HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-1994-07-06July 6, 1994
COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting7:00 P.M. July 6, 1994
PRESENT:
Mayor Nichols
Alderpersons (9) - Booth, Efroymson, Mackesey, Sams,
Schroeder, Gray, Thorpe, Shenk, Hanna
ABSENT:
Alderperson Johnson (excused)
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk - Paolangeli
City Controller - Cafferillo
City Attorney - Guttman
Building Commissioner - Eckstrom
Planning and Development Director - Van Cort
Police Chief - McEwen
Fire Chief - Wilbur
Superintendent of Public Works - Gray
Board of Public Works Commissioner - Reeves
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Nichols led all present in the Pledge of Allegiance to the
American flag.
MINUTES:
Approval of Minutes of the June 1, 1994 Common Council Meeting
The approval of the Minutes of the June 1, 1994 Common Council
meeting was postponed until the meeting of August 3, 1994.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA:
Youth Committee
Alderperson Shenk requested the addition of a report.
No Council member objected.
SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
Public Hearing to Consider an Ordinance Amending the Zoning Map
Established Pursuant to Chapter 325 Entitled "Zoning" of the City
of Ithaca Municipal Code Regarding the Zoning of Two Parcels of
Land on East Seneca Street in the City of Ithaca
Resolution to Open Public Hearing
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Mackesey
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider an Ordinance
amending the Zoning Map established pursuant to Chapter 325
entitled "Zoning" of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code regarding
the zoning of two parcels of land on East Seneca Street in the
City of Ithaca be declared open.
Carried Unanimously
Alderperson Schroeder explained the proposed changes to the
Ordinance.
No one appeared to address the Council.
Resolution to Close Public Hearing
By Alderperson Mackesey: Seconded by Alderperson Gray
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to consider an Ordinance
amending the Zoning Map established pursuant to Chapter 325
entitled "Zoning" of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code regarding
the zoning of two parcels of land on East Seneca Street in the
City of Ithaca be declared closed.
Carried Unanimously
MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS
July 6, 1994
Advisory Commission on Art and Design for Public Space
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re-appointment
of Sally Grubb, 112 Birchwood Drive and William Benson, 361
Floral Avenue to the Advisory Commission on Art and Design for
Public Space with terms to expire June 30, 1997.
Resolution
By Alderperson Hanna: Seconded by Alderperson Efroymson
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re-appointment of Sally
Grubb and William Benson to the Advisory Commission on Art and
Design for Public Space with terms to expire June 30, 1997.
Carried Unanimously
Conservation Advisory Council
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Cisela Edstrom Wildes, 118 East York Street, to the Conservation
Advisory Council with a term to expire December 31, 1995.
Resolution
By Alderperson Gray: Seconded by Alderperson Mackesey
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Cisela
Edstrom Wildes to the Conservation Advisory Council with a term
to expire December 31, 1995.
Carried Unanimously
Disability Advisory Council
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the re-appointment
of Diana Pogson, 105 Crescent Place and Margaret Mohn, 133
Fayette Street, to the Disability Advisory Council with terms to
expire June 30, 1997.
Resolution
By Alderperson Efroymson: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the re-appointment of Diana
Pogson and Margaret Mohn to the Disability Advisory Council with
terms to expire June 30, 1997.
Carried Unanimously
Board of Fire Commissioners
Mayor Nichols requested the approval for the appointment of
Cynthia Yahn, 632 Buffalo Street, to the Board of Fire
Commissioners with a term to expire June 30, 1997.
Resolution
By Alderperson Mackesey: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Cynthia
Yahn to the Board of Fire Commissioners with a term to expire
June 30, 1997.
Carried Unanimously
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Pamela Mackesey, 321 Pleasant Street, to the Ithaca Urban Renewal
Agency with a term to expire June 30, 1998.
Resolution
By Alderperson Gray: Seconded by Alderperson Sams
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Pamela
Mackesey to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency with a term to expire
June 30, 1998.
Carried Unanimously
Board of Zoning Appeals
Mayor Nichols requested Council approval for the appointment of
Joy Blumkin, 225 Ridgedale Road, to the Board of Zoning Appeals
with a term to expire December 31, 1994.
Resolution
By Alderperson Hanna: Seconded by Alderperson Sams
July 6, 1994
RESOLVED, That this Council approves the appointment of Joy
Blumkin to the Board of Zoning Appeals with a term to expire
December 31, 1994.
Carried Unanimously
REPORT OF CITY BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, AND COMMITTEES:
Shade Tree Advisory Committee
Nina Bassuk, Chair of the Shade Tree Advisory Committee spoke to
the Council giving the background of the committee. She spoke
about the accomplishments of this committee and the work they
need to do in the future. She expressed concern about the lack
of maintenance on the city's trees, both in the parks and on the
streets.
She further stated it is very important to have continued funding
for the City Forester position.
Board of Public Works
Commissioner Reeves reported to the Council on the following
items:
Traffic Task Force - The Board continues to work on the
recommendations that were contained in the Traffic Task Force
Report.
Substitute Park Lands - In regard to the resolution on tonight's
agenda, the Board is concerned that the time lines on some
decisions come too fast and the Board does not have a chance to
study and review them. She urged Council members to abide by the
resolution that was passed in 1991 that directed Council to
include the Board in decisions that directly impact the operation
of the Department of Public Works.
Board of Fire Commissioners
Commissioner Hamilton spoke to the Board on the following
matters:
Fire Horn - The Board of Fire Commissioners has changed the
policy regarding the utilization of the fire horn in the Mutual
Housing area. The horn will only be used for emergency community
situations as opposed to every time there is an incident. It
will be tested on a weekly basis to insure that when it is needed
it is still working.
Volunteer Fire Fighters Training - The Commission recently
instituted new programs for the training of volunteer fire
fighters. That new training is comprised of 80 hours of basic
training. Recently the Fire Department graduated the first class
from that process so they now have 13 volunteer candidates that
for the next 11 months will be going through their probationary
phase.
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission
Mary Tomlin, representing the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation
Commission, thanked the members of Council and the Mayor for
their recognition of the historic significance of the Masonic
Temple during current deliberations.
Ms. Tomlin gave background information on the research involved
and how the ILPC makes their determination for landmarks
designation.
Bicycle Advisory Council
David Nutter, Chair of the Bicycle Advisory Council, spoke
regarding bicycle safety along Route 96. He stated that the
Bicycle Advisory Council did not advocate widening any roads
beyond the width that the DoT had already intended to widen.
July 6, 1994
Mr. Nutter stated that the Bicycle Advisory Council will be
looking at the plans and will try to convince DoT to make changes
when they feel they are needed.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR:
Capital Projects Committee
Mayor Nichols noted that the process has started for recommending
capital projects for 1995 and the Capital Projects Committee has
been appointed.
Trash Tag Rate
Mayor Nichols stated that the Board of Public Works, at their
next meeting, will make a change in the trash tag rate. He
believes there will be a reduction in the trash tag rate
effective August 1.
Route 96
Mayor Nichols reported that the City has received the "Advance
Detail Plans" for the Route 96 project and was asked to review
the plans and make comments by July 8. The City notified NYSDoT
that that was impossible. He stated that we did get a delay but
we do have to move on this to have an agreement by the end of the
month. Plans are available in the Planning Office for anyone
wishing to look them over and make comments.
Empire State Games
Mayor Nichols noted that planning for the Empire State Games that
is scheduled for August 1995 is underway.
REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY:
Smoke Detection Ordinance
City Attorney Guttman reported that a committee has been working
on the Smoke Detection Ordinance and that should be coming back
to the Council in the near future with revisions.
Residency Law for City Employees
City Attorney Guttman reported that research is being done on a
residency law for City employees and the matter will be going to
the Budget and Administration Committee for their review and
discussion.
Nuisance Properties Ordinance
City Attorney Guttman reported that a proposed Nuisance
Properties Ordinance is being worked on and will be brought to
the Budget and Administration Committee in the next couple of
months. He stated that this ordinance will give staff or the
Mayor the authority to start action on properties where there
seems to be problems regarding drug abuse or other criminal
violations.
YOUTH COMMITTEE:
Intermunicipal Recreation Study Committee
Alderperson Shenk handed out information on the Intermunicipal
Recreation Study Committee. She stated that hopefully by the
next Committee of the Whole meeting there will be a proposal from
this committee for putting in place a new system for meeting the
recreation needs of residents.
Alderperson Shenk explained what she feels are the benefits to
the city. With a bigger system there will be better service for
everyone, more varied programming, a more diverse group of people
interacting and cost sharing. They are attempting to form a
partnership that will deliver a better program for everyone.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
* 16.1 Sale of Lot One in Carpenter Business Park
By Alderperson Mackesey: Seconded by Alderperson Gray
WHEREAS, the Common Council and IURA authorized the sale of lot
one in Carpenter Business Park by sealed bid on May 4, 1994, and
July 6, 1994
WHEREAS, the sale of this property has been advertised in the
local, official newspaper and by directly contacting individuals
who had previously expressed interest in this lot, and
WHEREAS, three bids were received by the bid deadline; now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the high bid for this property of $156,000,
submitted by Hoyt Benjamin, is hereby accepted, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Mayor, subject to the advice of the Director
of Planning and Development and City Attorney, is authorized to
execute any and all documents necessary to complete this sale.
Carried Unanimously
* 16.2 Citizens Savings Bank Merger with M & T Bank
By Alderperson Mackesey: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
WHEREAS, Manufacturers and Traders Trust Company, known as M & T
Bank has proposed a merger with Citizens Savings Bank (CSB), and
WHEREAS, CSB is the only locally owned thrift institution in
Ithaca and has, historically, been a major source of residential
mortgage credit, including mortgage credit for Ithaca's lower
income population and commercial credit for small and medium
sized businesses, and
WHEREAS, Common Council is concerned about maintaining financial
institutions in the community which will respond to these credit
needs and recognizes M & T's stated commitment to be responsive
to these credit needs, and
WHEREAS, the Common Council supports the view that an assessment
of local credit needs would be a first step in assuring the
community that their credit needs are being considered in the
review of the proposed merger; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council encourages M & T Bank to join
with the City of Ithaca, the Coalition for Community Reinvestment
and others in determining the credit needs of our community as a
first step in establishing a working relationship with the
community, and be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council supports the negotiations for a
written agreement signed by M & T Bank as to the specific
programs that will be implemented in Tompkins County.
Carried Unanimously
* 16.3 UDAG Subordination
By Alderperson Mackesey: Seconded by Alderperson Gray
WHEREAS, the City received in 1983 an Urban Development Action
Grant (UDAG) which was lent by the City to Comex Plaza
Associates, the owners of the Rothschild building, and
WHEREAS, the recent conversion of that building from a department
store to a mixed use project required Comex Plaza Associates to
assume additional short term debt, and
WHEREAS, the owners wish to convert this short term debt to long
term debt in order to improve the financial stability of the
project, and
WHEREAS, Comex Plaza Associates have requested the City to
subordinate its UDAG loan on the building to this new financing,
and
WHEREAS, the current appraised value of the building indicates
that this subordination would result in a total loan to value
ratio of 66% and total debt ahead of the UDAG loan equaling
July 6, 1994
approximately 53% therefore leaving the UDAG loan in a relatively
secured position in the event of a foreclosure, and
WHEREAS, Comex Plaza Associates has agreed to compensate the City
for taking a more subordinated position by increasing the
interest rate on the UDAG loan from 7.5% to 8.5%, and
WHEREAS, approval of this subordination request is recommended by
the Economic Development Committee of the IURA, the Budget and
Administration and Economic Development Committees of Common
Council; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council approves the subordination
request and authorizes the Mayor, subject to the advice of the
Director of Planning and Development and the City Attorney, to
execute all documents necessary to implement the subordination.
Carried Unanimously
BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
* 17.1 A Local Law Amending the City Charter with Regard to
Terms of Office of the Mayor
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Thorpe
LOCAL LAW NO.
OF THE YEAR 1994
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
A Local Law Amending the Term of the Mayor's Office From Two (2)
Years to Four (4) Years.
BE IT ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of Ithaca, New
York as follows:
SECTION 1. Amending the term of Office of the Mayor of the
City of Ithaca from two (2) to four (4) years.
The first sentence of Section C-10(A) of the Charter of the
City of Ithaca is hereby amended to read as follows:
At the general election held in November 1995, and every
four (4) years thereafter, a Mayor shall be elected for a term of
four (4) years.
SECTION 2. Effective Date.
This Local Law shall take effect upon approval of the
electors of the City of Ithaca at the general election to be held
in November 1994 and filing in the Office of the Secretary of
State.
Discussion followed on the floor on the merits of a four year
term versus a two year term.
Amending Resolution
By Alderperson Hanna: Seconded by Alderperson Sams
RESOLVED, That, in Section 1, the date be changed from November
1995 to November 1999.
Discussion followed on the floor.
A vote on the Amending Resolution resulted as follows:
Aye (1) - Hanna
Nays (8) - Booth, Efroymson, Shenk, Mackesey, Schroeder,
Sams,
Thorpe, Gray
Motion Fails (1-8)
Main Motion
A vote on the Main Motion resulted as follows:
July 6, 1994
Ayes (7) - Booth, Efroymson, Shenk, Mackesey, Sams,
Schroeder,
Thorpe
Nays (2) - Hanna, Gray
Carried (7-2)
* 17.2 Finance/Chamberlain - Request Extension of Tax Sale
Redemption Period
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Gray
WHEREAS, at its regular meeting of December 1, 1993, the Common
Council approved an extension for property redemption until May
11, 1994 for 432 North Titus Avenue, and
WHEREAS,, the property owner at 432 North Titus Avenue has
requested an additional extension to redeem the property, and
there are sound reasons for providing a short extension; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the existing owner be permitted to redeem the
property at 432 North Titus Avenue, up to October 6, 1994, for
the total lien amount outstanding, plus additional interest
penalty and related costs through the date of the redemption.
Carried Unanimously
* 17.3 Finance/Chamberlain - Request Extension of Tax Sale
Redemption Period
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Efroymson
WHEREAS, at its regular meeting of December 1, 1993, the Common
Council approved an extension for property redemption until May
23, 1994 for 315 Second Street, and
WHEREAS, the property owner at 315 Second Street has requested an
additional extension to redeem the property, and there are sound
reasons for providing a short extension; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the existing owner be permitted to redeem the
property at 315 Second Street, up to October 6, 1994, for the
total lien amount outstanding, plus additional interest penalty
and related costs through the date of the redemption.
Carried Unanimously
* 17.4 Fire Department - Award of Fire Apparatus
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Mackesey
WHEREAS, in 1993, the City of Ithaca Common Council authorized
and bonded the amount of $900,000.00 for the Ithaca Fire
Department to purchase a pumper and an aerial; and
WHEREAS, the Department Apparatus Committee drafted open
specifications not designed for any one apparatus manufacturer;
and
WHEREAS, the drafted specifications meet the apparatus and
equipment needs of the Ithaca Fire Department; and
WHEREAS, Seagrave Fire Apparatus bid the pumper; Har-Rob bid a
Smeal aerial; and Saulsbury Fire Apparatus bid both the pumper
and aerial; and
WHEREAS, Saulsbury Fire Apparatus proposed a pumper and an aerial
that meet the specifications with the least number of exceptions
compared to the other bids; and
WHEREAS, the proposals by Saulsbury Fire Apparatus are the lowest
amounts bid and Saulsbury's bids are within the budgeted amount,
$374,267.00 for the pumper and all associated equipment;
$522,030.00 for the aerial and all associated equipment with a
July 6, 1994
$10,000.00 discount for awarding both apparatus and all equipment
to Saulsbury Fire Apparatus, for a grand total of $886,297.00 for
both apparatus and all equipment; and
WHEREAS, the Apparatus Committee has conducted extensive review
and has clarified the proposals, and recommends awarding the bid
to Saulsbury Fire Apparatus; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council hereby determines that the bids
shall be awarded for the pumper and aerial to Saulsbury Fire
Apparatus and authorizes the Fire Department to enter into a
contract for construction of the apparatus.
Carried Unanimously
* 17.5 DPW - Request Approval of State Street Brick Sales Policy
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
RESOLVED, That Common Council delegates to the Board of Public
Works the authority to approve any and all sales of State Street
bricks in cases where the Board receives positive recommendations
for the sale of such bricks from the Ithaca Landmarks
Preservation Commission.
Ayes (8) - Booth, Shenk, Efroymson, Thorpe, Sams, Schroeder,
Gray, Mackesey
Nay (1) - Hanna
Carried (8-1)
* 17.6 Planning & Development - Request to Establish Capital
Project to Acquire Substitute Parklands
This agenda item will be discussed after the Executive Session is
held at the end of the meeting.
* 17.7 Planning & Development - Request to Appropriate Funds to
Acquire Watershed Land
This agenda item will be discussed after the Executive Session is
held at the end of the meeting.
* 17.8 Planning and Development - Request Funds For Reprinting
of Zoning Maps
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
WHEREAS, the Planning Department needs to print more zoning maps
at an estimated cost of $1,000; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That an amount not to exceed $1,000 be transferred from
Account A1990 Unrestricted Contingency to Account A8020-425 for
the purpose of printing additional zoning maps.
Carried Unanimously
* 17.9 Planning & Development - Request Funds for Southwest Park
Wetland Delineation Contract
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Gray
WHEREAS, the City has already contracted with Stearns and Wheler
for an environmental assessment for Southwest Park, and
WHEREAS, preliminary site work by Stearns and Wheler has
suggested the need for a wetlands delineation analysis, and
WHEREAS, wetlands delineation is not part of the scope
established for this environmental assessment; now, therefore be
it
RESOLVED, That the Mayor, subject to the advice of the
Superintendent of Public Works and City Attorney, be authorized
to execute a contract with Stearns and Wheler for the delineation
of the wetland limit line(s) in Southwest Park to be conducted in
accordance with wetland delineation standards promulgated by the
Army Corps of Engineers and the New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation, and as further defined in a contract
proposal submitted by Stearns and Wheler dated June 1, 1994, for
a fee not to exceed $6,650., and be it further
July 6, 1994
RESOLVED, That the funds for said wetland delineation report be
derived from Capital Project #208, SouthWest Park Development.
Carried Unanimously
* 17.10 Common Council - Approval of 1995 Guidelines for
Community Service Funding
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Thorpe
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has in the past appropriated funds to
agencies for cultural enrichment, economic promotion, and other
purposes aside from human services, and
WHEREAS, the Common Council intends that all such requests be
subject to a standardized review process; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Budget & Administration Committee of Common
Council be authorized to review all 1995 requests for non-
mandated city funding from private, non-profit agencies that are
not subject to Human Services Coalition review, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the following requirements and criteria shall be
applied to all such requests:
Requirements
1. All applications for 1995 funding must be submitted in writing
to the City Controller by July 29, 1994.
2. Each application must include a statement that explains how
the activity proposed for City funding will benefit the social,
cultural, economic, and/or environmental well-being of city
residents, in terms as specific as possible. Information
presented should include the groups or individuals to be served,
the number of people to benefit from the activity, and the
duration of the benefit (long term or short term).
3. a. Each application must include budgets for 1994 and 1995,
financial reports from 1992 and 1993, and an enumeration
of other funding sources.
b. The applications should also include a count of
individuals served, by municipality, for prior years, and
a report on any positive impacts and benefits.
c. The application must include a description of methods
for measuring positive outcomes from 1995 funding.
Criteria and Evaluation Scoring
The Committee shall assign points for the degree to which the
proposed use of City funds meets each of the following criteria.
If the applicant does not supply sufficient information for the
Committee to make a judgment, the proposal shall receive zero
points in each such case.
These criteria and evaluation scores will be used by the Budget &
Administration Committee as guidelines in evaluating requests for
funding:
1. The proposed activity will benefit the social, cultural,
economic and/or environmental well-being of residents of the City
of Ithaca.
2. a. The proposal will service city residents in proportion to
City funding requested.
b. The sponsor of the proposed activity:
1. has received funding, or
2. is reasonably assured of receiving funding, or
3. has made a good faith effort to receive funding
from the County, appropriate towns, school
districts, or other funding sources in proportion
to non-city residents served.
July 6, 1994
3. The proposed activity will serve an identified need in the
city and does not duplicate another service.
4. The proposed activity is designed to effectively meet the
needs of those to be benefitted; and the proposal includes
measurable objectives.
5. The applicant demonstrates sound management practices.
6. The proposed activity will especially benefit a population in
financial need (i.e., below federal poverty guidelines) or the
disabled.
7. The proposed activity will produce a long-term benefit.
8. Outcomes from the proposed activity are clearly described and
feasible to measure
EVALUATION AND SCORING OF COMMUNITY SERVICES FUNDING REQUESTS
Criteria Points
1. Benefit well-being of residents 0-10
2a. Serve City residents 0- 5
2b. Sponsor has:
1. Received funding or 3
2. Assured of receiving funding or 2
3. Made good faith effort to receive 1
3. Serves an identified need (not duplicated) 0- 5
4. Designed to meet needs; includes objectives 0- 5
5. Sound management practices 0- 5
6. Benefit financially needy and handicapped 0- 5
7. Long term benefit 0- 5
8. Outcomes from the proposed activity is/are
clearly described and feasible to measure 0- 7
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That by September 15, 1994 the Budget & Administration
Committee shall forward its recommendations to the Mayor for
consideration in the 1995 budget.
Extensive discussion followed on the floor.
Amending Resolution
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Booth
RESOLVED, That item #8 be removed under the heading "Criteria and
Evaluation Scoring" and also under the heading "Evaluation and
Scoring of Community Services Funding Requests (Points)".
After extensive discussion followed on the amendment,
Alderpersons Schroeder and Booth made the following further
Amending Resolution:
RESOLVED, That Item #4 under the heading "Criteria and Evaluation
Scoring" read as follows: "The proposed activity is designed to
effectively meet the needs of those to be benefitted; and the
proposal includes measurable objectives and outcomes," and that
under the heading "Evaluation and Scoring of Community Services
Funding Requests", the words "and outcomes" be added to Item #4
at the end of the sentence.
A vote on the Amending Resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
July 6, 1994
Further discussion followed on the point system being used for
evaluation and scoring.
A vote on the Main Motion as Amended resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
The Main Motion as Amended shall read as follows:
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has in the past appropriated funds to
agencies for cultural enrichment, economic promotion, and other
purposes aside from human services, and
WHEREAS, the Common Council intends that all such requests be
subject to a standardized review process; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Budget & Administration Committee of Common
Council be authorized to review all 1995 requests for non-
mandated city funding from private, non-profit agencies that are
not subject to Human Services Coalition review, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the following requirements and criteria shall be
applied to all such requests:
Requirements
1. All applications for 1995 funding must be submitted in writing
to the City Controller by July 29, 1994.
2. Each application must include a statement that explains how
the activity proposed for City funding will benefit the social,
cultural, economic, and/or environmental well-being of city
residents, in terms as specific as possible. Information
presented should include the groups or individuals to be served,
the number of people to benefit from the activity, and the
duration of the benefit (long term or short term).
3. a. Each application must include budgets for 1994 and 1995,
financial reports from 1992 and 1993, and an enumeration
of other funding sources.
b. The applications should also include a count of
individuals served, by municipality, for prior years, and
a report on any positive impacts and benefits.
c. The application must include a description of methods
for measuring positive outcomes from 1995 funding.
Criteria and Evaluation Scoring
The Committee shall assign points for the degree to which the
proposed use of City funds meets each of the following criteria.
If the applicant does not supply sufficient information for the
Committee to make a judgment, the proposal shall receive zero
points in each such case.
These criteria and evaluation scores will be used by the Budget &
Administration Committee as guidelines in evaluating requests for
funding:
1. The proposed activity will benefit the social, cultural,
economic and/or environmental well-being of residents of the City
of Ithaca.
2. a. The proposal will service city residents in proportion to
City funding requested.
b. The sponsor of the proposed activity:
1. has received funding, or
2. is reasonably assured of receiving funding, or
3. has made a good faith effort to receive funding
July 6, 1994
from the County, appropriate towns, school
districts, or other funding sources in proportion
to non-city residents served.
3. The proposed activity will serve an identified need in the
city and does not duplicate another service.
4. The proposed activity is designed to effectively meet the
needs of those to be benefitted; and the proposal includes
measurable objectives and outcomes.
5. The applicant demonstrates sound management practices.
6. The proposed activity will especially benefit a population in
financial need (i.e., below federal poverty guidelines) or the
disabled.
7. The proposed activity will produce a long-term benefit.
EVALUATION AND SCORING OF COMMUNITY SERVICES FUNDING REQUESTS
Criteria Points
1. Benefit well-being of residents 0-10
2a. Serve City residents 0- 5
2b. Sponsor has:
1. Received funding or 3
2. Assured of receiving funding or 2
3. Made good faith effort to receive 1
3. Serves an identified need (not duplicated) 0- 5
4. Designed to meet needs; includes objectives 0- 5
and outcomes
5. Sound management practices 0- 5
6. Benefit financially needy and handicapped 0- 5
7. Long term benefit 0- 5
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That by September 15, 1994 the Budget & Administration
Committee shall forward its recommendations to the Mayor for
consideration in the 1995 budget.
* 17.11 Finance/Controller - Request to Amend Computer
Acquisition Capital Project for Computer Network
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Hanna
WHEREAS, the City Controller in coordination with the Computer
Committee has determined that the City needs to implement a City
Wide Computer Network within most city departments, and
WHEREAS, the Computer Committee has determined that the proposed
computer network could provide, among other items, a city wide E-
mail system and various components of the GIS mapping system, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca is committed to maintaining the right
of its citizens to have open access to public information and
communication technologies, and
WHEREAS, the City Controller in coordination with the Computer
Committee is recommending a phased City Wide Computer Networking
System with the establishment of the first phase of said network
to include all City Hall Departments, the Police Department, the
Fire Department and the ability for future connections with other
July 6, 1994
city departments, at an estimated cost of $50,000, now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Capital Project #211 Computer Acquisition be
increased by an amount not to exceed $50,000, to a total not to
exceed $679,745 for the acquisition and installation of Phase 1
of the City Wide Computer Network System, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the funds for said Computer Networking acquisition
be financed through the issuance of serial bonds.
Discussion followed on the floor with City Controller Cafferillo
explaining the acquisition and implementation procedure.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
* 17.12 Finance/Controller - Request to Approve 94-95 Civil
Service Agreement
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Mackesey
RESOLVED, That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized and
directed to execute an agreement between the City of Ithaca and
the Ithaca City School District for performance by the City for
services in connection with Civil Service matters for the period
July 1, 1994 to June 30, 1995, in the amount of $21,074, payable
to the City of Ithaca on or before November 1, 1994.
Carried Unanimously
* 17.13 Drop In Center Lease
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Efroymson
WHEREAS, this Common Council hereby determines that the Drop In
Children's Center, Inc. provides a public benefit for the City of
Ithaca by providing affordable and needed day care services, and
WHEREAS, the proposed site for the center's construction of a new
day care facility is in accordance with the recently submitted
recommendations of the Northside Land Use Committee; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council authorizes the preparation and
execution of a long term master lease between the City of Ithaca
and the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency for the proposed site for the
Drop In Children's Center, such lease to be subject to Council
review and approval, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Common Council does hereby approve in concept
the proposed sub lease, dated July 6, 1994, between the Ithaca
Urban Renewal Agency and the Drop In Children's Center, and be it
further
RESOLVED, That the Common Council recommends that when the Drop
In Children's Center has obtained all necessary funding, that the
Mayor, as Chairperson of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency, be
authorized to execute the sub lease, dated July 6, 1994, with the
Drop In Children's Center.
Discussion followed on the floor.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
PLANNING COMMITTEE:
* 18.1a Designation of Lead Agency Status for Environmental
Review
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Mackesey
WHEREAS, State Law and Section 176.6 of the City Code require
that a lead agency be established for conducting environmental
review of projects in accordance with local and state
environmental law, and
July 6, 1994
WHEREAS, State Law specifies that for actions governed by local
environmental review, the lead agency shall be that local agency
which has primary responsibility for approving and funding or
carrying out the action, and
WHEREAS, the proposed amendment to Chapter 325 of the Municipal
Code (Zoning) which would allow for rezoning of two parcels of
land on East Seneca Street from R-2a to CBD-60 requires review
under the City's Environmental Quality Review Ordinance; now,
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council does hereby declare itself lead
agency for the environmental review of the proposed amendment to
Article X Section 325.47.A. of the Municipal Code.
Carried Unanimously
* 18.1b Declaration of No Significant Environmental Impact
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Hanna
WHEREAS, the Planning Committee has recommended an amendment to
Chapter 325 (Zoning), which would allow for rezoning of two
parcels of land on East Seneca Street from R-2a to CBD-60, and
WHEREAS, appropriate environmental review has been conducted, and
WHEREAS, the proposed action is an "unlisted" action under the
State Environmental Quality Review Act and is a Type I action
under the City Environmental Quality Review Ordinance, 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 does adopt as its own the findings and conclusions more
fully set forth on the City's Short Environmental Assessment Form
dated May 4, 1994 and be it further
RESOLVED, That this Common Council as lead agency, hereby does
determine that the proposed action at issue will not have a
significant effect on the environment, and that further
environmental review is unnecessary under the circumstances, and
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
attachment, in the City Clerk's Office and forward the same to
any other parties as required by law.
Carried Unanimously
* 18.1c An Ordinance Amending the Zoning Map Established
Pursuant to Chapter 325 Entitled "Zoning" of the City of Ithaca
Municipal Code Regarding the Zoning of Two Parcels of Land on
East Seneca Street in the City of Ithaca
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Gray
ORDINANCE NO. 94 -
An Ordinance Amending the Municipal Code of the City of Ithaca,
Chapter 325 Entitled "Zoning" to Change the Zoning Designation of
Certain Areas in the City of Ithaca.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of
Ithaca, New York as follows:
July 6, 1994
Section 1. Chapter 325, Article 2 entitled "Zoning Districts" is
hereby amended to change the zoning designation of the following
area from R-2a to CBD-60:
ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND more particularly bounded and
described as follows:
Beginning at a point in the northerly line of East Seneca Street,
said point of beginning being the southeast corner of Tax Parcel
No. 62-5-12, said point of beginning also being the southwest
corner of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-11, said point of beginning being
located approximately 163.1 easterly along the northerly line of
East Seneca Street with its intersection with the easterly line
of North Aurora Street; running thence northerly along the
easterly line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-12 and the westerly line of
Tax Parcel No. 62-5-11 102.5 feet to a point in the southerly
line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-17; running thence easterly along the
southerly line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-17 12.1 feet to the
southeast corner of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-17; running thence
northerly along the easterly line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-17 20
feet to a point in the southerly line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-4
and the northerly line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-11; running thence
easterly along the southerly line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-4 and
the northerly line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-11 32.4 feet to the
northeast corner of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-11; continuing thence
easterly along the southerly line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-4 and
the northerly line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-10 30.2 feet to the
northeast corner of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-10; running thence
southerly along the westerly line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-7 44.8
feet to a point; running thence easterly approximately 4 feet to
a point in the westerly line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-9, said point
being also in the easterly line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-10;
running thence southerly along the easterly line of Tax Parcel
No. 62-5-10 and the westerly line of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-9 79.2
feet to the northerly line of East Seneca Street; running thence
westerly along the northerly line of East Seneca Street 33.5 feet
to the southwest corner of Tax Parcel No. 62-5-10; continuing
thence westerly along the northerly line of East Seneca Street 45
feet to the point or place of beginning.
Section 2. The City Planning and Development Board, the City
Clerk and the Planning Department shall amend the zoning map in
accordance with the amendment made herewith.
Section 3. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect
immediately and in accordance with law upon publication of
notices as provided in the Ithaca City Charter.
Carried Unanimously
* 18.2 Reaffirmation of Local Landmark Designation of Masonic
Temple
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Gray
WHEREAS, at the special public hearing held on June 1, 1994 the
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission voted to designate the
Masonic Temple at 115 North Cayuga Street a local landmark, and
WHEREAS, at the regular meeting held on June 1, 1994 the Ithaca
Common Council voted to approve the designation based on the
finding of fact that the property meets all three of the possible
criteria for designation as set forth in Section 228-3 of the
Municipal Code, and
WHEREAS, at the regular meeting held June 7, 1994, the Planning
and Development Board adopted by resolution the report to be
filed with the Common Council commenting on the relation of the
July 6, 1994
designation to the master plan, zoning laws, projected public
improvements or plans for renewal of the site or area as set
forth in Section 228-4(C) of the Municipal Code, and
WHEREAS, in the same June 7, 1994 resolution the Planning and
Development Board recommended that Common Council approve the
designation, and
WHEREAS, Council's reaffirmation of the designation constitutes
the same action undertaken at the June 1, 1994 meeting and
therefore requires no further environmental review; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Common Council, having reviewed the report of
the Planning & Development Board, reaffirms the decision to
approve designation of the Masonic Temple as a local landmark.
Extensive discussion followed on the floor.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
* 18.3 Selection of Substitute Park Land to Replace Inlet Island
Park Land to Be Alienated and Converted
Planning Committee agenda item 18.3 will be discussed later in
the meeting during an Executive Session.
N.Y.S. Canal Recreationway Master Plan - Report
Alderperson Schroeder reported that there is a Master Plan being
done for the entire Erie Canal system which includes Cayuga Lake
and the waterways in the west end of Ithaca since they were
officially part of the Canal system. He stated that each County
is putting together elements of this plan. There are a number of
items that staff has recommended for inclusion in this Master
Plan and the list was presented at the Planning Committee in May.
Alderperson Schroeder explained that the chief merit of having
items in the Master Plan is that it would be possible for the
City, in the future, to get significant funding from the State.
If something is in the Canal Master Plan, there will be money
available because the State is very interested in improving the
whole Canal system.
Alderperson Schroeder read the following items which staff has
recommended:
(1) Construction of a dock for transient boaters at the Farmer's
Market at Steamboat Landing;
(2) Construction of attractive bank stabilization along the
length of the Flood Control Channel;
(3) Periodic dredging of the Flood Channel and construction of
a permanent dredge spoil site. This site would be used to de-
water the dredge spoils and to dispose of them in an
environmentally appropriate and economical manner;
(4) Reorganization of land uses on Inlet Island, including
building a public walkway along the island's west edge and
encouraging waterfront-related development on the island's
interior;
(5) Establishment of public walkway around the DoT Highway
Division site and encouraging DoT to leave this site in favor of
a more appropriate waterfront land use;
(6) Establishment of a bicycle/pedestrian trail system linking
Ithaca's entire waterfront, including Cayuga Lake, the old Cayuga
Inlet and the Flood Control Channel;
(7) Implementation of the Stewart Park Master Plan, entitled
"Stewart Park - 1987, Preservation Goals and Guidelines". The
recommendations in this plan include stabilization and
restoration of the Cascadilla Boathouse, as well as the two
July 6, 1994
pavilions in the park - consideration should also be given to the
construction of a public pier, which might include mooring for a
dinner boat;
(8) Improvements to the Newman Golf Course, possibly including
construction of moorings along the shore of the Golf Course.
After lengthy discussion, it was decided by Council to add the
following items to the list:
(9) Improve public access to the waterfront.
(10) Attempting to establish public swimming on the lake within
the City.
Reuse of Historic Seneca Street Bridge Over Old Cayuga Inlet
Alderperson Schroeder noted that the Council needs to find a
place to re-use the structural elements of the Seneca Street
Bridge over the Old Cayuga Inlet. He stated that it is an
historic bridge. It is being taken out as part of the Route 96
project. NYSDoT has agreed to give the structural elements of
that bridge to the City for re-use and will even deliver them to
a site specified by the City but we need to decide where that is.
Alderperson Schroeder stated that Jonathan Meigs, from the
Planning Department, has been working on this and has suggested
the possibility that this bridge could be used as a link in the
Cayuga Inlet Trail over the Flood Control Channel as it turns
toward the fish ladder, next to the railroad tracks.
Alderperson Schroeder suggested that if Council has further
suggestions on the use of the bridge they contact Jon Meigs.
Status of Route 13 (South) Project - Report
Alderperson Schroeder reported that the four lane Route 13
project is part of the transportation improvement project that
was approved by the Metropolitan Planning Organization. He stated
that for the section within the City it still requires a vote of
Council. However, the State has agreed, as part of the project,
that they are willing to design, fund and build abutments for a
new bicycle/pedestrian bridge at the City line, where Route 13
heads south out of the City. Additionally, the State is going to
provide substantial funding for plantings along the length of the
project.
INTER-INSTITUTIONAL COMMITTEE:
* 19.1 Letter of Support for Technology Bill
By Alderperson Hanna: Seconded by Alderperson Gray
WHEREAS, the national information infrastructure policy states
that all citizens shall have access to the information
superhighway, and
WHEREAS, congress is currently considering legislation (Senate
Bill 2195) to assure that non-commercial use will remain
available to all the people, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca is committed to maintaining the right
of its citizens to have open access to information and
communication technologies, and
WHEREAS, documents and sample letters supporting Senate Bill 2195
have been provided by Computer Professionals for Social
Responsibility, the leading advocates in the country for the
appropriate and democratic uses of computer technology; now,
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby directs the Mayor to send
letters of support in its name to New York State Senators
Moynihan and D'Amato, and to Senators Inouye and Hollings, in
their leadership roles on this issue.
Carried Unanimously
Report of Technology Meeting
Alderperson Efroymson reported that minutes of the Technology
meeting are available regarding computer access that has been
approved for City Hall.
July 6, 1994
Report Regarding Fire Contract
Alderperson Efroymson reported that negotiations are ongoing with
the Town regarding the fire contract. He noted that at the last
meeting, they informally agreed upon a five year contract. He
stated that he hopes to have an agreement ready for Council in
August or September.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Mackesey
RESOLVED, That Common Council adjourn into Executive Session to
discuss Planning Committee agenda item 18.3, which deals with
possible land acquisitions.
Carried Unanimously
(Note: The following resolution was discussed and voted on in
Executive Session. Subsequent to the Common Council meeting, but
prior to the adoption of these minutes, the text of this
resolution was released to the public. Therefore, it is printed
here in full.)
* 18.3 Selection of Substitute Park Land to Replace Inlet Island
Park Land to be Alienated and Converted
By Alderperson Schroeder: Seconded by Alderperson Johnson
WHEREAS, the land use plan in the Report of the Inlet Island Land
Use Committee, which was adopted by the Planning and Development
Board and accepted by the Common Council, calls for the
alienation and conversion of most of the Inlet Island portion of
Cass Park, and
WHEREAS, the Finger Lakes State Parks, Recreation and Historic
Preservation Region (Office of Parks) approved the alienation and
conversion of Inlet Island park land as described in a letter
from Robert Gonet on February 22, 1993, and
WHEREAS, land of equal monetary value, which has the informal
approval of the Office of Parks and National Park Service, has
been identified to serve as substitute park land for the Inlet
Island park properties; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That City staff be directed to move forward
expeditiously in the alienation and conversion process of Inlet
Island park land with the immediate goal of having an alienation
bill approved by the New York State legislature in Spring 1995,
and be it further
RESOLVED, That staff be directed, subject to giving appropriate
opportunity for comment and review by the Board of Public Works,
to take appropriate steps (including having final appraisals and
land surveys prepared) to secure the City's ability to acquire
the following parcels, whose names refer to those on preliminary
appraisals by Midland Appraisal Associates, Inc., as substitute
park land for the Inlet Island portion of Cass Park:
Ithaca Falls (IF) Six Mile Creek (SM)
Other
Parcel 1 Parcel 4 Inlet Trail
(IT)
Parcel 2 Parcel 11 Sheldrake Parcel
(SH)
Parcel 3 Parcel 12
Parcel 4 Parcel 17
Parcel 5 Parcel 20
Parcel 6
(The Ithaca Falls and Six Mile Creek properties have also been
referenced with an IF and SM prefix respectively [i.e. SM-4])
July 6, 1994
and be it further
RESOLVED, That this list shall be subject to further review and
approval by Common Council prior to the submission of an
alienation bill to the New York State legislature.
Carried Unanimously
REGULAR SESSION:
Common Council reconvened in Regular Session and proceeded with
the following agenda items.
* 17.6 Planning and Development - Request to Establish Capital
Project to Acquire Substitute Parklands
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
WHEREAS, the Common Council approved a land use plan which called
for the alienation of certain parcels of park land on Inlet
Island, and
WHEREAS, the alienation and conversion process requires the
acquisition of substitute park lands acceptable to the State of
New York and the U. S. Department of the Interior, the cost of
which is expected to be eventually recovered through the sale of
the land to be alienated and converted on Inlet Island, and
WHEREAS, the Common Council has identified parcels of land that
appear suitable for substitution for the Inlet Island property,
and
WHEREAS, the City has received preliminary appraised values for
the relevant parcels, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That a Capital Project in the amount of $575,000 be
established to cover the following anticipated expenses:
Land Acquisition $480,000
Final Appraisals 20,000
Surveys 20,000
Environmental Audits 15,000
Contingency 40,000
TOTAL $575,000.
Carried Unanimously
* 17.7 Planning & Development - Request to Appropriate Funds to
Acquire Watershed Land
By Alderperson Booth: Seconded by Alderperson Schroeder
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca uses Six Mile Creek as the primary
source of its drinking water, and
WHEREAS, the City and Town of Ithaca have worked together to
create a plan, dated November 13, 1990, that identifies a “buffer
zone” in the Six Mile Creek corridor which should remain
undeveloped in order to protect the watershed, and
WHEREAS, the City has identified those privately owned parcels
within the “buffer zone” which could potentially be developed,
and
WHEREAS, the Planning Committee has identified some of these
parcels to be used as substitute park land for the Inlet Island
Alienation and Conversion project, and
WHEREAS, the City feels it is important to secure certain
remaining parcels that have been identified so they will not be
in danger of being developed, and
WHEREAS, the Six Mile Creek Advisory Committee supports the
acquisition of such parcels; now, therefore be it
July 6, 1994
RESOLVED, That staff be directed to take appropriate steps to
secure the City's ability to protect as many of the parcels as
possible within the funding for the capital project herein
authorized, be it through conservation easements or acquisition,,
and be it further
RESOLVED, That a Capital Project in the amount of $275,000 be
established to cover the following anticipated expenses:
Land Acquisition $250,000
Final Appraisals $15,000
Surveys $10,000
TOTAL $275,000
and be it further
RESOLVED, That any purchase of property or other acquisition of
the property interest proposed to be undertaken pursuant to this
capital project shall be subject to Common Council approval after
appropriate opportunity for review and comment by the Board of
Public Works, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the financing plan for the above referenced land
acquisition be established as follows:
Capital Reserve #26 for Watershed Property Acquisition
$100,000
Issuance of Serial Bonds (General Fund)
$175,000
total
$275,000
and be it further
RESOLVED, That the funds from Capital Reserve #26 shall be used
only for protecting property identified by the Board of Public
Works as being important for the operation of the City water
system.
Discussion followed on the floor.
Alderperson Schroeder explained that the property which would be
purchased or protected under this resolution is entirely separate
from substitute park land for the Inlet Island alienation and
conversion process.
Alderperson Efroymson spoke in opposition to the resolution
stating that acquisition of property outside of City limits, some
of which is to be used primarily for passive recreation and as a
nature preserve as opposed to protecting the City's water supply,
will benefit individuals who live both within and out of the City
and that this is not the highest priority of City financial
resources. There were responses by Alderpersons Schroeder, Booth
and Hanna in favor of the resolution. In addition, Mayor Nichols
spoke in support of the resolution, but agreeing with Alderperson
Efroymson to the extent that he would expect the aid of the Town
of Ithaca or the County to support acquisition of additional
properties beyond those referred to in this resolution.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (8) - Booth, Schroeder, Mackesey, Shenk, Hanna, Sams,
Thorpe, Gray
Nay (1) - Efroymson
Carried (8-1)
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 11:05 p.m.
July 6, 1994
Callista F. Paolangeli Benjamin
Nichols
City Clerk Mayor