HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-02-15 Common Council Meeting AgendaOFFICIAL NOTICE OF MEETING
A Regular meeting of the Common Council will be held on Wednesday, December 2,
2015, at 6:00 p.m. in the Common Council Chambers at City Hall, 108 East Green
Street, Ithaca, New York. Your attendance is requested.
AGENDA
1. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
2. ADDITIONS TO OR DELETIONS FROM THE AGENDA:
3. PROCLAMATIONS/AWARDS:
g4. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
4. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:
4.1 Annual Pride of Ownership Awards Presentation – Scott Whitham
5. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
6. PETITIONS AND HEARINGS OF PERSONS BEFORE COUNCIL:
7. PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR – COMMON COUNCIL AND THE MAYOR:
8. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:
Department of Public Information and Technology:
8.1 Request of Downtown Ithaca Alliance to Permit Wine, Beer, and Hard Cider
Tasting and Sale of Bottled Wine, Beer, and Hard Cider at the 2015 Annual Ice
Festival-Chowder Cook-Off – Resolution
City Administration Committee:
8.2 Department of Public Works - Amendment to Personnel Roster Ithaca Area
Wastewater Treatment Facility (IAWWTF) – Resolution
8.3 Department of Public Works - Amendment to Personnel Roster (Engineering
Division) - Resolution
8.4 City Controller – Request to Amend 2015 Budget to Account for Various
Unanticipated Revenue and Expenses - Resolution
8.5 City Controller - Authorization to Cover Red Accounts - Resolution
8.6 Human Resources Department – Approval of the 2015-2016 Civil Service
Agreement with the Ithaca City School District – Resolution
9. CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
9.1 City Attorney - Electronic Delivery of Local Laws - Resolution
9.2 Fire Department - Mobile Vending Fire and Safety Regulations - Resolution
9.3 Common Council Opposition of House of Representatives’ Bill to Eliminate
Transit Funds - Resolution
Common Council Meeting Agenda
December 2, 2015
Page 2
9. CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE (Continued):
9.4 A Local Law to Amend Chapter 107 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code entitled
“Salaries and Compensation” to Increase the Mayor and Common Council
Members Salary
9.5 Common Council - Support of the Living Wage as the Minimum Wage across -
Tompkins County - Resolution
9.6 Department of Public Works – Request to Approve Funds for Abatement of
Asbestos Containing Materials in City Hall - Resolution
9.7 City Controller’s Report
10. PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
10.1 Seneca Street Parking Garage Murals – Resolution
10.2 Annual Common Council Concurrence that the City of Ithaca Planning and
Development Board be Lead Agency in Environmental Review for Site Plan
Review Projects for which the Common Council is an Involved Agency -
Resolution
11. REPORTS OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES:
12. NEW BUSINESS:
13. INDIVIDUAL MEMBER – FILED RESOLUTIONS:
13.1 Alderperson Mohlenhoff: Lake Street Bridge Rehabilitation Project -Resolution
13.2 Alderperson Mohlenhoff: Lake Street Bridge Project and Ithaca Falls Public Area
Enhancements –Alternate Resolution
14. MAYOR’S APPOINTMENTS:
14.1 Reappointments to Various City Boards and Committees - Resolution
15. REPORTS OF COMMON COUNCIL LIAISONS:
16. REPORT OF CITY CLERK:
17. REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY:
Common Council Meeting Agenda
December 2, 2015
Page 3
18. MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS:
18.1 Approval of the November 4, 2015 Common Council Meeting Minutes –
Resolution
19. ADJOURNMENT:
If you have a disability that will require special arrangements to be made in order for you
to fully participate in the meeting, please contact the City Clerk at 274-6570 at least 48
hours before the meeting.
______________________________
Sarah L. Myers,
Acting City Clerk
Date: November 24, 2015
8. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:
Department of Public Information and Technology:
8.1 Request of Downtown Ithaca Alliance to Permit Wine, Beer, and Hard Cider
Tasting and Sale of Bottled Wine, Beer, and Hard Cider at the 2015 Annual Ice
Festival – Chowder-Cook Off– Resolution
WHEREAS, the Downtown Ithaca Alliance has requested permission for wine, beer,
and hard cider tasting and sales as part of the 2015 Annual Ice Festival-Chowder Cook
Off; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Downtown Ithaca Alliance be authorized to arrange for wine,
beer, and hard cider tasting and sale of bottled wine, beer, and hard cider at booths
during the Ice Festival-Chowder Cook-Off on the Ithaca Commons on December 10-12,
2015; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Downtown Ithaca Alliance and participating wineries shall comply
with all applicable state and local laws and ordinances, and shall enter into an
agreement providing that it will hold the City harmless and indemnify the City on
account of any claims made as the result of the sale or tasting of wine, beer, and hard
cider on the Ithaca Commons; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Downtown Ithaca Alliance or the participating winery, brewery or
cider company shall agree to maintain liability insurance in the amount of $1,000,000.00
and Dram Shop Act coverage in the minimum amount of $1,000,000.00 naming the City
of Ithaca as an additional insured, and shall provide evidence of such insurance to the
City Clerk prior to the event.
8. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS - CONTINUED:
City Administration Committee:
8.2 Department of Public Works - Amendment to Personnel Roster – Ithaca
Area Wastewater Treatment Facility (IAWWTF) - Resolution
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility anticipates a vacancy in the
position of Laboratory Technician in December 2015; and
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility would like to fill the
Laboratory Technician position in advance of the actual vacancy to allow for training
and a smooth transition; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Personnel Roster of the Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment
Facility be amended by adding a second position of Laboratory Technician; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That upon the retirement of the current Laboratory Technician, the
position vacated through retirement shall be abolished effective on the employee's
retirement date; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That funds needed for said roster amendment shall be derived from within
the existing Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility authorized budget.
ITHACA AREA WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY
TOWN OF ITHACA CITY OF ITHACA TOWN OF DRYDEN, OWNERS
525 THIRD STREET
ITHACA, NEW YORK 14850
(607)273-8381
FAX (607)273-8433
November 4, 2015
Subject: Support of Resolution to Add Laboratory Technician to IAWWTF Roster
On your agenda is a resolution to add a Laboratory Technician Title to the roster at the
Ithaca Area WWTF (Water and Sewer Division). This is a temporary addition to allow
our new technician an opportunity to overlap with our existing technician who will be
retiring in early 2016. Once that retirement is final we will remove one of the technician
titles from our roster. In addition, our Lab Director will be out for a month to attend to a
medical issue and the overlap will help during his time out.
Since I was the beneficiary of an overlap with the previous Chief Operator I can attest to
the value of having this overlap period. I appreciate your support.
Sincerely,
Dan Ramer
Chief Operator
8.3 Department of Public Works - Amendment to Personnel Roster
(Engineering Division) - Resolution
WHEREAS, the Engineering Division of the Department of Public Works has been
reconfiguring its staffing responsibilities to reflect changes in the overall operations of
the Department, including the creation of a new Parking Division; and
WHEREAS, the current Traffic Systems Engineer title reflects responsibility for traffic
and parking systems, and the Department would like to change that to reflect
responsibilities for urban street design and construction, including active transportation
facilities, traffic engineering and traffic control, and broader transportation planning; and
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Civil Service Commission established the classification of
Transportation Engineer at their October 29, 2015 meeting; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the personnel roster of the Engineering Division of the Department of
Public Works shall be amended as follows:
Add: One (1) Transportation Engineer Position (40 hours)
Delete: One (1) Traffic Systems Engineer Position (40 hours)
and be it further
RESOLVED, That the position of Transportation Engineer shall be assigned to the City
Executive Association Unit at salary grade A; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That for the sole purpose of determining days worked reportable to the
New York State and Local Employees Retirement System the standard workday for
the position shall be established at eight (8) hours per day (forty (40) hours per week);
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the funding for this change shall be derived from existing funds within
the Department of Public Works budget.
Jurisdiction: City of Ithaca
Jurisdictional Class: Competitive
Adopted: 07/26/93
Revised: 05/19/97, 2/17/98, 10/29/15
Title changed from Traffic Systems Engineer to Transportation Engineer 10/29/15
TRANSPORTATION ENGINEER
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is a full performance professional engineering
position with a specialized focus on transportation engineering and transportation planning. The
incumbent collects, analyzes and interprets data, and plans, designs and implements urban street
construction, active transportation traffic control systems, and urban street designs. The Transportation
Engineer also complies with the requirements of the Municipal Code with respect to traffic control and
engineering. The work is performed under general supervision and in accordance with established
engineering principles, with considerable leeway allowed for the exercise of independent professional
judgment. General supervision is exercised over the work of subordinate engineering staff, and on-site
supervision is exercised over work crews. Does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
Conducts surveys for topographic data, property lines, street improvements, etc;
Collects field data on transportation systems, including pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular facilities;
Analyzes and interprets field study data and accident records;
Prepares and maintains a variety of records, reports and drawings;
Develops engineering design for transportation facilities, traffic control devices, pavement markings and
signage;
Develops plans, specifications, cost estimates and contract documents for projects of moderate
difficulty;
Participates in long-term, large-scale transportation planning efforts in cooperation with other
professional staff, the Municipal Planning Organization and municipal boards;
Participates in review and evaluation of plans and specifications for public and private projects;
Evaluates and provides recommendations regarding City active transportation facilities;
Prepares technical reports and assists in preparation of major traffic studies and reports;
Makes technical recommendations regarding traffic rules, regulations and ordinances, traffic signage
and control, pedestrian and bicycle safety;
Administers construction contracts including preparation and review of budgets and pay requests,
inspection of the work, and interpretation of the contract documents;
Supervises, trains and evaluates subordinate staff;
Plans, assigns, supervises, and reviews transportation engineering projects and activities;
Coordinates project activities with the public, city officials, state and federal officials, other city
departments, consultants, contractors and suppliers;
May participate in conducting departmental informational programs;
Transportation Engineer
Page 2
FULL PERFORMANCE, KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Good knowledge of the principles and practices of transportation engineering; good knowledge of traffic
control and traffic signal systems; good knowledge of the application of federal, state and local laws,
regulations and ordinances pertaining to transportation engineering, including traffic control and traffic
control devices; good knowledge of street and highway design and construction methods; good
knowledge of construction procedures including design, specification writing, inspections and surveys;
good knowledge of the factors controlling traffic movement and the methods of analyzing traffic
problems; ability to collect and analyze data; ability to prepare plans, specifications and narrative and
tabular reports; ability to coordinate engineering projects of moderate difficulty; ability to train and
supervise subordinate staff; ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with the
public, contractors, vendors, co-workers and other staff; ability to communicate effectively; ability to
successfully work with and serve a diverse local community; physical condition commensurate with the
demands of the position.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
A. Graduation from a New York State registered or regionally accredited four-year college or university
with a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Engineering Science or a related field with similar
curriculum and one (1) year of full-time paid experience, or its part-time paid equivalent, performing
transportation engineering design, transportation planning, or closely related work; or
B. Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and five (5) years
of full-time paid experience, or its part-time paid equivalent, performing transportation engineering
design, transportation planning, or closely related work; or
C. An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B).
8.4 City Controller – Request to Amend 2015 Budget to Account for Various
Unanticipated Revenue and Expenses - Resolution
WHEREAS, during 2015, City of Ithaca departments have received revenue from
various unanticipated sources including reimbursement, grants, donations and sale of
material, that need to be accounted for in the 2015 budget; and
WHEREAS, the reimbursements total of $79,113 as follows:
Tompkins County Celebrations Grants $16,350
Donations $53,075
Insurance Recover $8,809
Sale of Scrap/Equipment $879
now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby amends the 2015 authorized budget as
follows to account for said receipt and expenditures of funds:
Increase Revenue Account:
A1012-2379 Community Celebrations $16,350
A3120-2705 Police – Donations $47,000
A3120-2680 Police – Insurance Recovery $8,809
A5010-2655 Streets – Minor Sales $879
A7111-2705 Parks – Donations $6,075
Totals $79,113
Increase Appropriations Accounts:
A1012-5435 Celebrations Contracts $16,350
A3120-5225-5001 Police Other Equipment $47,000
A3120-5476-5001 Police Equipment Maintenance $8,809
A5010-5475 Streets Property Maintenance $879
A7111-5475 Parks Property Maintenance $5,000
A7111-5485 Parks Trees $1,075
Totals $79,113
8.5 City Controller - Authorization to Cover Red Accounts - Resolution
RESOLVED, That the City Controller be empowered to make transfers within the 2015
Budget appropriations, as needed, for the remainder of the 2015 Fiscal Year.
8.6 Human Resources – Approval of the 2015-2016 Civil Service Agreement
with the Ithaca City School District - Resolution
RESOLVED, That the Mayor and City Controller be authorized and directed to
execute an agreement between the City of Ithaca and the Ithaca City School District
for performance by the City for services in connection with Civil Service matters, for
the period July 1, 2015, to June 30, 2016, in an amount of $55,944, payable to the
City of lthaca on or before December 1, 2015.
AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT made the day of , 2015, by and between the CITY OF ITHACA, a
municipal corporation of the State of New York, hereinafter referred to as the “City”, party of the
first part, and CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT, CITY OF ITHACA, a municipal corporation of the
State of New York, hereinafter referred to as the “School District”, party of the second part.
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the Board of Education of the School District desires to enter into a contract
with the City for the performance by the City of certain services, to avoid duplication and
unnecessary expense, particularly services in connection with Civil Service matters on behalf of
the School District, pursuant to Section 2503, subparagraph 16, of the New York Education Law,
and
WHEREAS, the total number of classified Civil Service employees on the payrolls of the
City and the City School District for the final payroll period in December 2014 was 817, and
WHEREAS, the actual annual expenditures for the Civil Service Commission of the City
of Ithaca for the 2014 fiscal year of the City was $ 106,784;
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. That for the services rendered and to be rendered by the City for the School District
during the School District fiscal year, which is July 1, 2015, through June 30, 2016,
the School District shall pay to the City a lump sum of $ 55,944, payable on or
before December 31, 2015.
2. In consideration of such payment, the City agrees:
(a) to furnish the School District the part-time services of the Civil Service
Commission of the City of Ithaca and the members of its staff, and the City
Clerk and the members of her staff; and
(b) to handle the records and perform any other necessary Civil Service services
relating to Board of Education employees in the classified service, including
examinations and tests when required.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused these presents to be executed by
their respective duly authorized officers as of the day and year first above written.
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
By: ________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________
City Clerk
CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK
By: ________________________
Assistant Superintendent of Business Services
ATTEST:
________________________
School District Clerk
CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
9.1 City Attorney - Electronic Delivery of Local Laws - Resolution
WHEREAS, Municipal Home Rule Law §20(4) now authorizes the City to satisfy the
aging requirement for proposed local laws by emailing such legislation in PDF format to
Common Council members, provided that certain requirements are met; and
WHEREAS, the email address of each Councilmember is documented on the City
website, and the City Clerk has posted those addresses on the bulletin board in City
Hall, as required; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That proposed local laws may be laid on the table by electronic delivery to
Councilmembers in accordance with Municipal Home Rule Law §20(4).
9.2 Fire Department - Mobile Vending Fire and Safety Regulations - Resolution
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Fire Department is interested in addressing certain fire and
safety issues raised by the increasing number of mobile food vending operations within
the City; and
WHEREAS, mobile food vending operations are not regulated by any existing state or
local laws; and
WHEREAS, there have been reported injuries to operators and the public as the result
of fires, explosions, and accidental carbon monoxide poisonings, involving mobile
vending operations at various locations in the United States; and
WHEREAS, other municipalities have taken steps to address fire safety concerns posed
by mobile food trucks and the equipment that is often used by such vendors; and
WHEREAS, due to the risk of fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, and other safety risks
posed by mobile food trucks or mobile vending, the City wishes to examine regulatory
measures enacted by other municipalities, obtain feedback from mobile food vendors
and the community, and consult with other fire and safety authorities to structure a City-
wide system for regulating mobile food vending fire safety; and
WHEREAS, Common Council recognizes that safety improvements in this arena will
come at some cost to mobile vendors to comply with such regulatory measures if
implemented; and
WHEREAS, upon balancing the enhanced safety against the increased costs for mobile
vendors, the Common Council concludes that it is worth investing staff time in
developing a proposed regulatory program; now, therefore it be
RESOLVED, That Common Council instructs the Fire Chief, in consultation with the City
Attorney and other City departments and relevant authorities, to study and develop fire
safety rules for mobile food vending.
9.3 Common Council - Opposition of House of Representatives’ Bill to
Eliminate Transit Funds - Resolution
WHEREAS, the U.S. House of Representatives approved an amendment to the House
version of the multi-year transportation bill on November 4, 2015 that would eliminate
the 5340 High Density States Program and cut millions of dollars to transit agencies in
New York State, and six other states as well as the District of Columbia; and
WHEREAS, under the amendment, New York State transit agencies alone would lose
$95 million a year or $570 million over the next six years with Tompkins Consolidated
Area Transit, Inc. (TCAT) being stripped of $200,000 annually or $1.2 million over the
six-year period; and
WHEREAS, TCAT provides transit to the City of Ithaca and all of Tompkins County
where, for some residents, it is the only transportation option; and
WHEREAS, TCAT is a cornerstone to the local economy by getting residents to work or
where they need to go and is key to environmental sustainability by reducing traffic
congestion and curbing carbon emissions; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca is a local funder to TCAT, with two other entities,
including Cornell University and Tompkins County, all of which face financial constraints
and are unable to fill in TCAT’s ever-widening funding gaps; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, Rather than cutting important transit funding for financially strapped
agencies to include TCAT, the Mayor of the City of Ithaca and its Common Council
strongly urge federal lawmakers to not only restore the 5340 High Density States
Funding Program before a final bill is passed, but also to increase federal funding to
allow them adequate and predictable revenues to meet increasing demand, and, in
particular, to address their capital needs for much-needed bus replacements, facility
and amenities upgrades, and information technology modernization; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the City Clerk be directed to send certified copies of this resolution to
Governor Andrew Cuomo, United States Senators Chuck Schumer and Kristen
Gillibrand, New York State Assembly Members Barbara Lifton, New York State Senator
Thomas O’Mara, United States Representative William Reed, TCAT General Manager
Turcotte, and the TCAT Board of Directors.
9.4 A Local Law to Amend Chapter 107 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code
entitled “Salaries and Compensation” to Increase the Mayor and Common
Council Members Salary
WHEREAS, the annual salaries of the members of the Common Council and of the
Mayor were last adjusted in 2008; and
WHEREAS, at that time they were adjusted to their current levels of $9,641 for Council
members and $53,561 for the Mayor; and
WHEREAS, Common Council approved a 2016 budget that funds these salaries in
2016 at the levels of $10,141 and $58,561, respectively; and
WHEREAS, Common Council seeks to amend Chapter 107 of the City of Ithaca
Municipal Code in order to effectuate these amended salaries as funded by the
approved budget; now, therefore
Local Law No. 2015-
BE IT ENACTED by the Common Council of the City of Ithaca as follows:
Section 1. Legislative Findings, Intent, and Purpose.
It is the intent of this local law to amend Chapter 107 of the City of Ithaca Municipal
Code in order to effectuate the revised 2016 salaries of Council members and the
Mayor as funded in the 2016 approved budget, with said salaries to be effective as of
January 1, 2016.
The Common Council makes the following findings of fact:
A. The Common Council and the Mayor expend substantial efforts and
devote large amounts of time to their duties, and
B. The annual salaries of the members of the Common Council and the
Mayor have gone unadjusted for nearly a decade.
Section 2. Code Amendments.
Section 107-1 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code is hereby amended as follows:
The annual salary of the Mayor shall be the sum of [$53,561] $58,561.
Section 107-2 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code is hereby amended as follows:
The annual salary of the Council members shall be the sum of [$9,641] $10,141.
Section 3. Severability Clause.
Severability is intended throughout and within the provisions of this Local Law. If any
section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Local Law is held to be
invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, then that decision shall
not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Local Law.
Section 4. Effective Date.
Upon filing in the office of the Secretary of State, this Local Law shall take effect
retroactive to January 1, 2016. This Local Law is subject to referendum on petition
pursuant to Municipal Home Rule Law Section 24.
9.5 Common Council - Support of the Living Wage as the Minimum Wage across
Tompkins County - Resolution
WHEREAS, it is one of our most cherished values that there is dignity in work; and
WHEREAS, raising incomes is critical to providing economic mobility and opportunity for
working families; and
WHEREAS, the growth in income inequality in recent years has created serious
divisions within our society and community; and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County is becoming increasingly two counties with a portion of
the population thriving while many more face low wages, growing inequality, erosion of
middle-class jobs, staggering housing costs, and the institutionalization of a low-wage
service economy; and
WHEREAS, a full-time minimum wage worker in New York State earns $18,200 at the
current minimum wage of $8.75/hour, an income significantly below the current living
wage in Tompkins County of $29,827; and
WHEREAS, a higher minimum wage across Tompkins County would likely increase
spending on locally produced goods and services by workers benefiting from such
increased wages, which, in turn would likely produce greater demand and help stimulate
the local economy; and
WHEREAS, a higher minimum wage would likely reduce the cost of providing social
services in the City of Ithaca and Tompkins County; and
WHEREAS, our community has a proud tradition of advocating for worker rights and
promoting economic justice; and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Workers Center, which certifies local living-wage
employers, lists currently more than 100 Living Wage entities across the county, a list
that includes five municipalities, encompasses more than 90 employers with workforces
less than 50 employees, and represents over 3,000 workers making, at least, a Living
Wage; and
WHEREAS, we as a community and we as a country can no longer accept wages that
leave some without hope of rising up and unable to support themselves nor their
families; and
WHEREAS, New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo has called for an increase in the
state’s minimum wage to $15.00 per hour by 2021; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca requests that the Tompkins County Legislature
pass a local minimum-wage law establishing the Tompkins County Living Wage
(currently $14.34/hour) as the minimum wage, and indexing it to the New York State
median wage; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca supports Tompkins County further passing a home-
rule request to New York State seeking the authority to implement such a local
minimum wage; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca calls on the New York State Legislature to pass
promptly said home-rule request; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Tompkins County
Legislature, the Tompkins County Council of Governments, New York State
Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton, New York State Senator Thomas O’Mara, and New
York Governor Andrew Cuomo.
MEETING OF THE ITHACA TOWN BOARD
Monday, August 10, 2015
TB RESOLUTION 2015 - 089: SUPPORT FOR A TOMPKINS COUNTY MINIMUM WAGE THAT IS
A LIVING WAGE
WHEREAS raising incomes is critical to providing economic mobility and opportunity for working
families and
WHEREAS the growth in income inequality in recent years has created serious divisions within our
society and community and
WHEREAS Tompkins is increasingly becoming two counties with a portion of the population thriving
while many more face low wages, growing inequality, erosion of middle-class jobs, high housing costs
and the institutionalization of a low-wage service economy and
WHEREAS a full-time minimum wage worker in New York earns $18,200 which is significantly below
the current Tompkins County living wage of $29,827 and
WHEREAS a higher minimum wage would likely help stimulate the local economy and
WHEREAS a higher minimum wage would likely reduce the need for and the cost of providing social
services in Tompkins County and
WHEREAS our community has a proud tradition of advocating for worker rights and promoting
economic justice and
WHEREAS we as a community and we as a country can no longer accept wages that leave some
unable to support themselves or their families and
WHEREAS some say that raising the minimum wage locally is “too complicated,” without
acknowledging how complicated it is trying to live on $8.75/hour
Now therefore be it
RESOLVED that the Town of Ithaca requests that the Tompkins County Legislature pass a local
minimum wage law establishing the Tompkins County Living Wage ($14.34/hour) as the minimum
wage, and indexing it to the NYS, regional, or county median wage and be it further
RESOLVED that the Town Board requests that the County pass a home rule request seeking the
authority to implement such a local minimum wage and be it further
RESOLVED that the Town calls on the NYS Legislature to promptly pass this home rule request.
Moved: Pat Leary Seconded: Eric Levine
Make the Minimum Wage in Tompkins County a Living Wage
by Carl Feuer and Pete Meyers, Tompkins County Workers’ Center
Four years ago Ithaca College students became concerned that some campus workers did not receive a
Living Wage. These students worked with the Tompkins County Workers Center (TCWC) and helped
mobilize student and faculty support to build a powerful case that the IC administration could not
ignore. The following year the multinational company that manages the dining halls, Sodexo
Corporation, agreed to pay dining workers a Living Wage, then $11.11/hour.
Four years later the Tompkins County Living Wage is $14.34 and many of these workers and others on
campus do not get a Living Wage. TCWC wants to change that.
Tompkins is really two counties. While a portion of the population thrives, many more face low
wages, growing inequality, erosion of middle-class jobs, housing costs through the roof and the
institutionalization of a low-wage service economy.
This can result in times of hunger, of homelessness, of eviction for not being able to afford the rent, of
losing good jobs for not being able to afford the necessary car repair, of winters without adequate heat,
of children missing their parents because they are forced to work two jobs and even then may not make
ends meet.
There is a sustainable and sure solution and that is raising the minimum wage to a Living Wage.
TCWC is leading a community campaign to get the County legislature to pass a local law establishing a
County minimum wage of $14.34, and going on from there to get State Home Rule authority for this
change. The new minimum wage would be phased in over a 5-year period and afterwards be indexed
to the area median wage.
The positive impact of this on workers and their families is obvious. But what about the community?
Since workers would spend virtually all of their increased wages locally this would have a significant
multiplier effect, boosting the economy, increasing County sales tax revenues and reducing the need
and cost of social services and property taxes.
And what about businesses? There will be bumps in the road, and small businesses in particular will
face challenges, but the phase-in process will allow time for planning and accommodation. And there
will be benefits too, including great demand for jobs, rising productivity, sharp declines in turnover.
Businesses close, jobs lost? Quite the opposite is likely as service industries especially prefer to be
where customers have money to spend.
We can raise the minimum wage here in Tompkins County. Will it be easy? Hell no! We willing need
hundreds if not thousands of workers to come and stand with us. To sign our petition. To join us at the
picket line or at a rally. To speak to your neighbors, friends and family. To speak to your County
legislator. To write letters.
Some will say, “It’s too complicated” or “It’s too difficult.” But you know what is really
complicated and difficult? It is trying to live and even perhaps being a good parent on $10/hour.
The bottom line is that we as a community and we as a country can no longer accept wages that leave
some unable to support themselves or their families, while many others flourish and become rich. We
can’t continue this race to the bottom. “The true test of an economy is not how much wealth its princes
can accumulate in tax havens,” Nobel Prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz writes, but how well off
the typical citizen is. The time to make the minimum wage a living wage in Tompkins County is now.
Any student, staff or faculty interested in supporting this campaign please contact TCWC at 607-269-
0409 or email pete@tcworkerscenter.org or text 607-339-1680.
9.6 Department of Public Works – Request to Approve Funds for Abatement of
Asbestos Containing Materials in City Hall - Resolution
WHEREAS, much of the floor covering in the building which is now City Hall was
constructed with floor tiles containing asbestos; and
WHEREAS, the original floor tiles in City Hall are breaking and crumbling which causes
concern for employees and limits the ability of staff to appropriately maintain the floors;
and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has received a notice of violation from the New York
State Department of Labor, Asbestos Bureau, regarding broken floor tiles which contain
asbestos; and
WHEREAS, the notice of violation requires that the broken floor tiles be repaired and
abated; and
WHEREAS, Department of Public Works staff and the City’s consultant, Delta
Engineers, Architects & Land Surveyors have identified several viable methods for
abatement of the floor tiles which contain asbestos; and
WHEREAS, repair and abatement of asbestos containing materials requires the
services of specialized engineers and contractors as well as various permits, relocations
and restoration; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Works has discussed and approved the least
expensive repair project for the Asbestos Abatement at an estimated cost of $50,000;
and
WHEREAS, the project work needs to be started within 30 days; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council hereby authorizes expenditure not to exceed
$50,000 for undertaking the abatement of asbestos containing materials in City Hall;
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That funds necessary for said asbestos project shall be derived from
Account A1990 Unrestricted Contingency and transferred to account A1621-5489 City
Hall Building Expense.
To: Common Council
From: Tom West, Director of Engineering
Date: November 6, 2015
Re: Budget Authorization – City Hall Asbestos Abatement
This is a request for Common Council to promptly establish a Capital Project for
abatement of asbestos containing materials, specifically floor tiles, located throughout
City Hall. The floor tiles are deteriorating throughout the building and, according to a
notice of violation issued by the New York State Department of Labor, the owner of the
building shall , …”contract with a licensed asbestos contractor to isolate and clean up the
damaged floor tile and take measures to prevent further deterioration of the tile.”
Much of the floor tiling in City Hall is from the original construction of the building, circa
1939, a time when asbestos was commonly used as a component of floor tiles. Over
decades of use the floor tiles are deteriorating throughout the building. When the floor
tiles are in good condition they do not represent a hazard to building occupants; however,
once broken, the floor tiles must be isolated and cleaned up in order to eliminate any
possibility of exposure to asbestos fibers.
On October 1, 2015, the Asbestos Bureau of the New York State Department of Labor
(NYSDoL) inspected broken floor tiling on the fourth floor of City Hall. On October 8th a
Notice of Violation was issued to the owner of the building to “isolate and clean up the
damaged floor tile and take measures to prevent further deterioration of the tile.” On
October 29, 2015 representatives of the Public Employee Safety and Health Bureau
(PESH) of the NYSDoL visited City Hall and, among other activities, conducted air quality
monitoring throughout the building. Although a Notice of Violation has not yet been
received from PESH staff was advised that such a notice would be issued regarding
operations and maintenance pertaining to floor tile containing asbestos as well as record
keeping.
In response to the Notice of Violation from the Asbestos Bureau staff invited an
environmental engineer from Delta Engineers, Architects & Land Surveyors to tour the
facility and provide a scope of work for addressing these notices of violation. That visit
also occurred on October 29. Our tour of the building revealed that floor tile is indeed
deteriorating throughout the building. Some areas have relatively minimal deterioration
while other areas are extremely deteriorated. In order to provide a comprehensive plan
for abatement, as required by the NYSDoL, Delta will return to City Hall on November
11th to compile as complete an inventory of broken floor tile as possible. With this
information the consultant and staff will be able to develop several alternative methods
for abatement. On November 11th the consultant will also conduct air monitoring
throughout the building. This will serve the purposes of documenting possible exposure
and establish base line values for air quality. Two types of samples will be collected.
Most samples will be evaluated for total fiber count; this could include carpet fabric, paper
fibers and asbestos. In the event that the fiber counts from these samples are high, a
second evaluation will be made using electron microscopy to determine if fibers include
asbestos fibers.
As of the writing of this memo on November 6th, no alternatives for abatement have been
developed. That said, there is no recourse available to the City other than abatement.
Abatement must be undertaken in strict compliance with New York State Labor Law and
Industrial Rules. The abatement must be conducted by a specialized, licensed
contractor. Since the asbestos containing floor tiles are located throughout the building
the abatement will impact almost all employees in the building as well as municipal
business activities. Containment areas will be established, further air monitoring will be
conducted, furnishings will need to be moved (and moved again), and a new floor
covering may need to be installed. Coordination of abatement activities and on-going
public administration will require sensitive, responsive and dedicated management of the
project.
A project budget will be developed for each abatement alternative. The alternatives will
be presented to the Board of Public works which will make a recommendation to
Common Council.
10. PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
10.1 Seneca Street Parking Garage Murals – Resolution
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Public Art Commission (PAC) has been established to,
among other duties, review and advise the Common Council on proposals for the
exhibition and display of public art in the City’s public spaces; and
WHEREAS, in 2010, the PAC created a mural and street art program to beautify blank
walls within the city while providing local artists from all sections of the community an
opportunity to showcase their work; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Works approved several locations, including the
Seneca Street Parking Garage, for future murals and street art by resolution on May 19,
2010; and
WHEREAS, the City’s Parking Division has requested that the PAC seek murals for top
floor of the Seneca Street Parking Garage to enliven the garage while also deterring
graffiti and reducing ongoing maintenance costs; and
WHEREAS, the PAC issued a Call for Art for two walls on the top floor of the garage in
September 2015 and received 14 submissions for the project; and
WHEREAS, the PAC reviewed all of the submissions at its meetings on October 14,
2015 and October 28, 2015 and voted to recommend that the Common Council select
“Ursa Major” by Margaret Reed and “Flock Together” by Justin Suarez to be installed on
the facing walls of the ninth floor of the Seneca Street Parking Garage; and
WHEREAS, the selected proposals have been distributed for public comment, and the
responses to both proposed murals has been overwhelmingly positive; and
WHEREAS, the project will be funded through the previously approved budget for the
Dryden Road Parking Garage Mural Project and no additional funding is needed for the
installation of the two murals; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council selects “Ursa Major” by Margaret
Reed and “Flock Together” by Justin Suarez to be installed on the ninth floor of the
Seneca Street Parking Garage; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the selected artists may proceed with the installation of their murals
at their assigned locations within the Seneca Street Parking Garage upon the execution
of an agreement with the City.
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street — 3rd Floor Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING, BUILDING, ZONING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Division of Planning & Economic Development
JOANN CORNISH, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
PHYLLISA A. DeSARNO, DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development – 607-274-6550 Community Development/IURA – 607-274-6559
Email: dgrunder@cityofithaca.org Email: iura@cityofithaca.org
Fax: 607-274-6558 Fax: 607-274-6558
TO: Planning & Economic Development Committee
FROM: Megan Wilson, Senior Planner
DATE: November 12, 2015
RE: Seneca Street Parking Garage Mural Project
Given the success of this past summer’s Dryden Road Parking Garage Mural Project, the City’s
Parking Division suggested that the Public Art Commission (PAC) seek murals for the interior of
the Seneca Street Parking Garage as well. Two facing walls on the top floor of the garage rose to
the top of the list as ideal locations for future murals. Like much of the garage, the top floor is a
rather stark environment and is also a prime location for graffiti. New murals would create a
brighter, more welcoming space for those parking on this top level. In addition, Parking Division
staff recently repainted these walls and are concerned that they will quickly become locations for
graffiti again.
At the same time, two of the artists selected for the Dryden Road project were unable to complete
their approved murals, and staff suggested that the remaining funding be used to begin a mural
project in the Seneca Street Parking Garage. In September 2015, the PAC issued a Call for Art
and received 14 submissions. After reviewing all of the submissions and gathering public
comment on the proposed murals, the PAC voted to recommend that Common Council select
“Ursa Major” by Margaret Reed and “Flock Together” by Justin Suarez to be installed on the top
floor of the Seneca Street Parking Garage. The installation would be completely funded by the
previously approved budget for the Dryden Road Garage Mural Project, and no additional
funding is needed.
Photos of the proposed locations as well as images of the recommended proposals are attached
for your review. Staff will attend the November 19th Planning & Economic Development
Committee to discuss the project. If you have any questions, please contact me at (607) 274-
6560 or mwilson@cityofithaca.org.
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10.2 Annual Common Council Concurrence that the City of Ithaca Planning and
Development Board be Lead Agency in Environmental Review for Site Plan
Review Projects for which the Common Council is an Involved Agency -
Resolution
WHEREAS, 6 NYCRR Part 617 of the State Environmental Quality Review Law and
Chapter 176.6 of the City Code, Environmental Quality Review, require that a lead
agency be established for conducting environmental review of projects in accordance
with local and state environmental law; and
WHEREAS, State Law specifies that, for actions governed by local environmental
review, the lead agency shall be that local agency which has primary responsibility for
approving and funding or carrying out the action; and
WHEREAS, State Law also specifies that when an agency proposes to directly
undertake, fund or approve a Type I Action or an Unlisted Action undergoing
coordinated review with other involved agencies, it must notify them that a lead agency
must be agreed upon within 30 calendar days of the date that the Environmental
Assessment Form (EAF) or draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) was transmitted
to them; and
WHEREAS, Projects submitted to the Planning and Development Board for Site Plan
Review and Approval, at times involve approvals or funding from Common Council,
making Council an involved agency in environmental review; and
WHEREAS, in order to avoid delays in establishing a Lead Agency and to make the
environmental review process more efficient, it is desirous to have an agreement that
the Planning and Development Board will assume Lead Agency status for such
projects; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with the State Environmental Quality Review Law and the
City of Ithaca Environmental Quality Review Ordinance, involved agencies are provided
with project information and environmental forms for their review, as well as all
environmental determinations; and
WHEREAS, on April 7, 2015 Common Council did consent to the Planning and
Development Board acting as Lead Agency in environmental review for site plan review
projects for which Common Council has been identified as an Involved Agency through
December 31, 2015; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That Common Council does hereby consent to the Planning &
Development Board acting as Lead Agency in environmental review for site plan review
projects for which Common Council has been identified as an Involved Agency through
December 31, 2016; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That for any future project Common Council may withhold or withdraw its
consent should it so desire.
13. INDIVIDUAL MEMBER – FILED RESOLUTIONS:
13.1 Alderperson Mohlenhoff: Lake Street Bridge Rehabilitation Project -
Resolution
WHEREAS, a project for the rehabilitation of the Lake Street Bridge Over Fall Creek,
P.I.N. 375534 (“the Project”) is eligible for funding under Title 23 U.S. Code as
administered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), as amended, that calls
for the apportionment of the costs of such program to be borne at the ratio of 80%
Federal funds and 20% non-Federal funds; and
WHEREAS, On September 4, 2013, Common Council authorized $1,464,250 to cover
the cost of the total Project; and
WHEREAS, On December 1, 2014, the Board of Public Works unanimously authorized
staff to undertake Enhancement of Ithaca Falls Public Area (“the Enhancement”) as part
of the Project (CP#791); and
WHEREAS, On February 5, 2015, Common Council approved an increase of CP #791
by an amount not to exceed $30,000 to cover the design phase of the Enhancement for
a total project authorization of $1,494,250; and
WHEREAS, bids were received for the Lake Street Bridge Rehabilitation Project on
November 16, 2015; and
WHEREAS, the current total cost to complete the Project is $1,525,000, and an
additional $60,750 is required to complete the project; and
WHEREAS, staff believes this $60,750 will be eligible for Federal and State funding and
will pursue agreements with New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT)
for reimbursement of 95% of these costs, but request authorization, at this time, to
cover the full first instance cost of the Project; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That, Common Council hereby approves an increase of Capital Project
#791 by an amount not to exceed $60,750, for a total project authorization of
$1,555,000; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That, funds needed for said amendment shall be derived from serial
bonds, with understanding that these funds are available to the Project and that the final
cost to the City for the Lake Street Bridge Rehabilitation Project will be approximately
$106,250.
13.2 Alderperson Mohlenhoff: Lake Street Bridge Project and Ithaca Falls
Public Area Enhancements – Alternate Resolution
WHEREAS, a project for the rehabilitation of the Lake Street Bridge Over Fall Creek,
P.I.N. 375534 (“the Project”) is eligible for funding under Title 23 U.S. Code as
administered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), as amended, that calls
for the apportionment of the costs of such program to be borne at the ratio of 80%
Federal funds and 20% non-Federal funds; and
WHEREAS, On September 4, 2013, Common Council authorized $1,464,250 to cover
the cost of the total Project; and
WHEREAS, On December 1, 2014, the Board of Public Works unanimously authorized
staff to undertake Enhancement of the Ithaca Falls Public Area (“the Enhancement”) as
part of the Project (CP#791); and
WHEREAS, On February 5, 2015, Common Council approved an increase of CP #791
by an amount not to exceed $30,000 to cover the design phase of the Enhancement for
a total project authorization of $1,494,250; and
WHEREAS, bids were received for both the Lake Street Bridge Rehabilitation Project
and the Enhancement of the Ithaca Falls Public Area on November 16, 2015; and
WHEREAS, the current construction cost to implement the Enhancement is $169,000;
and
WHEREAS, the total cost to implement the Enhancement is covered from different
funding sources; however, the city must authorize funding in the first instance and seek
reimbursement; and
WHEREAS, the current total cost to complete the Project is $1,525,000 and an
additional $60,750 is required to complete the project; and
WHEREAS, staff believes the $60,750 will be eligible for Federal and State funding and
will pursue agreements with NYSDOT for reimbursement of 95% of these costs, but
request authorization, at this time, to cover the full first instance of the cost of the
Project and the Enhancement; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That, Common Council hereby approves an increase of Capital Project
#791 by an amount not to exceed $229,750, for a total project authorization of
$1,724,000; and be it further
RESOLVED, That, funds needed for said amendment shall be derived from serial
bonds, with the understanding that these funds are available to the Project and the
Enhancement, and that the final cost to the City will be approximately $106,250.
TO: Addisu Gebre, Bridge System Engineer
FROM: Megan Wilson, Senior Planner
DATE: July 28, 2015
RE: Parks Commission Comments on Enhancements to Ithaca Falls
At its meeting on July 14, 2015, the Parks Commission reviewed the proposed enhancements to the
park area at Ithaca Falls. Below is a summary of comments and questions from the Commission.
• The Commission believes that the walkway is critical to allowing seniors, people with
strollers, and people with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy the park. The group discussed
the concern that the enhancements would include too much paving/concrete, but there was
not a consensus among the members on this issue. If the amount of paving/concrete
remains a concern, it was suggested that a portion of the loop could be removed, which
would reduce cost and the amount of concrete while still allowing access to the area.
• The Commission had mixed reactions to the proposed gate. They liked the idea of being
able to close off access to the water when conditions are unsafe, but they then felt that an
open gate inherently indicates to the public that conditions are safe. While the Commission
generally prefers to avoid additional signage in parks, it was suggested that a sign could be
added to the gate, noting that people should be mindful of conditions.
• While the Commission believes a railing will greatly improve safety, several members noted
that the design showing a guardrail and a fence with vegetation in between seems to be a bit
much. Is it necessary to have both the guardrail and the fence? Will the guardrail and/or
fence obstruct views? Is it possible to use materials that allow people to see through these
barriers?
• The Commission expressed concern that the project was trying to change the name of the
park from Ithaca Falls to the Lake Street Park. They would like to be clear that it is Ithaca
Falls.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at 274-6560 or
mwilson@cityofithaca.org.
CITY OF ITHACA
108 E. Green St. — Third Floor Ithaca, NY 14850-5690
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING, BUILDING, ZONING, & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Division of Planning & Economic Development
JOANN CORNISH, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
PHYLLISA DESARNO, DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development – 607-274-6550 Community Development/IURA – 607-274-6559
Email: dgrunder@cityofithaca.org Email: iura@cityofithaca.org
TO: Addisu Grebe, Engineer ‐ Dept of Public Works
CC: Common Council & Mayor, Board of Public Works, Supt of Public Works,
Director of Planning, NAC members and liaisons
FROM: Joe McMahon, NAC Chairperson
DATE: August 12, 2015
RE: NAC Comments & Recommendations on Ithaca Falls Entrance Project
Thank you, Addisu, for attending the July and August meetings of the Natural Areas
Commission to share information and receive feedback in regards to the upcoming
project at the Lake Street entranceway to the Ithaca Falls Natural Area. This is the
stated purpose of the existence of the commission in the City Code, and for a project
of this scope at Ithaca Falls Natural Area, or any natural area of the City, the NAC
should be included in the process to the fullest possible extent.
You indicated that the current design for this project already received site plan
approval from the City Planning Board. However, in light of reactions and
comments from the public and the NAC, you said the plan was to formulate several
alternative designs (incorporating suggestions you have received), seek feedback on
those designs, then ask for Planning Board approval of an amended site plan (as
well as approval of any additional funding needed for the project, from Common
Council).
The NAC supports the idea of developing and airing alternative designs, and hopes
that its suggestions will be incorporated into one or more of those designs.
Included with this document are the results of votes the NAC took on August 4th,
after looking at several specific components of the currently proposed plan for the
area between Lake Street and the gorge leading to Ithaca Falls. I think it’s important
to point out that, as you witnessed, there was much input on and endorsement of
many of these positions by non‐voting NAC liaisons and others in attendance,
including Josephine Martell and Cynthia Brock of Common Council, Jeanne Grace
from DPW, Todd Bittner from Cornell Natural Areas, and others.
No one in the room (not counting you) was in favor of the extensive and elaborate
plan as presented, with the consensus being that while the area in question is both
parkland and a City‐designated natural area, it should not be altered in a way such
that it contrasts or clashes with the primarily naturalistic area immediately to the
east of the entrance area, leading to the creek and the falls. This has also been the
overwhelming consensus from members of the public who have added to the
discussion as well. Paraphrasing the words of various people who have spoken on
this project, including Common Council member George McGonigal, the beauty and
even the culture of the Finger Lakes has been to allow natural features to speak for
themselves. We believe it’s necessary to achieve a reasonable balance – between
making the area “safe” and retaining/protecting its undisturbed natural character –
without diminishing the wondrous experience of being there. The fenced in,
overbuilt, urbanistic design that has been presented does not achieve this balance
for a location that serves as an introduction and brief transition to one of our City’s
iconic destinations – a wild and spectacular natural treasure tucked away just a few
steps from the contrasting urban environment.
NAC Recommendations for Ithaca Falls/Lake St Park Re-design Project
4 August, 2015
5 voting members present
1. Gate:
- Install as presented – 4 opposed, 1 vote in support;
- Provide some kind of “permeable”/symbolic barrier with a warning sign
that can be put in place temporarily when conditions are atypically hazardous
(such as a chain across the path) - 4 in support, 1 opposed
2. Pedestrian Guardrail (fence):
- Install as presented - 5 opposed (to a fence that acts as a substantial
visual barrier or intrusion, including the proposed blue stone columns, and that
extends beyond what is necessary to warn of dangerous drop-off);
- Where needed (to warn of drop-off, on North and part of East sides),
install something less intrusive, more transparent, similar to what Cornell built
along Cascadilla Gorge trail, i.e., minimalist metal posts with metal link chains –
5 in support
3. Sidewalk:
- Horseshoe-shaped sidewalk, as presented – 5 opposed;
- Inclusion of single path where existing “goat path” is, that connects to
park features (ramp down to creek, overlook bench) – 5 in support;
- Use of concrete as material for interior path – 5 opposed;
- Use of stone dust as material for interior path – 5 in support
4. Concrete blocks (a/k/a “Jersey barriers”) that were “temporarily” placed atop old
stone wall along east side of entrance area, many years ago:
- Include removal of these blocks as part of project - 5 in support
To expand further on these items (and an additional one), we’d like to add:
1. We concur that having some type of removable barrier at the ramp down to
the creek area (a suggestion made by the Fire Dept), with a warning sign, can
serve to bring to the public’s attention that dangerous conditions exist
beyond that point, without attempting to “cage” people in or lock them out.
(Those who are not averse to risk‐taking will undoubtedly find a way to get
past any barrier, anyway – possibly causing more damage to themselves
and/or the site, in the process.) While we did not have consensus on the
specific design for this, we were in agreement that less is adequate.
Moveable wooden sawhorses have served this purpose, but they are
unsightly, and due to staffing constraints in the Public Works Dept, they
aren’t always removed once the higher level of risk is passed, or they
eventually get tossed aside by the public.
2. We are told that the proposed “pedestrian guardrail” was designed with the
intention of “matching” the one along the recently‐created Six Mile Creek
walkway, between Clinton and Green Streets (and beyond, to the east). We
believe the different context and character of these two places does not
warrant this congruency. Six Mile Creek is bordered by multi‐storied
buildings on each side with a wide sidewalk adjacent, while the Lake Street
location has a small grassy area with a stream on one side and solid stone
gorge wall or ruins, and wooded area on two other sides.
To the extent fencing is necessary for ongoing safety purposes (to
warn of a significant drop‐off), we would much prefer to see something
similar to what Cornell has done in Cascadilla Gorge (installation of a
minimalist iron post‐and‐chain fence along the gorge trail), that can decrease
the risk from falls (which currently exists due to lack of a barrier, but
thankfully has not resulted in actual falls or serious injuries), over the ledge
on the north side and a portion of the east side. We see no need to continue
such a barrier beyond the ramp to the creek, or along the south side. To the
extent that the old masonry walls on the north and east sides could be built
up somewhat with attractively‐laid stone (and topped with a shorter fence),
that would match the historic character of the site even more.
3. The sidewalk “loop” as proposed takes up roughly 25% of the surface area of
what is now a mostly grassy entrance area. This is not appropriate for either
a park or natural area. Since the premier viewing area for the falls ‐ from
outside the creek bed or bank ‐ is from the Lake Street bridge, and a bump‐
out for viewing is included in that design, there is no reason to design and re‐
purpose the entrance area as a falls viewing point. While the creek itself can
be viewed from this site, due to the contours of the gorge walls, very little of
the falls is visible from anywhere south of the bridge. A stone dust path can
still be ADA compliant and be done for less money.
4. Quite a few years ago, the City “temporarily” deposited several large concrete
blocks on top of the old stone wall at the east side of the entrance area. The
NAC objects to their appearance and inclusion in a natural area (or park), and
believes they should be removed as part of this project. They are unsightly
and serve no compelling purpose. A fence along that side (and/or a built‐up
stone wall) will provide a better warning of the existing drop‐off.
5. While no vote was taken regarding this, NAC members noted that the City’s
Guidelines for Work in Natural Areas require the submission of a written
plan for the restoration of any area affected by such work, to be reviewed by
the NAC. You have said that the contractor(s) for this project (and the bridge
project) will understand the need for restoration and will include the cost of
that in their bids, and that restoration means “putting the area back in the
condition it was previously.” We don’t expect that to be feasible in all
respects, and we ask that prospective bidders be asked to describe impacts
such as tree removal, and to provide a specific, written plan for restoration,
including proposed plantings, grading, etc.
As you know, time was short at the August NAC meeting, to formulate the NAC’s
position and comments on this project and its various elements. You requested a
written report as soon as possible, so this summary of major points is being
provided. The NAC will continue to discuss this project, and, as time allows in the
future, may submit additional comments and/or elaborate on the concerns
summarized here.
Again, thank you for taking the time to include the NAC and the public in this very
important endeavor. We hope our input will be useful and lead to a pleasing end
result of this important project at an iconic Ithaca and Finger Lakes location.
LAKE STREET PARK ENHANCEMENTS
DESIGN ALTERNATIVES
AUGUST 28, 2015
PEDESTRIAN SAFETY RAIL DESIGN
ITHACA NAC
WHERE NECESSARY,
INSTALL SOMETHING MORE
TRANSPARENT SUCH AS A
CHAIN LINK FENCE
ITHACA NAC
INSTALL A SINGLE PATH OF
STONE DUST THAT CONNECT
TO THE TRAIL AND THE
OVERLOOKS
ITHACA NAC
USE A PERMEABLE “SYMBOLIC”
BARRIER WITH A SIGN TO
WARN OF HAZARDOUS
CONDITIONS SUCH AS A CHAIN
PARKS COMMISSION
USE MORE TRANSPARENT
MATERIALS
PARKS COMMISSION
POSSIBLY REDUCE THE
AMOUNT OF PAVEMENT
(NO CONCENSUS)
PARKS COMMISSION
SIGN ADDED TO GATE TO
WARNING USERS TO BE
MINDFUL OF CONDITIONS EVEN
WHEN GATE IS OPEN
PAVEMENT DESIGN
GATE DESIGN
CURRENT
STAINLESS STEEL
CONCRETE
WALKWAY
3 POSITION
GATE W/ SIGN
ALT 1
WOOD RAILING
CARBON STEEL
WIDER MESH
ALT 1
CHIP SEAL OR
POROUS ASPHALT
ALT 2
NARROW
WIDTH TO 4’
ALT 1
CHAIN W/ SIGN
ALT 2
GALVANIZED STEEL
WIDER MESH
FULL INFILL
CURRENT
CURRENT
CURRENT
PEDESTRIAN SAFTEY RAIL
DESIGN ALTERNATIVES
AUGUST 28, 2015
CURRENT DESIGN
STAINLESS STEEL
ALTERNATE 1
CARBON STEEL
POWDER COATED BLACK /
GALVANIZED
W/ IPE WOOD RAIL
ALTERNATE 2
CARBON STEEL
GALVANIZED
1.5” STAINLESS STEEL TUBE
1.5” IPE WOOD RAIL 1.5” IPE WOOD RAIL
1.5” CARBON STEEL RAIL
(GALVANIZED)
1.5” IPE WOOD RAIL
STAINLESS STEEL INFILL
1.5” MESH
CARBON STEEL INFILL
2.25” MESH (BLACK)
CARBON STEEL INFILL
2.25” MESH (GALVANIZED)
CARBON STEEL INFILL
2.25” MESH (GALVANIZED)
CARBON STEEL INFILL
2.25” MESH (GALVANIZED)
1.5” STAINLESS STEEL POSTS
1.5” CARBON STEEL POSTS
(BLACK)
1.5” CARBON STEEL POSTS
(GALVANIZED)
1.5” CARBON STEEL POSTS
(GALVANIZED)
1.5” CARBON STEEL POSTS
(GALVANIZED)
1” STAINLESS STEEL BAR
1” CARBON STEEL BAR
(BLACK)
1” CARBON STEEL BAR
(GALVANIZED)
OPTION A
OPTION A
OPTION B
OPTION B OPTION C
PAVEMENT
DESIGN ALTERNATIVES
AUGUST 28, 2015
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MEETING REPORT
Meeting Date: July 27, 2015
Location: City of Ithaca, Common Council Chambers
Project: City of Ithaca - Lake Street Bridge Park Enhancements
Project No: 13033
Event: Project Informational Meeting
Attendees:
Name Initials Representing
Addisu Gebre AG City of Ithaca – Engineering Department
James Fruechtl JF Trowbridge Wolf Michaels Landscape Architects (TWMLA)
Nels Bohn NB Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
JoAnne Cornish JC City of Ithaca – Planning Department
Lisa Nicholas LN City of Ithaca – Planning Department
Graham Kerslizk GK City of Ithaca – Common Council
Josephine Martell JMa City of Ithaca – Common Council
Mark Darling MD City of Ithaca – Board of Public Works
Tom West TW City of Ithaca – Engineering Department
Ray Benjamin RB City of Ithaca – Streets & Facilities
Margaret Hobbie MH City of Ithaca – Parks Commission
Mike Thorne MT City of Ithaca – Public Works
Ronda Roaring RR Community Member (Ilovethefingerlakes.com)
Joe McMahon JMc City of Ithaca – Natural Areas Commission (NAC)
Dan Hoffman DH City of Ithaca – Natural Areas Commission (NAC)
Ken Deschere KD Community Member (Neighbor)
Wendy Wallitt WW Community Member (Neighbor)
Jan McCarrick JC Community Member (Neighbor)
Beth Feldman BF Community Member (Neighbor)
Carol Reeves CR Community Member (Neighbor)
Presentation
TWMLA presented a timeline of the project including the important milestones, involved parties, and
issues discussed. Afterwards, TWMLA explained the proposed site design and how it incorporates the
desired program elements and responds to the existing site conditions.
Project Timeline:
• January 16, 2015 – Kickoff/Programming Meeting
o Represented: TWMLA, Engineering Department, Planning Board, Natural Areas
Commission, Conservation Advisory Council, Fire Department
Trowbridge Wolf Michaels Landscape Architects LLP
1001 West Seneca Street, Suite 101 Ithaca, New York 14850 ph: 607.277.1400
www.twm.la
Discussion / Comments
o Desired Program Elements:
Guardrail along top of wall for code compliance/safety
An accessible walkway through the park for State funding and as a best practice
Incorporate viewing locations in park in addition to area on bridge
Provide a controlled access point (gate) in lieu of saw horse barricades for Fire
Department for hazardous trail conditions
• March 23, 2015 – Planning Board Sketch Plan Review
• February 28, 2015 – Planning Board Public Hearing, Environmental Review, Preliminary/Final Site
Plan Approval
• May 2015 – Construction Document Submission
Project Design Elements Presented:
The park design improves the current conditions and enhances the open space leading to the
Ithaca Falls Natural area, a highly visited tourist attraction within the City of Ithaca and Tompkins
County. The park design includes a 5% slope accessible concrete loop walkway that serves
multiple functions, it provides a route to the trail entrance, it provides an accessible route to
overlooks, and it passes by historical building ruins. The concrete material holds up well in our
climate, other materials such as stone dust require continual maintenance. The walkway route
connects to the sidewalk at the north and south ends of the park, and follows the “goat paths” that
are currently through the lawn today. A stainless steel guard around the edge of the park at the
top of the creek wall provides pedestrian safety and code compliance. The stainless steel material
will have good longevity in the harsh winter conditions. Two overlooks are proposed at prime
natural surrounding viewing locations throughout the park in addition to the Ithaca Falls viewing
overlook on the bridge. A gate matching the railing design is proposed at the entrance to the
Ithaca Falls Natural Area. The gate has three positions, fully open, slot entrance (partially open),
and closed. This provides the Ithaca Fire Department with a controllable entryway into the trails
that can be closed during hazardous conditions. Additional bike racks are proposed for the park
and relocated to the sidewalk along Lake Avenue. The design also provide potential for future
historical interpretative signage for the building ruins on the site.
JMc • The NAC will provide their official comments during their next meeting on August 4th.
• The Jersey barriers should be removed, and the parking area to the south of the park
should be improved as part of this project.
• The loop walk should not extend through the entire park if not necessary. The
connection to the bridge seems like the most important route.
• NAC would like to know if there are any plans for tree removal during the project.
• There is concern that the guardrail extends too far into the natural area.
AG • There are no plans for tree removal during this project.
• There are plans to restore the necessary construction access routes through the natural
areas as part of the bridge project.
JF • The guardrail that will be along the top of the retaining wall is necessary for pedestrian
safety and code compliance. It is a pedestrian railing that is visually lighter in
appearance than that the vehicular barrier along the bridge. The bridge barrier will
tapper to the ground at the end of the bridge, however there are shrub plantings to mask
the view of the bridge railing.
BF • A pathway up the side of the south side of the gorge to the Gun Hill property should be
considered
• A thesis by a Cornell Landscape Architecture student has documented Flour Mill
2 of 4
foundations in the vicinity of the park and creek area
• A sign could be added locating historical items throughout the area.
• There is still concern that there could be lead contamination on the site
NB • The letter for the project to the State Historic Preservation Office states that any ruins
found on site, if any, will be preserved and buried in place. This is standard operating
procedure for all construction projects.
• The archeology of the site is not the subject of the further study in this project.
KD • The Gun Hill site, further east and up the hill from the project site, is currently being
remediated because additional lead was found on site. There is concern that additional
lead could be carried down the hillside in the future.
• Hopefully there is no additional lead uncovered during construction. If any is found, it is
the hope that everything will be done to remove the lead and work with the EPA to do so.
JMc • The “horseshoe” walk covers a large majority of the site where there is not currently a
walkway.
• The jersey barriers along the east edge of the park, which the NAC would like removed,
are not being shown as removed in this project.
• There are other gorges throughout the city where there is no gate to control access.
• The railing material extends from the parking railing to the bridge rail which seems
unnecessary, and raises the height of the rail which blocks views.
AG • The jersey barriers may be removed during the construction of the access road for the
bridge project.
• The railing on the bridge is part of the separate bridge project to continue the material of
the park railing across the bridge. This was added at the request of the City of Ithaca
Planning Board.
JF • Different materials were discussed for the pathway through the space, and concrete
ultimately chosen because it requires less maintenance than others. Stone dust may be
considered an accessible surface, but will rut with heavy rains and will require constant
maintenance by the city.
RB • Sawhorse barricades are easy to walk around, and it can allow someone to access a
natural area at a hazardous time. A will gate provide better control.
JF • The gate design is not a large vehicular barrier. It is a 3’6” gate that matches the design
of the railings. There are 3 positions for the panels, fully open, slot entrance (partially
open), and closed.
JMc • The current gate design would alleviate the NAC’s concerns.
RR • The project site is a tourism draw for the city and would benefit from conversations with
the Tourism bureau.
• The high school is near the project site and conversations with the students would help
to inform the project. Getting the student’s buy-in may prevent any vandalism in the
future.
• If the amount of visitors to the park increases, where will people park? There are no lots
directly adjacent to the park.
• Ice climbers have expressed interest in using the area in the winter it would be good to
consider these users, and to not close the park off to them with gates.
• The large tree (American Sycamore) on the north side of the park as well as other large
trees in the natural area block the views of the falls and should be removed.
• The park design should be more natural, just like it is today, as it next to Ithaca Fall
Natural Area. It shouldn’t be a decorative design.
AG • If there are significant designs changes are made, the project will go back to the
Planning Board, at which time, the public and various interested groups can provide their
comments.
3 of 4
• There is a gravel parking lot to the south of the park and the project design extends the
sidewalk to this lot. A paved parking lot on the east of Lake Street and south of Falls
Street is also used by park and Ithaca Falls Natural Area visitors. In addition to these two
parking lots, there is also street parking in neighborhood east of Lake Street.
JF • The park design attempts to strike a balance between the surrounding natural area and
the open space park it is today. Native plantings such as Cornus sericea and Cercis
Canadensis, and taller minimally mowed grasses, provide a transition from the open
lawn in the center of the park.
CS • This park is a high tourist area, and there should be some tree removal in order to see
the falls.
• The new park will require more maintenance with the new additions being proposed.
• Consider adding a butterfly garden to the plan, this would be consistent with the
surrounding area.
RB • The park is currently a lawn and that has to be mowed regularly.
JMa • The current design incorporates too much concrete sidewalk; consider a “simpler”
design with a one-way in/out walk.
• The viewing areas seem unnecessary; consider eliminating them if there are budgetary
issues with the project.
JC • A butterfly garden would require much more maintenance than the currently proposed
design.
• The concrete walk provides access for the mobility impaired, such as her mother, to one
of Ithaca’s best natural areas.
AG • The final version of the plan will be released in mid-October of this year.
4 of 4
14. MAYOR’S APPOINTMENTS:
14.1 Reappointments to Community Police Board – Resolution
RESOLVED, That Shirley Kane be reappointed to the Community Police Board with a
term to expire December 31, 2018, and be it further
RESOLVED, That Richard Onyejuruwa be reappointed to the Community Police Board with a
term to expire December 31, 2018.
14.2 Reappointment to Board of Fire Commissioners – Resolution
RESOLVED, That William Gilligan be reappointed to the Board of Fire Commissioners
with a term to expire June 30, 2017.
14.3 Reappointment to Disability Advisory Council – Resolution
RESOLVED, That Larry Roberts be reappointed to the Disability Advisory Council with
a term to expire June 30, 2018.