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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-2007-05-02COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. May 2, 2007 PRESENT: Mayor Peterson Alderpersons (10) Coles, Seger, Berry, Clairborne, Tomlan, Zumoff, Gelinas, Townsend, Cogan, Korherr OTHERS PRESENT: City Clerk – Conley Holcomb City Attorney – Hoffman City Controller – Thayer Community Development Director – Bohn Superintendent of Public Works – Gray Human Resources Director – Michell-Nunn Fire Chief – Wilbur Economic Developer Director – DeSarno GIAC Director - Fort PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Peterson led all present in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag. ADDITIONS TO OR DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA: New Business: Mayor Peterson requested the addition of an Executive Session to Discuss Contract Negotiations, and the Employment History of an Individual. PROCLAMATIONS/AWARDS: Quarterly Employee Recognition Award Mayor Peterson presented the City of Ithaca Quarterly Employee Recognition Award to Theresa Moore, City Chamberlain’s Office, for her work in developing a Resident’s Guide for the City of Ithaca. The Resident’s Guide is filled with information for property owners in the City of Ithaca and is available in the City Chamberlain’s Office. Mayor Peterson presented the Quarterly Team Recognition Award to the cross- functional team of the GIS Program and the Ithaca Fire Department for their work in preparing detailed maps of city gorges to facilitate difficult rescue work. The team consisted of GIS Specialist Sohyun Park; GIS Administrator Ruth Aslanis, Asst. Fire Chief Guy VanBenschoten, Fire Lieutenants Gillian Sharp and Willis Sheldon, and Firefighters Peter Snell and Shawn Flynn. Proclamations Mayor Peterson proclaimed May 8, 2007 as Grateful Dead Day in the City of Ithaca in remembrance of their performance in Ithaca 30 years ago on the Cornell Campus. Mayor Peterson was presented with a T-Shirt from the State Theater, Exec. Dir. that said “Ithaca is Grateful”. Mayor Peterson proclaimed the week of May 6-12, 2007 as Children’s Mental Health Week, with May 8, 2007 being National Children’s Mental Health Day in the City of Ithaca. Golden Shovel Award Alderperson Korherr presented the first annual Golden Shovel Award to the following individuals for their work and dedication to keeping sidewalks in their neighborhoods clear from ice and snow and contributing toward the “walkability” and accessibility of the City: Joe McMann, Columbia Street and Matt Gray, Aurora Street. Mr. McMann and Mr. Gray were each presented with a “golden” shovel and various gift certificates to local businesses. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS BEFORE COUNCIL: Report of the Natural Areas Commission (NAC): Ron Herring, NAC member, reported to Council on the following items: 1. Invitation to attend “Friends of Six Mile Creek Wildflower Appreciation Day” on Saturday, May 5, 2007 from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm. The event will include activities for children and adults as well as education on invasive plants in the area. 2. Guidelines have been established for work being conducted in the “natural areas” of the City. The guidelines will be forwarded to the Board of Public Works for review and consideration. May 2, 2007 2 3. There have been some communication problems between the City and the NAC regarding the environmental scoping for the Long Environmental Assessment Form for the Water Plant project. The NAC is looking forward to working on this issue with the Board of Public Works and Common Council. PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL: The following people addressed Common Council in support of the re-appointment of Marjorie Olds to the part-time City Court Judge position: Laurence Stevens, City of Ithaca Rebecca Elgie, City of Ithaca Monty Berman, Town of Ithaca Doria Higgins, Town of Ithaca Joel Harlan, Town of Newfield Tom Blecher, City of Ithaca Stacey Baker, City of Ithaca Monica Franciscus, City of Ithaca Stephen Hesse, City of Ithaca, read a letter of support for Marjorie Olds from Brian DeYoung Mary Winans and Michelle Thompson, Organizers of the Kip Keino Fun & Fitness Mile, addressed Council in support of the proposed City of Ithaca/Eldoret, Kenya “Sister City” Resolution. Guy Gerard, City of Ithaca, addressed Council regarding the analysis of the southern end of Cayuga Lake and its effect on the water plant decision. Joel Harlan, Town of Newfield, spoke in support of modern athletic facilities for GIAC and downtown Ithaca. Larry Roberts, City of Ithaca and Chair of Disability Advisory Council, thanked the City for establishing the Golden Shovel Award and for the City’s commitment to improving compliance of snow and ice removal from sidewalks. Bob Nape, Town of Ithaca, and Fay Gougakis, City of Ithaca, addressed Council in support of the impeachment of President George W. Bush and urged Common Council to pass a Resolution that would support the impeachment of the President. PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR – COMMON COUNCIL AND THE MAYOR: Alderperson Coles stated that she would defer her comments regarding the appointment of the part-time City Judge until later in the agenda. She further stated that she is working with a community group to draft a resolution in support of the impeachment of the President. Alderperson Coles stated that she is also working to address the concerns that have been raised regarding contamination of local area sites by the former Morse Chain and Wallace Steel companies and would like to see the community come together and request assistance from Governor Spitzer. Alderperson Berry thanked all the speakers for their comments. She further responded to comments made regarding GIAC recreation facilities and echoed thoughts of Alderperson Coles regarding contamination concerns. 8. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS: City Administration Committee 8.1 Establishment of Capital Project for GIAC Kitchen Relocation/Stage Renovation - Resolution By Alderperson Korherr: Seconded by Alderperson Seger WHEREAS, Common Council at its regular meeting of July 5, 2006, approved a 2006 Budget amendment of $80,000 for a GIAC Kitchen Relocation Project to be funded by the New York State Community Capital Assistance Program, and WHEREAS, since that approval, the project has increased in budget to $132,000 with funding approvals from New York State and Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA), and WHEREAS, the Controller’s Office recommends to better account for the project that it be established as a Capital Project; now, therefore be it RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby establishes Capital Project #717 GIAC Kitchen Relocation/Stage Renovation in the amount not to exceed of $132,000 for the purposes of relocating the GIAC kitchen and renovating the GIAC stage, and be it further May 2, 2007 3 RESOLVED, That funding for said project will be made by the following sources: New York State Community Capital Assistance Program Grant $80,000 IURA $52,000 $132,000 and, be it further RESOLVED, That funds for said project will be expended up front by the City of Ithaca General Fund with later repayment by GIAC, Inc. and the IURA. Carried Unanimously 8.2 Request to Amend 2007 Budget for Community Celebration Grants - Resolution By Alderperson Korherr: Seconded by Alderperson Seger WHEREAS, Tompkins County recently notified the City of $8,100 in grant funds from the County to the City for Community Celebration Funds, and WHEREAS, the $8,100 in funds would need to be disbursed to the following organizations/events/projects: 2007 Cinco De Mayo Festival $1,200 Latino Heritage Month $1,650 Juneteenth 2007 $1,800 Lakefest 2007 $1,300 2007 GIAC Community Festival $1,650 2007 Historical Display of African Americans in Ithaca $ 500 now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby accepts the $8,100 in Community Celebrations Grant funds from Tompkins County and amends the 2007 Budget to account for said grants as follows: Increase Revenue Accounts: A1012-2379 County Contribution/Celebrations $8,100 Increase Appropriation Accounts: A1012-5435 Community Service Contracts $8,100 Carried Unanimously 9. ENVIRONMENT & NEIGHBORHOOD QUALITY COMMITTEE: 9.1 Implementation of the Golden Shovel Award - Resolution By Alderperson Korherr: Seconded by Alderperson Berry WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca is dedicated to heighten pedestrian awareness and safety through the creation of the Pedestrian Awareness Committee (PAC), and WHEREAS, the PAC has drafted recommendations for Common Council that provide steps to make Ithaca pedestrian friendly throughout the year, and WHEREAS, among other actions taken, Common Council has tightened the Exterior Property Maintenance Ordinance section on snow removal to insure that snow is removed from sidewalks and curb-cuts within 24 hours after the beginning of snowfall, and WHEREAS, in addition to the responsibility of the property owner, reports of “neighbors helping neighbors” have been received by members of Common Council, including reports of snow removal for disabled persons needing access for medical providers, for removal by young persons wanting to lend a hand, for block competitions among residents for snow removal of multiple properties, and WHEREAS, these individuals represent the caring citizens that make Ithaca a small City of choice nationally and have improved access for disabled citizens, and their civic efforts must be publicly acknowledged and rewarded, now therefore be it RESOLVED, That Common Council endorses the PAC recommendation for a Golden Shovel Award and directs Neighborhood Planning staff to implement the annual award by disseminating the annual award announcement to all neighborhood association listserves and the media by April 1st of each year, and be it further May 2, 2007 4 RESOLVED, That the criteria for nomination includes any City resident/s who has/have improved pedestrian access in the winter months by removing snow and ice on their own sidewalk or property, or the property of others, and be it further RESOLVED, That nominations are to be reviewed and coordinated by the City standing committee empowered with neighborhood programming so that the selected nominees will be presented with their award at the beginning of the May Common Council meeting, and be it further RESOLVED, That the number of awards is evaluated each year based on prior years, and evaluation occurs prior to dissemination by Planning Department staff. Carried Unanimously 10. COMMUNICATIONS & EMERGENCY SERVICES COMMITTEE: 10.1 Alderperson Clairborne reported on the presentation by City staff at the April 11, 2007 committee meeting regarding the end of school year activities scheduled for May 4, 2007 on the local campuses: “Police Chief Signer noted that IPD would be assigning 6 Officers to a special detail using flex- schedules. The detail will work between April 20 – and May 26, 2007 from 7:00 pm – 2:00 am, and will be focusing on quality of life issues on East Hill and South Hill. This use of flex-time and the reduction of officers on the detail should result in 80 less staff hours than last year. Both Police Chief Signer and Fire Chief Wilbur have voiced their concerns about Slope Day and the last day of classes for Ithaca College being scheduled for the same day, which will strain their resources. IPD will be focusing their efforts on the Prospect Street event, and Cornell University will be engaging SUNY Officers to assist the Cornell Police Department with Slope Day. The Ithaca Fire Department will be increase staffing on that day by adding an engine on the north side of Fall Creek and another on South Hill to maintain response times in lieu of the Thurston Avenue and South Aurora Street bridges being closed. Chief Wilbur stated that overtime costs should be less than $10,000 and that Cornell University would be assisting with Fire Department costs associated with Slope Day.” 11. PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE: 11.1 Disposition of 530 W. Buffalo Street – Approval of IURA Sublease to Southside Community Center (SSCC) – Resolution By Alderperson Tomlan: Seconded by Alderperson Korherr WHEREAS, the Southside Community Center, Inc. (“SSCC”) seeks to lease the City-owned former pump station building and property located at 530 W. Buffalo Street, Ithaca, NY, Tax Parcel #59.-3-22 (“Property”), for use by its Recycle Ithaca’s Bicycles (“RIBs”) program, and WHEREAS, on April 19, 2006, the City of Ithaca Board of Public Works authorized a short-term lease with SSCC, of the Property (which lease commenced on June 8, 2006, and was subsequently extended by the Board through May 31, 2007), and requested City staff to develop a long-term resolution to the issue of the need for a location for the RIBs program, and WHEREAS, Section 507 of GML authorizes the lease of real property by an urban renewal agency to a qualified and eligible sponsor at negotiated lease terms, provided that the disposition complies with the following requirements:  the real property is located within an urban renewal project area and the property disposition will further the goals and objectives of the Urban Renewal Plan, and  notice is published in a newspaper of general circulation disclosing the identity of the proposed buyer or lessee, the proposed use of the property, and essential terms and conditions of the proposed sale or lease, and  a public hearing is conducted on the proposed property disposition not less than 10 days after publication of said notice, and  the proposed sale or lease is approved by the governing body of the municipality, and WHEREAS, the project site is located within the Urban Renewal Project boundary, and May 2, 2007 5 WHEREAS, the property at 530 W. Buffalo Street has been vacant and boarded-up for several years, negatively impacting the appearance, vitality and stability of the Lower Northside and West End neighborhoods, and WHEREAS, on September 28, 2006, the SSCC submitted a project proposal to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (“IURA”) for the Property to (1) operate a community bike shop and youth program that offers bike repair classes and shop access, and provides refurbished bikes in exchange for work; (2) maintain the building and site in a clean and orderly manner in accordance with an approved site plan, including the screening of all outdoor storage; and (3) continue already-begun repairs and physical improvements to the building and site, including erection of a fence around the perimeter of the rear yard of the property, and WHEREAS, on December 21, 2006, the IURA approved acceptance of a leasehold interest in the Property from the City of Ithaca (“City”) to undertake an urban renewal project that will improve the social and physical characteristics of the neighborhoods surrounding the Property and further designated the SSCC as a qualified and eligible sponsor to undertake the proposed urban renewal project involving the sublease of the Property, and WHEREAS, on February 2, 2007, the Common Council of the City of Ithaca found that the proposed property disposition action will result in no significant impact on the environment and authorized transfer of a leasehold interest in the Property to the IURA, and WHEREAS, the IURA raised concerns about SSCC’s ability to fund necessary building improvements and cover occupancy expenses if SSCC is responsible for establishing gas and electric service at the Property, and WHEREAS, on February 15, 2007, IURA, SSCC and City staff met to address IURA budgetary concerns and agreed that the City would arrange to establish natural gas and electric service to the building, recommended installation of a gas heating unit for heating the building, and reviewed projected occupancy costs, and WHEREAS, SSCC submitted a Community Development Block Grant funding proposal to make improvements to the building at 530 W. Buffalo Street, including masonry repairs, roof insulation and installation of a gas heater unit, which proposal has been approved for funding through the FY 2007 Action Plan, and WHEREAS, the SSCC submitted correspondence to the IURA, dated 2/21/07, stating that it had reviewed estimated occupancy costs and is confident that the SSCC will be able to cover the monthly expenses for rent, gas, electric, and water per the terms of the proposed IURA sublease, and WHEREAS, on March 22, 2007, the IURA approved a sublease of the Property to the SSCC in conformance with the “Synopsis of Lease Terms, 530 W. Buffalo Street, Ithaca, NY”, dated March 19, 2007, subject to Common Council approval following a public hearing, and WHEREAS, a duly advertised public hearing on the proposed disposition of 530 W. Buffalo Street was held by the Planning and Economic Development Committee on April 18, 2007; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council hereby approves the IURA-proposed sublease of the Property to the Southside Community Center, Inc. in conformance with the attached and now retitled “Synopsis of (Sub-)Lease Terms, 530 W. Buffalo Street, Ithaca, NY”, dated March 19, 2007. Alderperson Tomlan noted that the updated version of the lease terms have been distributed to Council members. She further expressed her feeling that this is a great use of a City resource for a good cause. Carried Unanimously 12. CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE: 12.1 Approval of 2004 City of Ithaca Independent Auditor’s Report - Resolution By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Seger RESOLVED, That the Independent Auditor’s Report for the period of January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2004, prepared by the accounting firm of Ciaschi, Dietershagen, Little and Mickelson, C.P.A.’s, be accepted to comply with all of the city’s applicable Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement 34 and other related audit and single audit requirements. Carried Unanimously May 2, 2007 6 12.2 Planning and Development - Extension of Agreement with National Development Council Regarding Community and Economic Development Advisement Services - Resolution By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Townsend WHEREAS, the City has determined that it desires a continuation of the professional services of the National Development Council to work with the City to develop and assist in the implementation of the City’s Community and Economic Development Programs; and WHEREAS, the National Development Council has in the past submitted a proposal to carry out the required services, and WHEREAS, the National Development Council has been providing such services for the past three years to the City, to the satisfaction of the City, and WHEREAS, the National Development Council has agreed to continue to perform the services set forth hereunder; and WHEREAS, the compensation to be paid to the Contractor is comparable to compensation normally paid for such services within the State of New York; and WHEREAS, the funds required to honor this contract will be derived from CP #443, Planning & Economic Development using the remaining funds from the Cayuga Garage Project transportation program; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes that the City of Ithaca and the National Development Council enter into an Agreement for Services for the period from January 1, 2007 through December 31, 2007 for a fee for services not to exceed $60,000 for the term of the contract, and, be it further RESOLVED, That the Mayor, upon review by the City Attorney, is hereby authorized and directed to execute the Agreement between the City of Ithaca and the National Development Council, and, be it further RESOLVED, That funds necessary for the National Development Council contract shall be derived from said Capital Project, and, be it further RESOLVED, That the National Development Council should provide the Mayor and Common Council with a list of projects that have been worked on during 2006. Alderperson Coles stated that a list of projects for 2006 and 2007 have been distributed to Common Council members. Amending Resolution: By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Zumoff RESOLVED, That the first, second, and fourth Whereas Clauses be amended as well as the second Resolved Clause to read as follows: “(1) WHEREAS, the City has determined that it desires a continuation of the professional services of the National Development Council to work with the City to develop and assist in the implementation of the City’s Community and Economic Development Programs for the period January 1, 2007 through December 31, 2007; and (2) WHEREAS, the National Development Council has in the past submitted a proposal to provide such services, and (4) WHEREAS, the National Development Council has offered to continue to perform the services set forth in its proposal for the period of January 1, 2007 through December 31, 2007; and (2) RESOLVED, That the Mayor, upon review by the City Attorney, is hereby authorized and directed to execute such Agreement between the City of Ithaca and the National Development Council, and, be it further” Carried Unanimously Alderperson Tomlan explained that representatives from National Development Council would be at the Planning and Economic Development Committee meeting on May 16, 2007, to answer any questions that arise. May 2, 2007 7 Main Motion As Amended: A Vote on the Main Motion as amended resulted as follows: Carried Unanimously 12.3 A Local Law to Amend Chapter 90 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code entitled “Personnel” to add Article XII entitled “Diversity and Inclusion Award” Mayor Peterson stated that she has certified as to the necessity for immediate passage of Local Law #3-2007 which provides for an annual “Diversity & Inclusion Award” that recognizes the efforts and accomplishments of a group of employees, an individual employee, or a Department by rewarding and highlighting exceptional efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in the workforce. Mayor Peterson stated that by issuing this certification, the procedures required relating to laying this Local Law on the table seven (7) calendar days in advance of consideration are hereby waived. LOCAL LAW NO. 07 - By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan BE IT ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of Ithaca as follows: Section 1: ARTICLE XII entitled “Diversity and Inclusion Award” is hereby added to Chapter 90 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code entitled “Personnel” as follows: §90-75. Findings and Purpose. The Common Council of the City of Ithaca is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workforce and desires to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace by publicly recognizing individuals, groups, or Departments who have excelled in respecting differences, promoting inclusion, and acting as a role model for others. The purpose of the Diversity and Inclusion Award is to recognize the efforts and accomplishments of a group of employees, an individual employee, or a Department by rewarding and highlighting exceptional efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in the workforce. § 90-76. Creation. There is hereby created a Diversity and Inclusion Award within the City of Ithaca, which will be awarded annually to that individual, group, or Department that the City of Ithaca Workforce Diversity Committee, in its sole discretion, has selected from among the nominees presented to it. § 90-77. Nominations. Nominations for the Diversity and Inclusion Award may be made in writing during the month of June by any employee, group of employees, the Workforce Diversity Committee as a whole, or by any of its members. The nomination shall discuss the reason the nominee should be awarded the Diversity and Inclusion Award, specifically addressing one or more of the following criteria: § 90-78. Criteria for nominations. Proactively reaching out to meet the needs of underrepresented populations (e.g., people of color, youths, seniors, lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender people and people with disabilities). Proactively learning about diversity; educating City employees, members of boards and committees and other volunteers; and/or promoting acceptance of the differences of others within our workforce and our community. Striving to embody the attributes detailed in the Workforce Diversity Plan. Strengthening the City’s work environment, government, and ability to serve the City’s constituents by actively seeking employees and volunteers with diverse backgrounds, developing and maintaining a work environment that supports and nurtures every individual throughout his or her tenure with the City, continuing to develop laws, policies and procedures governing the City’s workforce and the City of Ithaca that are mindful and inclusive of its diverse communities. § 90-79. Nature of awards. The Diversity and Inclusion Award shall consist of a plaque and an award of five hundred ($500.00) Dollars which shall be used: to attend a diversity seminar, conference, educational forum or similar activity; to purchase books, videos or other material promoting diversity, for outreach efforts for the purpose of further increasing diversity in the workplace; for purposes of providing services that are inclusive for a diverse constituent population; or for any other diversity purpose approved by the Workforce Diversity Committee. May 2, 2007 8 § 90-80. Diversity and Inclusion Award Plaque. There shall be a plaque installed in an appropriate place in City Hall where the name of the individual, group, or Department who has received the Diversity and Inclusion Award each year will be permanently inscribed. Each year the name of the recipient shall also be prominently displayed on the City of Ithaca website. Section 2. Effective Date and Operative Date. This Local Law shall take effect immediately upon its filing in the office of the Secretary of State. Alderperson Coles explained that the intent of the award was to recognize people/departments for their efforts in diversifying the City workforce. Passage of a local law is required because of the financial award involved. Alderperson Zumoff questioned the need for waiving the formal local law procedures in order to consider this item. Alderperson Townsend explained that the Workforce Diversity Committee would like to accept nominations for this award in June and that time was needed for marketing and education about this new initiative. Alderperson Townsend thanked Human Resources Director Michell-Nunn and GIAC Director Fort for their hard work on this issue. Alderperson Clairborne stated that he is encouraged to see this effort to institutionalize something that is not yet natural, and supports the creative approach of the award that will improve the work environment. A vote on the Local Law resulted as follows: Carried Unanimously 12.4 Authorization for Implementation and Funding for Sidewalk & Pedestrian Improvements at Route 13 at Third & Dey Streets - Resolution By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Clairborne WHEREAS, a Project for the Route 13 at Third & Dey Streets for Sidewalk & Pedestrian Improvements, P.I.N. 395035 (the “Project”) is eligible for funding under Title 23 U.S. Code, as amended, that calls for the apportionment of the costs of such program to be borne at the ratio of 80% Federal funds and 20% non-federal funds, and WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca desires to advance the Project by making a commitment of 100% of the non-federal share of the costs of Design, ROW, Construction, and Construction Inspection; now, therefore, the Common Council, duly convened does hereby RESOLVED, That the Common Council hereby approves the above-subject project; and it is hereby further RESOLVED, That the Common Council hereby authorizes the City of Ithaca to pay in the first instance 100% of the federal and non-federal share of the cost of Design, ROW, Construction, and Construction Inspection work for the Project or portions thereof, and it is further RESOLVED, That the sum of $726,502 is hereby appropriated from the issuance of serial bonds and made available to cover the cost of participation in the above phase of the Project, and it is further RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby creates Capital Project # 718 Route 13 at Third & Dey Streets, Sidewalk and Pedestrian Improvements to include the Project costs in an amount not to exceed of $726,502, and it is further RESOLVED, That in the event the full federal and non-federal share costs of the project exceeds the amount appropriated above, the Common Council of the City of Ithaca shall convene as soon as possible to appropriate said excess amount immediately upon the notification by the NYSDOT thereof, and it is further RESOLVED, That the Mayor of the City of Ithaca be and is hereby authorized to execute all necessary Agreements, certifications or reimbursement requests for Federal Aid on behalf of the City of Ithaca with the New York State Department of Transportation in connection with the advancement or approval of the Project and providing for the administration of the Project and the municipality’s first instance funding of Project costs and permanent funding of the local share of federal-aid and state-aid eligible Project costs and all Project costs within appropriations therefore that are not so eligible, and it is further May 2, 2007 9 RESOLVED, That this project be undertaken with the understanding that the final cost of the Project to the City of Ithaca will be roughly 20% of said portion, currently estimated at $145,300 of the $726,502 authorized for this portion of the project, in monies and in-kind services as managed by the Superintendent of Public Works and monitored by the City Controller, and be it further RESOLVED, That a certified copy of this resolution be filed with the New York State Commissioner of Transportation by attaching it to any necessary Agreement in connection with the Project, and it is further RESOLVED, That the local cost of $145,000 for said project may be funded by the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) as stated in the IURA resolution approved on June 22, 2006, and be it further RESOLVED, This Resolution shall take effect immediately. Carried Unanimously 15. INDIVIDUAL MEMBER – FILED RESOLUTIONS: 15.1 Establishment of a Sister City Partnership Relationship between the City of Ithaca, New York and the City of Eldoret, Kenya - Resolution By Alderperson Berry: Seconded by Alderperson Clairborne WHEREAS, the citizens of Ithaca have a tradition of developing Sister City partnerships between similar jurisdictions in other nations, the most recent being Elios Pronni, Greece, and WHEREAS, the United States is currently involved with a number of organizations with the mission of improving lives of Africans, and WHEREAS, Eldoret, Kenya is a city located to the South of the Cherangani Hills in the Rift Valley district, and due to the ideal climate of the region, the economy is based upon agriculture and farming. However, the distribution of resources is far from equitable and the resulting socio- economic conditions are such that people must struggle daily to survive; and WHEREAS, the AIDS virus is devastating to Kenya, where 2.6 million people are infected throughout the country. There have been more than 650,000 orphans due to aids-related illnesses in Kenya alone; and WHEREAS, the humanitarian efforts made by Olympian Dr. Kipchoge “Kip” Keino of Eldoret, Kenya have attempted to address the problems of poverty and the impact of the AIDS virus through developing the Kipkeino Secondary School, the Kipkeino High School, the Kazimingi farm, the Kipkeino High Performance Training Centre and the Kipkeino Children’s Home alongside Phyllis Keino; and WHEREAS these programs have been developed to work toward a sustainable future through expanding opportunities and services in the following areas: health, education, agro- environment, athletics, economic stability; and teaching sustainable agriculture practices; and WHEREAS, citizens of Ithaca, the students and educators of Cornell University, local and regional businesses and the Ithaca City School District have collaborated to raise funds to support future projects through the Inaugural Kip Keino Fun & Fitness Mile, the Borg Warner Health & Fitness Expo, the Kip Keino & Friends Dinner and the Mortar Board “KICKS” Shoe Donation program; and WHEREAS, Cornell University’s President David Skorton has reinitiated the Sub-Saharan Africa Initiative to provide aid to humanitarian efforts; and WHEREAS, local farmers, teachers, university and high school students, faculty and staff, as well as international businesses have expressed interest in developing environments through which communities will creatively learn, work, and solve problems together; and WHEREAS, citizens will accomplish these goals through reciprocal cultural, educational, professional and technical exchanges and projects; and WHEREAS, members of the above mentioned groups plan to visit the community of Eldoret, help children in need and explore the humanitarian efforts made by Dr. Keino; and WHEREAS, the exchange of knowledge to develop existing agricultural methods could increase food production, increase the use of alternative sources of energy such as solar power and overall, increase economic and social capital through sustainable projects and practices; and May 2, 2007 10 WHEREAS, Cornell University and the citizens of Ithaca have the resources and knowledge to share in the fields of veterinary science and sustainable agriculture that could enable farmers in Eldoret to have more food to sell, to feed to orphans, students, athletes, employees, and visitors; and; WHEREAS, the expansion of the International Olympic Committee-sanctioned Kipkeino High Performance Training Centre would allow more national and international athletes to travel, and train at the high altitude of 6,800 feet above sea level, increase cultural exchange and would encourage sports and eco-tourism to the Rift Valley; and WHEREAS, children and orphans of the Kipkeino Children’s Home and the Kipkeino School could be sponsored through University educational exchange programs, expansion of vocational programs with a sister relationship with Moi University and receive educational materials and financial support; and WHEREAS, the development of a Sister City partner relationship would increase the effectiveness of an atmosphere for mutual exchange, in which economic and community development could be implemented and strengthened; and WHEREAS, the Mayor of Eldoret, Chancellor Jonah K.T. Maiyo, and on behalf of the Eldoret Municipal Council, has expressed a desire to form a Sister City partnership with the Ithaca community; now therefore be it RESOLVED, That in the interest of establishing a dialogue between the citizens of Eldoret, Kenya and the citizens of Ithaca, New York, a Sister City relationship would encourage the exchange of knowledge and culture between these communities, enhance economic development through annual events and facilitate efforts of Ithacans to provide aid to Kenyans in poverty, and be a model to improve the global community. Alderperson Berry thanked the individuals who have worked so hard in the community to pull these programs together in a very short time period. Alderperson Tomlan thanked Mary Winans and Michelle Thompson for their work on this effort. She stated that she would support the resolution due to the associated programming that will unite the two communities for years to come. Mayor Peterson thanked Mary Winans and Michelle Thompson for their work and efforts to educate Common Council and the community about the challenges facing Eldoret and the similarities to Ithaca and linking together the global community. A vote on the Resolution resulted as follows: Carried Unanimously 14. NEW BUSINESS: Motion to Enter Into Executive Session to Discuss the Employment History of an Individual By Alderperson Seger: Seconded by Alderperson Korherr RESOLVED, That Common Council adjourn into Executive Session to Discuss the Employment History of an Individual. Carried Unanimously Reconvene: Common Council reconvened into regular session with no formal action taken. Motion to Extend Meeting: By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Zumoff RESOLVED, That Common Council extend the meeting to 11:25 p.m. Ayes (9) Coles, Seger, Berry, Clairborne, Zumoff, Tomlan, Townsend, Cogan, Korherr Nays (1) Gelinas Carried 16. MAYOR’S APPOINTMENTS: 16.1 Appointment of Part-time City Court Judge - Resolution Mayor Peterson stated that she has reviewed all of the materials submitted to her office and has considered all of the comments made by members of the public. She further noted that City Court Judge Judith Rossiter has recently informed her that she will be shifting the court duties May 2, 2007 11 and has decided that the full-time Judge position will retain the duties of Drug Court. After careful consideration, she requested that Common Council approve her appointment of James Kerrigan to the position of part-time City Court Judge with a term to expire April 5, 2013. Resolution RESOLVED, That Common Council approves the appointment of James Kerrigan to the position of part-time City Court Judge with a term to expire April 5, 2013. Alderperson Coles stated that she would abstain from voting as this has been an excruciating process and she doesn’t want her vote to reflect against the person being nominated. Alderperson Korherr recused herself from the vote based on her full-time job at the Tompkins County Sheriff’s office and her involvement with courts through that office. A Vote on the Resolution resulted as follows: Ayes (8) Seger, Berry, Clairborne, Zumoff, Tomlan, Gelinas, Townsend, Cogan Nays (0) Abstentions (1) Coles Recusals (1) Korherr Carried 16.2 Building Code Board of Appeals: By Alderperson Seger: Seconded by Alderperson Coles RESOLVED, That Ernie Bayles be appointed to the Building Code Board of Appeals to fill a vacancy with a term to expire December 31, 2009, and be it further Board of Fire Commissioners: RESOLVED, That Thomas W. Farlow be appointed to the Board of Fire Commissioners to fill a vacancy with a term to expire June 30, 2010, and be it further Community Police Board: RESOLVED, That William L. Bibbie, III be appointed to the Community Police Board to fill a vacancy with a term to expire December 31, 2007. Alderperson Tomlan thanked the people who volunteer to share their time and expertise with the City and the greater community by serving on the City’s various boards and committees. A vote on the Resolution resulted as follows: Carried Unanimously Motion to Enter Into Executive Session to Discuss Contract Negotiations By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Clairborne RESOLVED, That Common Council adjourn into Executive Session to Discuss Contract Negotiations. Ayes (9) Coles, Seger, Berry, Clairborne, Zumoff, Tomlan, Townsend, Cogan, Korherr Nays (1) Gelinas Abstentions (0) Carried Alderpersons Korherr and Gelinas left the meeting at 11:15 p.m. Reconvene: Common Council reconvened into Regular Session with no formal action taken. REPORTS OF COMMON COUNCIL LIAISONS: Alderperson Clairborne reported that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Board has been discussing projects for the Ithaca Coffee Company and the Cayuga Waterfront Trail program. REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY: City Attorney Hoffman reported that the Ithaca Journal has been submitting FOIL requests for most records produced by the Ithaca Police Department on a daily basis. He stated that this additional work may impact the availability of the City Attorney’s office to work on other issues and they may need to request additional assistance. He further reported that there has been no new litigation. May 2, 2007 12 MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS: 21.1 Approval of the April 4, 2007 Regular Common Council Meeting Minutes – Resolution By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Tomlan RESOLVED, That the minutes of the April 4, 2007 Regular Common Council Meeting Minutes be approved as published. Ayes (8) Coles, Seger, Berry, Clairborne, Zumoff, Tomlan, Townsend, Cogan Nays (0) Abstentions (0) Carried Unanimously Alderpersons Korherr and Gelinas were absent from the vote ADJOURNMENT: On a motion the meeting adjourned at 11:25 p.m. ______________________________ _______________________________ Julie Conley Holcomb, CMC Carolyn K. Peterson, City Clerk Mayor