HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-1999-02-03
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COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting 7:00 P.M. February 3, 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
City Controller – Cafferillo
Deputy Controller – Thayer
Building Commissioner – Eckstrom
Planning and Development Director – Van Cort
Superintendent of Public Works – Gray
Community Development Planner - Bohn
Fire Chief – Wilbur
Human Resources Director – Michell-Nunn
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Cohen led all present in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American flag.
ADDITIONS TO OR DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA:
Budget and Administration Committee
Alderperson Marcham requested the deletion of Item 18.7 - City Attorney - Approval for
Sale of Vacant Industrial Land – Resolution, and Item 18.9 - Human Resources -
Approval of Expanded Role of Vacancy Review Committee – Resolution.
She further requested the addition of Item 18.12 Ithaca Police Department Personnel
Roster – Resolution.
No Council member objected.
New Business
Mayor Cohen requested the addition of Computer Networking Process – Report.
YOUTH AWARD:
The Youth Award presentation was postponed until March, 1999.
SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
Ithaca Fire Department Chief Wilbur and Commissioner Romanowski recognized two
extraordinary firefighters: On December 11, 1998, Shawn Flynn saved an 84-year-old
woman from choking, and Otis Jackson was praised for his actions on December 19,
1998, during the Chestnut Hill Apartment fire.
PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
P. Douglas Wright, President of the PBA, introduced himself and noted that he looks
forward to working with Common Council
Charles Evans, Tompkins County Board of Representatives and a member of the
Library Committee – Proposal for Library Coffee Shop operated by Challenge Industries
Joel Harlan, Town of Dryden - Woolworth’s Restaurant
Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca – pollution concerns
February 3, 1999
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David Nutter, City of Ithaca - Federal Transportation Enhancement Funds, pothole
reporting system, sidewalk improvements, and safety training for bicycle riders, as well
as bicycle registration and police enforcement for bicyclists
Mack Travis, President of the Ithaca Downtown Partnership, thanked the Budget and
Administration Committee for approving additional funding for the IPD Director.
RESPONSE TO THE PUBLIC:
Alderperson Hershey says that his office employs people from Challenge Industries,
and it is a great organization.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR:
Mayor Cohen proclaimed Catholic Schools Week in the City of Ithaca.
Mayor Cohen proclaimed the year of 1999 as the Year of the Older Person in the City of
Ithaca, in recognition of the Tompkins County Office of the Aging.
REPORT OF CITY BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES:
Report of the City Attorney:
City Attorney Geldenhuys stated that the Appellate Division upheld the Board of Zoning
Appeals’ decision in the case of EPG Associates vs. the City of Ithaca. In this case
EPG turned a two-unit dwelling into a one-unit dwelling, and claimed they had
grandfathered occupancy rights. The Board of Zoning Appeals decided they lost
grandfathered rights.
Report of the Ithaca Neighborhoods Council:
George Frantz stated that the Neighborhood Council would like a 25-mile per hour
speed limit throughout the City of Ithaca. He requested that the City pursue this through
the New York State legislature. A section of Route 13 could remain at the current speed
limit of 30 miles per hour. This proposal would increase the safety of residents,
pedestrians, and bicyclists, as well as reduce noise and the impact of excessive traffic.
The Police would be able to handle speed more effectively, and he asked that the
matter be referred to the Community Issues Committee.
Report of the Board of Fire Commissioners:
Cynthia Yahn, reported that there was no news regarding the receipt of North Country
mutual aid. Syracuse has reimbursed Ithaca for aid during their microburst event. The
Ithaca Fire Department is in the process of hiring 3 new firefighters, and a MOU with the
Town of Ithaca is in process.
She spoke about the effect the Rabinor decision had on the Fire Department, and
handed out a severe weather advisory brochure. She further discussed the replacement
of self-contained breathing apparatuses, a new ladder and new pumper bids.
Critical Incident Training for the City, Town, and County departments, and Training for
the tower project are commencing. She further reported on a Cornell University student
and pre-orientation service training, one-on-one volunteer recruitment seminar, and
negotiations with Ithaca College.
CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:
16.1 Planning - Approval of Southwest Area Land Use Plan GEIS Contract
Addendum
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, on May 6, 1998, the Common Council, as Lead Agency, determined that the
Southwest Area Land Use Plan may have a significant environmental impact and directed
preparation of a Generic Environmental Impact Statement (GEIS), and
February 3, 1999
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WHEREAS, on December 16, 1998, the City of Ithaca entered into a Contract for
Professional Services with Clark Patterson Associates, of Rochester, New York, to
prepare the GEIS, and
WHEREAS, the Contract for Professional Services includes provisions for possible
addendum to the contract for additional services over and beyond the original Scope of
Services, and
WHEREAS, the City requires additional services to be performed as follows:
The Contractor agrees to print and deliver 31 copies of the draft GEIS report and
appendix after completeness is determined by the Lead Agency with the
appropriate changes, and
WHEREAS, the Contractor is desirous of performing such additional services and the City
is desirous of amending the Contract for Professional Services to provide such services;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Mayor for the City of Ithaca is hereby authorized and directed to
enter into a Contract Addendum with Clark Patterson Associates for additional services as
described above for an amount not to exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000), including all
reimbursable expenses, and be it further
RESOLVED, That said funds shall be derived from Capital Project #367 Southwest Area
Land Use Plan.
Carried Unanimously
16.2 City Attorney - Request for Transfer of Funds for Salary Adjustment
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, by resolution adopted on April 1, 1998, Common Council created the position
of legal associate with a salary range of$25,000.00 - $30,000.00 prior to admission to the
New York State Bar, and $30,000.00 to $35,000.00 after such admission, and
WHEREAS, Khandikile Sokoni, who currently holds the position of legal associate, was
admitted to the New York State Bar on January 26, 1999; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the legal associate's salary shall be increased to $30,000.00 per year
effective January 26, 1999, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the sum of $5,000.00 shall be transferred from account A1990
Unrestricted Contingency to account A1420-5105 City Attorney Salaries for said
adjustment.
Carried Unanimously
16.3 Chamberlain - Approval of Amendment to Authorized Personnel Roster
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, the Chamberlain's Office is recommending to reclassify a position in its office
due to a retirement and to improve staffing needs; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Authorized Personnel Roster for the Chamberlain's Office be
amended as follows:
Delete: One (1) Principal Account Clerk
Add: One (1) Customer Service Representative
Carried Unanimously
February 3, 1999
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16.4 Building Department - Approval of Amendment to Authorized Personnel Roster
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
RESOLVED, That the Building Department Authorized Personnel Roster be amended to
add one Permit Clerk, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the position of Permit Clerk be assigned to the CSEA Administrative
Unit at grade 9 of the administrative salary plan, and
RESOLVED, That the position of Permit Clerk be shown as a funded roster position and
that the position of Senior Typist be shown as an unfunded roster position, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Building Commissioner be authorized to make a provisional
appointment effective February 8, 1999, and be it further
RESOLVED, That needed funds for said roster amendment shall be derived within the
existing Building Department Budget.
Carried Unanimously
16.5 GIAC - Request to Amend Personnel Roster and Budget
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the 1999 GIAC Authorized Personnel
Roster as follows:
Delete: One (1) Senior Stenographer (35 hours)
Add: One (1) Administrative Secretary (35 hours)
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Julia Ortiz be appointed to the position of Administrative Secretary
assigned to the Confidential Unit at a 1999 salary of $23,001 effective February 4, 1999,
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an amount not to exceed $1,704 be transferred from account A1990
Restricted Contingency to account A7311-5110-1100 Staff Salaries to fund said
amendment.
Carried Unanimously
16.6 Youth Bureau - Request to Amend 1999 Cass Park Budget
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, the Cass Park Ice Rink is continuing to sell advertising space on the rink's
dasher boards, and
WHEREAS, the estimated cost to prepare this phase of dasher boards for advertising is
$4,000 for printing and other associated costs, and
WHEREAS, the cost of said preparation would be offset by advertising revenue; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 1999 Youth Bureau Budget is hereby amended as follows for the
purpose of selling Cass Park Rink dasher board advertising:
Increase Revenue Account:
A7310-2070-1511 $4,000
Increase Appropriation Account:
A7310-5477-1511 $4,000
Carried Unanimously
February 3, 1999
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16.7 Youth Bureau - Request to Amend 1999 Youth Development Budget
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, the Youth Bureau has been notified by the Ithaca City School District that it
will receive $4,159 in additional revenue to support and expand the current community
learning center development at Beverly J. Martin Elementary School; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 1999 Youth Development Budget is hereby amended as follows:
Increase Revenue Account:
A7310-3820-1203 Special Projects 4,159
Increase Appropriation Accounts:
A7310-5120-1203 P/T Seasonal 2,160
A7310-9030-1203 Social Security 166
A7310-9040-1203 Workers' Compensation 1,833
Carried Unanimously
16.8 Youth Bureau - Approval of Fund Transfer for HVAC Y2K Compliance
Upgrade
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Youth Bureau renovation project authorized an electronic HVAC
monitoring system, and
WHEREAS, the software supporting the HVAC system was not found to be Y2K
compliant, and
WHEREAS, a computer upgrade for the system has been incorporated into the City-wide
Y2K Computer Acquisition Capital Project, but the software upgrade was not; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes the Youth Bureau to purchase a
software patch for the HVAC system from PASCO Inc., 25 Main Street, Camillus, New
York 13031, for an amount not to exceed $2,675 to be charged to the Y2K Contingency
Fund, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes the transfer of an amount not to
exceed $2,675 from account A1990 Restricted Contingency to account A7310-5225-1400
for said software upgrade.
Carried Unanimously
16.9 Human Resources - Approve Transfer of Funds for Work Environment Task
Force Consultant
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, the City has formed a Work Environment Task Force Employee Assessment
Sub-committee to assess the quality of work life for City employees, and
WHEREAS, the Work Environment Task Force will use a consultant to assist the Task
Force in its quality of work life assessment, and
WHEREAS, the Task Force is recommending to hire Programs for Employment and
Workplace Systems from Cornell University at an estimated cost of $28,000 to performing
the following:
Survey Design
Validity Review & Recommendations
Survey Administration
Data Processing
Small Group Processes
February 3, 1999
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Synthesis of Predictions
Immediate Action Teams
Interactive Data Analysis
Long Term Change Strategies
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes the Mayor to sign the contract
between the City and Programs for Employment and Workplace Systems at a cost not to
exceed $28,000, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby approves the transfer of an amount not to
exceed $20,000 from account A1990 Restricted Contingency to account A1430-5435
Human Resources Contracts for the purposes of hiring said consultant, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the remaining $8,000 needed to hire the workforce consultant shall be
derived from within existing funds in the Human Resources 1999 Budget.
Carried Unanimously
16.10 DPW - Approval of Standardization of City-Wide Safety Equipment
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, the majority of City owned and maintained buildings are equipped with
Simplex fire and smoke detectors, alarms and control equipment, and
WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the City for reasons of efficiency, compatibility and
economics to standardize fire and smoke detectors, alarms and control equipment from a
single manufacturer, as more fully spelled out in the following items:
1. Several City buildings, namely, G.I.A.C., Ithaca Youth Bureau, Southside
Community Center, City Hall, Ithaca Police Department and Central Fire Station
presently have Simplex detection/alarm systems. Use of standardized equipment will
allow for simplified inventory and will permit City staff to make quick response, short-
term repairs.
2. This equipment will make it possible to assure compatibility with all similarly
equipped City buildings.
3. Maintenance and service contracts for a single type of equipment Citywide will be
easier to manage and should be more cost effective. Simplex is unique among
detection system in that it utilizes and services only Simplex equipment – there is no
mixing and matching of components.
4. Simplex equipment is very highly regarded by the Ithaca Fire Department and is
readily available. It is commonly used in many other public buildings.
5. Simplex will guarantee a credit for existing new equipment in the Ithaca Police
Department for the current system upgrade;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That pursuant to section 103, subdivision 5-A of the General Municipal Law
of the State of New York, Common Council hereby authorizes the standardization on
Simplex equipment as the type of equipment to be used and purchased by the City of
Ithaca during 1999 and 2000 for fire and smoke detection as well as related alarm and
control equipment.
Carried Unanimously
February 3, 1999
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16.11 Finance - Request to Approve 1997 Annual Financial Report
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
RESOLVED, That the 1997 Annual Financial Report prepared by the Finance Department
be approved as presented.
Carried Unanimously
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS:
PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
17.1 Commercial Food Service in the County Library
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
WHEREAS, in September of 1998, the Tompkins County Board of Representatives
voted to relocate the County Library to the vacant Woolworth Building on Green Street,
and
WHEREAS, one major benefit to the city and its downtown merchants cited by the
County Board of Representatives during the debate over the library's relocation was that
it would generate significantly more foot traffic in the downtown business district, and
WHEREAS, there was considerable skepticism among downtown merchants that such
foot traffic would result from the library, and
WHEREAS, Common Council is committed to maximizing the benefit of the new library
to the city by encouraging library patrons to cross Green street and sample the many
excellent goods and services available in the city's downtown business district, and
WHEREAS, in January 1999, Common Council passed a resolution urging the County
to locate the new library entrance on Green Street, as one such measure to strengthen
the link between the library and the downtown business district, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Public Library 2020 Design Committee has asked for
the City of Ithaca's input on the desirability of including a commercial food service
establishment such as a coffee shop in design plans, and
WHEREAS, strong concerns have been raised that a coffee shop in the new library
could provide a disincentive for library patrons to venture forth into the central business
district, thus representing at best, a missed opportunity for strengthening the library's
connection to the downtown business district, and
WHEREAS, Common Council believes that this is but one of the design and planning
issues which will affect the impact of the library on downtown Ithaca, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council urges the Tompkins County Board of
Representatives to give serious consideration to concerns that a commercial food
service establishment in the library would not encourage foot traffic to the rest of the
downtown and, more importantly, to weigh all aspects of the new library's design with an
eye toward their impact on the downtown business district, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council remains committed to working with the County and
the Ithaca Downtown Partnership to develop strategies for enhancing the connectivity
between the new library and the downtown in order to make the new library a valuable
asset to the central business district as well as to library patrons.
Alderperson Marcham stated that she is opposed to this Resolution as she does not
believe that it is strong enough to influence the Tompkins County Board of
Representatives. The County promised more foot traffic downtown with the addition of a
library, and she supports the Central Business District.
February 3, 1999
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Alderperson Blumenthal noted that Kathleen Shickel reported three businesses are
interested in opening a coffee shop in City Hall Annex.
Alderperson Hershey stated he supports Alderperson Marcham’s statement, but he will
vote in favor of the Resolution.
Alderperson Manos said there was a discussion held at the Democratic Caucus without
Republican or public representation.
Mayor Cohen stated he supports Alderperson Marcham’s statement.
A vote on the Resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes: (8) Manos, Shenk, Hershey, Farrell, Blumenthal, Vaughan,
Sams, Spielholz
Nays: (2) Taylor, Marcham
Carried
17.2 Canal Corridor Initiative - Authorization to Submit a $340,000 Section 108
Loan Application on behalf of Ithaca Landing Associates, LLC- Resolution
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has made
available a special category of funding through its Canal Corridor Initiative to assist
communities on the New York State Barge Canal System in revitalizing their waterfront
areas, and
WHEREAS, the funding intended through this initiative, Section 108 loans and Small
Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 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, HUD, in order to maximize the impact on revitalizing the canal system in
New York State, has indicated a desire to utilize the CDBG funds allocated for the
Initiative to leverage increased use of the Section 108 program, and
WHEREAS, HUD approved the grant components of the City of Ithaca’s 1997 Canal
Corridor Initiative application and authorized application by the City for Section 108
loans for the Marina Realty of Ithaca, LLC project and the Ithaca Landing Associates,
LLC project, and
WHEREAS, if approved, HUD will make a Section 108 loan to the City which in turn will
make a loan to a private sector partner to retire the Section 108 loan, and
WHEREAS, Ithaca Landing Associates, LLC (ILA) has submitted a loan request to the
City for a $340,000 Section 108 loan, such funds to be used for acquisition of the Old
Port Harbor restaurant site, and
WHEREAS, the proposed ILA project involves the acquisition and renovation of the Old
Port Harbor restaurant property to substantially upgrade the dining facility, improve the
overall site plan and parking, and allow for the construction of a 210-foot public
promenade and dock along the waterfront and will result in the creation of 12 FTE jobs
available to low- and moderate-income persons, and
WHEREAS, ILA has secured a $300,000 loan commitment from Marine Midland Bank
and the principles of Ithaca Landing Associates have committed $80,000 in equity in the
project, and
February 3, 1999
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WHEREAS, $234,000 in CCI grants to construct the public promenade are contingent
on undertaking the Ithaca Landing Associates project, and
WHEREAS, a credit analysis has been completed reviewing financial projections and
collateral/security issues of the ILA project that finds:
1. there appears to be sufficient cash flow to service the projected debt;
2. the value of collateral pledged will fully secure the loan;
3. substantial corporate and personal guarantees pledged by the principals further
secure the debt, and
4. there is an acceptable level of risk for the proposed financing;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Common Council hereby authorizes the submission of $340,000
Section 108 Loan application on behalf of Ithaca Landing Associates, LLC to HUD,
subject to the Mayor’s satisfaction that concerns raised about the ability for the
principals to transfer assets and shield assets pledged in the personal guarantees have
been resolved, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Mayor, upon the advice of the Director of Planning and
Development and the City Attorney, is authorized to execute all necessary and
appropriate documents for the submission, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Mayor, upon the advice of the Director of Planning and
Development and the City Attorney, is authorized to execute all necessary and
appropriate documents to receive such funds provided there is no special requirement
by HUD to pledge existing housing or community development revolving loan funds to
secure the loan.
Carried Unanimously
17.3 Adoption of the Amended Inlet Island Urban Design Plan – Resolution
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Farrell
WHEREAS, on November 4, 1998 the City of Ithaca Common Council adopted the Inlet
Island Urban Design Plan as a component of the City of Ithaca’s Comprehensive Plan,
subject to final editorial approval of the revisions, and
WHEREAS, the revisions were reviewed and approved at the Planning and Economic
Development Committee on January 20, 1999; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED That Common Council hereby approves the Inlet Island Urban Design Plan
as revised.
Carried Unanimously
17.4 An Ordinance Amending The “Official Zoning Map of the City of Ithaca,
New York” of Chapter 325 entitled “Zoning” of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code --
Call for Public Hearing
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Manos
RESOLVED, that Ordinance 99 -_____ entitled “An Ordinance Amending The “Official
Zoning Map of the City of Ithaca, New York” of Chapter 325 entitled “Zoning” of the City
of Ithaca Municipal Code” is introduced before the Common Council of the City of
Ithaca, New York, and be it further
RESOLVED, the Common Council shall hold a public hearing in the matter of the
adoption of the aforesaid ordinance in the Common Council Chambers, City Hall, 108
East Green Street, in the City of Ithaca, on Wednesday, March 3, 1999 at 7:00 p.m.,
and be it further
February 3, 1999
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RESOLVED, that the City Clerk shall give notice of such public hearing by the
publication of a notice in the official newspaper specifying the time when and the place
where such public hearing will be held, and in general terms describing the proposed
ordinance. This notice shall be published once at least fifteen (15) days prior to the
public hearing, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the City Clerk shall transmit forthwith to the Tompkins County
Planning Board and to the City of Ithaca Planning and Development Board true and
exact copies of the proposed zoning ordinance for their reports thereon.
The Ordinance to be considered reads as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 99 -____
NOW BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of Ithaca,
New York, as follows:
Section 1. The Official Zoning Map of the City of Ithaca, New York of Chapter 325
entitled “Zoning” of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code is hereby amended as follows:
The zone district designation for the following tracts of land from P-1 to U-1:
The total area of parcels 9.-6-3, 9.-6-4, 9.-6-10, 9.-6-11, together with the
common lanes which abut the area encompassed by these tax parcels on the east and
west sides.
Section 2. Effective Date.
This Ordinance shall take effect immediately in accordance with law upon publication of
a notice as provided in the Ithaca City Charter
Carried Unanimously
17.5 1999 Department of Planning & Development Work Program Priority Projects
– Resolution
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Farrell
WHEREAS, the Department of Planning and Development’s proposed 1999 Work
Program has been reviewed by the Planning and Economic Development Committee of
Council; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council designates the following as the
Department’s priority projects for 1999:
Economic Development – Economic Development projects will
include both general and site specific projects.
General Projects
Economic Development Plan - To be completed and adopted in
1999.
Site Plan Review Ordinance Revisions - Planning &
Development Board to develop revisions.
City Environmental Quality Review Revision - Planning &
Development Board to develop revisions.
Inventory of Sites Suitable for Development or Redevelopment
- Discuss with realtors and Council.
Sale of Surplus City-Owned Property - As time permits.
* Cable Refranchising
February 3, 1999
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Site Specific Projects
Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) - County has
scheduled completion of LWRP in 1999. City of Ithaca will
consider adoption of LWRP and necessary ordinance
amendment as soon as they are available, possibly late 1999.
Work with County on Implementation of Tompkins County
Waterfront Plan - Work is on going. Adoption of LWRP is
prerequisite for most implementation.
Inlet Island Urban Design Plan - Adopted in 1998. Zoning
amendments to be adopted in 1999.
Inlet Island Plan implementation – Acquisition of final substitute
park parcels and alienation to be completed in 1999. Work to
begin in 1999 on design of waterfront promenade and
construction of public parking. Section 108 loan applications to
be submitted to the City in 1999.
NYSDoT Residency - Work with County on relocation of
NYSDoT residency. Schedule dictated by County and
NYSDoT.
West End Urban Design Plan - Plan and zoning amendments
to be adopted in 1999.
Southwest Area Land Use Plan adoption - Generic
Environmental Impact Statement to be completed and Plan to
be adopted in 1999.
Review Large Scale Commercial Proposals - As submitted.
Central Business District – Report of the Commons Redesign
Committee to be completed in 1999. Work with new BID
director on efforts to strengthen Central Business District.
Continue work with County on maximizing the connectivity
between the new library and downtown business district, and
address the other planning issues related including parking and
bus depot
Quality of Life
Investigate and recommend methods for increasing owner
occupancy in the City of Ithaca - Work to be initiated in 1999.
Traffic Calming Measures - Design and Implementation of
Multi-Modal Funding Grant citywide.
Traffic Plan - Continue preliminary work begun in 1998.
Cayuga Inlet Recreation Way - Implementation will likely be
delayed until adoption of the LWRP.
Complete Acquisition of Six Mile Creek Properties – Acquisition
of Six Mile Creek substitute park parcels for Inlet Island
alienation is complete. Work on acquisition of other critical Six
Mile Creek parcel to continue in 1999.
Hiring Practices for new and existing businesses
Information Acquisition and Management
Continued development of the City’s electronic capability in
mapping, data management, etc. – New aerial photography and
map scheduled for 1999. Continue work on automation of City
processes such as Capital Programming.
Comprehensive Planning
Begin work with the Planning and Development Board on
development of a new comprehensive plan for the City.
Carried Unanimously
February 3, 1999
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17.6 Southwest Area Land Use Plan GEIS – Report
Alderperson Blumenthal reported that a public meeting was held on January 19, 1999,
regarding the Visual Impact Analysis and landfill test pits results. The results showed
lots of decomposed household waste, and they are working with the Department of
Health to continue the investigation of hazardous waste. The next meeting will be held
on February 9, 1999 at 7:00 P.M. in Council Chambers, and will address traffic and
drainage. Work has begun on the Urban Design of the area.
17.7 Site Development Plan Review – Revisions to the Ordinance – Report
Alderperson Blumenthal reported that revisions to the Site Plan Ordinance regarding
landscaping and maintenance are being drafted.
BUDGET AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
18.1 Common Council - Approval of Mutual Housing Association Funding
Request – Resolution
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Farrell
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) and the City have received a one-
year funding request from the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County (MHA) for
$20,000 to partially offset the costs of hiring an Executive Director for the MHA, and
WHEREAS, the IURA would allocate the $20,000 from receipts of a Housing Development
Action Grant (HODAG) loan which is being repaid by Eddygate Associates for this
purpose, and
WHEREAS, it is the IURA's intent to formulate a policy regarding disbursement of repaid
HODAG funds in the future, and
WHEREAS, the IURA and City both approve the MHA funding request; now, therefore, be
it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby approves the one-year allocation of an
amount not to exceed $20,000 to the Mutual Housing Association of Tompkins County for
said purpose, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the IURA transfer the funds to the City and the following amendments
be made to the 1999 Budget:
Increase Revenue Account:
A8515-2706 $20,000
Increase Appropriation Account:
A8515-5435 $20,000
Ayes (9) Shenk, Manos, Farrell, Vaughan, Marcham,
Blumenthal, Spielholz, Taylor, Hershey
Nays (0)
Abstentions (1) Sams
Carried
18.2 Common Council - Approval of Ithaca Downtown Partnership Additional
Funding Request – Resolution
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
WHEREAS, the City has received a request from the Ithaca Downtown Partnership (IDP)
for additional funding for the years 1999, 2000 and 2001 in the amounts of $15,000,
$20,000 and $20,000 respectively, and
February 3, 1999
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WHEREAS, the supplemental funds provided by the City should be directly used to hire an
Executive Director candidate with outstanding business recruitment skills and experience,
especially in the retail sector, and
WHEREAS, in the IDP Executive Director hiring process, the IDP shall be sensitive to the
City's commitment to affirmative action; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby approves a supplemental contract between
IDP and the City for an additional three-year funding commitment to the Ithaca Downtown
Partnership for the period 1999, 2000 and 2001 in an amount not to exceed $55,000 to be
allocated: $15,000 in 1999; $20,000 in both the years 2000 and 2001, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the funds for 1999 will be transferred from account A1990 Unrestricted
Contingency to account A6995-5435 IDP Contract in an amount not to exceed $15,000
and the funds for the years 2000 and 2001 will be budgeted accordingly, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That all payments will be made on a quarterly basis and reimbursed to the
IDP according to the contract terms, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the City will reevaluate the need for additional funding beyond the three
year funding period based on the City's financial situation and the IDP's fiscal needs at the
time of reevaluation.
Amending Resolution
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Shenk
RESOLVED, that the last Resolved clause be amended to read as follows:
“RESOLVED, that at the end of three years, the City will re-evaluate the need for
funding beyond the three year funding period based on the City's financial situation and
the IDP's fiscal needs at the time of reevaluation.”
Carried Unanimously
Main Motion As Amended
A vote on the Main Motion as Amended resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
18.3 Common Council - Approval of City-wide Voice Mail Policy
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Manos
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca this year plans to install “voice mail” telephone equipment in
many departments, which will be capable of greatly improving services to the public and
expanding the possibilities for staff efficiency, and
WHEREAS, overuse of automated equipment and poor design of voice mail systems
could confuse, offend and alienate people who are telephoning city departments, thus
posing a public relations problem in city dealings with the public; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That as departments move ahead with design of their voice mail systems,
Common Council recommends that:
1. Departments should strive to answer their main telephone numbers in person
during regular City Hall business hours, so that the caller’s initial contact is with
a city employee; as a secondary recourse, voice mail may then be used.
2. When a department has problems with answering the phone, such as during
individual emergencies or department-wide meetings, staff should look for
other solutions, such as a reciprocal agreement with employees in a nearby
department (many departments do this at the present time).
3. Voice mail can be used for dealing with direct calls to city staff (as opposed to
department calls) when the staffer is absent, to leave messages or transmit
information.
February 3, 1999
14
4. Once on voice mail, people who call during regular business hours always
should be given the alternative to speak with a human being for further
assistance.
5. After regular business hours, departments may use voice mail routinely to take
messages or provide information, as suits each department’s convenience.
6. Any use of voice mail should be clear, concise and courteous as possible, and
must make allowances for callers who do not have touch-tone phones.
7. Where appropriate, emergency messages should be left to inform the public.
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council, having gladly invested in voice mail equipment for
City departments, has no wish to discourage its use except in the interest of proving a
user-friendly system that will please our customers, namely the general public, and be it
further
RESOLVED, That departments are encouraged to form a staff committee to share ideas
and resolve problems related to the design of their individual voice mail system.
Carried Unanimously
18.4 Common Council - Approval of Funding Support for Feasibility Analysis of
Downtown Transportation Center – Resolution
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Blumenthal
WHEREAS, the City and Tompkins County are working together to generate tax revenues
and strengthen the downtown core of the City, and
WHEREAS, in conjunction with the County library move to the Woolworth Building, a
downtown transportation center will be examined, and
WHEREAS, the County has hired a consultant at a cost of $6,500 to examine three
alternative sites in the city for a downtown transportation center, and
WHEREAS, the County would like the City to contribute $1,000 to assist with payment of
the consultant for said service; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the City believes a downtown transportation center may greatly benefit
downtown and hereby authorizes the transfer of an amount not to exceed $1,000 from
account A1990 Unrestricted Contingency to account A8020-5435 to provide the City’s
contribution to the County for said consulting services.
Carried Unanimously
18.5 An Ordinance Amending Section 250-1 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code
entitled "Bill Posting"
By AlderpersonMarcham: Seconded by Alderperson Blumenthal
ORDINANCE NO. 99-
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of Ithaca, New
York, as follows:
Section 1. The City of Ithaca Municipal Code, Section 250-1 entitled “Bill Posting” is
hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 250- 1
A. No person, other than the owner, shall by any means affix, mark, or place
or cause to be placed, or hire or direct any other person to so place any sign, poster,
notice or advertisement on City property or upon any publicly or privately owned tree,
pole, sidewalk, or structure thereon situated, other than such signs as may be needed
February 3, 1999
15
by the companies or institutions owning or operating such site and other than such
public notice as may be authorized or required by law, without the written consent or the
posted invitation of the property owner.
B. No person, other than the owner, shall by any means affix, mark or place,
or cause to be so placed or hire or direct any other person to place any sign, poster,
advertisement, notice or other matter upon private property except with written
permission of the owner of said property and in accordance with all other provisions of
this municipal code.
C. Where the sign, poster, advertisement, notice or other matter consists of a
commercial advertisement, it shall be presumed that the vendor of the specified
product, service or entertainment is a person who placed such advertisement or caused
it to be placed upon the property. For the purposes of this ordinance, the term “vendor”
shall mean all persons and/or legal entities who are intended to benefit financially from
such advertisement.
Where the sign, poster, advertisement, notice or other matter consists of a
non-commercial advertisement, it shall be presumed that the organizer or sponsor of
the specified event, service entertainment, or group is a person who placed such
advertisement or caused it to be placed upon the property. For the purposes of this
ordinance, the term “organizer” or “sponsor” shall mean all persons and/or legal entities
who are involved in organizing or sponsoring this event.
D. Any person who violates this section shall be subject to a fine not
exceeding two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) or by imprisonment of not more than
fifteen (15) days, or both such fine and imprisonment, provided that the penalty shall be
not less than eighty dollars ($80.00) for a second offense within a twelve month period,
and not less than one hundred dollars ($100.00) for a third offense within a twelve
month period. Each day on which the violation exists may be charged and shall be
considered as a separate offense.
E. If any clause, sentence, paragraph, word, section or part of this Ordinance
shall be adjudged by any court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such judgment
shall not affect, impair or invalidate the remainder thereof but shall be confined in its
operation to the clause, sentence, paragraph, section or part thereof directly involved in
the controversy in which such judgment shall have been rendered.
Section 2. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately in accordance with law upon
publication of a notice as provided in the Ithaca City Charter.
Extensive discussion followed on the floor regarding yard sales, special causes, lost
pets, and other exceptions.
Alderperson Farrell stated that she could not support the Ordinance until “neighborly”
issues are dealt with.
Alderperson Taylor suggested they wait and pass the Ordinance when everyone is
satisfied.
Alderperson Marcham stated that this Ordinance has passed through the City Attorney’s
Office, the Neighborhood Association, and others. She supports passing the Ordinance
now, and amending it later if needed. She further stated that other opportunities are
available for advertisement, for example in the Ithaca Journal and through the use of yard
sale signs.
A vote on the Resolution resulted as follows:
February 3, 1999
16
Ayes (6): Manos, Shenk, Blumenthal, Vaughan, Marcham, Spielholz
Nays (4): Taylor, Sams, Farrell, Hershey
Carried
18.6 Approval of Quitclaim Deed for Mulberry Street Parcels – Resolution
By Alderperson Marcham : Seconded by Alderperson Blumenthal
WHEREAS, the City has been approached by a City property owner to Quitclaim deed
City tax parcels #110-5-11 and 110-5-12 on Mulberry Street, and
WHEREAS, the City Attorney’s Office has research the property and has found that the
deed was lost before it was recorded in 1937, and
WHEREAS, the City’s Attorney’s Office recommends to Common Council to approve said
Quitclaim deed; now, therefore, be
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby approves of a quitclaim deed for the City tax
parcels #110-5-11 and 110-5-12 and authorizes the Mayor to sign said deed.
Carried Unanimously
18.10 Police Department - Approve Establishment of Capital Project for Parking
Meter Replacement – Resolution
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Manos
WHEREAS, the City's 1,000 parking meters are at least 20 years old and are in need of
repair and replacement, and
WHEREAS, the City will phase the replacement of the meters over the next four years, at
an overall cost of $210,000, by purchasing 250 replacement meters a year at an annual
estimated cost of $52,200, and
WHEREAS, the parking meters will be of the latest technology and parking meter revenue
will help to offset the cost of meter acquisition; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes the establishment of Capital
Project #377 Parking Meter Replacement in an amount not to exceed $52,200 for the
purchase of said replacement parking meters, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the funds necessary for said acquisition shall be derived from the
issuance of Serial Bonds.
Ayes (9): Manos, Shenk, Blumenthal, Vaughan, Marcham, Spielholz, Sams,
Farrell, Hershey
Nays (1): Taylor
Carried
18.11 Mayor - Approve Establishment of Snow Removal Reserve – Resolution to be
handed out at meeting
Discussion followed on the floor regarding the need for this Resolution, and it was
subsequently withdrawn from the agenda.
18.12 Police Department – Request to Temporarily Amend Personnel Roster
By Alderperson Marcham: Seconded by Alderperson Spielholz
WHEREAS, that Police Department is in the process of hiring a Police Officer in
anticipation that a current police officer will be promoted to a higher rank, and
WHEREAS, the promotion will not take place prior to the hiring of the new police officer
thereby producing the need to add a temporary Police Officer position to the
department’s roster; now, therefore, be it
February 3, 1999
17
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby temporarily amends the Authorized
Personnel Roster of the Police Department by adding one temporary Police Officer
position to permit the hiring of a Police Officer prior to the promotion of an existing
officer to a higher rank, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the temporary addition to the roster will be rescinded upon the
promotion of an existing officer, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this Resolution is effective January 3, 1999.
Ayes (9): Manos, Shenk, Blumenthal, Vaughan, Marcham, Spielholz, Farrell,
Hershey, Taylor
Nays (0)
Abstentions (1): Sams
Carried
NEW BUSINESS:
Computer Networking Process:
Mayor Cohen reported that a Contractor has been hired to do a computer roll out,
however financial resources are not adequate to handle day-to-day operations and the
roll out of new computers ($15,000). A suggestion has been made to open an entry-
level position for a workstation configurer, who would be a contract employee.
Executive Session
By Alderperson Vaughan: Seconded by Alderperson Marcham
RESOLVED, that Common Council enter into Executive Session to discuss a collective
bargaining item.
Carried Unanimously
Regular Session
Common Council reconvened into Regular Session with no formal action being taken.
Amend Existing Y2K Budget- Resolution
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Sams
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the existing Y2K budget to add up to
$20,000 for Y2K compliance.
Carried Unanimously
Resolution Regarding GIAC
By Alderperson Shenk: Seconded by Alderperson Sams
Julie, I’m not sure what to put here; there are no tapes and no resolution in your notes.
Carried Unanimously
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 10:00 P.M.
______________________________ ___________________
Julie Conley Holcomb, CMC Alan J. Cohen
City Clerk Mayor