HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-2007-03-07COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. March 7, 2007
PRESENT:
Mayor Peterson
Alderpersons (9) Coles, Seger, Berry, Clairborne, Tomlan, Zumoff, Gelinas,
Townsend, Cogan
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk – Conley Holcomb
City Attorney – Hoffman
City Controller – Thayer
Superintendent of Public Works – Gray
Fire Chief – Wilbur
Deputy Director of Economic Development – DeSarno
Police Chief – Signer
Information Technology Director – Twardokus
Youth Bureau Director – Green
Deputy Director of Planning & Development – Cornish
EXCUSED:
Alderperson Korherr
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Peterson led all present in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
ADDITIONS TO OR DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA:
City Administration Committee:
Alderperson Coles requested that Item 15.1 - Common Council - City of Ithaca
Statement on Immigration Enforcement –Resolution be removed from the agenda and
returned to the City Administration Committee for further review and discussion.
Alderperson Coles further requested that Item 10.4 Review of Budget Process – Report
be moved to Item 13.1 under Report of Special Committees.
No Council member objected.
Mayor Peterson requested the addition of an Executive Session to discuss a Personnel
matter.
No Council member objected.
PROCLAMATIONS/AWARDS:
Mayor Peterson proclaimed the month of March, 2007 as Women’s History Month, and
noted that the National theme this year is “Generations of Women Moving History
Forward.”
SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
Celebration of Women’s History Month:
Former Mayors William Shaw and John Gutenberger presented Mayor Peterson with a
plaque in recognition of being the first woman elected as Mayor of the City of Ithaca,
and having her portrait placed on the wall of Common Council Chambers with all the
previous Mayors. City Clerk Julie Conley Holcomb read letters of recognition to Mayor
Peterson from former Mayors: Alan J. Cohen, Benjamin Nichols, Raymond Bordoni,
and Edward J. Conley who were not able to attend the celebration. City Clerk Holcomb
presented Mayor Peterson with a gift from the Conley family and Fire Chief Brian Wilbur
presented her with a bouquet of flowers on behalf of Common Council and the City’s
senior staff.
March 7, 2007
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SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
Report from Tompkins County Legislature
Tompkins County Legislator, 5th District, Kathy Luz Herrara congratulated Mayor
Peterson on her recognition for Women’s History month.
She then reported on the following:
County Legislature support for New York State reforms to unemployment
insurance
Budget forums – one forum has been held and others are planned throughout
March, 2007.
The County’s home health care agency has received the highest rating award
Commendation to County and City workers for their efforts during the recent
snow storm
Community Development Block Grant program and home ownership
Health Department Building Committee is reviewing short list of proposed sites
including one in the City
Report of Natural Areas Commission
Natural Areas Commission Chair, Zev Ross presented an overview of the Commission’s
membership and responsibilities. He further discussed concerns about the water plant
project, and voiced support for the development of guidelines to be used when work is
conducted in natural areas. He stated that the Commission would like to be involved
with the Gateway Project (creek walk area), the Ithaca Falls lead contamination clean-
up project, and the Southwest Urban Neighborhood Development.
PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
Doria Higgins, Town of Ithaca, and Carl Feuer, City of Ithaca, addressed Council in
support of the proposed resolution regarding unemployment insurance reform.
Jordan Wells, City of Ithaca, addressed Council in support of the proposed resolution
concerning unemployment insurance reform, but stated that farm and agricultural
workers should also be included.
The following people addressed Council in support of the proposed statement on
immigration enforcement:
Pete Meyers, City of Ithaca
Akua Gyamerah, City of Ithaca
Jordan Wells, City of Ithaca
Nathan Mullenax, City of Ithaca
Leonardo Vargas-Mendez, City of Ithaca
William Meyer, City of Ithaca, addressed Council regarding the 9/11 terrorist attack and
the U.S. Government assault on its own people.
Steve Caulkins, City of Ithaca, addressed Council in support of Mr. Meyer’s statements.
Neil Oolie, City of Ithaca, addressed Council regarding the constitution of the United
States, troops in Iraq, Walter Reed Hospital concerns, and corporate interests taking
over the country.
Guy Gerard, City of Ithaca, addressed Council regarding Common Council’s Rules of
Procedures and stated that the three-minute limit restricts the power of Common
Council.
Clare Grady, City of Ithaca addressed Council to announce that the local marches &
Rally for Peace commemorating the 4th anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Iraq would
be held on March 17, 2007 on the Ithaca Commons.
Joel Harlan, Town of Newfield, addressed Council regarding worker’s rights and the war
in Iraq.
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PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR – COMMON COUNCIL AND THE MAYOR:
Alderperson Coles thanked the speakers for voicing their opinions about immigration
enforcement, and stated that many details need to be discussed in more depth with the
police department such as their role and responsibilities in cases that involve labor
abuses against immigrants. She also thanked the people who spoke in support of
unemployment insurance reform. Alderperson Coles further noted the significance of
Mayor Peterson being the first woman Mayor in Ithaca’s history and the positive impact
that has on young women in the community.
Alderperson Clairborne stated that he was pleased that Mayor Peterson could be
honored during Women’s History month, and noted what a historical landmark this is.
He thanked the speakers for their comments, and stated that the central theme
appeared to be accountability to the public.
Alderperson Townsend voiced his support for Alderperson Coles’ comments on the
immigration enforcement issue. He congratulated Mayor Peterson on the honor of
being the first woman Mayor.
Alderperson Berry thanked the people involved with the Women’s History month
celebration. She thanked all of the speakers sharing their thoughts, and responded to
Mr. Meyers regarding previous communications concerning the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:
City Administration Committee:
Youth Bureau - Amendment to Budget and Roster - Resolution
By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Seger
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Youth Bureau has received $30,212 in new funding from the
Tauck Foundation and an anonymous donor for the College Discovery Program, and
WHEREAS, the College Discovery Program is a new initiative developed in 2004 in
order to further the Youth Bureau’s goal of helping all students in the Ithaca City School
District who excel in school, and
WHEREAS, this proposal is budget neutral; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council hereby amends the 2007 Youth Bureau budget
and roster as follows:
• Amend the roster to increase the hours of the College Discovery Program Coordinator
from 17.5 hours per week to 35 hours per week effective March 12, 2007 and
• Amend the 2007 Youth Bureau budget to account for said funding as follows:
Increase Revenue Account:
Account # A2070-1240 Contributions to Youth - $30,212
College Discovery
Increase Appropriation Accounts:
Account # A7310-5120-01206 Hourly P/T - $ 3,280
One-to-One BBBS
Account # A7310-5110-01240 Staff Salaries - $17,975
College Discovery
Account # A7310-5120-01240 Hourly P/T - $ 5,247
College Discovery
Account # A7310-9030 FICA/Medicare $ 2,027
Account # A7310-9040 Workers’ Comp $ 1,683
$30,212
Carried Unanimously
March 7, 2007
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Chamberlain’s Office - Change to Tax Roll - Resolution
By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Seger
WHEREAS, the Senior Exemption for 41 Reuben Street was incorrectly entered on the
2006 Assessment Roll and subsequent tax roll, and
WHEREAS, the County Director of Assessment recommends that the application for
correction to the 2007 Tax Rolls be approved; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the City Chamberlain is directed to correct the 2007 City Tax Rolls,
and be it further
RESOLVED, That the City Chamberlain is directed to issue corrected tax bills.
Carried Unanimously
CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
City Resolution on the Need for Unemployment Insurance Reform - Resolution
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Gelinas
WHEREAS, a strong unemployment insurance program maintains the standard of living
of working families above the poverty level, boosts communities and empowers the
redeployment of New York’s workforce into good jobs, and
WHEREAS, New York’s maximum weekly unemployment benefit has been frozen at
$405 since 1998, leaving New York as 48th out of 50 states in protecting its workers
against the financial impact of job loss, and
WHEREAS, only 41% of the jobless receive benefits at all, leaving hundreds of
thousands left out each year, and
WHEREAS, many hundreds of hourly-paid employees of educational institutions in
Tompkins County are unfairly denied any unemployment benefits during long periods of
layoff between school terms, and
WHEREAS, most other hourly-paid workers are eligible for unemployment benefits
when temporarily laid off, including workers doing exactly the same jobs as hourly-paid
employees of educational institutions; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca calls upon our State Legislators, the Governor and
the Labor Commissioner to enact measures to bring significant reform to our
unemployment insurance system, and be it further
RESOLVED, That this reform should include a meaningful increase in the maximum
benefit as well as an increase in the proportional benefit rate for lower wage workers,
and be it further
RESOLVED, That this reform should include elimination of the unfair denial of access to
unemployment benefits for hourly paid employees of educational institutions, and be it
further
RESOLVED, That this reform should include expanded opportunities for jobless
workers to complete job-training programs to upgrade their skills, and be it further
RESOLVED, That this reform provide improved access at all levels of the system to
workers with limited English-speaking skills.
Amending Resolution:
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
RESOLVED, That the following language be added to the Resolution as the last
Whereas Clause:
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“WHEREAS, New York State Assembly Bill 364 of the year 2006, co-sponsored by
Assembly member Barbara Lifton will be reintroduced in 2007 and states as its
justification, “Service employees in schools, including cafeteria workers, bus drivers and
others are generally low wage workers. If they receive no salary during the vacation
months they often experience financial hardship waiting for the school year to begin
again.” now, therefore, be it”
Alderperson Coles stated that this would help close the gap between the very rich and
the very poor.
A Vote on the Amending Resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (8) Coles, Seger, Berry, Clairborne, Zumoff, Townsend, Gelinas,
Cogan
Nays (1) Tomlan
Abstentions (0)
Carried
Alderperson Gelinas voiced his appreciation of all the work that went into this well
crafted Resolution. He stated that he would like to revisit this issue to consider the
inclusion of the farm and agricultural worker component at a future meeting.
Alderperson Tomlan inquired how salary levels fit in with benefits. She stated that she
conducted research on this topic but still has unanswered questions, so she is not
comfortable voting for the resolution at this time.
Alderperson Seger stated that he is happy to support this issue, as reform is needed to
close the gaps that exist between socio-economic groups.
A vote on the Main Motion as Amended resulted as follows:
Ayes (8) Coles, Seger, Berry, Clairborne, Zumoff, Townsend, Gelinas,
Cogan
Nays (1) Tomlan
Abstentions (0)
Carried
Approval of Substitute Members to the Joint Study Group formed to Investigate
possible Shared Services and possible Consolidation between the City of Ithaca
and the Town of Ithaca - Resolution
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Tomlan
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council and the Town of Ithaca Board, desiring
to examine the mutual benefits that could be achieved through possible shared services
and possible consolidation measures, agreed by votes at their respective meetings of
May 3, 2006, and May 8, 2006, to pursue such investigation through the establishment
of a joint study group, and
WHEREAS, the Common Council voted unanimously to create such a study group to
investigate, among others, the legal and regulatory aspects of shared services and
possible consolidation, the pros and cons of both shared services and consolidation, the
financial opportunities and liabilities of consolidation or shared services, an analysis of
the property and sales tax scenario for a single jurisdiction, the concept of a new
jurisdiction, and a unified comprehensive plan, and to provide an analysis of the
strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for each topic area, and
WHEREAS, the Common Council voted that the study group would be composed of
eight “at-large” members, mutually agreed upon by the City of Ithaca Common Council
and the Town of Ithaca Board, with these representatives having knowledge of finance,
law, planning, public works, police, or organizational culture, plus one elected official
liaison from each jurisdiction, making a total of ten members, and
March 7, 2007
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WHEREAS, the Common Council directed that such study group and its chair be
nominated by a joint City-Town nomination committee consisting of the Mayor, the
Supervisor, one Common Council member, and one Town Board member, and
WHEREAS, the nomination committee, consisting of Mayor Carolyn K. Peterson,
Supervisor Cathy Valentino, Alderperson Mary Tomlan, and Councilor Peter Stein, put
forward the names of eight “at-large” study group members, and
WHEREAS, the Common Council and the Town Board voted at their respective
meetings of October 4, 2006, and October 14, 2006, to name those eight persons as
study group members, being Lois E. Chaplin, Paul R. Eberts, Nathan Fawcett, Randy
Haus, Tom Niederkorn, Wendy Skinner, Stuart W. Stein, and Constance V. Thompson,
and
WHEREAS, two of those members, Randy Haus and Wendy Skinner, have since found
that they are unable to serve, and
WHEREAS, the nominating committee has agreed to put forward the names of Ellen
McCollister and Diane Bruns as study group members; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca concurs in the naming of
Ellen McCollister and Diane Bruns to the City-Town joint study group.
Alderperson Tomlan noted that Ellen McCollister is a three-term member of the City’s
Planning Board and that Diane Bruns is a local attorney.
Alderperson Gelinas disclosed that he is working with the Committee to conduct
research and analysis as a Senior Independent Study Project. He noted that he will be
receiving Cornell University credit for the project.
A vote on the Resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (8) Coles, Seger, Berry, Clairborne, Tomlan, Gelinas, Townsend,
Cogan
Nays (0)
Carried (8-0)
Alderperson Zumoff absent from vote
Police Department - Request to Amend 2007 Police Department Roster and
Budget - Resolution
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Seger
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Police Department recently filled the final vacancy for the
position of Data Entry Specialist for the 3:00 P.M. to 11:30 P.M. shift covering the front
desk, and
WHEREAS, that leaves the front desk 11:00 P.M. to 7:30 A.M. shift to be covered by
civilian and Police Officers overtime, and
WHEREAS, in 2006, $147,000 in overtime costs were related to the coverage of the
front desk and data entry, and
WHEREAS, the creation of an additional Data Entry Specialist position for the 11:00
P.M. to 7:30 A.M. shift would significantly reduce overtime costs in this area and allow
for additional reporting capabilities; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Police Department’s authorized 2007 Personnel Roster be
amended as follows:
Add: One (1) Data Entry Specialist
and, be it further
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RESOLVED, That the 2007 Police Department Budget be amended by transferring an
amount not to exceed $24,400 from Account A1990 Unrestricted Contingency to
Account A3120-5110 Staff Salaries for the purposes of funding said additional position
plus benefits starting April 1, 2007, and be it further
RESOLVED, That funding continuation for said position beyond 2007 shall be
contingent upon overtime for the Police Department being reduced for front desk
coverage by at least the position’s cost including benefits.
Carried Unanimously
ENVIRONMENT & NEIGHBORHOOD QUALITY COMMITTEE:
Truck Traffic in Neighborhoods – Resolution
By Alderperson Berry: Seconded by Alderperson Zumoff
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca and its neighboring communities are crossed daily by a
large number of long haul trucks using State routes and Federal aide highways, with an
unusual concentration of trucks hauling municipal solid waste, and
WHEREAS, the City understands its benefits from and obligations to the State highway
system, a system which is necessary for the support of local commerce, industry,
institutions, State-wide tourism, and the local economy’s participation in interstate
commerce, and
WHEREAS, the City’s experience with long-haul trucks over the last decade has
included fatal accidents, brakes lost on hills resulting in out-of-control trucks tipping over
and spilling their contents (burying shrubbery in tons of sugar in one case and a car and
driver in tons of garbage in a second case), tickets written for over weight vehicles,
over-length vehicles, un-inspected vehicles, vehicles with defective mufflers, lights, and
brakes, vehicles impounded because they were unsafe to drive, drivers arrested
because they were unsafe to drive, and similar disturbing experiences, and
WHEREAS, the City pays a price in the form of rapidly deteriorating roads and bridges
from overweight trucks, decreased safety from oversized or defective vehicles,
deteriorating neighborhoods and housing, from excessive numbers of large, heavy, and
noisy long-haul trucks, (often passing directly through the heavily-used waterfront Cass
Park area, on the “scenic byway” designated Route 89) many of which appear to be
taking shortcuts (or long cuts) to avoid the regulation inherent with the interstate
highway system, and
WHEREAS, the City’s Board of Public Works has already approved a similar resolution;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council supports the efforts of New York State’s Senator
Charles E. Schumer to address these types of problems as outlined in his three-point
plan summarized in an October 19, 2006, news release from his office:
Alderperson Zumoff stated that he is delighted to see this issue being considered as it
has a very big impact on the Third Ward, especially East State Street residents.
Mayor Peterson reported that this information has been sent to the Tompkins County
Council of Governments for consideration. She further noted that the City of
Skaneateles is happy that Ithaca has joined them in this action.
Amending Resolution:
By Alderperson Berry: Seconded by Alderperson Zumoff
RESOLVED, That the last Resolved Clause be amended to read as follows:
“RESOLVED, That Common Council supports the efforts of New York State’s Senator
Charles E. Schumer to address these types of problems as outlined in his three-point
plan summarized in an October 19, 2006, news release from his office:
Permanent routes for trucks carrying hazardous materials ranging from garbage
to gasoline. Schumer is urging that Interstate 90 (the Thruway) and Interstate 81 be
designated as hazardous materials truck routes. These routes are designed to keep
March 7, 2007
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trucks on large highways and interstates, and off of smaller local roads. Currently,
states can choose to set up truck routes, but it is not mandatory. The United States
Code allows for these routes to be created, and requires the New York State
Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to work with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Administration (FMCSA) to create an appropriate routing plan. Such routes are already
in place in states including New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Maryland. This would
keep trucks off of smaller roads and on larger highways built for handling large trucks.
The federal government to require all states establish routing systems for trucks
carrying hazardous materials. Schumer promised that if the federal DOT does not set
this new requirement on their own, he would introduce legislation that would require
states to work with FMCSA to do so. Schumer also asked that they conduct a Truck
Route Management and Community Impact Reduction Study, which would include a
truck route analysis, truck route policies, regulations and stringent enforcement, truck
route education, outreach program and signage. The study is to incorporate
recommendations to improve the operation and management of the truck route network
and mitigate the negative impacts of commercial truck traffic on local routes. In addition,
the study should suggest short-term initiatives to enact immediate improvements that
would better manage the truck route network.
A new effort to support the bipartisan Transportation Security Improvement Act
(S.1052). This legislation would provide for several measures to increase the safety of
the nation’s truck fleet, including requiring truck drivers transporting hazardous material
to have written route plans, requires USDOT to promote GPS tracking systems on
trucks carrying high hazard materials, establishes a program for reviewing hazardous
materials security plans, and sets civil penalties for failure to comply with certain
requirements for the transportation of hazardous materials. It would also require the
Secretary of Transportation to submit to Congress a report assessing truck security.”
Carried Unanimously
Main Motion as Amended:
A vote on the Main Motion as amended resulted as follows
Carried Unanimously
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES:
Review of Budget Process – Report
Alderperson Coles presented the following information to clarify the budget hearing
process and stress the importance of early scheduling:
1. Why start this early to set up meetings?
A. Too many agendas need to be reconciled (all CC members, the mayor, all
department heads and deputies, as well as some support staff)
B. Common Council Chambers has to be reserved for 5 evenings (although
initially we will start with 8-9 proposed evenings) in one month.
C. The object is to have dates we can all try to reserve before other meetings
and obligations.
2. Members of Common Council expressed a desire for late afternoon-evening
meetings.
A. There appeared to have been agreement during our informal discussions
last October, that we can’t be discussing considerable budget issues late into the night
due to family and work obligations many have. It also appeared to be the majority
opinion for starting budget meetings at 4:00 p.m. and ending at 8:00 p.m. with the public
hearings being held at 7:00 p.m.
B. What would you like to do about food? Do you want to go straight through
or……
3. No more periods waiting for departments or the public.
A. All departments would report at 4:00 p.m. or the beginning of each set of
meetings.
B. The three public hearings will have to be set for times when the public will
be most likely to attend.
March 7, 2007
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4. We will invert last year’s order in which departments will present.
5. Common Council should think about specific questions they might want
answered by departments.
6. Standardized budgets
A. Narratives should be included.
B. Provide explanations of line items when not immediately apparent.
7. Along with traditional ways of publicizing budget meetings, dates should be sent
to Civic Associations for posting on listserves.
8. Include updates on capital projects.
Alderperson Seger agreed that scheduling the budget sessions was a problem last
year, and encouraged the Mayor to consider public hearing meeting times for 7:00 p.m.
for the convenience of residents. He further stated that he supports the standardization
of budget submissions for all departments, and noted that the City Attorney’s Office
submission was a good model.
Alderperson Cogan recommended that budget meetings start at 4:00 p.m. and that
public hearings be conducted at 5:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m.
Alderperson Coles explained that a group of people would meet to schedule eight (8)
dates/times for meetings.
Alderperson Berry requested that information on the budget be placed on the city’s web
site to announce meetings and share information so that people who can’t attend
meetings can still participate.
NEW BUSINESS:
Common Council’s Appointment to the Local Advisory Board of Assessment
Review – Resolution
By Alderperson : Seconded by Alderperson
RESOLVED, That _________________ and ________________be appointed to the
Local Advisory Board of Assessment Review, with __________________ and
________________being designated as alternates.
Discussion followed on the floor regarding the lack of proposed nominees for these
appointments.
Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to Make Appointment to the Local Advisory
Board of Assessment.
By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Tomlan
RESOLVED, That Common Council authorizes the Mayor to make the appointment of
two people to serve on the Local Advisory Board of Assessment.
Carried Unanimously
Blue Stone Bar & Grill Alcohol Permit Request – Resolution
By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Seger
WHEREAS, the City Clerk’s Office has received a request to allow the Blue Stone Bar &
Grill to utilize certain areas along Aurora Street for outdoor dining, and
WHEREAS, this use of public property has been deemed proper and successful, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca wishes to promote diverse uses of the Primary and
Secondary Commons, including outdoor dining, and
WHEREAS, it is Common Council's responsibility to determine whether or not to allow the
serving and consumption of alcohol on the Primary and Secondary Commons, and
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WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that the use of this public property for
outdoor dining at the Blue Stone Bar & Grill, including the responsible sale and
consumption of alcohol, is desirable, and
WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that any use of this or similar public
property involving the same and consumption of alcohol should be covered by a minimum
of $1,000,000 insurance under the Dram Shop Act; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, For the year 2007, Common Council hereby approves a revocable Alcoholic
Beverage Permit for the outdoor sale and consumption of alcohol for the Blue Stone Bar &
Grill that includes the sale of alcohol in accord with the terms and conditions set forth in
application therefore, including minimum Dram Shop coverage in the amount of
$1,000,000 and the approval of an outdoor dining permit.
Carried Unanimously
Simeon’s on The Commons Alcohol Permit Request – Resolution
By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Zumoff
WHEREAS, since 1987 the City of Ithaca has issued a license to Simeon's Restaurant
allowing that restaurant to utilize certain areas along Aurora Street and on the Ithaca
Commons for outdoor dining, and
WHEREAS, this use of public property has generally been deemed proper and successful,
and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca wishes to promote diverse uses of the Ithaca Commons,
including outdoor dining, and
WHEREAS, it is Common Council's responsibility to determine whether or not to allow the
serving and consumption of alcohol on the Ithaca Commons, and
WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that the use of this public property for
outdoor dining at Simeon's Restaurant, including the responsible sale and consumption of
alcohol, is desirable, and
WHEREAS, Common Council has determined that any use of this or similar public
property involving the same and consumption of alcohol should be covered by a minimum
of $1,000,000 insurance under the Dram Shop Act; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, For the year 2007, Common Council hereby approves a revocable Alcoholic
Beverage Permit for the outdoor sale and consumption of alcohol for Simeon's Restaurant
that includes the sale of alcohol in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in
the application therefore, including minimum Dram Shop coverage in the amount of
$1,000,000 and the approval of an outdoor dining permit.
Carried Unanimously
INDIVIDUAL MEMBER – FILED RESOLUTIONS:
Common Council - City of Ithaca Statement on Immigration Enforcement –
Resolution
By Alderperson : Seconded by Alderperson
WHEREAS, reliable published reports indicate a dramatic increase in enforcement of
immigration laws in New York and elsewhere, and
WHEREAS, those reports further indicate that such enforcement measures have
created a climate of fear among New York’s non-citizen population, and
WHEREAS, as a result of such enforcement measures, such families have been broken
up, with parents forcibly separated from children, and in some cases, families forced to
flee their homes and seek shelter wherever possible, and
WHEREAS, deportations and incarcerations of such individuals have occurred with
ruthless haste and without regard to basic human rights and due process protections,
and
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WHEREAS, New York State has always been a safe haven for those who are
oppressed and beleaguered and has historically been the gateway for people from all
parts of the globe who seek a better life for themselves and their families, and
WHEREAS, the State of New York and the City of Ithaca should not tolerate the tactics
employed by the U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement agency as described in
the said published reports; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca stands opposed to the overbearing, frightening and
cruel activities of the U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement agency in allegedly
enforcing immigration laws against non-citizens in the State of New York, and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca calls upon the Hon. Charles Schumer and the Hon.
Hillary Clinton, as well as the entire New York Congressional delegation, to take such
measures as may be necessary to insure the humane and respectful treatment of such
individuals and families within the State of New York, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca calls upon Hon. Eliot Spitzer, Governor of the State
of New York, to explore means and methods by which the State may assist non-citizens
within New York deal with the effects of increased enforcement of immigration laws,
including a definition of the appropriate role of the state police in such instances, and,
be it further
RESOLVED, That the Ithaca Police Department is requested to recognize that the
enforcement of federal immigration laws is a function of federal law enforcement
agencies and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Ithaca Police Department is requested to refrain from
participating in the enforcement of immigration laws except when specifically requested
by federal officials in relation to particularized suspicion of criminal activity other than
the mere presence of an individual in the City of Ithaca.
This Resolution was referred back to City Administration Committee for further review
and discussion.
MAYOR’S APPOINTMENTS:
Disability Advisory Council:
By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Seger
RESOLVED, That Kendrick Kemp be appointed to the Disability Advisory Council to fill
a vacancy with a term to expire June 30, 2009.
Carried Unanimously
Mayor Peterson noted that Alderperson Zumoff’s term on the Ithaca Downtown
Partnership Board expired on December 31, 2006. She stated that she would make an
appointment to that board at the April Common Council meeting.
Alderperson Clairborne stated that he would like to see someone from the Second Ward
serving on the board as they are the elected representatives for the downtown area. He
further voiced his interest in serving.
REPORTS OF COMMON COUNCIL LIAISONS:
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
Alderperson Clairborne reported on the following items from the Ithaca Urban Renewal
Agency Board:
On February 22, 2007 the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency adopted a final proposed
Action Plan for 2007 to fund 19 separate projects in the following categories: housing,
public facilities, economic development, and public services.
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Some of the public facility projects include:
Public dock at Cass Park
New kitchen at GIAC
Air conditioning at Southside Community Center
Renovations to former pump station at 530 W. Buffalo Street for RIBS program
Accessibility improvements at the Youth Bureau and the Lifelong senior center
Some of the public service projects include:
Pre-Construction Preparedness Program
Support Services for Immigrants and Refugees
Child Care Emergency Scholarships
Natural Leaders Initiative
A summary of the proposed 2007 action plan is available for public comment.
Recreation Partnership
Alderperson Clairborne reported on the Recreation Partnership and stated that a retreat
will be held to discuss the process of revising the language to the agreement between
the participating municipalities.
Human Services Coalition
Alderperson Berry reported that Cornell University President Skorton gave the keynote
address at the Human Services Coalition meeting, which was very well attended. She
further stated that the Sister Friends celebration would be held on March 15, 2007 at
Ithaca College.
REPORT OF CITY CLERK:
City Clerk Holcomb read into the record the following information from the Ithaca Urban
Renewal agency:
Public Hearing Notice
City of Ithaca
Community Development Block Grant and Home Investment Partnerships
Programs
Proposed Action Plan 2007
The Planning and Economic Development Committee of the Ithaca Common Council will
hold a Public Hearing at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 21, 2007 in Common Council
Chambers at City Hall, 108 E. Green Street, Ithaca, NY.
This Public Hearing is the second of two public hearings scheduled to review the City of
Ithaca’s Annual Action Plan. This second hearing is intended to obtain the views of citizens
on the proposed Action Plan, which describes the City's proposed uses of Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME)
funds for housing, public facilities, public services and economic development to benefit
the City’s low and moderate income population.
Written comments may be submitted to the IURA, 108 E. Green Street, Ithaca 14850 by
4:30 p.m. March 19, 2007. The proposed Plan is available for inspection at several public
locations, including the City of Ithaca website, www.cityofithaca.org. For information
contact the IURA at (607)-274-6559, or email suek@cityofithaca.org .
Notice of Availability and Public Comment Period
City of Ithaca
Proposed Action Plan
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships
(HOME) Entitlement Program
The Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency’s proposed Action Plan for FY 2007 will be made
available for public comment between March 1 and March 30, 2007 at the following
locations:
March 7, 2007
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IURA office, 3rd floor City Hall
Office of the Mayor, 4th floor, City Hall
Tompkins County Library
www.cityofithaca.org
Activity Sponsor Amount
Housing
1. Cedar Creek Housing Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services/HOP $100,000*
2. SHARP Mini-Repair Program Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services $ 21,000
3. INHS Housing Development Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services $360,000
4. 2007 Weatherization Assistance Program, Tompkins Community Action, Inc.$ 50,000
5. 2007 Security Deposits, Catholic Charities of Tompkins/Tioga $ 60,000
6. CHDO Operating Assistance, Community Housing of Ithaca, Inc. $ 25,000
7. Project-Specific CHDO Assistance, Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency $ 29,808
Economic Development
8. CDL Training Program, Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Partnership $113,000
Public Facilities
9. Southside Gym Renovation- air conditioning, Southside Community Center, Inc.
$ 43,000
10. RIBs Building Renovation- 530 W. Buffalo, Southside Community Center, Inc.
$ 26,700
11. Youth Bureau Accessibility Improvements, Ithaca Youth Bureau $ 18,587
12. Cass Park Public Dock, Ithaca Asian American Assn./City of Ithaca $ 98,000
13. Public Facility Improvements City of Ithaca $ 48,000
14. Senior Center Accessibility Improvements Lifelong $ 22,090
15 GIAC Kitchen Improvements Greater Ithaca Activities Center
$ 53,935
Public Services
16. Pre-Construction Preparedness Program, Skilled Trades Diversity Council
$ 24,480
17. Support Services for Immigrants & Refugees, Catholic Charities of Tompkins/Tioga
$ 35,000
18. Natural Leader’s Initiative, Natural Leaders Partnership $ 43,713
19. Child Care Emergency Scholarships, Day Care Council $ 13,000
20. Administration Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency $220,543
*This Project is funded with $90,000 of HOME and $10,000 of Housing Development
Action Grant (HODAG) money.
The Action Plan describes proposed uses of federal funding for projects benefiting the
City’s low- and moderate-income residents. Written comments may be submitted to the
IURA, 108 E. Green Street, Ithaca 14850 by 4:30 p.m. March 30, 2007. For information
contact the IURA at (607) 274-6553.
REPORT OF CITY CONTROLLER:
City Controller Thayer reported on the following:
Financial Reports: AIM reports being completed as required by the State
2007 Sales tax revenue off to a weak start
Snow removal costs, $109,000 spent to date
Fuel prices are rising again so the budget will need to be monitored
REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY:
City Attorney Hoffman reported to Council on the following matters:
Cayuga Green Project – The language on the air rights agreement has been finalized
and the Mayor has signed the document. This agreement protects the tenants of the
first floor retail space from infrastructure related issues. A purchase agreement for the
March 7, 2007
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parcel previously occupied by the helix is being developed. This document sets
deadlines for developers to accomplish certain goals in order to close on the property.
The City has been served with slip and fall lawsuit although the fall occurred on private
property. The case argues that the City should have caused sidewalk to be cleared
from snow and ice and is being handled by the insurance carrier.
Dog park lawsuit – the oral argument has been made at Tompkins County Supreme
Court. The Judge has reserved decision and has given an opportunity for parties to
submit additional information; the petitioner has done this and the City will do so next
week.
Motion to Adjourn Into Executive Session to Discuss the Employment History of
an Individual Employee:
By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Coles
RESOLVED, That Common Council adjourns into executive session to discuss the
employment history of an individual employee at 9:55 p.m.
Carried Unanimously
Reconvene:
Common Council reconvened into regular session at 10:25 p.m. with no formal action
taken.
MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS:
Approval of the January 11, 2007 Committee of the Whole Meeting Minutes and
February 7, 2007 Common Council Meeting Minutes – Resolution
By Alderperson Berry: Seconded by Alderperson Gelinas
RESOLVED, That the minutes of the January 11, 2007 Committee of the Whole
meeting be approved with noted corrections, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the minutes of the February 7, 2007 Regular Common Council
meeting be approved with noted corrections.
Carried Unanimously
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 10:30 p.m.
______________________________ _______________________________
Julie Conley Holcomb, CMC Carolyn K. Peterson,
City Clerk Mayor