HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-IURA-1993 Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
January 7, 1993, 10 am
Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall
Present : Benjamin Nichols, Susan Cummings, Doug Dylla, Clarence
Reed, Matthys Van Cort, Herman Sieverding for item IV and V,
Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken.
Notice of Anne Jones' absence was received prior to the meeting.
I . Call to order
The meeting was called to order at 10 :10 am, by Susan Cummings,
Acting Chair.
II. Approval of Minutes of December 1, 1992
The minutes of the meeting of December 1, 1992 were approved as
amended.
The amendments were as follows: under item III, third paragraph
"Shalomar" was replaced by "the House of Shalimar" and under item
III, sixth paragraph, the word "adopt" was replaced by "complete
the 5 year CHAS planning guidelines" .
The meeting was then turned over to the Chair, Benjamin Nichols.
III . Staff Reports
1 . 1993 CDBG projects
Norton reported that there is a possibility that HUD will increase
the funding limit for the comprehensive grants application to
$900, 000 .
Norton showed the Agency a map of the proposal by Rick Cowles for
Landmark Square. Cummings is very concerned about the loss of
housing units. She suggested that part of an adjacent site might '
be used to expand the project . The City has a shortage of
efficiency housing units . Van Cort observed that the front part of
the site will require rezoning. The Mayor stated that the rezoning
of the Route 13 Corridor is under discussion.
HUD's deadline for the CDBG Application is expected to be in April.
Norton listed the tentative schedule of meetings she is setting up
for the application cycle. The,, Agency approved the schedule,
including the joint public hearing of the IURA and the CAC.
Minutes IURA
January 7, 1993
Norton listed the proposals for projects that have been submitted
for this year's application. Proposals were received from INHS,
Challenge Industries and the Groton Community Health Clinic. Harry
Sicherman will meet with all project sponsors during his visit to
Ithaca planned for January 20 .
III-2 . CAC Appointments
The Mayor announced that Carol Chernikoff and Lilly Tucker have
been appointed to the CAC.
III-3 . Extension of Contract with EastWest Planning and Development
Associates
The contract for consulting services with EastWest Planning and
Development Associates expired on December 31, 1992 . Norton
proposed extending the contract till December 31, 1993 . She asked
that the 2 different rates, one for economic development ($60) and
one for CDBG Administration ($50) be adjusted to a uniform rate of
$60 per hour for all services. She also requested that the mileage
reimbursement be adjusted to $ .28 per mile, the IRS rate. The
ti �hL�4 R Agency approved these changes. Tvset an overall spending limit
for the contract at $15, 000, which may be renegotiated if
necessary. The Agency is very satisfied with the services of the
EastWest Planning Associates.
Dylla moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to extend the
contract with EastWest Planning and Development Associates for
another year, with the approved amendments.
RESOLVED, that the IURA approves the request for a contract renewal
with EastWest Planning and Development Associates and directs
and authorizes the Mayor to sign such a contract with will
include the new rate for all consulting services of $60 per
hour and a mileage reimbursement rate of $ .28 per mile. The
overall limit of the contract will be $15, 000 .
Approved unanimously.
IV. Economic Development
1 . Digicomp Research Co - Lease Approval
Sieverding distributed his memo to the Agency regarding Digicomp
Lease Negotiations, dated January 6, 1993 . The memo was entered
into the minutes .
The Agency discussed the requests listed in the memo. The Agency
agreed that a firm commitment from Om Gupta, President of Digicomp,
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Minutes IURA
January 7, 1993
to sign a lease was required before any more meetings were to take
place. If such a commitment was received the Agency was willing to
discuss the terms for setting the sale price of the site and the
sale's schedule.
The issue of changing the restrictions on allowable uses in the
event Gupta sells the site was discussed in detail . The Mayor
stated that the Agency could not agree to anything that would
disagree with the original purpose of the Carpenter Business Park.
The park was developed to promote light industrial, manufacturing
and related jobs. The use of retail was expressly disallowed.
Reed confirmed that the original purpose of the CBP was to promote
industrial development and job creation. To reach that goal, rules
were set up that were reasonable and designed to protect the
community's interest in the site. Reed stated that government was
in the unique position to set up rules and develop long term goals
to improve the quality of life in the community while not being
subjected the time constraints of the business community. He
strongly objected to modifying such rules for an individual's
benefit .
Cummings agreed with Reed and added that the other tenants would be
at a disadvantage if the Agency agreed to lift the restriction on
retail for Gupta. It was established that all Industrial Parks have
restrictions pertaining to their use. Reed added that the
increased parking needs of a retail business would become a problem
for the Park. It was noted that the use of subsidized industrial
land for retail was a misuse of the subsidy. Land sold for retail
is sold at a much higher price.
Action taken:
The Agency decided that they would adhere to the original mandate
governing the use of the Carpenter Business Park. Therefore they
will not remove the restriction on retail use. The Agency was
prepared to discuss changing the sale's schedule and the
computation method of the sale's value but only if Om Gupta showed
a firm commitment to signing the lease after the changes were made.
They further determined that if such a commitment were to be made
Gupta himself should go before the IURA and the Common Council to
explain why these changes were necessary.
IV-2 . UDAG Loan Agreement
Sieverding briefed the Agency on the closing of McCurdy's . Since
the UDAG Note and Mortgage are with the "City of Ithaca" , Common
Council will decide on any revision to the Note and Mortgage.
3.
Minutes IURA
January 7, 1993
Comex Plaza Associates has indicated it will continue its payments
to the City while it attempts to re-lease the property. Plans for
renovation of the building are in progress and will be reviewed and
approved by the City.
V. Budget and Administration
1 . 1993 Cost of Living Increase CD Staff
The Agency approved the 1993 Salary Range for Staff salaries
reflecting a 5% cost of living increase. The change was made to be
effective as of January 1, 1993 . The new schedule will become part
of the CD Manual .
RESOLVED, that the IURA approves the 1993 Salary Range for Staff
Salaries, reflecting the 5% cost of living increase effective
as of January 1, 1993, which will become part of the Community
Development Manual .
Approved unanimously.
V-2 . CD Administrative Assistant Evaluation - Resolution
Executive Session
Action taken:
RESOLVED, that the IURA approves a half step increase (2 .5%)
increase in the salary of the Administrative Assistant to
become effective January 1, 1993 .
Approved unanimously.
VI . Housing and Neighborhoods
No reports
V. Other Business
Sieverding stated that the City has given Lama Real Estate a 6
month listing for the sale of the Annex.
Agency members reacted favorably to the use of the windows of the
Annex for general displays . Dylla hoped for increased use of empty
spaces like these throughout the downtown business district .
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Minutes IURA
January 7, 1993
VIII .Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 11 :30 am.
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Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
February 2, 1993, 4 pm
Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall
Present: Benjamin Nichols, Susan Cummings, Doug Dylla, Matthys Van
Cort, Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken.
Notice of Anne Jones' absence was received prior to the meeting.
I . Call to order
The meeting was called to order at 4:10 pm, by the Chair, Benjamin
Nichols.
II . Approval of Minutes of January 6, 1993
The minutes of the meeting of January 6, 1993 were approved with
one amendment.
The amendment was as follows: under item III-3, at the end of the
first paragraph, the word "they" was replaced by The IURA" .
III. Staff Reports
1993 CDBG Update - Schedule and Projects
Norton reported that HUD has not announced its deadline for the
1993 CDBG application, nor has it ruled on the application' s
funding limit.
Norton has been asked to give a report to the Planning and
Development Committee of Common Council on February 15 . The Agency
did not require a further report on this.
Norton gave the Agency an update on the proposal by Rick Cowles of
Chartwell Plus Associates, for Landmark Square. She stated that 51
units will be rehabilitated. The playground will get a new play
structure, one which is designed to discourage use as hangout for
drug users . New and additional lighting will be installed. The
basketball court will be improved with a new coat of asphalt .
Cummings insisted that a very basic, sturdy playground be
installed, otherwise it will end up being vandalized.
Norton requested the Agency's comments on doing a mini master-plan
on the Wood Street Park area with the expert help of Peter
Minutes IURA
February 2, 1993
Towbridge at an estimated cost of $4000 . Cummings objected to this
plan. She wanted the improvements to be done but in a way that
would not require extensive delays. The Agency concurred. The
Mayor stated that CD staff could obtain the advice and input from
the Parks Col[uuission before completing design on the project .
Cummings suggested contacting the owners of the Red Lobster to see
if they were willing to sell or donate the back of the adjacent
site for affordable housing units.
Norton stated that the Cooperative Extension is running an after
school program, one day a week, from one of the Landmark Square
apartments . They have applied for CDBG funds to expand the
program.
The Chief of Police is interested in developing a neighborhood
watch program to increase the safety of the area. Dylla referred
to a similar program in Troy. He will request additional
information.
The Landmark Square Project will impact on 4 grant criteria.
Chartwell Plus Associates is requesting $450, 000 for their project .
INHS is requesting $200, 000 for a Home Ownership Program. The
difficulty in allocating more CDBG funds to this activity is that
it only impacts one criterion. Norton commented that although HUD
promotes home ownership, the grant criteria have not been revised
to allow communities to score many points for home ownership
programs .
Staff members are negotiating with Challenge Industries on the
proposal that was discussed at the IURA meeting of October 13 ,
1992 . At this meeting the Agency had directed staff to offer a loan
rather than a grant to fund the project. Challenge Industries is
hesitant to accept a loan. The Agency authorized Norton to proceed
with the negotiations, and to offer a flexible pay back schedule
which could include a 0% interest rate.
IV. Economic Development
Policy Guidelines for Economic Development Revolving Loan
Funds
The document called "Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency Economic
Development Financing - Policy Guidelines and Operating Plan, Draft
#2" was entered into the minutes. This document was first drafted
by Harry Sicherman. Draft #2 was approved by the Economic
Development Committee at their recent meeting.
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Minutes IURA
February 2, 1993
The HUD guidelines for setting up a revolving loan fund are
flexible. The Fund will require approval by Common Council;
individual loans will be approved by the Agency.
The Agency discussed not limiting the Fund to economic development
loans. The different criteria for the different categories could
be attached to the document. Dylla proposed setting priorities as
well as criteria so proposals could be ranked by the Agency in the
case of competing applicants .
Criteria could include the number of jobs created, neighborhood
impact, income level of population being served, retail use of
loan, effect on business community, affirmative action. Dylla
stated that the criteria could be used as a marketing tool . The
criteria could be updated on an annual basis to reflect changing
HUD priorities .
The Agency further discussed the application fee of $50 .
The Agency discussed a minimum amount for loans . Norton suggested
that the City cooperate with Agora and TCAD. Applicants for small
loans could be referred to these organizations for business
counseling. It was further proposed to develop a common loan
application for the IURA/RLF and the RLF's administered by TCAD.
The Mayor suggested setting up standards after some experience has
been gained.
Norton will consult with HUD on whether all this is possible.
Further discussion on the Fund was postponed till the next meeting.
Norton will prepare a draft resolution for the Agency.
The Agency discussed the membership for the Revolving Loan
Committee. Committee membership should include 1 or 2 bankers, 1
accountant, 1 business person and members from the community.
V. Budget and Administration
Financial Statements
The Small Cities Grants Summaries, dated December 1992 and January
1993, were entered into the minutes .
Norton explained that the entry in the December statement for West
Inlet Project for $150, 000 was an error. It should have been
posted to the Appalachian Regional Commission/Carpenter Business
Park account . It will be corrected on the next statement . The
$150, 000 was an ARC grant received to reimburse the City for
infrastructure expenses incurred in CBP.
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Minutes IURA
February 2, 1993
VI . Housing and Neighborhoods
No reports
VII. Other Business
1. -Family Medicine Center
The Agency holds the Note on the Family Medicine Center. The
Center has requested that the BZA grant a zoning variance for their
expansion of the building.
Dylla moved and Cummings seconded a resolution regarding the Family
Medicine Center.
RESOLVED, that the IURA, recognizing the great importance of the
continuing downtown presence of the Family Medicine Center,
has no objections to the granting of a zoning variance for the
expansion of their building.
Approved unanimously.
VII-2 . CD Administrative manual
Work on the CD Manual will continue after a meeting with the City
Personnel Administrator.
VII-3 . Center Ithaca
Staff reported that the reorganization of Center Ithaca is still
being decided in the courts.
VII-4. West Inlet Project
Norton reported that the State Appellate Division will rule soon on
the West Inlet Housing Project. The Mayor will contact Jerry
Weisburd to assure him of the continuing support of the city for
his project .
VIII .Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:30 pm.
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Minutes of the JOINT MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARING
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency and Community Advisory Committee
Tuesday, March 2, 1993, 4 pm
Second Floor Conference Room, City Hall
Present:
IURA: Benjamin Nichols, Susan Cummings, Clarence Reed, Anne Jones
CAC: Lucy Brown, Carol Chernikoff, Dierdre Silverman, Andy Foster,
Michael Cannon, Carol Mallison, Pam Mackesy (CAC members were
present for items I, II and IV)
Sponsor: Rick Cowles for Item II-1
Staff: Matthys Van Cort, Herman Sieverding (Item I and II-1) ,
Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken.
I . Call to order
The meeting was called to order at 4 :10 pm, by the Chair, Mayor
Benjamin Nichols . The Mayor welcomed the CAC members and thanked
them for their work. Everyone was asked to introduce themselves .
The Mayor explained the agenda; Norton explained the format of the
sponsor presentation.
II. Public Hearing
II-1 . Landmark Square Presentation - Rick Cowles
Norton stated that the CAC had requested an opportunity to discuss
the Landmark Square project with Rick Cowles . All other project
sponsors had met with the CAC during previously scheduled meetings .
Site Plans for the Landmark Square Project were circulated. Rick
Cowles of Chartwell Plus Associates gave a presentation of the
Landmark Square Project. Chartwell Plus requesting $350, 000 of
CDBG funds for renovations and improvements of the Landmark Square
housing project . Cowles is still negotiating the transfer of the
property. He discussed the plans for interior and exterior
renovations of 51 units as well as the plans for the overall
upgrading of the housing complex. He stated that the units were
well built and included features like hard wood floors. However,
the units have been allowed to deteriorate and are in a state of
disrepair. Chartwell Plus will install new roofing, siding and
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Minutes IURA/CAC
March 2, 1993
gutters, replace doors and windows, and paint the interior and
exterior. Chartwell Plus will also purchase new appliances for the
units . When asked whether he is concerned about the siding which
is made of an asbestos composition, Cowles answered that the new
siding will go over the old, thus encapsulating the present siding.
He stated that proper precautions will be taken with the interior
paint of the units .
The handicap accessible units need new doors, because the present
ones are not wide enough. Mallison encouraged Cowles to install
roll-in showers in those units.
Cowles stated that total cost of the renovations will not exceed
50% of the value of the property. Sieverding stated that once the
rehabilitation costs surpass 50% of the value of a building, the
applicable Building Code changes, which would add cinsiderable
costs to the project .
The appearance of the open space will be improved through
demolition of the garages and new landscaping. The installation of
outdoor lighting is expected to improve the safety of the complex.
In response to questions, Norton stated that the basketball court
will not be lighted. Cummings asked whether the play area could be
moved to the same side of the street as the Landmark Square units .
Van Cort explained that this would be very complicated because it
would involve the State process of the alienation of City park
land.
Norton pointed out that one apartment has been set aside for use by
the Cooperative Extension Program and for the office of Better
Homes of Tompkins County for on-site management of the housing
project.
The rents of the units were discussed. They will conform to HUD
affordability guidelines .
The vacant units will be renovated first and, if necessary, tenants
will move temporarily to the renovated units while their own units
are rehabbed. No tenant will be displaced. Cowles expected to
complete most of the renovations in 2 months .
Cowles was asked about plans for the mixed use building he plans to
build along Meadow Street . This project is not part of the
proposal included in the CDBG application, but the CAC is concerned
about it' s effect on the overall project. The building' s upper
stories will house efficiency and one bedroom units . Cowles stated
that the building will be completed within 2 years providing the
economy remains stable. Foster and Cummings were concerned about
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Minutes IURA/CAC
March 2, 1993
the appearance of the Meadow Street frontage during those 2 years .
The front 22 units at Landmark Square will continue to be rented.
Cowles and Norton explained that the overall quality of life will
be considerably improved by improvements of the grounds, improved
safety and community services .
Norton stated that police files show that during 1992, 336
emergency visits were made by the police to Landmark Square. To
improve the security of the housing project, a grant of $15, 000 is
requested for a Neighborhood Police Program. This will enable the
Police Department to offer more on-site police service and programs
on crime prevention and drug awareness. An on-site community room
will enable the police officers to meet with the tenants on the
site.
CAC members support installing a sidewalk on the south side of Wood
Street, between Titus Towers and Meadow Street . Sieverding
reported that the feasibility of building the sidewalk is being
analyzed.
Cowles expects the management of Better Housing of Tompkins County
to greatly improve the quality and stability of the project. A 10%
management fee is scheduled.
Norton circulated recent pictures of the project and the Wood
Street Park.
The Mayor asked how the comments from the CAC were made part of the
final proposal . Norton explained how the proposals are shaped by
the comments of the CAC.
11-2 . CAC Report and Recommendations for 1993 CDBG Application
Norton circulated the proposed budget for the 1993 CDBG
application. The document called Proposed Community Development
Block Grant Budget, dated March 2, 1993 was entered into the
minutes.
Norton briefed the meeting on the status of the proposal by
Challenge Industries for a loan of $65, 000 to expand their
microfilm department to be included in this year's application.
Challenge Industries had requested a grant, but the IURA instead
offered a loan at a very low interest rate. Staff is presently
negotiating the terms of this loan with Challenge Industries .
Silverman, Mallison and other Committee members requested that any
funds not used for the Challenge Industries project go towards
improving the projects by Cooperative Extension.
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Minutes IURA/CAC
March 2, 1993
Norton agreed to contact the CAC if the Challenge Industries
project was not included in the application. It was agreed that the
CAC would be called to meet again if any major changes had to be
made in the program and budget or to review new proposals that
would significantly strengthen the application. The CAC was asked
for, and gave, their endorsement on the $90, 000 1993 Grant
Application.
Mackesy moved and Mallison seconded a resolution to approve the
projects and budget for the 1993 CDBG Application.
WHEREAS, the Community Advisory Committee has reviewed and approved
the proposals submitted to the City for the 1993 CDBG
application, now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the CAC submits the projects and
budget and recommends it to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
for their review and approval, and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the CAC recommends that the IURA
authorizes staff to make minor modifications in the project
composition of the grant and the budget according to HUD
funding limits and comprehensive grant criteria, with the
understanding that any major modifications will be brought
back to the CAC and the IURA for their review.
Approved unanimously.
II-3 . Report Revolving Loan Fund to CAC
Norton gave a report to the members of the CAC on the Revolving
Loan Fund. She explained the policy decisions made by the Economic
Development Committee and the IURA, Mike Stamm of TCAD and Mary
Ziegler from AFCU. She explained how program income from CDBG
loans is subject to HUD regulations. A Revolving Loan Fund would
give the IURA flexibility in the type of loans which can be made.
At the moment $15, 000 is available for this Fund. Right now the
IURA can only do economic development projects which create enough
jobs to compete in the CDBG competition
Questions were asked about the Fund' s criteria. Norton read the
criteria from the draft and explained that advice from the ED
committee had been considered. The CAC agreed on the criteria.
The Mayor stated that there is a revolving loan fund for Housing,
through INHS, but not for Economic Development .
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Minutes IUBA/CAC
March 2, 1993
III. IURA Recommendations to Common Council for the 1993 CDBG
Application - Resolution
The agency discussed the recommendations by the CAC. Jones asked
about the neighborhood watch program. Norton explained that
specific budget figures were not known yet . It was estimated that
$10, 000 would go for staff overtime, $5000 for extra time spent at
Landmark Square by the Neighborhood Patrol Officer, and the
remainder for 2 police officers to run the program.
Cummings and Reed commented on the value of the Neighborhood Watch
Program. The neighborhood would need to have a decisive voice in
the implementation of the program. Cummings stated that the
initial meeting, where people got to know their neighbors, was of
prime importance. An additional benefit of the program would be
that tenants and police officer would get to know each other. The
success of the program will depend primarily on continued strong
leadership.
Cummings moved and Reed seconded to approve the CAC recommendations
for the 1993 CDBG Application.
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency recognizes the need to
support efforts which promote affordable housing, job creation
and retention, and increased public services to Ithaca's low
and moderate income population, and
WHEREAS, the IURA has received the recommendations from the
Community Advisory Committee on the 1993 CDBG application
which it made after careful review of the proposals submitted
to the City, now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the IURA after review of the CAC's
recommendations for the 1993 CDBG Application has approved
these projects and budget and recommends it to Common Council
for their review and approval, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes staff to make
minor modifications in the project composition of the grant
and the budget according to HUD funding limits and
comprehensive grant criteria, with the understanding that any
major modifications will be brought back to the CAC and the
IURA for their review.
Approved unanimously.
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Minutes IURA/CAC
March 2, 1993
IV. Approval of IURA Minutes of February 2, 1993
and CAC Minutes of February 23, 1993
The minutes of the IURA meeting of February 2, 1993 were approved
as distributed.
The minutes of the CAC meeting of February 23, 1993 were approved
with one amendment. On the first page, under the heading
"present" , the name of Mike Cannon should be omitted.
V. Staff Reports - 1993 CDBG Update
Norton reported that HUD has not announced its deadline for the
1993 CDBG application, nor has it ruled on the application's
funding limit .
Norton reported on the litigation of the West Inlet Project . The
Appellate Division has overturned the decision of the State Supreme
Court. Staff met with Jerry Weisburd and both the City and
Weisburd are committed to completing the project. Staff is working
with him on how best to proceed.
The City may or may not appeal the Court of Appeals decision.
VI . Economic Development - Revolving Loan Fund - Resolution
Norton gave a report on the Revolving Loan Fund to the CAC at the
beginning of this meeting. (Item II)
The 1/23/93 draft of the Policy Guidelines and Operating Plan for
the Revolving Loan Fund had been distributed.
The IURA amended the guidelines of the Fund. The minimum amount
for a loan was set at $5000, allowing for individual flexibility
however, and the interest rate was set at 75% of the prime rate.
Not-for-profit agencies requesting funds may negotiate a lower
rate.
Cummings moved and Reed seconded a resolution to approve the
Revolving Loan Fund and Policy Guidelines and to establish a
Revolving Loan Fund.
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency receives payments on
economic development loans made as part of past Community
Development Block Grant applications, and
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Minutes CAC/IURA
March 2, 1993
WHEREAS, the IURA desires to expand the current economic
development program in order to create more job opportunities
for low and moderate income individuals and expand the City's
commercial and industrial tax base, and
WHEREAS, the current program is limited to financing one or two
projects per year as part of the CDBG application, and
WHEREAS, in order to expand the program in compliance with HUD
regulations the payments received must be kept in a designated
Revolving Loan Fund, now,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the IURA agrees to allocate current
and future repayments on CDBG generated economic development
projects to the Revolving Loan Funds, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the IURA adopts the attached Policy
Guidelines and Operating Plan for economic development loans
or grants which are made from CDBG funds or the Revolving Loan
Funds, said guidelines which may be revised periodically to
reflect changing HUD or IURA priorities.
Approved unanimously.
VII. Budget and Administration
1 . Financial Statements
The Small Cities Grants Summaries, dated February 1993, were
entered into the minutes.
Norton reported that the 1987 grant will be closed out soon. Funds
from a number of the projects in the other open grants are also
being drawn down. She expects that the threshold requirements for
this year's application will be met.
VII- 2 . Reprogramming Program Income
Norton explained the need to have funds available to meet the
federal obligations for CDBG administration in the event of a non-
funded year.
Reed moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to approve the
Reprogramming of Program Income.
WHEREAS, HUD regulations require that all available program income
cash-on-hand be spent for program activities prior to drawing
funds from our letter-of-credit (LOC) , and
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Minutes CAC/IURA
March 2, 1993
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca's Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency has
complied with this regulation and expended the program income
on CDBG eligible activities, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca has a legal obligation to the federal
government for the administration of open block grants
regardless of whether federal support dollars are received,
and the program income has been kept locally to provide a
means to finance the administration in the event of a non-
funded year, and
WHEREAS, the security of maintaining the funds locally can be
achieved by retaining miscellaneous revenue, as HUD
regulations allow miscellaneous revenue to be kept locally,
and
WHEREAS, the IURA receives miscellaneous revenue in the form of the
Eddygate HODAG and Iszard's UDAG payments which must be used
to promote affordable housing and form the basis of the City's
ongoing support to Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services, now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the program which is now on the
City's LOC account be used on a one time basis to finance the
City's 1993 annual contribution to Ithaca Neighborhood Housing
Services and that miscellaneous revenue received from HODAG
and UDAG repayments be maintained to finance federal
obligations for CDBG administration in the event of a non-
funded year.
Approved unanimously.
VII- 3 . CD Administration Manual - Report
No reports
VII- 4 . Reprogramming 1990 CDBG funds
The letter from Paul Mazzarella to the City of Ithaca, dated March
1, 1993 was entered into the minutes. In this letter Mazzarella is
requesting that the $4, 790 of 1990 CDBG funds programmed for a bus
shelter in front of the original Mutual Housing site on Floral
Avenue, and subsequently reprogrammed for a bus shelter in front of
the West Inlet Project on Floral Avenue, be reprogrammed to the
1992 INHS Rental Rehabilitation Project. The Agency discussed the
request . The funds are the only unspent funds in the 1990 grant
and the program amendment would allow the grant to be closed out.
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Minutes CAC/IURA
March 2, 1993
Cummings moved and Jones seconded a resolution to approve the
request by INHS to reprogram the 1990 CDBG Funds.
RESOLVED, that the IURA approves the request to reprogram the
$4, 790 . 00 of 1990 CDBG funds for the bus shelter on Floral
Avenue to the 1992 INHS rental rehabilitation Program.
Approved unanimously.
VIII . Housing and Neighborhoods
No reports
IX. Other Business
Staff reported that no response has been received by Om Gupta of
Digicomp Research.
Cummings requested that signage be placed at City projects that
explain to the public what is being done and how it was funded.
X. Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 6:10 pm.
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Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
Thursday, May 4, 1993, 4 pm
Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall
Present :
Benjamin Nichols, Anne Jones, Susan Cummings, Doug Dylla, Clarence
Reed, Paul Mazzarella for item VI-2, Herman Sieverding for item IV-
1, Matthys Van Cort, Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken.
I . Call to order
The meeting was called to order at 4: 05 pm, by the Chair, Benjamin
Nichols .
II . Approval of IURA Minutes of April 6, 1993
The minutes of the IURA meeting of April 6, 1993 were approved as
distributed.
III . Staff Reports
- 1993 CDBG Update
Norton reported that HUD has not announced its deadline for the
1993 CDBG application, nor has it ruled on the application' s
funding limit. The Mayor has contacted Senator Moynihan to express
his concern on the delay. Norton stated that a good portion of the
home buying and building season might be lost this year. Cummings
suggested sending a written statement to the government officials
representing us .
IV. Economic Development
1 . Carpenter Business Park - Report ED Committee
Sieverding reported on his meeting with the Economic Development
Committee regarding the request by Bob Lama from Lama Real Estate
for a ground lease in Carpenter Business Park to expand his
business .
Lama Real Estate does not meet leasing policy requirements for the
type of business desired and it will not be able to meet the
Minutes IURA
May 4, 1993
required low/mod job creation. The Committee had recommended for
Lama to team up with a co-tenant who could fulfill these
requirements . Sieverding proposed and the committee recommended
that 75% of any new building be occupied by a firm which met the
leasing guidelines . The other 25% could be occupied by Lama Real
Estate.
The Agency decided that any new building should be occupied in the
75/25 split as recommended by the committee. Agency members
suggested making the co-tenant a partner in the development with an
equity interest .
The Agency endorsed the ED Committee's recommendations and
authorized staff to continue with the conceptual proposal whereby
Lama Real Estate has a co-tenant, who will meet the Agency' s
business and job creation requirements and will acquire business
equity.
Lama's request will require approval by Common Council .
The Agency requested the Economic Development Committee to discuss
revising the criteria for businesses locating in Carpenter Business
Park. It was pointed out that the policies were drafted about 8
years ago in a different economic climate.
Dylla stated that he has a list of appointments for the ED
Committee for the Mayor's review.
IV-2 . Challenge Industries - Report ED Committee
No reports .
IV-3 . Groton Community Health Care Center
Dylla reported on the recommendations from the Economic Development
Committee for the loan agreement with Groton Community Health Care
Center for the Ithaca Dental Clinic. The Committee agreed on a
$75, 000 loan at 3% interest with interest payments commencing in
the second year and principal payments in the third year. A review
clause will allow the Agency to review finances and perhaps adjust
the loan terms in the fifth year.
The Clinic has not decided on a site for its operations yet .
Jones moved and Reed seconded a resolution to approve the loan
agreement with the Ithaca Dental Clinic.
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Minutes IURA
May 4, 1993
RESOLVED, that the IURA approves a loan agreement for $75, 000 at 3%
interest with the Groton Community Health Care Center for the
Ithaca Dental Clinic, and directs and authorizes the Mayor to
sign the agreement, contingent upon award of the 1993 CDBG
Application by the Department of Housing and Urban Development
and pending approval by the City Attorney and the Director of
Planning and Development .
Approved unanimously.
IV-4 . Report Revolving Loan Fund
Norton reported that members of Common Council had requested more
information on the Revolving Loan Fund at their April meeting. She
is preparing a memo to address Council's concerns . The Agency
members suggested writing a simple one page memo.
V. Budget and Administration
1 . Financial Statements
The Small Cities Grants Summaries, dated April 1993 were entered
into the minutes .
Norton reported that the grants for 1987 and 1990 were being closed
out. The Agency requested a site visit to the Mutual Housing
Project . Dylla predicted that the 1991 INHS project will move soon
after changes have been made in the rehabilitation staff of INHS.
The Agency members requested that Jerry Weisburd begin on the EIS
of the West Inlet Project . The Mayor and Van Cort will contact
Weisburd. Norton stated that she expected the project to go ahead
and that the Weisburds might start subdivision approval process
this summer.
Dylla stated that he would like to receive an occasional Loan Fund
and other financial reports . He proposed discussing this matter
at the next Economic Development Committee meeting.
V-2 . Personnel
Norton reported that Bob Briggs from the Ithaca Agency is
investigating whether of not IURA has insurance coverage for the
law suit by Evans.
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Minutes IURA
May 4, 1993
VI . Housing and Neighborhoods
1 . Proposed Wood Street Park Improvements - Report
Norton presented the site plans for the Wood Street Park project
designed by Trowbridge and Wolf . The Client Committee for the Wood
Street Park Improvements will submit their final plan if the grant
is funded by HUD, after additional neighborhood dialogue has taken
place.
Norton indicated the new location of the basketball court . The
relocation was requested by the neighborhood's residents . Tom West
from the Engineer's Office suggested that DPW be requested to do a
review of the intersection rather than predetermining the need for
Wood Street Stop signs . The two overriding concerns in the
community are public safety and security. The Agency members liked
the improvements . Suggestions were made to high-prune the trees in
the park area and to keep the area open. The budget will be
reviewed by DPW. Cummings suggested presenting a statement of need
to the Board, detailing such items as the number of neighborhood
children and the number of street crossings .
Norton wrote to the Ithaca Housing Authority regarding sidewalks
and improved lighting for Titus Towers . Cummings stated that she
hoped that the cooperation with IHA required for this project would
be an occasion to develop a better working relationship with the
Housing Authority. Norton responded that she found the IHA staff
very excited about the improvements . IHA staff expected their
Board to support the project.
The Agency approved the plan as presented.
Dylla expressed hope that other small city parks could also be
renovated and possibly included in future block grant applications .
Reed moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to approve a raise in
the budgeted contract amount to $4500 to cover the cost of
including the Landmark Square complex in the final site plan.
RESOLVED, that the IURA approves amending Item II-3 of the contract
with Trowbridge and Wolf, dated March 15, 1993 to state that
the total remuneration shall not exceed $4500 .
Approved unanimously.
VI-2 . Conflict of Interest - Charles Rollins/INHS
The memorandum from Assistant City Attorney Pat Kennedy, dated
April 15, 1993 and the letter from Paul Mazzarella, dated November
2, 1993 were entered into the Minutes .
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Minutes IURA
May 4, 1993
Norton explained that HUD required a full public disclosure and a
written opinion from the City Attorney stating that there was no
violation of State conflict of interest law.
Mazzarella stated that Charles Rollins is a well qualified
contractor. INHS staff awards contracts following an open
competitive bidding process. Rollins has no part in any of the
decision making. Mazzarella stated further that it is difficult
for INHS to find African-American contractors. INNS' mission is
to be a neighborhood based organization. INHS would be done a
disservice if it could not award contracts to Charles Rollins .
INHS would also be done a disservice if Charles Rollins' mother,
Ms . Rollins, had to give up her position on the INHS Board.
Norton stated that she will document this in her letter to HUD.
Reed moved and Dylla seconded a resolution to request an exception
from HUD regarding INHS' conflict of interest regarding contractor
Charles Rollins .
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency has reviewed the materials
presented concerning the request for exception for Charles
Rollins from HUD's Conflict of Interest regulations, and
WHEREAS, the Assistant City Attorney has presented her opinion
that granting the exception would not be in violation of
either state or local laws, a prerequisite to HUD' s
consideration of granting the requested exception,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes and directs
staff to submit the formal request for an exception to HUD.
Approved unanimously.
VII . Other Business
No reports .
VIII.Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:45 pm.
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Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
April 6, 1993, 4 pm
Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall
Present:
Benjamin Nichols, Anne Jones, Susan Cummings, Doug Dylla, Patricia
Kennedy for item V-1, Matthys Van Cort, Patricia Norton, Wies van
Leuken.
I. Call to order
The meeting was called to order at 4:10 pm, by the Chair, Benjamin
Nichols.
II. Approval of IURA/CAC Minutes of March 2, 1993
The minutes of the joint IURA/CAC meeting of March 2, 1993 were
approved as distributed.
III. Staff Reports
1993 CDBG Update
Norton reported that HUD has not announced its deadline for the
1993 CDBG application, nor has it ruled on the application's
funding limit . Common Council's Planning and Development Committee
and the meeting of the Committee of the Whole have given unanimous
approval to all projects included in the application. A Public
Hearing has been scheduled for the April 7 Common Council meeting.
After receiving public comment, Common Council will vote on the
Application.
The Mayor reported that the City has received several letters of
support for the Ithaca Dental Clinic.
Norton discussed the meetings of the Client Committee on the Wood
Street Park Improvements. Cummings suggested contacting the owners
of the Red Lobster during the upcoming Site Plan Review of their
project, to see if they would be willing to sell or donate the back
of the site adjacent to the City or some other entity for
affordable housing.
Minutes IURA
April 6, 1993
Challenge Industries, Inc. did submit a proposal for an economic
development loan for inclusion in the 1993 CDBG application. The
terms Challenge has proposed include an interest rate of 1% with
payments commencing in the third year and a balloon payment of
remaining interest payments and capital to be made in the eighth
year.
Norton reported that $27 million of Federal funds might become
available for CDBG type projects later this year. Eligibility
guidelines for the fund's use have not been made available yet .
The Agency hoped that the Mutual Housing Project-Phase II might be
eligible for these funds.
Norton reported that Common Council will vote on 4 resolutions
submitted by the IURA. They will vote on the Block Grant
Application (IURA resolution #705) , the Reprogramming of 1990 CDBG
Public Facilities funds to 1992 CDBG INHS Rental Management
(Resolution #708) , the Revolving Loan Fund (Resolution #706) and
the UDAG/HODAG Reserve Fund (Resolution #708) .
Jerry Weisburd will not appeal the decision the Appellate Court
made on the West Inlet Project. He plans to resubmit the project
to the local review process. Design changes reflecting changed
construction costs might be made.
Norton explained the 1993 Abbreviated CHAS document. There will be
a Public Hearing on April 15. Submitting the CHAS is a
prerequisite for filing the CDBG Application. The Agency requested
that the potential Phase II of the Mutual Housing be included in
the document. The Mayor expressed surprise at the reported vacancy
rate from the Tompkins County Planning office which is in contrast
to the anecdotal evidence he is receiving.
The Agency discussed the gap between the housing needs of the very
poor and the level of available subsidies for affordable housing.
This gap cannot be bridged with subsidies available at present .
Cummings moved and Dylla seconded a resolution to approve the 1993
Abbreviated CHAS.
RESOLVED, that the IURA approves the 1993 Abbreviated CHAS and
directs staff to submit this document to HUD for approval .
Approved unanimously.
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Minutes IURA
April 6, 1993
IV. Economic Development
1 . Economic Development Stimulus Package
Report on Common Council Actions
No reports.
IV-2 . Accufab, Inc. Lease Modification
The lease between the IURA and Accufab, Inc. , located at Cherry
Street Industrial Park, contains the names of both Gary Wojcik and
Alexandra Wojcik as tenants . Mr. Wojcik has requested that the
lease be modified to contain his name only.
Dylla moved and Jones seconded a resolution to approve the Accufab
Lease Modification.
RESOLVED, that the IURA approves the request for modification of
the IURA's lease with Accufab, Inc. to reflect that Gary
Wojcik is its sole tenant and directs and authorizes the Mayor
to sign a lease modification subject to review by the City
Attorney.
Approved unanimously.
V. Budget and Administration
1 . Executive Session - Personnel
No action taken
V-2 . Financial Statements
The Small Cities Grants Summaries, dated March 1993 were entered
into the minutes .
Norton stated that Pal's Sport's Center plans to open for business
June 15, 1993 . Funds for Mutual Housing are being drawn down. At
the time of submission of the 1993 CDBG Application only two open
grants will remain. Meeting the threshold draw down levels is
required to improve the competitive position of the City's 1993
CDBG application.
V-3 . Subordination Section 17 Loan - E. Johnson Malone
Ms . Malone has withdrawn her request for subordination of the
Section 17 loan while she is looking for alternative funding
sources . The Agency decided that requests for a Section 17 loan
subordination should be reviewed by the Loan Committee.
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Minutes IURA
April 6, 1993
VI .Housing and Neighborhoods
No reports
VII . Other Business
1 . The City Annex
The Agency agreed that restrictions on the sale of the Annex could
be lifted to facilitate the sale of the Annex. They also agreed
that the contract with Lama real estate should be extended for an
additional 3 months. The present contract expires this month.
Cummings requested a longer extension, but the Agency decided that
an additional extension could be requested by Lama Real Estate if
more time was required to complete a transaction.
VII-2 . Community Health and Home Care (CHHC)
Jones stated that CHHC was not limiting it's hiring to people from
Ithaca. Norton stated that CHHC's contractual obligations were
limited to affirmative outreach only. She listed the procedures in
place to ensure that low/mod income people are given first
consideration for positions created.
VII-3 . Economic Development Guidelines
Dylla stated that he would like to move away form reacting to
Economic Development proposals to focusing on an Economic
Development Plan. He requested a meeting with Van Cort, Sieverding
and Norton to discuss this.
VIII . Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:50 pm.
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Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
Thursday, June 8, 1993, 4 pm
Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall
Present :
Benjamin Nichols items III-2 . - VIII, Anne Jones, Susan Cummings,
Clarence Reed, Herman Sieverding for item III-2, Matthys Van Cort
for Item VI, Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken.
I . Call to order
The meeting was called to order at 4:15 pm, by the Acting Chair,
Susan Cummings .
II . Approval of IURA Minutes of May 4, 1993
The minutes of the IURA meeting of May 4, 1993 were approved as
distributed.
III . Staff Reports
1 . 1993 CDBG Update
Norton reported that the deadline for the 1993 CDBG application
will be August 11, 1993 . There is no information yet on the
application's funding limit.
III-2 . Comex/McCurdy Building Easement
Cummings turned the meeting over to the Chair, Benjamin Nichols .
Sieverding explained the request by Comex Plaza Associates
regarding an easement on the Comex/McCurdy building. Comex
Associates has requested the use of an easement over a small piece
of land on which the stairwell to the parking garage at the back of
the McCurdy building is built. The underlying land is the
property of the IURA. Comex Associates plans to lease the back
portion of the building to the Tompkins County Trust Co. and
requires an easement over this area to satisfy the Building Code
requirement for a secondary way of egress .
Minutes IURA
June 8, 1993
Jones moved and Reed seconded a resolution to approve the easement .
WHEREAS, the IURA owns a small piece of land on the South East Side
of the Green Street Parking Garage at the back of the
Rothschild building, more particularly described on the
attached site plan, and
WHEREAS, Comex Plaza Associates, owner of the Rothschild building,
requires a secondary means of egress in order to comply with
NYS Building Code requirements, and
WHEREAS, the secondary means of egress is required to allow the
conversion of the rear portion of the Rothschild building into
office space, now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the IURA agrees to grant an easement
to Comex Plaza Associates over the area shown on the attached
site plan and reserves the right to review its decision
whenever there is a change of tenant or a change in use,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes the Mayor to sign
the appropriate easement agreement upon the advice and
recommendation of the City Attorney and the Director of
Planning and Development .
Approved unanimously.
IV. Economic Development
1 . Challenge Industries Loan Terms
Norton reported that the Economic Development Committee reviewed
the Challenge Industries project which will create 4 FTE jobs . The
Committee approved the $65, 000 loan for 10 years at 1% interest and
with interest payments beginning in the third year. The Committee
proposed using the Challenge Industries building as collateral to
the loan. The Agency accepted all recommendations.
IV-2 . Revolving Loan Fund - Report
Norton reported that the Revolving Loan Fund had been approved by
Common Council at their May 1993 meeting.
IV-3 . Economic Development Strategy
Norton stated that after the Agency's approval of Doug Dylla' s
request to develop an Economic Development Strategy, Dylla met with
staff to develop a plan of action. Norton proposed, on behalf
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Minutes IURA
June 8, 1993
of Dylla, holding an intensive strategy session with other
community and business leaders to develop goals and a mission
statement for the IURA's economic development strategy.
The Agency discussed the proposal. The Mayor stated that the key
element in all economic development decisions by the Agency is the
creation of employment for people of low/mod income. Jones
proposed inviting a representative from TC3 . Cummings envisioned
an annual meeting of the different Agencies to develop professional
contacts . Both she and Reed expected results from a meeting where
Agencies came together to discuss their long range plans and their
most exciting and creative projects.
The Mayor will contact other agencies working on economic
development and set up an informal meeting first . The Strategy
Meeting will be held later as a follow-up meeting. A facilitator
will be appointed for the meeting at an honorarium of $100 .
V. Budget and Administration
Financial Statements
The complete package of financial statements, dated May 1993 and
including the monthly Small Cities Grants Summaries, was entered
into the minutes .
The Agency reviewed the financial statements . It was agreed to
distribute a complete package of financial statements to the Agency
on a quarterly basis .
Norton stated that she discussed doing an EIS with Weisburd. The
Agency agreed to give House Craft Builders till the end of August
to move on his project .
Norton reported that checks regarding the rent assignment of Fall
Creek Associates were arriving in a timely fashion. However, the
agreement with Tsvi and Sarah Bokaer, where they agree not to
contest any future judgement proceedings against Fall Creek
Associates for non-payment of the CDBG loan, had not yet been
signed by them. She proposed requesting the bank's attorney to
contact the Bokaers.
VI . Housing and Neighborhoods
Community Gardens Lease
The Agency discussed the draft lease with the Community Gardens .
The Mayor stated that the Community Gardens pay for their water
bill with money from a grant from the City. The grant has been
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Minutes IURA
June 8, 1993
renewed annually by Common Council, upon request from the Community
Gardens .
The Agency members established that the Community Gardens
organization provide the opportunity to garden for low/mod income
people, the homeless and others and serve the community through a
variety of other programs .
The following amendments were proposed for the lease.
1 . If the site is no longer being used as a community garden, or
if the Community Gardens as a not-for-profit organization
ceases to exist, the Agency reserves the right to cancel the
lease with one year notice.
2 . The Community Gardens is responsible for their own water bill,
but may request relief if their funding is terminated.
3 . The City needs to demonstrate insufficient use before being
able to cancel the lease.
4. Any major structures planned for the Community Gardens site
will require approval by the Agency.
Reed moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to approve the
revised lease with the Community Gardens .
RESOLVED, that the IURA directs and authorizes the Mayor to sign
the revised lease with Community Gardens, pending review by
the City Attorney and the Director of Planning and
Development .
Approved unanimously.
It was stated that the lease will require Common Council approval .
VII . Other Business
1 . Center Ithaca
The Agency discussed the Chapter 11 proceedings for Center Ithaca
with Sieverding. The Mayor has met with and written a letter to
the Farmer's Home Administration requesting it to reconsider its
rejection of the proposed work out plan for the Center and pointing
out the importance of Center Ithaca and how this issue is resolved,
to the overall health and vitality of the business district.
Farmers Home has recently decided not to withdraw their objection.
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Minutes IUR.A
June 8, 1993
It was agreed to invite both Sieverding and the City Attorney to
the next IURA meeting, to discuss what the Agency could do to
persuade the Farmer's Home Administration to reconsider its
position.
VII-2 . The Annex
Sieverding reported to the Agency that Lama Real Estate will
approach Mr. Muraco regarding the Annex. Lama Real Estate is still
trying to match prospective tenants with developers in addition to
identifying possible owner/occupants for the building.
VIII-3 . The Strand
Sieverding reported that bids are being accepted for removal of
asbestos and other environmentally sensitive materials from the
building. Demolition bids will be out in July. Actual demolition
is expected to take place at the end of July and beginning of
August .
The City is still holding approximately 300 new theater seats
purchased with ARC Grant funds . Some quantity of tile and carpet
was also purchased with these funds in the early eighties . The
tiles and carpet are no longer with the supplier and were never
delivered to Ithaca. Reed suggested selling the seats and lights .
Jones reminded the Agency that the Hangar Theater had expressed an
interest . Reed proposed to donate the items to the Hangar Theater
because they will be used in a similar fashion.
Sieverding mentioned that the ARC loan on the Strand will be paid
back out of the proceeds of the sale to RHP Properties. Norton
stated that the Agency had incurred costs storing Strand equipment
and fixtures all these years and should be reimbursed.
VIII-4 . Market for recyclables
Reed stated that he liked to see the IURA award a loan to a small
business which would manufacture products needed by the City, made
from recycled materials. He stated that municipalities find it
increasingly difficult to get rid of their collected recycled
materials because there is a limited market for products made from
such materials .
The Mayor pointed out that recycling is now a County jurisdiction.
He proposed contacting Lynn Leopold. Jones wondered whether a
partnership between Cornell University and Challenge Industries
could create such a business . Sieverding will make some inquiries .
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Minutes IUR.A
June 8, 1993
VIII . Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 6 pm.
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6
Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
Tuesday, July 13, 1993, 4 pm
Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall
Present :
Benjamin Nichols, Bill Myers, Susan Cummings, Doug Dylla, Patricia
Kennedy for item V-1, Matthys Van Cort, Herman Sieverding for items
III-2 and VII, Patricia Norton, Wies van Leuken.
I . Call to order
The meeting was called to order at 4 :15 pm, by the Chair, Benjamin
Nichols .
II . Approval of IURA Minutes of June 8, 1993
The minutes of the IURA meeting of June 8, 1993 were approved as
distributed.
III . Staff Reports
1 . 1993 CDBG Update
Norton reported that this year's funding limit for the CDBG
Application has been set for $900, 000, but that HUD has retained
the option of cutting up to $300, 000 from an application if they
believe the total grant request is unwarranted. HUD will sent out
notification of its decision by October 25, 1993 . If the City's
application has been approved, contracts for the approved projects
will be written and signed and work on the projects is expected to
start by the beginning of next year. Threshold requirements for
this year' s application have all been met . This is the first year
that Community Development has met these requirements and has not
had to apply for a waiver from HUD.
Norton expressed the hope that HUD will restore the deadline to an
earlier date next year. This would make more efficient use of
staff time.
Norton gave an update on the Landmark Square Project . Cowles has
obtained a 15 year lease with an option to buy the site. Norton
explained how other activities are enhancing this project . The
continuing deterioration of the housing project has led to
undesirable activities . Norton obtained the cooperation of the
City Police Department, Cooperative Extension and the Ithaca
Minutes IURA
July 13, 1993
Housing Authority to develop the kind of support programs that will
promote the long lasting success of the rehabilitation of the
Landmark Square Housing Project.
III- 2 . Center Ithaca
The Mayor has requested the assistance of local representatives in
Congress to help convince the Farmers Home Administration to
reverse its decision on the foreclosure of Center Ithaca. Staff
has discussed the FmHA foreclosure with HUD. Neither HUD, nor the
City favors this decision because of the negative impact it will
have on the vitality of downtown Ithaca. The Farmers Home
Administration appears unwilling to change its decision. A court
date has been set for October 7, 1993 .
III- 3 . Certificate of Appreciation for Anne T. Jones
Dylla moved and Myers seconded a resolution of appreciation for
former Agency member Anne Jones .
WHEREAS, Anne Tompkins Jones was appointed to the Ithaca Urban
Renewal Agency by Mayor Edward Conley on September 3, 1975 and
duly sworn in on November 20, 1975, and
WHEREAS, Anne Jones has resigned from the IURA upon the expiration
of her term on June 30, 1993, and
WHEREAS, Anne has given generously of herself in numerous
capacities directed toward community improvement and economic
development, and
WHEREAS, the IURA will sorely miss her for her unwavering
dedication and sense of duty, and
WHEREAS, the IURA wishes to acknowledge especially Anne' s
sensitivity towards the role of women in business and the
vulnerability of young people in need, now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
thanks Anne Tompkins Jones and expresses its deep appreciation
for her years of service as a member of the Agency and wishes
her well in all her future endeavors .
Approved unanimously.
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Minutes IURA
July 13, 1993
IV. Economic Development
1 . Economic Development Strategy/Doug Dylla
Dylla reported on the Economic Development Strategy Session of June
23, 1993 . A Charette is being planned for September. A mailing
list for invitees is being put together. TCAD has the Economic
Development Strategy report from the ERA. The Agency requested
that copies be distributed for their use.
IV-2 . Community Development Loan Fund (CDLF)
Norton reported that she has been approached regarding the use of
the CDLF for job retention projects . She stated that HUD requires
very specific proof in matters of job retention. However
guidelines for the Loan Fund are more flexible. She requested
input from the Agency as to whether job creation or job retention
proposals should receive more priority. The Agency reached the
consensus that the CDLF was created to assist small businesses, to
promote job creation, to do gap financing and to help keep
businesses in the City.
The Agency approved of Norton advising businesses on where to go
for help. The Mayor and Dylla recommended exploring the option of
job retention with HUD.
The request by Triangle Steel was discussed. The Agency decided
that this activity was not an appropriate use of the Loan Fund.
V. Budget and Administration
1 . Executive Session
Action taken:
Dylla moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to authorize the
Assistant City Attorney to offer a specified settlement .
RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes the Assistant City Attorney,
upon the advice of the City Attorney, to offer as a settlement of
the suit by Katherine Evans, a sum of no more than $4, 100 . 00,
representing the termination benefits of one month salary and
benefits as described in the Community Development Manual .
Approved unanimously.
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Minutes IUPA
July 13, 1993
V-2 . Financial Statements
The Small Cities Grants Summaries, dated June 1993, were entered
into the minutes.
VI . Housing and Neighborhoods
No Reports .
VII . Other Business
The Annex
The Agency discussed the sale of the Annex. The Contract with
Lama Real Estate has expired. Common Council wants to review the
terms of the sale. The price of the property is not an obstacle
for potential developers . However, the cost of renovation relative
to the amount of leasable area is a major difficulty.
Dylla proposed a temporary use of the building. He suggested a
possible use by INNS. The Mayor suggested opening it up for youth
services .
VIII . Adjournment
The Agency agreed not to meet in August, unless there were pressing
matters requiring their attention.
The meeting was adjourned at 5.50 pm.
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C\W\Min\Minute93 .JUL
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Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
Tuesday, October 5, 1993, 4 pm
Office of the Executive Director, City Hall
Present: Benjamin Nichols, Bill Myers, Clarence Reed, Patricia
Kennedy for item III-1 and V-3 , Herman Sieverding, Trish Norton,
Wies van Leuken.
I . Call to order
The meeting was called to order at 4 : 10 pm, by the Chair, Benjamin
Nichols .
The Agency approved the addition to the Agenda of Item V-3 , CD
Coordinator' s Request for Training.
The Mayor announced that due to the time constraints of the
meeting, the more urgent items on the Agenda will be discussed
first . Any items not discussed by the Agency will be tabled till
the November meeting.
II . Approval of IURA Minutes of July 13 , 1993
The minutes of the IURA meeting of July 13 , 1993 were approved as
distributed.
III . Staff Reports
Norton announced that she expects that HUD will send out
notification of funding awards for the 1993 CDBG the week of
October 25, 1993 . She stated that HUD will maintain the funding
limit of $900 . 000 for future comprehensive applications .
III- 1 . Report on Evans Law Suit - Executive Session
Action taken:
Reed moved and the Mayor seconded a resolution to authorize the
Assistant City Attorney to begin the appeals process regarding the
law suit by Evans .
RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes the Assistant City Attorney,
upon the advice of the City Attorney, to begin the appeals
process in response to the July 20, 1993 ruling in the law
suit by Katherine Evans .
Approved unanimously.
Minutes IURA
July 13, 1993
III- 2 . Section 17 Program Income
This item was tabled till the next meeting.
III- 3 . Update on Personnel Manual
This item was tabled till the next meeting.
IV. Economic Development
Strategy for 1994 Economic Development Projects
Norton announced that an Economic Development Committee meeting has
been scheduled for October 12, 1993 . The Mayor will attend this
meeting as well .
V. Budget and Administration
1 . Financial Statements
The quarterly package of financial statements, including the
monthly Small Cities Grants Summaries, dated September 1993 , was
distributed among the Agency members and entered into the minutes .
V-2 . Signature Cards
New signature cards for the IURA's Bank Accounts were signed by
those members present at the meeting.
V-3 . CD Coordinator's Request for Training
Norton submitted a request for educational benefits to be used for
a four part series of courses on economic development, business
credit analysis, and real estate finance, offered by the National
Development Council.
Sieverding explained that, as the CD office expands economic
development activities, an increasing amount of staff time is spent
on these projects . It is vital that ,staff acquire more expertise.
Reed was concerned about the costs . He recommended that Norton
book her flight early to save on expenses . Kennedy advised Norton
to ask the National Development Council for a possible discount for
government employees . The Agency requested that Norton provide
information on the cost of the second training session at the next
Agency meeting.
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Minutes IURA
July 13, 1993
Reed moved and Myers seconded a resolution to approve the request .
RESOLVED, that the IURA approves and authorizes Patricia Norton to
register for the first two training courses given by the
National Development Council, ED 101 to take place in
Baltimore and ED 201 in Atlanta.
Approved unanimously.
VI . Housing and Neighborhoods
1 . Update on Project by J. Weisburd
Norton announced that Jerry Weisburd will continue the West Inlet
project in a slightly modified form. Weisburd expects the
environmental impact of the present project to be considerably less
than the impact of his first proposal .
VI-2 . Outreach 1994 CDBG Application
Norton stated that she has begun the outreach for the 1994 CDBG
Application Cycle. Ads will be placed in the newspaper and an RFP
will be sent to housing developers in the area.
VII . Other Business
No reports .
VIII . Adjournment
The Agency discussed the fact the next IURA meeting, scheduled for
November 2, 1993 falls on Election Day. Members will be contacted
regarding a possible rescheduling.
The meeting was adjourned at 4 :30 pm.
fi)C\W\Min\Minute93 .00T
3
Minutes of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
Tuesday, November 30, 1993, 4 pm
Third Floor Conference Room, City Hall
Present: Benjamin Nichols, Bill Myers, Clarence Reed, Doug Dylla,
Susan Cummings, Chuck Guttman for Items III -3 and VI-3 , Herman
Sieverding for Item III-3 , Matthys Van Cort, Trish Norton, Wies van
Leuken.
I . Call to order
The meeting was called to order at 4 : 05 pm, by the Chair, Benjamin
Nichols .
The Agenda was expanded to include Item III-3 , The Annex and Item
VII, Update Evans Law Suit .
II . Approval of IURA Minutes of November 2, 1993
The minutes of the IURA meeting of November 2, 1993 were approved
with one amendment. On page 4, item VI-1, third paragraph, the
name "Evelyn Johnson" was replaced by the name "Margaret Franklin" .
III . Staff Reports
1 . 1994 CDBG Application - Update
Norton reported on the this year's outreach for economic
development. She did receive some favorable responses .
At present there are two ED project proposals under consideration.
One is the micro-enterprise project sponsored by Jeff Furman and
the other is a proposal by Glyph Technologies, a high-tech firm, in
the old Hi-Speed CheckWeigh building on West State Street. This
project would create jobs in manufacturing and assembly.
The Mayor asked to have the CAC involved at an early stage of the
application cycle. The Agency' s suggestions for new appointments
included appointing a person with a strong economic development
background and/or a person representing the West Sate Street area.
Minutes IURA
November 30, 1993
III-2 . INHS Conflict of Interest
The two memos from Paul Mazzarella, dated November 2, 1993 and
November 29, 1993 were entered into the minutes.
INHS asked the IURA to request HUD to waive the one year waiting
period for Steven Hertzberg. This waiting period is mandated by
HUD's regulations on Conflict of Interest which say that
individuals who were in a position to have inside knowledge about
CDBG funded projects must resign the position and wait for one year
before being able to benefit in any way from a CDBG funded project .
INHS would like to reduce the one year period to a half year.
Steven Hertzberg did resign his INHS Committee position in
November, 1993 .
HUD requires certain documentation before reviewing a request for
a waiver. It requires a full public disclosure of the conflict of
interest, approval by the IURA of the request to HUD and an opinion
by the City Attorney.
Cummings suggested a strongly worded letter to HUD explaining that
the pool of people qualified and willing to serve on INHS Boards
was small, and that the conflict of interest regulations were too
restrictive.
Myers saw a clear conflict of interest and recommended leaving the
one year period unchanged.
Doug moved and Reed seconded a resolution to approve the request
for a waiver.
RESOLVED, that the IURA authorizes and directs staff to make a
formal request to HUD to waive its Conflict of Interest rule
of a one year waiting period in the case of Steven Hertzberg
and allow a half year waiting period in stead.
Approved by a vote of four to one.
III-3 . The Annex
Sieverding reported that Eva Kadar had made a purchase offer of
$170, 000 for the City Hall Annex. The Kadar family currently owns
Olivers in College Town. She intends to run a similar restaurant
on the ground floor of the Annex. Of the upper stories, the second
floor will be used for living space, the remaining floors will be
rehabilitated at a later date.
The Agency discussed the purchase offer in relation to the
appraised value of the building and the prevailing economic
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Minutes IURA
November 30, 1993
conditions . They also discussed the intended use and the deadlines
set for the sales process . The closing date has been set for
February 4, 1994 .
Cummings moved and Dylla seconded a resolution to approve the
proposed sale of the City Hall Annex.
WHEREAS, the property at 123 South Cayuga Street, commonly known
as the Annex, has been listed for sale with Lama Real Estate
since October, 1992, and
WHEREAS, the listing with Lama Real Estate was preceded by several
other attempts to sell the Annex, including the prior
designation of a preferred sponsor and an attempt to sell the
property by sealed bid, both of which attempts were
unsuccessful, and
WHEREAS, the Agency and Common Council, after these failed attempts
to sell the property and in an effort to encourage the
submission of an acceptable offer, determined to use the
services of a commercial real estate broker to sell the
building for a fixed amount, and
WHEREAS, Lama Real Estate has submitted a purchase offer from Eva
Kadar proposing to purchase the Annex for $170, 000 subject to
the following conditions :
1. the Buyer obtaining a financing commitment by
December 23
2 . approval of the purchase offer by the Buyer's attorney
within five days of acceptance
3 . receipt of a report by the Buyer analyzing the
condition of the structural, heating, lighting,
electrical and plumbing systems within five days of
acceptance (Buyer is responsible for ordering such
report)
4 . assurances from the appropriate City agency that
restaurant and family residence are allowable uses
relative to the City's Zoning Ordinance within five days
of acceptance, and
WHEREAS, the sale of the property to Eva Kadar is consistent with
the purposes for the Urban Renewal Plan, and
WHEREAS, although the sales price is below the asking price, the
Agency believes that, in view of all previous efforts to sell
the building and in the context of current economic conditions
and the condition of the local real estate market, this offer
is a reasonable one, now therefore be it
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Minutes IURA
November 30, 1993
RESOLVED, that the IURA designates Eva Kadar as a qualified,
eligible sponsor to purchase the property at 123 South Cayuga
Street, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the IURA recommends that the Common Council accept
this purchase offer and that the Common Council call for a
public hearing on the proposed sale terms to be held at its
regularly scheduled meeting on January 5, 1994 after which it
can vote on acceptance of the purchase terms .
Approved unanimously.
IV. Economic Development
No reports
V. Budget and Administration
Final Draft Human Resource Policies
The Final Draft of the Human Resource Policies was distributed with
all changes printed in bold. The Policies have been reviewed by
the City's Personnel Director, the Budget and Administration
Committee and the Executive Director.
The Agency recommended changing the term Permanent Employee into
Regular Employee.
The Assistant City Attorney will review the amended final draft.
Any significant comments from this review will be brought to the
Agency.
Reed moved and Cummings seconded a resolution to approve the final
draft of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Human Resource Policies .
RESOLVED, that the IURA approves the final draft of the Ithaca
Urban Renewal Human Resource Policies, dated November 12,
1993 , with the understanding that any significant changes by
the Assistant City Attorney will be brought back to the
Agency.
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Minutes IURA
November 30, 1993
VI .Housing and Neighborhoods
1. Youthbuild Application
The EOC is planning to apply for a HUD funded Youthbuild Grant
which has a due date of January 7, 1994 . The Mayor and Norton
attended a meeting with several of the parties involved in the
application.
The Agency discussed the application and the manner of assistance
the City could offer. Norton was asked to discuss the application
with Barbara Blanchard who is Common Council's liaison with EOC.
Cummings requested that some rigor be applied to EOC's work. Dylla
requested that BOCES or the trade unions be involved in the project
as a part of the training component.
The Agency reached consensus on the following. Norton was asked to
write a letter of support and talk with Blanchard and others
involved in the project and keep the Mayor informed of the results .
She will report back at the January meeting.
VI-2 . MHA Phase II
The Development Proposal for Mutual Housing Phase II, dated
November 29, 1993 was entered into the minutes .
The Agency discussed the proposal. Cummings objected to the plan
not to build on the site facing the P&C. The Agency discussed the
need for one Bedroom units . New units will have more storage
space.
VI-3 . Section 17 - Mortgage Subordination
The memo from Richard Goldman of Samsara Associates, dated November
26, 1993 requesting the subordination of the City Section 17 loan
for 630-632 West Buffalo Street, was entered into the minutes .
The Agency took note of two errors in the memo. In the first,
second and third paragraph $2, 000 . 00 should read $3 , 1000, 00 and in
the second paragraph the $15, 000 . 00 mortgage mentioned twice, is
not to the City but to INHS .
Norton and Guttman further explained the request. Guttman stated
that the City will now be behind a $108, 000 . 00 mortgage from
Citizens Savings Bank rather than an $88, 000 . 00 CSB mortgage.
The fact that Citizens is willing to invest this sum lends security
to the Agency's position. In addition the principal balance will
be completely forgiven as long as Samsara Associates charge rents
which are 85% of Fair Market Rent levels . Norton stated that
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Minutes IURA
November 30, 1993
similar requests for subordination by Section 17 clients have been
granted in the past.
Cummings moved and Myers seconded a resolution to approve the
request for subordination of the mortgage.
RESOLVED, that the IURA approves the request by Richard Goldman of
Samsara Associates, dated November 26, 1993 for the
subordination of the City Rehabilitation Loan for 630-632 West
Buffalo Street, pending correction of the financial
information.
Guttman will notify Goldman of the decision.
VII. Other Business
Update Evans Law Suit
The assistant City attorney is preparing the brief to appeal the
Evans Law Suit. UDAG funds have been used to pay related expenses .
VIII.Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5 :30 pm.
C\W\Min\Minute93 .DEC
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