HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-BPW-2004-01-14BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
Regular Meeting 4:45 p.m. January 14, 2004
PRESENT:
Mayor Peterson
Commissioners (5) - Jenkins, Dotson, Tsegaye, Leonardo, Chapman
OTHERS PRESENT:
Deputy City Controller - Andrew
Superintendent of Public Works - Gray
Assistant Superintendent of Streets and Facilities - Ferrel
Assistant Superintendent of Water and Sewer - Fabbroni
Common Council Liaison - Coles
Disability Advisory Council Liaison - Roberts
Information Management Specialist - Myers
EXCUSED:
Commissioner Beach
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Peterson led all present in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
MINUTES
Approval of the October 15, 2003 Special Meeting Minutes for the Board of Public
Works - Resolution
By Commissioner Dotson: Seconded by Commissioner Chapman
RESOLVED¸ That the October 15, 2003 Special Meeting Minutes for the Board of
Public Works be approved as published.
Carried Unanimously
Approval of the November 12, 2003 Regular Meeting Minutes for the Board of
Public Works – Resolution
By Commissioner Dotson: Seconded by Commissioner Chapman
RESOLVED, That the November 12, 2003 Regular Meeting Minutes for the Board of
Public Works be approved as published.
Carried Unanimously
Approval of the December 10, 2003 Regular Meeting Minutes for the Board of
Public Works – Resolution
By Commissioner Leonardo: Seconded by Commissioner Chapman
RESOLVED, That the December 10, 2003 Regular Meeting Minutes for the Board of
Public Works be approved as published.
Ayes (4) – Tsegaye, Chapman, Leonardo, Jenkins
Nays (0)
Abstention (1) Dotson
Carried
Approval of the December 17, 2003 Continuation of the Regular Meeting Minutes
for the Board of Public Works – Resolution
By Commissioner Leonardo: Seconded by Commissioner Chapman
RESOLVED, That the December 17, 2003 Continuation of the Regular Meeting Minutes
for the Board of Public Works be approved as published.
Ayes (4) – Tsegaye, Chapman, Leonardo, Jenkins
Nays (0)
Abstention (1) Dotson
Carried
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Board of Public Works Meeting
January 14, 2004
ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO AGENDA
Superintendent Gray requested that Item 16A – Nautical Emergency Response Center
– Presentation and Possible Resolution be post-poned to the Committee of the Whole
Meeting scheduled for January 21, 2004.
No Commissioner objected
COMMUNICATIONS AND HEARINGS FROM PERSONS BEFORE THE BOARD:
Information Management Specialist Myers read a letter from Michelle Berry,
Alderperson for the 2nd Ward regarding the Taughannock Boulevard Extension
Proposal/Resolution requesting that the Board delay making a decision on that item
until further discussion with the new Council could take place.
REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT AND STAFF
Superintendent Gray reported on the following construction projects: Route 13
widening, Ciminelli Development, and change in traffic patterns on Seneca and Tioga
Streets.
Superintendent Gray also reported that he and his staff are working on a project
schedule for Spring to determine what projects can be done with the current staffing and
funding and that he would like the Board to review the schedule.
Assistant Superintendent for Streets and Facilities Ferrel reported that the last few
weeks have been spent on steady snow removal. He informed the Board that 1,000
tons of sand have been purchased which represents $84,000 out of $150,000 budgeted
for snow removal. Christmas trees are being collected on regular trash days through the
end of January. He also reported that the City is working with NYSEG on the Court
Street project and working on Meadow Street to replace the storm sewer.
Mayor Peterson stated that her office receives reports on the progress of the coal tar
clean-up project, and would be happy to share this information with interested parties.
Assistant Superintendent for Water & Sewer Fabbroni reported that many water meters
have been frozen this past week and water services shut off. Staff is working on the
repairs as quickly as possible. They have successfully repaired a long standing problem
on South Cayuga Street. The Phosphorous contract is in the City Attorney’s office for
review and signature, and he is hoping that the grant contract will be returned from
Albany soon. He further reported that they are re-routing the sewer mains to a new
sewer, and working on grease problems at the Benderson site. Water and Sewer staff is
working on Watershed grant activity and continue to work on GIS records. Water
records have been successfully automated and they are 75% through automating sewer
system records. This will mean that staff will be able to access information from the
field.
Superintendent Gray reported on work that staff is doing on water quality issues and the
public information campaign concerning drinking water.
Commissioner Tsegaye suggested that this would be a good time for the Board to
acknowledge staff for their hard work and dedication to their jobs. He suggested a
formal recognition from the Mayor’s office.
Mayor Peterson concurred with that suggestion.
Superintendent Gray further reported on the conversion of Cayuga and Aurora Streets
to two-way traffic. There is a signed contract for this project and the City is waiting for
the permit from the State to do the work.
.
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Board of Public Works Meeting
January 14, 2004
DAC Liaison Roberts reported that the sidewalk from the parking lot into City Hall is
obstructed by snow. He stated that the importance of snow and ice removal, and noted
that his work with the BPW has helped him to realize all the City’s responsibilities. He
stated that the DAC is starting to see that snow and ice removal should not be framed in
the same context as other exterior maintenance items because it really is an equal
access issue. The DAC will take a look at what is being done regarding snow and ice
removal, and will forward this issue to appropriate boards to raise their awareness as
well.
Superintendent Gray responded to comments made about snow and ice removal and
stated that any changes will need to be approved by Common Council because
currently the code allows for 24 hours after an ice or snow storm for the owner to
remove it.
HIGHWAYS, STREETS, AND SIDEWALKS
Superintendent Gray explained to the Board that Common Council adopted the Six
Point Traffic Plan as part of the City’s Comprehensive Plan in December 2001. The
Board of Public Works has spent several years undertaking the resulting capital projects
funded under Capital Project #450. The Taughannock Boulevard Extension, a major
item of the plan, was described as a key element in the traffic mitigation measures
outlined in Common Council’s finding statement following the environmental review of
the Southwest Area Land Use Plan. The scope and cost of the extension of
Taughannock Boulevard are substantial. The planning and engineering staff has
recommended a detailed feasibility study be undertaken that will allow the city to
reserve a corridor for these improvements as the land begins to develop. This will allow
the City to submit all or parts of the project to the Ithaca Tompkins County
Transportation Council for inclusion on the Transportation Improvement Program, and
to undertake the effort to balance the economic, social and transportation demands
without the immediate pressure of projects waiting for an answer.
Common Council Liaison Coles reported to the Board that she had talked to 4 members
of Council including Alderperson Michelle Berry, and all of them wish that a decision on
this item could be postponed until they can have a discussion with the Board and have
their concerns about this project addressed. The new Council has not had an
opportunity to discuss this item.
Commissioner Leonardo stated that this item was discussed with the former Council for
years and he believes that the previous Council were aware of the concerns of
constituents. He agreed that the current Council may not have a complete picture of the
project but does not believe that is a reason to delay the project. This project is an
important part of the Six Point Plan, and he voiced his desire to vote on this item today.
Commissioner Dotson suggested that the item be deferred until next week to give the
new Council an opportunity to become fully informed of the project.
Mayor Peterson stated that the City Administration Committee meets the 4th
Wednesday of the month. She further stated that the new Council understands the
work and time that went into this project, and that it is an awkward time with the
administration changes.
Director of Planning and Development VanCort reported that staff and the Board
understand that this project is expensive and a big undertaking. This project has been
part of the planning for the southwest area for 30 years, and is part of the
comprehensive plan. The feasibility study would only provide alternatives, and there
would be plenty of time after the study to discuss whether or not to proceed further with
development. This study would reserve the right-of-way, which is critical to developing
the area. If the study were not done, other development would occur which might
eliminate better options. If the study got in under the Transportation Improvement
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Board of Public Works Meeting
January 14, 2004
Program (TIP), it would be eligible for funding. If this deadline were missed, the City
would have to wait two years to apply for more funding which would mean the cost of
the study would increase.
Commissioner Tsegaye stated that a lot of work has been put into this project by staff
and the former Council. He understands the new Council’s concerns, but pointed out
the Board of Public Works is charged with managing the infrastructure of the city. Traffic
will impact the neighborhoods significantly if this study and project are not undertaken,
and he feels that a vote should be taken today on this item because to do otherwise
would be insulting to staff.
Approval of Contract for Taughannock Boulevard Extension Study – Resolution
By Commissioner Tsegaye: Seconded by Commissioner Jenkins
WHEREAS, Common Council has adopted the Six Point Plan to address traffic
mitigation as part of the Southwest Area Land Use Plan, and
WHEREAS, Common Council has created Capital Project #450 to fund these projects,
and
WHEREAS, the scope and benefits, as well as the cost of this project are regional in
their extent and the city would like to submit this project to the Ithaca Tompkins County
Transportation Council in the fall of 2004 for inclusion on the next Transportation
Improvement Program to compete for both state and federal funds, and
WHEREAS, the committee reviewed nine (9) responses to the city’s request for
proposal, and then interviewed four (4) of the respondents in order to select the best
proposal, and
WHEREAS, the client committee has recommended the proposal submitted by LaBella
Associates and staff has negotiated a scope of services, which has a summary of costs
currently totaling $282,750 that staff believe will expand slightly for items which are not
fully developed; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works authorizes the Superintendent of Public
Works to enter into a contract with LaBella Associates for a planning study resulting in
an Expanded Project proposal submitted for inclusion in the regions Transportation
Improvement Program for an amount not to exceed $300,000.
Common Council Liaison Coles stated that she felt her comments had been
misunderstood. This request by the new Council would give them an opportunity to
understand the expenditure of $300,000 when there are important needs in other areas
of the City. She is asking that the new legislative body be given the courtesy to express
their concerns for expenditure of the money, not the merits of the project.
Commissioner Chapman stated that he agrees with Commissioners Beach, Tsegaye,
Leonardo and Superintendent Gray and Planning and Development Director VanCort
that the study needs to be done to help the city. He also feels that there was
understanding by the Board to give themselves power to act at their next meeting so
that the new Council could discuss their concerns.
Commissioner Dotson stated that she had similar concerns that the Board has a
responsibility to the citizens of the City to follow a respectable process and that she
understands that Common Council has power beyond the Board of Public Works. The
Board’s primary responsibility is to follow a respectful decision making process.
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Board of Public Works Meeting
January 14, 2004
Amending Resolution:
By Commissioner Dotson: Seconded by Commissioner Chapman
RESOLVED, That the Board grant itself Power to Act on this item at their Committee of
the Whole meeting scheduled for January 21, 2004.
Superintendent Gray explained that he hadn’t meant to create confusion, but that he
had told the Board that he would give them a resolution to give themselves Power to
Act. He included the legislation in the agenda packet for this meeting for informational
purposes.
Further discussion followed on the floor regarding the time frame for making a decision
on this item so that deadlines are met to submit application to Transportation
Improvement Program for funding.
After further discussion Commissioners Dotson and Chapman withdrew their motion to
amend the resolution to grant the Board power to act at their next meeting.
Motion to Table:
By Commissioner Dotson: Seconded by Mayor Peterson
RESOLVED, That this item be tabled pending discussion with Common Council and
staff.
Ayes (2) Dotson, Peterson
Nays (4) Leonardo, Tsegaye, Jenkins, Chapman
Motion Failed
Main Motion
A vote on the Resolution resulted as follows:
Ayes (4) Leonardo, Tsegaye, Jenkins, Chapman
Nays (2) Dotson, Peterson
Carried
Discussion followed on the floor regarding when Common Council would be involved in
making decisions on this project, and the authority of the Board of Public Works with the
project. Further discussion followed regarding the Board of Public Works’ role and if
Council would overrule their decisions.
CREEKS, BRIDGES AND PARKS
Nautical Emergency Response Center – Presentation and Possible Resolution
The Board of Public Works has received project updates over the past few years. The
facility has been proposed for Cass Park, along the flood channel to provide access to
Cayuga Lake. It would serve both the city and county emergency response crews, and
would incorporate the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Ithaca Power Squadron function of
community education and emergency support. The facility is currently envisioned as a
boat dock and training facility.
Architect John Barradas and Lieutenant Tom Parsons of IFD will make a 15-minute
presentation to the Board.
Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for January 21, 2004.
ADMINISTRATION AND COMMUNICATIONS
Discussion followed on the floor regarding parking changes taking place on
Tioga/Buffalo Streets to accommodate the CU Shuttle during construction of the
Cornell/Ciminelli project.
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Board of Public Works Meeting
January 14, 2004
Further discussion followed regarding how information is communicated to the pubic
about traffic/parking changes, etc. in the City, and it was agreed that Superintendent
Gray and Mayor Peterson would meet to discuss this further.
NEIGHBORHOOD TROUBLESHOOTING
Commissioner Dotson addressed the Board regarding the north end of West Spencer
Street; there is a big hole in the street from work being done by the Water and Sewer
department and she wondered if that intersection could be made right turn only earlier
than the plan for work in that area calls for.
Superintendent Gray responded that work in that area has stopped because of the cold
weather and that he will look at the timeline for the project to see what can be done.
Commissioner Chapman addressed the Board regarding a concern from constituents
regarding parking between Meadow and Washington Streets, as the street is torn up
from work being done with the coal tar clean up. Residents of the street are finding it
difficult to park near their homes especially since odd/even parking is in force right now.
He wondered if temporary signage could be put up that would allow residents to park
near their homes during this construction time.
Assistant Superintendent for Streets and Facilities Ferrel responded that they are trying
to finish the work on the street but that the weather has delayed their efforts. He will
talk with the contractor and look at putting up temporary 24-hour parking signs on one
side of the street, and then notify IPD if that is done.
NEW BUSINESS
Commissioner Chapman reported that a group of Alternative Community School (ACS)
students had developed a plan for an off-the-road bike path from the school to the
intersection of Floral and State Street. They have secured right-of-ways, recruited
volunteer labor and materials and are looking to the city for approval of this plan. They
inquired as to how they could get approval for the project.
Superintendent Gray reported that the students should be in touch with Assistant City
Engineer West or himself for questions, and that he will put this item on the agenda for
the Board’s meeting next week.
Commissioner Tsegaye suggested a change in the format of the agenda. He
suggested that time limits be added after each item, to make the Board more efficient
and enable them to manage their time better. It would also ensure that all topics get
covered during the meeting.
21. ADJOURNMENT
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m.
__________________________________ __________________________________
Sarah Myers, Carolyn K. Peterson, Chair
Information Management Specialist Mayor