
A
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227
January 2, 1991
1970's Washington provided 25 percent of state and local budgets.
It now provides 17 percent. Cities lost much more than states as
programs like revenue sharing and aid for low- income housing were
cut."
In the event of a tragic and misguided offensive war, the
probable cost of that alone would rise to one billion dollars per
day. Spread out over the population of the United States, the
portion assessed to the City of Ithaca would be about $120,000
(4000.1 per day or one million dollars every eight days. An accompanying
increase in oil prices would further strain the economy. Aside
from the economic cost, there is the more important concern for
the men and women who would have to fight that war, their
families and for the inevitable innocent victims. We should do
whatever we can to prevent that disaster.
In New York State the cuts at the upper levels of the income tax
have led not only to a huge deficit but to the decrease in aid to
local government and the consequent shift to the regressive
(_O property tax that is not based on the ability to pay. And the
situation will get worse before it gets better.
Given there hard facts, we will have to rely more and more on
m local resources without excessive increases in the City's
property tax. We must do whatever we can to make our operations
more efficient while providing the services that our citizens
demand and need. But while the property tax base of the
surrounding towns has grown markedly in the recent years, that of
the City has not. The major growth in the City has been in
development that is exempt from the property tax. At present 57
percent of the assessed value of property in the City is tax
exempt. By far, the largest portion of that belongs to Cornell
(two., University.
While we anticipate and plan for the difficult years ahead, we
start this year in good shape. By dint of exceptional efforts of
Department Heads and Council, we were able to keep the City
moving ahead while maintaining the property tax increase within a
reasonable bound. That budget effort concluded a year of
significant action on many fronts. I will list some of these
under some broad general headings. They range in importance but
each matters in some significant way to some of our citizens.
The Environment
1. We completed action on the designation of Fall Creek as a
recreational river.
2. We have increased our program of tree planting and provided
for even more next year.
3. We have moved ahead with plans for the Northside by
purchasing the Pogo Parcel, reached a contract for the erection
of an outstanding Sciencenter, began negotiations for a Senior
Center and applied for a grant to create a new park.
(4MO., 4. We have worked with the Town of Ithaca on the preservation of
watershed lands and completed negotiations for the acquisition
and protection of some of those critical lands.
5. We have created an active Bicycle Advisory Council.
6. We have added still another Historic District on the Cornell
campus.
7. We put an Interim Parks Commission into action to design a
plan for integrated management of all our green spaces.
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January 2, 1991
8. We enacted an enforceable Noise Ordinance and have seen
positive results from its enforcement.
9. We have moved ahead in the area of public transit with the
initial steps toward a joint facility with the County and Cornell
and the establishment of a regional system.
10. We have cleaned up asbestos from City Hall, GIAC and the
Hall of Justice.
11. We have passed legislation regulating vehicle exhaust
emissions.
Human Services and Rights
1. We have set in place the mechanics for a coordinated teen -age
weekend recreation program.
2. We have initiated with business and the schools a youth
employment program and set aside funds for a coordinator.
3. We have made provision to provide a home for a licensed day
care and drop -in center.
4. We have provided more funding than ever before for human
service programs.
5. We have created a Disability Advisory Council and have
established new guidelines regarding building permit approval to
insure equal access for the disab -led.
6. We have taken a stand on the right of women to reproductive
choice.
7. We have provided an official mechanism for the establishment
of domestic partnership status and are providing some benefits to
domestic partners of City employees.
8. We have enabled the Economic Opportunity Corporation to
provide a temporary emergency shelter for the homeless.
Downtown Revival and Improvement
1. We have initiated and supported with funding and staff a
Downtown Vision Task Force that includes efforts in the areas of
marketing, recruitment and retention, land use, use of upper
stories, parking, public transit and culture and the arts.
2. We have provided funds for physical improvements of the
Commons.
3. We have received a grant for study of the feasibility of a
District Heating facility.
Housing
1. We have used our Community Development Block grant funds for
the addition of affordable housing in the Polygon development on
Floral Avenue, the Chartwell single -room occupancy building on
Meadow Street, and the HOMES transition house on Green Street.
2. We have continued to provide funds to maintain Ithaca
Neighborhood Housing Services.
3. We have set aside two - thirds of the Pogo Parcel for housing
and have an active group making plans for long -term affordable
housing on that site.
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January 2, 1991
4. We have created a Rental Housing Commission.
5. We have instituted a much more active program, through the
combined efforts of our City Attorney's office and the Building
and Fire Departments, enforcement of the Building, Zoning and
Fire Codes to insure safe housing in the City.
(Mo." Other Activities
1. Overcoming great difficulties, we were able to balance the
concerns of the neighborhood and the needs of the City at large
to complete an attractive and safe rebuilding of Hudson Street.
2. We have completed the building of the handsome Carpenter
Business Park and Community Gardens.
3. We have opened two new fire stations and have increased the
recruitment of volunteer firefighters.
CD 4. We have completed the process which will lead to the sale
very soon of Fire Station No. 6 at an appropriate price.
5. We have vigorously opposed the County's placing a garbage
facility in a location that will adversely effect the
Q environment, future housing development and the City's economy.
6. We have instituted a pay equity study for a large number of
our City positions.
7. We have instituted an annual -event for the recognition of the
contributions of City employees.
8. We have initiated architectural studies for the renovation of
the Greater Ithaca Activities Center and for a new City Court
facility.
9. We have enforced our Transient Merchants ordinance and
revised that ordinance so as to protect our local craftspeople.
10. We have gained a year's experience in the Site Plan Review
process and have seen the constructive results of a number of
projects, including the plans for the addition to downtown of a
new Wanzer block.
11. We have dealt expeditiously and in an environmentally
sensitive way with the collapse of the culvert on East State
Street. Under the direction of the City Engineer the street has
been put back into service.
12. We have expanded the role of women and minorities from all
walks of life in our boards, committees and commissions.
In the year ahead we will be working to implement the activities
that were begun this year. These will include:
1. Progress on the Northside plan including housing and a park
(awwl on the Pogo Parcel and an agreement with the Senior Citizen
Center.
2. The adoption of the recommendations of the Downtown Visions
Task Force.
3. The building of a regional transit facility.
4. The development of a parking plan and management system.
5. The development of park and ride facilities.
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January 2, 1991
6. The creation of a Parks and Recreation Commission.
7. The development of the teen -age recreation and youth
employment programs.
8. Develop plans for the organization and consolidation of the
Department of Public Works.
9. Institute an Advisory Board for the Building Department and
improve its service to the public.
A major effort for 1991 will be the review of the City's
personnel needs and the structure of all departments to reduce
the number of employees over the next few years to make the City
more efficient in its operations. By planning over a three year
period, the reduction will be done in a careful, responsible way.
It is the goal to avoid laying off any present employee and to
expand the responsibilities and compensation of those presently
in service.
We do not face a fiscal crisis in the City, but unless we can
reduce our staff, gain additional revenue and shift some of our
present outlay to other sources, the burden on the property tax
will have to increase at an unreasonable rate.
The Commission studying Cornell /City relations will make its
report soon. It is important that we follow that up by
substantive negotiations with Cornell to reach an understanding
of the need for the University to make more substantial
contributions for the services that it receives.
Discussions have begun with the County to reach a fairer
allocation of County funds for the services that the City Youth
Bureau provides for the community.
Human Service Agencies must recognize in planning for next year
that their requests for support must not be limited to the County
and City of Ithaca but must extend to the surrounding towns that
together have a much larger taxable property base than does the
City. The preferable result would be the assumption of the
funding role by the County in which case all residents of the
County, including City residents, would pay their fair share.
We will also urge the State Legislature to adopt the bill
introduced by Assemblyman Martin Luster that would permit
municipalities to adopt developer impact fees.
By working simultaneously on improving our own efficiency as well
as pursuing other revenue sources and shifts of funding, we can
continue to move the City ahead in the course we have set in a
fiscally responsible manner. I invite all members of the
community to assist us in this process with their suggestions and
participation.
The Best Small City will become even better."
NEW BUSINESS•
* 22.1 Support of the Troops in the Middle East
As a result of the earlier discussion Alderperson Romanowski
wished to withdraw the motion that he had proposed. To put the
issue before Council as it was published on the agenda the
original motion was moved by Alderperson Schroeder and seconded
by Alderperson Golder:
WHEREAS, all responsible people desire world peace and an end to
unwarranted military intervention by any nation, and
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January 2, 1991
WHEREAS, there are many military members from the Ithaca area
currently serving in the Middle East, many veterans in the City
of Ithaca who well understand the pain and suffering that can
come from war as well as many families who have lost loved ones
in prior wars, and
RESOLVED, That we urge the full support for all United States and
Allied service men and women during the crisis in the Middle East
and upon their return to their home lands, and be it further
co RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca encourages its citizens to show
Q) their support by sending letters of support to the military
serving in Operation Desert Shield, and also correspond with the
[n elected Federal officials encouraging them to continue to work
Q toward a peaceful solution to the crisis, and to provide all of
the benefits necessary to these service members to aid them in
their full adjustment, medically and psychologically, upon their
return.
Council recessed at 9:05 p.m. and reconvened in regular session
at 9:15 p.m.
Amending Resolution
By Alderperson Golder: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman:
RESOLVED, That, the following three Whereas Clauses be added to
the resolution after the Second Whereas Clause:
WHEREAS, a war against Iraq
resulting in the possible
neighbors and friends, and
would have a serious local impact,
death or injury of some of our
WHEREAS, the current deployment of U.S. troops is of great
expense to all taxpayers, and further deployment and war would
severely increase the economic burden on our community, and
WHEREAS, thousands of local residents have expressed their
opposition to an offensive war against Iraq and their support of
sanctions as a way toward a negotiated settlement, and be it
RESOLVED, That the following Resolved Clause be added as a Final
Resolved to the original resolution:
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca urges the
President and Congress to refrain from a military offensive
against Iraq at this time, to give sanctions more time to work in
order to pursue a negotiated settlement to the conflict.
Extensive discussion followed on the floor.
Amending Resolution
Alderperson Schroeder suggested that in the Second Resolved
Clause of the original resolution, in the second line, the word
"personnel" be added between the words "military" and "serving ".
There were no objections from Council members, therefore the
wording was changed.
Further discussion followed on the floor.
13
°
N P ' l
WHEREAS, it is
understood that a
lasting peace can
only be
achieved when people
tyranny and for
and nations are
human rights, and
willing to stand up
against
WHEREAS, those
in the military service have volunteered,
at the
peril of their
own lives, to serve
this great nation and
protect
the rights of
people to live in
freedom and without
fear of
aggression from
other nations; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That we urge the full support for all United States and
Allied service men and women during the crisis in the Middle East
and upon their return to their home lands, and be it further
co RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca encourages its citizens to show
Q) their support by sending letters of support to the military
serving in Operation Desert Shield, and also correspond with the
[n elected Federal officials encouraging them to continue to work
Q toward a peaceful solution to the crisis, and to provide all of
the benefits necessary to these service members to aid them in
their full adjustment, medically and psychologically, upon their
return.
Council recessed at 9:05 p.m. and reconvened in regular session
at 9:15 p.m.
Amending Resolution
By Alderperson Golder: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman:
RESOLVED, That, the following three Whereas Clauses be added to
the resolution after the Second Whereas Clause:
WHEREAS, a war against Iraq
resulting in the possible
neighbors and friends, and
would have a serious local impact,
death or injury of some of our
WHEREAS, the current deployment of U.S. troops is of great
expense to all taxpayers, and further deployment and war would
severely increase the economic burden on our community, and
WHEREAS, thousands of local residents have expressed their
opposition to an offensive war against Iraq and their support of
sanctions as a way toward a negotiated settlement, and be it
RESOLVED, That the following Resolved Clause be added as a Final
Resolved to the original resolution:
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca urges the
President and Congress to refrain from a military offensive
against Iraq at this time, to give sanctions more time to work in
order to pursue a negotiated settlement to the conflict.
Extensive discussion followed on the floor.
Amending Resolution
Alderperson Schroeder suggested that in the Second Resolved
Clause of the original resolution, in the second line, the word
"personnel" be added between the words "military" and "serving ".
There were no objections from Council members, therefore the
wording was changed.
Further discussion followed on the floor.
13
°
N P ' l
January 2, 1991
Amendments to the Amending Resolution
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
RESOLVED, That the following changes be made in the Amending
Resolution:
In the Second Whereas Clause the words "further deployment
and" be deleted.
In the Third Whereas Clause and the Resolved Clause the word
"negotiated" be deleted and the word "peaceful" be inserted in
its place.
In the Resolved Clause, the word "conflict" be deleted and
the words "current crisis in the Persian Gulf" be inserted in its
place.
In the Resolved Clause, the words "President and Congress"
be deleted and the words "government of the United States" be
inserted in its place.
A vote on the amendments to the Amending Resolution resulted as
follows:
Ayes (7) - Booth, Johnson, Golder, Schroeder, Hoffman,
Daley, Peterson
Nays (2) - Romanowski, Blanchard
Alderperson Cummings out of room at time of vote.
Carried
Main Motion as Amended
The Main Motion as amended shall read as follows:
WHEREAS, all responsible people desire world peace and an end to
unwarranted military intervention by any nation, and
WHEREAS, there are many military members from the Ithaca area
currently serving in the Middle East, many veterans in the City
of Ithaca who well understand the pain and suffering that can
come from war as well as many families who have lost loved ones
in prior wars, and
WHEREAS, a war against .Iraq would have a serious local impact,
resulting in the possible death or injury to some of our
neighbors and friends, and
WHEREAS, the current deployment of U.S. troops is of great
expense to all taxpayers and war would severely increase the
economic burden on our community, and
WHEREAS, thousands of local residents have expressed their
opposition to an offensive war against Iraq and their support of
sanctions as a way toward a peaceful settlement, and
WHEREAS, it is understood that a lasting peace can only be
achieved when people and nations are willing to stand up against
tyranny and for human rights, and
WHEREAS, those in the military service have volunteered, at the
peril of their own lives, to serve this great nation and protect
the rights of people to live in freedom and without fear of
aggression from other nations; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That we urge the full support for all United States and
Allied service men and women during the crisis in the Middle East
and upon their return to their home lands, and be it further
14
19,
c)
w< <
January 2, 1991
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca encourages its citizens to show
their support by sending letters of support to the military
personnel serving in Operation Desert Shield, and also correspond
with the elected Federal officials encouraging them to continue
to work toward a peaceful solution to the crisis, and to provide
all of the benefits necessary to these service members to aid
them in their full adjustment, medically and psychologically,
upon their return, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca urges the
government of the United States to refrain from a military
offensive against Iraq at this time, to give sanctions more time
to work in order to pursue a peaceful settlement to the current
crisis in the Persian Gulf.
A vote on the Main Motion as Amended resulted as follows:
Ayes (7) - Booth, Golder, Schroeder, Johnson, Daley,
CD Peterson, Hoffman
M Nays (2) - Romanowski, Blanchard
Alderperson Cummings absent at time of vote.
Carried
Q REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY:
Building Code Violations
City Attorney Guttman reported on a Building Code Violation
brought against Joseph Moresco that has been settled and a case
against Laurie Munch regarding Building Code enforcement that is
proceeding in City Court.
Wallace Lawsuit
City Attorney Guttman reported on the suit that was filed last
month by Brenda Wallace regarding the East State Street culvert
issue. She had asked for a temporary restraining order
prohibiting the City from entering her property to put in the
culvert. Judge Rose denied her request and gave the City
permission to proceed. Mrs. Wallace is also claiming that there
may be damages to her property as a result of the City's action.
That case is pending and won't be solved until the Spring when we
can see where the boundary lines are and how the property is
cleaned up and finished.
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
* 15.1 Amending Zoning Ordinance (Parking Space Size)
By Alderperson Hoffman: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
ORDINANCE NO. 91-
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SUBDIVISION A -2 OF CHAPTER 30 ENTITLED
'ZONING' OF THE CITY OF ITHACA MUNICIPAL CODE.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of
Ithaca, New York, as follows:
SECTION 1. AMENDING SUBDIVISION A -2 of Section 30.37.
That Subdivision A -2 of Section 30.37 is hereby amended to
read as follows:
Parking Space Size:
a. For parking areas containing 1 to 9 cars, a parking space
size shall have a minimum area of 153 square feet, exclusive
of passageways, maneuvering space and driveways appurtenant
thereto and giving access thereto.
b. For parking areas containing 10 or more cars, the following
shall apply:
(1) Standard parking stalls shall be 816" wide minimum.
15
r
January 2, 1991
(2) Handicap parking arrangements shall be as specified by
current applicable codes.
(3) For angle or perpendicular parking, a parking space
size shall have a minimum area of 255 square feet, as measured
from the outermost line of the stall to the center -line of the
driveway aisle giving access thereto. The actual edge of parking
space pavement may be up to 2' -0" inside the outermost line of
the parking stall, where unobstructed vehicle- overhang is
available to that dimension. The overhang area may or may not be
a paved area.
(4) For parallel parking, a parking space size shall have a
minimum area of 290 square feet, as measured from the outermost
edge of the stall to the center -line of the driveway aisle giving
access thereto.
(5) The minimum parking space size may be reduced down to
238 square feet, and /or may be increased in order to insure
functional use, as determined by the Board of Planning and
Development under Chapter 39, Site Development Plan review
(SDPR) .
SECTION 2. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This ordinance shall take effect immediately and in
accordance with law upon publication of a notice as provided in
Section 3.11(B) of the Ithaca City Charter.
Alderperson Hoffman stated that Jon Meigs from the Planning
Department has suggested a few changes in the wording of the
Ordinance. Attorney Guttman ruled that these changes were not
substantive and would make the Ordinance clearer.
(material to be deleted is in brackets ([]), material to be added
is underlined):
ORDINANCE NO. 91-
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SUBDIVISION A -2 OF CHAPTER 30 ENTITLED
'ZONING' OF THE CITY OF ITHACA MUNICIPAL CODE.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of
Ithaca, New York, as follows:
SECTION 1. AMENDING SUBDIVISION A -2 of Section 30.37.
That Subdivision A -2 of Section 30.37 is hereby amended to
read as follows:
Parking Space Size:
a. For parking areas containing [1 to 9 cars] 9 or fewer
spaces, a parking space [size] shall have a minimum area of
153 square feet, exclusive of passageways, maneuvering space
and driveways appurtenant thereto and giving access thereto.
b. For parking areas containing 10 or more [cars] spaces, the
following shall apply:
(1) Standard parking stalls shall be 8' 6" wide minimum.
[3] (2) For angle or perpendicular parking, a standard parking
space [size] shall have a minimum area of 255 square feet, as
measured from the outermost line of the stall to the center -line
of the driveway aisle giving access thereto. The actual edge of
parking space pavement may be up to 2' -0" inside the outermost
line of the parking stall, where unobstructed vehicle- overhang is
available to that dimension. The overhang area may or may not be
a paved area.
16
D
� 99
January 2, 1991
[ 4 ] (3)_ For parallel parking, a standard parking space [size]
shall have a minimum area of 290 square feet, as measured from
the outermost edge of the stall to the center -line of the
driveway aisle giving access thereto.
[2] (5) Handicap parking [arrangements] space standards shall
be as specified by current applicable codes.
SECTION 2. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This ordinance shall take effect immediately and in
�. accordance with law upon publication of a notice as provided in
co Section 3.11(B) of the Ithaca City Charter. (Publication date
M January 15, 1991).
D The changes above as suggested by Jonathan Meigs were accepted by
M the Council.
Q A vote on the resolution as corrected resulted as follows:
Carried (9 -0)
* 15.2 Northside Land Use Recommendations
By Alderperson Hoffman: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
WHEREAS, the Northside Land Use-Committee was appointed by the
Mayor to study an area in the City concentrating on those blocks
surrounded by Lake Avenue, and Hancock Street, Third Street, and
(woo" Route 13, and
WHEREAS, this Committee has hired a consultant who made certain
recommendations, and
WHEREAS, the Committee has met over a period of months involving
as many community representatives as possible, and
WHEREAS, that Committee has made certain recommendations to the
Common Council known as the "Northside Land Use Recommendations -
Final" dated December 1990; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Common Council receives the report of the
Northside Land Use Committee and accepts its recommendations for
the purpose of examining the feasibility of undertaking them,
and, be it further
RESOLVED, that Common Council directs the Department of Planning
and Development and the Department of Public Works to prepare a
report regarding the cost to the City of taking these actions,
the infrastructure needs these actions would generate, and the
traffic circulation implications of these actions.
NORTHSIDE STUDY LAND USE RECOMMENDATIONS
Final
December 18, 1990
1) Continue to work toward development of the block bounded by
Lake Avenue, Adams Street, First Street and Franklin Street
in accordance with the following provisions:
a) the eastern 1/3 is to be used to create a new
neighborhood park;
b) analyze the need and desirability of designating and
building a new street between Adams Street and Franklin;
17
[ 5 ] (4)_ The minimum standard parking
space [size] area
may be
reduced [down] to not less
than 238 square feet, [and /] or
may be
(ta�
increased in order to insure functional
Board of Planning and Development
use, as determined
under Chapter 39,
by the
Site
Development Plan [r]Review
(SDPR).
[2] (5) Handicap parking [arrangements] space standards shall
be as specified by current applicable codes.
SECTION 2. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This ordinance shall take effect immediately and in
�. accordance with law upon publication of a notice as provided in
co Section 3.11(B) of the Ithaca City Charter. (Publication date
M January 15, 1991).
D The changes above as suggested by Jonathan Meigs were accepted by
M the Council.
Q A vote on the resolution as corrected resulted as follows:
Carried (9 -0)
* 15.2 Northside Land Use Recommendations
By Alderperson Hoffman: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
WHEREAS, the Northside Land Use-Committee was appointed by the
Mayor to study an area in the City concentrating on those blocks
surrounded by Lake Avenue, and Hancock Street, Third Street, and
(woo" Route 13, and
WHEREAS, this Committee has hired a consultant who made certain
recommendations, and
WHEREAS, the Committee has met over a period of months involving
as many community representatives as possible, and
WHEREAS, that Committee has made certain recommendations to the
Common Council known as the "Northside Land Use Recommendations -
Final" dated December 1990; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Common Council receives the report of the
Northside Land Use Committee and accepts its recommendations for
the purpose of examining the feasibility of undertaking them,
and, be it further
RESOLVED, that Common Council directs the Department of Planning
and Development and the Department of Public Works to prepare a
report regarding the cost to the City of taking these actions,
the infrastructure needs these actions would generate, and the
traffic circulation implications of these actions.
NORTHSIDE STUDY LAND USE RECOMMENDATIONS
Final
December 18, 1990
1) Continue to work toward development of the block bounded by
Lake Avenue, Adams Street, First Street and Franklin Street
in accordance with the following provisions:
a) the eastern 1/3 is to be used to create a new
neighborhood park;
b) analyze the need and desirability of designating and
building a new street between Adams Street and Franklin;
17
January 2, 1991
C) encourage development of housing on the western two -
thirds of the block designated for housing with preference
given to projects which provide affordable housing.
2) On block 1 continue to work with the Sciencenter toward
making their project as asset to the neighborhood and the
City. Continue negotiations with the Senior Center to
provide space for their operations and work with the
Sciencenter and the Senior Center to provide parking for
both facilities on or near their project sites. Buildings
should not exceed forty (40) feet in height.
3) Seek to remove the Department of Public Works to the other
side of Route 13 or elsewhere within five (5) years.
4) Decommission Lake Avenue from Adams Street to Route 13 and
create linear park combined with neighborhood park proposed
in 1). If it will not harm existing retail operations on
block 3, decommission Lake Avenue from Hancock Street to
Adams Street, and decommission Adams Street east of new
proposed street on block 2.
5) Decommission Franklin Street adjacent to the new park
proposed for block 2.
6) Develop implementation plan for streetscape improvements
throughout the study area minus the decommissioned section
of Franklin Street.
7) Approach New York State abort creating a berm or a wall on
the State right of way to the north of block 1, or, if not
on State right of way, then on property line where possible.
8) Enter into negotiations with the owner and the operator of
the P &C for an encroachment agreement providing for a buffer
and loading dock between park and P &C for as long as store
operates as a food supermarket.
9) P &C Zoning change. Develop appropriate commercial zoning
for P &C block as a "neighborhood commercial zone ".
Particular concerns are height, lot coverage, and traffic.
10) On block 4 rezone for light industrial and /or commercial use
or create new industrial park. Considerations in the
rezoning should include height, traffic generation, etc.
11) On block 5 possible adaptive reuse of current water
building; possibly private - possibly quasi - public, e.g.,
Day Care Center, or similar use. Rezone the southeast
quadrant of block 5 to R -2b for housing. Rezone the north-
west quadrant of block 5 for commercial uses; same new
zoning as block 4. In the interior of block 5, create a new
parking area - possibly municipally owned; possibly metered
to accommodate parking requirements in the commercial
district in blocks 4, 5, and 7.
12) Rezone privately owned street right of way in block 7 to the
same zoning as the rest of the parcel.
13) Redesign the intersection of Franklin Street and Third
Street based on recommendation of the City Engineer.
14) Incorporate bicycle planning as plans develop.
Discussion followed on the floor.
M
23 h
January 2, 1991
Alderperson Daley reported that one of the last decisions of this
Committee was that it not totally disband but that it meet once
every six months to ensure that the recommendations are at least
being worked on.
Alderperson Cummings returned to the meeting at 10:00 p.m.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
L Carried Unanimously
*
15.3 Six Mile Creek Preservation Response to Town Report
By Alderperson Hoffman: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
WHEREAS, the Six Mile Creek Valley is an area of extraordinary
beauty and important natural resources, including the City's
water supply, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca and the Town of Ithaca have worked
cooperatively to develop a plan for the preservation of this
co area, and
M WHEREAS, the Town of Ithaca's Conservation Advisory Council has
D published a plan entitled Six Mile Creek Valley - A Heritage to
ED Preserve which begins the process for protection and
< conservation of this area, and
WHEREAS, such conservation would be in the best interests of the
citizens of the City of Ithaca as well as the Town of Ithaca, and
WHEREAS, the continued joint efforts of these two jurisdictions
on this problem can serve as a -model for solving other issues
which have impacts on several jurisdictions now, therefore, be
(Woo" it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca does congratulate the Town of
Ithaca on the publication of the document for this natural
resource, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca concurs with and supports the
basic findings and recommendations of the Town of Ithaca
Conservation Advisory Council as set forth in the aforementioned
document, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the City does encourage the Town to take the
necessary steps to implement the recommendations of the report,
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the City stands ready to assist the Town in the
preparation of a Design and Maintenance manual that will guide
human use and activity within the proposed Critical Environ-
mental Area, and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of the resolution shall be forwarded to the
Town of Ithaca.
Alderperson Hoffman stated that he is very pleased with the
report and if implemented by the Town would meet most of our
concerns in that area.
Further discussion followed on the floor with Planning and
Development Director Van Cort addressing Council regarding the
importance of the City cooperating with the Town to help
implement these recommendations.
Amending Resolution
Alderperson Hoffman suggested that the last Resolved Clause read
as follows:
19
?c_4�1
January 2, 1991
RESOLVED, That the City stands ready to cooperate with the Town
in the implementation of these recommendations and in particular
the preparation of a Design and Maintenance manual that will
......etc.
There was no objection from Council members, therefore, the
wording in the last Resolved shall be changed.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Carried unanimously
Public Transit Sub - committee (Down Town Visions Task Force) -
Report
Alderperson Hoffman stated the P &D Committee heard from the
Public Transit Sub - committee of the Downtown Visions Task Force.
The main discussion was about the feasibility and desirability
of an East Hill shuttle bus and the sub - committee was inclined
not to recommend that. However, a majority of the Planning
Committee felt that it was something that should be pursued
further. The matter is still under deliberation by the sub-
committee if any Council members wish to add input.
Interim Parks Commission Recommendations - Report
Alderperson Hoffman reported that the P &D Committee has received
a report and recommendations from the Interim Parks Commission.
The P &D Committee has suggested some changes and he urged Council
members to look over the report. He said the Interim Parks
Commission will come back to the Committee with responses to the
suggestions for structuring a permanent Parks Commission.
Discussion followed on the floor. Vicki Romanoff, Chairperson of
that Commission will be asked to distribute copies of the report
to all Council persons.
1991 Planning Department Work Program
Alderperson Hoffman reported that the Director of Planning has
prepared a rough version of a proposed 1991 Work Program. Copies
are available at the Planning Office if Council members want to
pick them up.
CHARTER AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE:
Local Law Amending .Section 2.27 of the Ithaca City Charter
Entitled "City Officers Appointed by the Mayor: Procedure for
Appointment and Removal" - Report and Discussion
Alderperson Peterson stated that this matter had been referred
back to the Charter and Ordinance Committee for further work.
What Council has before them tonight is the Charter and Ordinance
recommended version and as you will note it does not reflect all
of Council's comments and feelings. She further stated that if
Council wishes to vote on this at the February Council meeting
they will need to do some work on it tonight.
Alderperson Hoffman handed out an amended version to the original
Local Law and explained the amendments that he is suggesting.
Extensive discussion followed on the floor and it was the
consensus of the Council that the Local Law should go back to the
committee for further revisions and then be brought back to
Council for a vote.
* 16.2a Amendment to Commons Rules Reaardina Bicvcles
Determination of No Siqnificant Effect on the Environment
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
WHEREAS, the matter of amending Chapter 70 of the City_of Ithaca
Municipal Code for the purpose of changing the right of
individuals to walk bicycles and similar devices on the Commons
is currently being considered by this Common Council, and
20
January 2, 1991
WHEREAS, appropriate environmental review has been conducted
including the preparation of a short environmental assessment
form (SEAF) , and
WHEREAS, it appears that the proposed action is an unlisted
action under the City Environmental Quality Review Act, and
WHEREAS, it appears that the proposed action will not have a
significant effect on the environment; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Common Council, as lead agency in this
matter, hereby adopts as its own the findings and conclusions as
set forth on the Short Environmental Assessment Form dated
December 27, 1990, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Common Council, as lead agency, has determined
that the proposed action will not have a significant effect on
the environment and that further environmental review is
co unnecessary under the circumstances, and be it 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
Q attachment, in the City Clerk's office and forward the same to
any other parties as required by law.
Carried Unanimously
* 16.2b Ordinance Amending Chapter 70 "Ithaca Commons Rules"
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
ORDINANCE NO. 91 -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 70 ENTITLED " ITHACA COMMONS RULES"
OF THE CITY OF ITHACA MUNICIPAL CODE.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City
of Ithaca, New York, as follows:
Section 1. Chapter 70 entitled "Ithaca Commons Rules" of
the City of Ithaca Municipal Code is amended as follows:
Section 70.6 of Article 2 entitled Bicycles, etc. is hereby
amended to read as follows:
"Riding of bicycles, roller skates, skateboards, and similar
wheeled devices is prohibited on the primary Commons. Bicycles
and similar wheeled devices shall not be left unattended except
in designated racks. Wheelchairs, baby carriages and similar
devices intended for the convenience and comfort of handicapped
persons or infants are permitted on the primary Commons.
Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect immediately.
Discussion followed on the floor.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
* 16.2c Bicycle Racks on the Commons
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Booth
WHEREAS, the Common Council, the Commons Advisory Board, the
Commons Coordinator, and the Ithaca Bicycle Advisory Council have
jointly agreed that bicycles may be walked on the Commons, and
WHEREAS, these groups have also agreed that a clear policy should
be established regarding the locations where bicycles may be
parked; now, therefore, be it
21
21()
January 2, 1991
RESOLVED, That bicycle parking racks shall only be placed at the
periphery of the Commons and that the Board of Public Works is
directed to increase bicycle parking racks in appropriate
peripheral locations.
Carried Unanimously
* 16.3 Taxicab Rate Increase
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Blanchard
RESOLVED, That the map and schedule entitled "Taxicabs Zones and
Rates -City of Ithaca" which map and schedule are appended to
Chapter 23 of the Ithaca City Municipal Code and referred to in
Section 23.42 entitled "Rates of Said Chapter" is hereby amended
to provide that the maximum rate that may be charged for
transportation of passengers within one zone shall be three
dollars ($3.00) instead of two dollars and fifty cents ($2.50).
Discussion followed on the floor. Alderperson Romanowski stated
that the taxi service is looking at a discount for senior
citizens but there is no guarantee that this will happen.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (9) - Peterson, Booth, Cummings, Romanowski, Golder,
Cummings, Blanchard, Hoffman, Schroeder
Nay (1) - Daley
Carried
* 16.4 Ordinance Amendina Chapter 81 Entitled "Partial Tax
Exemption" of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Booth
ORDINANCE NO. 91-
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 81 ENTITLED "PARTIAL TAX EXEMPTION"
OF THE CITY OF ITHACA MUNICIPAL CODE
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City
of Ithaca, New York, as follows:
Section 1. That subdivision A of Section 81.1 entitled
"Partial tax exemption for certain persons over 65 years of age"
of the City of. Ithaca Municipal Code, is hereby amended as
follows:
S 81.1 Partial tax exemption for certain persons over 65
years of age
A. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 467 of the Real
Property Tax Law of the State of New York, real property in the
City of Ithaca owned by one or more persons, each of whom is 65
years of age or over, or real property owned by husband and wife,
one of whom is 65 years of age or over, shall be partially exempt
from taxation by the City based upon the income of the owner or
the combined incomes of the owners. Such partial exemption.shall
be to the extent set forth in the schedule following:
ANNUAL INCOME OF OWNER PERCENTAGE ASSESSED
COMBINED ANNUAL INCOME OF OWNERS VALUATION EXEMPT
FROM TAXATION
Up to $15,000 50%
More than $15,000 but less
than $15,600 45%
$15,600 or more, but less than
$16,200 40%
22
$16,200 or more, but less than
$16,800
$16,800 or more, but less than
$17,400
$17,400 or more, but less than
(Ww" $18,000
$18,000 or more, but less than
$18,600
January 2, 1991
350
30%
25%
20%
The partial exemption provided by this law shall, however,
be limited to such property and persons as meet the conditions,
exclusions and limitations set forth in Section 467 of the Real
Property Tax Law of the State of New York.
B. Same
co Section 2. That Subdivision A of Section 81.2 entitled
M "Limitations on Exemptions" of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code
D is hereby amended as follows:
co
Q S 81.2 Limitations on exemption
No exemptions shall be granted:
A. If the income of the owner or the combined income of the
owners of the property exceeds the sum of Eighteen Thousand Five
Hundred Ninety -nine dollars and-Ninety-nine cents ($18,599.99)
for the income tax year immediately preceding the date of making
application for exemption as consistent with the schedule
provided in S 81.1(A). Income tax year shall mean a twelve (12)
month period for which the owner or owners filed a federal
personal income tax return, or if no such return is filed the
calendar year. Where title is vested in either the husband or
the wife, their combined income may not exceed such sum. Such
income shall include social security and retirement benefits,
interest, dividends, total gain from the sale or exchange of a
capital asset in the same income tax year, net rental income,
salary or earnings, and net income from self - employment, but
shall not include a return of capital, gifts or inheritances. In
computing net rental income and net income from self employment
no depreciation deduction shall be allowed for the exhaustion,
wear and tear of real or personal property held for the
production of income. [Subd. A last amended, Ord. 87 -1, 2/4/87]
B.
C.
D.
Section 3.
This ordinance
with law upon
we 3.11(B) of the
1991).
Same
Same
Same
Effective Date.
shall take effect immediately and in accordance
publication of a notice as provided in Section
Ithaca City Charter. (Publication date January 10,
Comprehensive Trash Ordinance - _Report
Alderperson Peterson reported that the
compilation of items that a sub - committee
could be included in a trash ordinance.
are interested in the first outline they
Peterson.
23
Carried Unanimously
Committee looked at a
had put _together that
If any Council members
may contact Alderperson
241
January 2, 1991
* 16.6 Ordinance Amending Chapter 55 "Fire Requlations" Section
55.18B 'Fire Limits'
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Booth
ORDINANCE NO. 91 -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 55 ENTITLED "FIRE REGULATIONS" OF
THE CITY OF ITHACA MUNICIPAL Code.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of
Ithaca, New York as follows:
Section 1. That Section 55.18B Entitled "Fire Limits be amended
to read as follows:
B. Fire Limits 'B': Those areas of the city which are
zoned Business 'B -2a', 'B -4' and 'B -51, in the City of Ithaca
zoning Ordinance (Chapter 30 of the Municipal Code).
Section 2. Effective Date
This Ordinance shall take effect immediately.
Alderperson Peterson explained that when the ordinance was passed
last year the 'B -2a' zone was inadvertently left out and this
ordinance is simply to correct that error.
Carried Unanimously
HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE:
Department Head Evaluations
Alderperson Johnson reported the committee is in the process of
reviewing the evaluations of the Police Chief, Fire Chief and the
Youth Bureau Director. The committee finds they have three
totally different approaches to these evaluations. The
committee is looking for some kind of consistent format for
looking at goals and objectives. He explained what other things
the committee feels should be included in the evaluation process
for Department Heads.
Mental Health Facility
Alderperson Johnson reported that on January 18th at 4:00 there
will be a reception /dedication for the new Mental Health
Facility. Council members are invited to attend.
BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
* 18.1 An Ordinance Amending Chapter 7 Entitled "Domestic
Partnership" of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
ORDINANCE NO. 91-
An ordinance amending
Chapter
7 entitled
"Domestic
Partnership"
of the City of Ithaca
Municipal
Code.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by
the Common
Council of
the City of
Ithaca, as follows:
Section 1. That
Chapter
7 entitled
"Domestic
Partnership"
of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code
is hereby
amended as
follows:
1. That a new subdivision to be known and designated as
Section 7.9 entitled Sick and Bereavement Leave is hereby added
to said chapter to as follows:
24
2 43
January 2, 1991
"Section 7.9. Sick and Bereavement Leave. In all City
labor contracts, when determining when an employee is entitled to
take sick or bereavement leave, a domestic partner of the
employee, as defined by this ordinance, shall be considered as if
he /she were the spouse of the employee."
Section 2. Effective Date.
This ordinance shall take effect immediately.
Ayes (9) - Booth, Peterson, Johnson, Romanowski, Blanchard,
Daley, Golder, Schroeder, Hoffman
Nay (1) - Cummings
Carried
* 18.16 Bond Resolution - Day Care Facility
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Romanowski
WHEREAS, it has been determined that the cost of renovating the
co proposed Day Care Facility at 201 -205 East Tompkins Street may
exceed the existing authorization; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Capital Project #241 be increased to an amount not
(� to exceed $250,000., to reflect the possible increased cost of
Q renovating said facility, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the additional costs shall be financed through the
issuance of Bond Anticipation Notes in the amount of $47,500.,
and that the statutory down payment of $2,500. be transferred
from Unrestricted Contingency to Capital Project #241 for such
purpose.
Carried Unanimously
Bond Resolution
we By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Romanowski
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $237,500 SERIAL BOND AND
THE APPROPRIATION AND EXPENDITURE OF $12,500 MONIES OF THE CITY
OF ITHACA, TOMPKINS COUNTY, NEW YORK, TO PAY THE COST OF THE
ACQUISITION OF A BUILDING AND THE SITE THEREOF AND THE
RECONSTRUCTION OF SAID BUILDING FOR THE PROVISION OF DAY CARE
SERVICES IN AND FOR SAID CITY.
WHEREAS, all conditions precedent to the financing of the capital
project hereinafter described, including compliance with the
provisions of the State Environmental Quality Review Act, have
been performed, and
WHEREAS, it is now desired to authorize the financing of such
capital project; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, by the Common Council of the City of Ithaca, Tompkins
County, New York, as follows:
Section 1. For the provision of day care services in and
for the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, the following
are hereby authorized:
a). the purchase of a building, at 201 -205 East Tompkins Street
in the City of Ithaca, including the site thereof at a
maximum estimated cost of $165,000., it being hereby
determined that such purposes are each a specific object or
purpose having a period of probable usefulness of twenty
years pursuant to subdivisions 11(b) and 21(a) of paragraph
a of Section 11.00 of the Local Finance Law; and
b) the reconstruction of such building to convert same to use
as a day care center, including original furnishings,
equipment, machinery, apparatus and other improvements
incidental thereto and required for the purposes for which
25
c�
January 2, 1991
such reconstructed building is to be used, at a maximum
estimated cost of $85,000., it being hereby determined that
such purpose is a specific object or purpose having a
period of probable usefulness of twenty years pursuant to
subdivision 12(a)(1) of paragraph a of Section 11.00 of the
Local Finance Law.
Section 2. The plan for the financing of such maximum
estimated costs is as follows:
a) By the issuance of $237,500. serial bonds of said City,
hereby authorized to be issued therefor pursuant to the Local
Finance Law, it being hereby determined that such serial
bonds shall be allocated as follows: $156,750. serial bonds
to the aforesaid purchase of the building and the site
thereof; and $80,750. serial bonds to the aforesaid building
reconstruction, and
b) By the expenditure of $12,500. current funds of said City,
which monies are hereby appropriated therefor, and which
monies shall constitute the down payments required pursuant
to Section 107.00 of the Local Finance Law, it being hereby
determined that said monies shall be allocated as follows:
$8,250. to the aforesaid purchase of a building and the site
thereof and $4,250 to the aforesaid building reconstruction.
Section 3. The faith and credit of said City of Ithaca,
Tompkins County, New York, are hereby irrevocably pledged for the
payment of the principal of and interest on such bonds as the
same respectively become du® and payable. An annual
appropriation shall be made in each year sufficient to pay the
principal of and interest on such bonds becoming due and payable
in such year. There shall annually be levied on all the taxable
real property in said City a tax sufficient to pay the principal
of and interest on such bonds as the same become due and payable.
Section 4. Subject to the provisions of the Local Finance
Law, the power to authorize the issuance of and to sell bond
anticipation notes in anticipation of the issuance and sale of
the serial bonds herein authorized, including renewals of such
notes, is hereby delegated to the City Controller, the chief
fiscal officer. Such notes shall be of such terms, form and
contents, and shall be sold in such manner, as may be prescribed
by said City Controller, consistent with the provisions of the
Local Finance Law.
Section 5. The validity of such bonds and bond anticipation
notes may be contested only if:
1) Such obligations are authorized for an object or purpose
for which said City is not authorized to expend money, or
2) The provisions of law which should be complied with at
the date of publication of this resolution are not substantially
complied with,
and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is
commenced within twenty days after the date of such publication,
or
3) Such obligations are authorized in violation of the
provisions of the Constitution.
Section 6. This resolution, which takes effect immediately,
shall be published in full in the Ithaca Journal, the official
newspaper, together with a notice of the City Clerk in
substantially the form provided in Section 81.00 of the Local
Finance Law.
M
19
W-
245
January 2, 1991
A Roll Call vote on the foregoing resolution resulted as follows:
Aye - Booth Aye - Cummings
Aye - Romanowski Aye - Daley
Aye - Schroeder Aye - Golder
Aye - Johnson Aye - Blanchard
Aye - Peterson Aye - Hoffman
Ayes (10)
Carried Unanimously
18 2 DPW Authorization of C H I P S. for a Traffic Signal
Optimization Program
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Daley
WHEREAS, the Department of Public Words has a signed contract
with the New York State Energy Office confirming the award of a
Traffic Signal Timing Optimization Grant, now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the City Controller be authorized to advance
co $11,200.00 from available New York State Consolidated Highway
M Improvement Program Funds (C.H.I.P.S.) pending the completion of
Dsuch study, and the subsequent filing for said reimbursement.
LM Carried Unanimously
Q * 16.3 Personnel - Approval of 1991 Health Insurance Rates for
Retirees
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
WHEREAS, in 1990 the City charged City retirees and those
employees on leaves of absence $101.90 for individual coverage
and $234.48 for family coverage _in the City's Health Insurance
Program, when the full costs for such coverage in 1990 would have
been $116.62 for an individual and $268.20 for a family; and
(600.1 WHEREAS, the 1991 estimated costs of the City's Health Insurance
Program for such individuals, as projected by Blue Cross /Blue
Shield, have been increased to $137.66 for individual coverage
and $315.52 for family coverage for these individuals; and
WHEREAS, the difference between what the City actually charged
these individuals for coverage in 1990 and the City's estimated
costs for 1991 is 35 %, and an increase of this magnitude could be
a serious burden for these individuals; and
WHEREAS, in light of significant increases in past years in
health insurance rates and the related hardship these increases
would have caused City retirees and persons on leaves of absence,
the City has adopted a policy of not charging the full rate
increases to these individuals; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 1991 monthly rate for health insurance
coverage for retirees and those employees on leaves of absence be
established at $120.24 for individual coverage and $276.69 for
family coverage, which will be an increase of 18% in these rates
over those charged by the City in 1990.
Discussion followed on the floor.
(400e Amending Resolution
By Alderperson Golder: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That there be a further Resolved Clause to read as
follows:
RESOLVED, That the City Attorney will determine the possibility
of proportionate exemptions for low income households.
27
/aJ1;
January 2, 1991
A vote on the Amending Resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (4) - Golder, Schroeder, Peterson, Cummings
Nays (6) - Booth, Johnson, Hoffman, Romanowski, Blanchard,
Daley
Motion Fails
Main Motion
A vote on the Main Motion resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
Motion to Extend Meeting
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Romanowski
RESOLVED, That this Common Council meeting be extended until
12:00 midnight.
Carried Unanimously
* 18.4 DPW - Increase Authorization for Hudson Street
Reconstruction Capital Project #225
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
WHEREAS, the actual cost of completing the Hudson Street
Reconstruction Project is projected to exceed the existing
authorization of $1,535,000 by $165,000.; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Capital Project #225 for the reconstruction of
Hudson Street be increased by said $165,000. to a maximum
authorized cost of $1,700,000., and be it further
RESOLVED, That the funds necessary to complete the Hudson Street
project shall be provided by t1W issuance of $156,000 in Bond
Anticipation Notes already authorized for Street Improvements
within the City, and that the statutory down payment of $9,000.
be appropriated from available New York State Consolidated
Highway Improvement Program Funds (C.H.I.P.S.), and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works not release any portion
of the contract retainage until all elements of the proposed
final settlement agreement have been executed, subject to the
approval of the City Attorney.
Carried Unanimously
* 18.5 DPW - Request for Employee Incentive Award
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
WHEREAS, the Acting Superintendent of Public Works has
recommended Assistant Civil Engineer Thomas West for an Employee
Incentive Award pursuant to the terms of the CSEA Administrative
Contract, and
WHEREAS, the Acting Superintendent of Public Works has provided
the Budget and Administration Committee with substantial
justification for granting this Employee Incentive Award, and
WHEREAS, the Acting Superintendent of Public Works'
recommendation complies with the procedures and guidelines
outlined in the CSEA Administrative Unit contract; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Thomas West's salary be increased by eight (8 %)
percent to an annual salary of $31,154 effective November 28,
1990.
Ayes (9) - Booth, Johnson, Cummings, Daley, Hoffman,
Romanowski, Blanchard, Schroeder, Peterson
Nay (1) - Golder
Alderperson Golder requested that the record reflect that his
objection is not to the employee but to the principle of merit
pay which is unfair.
W
0
CD
M
D
m
January 2, 1991
A vote on resolution resulted as follows: Carried
* 18.6 C.S.E.A. DPW Unit Contract
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
RESOLVED, That the Agreement between the City of Ithaca and CSEA
DPW Unit for a new three -year contract commencing January 1, 1991
and expiring on December 31, 1993, be approved as recommended by
the City's Negotiator, and that the Mayor and City Clerk be
authorized and directed to sign and execute the contract on
h t-,+- under its corporate seal.
behalf of t e i y
* 18.7 Chief Officers Unit Contract
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
RESOLVED, That the Agreement between the City of Ithaca and the
Chief Officers Unit of the Ithaca Paid Firefighters Association
for a new three -year contract commencing January 1, 1991 and
expiring December 31, 1993, be approved as recommended by the
City's Negotiator, and that the Mayor and City Clerk be
authorized and directed to sign and execute the contract on
behalf of the City under its corporate seal.
* 18.8 CitV Executive Association Contract
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
RESOLVED, That the Agreement between the City of Ithaca and City
Executive Association for a new three -year contract commencing
January 1, 1991 and expiring on December 31, 1993, be approved as
recommended by the City's Negotiator, and that the Mayor and City
Clerk be authorized and directed to sign and execute the contract
on behalf of the City under its corporate seal.
It was the consensus of Council that these three contracts will
be discussed in Executive Session at the end of the meeting.
* 18.9 1991 Compensation for Individuals Not Covered by a Union
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
RESOLVED, That management employees not covered by a formal
contract, including the City Attorney, Assistant City Attorney,
and City Prosecutor, be granted a 5.5% increase across the board
over their 1990 salary for the year 1991, effective with the
first pay period of 1991, and be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council reaffirms its policy of
comprehensive performance evaluation for all management
employees.
Carried Unanimously
247
* 18.10 Finance - Approval of State and Federal Section 18 Mass
Transit Operating Assistance Agreement
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Golder
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has submitted a request for a grant
of funds to the New York State Department of Transportation and
the United States Department of Transportation, pursuant to
Section 18 of the Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964, as
amended, for a project to provide operating assistance funds for
transportation services within the City of Ithaca and partly in
two adjoining municipalities, provided by the City of Ithaca
Transit System for fixed route, scheduled opening and available
to the general public during the period January 1, 1991, to
December 31, 1991 (PIN 3790.30.406); now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Mayor Benjamin Nichols be authorized to sign the
agreement(s) between the City of Ithaca and the State of New York
for the above named project, and be it further
29
i
i c.;
�
January 2, 1991
RESOLVED, That Mayor Benjamin Nichols is authorized to act on
behalf of the City of Ithaca to proceed and complete this above
named project.
Carried Unanimously
* 18.11 Designation of Official Depositories
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That pursuant to Section 3.7 of the City Charter, the
Tompkins County Trust Company and the Norstar Bank be, and they
are, hereby designated as the official depositories of all City
Funds for the year 1991, as follows:
TOMPKINS COUNTY TRUST COMPANY
ACCOUNT NAME
ACCOUNT NUMBER
City of Ithaca General Fund
01- 201 - 001004
Employees Group Insurance Deductions
03- 201 - 001004
City of Ithaca Payroll Fund
04- 201 - 001004
Guaranty and Bid Deposits
05- 201 - 001004
City Tax Sale Redemption
05 -201- 001004
Health Facility Agreement
05- 201 - 001004
Deposit on Water Meters
05- 201 - 001004
Sale of Unclaimed Property
05- 201 - 001004
Circle Greenway
05- 201 - 001004
Conference on College and Community
05 -201- 001004
Center for Expressive Arts
05 -201- 001004
Peter DeWysocki Memorial Fund
05- 201 - 001004
Cemetery Fund
05- 201 - 001004
Fire Department Recognition Banquet
05- 201 - 001004
Commons Cultural Tourism
05 -201- 001004
West End Trees -
05- 201 - 001004
Jack Kiely Scholarship Fund
05-201-001004
DeWitt Park Improvement Fund
05 -201- 001004
Employees N.Y.S. Withholding Tax
08- 201 - 001004
Employees U.S. Savings Bonds
09- 201 - 001004
Centennial Art Work
05- 201 - 001004
N.Y.S. Policemen's and Firemen's
Retirement System
11 -201- 001004
N.Y.S. Employees Retirement System
12- 201 - 001004
Ithaca Centennial Inc.
01- 101 - 096437
Capital Reserve Fund #4 - Bridges
01- 201 - 001055
Capital Reserve Fund #11 - Parks and
Recreation Areas
02- 201 - 001055
Capital Reserve Fund #14 - Parking Areas
03- 201 - 001055
Capital Reserve Fund #15 - Fire Engine
Replacement
04- 201 - 001055
Capital Reserve Fund #16 - Development of
Water Sources
05 -201- 001055
Capital Reserve Fund #17 - Sewer Construction
06 -201- 001055
Capital Reserve Fund #17A - Mandatory
Reserve for Sewer Plant Construction
06- 201 - 001055
Capital Reserve Fund #20 - West Hill Water
and Sewer Replacement
08 -201- 001055
Capital Reserve Fund #22 - Bus Replacement
09 -201- 001055
Capital Reserve Fund #23 - Public Works
Equipment
12- 201 - 001055
Capital Reserve Fund #24 - Energy Conservation
01- 101 - 082703
Capital Reserve Fund #25 - Capital Improvements
02- 101 - 082703
Capital Reserve Fund #26 - Land Acquisition
01- 101 - 102046
Capital Reserve Fund - Joint Activity Fund
01 -101- 099762
NORSTAR BANK
ACCOUNT NAME
ACCOUNT NUMBER
Firemen's Relief Fund 267- 010001
City of Ithaca Water and Sewer Fund 267- 010109
City of Ithaca Construction Fund 267- 010842
30
Ithaca
Phase
Ithaca
Phase
49
Area Wastewater Treatment Plant -
II
Area Wastewater Treatment Plant -
III
January 2, 1991
267- 012276
267- 365187
Carried Unanimously
* 18.12 Designation of Official Newspaper
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
(400e, RESOLVED, That pursuant to Section 7.16 of the City Charter, the
Ithaca Journal be and it is, hereby designated as the official
newspaper of the City of Ithaca for the year 1991.
on
Amending Resoluti
By Alderperson Johnson: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
RESOLVED, That a Second Resolved clause be added to read as
follows:
(l- RESOLVED, That the Mayor is hereby directed to send a letter to
(o the Ithaca Journal requesting that unrecyclable glossy inserts
G) not be used in the Ithaca Journal.
Carried Unanimously
D
Main Motion as Amended
Q A vote on the Main Motion as Amended resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
* 18.13 Collateral to Secure Deposits
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Romanowski
RESOLVED, That the collateral deposited by the Tompkins County
Trust Company and the Norstar Barrk as reported, be approved as to
form and sufficiency.
(6moe Carried Unanimously
*18.14 Public Employee's Blanket Bond
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That pursuant to Section 11 of the Public Officers'
Law, the following Bond, which is on file in the Office of the
City Clerk, be, and is hereby approved in all respects for the
year 1991.
Faithful Performance Blanket $250,000 Royal Globe
Bond Coverage Insurance Co.
Carried Unanimously
*
18.15 Designation of Common Council Meetinqs
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That the regular meetings of the Common Council, for
the year 1991, be held at 7:00 P.M., on the first Wednesday of
each month, in the Common Council Chambers, at City Hall, 108
East Green Street, Ithaca, New York.
Carried Unanimously
* 18.19 Approval of 1991 Human Service and Other Service Agenc
Contracts
�..
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That the Mayor be authorized to execute the following
1991 contracts with Human Service and Other Service Agencies, in
accord with the adopted 1991 City budget:
AIDS Work Program
Community Dispute Resolution Center
Day Care Council
Displaced Homemakers
Drop In Center
Friendship Center
Group Homes
HOMES - Green Street
Ithaca Rape Crisis
The Learning Web
31
1 ??(9
Literacy Volunteers
Multicultural Resource Center
Neighborhood Legal Services
Offender Aid and Restoration Services
Red Cross Emergency Shelter
Suicide Prevention and Crisis Service
Task Force for Battered Women
Community Arts Coalition
Human Services Coalition
Tompkins County Area Development Corp.
Tompkins- Cortland Labor Coalition
S.P.C.A.
DeWitt Historical Society
Cornell Cooperative Extension
Southside Community Center
January 2, 1991
Carried Unanimously
UNFINISHED AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
Letter to NYS DoT re Route 13 Project
Alderperson Hoffman referred to a letter that he has written to
NYS DoT re the Route 13 project. Some Council people were
concerned that there might be some ambiguity in the resolution on
Route 13 passed at the December Council meeting and had asked
Alderperson Hoffman to write a letter to clarify the resolution.
Discussion followed on the floor on the wording of that
resolution. It was the consensus of the Council that the letter
should go back to the Planning and Development Committee for
further clarification.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
On a motion the Council adjourned into Executive Session at 11:55
p.m. to discuss City Contracts, City personnel, disposal of
property and acquisition of property and appointments to City
Boards and Committees.
REGULAR SESSION:
Common Council •reconvened in Regular Session at 12:55 a.m. and
presented the following resolutions:
Appointment to the Board of Public Works
Mayor Nichols requested approval of Council for the appointment
of Denise Rusoff, 209 Hudson Street, to the Board of Public Works
for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Hoffman: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Denise
Rusoff to the Board of Public Works with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Ayes (7) - Peterson, Hoffman, Cummings, Golder, Johnson,
Booth, Schroeder
Nays (3) - Romanowski, Blanchard, Daley
Carried
Appointment to the Board of Public Works
Mayor Nichols requested approval of Council for the appointment
of Jill Tripp, 216 Dey Street to the Board of Public Works for a
2 -year term to expire December 31, 1992.
Resolution
By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Jill
Tripp to the Board of Public Works with a term to expire December
31, 1992.
32
Carried Unanimously
m
Q
January 2, 1991
Conservation Advisory Council
Mayor Nichols requested the approval of Council for the
appointment of Guy Gerard, 151 Chestnut Street and Rob Shapiro,
313 Columbia Street, to the Conservation Advisory Council with
terms to expire December 31, 1991.
Resolution
By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Guy
Gerard and Rob Shapiro to the Conservation Advisory Council with
terms to expire December 31, 1991.
Carried Unanimously
* 18.6 C.S.E.A. DPW Unit Contract
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
RESOLVED, That the Agreement between the City of Ithaca and CSEA
DPW Unit for a new three -year contract commencing January 1, 1991
and expiring on December 31, 1993, be approved as recommended by
the City's Negotiator, and that the Mayor and City Clerk be
authorized and directed to sign and execute the contract on
behalf of the City under its corporate seal.
Ayes (9) - Booth, Cummings, Romanowski, Peterson, Daley,
Golder, Schroeder, Johnson, Hoffman
Nay (1) - Blanchard
Carried-
* 18.7 Chief Officers Unit Contract
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
RESOLVED, That the Agreement between the City of Ithaca and the
Chief Officers Unit of the Ithaca Paid Firefighters Association
for a new three -year contract commencing January 1, 1991 and
expiring December 31, 1993, be approved as recommended by the
City's Negotiator, and that the Mayor and City Clerk be
authorized and directed to sign and execute the contract on
behalf of the City under its corporate seal.
Ayes (9) - Booth, Cummings, Romanowski, Peterson, Daley,
Golder, Schroeder, Johnson, Hoffman
Nay (1) - Blanchard Carried
* 18 8 City Executive Association Contract
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That the Agreement between the City of Ithaca and City
Executive Association for a new three -year contract commencing
January 1, 1991 and expiring on December 31, 1993, be approved as
recommended by the City's Negotiator, and that the Mayor and City
Clerk be authorized and directed to sign and execute the contract
f th Cit under its corporate seal.
on behalf o e y
Ayes (9) - Booth, Cummings, Romanowski, Peterson, Daley,
Golder, Schroeder, Johnson, Hoffman
Nay (1) - Blanchard
Sale of Fire Station #6
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by
WHEREAS, this Common Council, by
regular meeting on May 2, 1990,
Station No. 6 located at 626 West
Fire Department that the propert}
general City purposes and will be
the City Attorney to initiate t]
property; and
33
Carried
Alderperson Johnson
resolution duly adopted at its
declared that as soon as Fire
State Street is vacated by the
will no longer
surplus property
ie procedure for
be needed for
and authorize
sale of such
251
January 2, 1991
WHEREAS, the Board of Fire Commissioners, at its regular meeting
on December 11, 1990, declared that effective December 12, 1990,
Fire Station Number 6 is vacated and no longer needed for Fire
Department purposes; and
WHEREAS, this Council, by resolution duly adopted at its regular
meeting on November 7, 1990, directed the City Attorney to take
all necessary steps to sell Fire Station No. 6 to the highest
bidder by receiving sealed bids subject to the condition that
this Council, by majority vote, reserved the right to reject any
bid under $210,000; and
WHEREAS, the sale of the property by sealed bids has been duly
advertised and sealed bids received and reviewed; and
WHEREAS, the highest bid received is the bid from Bangs
Ambulance, Inc. in the amount of $225,666.00; now, therefore, be
it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca accepts the offer from Bangs
Ambulance, Inc. in the amount of $225,666.00; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the City Attorney is authorized to negotiate a
contract for the transfer of said property in accordance with the
terms of the contract; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the City Clerk give appropriate public notice that
this Council shall consider the approval of this contract at its
regular February Council meeting.
Carried Unanimously
Alderperson Cummings left the meeting at 1:00 a.m.
Land Acquisition - Watershed
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
WHEREAS, the City is interested in protecting the land
surrounding its watershed and has previously established a
capital reserve for the acquisition of these lands; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Mayor is hereby authorized to enter into a
contract subject to the approval of the City Attorney to purchase
that portion of tax parcel 48 -1 -12 located northeasterly of the
Town of Ithaca proposed recreation way, together with a 60 -foot
wide strip of land running from such parcel to Coddington Road,
said parcel and said 60 -foot wide strip more particularly shown
on a map entitled "Heffron Subdivision" and being Lot 2 on said
map encompassing approximately 24 acres for a price not to exceed
$57,500, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the funds for this purchase are to be derived from
Capital Reserve Number 26 for watershed land acquisition.
Carried (9 -0)
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 1:05 a.m.
Callista F. Paolangeli Benja in Nichols
City Clerk Mayory
34
titled "Partial Tax
Exemption"
Resolution to Open Public Hearing
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider amending Chapter 81
entitled "Partial Tax Exemption" be declared open.
Carried Unanimously
No one appeared to address the Public Hearing.
Resolution to Close Public Hearing
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider amending Chapter 81
entitled "Partial Tax Exemption" be declared closed.
Carried Unanimously
Public Hearing on Amending Subdivision A -2 of Section 30.37 of
Chapter 30 Entitled 'Zoning'
Resolution to Open Public Hearinq
By Alderperson Hoffman: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider amending
Subdivision A -2 of Section 30.37 of Chapter 30 entitled 'Zoning'
be declared open.
Carried Unanimously
Alderperson Hoffman explained that the amendment that is being
considered is regarding parking space size.
No one appeared to address the Public Hearing.
Resolution to Close Public Hearing
By Alderperson Hoffman: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider amending
Subdivision A -2 of Section 30.37 of Chapter 30 entitled 'Zoning'
be declared closed.
Carried Unanimously
MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS:
Board of Public Works
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of Carol C. Reeves, 303 Linn Street to the Board of Public Works
for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of Carol
C. Reeves to the Board of Public Works for a 3 -year term to
expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Ms. Carol C. Reeves took the oath of office and was sworn in by
City Clerk Paolangeli.
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Denise Rusoff, 209 Hudson Street for a 3 -year term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Discussion followed on the floor regarding this appointment.
Resolution
By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson Blanchard
RESOLVED, That the appointment of Denise Rusoff to the Board of
Public Works be discussed in Executive Session at the end of the
meeting.
Carried Unanimously
2
I
d
2D
Regular Meeting
PRESENT:
Mayor Nichols
Alderpersons (10) -
COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
7:00 P.M.
Romanowski, Johnson,
Blanchard, Peterson,
Schroeder
January 2, 1991
Booth, Hoffman, Golder,
Cummings, Daley,
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk - Paolangeli
City Attorney - Guttman
City Controller - Cafferillo
Deputy City Controller - Thayer
Police Chief - McEwen
Personnel Administrator - Saul
Planning and Development Director - Van Cort
Fire Chief - Olmstead
Assistant Personnel Administrator - Patz
Acting Superintendent of Public Works - Gray
Board of Public Works Commissioners - Reeves, Berg
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Nichols led all present in the Pledge of Allegiance to the
American flag.
OATH OF OFFICE:
Alderperson 4th Ward
Neil Golder took the Oath of Office and was sworn in as
Alderperson from the 4th Ward by-City Clerk Paolangeli.
MINUTES:
Approval of Minutes of the December 5, 1990 Common Council
nom' Meeting
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That the Minutes of the December 5, 1990 Common Council
meeting be approved with the following correction:
On page 35 under the Main Motion as Amended, the 3rd Whereas
should be corrected to read four lane.
Carried Unanimously
AhNno
Executive Session
Mayor Nichols requested that there be an Executive Session at the
end of the meeting regarding land acquisition and sale.
No Council member objected.
Unfinished and Miscellaneous Business
Alderperson Hoffman stated that concerns were raised at the
Planning and Development Committee meeting regarding the Route 13
resolution that was passed by Council in December. He said that
he was requested to write a letter of clarification to Mr.
Simberg at N.Y.S. D.o.T. and he has done so. He would like to
` pass the letter around to Council members for their input before
it is mailed.
No Council member objected.
Budget and Administration Committee
Alderperson Booth stated that Item 18.18, Audit Report, be
deleted from the agenda.
No Council member objected.
January 2, 1991
Resolution
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Kenneth
Vineberg to the Board of Zoning Appeals with a term to expire
December 31, 1992.
Carried Unanimously
Bicycle Advisory Council
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Lois Chaplin, 7 Penny Lane, to the Bicycle Advisory Council for a
3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Johnson: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Lois
Chaplin to the Bicycle Advisory Council with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of Dave Streater, 102 Homestead Road, to the Bicycle Advisory
Council for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Johnson: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of Dave
Streater to the Bicycle Advisory Council with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Rental Housing Commission
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of Mark Finkelstein, 210 Lake Street, to the Rental Housing
Commission for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson
RESOLVED, That
Finkelstein to
expire December
Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
this Council approves the re- appointment of Mark
the Rental Housing Commission with a term to
31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Terry Pasco, 121 Prospect Street to the Rental Housing Commission
with a 3 -year term, expiring December 31, 1993 and for the
appointment of Edward J. Dormady, 638 Stewart Avenue with a 3-
year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Terry
Pasco and Edward J. Dormady to the Rental Housing Commission with
terms to expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Conservation Advisory Council
Mayor Nichols requested the re- appointment of the following
persons to the Conservation Advisory Council with 2 -year terms to
expire December 31, 1992:
Betsy Darlington, 204 Fairmount Avenue
Roger Farrell, 120 Eastwood Terrace
John Wertis, 111 West York Street
Judith W. Jones, 112 East York Street
4
m
'Q
January 2, 1991
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Jill Tripp, 216 Dey Street to the Board of Public Works for a 2-
year term to expire December 31, 1992, to replace Patricia
Connor.
Resolution
By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson Blanchard
RESOLVED, That the appointment of Jill Tripp to the Board of
Public Works be discussed in Executive Session at the end of the
meeting.
Carried Unanimously
Community Police Board
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of Carol Seligmann, 115 Eastwood Terrace and Michael J. Ellis,
406 Stewart Avenue to the Community Police Board for 3 -year
terms, to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Johnson: Seconded by Alderperson Romanowski
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of Carol
Seligmann and Michael J. Ellis to the Community Police Board with
terms to expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Planning and Development Board
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Carl H. Feuer, 310 First Street, to the Planning and Development
Board for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Golder: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Carl H.
Feuer to the Planning and Development Board with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Board of Zoning Appeals
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
David Holmberg, 408 East Seneca Street, to the Board of Zoning
Appeals for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of David
Holmberg to the Board of Zoning Appeals for a 3 -year term to
expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of John Peck, 516 Chestnut Street, to the Board of Zoning Appeals
for a 3 -year term, to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of John
Peck to the Board of Zoning Appeals with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Kenneth Vineberg, 141 The Commons, to the Board of Zoning Appeals
for a 2 -year term to expire December 31, 1992, to replace Herman
Sieverding, who has resigned.
K
221
22 1
January 2, 1991
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of Barclay C. Jones, 502 Turner Place and Nancy Meltzer, 407 East
Seneca Street to the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission for
3 -year terms to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of
Barclay C. Jones and Nancy Meltzer to the Ithaca Landmarks
Preservation Commission with terms to expire December U31, 1993.
Mavor's Appointments Not Requiring Council Approval
Affirmative Action Advisory Committee
Mayor Nichols reported that he has re- appointed Brenda Kuhn to
the Affirmative Action Advisory Committee for a 3 -year term to
expire December 31, 1993.
Cable Television Commission
Mayor Nichols reported that he has appointed James F. Ferwerda,
312 First Street, to the Cable Television Commission for a 3 -year
term to expire December 31, 1993 to replace Richard Herskowitz,
who has resigned.
Youth Bureau Advisory Board
Mayor Nichols reported that he has appointed M. John Sherman, 205
Hillview Place to the Youth Bureau Advisory Board for a 3 -year
term expiring December 31, 1993. —
ELECTION OF ACTING MAYOR:
Mayor Nichols entertained nominations from the floor for the
position of Acting Mayor.
Alderperson Booth nominated Alderperson Carolyn Peterson for the
position and the nomination was seconded by Alderperson Daley.
The motion carried unanimously. Alderperson Peterson will serve
as Acting Mayor until December 31, 1991.
ALTERNATE ACTING MAYOR:
Mayor Nichols entertained nominations from the floor for the
position of Alternate Acting Mayor.
Alderperson Johnson nominated Alderperson Robert Romanowski for
the position and the nomination was seconded by Alderperson
Booth. The motion carried unanimously. Alderperson Romanowski
will serve as Alternate Acting Mayor until December 31, 1991.
PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
Traffic Patterns
Guy Van Benschoten, 602 North Cayuga Street, spoke to Council in
support of and the need for the proposed road widening project
on Route 13. He also spoke of the need for a ramp on Green
Street just past the new Mental Health Building for cars wishing
to proceed up South Hill and spoke in favor of Alderperson
Romanowski's resolution regarding the Persian Gulf crisis.
Persian Gulf Crisis
The following persons spoke regarding the situation in the
Persian Gulf:
Alicia Cox Gil Ott
Richard Dunham Ruth Yarrow
David Kay Fred Wilcox
10
January 2, 1991
Resolution
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of Betsy
Darlington, Roger Farrell, John Wertis and Judith W. Jones to the
Conservation Advisory Council with terms to expire December 31,
1992.
Carried Unanimously
Ms. Betsy Darlington took the oath of office and was sworn in by
City Clerk Paolangeli.
Mayor Nichols requested the appointment to the Conservation
Advisory Council of Rob Shapiro of 313 Columbia Street for a 1
year term to replace Jill Tripp and Guy Gerard, of 151 Chestnut
Street for a 1 year term to replace Eric Bromberg.
It was the consensus of the Council that these appointments
(�- should be discussed in Executive Session at the end of the
co meeting.
Examining Board of Electricians
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
m Joseph A. Kohm, 313 Warren Place to the Examining Board of
< Electricians with a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993
Resolution
By Alderperson Romanowski: Seconded by Alderperson Blanchard
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Joseph A.
Kohm to the Examining Board of Electricians with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Board of Appeals on Building Code
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of Philip Cox, 221 Cornell Street, to the Board of Appeals on
Building Code for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Johnson: Seconded by Alderperson Daley
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of Philip
Cox to the Board of Appeals on Building Code with a term to
expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Shade Tree Advisory Committee
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of Nina Bassuk, 1345 Mecklenburg Road, to the Shade Tree Advisory
Committee for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1+993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of Nina
Bassuk to the Shade Tree Advisory Committee with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
Design Review Board
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re- appointment
of William S. Downing, 215 North Cayuga Street to the Design
Review Board for a 3 -year term to expire December 31, 1993.
Resolution
By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re- appointment of
William S. Downing to the Design Review Board with a term to
expire December 31, 1993.
Carried Unanimously
5
January 2, 1991
Sewage problem in the 300 block of South Cayuga Street - Crews
are in the process of establishing a barrier to prevent any
further discharge from entering basements. The investigation
continues as to probable causes of the problem.
Procedures for Emergencies - In regard to the emergency on East
State Street, according to the chronology of that situation, even
with two key people out of town on that day, there was a timely
and reasonable response. Current responses to any other
emergencies are satisfactory, reasonable and economically
feasible. Comm. Reeves stated we cannot impose changes in
working conditions without negotiations. To have someone on duty
at all times is a negotiable item and can be looked at if the
Council desires, although there is no money in the budget to
institute such a change at this time.
Parking Fee Increase - The Board was given power to act at its
December 19 meeting and a resolution was passed that the
Department of Public Works provide customer service training for
parking lot attendants. The resolution was carried unanimously.
City Bricks - In response to Alderperson Cummings's inquiry
regarding City bricks, there was a resolution passed in October
1984 calling for documentation of brick and masonry paved
streets and that documentation is on record in the City
Engineer's Office. Comm. Reeves said that in regard to
establishing a priority for retention of brick streets, she is
not aware of any. In regard to methods for training DPW
personnel to repair and maintain streets designated for
retention, she stated it is a very costly procedure. It is much
less costly to buy new bricks than to clean and stock pile the
old ones.
Alderperson Cummings stated that she will talk to the Board of
Public Works in regards to this matter.
Alderperson Cummings left the meeting at 8:45 p.m.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR:
State of the City 1991
Mayor Nichols read the following statement into the record:
"At the beginning of this new year it is appropriate to assess
the state of the City, to review where we have come in the past
year and to set goals for the year ahead.
It has been a busy and productive year. The Common Council and
the many lay boards have worked hard to meet immediate problems
and to plan for the future. Our employees are devoted to public
service. None of us were surprised when, early this year, Ithaca
was named the best small city in the northeast.
But our situation cannot be isolated from the world around us.
With the threat of a war in the Persian Gulf, an economic
recession, the huge deficit and the cost of the bailout of the
Savings and Loan banks, it is difficult to be optimistic about
the prospect of a national policy that will address the real
needs of our people. J,
As the "New York Times" reported on its front page last Sunday,
"All across America state and city governments have been stricken
by financial crises that were not even imagined a year ago... The
immediate cause of the crisis is the nation's economic downturn,
which has drastically cut into tax revenues. But the seeds were
sown over the last decade or so. The federal government has
shifted a heavy financial burden to the states and cities,
cutting and eliminating federal grants for housing, education,
mass transportation and public works projects. In the late
Ell
22
January 2, 1991
The following persons spoke in favor of Alderperson Romanowski's
resolution that is being presented to Council this evening:
Holly Hollingsworth
Dan Wheeler
�9044 "ON&I-MICi1 016PIM lI 3
Persian Gulf Crisis
Alderperson Romanowski explained that the resolution he was
presenting to Council was in response to requests he had received
from numerous veteran groups and individuals who asked for the
City to express support of persons serving in the Middle East.
He said his resolution was not meant to be a political statement
and he will not become part of a political statement; therefore,
he asked to withdraw his resolution from tonight's agenda.
Discussion followed on the floor.
Mayor Nichols stated that this was not the time to debate whether
or not Alderperson Romanowski should withdraw his resolution.
Co
Co The matter will be discussed when it comes to the Council floor.
Alderperson Golder stated that he has some amendments to make to
m Alderperson Romanowski's resolution. He said that he feels it is
Q very important and totally appropriate that Common Council take a
stand at this time on this matter.
On -Ramp to Aurora Street
Alderperson Cummings, in response to Mr. VanBenschoten's
comments, stated that the on -ramp to Aurora Street is something
that the City has talked about doing and that is why the Mental
Health Building was moved back several feet to accommodate such
a ramp should it be possible. She asked that the Planning
Department and Board of Public Works begin discussions on this
matter.
REPORT FROM BOARD OF REPRESENTATIVES:
There was no report from the Board of Representatives.
Alderperson Romanowski stated that he has a petition of over 900
signatures regarding the garbage baling station that was to be
presented to the representative from the Board tonight. He asked
that the Clerk's office transmit the petition to the Board of
Representatives.
City Clerk Paolangeli accepted the petition and will transmit it
to the Board of Representatives.
REPORT OF CITY BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES:
Bicycle Advisory Council
Mr. David Nutter, representing the Bicycle Advisory Council,
urged Common Council to continue support of the Cayuga Inlet
Trail which would cross the portion of Route 13 where the
proposed construction would take place.
Mr. Nutter
tonight's
Commons.
also spoke to Council in support of the resolution on
agenda to permit walking of bicycles across the
Board of Public Works
Commissioner Reeves reported on the following matters for the
Board:
Gas tanks on Linden Avenue - The contracts have been signed and
the work should start in mid - January.
7
January 2, 1991
g. We enacted an enforceable Noise Ordinance and have seen
positive results from its enforcement.
9. We have moved ahead in the area of public transit with the
initial steps toward a joint facility with the County and Cornell
and the establishment of a regional system.
10. We have cleaned up asbestos from City Hall, GIAC and the
Hall of Justice.
11. We have passed legislation regulating vehicle exhaust
emissions.
Human Services and Rights
1. We have set in place the mechanics for a coordinated teen -age
weekend recreation program.
2. We have initiated with business and the schools a youth
employment program and set aside funds for a coordinator.
3. We have made provision to provide a home for a licensed day
care and drop -in center.
4. We have provided more funding than ever before for human
service programs.
5. We have created a Disability Advisory Council and have
established new guidelines regarding building permit approval to
insure equal access for the disab -led.
6. We have taken a stand on the right of women to reproductive
choice.
7. We have provided an official mechanism for the establishment
of domestic partnership status and are providing some benefits to
domestic partners of City employees.
g. We have enabled the Economic Opportunity Corporation to
provide a temporary emergency shelter for the homeless.
Downtown Revival and Improvement
1. We have initiated and supported with funding and staff a
Downtown Vision Task Force that includes efforts in the areas of
marketing, recruitment and retention, land use, use of upper
stories, parking, public transit and culture and the arts.
2. We have provided funds for physical improvements of the
Commons.
3. We have received a grant for study of the feasibility of a
District Heating facility.
Housing
1. We have used our Community Development Block grant funds for
the addition of affordable housing in the Polygon development on
Floral Avenue, the Chartwell single -room occupancy building on
Meadow Street, and the HOMES transition house on Green Street.
2. We have continued to provide funds to maintain Ithaca
Neighborhood Housing Services.
3. We have set aside two - thirds of the Pogo Parcel for housing
and have an active group making plans for long -term affordable
housing on that site.
10
22'7
January 2, 1991
1970's Washington provided 25 percent of state and local budgets.
It now provides 17 percent. Cities lost much more than states as
programs like revenue sharing and aid for low - income housing were
cut."
In the event of a tragic and misguided offensive war, the
probable cost of that alone would rise to one billion dollars per
day. Spread out over the population of the United States, the
portion assessed to the City of Ithaca would be about $120,000
per day or one million dollars every eight days. An accompanying
increase in oil prices would further strain the economy. Aside
from the economic cost, there is the more important concern for
the men and women who would have to fight that war, their
families and for the inevitable innocent victims. We should do
whatever we can to prevent that disaster.
In New York State the cuts at the upper levels of the income tax
have led not only to a huge deficit but to the decrease in aid to
CO local government and the consequent shift to the regressive
property tax that is not based on the ability to pay. And the
M situation will get worse before it gets better.
m Given there hard facts, we will have to rely more and more on
Q local resources without excessive increases in the City's
property tax. We must do whatever we can to make our operations
more efficient while providing the services that our citizens
demand and need. But while the property tax base of the
surrounding towns has grown markedly in the recent years, that of
the City has not. The major growth in the City has been in
development that is exempt from the property tax. At present 57
percent of the assessed value of property in the City is tax
exempt. By far, the largest portion of that belongs to Cornell
University.
While we anticipate and plan for the difficult years ahead, we
start this year in good shape. By dint of exceptional efforts of
Department Heads and Council, we were able to keep the City
moving ahead while maintaining the property tax increase within a
reasonable bound. That budget effort concluded a year of
significant action on many fronts. I will list some of these
under some broad general headings. They range in importance but
each matters in some significant way to some of our citizens.
The Environment
1. We completed action on the designation of Fall Creek as a
recreational river.
2. We have increased our program of tree planting and provided
for even more next year.
3. We have moved ahead with plans for the Northside by
purchasing the Pogo Parcel, reached a contract for the erection
of an outstanding Sciencenter, began negotiations for a Senior
Center and applied for a grant to create a new park.
4. We have worked with the Town of Ithaca on the preservation of
watershed lands and completed negotiations for the acquisition
and protection of some of those critical lands.
5. We have created an active Bicycle Advisory Council.
6. We have added still another Historic District on the Cornell
campus.
7. We put an Interim Parks Commission into action to design a
plan for integrated management of all our green spaces.
9
2130
January 2, 1991
6. The creation of a Parks and Recreation Commission.
7. The development of the teen -age recreation and youth
employment programs.
8. Develop plans for the organization and consolidation of the
Department of Public Works.
9. Institute an Advisory Board for the Building Department and
improve its service to the public.
A major effort for 1991 will be the review of the City's
personnel needs and the structure of all departments to reduce
the number of employees over the next few years to make the City
more efficient in its operations. By planning over a three year
period, the reduction will be done in a careful, responsible way.
It is the goal to avoid laying off any present employee and to
expand the responsibilities and compensation of those presently
in service.
We do not face a fiscal crisis in the City, but unless we can
reduce our staff, gain additional revenue and shift some of our
present outlay to other sources, the burden on the property tax
will have to increase at an unreasonable rate.
The Commission studying Cornell /City relations will make its
report soon. It is important that we follow that up by
substantive negotiations with Cornell to reach an understanding
of the need for the University to make more substantial
contributions for the services that it receives.
Discussions have begun with the County to reach a fairer
allocation of County funds for the services that the City Youth
Bureau provides for the community.
Human Service Agencies must recognize in planning for next year
that their requests for support must not be limited to the County
and City of Ithaca but must extend to the surrounding towns that
together have a much larger taxable property base than does the
City. The preferable result would be the assumption of the
funding role by the County in which case all residents of the
County, including City residents, would pay their fair share.
We will also urge the State Legislature to adopt the bill
introduced by Assemblyman Martin Luster that would permit
municipalities to adopt developer impact fees.
By working simultaneously on improving our own efficiency as well
as pursuing other revenue sources and shifts of funding, we can
continue to move the City ahead in the course we have set in a
fiscally responsible manner. I invite all members of the
community to assist us in this process with their suggestions and
participation.
The Best Small City will become even better."
NEW BUSINESS-
* 22.1 Support of the Troops in the Middle East
As a result of the earlier discussion Alderperson Romanowski
wished to withdraw the motion that he had proposed. To put the
issue before Council as it was published on the agenda the
original motion was moved by Alderperson Schroeder and seconded
by Alderperson Golder:
WHEREAS, all responsible people desire world peace and an end to
unwarranted military intervention by any nation, and
12
1) q1
2 2
January 2, 1991
4. We have created a Rental Housing Commission.
5. We have instituted a much more active program, through the
combined efforts of our City Attorney's office and the Building
and Fire Departments, enforcement of the Building, Zoning and
Fire Codes to insure safe housing in the City.
Other Activities
1. Overcoming great difficulties, we were able to balance the
concerns of the neighborhood and the needs of the City at large
to complete an attractive and safe rebuilding of Hudson Street.
2. We have completed the building of the handsome Carpenter
Business Park and Community Gardens.
3. We have opened two new fire stations and have increased the
recruitment of volunteer firefighters.
Co 4. We have
very soon of
5. We have
< facility it
environment,
completed the process which will lead to the sale
Fire Station No. 6 at an appropriate price.
vigorously opposed the County's placing a garbage
1 a location that will adversely effect the
future housing development and the City's economy.
6. We have instituted a pay equity study for a large number of
our City positions.
7. We have instituted an annual - .event for the recognition of the
contributions of City employees.
(Uwoe 8. We have initiated architectural studies for the renovation of
the Greater Ithaca Activities Center and for a new City Court
facility.
9. We have enforced our Transient Merchants ordinance and
revised that ordinance so as to protect our local craftspeople.
10. We have gained a year's experience in the Site Plan Review
process and have seen the constructive results of a number of
projects, including the plans for the addition to downtown of a
new Wanzer block.
11. We have dealt expeditiously and in an environmentally
sensitive way with the collapse of the culvert on East State
Street. Under the direction of the City Engineer the street has
been put back into service.
12. We have expanded the role of women and minorities from all
walks of life in our boards, committees and commissions.
In the year ahead we will be working to implement the activities
that were begun this year. These will include:
1. Progress on the Northside plan including housing and a park
on the Pogo Parcel and an agreement with the Senior Citizen
Center.
2. The adoption of the recommendations of the Downtown Visions
Task Force.
3. The building of a regional transit facility.
4. The development of a parking plan and management system.
5. The development of park and ride facilities.
11
January 2, 1991
Amendments to the Amending Resolution
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
RESOLVED, That the following changes be made in the Amending
Resolution:
In the Second Whereas Clause the words "further deployment
and" be deleted.
In the Third Whereas Clause and the Resolved Clause the word
"negotiated" be deleted and the word "peaceful" be inserted in
_its place.
In the Resolved Clause, the word "conflict" be deleted and
the words "current crisis in the Persian Gulf" be inserted in its
place.
In the Resolved Clause, the words "President and Congress"
be deleted and the words "government of the United States" be
inserted in its place.
A vote on the amendments to the Amending Resolution resulted as
follows:
Ayes (7) - Booth, Johnson, Golder, Schroeder, Hoffman,
Daley, Peterson
Nays (2) - Romanowski, Blanchard
Alderperson Cummings out of room at time of vote.
Carried
Main Motion as Amended
The Main Motion as amended shall read as follows:
WHEREAS, all responsible people desire world peace and an end to
unwarranted military intervention by any nation, and
WHEREAS, there are many military members from the Ithaca area
currently serving in the Middle East, many veterans in the City
of Ithaca who well understand the pain and suffering that can
come from war as well as many families who have lost loved ones
in prior wars, and
WHEREAS, a war against .Iraq would have a serious local impact,
resulting in the possible death or injury to some of our
neighbors and friends, and
WHEREAS, the current deployment of U.S. troops is of great
expense to all taxpayers and war would severely increase the
economic burden on our community, and
WHEREAS, thousands of local residents have expressed their
opposition to an offensive war against Iraq and their support of
sanctions as a way toward a peaceful settlement, and
WHEREAS, it is understood that a lasting peace can only be
achieved when people and nations are willing to stand up against
tyranny and for human rights, and
WHEREAS, those in the military service have volunteered, at the
peril of their own lives, to serve this great nation and protect
the rights of people to live in freedom and without fear of
aggression from other nations; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That we urge the full support for all United States and
Allied service men and women during the crisis in the Middle East
and upon their return to their home lands, and be it further
14
lr�
t)
23
January 2, 1991
WHEREAS, there are many military members from the Ithaca area
currently serving in the Middle East, many veterans in the City
of Ithaca who well understand the pain and suffering that can
come from war as well as many families who have lost loved ones
in prior wars, and
RESOLVED, That we urge the full support for all United States and
Allied service men and women during the crisis in the Middle East
and upon their return to their home lands, and be it further
co RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca encourages its citizens to show
their support by sending letters of support to the military
serving in Operation Desert Shield, and also correspond with the
c] elected Federal officials encouraging them to continue to work
Q toward a peaceful solution to the crisis, and to provide all of
the benefits necessary to these service members to aid them in
their full adjustment, medically and psychologically, upon their
return.
Council recessed at 9:05 p.m. and reconvened in regular session
at 9:15 p.m. _
Amending Resolution
By Alderperson Golder: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman:
RESOLVED, That, the following three Whereas Clauses be added to
the resolution after the Second Whereas Clause:
WHEREAS, a war against Iraq would have a serious local impact,
resulting in the possible death or injury of some of our
neighbors and friends, and
WHEREAS, the current deployment of U.S. troops is of great
expense to all taxpayers, and further deployment and war would
severely increase the economic burden on our community, and
WHEREAS, thousands of local residents have expressed their
opposition to an offensive war against Iraq and their support of
sanctions as a way toward a negotiated settlement, and be it
RESOLVED, That the following Resolved Clause be added as a Final
Resolved to the original resolution:
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca urges the
President and Congress to refrain from a military offensive
against Iraq at this time, to give sanctions more time to work in
order to pursue a negotiated settlement to the conflict.
Extensive discussion followed on the floor.
Amending Resolution
Alderperson Schroeder suggested that in the Second Resolved
Clause of the original resolution, in the second line, the word
"personnel" be added between the words "military" and "serving ".
There were no objections from Council members, therefore the
wording was changed.
Further discussion followed on the floor.
13
WHEREAS, it is understood that
a lasting
peace can
only be
achieved when people and nations are
tyranny and for human rights, and
willing
to stand up
against
WHEREAS, those
in the military service have
volunteered,
at the
peril of their
own lives, to serve
this great
nation and
protect
the rights of
people to live in
freedom and without
fear of
aggression from
other nations; now,
therefore,
be it
RESOLVED, That we urge the full support for all United States and
Allied service men and women during the crisis in the Middle East
and upon their return to their home lands, and be it further
co RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca encourages its citizens to show
their support by sending letters of support to the military
serving in Operation Desert Shield, and also correspond with the
c] elected Federal officials encouraging them to continue to work
Q toward a peaceful solution to the crisis, and to provide all of
the benefits necessary to these service members to aid them in
their full adjustment, medically and psychologically, upon their
return.
Council recessed at 9:05 p.m. and reconvened in regular session
at 9:15 p.m. _
Amending Resolution
By Alderperson Golder: Seconded by Alderperson Hoffman:
RESOLVED, That, the following three Whereas Clauses be added to
the resolution after the Second Whereas Clause:
WHEREAS, a war against Iraq would have a serious local impact,
resulting in the possible death or injury of some of our
neighbors and friends, and
WHEREAS, the current deployment of U.S. troops is of great
expense to all taxpayers, and further deployment and war would
severely increase the economic burden on our community, and
WHEREAS, thousands of local residents have expressed their
opposition to an offensive war against Iraq and their support of
sanctions as a way toward a negotiated settlement, and be it
RESOLVED, That the following Resolved Clause be added as a Final
Resolved to the original resolution:
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca urges the
President and Congress to refrain from a military offensive
against Iraq at this time, to give sanctions more time to work in
order to pursue a negotiated settlement to the conflict.
Extensive discussion followed on the floor.
Amending Resolution
Alderperson Schroeder suggested that in the Second Resolved
Clause of the original resolution, in the second line, the word
"personnel" be added between the words "military" and "serving ".
There were no objections from Council members, therefore the
wording was changed.
Further discussion followed on the floor.
13
2lc'lII
January 2, 1991
(2) Handicap parking arrangements shall be as specified by
current applicable codes.
(3) For angle or perpendicular parking, a parking space
size shall have a minimum area of 255 square feet, as measured
from the outermost line of the stall to the center -line of the
driveway aisle giving access thereto. The actual edge of parking
space pavement may be up to 2' -0" inside the outermost line of
the parking stall, where unobstructed vehicle- overhang is
available to that dimension. The overhang area may or may not be
a paved area.
(4) For parallel parking, a parking space size shall have a
minimum area of 290 square feet, as measured from the outermost
edge of the stall to the center -line of the driveway aisle giving
access thereto.
(5) The minimum parking space size may be reduced down to
238 square feet, and /or may be increased in order to insure
functional use, as determined by the Board of Planning and
Development under Chapter 39, Site Development Plan review
(SDPR) .
SECTION 2. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This ordinance shall take effect immediately and in
accordance with law upon publication of a notice as provided in
Section 3.11(B) of the Ithaca City Charter.
Alderperson Hoffman stated that Jon Meigs from the Planning
Department has suggested a few changes in the wording of the
Ordinance. Attorney Guttman ruled that these changes were not
substantive and would make the Ordinance clearer.
(material to be deleted is in brackets ([]), material to be added
is underlined):
ORDINANCE NO. 91-
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SUBDIVISION A -2 OF CHAPTER 30 ENTITLED
'ZONING' OF THE CITY OF ITHACA MUNICIPAL CODE.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of
Ithaca, New York, as follows:
SECTION 1. AMENDING SUBDIVISION A -2 of Section 30.37.
That Subdivision A -2 of Section 30.37 is hereby amended to
read as follows:
Parking Space Size:
a. For parking areas containing [1 to 9 cars] 9 or fewer
spaces, a parking space [size] shall have a minimum area of
153 square feet, exclusive of passageways, maneuvering space
and driveways appurtenant thereto and giving access thereto.
b. For parking areas containing 10 or more [cars] spaces, the
following shall apply:
(1) Standard parking stalls shall be 8' 6" wide minimum.
[3] (2) For angle or perpendicular parking, a standard parking
space [size] shall have a minimum area of 255 square feet, as
measured from the outermost line of the stall to the center -line
of the driveway aisle giving access thereto. The actual edge of
parking space pavement may be up to 2' -0" inside the outermost
line of the parking stall, where unobstructed vehicle - overhang is
available to that dimension. The overhang area may or may not be
a paved area.
16
2 3 3
January 2, 1991
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca encourages its citizens to show
their support by sending letters of support to the military
personnel serving in Operation Desert Shield, and also correspond
with the elected Federal officials encouraging them to continue
to work toward a peaceful solution to the crisis, and to provide
all of the benefits necessary to these service members to aid
them in their full adjustment, medically and psychologically,
upon their return, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca urges the
government of the United States to refrain from a military
offensive against Iraq at this time, to give sanctions more time
to work in order to pursue a peaceful settlement to the current
crisis in the Persian Gulf.
A vote on the Main Motion as Amended resulted as follows:
Ayes (7) - Booth, Golder, Schroeder, Johnson, Daley,
Peterson, Hoffman
M Nays (2) - Romanowski, Blanchard
Alderperson Cummings absent at time of vote.
m Carried
'Q
REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY:
Building Code Violations
City Attorney Guttman reported on a Building Code Violation
brought against Joseph Moresco that has been settled and a case
against Laurie Munch regarding Building Code enforcement that is
proceeding in City Court. —
Wallace Lawsuit
City Attorney Guttman reported on the suit that was filed last
month by Brenda Wallace regarding the East State Street culvert
issue. She had asked for a temporary restraining order
prohibiting the City from entering her property to put in the
culvert. Judge Rose denied her request and gave the City
permission to proceed. Mrs. Wallace is also claiming that there
may be damages to her property as a result of the City's action.
That case is pending and won't be solved until the Spring when we
can see where the boundary lines are and how the property is
cleaned up and finished.
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
* 15.1 Amending Zoning Ordinance (Parking Space Size)
By Alderperson Hoffman: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
ORDINANCE NO. 91-
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SUBDIVISION A -2 OF CHAPTER 30 ENTITLED
'ZONING' OF THE CITY OF ITHACA MUNICIPAL CODE.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of
Ithaca, New York, as follows:
SECTION 1. AMENDING SUBDIVISION A -2 of Section 30.37.
That Subdivision A -2 of Section 30.37 is hereby amended to
read as follows:
Parking Space Size:
a. For parking areas containing 1 to 9 cars, a parking space
size shall have a minimum area of 153 square feet, exclusive
of passageways, maneuvering space and driveways appurtenant
thereto and giving access thereto.
b. For parking areas containing 10 or more cars, the following
shall apply:
(1) Standard parking stalls shall be 816" wide minimum.
15
January 2, 1991
C) encourage development of housing on the western two -
thirds of the block designated for housing with preference
given to projects which provide affordable housing.
2) On block 1 continue to work with the Sciencenter toward
making their project as asset to the neighborhood and the
City. Continue negotiations with the Senior Center to
provide space for their operations and work with the
Sciencenter and the Senior Center to provide parking for
both facilities on or near their project sites. Buildings
should not exceed forty (40) feet in height.
3) Seek to remove the Department of Public Works to the other
side of Route 13 or elsewhere within five (5) years.
4) Decommission Lake Avenue from Adams Street to Route 13 and
create linear park combined with neighborhood park proposed
in 1). If it will not harm existing retail operations on
block 3, decommission Lake Avenue from Hancock Street to
Adams Street, and decommission Adams Street east of new
proposed street on block 2.
5) Decommission Franklin Street adjacent to the new park
proposed for block 2.
6) Develop implementation plan for streetscape improvements
throughout the study area minus the decommissioned section
of Franklin Street.
7) Approach New York State abotit creating a berm or a wall on
the State right of way to the north of block 1, or, if not
on State right of way, then on property line where possible.
8) Enter into negotiations with the owner and the operator of
the P &C for an encroachment agreement providing for a buffer
and loading dock between park and P &C for as long as store
operates as a food supermarket.
9) P &C Zoning change. Develop appropriate commercial zoning
for P &C block as a neighborhood commercial zone ".
Particular concerns are height, lot coverage, and traffic.
10) On block 4 rezone for light industrial and /or commercial use
or create new industrial park. Considerations in the
rezoning should include height, traffic generation, etc.
11) On block 5 possible adaptive reuse of current water
building; possibly private - possibly quasi - public, e.g.,
Day Care Center, or similar use. Rezone the southeast
quadrant of block 5 to R -2b for housing. Rezone the north-
west quadrant of block 5 for commercial uses; same new
zoning as block 4. In the interior of block 5, create a new
parking area - possibly municipally owned; possibly metered
to accommodate parking requirements in the commercial
district in blocks 4, 5, and 7.
12) Rezone privately owned street right of way in block 7 to the
same zoning as the rest of the parcel.
13) Redesign the intersection of Franklin Street and Third
Street based on recommendation of the City Engineer.
14) Incorporate bicycle planning as plans develop.
Discussion followed on the floor.
M
J
c
%+ t u
January 2, 1991
[ 4 ] 3_ For parallel parking, a standard parking space [size]
shall have a minimum area of 290 square feet, as measured from
the outermost edge of the stall to the center -line of the
driveway aisle giving access thereto.
[ 5 ] (4) The minimum standard parking space [size] area may be
reduced [down] to not less than 238 square feet, [and /] or may be
f increased in order to insure functional use, as determined by the
Board of Planning and Development under Chapter 39, Site
Development Plan [r]Review (SDPR).
[2] (5) Handicap parking [arrangements] space standards shall
be as specified by current applicable codes.
SECTION 2. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This ordinance shall take effect immediately and in
(� accordance with law upon publication of a notice as provided in
co Section 3.11(B) of the Ithaca City Charter. (Publication date
M January 15, 1991).
D The changes above as suggested by Jonathan Meigs were accepted by
c] the Council.
Q
A vote on the resolution as corrected resulted as follows:
Carried (9 -0)
* 15.2 Northside Land Use Recommendations
By Alderperson Hoffman: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
WHEREAS, the Northside Land Use-Committee was appointed by the
Mayor to study an area in the City concentrating on those blocks
surrounded by Lake Avenue, and Hancock Street, Third Street, and
Route 131 and
WHEREAS, this Committee has hired a consultant who made certain
recommendations, and
WHEREAS, the Committee has met over a period of months involving
as many community representatives as possible, and
WHEREAS, that Committee has made certain recommendations to the
Common Council known as the "Northside Land Use Recommendations -
Final" dated December 1990; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Common Council receives the report of the
Northside Land Use Committee and accepts its recommendations for
the purpose of examining the feasibility of undertaking them,
and, be it further
RESOLVED, that Common Council directs the Department of Planning
and Development and the Department of Public Works to prepare a
report regarding the cost to the City of taking these actions,
the infrastructure needs these actions would generate, and the
traffic circulation implications of these actions.
NORTHSIDE STUDY LAND USE RECOMMENDATIONS
Final
December 18, 1990
1) Continue to work toward development of the block bounded by
Lake Avenue, Adams Street, First Street and Franklin Street
in accordance with the following provisions:
a) the eastern 1/3 is to be used to create a new
neighborhood park;
b) analyze the need and desirability of designating and
building a new street between Adams Street and Franklin;
17
January 2, 1991
RESOLVED, That the City stands ready to cooperate with the Town
in the implementation of these recommendations and in particular
the preparation of a Design and Maintenance manual that will
......etc.
There was no objection from Council members, therefore, the
wording in the last Resolved shall be changed.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
Public Transit Sub committee (Down Town Visions Task Force) -
Report
Alderperson Hoffman stated the P &D Committee heard from the
Public Transit Sub - committee of the Downtown Visions Task Force.
The main discussion was about the feasibility and desirability
of an East Hill shuttle bus and the sub - committee was inclined
not to recommend that. However, a majority of the Planning
Committee felt that it was something that should be pursued
further. The matter is still under deliberation by the sub-
committee if any Council members wish to add input.
Interim Parks Commission Recommendations - Report
Alderperson Hoffman reported that the P &D Committee has received
a report and recommendations from the Interim Parks Commission.
The P &D Committee has suggested some changes and he urged Council
members to look over the report. He said the Interim Parks
Commission will come back to the Committee with responses to the
suggestions for structuring a permanent Parks Commission.
Discussion followed on the floor.y Vicki Romanoff, Chairperson of
that Commission will be asked to distribute copies of the report
to all Council persons.
1991 Planning Department Work Program
Alderperson Hoffman reported that the Director of Planning has
prepared a rough version of a proposed 1991 Work Program. Copies
are available at the Planning Office if Council members want to
pick them up.
".- I l
Section 2.27 of the
+ ; +-1,1 V10ii-v nffic_P_rs ADDOlnLeQ Dy unu iicty —L.
Appointment and Removal" - Report and Discussion
Alderperson Peterson stated that this matter had been referred
back to the Charter and Ordinance Committee for further work.
What Council has before them tonight is the Charter and Ordinance
recommended version and as you will note it does not reflect all
of Council's comments and feelings. She further stated that if
Council wishes to vote on this at the February Council meeting
they will need to do some work on it tonight.
Alderperson Hoffman handed out an amended version to the original
Local Law and explained the amendments that he is suggesting.
Extensive discussion followed on the floor and it was the
consensus of the Council that the Local Law should go back to the
committee for further revisions and then be brought back to
Council for a vote.
* 16.2a Amendment to Commons Rules Regarding Bicycles
Determination of No Significant Effect on the Environment
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
WHEREAS, the matter of amending Chapter 70 of the City of Ithaca
Municipal Code for the purpose of changing the right of
individuals to walk bicycles and similar devices on the Commons
is currently being considered by this Common Council, and
20
237
January 2, 1991
Alderperson Daley reported that one of the last decisions of this
Committee was that it not totally disband but that it meet once
every six months to ensure that the recommendations are at least
being worked on.
Alderperson Cummings returned to the meeting at 10:00 p.m.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
* 15.3 Six Mile Creek Preservation Response to Town Report
By Alderperson Hoffman: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
WHEREAS, the Six Mile Creek Valley is an area of extraordinary
beauty and important natural resources, including the City's
water supply, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca and the Town of Ithaca have worked
(� cooperatively to develop a plan for the preservation of this
CD area, and
M WHEREAS, the Town of Ithaca's Conservation Advisory Council has
published a plan entitled Six Mile Creek Valley_.- A Heritaqe to
m Preserve which begins the process for protection and
< conservation of this area, and
WHEREAS, such conservation would be in the best interests of the
citizens of the City of Ithaca as well as the Town of Ithaca, and
WHEREAS, the continued joint efforts of these two jurisdictions
on this problem can serve as a -model for solving other issues
which have impacts on several jurisdictions now, therefore, be
it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca does congratulate the Town of
Ithaca on the publication of the document for this natural
resource, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca concurs with and supports the
basic findings and recommendations of the Town of Ithaca
Conservation Advisory Council as set forth in the aforementioned
document, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the City does encourage the Town to take the
necessary steps to implement the recommendations of the report,
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the City stands ready to assist the Town in the
preparation of a Design and Maintenance manual that will guide
human use and activity within the proposed Critical Environ-
mental Area, and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of the resolution shall be forwarded to the
Town of Ithaca.
Alderperson Hoffman stated that he is very pleased with the
report and if implemented by the Town would meet most of our
concerns in that area.
Further discussion followed on the floor with Planning and
Development Director Van Cort addressing Council regarding the
importance of the City cooperating with the Town to help
implement these recommendations.
Amending Resolution
Alderperson Hoffman suggested that the last Resolved Clause read
as follows:
19
!10
January 2, 1991
RESOLVED, That bicycle parking racks shall only be placed at the
periphery of the Commons and that the Board of Public Works is
directed to increase bicycle parking racks in appropriate
peripheral locations. carried Unanimously
* 16.3 Taxicab Rate Increase
By Alderperson Peterson: and Seconded
schedule e t itled lanchard and
RESOLVED, That the map
Rates -City of Ithaca" which map and schedule are appended to
Chapter 23 of the Ithaca City Municipal Code and referred to in
Section 23.42 entitled "Rates of Said Chapter" is hereby amended
to provide that the maximum rate that may be charged for
transportation of passengers within one zone shall be three
dollars ($3.00) instead of two dollars and fifty cents ($2.50).
Discussion followed on the floor. Alderperson Romanowski stated
that the taxi service is looking at a discount for senior
citizens but there is no guarantee that this will happen.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (9) - Peterson, Booth, Cummings, Romanowski, Golder,
Cummings, Blanchard, Hoffman, Schroeder
Nay (1) - Daley
Carried
* 16.4 Ordinance Amending ..Chapter 81 Entitled "Partial Tax
Exemption" of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Booth
ORDINANCE NO. 91-
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 81 ENTITLED "PARTIAL TAX EXEMPTION"
OF THE CITY OF ITHACA MUNICIPAL CODE
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City
of Ithaca, New York, as follows:
Section 1. That subdivision A of Section 81.1 entitled
"Partial tax exemption for certain persons over 65 years of age"
of the City of. Ithaca Municipal Code, is hereby amended as
follows:
S 81.1 Partial tax exemption for certain persons over 65
years of age
A. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 467 of the Real
Property Tax Law of the State of New York, real property in the
City of Ithaca owned by one or more persons, each of whom is 65
years of age or over, or real property owned by husband and wife,
one of whom is 65 years of age or over, shall be partially exempt
from taxation by the City based upon the income of the owner or
the combined incomes of the owners. Such partial exemption shall
be to the extent set forth in the schedule following:
ANNUAL INCOME OF OWNER PERCENTAGE ASSESSED Ism)
COMBINED ANNUAL INCOME OF OWNERS VALUATION EXEMPT
FROM TAXATION
Up to $15,000
More than $15,000 but less
than $15,600
$15,600 or more, but less than
$16,200
22
500
45%
40%
January 2, 1991
WHEREAS, appropriate environmental review has been conducted
including the preparation of a short environmental assessment
form (SEAF), and
WHEREAS, it appears that the proposed action is an unlisted
action under the City Environmental Quality Review Act, and
WHEREAS, it appears that the proposed action will not have a
significant effect on the environment; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Common Council, as lead agency in this
matter, hereby adopts as its own the findings and conclusions as
set forth on the Short Environmental Assessment Form dated
December 27, 1990, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Common Council, as lead agency, has determined
that the proposed action will not have a significant effect on
the environment and that further environmental review is
CD unnecessary under the circumstances, and be it further
RESOLVED, That this resolution shall constitute notice of this
negative declaration and the City Clerk be, and she is hereby
(o directed to file a copy of the same, together with the
e[ attachment, in the City Clerk's office and forward the same to
any other parties as required by law.
Carried Unanimously
* 16.2b Ordinance Amending Chapter 70 "Ithaca Commons Rules"
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
ORDINANCE NO. 91 -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 70 ENTITLED " ITHACA COMMONS RULES"
OF THE CITY OF ITHACA MUNICIPAL CODE.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City
of Ithaca, New York, as follows:
Section 1. Chapter 70 entitled "Ithaca Commons Rules" of
the City of Ithaca Municipal Code is amended as follows:
Section 70.6 of Article 2 entitled Bicycles, etc. is hereby
amended to read as follows:
"Riding of bicycles, roller skates, skateboards, and similar
wheeled devices is prohibited on the primary Commons. Bicycles
and similar wheeled devices shall not be left unattended except
in designated racks. Wheelchairs, baby carriages and similar
devices intended for the convenience and comfort of handicapped
persons or infants are permitted on the primary Commons.
Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect immediately.
Discussion followed on the floor.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
* 16.2c Bicycle Racks on the Commons
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Booth
WHEREAS, the Common Council, the Commons Advisory Board, the
Commons Coordinator, and the Ithaca Bicycle Advisory Council have
jointly agreed that bicycles may be walked on the Commons, and
WHEREAS, these groups have also agreed that a clear policy should
be established regarding the locations where bicycles may be
parked; now, therefore, be it
21
January 2, 1991
* 16.6 Ordinance Amending Chapter 55 "Fire Regulations" Section
55.18B 'Fire Limits'
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Booth
ORDINANCE NO. 91 -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 55 ENTITLED "FIRE REGULATIONS" OF
THE CITY OF ITHACA MUNICIPAL Code.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of
Ithaca, New York as follows:
Section I. That Section 55.18B Entitled "Fire Limits be amended
to read as follows:
B. Fire Limits 'B': Those areas of the city which are
zoned Business 'B -2a', 'B -4' and 'B -51, in the City of Ithaca
zoning Ordinance (Chapter 30 of the Municipal Code).
Section 2. Effective Date
This Ordinance shall take effect immediately.
Alderperson Peterson explained that when the ordinance was passed
last year the 'B -2a' zone was inadvertently left out and this
ordinance is simply to correct that error.
Carried Unanimously
HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE:
Department Head Evaluations
Alderperson Johnson reported the committee is in the process of
reviewing the evaluations of the Police Chief, Fire Chief and the
Youth Bureau Director. The committee finds they have three
totally different approaches to these evaluations. The
committee is looking for some kind of consistent format for
looking at goals and objectives. He explained what other things
the committee feels should be included in the evaluation process
for Department Heads.
Mental Health Facility
Alderperson Johnson reported that on January 18th at 4:00 there
will be a reception /dedication for the new Mental Health
Facility. Council members are invited to attend.
BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
* 18.1 An Ordinance Amending Chapter 7 Entitled "Domestic
Partnership" of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
ORDINANCE NO. 91-
An ordinance amending Chapter 7 entitled "Domestic Partnership"
of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of
Ithaca, as follows:
Section 1. That Chapter 7 entitled "Domestic Partnership"
of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code is hereby amended as
follows:
1. That a new subdivision to be known and designated as
Section 7.9 entitled Sick and Bereavement Leave is hereby added
to said chapter to as follows:
24
J
m
a
$16,200 or more, but less than
$16,800
$16,800 or more, but less than
$17,400
$17,400 or more, but less than
$18,000
$18,000 or more, but less than
_$181600
241
January 2, 1991
350
300
25%
20%
The partial exemption provided by this law shall, however,
be limited to such property and persons as meet the conditions,
exclusions and limitations set forth in Section 467 of the Real
Property Tax Law of the State of New York.
B. Same
Section 2. That Subdivision A of Section 81.2 entitled
"Limitations on Exemptions" of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code
is hereby amended as follows:
S 81.2 Limitations on exemption
No exemptions shall be granted:
A. If the income of the owner or the combined income of the
owners of the property exceeds the sum of Eighteen Thousand Five
Hundred Ninety -nine dollars and—Ninety-nine cents ($18,599.99)
for the income tax year immediately preceding the date of making
application for exemption as consistent with the schedule
provided in S 81.1(A). Income tax year shall mean a twelve (12)
month period for which the owner or owners filed a federal
personal income tax return, or if no such return is filed the
calendar year. Where title is vested in either the husband or
the wife, their combined income may not exceed such sum. Such
income shall include social security and retirement benefits,
interest, dividends, total gain from the sale or exchange of a
capital asset in the same income tax year, net rental income,
salary or earnings, and net income from self - employment, but
shall not include a return of capital, gifts or inheritances. In
computing net rental income and net income from self employment
no depreciation deduction shall be allowed for the exhaustion,
wear and tear of real or personal property held for the
production of income. [Subd. A last amended, Ord. 87 -1, 2/4/87]
B. Same
C. Same
D. Same
Section 3. Effective Date.
p' This ordinance shall take effect immediately and in accordance
with law upon publication of a notice as provided in Section
3.11(B) of the Ithaca City Charter. (Publication date January 10,
1991) .
Carried Unanimously
Comprehensive Trash Ordinance --Report
Alderperson Peterson reported that the Committee looked at a
compilation of items that a sub - committee had put together that
could be included in a trash ordinance. If any Council members
are interested in the first outline they may contact Alderperson
Peterson.
23
c
i
January 2, 1991
such reconstructed building is to be used, at a maximum
estimated cost of $85,000., it being hereby determined that
such purpose is a specific object or purpose having a
period of probable usefulness of twenty years pursuant to
subdivision 12(a)(1) of paragraph a of Section 11.00 of the
Local Finance Law.
Section 2. The plan for the financing of such maximum
estimated costs is as follows:
a) By the issuance of $237,500. serial bonds of said City,
hereby authorized to be issued therefor pursuant to the Local
Finance Law, it being hereby determined that such serial
bonds shall be allocated as follows: $156,750. serial bonds
to the aforesaid purchase of the building and the site
thereof; and $80,750. serial bonds to the aforesaid building
reconstruction, and
b) By the expenditure of $12,500. current funds of said City,
which monies are hereby appropriated therefor, and which
monies shall constitute the down payments required pursuant
to Section 107.00 of the Local Finance Law, it being hereby
determined that said monies shall be allocated as follows:
$8,250. to the aforesaid purchase of a building and the site
thereof and $4,250 to the aforesaid building reconstruction.
Section 3. The faith and credit of said City of Ithaca,
Tompkins County, New York, are hereby irrevocably pledged for the
payment of the principal of and interest on such bonds as the
same respectively become dus and payable. An annual
appropriation shall be made in each year sufficient to pay the
principal of and interest on such bonds becoming due and payable
in such year. There shall annually be levied on all the taxable
real property in said City a tax sufficient to pay the principal
of and interest on such bonds as the same become due and payable.
Section 4. Subject to the provisions of the Local Finance
Law, the power to authorize the issuance of and to sell bond
anticipation notes in anticipation of the issuance and sale of
the serial bonds herein authorized, including renewals of such
notes, is hereby delegated to the City Controller, the chief
fiscal officer. Such notes shall be of such terms, form and
contents, and shall be sold in such manner, as may be prescribed
by said City Controller, consistent with the provisions of the
Local Finance Law.
Section 5. The validity of such bonds and bond anticipation
notes may be contested only if:
1) Such obligations are authorized for an object or purpose
for which said City is not authorized to expend money, or
2) The provisions of law which should be complied with at
the date of publication of this resolution are not substantially
complied with,
and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is
commenced within twenty days after the date of such publication,
or
3) Such obligations are authorized in violation of the
provisions of the Constitution.
Section 6. This resolution, which takes effect immediately,
shall be published in full in the Ithaca Journal, the official
newspaper, together with a notice of the City Clerk in
substantially the form provided in Section 81.00 of the Local
Finance Law.
W.
243
January 2, 1991
"Section 7.9. Sick and Bereavement Leave. In all City
labor contracts, when determining when an employee is entitled to
take sick or bereavement leave, a domestic partner of the
employee, as defined by this ordinance, shall be considered as if
he /she were the spouse of the employee."
Section 2. Effective Date.
This ordinance shall take effect immediately.
Ayes (9) - Booth, Peterson, Johnson, Romanowski, Blanchard,
Daley, Golder, Schroeder, Hoffman
Nay (1) - Cummings
Carried
* 18.16 Bond Resolution - Day Care Facility
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Romanowski
(L WHEREAS, it has been determined that the cost of renovating the
(o proposed Day Care Facility at 201 -205 East Tompkins Street may
exceed the existing authorization; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Capital Project #241 be increased to an amount not
m to exceed $250,000., to reflect the possible increased cost of
< renovating said facility, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the additional costs shall be financed through the
issuance of Bond Anticipation Notes in the amount of $47,500.,
and that the statutory down payment of $2,500. be transferred
from Unrestricted Contingency to Capital Project #241 for such
purpose.
Carried Unanimously
Bond Resolution
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Romanowski
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $237,500 SERIAL BOND AND
THE APPROPRIATION AND EXPENDITURE OF $12,500 MONIES OF THE CITY
OF ITHACA, TOMPKINS COUNTY, NEW YORK, TO PAY THE COST OF THE
ACQUISITION OF A BUILDING AND THE SITE THEREOF AND THE
RECONSTRUCTION OF SAID BUILDING FOR THE PROVISION OF DAY CARE
SERVICES IN AND FOR SAID CITY.
WHEREAS, all conditions precedent to the financing of the capital
project hereinafter described, including compliance with the
provisions of the State Environmental Quality Review Act, have
been performed, and
WHEREAS, it is now desired to authorize the financing of such
capital project; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, by the Common Council of the City of Ithaca, Tompkins
County, New York, as follows:
Section 1. For the provision of day care services in and
for the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, the following
are hereby authorized:
a). the purchase of a building, at 201 -205 East Tompkins Street
in the City of Ithaca, including the site thereof at a
maximum estimated cost of $165,000., it being hereby
determined that such purposes are each a specific object or
purpose having a period of probable usefulness of twenty
years pursuant to subdivisions 11(b) and 21(a) of paragraph
a of Section 11.00 of the Local Finance Law; and
b) the reconstruction of such building to convert same to use
as a day care center, including original furnishings,
equipment, machinery, apparatus and other improvements
incidental thereto and required for the purposes for which
25
;l 11;
January 2, 1991
A vote on the Amending Resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (4) - Golder, Schroeder, Peterson, Cummings
Nays (6) - Booth, Johnson, Hoffman, Romanowski, Blanchard,
Daley Motion Fails
Main Motion
A vote on the Main Motion resulted as follows:
Unanimously
Motion to Extend Meeting
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Romanowski
RESOLVED, That this Common Council meeting be extended until
12:00 midnight.
Carried Unanimously
* 18.4 DPW - Increase Authorization for Hudson Street
Reconstruction Capital Project 225
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
WHEREAS, the actual cost of completing the Hudson Street
Reconstruction Project is projected to exceed the existing
authorization of $1,535,000 by $165,000.; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Capital Project #225 for the reconstruction of
Hudson Street be increased by said $165,000. to a maximum
authorized cost of $1,700,000., and be it further
RESOLVED, That the funds necessary to complete the Hudson Street
project shall be provided by the issuance of $156,000 in Bond
Anticipation Notes already authorized for Street Improvements
within the City, and that the statutory down payment of $9,000.
be appropriated from available New York State Consolidated
Highway Improvement Program Funds (C.H.I.P.S.), and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works not release any portion
of the contract retainage until all elements of the proposed
final settlement agreement have been executed, subject to the
approval of the City Attorney. Carried Unanimously
* 13.5 DPW - Request for Employee Incentive Award
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
WHEREAS, the Acting Superintendent of Public Works has
recommended Assistant Civil Engineer Thomas West for an Employee
Incentive Award pursuant to the terms of the CSEA Administrative
Contract, and
WHEREAS, the Acting Superintendent of Public Works has provided
the Budget and Administration Committee with substantial
justification for granting this Employee Incentive Award, and
WHEREAS, the Acting Superintendent of Public Works'
recommendation complies with the procedures and guidelines
outlined in the CSEA Administrative Unit contract; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Thomas West's salary be increased by eight (8 %)
percent to an annual salary of $31,154 effective November 28,
1990.
Ayes (9) - Booth, Johnson, Cummings, Daley, Hoffman,
Romanowski, Blanchard, Schroeder, Peterson
Nay (1) - Golder
Alderperson Golder requested that the record reflect that his
objection is not to the employee but to the principle of merit
pay which is unfair.
K?
A Roll Ca
Aye
Aye
Aye
Aye
Aye
Ayes
245
January 2, 1991
11 vote on the foregoing resolution resulted as follows:
- Booth Aye - Cummings
- Romanowski Aye - Daley
- Schroeder Aye - Golder
- Johnson Aye - Blanchard
- Peterson Aye - Hoffman
(10)
Carried Unanimously
* 18.2 DPW - Authorization of C.H.I.P.S. for a Traffic Signal
Optimization Program
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Daley
WHEREAS, the Department of Public Words has a signed contract
with the New York State Energy Office confirming the award of a
Traffic Signal Timing Optimization Grant, now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the City Controller be authorized to advance
Co $11,200.00 from available New York State Consolidated Highway
M Improvement Program Funds (C.H.I.P.S.) pending the completion of
such study, and the subsequent filing for said reimbursement.
(n Carried Unanimously
Q * 16.3 Personnel - Approval of 1991 Health Insurance Rates for
Retirees
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
WHEREAS, in 1990 the City charged City retirees and those
employees on leaves of absence $101.90 for individual coverage
and $234.48 for family coverage _in the City's Health Insurance
Program, when the full costs for such coverage in 1990 would have
been $116.62 for an individual and $268.20 for a family; and
WHEREAS, the 1991 estimated costs of the City's Health Insurance
Program for such individuals, as projected by Blue Cross /Blue
Shield, have been increased to $137.66 for individual coverage
and $315.52 for family coverage for these individuals; and
WHEREAS, the difference between what the City actually charged
these individuals for coverage in 1990 and the City's estimated
costs for 1991 is 350, and an increase of this magnitude could be
a serious burden for these individuals; and
WHEREAS, in light of significant increases in past years in
health insurance rates and the related hardship these increases
would have caused City retirees and persons on leaves of absence,
the City has adopted a policy of not charging the full rate
increases to these individuals; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 1991 monthly rate for health insurance
coverage for retirees and those employees on leaves of absence be
established at $120.24 for individual coverage and $276.69 for
family coverage, which will be an increase of 18% in these rates
over those charged by the City in 1990.
Discussion followed on the floor.
Amending Resolution
By Alderperson Golder: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That there be a further Resolved Clause to read as
follows:
RESOLVED, That the City Attorney will determine the possibility
of proportionate exemptions for low income households.
27
m
A vote on resolution resulted as follows:
January 2, 1991
Carried
* 18.6 C.S.E.A. DPW Unit Contract
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
RESOLVED, That the Agreement between the City of Ithaca and CSEA
DPW Unit for a new three -year contract commencing January 1, 1991
and expiring on December 31, 1993, be approved as recommended by
the City's Negotiator, and that the Mayor and City Clerk be
authorized and directed to sign and execute the contract on
behalf of the City under its corporate seal.
* 18.7 Chief Officers Unit Contract
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
RESOLVED, That the Agreement between the City of Ithaca and the
Chief Officers Unit of the Ithaca Paid Firefighters Association
for a new three -year contract commencing January 1, 1991 and
expiring December 31, 1993, be approved as recommended by the
City's Negotiator, and that the Mayor and City Clerk be
authorized and directed to sign and execute the contract on
behalf of the City under its corporate seal.
* 18.8 City Executive Association Contract
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
RESOLVED, That the Agreement between the City of Ithaca and City
Executive Association for a new three -year contract commencing
January 1, 1991 and expiring on December 31, 1993, be approved as
recommended by the City's Negotiator, and that the Mayor and City
Clerk be authorized and directed to sign and execute the contract
on behalf of the City under its corporate seal.
It was the consensus of Council that these three contracts will
be discussed in Executive Session at the end of the meeting.
* 18.9 1991 Compensation for Individuals Not Covered by a Union
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
RESOLVED, That management employees not covered by a formal
contract, including the City Attorney, Assistant City Attorney,
and City Prosecutor, be granted a 5.5% increase across the board
over their 1990 salary for the year 19911 effective with the
first pay period of 1991, and be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council reaffirms its policy of
comprehensive performance evaluation for all management
employees.
Carried Unanimously
* 18.10 Finance - Approval of State and Federal Section 18 Mass
Transit operating Assistance Agreement
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Golder
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has submitted a request for a grant
of funds to the New York State Department of Transportation and
the United States Department of Transportation, pursuant to
Section 18 of the Urban Mass Transportation Act of 19641 as
amended, for a project to provide operating assistance funds for
transportation services within the City of Ithaca and partly in
two adjoining municipalities, provided by the City of Ithaca
Transit System for fixed route, scheduled opening and available
to the general public during the period January 1, 1991, to
December 31, 1991 (PIN 3790.30.406); now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Mayor Benjamin Nichols be authorized to sign the
agreement(s) between the City of Ithaca and the State of New York
for the above named project, and be it further
29
247
January 2, 1991
RESOLVED, That C Mayor of Benjamin Ithaca to proceeds authorized
andcomplete this above
behalf of the y
named project. Carried Unanimously
* 18 11 Designation of Official Depositories
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson the
RESOLVED, That pursuant to Section 3.7 of the City Charter,
Tompkins County Trust Company and the Norstar Bank be, and they
are, hereby designated as the official depositories of all City
Funds for the year 1991, as follows:
TOMPKINS COUNTY TRUST COMPANY
ACCOUNT NUMBER
ACCOUNT NAME
City of Ithaca General Fund
01 -201- 001004
03- 201 - 001004
Employees Group Insurance Deductions
04 -201- 001004
City of Ithaca Payroll Fund
05- 201 - 001004
Guaranty and Bid Deposits
05- 201 - 001004
City Tax Sale Redemption
05- 201 - 001004
Health Facility Agreement
05- 201 - 001004
Deposit on Water Meters
05- 201 - 001004
Sale of Unclaimed Property
05- 201 - 001004
Circle Greenway
College and Community
05 -201- 001004
Conference on
05 -201- 001004
Center for Expressive Arts
Memorial Fund
05- 201 - 001004
Peter DeWysocki
05- 201 - 001004
Cemetery Fund
Fire Department Recognition Banquet
05 -201- 001004
05 -201- 001004
Commons Cultural Tourism _
05 -201- 001004
West End Trees
Jack Kiely Scholarship Fund
0 5- 2 0 1- 0 0 10 0 4
05 -201- 001004
DeWitt Park Improvement Fund
08- 201 - 001004
Employees N.Y.S. Withholding Tax
09 -201- 001004
Employees U.S. Savings Bonds
05 -201- 001004
Centennial Art Work
N.Y.S. Policemen's and Firemen's
11 -201- 001004
Retirement System
Retirement System
12- 201 - 001004
N.Y.S. Employees
01- 101 - 096437
Ithaca Centennial Inc.
Fund #4 - Bridges
01 -201- 001055
Capital Reserve
Capital Reserve Fund #11 - Parks and
02 -201- 001055
Recreation Areas
Fund #14 - Parking Areas
03 -201- 001055
Capital Reserve
Capital Reserve Fund #15 - Fire Engine
04 -201- 001055
Replacement
Capital Reserve Fund #16 - Development of
05- 201 - 001055
Water Sources
Fund #17 - Sewer Construction
06 -201- 001055
Capital Reserve
Capital Reserve Fund #17A - Mandatory
06- 201 - 001055
Reserve for Sewer Plant Construction
Fund #20 - West Hill Water
Capital Reserve
08 -201- 001055
and Sewer Replacement
Fund #22 - Bus Replacement
09- 201 - 001055
Capital Reserve
Capital Reserve Fund #23 - Public Works
12 -201- 001055
Equipment
Capital Reserve Fund #24 - Energy Conservation
Improvements
01- 101 - 082703
02 -101- 082703
Capital Reserve Fund #25 - Capital
Fund #26 - Land Acquisition
01- 101 - 102046
Capital Reserve
Fund - Joint Activity Fund
01- 101 - 099762
Capital Reserve
NORSTAR BANK
ACCOUNT NAME ACCOUNT NUMBER
Firemen's Relief Fund 267- 010001 267- 010109
City of Ithaca Water and Sewer Fund 267 - 010842
City of Ithaca Construction Fund
30
(, 50
Literacy Volunteers
Multicultural Resource Center
Neighborhood Legal Services
Offender Aid and Restoration Services
Red Cross Emergency Shelter
Suicide Prevention and Crisis Service
Task Force for Battered Women
Community Arts Coalition
Human Services Coalition
Tompkins County Area Development Corp.
Tompkins - Cortland Labor Coalition
S.P.C.A.
DeWitt Historical Society
Cornell Cooperative Extension
Southside Community Center
January 2, 1991
Carried Unanimously
UNFINISHED AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
Letter to NYS DoT re Route 13 Project
Alderperson Hoffman referred o a letter Someh Counc la people written
were
NYS DoT re the Route project.
concerned that there might ebembere Council ambiguity meetinge and had resolution
asked
Route 13 passed at the the resolution.
'te a letter to clarify
Alderperson Hoffman to wri
that
Discussion followed on floor
of the Councilothatgthefletter
resolution. It was the c onsensus and Development Committee for
should go back to the Planning
further clarification.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
On a motion the Council adjourned into personnel, disposal l.of
p.m. to discuss City Contracts, City y p ointments to City
property and acquisition of property and app
Boards and Committees.
REGULAR SESSION' reconvened in Regular Session at 12:55 a.m. an
Common Council •
presented the following resolutions:
A ointment to the Board of public o Council
of for the appointment
Mayor Nichols requested approval
of Denise Rusoff, 209 Hudson Street, to the
199Board of Public Works
for a 3 -year term to expire December 31,
Resolution
By Alderperson Hoffman: Seconded by lderp rs of Peter on Denise
RESOLVED, That this Council approves
Rusoff to the Board of Public Works with a term to expire
December 31, 1993.
Ayes (7) - Peterson, Hoffman, Cummings, Golder, Johnson,
Booth, Schroeder
Nays (3) - Romanowski, Blanchard, Daley
Carried
A R3pointment to the Board of r�alco Works Council for the appointment
Mayor Nichols requested app
of Jill Tripp, 216 Dey Street to the Board of Public Works for a
2 -year term to expire December 31, 1992.
Resolution
By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson ointmentn
approves the app of Jill
RESOLVED, That this Council
Tripp to the Board of Public Works with a term to expire December
31, 1992. Carried Unanimously
32
6)
2 49
January 2, 1991
Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Plant -
Phase II
Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Plant - 267-012276
Phase 111 267-365187
Carried Unanimously
* 18.12 Desianation of official Newspaper
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That pursuant to Section 7.16 of the City Charter, the
Ithaca Journal be and it is, hereby designated as the official
pewspaper of the City of Ithaca for the year 1991.
Amending Resolution
By Alderperson Johnson: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
RESOLVED, That a Second Resolved clause be added to read as
follows:
RESOLVED/ That the Mayor is hereby directed to send a letter to
co the Ithaca Journal requesting that unrecyclable glossy inserts
M not be used in the Ithaca Journal.
D carried Unanimously
M Main Motion as Amended
< A vote on the Main Motion as Amended resulted as follows:
carried Unanimously
18.13 Collateral to Secure Deposits
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Romanowski
RESOLVED, That the collateral deposited by the Tompkins County
Trust Company and the Norstar Bank as reported, be approved as to
form and sufficiency.
*18.14 Public Employee's Blanket Bond Carried Unanimously
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED! That pursuant to Section 11 of the Public Officers'
Law, the following Bond, which is on file in the Office of the
City Clerk! be, and is hereby approved in all respects for the
year 1991.
Faithful Performance Blanket $250,000 Royal Globe
Bond Coverage Insurance Co.
Carried Unanimously
18.15 Designation of Common Council Meetings
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVEDI That the regular meetings of the Common Council, for
the year 1991, be held at 7:00 P.m., on the first Wednesday of
each month, in the Common Council Chambers, at City Hall, 108
East Green Street, Ithaca, New York.
carried Unanimously
18-19 Approval Of 1991 Human service and Other Service Agency
Contracts
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That the Mayor be authorized to execute the following
1991 contracts with Human Service and Other Service Agencies, in
accord with the adopted 1991 City budget:
AIDS Work Program
Community Dispute Resolution Center
Day Care Council
Displaced Homemakers
Drop In Center
Friendship Center
Group Homes
HOMES - Green Street
Ithaca Rape Crisis
The Learning Web
31
January 2, 1991
WHEREAS, the Board of Fire Commissioners, at its regular meeting
on December 11, 1990, declared that effective December 12, 1990,
Fire Station Number 6 is vacated and no longer needed for Fire
Department purposes; and
WHEREAS, this Council, by resolution duly adopted at its regular
meeting on November 7, 1990, directed the City Attorney to take
all necessary steps to sell Fire Station No. 6 to the highest
bidder by receiving sealed bids subject to the condition that
this Council, by majority vote, reserved the right to reject any
bid under $210,000; and
WHEREAS, the sale of the property by sealed bids has been duly
advertised and sealed bids received and reviewed; and
WHEREAS, the highest bid received is the bid from Bangs
Ambulance, Inc. in the amount of $225,666.00; now, therefore, be
it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca accepts the offer from Bangs
Ambulance, Inc. in the amount of $225,666.00; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the City Attorney is authorized to negotiate a
contract for the transfer of said property in accordance with the
terms of the contract; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the City Clerk give appropriate public notice that
this Council shall consider the approval of this contract at its
regular February Council meeting. Carried Unanimously
Alderperson Cummings left the meeting at 1:00 a.m.
Land Acquisition - Watershed
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
WHEREAS, the City is interested in protecting the land
surrounding its watershed and has previously established a
capital reserve for the acquisition of these lands; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Mayor is hereby authorized to enter into a
contract subject to the approval of the City Attorney to purchase
that portion of tax parcel 48 -1 -12 located northeasterly of the
Town of Ithaca proposed recreation way, together with a 60 -foot
wide strip of land running from such parcel to Coddington Road,
said parcel and said 60 -foot wide strip more particularly shown
on a map entitled "Heffron Subdivision" and being Lot 2 on said
map encompassing approximately 24 acres for a price not to exceed
$57,500, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the funds for this purchase are to be derived from
Capital Reserve Number 26 for watershed land acgquisition.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 1:05 a.m.
"- Paolan eli Benja in Nichols
Callista F. 9 Mayory
City Clerk
34
0
2 51.
January 2, 1991
Conservation Advisory Council
Mayor Nichols requested the approval of Council for the
appointment of Guy Gerard, 151 Chestnut Street and Rob Shapiro,
313 Columbia Street, to the Conservation Advisory Council with
terms to expire December 31, 1991.
Resolution
By Alderperson Cummings: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Guy
Gerard and Rob Shapiro to the Conservation Advisory Council with
terms to expire December 31, 1991.
Carried Unanimously
* 18.6 C.S.E.A. DPW Unit Contract
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
RESOLVED, That the Agreement between the City of Ithaca and CSEA
DPW Unit for a new three -year contract commencing January 1, 1991
and expiring on December 31, 1993, be approved as recommended by
Co the City's Negotiator, and that the Mayor and City Clerk be
authorized and directed to sign and execute the contract on
(� behalf of the City under its corporate seal.
m Ayes (9) - Booth, Cummings, Romanowski, Peterson, Daley,
Golder, Schroeder, Johnson, Hoffman
Nay (1) - Blanchard
Carried
* 18.7 Chief Officers Unit Contract
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Cummings
RESOLVED, That the Agreement between the City of Ithaca and the
Chief Officers Unit of the Ithaca Paid Firefighters Association
for a new three -year contract commencing January 1, 1991 and
expiring December 31, 1993, be approved as recommended by the
City's Negotiator, and that the Mayor and City Clerk be
authorized and directed to sign and execute the contract on
behalf of the City under its corporate seal.
Ayes (9) - Booth, Cummings, Romanowski, Peterson, Daley,
Golder, Schroeder, Johnson, Hoffman
Nay (1) - Blanchard
Carried
* 18.8 City Executive Association Contract
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
RESOLVED, That the Agreement between the City of Ithaca and City
Executive Association for a new three -year contract commencing
January 1, 1991 and expiring on December 31, 1993, be approved as
recommended by the City's Negotiator, and that the Mayor and City
Clerk be authorized and directed to sign and execute the contract
on behalf of the City under its corporate seal.
Ayes (9) - Booth, Cummings, Romanowski, Peterson, Daley,
Golder, Schroeder, Johnson, Hoffman
Nay (1) - Blanchard
Sale of Fire Station #6
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by
WHEREAS, this Common Council, by
regular meeting on May 2, 1990,
Station No. 6 located at 626 West
Fire Department that the property
general City purposes and will be
Carried
Alderperson Johnson
resolution duly adopted at its
declared that as soon as Fire
State Street is vacated by the
will no longer be needed for
surplus property and authorize
the City Attorney to initiate the procedure for sale of such
property; and
33