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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-PARKS-1993 1 Parks Commission Meeting January 12, 1993 Minutes (by Margaret Hobbie) Present: JoAnn Cornish, Beverly Baker, Margaret Hobble, Richard Fischer, Nina Bassuk, Adam Carmen, Rick Farrell, Guy Gerard, Linda Tsang, Carol Reeves The meeting was called to order at 4: 15 PM JoAnn Cornish suggested that it be the policy of the Commission to allow public comment for the first five minutes of each meeting. The speaker should be encouraged to submit a written statement prior to the meeting for investigation of the facts. It was so moved by Richard Fischer and seconded by Margaret Hobble and unanimously approved. Beverly Baker asked Adam Carmen and Rick Farrell about the status of the benches and plantings in Dewitt Park. The matter was referred to city staff. Cornish referred to a memo from Carol Reeves concerning written information about the Six Mile Creek Beaver Issue. Rather than the BPW sending out reports, all the information has been placed in a notebook in the Superintendent' s Office in City Hall for interested persons to review. Cornish told the commission members of an award Nina Bassuk had received from the American Horticultural Society. Cornish reported that she and Beth Mulholland met and wrote a summarization of the December Parks Commission meeting comments concerning the Festival Lands issue. These comments were submitted to the Planning and Development Board for review and discussion. Guy Gerard reported that the Public Works committee adopted a resolution concerning the transfer of the Festival Lands. Common Council passed a resolution that incorporated all the Parks Commission' s recommendations plus two additional items: elimination of 64 bulkhead parking spaces and elimination of the access road. City Planner, Linda Tsang, reported that the South West Land Use Committee invited a focus group made up of builders, realtors and developers to discuss future development of South West Park. The focus group resolved that the site was not appropriate for residential development but would be better suited for commercial development. The reason for this being the excessive cost of infrastructure and the various constraints of the site. The focus group doubted that the city could successfully build housing in a timely and affordable manner. Further, R. Weiner has received a substantial offer for his property which adjoins SW Park which would be used for commercial development. The SW Area Land Use Committee had not met since the focus group meeting and so had not prepared a resolution. Cornish pointed out that the Commission had never made a formal recommendation for substitute park lands, but that several had been discussed: A Six Mile Creek Connector The Furniture Warehouse Lot on Center Street The South Titus Triangle Proceeds of the sale of SW Park could also be used for capital improvements in other parks. There were no updates on the Parks Usage Surveys. Cornish called for a formation of a committee to write the annual report for the Parks Commission to be issued on or about April 1, 1993. There were no volunteers. There was no new business to report. Nina Bassuk suggested that we recommend that the South Titus Triangle be permanently closed at the western end so that the triangle could be developed into a park. Baker moved that the meeting be adjourned at 5: 15 PM. The next meeting will be on Feb. 9, 1993 at City Hall. Parks Commission Meeting February 9, 1993 Minutes (by JoAnn Cornish) Present: JoAnn Cornish, Beth Mulholland, David Fernandez, Margaret Hobbie, Richard Fischer, Linda Tsang, Adam Carmen, Guy Gerard, John Schroeder The meeting was called to order at 4: 40 PM. JoAnn Cornish brought to the attention of the Parks Commission that the INHS housing project on the "Pogo Parcel" had broken ground. John Schroeder stated that this was only phase one of the project and phase two is in the planning stages. Discussion of a city park on this parcel is part of the overall plan. The Six Mile Creek beaver issue was discussed. It was pointed out that the resolution approved by the BPW was only for the winter of 1993 and would be revised as needed. Cornish, once again, asked that the members of the Parks Commission give some thought to who they think would be interested in becoming a Parks Commissioner. The commission is currently lacking one commissioner as a result of the resigination of Diane Sherman and Willard Dickerson told Cornish of his intent to resign as well. David Fernandez thought perhaps we could have fewer commissioners but be more selective. Cornish stated it wasn't so much the number of commissioners as it was their willingness to help since she was doing most of the work. Cornish brought the commission up to date on the Southwest Area Land Use Commitee which had met earlier in the month. She shared with the commission the interim report put out in February 1993 by that commitee. Fernandez brought up the question of whether the money from the sale of Southwest Park would have to be used immediately or if it could be saved for use on an as needed basis. John Schroeder said he wasn't sure but would look into it. Schroeder went on to say that the land could be given to mutual housing but that this would not negate the substitute land for parks. Cornish asked the members of the Parks Commission for their recommendations concerning the issues of: -Alienation of Southwest Park -A Southwest Connector to be built from the Elmira Road to some point west -Whether the land should be used for Residential, Commercial, or a mixture of both The majority of the commission members were in favor of alienation. There were mixed feelings concerning the SW Connector Road. General consensus was for more study of this issue. The general consensus with regard to housing on this site was favorable. It was stated that the Cayuga Inlet Trail would boarder the site and that there were many other amenities that would support housing in this area. Cornish stated she would report back to the Southwest Area Land Use Commitee and pass on the general opinions of the Parks Commission. The meeting was adjourned at 5: 45 pm. The next meeting will be on March 9, 1993 at City Hall. Parks Commission Meeting March 9, 1993 Minutes (by Linda Tsang, JoAnn Cornish) Present: JoAnn Cornish, Guy Gerard, Linda Tsang, Carol Reeves, Beth Mulholland, John Wilson, John Schroeder, John Friederborn, Margaret Hobble The meeting was called to order at 4: 40 PM Cornish introduced John Friedorborn, the new City Forester, to the Parks Commission. Willard Dickerson (representative from the Youth Bureau Board) submitted his letter of resignition from the Parks Commission. Cornish asked everyone to be on the lookout for possible candidates to fill the two openings on the commission that are now available. Hobble suggested that the geographic distribution of the commissioners be considered. She further suggested Lenny Packard and Don Rakow (both from the West Hill neighborhood) be approached to see if either or both were interested. Hobble will check this out and report back to the commission. Cornish mentioned that the Washington Park Neighborhood Association met to discuss the impact of the new Route 96 on the area. Reeves asked if there were follow-ups on the posting of signs in Washington Park for cleaning up after dogs. This led to a discussion of a pet-controlling ordinance in general. Gerard suggested that the policy of prohibition of dogs in Stewart Park be reviewed because it may be based on an obsolete ordinance from the days when there was a zoo in the park. Schroeder suggested the commission contact Dan Hoffman of the Charter and Ordinance Committee to see what the current status of this issue is. Cornish passed along several New York Times articles brought in by Mulholland. More sharing of current reading materials on any open space or park related issue is encouraged. Mulholland suggested that a committee be set up to study open space in the Downtown area, with particular emphasis on identifying areas which may be converted to green space. Schroeder mentioned some of the possibilities described in the Downtown Design Plan by Roger Trancik. The commission will look into this further when the plan is more widely distributed. Cornish announced that Mulholland will talk about Circle Greenway at the June meeting. Any suggestions for speakers that may be of interest to the Parks Commission for general education would be most welcomed. Cornish updated the commission on the Southwest Area Land Use Study Committee. The main recommendations from the report of this committee are: 1 ) that there be no residential development in the undeveloped parcels east of SW park; 2) that there would be planned unit development (PUD) in the area now known as SW Park; and 3) that there would be a roadway from Elmira Road into the SW Park area which would eventually connect to West Hill. This report is likely to be ready for discussion within the next two months. Schroeder updated the Parks Commission on several parks related issues: The Charter and Ordinance Committee has voted to totally eliminate hunting from the "Hogs Hole" area of the marina. Regarding the aleination of Inlet Island, the Finger Lakes Parks and the National Parks offices have responded to the City' s proposal. All of the green space identified as such in the Inlet Island Report would be retained as local park land but would be removed from the federal designation of park land. Approved for substitute park land were: The Sheldrake parcel as a possible link for the Cayuga Inlet Trail, A wider green space along the Flood Control Channel by the Cherry Street Industrial Park ( it currently has a 30' ROW, this would be increased to a 100' ROW) and the Ithaca Falls properties. There were no comments on the Six Mile Creek parcels to date. Thys Van Court has sent a letter to the Finger Lakes office for clarification of their position on the Six Mile Creek parcels. The appraisal for substitute park lands had not been recieved but was expected soon. Gerard questioned the benifits of designating the Ithaca Falls properties as park land since it is already protected by the Wild, Scenic, and Recreational River Systems regulations of NY State. Schroeder clarified by saying the issue was "public access" and not "protection" . Any of the current property owners could block access if they chose to, this having little to do with its protection status. Cornish reported that she hoped to have the Parks Commission Annual Report done by the April meeting. There were discussions of the necessity to reexamine the Commissiion' s goals and objectives in light of the difficulties in filling all nine of the positions on the commission. Mulholland mentioned that snowmen were sighted in several of the. city' s parks and suggested that the days following a snow storm might be a good time for surveying park use. Reeves reminded everyone that permits must be sought from the BPW for certain functions in the city parks. Wilson announced that reservations for the use of pavilions in both Stewart Park and Cass Park are now managed by the Youth Bureau Office. Reeves brought to everyone ' s attention, the maintenance problems of the City Cemetary, delapidated due to budget cuts and liability issues. Mulholland suggested that other communities be consulted for alternative solutions. She suggested Hamburg, NY as a possible model. The meeting was adjourned at 5: 50 PM. Minutes - Parks Commission Meeting - April 13, 1993 (by Nina Bassuk) Present: JoAnn Cornish, Nina Bassuk, Guy Gerard, Linda Tsang, Carol Reeves, Beth Mulholland, John Wilson, David Fernandez, . John Frideborn, Margaret Hobbie, Tric Norton -The meeting was called to order at 4: 40 PM Cornish brought a copy of Roger Trancik' s Downtown Design Plan which became available to the public earlier in the month. Copies of the plan are available in the planning office and are free. Cornish stated that Charter and Ordinance had passed a No Hunting ordinance for the Hogs Hole area. The Ithaca Bicycle Advisory Council published its 1993 City of Ithaca Bicycle Plan and will present it to Common Council at its April meeting. Cornish informed the commission that the changes in handicapped accessibility for Stewart Park had begun and that the boathouse had recieved a $50,000 grant for restoration. Cornish reported that the Lansing Greenways Study had been completed and that a county wide greenways plan was being considered. A committee, set up by Lou Roscoe in the Cornell Planning Department, is being formed for this study. Guy Gerard reported that the chemical spill from Therm in the six mile creek area was not getting into the creek at this time. He further stated that this was an ongoing spill that had been reported to DEC as early as Feb. 1992, but that the DEC did not respond to the complaints. Trish Norton from Community Development spoke to the commission about a block grant that had been applied for for the Landmark Square area. $45,000.00 of the grant money ( should it be awarded) will go towards the Wood Street Park improvements. Trowbridge and Wolf, Landscape Architects, were hired to put together the proposed improvements. A client group is also involved in the planning proposal. Safety for area residents is a paramount issue along with noise from the basketball court. Current plans call for the removal of the handball wall, relocation of the basketball court with a small play structure near it, a new play structure nearer to Wood Street, new benches, a sidewalk, planting and new lighting. Additionally, drop curbs would be added for easier accessibility from Landmark Square. Cornish brought up the issue of the Titus Triangle for discussion. South Titus Ave . has been closed on a trial basis for sometime. There are pros and cons concerning the permanent closing of this street where it joins the park. Council members (Blanchard and Romanowski ) will be canvasing their constituants for reactions to this proposal. Parks Commission voted to recommend the closing of this portion of S. Titus Ave . permanently, remove the asphalt and extend the park. Bassuk and Cornish will draft a resolution concerning this issue. The Commission voted to recommend a "pick-up after your dog" ordinance which will be city-wide (both parks and streets) . The meeting was adjourned at 5: 40 PM. Minutes - Parks Commission Meeting - May 11 , 1993 (by Nina Bassuk) Present: JoAnn Cornish, Nina Bassuk, Linda Tsang, Carol Reeves, Beth Mulholland, John Frideborn, John Schroeder, Beverly Baker, Richard Fischer -The meeting was called to order at 4 : 40 PM. Cornish began by informing the commission that the flood clean-up at Stewart Park had been canceled due to bad weather. The Ithaca Festival, scheduled for June 3,4, 5 & 6 was mentioned as there was some citizen concerns about the park being ready for the festival activities. Friedeborn said that the DPW was currently working to get the park in order. Of major concern are the willow trees which boarder the lake shore. Because of the high water and wave action during the flood, the roots of the trees are exposed. Friedeborn said soil or gravel will be used to cover the roots. Also, the crowns of the willows will be thinned to lessen the potential damage from high winds. This brought up the point that the city does not, at the present time, have a climber to do this. This will be a possible budget request for next year. Reeves informed the commission that there will be a new carry in, carry out policy for trash in Stewart Park. This will go into effect on June 7 , and is a temporary, experimental measure that will be evaluated at the end of the season. Last year $20,000.00 was spent on trash removal alone in Stewart Park. ( 140 tons total with 5 tons of illegal trash. ) Reeves and Friedeborn expressed concern saying they feared that the city crews would be cleaning up trash all day on Mondays rather that attending to their scheduled work. Several members brought up various ideas concerning volunteer help for this. Cornish informed the commission that a resolution was passed to hold a public hearing concerning Titus Triangle . The date was to be announced. Tsang told the commission that a report was in the making for South West Park and would be finished soon. Mulholland brought everyone up to date on Six Mile Creek. As a result of the flooding, there were several mud slides, many trees came down and there are major water supply pipe problems. The city, in response to the water pipe problems, is building an access road through the Six Mile Creek area. Mulholland will keep us up to date on this. Lalani Peck is the new Parks Commissioner and will be at the next meeting. The commission still has one vacancy. Cornish brought up the Route 96 Improvement plans, saying they were in the final stages . Schroeder added that Planning and Development had sent in suggested revisions in accordance with the Inlet Island Master Plan. No formal resolution had been written for the Pooper Scooper Law. It was suggested that the City Attorney' s office be contacted for other ordinances to use as an example . SW Park and Inlet Island appraisals are still not in. Schroeder will report back when they have arrives. The Annual Report is still being written. Cornish will pass out draft copies for approval as soon as they are done. Mulholland asked for suggestions concerning a wedding in Maple Grove Park where the participants want to prune the shrubs themselves. Friedeborn said he would talk to the interested party and handle it as he sees fit. Reeves expressed concern saying she was not aware of an impending wedding. The DPW needs to be informed of this type of thing before permission can be granted. A resolution was unanimously passed concerning signage in DeWitt Park. Baker told the commission that there has been a group of teenagers playing soccer in the park during the afternoon. Since there is no sign prohibiting this type of activity, the police will not enforce it the passive recreation only ordinance . A resolution was passed unanimously to erect a sign in DeWitt Park forbidding active sports. i. e. skate boarding, ball playing, boom boxes. . . etc. The meeting was adjourned at 5: 40. City Of Ithaca Parks Commission RESOLUTION TO THE BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS FROM THE CITY OF ITHACA PARKS COMMISSION June 2 , 1993 At the April 13, 1993 meeting of the Ithaca Parks Commission, the following resolution was passed unanimously: WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca does not currently have legislation regarding a "Pooper Scopper" Law; and WHEREAS, the dog population in the City of Ithaca is increased each year with the increase of student population at Ithaca College and Cornell University; and WHEREAS, City Parks, sidewalks and private properties are continually contaminated with the waste of dogs who' s owners are negligent in their responsibilities for cleaning up after their dogs. The result is not only damaged vegetation and unpleasant odors, but a potential health hazard as well; and WHEREAS, the success of a "Pooper Scopper" Law would depend on proper enforcement and subsequent fine; and therefore BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Ithaca Parks Commission recommend that the Board of Public Works authorize a "Pooper Scopper" Law, enforcement there of, and subsequent fine for violators. cc: Dan Hoffman - Charter and Ordinance DRAFT PROPOSAL FOR AN ITHACA PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION (why) I. Intent a. To preserve and enhance all areas under its jurisdiction for the greater enjoyment and welfare of the public. b. To act as an advocate for park, recreational and open space lands as or before development occurs. (where) U. Areas Under Jurisdiction Parks Public open spaces Street ROW's Cemeteries Landscape around public buildings Areas along city waterways Recreational Areas and facilities • (what) III. Goals a. To list, describe and/or inventory all areas under its jurisdiction. b. To provide management plans for these areas including long term goals for maintenance, improvements and renovations. c. To determine whether the recreational needs of the community are being met indudirig active, passive and natural areas. d. To determine whether new park space is needed. e. To insure a mechanism for public input into all proposed changes to parks and recreational areas. f. To review, advise, and liaise with appropriate public or private agencies on their plans which may impact parks and recreational areas of jurisdiction. (how) IV. Organization a. The Commission will serve as a policy making link between the DPW and the Board of Public Works as regards parks and recreation issues. All parks and recreation issues that go before the Board must come through the Parks Commission. b. The Parks and Recreation Commission would be organized into three standing committees with other ad hoc committees as necessary. c. The primary plans of work shall be generated at the Committee level. Parks and Recreation Commission Shade Tree Building & Facilities Recreation Committee Ad Hoc Committees Advisory Committee Committee Youth Bureau Parldand alienation -all vegetation including parking, Festivals and events Shoreline stabilization etc. roads, furnishings, etc. bike paths, birding, etc. d. If Common Council, Committees of Council or the Planning Department are addressing parks and recreation related issues,they must also have input from the Commission before decisions can be reached. e. Committees may initiate projects on their own or be asked to initiate projects by the full Commission. When the Commission is asked for input into a particular question,the appropriate Committee shall be asked to address it, or a new Ad Hoc Committee formed if appropriate. 7 f. All Committee plans and initiatives shall be discussed and acted on by the full Commission; however, the detailed procedures of implementation shall be left to the Committees themselves. c c- g. Where the Board of Public Works input is not necessary, Committees of the Parks and Recreation Commission may interact directly with DPW staff and the Board of Public Works after discussing plans at full Commission meetings. h. Committee meetings shall be held monthly, while full Commission meetings shall be held every three months or as necessary. i. On a yearly basis,the Park and Recreation Commission shall submit proposed plans along with budgets to the Board of Public Works. (who) V. Membership on the Commission a. The Parks and Recreation Commission shall be comprised of members with expertise in the following areas: Architectural Preservation Botany/Plant Ecology Civil Engineering Horticulture/Landscape Management Landscape Architecture Landscape Preservation Open Space Planning Recreational Programming Urban Forestry User group constituencies (birders, cyclists, youth, handicapped, etc.) b. The existing members of STAC shall become part of the Commission. These members include those with experience in horticulture, botany, landscape management, landscape architecture and preservation, and urban forestry. c. Representatives from the Conservation Advisory Council, Circle Greenway, Landmarks Preservation and Six Mile Creek Overseers Committee shall also be appointed as liaisons to the Commission. d. Ex-Officio members shall include: Parks and Recreation Manager City Forester (already on STAG) A member of Common Council (already on STAC) A member ' from Planning (already on STAC) A member from the Board of Public Works e. Members shall be appointed by the Common Council for a three year renewable term based on application and area of interest or expertise. PARKS COMMISSION - Recommendations submitted by Sally Grubb GOALS The Commission should serve as protector, preserver, and advocate of our public parks , open spaces, recreation areas , waterways and grounds of public buildings . POWERS Should have authority to recommend acquisition development and operation of public parks and open spaces . All proposed changes to the design and layout of public parks, all proposals to alienate public parks and accompanying proposals for substitute lands , all proposals to install public sculpture, monuments, structures or works of art in the parks , all plans to renovate or restore public buildings in the parks or the grounds of parks , all long-term goals and planning for our parks and greenspaces be presented to the Commission for review and approval or disapproval and then such approval or disapproval be presented to Common Council for appropriate action. Should have binding review powers over all maintenance, improvements, alterations, changes, renovation etc. proposed in any City Park or Open Space, for which the overall design, nature and long term goals have been legally established and designated: Should have authority to review all parks and open spaces, and to make recommendations on their design, nature and long term goals, so that ALL parks and open spaces are eventually designated: :should have the authority to review all plans/recommendations for new parks and open spaces before they are presented to Council for final approval . Once approved by Council all new parks should be designated: Should produce long term plans/goals for City Parks and Open Spaces; set priorities and timetable for achieving these goals; and produce an annual report . OPERATION/MEMBERSHIP Should be independent of all City Agencies Members should represent specific fields of expertise User groups and lay members should balance experts Subcommittees should be formed to cover all areas and to pull in additional expertise (eg neighbourhood groups) At least one commission member should serve on these subcommittees Commission members should be appointed as liaisons to DPW, Planning Dept , Cornell , Town of Ithaca and State. SUBCOMMITTEES SHOULD INCLUDE : Shade Tree Advisory Committee Circle Greenway Six Mile Gorge City Recreation Waterways Neighbourhood parks (neighbourhood representation would alter depending on park, openspace, under review) Stewart Park Festival Lands Inlet Island GIAC Pool Some subcommittees will be permanent committees for example STAC, Stewart Park, Neighbourhood Parks, Six Mile Gorge, Circle Greenway. Others would be set up as needed eg Festival Lands, Inlet Island. (It would have been appropriate for a Commission subcommittee to have been formed to make recommendations on development of new Ice Rink at Cass Park) Commission should meet once a month. Subcommittees should meet as necessary and report to Commission. Most community input will be through subcommittees which will be required to seek views of all interested parties - user groups - neighbourhood associations etc before making recommendations to the full Commission. 1 ITHACA PARKS COMMISSION—Charter Draft PURPOSE To preserve, protect, and act as advocate for all parks and open spaces; to ensure their sympathetic maintenance; and to promote the acquisition of new public open spaces whenever appropriate. JURISDICTION Parks / City-owned open spaces so Street rights-of-way - Recreation areas Areas along City waterways Cemeteries- Land surrounding public buildings Any other designated locations (e.g. Forever Wild areas) FUNCTIONS • 1. To review all plans for•alterations and additions to and all new activities in areas under the Ithaca Parks Commission's (hereinafter referred to as IPC) jurisdiction by all private and public bodies, and to make recommendations to Common Council. 2. To work with the Department of Public Works to provide management plans for areas under IPC's jurisdiction, including day-to-day maintenance and long-term goals for maintenance, renovation, and improvement. 3. To work with the Department of Public Works and the City Planning Department to build up and maintain a full set of photographic plans, drawings, and maps of all City-owned land. 2 4. To provide a mechanism for public input into all proposed changes to parks and recreational areas. 5. By providing a forum for public comment, to determine whether the recreational needs of all segments of the community are being met and to actively work towards meeting these needs. 6. To work towards the provision of new park space wherever and whenever possible. 7. To watch over designated areas to ensure they are being maintained and left as so designated. MEMBERSHIP 1. The Ithaca Parks Commission shall be composed of ten members. Seven shall represent, through specific training or an equivalent background and active interest, such fields as landscape architecture, historic preservation, the fine arts, local history, gardening, general ecology, and recreation. Three shall represent the lay population. 2. At least two Commission members shall serve on each of the Standing Committees of the Commission. z 3. Commission members shall also serve as liaison to the Planning Board, the Conservation Advisory Council, and the Board of Public Works, and to any other commission, council, or task force charged with duties or missions that have relevance to the interests or jurisdiction of the IPC. 4. Ex officio members of the IPC shall include a member of Common Council, a member of the Board of Public Works, a member of the Planning Board, the City Forester, and a representative of the Youth Bureau. 3 5. Members of the IPC shall be appointed by the Mayor, subject to the approval of Common Council, for a three-year, renewable term not to exceed six years. OPERATION 1. The full Commission shall meet monthly to vote and act on all matters brought to its attention. 2. City agencies shall bring matters to the Commission's attention through their IPC liaison. Anyone may submit a written request for items to be added to the Commission's monthly agenda. Requests shall be sent to the secretary or chairperson of the IPC. 3. The IPC shall have four standing committees: the Shade Tree Advisory Committee; the Recreation Committee; the Established Parks Committee, and the Action Committee. These shall meet regularly as needed. 4. All matters requiring IPC review shall initially be brought before the full Commission. The Commission may approve or turn down proposals immediately or send them to the relevant Standing Committee for further review. 5. Each Standing Committee shall be made up of at least seven but not more than ten members. Two shall represent the full Commission; five shall be drawn from specific fields of expertise, such as ornithology, botany, civil engineering, et cetera; and two members shall represent user or special interest groups, such as the handicapped, cyclists, boaters, et cetera. Each Standing Committee member shall have the power to vote at the Standing Committee level. Decisions shall be brought to the full Commission for further action. 4 6. The Standing Committees shall review matters under consideration in depth, inviting the public and all interested parties to make presentations and take part in discussions. 7. The Standing Committees shall bring their decisions to the full Commission for final review and vote. The full Commission shall then make recommendations to Common Council or to the relevant City agency and ensure that all environmental and regulatory studies are done. 8. The Standing Committees shall appoint subcommittees to deal with specific items as deemed necessary. (For example, the creation of a new park would be referred to the Action Committee which might choose to set up a specific subcommittee to help the neighborhood evaluate its needs. The subcommittee would be charged with making recommendations for the park. These recommendations would then be subject to Action Committee review, with full public input, and the Action Committee would direct any final recommendation to the full Commission.) Mayor and Common Council Board of Publ' Works (Police Dept. Planning Dept. 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Minutes- Parks Commission Meeting -June 13, 1993 (by JoAnn Cornish) The meeting was called to order at 4:45 PM. Present: JoAnn Cornish, Nina Bassuk, David Fernandez,imeni Peck, Guy Gerard,Carol Reeves, Beth Mulholland, John Schroeder, Linda Tsang, John Fridebom, Carol Reeves Cornish asked Fridebom for an update on the Maple Grove wedding plans. Fridebom said he agreed to allow pruning to be done in the park by the interested party and that he would supervise. Reeves requested a recommendation from the Parks Commission to the DPW concerning a parks usage policy. This will be an agenda item for the July meeting. Reeves and Gerard reported on the status of the Titus Triangle. Gerard petitioned 27 area residents,the majority of whom were in favor of a park. The board voted 4 to 2 in favor of abandonment of the street. A motion was called for a second public hearing to turn the street into park land. Reeves stated that the board was checking into the proper legal procedure for abandoning a city street. Additional comments are expected concerning traffic issues in this area and use of this street as a flood diversion route. Bassuk stated that a passive usage for the park is preferred. That the desired plan would be to remove the asphalt to increase green space. Cornish reminded the commission of the need for more basketball courts in the city although this was not a suggested location Reeves reported on the Stewart Park carry in -carry out trash policy that had recently been started. This is an experimental program for the summer only. It will be evaluated after the summer. Reeves will report back to the commission from time to time on this issue. Mulholland reported to the commission on the new plantings in Stewart Park. The garden around the flagpole has been removed and new plantings installed. Also,the many annual beds which have always been a heavy maintenance item have been combined into one large annual bed at the circle near the pond. Mulholland also reported on the failing condition of the Stallman Rose Garden. There is some question as to whether or not this is still a bequeathed garden. If this is the case, perhaps the rose garden could be discontinued or replanted with a hardier variety of roses. Beth suggested shrub roses as they are prolific bloomers and require far less maintenance. Bassuk brought up the problem of erosion along the Stewart Park shoreline. Pillow or blanket gabions have worked in the past according to Bassuk and perhaps funding for this project would come from capital projects. Fridebom told the commission that he had received a reply from the DEC concerning shoreline repair. The DEC did not see a problem with this as long as repairs did not go above the mean water level. Crews have begun putting in fill around the willows avoiding disruption of the shoreline and the need for a regulatory agency to monitor the work. Bassuk and Cornish will review a study done by the Army Corp. of Engineers on shoreline restoration that was done a few years ago. They will prepare a presentation for the commission. ft was suggested that the commission pass an open ended resolution for shoreline erosion control in Cass Park, Stewart Park and Inlet Island. Schroeder reported that there is not a contract for the appraisals being done for Inlet Island. The appraisals have not been completed at this time. Schroeder reported that the Planning and Development Committee proposed a City policy for the 6 Mile Creek area. The three main uses are: Supply and maintenance, Beauty preservation and hiking. This was presented to Council in 1974 but never officially adopted. Circle Greenway: Mulholland reviewed the history of Circle Greenway saying it had started out as a Bi-Centennial project to be a permanent addition to the city having environmental and historical significance. It was to be a walkway around Ithaca combining man made and natural elements. It began as an attempt to show Ithacan their"own" city, from the Stewart Park zoo to the fish ladder in Six Mite Creek. About 4 or 5 years ago,there was a request for a map of Circle Greenway. The map was produced and became a favorite for tourists. At this time,the brochures are almost gone and there is no source of funding for more. John Ullburg of Circle Greenway is investigating a low cost brochure. Beth will meet with Bill Gray for possible sources of funding and may approach the Visitor's Bureau as well. Mulholland went on to express her concern that Circle Greenway is down to only two people. More interested people are needed if Circle Greenway is to continue. A thought would be to have it as a sub-committee of the Parks Commission. This idea will require further discussion and research. Meeting was adjourned at 5:50 PM. Minutes- Parks Commission Meeting -July 14, 1993 (by JoAnn Comish) The meeting was called to order at 4:35 PM. Present JoAnn Cornish, Guy Gerard,Carol Reeves, Beth Mulholland,John Schroeder, Linda Tsang, Margaret Hobble, Carol Reeves Circle Greenway: Mulholland reported that all work had stopped due to crews needed in other areas. Three critical areas are not being worked on. Beth reported that there were 4 times as many people using the area, mainly for swimming. Reeves reported that the Titus Triangle issue has gone to Bill Grey and the planning staff for further study of the traffic problems and possible solutions. A public hearing was held on the issue of closing the street . Another public hearing will be held to get input on turning the abandoned street into additional green space for the park. There are many traffic concerns and there will be a proposal from the planning staff concerning this issue. Reeves brought the commission up to date on the Dewitt Park Signage. Currently,there are no signs prohibiting skateboarding and soccer playing in the park so there can be no police enforcement. There was once a sign in the park but it was stolen and never replaced. As a temporary solution, large"NO SKATEBOARDING" letters will be stenciled on the sidewalk. The Parks Commission will confer with the Art and Design for Public Spaces on the issue of signage. Schroeder reported on the appraisals for Inlet Island. The city has given Charlie Francis,the person who is doing the appraisals, a ten day deadline to get them in or else the city will hire someone else. Stewart Park Carry In -Carry Out policy: Reeves reported that approximately 2 extra hours per day is being spent on trash clean-up in the park. The DPW is keeping track of the hours spent on this as well as the tonnage being removed. These figures will be compared with figures from last season when there was conventional trash removal. The over all feeling is that the carry in -carry out policy is not working but the DPW will continue the program until the end of the season when it will be evaluated. Suggestions were made for volunteers to help in the clean-up efforts. i.e., community service sentences, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts,...etc. Treman Marina Expansion: Schroeder gave a brief explanation of the most recent changes in the proposed expansion as presented in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement and the Draft Master Plan which was submitted by the State Parks. The incursion into the city owned parcel has been reduced from the original 150' to approximately 30' or the length of a typical boat. The existing parking lots have been reconfigured for ease of movement and pedestrian and vehicular safety. In so doing, 120 trees and 50 shrubs are being removed. o• Treman Marina Expansion con't. Members of the Parks Commission were generally pleased with the states response to comments and suggestions. The state acknowledged all recommendations and the outcome was received positively. Members of the commission expressed concern over the amount of additional asphalt and felt that with some redesign,the square footage of asphalt could be reduced without reducing the number of parking spaces. It was suggested that spaces be provided for cars and trucks hauling smaller boats. The commission would also like to see the trees saved,where possible,and additional trees placed in the parking lots to provide shade for users of the lot. Cornish will write up the recommendations and give to Planning and Development by Friday. Cornish brought up the topic of signage in the parks. Linda Tsang will look for a study done by the Planning Department several years ago on this issue. We will check to see if any of the information is applicable to the commission's plans for future signage. This will be an ongoing project for the commission. Cornish suggested that Dewitt Park be the pilot park for new signage to serve as an example for the other city parks. Cornish expressed her concern over recent projects done in Stewart Park. As part of the powers and duties of the Parks Commission as stated under section 37.4 , paragraph 3, "The commission shall: Review significant new projects or proposed significant changes involving the use, design, construction, and management of the lands on which it makes recommendations and take an active role in making sure needed changes are implemented." Cornish will speak to Rick Farrell to determine what is considered significant and report back to the commission. Meeting was adjourned at 5:50 PM. Minutes - Parks Commission Meeting -October 12, 1993 (by JoAnn Cornish) The meeting was called to order at 4:40 PM. Present: JoAnn Cornish, Guy Gerard, Carol Reeves, Beth Mulholland,John Schroeder, Margaret Hobble, Lani Peck, Graham Kerslick, David Fernandez Stewart Park- Due to a time conflict, Commissioner Mulholland requested that the agenda be revised. Item No. 2D, Stewart Park Improvements, was moved to the top of the agenda to accommodate Mulholland. Cornish reported that City Forester, John Fridebom, could not attend the meeting but had given her a report on Stewart Park earlier that day. Fridebom stated that the shore stabilization at Stewart Park was moving along. All the silt barriers had been placed in accordance with the DEC requirements and that silt was being hauled in from the silt dam on Bums Road and some of the finer material was coming from the Mutual Housing project on First Street. The DPW is only hauling silt on rainy days because the trucks are in use for paving jobs when the weather is good. According to Fridebom,the rough grading,top dressing and seeding was to be completed by week's end near the Youth Bureau with work continuing along the rest of the shore line. Cornish welcomed the newest Parks Commissioner, Graham Kerslick. Graham is a Research Associate at Cornell and owns a home on Lake Avenue. He has been a member of the Green Star Co-op Board and has served on the finance Committee for Green Star. Graham brings to the Parks Commission a concern and interest in Ithaca City Parks. Inlet Island -John Schroeder reported that the appraisals for Inlet Island were not completed as promised and that a new appraiser was being sought. Dog Waste Clean-up Law-Cornish reported that Common Council had approved a revision to the Municipal Code concerning dog waste,making it illegal for dogs to "defecate or otherwise commit a nuisance on public or private property other than on the premises of the person owning or harboring such dog." This was in direct response to a recommendation made by the Parks Commission in June of 1993. Southwest Park -Schroeder reported that the Planning and Development Committee reviewed the Southwest Land Use Study Report and has requested some revisions to the report before it is referred to the Planning and Development Board for consideration of adoption as a part of the City's Master Plan. The portion of the report which is of concern to the Parks Commission is that the alternative park lands need to be specified to the extent that these lands have been identified. Also, the various north/south road alternatives need to be further analyzed as to the advantages and disadvantages of each. Southwest Park -con't-Schroeder went on to explain that because Southwest Park was originally a State Funded Park, that several things can be done once the land has been sold; 1.) Substitute park lands can be purchased, 2.) Capital Improvements can be done in the parks, or 3.) the money can be used for a combination of the two. The Parks Commission should come up with a recommendation taking all this into consideration. Comish suggested that the next meeting be devoted to a discussion on this subject. Schroeder reviewed the Substitute park lands which were recommended for Inlet Island. They were: Land at the base of Ithaca Falls, A connector piece from the Farmers Market to Buffalo Street,A buffer strip between Carpenter Park and the Inlet, A connector piece for the Cayuga Inlet Trail,A triangular piece of land south of the State Street bridge over the Cayuga Inlet, currently owned by Conrail, and a parcel of land adjacent to Six Mile Creek. A parcel of land to the west of Southwest Park which is approximately the same acreage has been suggested in the past as possible substitute land. By choosing this piece of land, we would be choosing to preserve land as bottom forest land which in all probability would not be developed as active recreation. Fernandez asked whether this would be the best choice, since it is remote and alnd that is accessible to a greater number of city residents might be a better choice. Kerslick expressed his concern over the proposed Wal-Mart location, saying there are several vacant commercial properties which may be better suited for such a large project. ie., the VIP Motel site across from K-Mart or even the K-Mart site itself since a portion of that building is currently vacant. Schroeder responded by saying the Environmental Impact Statement will have to be carefully reviewed and further discussion may ensue. Cornish reviewed a list of various city commissions and committees that the Parks Commission should keep up with by attending meetings if there is a subject which concerns the ParksCommission. The following is a list of the group and the commissioner who volunteered: Common Council - Hobbie, Cornish BPW- Reeves, Gerard, Mulholland Advisory Commission on Art and Design for Public Space- Peck Planning and Development-Schroeder, Meeting was adjourned at 5:50 PM. Minutes- Parks Commission Meeting-November 9, 1993 Present: Margaret Hobbie, Lani Peck, Beth Mulholland, Graham Kerslick, Guy Gerard, David Fernandez, Joanne Cornish, Linda Tsang, Adam Carman, John Schroeder, Carol Reeves, John Friedeborn wovid I t k-e. iv JoAnn Cornish announced that sheA1 be stepping down as chair. bke (AMU 5111q on IP a \IIC:e or co-ehu\V- could. uc Qp-po 1 o-Ta . Re-design of 8/10 mile section of Rt. 13 by State; John Schroeder indicated that Council had passed resolution denouncing plan as very inadequate, and requested a full impact statement. They also re-stated preference for a two- lane solution with three lanes in some locations. Appraisal- John S. indicated that present appraiser is now the past appraiser. Proposals have been sent to 3-4 firms, and a new appraiser will be chosen from that. (wk. after this meeting) . Adam Carman requested a meeting to discuss several items in Stewart Park. Festival Lands: John S. gave history. Original proposal called for a complex of theater etc. Very ambitious, fund raising never happened- as a result, proposal as originally intended fell through. In 1985, Common Council authorized Mayor to agree with State for an exchange of land for baseball fields at Buttermilk State Park. The State believes this was a deal done, but Common Council never signed off. The State wants the land to expand its marina by 40 slips, and to enlarge the parking lot, along with adding a comfort station. This proposal was rejected by Common Council this summer, and was in fact a scaled down version of an earlier plan by the State, with the exception of the parking lot, which is larger. woRwit, our oN t, el erne nt )-1-i+ John S. favorsAa deal whereAthe City exchanges land for reverter clause, to gain leverage over future uses of remainder of area owned by State, over which we presently have no official control. Implication for Festival Lands if it is declared parkland. 1. have to go through alienation process 2 . need to acquire land to replace it, and you need to purchase it) 3 . Would need State Legislative approval JoAnn proposed a vote by the Committee on their opinion regarding whether the Festival Lands are parkland already, by implied dedication; the vote was 4-2 in the affirmative, making a second vote on whether the lands should be declared parkland a moot point. Meeting adjourned, next meeting on Tues. Dec. 14, 1993 . 6(1 V Minutes- Parks Commission Meeting-November 9, 1993 / -I,; ` Present: Margaret Hobbie, Lani Peck, Beth Mulholland, Graham Kerslick, Guy Gerard, David Fernandez, Joanne Cornish, Linda Tsang, Adam Carman, John Schroeder, Carol Reeves, John Friedeborn JoAnn Cornish announced that she will be stepping down as chair. Re-design of 8/10 mile section of Rt. 13 by State; John Schroeder indicated that Council had passed resolution denouncing plan as very inadequate, and requested a full impact statement. They also re-stated preference for a two- lane solution with three lanes in some locations. Appraisal- John S. indicated that present appraiser is now the past appraiser. Proposals have been sent to 3-4 firms, and a new appraiser will be chosen from that. (wk. after this meeting) . Adam Carman requested a meeting to discuss several items in Stewart Park. Festival Lands: John S. gave history. Original proposal called for a complex of theater etc. Very ambitious, fund raising never happened- as a result, proposal as originally intended fell through. In 1985, Common Council authorized Mayor to agree with State for an exchange of land for baseball fields at Buttermilk State Park. The State believes this was a deal done, but Common Council never signed off. The State wants the land to expand its marina by 40 slips, and to enlarge the parking lot, along with adding a comfort station. This proposal was rejected by Common Council this summer, and was in fact a scaled down version of an earlier plan by the State, with the exception of the parking lot, which is larger. John S. favors a deal where the City exchanges land for reverter clause, to gain leverage over future uses of remainder of area owned by State, over which we presently have no official control. Implication for Festival Lands if it is declared parkland. 1. have to go through alienation process 2. need to acquire land to replace it, and you need to purchase it) 3 . Would need State Legislative approval JoAnn proposed a vote by the Committee on their opinion regarding whether the Festival Lands are parkland already, by implied dedication; the vote was 4-2 in the affirmative, making a second vote on whether the lands should be declared parkland a moot point. Meeting adjourned, next meeting on Tues. Dec. 14, 1993 . Minutes -Parks Commission Meeting-December 14, 1993 (by JoAnn Cornish) The meeting was called to order at 4:40 PM. Present: JoAnn Cornish, Guy Gerard, Carol Reeves, Beth Mulholland, Margaret Hobbie, Lath Peck, Graham Kerslick, David Fernandez, Linda Tsang, John Friedeborn, Thys Van Cort. Inlet Island-Van Cort reported that the contract for the appraisals were in the process of being signed. The city attorney, Chuck Gutman, has approved the contract which has a lime limit of 75 days. The 75 day limit is for letter appraisals only not final appraisals. Mulholland reported that there is talk of eliminating the Commons Advisory Committee and that this could possibly add to the responsibilities of the Parks Commission. The general feeling was that this was being done in an effort to reduce duplication of responsibilities for city commissions and boards. Mulholland reported that the Six Mile Creek Advisory Committee was compiling a list of views and critiques for the Therm Plan. Peter Fortunato and Beth will look over the plan. John Friedeborn will review the plan along with the CAC. Beth stated that the Advisory Committee was not pleased with the plan and will come up with a recommendation. Friedeborn reported that there are beavers in Stewart Park. The willows along the creek bed are being damaged. Tree guards are being put up to help prevent damage. Van Cort was asked to attend the meeting to give a brief history of Inlet Island and Southwest Park. He began with Inlet Island, saying that park land bought with federal monies must be "unparked" . This process needs approval at both the state and federal levels and is termed an alienation and conversion respectively. To unpark land, land of equal value and usefulness must be acquired. The DOT is currently trying to purchase land on Inlet Island for the Route 96 improvements. The Federal, State and City parties met last winter to discuss substitute lands. The Federal government said it would approve the plan only if all the land in Inlet Island were alienated, not just portions of it. Recommended substitute lands for Inlet Island are as follows: land along Inlet Island from Cass Park to Buttermilk, Ithaca Falls Bowl Land, Brindley Street Triangle and Land along the Inlet for the Cayuga Trail. Van Cort went on to say that Southwest Park was bought by the City as land banking and has since been used by the DPW as a site to store clean fill. It has been repeatedly suggested that this land be unparked. In the mid 80's, state law approved alienation of this land but a new council was elected which put the alienation back to square one. The Planning Department is recommending that a parcel of land to the west of the park which is approximately the same size be substituted. This parcel of land has one of the only free flowing creeks left in the city. Fernandez questioned the location of this parcel as it is so far removed from the city and it is owned in part by the town and private owners. It was determined that further discussion of this issue and a visit to the site was needed before a recommendation could be made. The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 PM.