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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-BPW-1996-11-06BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE November 6, 1996 NOTES PRESENT: Commissioners Davidoff, Ehrhardt, Reeves, Seligmann, Smith, Mayor Cohen (arrived at 5:00 pm), Alderperson Mackesey, Supt. Gray, Assistant Superintendent Ferrel. Commissioner Reeves Chaired the meeting. Additions: Introduction of Martha Armstrong 1. Introduction of Martha Armstrong. Paul Stevenson introduced the board to Martha Armstrong. She will be working with Mr. Stevenson as a Community Development Planner. 2. Holiday Meeting Schedule. The board reviewed the proposed meeting schedule for the holidays. The board will vote on a resolution at the next regular meeting. 3. South Hill Terrace - Proposed One -Way. It Comm. Ehrhardt explained to the board that a request was received to change the 100 block of South Hill Terrace to one -way. He noted that a meeting with the residents was held and input has been reviewed. He explained the benefits of a one -way street would be reduced volumes and increased safety. Residents against the change noted that speed would increase and there would be a loss of access to the area. Traffic Systems Engineer Dan Cole told the board that he has received data and feels that a one -way section would improve safety. Resident Bill Kaupe told the board that the current "No Thru Traffic" signs are not enforceable and often ignored. Several other residents spoke in favor of the change because of safety reasons. Discussion included access during the winter and speed on the street. Alderperson Mackesey questioned if the residents of surrounding streets had been notified of the proposal. Discussion followed concerning whether neighboring streets needed notification. Comm. Reeves noted that a trial period can be issued from the Traffic Systems Engineer and the Chief of Police. The board agreed to vote on a resolution at the next regular meeting to approve the change to one -way in the 100 block of South Hill Terrace. 4. Request to Purchase Existinq Street ROW. Herman Seiverding, Deputy Director of Planning, was present to address the board. He explained that the city has received a proposal to purchase land at Old Taughannock Blvd. in order to allow a developer to meet parking requirements for a restaurant. Discussion followed concerning whether the land is surplus and whether it is needed for utility reasons. It was noted that the city may want to look at the area and decided how the area would be developed. A resolution will be presented to the board for approval at the next regular meeting. BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS Committee of the Whole Meeting November 6, 1996 5A. Sidewalk Assessment Appeals - Wilcox Press, 425 East State Street. Jim Miller, attorney for Wilcox Press, was present to address the board. Mr. Miller explained to the board that he believes that in the early 1950's houses that had access to the sidewalk were removed. That land was then purchased by Wilcox Press. Asst. Supt. Ferrel noted that former employees indicated that the city maintained the sidewalk during the winter months without charging Wilcox Press. Supt. Gray noted that Assistant City Attorney Kennedy's memo indicates that previous actions taken by the city to maintain the property does not require the city to continue maintenance. He added that if Wilcox Press wants to, they may take measures to acquire access to the sidewalk. The board will vote on a resolution at the next regular meeting. 5B. Sidewalk Assessment Appeals - 212 West Spencer Street. Comm. Reeves told the board that Mr. Carver, owner of the property has asked that the board postpone their discussion and that they look at the sidewalk on his property. He believes that neighboring sidewalks are in as bad, if not worse, condition than the sidewalk that was replaced. The board agreed that the item should be acted on at the next regular meeting. Supt. Gray explained to the board that the walk was not in the target area and that it was probably received as a complaint and therefore, acted upon. Discussion followed concerning the possibility of abandoning the sidewalks and the retaining wall on West Spencer Street. The board agreed to vote on a resolution and to include the neighboring sidewalks that Mr. Carver referred to, on next year's sidewalk program. 5C. Sidewalk Assessment Appeals - 405 South Albany Street. Mayor Cohen indicated that Lynne Yost, Assistant Civil Engineer, has recommended that the expense for the driveway apron be expunged. The replacement of the apron was not indicated on the original notice to the homeowner. The board agreed to vote on a resolution at the next regular meeting. 6. 1997 Budget Discussion. The board discussed the Mayor's budget proposal for 1997. The meeting adjourned at 6:00 p.m. Notes taken by: Donna L. Payne Administrative Secretary Page - 2