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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 2 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. . 3 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 4 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. 5 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. 6 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