HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CC-2008-06-04COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. June 4, 2008
PRESENT:
Mayor Peterson
Alderpersons (10) Coles, Dotson, Rosario, Clairborne, Tomlan, Zumoff, Schuler,
Myrick, Cogan, Korherr
OTHERS PRESENT:
City Clerk – Conley Holcomb
City Attorney – Hoffman
City Controller – Thayer
Acting Director of Planning & Development Director – Cornish
Community Development Director – Bohn
Superintendent of Public Works – Gray
Fire Chief – Wilbur
Deputy Fire Chief - Dorman
City Planner – Nicholas
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 a substitute resolution for Item 10.5 - Planning
Department - Extension of Agreement with National Development Council Regarding
Community and Economic Development Advisement Services - Resolution
No Council member objected.
Community & Organizational Issues Committee:
Alderperson Clairborne requested the addition of an update on the proposed outdoor
smoking legislation and the Police Chief search.
No Council member objected.
New Business:
Mayor Peterson requested the addition of a Proposed Motion to Enter into Executive
Session to Discuss Litigation.
No Council member objected.
Planning & Economic Development Committee:
Alderperson Tomlan requested the deletion of Item 9.1 Authorization of a Grant
Submission to the New York State Department of State Environmental Protection Fund
for the Construction of Public Dock Space at Cass Park – Resolution. She explained
that HUD funds are not eligible to be used as a match for this grant program.
No Council member objected.
Alderperson Tomlan further stated that the item regarding the insurance requirements
related to building permits would be referred back to the Planning Committee for further
discussion.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
Carol Chock, Tompkins County Legislature for the Third District, reported to Council on
the following issues:
June 4, 2008
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Tompkins County is moving forward with inter-group cooperation on many fronts:
- Tompkins County Office for the Aging and Lifelong are looking to co-locate
in a shared space. The Court system needs more space so the Tompkins
County Office for the Aging needs to move and they are investigating the West
Court Street location.
- Tompkins County is working with Finger Lakes Land Trust which just purchased
the final parcel in the Lick Brook corridor.
- Tompkins County is working with the consortium on health insurance benefits.
- Tompkins County is working with the City and Cornell University regarding
the transportation and housing initiatives (affordability fund and housing trust
fund)
- Tompkins County is returning to one year property assessments.
- Tompkins County is looking at a 3% tax levy increase as a goal and 8.6%
is needed to hold even on the budget.
- Tompkins County will hold a public hearing on the Tompkins Cortland
Community College budget on June 17, 2008 at 5:30 p.m.
Mayor Peterson extended an invitation to the Tompkins County Legislators to discuss
the Court Street corridor area with the City.
Alderperson Korherr arrived at the meeting at 7:15 p.m.
PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
Joel Harlan, Town of Newfield, addressed Council regarding the need for a new building
for GIAC and the Ithaca Gun site.
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR – COMMON COUNCIL AND THE MAYOR:
Alderperson Clairborne announced that GIAC Festival is taking place on June 14, 2008.
He further noted that the Big Brother/Big Sister program is conducting a drawing for a
signed photo of Derek Jeter. He extended kudos to Ithaca Forward and the Chamber of
Commerce for their 40 under 40 recognition program that honored community leaders
for their accomplishments and contributions to the community.
Alderperson Rosario announced that the Latino Civic Association would be holding its
annual picnic on June 15, 2008 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Stewart Park in the
large pavilion.
Mayor Peterson reported that the MLK Implementation Committee met last week and
had a good session talking about the background of Rev. King’s life and different ways
that his values can be illustrated. The committee will be reflecting on that information
and may re-think their initial ideas.
CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:
City Administration Committee:
8.1 Fire Department - Request to Create Fire Alarm Superintendent Position –
Resolution
By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Schuler
WHEREAS, the Fire Alarm Superintendent will retire on or about September 30, 2008;
and,
WHEREAS, the Fire Alarm Superintendent is the only person serving in this capacity,
and such person is responsible for electrical systems and equipment that is unique to
the trade; and,
WHEREAS, the 2008 budget for the Ithaca Fire Department included an amount to
allow the replacement for the Fire Alarm Superintendent to be hired prior to the Fire
Alarm Superintendent's retirement; and,
WHEREAS, this early hire is for the purpose of allowing a transition period for training
the Fire Alarm Superintendent's replacement; now, therefore be it
June 4, 2008
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RESOLVED, That a second, overlapping position of Fire Alarm Superintendent is
created according to Civil Service Law and Rules, effective July 1, 2008, and shall be
compensated at the "Minimum" rate as established by the collective bargaining
agreement between the City of Ithaca and the Ithaca Paid Fire Fighters' Association,
IAFF Local 737; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the initial position of Fire Alarm Superintendent which will be vacated
upon the retirement of the current Fire Alarm Superintendent will be eliminated upon the
Fire Alarm Superintendent’s retirement, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the funds necessary to accomplish this are already appropriated in
the 2008 Ithaca Fire Department budget, and shall not be exceeded.
Carried Unanimously
8.2 Youth Bureau - Request to Amend Budget – Summer TANF Position -
Resolution
By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Schuler
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Youth Bureau has been advised by the Tompkins County
Workforce Investment Board that they will be receiving $106,662.49 in new funding to
develop a Summer TANF Employment Program (Temporary Assistance for Needy
Families), and
WHEREAS, the goal of this program is to provide short-term subsidized internships for
60 TANF eligible teens needing assistance in securing employment; now, therefore, be
it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the 2008 Youth Bureau budget to
account for said funding as follows:
Increase Revenue Account:
A7310-4820-1202 Youth Employment Service $99,242.00
A7310-4820-1400 Administration $3,938.00
A7310-4820-1206 One-To-One $275.00
A7310-4820-1221 Outings $207.00
A7310-4820-1200 Youth Development Administration $3,000.00
$106,662.00
Increase expenses:
A7310-5110-1202 Staff Salary $3,500.00
A7310-5120-1202 Part time/Seasonal $71,960.00
A7310-5125-1202 Overtime $500.00
A7310-5225-1202 Equipment (Computer) $1,250.00
A7310-5435-1202 Contracts $5,000.00
A7310-5445-1202 Travel & Mileage $485.00
A7310-5460-1202 Program Supplies $4,467.00
A7310-5440-1202 Staff Development $500.00
A7310-5460-1206 Program Supplies $275.00
A7310-5460-1221 Program Supplies $207.00
A7310-5405-1400 Telephone $300.00
A7310-5445-1400 Travel $1,500.00
A7310-5460-1400 Program Supplies $998.00
A7310-5120-1400 Part time/Seasonal $1,000.00
A7310-5460-1200 Program Supplies $3,000.00
A7310-9030 FICA/Medicare $5,811.00
A7310-9040 Workers’ Comp $5,909.00
$106,662.00
Carried Unanimously
June 4, 2008
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8.3 Youth Bureau - Request to Amend Personnel Roster and Authorized Budget –
Addition of Youth Program Leader – Resolution
By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Schuler
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Youth Bureau has hired a Mentoring and Academic Support
Specialist to provide academic support and supervision of volunteer tutors during the
school year,
WHEREAS, the said employee has responsibility for planning and implementing the
College Discovery Program Summer Academy, and
WHEREAS, the said employee is currently working full-time in a seasonal position and
the Human Resources Department has advised the creation of a roster position, and
WHEREAS, all costs associated with this change will be covered by the existing
departmental budget; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the 2008 Youth Bureau roster to
include an additional full-time Youth Program Leader position, and be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council amends the 2008 Youth Bureau budget by
transferring $16,929 from Account A7310-5120-01240 to Account A7310-5110-1240.
Carried Unanimously
9. PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
9.1 Authorization of a Grant Submission to the New York State Department of
State Environmental Protection Fund for the Construction of Public Dock Space
at Cass Park - Resolution
This item was withdrawn from the agenda.
9.2 Authorization of the Use of “Gateway” Proceeds for the Ithaca Urban
Renewal Agency (IURA) Financial Guarantee in Support of State Theatre
Operations - Resolution
By Alderperson Tomlan: Seconded by Alderperson Zumoff
WHEREAS, on May 5, 2008, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (“IURA”) approved a
request from Historic Ithaca, Inc. (“HI”) to provide a $50,000 limited financial guarantee
for a short-term bank loan in support of State Theatre operations, and
WHEREAS, HI intends to repay the short-term bank loan with net proceeds realized
from the sale of the Clinton House property, located at 116-120 N. Cayuga Street,
Ithaca, NY, and
WHEREAS, the $50,000 limited guarantee from the IURA is secured by a mortgage lien
on the Clinton House property, located at 116-120 N. Cayuga Street, and
WHEREAS, IURA underwriting of the guarantee suggests the financial guarantee is well
secured to ensure repayment, and
WHEREAS, the funding for the loan guarantee is not eligible for Community
Development Block Grant (“CDBG”) funding because the project does not create new
jobs or primarily benefit low- and moderate-income persons, and
WHEREAS, the IURA administers so-called “Gateway” proceeds on behalf of the City of
Ithaca per Common Council resolution of June 5, 2002, and
WHEREAS, “Gateway” proceeds originated from the City’s sale of land to Eddygate
Park Associates to facilitate the Eddygate Park Apartment mixed-income rental housing
project in Collegetown, which sales proceeds were realized by the City in 2002 and
subsequently contributed to the IURA for the purpose of providing loan financing to
Gateway Plaza Associates, LLC to redevelop the underutilized former Dean warehouse
building, now known as Gateway Center, located at 401 E. State Street, Ithaca, NY, and
June 4, 2008
5
WHEREAS, Gateway Plaza Associates, LLC successfully completed the Gateway
Center project and repaid the IURA loan in full in 2007, and
WHEREAS, the balance of the “Gateway” proceeds account is approximately $650,000,
and
WHEREAS, the IURA seeks approval to use “Gateway” proceeds as the most
appropriate funding source to secure this financial guarantee, which use requires
Common Council approval, and
WHEREAS, unless Common Council approval is secured for use of “Gateway” funds,
the financial guarantee commitment shall be derived from the IURA’s “non-CDBG
funds” account, which is utilized to meet working capital needs of the IURA, and
WHEREAS, the State Theatre, a national and state registered historic place and a
locally designated historic landmark, is a valuable downtown economic, cultural and
community asset and the IURA recognizes HI’s critical role in reopening and operating
this historic non-profit performing arts theater, while also serving as owner and
committed preservation steward of the Clinton House, a national, state and locally
designated historic resource that HI saved from demolition 35 years ago, and
WHEREAS, during the 2007-8 State Theatre season 46,900 tickets were sold for 67
events generating $1.16 million in earned income, well over twice the revenue level
from the prior season, and
WHEREAS, earned income at the State Theatre in 2007-8 season covered
approximately 80% of theater expenses before fundraising and grants, a figure
substantially above the national average for a non-profit performing arts theater, and
WHEREAS, HI estimates that financial sustainability of the State Theatre will require
receipt of approximately $200,000 in unearned income on an annual basis, after
accounts payable are satisfied, and
WHEREAS, to address this ongoing funding shortfall HI has hired a full-time
development director to increase unearned income, and
WHEREAS, the proposed use of “Gateway” proceeds to assist the State Theatre to
continue to operate as a performance theater directly implements the Downtown Ithaca
Alliance’s Updated and Amended Downtown Ithaca Development Strategy: 2000-2010,
which the Common Council of the City of Ithaca resolved to “strongly endorse and
support” on March 3, 2004, and
WHEREAS, the proposed use of “Gateway’” proceeds is secured by a mortgage on
valuable real property with substantial collateral value that will be released upon
repayment of any funds advanced by the financial guarantee, thereby continuing the
past practice of using “Gateway” funds in a manner intended to preserve the principal
balance; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca hereby authorizes the use
of “Gateway” proceeds as the source of funds for the IURA’s $50,000 financial
guarantee of a bank loan made to Historic Ithaca, Inc., and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Common Council hereby authorizes the Mayor, upon review by
the City Attorney, to execute any and all documents necessary to implement this
resolution.
Amending Resolution:
By Alderperson Tomlan: Seconded by Alderperson Korherr
RESOLVED, That the following Resolution be considered in place of the one moved for
discussion:
June 4, 2008
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“9.2 Authorization of the Use of “Gateway” Proceeds for the Ithaca Urban
Renewal Agency (IURA) Financial Guarantee in Support of State Theatre
Operations - Resolution
WHEREAS, on May 5, 2008, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (“IURA”) approved a
request from Historic Ithaca, Inc. (“HI”) to provide a $50,000 limited financial guarantee
for a short-term bank loan in support of State Theatre operations, and
WHEREAS, HI intends to repay the short-term bank loan with net proceeds realized
from the sale of the Clinton House property, located at 116-120 N. Cayuga Street,
Ithaca, NY, and
WHEREAS, the $50,000 limited guarantee from the IURA is secured by a mortgage lien
on the Clinton House property, located at 116-120 N. Cayuga Street, and
WHEREAS, IURA underwriting of the guarantee suggests the financial guarantee is well
secured to ensure repayment, and
WHEREAS, the funding for the loan guarantee is not eligible for Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding because the project does not create new
jobs or primarily benefit low- and moderate-income persons, and
WHEREAS, the IURA administers so-called “Gateway” proceeds on behalf of the City of
Ithaca per Common Council resolution of June 5, 2002, which stipulated that the
repayments of the "Gateway" loan shall be used by the City to assist low and moderate
income housing, and
WHEREAS, since 2002, new funding sources have emerged to assist low and
moderate income housing, including annual funding to the City in excess of $500,000
through the Home Investment Partnerships (“HOME”) program, and
WHEREAS, there are additional important non-housing community development needs
that could benefit from the investment of “Gateway” loan repayment proceeds, such as
economic development projects that enhance downtown vitality and increase City
revenues, and
WHEREAS, the City Attorney advises that the Common Council is authorized to modify
its 2002 policy regarding authorized uses of “Gateway” proceeds, and
WHEREAS, “Gateway” proceeds originated from the City’s sale of land to Eddygate
Park Associates to facilitate the Eddygate Park Apartment mixed-income rental housing
project in Collegetown, which sales proceeds were realized by the City in 2002 and
subsequently contributed to the IURA for the purpose of providing loan financing to
Gateway Plaza Associates, LLC to redevelop the underutilized former Dean warehouse
building, now known as Gateway Center, located at 401 E. State Street, Ithaca, NY, and
WHEREAS, Gateway Plaza Associates, LLC successfully completed the Gateway
Center project and repaid the IURA loan in full in 2007, and
WHEREAS, the balance of the “Gateway” proceeds account is approximately $650,000,
and
WHEREAS, the IURA seeks approval to use “Gateway” proceeds as the most
appropriate funding source to secure this financial guarantee, which use requires
Common Council approval, and
WHEREAS, unless Common Council approval is secured for use of “Gateway” funds,
the financial guarantee commitment shall be derived from the IURA’s “non-CDBG
funds” account, which is utilized to meet working capital needs of the IURA, and
WHEREAS, the State Theatre, a national and state registered historic place and a
locally designated historic landmark, is a valuable downtown economic, cultural and
community asset and the IURA recognizes HI’s critical role in reopening and operating
June 4, 2008
7
this historic non-profit performing arts theater, while also serving as owner and
committed preservation steward of the Clinton House, a national, state and locally
designated historic resource that HI saved from demolition 35 years ago, and
WHEREAS, during the 2007-8 State Theatre season 46,900 tickets were sold for 67
events generating $1.16 million in earned income, well over twice the revenue level
from the prior season, and
WHEREAS, earned income at the State Theatre in 2007-8 season covered
approximately 80% of theater expenses before fundraising and grants, a figure
substantially above the national average for a non-profit performing arts theater, and
WHEREAS, HI estimates that financial sustainability of the State Theatre will require
receipt of approximately $200,000 in unearned income on an annual basis, after
accounts payable are satisfied, and
WHEREAS, to address this ongoing funding shortfall HI has hired a full-time
development director to increase unearned income, and
WHEREAS, the proposed use of “Gateway” proceeds to assist the State Theatre
continue to operate as a performance theater directly implements the Downtown Ithaca
Alliance’s Updated and Amended Downtown Ithaca Development Strategy: 2000-2010,
which the Common Council of the City of Ithaca resolved to “strongly endorse and
support” on March 3, 2004, and
WHEREAS, the proposed use of “Gateway’” proceeds is secured by a mortgage on
valuable real property with substantial collateral value that will be released upon
repayment of any funds advanced by the financial guarantee, thereby continuing the
past practice of using “Gateway” funds in a manner intended to preserve the principal
balance; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Common Council of the City of Ithaca deems as appropriate the
proposed use of “Gateway” proceeds as the source of funds for the IURA’s $50,000
financial guarantee of a bank loan made to Historic Ithaca, Inc., and hereby authorizes
such use, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Common Council hereby authorizes the Mayor, upon review by
the City Attorney, to execute any and all documents necessary to implement this
resolution.
Alderperson Tomlan explained that upon further research it was discovered that the
Gateway proceeds were supposed to be dedicated to low and moderate income
housing. She further explained that Common Council has the ability to change their
policy on the use of the funds.
Alderperson Rosario stated that he is comfortable with the amendment even though the
wording regarding the use of funding is still broad. He explained that he initially brought
this issue forward because he was uncomfortable not following the policy established by
a previous Council.
Alderperson Clairborne asked for clarification on the intent of the 2002 Common
Council.
Community Development Director Bohn explained that he reviewed the information
found in minutes and the notes taken during conversations. At that time funding for
housing projects was tight.
Alderperson Korherr asked if new funding sources for low and moderate income
housing are sufficient to meet the needs of the community. She stated that if they are,
she would support the resolution but if not she has an issue with it.
June 4, 2008
8
Community Development Director Bohn responded that existing funding sources do not
cover all the needs for low and moderate income housing.
Alderperson Schuler questioned where the money would come from if these funds were
not used to guarantee the bank loan made to Historic Ithaca. Community Development
Director Bohn stated that the money would come from the IURA operating funds.
Mayor Peterson stated that she would like Common Council to review the 2002
resolution at a future date and discuss the potential uses of the “Gateway” proceeds.
She further stated that this Resolution wouldn’t change the policy but would make
specific allowances for this and the proposed National Development Council funding to
be discussed later.
City Attorney Hoffman advised that Common Council has the right to change its mind
and reallocate the use of the funds.
Alderperson Myrick stated that he would like to amend the resolution to remove the
eighth Whereas clause.
Amendment to the Amending Resolution:
By Alderperson Myrick: Seconded by Alderperson Clairborne
RESOLVED, That the 8th Whereas clause be removed from the resolution.
Ayes (6) Coles, Clairborne, Zumoff, Myrick, Cogan, Korherr
Nays (4) Rosario, Dotson, Tomlan, Schuler
Carried
Amendment to the Amending Resolution:
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Schuler
RESOLVED, That the following language be added to the resolution as the last
Whereas clause:
“WHEREAS, this authorization should not be interpreted as a broad policy change from
the original decision of Common Council dated June 5, 2002, rather it should be seen
as a specific amendment to that decision as stated above.”
Alderperson Korherr asked if the State Theatre offers discounted programming fees for
lower income people who can’t afford high ticket prices so that they can benefit from this
action.
Community Development Director Bohn explained that the theatre rents space to not-
for-profit groups at a reduced rate.
A vote on the Amendment to the Amending Resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (9) Coles, Dotson, Clairborne, Rosario, Tomlan, Zumoff, Myrick,
Schuler, Korherr
Nays (1) Cogan
Carried
Amending Resolution:
A vote to Amend the Original Resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (9) Coles, Dotson, Clairborne, Rosario, Tomlan, Zumoff, Myrick,
Schuler, Korherr
Nays (1) Cogan
Carried
Main Motion As Amended:
Alderperson Tomlan stated that she supports the use of the funds for the State Theatre
but she will not support the resolution as she does not support the sale of the Clinton
House by Historic Ithaca.
June 4, 2008
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Alderperson Clairborne stated that he encourages the State Theatre to open
opportunities for teens and low-income people to view the quality programming.
A Vote on the Main Motion as Amended resulted as follows:
Ayes (8) Coles, Dotson, Clairborne, Rosario, Zumoff, Myrick, Schuler,
Cogan
Nays (2) Tomlan, Korherr
Carried
9.3 Reaffirmation of Procedure for Creating a New Comprehensive Plan for the
City of Ithaca - Resolution
By Alderperson Tomlan: Seconded by Alderperson Korherr
WHEREAS, on April 29, 2008, the City of Ithaca Planning and Development Board
unanimously passed a resolution outlining the procedure for creating a new
comprehensive plan for the City, and
WHEREAS, the applicable authorizing legislation at the state level is N.Y.S. General
City Law §28-a, entitled “City comprehensive plan,” which contains the following
language: “5. Preparation. The legislative body of the city, or by resolution of such body,
the planning board or a special board, may prepare a proposed city comprehensive plan
and amendments thereto. In the event the planning board or special board is directed to
prepare a proposed comprehensive plan or amendment thereto, such board shall, by
resolution, recommend such proposed plan or amendment to the legislative body of the
city,” and
WHEREAS, the applicable authorizing legislation at the local level is contained within
City of Ithaca Municipal Code §4-23, entitled “Planning and Development Board,” which
states in paragraph B., entitled “Powers and duties,” that among the Planning and
Development Board’s “powers and duties” is: “2. Initiating, preparing and adopting a
comprehensive plan for the city for subsequent adoption by the Common Council, with
staff service provided by the Director of Planning and Development. 3. Reviewing
periodically, preparing and adopting amendments to the comprehensive plan for
subsequent adoption by the Common Council,” and
WHEREAS, the City Attorney has stated that he believes the above City of Ithaca
Municipal Code language constitutes Common Council’s selection of the N.Y.S.
General City Law option whereby the legislative body of a city may direct the planning
board to prepare that city’s comprehensive plan and recommend said plan to the city’s
legislative body for adoption, and
WHEREAS, the City Attorney has further stated that, under this procedure, the City of
Ithaca Planning and Development Board (“Planning Board”) would prepare and
recommend a new comprehensive plan to the Common Council, which would have the
exclusive power to formally adopt the plan for the City; thus, the language in the
Municipal Code about the Planning Board “adopting” the plan is limited to the sense in
which the Planning Board internally adopts any resolution or decision, and
WHEREAS, the City Attorney has further stated his opinion that it would be proper,
under this procedure, for the Planning and Development Board to appoint and charge a
broad-based comprehensive plan committee, which would include Common Council
members and representatives of community stakeholder groups, to directly supervise
the ongoing preparation of the new comprehensive plan, with this comprehensive plan
committee periodically reporting back to the Planning Board, and with the resulting plan,
if accepted by the Planning Board, to be recommended by it to Common Council for
Council’s adoption, and
WHEREAS, a “preplanning” committee convened by the Mayor to discuss issues
related to the preparation of a new comprehensive plan has been meeting since
February 2007, and this committee has discussed a two-phase planning process, where
phase 1 would entail the preparation of a City-wide vision statement that would set forth
broad principles to guide future planning and development, and phase 2 would include
June 4, 2008
10
the preparation of geographically based neighborhood plans and other distinct
thematically based plans, and
WHEREAS, at its meeting on February 6, 2008, Common Council approved a capital
project in the amount of $200,000 ($125,000 the first year and $75,000 the second
year) to prepare phase 1 of the comprehensive plan, and
WHEREAS, the “preplanning” committee has envisioned a comprehensive plan
committee that would include representation from the Common Council, the Planning
and Development Board, the Town of Ithaca, with possible representation from
established City groups (such as the Conservation Advisory Council/Natural Areas
Commission/Parks Commission, the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Council and the Board
of Public Works) and from other stakeholder groups representing interests including but
not limited to business, neighborhood quality, transit, affordable housing, sustainability,
youth services, senior services, and educational endeavors, and
WHEREAS, the Planning and Development Board believes that the work accomplished
to date by the “preplanning” committee can be easily adapted to the comprehensive
plan preparation procedure set out by the N.Y.S. General City Law and the City of
Ithaca Municipal Code as described above, and
WHEREAS, based upon all of the foregoing, including the provisions of N.Y.S. General
City Law §28-a and City of Ithaca Municipal Code §4-23, the City of Ithaca Planning and
Development Board believes that the appropriate next steps for the creation of a new
City of Ithaca comprehensive plan would be:
(1) For the Planning Board to appoint a broad-based comprehensive plan
committee and charge it with drafting a proposed comprehensive plan, said client
committee to reflect the membership categories described in the ninth “Whereas” clause
above (the Common Council representation to be comprised of at least three Common
Council members and the Town of Ithaca’s representative to have voting rights on this
comprehensive plan committee provided that the City’s representative to the Town’s
ongoing comprehensive plan process is also allowed voting rights), and
(2) For this comprehensive plan committee to (a) prepare and approve a
request for qualifications (“RFQ”) for phase 1 of the comprehensive plan; (b) review the
responses to the RFQ, conduct interviews of consultant teams and make a
recommendation of a consultant team to the Planning Board, Mayor and Common
Council for their approval; (c) oversee the preparation of phase 1 of the comprehensive
plan, coordinate with staff and the selected consultant team, make periodic progress
reports to the Planning Board, and ensure the level of public outreach necessary to
reflect community goals; and (d) approve a draft of phase 1 of the comprehensive plan
for review and acceptance (with possible modification) by the Planning Board, with
recommendation of the draft by the Planning Board to Common Council, review and
approval by Common Council’s Planning and Economic Development Committee, and
adoption by Common Council; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council affirms the procedure set forth in
this resolution and agrees that the Planning and Development Board, with staff service
provided by the Director of Planning and Development, will initiate, prepare and adopt a
comprehensive plan for the city for subsequent adoption by the Common Council, and
be it further
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council also agrees that the Planning and
Development Board will periodically prepare, review and adopt amendments to the
comprehensive plan for subsequent adoption by the Common Council.
Alderperson Korherr stated that she is concerned with the 7th Whereas clause relating
to a two-phase planning process because two phases weren’t included in the authorized
capital project. She further stated that she thinks that the whole process (both phases)
should have been included in the $200,000 capital project.
June 4, 2008
11
Alderperson Tomlan stated that it seems like a lot of money however given all of the
work involved in this project it would not be possible to include the intensive plans
proposed for Phase II.
Acting Director of Planning & Development Cornish explained that the initial plan would
set guiding principles for neighborhood plans and that the $200,000 doesn’t go very far
with these types of plans.
Alderperson Zumoff stated that he agrees with Alderperson Korherr and thinks that the
City would be investing its money on a plan that may never get implemented. He stated
that he would not support the resolution.
Alderperson Coles stated that she has heard many comments from residents and
businesses about amending a thirty-five year old plan without an overall vision for the
City in its current status.
Mayor Peterson acknowledged that the cost is high, however consultants are helpful in
working with an engaged public and taking the politics out of the process.
Alderperson Korherr stated that she supports the project but would like to see the
phases combined.
Amending Resolution:
By Alderperson Korherr: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
RESOLVED, That the 7th Whereas clause be amended to read as follows:
“WHEREAS, a “preplanning” committee convened by the Mayor to discuss issues
related to the preparation of a new comprehensive plan has been meeting since
February 2007, and this committee has discussed a two-phase planning process, where
phase 1 would entail the preparation of a City-wide vision statement that would set forth
broad principles to guide future planning and development throughout the City and
neighborhoods, and phase 2 would include the preparation of specific neighborhood
plans and other distinct thematically based plans, and”
Carried Unanimously
Alderperson Rosario stated that he has an issue with the 8th Whereas clause due to the
capital project that was authorized on February 6, 2008 to fund the plan which was not
just phase I of the plan.
Amending Resolution:
By Alderperson Rosario: Seconded by Alderperson Korherr
RESOLVED, That the 8th Whereas clause be amended to read as follows:
“WHEREAS, at its meeting on February 6, 2008, Common Council approved a capital
project in the amount of $200,000 ($125,000 the first year and $75,000 the second
year) to prepare the comprehensive plan, and”
Ayes (6) Coles, Clairborne, Zumoff, Myrick, Korherr, Rosario
Nays (4) Dotson, Cogan, Tomlan, Schuler
Carried
Alderperson Clairborne stated that he had similar concerns with the 9th Whereas clause
as was raised by GIAC Director Marcia Fort regarding stakeholder groups serving on
the pre-planning committee for the comprehensive plan.
Historic Planner Chatterton stated that she would provide GIAC Director Fort with
background information of what has happened so far and also schedule a meeting with
her.
Amending Resolution:
By Alderperson Clairborne: Seconded by Alderperson Myrick
RESOLVED, That the 9th Whereas clause be amended to read as follows:
“WHEREAS, the “preplanning” committee has envisioned a comprehensive plan
committee that would include representation from the Common Council, the Planning
and Development Board, the Town of Ithaca, with possible representation from
June 4, 2008
12
established City groups (such as the Conservation Advisory Council/Workforce Diversity
Committee/Natural Areas Commission/Parks Commission, the Bicycle Pedestrian
Advisory Council and the Board of Public Works) and from other stakeholder groups
representing interests including but not limited to business, neighborhood quality,
transit, affordable housing, sustainability, youth services, senior services, cultural
diversity, and educational endeavors, and”
Carried Unanimously
Alderperson Zumoff asked what happens if someone wants to build a project that
doesn’t fit in the comprehensive plan once adopted. Alderperson Cogan responded that
zoning requirements would need to be adopted to reflect the plan and they would guide
the decisions.
Main Motion as Amended:
A Vote on the Main Motion as Amended resulted as follows:
Ayes (9) Coles, Dotson, Clairborne, Rosario, Tomlan, Myrick, Cogan
Korherr
Nays (1) Zumoff
Carried
10. CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
10.1 Amendment to Capital Project (CP) #735 for Purchase of Fire Equipment -
Resolution
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Zumoff
WHEREAS, the 2007 Capital Budget included $460,000.00 for the purchase of a
pumper/engine (CP #713); and
WHEREAS, the 2008 Capital Budget included $500,000.00 for the purchase of an
additional pumper/engine (CP #735); and
WHEREAS, bids have been received for the two apparatus; and
WHEREAS, the bids have been evaluated for compliance by the Ithaca Fire Department
(IFD) Apparatus Specification Committee; and
WHEREAS, the price bid for apparatus and equipment that complies with our
specifications exceeds the funded amount(s) by $170,000; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends Capital Project #713, IFD
Pumper/Engine Replacement, by an amount not to exceed $170,000.00 for the
purchase of two pumper/engines with all necessary equipment, and be it further
RESOLVED, That City of Ithaca's approval of this increased expenditure is contingent
on Town of Ithaca's approval of a percentage of this expenditure as per City-Town
agreement resulting in a net project amendment cost to the City of $114,070, and be it
further
RESOLVED, That the needed funding for said amendment shall be derived from the
issuance of bonds.
Alderperson Coles explained that the original resolution was for $190,000 but due to the
diligent work of the Ithaca Fire Department the amount was lowered to $170,000. She
stated that the City currently spends $160,000 annually on repairing equipment and this
purchase will dramatically lower, if not eliminate, these costs.
Alderperson Zumoff asked if the Town of Ithaca had discussed this yet. Fire Chief
Wilbur responded that he spoke with Town Supervisor Engman who raised some
concerns which he has responded to and now is waiting to hear back from Supervisor
Engman.
June 4, 2008
13
Alderperson Schuler asked if Cornell University was making any contributions to this
project. Fire Chief Wilbur responded that a portion of their annual contribution to the
City is targeted toward IFD operating costs. The Ithaca Fire Department received
$678,000 from the 2008 University contribution.
A Vote on the Resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
10.2 Fire Department – Request to Amend Personnel Roster – Addition of Fire
Fighter - Resolution
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Schuler
WHEREAS, the 2008 City of Ithaca budget authorized a temporary Fire Fighter position
for the year, to backfill a position temporarily vacated due to the active duty deployment
of a Fire Lieutenant to Afghanistan; and
WHEREAS, the intent of the Fire Department was to create an overlapping Fire Fighter
position rather than a temporary Fire Fighter position, and
WHEREAS, the overlapping Fire Fighter position has not yet been filled, and may not
be filled until approximately June 1, 2008; and
WHEREAS, at a cost of approximately $4,087 per month, the delay in hiring has
resulted in unexpended salary in the amount of approximately $20,435; and
WHEREAS, the 2008 City of Ithaca budget authorized two new Fire Fighter positions for
the Fire Department, authorized to start no sooner than July 1, 2008; and
WHEREAS, a recruit training class will start on or about June 4, 2008; and
WHEREAS, the next scheduled recruit training class the fire department is aware of will
not start until August, or September; and
WHEREAS, vacant positions will increase overtime costs in the Fire Department; now,
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the personnel roster of the Ithaca Fire Department be amended to
add an additional position of Fire Fighter; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the first Fire Fighter vacancy that occurs after the return of the Fire
Lieutenant from active duty will result in the elimination of a Fire fighter position; and, be
it further
RESOLVED, That the Ithaca Fire Department is hereby authorized to create and fill two
new Fire Fighter positions, as provided for in the 2008 budget, starting June 1, 2008,
rather than July 1, 2008; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the funds required to accomplish this (2 X $4,087 = $8,174) shall
come from existing appropriations.
Carried Unanimously
10.3 Planning Department - Request to Amend Personnel Roster - Resolution
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Tomlan
WHEREAS, one of the current Planners in the Department of Planning and
Development, has been performing job related duties that are above and beyond those
required for the position of Planner as determined by the Civil Service Commission, and
WHEREAS, an individual in the position of Planner has been performing out of title
duties for which compensation has been approved in accordance with the CSEA
contract, and
WHEREAS, it has become apparent that the Planner’s education, skills, and knowledge
warrant an upgrade from Planner to Senior Planner; now, therefore be it
June 4, 2008
14
RESOLVED, That the Personnel Roster for the Department of Planning and
Development be amended as follows:
Add: One (1) Senior Planner at 35 hours per week,
Delete One (1) Planner at 35 hours per week,
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That funds necessary for said roster amendment shall be derived within
the existing Planning Department Budget.
Alderperson Coles explained that the person in this position is key to many of the City’s
development projects including the Southwest Urban Neighborhood project.
A Vote on the Resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
10.4 Planning Department – Request to Amend Southwest Area Urban
Neighborhood Project - Resolution
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Zumoff
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council wishes to develop and/or use
approximately 60 acres of land in the Southwest Area, currently owned by the City (Tax
Map Parcels #119.-1-2 and #100.-3-1), in a manner that is responsive to both the public
interest and the private development market, and
WHEREAS, in 1998, the Southwest Area Land Use Committee issued a report,
Southwest Area Land Use Plan, based on a 1994 plan of the same name, with a 1998
addendum, and
WHEREAS, on May 6, 1998, the Common Council, acting as Lead Agency, determined
that adoption of the Southwest Area Land Use Plan may have a significant
environmental impact and that a Generic Environmental Impact Statement was
required, and
WHEREAS, on August 24, 2000, the Common Council adopted a Statement of Findings
for the Southwest Area Land Use Plan after considering the Draft Generic
Environmental Impact Statement (“DGEIS”) and the Final Generic Environmental
Impact Statement (“FGEIS”), including comments made by City committees and boards,
interested agencies and the public, and
WHEREAS, on January 3, 2001, the Common Council adopted the 1994 Southwest
Area Land Use Plan, including the 1998 Addendum, as part of the City of Ithaca’s
Comprehensive Plan, and client committee to assist in the development of a vision
statement for the area and in the preparation of a Request for Qualifications for a
developer, and
WHEREAS, the Southwest Client Committee was subsequently created, and it
developed a vision statement that calls for the creation of a diverse, primarily
residential, mixed-use development of urban scale and density, the design and
implementation of which would facilitate non-motorized and mass transportation,
integrate sustainable building practices and environmental systems, and provide for
permanently affordable housing as well as the preservation of approximately 20 acres of
the site as open space, green space or woods, and
WHEREAS, on March 1, 2006, the Common Council (a) adopted the “Southwest Vision
Statement,” dated January 4, 2006, as a guide for the development of a new
neighborhood in the Southwest Area; (b) directed the Department of Planning and
Development, in consultation with the Southwest Committee, to develop and issue a
Request for Qualifications (“RFQ”) for a Preferred Developer; (c) authorized the Mayor
to appoint a selection committee to review the responses to the RFQ and to make a
recommendation to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (“IURA”) and to the Common
June 4, 2008
15
Council regarding the selection of a Preferred Developer for the Southwest Area, said
Preferred Developer to be a qualified and eligible sponsor authorized to acquire or lease
property from the IURA pursuant to Section 507 of Article 15 of General Municipal Law;
and (d) directed the Department of Planning and Development, in conjunction with the
City Attorney’s Office, to prepare the documents necessary to transfer the Southwest
Area property from the City to the IURA, subject to Common Council approval of the
same, and
WHEREAS, on December 6, 2006, the Common Council approved the Southwest Area
Urban Neighborhood Request for Qualifications, December, 2006, and the selection
process set forth therein, subject to minor editorial modifications, and
WHEREAS, the RFQ was subsequently released and advertised in accordance with
General Municipal Law, and the City received four responses, and
WHEREAS, over a six-month period from early December 2006 to mid-June 2007, the
Southwest Selection Committee, appointed by the mayor and charged with developing
a recommendation for a preferred master developer, reviewed and evaluated all
responses to the RFQ, met four times independently, participated in a site visit, and
conducted four initial interviews and one follow-up interview, and
WHEREAS, in July 2007, the Southwest Selection Committee presented its
recommendation to Common Council and the IURA that (a) McCormack Baron Salazar
be designated as the Preferred Master Planner and Developer for the Southwest Area
Urban Neighborhood, and (b) the City undertake the necessary preliminary site
investigations prior to initiation of the planning process, and
WHEREAS, the following preliminary site investigations are required, prior to making
the land in question available for sale and development in accord with the
aforementioned Vision Statement:
1. Boundary and Topographic Mapping,
2. Subsurface Reconnaissance Explorations for Proposed Housing
Development, and
3. Environmental Site Assessment, and
WHEREAS, on October 3, 2007, Common Council confirmed that the City-owned land
in question (i.e., Tax Map Parcels #119.-1-2 and #100.-3-1) is surplus in that it will not
be required for future public works operations, and reiterated its intention to transfer title
to the land in question to the IURA, at the earliest practical time (subject to
environmental review and the approval of the actual terms of such transfer, by the
Common Council), for the possible, subsequent conveyance of part or all of such land
(by the IURA, upon the concurrence of the Common Council) to an eligible and qualified
sponsor of an urban renewal project consistent with the Vision Statement, and
WHERAS, on October 3, 2007 Common Council established Capital Project #722 in the
amount of $100,000.00, to cover the cost of the following preliminary site investigations
and the management thereof, together with other costs associated with the Southwest
Area Urban Neighborhood project, and authorized the Director of Planning and
Development to retain a contractor that would provide and/or secure, and manage:
1. Boundary and Topographic Mapping,
2. Subsurface Reconnaissance Explorations, and
3. Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA), and, if necessary, a Phase II
ESA, and,
WHEREAS, in October 2007 the City issued a Request For Proposals for Project
Management Services, Preliminary Site Investigations for the Proposed Southwest Area
Neighborhood Development Site. The City received four responses and selected
McCormack Baron Salazar due to their experience in developing residential mixed use
projects on challenging sites, and their proposed project teams’ high level of expertise,
and
June 4, 2008
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WHEREAS, on January 1, 2008 Common Council amended (increased) Capital Project
#722 by $175,000 as part of the 2008 Capital Budget, bringing the total Capital Project
allocation to $275,000 and
WHEREAS, the Boundary & Topographic Survey, the Subsurface Reconnaissance
Explorations, and the Phase 1 ESA were completed in April 2008, and the results of the
Phase 1 ESA determined that a Phase 2 ESA was needed in order to pursue
development of the site for residential use, and,
WHEREAS, preliminary estimates for a Phase 2 ESA are approximately $250,000, and
do not include any needed environmental clean-up that may be identified in the
assessment, and
WHEREAS, obligated funds in Capital Project #722 currently total approximately
$90,000, which include the cost to transfer the properties to the IURA and do not
include any funds for planning and design, and
WHEREAS, in an attempt to reduce overall debt cost, we will forgo the $280,000 Capital
Project #708 West End Parking Lot to allow for the additional Southwest Area
Neighborhood Project; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends Capital Project #722 Southwest
Area Urban Neighborhood Project by an amount not to exceed $280,000 for a total
project authorization of $555,000, and be it further
RESOLVED, That funds necessary for said amendment shall be funded through the
issuance of Bonds, and be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby directs the City Controller to pay off existing
debt funds for Capital Project #708 West End Parking Lot in the amount of $280,000 to
offset said debt amendment for Capital project #722.
Alderperson Zumoff stated that he would support the resolution because advanced
planning will benefit the area.
Alderperson Rosario stated that this is a great example of off-setting a debt when
adding new debt.
Alderperson Dotson thanked City Planner Nicholas for providing the helpful background
memo for Council.
Mayor Peterson explained that this is a large parcel of land and has exciting
possibilities. She feels that the City has a responsibility as an environmental steward of
this piece of City property.
A Vote on the Resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
10.5 Planning Department - Extension of Agreement with National Development
Council Regarding Community and Economic Development Advisement Services
- Resolution
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
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 to the
City for the past four years, to the satisfaction of the City, and
June 4, 2008
17
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 a combination
of Planning Department operating funds and remaining funds from the Gateway Loan
Proceeds deposited with the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA); 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, 2008 through December 31, 2008 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 the following sources:
Transfer of Funds from
Account A8020-5105 Administrative Salaries to
Account A8020-5435 Contracts $30,000
Remaining Funds from the Gateway Loan Proceeds in IURA Accounts
(Increase Appropriation Account A8020-5435 Contracts by $30,000
Increase Revenue Account A8020-2375 Services Other Governments
IURA by $30,000) $30,000
$60,000
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes the IURA to use the Gateway
Loan Proceeds for said expense.
Amending Resolution:
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Korherr
RESOLVED, That three additional Whereas clauses be added to the resolution before
the first Resolved clause that would read as follows:
“WHEREAS, the IURA administers so-called “Gateway” proceeds on behalf of the City
of Ithaca per Common Council resolution of June 5, 2002, which stipulated that the
repayments of the “Gateway” loan shall be used by the City to assist low and moderate
income housing, and
WHEREAS, since 2002, new funding sources have emerged to assist low and
moderate income housing, including annual funding to the City in excess of $500,000
through the Home Investment Partnership (HOME) program, and
WHEREAS, the City Attorney advises that the Common Council is authorized to modify
its 2002 policy regarding authorized uses of “Gateway” proceeds; now, therefore be it”
Mayor Peterson stated that this resolution is similar to Item 9.2 on the agenda but is
different because National Development Council has worked with the Mutual Housing
Association and the Day Care Council that serves low and moderate income residents.
Alderperson Korherr stated that she would support the resolution for the reasons stated
by Mayor Peterson.
June 4, 2008
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A Vote on the Amending Resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
Main Motion as Amended:
A Vote on the Main Motion as Amended resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
10.6 Department of Public Works - Request to Amend Personnel Roster –
Upgrade of Engineering Technician to Junior Transportation Engineer -
Resolution
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Dotson
WHEREAS, the roster of the Office of City Engineer has one Engineering Technician
position which is currently filled and focused primarily on transportation related issues,
and
WHEREAS, the Office of City Engineer requires the services of a title above the
technician level in the execution of the City’s transportation engineering workload, and
WHEREAS, The Human Resources Department and the Civil Service Commission
have reviewed and approved the job description and the New Position Duties
Statements for title of Junior Transportation Engineer; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the authorized personnel roster as
follows:
Add: (1) One Junior Transportation Engineer,
Delete: (1) One Engineering Technician, Grade 13
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That funding for said roster amendment shall be derived with existing
2008 DPW - City Engineer authorized budget and/or existing authorized Capital
Projects, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the position of Junior Transportation Engineer be assigned to the
CSEA Administrative Unit at salary grade 17.
Alderperson Coles stated that the person in this position is hard working and a lot of
people utilize his services. She urged Council to support the resolution.
A Vote on the Resolution resulted as follows:
Carried Unanimously
10.7 City Controller’s Report
City Controller Thayer reported on the following:
- Sales tax revenue collection is fairly strong however he is seeing signs of
a weakening collection
- The economy will be monitored as fuel prices and the stimulus package are
predicted to impact sales
- Parking revenues are on target for budget
- Fine revenues are on pace to exceed budgeted amount
- Health insurance costs continue to be high and are on pace to exceed the
budget
- Overtime costs are on pace to be slightly over budget
- There is concern about the impact that oil/fuel prices will have on the budget as
they relate to construction and equipment. Gas and oil prices are currently on
pace to be approximately $100,000 over budget. This will be monitored
carefully as some increases were anticipated but nothing this dramatic.
- The City has spent $33,000 to date on transporting waste materials off-site due
to the DEC’s prohibition of dumping in Southwest Park.
- The Health Benefit Steering Committee is looking at a county-wide approach to
find savings. The plan is in its design phase now and the committee is open
to communication with various unions.
June 4, 2008
19
10.8 Motion to Enter Into Executive Session to Discuss Collective Bargaining -
Resolution
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Schuler
RESOLVED, That Common Council enter Into Executive Session to discuss collective
bargaining.
Carried Unanimously (9-0)
(Alderperson Schuler absent from vote)
Reconvene:
Common Council reconvened into regular session with no formal action taken.
Alderperson Korherr left the meeting at 9:45 p.m.
Approval of CSEA DPW Contract – Resolution
By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Clairborne
RESOLVED, That Common Council approves the agreement between the City of Ithaca
and the CSEA DPW Unit for a four-year term commencing January 1, 2008 and expiring
December 31, 2011, and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Mayor is authorized to fully execute the agreement on behalf of
the City.
Carried Unanimously (9-0)
(Alderperson Korherr absent from vote)
11. COMMUNITY & ORGANIZATIONAL ISSUES COMMITTEE:
Alderperson Clairborne reported on the following items:
Outdoor Smoking Legislation
A sub-committee, Chaired by Alderperson Rosario, has met twice to work on drafting
smoke-free legislation. The sub-committee is working to establish guiding principles
relating to trying to reduce the exposure of the public to second hand smoke.
Police Chief Search
The Search Committee has met twice and a third meeting is being scheduled. The
committee includes three members of Common Council, three members of the
Community Police Board, two police professionals from outside agencies, and one
Workforce Diversity Committee member.
MAYOR’S APPOINTMENTS:
15.1 Board of Fire Commissioners:
By Alderperson Clairborne: Seconded by Alderperson Tomlan
RESOLVED, That William Gilligan be reappointed to the Board of Fire Commissioners
with a term to expire June 30, 2011.
Carried Unanimously (9-0)
(Alderperson Korherr absent from vote)
REPORTS OF COMMON COUNCIL LIAISONS:
Alderperson Clairborne reported that the IURA approved a $70,000 loan to Mother
Goose at the May 22, 2008 meeting. Mother Goose is a used children’s clothing
business that will be relocating to the Bishop’s Home Center building on West State
Street. He further reported on a proposal before the IURA for the re-use of appliances,
furniture and construction materials that could be used by businesses instead of being
sent to landfill.
Mayor Peterson reported that environmental review monies have been awarded to the
City from the DEC for the clean up of the Gun Hill site.
REPORT OF CITY CLERK:
City Clerk Holcomb read the following announcement from the Ithaca Urban Renewal
Agency into the record:
June 4, 2008
20
FY 2005 & 2006 Consolidated End-of-Year Review Annual Community
Assessment of HUD Entitlement Program
The HUD Entitlement program provides formula-based funding for the Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the Home Investment Partnerships Program
(HOME). The City was awarded $1,490,278 for the 2005 program year and
$1,372,049 for the 2006 program year. The Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency administers
the program on behalf of the City.
This annual report evaluates the City’s performance and compliance with program
requirements. The City’s performance is characterized as “satisfactory” and in
compliance with the program requirements, with the exception that in the FY 2006 Audit
is past due.
Public Information Officer Team
City Clerk Holcomb reported that two people have been invited to conduct second
interviews with the Mayor for an internship to develop a community newsletter. The
goal is to produce two newsletters per month that would mainly be distributed
electronically. The City will also be identifying hardcopy distribution sites throughout the
City.
The PIOT is also beginning a website redesign project that is expected to be completed
by the end of the summer.
REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY:
City Attorney Hoffman reported that there has been no new litigation. He further
reported that the City received notification from the DEC stating that the City shipped
330 gallons of hazardous waste from the sewage treatment plant to a facility in Niagara
Falls in the early 1990’s. The facility was faulted for adding to the pollution in the area
and the City has been named as one of the contributors. The DEC has offered a deal
where the City could “buy out” of this case for the amount of $4,000.00.
Mayor Peterson stated that she wants further investigation of this situation, but that the
offer expires in the middle of July.
MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS:
19.1 Approval of the May 7, 2008 Regular Common Council Meeting Minutes –
Resolution
By Alderperson Coles: Seconded by Alderperson Cogan
RESOLVED, That the minutes of the May 7, 2008 Regular Common Council Meeting
be approved with noted corrections.
Carried Unanimously (9-0)
(Alderperson Korherr absent from vote)
Motion to Enter Into Executive Session to Discuss Litigation – Resolution
By Alderperson Cogan: Seconded by Alderperson Myrick
RESOLVED, That Common Council enter into Executive Session to Discuss Litigation.
Carried Unanimously (9-0)
(Alderperson Korherr absent from vote)
Reconvene:
Common Council reconvened into Regular Session with no formal action taken.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 10:30 p.m.
______________________________ _______________________________
Julie Conley Holcomb, CMC Carolyn K. Peterson,
City Clerk Mayor