HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-2002-02-06
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COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. February 6, 2002
PRESENT:
Mayor Cohen
Alderpersons (10) Pryor, Sams, Blumenthal, Mack, Manos,
Whitmore, Vaughan, Peterson, Cogan, Hershey
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk – Conley Holcomb
City Attorney - Schwab
City Controller – Cafferillo
Deputy Controller – Thayer
Planning and Development Director – Van Cort
Economic Development Director - McDonald
Superintendent of Public Works – Gray
Human Resources Director – Michell-Nunn
Community Development Planner - Kittel
Building Commissioner - Radke
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Cohen led all present in the Pledge of Allegiance to the
American flag.
YOUTH AWARD:
Alderpersons Vaughan and Blumenthal presented the February 2002
Youth Award to the Belle Sherman Elementary School Third and
Fifth grade classes for their work with the American Red Cross.
The students’ interest and concern about natural disaster events
worldwide and weather hazards locally, helped focus presentations
and their fund raising activities. The following are activities
that the Chapter of the American Red Cross and Belle Sherman
School have undertaken together:
Fall of 1998 - Table at the Corn Festival which provided various
brochures on preparedness and hazards
Fall of 1999 - Table about Y2K preparedness
March 2000 - Ms. Cox’s Third grade class raised money and gave a
check for international disaster relief
May of 2000 - Ms. Solomon’s Fifth grade class raised money and
gave a check for international relief
May 2001 – Ms. Work’s Third grade class raised money and talked
about disaster preparedness
Fall of 2001 – Ms. Shaw’s Third grade class used the vegetables
from the school’s garden to make soup which they sold. Proceeds
from that sale went to the victims of 9/11 in New York City.
Fall of 2001 – Ms. Manning’s Fifth grade class held a bake sale
with the proceeds going to disaster relief for New York City
victims of 9/11.
ADDITIONS TO OR DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA:
New Business:
Mayor Cohen requested the addition of Item 13.5 - Appointment of
City Representatives to TCAT Board of Directors.
No Council member objected.
February 6, 2002
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SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
A Public Hearing to Consider Changing the Zoning
Designation of Certain Areas of the City from B-4 to CBD 60
By Alderperson Hershey: Seconded by Alderperson Pryor
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to Consider Changing the Zoning
Designation of Certain Areas of the City from B-4 to CBD 60 be
declared open.
Carried Unanimously
No one appeared to address Council.
Resolution to Close Hearing
By Alderperson Hershey: Seconded by Alderperson Mack
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to Consider Changing the Zoning
Designation of Certain Areas of the City from B-4 to CBD 60 be
declared closed.
Carried Unanimously
A Public Hearing to Consider the Adoption of an Addendum to the
Ithaca Bicycle Plan
By Alderperson Pryor: Seconded by Alderperson Whitmore
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to Consider the Adoption of an
Addendum to the Ithaca Bicycle Plan be declared open.
Carried Unanimously
No one appeared to address Council.
Resolution to Close Hearing
By Alderperson Hershey: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
RESOLVED, That the Public Hearing to Consider the Adoption of an
Addendum to the Ithaca Bicycle Plan be declared closed.
Carried Unanimously
COMMUNICATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS:
Mayor Cohen proclaimed January 27 - February 3, 2002, Catholic
Schools Week in the City of Ithaca.
PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
Joel Harlan, Town of Dryden, spoke regarding the State of the
City Address.
Ana Brandes, City of Ithaca, addressed Council regarding the
installation of a traffic light at Cayuga and Spencer Streets,
and the leash law not being enforced on The Commons.
Jennifer Dotson, City of Ithaca, thanked Mayor Cohen for the
appointments to BPAC, and Bike Plan Addendum. She also spoke on
the need for better communication regarding committee
appointments.
CONSENT AGENDA:
8.1 Chamberlain’s Office – Request to Amend Personnel Roster
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, the Chamberlain’s Office along with the Controller’s
Office are requesting a reclassification of the Office Manager
position to Fiscal Manager, and
WHEREAS, these two departments have determined that this
reclassification will enable both departments to better serve the
workforce, and
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WHEREAS, the current Office Manager has worked out of title since
August 20, 2000 due to the unforeseen early departure of the long-
term Payroll Coordinator, who eventually retired on December 31,
2000, and
WHEREAS, the Controller’s Office has worked diligently to
restructure the payroll function, and
WHEREAS, as a result of the restructuring a Principal Account
Clerk position was created in place of the Payroll Coordinator
and the supervision of the payroll function was incorporated into
the Office Manager position; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the Chamberlain’s
Personnel Roster as follows:
Delete: One (1) Office Manager
Add: One (1) Fiscal Manager
and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Fiscal Manager be assigned to the Executive
Association and to salary grade B of the Executive Unit
Compensation Plan, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Joyce Day be provisionally appointed to the
position of Fiscal Manager at a salary of $47,814.
Carried Unanimously
8.2 City Clerk's Office – Deputy City Clerk - Request for
Temporary Reduction in Hours
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, Deputy City Clerk Robin Korherr has requested a
temporary reduction in hours from 40 hours to 24 hours to further
her education, and
WHEREAS, the reduction in hours would occur from January 21, 2002
to May 3, 2002; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That a temporary reduction in hours from 40 hours to 24
hours is authorized for Deputy City Clerk Robin Korherr
commencing on the 21st day of January, 2002, and ending on the
3rd day of May, 2002 and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Robin Korherr’s annual salary for this period
shall be established at $23,765, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That commencing on the 6th day of May, 2002, this
employee is authorized to return to full-time (40-hours per week)
employment at an annual salary of $39,619.
Carried Unanimously
8.3 City Clerk’s Office - Appointment of Acting Deputy City
Clerk
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, Deputy City Clerk Robin Korherr has requested a
temporary reduction in hours from 40 hours to 24 hours from
January 21, 2002 to May 3, 2002, to further her education, and
February 6, 2002
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WHEREAS, City Clerk Julie Conley Holcomb has requested the
appointment of Sarah Myers as Acting Deputy City Clerk during
this temporary time period to ensure the continuation of prompt
service to staff and the public; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council approves the appointment of Sarah
Myers to the position of Acting Deputy City Clerk to serve on an
“as needed” basis in the absence of the Deputy City Clerk
effective January 21, 2002, and ending May 10, 2002, and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That a stipend in the amount of 10% above her current
rate of pay, be paid to Sarah Myers to compensate her for the
out-of-title duties and responsibilities she will incur while
fulfilling this position, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That said funds be derived from the City Clerk’s
budget.
Carried Unanimously
8.4 Human Resources – Request to Amend the Personnel Roster
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, the 2002 Human Resources Department budget passed by
Common Council eliminated the part-time deputy director position
and authorized the creation of a twenty-five hour Human Resources
Associate, and
WHEREAS, the 2002 Human Resources Department budget passed by
Common Council also included a deputy stipend to be paid over the
course of the year to enable the Human Resources Associate to act
in the absence of the Director; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the 2002 Human
Resources Department Personnel Roster as follows:
Delete: One (1) Deputy Director of Human Resources (27
hrs)
Add: One (1) Human Resources Associate (25 hrs)
And be it further
RESOLVED, That the annual rate of $1,200 be paid to the Human
Resources Associate as a deputy director stipend.
Carried Unanimously
8.5 Fire Department – Establish Capital Project for National
Weather Service Transmitter
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca, through efforts of the Ithaca Fire
Department, will soon receive $75,000 in grant funds awarded by
the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) of the U.S. Department of
Agriculture, to support installation of a National Weather
Service transmitter, which will extend National Weather Service
(NWS) coverage to this area, and
WHEREAS, these grant funds will support the entire cost of this
project, at no cost to the City, including acquisition and
installation of the transmitter and associated equipment at a
site donated by Ithaca College, and
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WHEREAS, on October 3, 2001, Common Council authorized, and Mayor
Cohen on October 24, 2001 signed, on behalf of the City of
Ithaca, a Memorandum of Agreement with the National Weather
Service, which will transfer ownership of the acquired facilities
to the weather service once installed, so that NWS can assume
maintenance and operating costs, and
WHEREAS, the City Controller has advised that establishment of a
capital project is the appropriate financial mechanism to accept
the grant funding and support acquisition and installation of the
equipment prior to transfer; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes establishment of
Capital Project #455 Acquire a National Weather Service
Transmitter, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That funds necessary for said capital project shall be
derived from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Utilities
Service grant.
Carried Unanimously
8.6 Chamberlain – Request to Amend Tax Bill
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, a bill for installation of water and sewer services in
the amount of $10,584.98 was added to the first installment of
the 2002 City taxes for 131 Haller Boulevard, and
WHEREAS, the owner of the property has asked to have the bill
removed so that it may be paid separately from the taxes, and
WHEREAS, the owner has committed to paying the bill in full no
later than March 31, 2002; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes the City
Chamberlain to remove the $10,584.98 bill from the City First
Installment tax bill for 131 Haller Boulevard, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the owner be given an opportunity to pay the bill
with applicable interest no later than March 31, 2002, and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That the bill be added to the 2002 City Second
Installment taxes if it is not paid by March 31, 2002.
Carried Unanimously
8.7 Chamberlain – Approval of Certificate of Authority to Invest
Funds at Fleet Bank
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
RESOLVED, That Fleet Bank (the “Bank”) be, and hereby is
designated as a depository of funds of the Depositor, with
authority to accept at any time for the credit of the Depositor
deposits in checking, savings, money market savings, term or any
other account, by whomsoever made in whatever manner endorsed,
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Bank shall not be liable in connection with
the collection of such items that are handled by the Bank without
negligence and the Bank shall not be liable for the acts of its
agents, subagents or for any other casualty, and, be it further
February 6, 2002
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RESOLVED, That the Depositor assumes full responsibility for and
shall indemnify the Bank against all losses, liabilities and
claims resulting from payments, withdrawals or orders made or
purported to be made in accordance with, or from actions taken in
good faith and in reliance upon, these Resolutions, and, be it
further
Payment Orders
RESOLVED, That the Bank be, and hereby is, authorized and
directed to certify, pay or otherwise honor all checks, drafts,
notes, bills of exchanges, acceptances, undertakings and other
instruments or orders for the payment, transfer or withdrawal of
money for whatever purpose and to whomsoever payable when such
instruments and orders are properly made, signed, or endorsed by
the signature, the actual or purported facsimile signature or the
oral direction of any of the authorized signers below; provided,
however, that any check, draft, note, bill of exchange,
acceptance, undertaking or other instrument for the payment,
transfer or withdrawal must bear the actual or purported
facsimile signature of any one of the authorized signers below,
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That any authorized signer acting alone be, and hereby
is, authorized on behalf of the Depositor to endorse, negotiate
and collect any and all checks, drafts, notes, bills of exchange,
acceptances, undertakings and other instruments and to open and
close and update information on any account of the Depositor at
the Bank, and, be it further
Fund Transfers
RESOLVED, That any of the authorized signers below acting alone
be, and hereby is, authorized on behalf of the Depositor to
instruct, orally or by such other means as the Bank may make
available to Depositor, the Bank to initiate the transfer of
funds by wire, telex, automated clearinghouse, book entry,
computer or such other means, and to execute agreements with the
Bank for the transfer of funds from any of Depositor’s accounts
and to delegate from time to time to other persons the authority
to initiate the transfer of funds from any such account, and, be
it further
Additional Resolutions
RESOLVED, That the Bank may rely on any signature, endorsement or
order and any facsimile signature or oral instruction reasonably
believed by the Bank to be made by an authorized signer, and the
Bank may act on any direction of an authorized signer without
inquiry and without regard to the application of the proceeds
thereof, provided that the Bank acts in good faith, and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That the Depositor assumes full responsibility for and
shall indemnify the Bank against all losses, liabilities and
claims resulting from payments, withdrawals or orders made or
purported to be made in accordance with, or from actions taken in
good faith and in reliance upon, these Resolutions, and, be it
further
February 6, 2002
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RESOLVED, The Bank may rely on this document and on any
certificate by an authorized representative of the Depositor as
to the names and signatures of the authorized signers of the
Depositor until the Bank has actually received written notice of
a change and has had a reasonable period of time to act on such
notice, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Depositor agrees to notify the Bank promptly
and in writing of any change in (a) these Resolutions, (b) the
identity of persons authorized to sign, endorse or otherwise
authorize payments, transfers or withdrawals, (c) ownership of
the Depositor or the Depositor’s legal structure or status,
including the Depositor’s dissolution or bankruptcy, and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That any of the following named persons, or persons
from time to time holding the following offices of the Depositor
be, and hereby are, designated as the authorized signers to act
on behalf of the Depositor in accordance with the above
resolutions:
City Chamberlain Debra A. Parsons
City Controller Dominick R. Cafferillo
Deputy City Controller Steven P. Thayer
Carried Unanimously
8.8 An Ordinance Amending the Zoning Map, Section 325-5 of the
City of Ithaca Municipal Code
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, on June 6, 2001, the Common Council adopted Ordinance
to amend the Zoning Map established pursuant to Chapter 325
Entitled "Zoning" of the City Municipal Code, and
WHEREAS, as the result of a typographical error a number 2 was
omitted in the recording of an affected tax parcel such that
parcel 67.-3 - 22 was incorrectly noted as 67.-3-2, and
WHEREAS, supporting documentation distributed for review prior
to the June 6, 2001 Common Council meeting shows clearly that tax
parcel 67.-3-2, located on Delaware Avenue, could not have one of
the parcels affected by proposed rezoning of portions of Linden
Avenue, and
WHEREAS, in discussion with the City Attorney's Office it was
determined that the typographical error is a minor-nonsubstantive
error and that it would be difficult for anyone to misconstrue
the area to be rezoned, now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council shall adopt this corrective
Ordinance as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. --
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 325-5
entitled "Zoning Map" is hereby amended to add the following:
"Section 325-5. Zoning Map.
February 6, 2002
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That an area generally bounded by the western boundary of
Tax Parcel 83-6-2 and extending northward along the rear lot
lines of properties facing on Linden Avenue to the northern
boundary of Tax Parcel 67-2-6, then easterly across Linden Avenue
and along the northern boundary of Tax Parcel 67.-3-22 to the
eastern boundary of said parcel, then southward along that
boundary and the rear lot lines of properties facing on Linden
Avenue to the southern boundary of Tax Parcel 84-1-1, then across
Mitchell Street to the beginning, is reclassified from the R-2b
and R-3b districts to the R-1b district. (LOWER END OF LINDEN)
That an area generally bounded by the southern boundaries of
Tax Parcels 67-2-5 and 67-3-23, extending along the rear lot
lines of properties facing Linden Avenue to Bool Street on the
west side of Linden Avenue and, on the eastern side of Linden
Street to the northern boundary of Tax Parcel 67-3-28, is
reclassified from the R-3b district to the R-2b district. (LINDEN
BUFFER)
That the following Tax Parcels are reclassified from the R-
2b district to the R-1b district, 68-7-9, 68-7-10, 68-7-11, 68-8-
1, 68-8-2, 68-8-3, and 68-8-4. (ORCHARD PLACE)
That the following Tax Parcels are reclassified from the R-
3a district to the R2-b district, 68-7-1, 68-7-2, 68-7-3, 68-7-4,
68-7-5, 68-7-6, 68-7-7, 68-7-8, 68-7-12, and 68-7-13. (NORTH OF
ORCHARD PLACE TO COOK ST)
That Tax Parcels 67-4-1, 67-4-2, 67-4-3, and 67-4-9 are
reclassified from the R-2a district to the R-1b district. (BRYANT
TRIANGLE)
That the following Tax Parcels are reclassified from the B-
2a district to the B2-d district, 63-1-5, 63-1-6, 63-8-1, 63-8-
22, 63-8-23, 63-8-24, 63-10-3, 63-10-4, 63-10-5. (WILLIAMS &
STEWART)
That the following Tax Parcels are reclassified from the B-
2b district to the B-2d district, 63-8-11, 63-8-12, 63-8-13, and
63-8-14. (400 BLOCK WEST SIDE OF EDDY ST)
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
NEIGHBORHOOD & COMMUNITY ISSUES COMMITTEE
9.1 Adoption of an Addendum to the Ithaca Bicycle Plan - Lead
Agency
By Alderperson Pryor: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
WHEREAS, State Law and Section 176.6 of the City Code require
that a lead agency be established for conducting environmental
review of projects in accordance with local and state
environmental law, and
WHEREAS, State Law specifies that for actions governed by local
environmental review, the lead agency shall be that local agency
February 6, 2002
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which has primary responsibility for approving and funding or
carrying out the action, and
WHEREAS, the proposed Addendum to the Ithaca Bicycle Plan is an
"Unlisted" Action pursuant to the City of Ithaca Environmental
Review Ordinance and the New York State Environmental Quality
Review Act, which requires review under the City's Environmental
Quality Review Ordinance; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council of the City of Ithaca does hereby
declare itself lead agency for the environmental review for the
Addendum to the Ithaca Bicycle Plan.
Alderperson Pryor explained the process followed regarding the
proposed legislation.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
9.2 Adoption of an Addendum to the Ithaca Bicycle Plan - Negative
Declaration of Significant Environmental Impact
By Alderperson Pryor: Seconded by Alderperson Peterson
WHEREAS, a proposed Addendum to the Ithaca Bicycle Plan is being
considered by Common Council, and
WHEREAS, appropriate environmental review has been conducted, and
WHEREAS, the proposed action is an "unlisted" action under the
State Environmental Quality Review Act, and is an "unlisted"
action under the City Environmental Quality Review Ordinance, and
WHEREAS, it appears that the proposed action will not have a
significant effect on the environment; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council, hereby does
determine that the proposed action at issue will not have a
significant effect on the environment, and that further
environmental review is unnecessary under the circumstances, and
be it further
RESOLVED, That this resolution shall constitute notice of this
negative declaration, and the City Clerk be, and hereby is,
directed to file a copy of the same, together with the
attachment, in the City Clerk's Office and forward the same to
any other parties as required by law.
Carried Unanimously
9.3 Adoption of an Addendum to the Ithaca Bicycle Plan -
Resolution
By Alderperson Pryor: Seconded by Alderperson Vaughan
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Bicycle Plan was amended to the City's
Comprehensive Plan in October of 1998, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has received comments, dated March
11, 1998 from the New York State Department of Transportation
(NYSDoT) regarding the Ithaca Bicycle Plan, and
WHEREAS, the Department of Planning and Development responded to
those comments in a letter dated September 24, 1998, and
February 6, 2002
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WHEREAS, NYSDoT staff have verbally stated that the City's
responses must be included in the body of the Bicycle Plan itself
before grant monies will be released for implementation, and
WHEREAS, the Neighborhood and Community Issues Committee
considered an Addendum to the Bicycle Plan that included those
comments at their October 10, 2001 meeting, and
WHEREAS, the Neighborhood and Community Issues Committee approved
the Addendum with amendments at their December 12, 2001 meeting,
and
WHEREAS, these changes to the Bicycle Plan are minor in nature
and do not change the overall goals and objectives of the plan,
and
WHEREAS, the appropriate environmental review has been conducted
and a declaration of no significant environmental impact has been
made by Common Council, as the Lead Agency, and
WHEREAS, members of Common Council are in favor of the attached
Addendum to the March 1998 Ithaca Bicycle Plan as approved by the
Neighborhood and Community Issues Committee at their December 12,
2001 meeting; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council hereby adopts
the aforementioned Addendum to the March 1998 Ithaca Bicycle Plan
as an amendment to the City of Ithaca’s Comprehensive Plan, and
be it
RESOLVED, That future printings or copies of the Ithaca Bicycle
Plan shall include this addendum.
An Addendum to the March 1997 Ithaca Bicycle Plan
The Neighborhood and Community Issues Committee recommends this
second addendum to the Ithaca Bicycle Plan in accordance with the
requests of the New York State Department of Transportation
(NYSDoT). The purpose of this addendum is to explicitly
acknowledge comments raised by the NYSDoT, as detailed in a
letter from A. S. Vetter, NYSDoT Regional Planning and Program
Manager, dated March 11, 1998. This letter, in regard to Ithaca
Bicycle Plan Comments, was responded to by H. Matthys Van Cort,
Director of Planning and Development for the City of Ithaca, in a
letter dated September 24, 1998. The Committee understands that
NYSDoT will not fully approve the Plan until their comments, as
addressed in Mr. Van Cort's letter and modified at the October
10, 2001 Neighborhood and Community Issues Committee meeting,
have been included in the Plan itself; hence, this addendum.
Amendments to the March 1997 Ithaca Bicycle Plan
1. "Denver arrows" will not be used to demarcate hybrid lanes on
New York State highways. Instead, when stencils are called
for, symbols specified by the Manual of Uniform Traffic
Control Devices will be used.
2. "Stenciled shoulders," as called for in the Plan, are not
meant to indicate a prohibition against use of the shoulder by
motor vehicles. Rather, the stencils provide markings to
encourage and direct cyclists to use part of the pavement that
February 6, 2002
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is not ordinarily used by motor vehicles. As with the previous
item, acceptable markings and signage would be used.
February 6, 2002
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3. Some safety concerns were raised about the potential mixing of
car, truck, and bicycle traffic on narrow streets. The City of
Ithaca recognizes and shares the NYSDoT's concerns for safety.
Throughout the implementation process, the City will pay
special attention to safety issues.
4. The Plan proposes a limited number of bikeway segments on
which bicyclists would ride against traffic. NYSDoT stated
that the proposed treatment on Cascadilla Street to allow
bicycles to ride against traffic in the south lane is not
acceptable and that bicyclists should not be encouraged to
ride against traffic if a feasible alternate route exists. The
City of Ithaca agrees with NYSDoT and will look for
alternatives to contraflow lanes. The City will not create
bike lanes against the flow of traffic on streets designated
in the bike plan.
5. The impact of the Plan's proposals for on-street parking is a
topic that has been the object of local debate from the
outset. The issue is being addressed through the mechanism of
public meetings at each stage of plan preparation and review.
This process has contributed to Plan revisions and
modifications throughout the period of its preparation. With
respect to parking impacts, the results have been changes to
proposed routes, and much reduced loss or relocation of
parking spaces. Comment received at these meetings, and
through other mechanisms, is regularly evaluated and made
available to the Planning Board, Board of Public Works, and
Common Council, for their use in making recommendations and
decisions on the ultimate disposition of the Plan. Public
comment received at these public sessions has been
incorporated into the Plan as appropriate.
Carried Unanimously
PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
10.1 An Ordinance to Amend Chapter 325 of the City Ithaca
Municipal Code Entitled “Zoning” to Change the Zoning Designation
of Certain Areas of the City from B-4 to CBD-60
A. Designation of Lead Agency:
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Hershey
WHEREAS, State Law and Section 176.6 of the City Code require
that a lead agency be established for conducting environmental
review of projects in accordance with local and state
environmental law, and
WHEREAS, State Law specifies that for actions governed by local
environmental review, the lead agency shall be that local agency
which has primary responsibility for approving and funding or
carrying out the action, and
WHEREAS, the proposed rezoning is a Type 1 Action pursuant to the
City of Ithaca Environmental Review Ordinance and the New York
State Environmental Quality Review Act, which requires review
under the City's Environmental Quality Review Ordinance; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council of the City of Ithaca does hereby
declare itself lead agency for the environmental review for the
proposed rezoning of parcel # 69.-6-13.
February 6, 2002
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Alderperson Manos explained the process followed pertaining to
the proposed legislation.
Carried Unanimously
B. Declaration of No Environmental Significance:
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Pryor
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca is proposing a zoning amendment,
which would change the zoning designation of City of Ithaca Tax
Parcel #69.-6-13 parcel from B-4 to CBD-60, and
WHEREAS, appropriate environmental review has been conducted
including the preparation of a Full Environmental Assessment Form
(FEAF), and
WHEREAS, the proposed action is a Type I Action under the City
Environmental Quality Review Act (CEQR Sec. 176-12B), and
WHEREAS, the Conservation Advisory Council for the City of Ithaca
(CAC) has reviewed and commented on the proposed rezoning, and
WHEREAS, the City has long planned on developing this area for
multi-use commercial and residential purposes, and
WHEREAS, the Common Council for the City of Ithaca, acting as
Lead Agency, has reviewed the FEAF Part I, Part II, and Part III
dated January 29, 2002, for the stated area of the proposed
zoning change, prepared by City of Ithaca Planning Staff for the
City of Ithaca as applicant, and supplemental information, and
has determined that the proposed action will not have a
significant effect on the environment; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Common Council, as lead agency in this
matter, hereby adopts as its own, the findings and conclusions
more fully set forth on the Full Environmental Assessment Form
Parts I, II, and III, 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 negative impact on the environment, and that further
environmental review is unnecessary, 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.
Alderperson Whitmore questioned the potential impact on the East
Hill Historic District regarding height of buildings and the view
shed.
Economic and Development Director McDonald stated that the
property isn’t in the historic district. The ILPC doesn’t have
jurisdiction over the zoning change.
Motion to Table:
By Alderperson Whitmore: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
RESOLVED, That this item be tabled pending further discussion
with the Planning & Development Director.
Carried Unanimously
February 6, 2002
14
Motion to Remove from Table
By Alderperson Vaughan: Seconded by Alderperson Pryor
RESOLVED, That this item be removed from the table.
Carried Unanimously
Main Motion
A vote on the Main Motion resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
C. Adoption of Ordinance:
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Whitmore
ORDINANCE NO. _______________
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED by Common Council of the City of
Ithaca that Chapter 325, Section 325-4 of the Municipal Code of
the City of Ithaca be amended to change the zoning designation of
parcel # 69.-6-13 from B-4 to CBD-60
Section 1. Declaration of the Legislative Findings and Purpose
The Common Council finds that this Ordinance:
1. Will extend the adjacent CBD-60 zoning designation east
along the southern side of East State Street.
2. Will allow a taller maximum building height on the
amended parcels, and promote multi-use residential,
office, and retail development.
3. Will guide development to be more consistent with the
urban context of Ithaca’s central business district.
Section 2. Chapter 325, Section 325-5 of the Municipal Code of
the City of Ithaca is hereby amended to change the zoning
designation of parcel # 69.-6-13 from B-4 to CBD-60. See the
attached map to view the area of the proposed zoning change.
Alderperson Peterson questioned the fact that the CBD 60 district
does not have design guidelines.
Planning and Development Director VanCort explained that there
are only a few districts that have design guidelines associated
with them and the only district that has formally adopted
guidelines is in the Southwest area of the City.
Alderperson Blumenthal stated her support for the project. She
commended the developer and the landscape architect for making
the suggested changes, and stated that the list they provided was
very informative. She further thanked them for responding to
concerns expressed by Council members, and the advisory boards.
Alderperson Manos commended both the neighbors and developers for
committing to work together as the project develops.
A vote on the Ordinance resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
February 6, 2002
15
BUDGET & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
11.1 Youth Bureau – Request to Approve Recreation Partnership
Terms of Agreement
By Alderperson Vaughan: Seconded by Alderperson
RESOLVED, That the Mayor be authorized to enter into an agreement
with the Towns of Caroline, Danby, Dryden, Enfield, Groton,
Ithaca, Newfield and Ulysses, the Village of Lansing and Tompkins
County for the term beginning January 1, 2001 and continuing
indefinitely for the Intermunicipal Cooperative Recreation
Partnership Agreement.
Alderperson Vaughan stated that late this afternoon she was
informed that the Town of Ithaca had come up with changes in
wording which is different from what Common Council has. Although
the changes are very minor, they are also different from what was
passed by the County earlier this week. She suggested that this
item be withdrawn from the agenda, and approval be deferred until
March 2002.
11.2 IURA – Authorization of the Guarantee by the City of Ithaca
of the Payment of the Principal of and Interest on Certain
Indebtedness of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
By Alderperson Vaughan: Seconded by Alderperson Manos
RESOLUTION DATED FEBRUARY 6, 2002.
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE GUARANTEE BY THE CITY OF ITHACA,
TOMPKINS COUNTY, NEW YORK, OF THE PAYMENT OF THE PRINCIPAL OF AND
INTEREST ON CERTAIN INDEBTEDNESS OF THE ITHACA URBAN RENEWAL
AGENCY AND APPROVING THE FORM AND SUBSTANCE OF A GUARANTEE, AND
PROVIDING FOR OTHER MATTERS IN CONNECTION THEREWITH RELATING
THERETO.
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (the “Agency”) proposes
to issue its revenue bonds and notes (the “Obligations”) to
finance the cost of the Neighborhood Initiative Program proposed
to be undertaken by the Agency within the Ithaca Community
Development/Urban Renewal Project Urban Renewal Area in the City
of Ithaca (the “City”), including certain costs of issuance
thereof and other costs and expenses (the “Initiative”); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 503-a of the General Municipal Law,
the City is authorized to guarantee the principal of and interest
on indebtedness contracted by the Agency; and
WHEREAS, the City, pursuant to Article 8 of the Environmental
Conservation Law and the regulations promulgated thereunder by the
State Department of Environmental Conservation (“SEQRA”), declared
itself “lead agency” for the Initiative, determined that the
Initiative, including the issuance of the Obligations to pay costs
thereof, is an “Unlisted Action” and that the implementation and
funding of the Initiative, as proposed, will not have any
significant environmental effects upon the environment; and
WHEREAS, the Common Council is desirous of authorizing the
guarantee by the City of the principal of and interest on the
Obligations of the Agency to be contracted, from time to time, for
the Initiative; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, By the Common Council of the City of Ithaca, Tompkins
County, New York, as follows:
February 6, 2002
16
Section 1. The guarantee by the City of the principal of and
interest on the Obligations of the Agency to be issued, from time
to time, for the Initiative, as more fully described in the
preambles hereof, is hereby authorized; provided, however, the
maximum amount of such guarantee shall not exceed in the aggregate
sum of the amount authorized by Section 4, Article XVIII of the
State Constitution (the “Guarantee”).
Section 2. The Guarantee shall be evidenced by the execution
and delivery by the City Controller of a Guarantee substantially
in the form presented to this meeting and annexed hereto as
Exhibit A. The form and substance of the Guarantee are hereby
approved. The Guarantee shall apply whether the Obligations of
the Agency are issued and sold as bonds or notes, including
renewal notes or bonds issued to renew notes and whether such
Obligations are issued and sold upon such terms and conditions
that interest payable thereon shall be includable or excludable in
the computation of gross income of the owners thereof for purposes
of federal income taxation. In the event that the Obligations of
the Agency are refunded, the Guarantee may also apply to the
payment of the principal of and interest on any refunding
obligations of the Agency.
Section 3. The City Controller is hereby authorized, for and
in the name of and on behalf of the City, to execute and deliver
the Guarantee, in substantially the form thereof presented to this
meeting.
Section 4. The City Controller, and all other officers,
employees and agents of the City, are hereby authorized and
directed, for and in the name and on behalf of the City, to do all
acts and things required or provided for by the provisions of the
Guarantee and to execute and deliver all such additional
certificates, instruments and documents, pay all such fees,
charges and expenses and to do all such further acts and things as
may be necessary, or in the opinion of the officer, employee or
agent acting, desirable and proper to effect the purposes of the
resolution and to cause compliance by the City with all of the
terms, convenants and provisions of the Guarantee binding upon the
City.
Section 5. This resolution shall take effect immediately.
Alderperson Vaughan explained that this resolution allows the City
to make the housing initiatives a reality. She further explained
that this legislation was drafted by the City’s Bond Counsel and
is not subject to amendment without delaying the vote until the
next meeting.
Alderperson Sams questioned the possibility of duplication of
services between the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency, Mutual Housing
Association, and Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services.
Community Development Planner Kittel stated that the IURA
coordinates very closely with the Planning Department, INHS and
MHA.
February 6, 2002
17
A Roll call vote resulted as follows:
Alderperson Pryor – Aye Alderperson Hershey - Aye
Alderperson Manos – Aye Alderperson Cogan - Aye
Alderperson Whitmore – Aye Alderperson Peterson - Aye
Alderperson Vaughan – Aye Alderperson Mack - Aye
Alderperson Blumenthal – Aye Alderperson Sams - Aye
Carried Unanimously
HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE:
12.1 Building Department – Request to Reassign Deputy Building
Commissioner Position
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca and the Executive Association signed a
Memorandum of Understanding dated January 22, 2002 removing the
Deputy Building Commissioner position from the Executive Unit
Compensation Plan to the Managerial Compensation Plan, and
WHEREAS, this change more accurately reflects the duties and
responsibilities of the Deputy Building Commissioner; now
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Deputy Building Commissioner be assigned to
the Managerial Compensation Plan at a salary grade 4.
Carried Unanimously
12.2 Building Department – Request to Adjust Salary - Deputy
Building Commissioner
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Sams
WHEREAS, Mike Niechwiadowicz had served as the Acting Deputy
Building Commissioner from June 8, 2000 to December 6, 2001 and
WHEREAS, Mike Niechwizdowicz was appointed Deputy Building
Commissioner on December 7, 2001 and
WHEREAS, at the time of his appointment the Deputy Building
Commissioner position was assigned to the Executive Unit
Compensation Plan which limited the salary increase for a
promotion, and
WHEREAS, if this position were properly assigned to the
Managerial Compensation Plan at the time of the appointment, a
salary increase would have been recommended; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council authorizes a salary increase for
Mike Niechwiadowicz from $57,289 to $60,857 and be it further
RESOLVED, That $3,568 be moved from restricted contingency
account A1990 to account A3620-5105 to cover the additional
expense.
Carried Unanimously
12.3 Department of Public Works (Streets & Facilities) – Request
to Amend the Personnel Roster
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Manos
WHEREAS, Common Council adopted the 2002 Streets and Facilities
budget that included upgrades for four (4) positions to allow the
department to better meet future needs, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the Department of
Public Works, Streets & Facilities personnel roster as follows:
February 6, 2002
18
Delete: Four (4) Truck Drivers (FT)
Two (2) in the Highway Division
Two (2) in Parks and Forestry
Add: One (1) Motor Equipment Operator - FT
(Highway Division)
Three (3) Maintainers
One (1) in the Highway Division
Two (2) in Parks and Forestry
Be it further,
RESOLVED, That the funds for the upgrades be derived from the
department 2002 budget.
Carried Unanimously
12.4 Unacceptable Behaviors Procedure - Report
Alderperson Peterson reported that City Staff has been discussing
ways in which to promote a positive, safe, and secure environment
for interactions between staff and the public. The City
encourages an open and welcoming business atmosphere, so it is
necessary to develop a consistent and fair protocol for dealing
with occasional disruptive behavior; whether it’s on the telephone
or face-to-face interactions. Training will be made available
starting in March. Four sessions are scheduled for the telephone
protocol and in the future there will be additional training on
protocols for dealing face-to-face with a distressed individual.
The goal is to train staff to react positively to those kinds of
interactions, and in a helpful way with win-win results for both
the staff and the individuals.
Mayor Cohen noted that the Human Resources Committee felt that it
was important for Alderperson Peterson to make this report
specifically at a televised meeting because we want the community
to understand that the people that work for the City are human
beings and they should be treated with respect. It’s important
that staff be given empowerment to address situations where
they’re not treated with respect. Staff would be trained to notify
the individual that they are acting disrespectfully and would then
go through a process of dialog, and terminate that dialog if
necessary after the person has been given due notice. It is
important for members of the community to understand the message
that we, as elected officials, stand behind our employees and will
not allow them to be subjected to abuse from members of the
public.
Alderperson Peterson stressed that this protocol needs to be
consistent across the varied city departments so that the
employees feel secure in how they’re dealing with those
situations.
NEW BUSINESS:
13.1 Request of Ithaca Downtown Partnership to Permit Wine
Hard Cider Tasting and Sale of Bottled Wine and Hard
Cider at Various Events on The Commons in 2002
By Alderperson Pryor: Seconded by Alderperson Hershey
RESOLVED, That the Ithaca Downtown Partnership shall be
authorized to arrange for the sale of wine and hard cider and to
permit tasting of wines and hard cider at booths during various
events taking place on the Ithaca Commons throughout 2002; and,
be it further
February 6, 2002
19
RESOLVED, That the Ithaca Downtown Partnership and participating
wineries shall comply with all applicable state and local laws
and ordinances, and shall enter into an agreement providing that
it will hold the City harmless and indemnify the City on account
of any claims made as the result of the sale or tasting of wine
and hard cider on the Ithaca Commons, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Ithaca Downtown Partnership or the
participating winery or cider company shall agree to maintain
liability insurance in the amount of $500,000.00 and Dram Shop
Act coverage in the minimum amount of $500,000.00, and shall
provide notification of each event, and evidence of such
insurance to the City Clerk.
Alderperson Manos stated that she was not comfortable with this
legislation as it is written. She stated that she does not
believe in giving blanket permission for multiple events.
City Clerk Holcomb stated that she drafted this resolution as an
attempt to simplify the permit approval process as opposed to
bringing each event application to Council individually. All of
the events have been approved by Common Council in the past.
A vote on the resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
13.2 Sciencenter Wall of Inspiration
By Alderperson Blumenthal: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
WHEREAS, as part of its expansion project, the Sciencenter is
installing a permanent exhibit in the museum’s new Community Room
which will contain a series of 28” plaques about individuals who
have made a major contribution to society through science,
mathematics, or engineering, and
WHEREAS, the City’s generous contribution to the Sciencenter
qualifies Common Council to select an individual for this Wall of
Inspiration, and
WHEREAS, Common Council balanced the following criteria for its
nomination: the scientist’s contribution to science and society,
a connection to the local community, a person of color, and a
woman, and
WHEREAS, Cayuga Women were responsible for the planting,
cultivating and harvesting of crops. Through their work, they
made a significant contribution to the development of scientific
agricultural methods. The Three Sisters Hill System was a
productive and stable crop production system that did not use
inorganic fertilizers, pesticides or tillage. Today agronomists
recognize that it incorporated scientific principles for managing
soils and crops in the northeast environment in a way that
protected the natural resource base. In addition, Cayuga Women
developed and maintained a wide array of corn varieties,
indicating a sophisticated understanding of plant breeding
principles. Those corn varieties were later used in breeding
programs to develop the modern corn hybrids planted by New York
farmers today; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council recommends that the Cayuga Women be
forwarded to the Sciencenter as the City’s selection for the Wall
of Inspiration.
Carried Unanimously
February 6, 2002
20
13.3 Election of Acting Mayor
Mayor Cohen opened the floor to nominations for the position of
Acting Mayor.
Alderperson Hershey nominated Alderperson Manos for the position
of Acting Mayor.
Alderperson Cogan nominated Alderperson Blumenthal for position
of Acting Mayor.
Mayor Cohen stated that the City Attorney has instructed him that
when there is a contested election, a roll call vote needs to be
taken.
Alderperson Manos - Manos Alderperson Pryor - Manos
Alderperson Sams – Blumenthal Alderperson Mack - Manos
Alderperson Whitmore – Blumenthal Alderperson Vaughan - Manos
Alderperson Blumenthal – Blumenthal Alderperson Hershey - Manos
Alderperson Peterson – Blumenthal Alderperson Cogan-Blumenthal
5-5 Tie
Mayor Cohen cast a vote for Alderperson Manos and broke the tie.
Resolution
RESOLVED, That Alderperson Manos be elected as Acting Mayor for a
term to expire December 31, 2002.
Carried
Election of Alternate Acting Mayor
Mayor Cohen opened the floor to nominations for the position of
Alternate Acting Mayor.
Alderperson Hershey nominated Alderperson Pryor for the position
of Alternate Acting Mayor.
Alderperson Cogan nominated Alderperson Blumenthal for the
position of Alternate Acting Mayor.
Alderperson Cogan - Blumenthal Alderperson Pryor - Pryor
Alderperson Sams – Blumenthal Alderperson Vaughan - Pryor
Alderperson Whitmore – Blumenthal Alderperson Hershey - Pryor
Alderperson Blumenthal – Blumenthal Alderperson Mack - Blumenthal
Alderperson Peterson – Blumenthal Alderperson Manos - Pryor
6-4
Resolution
RESOLVED, That Alderperson Blumenthal be elected as Alternate
Acting Mayor for a term to expire December 31, 2002.
Carried
Mayor Cohen congratulated Alderpersons Manos and Blumenthal on
their elections.
Appointment of City Representatives to TCAT Board
By Alderperson Manos: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
RESOLVED, That Alderperson Whitmore and Tracy Farrell be
appointed to fill the vacant City Representative positions on the
Board of Directors of TCAT (The Tompkins Consolidated Area
Transit)
February 6, 2002
21
Ayes (9), Pryor, Sams, Blumenthal, Mack, Manos,
Whitmore, Vaughan, Peterson, Cogan
Nays (0)
Abstention (1) Hershey
Carried
MINUTES:
16.1 Approval of December 5, 2001 Common Council Meeting minutes
By Alderperson Mack: Seconded by Alderperson Manos
RESOLVED, That the minutes of December 5, 2001 Common Council
meeting be approved with corrections made by Alderperson
Blumenthal.
Carried Unanimously
16.2 Approval of December 12, 2001 Continuation of Common Council
Meeting minutes of 12/5/01
By Alderperson Mack: Seconded by Alderperson Manos
RESOLVED, That the minutes of December 12, 2001 Continuation of
Common Council meeting minutes of December 5, 2001 be approved as
published.
Carried Unanimously
16.3 Approval of December 12, 2001 Special Common Council Meeting
Minutes
By Alderperson Mack: Seconded by Alderperson Pryor
RESOLVED, That the minutes of December 12, 2001 Special Common
Council meeting be approved as published.
Ayes (9) Manos, Blumenthal, Mack, Hershey, Sams,
Pryor, Peterson, Cogan, Whitmore
Nayes (0)
Abstention (1) Vaughan
Carried
16.4 Approval of December 19, 2001 Special Common Council Meeting
Minutes
By Alderperson Mack: Seconded by Alderperson Pryor
RESOLVED, That the minutes of December 19, 2001 Special Common
Council meeting be approved with corrections made by Alderperson
Pryor.
Carried Unanimously
16.5 Approval of January 1, 2002 Special Common Council Meeting
Minutes
By Alderperson Peterson: Seconded by Alderperson Whitmore
RESOLVED, That the minutes of January 1, 2002 Special Common
Council meeting be approved as published.
Carried Unanimously
16.6 Approval of January 2, 2002 Common council Meeting Minutes
By Alderperson Mack: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
RESOLVED, That the minutes of January 2, 2002 Common Council
meeting be approved as published.
Ayes (9) Hershey, Manos, Blumenthal, Pryor, Sams
Peterson, Whitmore, Vaughan, Mack
Nayes (0)
Abstention (1) Cogan
Carried
February 6, 2002
22
MAYOR’S APPOINTMENTS:
Mayor Cohen stated that he will only put forth new appointments
as resumes for re-appointments were not forwarded to Council for
review.
Board of Fire Commissioners
By Mayor Cohen: Seconded by Alderperson Hershey
RESOLVED, That Robin Korherr be appointed to the Board of Fire
Commissioners to fill a vacancy with a term to expire June 30,
2004, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Jana Taylor be appointed to the Board of Fire
Commissioners to fill a vacancy with a term to expire June 30,
2003.
Extensive discussion followed on the floor regarding the
appointment of city employees to various boards/committees. It
was recommended that this item be referred to the Human Resources
Committee for discussion. Mayor Cohen withdrew his nomination of
Robin Korherr to the Board of Fire Commissioners.
Board of Fire Commissioners
By Mayor Cohen: Seconded by Alderperson Hershey
RESOLVED, That Jana Taylor be appointed to the Board of Fire
Commissioners to fill a vacancy with a term to expire June 30,
2003.
Carried Unanimously
Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee
By Mayor Cohen: Seconded by Alderperson Hershey
RESOLVED, That Dwight Mengel be appointed to the Bicycle
Pedestrian Advisory Committee to fill a vacancy with a term to
expire December 31, 2003, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That William Maxwell be appointed to the Bicycle
Pedestrian Advisory Committee to replace Barton Smith with a term
to expire December 31, 2003.
Carried Unanimously
Board of Public Works
By Mayor Cohen: Seconded by Alderperson Hershey
RESOLVED, That Gossa Tsegaye be appointed to the Board of Public
Works with a term to expire December 31, 2004.
Ayes (9) Pryor, Blumenthal, Mack, Manos,
Whitmore, Vaughan, Peterson, Cogan
Hershey
Nays (1) Sams
Abstentions (0)
Carried
Board of Zoning Appeals
By Mayor Cohen: Seconded by Alderperson Manos
RESOLVED, That James Marshall be appointed to fill a vacancy on
the Board of Zoning Appeals with a term to expire December 31,
2002.
Carried Unanimously
February 6, 2002
23
Commons Advisory Board
By Mayor Cohen: Seconded by Alderperson Hershey
RESOLVED, That Beverly Apgar, Jevon Garrett, Heather McDaniel be
appointed to the Commons Advisory Board to fill vacancies with
terms to expire December 31, 2003.
Carried Unanimously
Community Police Board
By Mayor Cohen: Seconded by Alderperson Manos
RESOLVED, That Ron Passmore be appointed to the Community Police
Board to fill a vacancy with a term to expire December 31, 2004.
Carried Unanimously
Conservation Advisory Committee
By Mayor Cohen: Seconded by Alderperson Manos
RESOLVED, That Jim Walker and Michael Bronstein be appointed to
the Conservation Advisory Committee to fill vacancies with terms
to expire December 31, 2003.
Alderperson Cogan stated that he talked to Michael Culotta, Chair
of the Conservation Advisory Committee, who stated that he was
not familiar with the appointments being made. Alderperson Cogan
suggested that in the future, the Chair of the board should be
notified of new appointments being planned.
A vote on the Resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
Housing Board of Review
By Mayor Cohen: Seconded by Alderperson Manos
RESOLVED, That Annemarie Zwack be appointed to the Housing Board
of Review to fill a vacancy with a term to expire December 31,
2004.
Carried Unanimously
Examining Board of Plumbers
By Mayor Cohen: Seconded by Alderperson Whitmore
RESOLVED, That Karl Brenzo be appointed to the Examining Board of
Plumbers to fill a vacancy with a term to expire December 31,
2004.
Carried Unanimously
Public Art & Design Committee
By Mayor Cohen: Seconded by Alderperson Blumenthal
RESOLVED, That Leslie Carrere and Terry Plater be appointed to
the Public Art & Design Committee to fill vacancies with terms to
expire June 30, 2004, and, be it further
RESOLVED, that Alan Nemcek and Barbara Mink be appointed to the
Public Art & Design Committee to fill a vacancies with terms to
expire June 30, 2003.
Carried Unanimously
Shade Tree Advisory Committee
By Mayor Cohen: Seconded by Alderperson Whitmore
RESOLVED, That Judith Maxwell be appointed to the Shade Tree
Advisory Committee to replace Mary Ellen Rossiter with a term to
expire December 31, 2002, and, be it further
February 6, 2002
24
RESOLVED, That James Blackburn be appointed to the Shade Tree
Advisory Committee to replace Samuel Demas with a term to expire
December 31, 2003.
Carried Unanimously
Youth Bureau Advisory Board
By Mayor Cohen: Seconded by Alderperson Mack
RESOLVED, That Joan Spielholz be appointed to the Youth Bureau
Advisory Board to fill a vacancy with a term to expire December
31, 2004, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Cheryl Reidell be appointed to the Youth Bureau
Advisory Board to fill a vacancy with a term to expire December
31, 2002.
Carried Unanimously
REPORT OF CITY BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, AND COMMITTEES:
Larry Roberts, Chair of Disability Advisory Council, submitted a
written report that was approved by the Advisory Council. The
Disability Advisory Council took it upon itself to the Advisory
Council and have been very successful. Their focus has been on
accessible parking, which is the new term for handicap parking.
They are studying the adequacy of the accessible parking that the
city provides, and are also engaged in an ongoing public
awareness campaign regarding accessible parking. The Advisory
Council has prepared a segment on Pegasys about the basics of
accessible parking, and the Ithaca Police Department performed an
enforcement weekend last November, where they paid particular
attention to accessible parking violations.
One of the Advisory Council’s roles is to advise and make
recommendations to Common Council. The Disability Advisory
Council is working on drafting updates to City Ordinances, most
notably the Human Rights Ordinances and other ordinances that
have relevance to people with disabilities.
Alderperson Pryor commended Mr. Roberts for his persistence and
efforts in re-vitalizing the Disability Advisory Council. The
Committee has become active again, and she attributes that to
Larry’s leadership as Chair.
Mayor Cohen concurred with Alderperson Pryor’s comments.
Mr. Roberts stated that they will be submitting additional names
for appointment to the Disability Advisory Council as there are a
few of vacancies. He stated that the Advisory Council intends to
get as many people as they can to participate. He invited Common
Council to attend their committee meetings which are held on the
first Wednesday of the month at noon in Council Chambers.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM COMMON COUNCIL:
Alderperson Sams announced that Marcia Fort, GIAC Director, is
the winner of the Harriet Tubman Humanitarian Award. She voiced
her congratulations to Marcia who is an extremely worthy award
recipient.
REPORT OF THE CITY CONTROLLER:
City Controller Cafferillo reported on the City’s status in
obtaining a waiver from the State for sales tax on clothing and
footwear that is scheduled to go into effect on March 1, 2002.
City Controller Cafferillo stated that he was not aware that the
City had to enact additional legislation by the end of January,
February 6, 2002
25
2001. He attempted to obtain an extension, but there is not one
available. City merchants will need to charge 1.5% sales tax
until the waiver is obtained. Tompkins County successfully
received a sales tax exemption.
Extensive discussion followed on the floor regarding how the City
should proceed with this matter.
REPORT OF THE CITY ATTORNEY:
City Attorney Schwab reported that Judge Mulvey issued a ruling
today in relation to the arguments that took place February 1,
2002, regarding whether or not there is a stay in effect, which
would preclude the City from issuing a building permit to
Widewaters to begin site development work. Judge Mulvey held
that there is no stay in effect and that the City may go ahead
and issue the building permit.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR:
Mayor Cohen stated that he is waiting for additional information
to include in the State of the City address. He stated that he
will distribute the address to Council and publish it in the
Ithaca Journal.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 9:00 P.M.
________________________ _______________________
Julie Conley Holcomb, CMC Alan J. Cohen,
City Clerk Mayor