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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