HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-IURACDC-1980-04-07 IURA/CDA
Special Meeting
April 7, 1980
5:00 p.m. - Council Chambers
PRESENT: Mayor Raymond Bordoni , Chairman IURA/CDA
Stuart Stein, IURA/CDA
Clarence Reed, IURA/CDA
James Dennis , IURA/CDA
Jasmine Lim, C.D. Coordinator
Kathe Evans , C.D. Housing Specialist
Michael Bottge, Planning and Development
Robert S. Leathers, Architect
Press
Mayor Bordoni opened the meeting at 5:15.
1 . Approval of the Minutes
Approval of Minutes was postponed until the next meeting.
2. Contract Amendment - GIAC Tot Lot
Lim explained that the resolution presented to the Agency was necessary in order
that Robert Leathers could begin work. She said that no extra money was going
to be spent. The original sum programmed for Conway and Wood Street Parks would
be used on the GIAC site. She reminded members that the Conway Park Tot Lot
had been deleted from the plans after neighbors voiced their concern about young
children crossing streets to get to the park. She said that the amendment had
been approved by HUD, GIAC and the School District and noted that starting and
finishing dates and the location of the Tot Lot were the only changes to the
original contract. Stein was concerned that the investment would be for improve-
ments to the School District's property rather thanity owned property. Evans
responded that the CD funds were protected in the Agreement with the School
District although there is not yet agreement on the depreciation schedule.
After further discussion , Reed MOVED and Stein SECONDED the following Resolution:
RESOLVED that the Mayor, as Chairman of the IURA/CDA, is authorized to enter into
a contract amendment with Robert S. Leathers to change the location of the
Tot Lot, originally proposed for Conway Park, to the east side of the
GIAC building.
MOTION PASSED.
IURA/CDA
April 7, 1980
Page 2
3. Contract Approval - ACC
Bottge presented and discussed the draft Agreement for Professional Services
between the American City Corporation (ACC) and the City of Ithaca. He noted
that the contract was in two parts. The first part deals with standard contract
relationships and the 'second part deals with the work to be performed. In the
first section, he noted that changes had been made on page 7 per City Attorney
instructions: under item 12.01 Governing Law, the 'State of New York' will re-
place the 'State of Maryland"; a further section will be added to include HUD
compliance regulations concerning Management Procedures , Section 3 Business ,
and Equal Opportunity. The second part defines the study areas for West State
Street and Ithaca Center. The second part also defines the areas to be
studied in terms of how they will be affected by the West State Street and
Ithaca Center projects. The study will help anticipate development and zoning
problems. In this section, Bottge said, two changes were made in Schedule B:
under #7, 'retail ' will be replaced by the words 'retail by type' ; this change
will also be made under #8. These changes reflect CD Staff's concerns that
CD needs will be adequately met. Bottge added that he met with City Attorney
Shapiro earlier in the afternoon and that the City Attorney concurs with the
contract as it now stands . He also said that ACC had begun work without the
contract and have okayed the changes over the telephone.
Stein asked about the March 20th commencement in Schedule C and Bottge said
that the ACC representatives had been to Ithaca on three separate occasions
since that time.
Bottge said that the ACC would also be helping to prepare the UDAG application.
He noted that there was a good personal relationship between ACC and UDAG personnel .
ACC would review the payback scheme by the developers of the grant monies. On
Wednesday, April 9, Bottge said that he and Van Cort would be travelling to Columbia
to discuss design , layout, retail and housing with the ACC. He said that there
was some question about the feasibility of a residential component in the
Ithaca Center and that this would be discussed during the meeting.
Stein questioned item #5 on Schedule B where the words "if appropriate" are
used with regards to conducting interviews. He asked who would decide it
was appropriate. Bottge explained that consent to do a question survey at
Pyramid Mall had been denied by Pyramid Corporation. Therefore, he said, the
survey would be conducted in Collegetown and along Elmira Road and include possible
secondary areas such as East Hill and the East Hill P&C shopping district and
the Triphammer Mall . He said that the ACC may find that enough information could
be culled without going to all of these areas.
Stein then asked what a" 'questionnaire information ' program was and Bottge said
it was a program using questionnaires to gather information.
Stein asked if completion by May 30 meant that the results would be transmitted
on that date as well and Bottge said that ACC would give the Agency a draft
copy of the results at that time. Item 8 on Schedule B, he said, just referred
to the Ithaca Center and not to the West State Street project.
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Bcttee said that there would be a lot of overlapping because of the application
deadline (May 31 ) for the UDAG.
Stein questioned Schedule D "Schedule of Payments " and noted that the Agency
would be liable to pay $15 ,000 on delivery of the final report. He suggested
chancing this sentence. to read "upon acceptance". After further discussion
or this subject, it was agreed to chance the sentence per Stein 's suggestion.
Bottge said he did not foresee any problems with the ACC on this point. He
said that he would add it to the contract, have the Mayor pen his initials
to it, and telephone ACC about the change tomorrow.
Dennis MOVED and Reed SECONDED the following Resolution:
RESOLVEDP! that the Mayor, as Chairman of the IURA/CDA, is authorized to enter
into a contract with the American City Corporation for $45,000 to
conduct a market study of Ithaca Center and West State Street, based
on the contract presented to the IURA/CDA on April 7, 1980 and
contingent upon City Attorney approval .
MOTION PASSED
4. Contract Approval - Plans for Ithaca Center Public Improvements
Bottge explained that the proposed contract with Robert S. Leathers deals
with a feasibility plan and estimates for work to be done to properties owned
by the City of Ithaca as part of the Ithaca Center project. Some of the items
to be studied include parking facilities , handicap access and the Home Dairy
access alley.
Reed asked how this study fit in with the YMCA plans and Bottge said it would
not be directly concerned with the Y as it would not go under the Garage.
However, he added, consideration for the Y 's plans would be given. He said
that the City was working closely with the Y to determine if their facility can
physically fit into the project. Bottge noted that the maximum cost would be
$2,400.
IURA/CDA
April 7, 1980
Page 4
Stein MOVED and Reed SECONDED the following Resolution:
RESOLVED that the Mayor, as Chairman of the IURA/CDA, is authorized to enter
into a contract with Robert S. Leathers for a maximum of $2,400 to
conduct a feasibility study of the public property in the Ithaca
Center project.
MOTION PASSED
5. Contract Approval - Survey Information for Ithaca Center (IURA) site
Bottge presented a proposal whereby the IURA/CDA would enter into a contract
with the YMCA to pay up to $1000 for a survey of the depths of the column
footings under the Green Street Parking Garage. Bottge said that no record
or this information could be found and he noted that in any case, it would
be useful for the City to have. He said Giordano construcion would do the
work and that it would take no more than a day to accomplish. If the work
should cost more than the $1000 expected, the YMCA would pay the extra amount.
Dennis MOVED and Stein SECONDED the following Resolution:
RESOLVED that the Mayor, as Chairman of the MURA/CDA, is authorized to enter
into a ocntract with the YMCA for a maximum of $1 ,000 to conduct a
survey of the depths of the column footings under the Green Street
Parking Garage.
MOTION PASSED.
6. Discussion - Possible Uses of Payback from Ithaca Center UDAG
Bottge said that 1 .2 million dollars of the 1 .6 million dollar Urban Development
Action Grant would be loaned to developers McRobb and Goldberg. The arrangements
for repayment have yet to be worked out but repayment would be made to the IURA/
CDA for use in projects that could have been originally funded by UDAG. Bottge
said that several ideas had been discussed by staff. One is to split the recapture
monies between INHS and an Economic Development unit for the City. INHS funding
expires in January 1982 and the recapture funds could go toward maintenance of
their program. A half time person could be hired with the other part of the
money to administer an Economic Development unit per HUD guidelines. This unit
would loan money to small businesses as an Industrial Development Grant.
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IURA/CDA
April 7, 1980
Page 5
Stein asked if it was necessary to be so specific. He said that both the
community and Common Council should discuss it as the repayment dealt with
a great deal of money over a long period of time. He said that by mentioning
exact figures and exact allocations, the Agency's hands would be tied if another
idea came up in the future.
Evans suggested that Bottge ask, at the upcoming UDAG conference in Washington,
how specific the plans for recapture funds needed to be. She added that
payment might not begin for five years and noted that differences in terms
of timing and magnitude of repayment had still to be decided.
Lim said that community input could be sought at the public meetings scheduled
for April when the UDAG application would be discussed.
7. Update - Cherry Street Transfer to IURA
Bottge briefed Agency members on the Cherry Street Transfer. He said
that the federal government has approved the transfer and Common Council has
authorized the Mayor to sign a transfer agreement, subject to City Attorney
approval . Bottge summed up information contained in a memo sent to IURA/CDA
members and said no action was required by the Agency.
8. Miscellaneous
Reed asked if there were any new developments regarding St. James ANTE Zion
Church and the lawsuit over separation of Church and State. Evans said there
was none and noted that news reports about C.D. money being stopped for this
project were false. She said that there may be new information by the April
14th meeting.
Dennis asked for a update on the DPW contract and Evans said that it had been
taken to the last BPW meeting and was now in the hands of the Committee who will
review it. She said that it would be brought up at next Wednesday's Council
meeting and she hpped for finalization at that time.
Lim reminded Agency members of the public meetings on Wednesday, April 16, and
Monday, April 21 , both at 7:30 in Council Chambers . The latter meeting would
be a decision making one and she said that the IURA/CDA might want to meet
before the council meeting. This will be discussed at the IURA's regular
meeting on Monday, April 14.
Mayor Bordoni adjourned the meeting at 6:35.
Respectfully Submitted, Aprpoved,
Natalie de Combray Jasmine Lim
IURA/CDA
MINUTES
APRIL 14, 1980
5:00 - Council Chambers
PRESENT: Mayor R. Bordoni , Chairman, IURA/CDA
Anne Jones, IURA/CDA
Clarence Reed, IURA/CDA
James Dennis , IURA/CDA
H.M. Van Cort, Director, Planning and Development
Penny Dolan, ILPC Coordinator
Susan Brown, Handicapped Access Coordinator
Kathe Evans, C.D. Housing Specialist
Jasmine Lim, C.D. Coordinator
Jon Meigs, Planning
Tom Hoard, Building Commissioner
Press
The Mayor called the meeting to order at 5:10.
1 . Minutes
Jones MOVED and Reed SECONDED to approve the Minutes of March 10 and March 17.
MOTION PASSED.
Reed MOVED and Dennis SECONDED to approve the Minutes of April 7. MOTION PASSED.
2. Handicapped Access Study
Susan Brown, Handicapped Accessibility Coordinator, presented her quarterly
report. She said that the Access Guide was at the printers and would be
ready in one or two weeks. The guide will be pocket size, with 60 pages
and attractively packaged. Although 2000 copies were asked for at the
first printing, Challenge Industries said that probably 2500 would be printed
because they would run copies until the plates dried. Brown said that each
copy would cost 37 cents to print. Publicity for the guide would be
handled with a feature article in the Journal and radio spots. Copies
of the Guide would be distributed to various reference agencies and service
centers who serve large numbers of handicapped people as well as to the
City Clerk, the Mayor, and motels and hotels in town.
Jones asked what the plans were for updating the guide and if the contents
of the guide had been checked before going to the printers.
Brown said that each entry was checked by the person responsible for access
to the individual buildings and facilities cited. Everyone had a chance to
see the draft guide and had two weeks to respond with their comments. She
said that 30 calls had been received of which 25 had been to complement
the results of the guide and 5 had been to correct telephone numbers.
IURA/CDA
April 14, 1980
Page 2
Mayor Bordoni asked for information on the Disability Awareness Day to
be held on the Commons on May 24. Brown said that Andrea Clardy of the
Commons Advisory Board would be doing the publicity for that event. Although
plans were not finalized, Brown said that some of the activities planned
included a puppet show using puppets three feet high, each with a type of
disability. This show is called "Kids on the Block" and has been seen on
National T.V. There will also be a display of adaptive equipment such as
seeing eye dogs, cars with hand controls, prosthetic limbs and examples of
braille. . Brown said there will also be a participatory display where crutches
and wheel chairs, blindfolds and canes will be available for people to try
out. Some community members have already been approached to join a project
in which they will be blindfolded and/or placed in a wheelchair and given
a list of tasks to complete such as buying a meal , going to the library, or
buying an article. A questionnaire will be handed out so that participants
may share their experiences and Brown said that she would like to publish a
booklet of the questionnaire results.
Other plans inculde arts and crafts displays, accessible housing displays and
a signing booth where songs and games will be available in sign language.
Copies of the Access Guide will be available and service agencies from other
counties will be invited.
3. 312 Administration
Van Cort said that the intention had been ,when preparing the Agenda,to recommend
immediate transfer of the 312 program to INHS with a reasonable interim period
to allow for moving of files communications, etc. However, Van Cort said
that although HUD feels that CD should coordinate the 312 and NHS programs,
conversations with Agency members had led him to believe that more discussion
was needed before final transfer of the program was accomplished. He said
staff is still recommending to combine the two programs and suggested that
the Agency implement some of the program policies as contained in Appendix A
of the proposed INHS 312 Program Contract, so that eventual transfer will
be smooth.
Referring the the Appendix A of the contract, Lim said that no contract
changes were needed to the Target Area and Target Properties items listed
under Program Policies. She said these were already Administration policies
of the Building Department. Items concerning Property Owners and Rent Agree-
ments are new. Both items aim at making the 312 Program more directly
beneficial to lower income property owners and tenants. She said that it
was CD policy to provide affordable housing. She also commented that 312
loans should be approved by the INHS Loan Committee.
Van Cort said he recommends that the loans be reviewed by the INHS Loan
Committee to ensure that the loans are in keeping with INHS goals. He
recommended closer coordination between the 312 Program and the CDA to
help achieve these goals before the final transfer.
IURA/CDA
April 14, 1980
Page 3
Hoard said that items 1 through 3 were already part of his administrative
policy. He said that as there are so few loan applications, priority
was not a question. He added that rental agreements might not make the
loan attractive to the few applicants they have and that by going
through the INNS Loan Committee who wanted to send potential clients to
the bank, they were narrowing an already narrow range of clients.
Van Cort said that as the bank rates were going up, this situation
would change.
Hoard said that the 312 regulations essentially tell potential clents
that they have to spend more moeny. They are told they must replace
instead of patch. The cost goes up to meet code requirements and where
they may ask for a loan of $500 from the bank, they are required to
borrow $2000 from 312.
Bordoni said that the issue would take most of the meeting to discuss
and he asked for a Motion to review these questions at another time.
Reed asked if the CD Staff would have any problems with a month's delay
and Van Cort said that action at the present meeting would help satisfy
HUD requirements.
After further discussion, Reed MOVED to Table action on the 312 Administration
question, Jones SECONDED and MOTION PASSED.
4. Exterior Restoration Incentive Grants- Contract Amendment
ILPC Coordinator, Penny Dolan, asked the Agency to amend the Grant contract.
to read that up to $2500 per project could be awarded to individual projects.
She said that with the high costs and interest rates, $1000 would not
accomplish enough.
•
Reed asked if there had been any requests at the $1000 level and Dolan
said that the program had not actually started. Originally, the $8,200
had been set up to award grants thoughout the Historic Districts. After
further consideration however, Dolan says that it was decided to concentrate
on the De Witt Park Historical District which is both locally and nationally
registered and which, with its proximity to the Commons, will increase the
attractiveness of the downtown area and create a larger visual impact. This
impact, she said, will help to publicize the program and the rehabilitation
concepts which are the program goals.
Jones asked if the lower part of East Hill and Fairview Street were part
of the Historic District and if there had been any owner initiated rehab
done to date. She also asked what kind of restoration needs there were
around the DeWitt Park area.
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IURA/CDA
April 14, 1980
Page 4
Dolan said that a walking tour of the area would be a good way to view the
many properties around the Park that are visibly detereorating.
Evans said that there were four different kinds of projects that could
be done: painting, brick cleaning, porch replacement, and soffit bracket
replacement. She said that Tania Werbizky, Vicky Romanoff and Penny Dolan
had looked over the area to find appropriate houses. A booklet would be
put together on each project to demonstrate how each type of renovation can
and should be undertaken. Publicity and tours of the rehabilitated houses
would be planned.
Reed asked if any grant requests had been received or if the program was
still in the planning stage.
Evans said that the program description is under way. This includes planning
how to advertise, putting the specs together and making up a list of
contractors to give tb owners. She said that one home owner in the
area has already Shown interest in the project.
Dennis asked if homeowners had to match the grant funds and Evans said
that a contribution would be asked for as this was not the target area.
Reed asked whether it would be better to advertize the program in all of
the Historic Districts.
Lim said that few contracts could be given at this time and said it was
not goad to raise people's expectations.
Dolan said that the program should be given a chance. Alterations could
be made later if necessary.
Bordoni asked how checks could be made on the price of contractor's work
and Evans said that Vicky Romanoff had offered to check out pricing and
work for free.
After further discussion, Jones MOVED and Dennis SECONDED the following
RESOLUTION:
RESOLVED that the Mayor, as Chairman of the IURA/CDA, is authorized to
enter into an amendment of the Exterior Restoration Incentive
Grant contract with the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission.
MOTION PASSED.
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IURA/CDA
April 14, 1980
Page 5
5. GIAC and Southside - Contract Amendment for Architect
Evans said that the next phase (Phase IV) of GIAC includes handicapped
accessibility features. She said that architect Bob Boehlecke will
develop.; design and oversee work through Phase IV and include locker
room additions, work on the media access center and the Boxing room.
Evans said that Boehlecke's rate has now gone up to $24 an hour but
that the estimate for the work would not exceed $8,500, inclusive.
Reed noted that Boehlecke was an agreeable person to work with from the
Agency perspective and MOVED the following RESOLUTION:
WHEREAS Mr. Boehlecke's present contract dated May 11 , 1978 does not
cover work on access facilities and equipment in GIAC and
Southside Community Center, and
WHEREAS his previous contract did not cover work on Phase IV GIAC
improvements including locker room, boxing room and media
access center,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Mr. Boehlecke's contract be extended
to include the above mentioned projects and that he be paid
$24.00 an hour to prepare preliminary and final designs,
recommend bids to the IURA/CDA and BPW and supervise construction.
Mr. Boehlecke shall be paid at that hourly rate up to a total
amount of not more than $8,500.00.
Dennis SECONDED and MOTION PASSED.
6. DPW Contract - Status Report
Evans said that the contract issue did not come up at the recent BPW meeting
because Committee Chairperson Ditzell was out of town. She said that the
contract was on the April 23 Agenda. Evans added that she had updated
Ditzell on the long history of the DPW contract situation and Ditzell
had promised to move it along on the 23rd.
IURA!CDA
April 14, 1980
Page 6
7. Neighborhood Improvements III
Evans explained that $100,000 was uncommitted from Entitlement funds since
Year 2. She said that the money could be used this year if the Agency and
staff could begin looking at possible fund use. She said that Engineer
Phil Cox would be looking at the storm sewage problems along South
Plain Street and Hancock Street and would take a comprehensive look at
storm drainage problems throughout the target area. She hopes that
work could commence in October.or November. Also the last phase of
Street Tree plantings could be begun in October. Thirty-five trees are
slated to be planted. She said that the Engineering Department has
already done a preliminary study on the proposed Adams Street Bridge
improvements. This foot bridge, located across Cascadilla Creek near
the Northside P&C Supermarket, is difficult for elderly and handicapped
persons to cross due to its steep access. Evans asked the Agency if they
felt comfortable moving ahead on these projects in the fall of 1980.
Mayor Bordoni noted that the northernmost block of 4th Street has severe
flood problems as it has neither curbs nor gutters. Evans said that
she would have the Engineering Department look into that area.
Dennis MOVED and Jones SECONDED that the IURA/CDA move ahead into Neigh-
borhood Improvements III. MOTION PASSED.
8. Ithaca Center
Van Cort briefed Agency members on the recent visit to American City
Corporation and stated that there had been a fruitful exchange between
City officials, the ACC and local developers.
Bordoni agreed and added that the ACC had made some astute recommendations
regarding Ithaca Center.
Van Cort said that the meeting on the 16th would give residents an opportunity
to review plans with the architects and hear about the changes made as a
result of prior public meetings. A final decision would be made on the
plans at the joint meeting of IURA/CDA and Common Council on April 21st.
Bordoni said that he . had a call from some disabled persons who requested
that the meeting be held in a handicapped accessible location. After
discussion, it was decided that CD staff would find another place for the
meeting originally scheduled for Council Chambers. Notification of the new
meeting place would be telephoned to Agency and Council members.
IURA/CDA
April 14, 1980
Page 7
Van Cort noted that the Agency would grant conceptual approval.ofarchitedrutal plans for
Ithaca Center and that Council would after confirm or deny this designation
at the meeting on the 21st.
Dennis asked if the meeting was officially a Common Council meeting and
Van Cort said yes.
The Agency then went into Executive Session to discuss the St. James AME
Zion Church and the First Baptist Church.
The Personnel Committee met after the Executive Session to discuss their
roles.
Meeting adjourned at 7:45.
Respectfully Submitted Approved,
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Natalie de Combray / Jasmine Lim
IURA/CDA
SPECIAL MEETING
ITHACA CENTER
April 16, 1980
7:30 - CENTRAL FIRE STATION
PRESENT: Mayor Raymond Bordoni , .Chairman, IURA/CDA
Stuart Stein, IURA/CDA
Anne Jones , IURA/CDA
H. M. Van Cort, Director, Planning & Development
Mick Bottge, Planning Staff
Herman Sieverding, Planning Staff
Scott McRobb, Developer
Jasmine Lim, C.D. Coordinator
Werner Seligman, Architect
Stan Goldberg, Developer
Press
See Attached Sheet
Mayor Bordoni opened the meeting at 7:45. He explained that the delay
was to give people time who had come from City Hall where the meeting
had originally been scheduled. The meeting place was changed to allow
handicapped accessibility. The Mayor said that he had received calls
from many people who showed interest in the provisions being made for
the disabled by the developers of Ithaca Center.
Bordoni said that the purpose of the meeting was to solicit public input
for the Ithaca Center Project design and added that one issue to be
discussed centers around the YMCA. He said that the Planning staff,
Common Council , and his office had given the Y the information they
needed to make their study of the land under the Green Streetr'Rarking
Ramp. Some of the physical work included excavation and borings
under the ramp paid for by Community Development funds. Bordoni said
that the information would also serve the city and any other developer
who might need the information in the future.
Bordoni furither announced that he had recommended that Common Council and
the IURA turn down the Y's proposal to build under the Green Street
Ramp. Referring to a memo sent on April 15, the Mayor discussed some
of .the .factors that had been considered. He said that the Y was well
appraised that the original proposal deadline for Ithaca Center project -
submissions was in September of 1979 and that the conditional preferred
sponsorship had been designated in February 1980. The YMCA proposal
was not presented until March 1980. Further study had convinced him
that a joint Ithaca Center/YMCA financing plan would not be feasible
and that valuable taxable property would be lost to a tax free development.
The Mayor added that other concerns revolved around the service delivery
and refuse disposal and the negative effects on Green Street traffic
circulation. Access between the Commons, the Ithaca Center, Woolworths
and Rothschilds would also be impeded.and the YMCA would not have the
same retail draw effect as other possible future uses for the Commons
and Ithaca Center. Bordoni added that the lack of downtown parking
would not be beneficial to the Y proposal and that over the next five •
years, pending future retail development, the existing ground level
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IURA/CDA
April 16, 1980
Page 2
parking would be helpful to the Ithaca Center. He also expressed
concern about the Farmer's Market as the space reserved for them would
be excluded if the YMCA built in that spot. From a design perspective,
the Mayor said, the Y could maximize its program efficiency in another
location. He said that his decision had been made after many discussions
with the developers, the American City Corporation, and Planning staff.
Faced with all the facts, it had been realized that it would be unreal-
istic to have the YMCA under the parking lot. He said that the Planning
Department and ACC had been directed to work with the Y to help locate
them downtown as it was recognized that there was great value to
having their facility downtown. He added that the City strongly supports
that concept but that the issues considered had forced him to recommend
that the IURA and Council turn down the Y proposal .
Paul Grennell , Executive Director of the YMCA, said that he was
concerned with the Mayor's remarks and said that the Board would be
meeting next week to respond.
Stein asked for clarification of "next week" and stated that the
IURA and Common Council would be making their final recommendation
on April 21 .
Grennell responded that he would like to answer the Mayor's letter of
April 15.
YMCA Trustee Bill Sullivan said he was concerned about the negative
versus the cooperative tone of the Mayor's decision. He said that
in January of 1980 the Y had shown interest in being the developer.
He said that assurances had not been carried out that they would be
allowed to give their design presentation before a straw vote on
developer designation was taken.
Bordoni said that there had been an oversight in January because of the
confusion of the first weeks of his taking office. The situation he
said had been corrected and the Y had been allowed to give their
presentation before preferred developer status had been conferred.
He said that no straw vote had been taken before the Y made their presen-
tation. The Mayor repeated that a sincere effort to locate the Y down-
town was being made and that alternate sites have been suggested.
Alderman Saccucci asked Sullivan if the Y had been assured of development'
of the Y under the Green Street Ramp, and Sullivan said no, but they had
been assured that they would be allowed to give their presentation
before a decision was made. Bordoni repeated that no decision had
been made prior to the Y's presentation and IURA members assured
Sullivan that this was so.
Alderman Slattery asked what alternate sites had been suggested, and
Bordoni said that the old P&C and the CoOp sites had been mentioned.
IURA/CDA
April 16, 1980
Page 3
Tom Kick, President of the YMCA, said that he did not consider Fall
Creek or the CoOp, downtown locations. He also said that there was
not enough room in the CoOp building for a double gym, a 25 meter
pool , and eight raquet courts. Sullivan said that the program revenue
from businesspeople would be beneficial to the Y and that the Ithaca
Center site would help as a fund raiser. Bordoni asked to see the
fund raising report.
Grennell said he had not been consulted by ACC with regard to the Ithaca
Center plans and had not been asked for their feasibility study.
Aldermen asked Sullivan why the Y's first choice of location had
been the old P&C when the Ithaca Center site had been empty -for years.
Sullivan replied that internal and personnel problems at the time had
contributed to their lack of foresight.
Stein said that he understood the Y's concern, but said he feared that
a confrontation was developing that would hot be useful to the Y or
to the City. He -added that the Mayor's recommendation was not antago-
nistic and that there was a mutuality of interest between the two that
could be worked out appropriately. He said that he agreed that the
Ithaca Center site was not the proper location for the Y but added that
it should be downtown.
Alderman Saccucci asked why the Y had not rebuilt at their old site,
and Sullivan said that the old lot was too small .
Alderman Slattery agreed with Stein and said that the positive aspects
of the project should be addressed. He said that it would be beneficial
for the City and the Y to plan the new Y location together. He added
•
that he would support the fund raising drive.
Bordoni asked the developers to present their design refinements and
introduced developer Scott McRobb.
McRobb said that this meeting was to summarize the refined design.
Alterations Were the result of the previous public meeting and discussion
with ACC consultants. He added that they were hopeful for a 1980 start.
Chief Architect Seligman said it had been confirmed that the nature
of the public space was the focal point of the Ithaca Center project.
The public space would be covered to improve use possibilities in all
weather, and said that those familiar with the Boston Quincy market would
have some idea of what was planned for the area. A public elevator
would be available to and from the parking garage, and though the space
would be locked at night, the alley running along the Home Dairy would
be open at all times. Other design alterations were the maximization
IURA/CDA
April 16, 1980
Page 4
of retail space through a split level design and improved pedestrian
circulation through the enclosed space. He said that no -facade
drawings were available because the details of the Ithaca Center
facade had not yet been worked out. They would be made available
as design progressed.
A question from the floor about legal ownership, whether the open
space would belong to the developers or to the City, was answered by
IURA/CDA member Stein who said that though it would essentially be
public, the space would be controlled somewhat like the parks or the
Commons. It would not be like the Pyramid Mall or a hotel lobby.
Another question raised was how the facade design was being approached.
Seligman said that some of the issues to confront were the relationship
of the heights of neighboring buildings, the central axes, and how it
would relate ' to Tioga Street. McRobb added that a fundamental space
analysis would be completed by Monday night. At present, concerns are
centered around the activity element of the project. The third
stage of the project will be to address what the building will look
like.
Sue Cummings asked about the dimensions of the walkway, and Seligman
said it would be from 15 to 20 feet wide. Cummings expressed approval
of the visual continuity surrounding the public space, but thought the
public space would be too small .
Another person from the floor asked if a needs analysis had been done.
Comment was made that Ithaca was not Boston and that the Ithaca Center
should address its city's needs. McRobb said that the City had a
consultant and that the uses for the site were partially based on their
recommendations. He said that the housing vacancy rate was only 1% and
that office space downtown was difficult to find. He said that as a
result of conversations with city officials, retail store owners, local
bankers and the ACC, they had decided that the more merchants the
better. National chains would not be used, but a series of small
speciality stores would be located there instead.
Susan Cummings asked for the design schedule, and Seligman said that it
was difficult to give a schedule until and if they were officially
designated at the April 21st meeting.
Other comments from the floor concerned the use of solar energy, the fate
of the Ithaca Festival , the width of the service alleyway, the length of
the shadows that would take away from the sunlight of the Commons, and the
massing of the walls which might overpower the space of the Commons.
George Sheldon suggested having the open space adjacent to the Home
Dairy and the bulk of the solid wall opposite the Tioga Street entrance.
IURA/CDA
April 16, 1980
Page 5
Seligman said that the reflected light from the sky light and the open
walkway through the public space would contribute to the attractiveness
of the building as seen from Tioga Street. The service alley, he said,
would be at least 10 feet wide, and the right-of-way would be shared by
the Home Dairy and the City. He assured those present that the height
or massing of the Center would not be detrimental to the overall
design of the Commons. Modifications as a result of the last public
meeting included the external elevator, the corridor through the ground
level , the improved pedestrian circulation, the stairs to and from the
garage on the upper level , and a 2nd floor entry to Rothschilds.
Andrea Clardy of the Commons Advisory Board assured those present that
the Committee would be able to use the available space for their activi-
ties. She also assured everyone that the Festival would not be compro-
mised and said that the glass roofing would not be a hindrance.
Alderman Saccucci reminded everyone that the city has lost a lot of money
over this project, that the Center would bring in much needed tax money,
and he urged the community to support the project.
1
Mrs. Barnes presented a statement from Rothschilds supportingthe McRobb/
Goldberg design. She said that the Downtown Ithaca Business Association
also supports the project.
In answer to a statement from the floor saying that Ithaca should look
to other small cities for design and downtown mall ideas, city planner
Bottge said that other small cities have looked to Ithaca for inspiration.
Van Cort said that the American City Corporation was satisfied with the
progress of the Ithaca Center. Bottge said that a citywide market
analysis 'was underway and that the ACC had given financial advice as well.
as assistance with layout and leasing. He said that the developers were
the missing key of the project and • that the ACC representative was familiar
with Ithaca because he had been 'invo1 ed with setting up the NHS program.:
Seligman said that he had understood that the evening's meeting was to
discuss changes made since the last public meeting, and he apologized
for not being prepared for the wide range of questions. He said that
slides and a fuller presentation would be available at the meeting on the
21st of April . He would also have a model present, he said.
Alderperson Elva Holman said she had been asked to read a memo sent to
the IURA/CDA and Council members if the subject the memo contained was
not brough7up during the course of the evening. The text of the memo
she read-follows.
{
IURA/CDA
April 16, 1980
Page 6
k.r l 15 , 19
TO: The Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
FROYI: The Neighborhood, Housing and Development Committee ,
City Planning Board
We wish to call to .your attention a significant contradiction
in the current stage :of the city' s urban renewal program.
On the one hand, city officials are eager to fill the space on
the Commons with a project that will complete the dramatic re-
vitalization of the city's commercial center. In their desire to
"fill the hole" they are considering naming the so-called hlcRobb-
Goldberg group as its developer.
On the other hand , one half of that group, Stanley Goldberg, is
engaged in purchasing and re-pricing large numbers of rental
housing-units inside our city. In the past year Ifir. Goldberg and
Manley Thaler, known as "S RI Ithaca, Inc. " , have acquired Shar-
well Gardens and Aurora Heights. The availability of these post-
war family units to the types of tenant they were built to serve
is now severely threatened. For instance, the same apartment that
rented last May for $175 (without utilities) is scheduled to rent -
this August at $265 (without utilities ) . In other words, the rent
will be raised by 51% over 15 months. The apartments in question
have not been up-classed ; in fact they have not yet received
certificates of compliance with the city building code.
Several planning issues are brought to mind by such rent increases
on these still -basic housing units. Families of limited means have
moved, or must move this Summer. Since there is little rental
space in Ithaca that is not geared to the one-hundred-plus-dollars-
per-body rate that our colleges generate, these families move out
of town, often to trailer parks. Their children are' taken from a
neighborhood school, and perhaps from the district entirely.
Since these apartments provide little to attract more well-off
families, they tend to be filled with groups of childless young
IURA/CDA
April 16, 1980
Page 7
L
people . Such groups create an effect of increased population
density, even if no actual increase occurs. For example , a one-
bedroom apartment on Grandview Court is now occupied by two young
men, one of whom sleeps in the former living room. Between them,
these men own one truck, one car, and one motorcycle. The pre-
vious tenant owned one car. The growing appearance of congestion,
coupled with the change in type of tenant-group, makes the apart-
ments even less appealing to those families who might now be able
to afford them.
Further, the actual density is bound to increase. Single people
now living in one-bedroom apartments will leave, and a couple, or
at least a pair, will move in. Couples now occupying two-bedroom
apartments will be replaced by groups of three, and so on. As the
process continues , the entire neighborhood will suffer from in-
creasing parking problems , noise , congestion, and traffic. Our
comments are not predictions , but extrapolations based on current
price and tenancy patterns.
We do not question the right of a property-owner to determine a
new market for his property, even if that determination amounts
to a wholesale exclusion of fixed-income and limited-income fami-
lies from one-hundred-thirty units of city housing. Indeed, simi-
lar buying and rental strategies on the West Coast have recently
produced widely acclaimed millionaires and several best-selling
books.
But we strongly. challenge the suitability of your granting the
keystone of the Ithaca Commons to the same man who, under a dif-
ferent corporate name, excludes valuable families from this city
by opportunistically charging whatever "the market" will. bear.
You are in a position to award an investment privilege to the
best of the interested parties. We see good grounds for wondering
if your long-term interests and those of Ir. Goldberg are
essentially compatible.
John Niaclnnes, Chairman .
Peter Holmes
Ethel Nichols
IURA/CDA
April 16, 1980
Page 8
Mayor Bordoni thanked the developers and the architects for their
presentation,and adjourned the meeting.
He reminded those present that the Common Council meeting would be
held at 7:30 in the Hall of Justice on April 21 .
Respectfully Submitted, Approved,
Natalie de Combray Jasmine Lim
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MEMORANDUM
TO: CAC Members
FROM: Jasmine Lim, C.D. Coordinator
SUBJECT: Ithaca Center
DATE: April 9 , 1980
The IURA/CDA will be holding an informational public meeting on the preliminary
plans for Ithaca Center. The conditional preferred developers , McRobb and
Goldberg , will present these plans. It is improtant that you attend this
meeting because you will be asked, at a later date, to make a recommendation
on the Ihtaca Center Urban Development Action Grant (UDAG) application.
The meeting is scheduled for:
DATE: April 16, 1980
TIME: 7:30 P.M.
PLACE: Common Council Chambers
ndc