HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-1999-01-06
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COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting 7:00 P.M. January 6, 1999
PRESENT:
Mayor Cohen
Alderpersons (10) Shenk, Sams, Blumenthal, Marcham, Hershey
Manos, Farrell, Vaughan, Spielholz, Taylor
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk – Conley Holcomb
City Attorney – Geldenhuys
Deputy Controller – Thayer
Building Commissioner – Eckstrom
Planning and Development Director – Van Cort
Superintendent of Public Works – Gray
Human Resources Director – Michell-Nunn
Fire Chief – Wilbur
Economic Development Director – McDonald
Youth Bureau Director - Cohen
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Cohen led all present in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American flag.
ADDITIONS TO OR DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA:
New Business:
Alderperson Sams requested the addition of Item 20.2 – Hate Crimes Resolution
No Council member objected.
Budget and Administration Committee:
Alderperson Marcham requested the addition of Item 18.95 – Report by Ithaca
Downtown Partnership Director
SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
Public Hearing to Amend the Community Development Abbreviated Consolidated Plan
Resolution to Open Public Hearing
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Spielholz
RESOLVED, That the public hearing regarding amending the Community Development
Abbreviated Consolidation Plan be declared open.
Carried Unanimously
No one appeared to address Council.
Resolution to Close Public Hearing
By Alderperson Hershey: Seconded by Alderperson Farrell
RESOLVED, That the public hearing regarding amending the Community Development
Abbreviated Consolidation Plan be declared closed.
Carried Unanimously
Public Hearing to Consider a Local Law Providing for a Partial Tax Exemption for
Real Property Owned by Persons with Disabilities Whose Incomes are Limited by
Reasons of Such Disabilities
Resolution to Open Public Hearing
By Alderperson Sams: Seconded by Alderperson Marcham
RESOLVED, That the public hearing regarding a Local Law providing for a partial tax
exemption for real property owned by persons with disabilities whose incomes are
limited by reasons of such disabilities be declared open.
Carried Unanimously
January 6, 1999
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No one appeared to address Council.
Resolution to Close Public Hearing
By Alderperson Sams: Seconded by Alderperson Marcham
RESOLVED, That the public hearing regarding a Local Law providing for a partial tax
exemption for real property owned by persons with disabilities whose incomes are
limited by reasons of such disabilities be declared open.
Carried Unanimously
Public Hearing on the Canal Corridor Initiative Community Development
Abbreviated Consolidated Plan
Resolution to Open Public Hearing
By Alderperson Vaughan: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
RESOLVED, That the public hearing on the canal corridor initiative community
development abbreviated consolidated plan be declared open.
Carried Unanimously
The following people spoke in support of the project:
Steven Pentibianco
Brook Olson
Elizabeth Salon
Patrice Jennings
Arthur Birnbaum
Resolution to Close Public Hearing
By Alderperson Hershey: Seconded by Alderperson Spielholz
RESOLVED, That the public hearing on the canal corridor initiative community
development abbreviated consolidated plan be declared closed.
Carried Unanimously
YOUTH AWARD:
Fourth Ward Alderpersons Marcham and Spielholz presented the January, 1999
Distinguished Youth Award to the children of the Southside Community Center who
coordinated the 1998 Kwanzaa Celebration.
MAYOR'S APPOINTMENTS:
Youth Bureau Board
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
RESOLVED, That William Murphy be appointed to the Youth Bureau Advisory Board
with a term to expire December 31, 2001, and be it further
RESOLVED, That Jim Walker be appointed to the Youth Bureau Advisory Board with a
term to expire December 31, 2000, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That David Delchamps be reappointed to the Youth Bureau Advisory
Board with a term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Scott Miller be appointed to the Youth Bureau Advisory Board with a
term to expire December 31, 2000, and, be it further
Building Code Board of Appeals
RESOLVED, That Ed Franquemont be reappointed to the Board of Review on Building
Code with a term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
Board of Public Works
RESOLVED, That John Perko be appointed to the Board of Public Works with a term to
expire December 31, 2000, and, be it further
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RESOLVED, That Leonardo Vargas-Mendez be reappointed to the Board of Public
Works with a term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
Affirmative Action Committee
RESOLVED, That Robin Jenks be appointed to the Affirmative Action Committee with a
term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee
RESOLVED, That Nadine Baker be reappointed to the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory
Committee with a term to expire December 31, 2000, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Yarrow Nelson be reappointed to the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory
Committee with a term to expire December 31, 2001 and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Andy Ruina be appointed to the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory
Committee with a term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
Board of Zoning Appeals
RESOLVED, That William Olney be reappointed to the Board of Zoning Appeals with a
term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Kieran Killeen be appointed to the Board of Zoning Appeals with a
term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
Civil Service Commission
RESOLVED, That Arlene Richardson be appointed to the Civil Service Commission
with a term to expire May 31, 2004, and, be it further
Community Police Board
RESOLVED, That Sean Killean be appointed to the Community Police Board with a
term to expire December 31, 2002, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Ted Skibinsky be appointed to the Community Police Board with a
term to expire December 31, 2000, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Marianne Graham be appointed to the Community Police Board with
a term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
Conservation Advisory Council
RESOLVED, That Paul Salon be reappointed to the Conservation Advisory Council with
a term to expire December 31, 2000, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Judith Jones be reappointed to the Conservation Advisory Council
with a term to expire December 31, 2000, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Betsy Darlington be reappointed to the Conservation Advisory
Council with a term to expire December 31, 2000, and, be it further
Housing Board of Review
RESOLVED, That Scot Raynor be reappointed to the Housing Board Of Review with a
term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That William Korherr be reappointed to the Housing Board Of Review with
a term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Committee
RESOLVED, That David Beer be reappointed to the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation
Committee with a term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
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RESOLVED, That Nancy Falconer be appointed to the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation
Committee with a term to expire December 31, 2000, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Darcy Bedore be reappointed to the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation
Committee with a term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
Natural Areas Commission
RESOLVED, That John Booker be appointed to the Natural Areas Commission with a
term to expire December 31, 2000, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Nancy Ostman be appointed to the Natural Areas Commission with a
term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Nancy Ramage be appointed to the Natural Areas Commission with
a term to expire December 31, 2002, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Harry Littell be appointed to the Natural Areas Commission with a
term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Richard Fischer be appointed to the Natural Areas Commission with
a term to expire December 31, 2002, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Darmayne (Crow) Marley be appointed to the Natural Areas
Commission with a term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Astrid Jirka be appointed to the Natural Areas Commission with a
term to expire December 31, 2002, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Daniel Hoffman be appointed to the Natural Areas Commission with
a term to expire December 31, 2002, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Elizabeth Mulholland be appointed to the Natural Areas Commission
with a term to expire December 31, 2000, and, be it further
Parks Commission
RESOLVED, That Rick Manning be reappointed to the Parks Commission with a term
to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
Shade Tree Advisory Committee
RESOLVED, That Marvin Adleman be reappointed to the Shade Tree Advisory
Committee with a term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Kathleen Sprague be reappointed to the Shade Tree Advisory
Committee with a term to expire December 31, 2001, and, be it further
Planning Board
RESOLVED, That Ellen McCollister be reappointed to the Planning Board with a term to
expire December 31, 2001.
Carried Unanimously
Nomination for Acting Mayor
Alderperson Manos nominated Alderperson Blumenthal as Acting Mayor.
Motion to Close Nominations
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
RESOLVED, That the nominations for Acting Mayor be closed and that Alderperson
Susan Blumenthal be appointed Acting Mayor of the City of Ithaca.
Carried Unanimously
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Nomination for Alternate Acting Mayor
Alderperson Hershey nominated Alderperson Manos as Alternate Acting Mayor.
Motion to Close Nominations
By Alderperson Spielholz: Seconded by Alderperson Marcham
RESOLVED, That the nominations for Alternate Acting Mayor be closed and that
Alderperson Paulette Manos be appointed Alternate Acting Mayor of the City of Ithaca.
Carried Unanimously
Alderperson Sams stated that Alderpersons Blumenthal and Manos would be working
on setting up a retreat for Common Council improve communication skills and focus on
working better together.
PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
Benjamin Nichols, City of Ithaca – support of the Hate Crimes Resolution
Daniel Hoffman, City of Ithaca - expressed appreciation for the appointments to the
Natural Areas Commission, and NAC recommendations regarding Southwest Park.
Joel Harlan, Town of Dryden, spoke regarding the Southwest Park and West End. The
City of Ithaca needs growth.
Tom Edwards, Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County Board of Directors -
request for funding for an Executive Director or Administrator position on the Board.
RESPONSE TO THE PUBLIC:
Alderperson Marcham stated that the Mutual Housing Association request is before the
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency, and will be considered at their next meeting.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR:
Mayor Cohen read the following State of the City Address:
“1998 was for the most part a great year for the City of Ithaca. The most notable
exception to this was the tragic death of Alderperson Rick Gray. Rick was a dedicated
and tireless public servant whose energy kept a number of important initiatives going
and whose keen insights added much to our policy discussions. He is missed by all,
and lives on in our thoughts and prayers.
I thoroughly enjoyed working with Common Council this past year. As communication
between the Council and Mayor continues to improve, there has been more
enthusiasm, more collaboration and more substantive progress in our proceedings than
the City has seen in many years. The fact that Council members can agree to disagree
and still work together is critical to a group dynamic that is cooperative and supportive of
both personal initiative and the development of group consensus.
I appreciate the individual partnerships I have formed with members of Council as we
focus on specific areas of interest. The partnerships have produced real results as we
move our agenda forward. I am grateful to each member of Common Council for their
personal commitment to bettering our community.
Our economic development program took several important steps towards our goal of
more city growth that will improve our local economy, strengthen our tax base and help
to stem sprawl in our community. We hired our first ever Director of Economic
Development, who has hit the ground running. Council authorized funding of the GEIS
for the Southwest Area and passed the Inlet Island plan. It is close to passing the West
End plan, and will soon be looking at the City’s new comprehensive Economic
Development plan. We also successfully acquired millions of dollars of development aid
from both state and federal sources.
January 6, 1999
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Downtown saw some improvement this past year, with the promise for better things to
come. The Board of Public Works authorized free outdoor dining, which resulted in
numerous cafes that added much to the ambiance of downtown. The Commons Design
Review Committee was formed and has developed some exciting ideas. Its report is
due out soon. Council significantly increased funding to the Ithaca Downtown
Partnership and authorized a major project to improve the lighting and other aesthetic
and safety features of the parking garages. The Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
authorized a $100,000 investment in the State Street Theatre, and is currently working
on developing a targeted revolving loan fund for downtown façade improvements and
business expansions and creations.
The problems with downtown are more perception than anything else, not only
regarding the conditions of our downtown, but the focus of government on it. While we
have actually put more resources into downtown than in the past, that effort has been
overshadowed by the fact that there is development activity happening in other parts of
the City.
That activity will continue to happen, and will be of benefit to our community, including
downtown. One challenge we face will be in making the connections between
downtown and our other areas of economic activity that will serve to bring people from
those areas to the downtown. This can and will be done as we look at marketing and
transportation initiatives to accomplish this goal.
The other challenge we face is in working to strengthen our downtown neighborhoods.
We will continue to look for ways to increase housing density in appropriate places
downtown. We will also continue to focus on quality of life issues for city residents,
particularly the concerns about traffic safety that exist in every neighborhood throughout
the City. Traffic volumes must be mitigated where possible, vehicle speeds must be
reduced to safe levels, and violations like the running of red lights must be stopped
before a tragedy occurs.
The Commons, the rest of the central business district and the surrounding
neighborhoods all have great potential to thrive. I applaud the efforts of the members of
the Neighborhood Initiative as they endeavor to find solutions and more importantly
spread the word that downtown is a great place to live. Downtown Ithaca is the heart of
our community, and is the priority of our community. We in city government must make
it one of our top priorities to redouble our efforts this year to improve the physical and
economic conditions of downtown and its surrounding neighborhoods. I look forward to
working with the Planning and Economic Development Committee, chaired by Susan
Blumenthal, on this important goal.
On the intermunicipal front, substantive discussions were started in several areas.
Preliminary discussions have started on expanded fire protection and youth recreation
services. The city is considering joining the Bolton Point regional water system, and
along with its partners in the Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Plant, is discussing the
extension of sewer service. This sewer project, a result of a joint municipal New York
State Environmental Bond Act funding application, would not only bring in significant
revenue for us and our partners, but would be the most important environmental
improvement package Cayuga Lake has ever seen.
As we move forward this year, intermunicipal cooperation will continue to be on the front
burner. We already have a special committee of Council that is taking the lead on this,
and is putting in extraordinary time to sort through the complex issues of existing
agreements and future relationships.
The City has always had a lot to offer our neighbors, and our neighbors have much to
offer us. I am heartened by the fact that Tompkins County Board of Representatives
Chairperson Barbara Mink has made this a priority of her administration. I look forward
to working with her and the rest of the elected officials across the county.
January 6, 1999
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Our drug interdiction efforts showed great results in 1998. With the addition of two more
drug investigators and the canine unit, drug arrests are up significantly. We are
successfully pushing the problem out of the City and must now look to cooperate with
other county law enforcement agencies to push to problem out of the county. This is
not a problem with a quick fix or overnight solution. And just because we have pushed
activity out of the City does not mean that City residents are no longer affected by it.
Realistically, we will always have problems with substance abuse. The efforts of the
city/town/school district Community Drug Task Force to mitigate the effects of drugs are
already paying off with initiatives that are educating community members, expanding
treatment opportunities and focusing community resources on dealing with this critical
problem. That group continues to meet to implement its recommendations and to
maintain the visibility of a subject that most people are all too willing to sweep under the
rug.
Internally, the creation by Council of a Human Resources Department and the Work
Environment Task Force were important steps towards creating a better work
environment for city employees. Ultimately, happier employees will deliver better
customer service to the public.
The Council also adopted a new diversity statement for the city. This was not only a
message to the community, but a demonstration of commitment in our efforts to
diversify our workforce to reflect our community, and in creating a work environment
that is supportive and nurturing of all our employees.
To underscore the commitment we have to our employees and the improvement of their
work environment, I am forming a new standing committee of Common Council this
year. The Human Resources Committee, chaired by Paulette Manos, will look at the
wide range of issues handled by our Human Resources Department. The committee
will run with the recommendations of the Work Environment Task Force, and also look
at issues of pay equity, hiring processes and performance management systems, to
name a few. The Committee will also evaluate the creation of new positions, and the
first one that I will ask the committee to evaluate is the position of City Administrator.
I spoke a moment ago about the message we sent to the rest of the community by the
passing of the City’s Diversity Statement. As the City takes the lead in addressing
issues of workforce diversification, hostile work environments and the ism’s that feed
them, we must continue the community dialogue started by the County’s search
conference, and look at the other biases that undermine the spirit of our community.
The more we celebrate our diversity, the more we will come to understand the strengths
of our community diversity, and the easier it will be to overcome the divisiveness that
some use to keep us apart as a community. I look forward to working with the
Community Issues Committee, chaired by Diann Sams as we continue our work on
these issues.
The Council authorized a fiscally conservative budget for 1999 that continues our recent
efforts to slow the increase in general fund spending and the issuance of debt. Our 5
year budget projections still reflect a significant funding gap, but we are committed to
closing that gap and bringing spending in line with revenues. Of note is the fact that all
6 labor contracts with our bargaining units are up for renewal this year, and we will be
working cooperatively with our employees to address our budgetary situation. On the
Council level, the Budget and Administration Committee, chaired by Jane Marcham, will
continue to take the lead in financial stewardship for the City.
Also addressing budgetary issues, the Program Analysis Committee, chaired by Pat
Vaughan, will continue to analyze program budgets and look for ways to generate new
revenues, streamline operations and prioritize services. This committee will also
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continue its charge of reshaping our budget process into one that is more
understandable and user-friendly for the public, city staff and policy makers.
We can point to many exciting initiatives in 1998. The initial deployment of the
Residential Parking Permit System is one, as is our successfully implemented strategy
to deal with the problems of Senior Week is another. Also of note is the progress we
have made and the leadership position we have taken in addressing the issues of Y2K.
There are those that romanticize about the new century or new millennium. As we look
at our 1999 agenda, we recognize the many down to earth internal and external tasks
currently before us. Many of the projects started in 1998 still need more work, and there
are many new ones to start this year. As we attend to our myriad responsibilities, I look
forward to working with my colleagues on Common Council, city staff and community
volunteers to address our problems and to finding the best solutions for them.
Ithaca is a great place to be and we are fortunate to be able to say that it is our home.
Speaking for my colleagues on Common Council, it is a privilege to serve our
community. We pledge to honor the public trust, and to work together for the
betterment of our community.”
REPORT OF CITY BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES:
Board of Fire Commissioners
Cynthia Yahn reported that fire chiefs have been meeting weekly to work out the details
of the 3 new firefighter positions approved for 1999, and are integrating work with the
union. A new aerial truck is due for delivery at the end of January. There have been
several fires: Chestnut Hill, Taughannock Boulevard, and Trumansburg Road, which
were all subdued quickly. This month the Commission will be reviewing proposed
amendments to the Fire Prevention Code. Negotiations with Ithaca College are ongoing.
Report of the City Attorney:
City Attorney Geldenhuys stated that a decision was received from the Appellate
Division in the case of Rabinor vs. City of Ithaca regarding the building code. The case
pertains to the issue of whether the city can enact building code provisions that are
stricter than the provisions contained in the Uniform State Building Code. The decision
was that the City can enact such strict provisions, but cannot apply such provisions to
any buildings that were constructed prior to 1984 when the initial City ordinance was
passed and was made applicable to the older buildings. When the State law was initially
passed, it was anticipated that financial incentives would be made available to assist in
upgrading the older buildings, however that never happened. As a result, the Court
held that since that requirement was never met, revisions that are stricter than the State
Building Code can only apply to buildings constructed after 1984. The Attorney’s Office
will be holding an internal meeting to discuss the implications of the decision for the
Building and Fire Departments, and to identify adjustments that must be made.
CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:
16.1 Finance/Controller – Designation of Official Newspaper
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
RESOLVED, That pursuant to Section C-113 of the City Charter, the Ithaca Journal be
and is hereby designated as the official newspaper of the City of Ithaca for the year 1999.
Carried Unanimously
16.2 Finance/Controller - Collateral to Secure Deposits
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
RESOLVED, That the collateral deposited by the Tompkins County Trust Company, M & T
Bank and the Fleet Bank as reported, be approved as to form and sufficiency.
Carried Unanimously
January 6, 1999
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16.3 Finance/Controller - Public Employee's Blanket Bond
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
RESOLVED, That pursuant to Section 11 of the Public Officers Law, the following Bond,
which is on file in the Office of the City Clerk, be, and is hereby approved in all respects for
the year 1999.
Faithful Performance Blanket $250,000 Peerless Insurance Co.
Bond Coverage
Carried Unanimously
16.4 Finance/Controller - Designation of Common Council Meetings
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
RESOLVED, That the regular meetings of the Common Council, for the year 1999, be
held at 7:00 P.M., on the first Wednesday of each month, in the Common Council
Chambers, at City Hall, 108 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York, unless otherwise
determined by Common Council.
Carried Unanimously
16.5 Finance/Controller-Designation of Official Depositories
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
RESOLVED, That pursuant to Section C-34 of the City Charter, the Tompkins County
Trust Company, M & T Bank, and the Fleet Bank be, and they are, hereby designated as
the official depositories of all City Funds for the year 1999 and are currently deposited as
follows:
TOMPKINS COUNTY TRUST COMPANY
ACCOUNT NAME ACCOUNT NUMBER
City of Ithaca Operating Fund 01-201-001004
Employees Group Insurance Deductions 08-201-001004
City of Ithaca Payroll Fund 04-201-001004
Guaranty and Bid Deposits 05-201-001004
Health Facility Agreement 05-201-001004
Deposit on Water Meters 05-201-001004
City of Ithaca-Wire Transfer Community
Enterprise Opportunity 06-201-001004
Ithaca Fire Department Bunker Facilities 05-201-001004
Sale of Unclaimed Property 05-201-001004
Circle Greenway 05-201-001004
Conference on College and Community 05-201-001004
Center for Expressive Arts 05-201-001004
Peter DeWysocki Memorial Fund 05-201-001004
Cemetery Fund 05-201-001004
Fire Department Recognition Banquet 05-201-001004
Commons Cultural Tourism 05-201-001004
West End Trees 05-201-001004
Gene Slater Memorial Fund 05-201-001004
Jack Kiely Scholarship Fund 05-201-001004
DeWitt Park Improvement Fund 05-201-001004
Employees N.Y.S. Withholding Tax 08-201-001004
Employees U.S. Savings Bonds 08-201-001004
Centennial Art Work 05-201-001004
Central Business District Trees 05-201-001004
N.Y.S. Police, Fire and Employees
Retirement System 08-201-001004
GIAC Youth Enterprise Fund 05-201-001004
FICA Overpayment Reimbursement 05-201-001004
Juvenile Firesetter’s Program 05-201-001004
Capital Reserve Fund #4 – Bridges 01-201-001055
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Capital Reserve Fund #11 – Parks and
Recreation Areas 01-201-001055
Capital Reserve Fund #14 – Parking Areas 01-201-001055
Capital Reserve Fund #15 – Fire Engine
Replacement 01-201-001055
Capital Reserve Fund #16 – Development of
Water Sources 01-201-001055
Capital Reserve Fund #17 – Sewer Construction 01-201-001055
Capital Reserve Fund #17A – Mandatory
Reserve for Sewer Plant Construction 01-201-001055
Capital Reserve Fund #20 – West Hill Water
and Sewer Replacement 01-201-001055
Capital Reserve Fund #22 – Bus Replacement 01-201-001055
Capital Reserve Fund #23 – Public Works
Equipment 01-201-001055
Capital Reserve Fund #24 – Energy Conservation 01-201-001055
Capital Reserve Fund #25 – Capital Improvements 01-201-001055
Capital Reserve Fund #26 – Land Acquisition 01-201-001055
Capital Reserve Fund #27 – DPW Consolidation 01-201-001055
Payroll Benefits – Flexible Spending 08-201-001004
ECHO 05-201-001004
Six Mile Creek Natural Area 05-201-001004
Keith Andrew Riggs Memorial 05-201-001004
Hydraulic Rescue Tool 05-201-001004
Moore Memorial 05-201-001004
Skateboard Park 05-201-001004
IPAC Escrow 14-303-468203
Capital Reserve Fund – Joint Activity Fund 01-101-099762
Debt Service Fund 02-201-001004
Joint Activity Capital Fund 01-101-116535
Southern Tier Bus Rodeo 05-201-001004
Co. #2 175 Anniversary 05-201-001004
Rick Gray Memorial 05-201-001004
FLEET BANK
ACCOUNT NAME ACCOUNT NUMBER
Firemen’s Relief Fund 267-010001
Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Plant –
Phase III 267-365187
M & T BANK
ACCOUNT NAME ACCOUNT NUMBER
City of Ithaca – Construction Fund 01528-781-6
Carried Unanimously
16.6 Finance/Controller - Approval of 1999 Community Services Agencies Contracts
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
RESOLVED, That the Mayor be authorized to execute the following 1999 contracts with
Community Services Agencies, in accordance with the adopted 1999 City budget:
Celebrations - Flag Day 350
Celebrations - Veterans Day 600
Cayuga Chamber Orchestra 250
The Clear Foundation 2,000
Community Arts Partnership 10,000
Community Arts Partnership Visitor Ticket Center 7,000
Community School of Music and Arts 2,000
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Cornell Cooperative Extension 5,000
DeWitt Historical Society 7,725
Firehouse Theater 3,000
Historic Ithaca - State Theater 11,000
Housing Options for Seniors Today (HOST) 500
Ithaca Festival 8,000
Kitchen Theater Company 2,500
Leadership & Multicultural Alliance 1,000
Multicultural Resource Center 9,500
Project Growing Hope 500
Sciencenter Afterschool Program 1,800
Teen Community Center Project 2,000
Tompkins County Area Development Corporation 7,000
The Labor Coalition 8,000
Women's Community Building 2,000
Carried Unanimously
16. 7 Chamberlain - Request to Amend 1999 Tax Roll
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
WHEREAS, certain taxes remain unpaid on property located at 305 E. Falls Street, and
WHEREAS, until recently, a court ordered stay prohibited the enforcement of taxes
against this property, and
WHEREAS, the stay has since been lifted; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That taxes in the amount of $7,802.20 be relieved against property identified
as tax map number 12.-3-3, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the taxes so relieved become a part of the 1999 City first installment to
be collected as a part thereof.
Carried Unanimously
16. 8 Chamberlain - Request to Extend Tax Sale Redemption Period
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
WHEREAS, a request for an extension of time for property redemption from past due City
Tax Sales for the property at 606 Cascadilla Street has been received, and
WHEREAS, the Budget and Administration Committee has reviewed the request and
recommends approval of the extension; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the existing owner be permitted to redeem the property at 606
Cascadilla Street, up to May 30, 1999, for the total lien amount outstanding, plus additional
interest, penalty and related costs, through the date of the redemption.
Carried Unanimously
16.9 Fire Department - Request to Amend 1999 Personnel Roster
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Fire Department anticipates that a vacancy in an existing position
will be created upon the retirement of Lt. Charles E. Fish, and
WHEREAS, due to Lt. Fish's premature absence caused by an injury, approval has
already been provided to temporarily appoint a fire fighter to the rank of lieutenant to
replace Lt. Fish, thus creating a vacancy at the fire fighter level, and
WHEREAS, to be eligible for a retirement bonus, Lt. Fish's retirement must occur no later
than March 1, 1999, and
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WHEREAS, in order to select and hire a replacement, approval to do so needs to occur
prior to the start of the basic fire fighter training program at the New York State Academy
of Fire Science on March 15, 1999, and
WHEREAS, the hiring time line developed indicates the optimum time for appointment to
fill the anticipated vacancy to be from February 22 to February 26, 1999, and
WHEREAS, appropriations were made to fund the three new positions from the beginning
of the year, but hiring won't take place until mid-February, thus leaving unused funding
available to hire the vacancy replacement; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby temporarily amends the personnel roster of
the fire department by one temporary fire fighter position to permit the hiring of a
replacement fire fighter prior to the retirement of Lt. Fish, but no sooner than February 1,
1999, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the temporary addition to the roster will be rescinded upon retirement of
Lt. Fish, which will occur no later than March 1, 1999.
Carried Unanimously
16. 10 DPW - W/S - Request to Amend Personnel Roster
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
WHEREAS, Sally Alario, a Principal Account Clerk at the Water and Sewer Operations
has been needed full time since her appointment in 1997 to assist with data input transition
to water and sewer billing, to assist in presenting financial records to NYSEFC and to
assist with current and future water and sewer construction activities; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the 1999 DPW Water and Sewer
Authorized Personnel Roster as follows:
Delete: One (1) Principal Account Clerk (20 hours)
Add: One (1) Principal Account Clerk (40 hours)
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Sally Alario be appointed to the position of Principal Account Clerk
assigned to the CSEA Administrative Unit at a 1999 salary of $22,819 effective January
11, 1999, and be it further
RESOLVED, That said funds necessary for the Principal Account Clerk upgrade shall be
derived from existing 1999 Water and Sewer Budgets.
Carried Unanimously
16. 11 DPW - W/S - Request to Amend Personnel Roster
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the 1999 DPW Water and Sewer
Authorized Personnel Roster as follows:
Delete: One (1) Senior Account Clerk (40 hours)
Add: One (1) Principal Account Clerk (40 hours)
and be it further
RESOLVED, That Antoinette Napier be appointed to the position of Principal Account
Clerk assigned to the CSEA Administrative Unit at a 1999 salary of $31,735 effective
January 11, 1999, and be it further
RESOLVED, That said funds necessary for the Principal Account Clerk position shall be
derived from existing 1999 Water and Sewer Budgets.
Carried Unanimously
January 6, 1999
13
16. 12 DPW - W/S - Request to Amend IAWWTP Budget for Consultant Contract
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Plant (IAWWTP) was designed in the
early 1980’s and completed in 1987, and
WHEREAS, Common Council at its meeting of November 4, 1998 approved a $20,000
initial feasibility study for the IAWWTP, and
WHEREAS, a review of the feasibility study by the consultant, IAWWTP staff and the SJS
has prompted the need to increase the scope of services, and
WHEREAS, the Special Joint Subcommittee of the BPW has recommended the
compilation of a master plan complete with budget estimates and engineering alternative
recommendations for grit removal, sludge dewatering, methane gas storage, enhanced
phosphorus removal, disinfection alternatives to gaseous chlorine, trucked grease waste
handling, and building space needs at the IAWWTP, and
WHEREAS, it has been estimated that an additional $33,800 will be needed in
engineering services to complete said Master Plan; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes an additional amount not to
exceed $33,800, for a total engineering services contract of $53,800, be transferred from
Account J1990-5000 Joint Activity Contingency to Account J8150-5430 Professional Fees
for the purposes of amending the current contract with Stearns and Wheler to prepare a
Master Plan and report encompassing said scope of needs for the IAWWTP.
Carried Unanimously
16. 13 DPW - Authorize Mayor to Sign NYS Arterial Maintenance Agreement
By Alderperson Farrell: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
WHEREAS, the City’s State Arterial Agreement with New York State DOT has been
revised due to the additional arterial footage as a result of the Route 96 Octopus Project;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes the Mayor to sign the new State
Arterial Agreement between the City of Ithaca and New York State DOT.
Carried Unanimously
Alderperson Blumenthal arrived at the meeting at 8:15 P.M.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS:
PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
Alderperson Blumenthal announced that the second of at least three planned meetings
on the Southwest Area GEIS would be held on January 19th, 1999 at 7:00 P.M. in the
second floor conference room in City Hall. The subjects will be the visual impact of
development in that area, and either drainage or landfill, depending on the availability of
the consultants. The third meeting will be on February 9th, 1999 at 7:00 P.M. The
location is not yet determined. The topics will be traffic impacts and either landfill or
drainage, depending on which was discussed at the January 19th meeting.
17.1 New Tompkins County Library Entrance – Resolution
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Farrell
WHEREAS, in September of 1998, the County Board of Representatives voted to
relocate the Tompkins County Library to the vacant Woolworth Building on Green
Street, and
WHEREAS, pursuant to that action, the Tompkins County Public Library 2020 Design
Committee was formed to advise the County on issues regarding the design of the new
library, and
January 6, 1999
14
WHEREAS, from the City of Ithaca, one member of Common Council and one member
of Planning Department Staff were invited to serve on the 2020 Committee in an
advisory capacity, and
WHEREAS, the 2020 Committee asked the City’s representatives to report back to the
2020 Committee on design issues considered important to the design of the new library
and its connection to other areas in the city, and
WHEREAS, in response to the request made by the 2020 Committee, planning staff
invited local design professionals, including one architect and three landscape
architects, to participate in a discussion with staff and city representatives to the 2020
Committee regarding design issues related to the new library and its connection to other
parts of the City, and
WHEREAS, on November 10, 1998 the design professionals, together with staff and
city representatives met and discussed, at length, various design options which would
strengthen and enhance connectivity to other areas of the City, and
WHEREAS, while several recommendations were discussed, the design group
concluded that the most important recommendation was that the entrance to the new
library should be located on either the northeast corner of the building, the northwest
corner of the building, or elsewhere along Green Street so that, with additional street
and sidewalk improvements, a direct link between the Library and The Commons could
be created, and
WHEREAS, on December 16, 1998, the Planning and Economic Development
Committee of the Common Council discussed and approved this recommendation; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council does hereby endorse this recommendation and
recommends to the Tompkins County Public Library 2020 Design Committee that the
entrance to the new library be located on either the northeast corner of the building, the
northwest corner of the building, or elsewhere along the Green Street frontage of the
vacant Woolworth building.
Carried Unanimously
17. 2 Intermunicipal City/County Coordinated Planning
Projects – Resolution
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Farrell
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca and Tompkins County have a long history of
intermunicipal cooperation with regard to County projects located within the city, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council would like to maintain and strengthen
this partnership, and
WHEREAS, the County is currently discussing and/or planning several development
and redevelopment projects in the city, and
WHEREAS, many of these projects have the potential for impacts on the city including
land use, economic, social and environmental impacts; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council requests that at least two representatives (an
elected official and a staff member from the appropriate department), be invited by the
County Board of Representatives to participate at the outset as voting members on any
County committee working on a project located within the city that has the potential for
land use, economic, social and/or environmental impacts, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That these representatives be appointed by the Mayor with the consent of
the Common Council, and, be it further
January 6, 1999
15
RESOLVED, That this request apply to both projects currently underway as well as to
future projects.
Carried Unanimously
17.3 Subdivision and Transfer of Surplus Property (Part of 127-1-1) –
Determination of Environmental Significance – Resolution
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Manos
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca acquired parcel 127-1-1 as substitute park land for
Southwest Park, and
WHEREAS, Parcel 127-1-1 contains an additional 3.3 acres of land not needed for the
intended purpose as substitute park land, and
WHEREAS, the surplus portion is zoned for more intensive uses (I-1) than the proposed
park portion of the parcel (FW-1), and
WHEREAS, the subdivision and sale of the surplus property helps secure the
acquisition of other substitute park lands (SW-2 and SW-3) from an adjoining land
owner, and
WHEREAS, appropriate environmental review has been conducted including the
preparation of a Long Environmental Assessment Form (LEAF), and
WHEREAS, the proposed action is a Type I action under the City Environmental Quality
Review Act (CEQR Sec. 176-12B(7)), and
WHEREAS, based on the LEAF, the proposed action will not have a significant effect on
the environment; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Common Council, as lead agency in this matter, hereby adopts
as its own the findings and conclusions more fully set forth on the Long Environmental
Assessment Form dated November 9, 1998, and be it further
RESOLVED, That this Common Council, as lead agency, hereby determines 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 constitutes notice of this negative declaration and that
the City Clerk is hereby directed to file a copy of the same, together with any
attachments, in the City Clerk’s Office, and forward the same to any other parties as
required by law.
Carried Unanimously
17.4 FY 99 CDBG/Authorization to Submit Application – Resolution
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Farrell
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) recognizes the need to support
efforts which promote affordable housing, job creation, and improve public facilities
benefiting Ithaca’s low and moderate income population, and
WHEREAS, on November 25, 1998 the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) announced the availability of up to $400,000 in funding through the
CDBG Small Cities program for single purpose proposals to address housing, public
facilities or economic development needs, and
WHEREAS, such application must be submitted by February 3, 1999, and
WHEREAS, the IURA has issued two requests for proposals seeking projects from for-
profit and not-for-profit sponsors, and
January 6, 1999
16
WHEREAS, eligible projects submitted to the IURA were evaluated by the IURA’s
Community Advisory Committee (CAC), and
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) endorsed the CAC’s
recommendations; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council hereby endorses the IURA recommendation and
authorizes submission of up to a $400,000 FY 1999 CDBG Small Cities application to
include the INHS Citywide First Time Homebuyers Program/IDA for new Home Ownership
project, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Mayor, upon the advice of the Executive Director of the IURA and
City Attorney, is authorized to execute all necessary and appropriate documents for the
submission of this application and acceptance of funding, including, but not limited to,
any required certifications.
Carried Unanimously
17.5 FY 99 Canal Corridor Initiative/Authorization to Submit Application –
Resolution
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Farrell
WHEREAS, on November 25, 1998 the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) announced the availability of a special category of funding from the
CDBG Small Cities program through its Canal Corridor Initiative (CCI) to assist
communities on the New York State Barge Canal System or connecting waterways in
revitalizing their waterfront areas, and
WHEREAS, such Canal Corridor Initiative application must be submitted by February 3,
1999, and
WHEREAS, the funding available through this initiative, Section 108 loans and Small
Cities Community Development Block Grant Funds, is intended to leverage private sector
commitments to develop projects that lead to the physical and economic revitalization of
these waterfront areas including the creation of jobs and expansion of the local tax base,
and
WHEREAS, the City may apply for a maximum of $300,000 of grant funds through the CCI
program and future loan funding commitments of at least $1,000,000 through the Section
108 loan guarantee program assistance in conjunction with the CCI program, and
WHEREAS, this present Canal Corridor Initiative application is only for the grant
component of the total funding, and
WHEREAS, the IURA has issued two requests for proposals seeking projects, and
WHEREAS, eligible proposals submitted to the IURA were evaluated and ranked by the
IURA’s Community Advisory Committee, and
WHEREAS, the IURA endorses the Community Advisory Committee’s recommendations;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council hereby endorses the IURA recommendation and
authorizes submission of up to a FY 1999 Canal Corridor Initiative application to include
one or more of the following economic development projects, ranked in priority order with
the highest ranked project listed first:
1. Building Links and Neighborhood Alternatives, LLC proposal for the Lower
West End Complementary Health Care Center
2. M/V Manhattan proposal to acquire an excursion vessel
January 6, 1999
17
3. Boulevard Development proposal for a waterfront restaurant and public
waterfront promenade on Inlet Island at 407 Taughannock Boulevard, and be it
further
RESOLVED, That in the event that the above listed priority projects cannot satisfactorily
address feasibility issues and rating criteria by the submission deadline, the Common
Council hereby authorizes submission of an alternative FY 1999 Canal Corridor
Initiatives application proposal to capitalize a generic loan/grant pool to assist
unspecified canal-related economic development, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Mayor, upon the advice of the Executive Director of the IURA and
City Attorney, is authorized to execute all necessary and appropriate documents for the
submission of this application and acceptance of funding, including, but not limited to,
any required certifications.
Cynthia Yahn clarified that there are two companies working on these projects:
Neighborhood Alternatives, LLC and Building Links.
Alderperson Shenk asked why the prioritization of projects was inserted in the
Resolution. Mayor Cohen stated that if Project #1 is deemed not feasible, then they will
go to Project #2, and so on. All of the projects will not be submitted.
A vote on the Resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
17.6 & 17.7 Amending the Community Development Abbreviated Consolidated
Plan – Substitute Resolution
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Spielholz
WHEREAS, the Community Development Abbreviated Consolidated Plan adopted in
1996, and amended in 1997, outlines a number of community development needs in the
area of affordable housing, economic development, public infrastructure, and public
services, and
WHEREAS, the Notices of Funding Availability issued by the U.S Department of
Housing & Urban Development (HUD) for the 1999 Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) and the 1999 Canal Corridor Initiative (CCI) programs requires
submission of an Abbreviated Consolidated Plan that covers activities proposed in the
1999 HUD grant applications, and
WHEREAS, the 1999 HUD grant applications propose new housing and economic
development activities not adequately addressed in the Abbreviated Consolidated Plan,
and
WHEREAS, the City has held two public hearings regarding amending the Abbreviated
Consolidated Plan, and
WHEREAS, according to the City’s Citizen Participation Plan, the Community Advisory
Committee is responsible for providing advise on development of the Abbreviated
Consolidated Plan, and
WHEREAS, following the second public hearing, the Community Advisory Committee
developed amendments to the Abbreviated Consolidated Plan; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council hereby endorses the Community Advisory
Committee’s recommended amendments to the Abbreviated Consolidated Plan,
including the following amendments:
Assessment of Economic Development Needs: The Economic Development needs
of the City of Ithaca are drawn extensively from the recently completed Economic
January 6, 1999
18
Development Zone application submitted to New York State in 1994, and are documented
in the Needs Section of the CCI application. The planning effort for this application drew
from a wide variety of private and public sector individuals and organizations actively
involved in promoting the economic development of the community. The Economic
Development needs of the City include job skill training and enhancement for the city’s low
income and minority population, technical and financial assistance to persons committed
to starting their own business, diversification of the employment base, and financial
assistance to local businesses positioned to locate within the CDBG target areas or
expand businesses already there.
Assessment of Needs – Housing: The City of Ithaca, as documented in the Needs
Section of the CDBG application and in the 1995 CHAS has a variety of housing needs
including financial and technical support for first time homeowners, financial support for
owner occupied home improvements and financial support for the maintenance of both
non-profit and for profit affordable rental housing.
Resources – Economic Development: The City’s Director of Economic
Development, and the Community Development Planner both work very closely with the
staff of Tompkins County Area Development, a county wide economic development
agency, in providing technical and financial assistance to businesses in the community.
The City’s financial institutions participate fully in developing the local economy. Both of
the major institutions have committed funds, in the form of dedicated loan pools, to assist
in the various initiatives described in this and other funding applications.
There is a need for other forms of below market rate financing to induce the
redevelopment of areas such as Inlet Island in a manner consistent with local plans and
consistent with the Community Development/HUD objectives. Attractive financing and
other incentives are essential to the City’s ability to achieve these objectives.
Resources – Housing: The City’s ability to address its housing needs is predicated
on successful application to the CDBG program. While the City makes an annual
contribution of over $80,000 to support the Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services (INHS)
organization, programmatic support is provided by a public and private partnership effort.
The City’s successful participation in the CDBG program has leveraged large amounts of
private sector funding for affordable housing initiatives, primarily though the City’s financial
institutions. These institutions have also provided key personnel to serve on the Board and
various committees of INHS. This partnership effort is described in nearly every activity
presented in this application. In every instance INHS is the nonprofit housing provider. The
staff of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency manages three housing and rental rehab
programs. In addition, INHS also has a capable staff that includes loan counseling and
processing personnel, a housing rehabilitation group, rental housing personnel and a
director.
Planning Activities – Economic Development Initiatives: The City’s proposed Canal
Corridor Initiative application includes funding for one financial assistance package of
$300,000, for a project that will create a total of 10 new, commercial jobs available to low
and moderate income individuals. This project will further the objective of developing
Ithaca’s West End/Canal Corridor area, by making a significant start on the physical and
economic revitalization of the City’s waterfront area assets and create employment
opportunities for low and moderate income persons. This proposed private and public
sector collaboration (private developers in partnership with the CDC) is the catalyst to
creating a critical mass of new development activity essential to revitalization of the entire
Canal Corridor area.
Planned Activities – Housing Initiative: The application describes one affordable
housing initiative. This activity will require a total of $400,000 in CDBG funding. These
funds will create 24 new first time homeownership opportunities for low- and moderate-
income households.
Carried Unanimously
January 6, 1999
19
Alderperson Blumenthal and Mayor Cohen commended the CDBG staff, the Ithaca Urban
Renewal Agency, the Citizen’s Advisory Committee, and all of the other committees and
applicants on behalf of Common Council.
18. BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
18.1 Local Law Providing for a Partial Tax Exemption for Real
Property Owned by Persons with Disabilities Whose Incomes are Limited by
Reason of Such Disabilities
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
LOCAL LAW # -1998
BE IT ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of Ithaca as follows:
Section 1. A. This law is enacted pursuant to Section 459-c of the Real Property
Tax Law of the State of New York as enacted by Chapter 315 of the laws
of 1997.
B. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 459-c of the Real
Property Tax Law of the State of New York, real property located in the
City of Ithaca owned by one or more persons each of whom is disabled
and whose income is limited by reason of such disability or real property
owned by husband and wife, or siblings one of whom is disabled and
whose income is limited by reason of such disability shall be partially
exempt from taxation by said City for the applicable taxes specified in
Section 459-c based upon the income of the owner or combined income of
the owners. Such partial exemption shall be to the extent set forth in the
schedule following:
ANNUAL INCOME OF OWNER PERCENTAGE ASSESSED
OR COMBINED ANNUAL VALUATION EXEMPT
INCOME OF OWNERS FROM TAXATION
Less than $18,500 50 percent
Equal to or more than 18,500 45 percent
but less than 19,499.99
Equal to or more than 19,500 40 percent
but less than 20,499.99
Equal to or more than 20,500 35 percent
but less than 21, 499.99
Equal to or more than 21,500 30 percent
but less than 22,499.99
Equal to or more than 22,500 25 percent
but less than 23,499.99
Equal to or more than 23,500 20 percent
but less than 24,499.99
Equal to or more than 24,500 15 percent
but less than 25,499.99
Equal to or more than 25,500 10 percent
but less than 26,499.99
January 6, 1999
20
Equal to or more than 26,500 5 percent
but less than 27,499.99
This partial exemption provided by this law shall, however, be limited to such
property and persons as meet the conditions, qualifications, exclusions, and
limitations set forth in Section 459-c of the Real Property Tax Law of the State of
New York. This local law shall be administered in accordance with said sections
of the Real Property Tax Law, as now adopted, and as they may be amended
from time to time, and the provisions of said section as provided in Section 459-c,
shall be applicable to the effectuation of the exemption provided for in this local
law.
C. Title to that portion of real property owned by a cooperative
apartment corporation in which a tenant-stockholder of such corporation resides,
and which is represented by his share or shares of stock in such corporation as
determined by its or their proportional relationship to the total outstanding stock
of the corporation, including that owned by the corporation, shall be deemed to
be vested in such tenant- stockholder.
D. Applications for such exemption must be made by the owner or all
of the owners of the property on forms prescribed by the State Board to be
furnished by the Tompkins County Assessment Department and shall furnish the
information and be executed in the manner required or prescribed in such forms,
and shall be filed in the Assessment Department office on or before the
appropriate taxable status date.
E. Any conviction of having made any willful false statement of the
application for such exemption shall be punishable by a fine of not more than
$100 and shall disqualify the applicant or applicants from further exemption for a
period of five (5) years.
F. This local law, shall be applicable to the City for the year 1999 and
thereafter and the provisions of said law shall govern the granting of an
exemption under Section 459-c, notwithstanding any contrary provisions of the
section.
SECTION II. This local law shall take effect immediately in accordance with law upon
filing with the Secretary of State.
Carried Unanimously
18.2 Common Council - Rejection of City Participation in Permanent Sales Tax
Exemption on Clothing and Footwear – Resolution
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
WHEREAS, the State Legislature's proposal for eliminating the sales tax on clothing and
footwear purchases, within state-set dollar limits, ignores the financial impact on
municipalities that might otherwise wish to participate, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca would be forced to reduce staff and services or raise the
property tax, a form of taxation more regressive than the sales tax, to close the budget
gap, and
WHEREAS, this problem is critical in cities such as Ithaca where an unusually high
proportion of property is tax-exempt and the sales tax helps spread the tax burden more
fairly, and
WHEREAS, the year-round clothing exemption would mean revenue losses to the City of
Ithaca estimated at $150,000 a year (equivalent to a 2 percent increase in property taxes),
in addition to the loss of up to $200,000 annually resulting from the state-imposed
January 6, 1999
21
exemption of college textbooks, thus hampering our ability to offset the state Legislature's
cutback of $1 million in annual "revenue-sharing" aid eight years ago, and
WHEREAS, New York State has many different sources of tax revenue currently yielding
big dividends to which it can allowably turn, but the state's localities currently have very
few options, meaning that it's time for state legislators to expand revenue-sharing with
cities, towns and counties or else allow them new ways of raising their own revenues;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Common Council notifies our state legislators and legislative
leaders that the City of Ithaca can not afford to participate in year-round sales tax
exemptions for clothing and footwear and therefore joins with Tompkins County and other
New York municipalities in rejecting this program, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca requests that Governor Pataki and the Legislature
look for ways of increasing the revenues needed to operate the state's localities, and
meanwhile that they consider the impact on localities before adopting tax exemptions and
other policies that may endanger their financial health.
Alderperson Marcham stated that only five New York Counties outside of the New York
metropolitan area have adopted the exemptions.
Mayor Cohen said that once a County agrees to the exemptions, they cannot opt out
however, if a County opts out now, they can sign on at a later date. A vote on the
Resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
18.3 Youth Bureau - Appointment of Deputy Youth Bureau Director – Resolution
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the 1999 Youth Bureau Authorized
Personnel Roster as follows:
Delete: One (1) Special Assistant to the Director (35 hours)
Add: One (1) Deputy Youth Bureau Director (40 hours)
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the position of Deputy Youth Bureau Director be hereby assigned to the
Management Compensation Plan with a 1999 salary range of $35,825 to $46,125, and, be
it further
RESOLVED, That Alice Green is hereby provisionally appointed to the position of Deputy
Youth Bureau Director at a 1999 Management Compensation Plan annual salary of
$45,715, effective January 11, 1999, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That said appointment shall be contingent upon all the necessary approvals
by the Civil Service Commission at its next meeting.
Carried Unanimously
18.4 Youth Bureau - Appointment of Recreation Supervisor – Resolution
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Spielholz
RESOLVED, That Tim Little be reinstated and appointed to the position of Recreation
Supervisor at the Youth Bureau at a 1999 annual salary of $23,951, effective January 11,
1999.
Carried Unanimously
January 6, 1999
22
18.5 DPW - Request Funds for Parking Lot Maintenance Equipment – Resolution
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded By Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, the City’s downtown parking equipment maintenance agreement has expired
and City staff recommend an annual maintenance agreement for the parking equipment
be established, and
WHEREAS, the annual parking maintenance agreement will cost approximately $960 per
month, or $11,519 annually, and
WHEREAS, the maintenance agreement will be effective November 15, 1998 to
December 31, 1999; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes the Superintendent of Public
Works to enter into an annual maintenance agreement with CTR Systems for the City’s
downtown parking lot equipment at a cost not to exceed $12,480 for the period November
15, 1998 to December 31, 1999, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That funds needed for said maintenance agreement shall be derived from
within existing DPW budget appropriations for 1998 and 1999.
Carried Unanimously
18.6 Finance/Controller - Approval of Program Budgets for 1999 – Resolution
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Manos
WHEREAS, the City has been phasing in the concept of program budgets since 1997, and
WHEREAS, many of the City departments submitted 1999 program budgets to the Mayor
in the required program budget format, and
WHEREAS, Common Council would like to test program budgeting for 1999, including
payroll, revenues and expenditures, in the areas of DPW, Fire, Police and Youth Bureau;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes the use of total program budgets in
the Department of Public Works, Fire Department, Police Department and Youth Bureau
for 1999 and beyond, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the City Controller’s Office in conjunction with said departments shall
report back to the Budget and Administration Committee and the Program Analysis
Committee with quarterly reports in 1999 to determine the overall effectiveness and benefit
of program budgeting to the City for future years.
Carried Unanimously
18.7 Finance - Authorize Sale of Surplus Equipment – Resolution
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Spielholz
WHEREAS, the Department of Public Works purchased a multipurpose truck crane during
1998 with water and sewer funds for use in the Water and Sewer Division of Public Works,
and
WHEREAS, after a few hours of crane operation by DPW staff, it was determined that the
piece of equipment, which had a cost of $94,303 with trade-in, was not suited to handle
the needs of the Water and Sewer Division of Public Works, and
WHEREAS, to maximize the return on the equipment sale, the City has found a municipal
buyer for the equipment at a cost of $90,000; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby declares the 1998 Multipurpose Truck Crane
surplus City equipment and authorizes the sale of said equipment to Onondaga County for
the purchase price of $90,000, and, be it further
January 6, 1999
23
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes the Controller's Office and DPW to
take all necessary steps to complete the sale of said equipment.
Carried Unanimously
18.8 POSTERING ORDINANCE REVISION – REPORT
Alderperson Marcham stated that this Ordinance is in the process of being drafted.
Violation fines are still being discussed.
18.9 MUTUAL HOUSING REQUEST FOR ADMINISTRATIVE FUNDS – REPORT
Alderperson Marcham stated that this request is before the IURA, and hopefully will be
concluded shortly.
The request for money from the City from the Ithaca Downtown Partnership to increase
the salary of their Director is before Council. They will look for funding sources and will
bring it to the B&A Committee for discussion this month.
NEW BUSINESS:
20.1 Appointment of Marriage Officers
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Taylor
RESOLVED, That Diann Sams, Paulette Manos, Patricia Vaughan, and Joan Spielholz
be appointed Marriage Officers with a term to expire January 6, 2000.
Carried Unanimously
20.2 Support of NYS and Federal Hate Crime Bills
By Alderperson Sams: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
WHEREAS, we are aware of the existence of hate organizations in our state and
country, and of the stated intention to organize such a group in our county, and
WHEREAS, in response to this threat over 500 members of our community under the
leadership of the Coalition for Community Unity rallied and met at the Southside
Community Center to express their opposition, and
WHEREAS, over 450 people signed the following Pledge for Community Unity and
contributed money to have it printed in the Ithaca Times: We pledge that we will not
condone nor support intolerance in any way. We will challenge bigotry wherever it is
found, using non-violent and lawful means to get the message of unity across to
everyone. We will model acceptable and inclusive behavior in public, and
WHEREAS, Common Council supports and urges the New York State Legislators to
pass the uni-bill No. 572 sponsored by Senator Roy Goodman and the hate crime bill
No. HR3081 at the federal legislative level originally sponsored by Representative
Charles Schumer; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council adds its support to those promoting respect for the
rights of all our citizens and for community unity against intolerance, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council urges the Tompkins County Board of
Representatives and the Ithaca City School District Board of Education to adopt similar
resolutions.
Carried Unanimously
Executive Session:
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Hershey
RESOLVED, That Common Council adjourn into Executive Session to discuss a
Collective Bargaining Item.
Carried Unanimously
Regular Session:
Common Council reconvened into Regular Session at 9:25 with no action taken.
January 6, 1999
24
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 9:40 P.M.
________________________ _______________________
Julie Conley Holcomb, CMC Alan J. Cohen,
City Clerk Mayor