HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-BPW-1995-02-15BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
February 15, 1995
NOTES
PRESENT: Commissioners Ehrhardt, Smith, Tripp, Rusoff (excused at 5:00 pm),
Reeves, Mayor Nichols, Alderperson Johnson, Superintendent Gray, and Assistant
Superintendents Ferrel and Fabbroni.
Commissioner Reeves chaired the meeting.
There were no additions to or deletions from the agenda.
1. Citv Re -use Event for Unwanted Items
Lynn Leopold, Recycling Specialist for Tompkins County, was present to address the
board. She explained the county is suggesting that municipalities encourage its
communities to have garage sales or curbside set -out events to reduce solid waste.
Comm. Reeves noted that several years ago, the city had a swap day. It resulted in a
lot of extra work for the crews since the city took responsibility to clean up what was
left behind. Ms. Leopold added that if the events were to take place in small
neighborhoods, it may not create such a problem. The county does not want to
pressure the city into having an event which would create added work or expense. It
was suggested that the civic associations and alderpeople be made aware of the
possibility for such events.
2. Discussion of Proposed Resolution for No Parking on Maple Avenue
Comm. Tripp noted that the Bicycle Advisory Council passed a resolution requesting
that parking on Maple Avenue be prohibited. She explained that she has looked into
the area and feels that it is a reasonable request since the offices and apartments in
the area have off street parking. Joe Daley noted that there are two bike paths off
Maple Ave. resulting in high bicycle usage of the street. Comm. Ehrhardt suggested
that the no parking be granted on a six month trial basis. Comm. Reeves asked Supt.
Gray to find out who uses the parking spaces, whether it be commuters or residents.
This item will be discussed at the March 1, 1995 committee of the whole meeting.
3. Traffic Issues - Discussion on resolution tabled at Feb. 8 1995 meeting.
Comm. Ehrhardt presented the board with a revised resolution. Comm. Tripp noted
that previously she could not support the proposed resolution, but she now feels
comfortable with the current changes. Mayor Nichols noted that one point added into
the new resolution was that impacts on other streets would be considered before
making traffic changes. Comm. Reeves also distributed a revised edition of the
resolution. She noted that one of her changes was to remove the phrase heavily
traveled streets. She added that the board's responsibility is to all streets.
BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING
February 15, 1995
The board agreed on combining the two proposed resolutions. Comm. Reeves
explained that a policy would give them a procedure to follow, therefore eliminating
"quick fixes" to traffic questions. She questioned if the board is concerned with quick
action on requests received. Alderperson Johnson noted that a policy would allow the
board to feel more secure with its decisions. Comm. Ehrhardt noted that he feels it is
important to act smart not quick. Supt. Gray noted that he is concerned with the
wording "heavy traffic volume." The term is more of a perception for residents on
each street. The proposed resolution will be voted on at the next regular meeting.
4. 1995 BPW Work Plan.
Comm. Reeves reviewed the list of unfinished items she has. Mayor Nichols noted
that the sewer agreement will need to be discussed. Comm. Reeves pointed out that
the Engineering Department has requested that procedures for the sidewalk program
be revised. She suggested that a subcommittee be established to work out new
procedures with the department. Comm. Tripp requested that the sale of city parcels
be put on an agenda. Supt. Gray noted that he would look into where that item was
left off in the Controller's Office. Comm. Smith questioned the status of the Golf
Course. Supt. Gray noted that negotiations are continuing. Discussion followed
concerning the 1995 golf rates. It was decided that a resolution would be presented
at the next regular meeting to maintain the 1994 rates into the 1995 season. Comm.
Reeves noted that the parcels critical to the watershed preservation need to be
identified. It was noted that Doug Foster of Planning has a map which indicates land
adjacent to the watershed.
The meeting adjourned at 5:35 p.m.
Ln
Notes taken by:
Donna L. Payne
Administrative Secretary
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